Lamela

[Spurs_Bear]

I think you're over reacting a bit to what I am saying. I quite like Lennon, I think he's a decent type to have in a squad of a team challenging to be 5th/6th/7th, but his actual productivity is pretty disappointing if you are a club trying to achieve regular champions football. There's not loads of better creative players in the bottom half of the league, and top drawer ones are invariably massively priced, so I understand why Lennon's been a regular for us, but we've moved up a notch, and to maintain it we have to improve on players like Lennon.

Don't be too hard on me, if I was DOF I would never have bought Demspey. Surely worth employing me for that alone.

Exactly, and Dawson and Defoe.

 

[mpickard2087]

Some people just cannot let go. Dawson, Defoe and Lennon are all examples of players who have given good service but the club is moving, or has moved even, past them now by and large.

Dawson tries, but... Defoe is useful for racking up the goals against cannon fodder... Lennon decides to take on his man about every month (if we are lucky), and is someone who has in my eyes coasted it for ages and it reflects in the lack of improvement in his game over the last few years. Arguably the most annoying of the trio, in that he could have been better than the finished product we see before us today.

Errr yeah anyway, what were we saying about Lamela...?

 

[RuskyM]

You will not believe how good this guy is when he gets going.

I'd love to see him as soon as possible too, but Townsend's playing well and we're not losing points without him. If he plays a blinder tomorrow, then maybe give him 30 minutes on Sunday.

 

[Legend10]

Based on Chadli getting dogs abuse after 2 games it might be very wise to integrate Lamela slowly to spare him the same sort of treatment that plenty of our players get.

 

[Donki]

Some people just cannot let go. Dawson, Defoe and Lennon are all examples of players who have given good service but the club is moving, or has moved even, past them now by and large.

Dawson tries, but... Defoe is useful for racking up the goals against cannon fodder... Lennon decides to take on his man about every month (if we are lucky), and is someone who has in my eyes coasted it for ages and it reflects in the lack of improvement in his game over the last few years. Arguably the most annoying of the trio, in that he could have been better than the finished product we see before us today.

Errr yeah anyway, what were we saying about Lamela...?

I know this is a Lamela thread but I simply don't see a reason for Dawson or Defoe to move on and its nothing to do with "letting it go". Neither are first choice (although Dawson has been great so far this season), both are seemingly willing to fight for their place. What is the logic of moving them on when its going to be hard to get cover as good and as well proven as they are? Ade is a prime example of why a player like Defoe is so good to have, Ade probably 2 or 3 times the ability but IMO 1/10th of the application that Defoe has.

Lennon I would tend to agree with, we have depth in the position that he would occuply, all of whom fit getter into the system. Again sorry to bring this up in this thread but it just fucks me off people seem to constantly belittle a players application when called apon.

 

[Legend10]

I know this is a Lamela thread but I simply don't see a reason for Dawson or Defoe to move on and its nothign to do with "letting it go". Neither are first choice (alothugh Dawson has been great so far this season), both are seemingly willing to fight for their place. What is the logic of moving them on when its going to be hard to get cover as good and as well proven as they are? Ade is a prime example of why a player like Defoe is so good to have, Ade probably 2 or 3 times the ability but IMO 1/10th of the application that Defoe has.

Lennon I would tend to agree with, we have depth in the position that he would occuply, all of whom fit getter into the system. Again sorry to bring this up in this thread but it just fucks me off people seem to constantly belittle a players application when called apon.

I totally agree with the sentiment of this post, why would you complain about these types of players being in a squad?

 

[ajspurs]

Improving on players is one thing, fair enough but to say "we're past" players who are still giving good and providing use to the club is just wrong IMO, we're not bloody Real Madrid.

We've improved upon them in a sense of looking at just our starting 11, but I for one am delighted to have players like Defoe and Lennon as options from the bench.

 

[mpickard2087]

I know this is a Lamela thread but I simply don't see a reason for Dawson or Defoe to move on and its nothing to do with "letting it go". Neither are first choice (although Dawson has been great so far this season), both are seemingly willing to fight for their place. What is the logic of moving them on when its going to be hard to get cover as good and as well proven as they are? Ade is a prime example of why a player like Defoe is so good to have, Ade probably 2 or 3 times the ability but IMO 1/10th of the application that Defoe has.

Lennon I would tend to agree with, we have depth in the position that he would occuply, all of whom fit getter into the system. Again sorry to bring this up in this thread but it just fucks me off people seem to constantly belittle a players application when called apon.

