ToffeeWeb MailBag
Letters from our readers — June 2006
 

ToffeeWeb Letters from July 2006

Annual rant
I write to ToffeeWeb around once a season - the letters either get ignored or slapped down with sneery editorial comments. Nevertheless, the annual rant makes me feel a lot better in this pre-season period, so I shall persist. So:

• Why are we re-signing Weir? I thought Moyes was in Germany at the moment watching and learning? Have you seen any centre-halves in the World Cup with the turning circle of a supertanker and the pace of a koala? No? Thank him for his contribution and move on.
• Dithering on the McFadden contract is an admission that we cannot attract Premiership quality players so have to stick with what we have. This is acceptable for Sunderland but not for Everton. Get rid even if a repacement has't been signed yet, create some breathing space.
• Have you noticed how every team in the World Cup plays the same? The game has changed. It's about athleticism and moving the ball quickly. "Dogs of War" is dead. Not everyone can play like Chelsea or Arsenal but you need a strategy to present a credible threat even if you don't win every week. The likes of West Ham and Wigan seem to realise this. Moyes doesn't.
• A side getting in 38k crowd per week should be able to attract decent players.
• Only council officials and pedants know where the boundaries of Liverpool are. Build the new ground in the place which offers the best for the long-term interests of the club. My personal view is that the interests of both Liverpool clubs would be best served by sharing a ground. Most would disagree, but the TV income bubble's gonna burst at some point.
• If anyone offers over £5M for Cahill then sell and sign someone who can pass to keep Arteta company: at the moment it's like pairing Michelangelo with Conan the Barbarian. Kevin Nolan, come on down.

Yet More Reasons To Move Out
A big advantage of moving to a stadium away from Liverpool would be that home games may not need to avoid those of Liverpool FC. This would give us the heart warming spectacle of Evertonians on their way out of town to watch the match being able to give a cheery wave to all the Liverpool supporters coming the other way....
Tony Horne, Kettering  (30/6/06)

Cough, splutter!

Who's the Ludite?
Ones who ignore the latest developments in stadia design, construction, and planning or those who don't? Until very recently, I was a Design Engineer for one of the world's largest construction companies.... I think I explained one potential solution in quite simple terms and even cited one example to support it. I can also tell you that in stadium planning terms the out- of-town option is old hat in the extreme.

Personally, I believe the Tesco bowl is pie in the sky, rumour mongering, distraction or whatever. I actually hope I'm wrong, especially if there's the prospect of moving closer to the city centre so that the vast majority of our supporters get access to direct public transport to the new facility. However, when this Nirvanna fades like the last two "dream" moves, we will still have to contend with the problems that GP presents, cos there's no way we can expect EFC to generate £100M+ in one go on their own.
Tom Hughes, Liverpool  (30/6/06)

Another voice for a ground move
Ok, let's look at some basic facts about the proposed ground move.

1. We're not Wimbledon, we're not talking about moving to a town 75 miles away purely for better revenue.
2. We're considering moving to a place that's still part of the urban conglomeration that is Liverpool.
3. If we move we'll earn more revenue from non-football as well as football income streams, which means more money to invest in players and the overall infrastructure.
4. I'm ecstatic we're potentially linking up with Tesco's. I work in Retail Marketing and Tesco's are, in no uncertain terms, the kings of generating extended income, in otherwords.... the ideal partners for a BUSINESS that's looking to extend it's cashflow.
5. The link to Goodison is emotional but Goodison is not Everton. The fans aren't Everton, the Board aren't Everton, the players aren't Everton. What we are are the custodians of the idea that is Everton. We all have a duty of care to ensure that the club is as healthy as possible moving forward, and if a ground move is the way to go then so be it.

The early bird catches the worm!
Just seen the list of our games that Sky are going to show. Charlton and Fulham away at 12:45, I’m going to have to get up about 5am! Why don’t they ever think about the travelling support when picking games? I thought, for a second, not to bother going to those two games and watch them at home but then realised that is exactly what they want me to do, so fuck them I’ll go to the game anyway. It’s blatantly obvious that Sky don’t want people in the ground watching football. They do my head in, the sooner they go bust the better.
Adam Bennett, Liverpool  (30/6/06)

Dynamite
I have a good solution for Goodison that will sort out all this futile talk once and for all — a BIG FUCKIN' STICK OF DYNAMITE!

Sack it — let's move. Who gives a shite what the new place is called? As long as Everton are playing when you are there, why do you care? After all what is in a name...?!?!?!?!?

Up the Toffeemen.
Andy Callan, North Shields  (30/6/06)

Skule's out for summer?! ;-) — Colm

Ground Breaking!!!
The letter concerning redevelopment of the Goodison complex is pathetic, does this guy really believe all of this work can be done over a couple of closed seasons with no impact to attendences?

As far as what the ground is called, so what... I dont care what they call it, why does it matter, have we all turned into postcode snobs? The ONLY thing that matters is that we have a new spingboard to help us move forward and we certainly should not let a few petty arguments (Colm) get in our way.

You cannot please all of the people all of the time, who are all these "businesses" who are going to lose out? I just do not see it. The pubs and chippies mentioned in previous mails have not even looked after their own facilities and are a disgrace. We are in real danger of once again talking ourselves out of progress. Ludite Evertonians, determined to sit behind stantions for the rest of their lives while everyone else makes progress.

We talk about Goodison as some sort of shrine which has served us so well over the years... Maybe it has but, let's face it, it is old and no longer fit for the purpose. Let's move on whether it is called Tesco's, Aldi, Netto or Spar — I don't care!
Jimmy Dryer, Everton  (30/6/06)

Would you move from a property you owned into a development you don't own, paying a rent for the privilege? Moving away from Goodison Park isn't as easy as some seem to think it is! — Colm

Anfield??
Responding to those who advocate re-vamping Goodison, but acknowledging those who say that lost revenue would be a problem. There is a possible solution, when Anfield 2 is built in Stanley Park, the original Anfield will be vacant.

Could Everton FC use that facility for 1 or 2 seasons and possibly increase revenue during that period and have a brand new shiny Goodison on the present site. It's just a thought!
John Mcfarlane, Lancs  (30/6/06)

It's just a thought... one aired before... and the silly season is upon us! Ain't ever gonna happen. — Colm

Logging off
Miserable old bugger that I am, I have decided to stop logging on to the mailbag until the season`s nigh underway. Am I alone in thinking that all the bollocks posted about the never to happen ground move is almost as boring as what`s going on in Germany?

Surely we all know that the Useless Board are incapable of raising a tuppenny fart let alone hundreds of millions — with or without help from The Grand Republic of Tesco!
Harry Meek, Worcester  (30/6/06)

All part of the grand Art of Deflection, Sir! — Colm

Virtual Spectators
With regards to the possible ground move, one of the arguments put against the redevelopment of Goodison is the loss of revenue during any reconstruction. How about this as a way of alleviating that problem?

Those Evertonians around the country — and the world — who don't get to see the Blues could pay for a virtual season ticket for those seats lost during the reconstruction. For example: Bullens Rd... say 12,000 seats for 20 games at approximately £25 per seat brings in £6 million. If 60,000 ex pat Blues could be persuaded to fork out £100 (a pint a week!) then that lost revenue would be retained. The club could even put their names on the new seats. Just a thought.

Oh... I'm sure most of you have seen it but, for those who don't think a viable design could be based on the current Goodison footprint I think this link might provide some ideas: Here
Rob Williamson, Sheffield  (30/6/06)

How to redevelop & minimise capacity reduction....
In my previous posts I mentioned Ipswich had already achieved this "mind-boggling" feat. It's hardly rocket science, to be honest. I did quite an extensive study of the site several years ago and still have all the site plans etc.

As we all know there exists a large reserve of space at the Park End, also, the pitch is not central to the current Mainstand due to the church. By knocking down the Park stand and moving the pitch approx 12 m towards the park and building a large double-decker at that end, with the lower tier of 33 rows in use by the start of the new season, the loss of capacity would be approx 1500, but this would only be for 2-3 months of the following season when the 38 row upper tier is commisioned, at which time the capacity would be approx 44,000. Next close season continue around the Bullens, again with the lower tier in place for start of season. The new corner Quadrant representing a completely new seated area, plus the reinstated lower Bullens again ensuring that we never dip below current capacity.

Next season, given the space freed up by moving pitch towards Park end, mirror that stand at the St end, again going around the corner. Finally remodel the Goodison Road side by removing the two front Roof supports, re-roofing and supporting proper exec boxes beneath Top balcony and thus removing majority of seats beyond the second row of supporting columns particularly at the church end of this stand. Reinstate full enclosure.

The final total capacity would be min 50k up to approx 56k if just the Bullens Road is bridged. The new end stands would be as high as the current Top Balcony but would reduce in depth around the Bullens side. The difference in height on this side could be made up by exec balconies to give the same height on 4 sides, and a much increased upper tier capacity to improve atmosphere and increase average viewing quality. Like I said, Ipswich built new double-deckers at each end and managed to have the lower tiers in operation for the new season, with uppers following shortly afterwards.

One simpler solution would be to simply extend the existing Park end back to the height of the Top Balcony, this would represent approx 25 new rows or 4000 new seats plus new corner quadrant could ensure that a redeveloped Bullens would also yield 40k+ min throughout this side's redevelopment, all by virtue of the fact that the Park end and its corner with Bullens are currently vastly under-used. However, the problem with not moving the pitch being that the St end could never be any bigger than it currently is meaning a maximum in the order of approx 48k if I remember rightly from the study.......

Of course as stated this is all immaterial if the will isn't there, or if we're on for a freeby. My feelings are however, if a similarly glossy presentation of what I described above was put to the fans alongside the inevitably glossy Tesco bowl, then the vote would be tighter than previous ones.
Tom Hughes, Liverpool  (29/6/06)

The Mailbag
Well there's certainly one feature dominating the old mailbag? Maybe TW should change the name of it to 'Movebag'?? Then again, the only footy on is the World Cup and it's not like we have much player involvement in that really!

So while I'm here, this chappie in charge of Tesco (apologies — I've forgotten his name) is a diehard blue. So why the fuck has he sat around this long and waited to do something with our club? Or am I just being naive and thinking this has some bearing to the deal because the Echo says so?? I know I couldn't sit around and watch the last 15 years without doing something.
David Marsh, St Neots, Cambs  (29/6/06)

And what about the fifteen years before that, Mr Marsh? Or may I call you Dr Marsh?! ;-)

As for Everton player involvement in the World Cup, you've forgotten our Nuno. Who's he playing against on Saturday again...? - Colm

Keep the name 'Goodison'
I just want to know this: Will they keep on with the name 'Goodison'? I know they need to move on with a new stadium but please take the name with them. I will miss going the shop and the chippy then onto the Wilmslow and the Blue House — it won't be the same — I am so sad.
Denise Craig, Crewe  (29/6/06)

Well.....the Blue House has shut its doors for some time now but what exactly is wrong in your eyes with going to the Tesco Clubcard Super Saver Points Knowsley Stadium? ;-) — Colm

Redeveloping Goodison??
Tom Hughes says that Goodison can be redeveloped with the statement "If for instance the Park End was the first part to be redeveloped at GP, the capacity need never fall below current levels during the whole process." I wonder how on earth he reaches that conclusion — if you remove one quarter of the ground your capacity will drop.

We cannot increase the other areas of the ground, there is no more space for seating, you can't put temporary seats anywhere so how on earth does he reach this mind boggling conclusion? I for one remember the difficulties of watching during the last redevelopment of the Park End. Under Health and Safety legislation, no spectators are allowed into a building area, so that part is out of action, full stop.

We will all lament the loss of Goodison, no matter what we build and no matter where we build it, nothing will replace Goodison. Those of us who want a move recognise and understand this but I suggest we are also able to move on, and that in effect is what we must all do. Everton must complete in the modern era of football, all the nostalgic memories of Goodison should never be forgotten or lost but equally they must not be allowed to stop the club progressing.

I remember watching Alex Young and the great sides of the sixties and early seventies but I know in my heart of hearts they would not compete in the Abramovich era of football. Goodison is like that, a great place with great memories but not up to the demands of today. No matter what is done to the ground it will not satfisfy, much like if we brought the Golden Vision into the present Premiership, his skill and vision would still be there but the athleticism of his opponents would stop it being used and he would be ineffecitve. Goodison is the same — it cannot compete in the modern era — poor views and seating, poor transport infrastructure, limited space, no parking, poor amenities, etc etc.

For Tom and others, the ground and the history will never be forgotten but you can't turn the clock back and, no matter how you dress it up, the simple truth is you have to move into the 21st Century.
Jim Hourigan, Preston  (29/6/06)

I'm sure Tom may respond to your post Jim but I believe the belief was that a second tier put onto the Park End over the summer months could allay, to some degree, the problem of housing supporters seated in the Bullens Stand when the time came to redevelop the entire Bullens Stand.

I agree wholeheartedly with Tom's belief that Goodison Park can indeed be redeveloped but as Michael himself has continually pointed out, the desire is simply not there with the current custodians of Everton FC. — Colm

A new stadium
Initially I was pretty interested in a move to Kirkby but having heard about the shenanigans Tesco have been getting up to in Norfolk, I now think we shouldn't touch it with a barge pole.

As someone else has already said, Tesco are interested in supermarkets NOT football irrespective of Sir Terry Leahy's devotion to Everton. If he really is interested perhaps he could persuade his board to give us an interest-free loan of £250 million and we'll get on with the job ourselves !
Tony Waring, Frogmore  (29/6/06)

Spot on with the last suggestion, Tony. Nothing against Tesco — a huge success story in their own right — but I'd prefer personally to have nothing to do with them. My own business has come under increasing pressure from Tesco over recent years as they continue to flout planning regulations and do whatever the hell they like: such is the Tesco way... - Colm

New Everton Website
In response to Anthony Newell comments about the new Evertonfc site.

I work for a usability and accessibility company in Bristol. During one of our training courses we did a test on the old Evertonfc site (I wanted to spread the Everton brand ;-)) and found it almost impossible to use with a screen reader due to it failing all W3C guidelines. The usability was pretty bad too due to their obsession with advertisements, high content volume on the homepage and some overcrowded navigation.

I sent the guys at Evertonfc an e.mail telling them how inaccessible the site was to use and suggested quick and easy ways they could improve it in order to attract more visitors. I had a reply telling me about a text-only version of the site for people using screen readers. As it turned out, this text only version didn’t actually work and they never replied to my second e.mail.

Their new site is just as inaccessible, failing all W3C guidelines, breaking the UK Disability Discrimination Act and failing disabled Everton fans in the process (http://webxact.watchfire.com/). What they failed to realise is that a creative site CAN be accessible if handled in the right way.

In terms of usability, their interactive features look cool and flashy at first but after a few visits it gets really frustrating because all you want to see is the content. Their marketing team will be happy because of the increased visibility of Everton TV and other products, and will no doubt make a better financial return. Nothing wrong with that, but its essential we get quick and efficient access to content without having to wait for interactive elements to do their bit before we can do ours.
Gavin Harris, UK  (29/6/06)

Man... I kinda hate to ask... but how do we rate??? — Michael

Brian Labone — thought you all should know...
I live in Lydiate, not far from Brian Labone. When I heard about his death I was upset as everyone else. Having just read the article by Mike Quirk in which says about it not being right that Brian died in the street,I thought that I should tell you all a little something.

Brian died slumped against my van on Liverpool Road. The significance of it however is the van colour. I thought it fitting then that when Brian left this world, the very last thing that he should touch was Royal Blue in colour.

True Blue Legend or what!!!
Mark O'Donhaghy, Liverpool  (29/6/06)

A little bt of folkore in the making there, Mark... — Michael

Question for the ToffeeWeb Team
If Keith Wyness came to you and offered you the opputunity to run the official site, would you take it?

Bearing in mind the legality issues that would arise in running an official site of Everton which would force you to reign in certain aspects.
Daniel Ford, Newcastle Upon Tyne  (29/6/06)

Colm would luv it... and there's no reigning him in! — Michael

Considering I'm waiting almost a year now for my shareholder's Evertonia Gold Card, faithfully promised by the CEO at the last AGM, I doubt very much that I'd be offered such an opportunity! ;-) - Colm

Reduced capacity during redevelopment
This is another anti-redevelopment myth. There are ways and means to minimise or even avoid this altogether. Ipswich managed to develop both ends without significant reduction in capacity. Stadium design and construction has advanced significantly in the last 15 years.

If for instance the Park End was the first part to be redeveloped at GP, the capacity need never fall below current levels during the whole process. It can be shown that 50,000 plus is easily achieved on the current site. 55,000 would probably require bridging Bullens Road and the possible demolition of 4-8 end terraces due to close proximity and/or light deprivation etc.

If there is no big developer prepared to build for us elsewhere I believe this is the only way the club could afford to build a state-of-the-art stadium, ie. in stages on the current site. Of course this way we also preserve so much more, in terms of history and tradition. We can have our cake and eat it. However, this has to be weighed against the possibility of developers building it for us as rumoured recently.
Tom Hughes, Liverpool  (29/6/06)

Correct me if wrong, but I understand the club has looked at the feasibility of this kind of redevelopment that you have been championing for years, Tom, and they have rejected it. The current custodians of the club have no intention of rebuilding Goodison Park. — Michael

Everton Website
Does anyone share my view that the new Everton FC website is shockingly crap?! The graphics on the site won't even load up properly when launching it on my PC at work

This is hardly Nil Satis and to put out something like this as a representation of our club is an embarrassment to say the least.
Anthony Newell, Northampton  (29/06/06)

I must be in the minority who don't think the new Official site is "shockingly crap". Aesthetically it's a step forward in my view and, much like our recent upgrade, the underlying code is better. The heavy use of Flash is questionable, though, if you ask me — we've avoided Flash at TW precisely because it can be so hit-and-miss with users — and while there are some untidy aspects to it and the number of ads is a little overwhelming, I don't think the new evertonfc.com is awful at all — Lyndon

Blowing my own trumpet
Over a year ago I suggested to this mailbag that in heading contests players with arms raised higher than their shoulder should be penalised. My suggestion was criticised by some but Sepp and his mates at FIFA must have heeded it.

Have you noticed that World Cup Referees are following my suggestion. I hope it will also apply to the Premier League? Am I allowed to award myself a few brownie points?
Dick Fearon, West Australia  (29/06/06)

Next you'll be suggesting football becomes a no-contact sport? May I suggest left wingers not being allowed to use their right foot?! Oh hang on...we've Andy van der Meyde... - Colm

Mind your own Business!
Jimmy Dryer and Gary Rimmer raise a couple of points regarding can we really stay at Goodison, and what about the impact on the local economy (also raised by various local politicians).

Well, regarding the local businesses — I say fuck 'em. Harsh, I know, but first and foremost this is about Everton Football Club. Not 'Macca's Chippy' or even The Winslow. Whilst we may have a beneficial impact on such businesses 20-25 times a year (when did we last have a decent cup run?!) we are not beholding to them. I wouldn't even take Jimmy's suggestion of allowing them to submit business plans for any new development — most of them won't even know what one is.

Secondly, Gary raised the point about staying at Goodison. Feasibility studies were carried out, and I don't mean that loon who built a model stadium showing how we could rotate the ground 90 degrees with a little bit of CPO here and there. As myself and others have pointed out, we would still be limited in scope due to a constrained footprint (even with property acquisition), it'd have a direct impact on primary revenue during development (reduced capacity), and would be bloody expensive to boot. Plus our ability to attract external investment would be nil, as there's bugger all benefit for a third party.

I've already stated Goodison is a big part of my life — it always will be. But I want to see an Everton team that competes — and off the field competition is vital these days. We've been shite for far too long having missed the boat when we were last successful in the 80s. We've flirted with relegation far too often, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who fears a third last day fight may not be third time lucky.
Matt Traynor, Liverpool  (29/6/06)

No guarantee of an Everton side back competing for honours with the move to a new Tesco Clubcard Kirkby Stadium! — Colm

Decisions, Decisions bugging me!
Is it just me and some over 35's who a feeling a little scared and confused over this ground move? I just don't get how some EFC fans are so eager to leave our beloved Goodison. I'm even a little confused over the finacial side. Why would corporate functions be more attracted to Kirby (and I love Kirby and it's people) than Walton? Why doesn't the club pay a real top architect to come up with plans for a revamped Goodison without buying up any houses?

If nowdays they send a bus to the moon sureley we can come up with a great plan for us to stay at Goodison. If it takes 5-6 years of reduced capacity, so what? The club's been around for over a century. It's about me my children and grandchildren. There's loads of things we could do. Why we could even buy the little scrappy at the top of Bullins Road and turn it into some sort of venue for the club, if the will is strong enough there is an alternitive to moving.

Just say things go wrong and the new stadium (no matter how it looks on paper, The Dome?) is a load of shite, we can never go back. I'm not a ludite, I'm all for a modern, dynamic, lean, profitable EFC. I just havn't been 100% convinced it can't be done at Goodison. For me to give a ground move my backing I have to be a 1000% convinced.

And, Michael, if your answers were never ever flippant/sarcastic, the letters page would be a lot duller. Keep up the good work we all appreciate it. Fuckin' hell I sound a bit of a creep there. Onward Evertonians
Gary Rimmer, Liverpool  (28/6/06)

I think you hit it in terms of "will". The will isn't there to redevelop Goodison — not at the level where it matters. And the impact of reduced income during rebuilding should not be underestimated. Also, the question of funding for redevelopment versus a new stadium makes a big difference. The feasibility study was performed years ago. It apparently proves redevelopment is not commercially viable. But it has never been published, of course. — Michael

Transfer rumours
Wish the 'hard working' agents would move onto another club when trying to hock their clients. Haven't we been in for most of the available players for the last three seasons now? Can't they give the likes of Wigan a go!? On the other hand it might be justifing the scouts wages!!
Adam Carey, Berkshire  (28/6/06)

Bounded By The City
I realise that the debate surrounding the ground move will go on and on. However, the stark situation is that if we stay within Liverpool City Boundaries we cannot, as accountants may say, increase our customer base.

Let's be honest, if you surveyed people from all over the world and asked them, "what is Merseyside / Liverpool about?" they would in all probability say the Beatles, LFC , Liver buildings and maybe as an afterthought or through prompting, EFC. This is, unfortunatley, what happens when you name your club after a district and not the city of origin.

Celtic and Rangers as most people would respond are associated with Glasgow. So, when sponsors and other corporate people are looking to tout their products, they will often use the power of association with their brand(s).

Obviously success has a bearing on sponsors and again we have hardly been blessed with this in the last 20 years. In fact our most failure- ridden period has come at the most inopportune time. This is the backdrop to our current situation and therefore, in business speak, re-branding and renewal are the only way in which EFC can hope to recapture former glories.

It's not the way I and many would like it but it is a fact we have to live with.mSo it would seem to me that the leaving of liverpool is inevitable.
John Mcfarlane, Lancs  (28/6/06)

Namouchi
Looks like we've finally been linked with a player from the Supermarket Sweep err... I mean World Cup. Hamed Namouchi's agent is saying that the French born Tunisian midfielder is wanted by ourselves and Birmingham. Mmmm, not exactly Carlos Tevez, but he has to be better than Kilbane.
Mark Wynne, Bury St Edmunds  (28/6/06)

It makes my blood boil!!!!
Here is a well-used quote by many an Everton faithful:

“Instead of building a new ground, spend the money on players.”

Goodison Park can not be redeveloped unless Everton buy half of the surrounding properties in the area, which is completely unrealistic and time consuming. Any redevelopment will take years and therefore reduce the gate revenues therefore impacting on buying any new players anyway. If we enter into a new ground built as suggested recently, we will have someone else footing the majority of the bill, financing would not be as big a burden and our existing revenues will not be drastically affected.

I do not doubt anyone’s loyalty here; however, I do wish Everton would give some clarification on the funding issue to allay any fears from any short-minded, sceptical fans. We need an educational process which quite clearly, and simply conveys the structure of how this is all being pieced together, then finally, we can get the move underway.

I believe local businesses who feel that they will be destroyed can be first in the line in offering business plans for the numerous opportunities which will arise from any new development. So come on, let’s move the chippies, burger vans and pubs to a better environment for all our families. As one writer mentioned, these establishments are in dire need of upgrade anyway. We are not living up to our world famous motto, so let’s build something which is the best and more importantly what our fans and future generations deserve.
Jimmy Dryer, Everton  (28/6/06)

Hamed Namouchi
Says in the papers up here that Moyes is 'very' interested in signing Hamed Namouchi from Rangers. I really hope this is just agents talking because Namouchi is awful. He can't control a ball, has no pace and his shooting normally hits the corner flag if he's lucky. Wish we had the money to go after Petrov instead. I feel we could do with signing a really class midfielder who could gel the team just like Gravesen did.
Ross Trotter, Scotland  (28/6/06)

An entry for the Rumour Mill?

Ground Move & Local Business
I think an important point has been touched upon in recent letters: the fate of local businesses around Goodison which may falter should The Blues move.

It`s 2006, the ground may look old but is that any excuse for the businesses around Goodison to remain painfully underdeveloped? the pubs are poorly decorated and look dirty and totally unfit for the modern customer (families etc). There are no decent places serving anything like decent food and several houses around the ground have boarded up windows and look a state.

These places have wasted the opportunity that befalls them on matchdays; not only to get a captive audience for a few hours but the chance to entice `local` (within a good few miles) back on non-match days. It`s time that others were given that opportunity.

< And on the case of moving or not — if that`s what it takes to prosper and compete with our neighbours... move!!
Mark Manns, London  (27/6/06)

Bizarre... someone was just telling me about at least two of those houses having struck gold in terms of pre- and post-match entertainment and meal packages that knock socks off the club's corporate tent-city facilities. Excellent food, drinks, and past players... what more could you want? — Michael

Think The Unthinkable
The current debate amongst Evertonians whether or not a potential move to Kirkby would benefit the club has brought some pretty passionate responses from both camps. Each side has made fairly valid arguments but, having witnessed Everton's narrow relegation escapes over the last fifteen years, this has made me think one day we could actually fall over the precipice and drop down a division. All it takes is one really bad run of results towards the end of a season — similar to the disatrous start to last season — and 'Goodnight Vienna'.

Clearly, Everton's status as one football's 'giants' is simply not valid any more. Our peer clubs of 20 years ago, Arsenal, Spurs, Liverpool, Chelsea et al, have all moved up a gear commercially either through rich Russian benefactors or a combination of much better grounds or their ability to attract major sponsors, as in the case of Arsenal and their recent Air Emirates stadium deal.

I believe the only way forward for Everton is to try and negotiate a 'partnership' deal with a sympathetic and co-operative local authority, and a major commercial concern, who will contribute towards the overall development costs of the stadium and surrounding enviroment.

So, what are the alternatives for a club like Everton? In truth, not a lot — only more mediocrity over the coming years, occasionally highlited by the odd spectacular season in ten, when a series of 1-0 wins, last-minute goals and sheer bloodymindedness carries too many false dawns... Sounds familiar?

If Everton FC are to survive and prosper, we need to move into a new ground in the next 5-7 years when, god forbid (and I hate to admit it), we can increase the incoming revenue from the golden cow that is the corporate sector. If that means moving to a location such as Kirky, so be it.

If any of you have kids who support Everton, think of their futures, not your own feelings at the present time, cos believe you me, for every year that passes, the stark reality is that the gap between the rich and poor of the Premiership is getting wider by the day. We need a strong ,vibrant Everton — one that can hold its own amongst the leading clubs, one that attracts the best players who come onto the market by paying the going rate (as obscene as that is) in terms of transfer fees and salaries.

The alternative is simply too horrible to contemplate.
Steve Hogan, Chester  (27/6/06)

Dear John!
Get your head out of your arse, mate, — you say "the man has done everything that any 'normal' fan has wanted in the transfer market since the season finished, and perhaps more than most expected." I would agree with you to an extent, but signing a guy who may turn out to be a cripple and a keeper on loan isn't awe inspiring. And your reference to 'normal fan' basically means a Moyes fan boy or somebody who does not question his management.

And, John, if you actually looked at what I was alluding to, I was saying was that Moyes should have said that there are no more players to come in unless we sell or nothing at all. That would have been more wise in my opinion. As for big name free transfers, I never suggested that. Maybe you were in FM mode or just wanted a stick to beat me with?

Anyway Moyes has done well, but he did well in last year's transfer market and look what happened? So naturally I'm cautious about things at Goodison, rather than burying my head in the sand and pretending that all is well because we signed three players who may or may not be a success! That is what fans who have been through the merry-go-round of supporting Everton do!
Luq Yus, London  (27/6/06)

Come off it, Liq — any excuse to beat Moyes and you are right in there with your stick. I'm one of his biggest cynics, but we have to wait and see what happens with these new signings. Continuing to dream up your own reasons to question Moyes's judgement is a bit much, methinks. Give it a rest at least until the pre-season jollies start in earnest. — Michael

Cahill and Jeffers
I thought you guys said Jeffers was coming back to Everton? I don't know whether to believe this Cahill to Man Utd stuff or not now.

Also when someone says "I have heard from a good source" regarding Cahill do they actually mean "I have heard from someone on the sauce"? Having spoken to a few United fans, I don't think the signing of Cahill would go down too well with them.
Alan Clarke, Manchester  (27/6/06)

I guess you haven't read our diclaimer on the Rumour Mill page, eh, Alan? It goes something like this:

Please note: This is a rumours page and features just that — rumours; stories we have read, heard or that have been passed on to us. Please bear in mind that we make no claims of their veracity and that most of them turn out to be completely untrue.

Tesco and stadiums
Regarding Tesco's involvement in proposals to move to Kirkby, a local example of how said company has involved itself in other stadium deals is Warrington Wolves' new rugby league stadium. Built on the site of the old Tetley Walker brewery, the new Halliwell Jones stadium is situated next to the largest Tesco Extra in the region. There's very little chance that the supermarket would have got planning permission if it hadn't been for the sweetner of substantial funding towards the new 14,000 seat stadium.

Are there any locations closer to the city centre suffering from a lack of supermarkets? Otherwise, Tesco may not be willing to invest...
James McCollom, Burnage, Greater Manchestershire  (27/6/06)

Er.. SNAP! Great minds...

Warrington/Tesco
On the Tesco subject, whilst an avid Everton fan, I also support Warringon Rugby League club. Like Everton, they had a crumbling stadium, Wilderspool, which had a great atmosphere and many memories down the years. Tesco did what they are suggesting to Everton and built them a new stadium as part of a new Tesco development. The new stadium is great and Warrington haven't lost any of the atmosphere of the old ground — the fans are still the same. Revenues are increasing and Warrington as a team are getting better and better. Maybe the Everton Board of Directors could look at them as a case study for the pros and cons?
Dan Parker, New York, NY, USA  (27/6/06)

Move? Or be moved?
Should we move from Goodison? A question on everyones lips. I fear some fans are misguided on this subject. To stay at Goodison is a romantic notion fit only for the Mills and Boon reading population. In my view, it is very simple, we need to move now given this wonderful opportunity which may NEVER return. Let's all face the truth and stop looking through rose-tinted glasses: we have no money, we are not generating the large revenues as the top teams and we have a long way to go to do it.

Do some of the Everton fans advocating staying at Goodison Park have the tiniest bit of business acumen? I do not think so. The cost of a ground move is astronomical and cannot be bourne by Everton alone — we must enter into strategic partnerships with both local councils and businesses alike in order to get this project rolling. We have a head start, Knowsley Council have already agreed to give, yes give! the land to us — Everton just need to find a small amount of money to fund the balance of the ground costs.

So what is stopping us? It appears that a few local Evertonians, hell bent on not wanting to get on a bus for four miles, are part of the answer. Yes, I know some just love the heritage of Goodison Park but let's get real, it will NEVER be redeveloped because the funds will never be avaialble.

Let's take this opportunity and run with it, we sure messed up the Kings Dock stadium but that is history and we can make this work. Let's NOT have a big debate about it, let's not hear about a couple of chippies which may lose out, who really cares apart from them? If it is for the good of the majority that a few may pay a small consequence then so be it.

This may seem harsh but let's think about what we can acheive here, a wonderful opportunity for a wonderful club and fans. A place called Everton will always be in the heart of every Evertonian, and not necessarily in the heart of the city itself.
Jazza Ozzie, Aigburth  (27/6/06)

It really is a business decision (see Ged's letter below), and that's what sticks in the craw of many who would like to romantically view professional football as just a few steps removed from jumpers for goalposts in Stanley Park (Oh the irony....). Buster Wyness has made it crystal clear that the club must advance itself financially, and he is quite sure staying at Goodison is never going to do that — the club itself has been convinced of that for somethig like the last 10 years. I expect them to pay lip-service to the stayers and their hertiage/history concerns but, at the end of the day, the club will make a decision on any future move above all for financial reasons. — Michael

I don't see the 15,000 seats yet
Whilst I think Dave Moore is right to criticise Peter Fearon for taking a cheap shot at Kirkby in his article about the stadium move, he has let this cloud his judgement on the financial issues surrounding a stadium move.

I agree that where the club moves to isn’t of prime importance but it does need to be a commercially viable location (i.e. it could generate additional revenue outside of football matches). There is an emotive issue about no longer being a Liverpool club (and we were there before the other shower) but that shouldn’t dictate where we move to. Financial sense should.

I’d also agree that Tesco are a very successful business but they’ve achieved their position as one of the UK’s most powerful companies at the expense of everyone they deal with. Tesco would only get involved in a stadium deal if it meant more profit for Tesco. They don’t give a damn about the football club or any other business that gets involved. You only have to look at how they treat their suppliers to see that — they claim to be British farming’s biggest customer but they continually push down the prices they’re willing to pay.

The Office of Fair Trading has just begun an investigation into the big four supermarkets for paying 18p a litre to farmers for their milk, when it costs the farmers 20p a litre to produce. What sort of deal do you think we’d get out of working with an organisation that does that to it’s supposed partners? And don’t tell me that it’s all okay because SIr Terry Leahy is a blue. So is Bill Kenwright but you don’t see him giving fans free tickets to his shows at every match do you? Leahy is a businessman. Tesco is his business and not Everton Football Club.

Dave Moore is right to say that we should leave business to business brains but, unfortunately for us as fans, our club has had very little in the way of business brains devoted to it since Sir John Moores relinquished his hold on the club. If there is to be reasoned debate about the move, we need to be told what the financial benefits are in moving and those figures need to be calculated on a probable rise in ticket sales, not a full-house-every-week aspiration.

Newcastle increased their stadium size and increased their revenue but they exist in a city with ONE major club. We still have two and simply increasing seating capacity isn’t going to bring in more money. We need to be challenging for honours regularly to attract more fans (locally and from further afield) and thereby increase our TV and gate revenues. We need a better run commercial division that gives fans merchandise they want, when they want it, and at a price that is attractive to both them and the club. We need to improve our revenue from corporate hospitality (a very necessary evil of the modern game) whilst not alienating our existing fanbase.

In short, we need a (financially) better run club that looks at the overall and long-term financial picture and not one that sells us out by jumping into bed with the first company to stump up some proper cash for a stadium move.

We may already be heading towards this for all I know. Keith Wyness may be the business brain we’ve been crying out for and he may have the ability to oversee a long-term improvement in our financial status. But without financial transparency and some sound forecasts for projects as profoundly important as a stadium move, how can we know? And because I shell out £500 a year to be part of this, I want to see some facts before I decide whether or not I'll be sitting next to those 15,000 new seats.
Ged Yates, Liverpool  (27/6/06)

As I wrote above, I think you are spot on genreally... but financial transparency is just a pipe-dream, I'm afraid. The shroud of "commercial sensitivity" will come down around any scheme, you can be sure of that. And would you really trust any financial model, given that the justification becomes secondary once the decision has been made? — Michael

Cahill v Italy
As far as I could tell, Tim Cahill's contribution to the game yesterday was a couple of clumsy tackles, crashing into Italians, resulting in giving away freekicks. He also had a couple of headers which he really should have done better with.

I dont want to slag off Cahill because I think he's a pretty decent player but if Man Utd want to offer David Moyes £9 million for his services I would bite their hands off.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (27/06/06)

I have to agree, the thought of Cahill as a £9M player is so ridiculous, it would be too good an offer to refuse. He again played a little too deep for my liking, considering his effectiveness only comes from being inside the penalty area at the right moment. Even when he was a 12-goal hero for us, I still hated that clumsy way of tackling he has... but four years at the New Den is bound to have left its mark somewhere! — Michael

In response to Liquorice
A retort to Luq's comments, another hit on Moyes making excuses and showing his "ineptness" in the transfer market..

The man has got in the three main players/positions he wanted, has ADMITTED there are no funds left and only the odd loan/free to look for, yet you still need to beat him up over it "same old bull" etc etc??

Get your head out of your arse, mate, the man has done everything that any "normal" fan has wanted in the transfer market since the season finished, and perhaps more than most expected. We can't go after the big-name freebies so we are left to sign the Jeffers/David Thompsons nearer the deadline (maybe to save on a few months wages!!) and possibly a loan or two.

If they don't happen, fine, what have we missed out on? Squad depth... like Bosnar and Plessis?? Maybe he'll give some of the young players a bit of a chance... or is that just pie in the sky?? Either way, bashing Moyes for making his "usual" excuses just shows how pathetic some fans are in their views.
John Middleton, Dublin  (27/6/06)

Have to agree with you, John. I thought Liq's attack was unwarranted... So-called "Dithering Dave" deserves a lot of credit for overcoming his own personal fears of the transfer windows by getting some very meaningful business completed early, rather than leaving it late. But some people are never happy, eh? —

Oops
Sorry, Mr Editor; believe it or not, I used to live in Sefton but I promise to read what I write before posting again. I meant inside the City of Liverpool's boundaries, rather than just having a Liverpool postcode.
Roy Coyne, Old Swan  (27/6/06)

129th? you're havin' a Laugh
Micheal, in reply to my last posting you said EFC are ranked below 129th placing as a world club. How long has that been for? And on what level? Obviously in talking about ground moves the whole point of the debate is whether it would generate additional revenue. So when I say EFC are massive, I'm talking financially. What are you on about? If there are 5000 professional clubs in the world and we are in the top 20 in most people's eyes that makes us pretty big. By the way, where the fuck is Dutch?
Onward Evertonians!
Gary Rimmer, Liverpool  (26/6/06)

Sorry, Gary; I was being a bit flip about the "we're massive" thing. It's one of those claims that can mean almost anything you want it to mean. If Buster says we are in the top 20 (based on turnover) and we've spent a few bob on transfers so, yes, we must be massive. — Michael

Smart Bastard
Moyes is well and truly a canny manager, but not too smart to outwit the fans who know his bull!

