Aston Villa News 24/7Writer: J P Fear 
Date:Wednesday July 9 2008
Time: 11:41AM
UK time is: 08:58:00
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The Villa Transfer Thread - Part 5
Thread five on summer transfers, so over 1400 comments so far and no signings!
Not to mention 82 pages in the forum! Click Here
Still, ever the optimist, we'll sign a few in the next week or so... won't we?!
A quote from the General (from the forum thread) "I can assure everyone that MON is working the transfer window hard. If one of our "targets" does not come to Villa it will NOT be for lack of 1) money or 2) effort. I fully recognize that with the window open it is important to have some players come thru that window...and MON recognizes that fact to. I am not involved in Players and in the Transfer window but I do know that Randy is prepared to support MON...and has yet to turn him down."
The Villa Summer Transfer Thread - Part 1
The Villa Summer Transfer Thread - Part 2
The Villa Summer Transfer Thread - Part 3
The Villa Summer Transfer Thread - Part 4
Once again, over to you Mr O'Neill !
IN -
Curtis Davies (from West Brom - £undisclosed)
Steve Sidwell (from Chelsea, £5.5m)
OUT -
Luke Moore (West Brom - £3.5million)
Olof Mellberg (Juventus - free)
Patrick Berger (Sparta Prague - free)
Thomas Sorensen (released)
Seconds Out! Vital Boxing is here!
Vital F1 Prediction League - Join now for Monaco
Your Comments
5-1 Vital Villa boys are unstoppable!
evoflash
lol evoflash! One report reckons sidwell is having a medical today, not seen anything official or had any firm rumours though.
The Fear
Heres hoping that we wont have to fill this one up talking who may be comin in...Now that everything is out of the way and players are back in training hopefully some big moves will be made to get players in. Sidwell 1st then just like donimoes others will follow... (fingers crossed!!!)
Tez86
Does anyone know what next years Keeper top is going to look like? I'm guessing Taylor was busy on Monday so couldn't be at the Kit launch! Maybe we will only see the new shirt when we have a new keeper come in and hold it up for the Cameras!
farmer_dan
sidwell confirmed on OS
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
:D
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
subject to a medical, was too exicted and didnt read anything other than Sidwell Deal on Newsnow lol
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
Just the medical to be sorted
notthedougellisstand
captaincy to be decided later due to who may be coming in......ooh the excitment is tooo much
avflell
well its about time!
The Usual Suspect
Well we did have a few weeks notice with that one?
Eircol
so we get the money for GB - 16? + Finnan. sidwell coming for 5? possibly Miguel 11? so those 3 for Barry - nice bit of bizzo me thinks if all that occurs.
leftfoot
Yea cheers Eircol, whos next any info?
So his chat didnt go to well with big phil then!!! Their Loss our benefit, ha ha ha
erv2005
Come on. It's 4:2 not 5:1 - evo. Who's side you on anyway? If it's 4:2 then here we go, here we go, here we go,.....here we go, here we go, here we goooooooooo. Lets make it 4:3.
myleftfoot
the fear and eircol; you heard any rumours about oneill talking to bentley yesterday? those lot over on avfc blog reckon he did?
Stig
No we've got 5 threads. Villa have 1 signing. That's 5-1 to the mighty Vital Lads.
evoflash
my left foot lets make it 4-5 by end of this thread !!! ;)
scoops
Great signing lets hope for sum more soon my mate who works at bodymore heath has said that the latest rumour is that barry should be gone within a week. Dont shoot the messenger only tellin u guys wot he told me. It may or maynot be true.
astonsteve
Great news! Now get rid of Barry and bring in Finnan, Bentley, Foster, Miguel, Ferdinand, Shorey, Malbranque and Bent! Top 4 here we come!! ;0)
In MON we trust!
I'd like Shearer in a Villa shirt. With Pearce, Roy Keane, Pallister, Ian Wright, and Ronny Whelan.
evoflash
i think we should go out for laudrup while we are there.
Stig
Brian or Michael?
I thought Brian was great. Bought him in Champ Manager Italia.
evoflash
In MON we trust!: agree with all of those with a slight question mark on Malbranque...I'd say swap him for Milner and keep the rest plus Guzan too. Shorey should be a cert now we have Sidwell...come on Sidders do some talking to your mate. Same for Marlon, sort your nates Ferdy and Green out. I think MON could talk Milner into coming back or offer Newcastle Routledge!!!! Ha.
koolbill
good question, brian for me aswell.
Stig
I feel sorry for Routledge...we've bought him all for the sake of 6 months cover for Salifou! He's gonna be as good as redundant next year if all goes to plan.
AstonMartinOneill
Does anyone else think that if Lampard leaves Chelski for milan that they may put a bid in for Barry?! I hope they do and he goes there instead of the doley's , they may even up the bid, that would serve him and the scousers right.
johnmurphy3112
Any chance of bringing back Bruce Rioch to replace Barry? No to Guzan koolbill, forget Robbo too. Robert Green will do as a keeper, quality right back too. A 25-26 year old Finnan maybe? No more loan deals, unless its of the Curtis Davies variety.
glensider
No chance Scolari will take Barry. To be honest, not sure he even knows who he is. He's not Brazilian or Portuguese! I'd like Barry to move onto Arsenal IMO. I may not like the team, but I sure as hell respect the way Arsene goes on about business. Class act.
los_angeles_villan
Correct los_angeles_villan he does do business properly, just like our own manager. Wouldn't it be interesting though if someone else put a bid in, we would see if its Liverpool/gerrard barry wants or CL football in general?!
johnmurphy3112
Daily Mail had an article saying we've bid £10m straight cash for Bentley that has disappeared. I wonder if they have a source who's told them to hang fire or something...interesting.
evoflash
Sidwell deal confirmed on club website, subject to medical.
Madirish
jesus christ i didn't realise just how pathetic the internet voice of liverpool fc is until this barry thing. they really are crap at life.
ric112
Why not Guzan as an understudy Glensider? He wants to come and MON seems to rate him...I think he'll be here soon. Are USA at footy Olympics....? If so, the Guzan will have no work permit probs but could arrive late fpr the season depending on progress. On another note; Bentley would surely be the player to signal a massive swing in Villas favour if we get him. I could see Bent and Shorey coming in quick succession then. At thsi point tho I think it's fairly realstic to believe we could get a few other Chelsea players like Cudicini, Bridge and possibly / or Belletti who's my personal favourite as he's fast a phook, got a shot and can pass and move forward.
koolbill
You cant fail a medical on hair colour can you....
tylervilla
Dont rate him at all koolbill. My bros-in-law (a Yank) had told me a while ago that he was surprised we were interested in him, and when over in the U.S. in June, I saw him first hand three times. Weak on handling and going for crosses, hesitant, looked another version of the guy we have just decided against buying.
glensider
evoflash, the daily mail is full of c**p. we already had a 15M bid turned down and they've named their price at 17M. Why the fudge would we then bid 10M. No where near a good enough bid to get him
UTV
fudge that! too fudging right sound like a loud of fudging nonsence to me!
mattyh1986
koolbills idea of Belletti is a good one. is he out of cfc?
leftfoot
he's bound to be. I'd definitely go with Belletti..or even bridge, and one Joe Cole, thanks.
los_angeles_villan
I think Belletti might be the wrong side of 30 for MoN ... shame good player though.
Getting Bentley would send out a message that we mean business.
Nice to see the doommongers have phooked off for some fudge !!
scoops
I hope we get Bently but have we even put a bid in or is just another piece of fudge?
myleftfoot
Eircol - who's next!?!
tarzan
This might suprise a few, but i think a keeper will be next?
Eircol
Belletti is good and hardly gets a game. A bid wouldn't hurt and he's fit as a fiddle....i know he's older but he offers so much experience with pace and positonality (one for the dictionary - see bouncebackability) then you can't get much better. Cudicini - not the absolute best but then we aren't Man U or Chelski are we. Would be as good as Friedel or Jussi. Anyone fancy putting in a cheeky bid for Petrov at Man City? Him and Young swapping would be awesome.
koolbill
If Belletti is the wrong side of 30 what is finnan?!!!
johnmurphy3112
Daily Mail are claiming we have made a 10m bid for Bentley. I think we will see a goalkeeper arrive next hpoe we buy and not loan this time around. I would be pleased with Robinson.
astonsteve
On the subject of keepers, £9m Craig Gordon hasn't exactly set the world alight has he. Mr O'Neill did a good job there, not getting caught up in the hype.
evoflash
Robinson is not our first choice keeper, still possible if our main target does not come off...
