Season › 2015-16 › News Ryazantsev: Everton is more than just a project Lyndon Lloyd , 20 June, 104comments | Jump to most recent New Everton director Sasha Ryazantsev has been speaking on camera for the first time since he was appointed as Farhad Moshiri's man in the boardroom and he spelled out not only how important Ronald Koeman's arrival will be but also the plans for the club's future overall. Ryazantsev, a long-time business associate of Mr Moshiri and Everton's newest director, was interviewed briefly by Darren Griffiths at Finch Farm for evertontv and he confirmed that the board are delighted to have secured their top pick to succeed Roberto Martinez as Everton manager. “[Ronald] was absolutely our number one choice from day one of the search process,†he said. “It took us a while to get to him but in the end we have absolutely no doubt we made the right decision. “We are now one of the four northwestern clubs that have brilliant managers and [there's] such a concentration [of big clubs] in the northwest that we couldn't have fallen behind. Therefore, it was very important to get someone of that stature into the club. Article continues below video content “Bill Kenwright … has been the driving force for the last many years. Obviously, he is an Evertonian and it is very important for us to keep that culture. “We very much hope that the new manager will be the guardian of that culture as well and that we all move forward as a big Everton family.†Moshiri has embarked on what seems to be an ambitious process of reshaping Everton and restoring its image as one of the big players in the Premier League with plans for squad strengthening this summer and a long-awaited resolution of the stadium issue. Many have described his new investment in the Toffees as a “project†but Ryazantsev feels it's bigger and more long-term than that description suggests. “I don't know if ‘project' is the right word to use,†he continued. “It's probably more than that. Of course, we have the team, the performance of the pitch and, of course, we have the appointment of Ronald is the very first step we had to make in that regard. “But we have other projects like the stadium going forward as well and we very much want to win and be successful in whatever we do.†Reader Comments (104) Note: the following content is not moderated or vetted by the site owners at the time of submission. Comments are the responsibility of the poster. Disclaimer Damian Wilde 1 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:03:38 A combination of ambition (so we can win things) and 'The Everton Family' (so we retain our class) sounds a great mix.Good to finally hear him speak, I prefer him to Elstone! Brin Williams 2 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:04:52 Manna from Heaven! Absolute music to an old man's ears!!! COYB Sam Barrett 3 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:06:56 Looks like a KGB assassin, and ruthless as fcuk, he'll do for me! Helen Mallon 4 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:07:21 Oh I just hope we get that stadium on the docks Kim Vivian 5 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:12:47 This is sounding better and better. Guy looks properly serious as well.Any one wanting away from this could be kicking themselves in a few years..................Rom Peter Morris 6 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:17:15 Darren Griffiths has clearly gone to work on the education front. The penny is starting to drop. 'History', 'family', they are our words, not 'project'. I shudder when I hear that word in football parlance.Lukaku has used it in association with PSG, which says it all and as soon as it is banished forever from the narrative surrounding our great club, the better as far as I'm concerned. John Graham 7 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:26:33 Yes, he does look serious. Wouldn't want to get in an argument with him, think he means business. Kevin Rowlands 8 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:27:32 Did I just hear him say 'the stadium project'. It's happening isn't it, we're on our way back, I think long suffering Evertonians are going to enjoy the future they have in store fot us, I love it. Liam Reilly 9 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:31:52 Interesting that he sees the club on a par with the other3 northern clubs and not the plucky wannabe; which we are all sick of hearing.Big change is coming; hopefully the Docks is part of it as that will be streets ahead of of the regeneration across Stanley Park. Roy Noon 10 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:40:45 I must admit, I really dislike the use if the word 'project'. Tony Abrahams 11 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:45:18 By the way he keeps saying "we", I get the feeling, that we are going to be backed, by some very serious people.The stadium is key now, and I think where it is built, will tell us what kind of people we have got behind the scenes. Mark Ryan 12 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:48:09 Sam @ 3...just spat my tea out. Funny as fuck, wrong time to drink ! exactly what I thought. He looks as though he is about to pull out a Luger and say " your hands, up". Classic. Still