"I'd still like to get another one or two players to add to that before the start of the season, but it might be later on, nearer the end of the deadline."

And if Everton get a 50,000+ super-stadium in Kirkby, then you have to be happy as it's progress! Goodison is only a place in the end of the day, and Kirkby could be the next generation's 'Goodison' if the team deliviers!
Luq Yus, London  (26/6/06)

Timmy Cahill
Timmy is my man — I've followed him ever since he went to Milwall and he is just a dead-set superstar! The man is my saviour and I just want to receive some sort of e.mail or something from him. Aussies did extremely well but were robbed and Timmy was the catalyst! Tim is a loyal bloke and I think he'll stay at Everton for a long time. An e.mail I would cherish, please. Cheers!
Joey Rush, Melbourne, Australia  (26/6/06)

That's lovely, Joey. Perhaps when Tiommy recovers from this huge blow, he will read ther Mailbag and drop you a line. — Michael

Cahill on the move
Apparently the rumours about Cahill going to United could be true. A very good source from within Goodison Park told me not to be suprised if we see Cahill in a United shirt next season. Fingers crossed he is wrong but I'm not too sure!
Paul Mc, Liverpool  (26/6/06)

I think we're just supposed to ignore that... until it happens. And then we'll say, "Bugger, that sod said he was gonna leave, and we didn't believe him!" Or maybe we should start a candle-light vigil at Goodison Park? — Michael

Stadium
As somebody who lives plum in-between Goodison and Kirkby, I shouldn't really care if we change ends, but what really concerns me is if we build another one of these lifeless stadiums that look the same all around the ground with no real "home end". We don't want 50,000 people in the ground just sitting there with their replica shirts on (aka the World Cup), because what happens when the day comes when crowds drop? We may have 20,000 people sitting sporadically around a deserted stadium with no Gwladys Street or Park End to start an atmosphere. This is Everton, not Man Utd or Real Madrid.
Charlie Hughes, East Lancs Road, Liverpool  (26/6/06)

We're small and second rate, and we don't want that to change. I get it... NOT! I'm sorry, but you build a decent-sized stadium (and the bigger the better in my book) and you do everything possible to make sure it is full, not half-empty! Otherwise, what's the point? — Michael

Has this website collapsed?
We've been watching Tim being driven out by a Spanish referee probably corrupted by the Italians - what's new? But is this website still going? Links from a month ago don't work.
Dave Tootill, Johannesburg, South Africa  (26/6/06)

Let us know which links you are having trouble with. News links to the Everton official website for topics that predate its recent revamp likely won't work. That's them — not us! Any others (especially internal ones), please tell us the page they are on, and what they should be linking to. Thanks! — Michael

Boundary Lines
As if it's not bad enough being exiled in Blackpool, I've now found out that coming from Bootle means I'm not even a scouser either.

The last time I realised the distinction between council boundaries mattered was when people were lobbing their rubbish over the garden wall by ours when Liverpool's bin men were on strike. Still, at least being brought up about 1/4 of a mile from a council boundary makes me only half wool I suppose.
Rob Fox, Blackpool  (26/6/06)

A moving debate - reply
Michael, regarding Southampton, I don't believe they were releagated because they had no money left to improve their team. There was a lot of sponsor dosh from Friends Provident, and usually these things are a separate budget, amortised over a number of years. Everton always stated that the £30M they had for King's Dock was ''ring-fenced'' and would neither add nor detract from any transfer kitty.

I used to live in the area when the new station opened, and they couldn't win for months. Rumour had it that a lot of the builders buried Portsmouth shirts under the foundations, but luckily they got some local witch to exorcise those demons, and all was good — that season!

Beware next time some old warted hag offers you 'lucky heather sir?'...
Matt Traynor, Liverpool  (26/6/06)

A moving debate
A lot of the debate, unsurprisingly, has been about the pros and cons behind a ground move. Some of the arguments put forward, and my own take:

1) Newcastle, Man Utd (you can add Celtic) have all redeveloped on their original sites.

That's true, but they all had a large footprint in which to do that. Goodison doesn't. There would have to be an awful lot of property acquisition, and that can take a long time, as well as prove costly. I believe that a feasibility study would have been carried out, and it may be that the costs are not that far apart from a new stadium. Add to that the fact we would be operating with a reduced capacity for several years whilst this happened, and you can maybe see why the Business Case doesn't stack up.

2) The 'tradition' argument.

I fully understand the memories (good and bad!) that Goodison evokes. However, as others have pointed out, the game has changed and therefore so must we. I hate G14 and all it represents and would do even if we were in it. Football is supposed to be a sport between two teams, and may the better team win. It's not about moving the goalposts to make it easier for the rich clubs to get richer at the expense of the smaller clubs (and we are now in that latter bracket, like it or not). Villarreal should at least give us hope with their achievement last season in the 'Champions and Also Rans' League.

Sad as it is, when they were in the Prem, Southampton had a bigger turnover than us, wholly due to moving to a new stadium with increased revenue from Corporate Boxes, yet with NONE of the character that the Dell had. Bedore anyone mentions it — they got relegated because their team was shite, not because they moved home.

Whilst the Goodison we see today was the standard bearer when it was built — that was aeons ago. Everton Football Club will survive long after we are pushing up the daisies. It will also survive moving home — it has already done so once in its illustrious history.

3) An ' Identikit Stadium'

I fully concur, on the last bit. I think we have to accept that naming rights may offer revenue streams we cannot ignore. We may have no choice, depending on how any stadium is to be funded. My only condition is that the stadium is owned ultimately by EFC, and naming rights are for a time-limited period, after which they can be re-negotiated, if the club desires (they will!)

I'd agree with those who think that some of the new stadia that have been built lack identity. In part I think that it is also down to the 'out of town' locations. This thought struck me the other day as I passed by Stoke.

I would hope that any new stadium would be iconic (and that needn't mean massively increasing the costs) and not shoved on the edge of the city near some motorway junction.

We had a chance with the King's Dock site that unfortunately came about 5 years too early (or the cynic in me says perhaps Rooney emerged 5 years too late). We may get a second bite at a slightly less tasty cherry. I for one hope we don't spurn it.

4) Groundsharing.

Hmmm, I'll leave it here I think.
Matt Traynor, Liverpool  (26/6/06)

Southampton: Was the team shite becasue they blew their wad on the new home? Just asking... I do not know the answer. — Michael

Panic
First, let me state I have no axe to grind with the people of Kirkby nor for that matter Sefton or Bootle or anywhere else. However, I have got no intention of watching my Everton home games anywhere that has not got a Liverpool postcode. I do not care how many boxes get ticked by the present owners — remember, owners change, fans do not.

We claim to be the People's Club so, as I have yet to meet a Blue from our city who backs the move, this has nothing to do with convenience as I — along with loads of others — travel to away games; it is about tradition and our heritage. As for "no need to panic", well, Everton have for years used the Liverpool Echo to manipulate the way we think — remember, before Michael Ball went to Rangers, we were given biased reports on the situation. Right up to Rooney, we were conviced via the Echo he had to go. Not once was any critism made of the lack of resolution by the board so, with your permission, I will PANIC.
Roy Coyne, Old Swan  (26/6/06)

A Liverpool postcode???!?! Oh dear... I think you'll find Kirkby, Sefton, Bootle, and places as far away as Formby and even the Wirral all have Liverpool postcodes. — Michael

Get some bargains while ya can
I know we have spent all our cash on good quality players but there are some others in our team who would not get in a Sunday Leauge team (for example Gary Naysmith, Kevin Kilbane and Jamie McFadden). We could cash in on them three and get about £5 million quid of it.

Anyway there are some bargains we could get I mean my bests cousin is Joey Barton and he says he would like to join Everton. We could get him for about £1.5 million to £2 million — go for it. Also there are players like Steed Malbranque and Lomma Lua Lua who you could get for the sale of those players. I also think it is ridiculous offering Davie Weir a new contract — I think a turtle could beat him in a race — it's just wages going down the drain basically.

Over this stadium catastrophe. I would not like a staduim in Kirkby... come on, we can find somewhere closer than that! I think we are in for a great season though, and this is how i think we will line-up: Howard;
Hibbert, Yobo, Lescott, Valente;
Osman, Arteta, Cahill, Van der Meyde;
Johnson, Beattie. TOP SIX FINISH — COME ON YOU BLUE BOYS!!!
Danny Magee, Liverpool  (26/6/06)

Would you perhaps like a gift certificate for your complimentary copy of Football Manager? — Michael

Beyond Regeneration?
I find John Malloy’s mail (22/6/06) one of the most idiotically written pieces ever posted on your site, sorry Michael if this argument is getting tedious, I couldn’t agree with you more and I’m actually finding it quite boring myself. I’d rather read well written articles full of fact and optimism such as Steve Guy’s latest.post.

Just because a local council offer the club a piece of land, some so-called Evertonian’s decide to spit out dummies, throw dolls out of their prams and stamp their feet. Let’s look at it for what it is, a proposal. It’s a proposal put forward by people who actually know what they are talking about, they know all about regeneration and as stated by the club it’s not the only proposal on the table, so why the panic?

As you can tell by my previous e.mails, I have been very defensive of Kirkby; however, nowhere have I promoted Kirkby as the best site for a new ground — in fact, I have given my lame reasons (pubs) why I would like the ground to stay central to the city.

Mr Malloy obviously knows nothing of Kirkby or of regeneration (by the way Mr Malloy please post your feasibility report showing that Kirkby is beyond regeneration), he is just another who sees this proposal as an excuse to have a pop at the town. I for one Mr Malloy know all about Kirkby’s crime, I am also aware that some people like to lay every crime that’s committed in Liverpool on Kirkby’s door.

Back to the real debate

Why are Evertonian’s worrying about money to build a new stadium? Why are they worrying about increasing the capacity? Why are they questioning investment? I fully understand Mr Fearon’s point and where he’s coming from and by the way I apologise fully for some of my comments, however these points are only ours to pass our opinions on and unless we can back up those opinions with some real statistics, they remain just opinions.

As I’ve tried to get across to people in my last couple of posts, land is being offered and investment is being sought for the development of a new stadium, it is only on the table for that reason. It is brought to the table by people who know what they are talking about, far more than any of us here.

Please remember Everton is ‘The Peoples Club’ not ‘The Walton Peoples Club’ and by the way John I just woke up and smelled the cow shit from the farmers field my house backs on to!
Dave Moore, Kirkby, Liverpool  (25/6/06)

I do think the reactions mostly have some validity. And it is an issue for a good number of fans, as this mailbag testifies. The problemn with the "don't panic, it's only a proposal, nothing's been decided yet" approach is that this is how these things start. Colm even believes the potential schemes are leaked to the Echo to generate some level of response and see what people are thinking.

So, while there will be people you disagree with writing in, I don't think you should stiffle the debate — just please try to not let it turn into a repetitive slanging match (and thankfully you have not done that). Also, I'm not sure I agree with placing great trust in those who may claim to "know what they are talking about" as that seems to exclude those who know what they are feeling, and at that end of the day, those feelings will be a big factor. — Michael

Good Article by Steve Guy
I've just read the article 'Reasons to cheerful' written by Steve Guy and I must say it's an excellent article.

We must look at the postives and, if Yobo signs in, I have to agree with Steve Guy that a top 6 finish is more probable than possible. I mean, we do have a £15 million strike partnership don't we?
James Cavell, Liverpool  (25/6/06)

Here we go again, setting those expectations. I much prefer the Moyes approach which is to want to win each game... the problem seems to be the way he goes about getting the team to do that. So what exactly is going to change next season from the previous ones? Why only top 6 — why not top 4 again? Why not even higher, if we now have better players and a £15M strikeforce? — Michael

Is it only me...
...who detests those referees who maintain cheerful running conversations with whoever is the nearest player? They should concentrate on their game, keep their gobs shut and let players concentrate on theirs. Poll is a prime example of it. Referees who try to be everybody's friend cheese me off.
Dick  Fearon, West Australia  (25/6/06)

Latest poll
(And I don't mean that twat Graham Poll!!)

Your latest poll re ground move... where exactly do you set the city boundaries?

As mentioned by previous posts, Huyton is classed as Liverpool but is not within the city boundaries, neither I suspect is most of Speke. Bootle certainly isn't but all three areas are classed as Liverpool. Kirkby? nearer to Walton than either Huyton or Speke but not thought of as Liverpool...

I think it's time not to get too fixated with city boundaries, I think it's time to concentrate on Merseyside... don't we sing "pride of Merseyside" and not "pride of Liverpool"?

I think most of us would like to stay at Goodison, but if we don't get the planning and the monetary backing to rebuild, it's patently time to move on..

City of Liverpool... never done anything for EFC. We're the pride of Merseyside... wherever we lay our hat, that's are home!!
Tommy Godalmighty, Purgatory  (24/6/06)

I thought it looked something like this:

Ha ha ha
I never laughed so much as I did when I read "Kirkby on the other hand is beyond regeneration" and "the view from the window of the number 17 bus suggests otherwise"

Fucking priceless!
Jason McClure, Kirkby  (24/6/06)

I'm a soul man
I have always lived in and around Manchester but I've worked in both Walton and central Liverpool. I can't yet make my mind up about whether a move to Kirkby is a good or bad thing. I certainly think a move from Goodison is right though.

I just wanted to make the point about these souless grounds like Boro's, Leicester, Derby, Sunderland, Man City etc. These grounds are souless because of the people that fill them. Everton fans are a different class and we all know this — fanatical and full of soul. So I don't think we should be put off moving because of these crap little clubs with their small time fans who don't make any noise and sit there with their hands on their knees in their replica shirts.

We are Everton and we know our history and just because it's no longer contained within the walls of Goodison does not mean we lose our soul.
Alan Clarke, Manchester  (24/6/06)

Hmmm... I often hear the complaint that "Goodison was like a morgue", "the crowd where silent.", "We don't sing any more." ... And that is I think due to the all-seaters, with the noisy fans now spread around, rather than concentrated in one place. The other problem for generating atmosphere is that it only ever happens in response to the way the team is playing and what is happening on the field. The Blackburn game is a case in point.

I would say that we are actually even more at risk of a souless atmosphere than those other plastic clubs because we really need a genuine reason to make any noise, and the risk that our team won't provide us with that reason is, unfortunately, rather high based on recent history. — Michael

Come and get him!
I am writing in as Joey Barton's cousin to say that he would love to play for his boyhood club despite the stick he receives from our fans in the past, and not only me but many people believe at £1.5M he will be a bargin! He's anyone's for a price within that region so, Everton, pull your finger out and come an get him because he is there for the takin!

I am not saying he is going to be as good as Arteta or anyone else but he doesn't go missing, he can pass a ball and take the game by the scruff of the neck which unfortunately none of our midfielders can do. He is not as good as Nolan but we can't afford to splash out again. Joey's price tag is definately value for money!
Ryan Barton, Liverpool  (23/6/06)

That's great, Ryan. We'll let Davie know right away. — Michael

Don't Like Change? We love it!
It really gets on my nerves when the people who are for a ground move try to stifle the debate with pathetic put-downs. "You're scared of change; you're only intrested in your local pint; we can never be big again." The normal rubbish.

If you looked at the proposed move rationally, there are two sides to the debate and both need to be heard. My side is to stay. The club has always changed, always evolved some would say too slowly but if you look at Leeds or even Chelsea before the Ruskie come in, I would say at the right pace.

Our investment in playing staff compares well with the majority of Premeriship clubs. The vast majority don't go near a pub on the way to the match. We're not big, we're massive — one of the biggest clubs in the world. A lot of so-called big clubs have gone through worse cycles than our recent one, which hopefully is about to become a positive cycle. If so many other worthy clubs can revamp their stadium, surely we can.

Don't throw away our heritage, history and — most importantly of all — our culture. If any Evertonians don't think Goodison can create a special atmosphere, they have never been there when it's rocking and have never travelled away to compare it with these new souless grounds.

For God's sake, — a little tweaking and the correct management should always have us eating at the top table. Don't throw away what we can't get back. Onward Evertonians!
Gary Rimmer, Liverpool  (23/6/06)

"We're massive — one of the biggest clubs in the world." — That's a classic. Last time I looked, we were ranked something like 129th behind Maccabi Haifa and other such doyens of the world game. But don't let that spoil your sweet little dream... — Michael

Poll results
Why is there an article on ToffeeWeb presenting the last poll saying that only 12% said that the squad was sufficient, and 37% signalled that we needed another winger while there is available poll results saying that 71% thought the squad was now sufficient when you click on "recent results"? A terribly long sentence, I know, but this smells badly of rigged polls... Publish and explain please.
Kjetil Moen, Oslo, Norway  (23/6/06)

Hmmm... there's a bit of a problem in that "Vote Now" pop-up window, isn't there? The questions from the last poll have gotten overlaid with the results of the one before! What a catastrophe!! We'd better just pull the plug on the whole thing, methinks!!! — Michael

Nil Satis Nisi Kirkibus
I can’t believe Dave Moore is being so childish about Peter Fearon’s legitimate criticism of proposals to put Everton’s new stadium in Kirkby. Can’t two Evertonians disagree without degenerating into silly banter and personal exchanges? The fact is that a big money project like a stadium and ancillary commerce should be in an area that can be regenerated by the huge investment.

Moving to Kirkby would do a lot of economic damage to Liverpool 4. It’s only fair that if moving is inevitable it should be to an area within Liverpool which will benefit from the influx of capital. Kirkby on the other hand is beyond regeneration. Despite Mr Moore’s apparent insistence that Kirkby is a crime-free semi-pastoral Utopia whose welcoming population is just waiting for a 55,000 seater stadium and a Tescos to complete the bucolic idyll, the view from the window of the number 17 bus suggests otherwise. Wake up Dave and smell the Domestos!
John Molloy, West Derby  (22/6/06)

Davie Weir
Glad to hear that Davie Weir has a new one-year contract. He's been a great servant to the club and deserves another season. I'm sure he'll be a back-up defender next season behind Yobo/Lescott but an old head in our young squad is needed.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (23/06/06)

Great news (not!)
I'm with Tony Marsh about the midfield being the weakest link. With such goal scoring talent now evident at Goodison, it will be a shame if we don't get more creative, attack-minded midfielders on board before the season starts. As our season may be over — if we don't — before it has begun.

And I'm so happy that the slowest man in Premiership history has signed another contract! Weir will grace us with more cock-ups, snail pace and indifferent defending! Cheers Moyesly!
Luq Yus, London  (24/6/06)

Everton must leave!
I’ve been reading the debate surrounding Everton Football Club’s proposed relocation with great interest and have been struck by a recurring theme; Luddite parochialism.

I’m absolutely astounded that — in these days of unfettered free-market capitalism, the globalisation of entertainment, with English Premiership Football at its vanguard, and the commoditisation of the loyalty of football supporters — that anybody with the real interests of Everton Football Club at heart wants it to remain on Merseyside.

Everton Football Club as a product has reached saturation point (as the market gurus would put it). This means that, without radically changing our product (a winning team) or seeking a new market (potential new supporters) we are doomed to stagnate and eventually wither.

This is why, at a meeting of the ‘Blue Chip Group’ (a loose alliance of influential Everton supporters) in Frankfurt last Thursday, a serious proposal was mooted that Everton should move out of Merseyside and begin again in another city where Premiership football did not have adequate representation. Fifa and Uefa representatives were present at the meeting and voiced no objection in principle to a possible move to Dublin (as long as certain conditions were met).

I was at the meeting in my capacity as chairman of the Everton Supporters Northumberland Branch and was very pleased with the outcome, particularly the size of the vote to leave the city (27 for 8 against).

It has been decided that a delegation headed by several influential (and rich) Everton Supporters will approach Dublin council with a proposal to build a 75,000 seat stadium not far from Croke Park at Drumcondra.

The proposal is: that the move will be financed by three very wealthy Evertonians whose names I cannot divulge (yet) together with generous grants from the European Union and that Everton will be renamed Everton Hibernia FC and enter the Premier League as such during the 2009-10 season.

I really hope that this comes off as it will radically expand our fan base; we’ll be in a position to compete with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United and, who knows, Real Madrid and Barcelona, attracting the best players in the World. Upsetting a few die hard traditionalist is a small price to pay and in any case, there is nothing to stop them travelling over or watching the Blues on the Telly or buggering off to support their local club.

It costs me £60 in petrol money alone to watch Everton at Goodison and I can get a flight for £15 to Dublin, and have a few brews around the ground with the change, so personally, I welcome the move.

...

By the way, if you’ve not sussed yet, this is a wind-up… but there is a serious point in there somewhere... and I'd love us to have a stadium in central Liverpool/Dock Road... We might not have a choice, though, and — as a Knowsley lad — I've no strong objections to Kirkby, which is not as stark a choice as some contributors to this site would have it... see above... think it can't happen?
Kevin Sparke, Augsberg  (Bavaria)

Obviously not enough World Cup games to keep you mind occupied, eh, Kevin! — Michael

Weir
Good God - what more can I say? Just when you thought we'd turned the corner, they go and offer Weir another contract which he accepts. Now watch Yobo give a big "Fuck You!" to the Blues as he knows he'll behind a guy in the pecking order who shows less manoevrability than certain pie-chomping Brazilian forward.
Mark Wynne, Bury St Edmunds  (23/6/06)

Why not?
Just read that Middlesbrough are offering Quedrue for Malbranque. Come on, Davy! Surely we can offer better than that. How about Davies or McFadden must be worth a try ???
Big Dunc Stokey, Stoke  (23/6/06)

Stop Moaning
I am writing in reponse to the ever pessimistic Tony Marsh. Does this man ever have anything positive to say about our club?

I read mailbag every morning when I arrive into work and when I looked this morning I was shocked to see that Tony had been on slating a supporter for expressing his views (surprise, surprise)!!!

The reason that mailbag interests me is because it shows the views of all supporters, right across the board, and whilst I agree with Tony that people like Dutch can be a bit over the top, he should also realise that these people are entitled to their opinion. (And yes, before you start, you are also entitled to your opinion, but for gods sake say something postive for once!!!)

You tell Terry Lockhart that he comes from a 'different footballing planet' but do you ever think that maybe its you that needs to get back down to earth. Ae you a regular attender at Goodison? and if so why, when you describe us as 'shite'.

We all have to realise that Everton are no longer a top 5 club, and whilst I agree that this is no excuse for the type of football we play, surely you can see that we are slowly but surely heading in the right direction.

Maybe if we had an endless transfer kitty I could understand where you are coming from, but the facts are WE DON'T. I for one am quite happy with the signings we have made thus far and am looking forward to the new season. It would be nice to think we could get Petrov in the bag, but I'll not hold my breath.

Regardless of this, I believe that this is the best squad we have had for the last 10-15 years. And whilst I don't believe we're world beaters, I think we're heading in the right direction, and that is something to be positive about.

Get some service to AJ and Big James and hopefully this time next year Tony will writing something positive too!!!!! (Imagine that!!)

Up the Super Toffees!
Simon Boyd, Bangor, NI  (23/6/06)

Not sure if you mean me with the "you" comments but YOU are quite wrong. I have never ever called Everton 'shite' and I never would. However, I have said repeatedly that the football David Moyes has his Everton teams playing is crap, and I'll stand by that. If they are the same then I apologise... but I don't think they are.

The difficulty with the logic underlying your positve outlook, Simon, is that it is sadly flawed. You think we have made good signings and threfore you expect we will do well next season. Unfortunately, the two do not necessarily correlate. Surely years of watching top-flight football bears that out?

If you personally need that optimism to carry you through the rest of the summer, GO FOR IT! I prefer a realistic approach which recognises nothing until those players go out on the field in a top-flight game (not pre-season) and PROVE they are going to play better football — by doing it! All the hype, all the blather, all the positive opinions and glowing optimism are for nothing if they fail to deliver.

Or have you already forgotten how wonderful it was that we qualified for the priviledge of embarrassing ourselves in the Champions League Qualifiers last season? Keep it real. This realistic approach works for me because, when we do finally do something worthwhile, I can really celebrate it, enjoy it, relish it for what it is. Sadly, there has been so little really worth celebrating over the last 10 years of dross... but I can understand people who don't want to recognize that and would rather tell themselves how great we are.

We're not great. We are playing horrible football far too often. I do not understand why we can't play far better football with the players we have. It's not about wanting Petrov or any other FM dream — It's about the players we have now, and the football they play. All I have to go on so far is last season. No-one knows how we are going to play next season. But, if we do start to play decent football, you can be sure I will be celebrating. — Michael

Attack on a community
I have just fallen off my chair laughing at Mr Fearon’s hypocritical reply to my response regarding the debate on moving to Kirkby.

Now I don’t want to use your site as a medium for a slagging match with Mr Fearon or a “my dad’s bigger than your dad” tit for tat. However I hope you decide to post this reply on your site.

Before I start on Mr Fearon I would like to just point a few things out. Firstly if Tesco as a business or Knowsley as a council are offering Everton a considerable amount of funds, directly or indirectly, it needs to be considered seriously — this also goes for any other council offers in the Liverpool area.

These days we all know football is a business and that’s why we have been left behind other clubs both on and off the field, we have had bad businessmen running the club. Fans are more worried what’s happening on the pitch rather than off it and quite rightly so, however, things off the pitch do need to happen. My point here is that potentially there are businesses out there who want to invest in football clubs but who are not that interested in who’s wearing the number 9 shirt, but more interested in what return they are going to get for their investment. It just happens that up to now nobody has been willing to invest anything into Everton recently and the moment they do we are all up in arms.

In a close season where we have broken our transfer record (peanuts to most clubs) and optimism is high, we are more worried about things off the pitch — why? Worrying about it will not change what happens on the pitch, Blue Bill & Bully will either come out smelling of roses or do the expected fuck-up!

Back to Mr Fearon – in my response to his initial letter I provided a calculation, and it’s just that, a calculation. It shows potential financial benefits, I’m not trying to say Everton will get gates of 55,000 each week, but even if we had a scenario where one season that figure was reached for the majority of the 19 home games, would £7M-ish be something to turn your nose up at? Especially when we sweat over getting an extra £500,000 for finishing a position higher in the premiership.

As for Mr Fearon saying I’m trying to claim “superior working class” what does that mean? What is superior about working class? Mr Fearon tells us he was brought up in Walton but doesn’t state where he lives now, just like I said I was “from” Kirkby — it doesn’t mean I still live there.

Mr Fearon claims I have made a personal attack on him, whilst I have really only defended his attack on a community he obviously knows nothing about, and chooses to again attack it in his reply: I quote, “every Merseyside resident knows about Kirkby”. Well, what do they know Mr Fearon? They know about our footballers, Thompson, McDermott, Stubbs, Swain, and Mortimer. They know about our world champion boxers, Conteh & Hodgkinson to name but a few. Ah, but these stars are from Liverpool because Kirkby is in Liverpool (especially when it suits snobs like Mr Fearon).

Mr Fearon seems to me to be worried about having his wheel trims stolen as he drives down Valley Road on his way to Everton’s new Kirkby Stadium. Which brings me just to point out that on more than one occasion I have had to fork out a few hundred quid on repairs to my car because it was parked in WALTON and I didn’t get back in time to toss a quid to a little toe-rag who decided to key it.

I do not care where Everton build a new stadium so long as it’s in the Liverpool area (Kirkby included). My personal preference happens to be NOT the Kirkby site suggested as I quite like the sight of the green fields and trees that line Valley Road, just as I once liked Walton Hall Park before it became what it is now. I also like the social side of football ie, the pint or pints afterwards, so from that point of view the closer to town the better.

My parting shot at Mr Fearon is to ask him nicely to keep his football talk about football and not use it as a stick to attack communities he knows nothing about.
Dave Moore, Kirkby  (22/6/06)

This is now getting really tiresome. A lot of boring reptition in there... Please, let's get away form this idiotic slanging and get back to making fresh contributions to this discussion... if that is possible! — Michael

To Tony Marsh
While I agree our squad is not actually 'top notch', Moyes has built a very good squad so far.

You failed to mention Beattie, who would walk in most teams outside the top 4. I often went to other clubs' fans forum, and most do see Hibbert as good defender.

And your case that Howard is crap because he can't play for USA and Man Utd is flawed. Were Henry and Viera crap when they were stuck in the reserves of Juventus and AC Milan? No, they just needed the chance to play regularly to show their true potential.

Last season, two central defenders from the Championship, Gabidon & Curtis Davies, made the grade in the Premiership. If they can make it, I can't see why Lescott can't.

For me, on paper, our squad is nearly perfect. However, much of next season lies on the shoulders of Davies and VdM to assist Arteta in providing the creative spark. If we can get them match fit, I think they can outdo the Man Utd duo Giggs & Beckham during their prime.

COME ON EVERTON!!!
Joey Mcctyre, Liverpool  (23/6/06)

Nothing like a bit of blind optimism! Must be the sunshine... — Colm

Why worry?
Ok, first up I don't live in Liverpool and never have and probably never will. However, I do appreciate why those who do want the club to remain within the city limits when the issue of a ground move is discussed. What I can't get my head around is why on earth we should give a toss what Liverpool fans, or any others, would think if we do.

The club has to forge it's own direction towards a bright and secure future and without considering how OTHER fans and clubs might view it. The only opinions that matter are those of Evertonians and the only way we should reach those is through rational, logcial thought about what's best for our club not how we might be viewed by supporters of other teams.

Now, feel free to take me to task!
Paul Kish, Maylands, Australia  (23/6/06)

Kirkby: Kapital of Kulture
Leaving aside Dave Moore's gratuitous and obscene personal attack and his ridiculous attempt to claim superior working-class credentials because he happens to live in Kirkby, he actually makes my point for me. He calculates 20 straight seasons of unbroken capacity crowds at premium prices — as if — and still comes up with less than half the cost of the stadium. So I ask again. What is the financial advantage of spending all that money for an extra 15,000 seats?

As for the location, I simply stated the obvious truth that every Merseyside resident knows about Kirkby. Yes it's true of other neighborhoods too, but that isn't the point. What, are we supposed to pretend that Kirkby is Capital of Culture 2012 because someone wants to build a big Tescos there with a football ground attached to it? Would he rush to the defence of Skem in the same way if a stadium was proposed there? Or Runcorn?

There are just better locations in Liverpool for a football club historically associated with Liverpool. No amount of personal abuse and inverted snobbery is going to change that. But just for the record, I was brought up in Walton, within the sound of both Anfield and Goodison. Is that 'serene' enough?
Peter Fearon, Liverpool  (22/6/06)

The arguement about 15,000 seats at average prices is spurious. Buster Wyness wants to bring in the commercial bucks. It's the corporate boxes and similar up-market facilities that will make the real difference in income, and are difficult/impossible to implement at Goodison (unless done in a tent with a dodgy floor...). — Michael

Who gives a fuck!
Why are so many fans worried by the stick we would take off the kopites if we moved outside the Liverpool boundaries? It is like an obsession with some people. I for one couldn't give a fuck what they think. Also, I was born in Liverpool and brought up in Huyton (which is Knowsley) before moving to Shrewsbury, but I class Huyton as still being in Liverpool — it's just ran by a different council, that's all.
Brian Waring, Shrewsbury  (22/6/06)

Anderson Silva?
Remember him? I know that it is looking good this season in terms of the signings we have made, but we are still looking for another midfielder. I was under the impression that Everton had already paid for this guy and that he would be making his way over to the UK this summer.

I have seen highlights of this guy, and not only is he quick, but he can pass a ball and hold play up well too. I think any addition to our thin (but improving) squad would be welcome. Just wondered where this guy has gone?
Dominic Bolger, Bolton  (22/6/06)

Come off it! You're pulling our collective plonker. He doesn't exist. — Michael

In response to Steve Burton
Why can't you have what you want at a redeveloped GP though? Why would Parking be an issue for someone travelling from Belfast? In the meantime, try the Parkend, and/or most upper tiers, if unobstructed still offer as good a view as you'll find anywhere.

I think location is very important for both practical and emotional reasons. Take the emotion out of Everton and we would've all stopped going years ago, and as with siting any facility, you have to make it easy for your target audience to get to, preferably where the majority can use public transport easily, Walton does this better than Kirkby, nearer town would be better again in that respect....
Tom Hughes, North Sea  (22/6/06)

The Golden Vision
As an exiled Evertonian now living in Manchester for my sins I have just aquired a PC and found your site and was intrigued to see the original BBC play The Golden Vision advertised to be showm on BBC4 on Sunday 27 June at 10.10pm. As This Sundays date is the 25th can you please let me know if it was a typing error or has it already been on and I've missed it yet again.
Ken Sent, Manchester  (22/6/06)

Sorry, Ken, but that occured in 2004, as I think the page indicates... — Michael

Venue of Dreams (and Dreamers)
Goodison Park, the venue with a million memories. Not just dyed-in-the-wool Blue memories but football memories for all football supporters near and far. Dean, Lawton, Mercer, Eusebio, Beckenbauer, Pele, Yasin have all played here. FA Cup finals, World Cup games have been won and lost here — this is not just a patch of land that happens to be the home of Everton. This is a Foorball ground steeped in history and therefore deserves more consideration than it has been given by those responsible for its preservation.

If I had my way, it would be a listed building for the rest of its days. It certainly deserves better than to become a new site for some supermarket chain or (worse still) become a multi-storey car-park for fans of a different persausion. There is an old saying that you never know what you have lost until it has gone! Don't allow us to lose possibly the only thing that identifies Everton as uniquely Everton — namely, Goodison Park.

Forget the money a new location may generate, with some of the people we have had in charge £200 million could come and go and we would not have what we want. However, Goodison Park has seen these people come and go and Everton have remained rooted and able to survive some scary moments.

There is more to tradition and custom than silverware and riches... in fact, all the money in the world cannot buy what Goodison Park represents.
Patrick Hesketh, North West  (22/6/06)

I wish Keith Wyness and the rest of them had your sense of history but, unfortunately, I'm quite sure they don't. And money IS what it's all about. Money that is supposed to make us great again. That's according to the current party line. Perhaps there'll be anonther carefully worded ballot:

A. Do you want Everton to move to a shiny new stadium and become fabulously successful?

B. Or do you want Everton to stay in run-down Goodison Park, where they will continue to stangnate? ... Or worse!

The Big Clubs Don't Move!!
Newcastle, Man Utd, Arsenal (few hundred metres) etc have not moved their grounds and any club that has pretentions of being more than a money making machine for its shareholders/directors should not consider such an idea.

If Anfield is recreated at the north end of Stanley Park then EFC should do the utmost to secure the other end of Stanley Park. he infrastructure which is so important for the development of Anfield 2 would serve Goodison 2 just as well.

Obviously local residents would perhaps not be so happy at this suggestion but if sharing is out and re-developing Goodison is out, it would seem to me an idea worth more than a cursory glance by both the Club and the City leaders.
John McFarlane, Lancs  (22/6/06)

You may have a point, but you lose a lot of credibiity when you claim that Arsenal's move of a "few hundred metres" is not a move away from their spiritual home but is the same as redeveloping Highbury. This goes in the same category as yesterday's nonsense about Yobo being our fouth major signing. Please, people... KEEP IT REAL! — Michael

Always something wrong
Personally, I don't care that much if the new official site looks ugly. If the Everton TV and all the ads make Everton FC earn more money, then fine. Any increased revenue is for the benefit of the club. Fans bitch about the website, bitch about ticket prices and dwell behind Nil Satis etc.. when Everton sign Johnson instead of Schevchenko, or Lescott instead of Nesta or someone.

Well, guess what, the current squad is actually a decent one — not great and not title contenders, but it should provide top eight next season. And then someone will say; top eight?? Why not Number One?? Well, because Chelsea, Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal and Spurs all have deep pockets compared to Everton. And maybe the "shitty" website or the increased ticket prices can help Everton get closer to the few very rich clubs.

Even Newcastle mey have got themselves a decent manager now and could challenge with the other rich boys. We are not there yet, but we are getting there, step by step.
Jens Hansen, Norway  (22/6/06)

Jumping The Gun
In reply to Terry Lockhart, you claim we now have 20 players of real Premiership Quality. Who exactly are these fantastic players I have over-looked?

If we take Yobo, Valente, Arteta, Cahill and Johnson out of the squad, which of the remainder would be signed by another Prem side? Howard was a Man Utd reserve and can't push Casey Keller out of the USA team — and he is about 50. Lescott... you had probably never heard of him until 4 weeks ago — how do you know he will adapt to the top flight.

Then there are the likes of Killbane, Pistone, Naysmith, Davies, Wright, Carsley, Hibbert... Oh yes, they would fetch a tidy sum indeed.

The trouble with fans like you, Terry, is that you live on a different footballing planet than the rest of us. To put yourself in the Richard Dodd camp only goes to prove my point. Yes I have a good moan over the way I see things but after last season's shambolic non-event, can you really blame anyone for moaning?

I hope you are still so cock-a-hoop after the Watford game, mate because fools like you will actually believe we will steamroller them. Me? I will reseve my judgement until I see Everton playing in a way the fans would like to see us play. As I have said before, it doesn't matter who we sign — if we carry on like we did last season, we will be just as shite.

Kiss Richard goodnight for me.
Tony Marsh, Liverpool  (22/6/06)

We Shall Not Be Moved!
I'm getting a bit tired of all the comments from people from far afield at home and abroad — Evertonian's — who no longer or have never lived in the city wondering about the fuss, arguing there is nothing wrong with the idea of a potential move to Kirkby.

Last time I looked, there is open land — countryside — between where the unbroken urban and industrial spread of what palpably IS Liverpool and what IS the town of Kirkby. Kirkby is also beyond a physical boudary, the city's periferal motorway, the M57. Would you call Prescott Liverpool? Or Melling?

Also it's not about the people, Kirkby people are the same as the rest of (us) those who share the same common roots, this applies to all the surrounding area's of the city with no exception. However the town is NOT in Liverpool and the distance on the map is not the point.

If Everton wish to remain sincere about their history and their position as a founding member of the Football League — then they cannot abandon Liverpool as their home. They must remain as near as possible to their roots. Those who say it's OK to move outside of the city have not thought this through. It would be an absolute surrender of our past and heritage and provide a never-ending field day for the kopites and their glory hunting prostitute wooly hoards.

So get yer brains in order. Let me say it again. Everton are the innovator of football in Liverpool, our history and meaning is worthless if we move away. Do you want the kopites forever crowing "there's only one team in Liverpool!"? If you don't care about that you don't deserve to understand. To quote a song that belongs to Everton's history more than that (copied off Celtic) Grand Old Team shite....

WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED!
Mike Dunne, Toxteth  (22/6/06)

The Move
I read with much amusement the hysterical reactions to any proposed move. The way I see it, people don't like change but force them to change and they will. Look at Bolton's move to the Reebok, a stadium that was truely 'out of town'. Their fans hated it at the beginning, but now, 9 years later, the hostility has lessened considerably as they become accustomed to new routines and matchday habits.

I'm not from Liverpool so I have a view detacted from sentimentality. For what it's worth, here is my opinion, hold tight. Goodison Park is a shithole. I hate going there on matchdays, I hate the obscured views, I hate being squeezed into my seat like a sardine with no arm or legroom. I hate the smell of piss from the inadequate toilet facilities. I hate trying to find a parking space on derby days especially. I hate sitting in traffic for an hour outside the ground after games. I do all this because I love the team.

For me, Kirkby is still Liverpool, it isn't Widnes or Formby as some of you would have us believe. The thing we Evertonians do better than anyone else is complain and argue among ourselves. Complaining about 55k capacity is a case inpoint. We would do well to fill that capacity anyway without some substantial improvement in the teams performance. New stadium or not, who wants to keep paying £25 a game to watch a team score 34 goals a season?

I don't really care about the financial benefits of a move but if we turn down the opportunity to even look at a new stadium because of sentimentality and stubborness then it would be criminal. We can barely compete with our neighbours nevermind the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal. Would this be such an issue if we were relegated long ago and our delusions of grandeur obliterated?
Steve Burton, Belfast  (22/6/06)

Genuine Class
Like Richard Dodd and Seb St Clare — and in common with most Evertonians — I, too, am excited by the the additions Moyes has made to the squad this summer. For the first time in his tenure, we now have over 20 players of genuine Premiership class and I see no reason why we should not be amongst the leading lights right from the off.

The misery merchants like Tony Marsh only `get off` on us doing badly so I do so hope Moyes can push their moaning right down their throats. Significant, too,that Marsh`s `fellow traveller`, Harry Meek,hardly posts these days —but just wait till we lose a game!
Terry  Lockhart, Kirkby  (22/6/06)

Er... I don't know if you have noticed but we aren't actually playing any games at the momment, so there's hardly anything to moan about! Unless you want to moan about the moaners not moaning!!! — Michael

Quality, not location
My view on the stadium is that the quality of the development is the most important thing. We have to get it right if we do go ahead with the ground move. Most people regard Kirkby as part of Liverpool, and it wouldn't bother me particularly if we went there if it gave us the best complex we can have in terms of maximising revenue. This means a stadium with great transport links, which can be used 7 days a week and not just when there's a football game on. If it gets us back to the top echelons of the Premier League, then that has to be the main thing surely?
Danny Broderick, London  (22/6/06)

Re: Why wait?
"That is just plain stupid and you know it....". Erm, bit harsh Michael. Get out of bed on the wrong side this morning did we?

All I meant was that if Joseph hadn't re-signed we would have had to begin the search for a replacement at a cost of several million. We needed to secure a long-term centre-half be that Yobo or his replacement. Players rule the game these days and contracts are meaningless when there's only a year to go. If he hadn't signed we would have needed the fourth new face which now we don't.

Chill out, Michael. There's nothing wrong with a bit of exuberance. God knows we've been short of it the last couple of summers. Or is positivity 'stupid'?
Michael Johnson, Reading  (22/6/06)

I just think it's a level of bullshit we simply don't need. We get it form the Club website in spades and we get it from the Echo (mainly in the shape of Dominic King). Exuberance is wonderful. But don't confuse it with stupidity. The point you make above is valid. Saying Yobo would be our fourth major signing, as if he was a new transfer, is not. — Michael

New Official EFC Site
I have to agree with Jez North. I didn't mind the old official site's look & feel. It was one of the areas where I thought the club was actually making solid progress but the new site has terrible formatting, is cluttered with too many ads and banners, the text window is too small and it has a truly horrendous flash homepage. I say bring back the old site or look over towards Toffeeweb's clean lines and large text window to see how a good site should be delivered!
Glen Anderson, Huyton  (22/6/06)

Much like the previous incarnation, it's a car-crash of ugly, badly laid out links and adverts. Really, did they just let a 12-year-old loose with Dreamweaver on that? — Garry

England Line-up
With Owen gone, I think we should still retain the 4-4-2, but keep Hargreaves in the holding midfield role. Instead, drop Beckham and play Gerrrad on the right. The front 6 looks like this:

Crouch, Rooney;
Cole, Lampard, Hargreaves, Gerrard

Who here agrees with me?
Paul Dragon, India  (22/6/06)

Uh?

Kirkby Kiss
I agree wholeheartedly with the comments made about Peter Fearon's diatribe about Kirkby: narrow-minded and sterotypical comments aimed at creating bad publicity for the town and its residents. Personally I feel that a central site preferably somewhere close to the city centre would be the most creative and lucrative location; however, the reality is that the whole stadium construction would be financed by regeneration money, private investment (be it Tesco or somebody else), and a small contribution from the club creating a situation where we become tenants.

Ownership, the method of repayment (mortgage or lease) and other such factors are imperative issues that need to be considered with the Club having a duty to consult the Everton community on these facts as well as location. Narrow-minded and spurilous remarks from contributors regarding Kirkby do not facilitate this process and serve only to create bad feeling and hostility among fellow blues.
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (22/6/06)

Heaven forbid! As Evertonians, we all pride oursleves on our opinions and any healthy debate will usually descend into a slanging match, expecially if the emotional factor is in there — as it clearly is in abundance when it comes to the ground move. It would be nice to think a reasoned and sensible discussion could be had that distilled vital feedback for the Club to digest. But — as the tone of these latest exchanges shows — it ain't gonna happen! — Michael

Ground Relocation — Heart or Wallet
Two equally argued pieces for and against a ground relocation to Kirby from Peter Fearon and John Morgan. Peter firing from the reality of football as a business with a hint of passion on our red neighbours and well raised points on the lack of justification or alternatives. John purely in favour of his sentiments and personal history, I grew up in Skelmersdale, my Vauxhall Road and Anfield area based family similarly having left Liverpool to become Tower Hillbillies and Skem "Roundabout Land" Residents.

I've said in many postings before that football ceased being a game years ago and became a cold hearted business; those with acumen have thrived, those without languished or perished by the wayside. Fans need passion — yes, that's how we are introduced to our clubs by our families when we are naieve dewy-eyed kids but that club needs to act like a business in order to still be there when those kids grow up and get wise to the reality of the real world.

I agree with many postings asking "Why?" when the precedent has been set not to go for one of the existing Parks and countless reports on worldwide stadia reverting back to communities away from out-of-town faceless retail parks.
Gavin Ramejkis, Upholland  (21/6/06)

Starters
Re the starting line-up for next season, I too would prefer Carsley in midfield to Neville with the latter employed in one of the full-back positions. Also, Stubbs must start in one of the central defensive positions since his return to Goodison probably saved us from relegation last season.

In any case, the Wolves fans down here tell me Lescott`s distribution is excellent so he`ll soon be on his way to Italy!
Ben Caldwell, Penn  (21/6/06)

Why wait?
Great news, if true, that Joey Yobo is about to extend his contract. This is equivalent to a fourth major summer signing and is just what we need. The new players coming in are obviously making our old ones happy.

Only question is why wait till July 1st to get him to sign his contract? That gives ten days for some fucker to make him a better offer. Would be just our luck...
Michael Johnson, Reading  (21/6/06)

Let's nip this nonsense in the bud, shall we: extending a contract or negotiating a new contract is NOT the same as making a new signing. rton player: he is not a new signing. And theirThat is just plain stupid and you know it. Just accept it for what it is — a welcome move reaffirming our retention of one of our few world-class internationals. Joseph Yobo was and is already an Everton player. And contracts generally run from July through to June of the given year, so that's just the norm. I believe. — Michael

Kirkby v Walton
Evertonians may well travel from all over to the match, but the vast majority still come from Merseyside, so suffice to say it is easier for the vast majority to get to a more central location than a peripheral one. Something like a quarter of our support comes from the Wirral alone, also there are several more areas in Liverpool that have no direct services to the Kirkby area than do to Walton. In fact I think Walton is about as far out from the city centre as you would want to go. I'm only in the North Sea for 2 out of every 5 weeks, the rest of the time live in South Liverpool, and yet whilst for instance Speke would be a very convenient location for me I would be dead set against a new stadium being there too. More central or stay where we are!!
Tom Hughes, North Sea  (21/6/06)

Hindsight
Yep, Tobias Linderoth was sending in them corners like head-seeking guided missiles... Moyes was a fool to let him go... wasn't he?

Erm... hang on a mo, I don't remember him doing much special in a Blue Shirt... I don't remember any outcry from anyone when he went... in fact I remember plenty of comments from Blues glad to see the back of a "lightweight yellow Swede"... Funny how things turn around to bite ya on the ass.

Still... hindsight's a wonderful thing, though apart from the corners he didn't do much else did he? Now that sounds familiar.
Kevin Sparke, Somewhere in Germany  (21/6/06)

Hmm... started all three games for his country so far... unlike any of the current Everton World Cup contingent. Yes, it does sound familiar... — Michael

Fearon — You're as bad as the Sun
"With the best will in the world toward Kirkby residents, I shudder to think what the Tesco Clubcard Stadium would look like in ten years given what the rest of Kirkby is like today. There’s no way around the fact that it is one of the most crime ridden, drug laden and most heavily vandalized and violent places on Merseyside"

This is the most astonishing comment I have ever read on this website. It is bad enough that when you go out of the city you have to defend yourselves to ridiculous, stereotypical nonsense — and yet here we are discussing Everton moving 4 miles from Goodison and I find myself having to defend Kirkby in exactly the same manner. Peter Fearon does not declare which delightful suburb of Liverpool he is from. Can he let me know, because I want to live in a part of the city that has no crime, no drug problems, is in the same pristine condition it was ten years ago and where you can leave your front door open. Kirkby has it's problems but the way he has described it it's a cross between Harlem and Baghdad. Unless I am mistaken Walton, Tuebrook, Scotty Road, Anfield and the areas around Goodison are hardly Bel Air but is Kirkby a better place to live? — That's not for me to say, but an awful lot of people seem to live in these areas so how bad can they be?

If you don't want Everrton to move from Goodison, or if you want them to stay within the boundaries of Liverpool — fine. You don't need to denigrate a whole town with lazy, ill-thought, out-dated and downright ignorant comments. In fact, with bollocks like that, it makes me think you could write for a paper like the Sun or the Star.

If you can provide the data that prove your 'facts' about Kirkby, I would be very interested to see them. As for whether Everton should move to Kirkby — I'm keeping my counsel on that one.
Andy Fearns, Kirkby  (21/6/06)

Tesco's ''buy one, get one free'' stadium
In response to the Peter Fearon article, I agree serious questions need to be asked about a stadium in Kirkby and people are right to have reservations. I disagree to labelling it the Tesco Clubcard Stadium when there is no indication it will be.

Secondly, location aside, it's 15,000 seats extra, corporate boxes and the removal of hundreds of seats with piss poor views due to the big concrete posts all around Goodison.

55k is a nice number. Better than having 70,000 with 20,000 empty blue seats for games against Portsmouth etc. The stadium would be lifeless...
Daniel Parker, New York, NY, USA  (21/6/06)

New website
I'm so angry that I've lost my visitiation rights!! The new website is a garbbled pile of shite with loads of advertising.... in fact, it looks like the site of the red shite.... bring back the old site!

Damn screws.....
Jez North, HM Prison Belmarsh  (21/6/06)

Err... Ours or theirs?

Get Real!
Jesus, you lot are unbelievable!!.. I've complained before about some of the negativity on this site, but PLEASE do give some credit where its due if you want to be 'balanced'

The signings are good signings given what everyone has seen of the players... the Contract issues appear to be resolved ... and we get Yobo and McFadden back — excellent! We are now building an Academy... 'Bout time! but good news!!

Will we win the League or get relegated next year? Who knows — it's a game after all (ask Leeds Utd) but we seem to be making positive not negative moves...

Try being happy for once — you never know it might be infectious! :o)
Rog Walker, Pompey  (20/6/06)

I'm very happy — watching teams from all over the world playing open, flowing attacking football and scoring some great goals — in fantastic High Definition!!! Even England managed it breifly for one half of one game. The contrast with the crap served up by David Moyes's Everton teams for most of last season could not be starker. I surely hope he sees the difference... otherwise I fear for my sanity. — Michael

Why Don't we all support Real Madrid
With the ground move raising its ugly head again, there a few very important points for us all to consider. What is supporting professional football all about? Is it about supporting the biggest, richest most successful club? Or is it about supporting the team of our Farthers? A team that belongs to your community, your city, your blood?

Just because we belive in the latter does not mean we should not be a forward-thinking, modern dynamic successful club. I for one feel we can achieve that at a revamped Goodison Park. If EFC can average 40-50 thousand a week in a modern stadium it will keep us in the top 20/25 European clubs. That's were we have always been for 90% of our History. Occasionally climbing into the top ten.

I do not think any drastic action is needed to keep us in that position. A revamped Goodison with the correct facilities should raise income by at least 10%. Think what we will throw away for an extra 3-5% income. We are never going to sell a million shirts in Timbukto — leave that to Manure and the other Half.
Gary Rimmer, Liverpool  (21/6/06)

The message from the Club is that there is ZERO internal interest in revamping Goodison Park. It is a complete non-starter. With the present custodians in place, it simply is not going to happen. — Michael

Visionary Dave
Apparently Moyes felt Linderoth was too short. Hello. He's a midfielder not a centre-back, Davey you twat. So also taking into account the case of the Danish fellow, now doing fabulously in Italy, offloaded for being able to pass a ball, Moyes is quietly building up a reputation for being blind as a bat when it comes to talent. Well done. I'm surprised Arteta has lasted so long as well actually.
Braam Oliver, Gaborone  (21/6/06)

Don't worry; Moyes is busy scouting the "unknown" teams at the World Cup. — Michael

The talentless Mr Sven
All this talk about not having a Plan B probably surfaced around the time of England's exit to Brazil in 2002 and continued through to Euro 2004 when a mercurial Rooney bailed England out of a goal-scoring fix until his untimely injury which proceeded in elimination from the competition.

So what has this got to do with Everton? Well, I would say not much directly but we do have two strikers in Beattie and Johnson on the periphery of the England elite. Which begs the question that they are either not quite good enough to be selected with a combined transfer cost of £15M compared to Michael Owen's £17M, or they have been simply overlooked along with Defoe in favour of those selected.

In looking at the four strikers selected for Germany lets consider the merits of their inclusion:

Owen — nice and clean, a real golden boy and housewives favourite in marketing terms ideal for his link up with whiter-than-white washing powder. Plagued by injury this season, out in the wilderness in Spain for a season, question marks about club commitment and loyalty, and not really made an impact for England since his hatrick in the rout in Germany.

Crouch — Mr Robotics, would take a brave marketing company to take him on but could maybe front an advert for high and mighty super-slacks. In terms of footballing ability has had nearly as many clubs as Marcus Bent and only considered for England on the back of his stature and connection with Liverpool. In fairness he probably contributed to Liverpool's improvement in away form last season and manages to hold the ball up reasonably well even though his arial ability is suspect in terms of goal productivity. Overall not good enough at this level.

Rooney - the ante to Owen's clean cut image, in terms of marketing a great link up with Asda and rolled back the pennies for Everton. Exploded onto the scene at Euro 2004 and went from being seen as a wasted talent at Everton by the media to the swash-buckling all conquering Man United hero. Following his metatarsal injury, he is clearly unfit and lacking both match practice and the cutting edge required in a tournament of this calibre, typified in his frustrated reaction to being substituted. If his lack of fitness continues then expect to see the suspect flaws in his temperament being displayed with possible dour consequences.

Walcott — The new kid on the block, marketing dream in terms of product endorsement, take your pick but I would go for Mc Donald's because Arsene Wenger is lovin' it given the experience he will gain from being in the squad at such a young age. However, this decision along with only having four strikers and the reasons already indicated is the most concerning. Walcott is one for the future, he is not Rooney and at 17 with no Premiership experience a very high risk strategy.

Which brings me back to Beattie and Johnson, could they have been any worse? Is England's loss Everton's gain? Is Owen Hargreaves really any better than Phil Neville? He certainly gives the ball away more often and as many fouls. The haunted look on Sven's face last night when we faced the Swedish onslaught was all too familiar, there certainly isn't a Plan B. Let's hope that David Moyes careful tracking of Andy Johnson for 2 years or more has been the right decision, he certainly didn't want to waste his money and on the evidence to date concerning England players it might be that the prudent Mr Moyes has once again played a masterstroke.
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (21/6/06)

Swede with cornerkicks
To Michael; The swede was Kim Kallstrom, just moved to Lyon from another French club this summer. The other cornertaker was of course our beloved, old friend Tobias...
Jens Hansen, Norway  (21/6/06)

Whooooosh! ;-) - Colm

Engerland
Michael et al, just as you often tell posters to forget the red hordes, can you advise the same about Engerland. Who gives a flying fuck what that team of ponces and tarts fail to do EVERY single time they go to any sort of tournament and bow out through yet another excuse.

Get real, they are shite, they have one major trophy to show in about a hundred years, now lets get back to real football the club we pay to watch.
Gavin Ramejkis, Upholland  (21/6/06)

But... I thought it was exactly like watching Everton last night! ;-) — Colm

Sad Tony
Sad that such a great Evertonian as Tony Marsh can see no good in the Club at present. In common with so many life-long supporters, I happen to think that Moyes and Wyness are gradually pulling Everton round and that, in spite of the failure to attract outside investors, Kenwright and Co are backing them to the hilt with transfer funding.

As far as Richard Dodd`s starting line-up is concerned, I don`t think he will be far out although I do feel that VdM has a long way to go before we can be happy with the left flank. Personally, I think Moyes will go with his favourite, McFadden, particularly as he is now signed to a £16k/wk contract.

But who knows? Perhaps, even as we speak, a World Cup winger is on his way to answer our prayers!
Seb St.Clare, Harrogate  (21/6/06)

"Backing the manager to the hilt with transfer funding"? You mean gambling on the strength of future earnings?! — Colm

Another 4 years
Ah well... I know that England made it through to the last 16. But my suspicions that they wouldn't win the elusive prize seem well founded. Another incomplete performance and a couple of fitness worries (Owen in particular) hardly fills me with optimism. We will probably not go further than the quarters yet again.

As many others have said, Sven never seems to have a Plan B (assuming that he has a Plan A) The similarities between David Moyes's Everton and Sven's England are remarkable in so much as they seem to react to events rather than manage them. All successful managers have options available. Should England get knocked out on Sunday, then Sven only has himself to blame for gambling on an untried youngster and two forwards who were hardly going to be 100% for most of the tournament. Good luck England, I think we'll need it.
John McFarlane, Lancs  (20/6/06)

I like that Swedish lad who took the corners. Good, him. If only Everton had a player like that who could swing in pinpoint crosses right on to someone's nogin. What was his name again? — Michael

Brian Anthony... Spot on!
When this council gave up Stanley Park very easily, it made all the other parks an easy target to build on. I hope we go for Walton Hall Park, or the left overs of Stanley Park. This city owes us... BIG TIME. No offence to Kirkby or it's people. WHAT'S OUR NAME... EV - ER - TON!!!
Dave  Charles, Liverpool  (20/6/06)

Halewood Acadamy
Halewood eh? Surely that is outside the boundarys of the Borough of Knowsley.
Tony Horne, Kettering  (20/6/06)

Oh no!!!

Call me Jorge
Several Portugese websites list Nuno Valente`s surname as that and his Christian name as Jorge. A colleague from Lisbon tells me he is always referred to in the `double-barrelled` form as with Wright Phillips. Perhaps someone could ask him which is correct when — or if — he returns to Everton.
Emily Richards, Formby  (20/6/06)

Why have they stopped using hyphens? It used to be perfectly clear that, if the name was hyphenated, then it was a double-barrelled name. But it seems the UK is in the process of disbanding with the hyphen... perhaps I should write a book on this fascinating subject and make myself rich and famous? This website malarkey just ain't doing it! — Michael

RE; the Kirkby defence article
Let's start by saying that Kirkby people are scousers. Although I'd have to challenge some of the famous names you quoted (for instance, quite sure Terry McDermot was originally from one of the Four Squares in Everton) but aside from that, I think most people's aversion to the prospect of travelling out to the sticks is simply that it makes no sense to move a faclity to the outskirts of its target population. Public transport provision to this area is a fraction of that for Walton and has to by definition increase people's average travel time to the game, and this will affect our future support.
Tom Hughes, North Sea  (20/6/06)

I'm not sure I understand that arguement, especially in the day and age when people travel from almost every conceivable direction to get Goodison on a match day. If we moved a few miles north, all those living north of Goodison will have a shorter journey, and all those from the south will have a longer journey. So what? Meanwhile, as for those in the North Sea... — Michael

Bellamy
Just seen that Bellamy is likely to sign for Liverpool on a wage less than he's being offered at Blackburn as 'he wants to play for the club he supported as a boy'. Are there any non-scouse pro-footballers out there who didn't support that shower? Kewell, Barmby & now Bellers.

Probably a blessing we didn't get him though - imagine how crap it would be if one of our boys invoked a clause to cross the park for the price we paid for him! Arteta off for £1.8M. Doesn't bear thinking about!
Dominic Buckley, Manchester  (20/6/06)

What I just don't understand is ths constant pre-occupation with Liverpool? Isn't it enough that the media are fixated? Why do we have to play along too? Why do Evertonians even give a shit? Yes, they are our local rivals but at the end of the day they are just another team in the Premiership. Treat 'em as such. — Michael

Missing link?
Naymsith better than Valente going forward? You're talkin crap, mate!
James Smith, Liverpool  (20/6/06)

Well... I didn't want to sound negative... but I think you got that right, James! — Michael

Missing link
Most surprised that Richard Dodd left out both Carsley and Naysmith from his stating line-up-does he know something we don`t?

Both are valuable members of the Everton squad whose availability was sadly missed for most of last season. Personally, I would always choose Carsley over Neville in the holding role. And for all his critics, Naysmith is far better going forward than either Nuno Valente (that`s his full surname, by the way) and Pistone.
Trevor  Bentham, Speke  (20/6/06)

Nuno Valente? So what's his first name then? According to the fabulous twin resources of and his full name is Nuno Jorge Pereira Silva Valente. So how does Nuno become part of his surname? — Michael

Midfield woe!
I have got to agree with Tony Marsh in that some players in the middle are not good enough. I've always said Neville is useless as a midfielder, he is a poor Vinny Sammays (and that's saying something). Cahill I still rate as a player, but if anyone has an attitude problem it's him not AvdM. Last year he was Y-Front pants but he could improve, given license to go forward! And our best central midfielder plays on the left, which bemuses me. Yeah we got Howard (on loan from Man U as we are their feeder club), Johnson and an unknown factor in Lescott, but Moyes needs to address that midfield or we won't score goals or control that area next year. And address that sharpish!
Luq Yus, London  (20/6/06)

New Training Complex looking good!
I just read the article about the constuction of our new training facility. It is said that the multi-pound facilty will be among the finest in the world. The state-of-the-art facilities not only will offer a big attraction to future signings, but should also improve the players already at the club into better players.

A good training facility will (hopefully) galvanize the quality of our football. The new training ground will bring all the academy players, senior players, coaches and scouts closer to each other. I remember among the first thing Arsene Wenger did to Arsenal was to build the a world-class training facility. Look how far Arsenal have come since then!

This news, alongside the inroduction of three quality sigings, and probably the the constuction of a new stadium will add to the great summer Everton fans are having. We are a still a bit short, but if we are able to pinch Joey Barton, our squad is certainly good enough for a top 6 finish.

UP THE BLUES!
Emanuel Raisay, Liverpool  (20/6/06)

It's amazing to me how much happier some Evertonians are when we aren't playing any football! Nice buidlings and surroundings are simply what's expected: the norm, the baseline, the minimum standard. It's a great step forward from the infamous portakabins but whether the new academy and training complex will turn us into Arsenal remains to be seen... Only time will tell! — Michael

Halewood complex
The feeling of optimism created by the recent transfer acquisitions and the possible signing of a couple more players together with the news that work has commenced on the new training facilities and it feels fantastic to be a blue. With the stadium issue back on the agenda and a proactive approach from both David Moyes and Keith Wyness and it appears that we are starting to trade at the business end of the Premier League.

Competing with the top 5 is almost nigh on impossible given their elitist G14 monopoly, wealthy investors and phoney fans, yet we seem to be making progress on the fundamental issues that we hopefully see our reincarnation after twenty years in the wilderness. We have, it must be remembered, witnessed too many false dawns, public relations disasters and calamitous managerial appointments. This, together with the wholesale hawking of our finest talent and we seem to have survived to tell the tale and hopefully learn from it.

The process of rebuilding is going to be a long and arduous task, Wyness has identified that we are on that curve. In the current climate it will be unlikely that we reach the pinnacle, but with key issues being finally addressed then we are at the very least offered some hope and a challenge in the future.

After the bitter dissapointment of last season and the Wayne Rooney affair, the helter skelter of being an Evertonian has been in full effect, without going all Dutch or Dodd, let's hope that the coming season has much to offer and the light in the tunnel is not that forboding on-coming train!
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (20/6/06)

The Voice of Reason
So Richard Dodd is now salivating with joy at the possible team he mentions starting the new season. Have you been doing extra shifts down the jam butty mine, lad? I know you are easily pleased but please put away the baby oil and pull your Y-fronts up, man!

I would like to take you up on some of your team selections if you don't mind:

• Howard: I won't comment as I have never seen him play.
• Hibbert: Local lad, honest but very limited.
• Yobo: great talent, best defender at club, who said he is staying.
• Lescott: who knows what he is.
• Valente: dedication to club may be a problem... good player though.
• Arteta: you are right on this one — best player at club.
• Cahill: one great season, one crap season... no-one knows what's next.
• Neville: the most average of all England internationals ever.
• Van der Meyde: Best performance this joker has ever produced was the one in the Echo the other night.
• Johnson: go with you again on this one — made up we signed him.
• Beatie: Bigger tits than Jordan [not Joe] —is that why you are salivating? Too slow doesn't score enough goals.

In particular, the midfield you advocate is so unbalanced and so mishaped I fear for it. With Shandy Andy goosed out on the left and Tim Cahill pushing forward, that leaves Arteta who is best in a creative role and Neville who is a left-back to hold the fort. No natural midfield ball winner anywhere to be seen.

But what do I know? You just keep on dribbling from the mouth while I hope some one in your team learns to dribble with a ball. Mr Dodd, I know you think you are being clever but the truth is you make an arse out of yourself every time you post.

Salavate over that.
Tony Marsh, Liverpool  (19/6/06)

Another Midfielder
The Everton team is getting better but I still think we could do with another quality midfielder like Petrov, Nolan or Emerton. I don't think Neville has enough talent going forward, he won't score. Heard a rumour about a possible trade: Petrov for McFadden, I'd get in there quick before they changed their minds.

Howard; Valente, Yobo, Lescott, Hibbert;
Arteta, Cahill, Petrov, Van der Meyde; Johnson, Beattie.
Rob McFawn, Widnes  (19/6/06)

Why not Stanley Park?
Just a thought... Liverpool City Council have clearly demonstrated that they do not object to a football stadium in Stanley Park. Why don't Everton FC/Tesco submit a plan to build their development on some of the remaining Stanley Park land? They would be able to cite the precedent established by the earlier granting of planning permission to Liverpool FC. It would be hilarious if the Everton/Tesco partnership were better able to find the necessary funds and effectively gazump Moores/Parry and Co.
Brian Anthony, Liverpool  (19/6/06)

Brett Emerton
Right, left and centre; attack, midfield or defence. I have watched Emerton over a number of years and seen him do well in all those roles.

He is best as an attacking right midfield. In my opinion, a far better and more consistent player than Kilbane, with emphasis on consistency. I haven't the foggiest his cost yet, if not exhorbitant, he would be a good buy.
Dick Fearon, West Australia  (19/6/06)

Bring it on!
With three fabulous new signings and the welcome news that the Andy man has put his troubles behind him, I have been positively salivating at the prospect of the team Davey should be able to field for our first game of the season viz:-

Howard; Hibbert, Yobo, Lescott, Nuno Valente; Arteta, Neville, Cahill, Van der Meyde; Beattie, Johnson.

Subs from: Wright, Pistone, Stubbs, Davies, Kilbane, Osman, McFadden, Anichebe.

What a line-up in prospect and a great tribute to our very best Premiere manager and the chairman and Board who have backed him to the hilt. Bring it on!
Richard Dodd, Formby  (19/6/06)

Keep taking the tablets, Dick! — Michael

Why the vendetta?
I must admit I am baffled by your insistence on slagging off Tim Cahill at every opportunity. "Tim Cahill played too deep to be of any use" Cahill plays too deep" "Somewhat surprisingly was named in the starting line up"

He scored two goals in his last game, of course he is going to be in the starting line up. Playing too deep — was that his decision or Guus Hiddink's? Even though Guus is regarded as one of the top coaches in the World, let's slag off one of our own players for doing the exact job that he was asked to do.

Aussies tamely surrendered? Did you watch the match. Did you even bother to read the match report you linked to?

The only reason I can think of this vendetta is maybe it's all part of a plot by ToffeeWeb to get the fans against him, so that he will accept a move when it is offered and you can then say "Told you so, we are a selling club - Kenwright out"
Alisdair Denny, Perth, Australia  (19/6/06)

Tim Cahill was very poor throughout the game. I did not see one useful thing he did. And the worst thing to me was to see him hanging well back as Australia attacked. His only useful role is coming into the box as the ball is played in. Against Japan, he executed that role to perfection with those two goals. But that was his first real football since April. Keeping him on the bench, especially considering his yellow card and his penchant for the stupid foul, would have been the sensible thing to do.

I did watch the game and I was very disappointed that Australia didn't really take the game to Brazil. They were there to be taken and Hiddink, however wonderful he may be, called this one wrong in my opinion. The Aussies were over-awed.

But this has nothing to do with any vendetta against Cahill or the club, silly! Why on earth would I want to get the fans against him? Although, sad to say, Everton are are selling club when the bigger clubs come buying. Rooney; Gravesen... Wait and see who's next... — Michael

Can you feel the ground moving?
Living in Singapore, I often feel the place vibrate as those poor unfortunates in Indonesia, usually on Sumatra, take another kicking from a natural disaster...

On to our own ground move debate, I just have a funny feeling that we'll get the Central Docks site. I was in that neck of the woods the other day, and I saw that Opera / Theatre (?) they're building on the King's Dock site, and it saddened me to think that we should've been moving in there now, ready for the new season. Liverpool has an historic skyline, and a world class stadium would not have detracted from that.

My only regret is that the Central Dock site will be 'just' a football stadium, and won't give us access to the non-footballing revenues that King's Dock would've done. By the way, I'm also a traditionalist who would be sad to leave Goodison, and all the memories behind. But — as younger fans have pointed out — they're just memories. And if we end up selling naming rights — so what? Arsenal are getting £150m off Emirates for 10 years. Expect them to seriously challenge Chelsea within 2 years...

Oh fuck it, I've also got a funny feeling we'll be in our new Central Dock stadium before they move into Stanley Park. Right, where's me pills....
Matt Traynor, Liverpool  (19/6/06)

Well done
Thank you Mr Marsh for stating a strong arqument for not going to Kirby. I have already recieved a map and transport details from estatic gobshites who spent an entertaining hour chanting "One team in Liverpool" and singing "The Leaving of Liverpool" and then complained when I tuned the hose pipe over the garden wall.
Roy Coyne, Liverpool  (19/6/06)

Kirkby
I have to tell Glasgow Blue that I know Kirkby very well having worked on the industrial estate for over 6 years. I used both the train and motorway to get there from my home in South Liverpool, so I know all about access too. I asked people to think about this before simply quoting them but you failed to do so.

Firstly, the trains into Kirkby are every 15 mins — that's a total of approx. 2000 persons per hour as opposed to a train every 2 mins at Sandhills for instance, that's 15,000 people per hr. Road links: the motorway is only 3 lanes and the East Lancs 2 lanes giving a total of 8-10 lanes tops into the Kirkby area from all parts of Liverpool. With only 2-3 bus services also. Walton has County Road (4 lanes), Walton Lane (4 lanes), Queens Drive (2 lanes), at least 8 lanes coming out of the city centre, and dozens of bus routes. There is absolutely no comparison logistically.

As regards the redevelopment of stadia for inner city sites google "stadium guide" and look at USA just for starters. The motorway link syndrome is a classic red-herring.... Did Arsenal go to the M25? No, cos it would be a nightmare. Getting 55,000 people, mainly Liverpool inhabitants to the city's periphery will be too.
Tom Hughes, North Sea  (18/6/06)

Response to Alan Humphreys
As well as Emerton and Ewerthon, we could include Everson (Young Boys) and Eriverton (Moreirense). As a sub, we could have Ian Goodison from Tranmere!
Matt Geraghty, Warrington  (18/6/06)

Emerson the Brazilian? That's who I keep thinking of... — Michael

New Ground
All this nonsense about Kirkby being a bad move is just nonsense. Personally, I think EFC are calling LCC's bluff so that they'll offer us the same deal.

That aside, people like my old man who grew up in the Bull Ring in Liverpool City Centre was part of that group who were moved out of the cellars in Liverpool and out to Kirkby. His first games were attended travelling from Kirkby, with tonnes of other Evertonians, and to my knowledge it's still an Evertonian heartland.

Speke is part of Liverpool but surely it's further away than Kirkby but it'd be OK due to being in Liverpool? I've never met a person from Kirkby who spoke in anything other than a Scouse accent. Alan Stubbs anyone? EFC's a family club & in the same way that generations in Kirkby continued supporting EFC when they moved, people in Liverpool aren't all going to become LFC fans due to us moving a few miles.

The reason the DVD rack in HMV is full of Liverpool FC merchandise is because they are more successful. If a move to Kirkby means being able to compete with them and become succesful to fill the DVD racks too then I'm for it but, as I say, I think we're trying to force LCC's hand somewhat.
John  McCabe, Liverpool  (18/6/06)

Lounge seat share
I'm a Blue living in the Cotswolds with two Joe Mercer lounge seats for Season 2006-07 and a Gwladys St parking pass. I'm only able to get to 10 or so games and am looking for someone who wants to share. Also looking for a lift share from down my way. Send me an e.mail if you are interested.
Will Hanrahan, Stratford on Avon  (18/6/06)

Kirkby, Kiss Goodbye
This idea of Everton moving to a ground some where in Kirkby should not be supported by any of us. I have got nothing against Kirkby or its people but why should we be forced out of our city while every developer in the country is being found land in and around the city centre? Kirkby is nearer to St Helens and Rainford than it is to Everton so why should we go there? In fact there is plenty of land up near Haydock so why not there?

The thought of leaving the City of Liverpool boundries to go out into the wilderness while Gobshite Liverpudlians from all over the country come here to watch them makes me feel sick. Scousers going out of the city to watch Everton, woolybacks and farmers on the glory trail coming in... Can you imagine the stick we would have to take? Can no-one see the humiliation we would yet again suffer at the hands of those red Bastards?

As one posting said earlier, I would rather watch Everton in a crumbling Goodison Park obstructed views and all than leave Liverpool the city. If we do leave Goodison and go out of town, then we will no longer be Everton — we will be a poor copy on the outside looking in while Liverpool FC lord it over us even more so than now. If you don't believe me, go in to HMV on Church Street and have a look at the rows and rows of Liverpool FC dvds. Then try and find the Everton section. It's a joke. We are already being overlooked. Imagine it if we were no longer here!

Change the city we play in andwe might as well change one or two other things as well: The stupid nickname "The Toffees" can go; how about the Kirkby Kavaliers or the Rainford Rockets? What about the silly Everton badge with the stone prison on it — that can go as well. You can see where it all leads, can't you?

Forget the Sunderlands, Boros and Boltons of this world — they are Mickey Mouse clubs anyway so it doesn't matter what they have done. We are Everton, founder members of the Football League —a team that was born on the fields of the City of Liverpool — and that's where we shall remain.
Tony Marsh, Liverpool  (18 6 06)

All this goes back to the failure of the much-hyped Kings Dock. No inquest, no accountability. A fabulous opportunity squandered by the Club's current custodians. — Michael

How can we leave Goodison, never mind Liverpool!
Does any true Evertonian really want us to move to a steel shell, devoid of the Goodison feel, with tinned music piped in when goals are scored? Are Man City, Bolton, Boro, Leicester and other fans entirely happy with their shiny new megastadia? No. Purely and simply, NO!

Goodison IS Everton. Sure, the Grand Old Lady is past her best, but it's not just the stands that make her what she is, it's that pitch. I've been going since I was a kid. My dad went before me in the seventies and eighties, watching the mighty Blues winning domestic and European honours. My Grandad was there in the fifties and sixties — and my great grandad used to skip synagogue to watch Dixie Dean!

All of those memories, all that history; it was all played on the glorious turf at Goodison Park. Everton are the first football club of Liverpool — therefore they must remain in the City Liverpool at the very least. Moving away, into a new, soulless, metal shell, would be to move away from what Everton Football Club is.
Mr Huglin, London  (18/6/06)

Hmmm.... I wonder just how many times that hallowed turf has been ripped up and re-laid? And Everton existed before Goodison... if fact, they used to play at a place called Anfield. Hmmm... these historical "reasons" are full of pitfalls... At the end of the day, the decision is about breaking that emotional attachment to Goodison Park in order to push the club forward into the current century. Or not. — Michael

In denial
AvdM says he's not an alco, instead he was just drinking to get through the tough times. Time for the first of those 12 steps, Andy, my friend.
Ronan Hanly, Boston, MA, USA  (18/6/06)

I'll drink to that! — Michael

Emerton
Emerton would be an alright buy — we need a good crosser of the ball. Osman is ok but Kilbane is usless. Emerton plays on the left and is a similar player to Kilbane but he has got that little bit more talent. We cannot expect to sign a £5 - £7 million left winger so I would off-load Killa and sign Emerton.
Daniel Magee, Liverpool  (18/6/06)

Where is Kirkby?
Obviously to those who live in the City, it's not in Liverpool, and for many that is the issue. Well, ask anyone more than 10 miles away, and I would include all the commentators, pundits, reporters etc and almost to a man they would say Kirkby is Liverpool like Islington is in London, or do I say Greater London aka Merseyside? Does anyone outside of the City really think that people associate Kirkby with anywhere other than Liverpool?