There were two different scenarios I mentioned. Is moving past, and has moved past.

As I said, in some cases the club is moving past these players, as in the process is happening. Dawson has gone from first choice to squad player (when Kaboul is fit) and another addition at centre back and he could be gone. Ditto with Defoe. Find a younger alternative and they are probably pushed out altogether.

Lennon is a case of where the club has arguably moved past him, or very nearly has done. He is someone who isn't going to improve, is very injury prone and blows hot and cold at the best of times. We have signed one of the highly thought of youngsters in Europe for that position, plus we have a young player who has emerged who shows hunger, desire and enthusiasm and in patches shown that he could have more variety than present day Lennon has. Stick with the 26 year old finished article, or persevere with the 22 year old showing promise as back up to Lamela. Not a tough choice, for me...

I didn't belittle any player. But you have to face up to the fact that with the club continually looking to improve some (ageing) players who haven't kicked on are going to be at risk. I appreciate their service but I am ruthless and if I think we can and should look to upgrade then I will say it. And the 'let go' comment was aimed at Lennon fan-boys in all truth. I am genuinely puzzled at how some people view his game and his mainly shoddy, half-assed performances in a white shirt, whilst they reminisce about the things he used to do once upon a time. BC's 80% anonymous quip wasn't too far off in my opinion...

 

[Donki]

There were two different scenarios I mentioned. Is moving past, and has moved past.

As I said, in some cases the club is moving past these players, as in the process is happening. Dawson has gone from first choice to squad player (when Kaboul is fit) and another addition at centre back and he could be gone. Ditto with Defoe. Find a younger alternative and they are probably pushed out altogether.

Lennon is a case of where the club has arguably moved past him, or very nearly has done. He is someone who isn't going to improve, is very injury prone and blows hot and cold at the best of times. We have signed one of the highly thought of youngsters in Europe for that position, plus we have a young player who has emerged who shows hunger, desire and enthusiasm and in patches shown that he could have more variety than present day Lennon has. Stick with the 26 year old finished article, or persevere with the 22 year old showing promise as back up to Lamela. Not a tough choice, for me...

I didn't belittle any player. But you have to face up to the fact that with the club continually looking to improve some (ageing) players who haven't kicked on are going to be at risk. I appreciate their service but I am ruthless and if I think we can and should look to upgrade then I will say it. And the 'let go' comment was aimed at Lennon fan-boys in all truth. I am genuinely puzzled at how some people view his game and his mainly shoddy, half-assed performances in a white shirt, whilst they reminisce about the things he used to do once upon a time. BC's 80% anonymous quip wasn't too far off in my opinion...

Yeah in an ideal world we would sign the next young Puyol or even a youth prospect from our own ranks, but young defenders as we found with Kabouls initial signing are prone to errors and don't have a great deal of experience. If they had to fill over a longer period the pressure would be on them, a few mistakes and the fans would be on their back saying they wouldn't be god enough. As a third choice CB would you rather have Dawson or say Lescott? Same can be said for Defoe, people are doubting Soldado after 6 games, can you imagine the pressure on a young prospect striker?

ATM they both have a place in out squad IMO of course. Also Daws we all knows is well liked in the squad, with all the transition we need some people at the club who know it inside out, who know the fans and knows what is required. You look at our starting 11, only really Dawson, Rose have more than 2-3 seasons at the club. A since of identity is important especially for the new boys coming into the dressing room. Again I am agreeing not first 11 when everyone is fit but certainly good enough to be in our squad.

Lennon, I would agree, give him a chance and see how he plays but I have a feeling were not going to see more from him and dought he has the crossing ability or shooting to play in either of the wider positions. I appreciate what his pace can do on the break and the outlet he is but his final ball need to be much better.

 

[Legend10]

There were two different scenarios I mentioned. Is moving past, and has moved past.

As I said, in some cases the club is moving past these players, as in the process is happening. Dawson has gone from first choice to squad player (when Kaboul is fit) and another addition at centre back and he could be gone. Ditto with Defoe. Find a younger alternative and they are probably pushed out altogether.

Lennon is a case of where the club has arguably moved past him, or very nearly has done. He is someone who isn't going to improve, is very injury prone and blows hot and cold at the best of times. We have signed one of the highly thought of youngsters in Europe for that position, plus we have a young player who has emerged who shows hunger, desire and enthusiasm and in patches shown that he could have more variety than present day Lennon has. Stick with the 26 year old finished article, or persevere with the 22 year old showing promise as back up to Lamela. Not a tough choice, for me...