laughing. Sam Barrett 13 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:56:10 Agreed Mark, I'm not going to get carried away just yet but something feels different about this new regime. You've just got to look at this guy compared to the gormless always smiling face of Bobby E. Phil Walling 15 Posted 20/06/2016 at 19:59:29 I like what I'm reading but let their actions earn the plaudits !We've had three years of bullshit and most lapped it up from the start. This time let's save the acclamations until we see points in the table and, as they said elsewhere, spades in the ground.Good luck to all involved - even our revered chairman. Dave Roberts 17 Posted 20/06/2016 at 20:48:16 Why do I get the impression that perhaps not even Mr Moshiri is the alpha male in this business which is looking more and more like a takeover and less like investment as each day passes.There seems to have been a lot of preparation undertaken long before the deal was done given the rate of change around the club. Terence Beresford 19 Posted 20/06/2016 at 22:31:44 We need to make sure the club knows it's the docks we want as our new home. Down the East Lancs Road can't be considered as a future site. Nicholas Ryan 20 Posted 20/06/2016 at 23:12:02 My mate asked: 'I wonder how long Sacha has been retired from the KGB?' The photo above, would suggest.... about 10 minutes!! Dan Davies 21 Posted 20/06/2016 at 23:13:21 Very promising. I said a couple of weeks back Everton needed to try and at least match the ambition of the other clubs in the north west managerial wise and Ryazantsev just confirmed it was in their thinking. I'm happy.Looks and sounds like a bloke who says what he means and means what he says. He seems sharp, I can see why Moshiri has put him in place. Interesting this, I'm impressed.Mentioned the stadium too, judging off first impressions this Ryazantsev doesn't seem the type to talk bollox so expect a new stadium. Actions speak louder than words so watch this space......Docks for me! Mike Prendergast 22 Posted 20/06/2016 at 23:38:06 Having to pinch myself. Is it my imagination?? Or since the new investment / takeover. Club affairs have a different feel to them. The old spin and waffle replaced by straight talk. Sound bites and PR stunts replaced with silence.Personally I find this new business like approach intoxicating. Jackie Barry 23 Posted 20/06/2016 at 23:42:20 Even our Bill sounds different, has he been told to fall into line. Morshiri seems to have made it clear that he is running the show. Steve Guy 24 Posted 20/06/2016 at 23:46:27 Mate of Usmanov clearly.....I think the latter could be on board before we know it...... Eric Holland 25 Posted 20/06/2016 at 23:53:21 Steve stop it!! I wont be able to sleep tonight. Andy Crooks 26 Posted 20/06/2016 at 23:54:46 I bow to no one in negativity, cynicism and glass half emptiness. Yet, I have a good feeling about all that is happening at our club. Bring on the change. Anton Walsh 27 Posted 20/06/2016 at 23:56:15 I wish we had a way of showing how important the Dock stadium means to the supporters. Colin Glassar 28 Posted 21/06/2016 at 00:09:15 Eastern Promises? Laurie Hartley 29 Posted 21/06/2016 at 01:09:23 I have had a good feeling about our new investor since day one and it keeps on getting better.Farhad does his speaking very subtly.Duncan Ferguson is to stay - he is saying to the tea lady and all the other people whose living depends on their jobs at Everton your jobs are safe.Bill Kenwright does the press interview to announce Ronald Koeman as our new manager - He is saying he respects Kenwrights contribution and love for the club - you can see your days out with us.His money man and lieutenant on the board Sasha Ryazantsev tells us that "we" are not going to fall behind the other 3 north western clubs but we are going to compete with them, that the stadium project is real, and that the culture of the club is important to the new people. As an aside when I looked at the interview on the official website I spotted the item about the kids from Chernobyl visiting the academy for the 11th year on the trot. I wonder if our Russian benefactors new about that before the investment - I suspect so. That sort of thing makes me feel very proud to be an Evertonian. This is a great club a with a great heart. Tony Williams 30 Posted 21/06/2016 at 01:28:34 It has to be the Docks. Derek Thomas 31 Posted 21/06/2016 at 01:35:14 'Speak softly and carry a big stick' popped into my mind. I had it in my mind as - 'talk softly' and wiki-ed it for the right version and then I kept on reading.U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt's foreign policy: "speak softly, and carry a big stick." Roosevelt described his style of foreign policy as "the exercise of intelligent forethought and of decisive action sufficiently far in advance of any likely crisis".