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John Coyne

An air of inevitability
14 January 2005

Tommy Gravesen: Crazed Loon; we shall miss him

It was inevitable — and worryingly we all knew it.  As I want the best for Everton Football Club, I have no interest in Thomas Gravesen's personal ambitions.  I understand why he wants to go to Madrid; however, I couldn't care less about him — unless he is an Everton player. 

Four years of inconsistency have frustratingly led to half a season of excellent consistency.  The change of formation to 4-5-1 has obviously suited Thomas, as he doesn't now have the burden of playing 'as a two' in central midfield.  This, however, doesn't cloud over the fact that he has been our best player this season.  Undoubtedly, 'Mad Dog' has helped make going to the match an enjoyable experience this season, and in some games he has pulled his team-mates through to games that didn't look winnable — think home games against Bolton & Man City.

However, as I mentioned — it was inevitable.  But why?  Why, when our best players are rumoured to be going somewhere, do we fear the worst?  We know the power of agents, and we know that most players don't understand the meaning of loyalty.  We know Everton have fallen way behind in the stakes of being a well renowned and respected club — not only in Europe, but also in England.  Is it still too much to ask someone like Thomas Gravesen to see the season out, try and achieve his goals of playing in Europe — something that is still very possible this season?

Another concern is the Club's official statement: “No-one at Everton wanted to lose Thomas Gravesen, we did everything we could to keep him.  Once it became clear that Thomas had his heart set on a move to Real Madrid we fought hard for the best possible deal for Everton Football Club. To that end I believe we have been successful.”

Forgive me if this sounds very similar to the Wayne Rooney situation in the summer.  'The best possible deal for Everton Football Club' — 'Everything we could to keep him'.  Although I do not doubt this statement, it would be interesting to find out the finer details of 'Everything we could to keep him'.

So where do we go from here.  Let's face facts: it could prove to be a major blow to our aspirations this season — but we have to move on!  An adequate replacement would be a positive start.  I won't bore you with potential names but, with such a small squad anyway, a replacement needs to be a top priority.

Another negative day for Everton, but one look at the league table helps to clear the gloom.  However, if that isn't enough, re-run the image of Davie Moyes celebrating Lee Carsley's winner against our dear neighbours a couple of weeks ago.  Enough to bring a smile to anyone's face!

No player is bigger than the Club. Onwards and Upwards for Everton.  Let's stay positive and get behind the team more than ever, starting at Middlesbrough on Sunday!

John  Coyne

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