I have lived 30 miles down the road for many years and have never seen Kirkby as anything other than part of Liverpool. Yes all the 'locals' KNOW its not actually in the city but in reality that's totally irrelevant to all but those who wear the badge of "I live in Liverpool'.

Whatever the merits or problems of Kirkby, we have to grow up and get over the martyrdom complex of Liverpool FC. We must do what is right for Everton FC — not look to how they might view it and what their SMALL base of local gobshites might say. Yes, those who live in the city suffer daily but if we are always looking at them and trying to match or better them directly we will continue to live in their shadows.

Let's face it, at present they have more financial clout than us and therfore can buy better players. We did the same in the sixties — so, until we can compete financially, we will never compete on the pitch in any consistent way. The real truth is that, in order to become top dog, WE have to do what's best for EFC and not give a damn about what they or indeed anyone else thinks, and if that's a new stadium in Kirkby or anywhere else in "Liverpool" then let's do it. Think Everton not Liverpool.

Finally to the comment that 'they are knocking down out-of-city stadiums all over the world' — I wonder could you actually give at least three examples 'cos my reading is clearly not wide enough to have read about these so-called demolitions.
Jim Hourigan, Preston  (18/6/06)

Meyde we love you
All is forgiven Andy, in fact we the fans apologise about slagging you off, Dutch fella (not Dutch with the bin company name). With you at your best next season we can form a lethal attack force. Stay Andy and prove how good you are!!! What worries me is where have these rumours come from? I think Kenwright marks the spot!
Luq Yus, London  (18/6/06)

Out of town
Colm, not sure why you were in 100% agreement with Tom Hughes. Tom obviously hasn't been to Kirkby before?! When he asked what do they offer at Kirkby... err, well, a station that is as accessible as Sandhills or Kirkdale. Oh, and one that actually goes towards Wigan as well as Town. Motorway... well, a shorter route than the one from Goodison. Please, please, come up with some sensible issues before berating the argument for and against Kirkby.

You talk about Kirkby like it is some sort of hick outpost. Where did all of these so called 'True Scousers' go back in the 50's when Liverpool became too crowded? Err, Kirkby was one destination — as I can vouch for in my family tree.
Glasgow Blue, Glasgow  (18/6/06)

What's in a name
Finally we've been limked with Brett Emerton. Now we just need to sign him and Ewerthon - hopefully Moyesy and the scouts (we do have scouts don't we ?) will scour the world this summer for anyone who's name vaguely sounds like that of our beloved club!
Alan Humphreys, Wirral  (17/6/06)

Anderson Silva Di Franca
Anyone got any idea what the hell is happening about this Brazilian from Malaga?
Nick Flack, Warrington  (17/6/06)

He's working on the checkout at Tesco's. In Kirkby. - Colm

Tell all the shoite you know
Well, those luvable reds at it again eh! They're gonna win the World Cup, that means Liverland will get to the final of the Werldcup n win it on penalties! (I've already got a bet on at the bookies!!)

Now, what you should all do to shut them up is this.... remind them that Gerrard, Carragher Owen & Rooney are all born & bred Evertonians.. So don't even let them go there with the Liverland r England chants!
Tommy Grrrrr, Tesco's  (17/6/06)

You've been on the Carlsberg, right?! - Colm

Out of town
Out of town stadia are being knocked down all over the world, yet we're going down this route. Ask yourself how we're all going to get there (before you mention train and motorways, please stop and think about what they offer at Kirkby). It will be a logistical nightmare, not to mention potentially a soulless experience in the middle of nowhere.

The Reebok, for all it motorway links, etc, has one of the slowest dispersal rates in British footy. Why? cos of the high dependency on cars. That is why the whole world is moving stadia to more central locations, to take full advantage of public transport hubs.

If this investment opportunity is available, then why not at a more central site? Central Docks? Everton Park? I'm not one for looking a gift horse in the gob, but let's think it through first before we pledge our future to the distant nirvana.
Tom Hughes, North Sea  (17/6/06)

100% in agreement, Tom. - Colm

Tesco Stadium
Just a note, Tesco's blue and white stripes have been going since the 60's. Terry Leahey was a nipper at school then.

Also, we have seen mention of the Riverside and the Reebok as examples of what Everton should not have as a stadium option. Let's stick with the Reebok. Bolton moved out of Bolton to Horwich — a move similar to a possible move to Kirkby by Everton. The suggested proposal would be in conjunction with Tesco who would build a massive store within the vicinity of the stadium. If you go to the Reebok and have a look around what do you have? A big Tesco store right next door. So if you want some idea what the Kirkby option will provide, go to Horwich and look at the Reebok.

I still think it’s a way to flush out Liverpool CC and Tesco will still be involved but within the city boundary — and no, Kirkby is not Liverpool.
Mike Dunne, Toxteth  (17/6/06)

Emerton not so bad!
Personally, I think Moyes would have shown shrewness with buying Emerton. Ok, he hardly has set the world alight but he can do what Osman or Davies can't seem to do: CROSS A GOOD BALL! So with AJ and a hopefully fit and slim Beattie up front, Emerton can add a supply line to them on a consistant basis! Thats why I'm up for him signing, and to be honest we cannot expect superstars to stroll in after the dosh we just spent! Just honest professionals like Emerton and maybe Nolan? Fingers and toes crossed!
Luq Yus, London  (17/06/06)

Jug-Head Jeffers
Why the fuck are we being linked to that useless bag of shite Jeffers once again? How many more chances does a player get before a manager somewhere realises that Franny just can't play. What use is a striker who can't score goals regardless of what club he plays for and at what level he is playing at? Everton, Arsenal, Charlton, Rangers... he has failed at every club he has been at so why the fuck do we need him back for the tenth time???

Having said all that, we would be carrying on our fine tradition of re-signing players and managers over and over again. We could once again add the name Jeffers to our hall of fame. Kendall, Unsworth, Ferguson, Wier, Pistone, Naysmith, Stubbs and even McFadden was on his way last month. Why do we do it, year after year? Haven't we got any fucking scouts doing any graft or what?

I am sick of this shit. Franny Jeffers is little better than a pub player and the only time he should set foot on Goodison Road again is if he is going to the chippy after one of his pub crawls. I don't imagine he will have to many autograph hunters outside Bellfield if he does re-sign.
Tony Marsh, Liverpool  (17/6/06)

Missing Sunny Cyprus already, eh Tony? That happy feeling didn't last too long, did it??? — Michael

Not Leahy Likely
Of all the crap I have read on Everton websites, the recent story about Tesco colours representing the present CEO`s liking for Everton takes the biscuit. The Tesco corporate colours of RED, white and blue were chosen by the company`s founder, Jack Cohen, years before he launched on the London Stock Exchange in 1947. `Mr Jack` was no great follower of fotball but if he had a team at all it was likely to be the one closest to his East End routes — West Ham.
Paul  Hinton, Newbury  (17/6/06)

Awww... now you've gone and burst our little bubble there, Paul. And lost Sir Terry some loyalty business! — Michael

Emerton???
Living in Australia and following the Socceroos is good fun when we are winning; however, reading about signing Brett Emerton signing for us is not good fun.

Brett Emerton is a fading talent, I am not quite sure where he would fit in our side. He's been ordinary at best for Socceroos. His general role is of a utility man, and we already have a pretty good one in Phil Neville.

The only thing in his favour at the moment is that he's 26 and has some time to improve.
BSD Lover, Sydney, Australia  (17/6/06)

Fading talent... has time to improve... Could go either way then? Why do I keep thinking he's from South America? — Michael

Cahill again
Few holes in the Cahill rumour that I'm sure many have spotted:

1. Would they really pay £9 million for him?
2. Moyes said in January that the funds were in place for him to buy a striker. Surely this would mean that the purchase of Johnson was not on the premise of us selling Cahill.
3. "Informed of the Rooney transfer in February"? It seemed quite obvious that Rooney would be sold to Man Utd at some point in the not too distant future anyway so February was an informed guess and it was not a done deal in February.
4. Was the real story that Man Utd were interested in an Everton midfielder - Carsley? done deal apparently. You heard it here first.

The truth, Colm
Alright Colm,

As an avid reader of the mailbag, I take great pleasure in reading your replies to fellow blues. However, one of the "Replies" had me wondering.

When one blue mentioned about us only having spent £7.5 million so the possibility of new faces could still be alive you replied "Moyes says maybe one or two more, but I expect one of them to be a player returning to his beloved Goodison" or words to that effect.

Please tell me you don't have inside knowledge that old Jug-ears is coming back? I heard such a rumour and hoped it to be a horrible comment made by a Red Shite. Can you confirm? Hope you can confirm this is not he of large lugs?
Garry Lloyd, Jersey  (16/6/06)

Sorry to be the bearer of bad tidings, Gary! 'Tis indeed young Francis I make reference to. It may or may not happen of course but for now, what I hear is that it remains a possibility. Guess it all depends on what Moyes manages to identify elsewhere before the transfer deadline draws nearer. — Colm

Yes, but, no, but, yes ...
Yes, OK, Colm, you're right. I had indeed completly missed the 'Terry Tesco' joins us story from last year. I admit it, I was wrong, and I'm a very naughty boy. That said, bet many readers never knew that Terry's Everton support was the reasoning behind Tesco's decision to opt for blue and white stripes as their branding though. I rest my shopping!!!!
Joey Hughes, Wales  (16/6/06)

Every little helps, Joey! ;-) - Colm

To stay or not to stay...
Personally, I would prefer to stay within the City of Liverpool boundaries, but we have been shafted by Liverpool City Council in the past so part of me says fuck them — if Liverpool don’t want us but Knowsley do, then I say go for it.

It will be nice being based in an area where we would be fully appreciated. With Sir Terry casting a beading eye over proceedings, we could be confident that it will built properly with no calamities. In other words, if it was our board doing it on their own, they’d find a way to mess it up.

Maybe things will change now that an Evertonian is leader of LCC and hopefully he will find a plot of land on the cheap within the boundaries for us, but if not then going to Kirkby won’t bother me — after all there is a County Road nearby, fill it with pubs and it will be a home from home!
Adam Bennett, Liverpool  (16/6/06)

Cahill etc...
I know it's only a rumour but I agree with Paul Coleman (13/6). We all love Cahill when he scores, but actually as a midfielder, he's not that good. Bearing in mind we paid just £1M for him, the club would have to take a bid of £9M seriously. That could allow us to buy possibly two midfielders who can pass a football. My preference would be two out of Petrov, Malbranque, Barton & Gravesen.

As for AvdM — if FC Porto are seriously offering Benni McCarthy, we should bite their hands off.

Finally McFadden — no, thank you. He may have a degree of skill but he is way too slow to take advantage of it. I would get rid of him for whatever we can and look possibly at Lee Hendrie of Villa who is available for virtually nothing. A new club (manager) is all that lad needs.
Mick Stanley, Lower Darwen  (16/6/06)

It's not the leaving of Liverpool...
I'd love our new stadium to be in Liverpool and the Kings Dock was a fantastic once-in-a-lifetime opportunity spurned. If we can develop a stadium in the heart of Merseyside with easy road, rail and pedestrian access I'll be happy. I'd love it to be something special and not a soul-less heap of girders and plexiglass alla the Stadium of Light (Sunderland).

And 50,000 capacity at least (If we build it, they will come...). But please god, don't let them name it the 'No frills' stadium... or 'no thrills' for that matter.

ps: Well done (dithering?) Davey in securing three first-class signings in four weeks... Just like last season (when we were gazumped by Newcastle and Liverpool, you've identified your targets and moved swiftly to secure them whilst other managers were scratching their balls...

Hope you've not been sold a pup in Lescott though, á la the invisible Dane...
Kevin Sparke, Northumberland  (16/06/06)

Why Would Man Utd Want Cahill?
It's a serious question.

Scholes is certainly on his last legs, but I don't see how Taggart could possibly see Cahill as a like-for-like replacement, if that is indeed why they are interested. Scholes can tackle, pressure players, play incisive passes and gets more than his fair share of goals.

Cahill is a shadow of the player Scholes was at his peak, and whilst I think Tim has the potential to improve further, I doubt he would ever get that close. The red nosed one is renowned for spotting talent early (apparently he 'fancied' Rooney when he was 14...), so quite why Cahill would have gone under his radar is, well it's inconceivable.

Maybe it's another smoke screen to show us loyal mugs, I mean supporters, that we're no longer a selling club? Then again, football is a funny old game, or so we're told.
Matt Traynor, Liverpool  (16/6/06)

Tesco Arena?
Although Terry Leahy may well have some part in brokering this idea of partnering with Tesco on the site in Kirkby, the Tesco Board will not be inclined to invest Tesco's money in Terry's favorite club just because he wants to. I've been wondering what Leahy was up to as he has been hardly mentioned recently. Let's hope that Keith Wyness is not going to sell the stadium naming rights. 'Tesco Arena' just doesn't have a great ring to it, does it? Never mind the stick we'll get with all the supermarket jokes ('cleanup on aisle 12, please').

I'm all for a new stadium; if Liverpool council won't give us access to the some of the adjoining land around Goodison, then hopefully we will build a stadium that at least has some resemblance to our current home, particularly getting the crowd in as close to the pitch as possible.

Cahill to Man Utd for £9M? I like Tim's persistence and his goals when he's playing well(!), but he's not worth that type of money. It would be a simple decision, go east young Timmy and we'll pick up somebody like Malbranque or Nolan for half the price. I can't honestly believe that Man Utd would pay that much, though, for such a player.
Greg Dawson, Not in Walton anymore  (15/06/06)

You don't speak for me pal...
Just been watching the local BBC News and a report on the possible EFC move to Kirkby. Some guy from Bluekipper appeared and said, with utter certainty, that all Evertonians wanted the club to stay in Liverpool. Excuse me, but since when did people like him start talking for me? How arrogant can someone be?

Personally, I would'nt give a shit about moving a couple of miles outside the boundaries of Liverpool if it meant we had a great, affordable stadium. These so-called traditionalists, who are really just stubborn luddites, make me sick.

They are entitled to their opinion, but how dare they claim to be speaking for other Evertonians.
Gaz Hughes, Liverpool  (15/6/06)

The main consideration is not Goodison itself but the preferred watering hole for pre- and post-match libations. That's all this is really about. — Michael

Liverpool..... Liverpool
John McFarlane is right about this obssession with all things Liverpool. I missed 20 minutes of the England—Trinidad match because I had to pick a relative up from work, and on listening to commentry on Five Live in the car, I heard Alan Green say "... and carragher clears for Liverpool".

Then, when I was watching it on TV, we all heard Clive Tyldsley drooling over Burchall of Trinidad coming from a family of Liverpool supporters. On to England, I personally think they have not got a prayer of winning the World Cup and quite honestly would sooner see Everton win their first game of the new season.
Charlie Hughes, Liverpool  (15/6/06)

I can't really understand this paranoia, and had to laugh when it turned out that two kopites scored in the end. So what? Are you really that concerned? Where does this paranoia really exist? Crouch and Gerrard play for Liverpool. Birchall grew up as a Liverpool fan. These are just imutable facts. Liverpool are just another team in the Premiership. It's really not worth getting all bothered about, is it? — Michael

The Retail Stadium
I quite like the idea of a joint Stadium enterprise with Tesco. Me and the missus could get the shopping in after the game. That would make her happy at least! The only problem I can foresee is how am I going to get from the Winslow to the kick-off in 2 minutes flat?! Come-and-go stadiums are not what Evertonians are about and I hope the club appreciate that.

They have to create an environment conducive to the needs of the supporters and not just a 'state of the art' stadium that will be as anonymous and devoid of atmosphere as the Reebok or the City of Manchester. If a shopping center is to be included, why not reproduce in modernish architecture the tight little streets as they exist around Goodison now? A little imagination please! Maybe even dismantling the Winslow brick by brick and rebuilding it opposite the main entrance? Or am I being too precious?
Dave Roberts, Runcorn  (15/6/06)

I quite like that idea of Victorian/Edwardian mock architecture to create pedestrian walkways that could also double as retail frontage. We could even go Gothic and have a set a bit like Harry Potter's spooky emporiums! — Michael

Never happy
We buy the type of players mailbaggers kept harping on about and all we get is 'how did they afford it?' A year ago, Cahill was the best thing since sliced bread, now we would be better getting what we can for him and good riddance. Spurious quotes are immediately seen as a lack of commitment and when the player refutes it 'well, he would wouldn't he'.

I could go on, but I won't; other than to say the manager and the Board have actually walked the walk for once, so don't throw it back in their faces.
Steve Guy, Harrogate  (15/6/06)

Haven't We Been Here Before?
So here we are yet again. Rumours appear seemingly out of nowhere to suggest that Cahill is going to Man U this summer. And then those rumours gather momentum on fans' websites, pubs and the like until they become that horrible phrase 'done deal'. At that point of course, we poor bastard fans just shrug and accept it because, well, we knew it was coming - and because of this the club are off the hook, or so they think.

It's become sadly typical of the way Everton conduct outgoing transfers now, especially where popular players are concerned. It's obvious that having paid out for AJ and Lescott the club have to recoup some money so the rumour goes out that a big name is on his way out for a big fee.

Oh we have no intention of selling him, they'll say, but when United came in for him blah blah shite blah...more shite. The movers and shakers at EFC are justifiably ribboned on these pages for their piss poor performance in most matters, but you've got to hand it to them - their black propaganda is on a par with that of the Russians at the height of the cold war. If only that fat bloater Wyness had the balls to admit it.

I could be way off beam here, of course, and the rumour may not have come out of Goodison. I'm sure it did, though. They can always sue me if I'm wrong, but didn't Kenwright (remember the name!) tell us categorically that Rooney wasn't for sale even at £50 million....
Kevin Latham, Liverpool  (15/06/06)

That's a quote he denies saying. One of many, sadly. I hope the rumours about Cahill heading up the East Lancs some time soon are way off beam - we can ill afford to lose one of our more prolific goalscorers. However, this being Everton....you never know! - Colm

Tesco's Blue blood makes Kirkby a goer
Tesco's little known Blue blood makes Kirkby a possible goer. A number of years ago I was at a major UK planning conference in London and a senior representative from Tesco told an amusing anecdote. She explained that the Tesco branding of blue and white stripes was actually a decision made by the then top Tesco man because he was mad Everton fan. I wonder if this bloke is still there at Tesco? And I wonder whether his support will have any bearing if we go into talks with Tesco over a new stadium in Kirkby? As Colm often says, only time will tell.
Joey Hughes, Wales  (15/06/06)

Do you live the life of a hermit, Joey? Away from civilisation and news from the outside world?! I take it you've not heard of Terry Leahy? Terry Leahy, Tesco CEO, lifelong Evertonian and advisor to the current Everton board! - Colm

England? ... or Liverpool?
If you were a foreign visitor to these shores this summer, you may be forgiven for thinking that Liverpool are the only English team supplying players for any and every World Cup squad in Germany.

Whether it be commentators, pundits, experts or journalists, the opportunity to give air-time to our friends from across the park is never missed. Regardless of the tenous nature of the link, eg, Liverpool played in this stadium on this or that occasion, Phil Thompson cleared a corner in the 75th minute of a friendly here back in the olden days, etc etc.

This obsession of all things Liverpool is starting to make me feel really paranoid. It seems that, whenever you switch on the TV —especially local area news programs there they are: Liverpool in all their glory.

Indeed, I set all you people out there a challenge: in any given week, take note how many TV shows mention Liverpool or how many daytime TV programs have a child, cat, granny kitted out in brand new shirts emblazened with Carlsberg beer logos.

The BBC is not immune: winners of young commentator or mascot or whatever generally seems to be somebody from far flung places such as Newcastle or Cumbria who just happen to be Liverpool supporters.

I hope I don't need medical attention; feel free to let me know what you think.
John McFarlane, Lancs  (15/06/06)

What do I think? Well, I fancy Steven Gerrard to score the first goal for England against Trinidad and Tobago. Obviously a knockdown from Peter Crouch after a cross in from Jamie Carragher... - Colm

Cahill
I think it needs to be said that, if Cahill goes this summer, the money will be used to balance the Johnson & Lescott transfers. This sounds very much like the way the Board carry out the business at the club whereby our retail magnate benefactor lends us a few quid in the knowledge that he'll have it back in a few months!

That said, it would be a shame to see Tim go because, despite his failings, he is the sort of character you want in your team — ie, one who doesn't accept defeat too easily. I think £9M is a bit high as well. Considering the info came from the same source that told us Rooney would go, we never thought he'd go as cheap as he did! Surely £6M tops? Still at least we're not a selling club...
Adam Carey, Berkshire  (15/6/06)

We're not a selling club because we're one of the richest in the world! ;-) — Colm

More pie, sir!
Well... as Lescott has now signed, I've got even more humble pie to eat. I never thought I'd enjoy being wrong THIS much. Cahill to Manure for £9 million? If Moyes was promised to have the full £9M to spend, I'd bite their hand off to be honest. We'd get two excellent midfielders for £9M. I'd make the bastards pay the lot up front, though!
Brian Williams, Wirral  (15/6/06)

I'd swap Rooney for Cahill! Injured metatarsal or not! - Colm

Realism
So Lescott finally makes his move to Everton. Pardon me for not sounding too excited... maybe because I ain't! The breakdown of the deal was well played by the ever-devious board, ie, £2M now and the rest in installments. But I still feel that Ferrari was a better (cheaper) shout. International quality and a consistent game-play ratio until he came here. But some fools who have bins named after them (quite right also), shall crow that it's great business. So was Krøldrup until Moyes messed that one up!

Anyway, a new season comes and I'm quite realistic about the fortunes that lay ahead. If AJ gets injured, we won't score! If Yobo leaves, Weir will stay! If we have the same midfield then AJ will have to make his own chances! Pretty grim isn't it.

Well, having your glass half-empty means you don't get disppointed. And why would Man Utd want Cahill! He can't pass, tackle or create chances so why would he go there? Its like the majority of fans love Everton being a selling second rate club! Sod that — and sod you who lack ambition for this great club!
Luq Yus, London  (15/6/06)

Cheer up Luq! Gary Naysmith might yet get himself a new deal at Goodison! — Colm

Surprise Surprise
Here we go again — one step forward, two steps back. Sign a forward and centre-half: good thing! Sell Arteta, Yobo and Cahill: bad thing!!! I honestly don't believe that Moyes would agree to this situation; however, money talks and EFC are and have been a selling club for ten years. Being a blue is sometimes just too interesting.
John McFarlane, Lancashire  (15/6/06)

Everton a selling club for only ten years??? - Colm

Timmy the goalscoring socceroo
I am writing in reply to Dutch's recent remarks on the possible merits of selling Tim Cahill to Man Utd or whoever would be willing to pay £9M for his services. Firstly, again I feel it is damaging to both team spirit and morale to 'talk up' transfers and this applies to Joseph Yobo and Mikel Arteta, the latter even stating officially at the end of the season his desire to play for the blues again next season.

In respect of Tim Cahill, he may not be the most technically gifted of players, has a niggling approach and disciplinary problem, but he possess skill and vision in abundance and he scores goals — often crucial and often late in the game. For all his flair, Thomas Gravesen's goal return was poor and if a team is to become successful then we need midfielders chipping in with a reasonable goal return. All the indications are that next season we will be stronger in all departments albeit light in terms of the squad. Cahill along with Johnson and Beattie I believe will be an important cog in improving our goals for return.
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (15/6/06)

Transfer money
Correct me if I am wrong, and I just might be, but haven't we only spent £7.5 million quid. Based on £5M up-front for AJ and £2.5 mill for Joleon? If in fact our transfer budget is £10 million, then we might just see another new face (for us, at least) before the window shuts!
Dylan DeLoretta, Honolulu, USA  (14/6/06)

David Moyes seems to believe he'll add one or two more. I'm expecting one of those to be a player returning to his beloved Goodison! ;-) — Colm

Transfers
Can't wait to see our new players in action, but I'm just hoping it all isn't just a build-up until Moyes decides to sell Cahill or Arteta. We were only supposed to have a £10 million transfer budget and we've already spent about £15 million. All the speculation is somewhat making me think that Moyes is ready to sell Cahill, Arteta or even Yobo, who are the undoubted future players of Everton. Let's just hope he doesn't! Considering Matteo Ferrari, I thought he was a solid defender and we should have kept him - other Premiership Clubs are already trying to grab him. Nevermind. Oh and is that Malaga midfielder coming or not?!
Omar El-Saleh, Liverpool  (15/6/06)

Inexplicable Optimism
We're starting to get a bit of shape now looking towards next season; things are looking rosey.

Howard might sort out the back line with his shouting 'abilities'. Our defence has been bolstered with the signing of Davie Weir(chortle, chortle) and Lescott. If we secure Yobo with Valente and Hibbert either side, that looks pretty solid. Arteta, Cahill, Ossie and Captain Phil Neville is a decent midfield with Big tits and AJ up front.

With a bit of 'playing for the jersey' mentality, I reckon we'll piss the league next season, shove yer Shevchenko and Ballack!!! Can't wait!!
Ross Trotter, Galashiels, Scotland  (14/6/06)

Out of sight out of earshot?
Unfortunately not. Just when we thought he was off in Arizona, shooting another one of his hugely successful productions, Bullshit Billy comes riding back from the sunset with this gem about Tim Cahill. Nice one, Bill. So how much would you never sell him for? Cue rumours about a move to Man Utd... Oh, we've already had those!
Matt Traynor, Liverpool  (14/6/06)

The Tripod is Complete!
Really, really happy about Lescott finally becoming an Everton player. He's quick, strong and apparently calm under pressure. I think he'll fit right into the side... as long as none of the other players have attractive wives!

As for Cahill and his rumored £9 million move to Man Utd, I don't think that would be the worst thing to happen. Goalscoring aside, Cahill is a very limited player, average passing, clumsy tackling. I know he scores some important goals but maybe a more creative midfielder would create more goals for the team?

I'd rather have a midfielder creating chances for AJ & Beattie to finish. Idealy I'd love a new creative midfielder and Cahill to stay but those books will need balancing sooner or later and £9 million is a good price for Timmy.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (14/6/06)

Skippy
Evertonians really are paranoid! Nobody is going to pay £9M for Tim Cahill! In the unlikely event that I'm wrong... we could buy a decent team for that!
Dave Roberts, Runcorn  (14/6/06)

Here we go again
If the sources in the youth team are right and the Mancs want to pay £9M for Tim Cahill, can I tell my cousin to have a word with Mr Moyes and let him know how great a deal this would be? Think of the midfield replacements we could by for £9 million! This is not going to happen — not at that price anyway.
Steve Connor, Liverpool  (14/6/06)

Genius Moyes
What a great week to be an Evertonian! Our very own Moyestro does the deal for Lescott at a vastly knocked down price and then manages to persuade our Scottish Rooney that £16k a week here is better than £20k anywhere else. Who was it said Davey was a crap negotiator? The man`s a bloody genius!
Richard Dodd, Formby  (14/6/06)

Squad / Team
The post-AJ exhuberence of a couple of weeks ago has visibly waned in the mailbag but now the Lescott deal is finally sorted we can be a bit more optimistic again. Lescott was an ever-present for Wolves last season and was voted player of the year by their fans. They're a big club and their fans aren't stupid so three (including Howard) good siginings so far. We can be optimistic as to how the team is shaping up for next season.

In terms of where we go from here, I think Moyes's priority (as far as the team is concerned) now should be to sort out JY's contract quickly. Would love him to stay but if he has to leave we'll need another signing. Second priority is to sign another midfielder. I think we've got some fairly decent players in the middle but there's been a lot of discussion on here about us missing a Gravesen-type passing midfielder.

Apart from these two areas, I think we can be pretty happy about the first XI next year. Which brings me to the squad. We're scarily thin in a number of areas and we need more cover (and have done for a while let's face it). Imagine the disaster of a long-term injury to Tim Howard? Or the fact we've only got three recognised centre-backs, one of whom is in his mid-50s?

I don't expect that there's any more money in the pot so extra players will have to come from loans / Bosmans.

Anyone any ideas? Dare I suggest Dietmar Hamman and Djimi Traore...?
Michael Johnson, Formerly of Liverpool  (14/6/06)

Hamman's an excellent player, under-rated by most fans. As for Lescott being Wolves' player of the season on numerous occasions... well, Richard Dunne's matched that at Manchester City almost annually over recent seasons yet you'll find most Evertonians wouldn't want Dunne to return; so that kind of negates the importance of a player of the year accollade at Molineux. I think we'll see Yobo staying, for the short-term at least, one eye on the January window perhaps. It's Davey Weir, I believe, we'll be saying goodbye to... - Colm

Never mind the serious debates...
Not sure if anyone has already come up with this one, if so I haven't seen it (and sorry to lower the tone but...), I was talking to some mates about Everton's new signings and explaining how I'd seen on Toffeeweb that Tim Howard has been labelled "Towering Tim" in contrast to our "Tiny" Tim Cahill.

It was agreed that this a bit of crap nickname, when one wag piped up with: "Hang on a sec, he's the bloke with Tourette's, shouldn't he be called 'Howard the Fuck'". Now I've stopped crying with laughter I thought I'd share that one.

Or maybe you just had to be there...
Tom Hadley, Hampshire  (14/6/06)

Get to fuck! - Colm

Look at the barnet
Good news to see that we have finally secured the services of Joleon Lescott, let's hope we can get Joseph Yobo to extend his contract and we will hopefully have a pair of young centre-half's with pace, good technical ability and the prospect of forming a partnership at the heart of our defence for years to come.

All the tittle-tattle regarding his wobbly knee-cap and mysterious injury aside, let's hope he can head a ball, and his dodgy barnet and wedge haircut doesn't result in headed clearances landing in Row Z of the Paddock. Another midfield acquisition, preferably either Nolan or Malbranque, and the thought of August and a return to the Premiership doesn't seem such a bad thing.
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (14/6/06)

Ah yes... nothing like pre pre-season optimism daring to raise its ugly head! We all do it! — Colm

Get in there! Welcome Joleon
Well done Everton! The Lescott signing could prove to be one of Davie's most shrewd signings. 200 appearances by the age of 23 should put paid to any serious worries about future knee problems. Ever-present in all of Wolves games last season. I doubt AvdM had made 100 appearances by the time he was 25!

Quick, strong in the tackle, good in the air. Wolves supporters Player of the Season, god knows how many times. (Doesn't say much I know! haha)

Welcome Joleon!
Allan Price, Shrops  (14/6/06)

I hope he proves himself better than Matteo Ferrari... — Colm

Cahill — To Sell or not to Sell?
From the same source that told me Rooney was going in the Feb before he went, Tim Cahill will sign for the Mancs for £9M after the World Cup — Done Deal. It was agreed as part of the Howard loan; United will pay enough up front to allow us to sign AJ and AN Other.

Wake up, EFC FANS! This board are fuck ups and as for McFaggot, fuck him off. The little shit isn't worth 20 quid a week let alone £20k.
Steve Sweeney, Prescot  (14/6/06)

Interesting, Steve! Heard similar whispers over recent weeks. Time, I guess, will tell... — Colm

Lescott
Come on, ToffeeWeb — a bit slow this morning. Am i the first toffee to notice we've finally signed Lescott!
Rob Porter, Wolverhampton  (14/6/06)

The editorial team would like to apologise (or apologize in the case of the Editor and Webmaster!) for either being in a time zone where it's the middle of the night and those closer to the Mersey would like to apologise for being in work! ;-) - Colm

New ground
All this talk of a new ground, I can't see the point really. It's no use having a new ground if you haven't got a decent team to put in it?

Remember Wolves and Chelsea years ago, they really suffered from a new stadium. Let's get the team right first then consider a new stadium.
Big Dunc Stokey, Stoke  (14/6/06)

But as the song suggests — "love and marriage — you can't have one without the other..." Can we genuinely build a team capable of challenging without moving to a more modernised stadium, with all the trimmings? — Colm

Lescott signed!
Guys, I just read the news in icLiverpool website the transfer fee was only £2.5 million. It seems the Keith/Bill/Moyes team knows how to play hardball in the transfer market too. I've heard Bill currently pondering aswap deal between Scootish Rooney (hahaha...) and Ronaldinho.

Peter Rossetti, banging AvdM arse no fun... just found out, the arse was made of glass too... pity him...

Once a blue always a blue!!! Come on you blues!!!
Khairul  Yusuf, Malaysia  (14/6/06)

Err... !!!

Final Response to Matt Traynor & Tom Hughes
Matt, great viewpoint and one I'm happy to go along with — maybe we do finally have someone on our side in the chambers of power at LCC.

Tom, the point I was making about St James' was the fact that it CAN be done, but it is usually when there is a pot of money being thrown at it by a very wealthy Chairman and board. Although ours are wealthy, they are highly unlikely to throw money at a project like Goodison (in my honest opinion).

As far as the three grounds in Glasgow are concerned... it backs up the point made about St James' Park. Ibrox was developed with the millions of David Murray. Celtic Park was developed with the millions of a certain Fergus Mccann and finally Hampden, well it's a national stadium and funnilly enough National Stadiums do get redeveloped on their exisitng sites and it is ususally via a government funded project, something that I think is unlikely to happen for the redevelopment of Goodison. Can I say this once and for all....I don't want us to move away from Goodison or away from Liverpool etc. I just can't see another way for Everton Football Club however, to significantly improve the facilities available to it's fans and increase the capacity unless Bill & Co suddenly find 60 million or so under the matress to redevelop Goodison.
Glasgow Blue, Glasgow  (14/6/06)

What if AJ dosn't do the job?
Hopes are pinned on the potential goalscoring combination of JB and AJ but... What if? And, more importantly, what if Cahill — our only other proven scorer — is not there? In that situation, money made on a Cahill transfer might only counterbalance that wasted on AJ. There is also the fact that AJ's value would drop while Cahill's would rise plus AJ is probably on much higher wages. In this scenario I hate sounding pessimistic but such things are possible.
Dick Fearon, West Australia  (14/606)

I think let's just file that one away under the category "What if Goodison is hit by a massive asteroid???" and say no more about it, alrite?

Lescott
Joleon, Joleon, Joleon, Joleon, when will you join Everton, Joleon? — to the tune of Dolly Parton's song....

Future Gwladys street chant?
Dan Parker, New York, USA  (13/6/06)

Where's Lescott?
Probably a question asked a lot in recent days (or weeks...), but as far as I can see all is silent on the Lescott front. I've read in various places that Moyes is back from his coaching camp and Lescott back from his holidays today so the excuses seem to be running out. They've also had ample time to ponder over his medical results, and as we know Wolves were talking up the deal all of last week. So is it on or off then? Is there any recent news?
Simon Potter, Paris  (13/6/06)

Glasgow Blue's leaving of Liverpool article
Is it just me who sees the irony in this article, in that Glasgow Blue chose to use the example of Newcastle's St James' Park to extol the virtues of a ground move, a redeveloped stadium on a tight site and in close proximity to listed buildings? I would have thought someone based in Glasgow would see the further irony regarding the three major redeveloped stadia in that city alone. He must walk around with his eyes closed.
Tom Hughes, Liverpool  (13/6/06)

Not Wanted
So Mr McFadden is about to put pen to paper on a new deal. Could the only reason for this be that nobody wanted the Scottish waster due to his wage demands? Do us all a favour, Moyes, and give him away on a free — save on his wages to pay a more talented and commited player. It is obvious to the vast majority of Evertonians that he is not Premiership class and never will be. Also, tell his deluded agent who has obviously been touting him by being vocal in the press about the situation, that she, and the vast majority of her like have the morals of a rattlesnake.
Dave Lynch, Merseyside  (13/6/06)

Cahill
I would accept any bids for Cahill over £10 million and would laugh myself silly if he had another season like last season at his new club. I know we all love him when he scores goals but he is quite average in all the other departments and we must remember his role in the team is midefielder.

Perhaps with a better midfielder than Cahill who himself would only score half the goals of Timmy, he could distribute the ball better to the strikers (make up the goals to what Tim would score), retain posession of the ball better (concede less), and give away less free kicks and penaltys (concede less).
Paul Coleman, Kettering  (13/6/06)

Cahill
In reply to Dutch's question, "Should we sell Cahill?" I say no. We all know his strengths and weaknesses. But the main reason to keep him is that it will show the other clubs we are not a selling club. I've had enough of Everton selling our better players just when our team starts to look better than average. Keep him and let's build!
Danny Hall, York  (13/6/06)

VDM mystery revealed
Khairul Yusuf apparantly has been having a good time banging Van der Meyde.... no wonder he's been shite for us, he's obviously suffering with a sore arse.
Peter Rossetti, Wirral  (13/6/06)

Lost in translation?

Changing Grounds
Whilst most of the stadium debate on here has centred around the location of a potential new ground, I think the most important thing for us fans is to get a message to the club that it is the design of the ground that is most important.

Like someone said on here a couple of days ago, we do not want an identikit stadium; a blue version of the Riverside is not an option. Wasteland in Kirkby conjures up an image of exactly that. A new stadium must be immediately recognisable as Everton's ground and have Everton running through it like a stick of rock.

It must be sensitive to the historical importance of Everton Footballl Club (could it not include some criss-cross design element to remind us of the Bullens Road/Gwladys Street?). Whatever. But it must be unique and whilst it may not be the biggest, it must be the best.

Otherwise, bollocks to the whole thing, stay at Goodsion.
Jon Sellick, Crosby  (13/6/06)

Ground Move - Response to Glasgow Blue
Sorry for another post, I really should read the entire mailbag before writing!

Glasgow Blue asked something along the lines of why are the City Council suddenly working 24/7 ((c) Bill) to help us get a new ground?

Well, call me a cynic, but maybe it's in part because the new leader is a dyed-in-the-wool Blue when previously they were all Reds?
Matt Traynor, Liverpool  (13/6/06)

The truth about Lineker, Valente...
Someone made the point about Lineker not really mentioning Everton in his role as a pundit, and pleasantly surprising us with his comments about Cahill yesterday.

Well, if I recall, he was asked this once in an interview with an Everton fanzine or book writer, and basically he said that no-one ever asks him about his time at Everton, which he thought was odd given how well that team played, but probably because it was all overshadowed by those lucky twats from across the park. As usual.

He would've stayed with us had Carter and Co not taken the profit from Barcelona. That's why Kendall pissed off to Spain the season after — he was rightly livid.

I saw the (understandable) reactions to the quotes attributed to Valente and the Dutch Lard Arse (not you Dutch, AvdM). Well, referring to Lard Arse first. The only reason you played 10/11 games is because you were either injured or suspended you lame tit. Yet still you were popular as we thought you can cross a ball. If we do get Benni for him we've done bloody well...