Eircol
Is a goalie next so we can be shown the shirt?
farmer_dan
Throw me a bone then Eircol, Who do think is the main GK target ?
notthedougellisstand
I'd like us to go for Cudicini he's class.
johnmurphy3112
He is not english...
Eircol
That was in reply to notthedougellisstand..
Eircol
Have we been linked...is it Akinfeev? Is he any good? Does he play in England currently?
AstonMartinOneill
Eircol is it....Alan Rough?
tarzan
Seriously it's probably Boruc?
tarzan
Rob Green would be nice from Wet Spam. Had a decent season last year and was amazing overlooked for the England No. 1 spot.
DoLpHiNaToR
He's English though. Hey Eircol is Milner still coming, you reckoned that one was going to happen now they signed that winger?
tarzan
hands off Cudicini!!! :-)
RadioactiveD
Do people actually LISTEN to Eurcol??? Anyway, great news about Sidwell finally signing, and it is confirmed that we have made a bid for Bentley, and supposedly the bid is the highest currently on the table. Fingers crossed.
romanianvillain
I'm the tea lady undercover? why would'nt you listen to me, only making a few comments, just like you. Who confirmed it?
Eircol
Is it Boruc you are talking about?
tarzan
Would love to get Boruc but doubt we would get him Robinson would be a good second choise. Has Sidwell actually signed yet.
astonsteve
We have enquired about him, thats were the whole maloney thing started up again, but there is another option abroad.... Again these are players we have enquired about, nothing concrete yet... just talks at present.
Eircol
Koolbill: "Him [Petrov] and Young swapping would be awesome." What, so you reckon we should swap Young for Petrov, KB? ;-)
BobTheBuilder
BobTB: Nooooooooo - ha, like the cut of your jip! We'd annihilate most midfields with Petrovs guile and pace. Bentley, Bentley, Bentley!!! I say we really rock the boat and go for Bent now as well. Also, cheeky bid for Belletti and Bridge and sort Shorey and a goalie and I'll be well pleased. I think we'll be getting Finnan soon with some dough for Barry. ANYONE fancy O'Shea, apart from his missus!!!!
koolbill
Eircol, what league does this supposed target play in ?
notthedougellisstand
A message for Fear: Ever thought of starting a AVVitalfootball thing on Facebook to attract new members...I'd love to update and comment on the go but it's difficult in my job as we have limited access to net. I can however update the other site via my mobile very quickly. Would be great add on to the rumours / transfers page.
koolbill
would def go for O'shea very good player and versatile too, far better than anton,O'shea would be a snip at £6/7 million.
johnmurphy3112
There is a picture of the Ginger Wizard on the official site holding our shirt after signing today....finally done and dusted!!!!
Tez86
Yeah!!! Good to see him with the shirt...means its real!
olafthegreat
Impressed with his interview..
Eircol
The General has confirmed we have made a bid more than anyone else for bentley!!! Moe than £10 reported!!!
gappy65
Where has the General confirmed that?
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
Gingers will take over the world one day!!!! And we will have the Leader in waiting, all we need now is Dave` My Barnet is way to Orange`Kitson and we will be a dominant force.
Eircol is the Keeper from France?
erv2005
On one of the other threads i mentioned Zoltan Stieber. I think a naturally left footed winger should be signed by MON. Koolbill has mentioned Petrov as one, i cant seem to think of many other left footed wingers who M'ON could go for. Any suggestions?
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
P.S
I really really hope we sign bentley, he has a superb future in front of him, but got a feeling he may not want to join!!!! Not far enough south for him me thinks.
erv2005
Silva would be nice, surely we can out bid the Red Robbing Cnuts!!!!
erv2005
The general has denied the statement? And says it was a freudian slip!!! Fair Enough. But I think he says porky pies and we have bid, I hope so!!!!
erv2005
Steiber is class and will feature after being loaned out for fitness and game time last season...Petrov is quality but we could go for the Middlesboro lad Downing who is quality when played. One more midfielder and a striker and we'll be well on the way. P.s. Don't forget the defender and goalie MON.
koolbill
Downing will not happen, he has signed a new contract hasnt he?
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
oshea is versatile he could warm our bench as proficiently as manures
scoops
erv, maybe the General is just like the rest of us EXCITED.
col8
Mr O'Neill pulls one back in the race with Vital Villa boys, to make it 5 threads Vs 2 signings. The Vital Billa Boys are under the cosh at the minute, and a sixth seems a long way off. Can Mr O'Neill close to the gap to two signings - we hold our breath. __________________________________________________________________ Bentley is going to end up at Spuds.
evoflash
Kevin Philips has signed for the scum!!!!
Villan444
Yea maybe he was, still cant get over we have signed one of our targets, I can see great thing for stevie!!!!! Wish Barry would hurry up and ***** off.
erv2005
Boruc wants prem football and strachan is desperate to keep him unless he is tempted with a cash plus player offer. If Maloney is unhappy/homesick then make him part of a 8-10mil bid! Please MON do it. Thankyou for Sidwell he will be our Essien type box to box player. MON, please take this the right way when I say "get Bent now" before Sunderland do. Bentley would be nice but at a sensible price and me thinks he is waiting to see what other offers come in and one eye on us being in the uefa cup. Milner has to come now and be our next signing. He was happy at VP. Shorey would be a good signing too. I'm very excited about these bids lodged and just wish it would happen quickly but MON we trust you with our club and bright future.
holte ender 1969
What a fantastic present/future England team we are building at VP. Capello will be a season ticket holder by the end of our summer signings. We are gonna be so exciting to watch, again!
holte ender 1969
Davies and sidwell is a very very strong start.
villakieran
________________________________________________________
we are 2nd in the league, undefeated without even conceding a goal. we should be trying to sign messi and ronaldo!
________________________________________________________
ric112
Eircol, if you look into your tea leaves do you see Kirkland? he is young and english with a future. Who would everyone else want as a keeper? realistic or not.
holte ender 1969
Would Fergie let us have Ben Foster on loan and would everyone welcome yet another loan signing.
holte ender 1969
Boruc and Joe Hart for me. I think there is enough quality and prospect right there. If we pay enough they will come.
holte ender 1969
hey holte ender - let's try to gather our thoughts before we impulsively make 5 separate posts one after another : ). Boruc is by far my number one choice. Various reports say we've lodged a 2.5mil bid for Friedel. Great Goalie Keeper, no doubt about that, but at 37 surely another move would be a hassle for him and too much of a short term solution.
los_angeles_villan
On Phillips signing for Bloose... Just seen him on SSN apologising to Villa fans.
Adam Deuce
2.5 million for Friedel isn't a great deal. Yes he's a good keeper and one I'd be happy to see at VP, but he's old, has no sell-on value, and is too short-term for my liking. Would still be happy to see Robbo sign for us, although Boruc is still my no. 1 choice.
romanianvillain
Alonso has stated he wants to stay at liverpool, they could pull the plug on the barry transfer yet? Especially if it means they could then afford villa or keane...
Eircol
That's bad news, i don't want the guy any more. I've gotten over it and seen the bright light of progress in his departure.
AstonMartinOneill
Los_angeles_villan, sorry! Just excited as everyone. Not so about Friedel though as i think he is not a long term solution at 37. MON likes them younger I think and hope.
holte ender 1969
Well then lets swap Barry for Alonso and Finnan then. If Barry stays and he comes out and apologises I will possibly forgive him after he scores his 1st goal and kisses his badge. He will want to be professional as he has just broken into the england squad, whether MON or the rest of us fans will want him around will remain to be seen...
Tez86
Friedel and Guzan the keepers.
tarzan
What's happened to to the Miguel link? that one has dried up.
tarzan
mattyh1986, too fudging right mate
UTV
Make Barry say a fudging apology in front of the holte on opening match day and watch him make his way to the subs bench. If he does stay at VP then we should drop him for the Liverpoodle match.
holte ender 1969
I always thought the deal was fragile. Puddle without cash, taking so long and turning nasty. Do you think though, Alex Black is the main culprit for this whole mess? I know Barry has to be partly to blame but I would never have thought him capable of this!!!
fredchuff
Liverpool have also targeted Keane are they just approching thier rivals captains without any approach to sign them to give them an advantage for next season?! I really really hope we do the double over them!
Tez86
Nah I just want Barry gone now!!!!! I think if he stays he will remain in the reserves, there is no way he would be in MY 1st 11.
Good player or not!!!! Judas.
erv2005
Surely MON knows Bentley's not coming, we shouldn't be wasting our time on him. Milners the answer and he would come
PTP
Barry will go, if someone other than Liv put a bid in I think we'll accept less than 18m. He doesn't deserve to stay. If Barry's still here come end of the window he should be warming the bench for the reserves not playing.