I didn't belittle any player. But you have to face up to the fact that with the club continually looking to improve some (ageing) players who haven't kicked on are going to be at risk. I appreciate their service but I am ruthless and if I think we can and should look to upgrade then I will say it. And the 'let go' comment was aimed at Lennon fan-boys in all truth. I am genuinely puzzled at how some people view his game and his mainly shoddy, half-assed performances in a white shirt, whilst they reminisce about the things he used to do once upon a time. BC's 80% anonymous quip wasn't too far off in my opinion...

There is no evidence at all that Dawson has gone from first choice to squad player, even when Kaboul has been fit Dawson has played! Do I personally think Kaboul is a better player, yes I do, however there is zero evidence to suggest AVB does since he brought Dawson back into the fold.

There is also zero evidence in what you say about Defoe, the club gave him a new contract only last summer and when given opportunities he's still proving his worth? AVB seems more willing to let Ade move on than Defoe.

There is also zero evidence to say Lennon won't be a first choice for AVB, he's only been fit for 1 game this season and played.

I think some people may be getting ahead of themselves in the evolution of a new team and dismissing some of the old guard!

 

[walworthyid]

There is no evidence at all that Dawson has gone from first choice to squad player, even when Kaboul has been fit Dawson has played! Do I personally think Kaboul is a better player, yes I do, however there is zero evidence to suggest AVB does since he brought Dawson back into the fold.

There is also zero evidence in what you say about Defoe, the club gave him a new contract only last summer and when given opportunities he's still proving his worth? AVB seems more willing to let Ade move on than Defoe.

There is also zero evidence to say Lennon won't be a first choice for AVB, he's only been fit for 1 game this season and played.

I think some people may be getting ahead of themselves in the evolution of a new team and dismissing some of the old guard!

Totally agree!

Man Utd have always had players like this in their numerous title winning squads. Players that wouldn't really make it at other top clubs but are willing to work hard and make a contribution at a club that they love. Could we get better than Defoe, Lennon or Dawson to sit our bench or even be prepared to sit on our bench? No, not for this side of £30 million at the very least.

People are talking about Chiriches being above Dawson in the pecking order? Or Lennon being on his way out now that we have Lamela and Head down Townsend? Or Defoe being behind the very good but barren Soldado? Put simply, Lennon is a first choice player. Dawson has been a first choice player who has fought his way into the side for his entire career under numerous managers. Defoe is our 5th highest ever goal scorer.

These players will all get plenty of game time this season.

 

[sim0n]

Basically, townsend can't keep lamela out of the line up for much longer and lennon's fitness writes him out of he scenrio for the immediate future,.... 33 million pushes pretty hard and lamela appears to be the real thing, so IMO it won't be much longer before we see lamela starting in the prem at RW... of the 3, lennon should be quite nervous regarding his future at Spurs methinks.

don't misunderstand, I like all 3 players and have no ill will towards them or want to see any of them go, but the writing does appear to be on the wall for lennon...

 

[neptunes]

thought this was Erik's blog. So stick to it guys. Give this boy space to play now and he will deliver. I used to follow him playing for Roma and boy did he deliver. I am sure he will succeed at Spurs.

 

[worcestersauce]

Based on Chadli getting dogs abuse after 2 games it might be very wise to integrate Lamela slowly to spare him the same sort of treatment that plenty of our players get.

you assume he won't impress, I think he already has.
Mind you its good Andros is playing well as that will gee up Lamela to earn his place.

 

[Capocrimini]

you assume he won't impress, I think he already has.
Mind you its good Android is playing well as that will gee up Lamela to earn his place.

IOS has been shit though.....

 

[JUSTINSIGNAL]

Basically, townsend can't keep lamela out of the line up for much longer and lennon's fitness writes him out of he scenrio for the immediate future,.... 33 million pushes pretty hard and lamela appears to be the real thing, so IMO it won't be much longer before we see lamela starting in the prem at RW... of the 3, lennon should be quite nervous regarding his future at Spurs methinks.

don't misunderstand, I like all 3 players and have no ill will towards them or want to see any of them go, but the writing does appear to be on the wall for lennon...