The people I know in football have told me that Valente is the consummate pro, and would never make comments like that. I believe it. For what it's worth, I think he's a far better left back than he's given credit for. He took a while to adapt, to a new style of football and a new country. But then, when you've been brought up on a diet of Pistone, Naysmith, Unsworth, what can you expect.

Anyway, I've taken a leaf out of Tourette Tony's book and moved temporarily to sunnier climes than Singapore... I mean WTF? Heatwave, the town centre looking posh? If it wasn't for the drunken louts in Clayton Square the other day I'd swear I was somewhere else....
Matt Traynor, Sunny Liverpool  (13/6/06)

Enjoy the trip home Sir! - Colm

Gary Lineker is an Evertonian!
Gary Lineker after the Australia v Japan highlights last night on the BBC: "it's great to see an Everton player scoring at the World Cup" who says he doesn't remember or care about us? I swear I heard Hansen splutter! Good on yer Gaz.
Mike Iddon, Marlow UK  (13/6/06)

Thw Wizard of Oz
In regards to Dutch Schaffaer's question, they shouldn't sell Cahill regardless of a possible price offer after the World Cup. He has a good habbit of winning or turning games when it's nobody's ball in the penalty area. He did it against the Dutch in a recently friendly days ago and the Japanese yesterday. He's a hard player who simply wants to make something from nothing. GO CAHILL! GO OSSIES!!!
Cliff Zampost, Melbourne, Australia  (13/6/06)

Valente & Cahill
It's great to see Valente refuted the claim. I restrict myself for once not to bang on him... even though I had a great time banging that Van der Meyde of glass.

I watched the Aussie game last night (9pm in Malaysia...) with great hope of seeing another Toffee in action but he only started on the bench. As the game wore on, deep in my heart I know Guus will throw on Tiny to sort things out.... He did come on and the rest is history.

How many of you really feel the same way that I did — that he would come on and score a goal... There are not many goalscoring midfielder around... are there? Everton have got one of them though.

What I'm afraid of (immediately after he scored the second goal) is that somebody will offer £8 million after the group games (in which he scores another brace) and Keith/Bill/Davie just won't be able to resist. Pessimism is not my middle name but how many times this drama already unfolded?

Fingers crossed... he will be in Royal Blue next season. It might sound selfish but thank god Arteta was not in the Spanish team.

Nuno Valente just played one game and we already saw what happened... I wonder what will surface after the second group game.
Khairul  Yusuf, Malaysia  (13/6/06)

Aussie Tim
Just wanna say hats off to Tim Cahill for saving Australia from what would have been a travesty of a defeat last night! Well played, son!

Never experienced pub football watching atmosphere quite like that down here til last night. One of the national radio stations (Triple J) was declaring today 'Tim Cahill Day' on the way to work this morning! Wahey!
Adam Fenlon, Perth, Australia  (13/6/06)

fans
I have been away so I must have missed something. But I consider myself lucky to be born and live in Liverpool and can count on one hand the number of home games I have missed since 1958. A few years ago, I saw every game home & away and feeling pleased with myself at the last game mentioned this to a fellow blue who stood by me at all Saturday home games and I also saw him at a lot of away games. He said he would love to go to all the games but living in Chichester it cost him a fortune in coming to every home game. Sadly, he passed away last year but please do not tell me he waas any less a true Evertonian than me because of his postal address. Every game to him was an away day. Incidentally, his father travelled every week from Ireland as well.

WE ALL FOLLOW THE BLUES AND AT TIMES DISAGREE BUT EVERY ONE HAS A VALID POINT AND SHOULD BE RESPECTED.
Roy Cyne, Liverpool  (13/6/06)

Response to Hugo Kondratiuk
Hugo, good to see that we can have a sensible debate over this ground move and not resort to geographical snipes at the contributors. The only thing that I would say in response is that:

Firstly, I wouldn't want us to leave Liverpool either; however, why is it that Liverpool City Council are all of a sudden working night and day to find a Liverpool location for us? Call me a cynic but, if they have been working night and day since the King's Dock fiasco, why hasn't a location been sourced yet? If it is on our terms and it is an ideal location for us then fantastic. But really, I can't see that happening, but would be overjoyed if it did.

You mention a number of teams that have chosen to rebuild their grounds or move. I'd rather discount the likes of Villa from this discussion as they have neither moved forward or declined since redeveloping due to a shit overrated manager. City, Sunderland, spot on, but United and Chelsea are a different kettle of fish and have had vast resources to be able to throw at such a project... We on the other hand do not.

That leaves the other two 'top' 4 sides who have (don't care how far) chosen to move to another ground.... and I can guarantee you that as much as Liverpool deny it, they WILL be forced into a 'naming' contract with a sponsor in the same way that Arsenal have. The reason: without additional investment, they simply could not and would not have been able to move.

Everton will be in exactly the same position because they cannot afford to develop Goodison, I'm sorry I really cannot see where the money to do this will magically appear from unless Bill wheels out another Middle Eastern consortium at the next AGM. Therefore Everton will look for a cheap piece of land on which to develop a ground and then seek a sponsor to share the cost. That (in my opinion) is how Everton will be able to significantly upgrade their facilities without additional outside investment who will have the sole intention of retaining Goodison. Again, if the likes of a certain Mr Hargreaves, Granchester or Green were willing to just hand over £60 million or so to upgrade Goodison then fantastic. Personally, I can't see that happening.
Glasgow Blue, Glasgow  (12/6/06)

Gary Lineker
Anyone catch Gary Lineker's closing comments after the Australia / Japan highlights tonight? He said something like "nice to see an Everton player scoring in the World Cup finals" after Tiny Tim had been interviewed.

I can't remember him ever saying a good word about us and I've always been pissed off to think he's never looked back fondly on his year at Goodison. So it was nice to hear him associating himself with the Blues and paying a complement to the club. It wasn't much but I've waited 20 years for him to say it so felt good!

I've never understood why Lineker and Gray don't seem to like us that much. Maybe they do after all.
Michael Johnson, Reading  (12/6/06)

And we also have a bridge for sale...
If that story in the Indo is even half true we should have VdM boxed gift wrapped, draped in a blue ribbon and delivered to Lisbon with a singing strippergram... TODAY!!!
Peter Fearon, New York  (12/6/06)

Just thinking...
After his double today Tim Cahill will have enhanced his reputation. Cahill may have a clumsy challenge and his passing range is limited but he does have a gift for bagging goals. If he manages to bag a few more goals this World Cup he will really put himself in the shop window. If a Top European side then decided to bid big money for him would Everton take it?

I want to know the opinions of people on here. If on the strength of a good World Cup a club bid something in the range of £8-10 million for Cahill would you want Moyes to accept it?
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (12/6/06)

No smoke without fire
There's no point carping on at Michael and co. because they linked to rumours coming out of the News of the Screws or Sky. Like they say, the information came from somewhere, and as I said earlier, I wouldn't be surprised if this isn't car boot sale talk coming out of Goodison on behalf of Billy and Buster. Now Cahill has scored a couple, don't be surprised to hear "Cahill wants out" rumours.

Apart from the TV revenue, there is no apparent investment in this club, and I don't think the fact that the season ticket renewal link was placed directly below the Johnson signing story on the EFC site was only coincidence. I think they still need to stump up the funds to pay Palace, and probably the same with Lescott, so leave off the TW crew, guys. Direct your frustration at those people who think the signing of one striker and a keeper on loan answers all those questions we've been asking ever since the Rooney sale.
Mark Wynne, Bury St Edmunds  (12/6/06)

Rumours in the press
If a paper said Nistelrooy wanted to join Everton, why would no-one believe that? A ridiculous story, right? But a story about Valente is believed to be true. Everton are ambitious and things look different from when Rooney left. Valente knows that.
Olav Jensen, Norway  (12/6/06)

Watch and Wait to Prove a Point
There you go, just proved my point....

It was a load of cobblers. Valente never said it - more bored tabloid journalists making mischief. What does this say about the 'loyal' Evertonians queueing up to abuse one of our players because of a 'story'?

Whatever you think of Valente, at least he was actually on the pitch playing for most of last season. Van der Meyde was a desparate gamble on a regularly injury-prone player, which clearly hasn't come off, regardless of what he has 'said'.

Come August, we'll know who the squad will be, so we can have an informed view on Moyes's transfer dealings and the 'loyalty' of players who are/aren't here.

Why don't we just wait until then?
Paul Tran, Kendal  (12/6/06)

Instead, if we simply banned all player talk, good or bad, and instead made them do only what they are supposed to do — play football — we wouldn't have to deal with ridiculous "who said what" shite like this.

If a journo hack really made it up, then sue him. But how often does that happen? Does that mean he didn't make it up? Who the fuck knows anymore??? All we do is provide pertinent links to Everton news stories and rumours in the media. We try not to make stuff up... (well, excluding Dutch!) — Michael

Good work, Tim!! Fuck off, Nuno
Well done, to Tim Cahill — he's a great player and I don’t think that he's deserved much of the criticism he's received on here.

Also whilst we're at it Valente can fuck right off — he may well be an "established international" — but I for one won't miss him chunting the ball forward every time he crosses the halfway line.

AvdM straight swap for McCarthy? Has he developed rickets or something — get him in! But then as someone who doesn't get to every game, it doesn't matter what I think, allegedly....

For what it's worth, I don't think the ground should be outside of the city — but if they fancy relocating in sunny Gloucestershire it would make my life a lot easier — and I would have more of a voice too.
Chad Schofield, Cirencester (yes, not Liverpool)  (12/6/06)

Tim Cahill
Obviously this is easier to write after he's just scored two vital goals for his country but I have noticed a few people knocking him lately. That's what Cahill's all about. Yes, he probably clumsily could have given a penalty away but goals from midfield are priceless and he has a canny knack of consistently getting in the right place at the right time. Let's hope he brings another double-figures haul next year and I for one think he deserves his place in hopefully a team which has got two strikers banging them in all season as well.
Rob Porter, Wolverhampton  (12/6/06)

The problem last season was that he just didn't really produce. Why was that? All that crap about having played too many games... perhaps he gets the biggest buzz out of playing for the Aussies, and Everton is 'just a job' for him? Or Moyes told him to play in a somwhat different role last season that reduced his effectiveness (I beleive that one coz I'm a Moyes hater, apparently!).

When he came on today, for the first 20 mins I thought he was playing too deep, outside the area. He needs to be in the box to be effective, as he later proved in abundance. Well done, Timmy. — Michael

Timmmyyyy!
I see that yard dog Cahill has just had another stinker...
Jon Sellick, Liverpool  (12/6/06)

He's shoite, inhe?

Valente — a true blue
Valente is one of the finest left backs in the Premier League. Therefore, it was great to see his statement on the official webpage. You lot really should not believe everything the papers say and be so quick to jump on the get rid of-bandwagon. Quite often the truth gets out eventually. There is no need for Evertonians to have this inferiority complex when it comes to good International players. Relax, and enjoy the WC.
Jens Hansen, Norway  (12/6/06)

WC? Toilet??? See how easy it is to get things wrong... It is a good reminder what utter shite we have masquerading as "the media" in the UK. But the story must have come from somewhere or something.

We all wanted to disbelieve the tabloids when they told us in February of 2004 — fully six months before he finally left — that Wayne Rooney would be going to Man Utd. We didn't believe them. We didn't want to believe them. But guess what happened... — Michael

Nuno Valente
It appears you have cocked up once again...

Valente Refutes Story

You should know better than to link to stories printed in shite like the News of the World.
Steven Astley, Wigan  (12/6/06)

God, you're a smart one, aren't you? Consider the messengers well and truly shot. BTW, we linked to a Sky News story, FWIW, dick fer brains. — Michael

McCarthy / VdM Straight Swap
So Porto are keen for a straight swap between Benni McCarthy and Andy Van der Meyde. Interesting note that Porto would like a straight, man-for-man deal, no transfer fee involved. Since VDM doesn't want to stay anymore and that Benni is itching to move to England, this is a no-brainer.
Mikhail Ridhuan, Singapore  (12/6/06)

Good Luck to Dutch
Just wanted to say good luck to Dutch in his new role as Togo manager. All the best, glad to see you taking your slavering pish elsewhere.
Ross Trotter, Scotland  (12/6/06)

Hahaha! Brilliant!!! And he just missed Our Timmy winning it for the Aussies! Poor Dutch. — Michael

Ground Move
I work on the industrial estate in Kirkby and it takes me 12 minutes to get to work from the rocket. From Goodison it would take no more than ten minutes using the East Lancs Road. When I took my lad to Wigan, he couldn't believe their ground was better than ours.

We should have moved years ago. It is 2006 and I don't want to watch a match with 60-ft steel beams in the way, and shit facilities. If you want a drink before the game, the new ground could provide loads of bars inside, hopefully at a reasonable price.
Kevin Tully, Wavertree  (12/6/06)

Watch and Wait
For the Moyes loyalists demanding fulsome praise for the long-awaited and very welcome signing of a striker known for scoring goals rather than wearing tattoos - Yes, Johnson is a great signing. It's just that some of us like to wait until the start of the season before giving our views on the summer transfers. If you respond to everything you see in the tabloids, you tend to look a mug. Last summer I spent a day working in Liverpol at the time when Gerrard was leaving. In the morning all the reds were calling him all the names under the sun. In the afternoon they were coming in with the Echo proclaiming him to be a true red for staying.

Why not watch and wait, ignore the hype and wait for the players to be paraded in the shirt? And while we're at it, can someone explain what's wrong with an established quality international footballer wanting his club to be more ambitious? Especially when Arteta 'said' the same thing earlier in the year! Anyone would think some Evertonians acutually want us to stay mid-table!
Paul Tran, Kendal  (12/6/06)

Close the door on your way out
I see Nuno Valente thinks we’ve got no ambition. The timing of his comments seem a bit weird to me, unless news travels slow in Germany and no-one has told him we’ve just spent eight and a half million quid on an England international. Good luck in finding an ‘ambitious’ club, Nuno; the sooner you find one the better.
Adam Bennett, Liverpool  (12/6/06)

The Return Of Mickey Ball
Fuck off, Nuno Valente, it's you who is too average for Everton.

Valente is a very ordinary player who clearly has no passion for Everton and and his pal Van der Meyde is an injury-prone drunken buffoon whose reputation was clearly bigger than his actual talent.

I'm with Dutch and no longer consider Valente and AvdM as Everton players. Flog them back to a European side and use the money to bring in players who will appreciate playing for a great club like Everton. Can we find a left-back who loves Everton to replace Valente? HELLO MICHAEL BALL. Ball would crawl accross broken glass to play for his beloved Everton again. I only wish Big Dunc was still at Everton, I'm sure he would have twated Valente/AVDM for their comments against his precious club.
Paul Atress, Paul24ferguson  (12/6/06)

Er.. how do we flog them if they are no longer Everton players? — Michael

Daft Doddy
So Daft Doddy thinks we should all be writing tomes of praise for David Moyes doing his job for once! Given that he wasted the best part of £20 million last summer, most of us will hold back on the plaudits till we`ve seen the buggers play.

Like every other Evertonian, I am praying that we can get off to a good start and feel the team can only have been improved by the new signings. But I don`t have a bloody orgasm on the rare occasions the manager seems to do something right.

Come to that.......
Harry Meek, Worcester  (12/6/06)

Good vision not myopia
In response to Jim Hourigan's recent letter regarding the possible relocation of Everton out of the city of Liverpool Where exactly does he suggest, Skelmersdale ? - then we can use the model of MK Dons and become a tin-pot newtown club.

As a resident of Liverpool and an Evertonian, I have no qualms or issue with fellow blues who live out of the city and respect their autonomous views on the ground move, but I do take exception to those who would be party to and support the shunting of our club out of its roots, birth-place and heritage.

Such a move would also concede to our bitter neighbours that we no longer belong in this city, that we have relinquished our rights to represent the City of Liverpool and that we are content to become a backwater club operating on a retail park in the wilderness.
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (11/6/06)

Cahill Crocked?
Cahill Crocked?

I was abroad for a few days last week with a few of the lads. As we hit the beers on the first night a lot of the final preparation games for the World Cup were taking place and so we were glued to the TV screens in the bar watching any sort of football Eurosport were prepared to throw at us. One of these was Australia vs Liechtenstein.

I was taking great interest in Tim Cahill’s performance more so than anything else in this one. I seemed to remember him saying he might be able to play the full 90 minutes in this one earlier in the week. Well he wasn’t far off. It was round about the 85th minute when I saw him go in for a challenge with some Liechtenstein player and then go down in a heap holding his knee. A replay of the challenge showed nothing sinister whatsoever and it was merely a clash of knees. There was simply no way it should have been as painful as it looked for Cahill and he was subbed almost straight away. If that’s all it takes for his injury to flare up in the World Cup, then what chance does he have of finishing this one injury free? Moreover, what chance of him coming back next season injury free?

Now I don’t want Cahill to miss the World Cup, I want him to shine because it clearly means so much to him, but like Moyes has stated, if he’s not fit, why should Everton get stung when we pay his wages? It’s similar to the more in-your-face Rooney story but everyone’s blaming Man Utd for that. I wonder if it’s a similar case Down Under with the nation blaming Everton for perhaps trying to hold him back? It certainly opens up something of a can of worms anyway. Would Cahill have handed in a transfer maybe had Everton have not let him go? I guess in the end he was always going to go and no knee ligament strain was going to stop him.

I just somehow foresee a perhaps not-so-innocent challenge on his weak knee (let’s be fair, there are some dodgy teams out there who’s managers will let their players know all about his right knee) over the coming weeks and his World Cup’s over. Worst still, he misses a big chunk of pre-season training. Worse still, he’s out until October and worse again, takes until January to get match fit.

Of course I’m getting carried away. None of this may happen after all, on the other hand it might actually be worse. Nevertheless, while I wish him well, I will be a touch worried every time I see him go into a challenge.

Somehow, I don’t think I’m the only one.
Paul Traill, Greasby, Wirral  (11/6/06)

Xenphobia
Like my fellow blue from Warrington, I have also been given stick by some other so-called blues for not being from Liverpool, but from the Wirral. May I remind these people that the club's greatest ever player was born thirty seconds down the road from me in Birkenhead.
Peter Rossetti, Wirral  (11/6/06)

How Unfair!
I really want to see an Everton player in a match at the World Cup. Tim Howard is officially still a Man Utd player and is only a back-up goalkeeper anyway. I no longer recognise Nuno Valente as an Everton player.

So there's only Tim Cahill. Unfortunately, Austrailia play tomorrow at 2pm. I'll be at work and won't be able to watch. That means I'll have to wait till the 18th to see Austrailia take on Brazil. I cannot wait to see how Cahill's clumsy challenges and remarkable ability to pop up unmarked in front of goal effects the Brazilians.

Good luck, Tim.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (11/6/06)

Dutch, I watched an Everton player at the World Cup today. He did pretty well, and even got a few mentions... along with the name of his club —Everton. But then it's no surprise that reality continues to pass you by. That can be the only explanation for the continual succession of your weird perceptions we have to suffer on here.

Oh, and why am I not surprised no-one's told you about this other element of reality — a machine you can buy nowadays... actually they've been around for yonks. Let's you record TV, so you can watch it when you get in from work. Brilliant! — Michael

No Ambition?
It makes me sick, millions of people would consider playing for Everton a dream come true. Look at how excited AJ was about it. If Everton isn't good enough for Valente he can fuck off back to Portugal, and take that tosser AvdM with him. We certainly won't miss them and any funds raised can be used to purchase players who actually want to play for Everton.
Paul Atress, Liverpool  (11/6/06)

It's a tough one... you know they have a point and yet we can't have people saying that about our Everton. They'll both have to go now! — Michael

Nuno
So Dutch thinks Valente is the most average player in the squad? An established portugese international... fuck, we must have some great players that none of us know about if Nuno is the most average? Dutch, you lunatic, have you never heard of Kilbane, Naysmith, Weir and McFadden?
Tony Hughes, Liverpool  (11/6/06)

Subliminal Messages
I know people are slamming AvdM and Nuno Valente, but I think what people forget is that these stories are from the red tops. Even if they are true, the Rooney debacle and countless other examples teach us not to take these stories at face value. I wouldn't at all be surprised if any such rumours of exits have actually come from within the club. It could be Billy Boy's way of telling the world that Valente and AvdM are available. After all, the bank might want to see some evidence of Everton being able to honour the IOU for Johnson's transfer. News of Lescott's move seems to have all but evaporated, so it could be that they need some readies for their £5 downpayment to Wolves.
Mark Wynne, Bury St Edmunds  (11/6/06)

Ah... now in Dutch-speak, such cynicsm would have you labelled as an Everton-hater! — Michael

Michael The Moyes Hater!
Way to go, Michael. Jump to the defence of the foreign players slagging off Everton and twist everything to find a way to blast our manager who clearly loves Everton.

You're quite right, of course: Moyes is useless when it comes to signing foreign players — Yobo, Cahill & Arteta are some the Everton's worst players, aren't they?
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (11/06/06)

Hahaha...

To move or not to move?
I, like many Evertonians, am resigned to the fact that we may have to move; however, on a lot of occasions I can say the craic in Liverpool and a beer or two on County Road have been the things that keep me and my mates going. If we have to move, the location is very important as a pint of smoothflow in some burger restaurant before the game is pretty far from our days out to magical Goodison on a Saturday.
Blue fella, Deeside  (11/6/06)

It's all about the beer!

Meltdown
What's going on at Goodison? First, Andy van der Meyde says he wants to leave... then Valente says in public what we all know in private: that we are shite! Personally I'm upset at these players but Valente has got a point, as well as some cheek.

Everton MUST move forward quickly or we will be reduced to buying Championship cast-off's like Lescott. And for the profile of the club, I would suggest to Moyes to keep Valente and AdvVM so we can attract better players, and essentially they are class players. Which is more than I can say about Pistone, Naysmith and McFadden.

Why does it take TW so long to update the pages now? And no word of a lie, I was walking home yesterday and saw something quite funny. In London, you have big wheelie bins to dump your rubbish in outside your house. Anyway I noticed on one of these bins it had a name of the company on it: Schaffer to be precise. Explains it all doesn't it!
Luq  Yus, London  (11/6/06)

Sorry, Luq, but we're down to updates maybe twice a day if you're lucky. Not much news to be had, but Dutch is writing in on a daily basis... — Michael

Ever so average Valente!
Andy van der Meyde complains and wishes he had stayed in Italy like it's the club's fault he was injured most of the season. Even when fit, AVDM has shown nothing to suggest the Italian league is missing him.

Now Nuno Valente is complaining that Everton are too average for him. That's ironic considering Valente himself is the most average player in the squad.

After Valente, AvdM, the always-injured Ferrari and the fiasco called Kroldrup it's no wonder Moyes has spent this summer identifying British transfer targets (Johnson, Lescott).
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (11/6/06)

And Howard... Oh.. er... der... See if you can answer this question, Dutch: who chose those players and got them to come to Everton? Take your time now... — Michael

Maestro Moyes
Disappointed not to see too many letters in praise of Davey Moyes for his alacrity in making THREE major signings whilst other managers were only thinking about it. This took a few of his detractors by surprise but with nothing to moan about, Misery Meek posts implied criticism of Our Leasder`s appointment as a senior tutor on the Scotish FAs Pro Management course! Can`t Meek and others see that this is a true indication of Davey`s standing in the game and the regard with which he held throughout the British Isles?
Richard Dodd, Formby  (11/6/06)

AJ
Has anyone thought of a new song for Andy Johnson? I am a rising songwriter and thought of this to the tune of Girls Aloud — Love Machine:

AJ's a goal machine
Feeding our fantasies
Give him a shot or two
And he'll score!

Myopic
I'm a season ticket holder, have been since I stopped playing on a Saturday. My dad was born and bred on Scottie Road, left Liverpool as a young man and travelled the world. He settled back in Preston and started going again to the match when I was 6. We had season tickets then and went with family who lived in Walton and around. I class myself as a true blue — heritage, hstory, passion and commitment — not post code.

My 2two children are blues but perhpas not quite as passionate as me — parental failure maybe!!! They want to go to matches but when I get them tickets they end up in the top balcony or somewhere else that's not particularly appealing. What happens? they complain about the views etc. No, that doesn't make them bad supporters — it's a reality of modern teenage youth, our future supporters, the parents of the next generation etc etc. Sadly as well they want to go to the big matches, and I don't just mean the derby, but can I get two tickets together? — no chance, so they complain at me and, bit by bit, their commitment is eroded.

It's watching a game live, soaking up the atmosphere and going on the emotion rollercoaster of a game that grabs kids, but if they don't get the opportunity to see us beat Man Utd or Arsenal in a full rocking stadium, and have to watch Charlton or Blackburn instead, then where will they be in 10 years time?

So, to all those narrow minded "I live in Liverpool and am right' people, open your eyes to the real world of today. We can all get an easyjet flight to anywhere in Europe, it's like catching a bus, seeing parts of Europe as a teenager is a doddle. Travelling is now the norm and the fact of life is that also means travelling to watch a football match. The days of everyone catching the local bus or walking are on Pathe News in black and white — is that what these people think is our future? Time moves forward not backward and if people think that the march of progress will stop because they can't go to the boozer before the match then they need a reality check.

I have also had to go to the Reebok stadium as part of my work on numerous occasions and have taken large staff groups for conferences and courses. Now I'm not extolling the Reebok as the answer to our ground but use it to illustrate another point. For those staff who do not support a football club, they are usually impressed by the facilities and a considerable number have bought merchandise for their kids 'as a treat' and some have also gone back to watch matches. No, they are not true supporters (yet maybe) but Bolton have made money out of them, as well as from the conferences themselves. Now if that money, however it was generated, goes towards a new player or their wages, then I say "Great, let's have it!" I dont care as long as it helps the club.

Can that happen at The Old Lady — very sadly, no! Progress is a constant and those of you who hanker for a rebuilt Goodison on the exisiting site need to open your eyes. Just because I don't live within spitting distance of the ground does not mean I'm not a true blue. If Everton want to compete on the big stage, then such myopic, narrow minded views based on postcode and accent will hold us back as surely as if we allowed a Red to be chairman.
Jim Hourigan, Preston  (11/6/06)

There is a Whole Wide-World Out There
I would like to respond to those idiots who have the audacity to chastise those of us who live outside of ‘Liverpool’ and support Everton.

My arl fella first took me to the game when I was 4 – in 1981. My Dad’s Dad took him and his Dad took him. I have a season ticket in The Street End and have done for years and years. I have been an Evertonian all my life – since my Dad put my picture in the programme at 2 weeks old…!!! I will take my kids if / when I have them, even though I live in North Shields now.

I drive a total of 417 miles to Goodison and back. One leg of the journey takes 3 hours on a good day. Usually most of the time I sit in the rain and cold to watch the ‘greatest team in all the land’. I saw 2 games last years that entertained me — have I renewed? Yes I fuckin’ have. I love Everton; I fly the blue flag up here having to listen to all these stupid Geordie idiots every day. How any of you can tell me to stay away from the game just because I don’t live in Liverpool fuckin’ baffles and saddens me…

These twats that want to stay in and old dilapidated stadium just because it is ‘in Liverpool’ mustn’t have a brain. The simple fact is, if Everton want to move forward and become the greatest again we MUST either redevelop the whole fuckin’ ground, or move. Since the former simply will NEVER happen then the latter is the only option — can you draconian fuckwits grasp that concept?

If we can find somewhere to build the new ground within Liverpool, then great, but there obviously isn’t anywhere — otherwise they would have said... wouldn’t they?!?! If the new ground (if one ever gets built) is outside these ‘boundaries’ that everyone is harping on about, and you have a problem with it — then DON’T FUCKIN’ GO. Stay away and leave us proper fans to watch the game in peace. The people who drive hundreds of miles week-in, week-out, to watch Everton deserve a fuckin’ medal.

Up the North Shields Toffeemen……
Andy Callan, North Shields  (10/6/06)

I don't usualy tolerate such name-calling but in this case I think it is justified. Well said, Andy. — Michael

Xenophobia
Having been born and bred in the Newton-le-Willows area, in scouse terms I would be described as a 'wool'. It's not something that generally causes me offence, but xenophobic idiots who spout shite like this:

"— and no amount of bandwagon-jumping woolybacks following Liverpool FC will ever change that. Everton's our club and Liverpool's our city and I'm proud of both. Paul Burns, Liverpool (9/6/06)"

Arise, Sir Tony Marsh
You can never really argue with what Tony says. I like the point about going to modern grounds and Wetherspoons. Tony, you are right. A ground needs pubs around it, but todays Sky fans don't drink like the 'ordinary' fan.

On concrete grounds, Goodison is half way there anyway. The Goodison Road stand is crap. Far too many obstructed views for a stand that was supposed to be the future. Sir John Moores must have shit himself when he saw the finished article.

I don't fancy Kirkby myself but to move this club forward, then so be it. I'd still ask about Walton Hall Park though.

By the way Tony, your Cyprus holiday has been a long one...
Dave  Charles, Liverpool  (10/6/06)

Big Nige
Sorry SJ from the USA — you're talking bollocks. You can't forgive Martyn for not joining us the first time?? Exactly why should he have done? He's not an Evertonian...

He's served us greatly the last 2½ seasons — be thankful of that. Richard Wright joined us of first asking and he's a sack of shit. I know which one I would take!
Daniel Parker, New York, US  (10/6/06)

Hey, Marc — I paid my dues
From 1954 to 1971, I never missed a home game and went to a great many aways. My home is awash with tons of Everton gear and constantly added to, even my car carries a personalised Everton licence plate. Rather than travelling many miles before dawn to watch the game on a mate's satelite TV, it would have been easier and cheaper to have caught a bus from Dingle to Goodison. My heart is and always will be on the terraces at Gwladys St.

Despite all that, I recognise that — like it or not — the march of progress is unstoppable. Even those old terraces have given way to seating. Anyone with the club's future in mind must recognise that Goodison as it is will not serve Everton's best interest into the future. I offer no suggestion about a total reconstruction of the old ground or the siting of a new stadium. My only concern is that, for years to come, our Everton will be a top club. Whatever it is, something MUST be done.

As stated earlier, my dues are paid and continue to be paid physically, financially and emotionally and I am entitled to express my views. We are all Evertonians and to quote my dad, "We are all going to the Pier Head but on different tram cars".
Dick Fearon, West Australia  (10/6/06)

Nigel has been selfish
Like many others, I admit that Nigel Martyn has been a top-class goalkeeper for Everton during his two and a half years with us. I would like to thank him for that.

However, since I am blue-blooded, I cannot forgive him for refusing to sign for Everton the first time, which was a couple of years ago. When he was actively sought, he turned his back on us. And when he became old for the game and was left out of Leeds squad, then he decided to join us to save his career. Sorry Nigel Martyn, but this is selfishness and it hurts me too much as an Evertonian. Just go away. Thanks for helping us these two and a half years; but that's about it. I can never excuse a player who turns his back on Everton.
S J, Boca Raton, USA  (9/6/06)

You can't look back on Martyn's move to Leeds ahead of us in '97 without acknowledging the role in the debacle played by one Clifford Finch. Martyn's negotiations were held, not at the famous Old Lady, Goodison, but at the Park Foods offices at the back end of an industrial estate in Birkenhead. And not with Chairman Peter Johnson but by Mr Finch. After learning that Leeds were interested in speaking with Martyn, Finch said "go ahead" and even gave him directions to Yorkshire. If I were Nigel Martyn, I would not have left my meeting with Everton either very impressed or with the feeling that they really wanted to sign me. So I don't blame him in the slightest — Lyndon

Reply to Marc Rogers
Marc, it may surprise you but 'Liverpool' people do actually move away from the city at some point in their lives due to professional reasons or even the fact their missus is born and bred Glaswegian, who didn't wanna move away from her homeland?!?!

The world is now a big place ya know mate, people move in and also out of Liverpool City — it's called migration and you'd better start to get used to the idea. 'Our' city is after all to be the capital of 'Culture' in 2008. Funny that eh?!? You see I'm a Scouser and I'll be a scouser 'til the day I die. The thing is I don't have to live within the city boundaries to support 'my' club and to voice my opinion on it.

Granted I no longer get to every single home game as I could in my single (Kirkby-based — is that close enough for you?) days and also was not a father of a small brood. So, does this not give me and other displaced Evertonians the right to voice our opinions?

You see, as well as this superb site, I do rely on other online media such as the icLiverpool.com Website and the BBC etc. As much as I'd love nothing better than to pop out and pick up an Echo each night, it seems a bit silly to get in the car and do a 7-hour round trip to keep up to date with things.

I assume as you are so informed you live somewhere on Goodison Road and sit outside the media office at Goodison each day as all 'true' Evertonians should? Or is that me just losing touch so much with all things that a true Evertonian should now be?

If you also took the time to actually read the piece that I submitted you would have spotted the fact that at no point did I actually say that Everton should leave Liverpool. I did actually say that Everton did not owe the City of Liverpool anything and in reality the club has been shafted by the authorities on too many occassions for my liking, and therefore should it be the priority for the club when assessing whether or not to move?

I will continue to air my views, be it on this site or other Everton-based media because that is my right as Evertonian. I hate to dissappoint you as well in relation to your percentages of locations for match going blues because, if you care to watch the 'Lancs' etc after the game, you would see a host of cars which have blue scarves hanging out of them that head towards the M57, 58 and 62. Maybe you should set up road blocks before the games so that Walton residents only can get access to Goodison?

The Premiership is now a global offering and as such the revenue generated from 'outsiders' is what our club and others are competing so aggresively for because that is what will help our club to achieve its objectives.
Glasgow Blue, Glasgow  (9/6/06)

Great response, Glasgow. Spot on. It's the narrow-minded Luddite views of people like Marc that will hold us back. [Dons tin hat and asbestos suit...] — Michael

The missing piece
Having passed up on the opportunity to sign Ferrari, I sincerely hope we can finalise the deal for Lescott as practically everyone I've spoken to regarding the player holds him in the highest regard. He is worshipped at Wolves, apparently. Assuming this one is in the bag, for me the final piece in the puzzle has to be Malbranque. I do hope Moyes is prepared to push the boat out to secure his signature. If so, we really could be a force to be reckoned with next term.
Gerry Western, London  (9/6/06)

I have seen nothing linking us with Malbranque... so you win today's FM award!!! — Michael

Distance Supporting
In reply to an earlier posting about a ground move being supported more by long-distance fans. I sincerely hope that the implication wasn't that our voice is not as important as someone who is a stone's throw from Goodison.

I live in the south of England and if I had the means I would attend every home game possible, but I am not able to. That doesn't mean that I do not run the same rollercoaster of emotions as any other fan all year round, year after year, spend my money buying club merchandise, etc.

A few years ago I planned a holiday so that I could take in the stadium tour and I still look back to the photos I have of me in the changing rooms next to big Dunc's shirt, and the memory of walking up the tunnel to the sound of the Z-Cars theme will stay with me a long time.

I have said before in this mailbag that, as much as we love her, Goodison is no longer at the level we need her to be. Yes, it would be great for the "People's Club" of the City of Liverpool to stay within her boundaries, but we can't let blue-tinted glasses hold us back if we really want to get back to where we belong.

And before I am accused of living in past glories, look around the Toffeweb site. We are the 4th most successful team in the English game. Last year we finished 11th! Progress sometimes means going with the head and not with the heart.
Adam Carey, Berkshire  (9/6/06)

With the best respect, I don't think most long-distance fans voices are as important. I'm speaking from a practical, rather than emotional point of view and I realise there are fans all over England who travel to every home game, and these people should have as much say as anybody else, but faraway fans who can only attend once or twice a season don't necessarily understand the areas involved, transport and location.

To somebody down south, who has never lived in Liverpool, Kirkby is a mere stone's throw away - but to Merseysiders, Kirkby is not Liverpool, and most believe that Everton should stay within Liverpool City limits. This is the difference between nearby and faraway fans. -- Garry

Piss Off!
So Andy van der Meyde wants to leave Goodison does he? Well close the door on the way out you useless shite! I was and am a big fan of Andy but if he did come out with bollocks like what was reported on Sky Sports then piss off back to Italy.

And I do not share much sorrow for Martyn retiring. Yes, he was an excellent keeper but he only signed for us after his career went belly up at Leeds! The very same club he rejected us for before! All credit for becoming an hero here but we as a club needed to move on and a move to sign either Howard or Green full time is the only option. You think the Mancs will take a swap deal with Wright going to Old Trafford and Howard staying here?... You never know.
Luq  Yus, London  (9/6/06)

New ground
Until we fill Goodison week-in, week-out what's the point in moving? I don't want an oversized stadium that feels empty and emotionally detatched from the team. Who gives a shit about holding rock concerts? I want to watch my Everton in a place that is full of atmosphere. By all means improve the facillities but until we outgrow the place, why move? The reason old Trafford keeps on expanding is because they can fill it every week!
Danny Hall, York  (9/6/06)

"Build it and they will come" — who said that? One of the main reasons Goodison is not full every weeek are the obstructed views. They keep the avearge adown around 36,000 instead of 38,000 or 39,000 that would represent "full". Newcastle (I know, I know) is probably a good comparison. They're average:capacity ratio is over 99% while at Goodison it is something like 91%. I just can't see how your image of the future ground can be rectfied with what Buster is talking about. — Michael

AvdM [A very Drunk Man]
Why we ever signed a fat bloated quitter like AvdM is still a puzzle to many of us. As for him wanting to go back to Italy, don't make me piss my kecks, you fat cunt.

I can honestly say that I never rated pie-arse one bit and would be made up to see him do one. The only trouble with that is who would want to sign a useless twat like him? The only taste of Italy Meatloaf will ever have again is one of them microwave spag-bols he looks like he has been feasting on.

This whinging little cunt is the epitome of all that is wrong with the modern footballer. Does fuck all for his club, ponces around wine bars and hospital wards all season and then says he wants out. Doesn't lard arse realise no other club would go any where near his Kebab riddled carcass?

Give the prick away to some Dutch mickey mouse side and cut our losses. If we want to we can always sign the real Freddie Star instead of his stunt double.

As for moving to a new ground in Kirkby NO WAY. I won't be going to no concrete bowl in the middle of no where to watch football. Look at the state of Boro's and Bolton's grounds: souless, lifeless, cold, dreary, horrible places. Is that what we want? I don't think so. Any way you need boozers next to your ground for them to be proper places of worship, so no more talk of Kirkby, please!