PTP
A goalkeeper must be our first priority. Not sure about Milner, Newcastle have a squad nearly as small as ours apparently.
tarzan
Eircol any more news on the rumour front, no sign of a goalie!
tarzan
I heard from another site that we want Pennant as makeweight for Barry (which would be ideal in terma of the type of player), not sure whether this is just a rumour as he's a headbanger
tarzan
Pennants waste gash, he gives it a go but most of his crosses go nowhere. How is Eircol supposed to know? I swear he just said we would get Sid after it was already pretty certain we would get him, he was also about 3 weeks off the date. And where's the seccond signing Eircol was talking about? I believe he hinted at Milner coming in the same time as Sidwell?
PTP
Totally agree PTP Milner is class and has improved since he went back to Geordieland.Bentley will end up at Spuds.Not keen on this Friedle link ,much to old,bring in Green and leave Taylor as back up.Barry to stay hmmmmm...... a grovelling apology and the best season he's ever had and I might just might forgive him.
happyvillan
If you heard the interview with sidwell, he did say its been dragging on for a while and he is glad its finally sorted.
Eircol
I think MON, even though he has an Image of being a decent bloke, wont allow him to play. Its obvious he's pretty stubborn on some issues and from storys I've heard, although I've seen no concrete evidence, he can be very harsh on players who talk openly against him or the club he's managing. If no bid is accepted for Gaz MON will probably make an example out of him to let the other lads know he doesn't take any **** from anybody. I hope he does that anyway.
PTP
Bentley to spuds is not guaranteed, If or when Oneill gets to speak to him, i think he could actually get him to sign, thats not saying he does not want to sign for us?
Eircol
I just think he probably considers quite a few clubs in the mix for him to be better than us, he would probably get more money at other clubs as well. If MON pulled this off it would be the deal of the season.
PTP
The milner thing is messy, depending on other targets we might have done as much as we possibly could trying to agree a fee with newcastle, i did say a fee was agreed with them, then the fee was inflated by them at a later date which did not impress...
Eircol
Keepers - Joe Hart is a great prospect and has not yet signed a new contract for Man City, im not sure how much city want but i know for a fact he would move to Villa if a bid was accepted. Would also be more than happy with Boruc, Green, Kirkland not convinced Robbo will get his confidence back. Eircol - any more news on a keeper from your crystal ball?
smirnoffshox
Looks like Eircol is right again, the next signing will be a foreign keeper - Brad Guzan, he's played his last game for Chivas
tarzan
If I was Bentley I'd join our happy band, but I think the Barry saga may get in the way?
tarzan
There's no way Barry can come back. If he comes back we'll all know it's because Liverpool wouldn't pay the going rate and that's all. What, would we be expected to believe Barry had a sudden "change of heart"? I'm sorry, but as soon as he didn't immediately quash the rumours, I knew he was going and slated him on this site for it, and got slated myself..there is NO way back for him. He said it, and so should we. I say we approach Arsenal and offer him as a replacement for Flamini/Hleb. _________________________________________________________________ As far as Bentley is concerned, I think this is a measure of Mr Lerners intentions at Villa Park. Bentley is going to cost a lot of money. Some say Mr Lerner is at VP to sell at a profit sometime in the future, and I fear this may have some truth. If Bentley is bought, then we can have no doubting Mr Lerner. Yes, controversial I know.. __________________________________________________________________ PS - I've no idea if you really are connected in any way, but you make it more exciting Eircol :-) Keep it up.
evoflash
Yes just seen that Guzan has said "talks could be concluded over the next couple of days" and that he "hopes it works out for everyone involved". We know MON has been tracking him for a while so it makes sense. Just wish we had someone with top flight experience also. On the Bentley issue didn't the spurs fans all assume Young would choose them over us 18 months ago and look what happened. If Bentley wants to increase his International chances then he should come and play in the future England midfield next season at VP.
Jaytee247
I thought Ash did wait to see if there were offers from Spuz/top4. I think we were 6th or 7th choice.
PTP
Where did you see the Guzan talks Jaytee?
Tez86
Not sure about Kirkland. Would prefer Boruc or Green. Milner or Bentley would be great. Milner AND Bentley would be even better.
DoLpHiNaToR
On that Fountain of Football Knowledge "Tribalfootball" but he was apparently quoted as saying that after last nights game with LA Galaxy.
Jaytee247
Young turned West Ham down, not Spurs.
notthedougellisstand
I think Milner would be better for us than Bentley, I don't see the hype. Bentley is a good player but I don't see what makes him better than Milner. Milner in our team would be a beautifull thing.
PTP
the rumours are that Guzan would be the USA no1 at the Olmypics, if this is so does that mean we'll have to sign a 3rd keeper also? Didn't MON like to have 3 kepers during his time at Celtic with Kharine, Hedman & Gould all there.
Jaytee247
Alright, thanks Jaytee lets hope its right he has a passion to come and play for us which is always good to see...
Tez86
Thats why a 2.5million bid for Friedel would not go amiss, he would be able to cover and teach so much to his fellow yank!!!
Tez86
We've got keeper trainers for that, good ones. Lets just get a decent keeper and keep Taylor for backup
PTP
Agreed Tez86, the Friedel offer would now start to make sense.
Jaytee247
lol they didnt do a great job with enkleman sorenson or carson tho did they....
Tez86
Sky's fixtures are now out http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11677_3806277,00.html#Fixtures
Jaytee247
Enckleman was/is Sh!t simple as. Sorenson was ok, he made alot of mistakes but every keeper does at some point. Cech, twice in one game against us last season. Carson, blah blah.
Hasn't MON got his own team of coaches anyway? Sorryson and Enckleman probably don't count if that is the case. I know I'd rather have a coach coaching my keepers anway
PTP
6-0!6-0!
villa96
Please sign Bentley and Shorey or Milner and Shorey at the least. A sneaky buy of John O'Shea, Belletti and or Bridge would be cool too. Guzan is a dead cert i think. Don't know about this Chimbonda business tho...Darren Bent would be excellent. Finnan would be an excellent stop gap for this season...regardless of his profile or lack of games, he is a quality, fit and doesn't have a stupid ego. Just right for this phase of our rebuilding if you ask me.
koolbill
O Shea is awful.
Pking
O'Shea is fudging SugerHunnyIceTea
mattyh1986
Poland goalkeeping coach Franz Hoek has advised Artur Boruc to leave Celtic to enhance his career.
mattyh1986
lol @ matty and pking !! I agree we should be setting our sights a lot higher then o,shea.If bentley wants to become a better player he will come to villa.
Shorey imo would be good too gets a lot of assists.
Why do a lot of our fans talk our club down against Spurs etc ??
WE ARE VILLA !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
scoops
Hey up, lads. With regards to Bentley and spurs, Blackburn gave spurs permission to talk with him and he had a medical (Apparently) and if you believe what you here it is down to the two clubs agreeing a fee. The price of £18 mill quoted for him came shorlty after the supposed completed medical. How about we do a deal for Barry though. You can have say Robinson, Bent and Chimbo or some other pick 'n' Mix and that way you dont have to sell to Rafa lol?
zzz
zzz I'd go with that anything to p##s the scousers off!!,but you're still 3 mil short.
happyvillan
where are reports of this so called medical?
los_angeles_villan
Yeah right, medicals don't usually get done before there's an agreement, and very rarely get done without being mentioned to the press. In response to scoops, we talk ourselves down because of the fact we see all these big players going to London, and it's something we just can't compete with. Without getting into any argument again, we are still as big a club as they are, but in terms of ambition shown right now, and the London ********* factor, then we are behind them. Even if league position shows otherwise ;-)
AstonMartinOneill
orlando sentinal.com is reporting that Chivas USA have sold Guzan to us.