[1]The idea of negotiating peacefully, simultaneously threatening with the "big stick", or the military, ties in heavily with the idea of Realpolitik, which implies a pursuit of political power that resembles Machiavellian ideals.It's a change from - 'knives to gun fights' and 'phenomenal philosophy's' Teddy Bertin 32 Posted 21/06/2016 at 02:01:24 Good interview. My god, is it happening? Are we could turning into a well run club with genuine ambition? Dennis Ng 33 Posted 21/06/2016 at 05:09:51 All the right moves and signals so far Laurie (29). Exciting new season to look forward to with the good parts of our identity still there. Koeman does the talking on the team, Kenwright and Ryazantsev on the rest (until we get a DoF I guess). A lot of good things to look forward to in the slow summer. I don't know if we will have "Russian benefactors" but serious muscle pulling the strings there so perhaps more coming forward at some point. Jim Lloyd 34 Posted 21/06/2016 at 06:25:51 I haven't heard a peep out of Elstone so far! :)I think this lad Sasha Ryazantzev, is the real deal and thought his performance in the interview was excellent. No bragging bullshit, just a clear, unambiguous response of what the Board's intentions are. He also made it clear that Farhad Moshiri is determined to keep aflame the spirit of Everton Football Club, and that he is fully capable of pushing forward Farhad Moshiri's aims. Impressive and I liked the bit where he replied "Everton is more than a project." spot on! I keep thinking back to Mr Moshiri's piece in the programme against Chelsea and forgive me if I paraphrase (can't find the sodding thing) "I will give this Club all that I have" I think he meant "I will give this Club my all" but won't object either way!Like you Laurie, I've had a good feeling about Farhad Moshiri since reading his piece in the programme and it just keeps getting better and better. Sasha's "We are not going to fall behind the other 3 north western clubs" is a clear statement of intent and I've no doubts that Mr Moshiri will ensure that everyone at the club will do their best to make it so.I can't help thinking that there might well be another Russian who sees Everton as a club where great things can be achieved. Don't have to tell me that he's bought 30% of Arsenal's shares but my guess is he not prepared to just sit on his thumbs at that club much longer. I think though that he has given his pal the funds to buy into EFC. I think that he will likely be frustrated as anything with Kroenke and might well flog his shares. I would not be surprised to see Mr Usmanov to follow his mate "Up North"I'm happy enough with Mr Moshiri being the main man at our club but I look back to that open letter they both wrote. As it is, there has been actions and, so far, they have been decisive. Brian Wilkinson 35 Posted 21/06/2016 at 06:38:12 His first job should be a meeting with Martinez about his £10 million, after Booby accepting a lesser payment, or a horses head on his pillow.Then a meeting with Liverpool council on when they will give us the docks.This guy looks the business, not one to take shit, may be Russian, but pretty sure he carries a Violin case around with him. Jim Lloyd 36 Posted 21/06/2016 at 06:54:33 Brian, I think he's done some important jobs since becoming a director but I also think Booby...is a very brave man!I think it's Peel Holdings who have the land on Clarence Dock. I seem to remember that they at one time said they wouldn't have a Stadium down there. Can't remember exactly but it was raised a few years ago...maybe in the Echo. Colin Glassar 37 Posted 21/06/2016 at 07:50:43 Elstone has been demoted to office boy, Jim. He makes the coffee/tea, puts the bikkies on plates, sharpens pencils etc..... Crazy Ivan is in charge now and things will never be the same again. Eugene Ruane 38 Posted 21/06/2016 at 07:53:08 Seems to be adopting the same philosophy as the Russian hoolies - all business. None of this getting bladdered, dancing about on your tip-toes with your arms outstretched. More like stay sober and focused, get in, get out, get the job done, leave your opponents wondering what happened. By the way, that is just an analogy, I don't condone violence of any sort (although will admit to chuckling after seeing some of our shaven-headed, tattooed hoolie cavemen complaining about the Russians being too rough). Willliam Bruce 39 Posted 21/06/2016 at 07:54:00 “But we have other projects like the stadium going forward"This is the part I like... note 'projects' in plural.I wonder what they have in mind, interesting times indeed. Ben Dyke 41 Posted 21/06/2016 at 08:04:17 Can't wait for the new season. New money, new attitudes, new ambitions, new manager, new players, new focus, new tactics, new style, new stadium eventually - wow! Laurie Hartley 42 Posted 21/06/2016 at 08:12:34 Jim # 34 - I couldn't see a businessman of Alisher Usmanov's stature going "all in" on a new investment without testing the water first - especially if he had a substantial investment in a rival enterprise.Based on Sasha Ryazantsev's interview I would say the water has been tested.I am also convinced that Alisher Usmanov trusts Farhad Moshiri implicitly and that they are partners in the truest sense of the word. I wonder what Stan Kroenke makes of all this?Winners are grinners - and I have got a smile on my dial like a Cheshire Cat. We're back and they better watch out. Steve Barnes 43 Posted 21/06/2016 at 08:19:20 Tony (11) - "The stadium is key now, and I think where it is built, will tell us what kind of people we have got behind the scenes."Completely agree. Years of stomping round in circles due to lack of funds, and (quite literally) Red Tape have scuppered any hopes we ever had - be very interesting to see how negotiations go (and how quickly) now that Mr Moshiri and his team are involved....Oh, and just on the off chance that someone from his team might be reading this banter board (you never know...), Docks area please. Robert Elliott 44 Posted 21/06/2016 at 08:21:41 Sounds like he may have put the frighteners on Rom's loudmouth agent. The latest quotes from the Lukaku camp suggest that "Something has changed at Everton. There's a new project there" Ian Jones 45 Posted 21/06/2016 at 08:37:02 The way things are going I expect the new stadium will rise from the ground/river and be in situ for the start of the season. Ben Mackenzie 46 Posted 21/06/2016 at 08:59:08 And Lukaku's representative Mino Raiola said: "Everton don't need money anymore. Romelu wants to play for a club that can win trophies. "Something's changed at Everton: there's a new project. If he leaves, it's has to be a good deal for all parties involved."Taken from the Evening Standard. Big u turn from Raiola it seems. Nathan Rooney 47 Posted 21/06/2016 at 09:09:42 Ben #46 - seems to me that Sascha and the boys have had a quiet word with old Mino - Sascha has definately got a bit of ex-KGB about him!If Rom has any sense, he too will change his tack when openeing his gob in future to the media in France, or he could be in a spot of bother with the new firm!Cant help but love the things these guys are saying, and I see no reason why they wont back the talk with actions - already things seem to be moving at a pace that Kenwright and co couldnt and wouldnt dream of.Onward Comrades! Mike Green 48 Posted 21/06/2016 at 09:12:15 The longer that interview went on the more I was drawn into it - gripping stuff...When he talks of it taking a while "to get to him" (Koeman) it's almost like they put a contract out! Clearly not taking "no" for an answer this lot.Lots of other nice touches (keeping our culture and Koeman being the guardian of that, Everton family, we have ongoing projects within us (team/stadium) but Everton are much more than that, couldn't have fallen behind our neighbours indicates the belief that we are out to compete, contend and beat them, the sense of excitement at the thought of the first game and getting out of the blocks) - and behind the laughter and the smiles what looks like pure steely determination......and it all seemed very seriously believable. Peter Morris 49 Posted 21/06/2016 at 09:15:14 He looks about 12 with his bum fluff sidies but portrays and air of steely resolve and absolute confidence in what he is doing. Impressive debut. Sam Hoare 50 Posted 21/06/2016 at 09:28:13 All sounding quite promising isn't it?! How unfamiliar.The u-turn from Lukaku's agent suggests that the ripples of change are being felt by even the most thick skinned. If Lukaku stays and we add another top 3 or 4 players worth £100m then I will start to get very excited about what we could achieve next season. Martin Nicholls 52 Posted 21/06/2016 at 09:30:32 Was talking to some Leicester fans in pub outside the Kingpower before their "coronation". Despite having won the PL they still couldn't believe it was happening to them. I feel the same about what is happening at our Club! Onwards and upwards! COYB Ben Mackenzie 53 Posted 21/06/2016 at 09:34:20 Very, very exciting times ahead for us long suffering blues. Phil Walling 54 Posted 21/06/2016 at 09:36:53 Colin, you do get carried away, don't you ? How can you possibly know 'Elstone has been demoted to office boy' ?Last time I looked, his role as Chief Executive had been confirmed for the conceivable future and he had been appointed to the Board. No doubt with a decent rise thrown in.Like it or not, he continues to be responsible for the day to day management of the Club whilst BB, Moshi, Sasha and Woods -particularly the newcomers- are the governance team (policy makers).The imminent appointment of a Director of Football will likely bring an end to Bill's role as 'Conductor of Transfers'and thus diminish his influence even further. Hopefully we have heard the last of his tear-stained sentimentality in respect of such matters !But please, don't expect too much too soon. Koeman will have his work cut out to make anymore than top six or seven and even if a deal is done for land on which to build we know from past experience that planning and bureaucracy takes its time.So, a promising start indeed but please don't let the dream fade on the alter of impatience. Meanwhile, Elstone focusses on servicing the more demanding agenda of his new bosses. Jim Lloyd 55 Posted 21/06/2016 at 09:49:09 Ah, Colin, it's bloody great innit! Laurie (42) I couldn't agree more, with all that you say; and I think Mr Kroenke is beginning to get rather worried. What is striking to me is that Everton, in a few short weeks, are exuding dignitas in the way we do business. Certainly we are now being taken seriously (even by Rom's big gob super agent) by more and more of the press.I don't think it was just by waving cash that we have captured Ronald Koeman. Yes we are paying him well; but if I remember aright, we made David Moyes one of the most well paid managers in the Premier League. I believe he was impressed by what Farhad Moshiri