I kind of agree with this. I like Lennon and appreciate him as a loyal servant but I feel he might not be able to adapt to our current setup. He is a old skool line hugging winger, when our system now incorporates inside forwards. I also don't agree that he could adapt to play on the left. Lennon is ridiculously one footed and is not actually a natural dribbler. Using his pace to get past opponents rather than dropping a shoulder or outrageous skill. Our team play is now also less about playing the ball into space for quick players to run onto, which used to be our number one weapon under Redknapp. Of course that is easy to shut out if opponents park the bus so we seem to play ball to feet alot more and look for intricate passing moves through defences. Again I just can't see Lennon adapting to this way of playing. IMO it's a straight fight between Lennon and Townsend for a long term squad place and even though Townsend is not the finished article I just feel he has more to his game which fits the way AVB wants us to play.

Sorry to go OT again..

 

[Bus-Conductor]

I know this is a Lamela thread but I simply don't see a reason for Dawson or Defoe to move on and its nothing to do with "letting it go". Neither are first choice (although Dawson has been great so far this season), both are seemingly willing to fight for their place. What is the logic of moving them on when its going to be hard to get cover as good and as well proven as they are? Ade is a prime example of why a player like Defoe is so good to have, Ade probably 2 or 3 times the ability but IMO 1/10th of the application that Defoe has.

Lennon I would tend to agree with, we have depth in the position that he would occuply, all of whom fit getter into the system. Again sorry to bring this up in this thread but it just fucks me off people seem to constantly belittle a players application when called apon.

Because the strength of the squad, not just the first team will influence our success, if we can improve our squad options, we will improve our overall strength and chance of finishing higher.

So it's not just about the strength of your first 11, if the players who come in are drastically sub standard you will ultimately suffer. Arsenal's third choice CB is Vermalen right now, Chelsea have Terry, Cahill, Luiz, Ivanovic who can play there, ManU have Ferdinand , Vidic, Smalling, Jones, Evans, ManC have just added Demichalis to their CB back up ranks. Even Liverpool have three better quality CB's than us (and better fb's).

We have the weakest defensive group in the top 6, and upgrading Dawson is vital.

 

[SteveH]

Based on Chadli getting dogs abuse after 2 games it might be very wise to integrate Lamela slowly to spare him the same sort of treatment that plenty of our players get.

This is the same for ALL the new players.

Thier form will be very up and down for up to a season depending on their individual psychological makeup.

Lamela, Chadli and to an extent even Eriksen must be be given settling in time. Also Soldado is not totally immune from this, although he's older. AVB will know exactly how these guys are feeling......

As fans this was alway going to be the downside of signing so many player in the same window.

 

[Donki]

Because the strength of the squad, not just the first team will influence our success, if we can improve our squad options, we will improve our overall strength and chance of finishing higher.

So it's not just about the strength of your first 11, if the players who come in are drastically sub standard you will ultimately suffer. Arsenal's third choice CB is Vermalen right now, Chelsea have Terry, Cahill, Luiz, Ivanovic who can play there, ManU have Ferdinand , Vidic, Smalling, Jones, Evans, ManC have just added Demichalis to their CB back up ranks. Even Liverpool have three better quality CB's than us (and better fb's).

We have the weakest defensive group in the top 6, and upgrading Dawson is vital.

You have named the biggest 3 clubs in the country right there and Liverpool who have a much higher incomes and wage bills than us. I still don't see Dawson as the HUGE liability he is labeled. For CB we have Kaboul, Verts, Capoue, Dawson and the new kid. Dawson has filled in well this season and our defence has looked strong, 2 goals all season. Dawson deserves credit for the way he has stepped up, not us fans calling for his sale.

I also think you are being kind to Liverpool, out of their CBs I would take a "fit" Agger. Vermalan is 3rd choice cause of a terrible dip in form after his first season or so. City still rely on Lescott who IMO is a bigger liability than Dawson. Man U are having difficulties at CB in deciding who to go with. Man City and Man U have let a lot of soft goals in. Your basing alot here on how players are viewed on paper and not how they are currently playing with in a team, defence is a team responsibility and ATM we are carring it out very well.

Again I'm not saying he is first choice but I will defend his place in our squad.

 

[Legend10]

Because the strength of the squad, not just the first team will influence our success, if we can improve our squad options, we will improve our overall strength and chance of finishing higher.

So it's not just about the strength of your first 11, if the players who come in are drastically sub standard you will ultimately suffer. Arsenal's third choice CB is Vermalen right now, Chelsea have Terry, Cahill, Luiz, Ivanovic who can play there, ManU have Ferdinand , Vidic, Smalling, Jones, Evans, ManC have just added Demichalis to their CB back up ranks. Even Liverpool have three better quality CB's than us (and better fb's).

We have the weakest defensive group in the top 6, and upgrading Dawson is vital.

Drastically sub standard!

Ok