Pking
I am absolutely thrilled to have Sidwell on board. I just read some more excepts on the official site of him saying it was always Villa he wanted to join blah blah. But his attitude is phenomenal. Go on Sidwell - we are all your biggest fans now.
los_angeles_villan
Also thought it was funny how MON stated the next signing could be from Ukraine or outskirts of Siberia when asked about all the English players coming in. Classic MON. At least it lets us know he doesn't only look at English players. Which by the way, I completely support. Being from Sweden, I really enjoy the fact that Villa is consisted of English and Scandinavians. Now go get Kallstrom, Seb Larsson, Bentley, Bent, Miguel, Ferdinand, Boruc (or Robbo), Shorey, and Guzan and we are set my mate!
los_angeles_villan
BBC and Lancashire post just said Arsenal have declared interest in Gareth Barry and have made contact with Aston Villa to inquire about his situation. They say no official offer has been made but they are looking to hijack him in the 11th hour. Wouldn't that be something? A wee bit of a bidding war? I wonder what fringe players they would offer us besides Justin Hoyte? Could be interesting. Probably Bendtner. Excited to see how much substance is behind this.
los_angeles_villan
LAVillillan: agree with your choice of players except Kallstrom as i kow nothing about him. I'd even take Bendtner or Seb Larsson - both quality with a touch of the Bergkamps about them. Mon would sort Bendtners selfishness out and Seb is wasted at the SCUM. We'd still need an out and out striker like Bent tho. I can't see why people are down about O'Shea - he is clearly better than Wes 'thank god Ferdy and Vidic mop up after me' Brown and is way better than out current RB - oops we don't have one! Anyway it's all about opinions...
koolbill
Here's one for you: Trezeguet - what a dream signing! It'll never happen but just imagine. We'll probably get Saha!!!!! Nooooooo! Or as i like to call him 'Sa-haaaaarghhh!' P.S. Cut me some slack - I've just finished nights and am checking the net for rumours before bed!!!!
koolbill
I saw the Arsenal Barry thing on SSN before I went to bed last night. They were showing todays back pages. The Sun were reporting it along side Manure going for Berbatov. I'd be much happier to see him go to Arsenal.
Adam Deuce
Kallstrom is a left footed midfielder with a heck of a shot and sometimes plays LM for Lyon as well. Everton are interested him as are Valencia I believe. Agreed Adam Deuce - I'd be much happier if he went to Arsenal. I think he would be in the end as well.
los_angeles_villan
Guzan fee agreed on official website....
Eircol
Not bad, were starting to see some action brill, lets get Van Der Vaart next, whoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
erv2005
Vital Villa 5 MON 3. It's all to play for!
Gazvilla
The come back is on, lets hope 5-5 by wed, then 6 then 7 then 8.........
erv2005
And there was me worried that MON would not be able to conclude deals while he was away!!!! THE MAN IS A *****ING GENIUS!!!!!
erv2005
Notice there is now a problem with the page on the official site reporting it.
Pking
Mr O'Neill is pulling out all the stops. 5-3 Vital boys are still winning, but our once confident smirk has been swiped away. Goodness know's what'll happen if it becomes 5-4. Are we witnessing one of the all-time-great comebacks?! _________________________________________________________________ PS - I told you Barry would be off to Arsenal ;-)
evoflash
Well our squad in Fm2008 is starting to look a little healthier, trouble is will have to start a new game again!!!!!
erv2005
Kallstrom would be an awesome signing but cant see it happening. As for Barry, love that Arsenal have come i for him, but I think in terms of style of play I think Barry would be better suited at Liverpool, I dont think he would be as comfortable at Arsenal.
mattyh1986
Who really cares which club would suit his style, its all his own doing, as long as we get the money we want, I can tell you this, arsenal have not made any enquiry as of yet...
Eircol
If things go to plan our next signing will not be an englishman either....
Eircol
Eircol, by next signing, do you mean Guzan ?
notthedougellisstand
No i dont, that one is already past the post.
Eircol
ok, Finnan is Irish isn't he ?
notthedougellisstand
?????????????
Eircol
Yea Finnan is Irish, Eircol is he Dutch? And the player I have been screaming for?
erv2005
Well Finnan will be next signing when Barry goes to Liverpool
notthedougellisstand
I think it may be a right back but not Finnan, getting all excited again now!!!! But so far chuffed with the build up and I dont know how many times I have watched salifou back spin pass, it was immense, I know the opposition was crud but you need a certain degree of skill to pull that off, maybe he is the dark horse we have been waiting for??????
erv2005
According to the express and star the DEAL FOR BARRY is done...read it here folks...http://www.expressandstar.com/2008/07/12/barry-on-the-way-as-deal-is-done/
Tez86
Finnan to sign in the next 72 hours? Vital Villa 5 MON 4 with plenty of time left on the clock!!
Gazvilla
Guzan will be ready in 6 months to a year so expect him to be number2 with a few apperances this season. We will soon get another keeper i hope its either Boruk Robinson or Green. If Finnan arrives i would still like us to get another rb, would also like to see arrive Miguel, Ferdinand a cover 4 Bouma, Bentley, Bent and one more midfielder.
astonsteve
The next foreign signing Eircol is hinting at is Miguel.
fatloser
I would like a poll as to which RB would you like to see at Villa? Please inlcude, O'Shea, Hoyte, Finnan, Migueland somebody else i don't know about
koolbill
Alpay for RB. Dion Dion Dublin up front
mightyrodders
We Definately need a right back next, I hope its not Finnan no disrepects to him but at 32 he's hardly the future. Would love to see Miguel but that doesn't look likely so my choice would be Justin Hoyte, young english and talented he'd be another one MON would nuture into englands number 1 right back.
johnmurphy3112
Suggestions today that we are interested in Lorient right winger Nicholas Marin.
pongo wearing
(everyone sing) Dion's a nutter!!! :-)
farmer_dan
Dion Dublin
Dion Dublin in the air
mightyrodders
Who's up for grabs today? Appears that Spurs have got Bentley. That's a big disappointment for me - we have no big names in yet. It appears that we could be funding stuff from the Barry move.
tarzan
I am disappointed about Bentley also he would have been nice and ther right sort of level we should be aiming at to improve. Still not confirmed yet though.... so still maybe chance for us to highjack the bid?!
Tez86
I wouldn't mind losing out on Bentley if we get Milner......
splatt
Who's going to be playing RB against Odense?
evoflash
I'm available!
johnmurphy3112
Gardner will play RB
tarzan
It's getting all dried up now. Eircol anything going to move this week? Is the Barry transfer pivotal to our strategy?
tarzan
The barry transfer does not have any bearing on what oneill does himself. It wont be dry for long, if anything, there could be a downpour?
Eircol
It says on skysports Alonso don't want to move to spain or italy he wants to stay at anfield, where does that put Barry? Surely the doley's can't keep them both happy.
johnmurphy3112
Lets hope so we have two very important games comin up with a very very small squad. We need at lease another 1 plus Guzan this week. Out of interest is there a deadline for submitting a squad for the intertoto? If so will Barry be going even just to make up the numbers?!
Tez86
I think If we were to register Barry for the intertoto he wouldn't be able to play for anyone else in europe.
johnmurphy3112
Tez86, I think there is a 24 hour deadline for the Intertoto. And yes, I would definitely take Barry, he is a Villa player and should be there!!
romanianvillain
24 hour deadline for the Intertoto I believe.
Gordonsleftboot
If thats the case then johnmurphy, would you play Barry and lose a lot of value from his asking price or would you try and not play him at all if possible? I am right to believe plays only get cup tied if they get on the pitch not just on the subs bench arent i?
Tez86
As Barry is hiding away on the south coast, hasn't featured in any of the friendlies up to now and is banned from the training ground there's no way he'll be included for the intertoto.
AMS78
I've heard a fairly concrete rumour that Maloney is going back to Celtic
tarzan
Carson is apparently going to Stoke for £3m + £1m in add-ons. Why not get him back as part of the Barry deal with Finnan, say £13m cash and the two players?
AVGD
AVGD because he is awful.
notthedougellisstand
Tez86, It's a difficult one really I would love Barry to be part of the squad for the intertoto cup but realistically even if he was named in the squad he probably wouldn't be match fit to play and then Liverpool and Arsenal prob wouldn't be interested in him because he'd be in-eligable for the CL. Chelsea have said they are holding on to Frank Lampard this season knowing they will lose him for nothing next season I think we should do the same with GB tell him to stay this year and if we don't get CL ourselves then let him go for free. GB and this season are very important to us it's worth the risk.
johnmurphy3112
what down pour eircol? Enlighten me!!!!!
erv2005
Evening Mail claim we are interested in Johnson from Man City today, skysports say he is gonna sign a new contract. Bill Howell you are one big muppet.
astonsteve
Been some very strong rumours about Maloney I agree Tarzan. That said, they were strong last Jan as well ! Wouldn't surprise me though.
The Fear
I can't see anyone leaving squad wise until a few are bought in. We really would be in the pooh if the likes of Maloney are sold. There would be no back up at all. Wouldn't imagine Maloney will be going this transfer window.
AMS78
Hi don't post very often but the Michael Johnson rumour I actually heard about 3 or 4 weeks ago from a retired journalist that was visiting a patient of mine. He reckoned his 'source' had told him MON would go for Johnson. I had never really heard of Johnson and it seemed an unlikely story so was surprised today to finally see the link in the press.
villa74
Maloney could easily go if it was part of a swap deal. We are still short on many players but we have more attacking players than defenders which would benefit us if he is still icthing to go back to the mickey mouse league.