has planned for Everton.Bill Kenwright was excited by Roberto's vision. The difference now is Ronnie Koeman is excited by Farhad Moshiri's vision.I don't expect Everton have been in anything like this state since Sir John Moores was at the helm. What I find very impressive is except for his message to us in the Chelsea programme, Farhad Moshiri is letting actions speak.I think the issue of the Stadium will be interesting. I seem to remember Peel Holdings saying once, that they would not have a Stadium on their property. But Joe Anderson has mentioned it as a "wouldn't it be great" sort of statement. I think now, Peel Holdings may well consider that there is a potential partner who can make things happen "Down at the Docks." Dave Abrahams 56 Posted 21/06/2016 at 10:03:32 Nearly fifty pieces on this thread and everyone in agreement about the way Everton are operating under Mr. Moshiri ( and partner ? ),is this a record for Toffee web? Ian Burns 57 Posted 21/06/2016 at 10:30:39 I am loving this - just loving it. I think RK signed then the Russians released his family!Ben - 46 - Lukaku's agent has got the message alright, lining his own pockets with a higher bid from the "European powers" or a fat increase if Rom stays, along with his 25% cut. Slimy tw*t. Damian Wilde 58 Posted 21/06/2016 at 10:34:38 "Mate of Usmanov clearly.....I think the latter could be on board before we know it......"People keep mentioning Usmanov, what, because you heard it on twitter? No links whatsoever.Oh and docks land is owned by Peel Holdings, not the City Council.Very pleased so far with the new majority share holder and his sidekick, let this continue. Steve Guy 59 Posted 21/06/2016 at 10:47:13 Damian, I don't do Social media, but I can conjecture just like anyone else. Jim Lloyd 60 Posted 21/06/2016 at 10:55:12 Damien, who's talking about on twitter links? I've never heard read or wanted to get immersed in that aptly named communication vehicle. The possibility is there,though, that Mr Usmanov will grow frustrated, (if not already) at the situation at Arsenal. As I understand it, for all his 30% of the shareholding, he has no power to influence events at that club.The open letter that he co - signed with Farhad Moshiri, indicated that he wanted to become involved in the running of that club, and that seems out of the question.Whether he sells his shares in Arsenal and becomes a shareholder in Everton, we will wait and see. My guess on the matter however, is that he would see Everton as an attractive proposition to become involved in.If he doesn't, then we've got a feller who looks like he can manage quite successfully in taking this club forward. Kevin Day 61 Posted 21/06/2016 at 10:56:22 I just wished a Mr Harold Mathews was around to witness the start of this new era, great Evertonian.... RIP true blue... Mike Green 62 Posted 21/06/2016 at 11:00:17 "Everton don't need the money anymore but Romelu wants to play for a club that can win trophies.“[However] something's changed at Everton. There's a new project. If he leaves, it has to be a good deal for all parties.""Romelu certainly has the qualities to play in Italy. But as the Italian landscape currently looks, there's no team that can afford him. He is too expensive for Serie A."“Only a global power can pay for him. The top clubs in England, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain."Which reads...."Rom, we're going to have to whack the brakes on here... you wont believe this but we could be sitting on the golden goose at Everton... I know, I know, I know what I said but I think I could be wrong. Look, lets not cut our noses off to spite our face, we could both be onto a good thing here... Lets make a gentle retreat... use Everton as a backstop just in case... and send out another little "come and get me" just to push your wages up and let everyone else know we're still up for fucking Everton off at the first opportunity if the moneys right. Is that OK? You say your Dad's sticking his thumbs up....? Great, I'll get onto it." Parasites. Laurie Hartley 63 Posted 21/06/2016 at 11:02:54 Damian # 58 # - "no links whatsoever". Quite correct and also not surprising.As far as the dock land is concerned if Farhad Moshiri wants to build a stadium there he will get our pal Sasha to make Peel a (financial) offer they can't refuse. Patrick Carty 64 Posted 21/06/2016 at 11:07:11 Let the project commence!!! Jim Lloyd 65 Posted 21/06/2016 at 11:16:32 Haha! Laurie, as long as we don't change Johnny Todd to "The Godfather." Laurie Hartley 66 Posted 21/06/2016 at 11:18:24 Kevin # 61 - Yes indeed. He would have a list of potential signings made up for the new gaffer and a detailed report on the potential of the youngsters coming through the under 18's and 21's. I miss his posts. David Chait 67 Posted 21/06/2016 at 12:08:57 Was thinking the same just last week Kevin... Would have loved to read his take on all this... with everything that could possibly be said ..well said.. he still would have added something new.. definitely missed! Tony Abrahams 68 Posted 21/06/2016 at 12:15:24 Just imagine the exodus over to New Brighton, before we play our first game at EVERTON'S DOCK. Just getting the train over to New Biff, so we can get the ferry back, and all sing "we are