I tend to agree. His biggest strength (some may say only) is that he can carry the ball forward pretty quickly and I thought he was ok against Burnley. He may even form a good partnership with Aurier on that right side when late in a game as he can at least run the channels.
Good point, thanks. Another step closer to my BSoDL degree.
Summary of the window. We have to commend Daniel Levy. There were differences of opinions between him and Poch. I think it is safe to say both saw the light. There is absolutely no way anyone can criticise Daniel and moan about our missed targets, and 'Pinch of salt' ITK's who have given you very accurate, and honest updates, be it positive or negative. We do cross reference on occasions know
Big shout out to Rob (Governor) and A&C, for their excellent work. Before I go any further, I will be donating £50 between today and tomorrow. Bosses please inbox me to remind me.
I will bullet point what was said with results and reasons, to the best of my knowledge.
1. Ross Barkley=As was said all along, not fully fit, and issues with his injury, we wanted to deal at figure which will not go public, but less than chavs, but not much less. He came to London, hoping to be diverted William style, but Everton refused to talk to us, as chavs tried Daniel's famous (after Willian) exclusivity clause
When it became apparent after a flea got in his ear Ross scarpered, to return on our terms in January.
2. Our contingency was Gomez as loan with option to buy. We were more keen on the loan with option in our favour, and not Barca. We would have to of made a commitment to buy either way. In the region of 40 plus million. Poch was asked, and was not keen. Daniel then walked away.
3. Llorente was the silent one, and so silent that our relationship with Swansea made sure it stayed that way. Chavs wanted to deal earlier in the window, but Swans wanted Bony, but couldn't deal until GS was sold. We were tipped off by their hierarchy that bid was accepted by Spanish club, and chavs. Poch made a personal call to him. Once that was done chavs stood no chance. This is all Poch.
4. VJ, Poch loves him as a person, and admires his attitude. Poch wants it to work for him, and told him he needs 3 specialist strikers, and with all the games he would get his games.
5. DS= Without our backroom staff this deal would not even of developed. We had been talking to Ajax, having a full dossier on him. Chavs were very keen, along with the two Spanish giants. Also Bayern were keen. He spent a lot of time talking to Poch, and eventually that swayed it. He was shown videos of our complex and stadium. Enough said.
6. SA=Another one down to our backroom staff. Daniel commissioned experts he trusts in France, along with very highly regarded legal counsel in the U.K., who were liaison with appropriate authorities to risk assess. Once they knew it was over, SA was so confident he declined Yanited and chavs especially. Poch played a blinder also.
7. Foyth=Came out of Poch's influence and connections. Daniel, you naughty boy what you did with PSG. Can we say they were never serious?
8. GK=Poch wants 3, and convinced he will prove a shrewd signing, and rates his staff to improve him beyond compare. He also showed well in Spain.
9. Wing forward, we had a few options, but reasons we pulled with Poch's blessings. Zaha is interesting, and may be revisited later. All down to Poch, and Zaha has 35m clause that becomes effective around April.
10. Jadon could be a Zaki Fryers in January or summer. Watch this space.
11. Dembele will be utilised in advanced roles, subject to matches. Due to our pacey defensive additions.
12. Lamela is not far off, and will be used in No. 10 role. Hope it works out for him, because if not Roma is calling.
13. Danny boy Rose is happy. No issues with him. Still think he may go amicably end of season. We promised him that. Key to that will be if he is upgraded in his contract, as all the ones we want will be. Don't worry about Toby. All good.
There you have it. No moaning please. Overall we done good business. COYS!!!
Grow one, I would suggest we need to grow two, a pair if you will, of transfer window balls ! We won't get the game changer / wide forward with pace unless we pay the going rate. Maybe it is a money tree we need to grow to ease the pain of spending money. Incidentally what was the net spend ?
That's it; think it was foxy.