Tez86
erv2005...Eircol doesn't know my friend. What is clear is that MON is talking relatively more this year thanl last and that the 5 year plan is on schedule. This should mean that this year we are given / get the resources to build a bigger squad and end up buying about 5/6 players with 3 more coming through from the reserves - Bannan, Fonzy (Delfouneso) and Stieber. Forrester and Lichaj are still 17 so may wait another season. I still say we need Darren Bent, Bentley, Shorey, Hoyte and Finnan as cover, a GK and possibly a CB. Where's AVFC48 to pour scourn on my enthusiasm. Seriously, where is he? Enjoyed the banter!
koolbill
Trezeguet anyone? No international leave for that boy anymore, means he's fitter for us!
koolbill
Trezeguet is awful I would prefer Milan Baros back....although they have the similar cant be arsed attitude. I want Bent quick young and english he ticks all the boxes and we know he can finish. Him and the big JC would be amazing together.
Tez86
Stoke have agreed a price of around £4m for Carson. Thought The fat Spanish one wanted £10m when we were interested???
AMS78
I think we will travel to Denmark with the squad we've got at the moment because I can't see someone coming in this week and playing at the weekend, especially Barry. Higher profile players will want to see if we enter the UEFA cup proper before comitting themselves. A MUST NOT LOOSE game and I can see us playing the flat back 10 (plus 1 if we don't play Taylor) but then again how are we gonna find 10 defenders!!!
fredchuff
Carson price is purely because we ARE a rival to liverpool and they dont want to sell players to us, just as we are sticking to our guns with Barry. Although if they had let us have him for 4mil we would probably have a poor No1 on our hands so silly them really....
Tez86
AMS78 He obviously underestimated MON hoping to stiff us for the value of Barry.
fredchuff
3m plus add ons for Carson!!! Can't believe that one. Show's how crooked the transfer market is. I believe Eircol said a similar thing has happened with Milner and Bentley, they are asking silly money from us but it's a different price for others.
tarzan
Basic supply and demand I am afraid, a very small squad means we have much more demand than most other teams...
Tez86
Trez is good Tez - just not internationally for France...same goes for Henry...we'd never get him anyway but he would do fine and raise our profile. Benitez and LFC should be ashamed of the way they have handled themselves over Carson. I hope Bentley waits to see us cane Odense and the next team and qualify for Uefa....we are a better team for him to be in that Spurs...too many wasters there. I think he will grow into an amazing player over four years. Agree about Bent - my number 1 target for inbound striker. Who else is ther striker wise?
koolbill
If 'Pool have agreed the price and allowed teams to talk to Carson then that stands for all teams - including us... so we could get him for £3m + add-ons.
AVGD
We 'could' AVGD but don't think we 'should' out of principle... oh and the fact that he not good enough.
fredchuff
Same goes for Bent can't see what you see in him koolbill he's very average, we are a better team than spuds and he couldn't get in there team, don't think even MON's magic would work here. We need to aim higher.
johnmurphy3112
John, did you see how many goals he scored in a bad charlton team? if you don't play because you have a pie eating manager with one of the best strike partnerships in the league / europe then that isn't a bad thing....i rate him highly. Anyway, jolt me from my tunnel vision and suggest me another mate. Maybe a youth signing Seb Larsson. He is very skilled and has a good future. I really am stumped for any other strikers....However, if we don't get Bentley I think we should raid Man C for Petrov and Blackburn for Mort GP. Natural balance then.
koolbill
I think we'll get Fridel in next to be number 1 and he will then help bring Guzan through. I know he's 37 but still an outstanding keeper and will be a step up in that department. As he said it looks like MON is trying to improve the squad slowly and surely...ie Sidwell replacing Petrov. He obviosuly didn't think Barry would be moving, so probably thought Young, Reo, Sidwell and Barry was a midfield to take us forward. Now Barry's off, he's after Bentley. He's sticking to his plan of slowly building and improving the squad. A bit like Everton really. At least he's true to his word.
In MON we trust!
Tez86 - it's not supply and demand at all. There are other keepers far better than Carson, and we weren't that keen on him. Plus Carson wanted to come to us, so the negotiations were in our favour really. Its more that Rafa is an idiot and thought he could take us to the cleaners. Interesting how our valuation of Carson is closer to the amount he now has gone for. Remember Liverpool are effectively broke - their funding for the new stadium has been refused and they are on a sell to buy policy - so rafa was merely trying it on in the hope that we are desperate. He looks like an idiot now. Actually, he always looked like an idiot with that goatee.
The Usual Suspect
I we don't get Bentley I think we should raid Man C for Petrov and Blackburn for Mort GP. Natural balance then. Anyone for Bridge or Shorey, they've got sweet left feet....Hoyte for RB? Belletti? Think we will be pushed all the way if we don't get at least 4 more players in for CB, RB, GK, ST, and cover for LB and MF.....still a big job but hope they land like Nelson, Savo, Draper and Southgate did in one big fell swoop.
koolbill
The Usual suspect - agreed matey. Who's your choice for striker?
koolbill
Koolbill I'm happy to be proved wrong if bent were to come in and do the business for us, but I need convincing. I'd prefer Bridge to Shorey and Hoyte is a definate for me, you are right though still need a minimum of 5 new players and not lose any. And the way MON works it's highly likely 4 or 5 will come in all at once.
johnmurphy3112
Johnm - but it'll be 5 signings on the last day of the window! Expect Routledge at RB for the Intertoto on Saturday! Petrov of Man City would be a class signing - I can imagine us signing "theres only petrov" as martin is substitued for stilian! As for striker - Bent I think could do a job. Secretly though, I have been a little miffed that we missed out on both Defoe and Crouch. No-one else on here seems to like Crouch but I have always thought he's underrated just because he's a funny looking fellow. Whenever he played for the pool he scored, and he's deceptively skillful. Still that one bites the dust. I imagine MON will find a relative unknown abroad and bring him home, like Carew.
The Usual Suspect
I think a clinical pacey striker is what Villa should go for. Bent has proven to be a clinical striker for a poor Charlton side, and had he of been given the chance, no doubt he would have been a class act for them, but with Berba and Keane scoring 20+ each and always being injury free, he didnt stand a chance of being given a regular run in. Other than Bent, i cannot see many other realistic options that M'ON may go for. I expect the Guzan deal to be completed before Friday, and possibly a RB and CB.
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
I was gutted we never got to see Nugent - who? - play last season as we actually don't kow how good this kid is - shouldn't have been a greedy prrrrick and gone to Pourtsmouth. I've got a feeling we may nail another foreign striker....Yeah, liked the thought of Defoe and think we missed the boat so hope MON gets a better one in as Gabby and Carew looked knackered after a while last season.
koolbill
I hope we get Hunt from Reading he is a fantastic player and is excatly the sort of player MoN loves.There would be much whinging and crying on this site and he would silence his critics in weeks.Doyle would be a bargain aswell and is a much better player than his goal tally for last season indicates.
Pking
Evening chaps. This is my first post so go easy on me...! I'm dying for new signings as much as anyone. The fact that we only have Davies, Sidwell and Guzan - sort of - so far is not because MON isn't in for players but more reflects the shift towards player power. Players in demand know that lots of clubs are after them but are holding out for the best deal. Players will come in but, frustratingly, I think it will take time....
jkvilla
Bentley bid confirmed, now we starting to cook on gas!!!!!
erv2005
yep, just noticed myself reports saying Ince has confirmed Villa's bid. If a big enough offer is put in, no doubt Ince will accept.
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
I think the Bentley situtation might be one which will drag on for a while, but if the final destination is VP for Bentley - i will be one very happy fan
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
I def think Bentley won't say yes til we get into europe, Ince also said spuds haven't made a bid, hopefully they won't, we may get a clear run at him. Bentley would be a great coup for us and again shows MON's direction young english talented and hungry for success. fingers crossed. I also wonder if this means something has delevoped with the Barry saga?
johnmurphy3112
The Mail have reported that Friedel is on the verge of signing too. Interestingly, not all stories have mentioned that Ince has dismissed a Spurs bid for Bentley - some are maintaining they still in for him. Bloody press huh?
Doesn't MON often to sign pairs of players to help the settling in process though?
azreal13
Apparently though, Ince has told SSN that he isnt interested in Friedal and has no interest in Paul Robinson.
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
in selling Friedal^^
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
I'm not going to get excited about Bentley because there seems to be a hell of a lot more things to happen in any potential transfer but it does show intent.
notthedougellisstand
I still think we'll end up with Robinson. Spurs are waiting to confirm the new keeper they have bought in will get his work permit before they let Robinson go.