sailing!"I can't wait for the last verse, when we finally pick up the European cup, 35 years after we were through out of this cup for nothing! Julie Oliver 69 Posted 21/06/2016 at 12:40:39 I think there will be some ups and downs, but the club is 100% moving forward again. The future is blue.Let's all get behind the team and manager no matter what this season, I think it will be the most important thing. Andy Meighan 70 Posted 21/06/2016 at 12:46:31 Imagine watching that stadium being built on the docks step by step. Dominating the skyline. Patrick Murphy 72 Posted 21/06/2016 at 13:13:36 I am very optimistic about the future of Everton FC, perhaps a little over optimistic if truth be told, so I, like many other Evertonians always have a nagging doubt when it comes to anything to do with the club. I fear that our optimism isn't based on anything concrete as yet, and we may all be setting ourselves up for a massive fall. Yes, we have appointed a well known manager and yes the positivity is clearly higher than it has been for many a year, but apart from changing the manager and a much needed spruce up of the façade of Goodison Park, since the end of last season, nothing has actually been achieved so far. By the end of August we shall see which players have been purchased and sold, and that will give us all a better indication of what the future may hold. As silly as it seems the proposed transfer fund of £100m is not that fantastic an amount of money, given that some players are being priced at £25m plus e.g Troy Deeney at Watford. As for the ground moves, nothing of any note has been announced, aside from the possible sites being identified. The presence of Bill Kenwright as the Chairman at Goodison Park, will continue for at least another two years, unless something dramatic happens with regard to the ownership in the coming months. Robert Elstone may not have uttered a significant word in the last few months but he remains the CEO and his position has been enhanced since the new man bought into Everton FC. It is fair enough, for Evertonians to have dreams at this point in time, but if all of those dreams don't reach fruition as soon as we would like, we mustn't revert to barracking those in charge, as they haven't yet made it abundantly clear what their plans are or how they are going to achieve them. I happen to believe that many of the things we have wished for, for so long, will in time be delivered but that's not based on any real tangible evidence, just a gut reaction and I honestly hope that my 'sixth' sense is not way off beam. Dennis Ng 74 Posted 21/06/2016 at 14:12:28 Patrick, how often is your 6th sense wrong? Cautious optimism all around after so many failed beginnings but so far, results are put before talk. Promising to say the least.Kevin, so many good things happening or in the works, Harold will be happy and proud wherever he is. Alec Smith 75 Posted 21/06/2016 at 14:20:41 Can you imagine an Everton side where there is a little bit of defensive grit? Where Stones is back to looking like his world beating best, where Barkley has got his mojo back, where Lukaku has had the laziness kicked out of him and we see the confident attacking runs of Mirallas and Deulofeu?And we haven't even spent a penny yet! Michael Coffey 76 Posted 21/06/2016 at 14:30:57 The remark that stood out for me was the reference to bill "... He is the driving force, errr, has been the driving force..." Colin Glassar 77 Posted 21/06/2016 at 14:33:33 Anyone else worried that you might just drop dead, get knocked over, get hit by an asteroid etc..... just before all the fun starts? I do. I'm going to make a doctor's appointment just in case. I don't want to miss any of this. Victor Jones 78 Posted 21/06/2016 at 14:36:37 So far, since Martinez departed I am liking everything that I am hearing. It sure beats the nonsense that Martinez spouted.The club is now talking the talk. Roll on August so we can walk the walk. Sorry for the 1970s jargon..Should Lukaku stay? Or should we cash in on him? I don't know. Should he actually stay then no downing tools. This guy could score 30-plus goals should he actually look interested and apply himself.Play for the team, make a real difference, make his goals count, win football matches. Up the Toffees. Richard Dodd 79 Posted 21/06/2016 at 14:51:51 Some of these soundbites sound very similar to the reactions to Bobby's optimism just three years ago! Whilst I have high hopes of the new regime, they have much to prove and talk is very cheap. Let's see a few signings made and a few points in the bag before getting carried away, eh? Mike Galley 80 Posted 21/06/2016 at 14:54:39 I've seen on here, and other threads, people mentioning Usamov coming to our club. Is there anything in this or is it just people's hunches (hopes?). Anyway, as most have already stated, there's definitely a different 'feel' to the club right now. Ian Hayes 81 Posted 21/06/2016 at 15:19:43 Other selling points that would have appealed to Moshiri et al. are: The Academy, the training facilities, youth development, Everton in the Community, the Chernobyl kids trips, the Former Players Foundation, our rich history of "firsts" and successes, and last but not least the Dr David France Collection. When I hear of big clubs