Watching Everton play in a Reebok or Riverside is the equivilent of only bevying in Witherspoons for the rest of your life. Now that is a scary thought.
Tony Marsh, Sunny Cyprus  (9/6/06)

Err.. hello Tony. Still swanning it down by the beach, you lucky sod? Or have you actually been incarcerated in a prison on the Turkish side for crimes against humanity? That would at least explain the inordinate length of your Mediteranean soirée. Glad to see the calm blue waters have had such a soothing effect on you. Just wait till you meet our new goalie: he has quite the turn of phrase too, I hear! — Michael

A stadium with an identity not an identi-kit stadi
With all the debate regarding the proposal for a new stadium and the the prospect looming of an annoucement this year regarding the prefered site and location, it is interesting to see the continued polarization of views regarding this prickly issue.

One thing for sure is that the old lady that is Goodison Park and its deplorable amenities, services, access, parking and infrastructure cannot continue to operate in the expected climate that is offered by modern stadia. However, can some of these issues be negated by the sheer history, atmosphere and character that our present home offers? Would this affinity and heritage exist in a "I'm lovin it" super-bowl on the periphery of the city with its plastic amenities, fast food and retail shopping experience that would equate to a trip into another JJB clone to buy the club's merchandise? I would agree with the argument offered by Eric Myles of South Korea (!!!) who has suggested that any such decision should be based on and reflect both heritage and culture.

Keith Wyness has already gone on record and stated that the ultimate decision will be one that the Club will have to live with for 50-60 years minimum, there is no doubting that a decision will soon be made and it will need to embrace all of the pre-requisites and challenges associated with a new and innovative construction. However, I would agree with contributors that this decision must be based on an available site within the boundaries of Liverpool, good road networks and parking will be no good if there isn't anywhere to get a decent pint in a pub with atmosphere. The identi-kit plastic moulds of Bolton, Southampton, Reading, Coventry, Derby and countless others are certainly no model to build our own plans upon.

I agree wholeheartedly in the sad realisation that was the Kings Dock affair but a quick fix and short term solution in the shape of Switch Island (stone island ?), Kirkby or any other out-of-town complex will become a millstone for future generations and negatively impact upon our local pride, heritage and culture.
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (9/6/06)

Re: On Is Good!
Michael - thanks for the reply, but who are you talking about when you say 'the ones who are currently NOT going the match'? Surely not our friends in Australia or Asia? Are you suggesting more of them may go to the match if we had a bigger stadium?

So what about the fans around England, am I trying to cause a 'divide'? - well if there are fans who can't be arsed to go the match simply because of the size (state) of Goodison then I do not think they are worth chasing at all. In fact, fuck them — they shouldn't have any say on OUR future.

I am just trying to make a representation for people who DO currently go the match AND live in Liverpool BUT do not read the website AND would rather stay in Walton rather than travel to the middle of Knowsley. I believe that group is still the majority of our fans. This is despite the Bullyshit about the potential for more UK / international 'fans' (i.e. money). That will never happen, certainly not without years of success on the pitch.

If Bully would argue that 'the ones who are currently NOT going the match are the real future lifeblood of the club' (your words), and this comes at the expense of fans who ARE going the match, then I would say just fuck it all off, Everton is supposed to be OUR club not some stupid fucking Sky-loving franchise. Though to be honest the whole 'People's Club' thing is now an embarrasing lie - I hope they have the honest decency to take down that sign this year.
Marc Rogers, Liverpool  (9/6/06)

Hmmm... somehow, I thought you'd go in that direction. Them and us, eh? Great stuff, Marc... NOT!

My point was that one of the main reasons given for building a new stadium is to increase income to fund the growth of the club, squad, academy, etc — not for Sky but for Everton FC. That income would have to come mainly from additional/new match-going fans. You say "fuck 'em off"... charming! So that's how you would 'grow' the club and increase it's presence and chance of futuire success???

The arguement that it "will never happen, certainly not without years of success on the pitch" is I think directly opposite to what Bully is saying: he says we must get extra income from a new stadium to finance our run at the big-time. Kinda chicken and egg, eh?

If you are, as you claim, representing 90% of match-going Evertonians, and are categorically oppposed to Bully's plans for "our" club (BTW, the club actually belongs to the Shareholders, not the local match-going fans), then I think Bully has a mountain to climb. In fact, he might as well give up on the whole stadium thing and just tart up the place with a lick of paint, a few new banners, and a lorry load of blue gravel, while we fester in mediocrity for a another decade or two... — Michael

The Big Man
Just wanted to say a big "thanks for all the memories" to Nigel Martyn. Despite not being a spring chicken, he has put age aside and remained among the best 'keepers in the Prem — certainly the best we have had since Big Nev and a true gent off the pitch too.

Thanks a lot, Nigel, you truly have been Moyes's best signing. Have a great retirement.
Michael Upton, Rotherham  (9/6/06)

On your way then.....
Just reading a number of quotes attributed to a certain AvDM on the Sky Sports website. Not sure how much truth in the reports but there's no smoke without fire, apparently he regrets moving to Goodison and believes that he can secure a move to Juventus or Porto. Well, do one then!

I'm sorry but this player contributed nothing to our cause last season, apart from getting sent off in the derby and keeping 'Bazza' Rathbone in a job. If this walking injury wishes to leave the club, then I suggest that Moyesy bites the hand off the first club that offers a couple of million for the fat League of Gentlemen look-a-like.

This would mean a bit of extra money in the coffers for a new midfielder and extra money in wages, he must be earning at least £30 grand. Surely someone like Jonathan Greening would be an adequate enough replacement for around the same price and less wages. At least he can play more than two consecutive games without getting injured and, from the games I've seen, he's actually quite a good crosser and carrier of the ball.
Ryan Jones, Preston  (9/6/06)

I guess a member of the tribe wants to leave! — Michael

Everton, Liverpool and proud
The letter from Richard Price about a possible ground move was rubbish. What does he mean, we are not Liverpool FC? Liverpool FC, for his and everyone else's information, in no way, shape or form represent the City of Liverpool — never have and never will.

Just because these jokers pinched the name and symbol of the city means they're entitled to it. Everton FC are the true Liverpool club, end of story — and no amount of bandwagon-jumping woolybacks following Liverpool FC will ever change that. Everton's our club and Liverpool's our city and I'm proud of both.
Paul Burns, Liverpool  (9/6/06)

Seem to have scratched a nerve there! Supporting football is essentially tribal, the biggest irony being the support locals provide to the vast majority of their team's players who hail from various corners of the globe... Er, probably better not to go down that path on second thoughts!

The ground move question always seems to enflame the passions, which makes sense on that tribal level. But football, like it or not, has a bigger dimension, and Bully tells us the business side needs that big stadium so he can increase our revenues. Not everyone is going to follow willingly along the path where that leads... — Michael

On Is Good!
Does anyone notice how 90% of those shouting for a move away from Goodison live outside the City? In fact, 90% of people who write in here are from outside the city as I guess it's their way of staying in touch with events. However, don't forget that 90% of MATCH-GOING Everton fans live in and around Liverpool and don't read (or at least write in to) this website.

Simply, Everton should stay at Goodison, or at the very least in the LOCAL area. Don't believe the hype spouted by Bully or wools when it comes to deciding our future. We need vision, but don't forget the people who are the lifeblood of the club are the tradition and heritage that made us what we are!
Marc Rogers, Liverpool  (9/6/06)

While I can see where you are coming from, this kind of thinking involves establishing a division of the Evertonian fanbase, which doesn't sit well with me. The next step is to say that only a certain group of Evertonians can have valid opinions on specific issues — like a ground move.

How many matches do you have to attend to qualify? What of those who would become regular match-goers, if only we had a bigger stadium that would serve us and our future better? Do they have to live inteh City for their opinion to count?

Perhaps it's the ones who are currently NOT going to the match that Bully would argue are the real future lifeblood of the club. He needs them to be using the new stadium to bring in the much-needed income the club needs to move forward. — Michael

Reply to Chris Woods
Some clubs are happy to have their loaned players play in opposition. Arsene Wenger allowed Jeffers to play for Everton against Arsenal. Arsene's comment at the time was such restrictions are stupid. It will be interesting to see what Sir Alex Ferguson decides.
Dick Fearon, West Australia  (9/6/06)

Van der Meyde
Just read the news on Sky Sports web. Can't believe the guy is truly a mercenary. How on earth he regretted the move to Goodison. If Moyes can cash in on him, just let the bloody injury-prone mercenary go! Everton don't need him... We fans don't need him... We must have some posture and integrity intact here!

Keeping a player with no heart will create disharmony. As we all know (at least, I hope so) DOUBT and CONFUSION kills. If he is in doubt and confused, he is not good enough for Everton Football Club. Just play 1n Second class Italian League — it suits you best.
Khairul Yusuf, Malaysia  (9/6/06)

So he tells the Italian media he regrets leaving Italian football. We'll probably see one of those "my comments were taken out of context" retractions for the English media...— Michael

Van der Meyde
So VDM is sorry he quit Italian football?? What happened?? Last time we heard from him he was looking forward to puting last season behind him and getting ready for next season. I hate when players come out with pish like that. I'd rather they kept their bloody mouth shut. At least then they wouldn't end up looking like complete tossers. Well at least we won't be the ones paying his wages next time he breaks down.

Sad one about Nigel Martyn, he was a quality keeper, we wish him all the best.
Ross Trotter, Galashiels  (9/6/06)

Stroking Figures
Its far too easy to manipulate figures to satisfy an argument but the figures quoted by Dutch have a glaring mistake.

The first six names quoted; Scott Spencer (17), James Vaughan (17), Bjarni Vidarsson (18), Victor Anichebe (18), John Ruddy (19), Mark Hughes (19), I would be extremely surprised to see them named on a team sheet unless the first team suffer significant injuries and even if they do they will probably be bench warmers as Moyes has form for sticking with the old guard.

Remove these from the equation and second guessing if Weir will stay or go and add Lescott at 23 the average returns to 27.

Sorry, Dutch; nice try but no coconut.
Gavin Ramejkis, Upholland  (9/6/06)

New stadium
The experts' views on new stadia. Keep 'em in the city and better still in the same neighbourhood.
Eric Myles, Seoul, Korea  (9/6/06)

It's barley to me...
...though perhaps not to home based fans, where a new stadium is situated. When asked where Goodison is, I just hate to say in Liverpool. This is not meant as a sleight on my dearly loved home town, it is merely the that, when talking football, I would rather not even mention the other lot's name.
Dick Fearon, Western Australia  (9/6/06)

Rumour mill
I see Andy van der Meyde is going to AC Milan. In related news, I will be signing for Barcelona next week.
Ronan hanly, Boston, MA, USA  (9/6/06)

Average Age of the Squad!
Scott Spencer (17), James Vaughan (17), Bjarni Vidarsson (18), Victor Anichebe (18), John Ruddy (19), Mark Hughes (19), Iain Turner (21), James McFadden (23), Mikel Arteta (24), Andy Johnson (24), Tony Hibbert (25), Tim Cahill (25), Leon Osman (25), Joseph Yobo (25), Andy van der Meyde (26), Tim Howard (27), Gary Naysmith (27), James Beattie (28), Simon Davies (26), Richard Wright (28), Phil Neville (29), Kevin Kilbane (29), Alessandro Pistone (30), Nuno Valente (31), Lee Carsley (32), Alan Stubbs (34) & David Weir (36).

Average Age: 24.

That age will drop another year if David Weir departs and Lescott (23) signs.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (9/6/06)

I think we need to wait and see on Spencer. Stricty, he's a member of the Academy, and may not get a squad number... — Michael

Nigel Martyn
Sad to hear the news about Big Nige, top player and a top pro, and seemingly a gent as well. By all accounts another big personality lost to the dressing room. Hope we can give him a send off of some sort, first game of the season maybe?
Rob Fox, Blackpool  (9/6/06)

Moving out
On the subject of Everton moving out of the City of Liverpool in order to open up more possibilities for a new stadium site, I have to agree with Andy Callan to a greater extent. Let's face it, we may have been the original club in Liverpool, but we are not Liverpool FC and I can see no reason why we must stay within the city boundaries.

Goodison Park is not actually situated in the Everton district but is in Walton, so we already don't play in the right place!
Richard Price, Gloucester  (9/6/06)

What a shame
What is the connection between the ToffeeWeb website and the ToffeeWeb Forum?

It appears that the freedom of speech is respected on the website, whereas the persecution aimed at those with contrary views to the moderators on the forum see a facist and horrifying stance taken by said mods.

Also, it is a shame to see Martyn retired, a top player and a top geezer.
Teddy Niigma, Warrington,  (9/6/06)

The moderators are doing a thankless task. Have some respect and abide by the rules and you'll be just fine.

Or you can take a contrary position and write something like this: "So dont bother telling me anything more, because im not listening to you, you are obviously drunk with power and have been spurred into a vendetta."

Act like a tit and they'll treat you like a tit. I'm sure you can appreciate that, yes? — Michael

New Ground Capacity
How large do you think we should make the capacity if we do get a new ground? I really can't see the point in making a 50,000 capacity stadium if we can't fill goodison week-in, week-out, regardless of who we play.
Danny Hall, York  (9/6/06)

Let's go for 25,000, then — like our "new" equals in the Premiirship — and at least we can ensure it will be full every other week. Meanwhile, Old Trafford just keeps on growing... — Michael

New 'Keeper Please
Very happy (assuming Lescott signs) with the permanent signings Moyes has made so far in the off-season. But with the sudden retirement of Martyn, I'm feeling insecure about who will be Number One next season. Wright, for all his early promise, is simply not good enough and with Turner and Ruddy still to young, who are we left with, Howard?

Is it me, or does that not measure up to the standard of West and Southall we have set throughout our history. We may have limited funds left in the forth coming transfer period, but I for one will not question Moyes if he off-loads Wright and starts the search for a decent long-term answer to the Blues' 'keeping concern.
Kevin Morris, Sydney, Australia  (9/6/06)

In goal
Sad to see Nigel retire; I assume Howard will be Number 1. With reference to other 'keepers getting a chance, is it right that a loaned player cannot play against his own club, ie, will Howard not be allowed to play against Man Utd?
Chris Wright, Chester  (8/6/06)

Good question. I don't think that is a standard rule... but it might be a condition imposed by Sir Alex and friends.— Michael

Big Nige
I had a friend at University from Leeds who would take great pleasure in winding me up when Marco Materazzi kept getting sent off after 10 minutes whilst proclaiming "Big Nige will never leave Leeds".

Well, he bloody well did and I'm glad that we grabbed him. He's been the model professional during his time at Everton and I honestly can't remember a bad performance.

All the best for the future Nige, thanks for the memories... Replacement for Chris Woods?
Dan Parker, New York, NY, USA  (8/6/06)

Great idea!

Best wishes Nigel
Just to add to everyone else's thanks to Nigel. He seemed like a genuine fella and when my young son wished him well for a recover at the last home game Nigel thanked him for his wishes which put a smile on his face. Best of luck in your retirement, Nigel — you where brilliant for us.
Mike Ekim, Wirral  (8/6/06)

Big Nige
Sad to hear Big Nige finnaly hanging up his gloves, just a pity we didn't buy him years ago when we had the chance first time, oh well.

On that note, we need to make sure our second choice 'keeper(s) (be it Turner or Ruddy) get a run out during the season as I'd put my bottom dollar on Fergie calling back Howard at the drop of a hat — or, at best, the end of the season. Only trouble is, if Howard makes the job his hands down by being so good, we dare not drop him.

Nice quandry to have but one which could equally bite us on the backside at the end of next season.

PS My vote would be blue bold editorial comments, easier on the eyes.
Gavin Ramejkis, Upholland  (8/6/06)

I can't remember if this season-long loan allows him to return early, or if that possibility is excluded? If the "no (short-term?) loans between Premiership clubs" rule is still in force, then surely he is ours for the whole season, guaranteed? Perhaps someone could help me here... — Michael

Nigel Martyn
It's a shame that big Nige has had to retire due to injury, as his performances during the last few seasons deserved a proper send off, Goodison style. Still, thanks for coming in and showing us how a goalkeeper at Everton should be — reliable!
Adam Carey, Berkshire  (8/6/06)

Cheers Nigel!
What a fantastic signing Nigel Martyn was for Everton. Sadness felt at his enforced retirement must also include regret that we didn't sign him much earlier than 2½ years ago; Nigel Martyn is the proper goalkeeper who should have replaced Neville Southall. To think that we went for Paul Gerrard instead!

If Johnson had secured Martyn's signature instead of leading him on a merry dance to Park Foods and giving him directions to Leeds (!!) then things could have been very different — ok so we wouldn't have won the league but Martyn would certainlyhave made things a lot steadier. Nevertheless, thanks for the 2½ years Nigel — you gave Evertonians one less thing to worry about on a Saturday afternoon!
Jon Sellick, Crosby  (8/6/06)

Over the Border?!?
What difference dooes it make if Everton have a NEW ground in Knowsley or Liverpool? I would take a new ground if it was 10 miles out of town, who gives a flying fuck where it is (obviously within reason)? We are being left behind here and idiots saying that 'we need to stay at Goodison' and 'Everton FC needs to be based within the Liverpool boundaries' are just stalling any potential move.

Let's get out of Goodison and in to a new ground. Let's leave the memories as just that — memories. Goodison has been great to us all, but alas she is old now and every good thing comes to an end. We are never going to be able to redevelop it, so let's move. Let's attract more business and money. Let's make our club the biggest and best once more. We have all had a taste of it and I for one liked it... I can't see what the issue is here, I really can't. Up the Blues.
Andy Callan, North Shields  (8/6/06)

Well, you've probably come to the right place where someone is going to help you see what that issue is... I just hope you're receptive to it! — Michael

Big Nige
Sad to hear Big Nige has called it a day but in fairness it probably was the right time. Martyn has been a great servant to the club, an ambassador on and off the field. He is also possibly the best purchase Moyes has made. Thanks, Nige.

With Nige now gone and Weir looking likely to leave does, that mean Stubbs, Valente and Pistone are the only players we have over 30? Is our squad becoming too young?
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (8/6/06)

Here we go... don't spoil it please, Dutch. Actually, it wouldn't be that hard for me to set up a routine for our stats page that calculated the average age of the team announced for each game. Would you like that? What do I do about the subs? I say ignore them. Although the ones who play could be weighted based on the time they each spend on the field... Now my head is starting to hurt. — Michael

Thank you
After the announcement of his retirement from all football, may I be one of the first to offer my thanks to Nigel Martyn. His honest, committed displays have been one of the only consistent areas of Everton Football Club in the last couple of years. Without doubt, he has been one of David Moyes's best signings, hopefully Tim Howard will be able to step up to fill his gloves with the same level of quality and consistency. Thank you, Nige.
Ryan Jones, Preston  (8/6/06)

Big Nige
Cheers Nige, you have been a star for us in goal. All the best in your retirement.
Paul Foster, London  (8/6/06)

Thanks
Just read that Nigel has been forced to retire. A pity we couldn't have signed him a few years earlier as he is easily the best goalie since Nev.
Jim Feeney, Liverpool  (8/6/06)

Big Nigel Martyn
I'd just like to offer my best wishes to Nigel Martyn, and wish him well for the future. He put in some brilliant Everton performances over the last few seasons (and kept Richard Wright out the team!) and it is a huge pity that he has to retire through injury. Good luck Nige, and thanks for the memories.
Al Riddal, Bognor Regis  (8/6/06)

Absolutely agree, he did really well for us, and will be missed. — Michael

New Stadium
If we get the offer of a free site in Kirkby on which we could afford to build a state-of-the-art stadium with minimum 65,000 capacity, I say take it. My geography is a little hazy but I seem to remember that there are motorways in the vicinity — not to mention a rail line from which we could surely have a spur to a new station at Goodison Field!

There could even be a massive car and bus park and for those who like to walk to the ground maybe a dedicated escalator-type contraption from County Road (with feeder sections naturally) all the way to the new venue. On our old site we could develop one of those Mega Casinos the government is always talking about and if life in the Premiership continues in its sad old way we can always spend Saturday afternoons there blowing all our money in different ways — perhaps with more chance of winning!
Tony Waring, Frogmore  (8/6/06)

Afraid to be bold?
Totally agree that all Editorial responses should be in bold. Feel you are being a little coy in your comments on this request. After all, Michael, when have YOU ever been afraid to be bold?
Harry Meek, Worcester  (8/6/06)

Flogging that horse
"He has to make his first choice at the beginning of the process, and if that choice pans out, he's the one. If not, then he looks at the next one on the list"

Sorry I haven't made my point clearly enough but what you've stated is my point. I'm worried Lescott is an injury liability so it won't "pan out" so Moyes should go for the next intended target. The "wasn't a foregone conclusion" part is not that Everton would have pulled the plug but that another club may have come in for Lescott. This has happened many times before with an intended transfer target and therefore you need a back up plan.

From the news I've read today it seems Lescott will be signing anyway, fingers crossed.
Alan Clarke, Manchester  (8/6/06)

re: Football Manager
I think what Michael was referring to was the number of people writing in saying Moyes should sign this player, that player, any player!

DM must look at a player and decide whether he goes for him or not, not start putting bids in for all sorts of other players and then waiting for the first one to come back and accept; it's not like buying a house! He obviously sees something in Lescott that he likes, which has seen him put a bid in, agree personal terms (I suspect) and now the player has to undertake a medical. Only when he is happy with everything will the transfer go through.

When is the new version of Football Manager out... anyone know?!
Shakin Stevens, Liverpool  (7/6/06)

I'm surprised actually that it has taken so long for someone to question the Football Manager jibe. I know FM is very popular but the point is that it is just a game... Yes, football itself is supposed to be just a game too... but it isn't and it hasn't been (at the highest levels) for a very, very long time. Suggesting signings is really futile: we are talking here about people at the CLub whose full-time jobs involve watching and assessing talent at all levels of the game. It's their job. We are merely spectators. Producing lists of players we should sign is like having some amateur come in and tell you how to do your job. Yes, you can do it on FM. But it means absolutely nothing in the Real World. — Michael

Boldness
I actually do think that Michael and the editors' responses should be bold, like Toogood suggested. I know Michael was trying to exaggerate in his response, but the plain bold looks good.

Also, I think Lescott's knees are fine - he's played like 93 games since the injury... I'm sure that there's no long-term issue. Anyone know how good Hearts' Andy Webster is? We might have to settle for him if Lescott falls through.
Jimmy Crack, Phoenix, AZ, USA  (7/6/06)

Football Manager
Why is it when anyone questions a transfer deal or suggests a player we could sign, there's the patronising accusation that thay play Football Manager? I've never even played this game.

My point about Lescott is that Moyes should not have put all his eggs in one basket trying to sign only him. I think he must have some kind of back up to maybe sign another defender as it wasn't a foregone conclusion that we'd have signed him even if he had been fit.
Alan Clarke, Manchester  (7/6/06)

In relation to your original point, which I know you think is perfectly reasonable, I was trying to explain that your view of the transfer business seems to be closer to something out of Football Manager than out of the Real World. I think you are at it again with the second part of this message.

You say: "it wasn't a foregone conclusion that we'd have signed him even if he had been fit." Are you suggesting that Everton might have pulled the plug, even if there was no long-term injury risk? Where do you get that idea from? For Everton to pull out of the deal after getting their bid accepted and agreeing personal terms, and the player having a clean medical... well, I think we'd be laughed out of (or kicked out of) the Premiership.

And it's hardly putting all his eggs in one basket: it's a process that needs to be gone through. If it fails, then Moyes will move on to the next one on his list. What you are really suggesting is that Moyes should conduct simultaneous tansfer dealings for two (or more?) players for one position, and that he takes his pick at the end of the process. That is simply wrong. He has to make his first choice at the beginning of the process, and if that choice pans out, he's the one. If not, then he looks at the next one on the list (if he is still available). Is this making any sense yet or am I flogging the proverbial dead horse??? — Michael

Lescott Deal
I have a good feeling the Lescott transfer will go through but I am wondering about the rumors about the player. When Dutch first revealed his inside info concerning Lescott and his gangster kneecapping I thought it was just more Dutch rambling and did not for a moment suspect it was true.

Then Lescott had problems with his medical, apparently there were concerns over his knees, that made me raise an eyebrow... "Was Dutch right?" I thought. Now there are other web-sites reporting the same rumors about Lescott's involvement with gangsters.

So I am thinking, was Dutch's inside info completely true or did Dutch state a wild rumor that has now grown in stature via a domino effect?
Matt Elsey, Liverpool  (7/6/06)

Need to be bold
I would like to add my congratulations on the new-look site but I agree with Steve Hogan that your Editorial responses tend to merge with the postings.

Why not put all resonses in bold type? Problem solved!
George Toogood, Wavertree  (7/6/06)

You might think BOLD looks a bit obnoxious and overbearing. WHAT ABOUT BOLD CAPS? or Bright Blue Bold??? — Michael

Summer time
As odd as it seems, I am feeling more upbeat about my beloved Blues this summer than last. Even though we had the dream of the Champions League and a very large transfer kitty last year, I still feel that a corner has been turned.

Our transfer targets are all but wrapped up by the second week of June and there is also this vague rumour that a wealthy business man may have invested some money!

Could it be that we are now running the club with a bit more purpose? They'll be telling us the ground situation is sorted next!
Adam Carey, Berskhire  (7/6/06)

Optimistic Evertonians, eh! God luv 'em. — Michael

In Reply to Russ Kav
Winning one medal with us, would be worth 20 with them. Where's your Labone streak, Kav lad ?
Steve Lyth, ellesmere port  (07/06/06)

That Gerrard programme
A good point from Steve Lyth... to a point. Let's be honest Steve, if Gerrard had won no medals at all, do you think he would have made such a comment? Like all professional athletes, the glory is in achieving and he has done that with Liverpool. Could Rooney have done that with us? I doubt it.
Russ Kaven, Ellesmere Port  (7/6/06)

Everton: How Much?
How much do you think it would take to buy EFC? I'm thinking an investment deal would also need development capital for team and facilities. I've talked to a few folks I know who deal with major investors and the problem will always be "so what do I get for my x-millions? What's the ROI?" Telling them "not much other than the pride of owning the club" doesn't go very far — particularly with people who know nothing about football. There would have to be another angle where spin off revenue would attract investors — such as acasino — not my choice, but something like that.

What did True Blue Holdings pay?

All the best, keep up the good work! And unless Petrov is a holding midfielder (which I don't think he is) why would we waste £4 million on him?
Greg Dawson, Liverpool  (7/6/06)

Greg, TBH paid about £20M to buy out Peter Johnson's shares, at £857 each. Full details can be found here.

How much now? With the prospect of increased TV revenues, and TBH successors looking for a decent ROI, I would guess £30M for their 70% share of the stock in EFC Co Ltd. Development capital is a whole other ball of wax, as we have seen to our dismay. Enter Russian oligarch with plenty of dodgy roubles... — Michael

Redevelop Goodison?
I remember that a couple of years ago there was an article on Toffeeweb about a possible redevelopment of Goodison, occuring in stages over two or three seasons. Obviously this has been disregarded, its just that the revival of the stadium issue reminded me.

What was the plan - have you got that page archived somewhere? Was is feasible? What happened to it that it is no longer an option? Thanks for any help you can give me!
Louis Huglin, Liverpool  (7/6/06)

That section is archived under The Club | Goodison Park | Redevelopment, and came originally from a GFE website that no longer exists. I guess our navigation system is too complex and we should think about doing a complete revamp of the website... — Michael

The Lescott saga
Why did Everton not think about Lescott's injury before approaching the player? The details of his injury have been well documented! The way things have been going since the kid had a medical at Everton is hugely embarrassing. We are seriously compromising the future of Lescott the way this medical saga is unfolding. We do not have the moral right to do so. I think we are mishandling this transfer. The only way we could do justice to Lescott is by signing him.

How on earth could Everton agree a fee of £5 million without the knowledge of all the details? Next time, the staff at Everton have to get their homework right; otherwise, we would be causing more harm to potential targets than warranted.
Srakesh Jingovan, Boca Raton, USA  (7/6/06)

Why do you think they have a medical as part of a transfer? The 'details' as you call them are just rumours and scuttlebutt. How do you think Everton could actually get hold of Lescott's medical records and previous scans without initiating the transfer process? The way to do that is to make an offer that must first be accepted before they can go to the next stage, which is to agree personal terms. Then there is a basis for conducting the medical. For a player who has had reconstructive surgery on one or more of his knees, that is always going to be a massive issue.

Part of the medical involves taking new scans so that specialists can examine the condition of his knee(s) now, and give a prognosis going forward. That's the way it is. To talk about the staff at Everton not getting their homework right is just ridiculous. Sorry, bud, but you've been eating far too much gumbo. — Michael

The ground move debate conttinues
Again in the Daily Post there's more debate and good arguments from both sides for and against the ground move so whatever happens it's going to be unpopular with some supporters.

The ones I personally know who are for a move justify it on the grounds that it's difficult to park near Goodison and this will be made worse when the other lot take over Stanley Park. Well, sorry but why don't you just walk to the ground like the majority of other supporters do (was anyone able to verify that posting that Everton have the greatest percentage of supporters that walk to the ground?).

And what about the inconvenience to those supporters that don't have cars to get out to Switch Island or Kirby? OK they'll still make the effort but isn't it better for the minority to have a minor inconvenience of driving in the comfort of their car from Runcorn / the Wirral than the majority relying on the vagaries of public transport to get them to the match on time?

I saw a movie last night called Goal which was set in Newcastle and it showed St James's Park. Having been a regular there in the 77-78 season, I didn't recognise the place (I was still a Blue — I was just living there at the time and the barcodes were so bad I used to go down to Hartlepool to watch a decent game). There's often the moan on this site about comparing us to Newcastle but they seem to have built up a modern stadium from a city-locked location so I'm sure we can do it at Goodison too.

I also remember that, as long ago as 1982, before the modernisation of the place, that St James's hosted big concert events (Rolling Stones Tour of that year) so it's not necessary to have the newest, bestest stadium in the country to attract non-football revenue, just decent modern facilities.

Seems like it'd be a good time for a ToffeWeb poll on the subject. Renovate Goodison or move outside of Liverpool City?
Eric Myles, Seoul, Korea  (7/6/06)

Groan.... Y'know, I really can't be arsed. The club needs to stop farting around, and come up with a concept they are reasonably well committed to carrying through, and then let's see if thers's any mileage in thus fans consultation malarky. — Michael

Haunting words from the Gerrard Prog:
And I quote: "I could win 32 medals for another club but who would I have to show them too that really cared?" I hope Rooney was watching.
Steve Lyth, Ellesmere Port  (6/6/06)

Goodbye, Mr Weir
'Do you want me to sign, Mr Moyes' says a tied- up Davie Weir. 'No' says I, 'I want you to ...... er, just leave will do'! — My own take on the Bond quote in Goldfinger...

But in all seriousness, Weir should drop a league because he clearly ain't up for the job at hand. Moyes knows it also hence, his search for a new centre-back. I still think Ferrari or Huth are better options. The only other club serious about Huth (Middlesbrough) are in disarray so there is a good chance he will come.
Luq  Yus, London  (6/6/06)

Forsell's Lovelife
Firstly let me get this straight, Everton must sign Forsell, Davis, Bilic, Krøldrup (insert any injury-prone player who costs over the odds).

Everton were prepared to pay the £5 million to Wolves but there seem to be serious doubts over his fitness. Lescott is not the only defender in the country and Everton don't need to play "hard ball" over the price. We can't afford to gamble that much money on a player who could end up bleeding us dry with his wages whilst he becomes good friends with Rathbone. I expect that none of us have seen enough of him to say he's worth the gamble.

I reckon we keep the faith in the medics. Surely Lescott is not the only defender on Moyes's hitlist this summer???
Alan Clarke, Manchester  (6/6/06)

Err... I might have this completly wrong, but I've got the feeling that this transfer is being conducted by the staff of Everton FC and whatever support they need to carry it off or call it off. They are the ones who decide whether or not "hard ball" will be played.

Their decision to ask for more time over Lescott has been interepreted to mean they are weighing up whether the gamble is worth it or not — though, with Krøldrup, Ferrari and Van der Meyde as precidents, I don't hold much hope that they will see this as the gamble that you do. As for "bleeding us dry with his wages"?? — I'm sure no-one is thinking like that.

Regarding your last point about defender availability, I think one of the differences between Football Manager and the Real World is that you can't just pick any name you want off some long list: you have to do a lot of preparatory work and, once you have started the process, there's a certain level of committment and professional integrity [Uh? did I just write that — about football???] involved. You have to carry it through unless there are very substantive grounds for not doing so. — Michael

Good but....
Like the look of the new look web-site, but is it just me or is it difficult to differentiate between readers letter's and your response? They just seem to merge... there again it could be my failing eyesight. Anyone agree/disagree?
Steve Hogan, Chester  (6/6/06)

I certainly agree with you... but I'm only the lowly editor around here. I'll humbly submit a request up to the Penthouse suite of ToffeeWeb Towers, seeking an audience with the Webmeister, to see if we can afford to provide a little more contrast here... — Michael

Buffalo Bill and Chief Wyness
Seeing as its 666 today, does anybody know where Bill and Keith got the money to spend £10M+ on players? I'm delighted we've got Johnson and can't wait for next season but also slightly worried about the state of our finances.
Daniel Parker, New York, NY, USA  (6/6/06)

Firstly... "You don't £5M to buy a £5M player." And secondly, the widely diseminated rumour is that it comes from Philip Green. And could at some future stage be converted into Everton shares. — Michael

Nice little earner
God, that Dutch talks a load of sycophantic bollocks! Fancy complimenting Moyes on honing his mamagement skils when it`s a matter of record that he`s up in Scotland earning a nice little wedge `on the side` as one of the tutors on a `Management Clone` course. Why, he`s even got Alan Shearer as one of his pupils! It`s not only Buster who can`t get by on what Everton pay him!!!
Harry Meek, Worcester  (6/6/06)

It's great to know that, when I am unable to refute Dutch's double twaddle myself, there is always an Evertonian ready to step forward and perform this valuable service, in the interests of The People. Well done, Sir! — Michael

The Wenger scale!
RE Michaels last comment! .....and didn't big Tony Adams rate very highly on the wenger scale, drinks 'un all? Fair point, though, Michael. Is it just myth? I hope so... or maybe Moyes will have Lescott oppening up a branch of Tone's second-chance clinic in the north of England. Franchise it, like... Sure there would be a lot of interest nationwide!
Allan Price, Shropshire  (6/6/06)

Lescott's Lovelife
Firstly, let me get this straight: Moyes must sign Lescott!!!! I have a feeling Everton are playing the old game of trying to get the fee down.

Secondly, the myth: Not wanting to add more to the urban myth of Lescott's supposed misdemeanors but I too have heard juicy stories from Wolves season ticket holders. The one I heard concerned a couple of seasons back when he got his pants caught round his ankles after playing away with one of Wolves' more notorious supporter elements girlfirends. This (so I hear — Dont quote me! Seriously!!) led to Lescott becoming involved in being blackmailed, threatened and led to him handing over many matchday freebies to said rogue supporter element. Just to remind you though, THIS IS NOT GOSPEL! Jungle grapevine and all that. Just made me think when I heard the last comment on Lescotts private life...

Remember though, THIS DOESN'T MAKE HIM A BAD FOOTBALLER!
Allan Price, Shropshire  (6/6/06)

Doesn't sound like he'd rate too highly on the Wenger scale! — Michael

Re Summer Holiday
Dutch, I don't see any problem with Lescott going on holiday. He's done his bit — had a medical and agreed personal terms — and it's up to Everton to decide the next steps now. There's no reason for him to hang around County Road kicking his heels is there?

I believe the true situation is that Everton are playing hard-ball on the price. They've bid one price in order to get agreement to talk to him and are trying to knock it down now that the lad's keen. It's a buyers' market as Lescott must be desperate for a big money move to the Premiership so that doesn't give Wolves much room for negotiation. The various rumours and counter-rumours flying around are classic negotiation tactics.

Only a few weeks ago people were saying on here if only we had a board as strong as Simon Jordan — well, it looks like we've got our wish. Lescott will come to Goodison — and at a knock-down price!
Michael Johnson, Reading  (6/6/06)

Lescott & Moyes
Don't get me wrong: I really hope Lescott signs but if the medics have concerns about his long-term fitness then Everton have to walk away.

The Wolves chairman revealed that the deal would get back on course when David Moyes returned from a training course. Isn't that encouraging to hear. While most managers are sunning themselves on a beach our manager is working hard further learning his trade in an effort to improve himself.

Moyes is a real student of the game and I love his work ethic. If only the players had that much drive and passion.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (6/6/06)

Something Fishy
If speculation is true that Moyesy couldn't finalise the Lescott deal in regards to being in Scotland over the weekend and now I hear the rumour that Everton are reportedly interested in signing Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov and Hearts defender Andy Webster.

Does this cast doubts that the expensive Lescott deal has fallen through and he is now leaning towards the cheaper alternative in Webster and a possibly affordable midfielder?
Clifford Zammit, Melbourne, Australia  (6/6/06)

Only time will tell. Often plenty of 'I's to be dotted and 'T's to be crossed before a player can hold a scarf aloft from the Park End. That appears to be the case at present with Lescott. - Colm

Hey, it's 06/06/06 today!!!
Michael said:

Let's see if I can remember how it goes... Nil Satis Nisi... no; it's too hard. — Michael

Michael, please tell me you've got a few million to spare and want to buy a trainset? Used and abused, but with a very loyal audience... Go on, say you can!
Matt Traynor, Singapore  (0/0/06)

Michael did have a few million to spare.....but he then went and bought a car. A nice big red one I believe! ;-) — Colm

And now it's old and decrepit, definitely seen better days, I can't afford to do the rebuild it deserves but I love it so much I just can't let go... — Michael

Anderson da Silva
In response to the earlier post by Tom Sullivan, I scoured the Spanish sites and found this rather choice entry from a regular named Chocky:

'We've had many Toffees asking the same question; unfortunately, he's crap. He couldn't even get a place in a shit Malaga side. Take him back!'