AMS78
Seems like Ince is being canny and trying to start a bidding war to get the money he needs...Come on Villa, Bentley and then....
koolbill
I did say on thursday that bentley would not take part in blackburns friendly with macclesfield, he has no such injury and talks with villa are still ongoing, obviously ince has to be seen trying to keep his players when in front of the camera, a deal could be concluded this week. No other bids have come in for him as of yet, so hopefully villa tie this up asap..
Eircol
Anyone else think this would be sweet? Arsenal come in for Barry and offer us cash with Hoyte & Bendtner as part of the deal, they also relinquish their sell on fee that they have on Bentley which enables us to negotiate a deal with Blackburn for him and Friedel. This way we get some quality players in, we both also shaft Liverpool over Barry, and Arsenal also shaft their local rival Spurs over Bentley - everyones a winner!
Jaytee247
Spurs fans seem to think they are going to get Bentley. I think he would be a great signing good quality crosser of the ball same as young so would be perfect 4 our forwards to feed off.
astonsteve
They also thought they were going to sign Young two years ago.
The Usual Suspect
Please, please, please, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE, please please let us have Bentley in a Villa shirt next season. OMG OMG OMG please. Imagine Young and Bentley playing together week in week out. Everyone's a winner.
evoflash
Eircol - this doesn't stack up with your other rumours - Milner for example. I really believe that Bentley wants to go Spurs and that will happen when they sell Berbatov to Man U. Are we to believe that Milner was our number 1 target? What about SWP - we know for sure that MON has enquired about him in the past.
tarzan
Transfer Junkyism again. God I need help.
evoflash
At least we are showing ambition in trying to sign players like bentley, if it does come off i think it will send a clear message to our nearest rivals that we do mean business
Avman
I think eircol could be the general using a different handle?
Avman
Get Sidwell to "do a Gerrard" and chat Bentley up as they must know each other from their days at Arsenal.
Jaytee247
Eircol is vague and changes his rumours and "inside info" to suit the mornings press. He's no more accurate than tarzans brother telling us last year that we were on the verge of signing SWP and defoe.
The Usual Suspect
The purpose of this thread is for rumours & banter. We were close to signing SWP, he wasn't available though. That's been stated. Be interesting to see if he's still on our radar though, I think we'll use our 17m to buy him if Bentley doesn't come off. Milner being a fall back.
tarzan
I'd much rather have milner than SWP.
johnmurphy3112
Can I just mention that ERIK LUND has left the club. Any reason why he doesn't count as a "player out" Mr. Fear?
simonbigron
Jaytee247, dream scenario my friend. I just want Barry to bounce already, its like we wont get any more players in til hes gone. Last season werent we linked with Nigel de Jong? Thatd be nice, wouldnt it?
AussieVilla
Miguel, Engelaar and Govou. nice.
leftfoot
Anyone intrigued by MONs comments today, regarding registering players for the game on Sat?? Maybe Im looking into this too much, but by those comments it sounds like a couple of signings may be imminent and they must be of a high calibre to go straight into the team
..Bentley, Fridel and Miguel anyone?!?! ;0)
In MON we trust!
I wouldn't clutch at those straws, anyone brought in now won't be up to speed that quickly. I'd like to be wrong though.
tarzan
The team we have at the minute will be playing at least the first leg of the intertoto for sure.
Tez86
I think if Guzan's transfer is completed, he will stand a decent chance of playing on Saturday as the MLS season has already started so his match fitness should be good. Regarding any other players coming in, if any one is signed by Thursday i think they will have a shout of making the team. I would think M'ON is working on bringing in some defensive cover as we seem to be very short of defender. My predictions - Guzan deal to be completed, and a RB and CB to arrive in time for the ITC game.
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
who? no Bentley then!
tarzan
Bentley is injured anyway isnt he? Routlage will play on the right with garner at RB.
Tez86
I dont think we will see any new signings in next couple of days i think our big targets will wait and see how we do on Saturday which is a massive game.
astonsteve
I heard on sky sports Barry is training with the first team again from tomorrow.
johnmurphy3112
I hope the knives are out ready for his return. Only jesting,
The Usual Suspect
Jaytee247 - jesus man i like the cut of your jib! Fingers crossed you're a middle man for Villa soon. Ingredients for a top team: Bentley, Shorey, a dash of Bent or Bendtner shorey to taste, mix one Hoyte and a little Finnan. Place in team for ITC, 180 mins. Done!
koolbill
Eircol - what's happening next? Any insight into the Bentley and RB scenarios?
tarzan
My educated guess? ( just for those who get a little wound up over my comments) Its pretty straight forward what will happen next, villa will try and negotiate a fee for him over the coming days, the main thing at present is we are the only club to bid, the down side to that is we could spend a day or two trying to agree a figure, then when we do agree, another club could match our bid. in other words we could do all the donkey work and still miss out depending on bentley himself. The quicker we sort this the better chance we have, although blackburn would like to drag it out hoping for a bidding war, that is why they made it public last night..
Eircol
wow thats real insider insight. You mean we're going to try and negotiate a fee for a player we want to buy, but someone else might come in? Wow. First time for everything i suppose.
The Usual Suspect
Eircol have you any info on the Barry saga, does him returning to training have any significance?
johnmurphy3112
That was a little sarcasm just for you?
Eircol
I'm confused by your question mark at the end of your last post.
The Usual Suspect
Not really barry spoke to oneill yesterday, in the end it does not benefit anyone regards barry not training, so oneill offered him the chance to come back and train.
Eircol
Listen as tarzan said the site is for banter and rumours, there is no need to get worked up over a few comments.
Eircol
how blatant is it that tarzans brother has got a new username! ha. bubble. burst.
koolbill
Laursen doesnt seem to be in the starting line up for the game today!
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
Yeah JCC, not even in the squad and we seem to be playing 2-6-2 looking at the players on display. Worrying
Villan444
That long post by Eircol about a page up was the most sensible thing I've heard him say, we should encourage not mock.
Villan444
Brad Friedal will sign for £2.5M with a deal already agreed. This will be followed by Miguel for £8M then Milner £7.5M. There you go cockbill.
tarzansbrother
Unless he has picked up a knock, i dont see any reason for Laursen not to be playing. I would have thought M'ON would have used this game to field the side he thinks would be starting on Saturday.
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
Get sum ******** defenders now 3 1 down to Lincoln friendly i know but for *****s sake Carew has gone to centre back. I think our great season last year could be *****ed up this saturday cos we aint got any defenders. We need to buy 8 players now. And if Barry stays we should support him cos he is a TOP PLAYER.
astonsteve
Perhaps he didnt want Laursen getting injured tonight. We have only 3 fit natural defenders and one third choice goalkeeper WE NEED PLAYERS NOW. I trust MON but i feel angry.
astonsteve
No Gardner either as well as no Laursen must not want to risk them for saturday. We should still have more players by now rant over i think. ID better calm down. I will keep the faith its only pre season.
astonsteve
Id rather these games expose any problems now they are just training sessions,but it does worry me about Saturday.Odense are not a small time amateur outfit.They probably have more CL experience than we have.
Pking
I really belive think we will have atleast one or two players coming in over the next few days (defenders most likely as its obvious we are short). Even Gardner didnt play, at he is the back up option for RB at the moment
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
i really do think that ^
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
simply not acceptable.
los_angeles_villan
Any loss is unacceptable and hard to take, but the important thing at this stage is to get the increase the fitness of the players. Lets just wait and see if any deals do conclude over the next couple of days!
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
you can put whatever spin u like on it, whether they're training sessions or not, 3-1 is very poor, very poor indeed, don't know if anyone remembers, but last year, i complained about loaning keepers, and having no right back, and was shouted down, and now with just 3 days till our most importent game in years we're in a worse state squad wise, and for me thats not on.
eltoro
this waiting till last minute to get players in is detrimental to us i know we had a great season last year but nobody can doubt that getting better quaility in january we would have finished higher i appreciate mon is the best manager we could have but do we need help in the transfer dealings????
avflell
it seems as if Gardner has picked up a injury, and may not make it for Saturday!