like Barcelona, PSG, Juventus etc., coming to look at our facilities, and emulating our Community and FPP work, it always fills me with great pride. I really want to believe that this is the Tipping Point (read Malcolm Gladwell) for our club to be a true world great once again. Dennis Ng 82 Posted 21/06/2016 at 15:36:10 Colin 77, we need to put every Evertonian in bubble wrap then, the fans, the management, the players, possible future investors. That's a lot of bubble wrap. Or cotton wool.Mike 80, it's all speculation at this point, people connecting the dots between what's happening at Arsenal and what his buddy Moshiri is doing here. I think I read a few ITKs that vehemently denies such a situation happening. Even if it's all Moshiri's doing alone should be exciting enough. Victor Jones 83 Posted 21/06/2016 at 15:36:51 This is all about results on the football pitch, IMO. That's all I care about. Other things will take care of themselves. Nothing any of us can do about anything so let's hope that our new major shareholder is here for the long term. Let's hope that he gets everything right. I (like everybody else) was completely pissed off with Martinez's tip tap fucking tippity tap football. Two 4-0 defeats to Liverpool, losing for the first time ever to Swansea, Fortress Goodison destroyed. The list is endless. I wished that I could have walked away.but I can't. But I got to a stage were I did not much really care. That is Martinez's legacy, for me. Making hard nosed supporters not care. Only Martinez's Everton has made me feel like that and I have seen a few poor Everton teams. I know that a number of you ToffeeWebbers felt the same. Rant over.Surely everything now will improve under Koemans management. Surely now there will be no more Kones and Niasses at Everton. Surely now players will be played on merit; no more passengers. Surely we will improve on last season. Surely now we will beat all teams below us and give the top teams a good run. And surely now we will never have to endure any more shit gobbledeegook press conferences....just plain talking from now on. My sixth sense tells me that we might just do something special this season. But there again, I couldn't back the winner in a one horse race. Up the Toffees. Damian Wilde 85 Posted 21/06/2016 at 16:27:56 Jim, re: Usmanov. So you think there is a 'possibility' of him coming because you think he's getting frustrated? The force is strong, eh.Laurie, re: Docks, hope so! But perhaps you were also alluding to the possibility that Sasha and his boys may 'persuade' Peel representatives? Mike Galley 86 Posted 21/06/2016 at 16:32:37 Thanks Dennis. Paul Mackie 87 Posted 21/06/2016 at 16:34:26 Damian - I'm not best mates with Usmanov, but he did write an open letter to Arsenal's board bemoaning the fact that despite being a 30% share holder he didn't (and still doesn't) have a seat on their board. I think it's safe to infer that he's probably still frustrated.Arsenal is probably what he really wants, but with Moshiri (who is best mates with him) now having a proxy on Everton's board, it's not too much of a leap to think that he might just sack Arsenal off at some point. Jimmy Salt 88 Posted 21/06/2016 at 16:38:17 With regard to the stadium location , I drive home along the east lancs and there is loads of work going on on the road.Coincidence ,, I hope so, docks for me all day. William Cartwright 89 Posted 21/06/2016 at 16:41:36 Alec, add the swashbuckling runs of Coleman, the sheer style of Baines focused on free kicks and penalties, of a forward looking McCarthy with a reconditioned engine, and a new goalie . . .Why don't we listen to Big Nev and consider Wayne Hennessey? If he is good enough for Wayne, he is good enough for me!s? If h Brin Williams 90 Posted 21/06/2016 at 16:58:25 WC 89 I've been advacating Henessey for some time - call me biased - but the last countryman of mine was the best there has been, certainly at Everton and if he recommends a keeper - it's good enough for me. Nicholas Ryan 91 Posted 21/06/2016 at 17:25:00 Rom to agent: 'Go and tell Cuddly Bill we're off to PSG...' Agent goes off. Rom to agent: 'What did cuddly Bill say?' Agent to Rom: 'I never got to see cuddly Bill... there was just some KGB assassin, with Duncan Ferguson standing behind him! Rom to agent: 'What did they say?' Agent to Rom: 'Absolutely nothing... just stared in silence!' Rom to Agent: ' So what do we do?' Agent to Rom: 'We're bloody-well staying!' Damian Wilde 92 Posted 21/06/2016 at 17:40:41 Paul, so Usmanov is frustrated with the Arsenal board and is mate's with Moshiri - still shows no tangible evidence whatsoever that he may come to Everton. Simply 'pie in the sky'. Paul Black 94 Posted 21/06/2016 at 18:28:25 Damian, 92...If you check Alisher Usmanov on Wiki, you'd see they've been partners for years and as I've said a few times before, I'm sure it was mooted in the very early days, Usmanov was to follow Moshiri.Alisher was listed by Forbes(?) in 2005(?) as the richest man in Russia and a bit later(?) as the second richest man in the UK. You'll have to check it for the correct details but it's an interesting read. I hope this helps. Jim Lloyd 96 Posted 21/06/2016 at 18:56:47 Damian. Yes I think there is a "possibility" that Mr Usmanov