On a different note it's (maybe) a shame about Lescott but at least we got AJ.
Adam Carey, Berkshire  (6/6/06)

Forgive me...
... if I am wrong but did not William Ralph Dean suffer a career-threatening motor-bike accident that requred the insertion of a metal plate into his head? Dixie later became the greatest ever goal scorer in the world and noted for his extraordinary heading ability. Some say that was due to the metal plate yet nonetheless it does show it is possible to overcome serious injury and still perform at top level.
Dick Fearon, Western Australia  (6/6/06)

Spot on, Dick. But facts don't do too well when confronted with the steam-roller opinions of people like Dutch. — Michael

Summer Holiday
Let me get this straight: Lescott would rather go on holiday then sort out his footballing career? Is taking a break more important then signing for Everton??? Maybe Moyes should look elsewhere for a defender. The more I learn about Lescott, the more I question him.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (5/6/06)

And the more YOU learn about Moyes the more you trust his every move... which might put you in a bit of a quandry when it comes to Joleon "No Knees" Lescott. Your feelings may be really conflicted when Hero Moyesy goes ahead and signs him... — Michael

Anderson da Silva
The official Everton website has not given an explanation for the delay in the Lescott signing which might be understandable as it is probably a delicate situation. However, I cannot understand why they have not offered any information on Anderson da Silva. Isn't he supposed to be an Everton player?

His loan at Malaga is now over so why is there no evidence of him on the website? There is also no mention of Tim Howard either and Scott Spencer is not in the first team or academy. Don't the people who run the official website understand they have a responsibility to keep supporters informed?
Tom Sullivan, Liverpool  (5/6/06)

What's that saying: "Knowledge is Power"... they obviously don't want to be empowering the fanbase! I never considered Da Silva to be an Everton player. Call me a cynic but I thought all the blather over him was just so much chicken-counting, and I still do. I can wait patiently for him to appear... or not.

As for Howard and Spencer... well, these things obviously take time. I still haven't done our Howard profile... maybe I could claim that he doesn't become an Everton player until 1 July? — Michael

Give it time
I'm pleased to see we're not rushing into this Lescott signing but I do feel it's important we have everyone signed up in time for pre-season.

Forgive me if I'm wrong but I've noticed a rather significent trend developing. The success we have under Moyes seems to depend on how quickly we manage to sign players up in the summer. I can't be arsed to explain it in full but basically our two 'poor' seasons under Moyes came after two shocking summers in the transfer market in which players were brought in at the end of August with little time to adapt and the season already under way.

Our two better seasons under Moyes came after summers in which fewer players were signed and those that were signed, were brought in early and given 'a good pre-season with the boys'.

Unlike a lot of managers, Moyes actually tries to improve the work-rate and work-ethic of all of his new signings and this understandably takes time to happen. A classic example of this was seen in the performances of Valente last season. The lad was brought in late, shit until Christmas but then probably our best defender until he got injured.

With the World Cup so near, it seems a bit silly that we're splashing our last bit of cash on a Division 1 player with a dodgy knee so I'd like Moyes to wait a few weeks and see if there are any new Yobos in Germany, but our success next season may well depend on how quickly we spend this last £5 million.
Patrick Marks, London  (5/6/06)

Return to normal business
Following the morale-boosting arrival of Andy Johnson, we had the prospect of completing the transfer business of a new centre-half 'within days' to complete the 'triangle' of acquisitons identified by David Moyes. My problem with the Lescott scenario isn't whether his reconstructed knee is up to the job of playing in the Premiership next season as a medical is necessary to ascertain both the value and fitness of a player (recall the Forsell case which vindicated the Club's stringent policy), but the hyperbole public exercise spin that accompanies every possible transfer.

I checked the EFC website this morning for an update and the Lescott lead had vanished, this was the same website that had indicated a fee and personal terms had been agreed last week, and had the audacity to even run a story last season about Scott Parker! Independent websites, forums and rumour mills are one thing in relation to transfer activity and should always be taken with a pinch of salt, however a stealth signing wouldn't go amiss and the Club need to conduct their transfer business with a little more decorum and privacy.

Just when I thought we were starting to show signs of an improved system of business practice, along comes another drawn-out and protracted process of haggle, bluff-calling and probable impasse.
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (5/6/06)

I can appreciate your annoyance with the hyperbolic spin and veils of secrecy that define pronouncements from the 'official' website ("commercial sensitivity", remember!), but as for the twists and turns on this one, hey, welcome to the Real World were things don't necessarily always go according to plan. Snags develop, things go awry, expectations are not met... Is everything perfect in your life?

On the one hand, you want honesty and transparency from the club to keep you informed; on the opther hand, you want a "stealth signing" in which Everton "conduct their transfer business with a little more decorum and privacy."!!! You ain't gonna get both now, are ya??? — Michael

Re: Luq Yus
Stupidity would be spending money on that injury-prone Ferrari who has already proved he cannot adapt to the Premiership. If the Lescott deal falls through because of injury concerns, so be it. But why would we then turn to a player like Ferrari who has proved himself to be liability with injuries? Believe it or not, there are many defenders out there who have good fitness — we should buy one of them.
Paul Atress, Liverpool  (5/6/06)

Posh!
Ooooo! Aren't we getting posh here on ToffeeWeb?! Very professional setup and layout. Me finks yuz 'av too much time on yer 'ands!!

Well done and good luck!
Mark Joseph, West Lancs  (5/6/06)

Let's see if I can remember how it goes... Nil Satis Nisi... no; it's too hard. — Michael

Stupidity
I was in my bed and I felt compelled to come out and write this piece. All this fuss about Lescott and his dodgy knee and wild personal life got me questioning the whole reason for this deal. Moyes wants a centre-back who is strong and quick, but is unwilling to part with big bucks over an injury doubt, which is fair enough. But if Moyes had the balls to rethink things through, he should go back and sign the devil you know — ie, Ferrari!

He is better than Lescott, proven, knows Everton and visa versa. And fundamentally he will be £1.5M cheaper than the Championship player. It make sense, both in business and on the pitch. This angers me as certain fucking stupid fans were dissing Ferrari saying he ain't worth the money, yet they are coming in their pants at the prospect of a player who we really don't know, and is way more expensive! Is it because Lescott is british that we should waste money on him, you dumb-ass fans??? Anyway for me this is Everton at its silly best. Goodnight!
Luq  Yus, London  (5/6/06)

You can't possibly be talking about... Dutch? No! — Michael

Lescott: Yes or No?
When is the Lescott deal going to go through? We need some news; I'm getting sick of checking Ceefax 50 times a day. Yes or no; either way, I just want some news.

It must be hard for Lescott too not knowing if his dream move is happening or not. I bet the last time Lescott was this tense was when he heard that baseball bat knocking on his front door...
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (4/6/06)

Don't tell me Archie was in that gang! — Michael

Pertinent Questions
Yeah, why not? I agree with Dave Charles... why not ask pertinent questions? But why don't we ask them NOW rather than when we are refused one site or another? Liverpool City Council have said they will do all they can to ensure Everton stay in Liverpool. Let's start lobbying now for the same level of support and consideration Liverpool FC have had concerning similar issues. At least Liverpool City Council now has an Evertonian as leader so we may get a reasonable ear. Sorry if this sounds 'angry' but this has pissed me off for years. I'm calming down now... I'm relaxing again... I'm remembering that this website is about Everton rather than othet clubs or organizations... Sorry... I'm going to bed now. Ni-Night!!
Dave Roberts, Runcorn  (4/6/06)

Sleep tight! That was about Everton. Sort of. To be honest, I just can't rouse myself to this one. Kings Dock was everything to me. I was a lone voice at the end saying "So exactly what's wrong with this reverse mortgage?" and everyone, literally EVERYONE, was slamming it, calling Gregg a toad, and what not. Oh the wonder of hindsight, eh? No, I can't get enthused one iota. Tell me when it's over. — Michael

Closet Red
I have it on very good authority that the Liverpool Echo's Everton correspondent Dominic King is a dyed-in-the-wool Red!! Have you heard this? Can it be confirmed?

It would explain his rather "current" reporting of team affairs, with never any reference to historical fact in his reporting: eg, Everton v Blackburn 2003, Everton v Man City 2004, Everton v Liverpool 1999, etc. Please let's have more checking out of this charlatan!!!
Alan Armstrong, Liverpool  (4/6/06)

Yes, we have heard this before. I knew there was a reason behind why I abhor this bloke and what he writes. If his mission is to upset Evertonians by writing absolute drivel about our beloved Blues... he's succeeding! [Not sure I catch the meaning of your specific match citations...] — Michael

Joleon's ''Injury''
I live in west mids and local rumour is that Joleon's "injury" is punishment for screwing around with someone else's women. Don't know how true this is so don't want it aired but apparently he got a good going over.

Do you know where this "knee problem" in his medical came from 'cos a Wolves fan I know said he's lucky to be walking. If he's played a whole season, this may not be important but, after the past two seasons of transfer activity, ToffeeWeb may want to check this out.
Andy Oddbod, West Midlands  (4/6/06)

We'd love to but, without some really good feedback from the Youth Academy, I can't see us ever getting down to "The Truth" on this one. Still, it's a pretty spicey one, with the gravitas of a classic Urban Myth, so it might as well be true! — Michael

From Dither to Dash
As dithering as our management were this time last year, it is with dash they have entered the transfer market this time, and credit is due to them for this positive course of action. Granted, the suspicion remains that sales will be required to recoup some of the £13 million likely to be spent on AJ and now, medical results permitting, Lescott.

And wasn’t it great to see a player we wanted prefer us over others offering comparable terms, even if, with all due respect, we’re talking about Wigan and Bolton here? The remarks by Johnson about us being one of the big names of British football, though true, were nevertheless good to hear.

Even we may have to suffer the disappointment of seeing a player or two we rate leaving, there are already reasons to be optimistic about next season. The prospect of Beattie and Johnson forming a partnership in the Sharpe/Heath, Sharp/Lineker-mold is enticing. Johnson is a great signing. Quick, strong, with an eye for goal (not just when behind defences but when running at them too), committed and whole-hearted, always ready to take matters into his own hands, even at troublesome away matches when comrades might ‘go missing’. The fact that he and Beattie are good mates adds an extra potential for telepathy that could render opposing defences senseless. Surely we will now do what we have failed to do so abysmally in recent times — score goals!

If Beattie and Johnson can score thirty between them (and we should expect no less), three midfielders (say Cahill, Faddy and Arteta, presuming they’re not sold) weigh in with another twenty and the rest stab in ten, sixty goals (with a reasonable defensive record) will compete for the Champions’ League.

Lescott, admittedly, I haven’t seen a lot of, but have heard his name in ‘dispatches’ and other postings on this site have spoken highly of him in footballing terms — the business about how his knees were nobbled we can overlook, I mean Man Utd fans didn’t balk at the signing of brothel lover Rooney. He sounds like another shrewd signing. But why oh why did we not move as forcefully last time, with Champions’ League football the prize? Let’s hope that if we get there again, the painful experience will prove to have been a valuable lesson.

So as Chairman Bill directs his desert classic, slipping off between takes to watch the eagerly awaited World Cup matches, perhaps he should do so with our blessing. A week is a long time in football management, and this week we should allow our illustrious patron to enjoy our fulsome support and utmost affection... until the next cock up!
Martin Downey, Belfast  (4/6/06)

"the business about how his knees were nobbled we can overlook" — that's true optimism for you. And the comparison to Rooney's granny-shagging is bizarre in the extreme. A more pertinent parallel would have been concern over Rooney's broken foot bone at Euro 2004... and the possibility that perhaps the same injury might reoccur... Oooer! Guess what... [BTW, was it ever made clear if it was the same bone or the same foot???] — Michael

Tony Marsh / Walton Hall Park
How long are you staying in Cyprus? The normal fortnight not enough??? Some guys get all the luck...

Anyway, a new stadium: Walton Hall Park. Liverpool City Council would have some explaining to do if Everton did ask for part of the park, and got refused. They gave away part of Stanley Park very easily and left themselves wide open for the sale of any other city park. It's time Everton Football Club started to ask questions and embarass this council.
Dave Charles, Liverpool  (4/6/06)

Stadium of Delight
Nobody would be sadder than me at the demise of Goodison Park. I first entered it at the age of six in 1953 with my dad. But the Grand Old Lady is past her prime now; while once she was a source of pride (especially considering some of the sheds we used to visit for away games!) she is now a crumbling liability. Accordingly, in order to modernize and progress as a club, we have to move elsewhere as there is no room to expand the current site.

The City of Liverpool has never helped Everton a jot with regard to the prospects of a new stadium and in many respects has been a direct hindrance. Consequently, I see no reason why Everton or Evertonians should feel any remorse at leaving the city for pastures new.

As for the effect this may have on the 'People's Club', there is more than one way to belong to the people and one of those ways would be (wherever a new stadium was built) for Everton to ensure that cheap transport was laid on by negotiating with bus/train companies, extolling the benefits of full carriages at half-price and ensuring that once supporters arrived at the stadium it was supporter-centred and provided all the amenities for Evertonians to do what they like to do now... get pissed and get to their seat at the last minute! (Slight exaggeration there...)

A beautiful stadium, standing in splendid isolation would be no good to anybody and would not complement the Everton tradition of being an integral part of the community. But the community is bigger and more widely spread now and any new stadium must take account of this. The community must be BROUGHT to the new stadium wherever it is and it must tempt the 'people' to arrive early and linger. A 'come & go' stadium would not be conducive to being an Evertonian!

Everton Football Club has a history and a tradition second to none in the football world. For me, it would be a greater wrench from that history and those traditions to move away from Goodison than it would be to move outside of the boundaries of Liverpool. This Club and the people who support and represent it are far bigger than merely the venue at which it plays the game.
Dave Roberts, Runcorn  (4/6/06)

Tommy G
I'm coming back to Goodison on a free.. I've had enough of Madrid, crap team, crap ground, crap fans, no trophies and the lease is up on the club villa!..

My twin Lee C let the cat out the bag the other night talking to a couple of Toffees in Costco....
Tommy Gravesen, Madrid  (4/6/06)

Just keep that todger in your kecks this time, okay!

Knee jerk reaction
So the whispers are turning to murmurs, and the murmurs to gossip about another failed medical.

Let's consider that due to the advances in medicine players are rarely finished by injuries nowadays (Yes i remember Parkinson — but that was 10+ years ago). For example, Shearer suffered with a knee injury, as has our very own James Vaughan. Both recovered.

So it seems Lescott might have had problems with both knees; the fact remains Moyes has takena punt on him and decided he was worth a medical and a possible contract. If this medical snag doesn't go our way and we don't sign Lescott, then I accept it was never meant to be. I am glad we didn't get Forsell (remember him?). If this goes the same way, there are plenty more defenders out there.

Which leads me to Yobo: push the boat out and make sure he signs, even if it is just a two-year extension.
Teddy Niigma, Warrington  (4/6/06)

Knees release me, Lescott (let me) go
It is frustrating when transfers go on and on and on.... Why can't the club just tell us what is going on?! It beggars belief after such a smooth transfer re AJ then it's back to the same old shoite again with Lescott...

Anyway, about my last post (sound the lone bugle) and Michael's reply... Wayne PROVED my point, which was every player has to rise through the ranks, whether it be at one club or many clubs... You don't just appear on another level (except of course your Theo walcott and play for Arsenal... err... not play for Arsenal and become an international overnight). Shucks... is that my argument blown out the water, Michael?
Tommy  Genius, Sefton Tip  (4/6/06)

Nice riff... I still maintain that your original (unmodified) point was incorrect. The Academy/Reserves path at Everton or a top club is one way where a player can get into the Premiership while never playing the game as a professional at a lower level for another club in the proffesional league system. There is clearly a difference between that and being a "lower-league player" who has at some stage played professional competitive football for a club outside the Premiership. — Michael

Lescott
I didn't kneecap him, I beamed him up to join us because we thought he was an offical Trekky. Turns out he's just a crazy looking having tough old beast of a centre back with dodgy knees. Hope he does well for Everton.
William 'ToffeeNut' Shattner, Planet Ziborg  (4/6/06)

Lescott Transfer
Interesting to read your views on our man Lescott.

Your man Dutch is correct: poor old Lescott had his knees smashed in by a couple of hard men. That's why he missed our season in the Premiership. I hope she was a good shag and worth it.

That's all behind the player now though and he has been ever-present since his return. He's grown up alot and matured into a superb defender. I'll be sad to see him go.
Wolves Fan, Wolverhampton  (4/6/06)

Ah right... it must be true then. — Michael

Location, Location, Location
How important do people think the location of a potential new ground is? Does it bother people that it might not be within the City of Liverpool?

It's a bit of a conundrom for me because we proudly hold the 'People's Club' title and rightly say that most people from Liverpool support Everton (like Pongolle said). But then, from an outsiders point of view, the fact we are from Liverpool is very much secondary in people's view of Everton. We all know who gets the credit for being the football team from Liverpool...

So if we were to move outside the boundaries of the City, would we be making a gesture that says, "being an Evertonian is all about EVERTON as a club and not the geographical location of the team", or would we be completely undermining our claim to be "the People's Club" of the City of Liverpool? Hmmm.
Jon Sellick, Crosby  (4/6/06)

That's why we (I) love the Big Yin
That's why we (I) love the Big Yin, Duncan Ferguson, after reading his remarks when joining never-win Newcastle. Not only was he a menace to defenders when he did play, he was a menace to thieves who were stupid enough to enter his home illegally. He took us into his heart when his nation abandoned him and he found a new spritual home at Goodison Park. That's why we (I) love the Big Yin.

I heard he paid for his misses cab fare from Scotland to Liverpool as he didn't want to leave the city! Whether it's true or not, I don't really care – he has shown his commitment to the club many a time and I was sad to see him depart. Thanks for the memories, Dunc, maybe one day you will come back as manager? Err, maybe not...!!!
Luq Yus, London  (4/6/06)

Well done!!
Love the new look, guys. Keep up the great work!

I tried to look up the internet to find some evidence behind the "Lescott's knee" story. On one hand, it does sound suspicious that he would have major knee surgery on BOTH knees at the same time, there is no referable record at least during my search. Perhaps someone else might have found something ?

Also, I must congratulate Moyes on signing up – or at least attempting to have the whole squad for next season built up – as early as possible. I felt that that the lead-up to last season was below par because of all the uncertainty about which players were coming in.
BSD Lover, Sydney, Australia  (4/6/06)

There's been a lot of whispers surrounding the exact nature of Lescott's knee injuries. Suffice to say he went under the radar when Wolves were last in the Premiership, as that was the season he unfortunately missed, due to those injuries. No smoke without fire some might say and indeed the same rumours being aired now, with Lescott moving to Goodison, were aired back then. Just not really grabbing our attention with him being a Wolves player. What is fact is that Lescott played the bulk of last season for Wolves so you might reach a conclusion that he has fully recovered from his injuries. Many players in the past have 'suffered' from previous injuries supposedly preventing them from playing the game to the best of their ability. Remember Asa Hartford, hole in his heart? Didn't do too badly for himself now did he? – Colm

Give Us A Knee
Message to Moyes:

If someone has a body part [Knee] that's been whacked with sledge hammers and that person is a professional footballer then don't sign them. Already at Everton we have got more cripples than Lourdes so we certainly don't need another VdM or Pistone on our books.

Walk away from this one, Davey and get someone in who can actually stand up with out the aid of a zimmer frame. The last time Lescott kicked a ball Derek Dougan got on the end of the cross.

Things are going well at the moment so let's not do an Everton and fuck it all up by signing football's version of Ironside. It's Mercs and BMWs we want to see players in – not wheel chairs. Why get rid of Ferrari then replace him with someone with legs like a coffee table? It doesn't make sense.

There has got to be a defender somewhere in the world who we can sign with out all risks attached to this deal. Get someone in who likes football more than shagging and bevying and your half-way there. Keep your dick in your shorts and your knees will stay attached to your legs. It's simple.

Anyway, no need to panic just yet as Davey Weir is still on stand-by. Davey must be 59 and his dolly pegs are in better nick than Lescott's. I can't really complain so far this close season so let's hope DM does the right thing for the second time this year and drops this deal. Can you imagine that? – Moyes making two correct decisions in a row! The mind boggles!!
Tony Marsh, Sunny Cyprus  (4/6/06)

Regarding Ferrari's exit, Moyes stated at the time that he had other options. Lescott obviously being one of those. Enjoy the sunshine! Have a knees up! - Colm

The Ap-Prentice Report
Got to say I'm really enjoying reading the series in the Echo about Duncan.

I've said before that he polarises views amongst Evertonians, and I wouldn't try and change those. As I said in my previous submission - The Scrimshank Redemption - the player never achieved anything like what he was capable of.

This latest installation from Mr Prentice mentions how he mouthed the words 'I love you' to us on the terraces at Forest. More interestingly, I'd never heard of the conversations between Smith and Knox (and wives apparently!) after they found out he was going.

Some of you may have heard this story, but I also heard it from one of the production guys on the Newcastle fanzine who scored an interview with their new signing.

'So Duncan, how's it feel to be at a club like Newcastle?'

'Shite'

'Er sorry?'

'I'm only here because Everton didn't want me, and I'm getting 40 grand a week'.

End of interview.

For all his faults, he became a true Evertonian. Why? Because we made him love us.

PS - Lyndon et al - well done on the revamp. Even if you're at the top, keep improving. If only EFC.. oh I won't go there...
Matt Traynor, Singapore  (4/6/06)

Duncan's first departure from Everton just might be revisited over the next week or so, touching on similar to what you refer to above. — Colm

Lescott Delay
I'm guessing the delay was caused when Lescott tried to explain how the knee injury occured. How did Lescott explain to someone like Moyes that he was kneecapped by some heavies because he was shagging a gangster's bird? Moyes might be delaying the deal while he decides if he wants to add that sort of character to his dressing room.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (3/6/06)

I'm still not sure I believe that tale, Dutch. He's a pretty ugly bugger and I can't see some moll falling for him to be honest... but then again, they do like bad boys. I'd really like to hear it confirmed by someone in the Youth Academy. — Michael

Foolish Moyes
Moyes will be a total fool if he presses ahead with a deal for Lescott. Everyone in these parts knows the story of his knees and his reputation for finding trouble. The only people on Merseyside who should be rejoicing are the nightclub owners at the thought of all the champagne they`ll be selling!

Down here, Foxey Moxey and Hoddle will be rubbing their hands if they get anything over £2M for `Kneecaps Lescott`.
Adrian Morgan, Wednesbury  (3/6/06)

Stop the panic
Lescott has passed his medical, Sky Sports has written today, so looks it like he is fit to go. But Everton, as always are trying to lower the price. Maybe to have enough to sign Nolan or Roberts? Only time will tell. Moyes can raise funds by selling McFadden and Naysmith. Around two million for the both of them would be ideal.
Luq Yus, London  (3/6/06)

Lescott
According to Sky Text and Sky Sports News, Lescott has passed his medical but nothing on the official website yet. Forever Blue!!!
Yusuf Bobat, Batley  (3/6/06)

Apparently, EFC now insist that anyone with any track record of major surgery or recurring injury has to see a specialist and have specialist scans performed. This seems to explain the delay, in which Everton apparently requested previous scans done last season so they could assess any progressive deterioration. — Michael

Medical v Want
The Lescott transfer tale spins another twist in the failed medical and the Mailbag quite rightly shows supporters views on it.

I'd also like to point out that Forsell failed the medical which did prove a right move with his limited appearances. Then again, Krøldrop and Van der Meyde passed but both were bought injured — was this known or unknown injury? And were their purchases pushed through by the manager as he wanted the players at all costs? Perhaps their injuries allowed him and BK to renegotiate the price they originally wanted to pay for them.

It wouldn't surprise me if this was part of the plan for Lescott in the first place. I would have thought Huth was a superior choice for a defender having seen him play very well for Germany U21s. The trouble with buying Huth would always be two-fold: Chelsea are ruthless and no doubt asking for most of the cash up-fornt; and secondly (and perhaps more pertinent), Huth would be on a decent wage there which would perhaps put him beyond our pay structure.

I think the Everton medical is used for good effect by both the medical staff and the management for their own ends. I would prefer to buy an uninjured/unlikely to be injured player for a few quid more than risk buying another physio-table-warmer as we have had enough of those. £2M and no appearences or £5M or so and plays every game is an easy choice in my mind.
Gavin Ramejkis, Upholland  (3/6/06)

I've heard of that... but it was in relation to horse-trading and the infamous vet-check that is used to bring down the asking price. Still, I suppose with the knowledge that football is rife with all manner of bribery and corruption, there should be little surprise that this kind of thing goes on. However, isn't it more likely to create seriously bad feeling between the clubs involved, if a genuinely fit player is tainted by falsely failing a medical? — Michael

Plane, train or automobile
Just a word about the ground move. A point has been made that we have the most fans who walk or get the bus to the game. If we did move the ground a bit further away, these fans would still come. I wonder to fill a larger stadium, like the 60,000 quoted for King's dock, having better access to the ground on the outskirts of the city might help attract fans from further a field, or does this negate the whole People's Club thing?
Alan Clarke, Manchester  (3/6/06)

Wherever I lay my hat...
Re: the ground move debate, I kind of see the points made about Liverpool Council not doing us any favours, but then, let me tell you a couple of anecdotes about why. Basically, most of the councillors and senior officials at the time of King's Dock were (allegedly) season ticket holders at Anfield.

Allegedly, when I was kind of involved in the scheme, I may have overheard one of them saying, 'There are 7 World Class bids in for this site. Everton is in 8th place' (there were 'only' 7 bidders).

Dutch - you'll like this next bit: EFC took umbrage, legal advice and through clever politiking (by threatening to use every rule in the planning guidebook to stop the other shower moving to greenbelt land), suddenly got preferred bidder status.

Dutch - cover your eyes. The reason it didn't happen is because we well and truly fucked it by not being able to come up with £60m for 100% ownership of a £350m multi-purpose development that would have secured our future for ever, and ultimately given us finances that most of the rest could only dream about.

I'm as sentimental as the next man about Goodison, but for the sake of being at least able to keep our heads above water, we need to move. There are plenty of sites, both inside and outside of Liverpool's boundary. All I ask is that it's not on the side of some motorway. I can't recall the source of it, but I read years ago that Everton had the highest proportion of fans who went to the game on foot or by bus and train. I imagine it hasn't changed much.
Mark Tennant, Solihull  (3/6/06)

EU Rules re players
Okay, this isn't as un-Everton related as it may sound, re Da Silva...

Can anyone who knows about these things explain why some players can play in other EU countries, but not in the UK until they qualify either by passport or international appearances?

I suspect the answer is that Football is a 'special case', which I think is bollocks and needs addressing.

Iain McWilliam — re your Beattie thing — I posted that about two months ago, and the charity is named after a wee girl who died of cancer, who was a mascot at a Southampton game. Beattie went to visit her family (still does I think). Nice guy. Just wish he could stick a few of the sitters away as well as belting them in from all angles, as he occasionally does!
Matt Traynor, Singapore  (3/6/06)

Quick question...
Why do we need either McFadden or Jeffers? We've got three, very capable young strikers in Anichebe, Vaughan, and Spencer, who deserve their respective shots at the big time. Sell McFadden and use the money on Yobo, I say.
Jimmy Crack, Phoeniz, AZ, USA  (2/6/06)

Lescott?
I thought Lescott was supposed to be a done deal on Friday? Does this mean the deal has fallen apart? Very disappointing if so. Still its a lot of money and you can't blame Everton for being careful. Lets keep our fingers crossed that the Lescott transfer will still go through this weekend. If it doesn't there are other defenders. After all nobody regrets not signing Mikael Forssell.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (2/6/06)

The Rumour Mill, anyone?

Lets get physical
Need anyone be reminded that Van der Meyde passed the physical he was given (do they do a mental?) If they truly want the player he will pass; if not, he will fail e.g Forsell, and if they are not sure then they will sign him, not play him, then sell him all the while circulating rumours that he cant use both feet. It's the new School of Science!
Ronan Hanly, Boston ma  (2/6/06)

Uh oh! The cynics are back out in force! — Michael

Championship Playes
Why is everyone getting excited about signing players who have only plied their trade in the lower divisions? AJ is only on stand-by for the England squad, which is woefully short of strikers; that is a bit disturbing to me. I will reserve judgment on the two master strokes our manager has pulled and hope and pray that they materialise into half-decent players as I did not see AC Milan coming in for AJ when Shevchenko went to Chelski.
Mick McDermott, Liverpool  (2/6/06)

He played for a season in the Premiership. Or doesn't that count? He scored lotsa goals in the Premeiership — more than any Everton player has ever managed. But that doesn't count either? And your absurd comment at the end I found more than a bit disturbing. — Michael

Tats or no tats
I've never been Beattie's biggest fan and never will but found this on the web and good on him if its true:

'Everton's James Beattie got married last month at Mottram Hall, Cheshire. He asked for no gifts but donations instead to a cancer charity.'

Ground move
I live in Bootle near Kirkdale train station. Occasionally I make the arduous ten-minute walk to Goodison Park in Liverpool. I don't see how a move into Sefton would be feasible. The woolyback culture here is totally alien to 'scousers'. Bootle Strand serves a totally different clientele to County Road — we've got a lot more in common with our fellow 'Seftoners' in Southport. I mean I know on Bootle and Seaforth docks it reads 'Port of Liverpool' but this is clearly a mark of jealousy on the part of the City of Liverpool because our docks dwarf yours.
Czar Castic, Bootle, Sefton  (2/6/06)

Lescott failed medical?
Looks bad lads, no news from Everton today and that can only mean one thing: we need to find another defender.
John Cribb, Liverpool  (2/6/06)

Episode IV - A New Hope
So what does the recent success in the transfer market mean, if anything? Some random thoughts:

Hope! — It says a lot for how much making some decent signings means to the supporters when Tony Marsh sends in a post as he did on May 27th. The fact that we stumped up the money to make a couple of buys gives us hope that we’re not consigned to being also-rans. Let’s face it, we were desperate after last season's performance. Summer should be the season of football hope, after the past few days we can start to think that maybe we can do something decent next season.

Patience gone? — this recent activity could be a sign that the powers that be are finally losing patience with where we were going. From our perspective this should be a good thing. The new TV money gave us the means to break out of looking at second-grade wasters as solutions to our first-grade problems. I’ve a feeling that fans expressing their discontent with the situation has helped in this.

Learned a few lessons – making some decent moves this early in the summer speaks a lot for learning from our pitiful attempts last summer. Granted, I read that Wyness was out seriously ill for six weeks last year at about the worst possible time, but who we bought and who we didn’t buy was a disaster that I’m glad we seemed to have learned from.

Money — yes we do have some, but we just spent it. The TV money gives us better flexibility on the future ongoing wage bill though.

No excuses — if Beattie and Johnson each play 30 games, there should be no excuses for forwards not scoring goals. Fans, coaching staff and players can’t be pointing fingers at the lack of a pacy striker anymore.

Shift of focus — in particular there’s no more excuses for the midfield. We now have a couple of good forwards (plus two excellent young prospects to be given a good run out — Vaughan and Anichebe). The midfield has the focus right on them to support and supply. If anything this is one of the biggest ongoing concerns. If we are playing BT and AJ together we are committing to a 4-4-2, unless AJ plays wide in 4-5-1 (hopefully not too often). In a four man midfield who’s winning the ball? Arteta isn’t going to be our ‘hardman’ is he? So does that mean Neville or Carsley on a consistent basis? Who’s going to play on the left? Cahill (I doubt it)? Would we switch out Cahill for Nolan and play Nolan a bit further back in place of Neville/Carsley? There are many questions to be answered about midfield.

Joey – the recent activity also puts the focus right on Joey Yobo. He needs to sign or be moved on for the best deal possible. Rumours are that he’s been offered a good deal, Moyes will have given him a deadline to give us time to move someone else in if needed.

Arteta is staying – I read in one interview with AJ where he talked about Arteta picking him out with passes. I can’t believe that we would sell this to our latest signing if the lad wasn’t staying.

There’s still plenty of work to be done – any opportunity to upgrade at any position still has to be taken. Yes, we’ve filled a couple of big needs, but the comment has been made that the squad is still small, there will still need to be plenty of activity on potential loans and maybe even some player ‘swaps’ with a bit of cash. Hopefully our reserve lineup will start to include some of the under-performing first teamers from last season, if they aren’t moved out in the next few weeks. Probably best for us that they hang out in the reserves to keep up the numbers and provide cover in case of injury.

Ground – getting the bulk of activity out the way early in the summer gives the squad more of chance to integrate, and also gives Keith Wyness the opportunity to focus on building a Goodison Park replica in Kirkby or at the Docks or Walton Park or wherever.

What doesn’t this all mean? Signing AJ and Joleon Lescott (not done yet) doesn’t mean that we are suddenly a top six side. Lescott will probably get a gradual introduction and hopefully be working hard with Moyes and Stubbs on the training ground. And there are still too many open questions about the side to be thinking of European glory just yet, let’s just see how it goes.

Signing AJ, Lescott (if/when he does) and Howard doesn’t mean Moyes is a genius, it does mean that we all get a better chance at seeing what he can do in more positive circumstances.

The bottom line of all this is that I for one will be spending a much more pleasant summer with brighter hopes for next season.
Greg Dawson, Not in Walton anymore  (2/6/06)

A lot of sensible stuff there, Greg... apart from the Nolan bit, which is nothing more than a rumour. — Michael

Could Dutch be more right than we think?
I am beginning to wonder why it has gone so quiet with respect to the Joleon Lescott signing. Did Moyes wake up this morning to a horse's head on his pillow and has he been given an offer he can't refuse?

Seriously, given that it is unlikely there's a problem over personal terms (players always have a fair indication of what's on offer even before talks 'begin'), I am beginning to wonder whether there is something wrong with the medical. I would have thought that EFC would have wished to get Lescott's deal sewn up as quickly as possible after AJ's, even if only to bolster the season ticket sales.

Strangely (perhaps)the headline concerning Lescott on the official website has been relegated below further comments about AJ! I may be mistaken but I am expecting an announcement soon that the Lescott deal has fallen through and we are being prepared! If that's the case the kneecappers must have done a pretty good job!
Dave Roberts, Runcorn  (2/6/06)

Great start, more to follow?
Well done to everyone involved in bringing AJ to our club, and I'll let you know if I can say the same about Lescott in a few months time as I have not seen him play but have been told he is a good signing (fingers crossed he can head a ball!).

A recent rumour in your mill is Joey Barton? I belive he would be a superb signing as he is not only crative he never goes missing or backs out of a tackle, and with his contract running out we should be able to get him at half of his valuation. We still need someone who can pull the strings in midfield and get a grip of the game because sadly VdM, Kilbane, Cahill, Davies and Carsley can't.

Despite now having two goalscorers we still lack the service required to boost our poor goalscoring record. I know a lot of people seem to be anti-Franny but to be fair he did not get a run on his previous spell because we had 6 strikers. When he eventually did get on it was more like 5mins to go, two-nil down, expect him to turn the game around. Remember, the whole team was awful that season!

I am starting to have a little bit of faith in the Board now because of the good week they have produced... long may it continue!!!
Ste Dagnall, Liverpool  (2/6/06)

Jeffers v McFadden
If I remember correctly, McFadden got into the team by playing as a winger that season. Jeffers had to sit behind Radzinski and Rooney. Look at Jeffers' career stats: 83 games started - 35 goals scored. Thats almost one goal every two games and thats at Premiership level — not amateur Scottish football.

At International level, Jeffers broke all goalscoring records at Under-21 level and his senior England career stands as one cap and one goal. McFadden meanwhile has been at Everton three years and has started 57 Premiership games but his goals scored is only 10. McFadden cannot compete with the goal scoring ratio of Jeffers.

Dutch does have an interesting idea of bringing in Jeffers for free and selling McFadden to raise a million or two.
Paul Atress, Liverpool  (2/6/06)

So why would he not get a game at Charlton? Why has he just been released by Charlton? Why has he only got one cap? Why isn't he on his way to Germany? Why has no-one snapped him up?

I could be wrong, but I suspect the answers to these questions would tell you a lot more about Franny Jeffers, 2006 Version, than his U-21 goalscoring records do. But I guess it's all down to what you want to believe. If you really think Jeffers would do better for us next season than McFadden, have at it. — Michael

Just a yard-dog
For once `Mad Dutch` has spouted a little sense. His background piece on Lescott is dead on. He`s a yard-dog with some very dodgy connections. As far as ability is concerned, his style of play will suit Moyes to a tee. `Win it and boot it` is his mantra, and my Dad (who never misses a Wolves game) says he`s never seen him do anything construcive in two years. He says we`re mad to be paying big money for this lummox!
Philip Duckworth, Bilston  (2/6/06)

Oh dear... that's not going to go down well. And just when we thought everything was looking up... Is there any chance he could be mistaken? — Michael

Franny debate and editor bad attitude
Sadly I think even Davie Moyes would struggle to get Franny's game back. Franny is finished and not worthy of a 3rd spell at Everton. Nice idea though.

By the way Michael you need to check how you speak to people. You may not agree with Dutch but his opinion is as valid as yours and I've never read a comment from Dutch that was hurtful to others.

Why don't you make Dutch an editor of Toffeeweb? He at least is positive and respects others opinions. Reading the pesimistic views of our editors I have begun to suspect the motives of supporters who are running this site.
Andy Plunkett, UK  (2/6/06)

Haha... now that is funny! I think people know what to expect on here. We have a low tolerance threshold for bullshit and idiots. Go figure. — Michael

Jason Roberts and the idiot
Jason Roberts seems to want a move away from Liverpool. Paul Jewell; he would make a great third striker and would allow McSwaggen to leave and take his pony-tail with him. And for the love of mercy please ban Dutch. Not only he talks dog shite, he honestly believes the madness he spouts. Please Mikey give him the chop — and I don't mean lamb!
Luq  Yus, London  (2/6/06)

Bring Franny Home
Dutch has started a campaign to bring Franny home and I want to add my name to the list. Franny has to be better then McFadden. If Moyes can get the best out of Kilbane he can sort Franny out.
Paul Atress, Liverpool  (2/6/06)

Look at the stats for that season where Dutch claims Jeffers was shut out by Rooney. McFadden got almost twice as many games as Jeffers... and scored zero goals. Jeffers scored two goals... Who's better now? McFadden is a Scottish international (I know); Jeffers is an abject failure who has been released by his club. And yet you say he has to be better than McFadden? I'm confused. — Michael

Double Dutch
Sorry Mike, gotta agree with Dutch. Jeffers certainly sounds like he's learned his lesson and Moyes could coach the best out of him.
Jason Bailey, Preston  (1/6/06)

I see no eveidence whatsoever that he has learned any lessons. He is still blaiming everyone else other than himself for his failure to make the grade. Until he accepts responsibility for his own destiny, I don't think the lad will amount to much, sad to say. — Michael

Franny
Regarding Dutch's comments on Franny Jeffers. Whilst living in London, I sat with the Fulham fans just to watch us play. We lost the game and Franny got replaced with about 10 minutes to go for basically being shit.