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
Im sorry but I have to ask again as to why we got rid of Cahill, Hughes and Davis - I reckon they would all be playing on Saturday!! We are so short on numbers and unless we have 8 players who will sign as soon as they know they will get UEFA Cup football we really have no chance of doing anything this season. At this stage we are down more than we have added AND we were short even then. It is embarrasing!
deano.avfc
The Daily Mail is suggesting that the Second Brad (Friedel) is a done deal.
pongo wearing
I just beat Juve 4-1 on Fifa 08. This has as much relevance to our season as tonights result. We are only one(ish) first team regular down on last year (assuming you think Taylor is a good stand in for Carson, which I do.) We have enough to get through, but I do think that some players may wait to see if we can offer UEFA or not before committing.
azreal13
I just sold my Xbox360 with Fifa 08 today : (. And I just bought Huntelaar! It's a sad day in your life when you resort to selling the few assets you own just so you can eat. sigh.
los_angeles_villan
SSN says all the papers have Downing coming to Villa! Wouldn't that be something! Young, Sidwell, Downing, Bently, Reo and Petrov
los_angeles_villan
gee l/a villan, my heart bleeds....anyway, small whisper about D'Alessandro as a possibilty. might be a good one. i agree with tarzansbrother - Friedel and Miguel coming. Milner? dunno.
leftfoot
All the roumours seem to be the same ones now dragging out. Where has the Van Der Vaart rumour gone it seems to have died since he rejected spurs!?
Tez86
los_angeles_villan - I think it would be Downing OR Bentley. I think we will not get Downing - he only recently signed a new contract at Boro. I can understand how everyone raves about Bentley but personally I am far more excited about Miguel. If we get him that is a real coup for the club. There are only a few RBs in the world I would consider better than him. Whereas I would be just as happy with SWP, Milner or Malbranque as Bentley.
deano.avfc
I know it might sound strange but the result last night could be the best thing that could of happened to us..
Eircol
You may be right Eircol on two fronts, the first it may get MON to move a bit quicker and pay a little more just to get new players here, second it may give the current players a bit more determination, not that they should need it. Have a feeling nothing will happen till next week though.
astonsteve
Eircol I agree with you, it should give a bit more urgency to the situation. A small defeat, or even draw on Saturday may add to it too. The time has to come when we cannot rely on kids coming through. We were lucky for several years under DD and last season the non-injury luck was with us. I also think the value that is GB was shown last night. He was a player that always gave his best. Without him, it may be a bit difficult than people think.
Gordonsleftboot
Has anybody else spotted the irony that we used to slag Downing as McClaren's bum boy for keeping GB out of the England team and now people are saying he's actually a good player and that he would be a good signing for us. Can't see him or Bentley coming to us, SWP will go to Pompey, Toon will keep Milner, Malbranque is the more realistic option in my opinion. Unless MON has an ace up his sleeve of course!! To be honest though I can see MON spending big on a right back and playing Routledge wide right.
Jon.H
Toon won't keep Milner as they've signed one guy already and set set to agree a fee for Aimer. Bentley won't come (if he does) until the end of the window. I would say I agree with my brothers targets, this are backed up by mystic Eircol. Miguel, Milner and Friedel. The problems occur when Teams like Spurs and Liverpool (understandably) are trying to offload their dead wood for premium price: Robinson, Carson etc...
tarzan
Liverpool may now offer us a better player as part ex - Pennant?
tarzan
Freidel on his way in? Mailonline says this
"O'Neill has managed to see off a late inquiry from Manchester City to land Brad Friedel for £2.5m as his firstchoice keeper on a three-year deal.
Blackburn Rovers were unhappy to lose a shot-stopper who is regarded by many as one of the most consistent in the Barclays Premier League.
But the offer of a double-your money three-year deal - allied to the tie-up with compatriot Lerner has swayed it for the veteran.
Friedel, 37, is keen to set up his own football schools Stateside when he retires and the billionaire Villa Park owner has offered him the use of his network of contacts when he eventually calls it a day. "
Can't wait for the official announcement!
I agree that last night's result will hasten the process. Sounds like Knight was awful and we had no right back at all with Gardner unfit!
AVGD
Penant? No thanks.
The Usual Suspect
The top class RW linked have been Bentley, Wright-Phillips, Milner, Malbranque, Benayoun and Lennon. I reckon that Bentley would choose Spurs over us, SWP will go to Pompy and we wont bid. Milner, Benayoun and Lennon will stay at their clubs. That leaves us with Malbranque who I would love at the club. If we miss out on those that leaves us with Pennant - to be honest I would rather we stuck with Routledge!!! So......I reckon what we need to do is offer Blackburn £17m now - if we fail then offer £12m to Chelsea for SWP and if that does not work out at least we will have time to get another from Europe. I think all our eggs are in one basket with Bentley and we cant have him snubbing us for a London club on Aug 31st!!!
deano.avfc
I'm not too sure about Friedal, he is a good keeper but a bit old for me. I suppose he'll be there to bring Guzan up to speed and when he is Friedal will take a step back. Last night was terrible, surely MON must be thinking right I've got no choice time for action, he did bring on 8 subs second have which made us lose all shape and we had nothing at the back at all.
johnmurphy3112
I think we are really going to miss Barry if he stays i think the villa fans need to get behind him, we are a better side with him than without plus he gives us a bit of balance being left footed. I would prefer Robinson to Friedal. We need two goalkeepers competing for the number 1 jersey on a regular basis and for years to come.
astonsteve
It's all gone quiet about Bentley. A bit like that bit when you're coming in to land, and at the last moment before wheels down, the pilot kills the throttle and the whole plane hangs in peaceful hush for a second before wheels hit down. _______________________________________________________________ Wouldn't it be nice if he signed tomorrow.
evoflash
We have had Barry 10 years. We have not had barry for five minutes? What on earth justifies "we are a better team with Barry in it?" If I am not mistaken did we not do ok when Barry was injured last season?
simonbigron
One player doesn't make a team, but in our circumstances we need all the players we can get and Barry is a good one, so if he stays I'll be supporting him.
johnmurphy3112
Friedel over Robinson any day. Freidal wins you points, Robisnon (Like Carson) cost points last season.
The Usual Suspect
Agree with TUS, Friedel is much more reliable. And at present our defence needs a solid keeper behind them! In re. to deano.avfc's post - isnt Malbranque a left footed player and plays center or left wing? (I may be wrong) IMO he'd be a 'decent' replacement for Barry but I'd prefer Downing.
azton villain
One man doesn't make a team, but neither do 2 centre mids, 1 left back, 1 centre half and 1 3rd choice keeper make a defence as was proved last night. Can't belive this right back situation has been allowed to drag on for so long (pre Bardsley) and we may well be going into the two IT Cup games without one still. I think its being underesitmed just how important it is to win those games as do we really think the quality players we all want and need will be falling over themselves to come to VP if we can't even make it through these qualifying stages?
Jaytee247
simonbigron it doesnt matter how long Barry has been here he is a top quality player and i for one want us to keep hold of our top quality players. He has in fact become a top class player in the last two years since O Neil took over. If i recall Barry only missed a couple of games last season anyway. One player does not make a team but a top quality player makes the team even better.
astonsteve
But Steve Barry wants to go. PLain and simple. He doesn't want to play for us any more. What you want is less important in this matter - though i agree he is a class player. Truth is even if he's still here Sep 1, he won't be the same player he was last seasons. His heart is elsewhere - remember Henry's last season at the Arse?
The Usual Suspect
* last 2 Seasons
The Usual Suspect
I take your point The Usual Suspect but only time will tell if Barry stays and then we can judge him on his performances, i for one would support him if he does stay. I think he will still perform because he is desperate to play for England. However if we signed a equal replacement i would be just as happy, dont get me wrong im delighted with Sidwell and think he is a very good player but not as good as Barry at the moment.
astonsteve
All this talking about whether he should/will go is irrelevant really we need players in FACT. Lo and behold the Intertoto games are almost upon us and we have still have no RB (even Gardner is injured!), only one keeper and a general lack of players all round. Being linked with players is all well and good but if you are in our situation urgent action is and was needed!
Tez86
This can be looked at 2 ways. We are in a holding pattern either because Liverpool can't afford him or because we haven't secured his replacement. I think its a bit of both. But if we get say 14m plus Finnan we'll let him go as long as we've got some bodies in
tarzan
Tez86 you are assuming that we are taking the Inter two bob very seriously. I'm not so sure. We haven't applied in previous seasons and could be risking the bread and butter by going balls out just a few weeks after reporting back. maybe we are just looking at it as a bonus. MON has said the Premiership is his priority
tarzan
I think that could be the next poll?I am sure most fans will tell you it is important! At the end of the day its two games (well 2 legs really) so why not go for it! Then we are in UEFA when most of our main rivals are already there (Spurs, Pompy, Everton and City) we need to be in the UEFA cup to be on a par with them. Aside from that Europe will give us a better status enable us to attract better players and to differenciate us from the many nearly teams such as West Ham, Newcatle that seem to have the edge over us when pulling in names...
Tez86
I agree with Jaytee247 the right back situation should've been sorted long ago, and it seems its not going to get sorted before our 2 most important games in recent history, surely this and a keeper should be sorted whatever the cost.
johnmurphy3112
I do agree with the frustration on here - but signing players is not like buying a loaf of bread from Tesco. For all we know the players we want are waiting to see if we get into the UEFA cup. Also we might have had Finnan by now if Alonso had gone to Juve but the scousers are broke. Things are underway it just aint as straightforward as some believe. MON can't win as well. If he did buy a couple of backup full backs for £2m each, until his real targets would sign, people would complain that he was buying Sh*te.
The Usual Suspect
I agree with TUS but this isnt something that hasnt come unexpectedly we knew we had no RB and Mellberg would be off since last season. We also knew that by the last few weeks of the season that we had a good chance of playing in europe most likely having to qualify before hand we also knew that Davies would be out for some time and miss the start of season when he got injured all those months ago. I know things take time but I can think of no other team in the top filght without players for a position on the park. Also if this was the case why did we let Cahill go so easily before making sure we would be fine with the cover we have, surely his wages couldnt have been crippling us...?
Tez86
Why are we talking about Cahill? Who's coming next Eircol!
tarzan
Tarzansbrother...was that a bite...I think it was...tarzansboyfriend. miaow!
koolbill
Yea Eircol cheer us up as I am *****ting bricks about the game on Sat!!!!!!
I cannot believe we still have no right back, or No 1 in place, Lincoln beat us for ***** sake now we got a team who finished 6th in Denmark ok, and they have got the Twins playing for them!!!!!!
erv2005
Eircol doesn't know anymore than the Mirror or the Sun knows.
The Usual Suspect
I agree witherv2005, what if taylor gets injured training or in the first minute on saturday? I know there's loads of time left in the transfer window and we shouldn't panic but saturday is soooooo important, I've already bought my season ticket but if I hadn't there's nothing that makes me think oooh I better get one! please please MON put us out of our misery.
johnmurphy3112
the club or mon cant poss want a load of extra games the squad simply wont cope so i'm afraid saturday is only important to us; the situation with this many holes in the squad is madness if there are more than 3 more signings this window i'll eat a large hat!!!!
avflell
I think in the next week or so, Villa would know how serious and how intrested Arsenal are in GB. With Flamini and Hleb leaving, and Silva also reportedly in Greece, Wenger will surely be stepping up his pursuit for replacement! Wi
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
I think in the next week or so, Villa would know how serious and how intrested Arsenal are in GB. With Flamini and Hleb leaving, and Silva also reportedly in Greece, Wenger will surely be stepping up his pursuit for replacement! Will be good once the Barry saga is over.
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
I'm not sure Barry fits into the Arsenal mould, Wenger has prob already got some unknown talent lined up or else he wouldn't of let them go. And avflell Saturday will matter to MON and the club because a run in europe means money, and as generous as Mr Lerner is AVFC is still a business, and it will mean we can sign a better class of player....hopefully!!.
johnmurphy3112
I dont believe it the Djemba twins have just signed for a new club,Odense.
Pking
lol, yea ive just come across an article about him joining Odense BK. Bet he cant wait to play against Villa!
JOHN.CAREWS.CREW
Im getting more and more worried about this game.
Pking
Hey it looks like we might be meeting an old player if this link below is correct. Good old Djemba Djemba has signed for Odense BK. he will be dieing to shove it down our necks. its a bit of a worry though, i hope we don't lose that would be shattering
http://www.clarets-mad.co.uk/news/loadnews.asp?cid=TMNW&id=397989
liamo1981
Can someone please tell me, if we beat Odense over 2 legs, is that it, we've qualified for the UEFA cup? If so, is there just one team to beat to get into the group stage?
Take it easy over the transfers guys, there's plenty of time left. If in a few weeks time we've got Sidwell, Guzan, Friedel, Bentley, and a couple of others, and kept Barry, how excited about the new season will we be?! Bearing in mind we've already got the basis of an AWESOME squad?!!! UTV
MrZeus
Oh and while i'm asking questions, do we even have any European scouts?!! They don't seem to do very much! Surely the only way forward for us is to copy Arsenal and sign some hopefully amazing unknown players and hope they turn out world class.
MrZeus
MrZeus,yep we`d be in the UEFA proper which makes our dithering and lack of preparation really annoying,our scouts/MON seem to use a Premiership 07-08 sticker album to pick players from so i would say Euro Scouts are a no-no.
ASPINALL
Lol @ Aspinall, its just a shame MON swapped all of his RB stickers for other ones..! We are very close to transfer thread 6 come on MON squeeze a cheeky signing into today a nice RB or GK would be very welcome...
Tez86
Accodring to the news section on the official site it seems as if the Friedel deal was being concluded last night. MON was in meetings all day and its reported that Carson will now end up at Rovers.
Tez86
Pking, it's all about finishing for us, if we miss a hatful, we're in trouble. Good news about Friedel, he'll be majestic for 3 years or so. Looks like Spurs and Blackburn are in a mess, with their best players being bought by the top four. It's like us with Barry. Let's hope discussions with Barry today are more amicable. It does need an apology and/or a transfer request from him.
tarzan
Hey Eircol who are the movers and shakers today? If Spurs get Bentley, they could lose Keane and Berbatov, nightmare for them.
tarzan
oh then after the 2nd qualifying round - we have the first round - then the group stages.
los_angeles_villan
We wouldn't be in the Group stages, we'd be in the 2nd qualifying round. I don't know how people can look at Man City and say they are rightfully in the UEFA cup and we are not because if you think about it, the UEFA cup first qualifying around is later today, the same week our intertoto match is. Then if we both win we end up in the 2nd qualifying round. It's essentially the same exact thing.
los_angeles_villan
It's like going for gold with Henry Kelly, there's so many rounds! I think we should look at the bigger picture as we don't want this mickey mouse competition to ruin our season.
tarzan
Everyone has to play the 1st round though no one starts in the group stages. Last day to add recruits for saturdays game I would imagine, I dont think we will see any new faces unless we can push the Friedel deal through but we can only hope...
Tez86
And the Bentley, Milner and Miguel deals...
tarzan
Bentley deal wont be concluded for some time yet. I have not heard anything but speculatuion about Miguel, we wont be going for Milner and Bentley surely?! We also have Routlage, Agbonlahor and Moloney that can all play on the wings...
Tez86
I was being sarcastic, I agree that Bentley won't go until the end of the window, despite our firm offer, he's sensible keeping his options open (it surely depends on the Ronaldo/Berbatov/Keane carousel). We also had an offer accepted for Milner but it was upped by 2m at the last minute (Eircol is my cource!).
tarzan
I meant sauce
tarzan
It does seem a funny transfer window this time with lots of players in the "will they or wont they" situation there is nearly one in every club. Until these start moving there will be very little big signings I reckon. Is anyone else a little nervous about Saturday, I think we will get a result but I am not 100% convinced...
Tez86
Fingers crossed Blackburn go for Carson then as is being rumoured as that would throw a spanner in Spurs plans to offer cash + Robinson for Bentley and leave us in poll position to offer hard cash! Are Spurs still looking as attractive if they potentially lose Berbatov & Kean? Hopefully MON's day of meetings yesterday meant more than one players agent also. Now bring on Miguel, Anton Ferdinand (not the best but so much better then Knight and good cover for Laursen who still must have some concerns over his long term fitness), Friedel, Guzan, Bentley, Bent, Finnan and sort the GB saga out one way or the other.
Jaytee247
Are there people here worrying about Eric Djemba-Djemba lining up against Villa? Really? What next? I hear Darren Byfield has signed for Doncaster. Hope we don't get them in the F.A. Cup... Speaking of ex-Villa players I see Villa hero Alan wright has got himself a new contract at Cheltenham. One of my all-time favourite Villa players. Legend.
evoflash
Odense have quite a good team, Bisgaard, Helveg, the twins!!!!
Not going to be easy judging on our Lincoln Performance!!!!!
erv2005
I know some people find it very hard to believe that bentley will join us over another club that have not bid yet, does no one have faith in oneill trying to convince players here?
Eircol
especially if they have 12 men with the twins
Gordonsleftboot
I agree Eircol, agreeing the fee is the problem, if MON can get a player to sit down and talk then he can sell the vision to them, even the ones with London connections such as Young, Reo, Sidwell.
Jaytee247
Can Djmeba Djemba play right back!!!!!
johnmurphy3112
Good point Jaytee, I think MoN is doing a fantastic job and is chasing the best players only so he can build a very exciting team.
Why settle for mediocre players ?
scoops
It would make my summer for us to sign Bentley he would be amazing and one for the future.
erv2005
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