Suprise suprise: he was in the pub before we were, necking down alcopops showing no remorse over the poor result.

I don't like Franny — he's arrogant and has never proven himself as a good player over a full season. He's one of those players who makes a career off a short period of quality years ago.

Would I bring him back — would I fuck!
Dan Parker, New York, US  (2/2/06)

Back to business?
I'm so looking forward to the next season, we've finally realised the importance of signing transfer targets quickly during the summer. I just pray that we're not disappointed again as we have been so many times before.

I really hope this season marks a return of Everton and a glimmer of a return to the School of Science.

Duncan who?
Daniel Parker, New York, US  (2/6/06)

Jeffers Loan Spell
Michael, the reason the Jeffers loan failed was because of a certain Wayne Rooney.

Jeffers had to sit on the bench and watch Rooney. Moyes was busy developing the world class talent of Rooney and maybe didn't give Jeffers the attention he needed.

Given more time Moyes could get the best out of Jeffers. Especially since Franny now appears an older and dare I say it more humble player.

And if Moyes can't nobody can.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (2/6/06)

Duth: rarely, you write something that makes sense. Mostly, you write sycophantic nonsense about how wonderful everything is. On this occasion, I have to admit you have excelled even your own pitiful standards. That is the most absurd load of utter garbage I think I have ever heard in my life! Surely there must be some other Everton forums you could torment with this rubbish? — Michael

Jeffers
I was so excited when Francis Jeffers first burst onto the scene. I remember I would keep newspapers and tape his goals on Match of the Day. When he dumped us for Arsenal I was so sad, it hurt so much that I think the pain stayed with me and softened the blow of Rooney leaving.

I have to admit a little part of me still has a fondness for Jeffers. As much as I hate to admit it, I would like to see him return to Everton and pick up his career. He's a free transfer and he will take a low wage to rejoin his 'beloved' Everton. We could then sell McFadden to raise funds.

Maybe I'm just being sentimental but I think Moyes is a good enough manager to get the best out of Franny. How about a new poll, should Jeffers be allowed to rejoin Everton? I vote he's worth a go.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (2/6/06)

Your nonsensical blather again raises the question: How did your hero fail so demonstrably then the last time Franny was here? Or look it at the other way: since Moyes clearly failed miserably to get anything whatever out of Jeffers last time the lad was with Everton, that proves beyond all shadow of a doubt the he is not the wonderful manager you keep telling us he is. — Michael

Our Best Player!
Just a little anecdote concerning my son, a bluenose from the moment he was born. We were in Keswick a couple of weekends ago, and as he was sporting his Everton hat, an older man at our table in the pub began to chat about football. He was from the Cotswolds, so it was easy to guess he supported Man Utd.

He said to my son (who is 8) - "My team took your best player." James looked at him quizzically for a moment, then said "Who, Dixie Dean?" The man's face was a picture, and me, my wife and the man's mate just burst out laughing. It seems Wayne has a long way to go in my lad's eyes!
Richard Orritt, Liverpool  (2/6/06)

Xenophobic
I appologise if I came across as xenophobic, believe me I am not. I am of Celtic extraction myself, but do not take back the line about Scottish football being second rate. Off-the-cuff remarks, as you put it, are often the basis of a person's true feelings and beliefs, it annoys me when an individual hides behind double-edged remarks and does not have the balls to say what they realy want to.
Dave Lynch, Merseyside  (2/6/06)

Er.. let's get back to talking about Everton, please! — Michael

Franny
I'd be amazed if we DID NOT take Jeffers back. He will have to eat humble pie and be, at very least, third choice striker. But pay him on a per game basis, and he MIGHT be able to resurect his career and also add competition for places.

Fair eneough, he should have done that when he came last time... but if he doesn't perform for us professionally he is fucked.

If nothing else, we can use him as an example to players such as Vaughan (touch wood this season) and Anichebe. He either works damn hard and is rewarded or carries on like a dickhead and fades into further obscurity - win, win.
Chad Schofield, Cirencester  (2/6/06)

Take it easy on the boy
Regarding all the "he's had his chance, sod him" statements about Frany, one would have thought he took a crap on the Everton badge, and gave the fans the finger after scoring the goal which relegated us.

I certainly can't remember anything like that. What I do remember is he played well enough for us to get into the England squad, that we sold him, at a pretty decent price, to a strong Arsenal team, where he did not get a look in. He came back, low on confidence, form, and languished on the bench, obviously kept out by our formidable strike force at the time. Sold on to Charlton... well, who knows what happened there?

Not saying we should take him, by any stretch, but don't see it as an earth-shatteringly implausible move either. See what happens. Look at Barmby. He was shunted around from pillar to post, by a number of clubs, going nowhere fast, got a real chance at Goodison, and for one season at least, did the business.

That's enough about him though.
Braam Oliver, Gaborone  (2/6/06)

Well, there was ths time when Everton played Arsenal, and Franny Jeffers came on... I guess you were still in Botswana? — Michael

The disappearing sponsor
I clicked on the link for Toffs.com on the side of your site to look at the retro shirts. Your link shows what is supposed to be the 1985 Euro Cup Winners Cup Final shirt but my question is: Why did we not have the sponsor's name on the shirt that night — although we did the Saturday before winning the league and the Saturday after in the FA Cup Final against Man Utd?

Also, the Toffs site shows two shirts, one in yellow and the other grey as being from 1986 with Hafnia on them but we were sponsored by NEC for the season 1985/86 so they must be earlier than that. Maybe you could print an up to date list of our sponsors and the seasons for anoraks like me. Or maybe you have a life.
Dean Peamum, Nashville, Tenn  (2/6/06)

For some reason, Statto Flanagan, who would normally lap up such a task, is not returning my calls... — Michael

In Reply to Colm
With reference to your comments regarding my previous letter, there is a big difference between Jeffers and Duncan Ferguson. Don't mention them in the same breath!!

Big Dunc was something special in the old days, and it was always felt by the fans that he was transferred to Newscastle against his will. Surely when he did return to Goodison he wasn't that injury prone as he was in the last two seasons of his career.

In Duncan's old glory days when he played against Liverpool they quaked in their boots. Perhaps that's why we all loved him to bits no matter what he did. For me Goodison will not be the same without him. Now, can you imagine me saying that about Jeffers — No! He had his chance last time and blew it!! Hard cheese!!
Pat Beesley, Carmarthen, late of Litherland  (2/6/06)

Tin hat being donned here Pat! But getting in the disclaimer first... I am not trying to suggest Franny is as good, or better, than Duncan Ferguson was. I accept that some see Duncan as a hero and won't hear a bad word said against the man. Even when I did love watching the Big Fella myself, I used to question his attitude and bemoan his many injuries etc. I was delighted with the price we got at the time from Newcastle. Wrong circumstances, his sale, but a cracking price! If Moyes does offer Jeffers a chance to make amends and he takes it... are you going to sit there, in Goodison Park, and actively not cheer him if and when he scores? Doubt it! — Colm

Johnson without the Argonauts
After the last few days of being happy (yeah I know..) being an Evertonian, the dust has settled — allowing me some serious thoughts about the season ahead. Effectively, Everton have replaced Ferrari and Ferguson with two players of equal and superior quality. That means we are still woefully short of numbers in the squad ranks.

Asking the Board to shell out even more money is unrealistic and dangerous for Everton's future. So the way to go is free or extremely cheap transfers. Now players like Jay-Jay Ocotha and John Hartson are ideal squad players who can fill the gaps when needed. Da Silva should return this summer so we should stock up on as many decent to good players possible. But no way should that mouse in the box Fanny (right spelling as far as I'm concerned) Jeffers be allowed anywhere near the place.

He is a little git who thought he was the biggest fish in a small pond, only to find himself swimming in a pool of spit! Sod him!
Luq  Yus, London  (2/6/06)

Take it then, Luq, that's he's off the Chrimbo card list?! — Colm

Jug-ears
Refering to Daniel Ford's contribution about Jug-ears, I think we can sign him and maybe pay him £5-8k a week (I think that's how much he's worth now) and let him play in some games as sub. Hopefully he could bang in 5 goals come January, then offload him to a Championship side for half a million.
Daniel Lim, London  (2/6/06)

Competition for places
For all the dithering on the transfer front last season and failure to capture the major targets who had been identified, recent dealings in the transfer market have provided a massive boost to the morale of supporters. The acquisition of Johnson and Lescott on contracts that are obviously within the remit of our wage structure and the improved contract offer tabled to Joseph Yobo have all been done before the start of the World Cup and we can look forward to the start of the season with some much needed optimism.

In looking at how we have strengthened in key areas, we have not only reduced the average age of the squad but provided competition for places in team selection. The only missing piece of the jigsaw in terms of squad improvement is a midfielder with the ability to compliment Mikkel Arteta. We are crying out for a Kevin Nolan-type player with pace, ability to track and tackle and score goals.

I have read some of the comments posted in that we have recruited Championship players with the risk that such an approach entails, but every transfer is an undoubted risk and we are clearly not financially viable enough or have the draw to attract players such as Riquelme, Ballack or any of the other foreign imports that are potentially available.

It was also interesting to note the situation with Arsenal's sponsorship of the Belguim side who they recruited Eboue from, maybe they arent whiter than white after all in how they operate.
Peter Laing, Liverpool  (2/6/06)

Nolan's one player I'd also like to see in the Everton midfield, Peter. As for the arising problems for Arsenal — not one bit surprised. Man Utd are another such club, with links to "feeder" clubs in Belgium providing a gateway to African players via old Belgian colonial links ensuring a permit to play in Belgium, the next step being an EU work permit. It's only the tip of the iceberg... — Colm

Spot on
I agree 100% with Tommy Garribaldi on plans for a new ground. I'd prefer to stay in Liverpool but they treated us like shite so Fuck them, let them squirm.

As for Jeffers, dream on loser. You're finished, end of story.
John Williams, Liverpool City  (2/6/06)

The whole issue over Everton moving outside the known City boundary is merely a piece of the jigsaw in this game of cat and dog, tit for tat... or whatever the hell it actually is. We'll only have a clearer picture of Everton's stadium plans once we know the outcome of Liverpool FC's plans for development on Stanley Park. — Colm

Welcome my son...
I see nothing wrong with taking Franny back. We'll get him for nothing, he is only 25, and can still get his career back on track.

Tie his salary to some appearance based clauses, and see whether the "fox in the box" can be rescued. He will be desperate to prove himself, and will work his backside off to get a game. He would be an idiot not to. (If he scores more than 5 goals, he'll be off to another club with deep pockets, and little sense. We win again!)
Braam Oliver, Gabs  (2/6/06)

Re Franny Franny Franny
We are clearly entering the eye of the silly season storm when Everton are the early transfer window sharks, McFadden wants a million, and I’m in danger of finding one of Dutch's posts uncomfortably accurate (and poignant). Maybe AJ fever has dimmed my usual tendency to scorn Dutch’s rosy world view, but what he said about The Fox in The Box was uncharacteristically shrewd. Just a shame he blew it at the end.

Franny was always his own worst enemy. As much as he was part of a group of potentially era-defining young Everton players ruined by Walter Smith, Jeffers definitely had it coming: a total dickhead who got WAY ahead of himself from minute one. While my blue heart questioned the credentials of a 'boyhood blue' who would repeatedly act like a selfish wanker, totally gobbing in the face of the values that the likes of Brian Labone epitomised, my blue head thought he was shit and just got lucky with a few goals. But Joe-Max Moore did that as well.

Even as mates from the Other Side enviously suggested that Jeffers was as gifted as Fowler (maybe they meant Arthur), when Arsene got the chequebook out I almost felt like I did with Bayern Munich, and all that. Just a shame that the financial killing the club made on him never materialised itself in anything worthwhile on the pitch.

Francis Jeffers's contribution to Everton folklore is that he represents one of the sadly few instances in living memory when we've had one of the big boys for mugs. Man Utd took a genius from Everton and torched the hopes of several generations of Evertonians. The Gunners signed someone who has just been released from a side that paid £2 million for Marcus Bent. But then again, Arsenal did have the last laugh with Dickie Wright.

There's probably a certain logic in cashing-in on McFadden, but bringing Jeffers back as a replacement would be too much of an uncomfortable reminder of the recent past. Maybe he'd take up the challenge, prove himself, and bag 20 next season and stuff my cynicism down my throat. Maybe he'd get the club crest tatooed on his cock. Maybe Moyes will re-sign Ian Wilson. Sorry Dutch, but I’m with Michael: Everton only have nothing to lose if they don’t pay him, unless it’s per goal.

If Everton do the unthinkable and bring him back, it would pour freezing cold water on the unusual optimism amongst Evertonians at the moment — something that surely even Bill & Co would realise was a bad business move.

But, plank that he is, I still think that Franny’s situation is really sad.
Andrew Conroy, Stoke-on-Trent  (2/6/06)

Allow me amoment of mirth. When reading the line "As much as he was part of a group of potentially era-defining young Everton players ruined by Walter Smith..." - did anyone else read that as an ear-defining era? No? Okay then, I'll get my coat... - Colm

Trotter
In reply to the last line in Ross Trotters letter. Listen, matey, keep you're anti-English remarks to yourself, or stick to following the joke football that is served up in Scotland. It really racks me off when idiots like you follow Prem football from a foreign country (they want devolution don't they?) and then start slagging off the national side. You're national side is a joke in football terms and so are half the players who come across the border, god knows we have enough of them. So do us all a favour and keep your'e outdated William Wallace ideoloy to yourself you childish fool.
Dave Lynch, Merseyside  (2/6/06)

I believe you didn't appreciate what appeared no more than an 'off the cuff' last line remark, in jest, from Ross Trotter then? And replied in kind, with the kind of xenophobia we'd rather not see! And if you're going to have a pop at the Scots, please ensure your spelling matches the Queen's finest English. Even if she is of Germanic extraction herself! ;-) - Colm

AJ
Welcome to Andrew (John Reid) Johnson. I hope he is the Andy Johnson who played for Crystal Palace. When he was at the Palace he was known as Prince Andrew. At Everton, he will blend in well with the likes of Phillip Neville Anthony Hibbert and Timothy Cahill.
Tony Dove, Stretton  (2/6/06)

Frannie... On yer Bike!!!
A big, big NO to Frannie Jeffers... let's not forget just how injury prone he is. Would we want to carry another player who would spend most of the time injured and who wouldn't fetch a good price if we tried to sell him again.

We did get £8 million from Arsenal when we originally sold him. That was the last laugh!! Let's just be content with that.
Pat Beesley, Carmarthen  (2/6/06)

I can't help but offer a wry smile hearing of Evertonians, literally, jumping through hoops, aghast at the thought of Francis Jeffers returning to Everton. Injury-prone! Attitude! Waster! All the names and labels you can imagine, he's called them. Didn't stop the Everton management bringing back Duncan Ferguson some seasons back.

Granted, circumstances were different but Duncan, throughout his career, was arguably more concerned about his pigeons; his fitness levels were at times a joke and his attitude (on the pitch) was at times simply baffling. Yet he's a hero.

Not saying that Franny's a busted flush but the fact that his thoughts aloud are featured on the Official website points to there being perhaps something to add to the whispers of the past couple of weeks hinting at a possible return. Guess it's a 'watch this space' moment... - Colm

Franny and Lescott
Just wanted to respond to a couple of Dutch's latest missives (and no Dutch, I'm not going to take the piss).

Firstly on Franny — I read the 'We Invented Football' (Sky Sports) link with interest. Franny says that he has no problem with David Moyes, and he made it up with him. Well, I'm chuffed for you, Glass Ankles, but I must have missed the bit where you said you wanted to make it up with the fans — after taking the piss out of us twice.

Even more hilariously, he says that he really fancies playing alongside AJ. Yeah sure, Jug Ears, Moysie will drop Beattie to accommodate you! If Jeffers could accept being third choice, at best, then maybe, just maybe, he'd be worth a punt (on a contract that says one peep out of you and there's the door). But we all know that won't happen as his ego matches the size of his ears...

The other point was on the 'alleged' story about Lescott getting stuck in where he shouldn't have, and getting his knees done in return. Can I be the first to suggest we nickname him 'Psycho' - in deference to our very own gangsta-shagger, Pat van den Hauwe?
Matt Traynor, Singapore  (2/6/05)

Left Winger Wanted, Alive. Reward £3M
Very happy to hear about AJ and Lescott who will hopefully sign asap, but I am just wondering who Moyes is goin to pick to play on the left side of midfield. Kilbane? no!, Davies? I'd rather have Stevie Wonder on a bike... but for some reason he is still picked by Moyes.
Graeme Martindale, Maghull  (2/6/06)

Moyes has said on many occasions that he considers Davies to be a very good player. A lot of fans just can't see it... so is Moyes daft or what?

Just what exactly did Simon Davies contribute to Everton last season? Answers on a fingernail, please. [And yes, that's what I would call sniping — with full justification too!] — Michael

Lower league players & grounds to move
What is it with the constant snipes about players from lower leagues 'stepping up' to a higher league, and will they cope!!

Where the 'ell do the snipers think the players already in situ in the Prem etc come from? None of them were born Prem players — they had to work at it and had to 'step up' through different levels. Even 'Wayne the Foot' was not born a Prem player, he had to climb thru the ranks to get to be a Prem player... So, stop goin on about it. Every player has to be given the chance at any level he reaches!!

Now, about the ground move: the City of Liverpool have treated Everton FC with utter contempt for years, (let's not forget who asked for Stanley Park first and were turned down flat), we asked for a few streets and a school to be relocated to allow Goodison to be resited, turned down flat again...

Any other city would have built the Kings Dock stadium and would have invited their football team to buy/rent on reasonable terms (Man City — prime example); not our city! I say TELL THE CITY WHAT WE WANT! — and if we don't get it, Knowsley/Sefton looks good to me!
Tommy Garibaldi, Aintree  (1/6/06)

Prem and stepping up: Perhaps I should have defined "Lower Leagues" (although I would have thought it was pretty obvious): the Football League Championship, League One and League Two. Individual players can be characterized with reasonable accuracy as belonging to one or other of these levels, based on their ability — asssuming as a given that they have reached the level of "professional".

So we're not talking about progression through the youth teams (e.g. Rooney... who is a perfect example because he has NEVER played for a lower-leagee team, and is highly unlikely to, based on his skill level. He proves you're wrong at a stroke: there are a significant number of players who have never played in the lower leagues and who go straight into the Premiership.

And then there are others who have spent many years in the lower leagues, or playing for lower league yo-yo teams. AJ and Lescott are prime examples. Now, they are joining a Premiership side. Ergo, they will need to "step up" their game in order to survive — or better, make a good impression in the rarified atmosphere of the Premiership.

It's not 'sniping': it's sensible, logical... intellectual.. (ooo I'm going all Supertramp now...) — Michael

Goodison Triangle
Much excitement at the Goodison triangle materialising so quickly without no dithering. New players to hang our hats on and all the Blues I have spoken to are happy with proceedings.

Reflecting on this, I note that we have acquired the services of a 'keeper surplus to requirements from a rival Premiership team, and two other players from the Championship. Before I get too carried away, I am eagerly awaiting the season's start to see if they live up to the present hype and please god they help make my matchdays much more enjoyable than some of the stuff served up last term.

I really do hope David has got this intake right. I wonder if more surprises are in wait for us!! UP THE BLUES!
Ken  Buckley, Buckley  (1/6/06)

Franny Franny Franny
I always used to blame Wally Smith and Bully Boy Knox for the sale of Francis Jeffers. There's no doubting Smith/Knox were useless with youngsters (Ball, Dunne & McCann will testify alongside Jeffers on that score) but now I'm starting to wonder if maybe Franny is to blame for his own downfall.

Since his sale to Arsenal, good managers like Arsene Wenger, Alan Curbishly and David Moyes have tried and failed to get the best out of Franny. Maybe it's arogance; maybe it's just a rotten attitude but Jeffers remains an enigma. And now aged only 25 the one-time £8 million England International finds himself without a club. It's clear Jeffers would love a return to Everton but is that ever realistically going to happen? His relationship with Moyes during the loan was rocky at best.

Jeffers is probably still as good as the improving-but-still-out-of-his-depth McFadden. Everton could draft in Franny and then sell McFadden to Rangers raising £1-2 million to help boost the purse after this summer spending spree.

In the past Moyes has overcome disputes and given a player a second chance (something he did after spats with Big Dunc & Alan Stubbs) but would Moyes willingly take on Franny again? For me the question is not should Everton resign Franny, he's on a free and we have a manager capable of handling him, we really have nothing to lose.

The question is does Franny deserve another chance at Everton?
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (1/6/06)

Nothing to lose? You only have nothing to lose if we don't pay him! The answer is clearly No: he defiitely doesn't deserve another chance at Everton (he's had two already, FFS!). But if some deal could be struck were he only gets paid if he scores goals (reserves and first-team), and as soon as he throws his toys again, he has to pay it all back and leave. Tough love!!! — Michael

Lescott
I was listening to the Greame Sharpe phone-in this evening and a Wolves fan who lives in the northwest rang in to say how gutted he was at losing Lescott to Everton. He remarked it was only when Lescott got injured that the wheels came off Wolves' promotion push. He is quick and strong and good in the air, which are all the attributes you need to be a modern day premiership player. All we need now is a commanding central midfielder and we have the back-bone in place for a good side.
Chaka Hughes, Liverpool  (1/6/06)

Are you saying he can actually head the ball? Fantastic! — Michael

Cautious Optimism
To be honest, I'm just pleased that our GREAT club has finally realised that to score any significant amount of goals in a season you need pace up front, so the signing of AJ is a welcome one. I for one am just glad that the most LOYAL and DIEHARD of fans are not being treated to another summer of empty promises and missed transfer opportunities. EFC 4 LIFE
Marlon Wilson, Ealing, London  (1/6/06)

I don't know that them Geordies would catch your drift there Marlon... — Michael

Lescott's Injury... The Truth!
Joleon Lescott is a really good player and I am so happy he is joining Everton. He's quick, has a great tackle and has a cultered passing ability.

I don't pretend to have any inside info on football and normally I don't listen to rumours but I do have a close friend who works for Wolves and I know the real reason Lescott was injured that entire season Wolves were in the Premiership.

Apparently, Lescott started seeing a woman who was involved with a really heavy character. Lescott was warned to leave the woman alone but stupidly he kept on seeing the woman. Anyway, this character sent a couple of the boys around to Lescott's home and they basically knee-capped him and Lescott missed the entire season Wolves were in the Premiership.

All that's behind him now though and apparently he's grown up a lot.
Dutch Schaffaer, London  (1/6/06)

That's a good one, Dutch. We'll be looking out for confirmation from the Youth Academy... — Michael

Lescott
Sorry to be picky but your reference to a £5.5 million fee on your page header is incorrect as the BBC article clearly states this as the amount Wigan offered for HUTH. I don't think Wigan even registered an interest in Lescott and by all accounts the agreed fee is nearer £4 million.

It is great to see Moyes strengthening his squad early this summer with three top quality additions thus far. I seem to recall only a week or so ago that Tony Marsh commented that we would never secure the services of the likes of Johnson etc with Moyes at the helm. A large slice of humble pie required I think.
Dave Jeanrenaud, Liverpool  (1/6/06)

The fee remains "undisclosed" (that wonderful excuse of "commercial sensitivity" no doubt), so no-one is saying what it really is. However, this Soccernet story mentions a fee of £5.5M, so we're going with that, Okay? — Michael

Jeffers
Not that I'm overly enthused by the thought of Jeffers Mk III (he had a chance and sadly hasn't lived up to his promise), but if he's inkling for a move back to his spiritual home surely he should be waxing lyrical about Moyes and not Wenger! Not exactly doing himself a favour, but then when has he ever?!?

Does anybody else think that Kenwright must have found some gold out there in the wild west??
Adam Carey, Berkshire  (1/6/06)

It's amazing how the lad Jeffers simply refuses to take responsibility of his own inadequacies, and yes that Wenger plug seemed well out of place... even if no doubt true.

I haven't analyzed the published EFC accounts in any detail, but it seems we must have been tapping some extra sources of "investment" to fincance both last summer's extravagance and this summer's exciting signings. It was a while ago, but Kenwright did make an eliptical reference to a "cash credit facility" that was there in our bank account already, if we should need it. The name of a certain Philip Green was mentioned, but Bill in response requested that that name not be mentuioned... read into that what you will.

But in answer to your question, NO: not the wild west. The only thing out there are impoverished Mexicans trying to cross the border, and diehard Republicans trying to stop them. Hmmm... sounds like a good plot for a movie...

Sorry, sorry, sorry!!
Sorry, Mr Marsh, for not crediting you with praising Everton. I'm sure you will be glad to know I don't do sewing — prefer to jump up and down on the terraces instead — and it's Mrs not Ms. Fair play, you put me nicely in my place — must be all that Cypriot sun making you sharper than me!!

Let's hope we sign a few more good players and we will all be jumping then!!
Pat Beesley, Carmarthen  (1/6/06)

Phew... I thought you might want him banned for blatent chauvanism... or worse! — Michael

One to go??
Have to agree with all the postings on the signings looking good so far; fingers crossed Lescott soon and existing players to stay. Anyone any thought on a creative midfielder on loan with a view to buy if we are skint?

Surely someone must be available somewhere. I have read very few bits about Da Silva and think he will go same way as Plessis, never seen and released elsewhere as not good enough. How about Gravesen on loan or someone else warming a big expensive bench somewhere?

If we ave a good season we could then negotiate a price to retain or if a bad season or they don't cut the mustard send them back.
Gavin Ramejkis, Upholland  (1/6/06)

Are you seeking today's FM award or what? — Michael

Overpriced?
Don't get me wrong, I'm really happy we signed Johnson, hopefully he'll be a fantastic signing — I'm sure he will. Lescott too.

But is anyone else bemused by the amount of money being paid to Championship teams for, particularly, English players?? It was the same with Nugent, they were wanting ridiculous money for an untested player.

This is the reason the Premiership is full of foreigners. I'm not sure how much we're signing Lescott for, BUT, he's only played a bit part for one season in the Premiership and they're looking for £5 million for him?? I think it's a bit of a joke.

The RS obviously paid over the odds for Robot Crouch too, I just think it's a bit ridiculous. This is not to say that I think Johnson won't be worth it, I'm just a bit worried we're blowing our transfer budget on players who are untested at Premiership level. I'm sure Moyes, Kenwright and Dutch know what they're doing and they have my full faith until they fuck it all up. They've obviously got AJ all enthuisiastic about joining us, so congratulations to them.

Here's hoping for a great summer cheering on Trinidad, Sweden & Paraguay.
Ross Trotter, Scotland  (1/6/06)

It's the going rate. Either you pay the money and play the game. Or you sit on the sidelines and watch while the likes of Bolton and Wigan pass you by. But I think you are right to temper expectations with valid warnings that players from the lower leagues can have a lot of difficulty stepping up. Yet there are examples of those who do make the transition. So, as ever, the real test is to come, when they get out there and play (provided they're not injured!!!), and we really see what they can do. — Michael

More Needed
Yes, it's great news we have finally got a striker worth watching at last. The only trouble is it's about two years overdue. Signing AJ has been a great morale-booster for Evertonians everywhere but let's not get to carried away. We still lack pace and creativity throughout the whole squad (Arteta apart).

Let's hope we don't play that horrible 4-5-1 with AJ the sole striker. My fear is that Johnson will become more and more isolated as we try to sit back and launch endless balls over the top for him to chase.

As for Ms Beesley, I did post a couple of days ago expressing my delight at our succsess in the transfer market but you probably missed that one as you where at a sewing class or something.

The thing is these new signings are a fantastic lift for all concerned at Everton FC but will they change our manager's perception of how the game should be played? Let's hope so or 10 new signings won't make a blind bit of difference if we continue to play as we did last season.

Any way, credit where credit is due to Wyness, Kenwright and Moyes for giving us the fans some pride back. The signing of AJ wasn't just a new player arriving — it was much more than that. It sends out a signal to other players and to other teams: We are back and we mean buisness!
Tony Marsh, Sunny Cyprus  (1/6/06)

Moving out of Liverpool?
There is discussion in the local papers about an option open to Everton to move to Knowsley and a reminder of a previous offer involving a move into Sefton. Various Everton supporters — more Evertonian than I — cos they have shares or are boss of some group of self-appointed cranks seem to support the idea of a move.

In this debate, just remember one simple thing. Everton FC are the originator, Liverpool FC the bastard son. Do not forget this. Everton's heritage lies within Liverpool. Not Kirkby, not Maghull.

Those who support a move outside of the city, likely for their own selfish motives, should be ashamed of themselves. Warren Bradley, Liverpool City Council stand up and do your job. Keep the Blues where they belong.
Mike Dunne, Toxteth  (1/6/06)

Given that city boundaries no longer mean very much as they are subject to the whim of politicians, does it really matter that much? Since so few people seem able to even write the word "Liverpool", they might just be a lot happier about it! — Michael

Jeffers
I was just wondering if there had was any mileage in the Jeffers rumours? Have any youth players been told about him?

He has come out and said he would love to come back? I personally feel someone like him on a free would be a decent signing.
Daniel Ford, Newcastle upon Tyne  (1/6/05)

I would say he had his chance with Moyes and he fluffed it. No going back. But this is football: stranger things have happened... — Michael

Humble Pie 2.......
"That's a quick U-turn on opinion! — Colm"

I wouldn't say U-turn as such. I'd say absolute amazement and delight at the apparent turnaround in the management of transfer dealings. I don't think anyone could blame me (and many others too) for the doubt we've showed after previous transfer dealings. But as I said in Humble Pie 1, credit where credit's due — and I'm enjoying being proved wrong. believe me. Keep the pie coming please !!!
Brian Williams, Wirral  (1/6/06)

I should go back and make a list of all the naysayers who predicted with such venomous confidence that Johno's transfer would never happen. Time to Name and Shame!!! — Michael

Top Six?
Players wanting to join Everton; Moyes getting his first-choice signings; our bids being accepted and not laughed at. I feel faint, I am not used to this, not for a long time.

Next, you'll be telling me Bill Kenwright has secured significant finance for the club and we can afford a new stadium of our owm, and Blue Bill can finally go home and get some sleep as he's been on the case 24/7 for at least 6 years.

Oaky, I'm getting way a head of myself here but, if things continue to progress well this summer, we should at the very least be targeting a top 6 finish, which is never unrealistic when you look at some of the dross that finished above us last year.
Ian Aspinall, South Shields  (1/06/06)

Let's not get too excited, Davey
I'm sure everyone is right to be excited about Andy Johnson. He sure does look cracking in some of the clips Ive seen.

However, what's this nonsense of trying to sign Jay-Jay? That sounds terribly like a Walter Smith move — remember Ginola and Gazza? Save the money, and spend it on trying to keep our apparently want-away centre-half Yobo. BTW, why do we need another centre-half anyway? Isn't Joey's contract for another year at least?

What we need now is a creative midfielder type, but I'll be damned if I know where he is to be found, or for how much. That's why we pay DM the big bucks!
Braam Oliver, Gaborone, Botswana  (1/6/06)

Yobo has still to sign a contract extension offered months ago. If he does not do it soon, the smart money says he will be shipped off sharpish while he still has some residual value... before he becomes a Bosman. — Michael

The lesser of two targets
Am I the only one to be unsure about the signing of Lescott? Sure, he may be the next Michael Dawson but he could be the next Les Dawson also! How many times have we heard a player is highly rated, yet ends up having a disappointing career? I hope he is the business for the money being spent on him, but I would have been much happier with Huth as he provern in the Premiership.

Dare I say this smacks a little of lacking ambition. Why? Because as soon as 'bigger' clubs than Wigan and Bolton bid for a player, Everton switch to an easier target. But still someone faster and stronger than Weir is an improvement! And wlecome, Garry, whoever you are.
Luq Yus, London  (1/6/06)

Garry is one of our editors who also runs the Forum but he has been out of action for a few months while in the process of relocating. — Michael

Optimism or belief
It's great that Everton are looking to strengthen their squad this summer but clubs like Chelsea and Man Utd have bigger squads. When all teams are at the starting line there's an equal chance of winning the league.

The beauty of David and Goliath is its simplicity. It's true that if someone can aim a stone hard enough at someone's head it can kill them despite the psychological disadvantage of being small. Signing players like Shevchenko gives Chelsea a psychological advantage but the truth is that all it takes to beat Chelsea is getting the ball into the back of their net and preventing them doing it back.

The only reason teams like Chelsea have big squads is to compete in Europe. There's no reason why we can't beat them at a domestic competition, our squad is big enough too. We can cross the bridge of having a bigger squad once we're in Europe year-in, year-out but we've got to shake off the belief that teams like Man Utd have a divine right to be at the top of the domestic league. Only hard work pays and arrogance rarely likes hard work.
Martin Cornforth, Liverpool  (1/6/06)

Optimism or belief, Martin? Blind faith I'd say! Your reasoning for a successful Everton side next season are fair comment — but we'll still be miles behind Chelsea. And some others. — Colm

Signings
We have got our striker and, if the story is true, we're about to get Lescott, which means we probably won't see Yobo in a blue shirt next season.

Now I'm very optimistic for next season with these 2 excellent signings but I hope DM is going to strengthen the midfield because if we can't control the midfield we will struggle. Sorry to put a dampener on things but I think most of you agree we need some creativity in there — apart from Arteta, we have no one else.

Anyway, roll on next season! Forever Blue!!!
Yusuf Bobat, Batley  (1/6/06)

Things are on the up!!
Bloody hell — I can't believe it! Things are on the up and looking great. Can't wait for next season and feel rejuvenated and full of enthusiasm, like a lot of us will do.

What a pity that EFC didn't make these or similar signings last year when we had the chance in Europe. A bit like locking the stable door after the horse has bolted but all is forgiven and I feel so excited!!

Notice we haven't heard anything from Tony Marsh or the other whingers... can they only hand out brickbats and no bouquets?
Pat Beesley, Carmarthen  (1/6/06)

To be fair we did sign Van der Meyde, Krøldrup, Neville, Davies, Valente and Ferrari in the last close season — and had only signed Beattie and Arteta in the January window a few months earlier, when European qualification was almost assured anyway. Sure it didn't work, and perhaps they weren't the signings we wanted but a conscious effort was made in our push for Europe last year. — Garry

Great News
Fantastic news that Lescott looks about to sign. Moyes and the Board appear to have finally got the hang of this transfer window lark!!!

I’m not going to make any predictions about what next season holds in store because I have got my fingers burnt far too many times in the past on that score. But we can only look to next season with a bit more confidence with the transfer activity that has taken place this last few weeks. Fair play to Moyes that he has obviously decided what his top transfer targets where for the summer and has managed to get them in the bag at such an early stage.

Something that cannot be levelled at Moyes is that he is too stubborn to change direction in a number of things. He clearly realised that he had made a huge mistake last year in not being as aggressive as he should be in relation to bringing in new players and he appears to have learnt from that and hit the ground running this summer. Sure, some may still say it is late in the day, but the guy is human and does make mistakes. What makes him stand out though is that he appears to learn from those mistakes and let’s not forget he is still finding his way in the management game.

I still believe that we have a gem in our hands in the shape of Moyes and hopefully through improvement that will come with the coming season we will start to build the foundations of a long-lasting return to the top half of English football. Well done Davey, you and the rest us can now go and enjoy our summer…and it’s only just into June!!!

Can’t wait now for 23 July at Celtic Park. Hope to see many thousands of excited Blues there as well!!!
Glasgow Blue, Glasgow  (1/6/06)

I don't think the transfer business is quiet finished yet, Glas. His hols can wait a little longer... — Michael

It's Five!!
Take a look at today's Telegraph acticle concerning AJ:

'Frustrating though that wait may be, Johnson will at least take considerable comfort from the fact that his return to the Premiership has now been secured after he signed a five-year contract thought to be worth in the region of £35,000 per week.'

Hole in the back
Firstly great news about the AJ great signing: he's quick, a good finisher, and someone who will run the channels for a change... Excellent!

As for Huth and Co... great! but we need to keep JoYo... otherwise we will be struggling again.

But why isn't he trying to get a right back? We have NO cover for Hibbo and during his 15-game average spell we need someone to put in there, and maybe they can teach him to cross a ball! Glen Johnson on loan — now theres a good piece of business!!
Rog Walker, Portsmouth  (1/6/06)

I think you'll find that both Pistone and Neville play right back. That should be adequate cover, as it's not like Hibbert is often out anyway. -- Garry

The Judas you mentioned
We got the money for Barmby, he got to the England setup whilst with us, he moved on and his career took a significant downturn. I find it impossible to group Barmby with Bilic and Nyarko, we had to absorb huge losses on the latter, whereas we got some money back on the former.

In a time when money was scarce £4.5 million for a stroppy tart Ghanain midfielder that doesn't know the meaning of the word "professional" was an awful lot of transfer fee to write off.

Similarly £4.5 million for some arsehole Croatian centre back who wasn't interested in playing except for his country was a hell of a lot of money to just write off also. He took his golden handshake of £1 million and pissed off back home.

I wish nothing but malice for these two cockroaches, they are both shameful episodes in the Big Book of Everton, neither were fit to soil our beloved blue strip in the manner they were allowed too.

Judas Barmby moved on, just like shithouse Speed, and a certain wunderkind that currently is recovering from a broken toe. Their only saving grace was that we received some money for them, and in a game now dominated by the state of a club's bank balance this elevates these turncoats slightly above the two parasites that bled our club for all they could get.
Teddy Niigma, Warrington  (1/6/06)

Err... Once a blue..??? Guess not in all cases, eh... — Michael

Wyness
I've read the pats on the back for Kenwright and Moyes over the signing of AJ and would like to add a big one to the guy I believe more likely had the biggest hand in the signing, Keith Wyness.

No doubt Moyes has identified the players that he would like to bring to the club, but he hasn't put up any money of his own to buy AJ. Kenwright just doesn't have the money so I doubt he's done no more than give an apoplectic nod of the head.

The man responsible for the business end of the wheeling and dealing to beg, borrow or steal the money for our new boy AJ and the impending third corner of the triangle (any cyber pints on it being Weir? Remember the 2 "new signings" last season!!!) is undoubtedly Keith Wyness.

Well done, Keith, and thanks for at least the anticipation of an exciting new season. (I just hope AJ doesn¡t get injured in Germany!!)
Eric Myles, Seoul, Korea  (1/6/06)

Keith did his job... which probably involed drafting or (more likely) approving the already drafted contract. The person we should really thank is not one of the Hallowed Triangle but a silent and supposedly secretive party by the name of Philip Green, who (rumour has it) stumped up the readies to make this one happen. — Michael