could consider Everton as an attractive alternative to sitting on his arse and waiting for Monsewer Kroenke to invite him onto the Board. It is also a possibility that he's happy as a pig in shit at the Arse. Who knows, but men like that are not renowned for being followers.Paul (87) It doesn't seem to me that you were presenting evidence, as that is usually only presented when a conclusion is reached. I'd think that Mr Moshiri is fully capable of negotiating and carrying out, any development proposal with Peel Holdings, should they be open to such a development taking place. but (like you) I wouldn't be massively surprised if Mr Usmanov become involved.As for those who are worried that some are being overly optimistic, it looks to me that most posts are really glad the way things are taking shape. That we have a manager who is a proven winner as a footballer and has a decent record in the premiership and other leagues, and is probably the best we could hope to recruit. We have a director of the club stating that "we couldn't have fallen behind." Those words were not chosen at random, and in my view the statements are unambiguous. That's cause for optimism, though cautious optimism, on both the playing side and the stadium issue.I'd be happy to see our team come out and have the attitude "You're going to have to beat us because we'll give you nothing but a cup of tea" as Shankly was reputed to have said. That they fight for the whole 90 minutes and all have a go at winning their individual battles. That they get stuck in and stop being "nice!"Hopefully we will bring in a few good quality players and I'll be happy if we make progress in the first season to around 7th, to maybe fifth.Ther ground? well, the is the point that Peel holdings may not want a stadium, as that was their previous stance and nothing to the contrary has surfaced. But perhaps now, they might consider there is more of a likelyhood of it not being "Pie in the Sky." But if it doesn't happen down at the docks, I could see progress being made on the redevelopment of GP. Stonebridge Cross looks iffy to me. Brent Stephens 97 Posted 21/06/2016 at 19:17:34 Usmanov's frustration at Arsenal is more than the kids' twittersphere stuff. I think it's reasonable to think he might well buy in to Everton. David Willett 98 Posted 21/06/2016 at 19:45:58 Sorry, Laurie Hartley (#29) and Ian Hayes (#81). Chernobyl is not in Russia (at the moment) but Ukraine. Dave Ganley 99 Posted 21/06/2016 at 20:38:39 Patrick #72 I agree with your sentiments and also a tad wary, as is the Evertonians lot when faced with as much disappointment as we have over the years. However, I am ridiculously excited and desperately trying to keep a lid on outrageous expectations for the coming season. I haven't felt this excited since the 80s. There appears to be tangible evidence that something special is going to happen over the next few years. The Russians don't have a tracking record for wasting time (see Abramovich) and whilst only a new manager has been sorted as of yet, the feeling that we are going to compete at last at the top table again is seemingly unanimous on his most cynical of forums. Even Phil Walling is cautiously optimistic. The RS fans are out in force trying to belittle our potential, a sure sign they are worried. Even at this early stage things are traveling at a pace I didn't think possible. (cue every Evertonians dread of fucking things up as we normally do). This just feels different, like those in charge actually know what they're doing and can back it up with hard cash!Richard #79, this is nothing like when Martinez took over. Never wanted him in the first place and he couldn't go quick enough for me. As others have said, it's all,positive now, something Martinez could never manage in spite of all his bullshit.Does NSNO have meaning again? Tony Abrahams 100 Posted 21/06/2016 at 20:44:34 It definately looks like Moshiri, is not alone in this purchase of Everton FC.I would be very worried if he was, because he just doesn't appear to have the wealth that is required, to sustain all the things now being mentioned for our club. Dave Abrahams 101 Posted 21/06/2016 at 21:13:54 Dave ( 99 ), yes Dave only a new manager has been sorted out at the moment, there is nearly eight weeks to the start of the new season, patience Dave, patience, the new players are on their way, I think we will like most of them, but then again we are Evertonians!!!!!. Damian Wilde 102 Posted 21/06/2016 at 22:06:40 Brent:"Usmanov's frustration at Arsenal is more than the kids' twittersphere stuff. I think it's reasonable to think he might well buy in to Everton."Tony:"It definately looks like Moshiri, is not alone in this purchase of Everton FC."Strong stuff, especially from you Tony ('definitely' looks like.. ), Evidence? Anthony Dwyer 103 Posted 21/06/2016 at 22:52:23 These guys are looking the real deal, long may it continue. Jamie Crowley 104 Posted 21/06/2016 at 23:12:48 People saying this guy looks like a Russian mobster - please!Dude looks more like a Russian art student.He's saying al the right things and seems the real deal...But to say he looks like a guy who shoots people point blank or breaks kneecaps?? No way. This dude likes to paint abstracts in the park.Harold Matthews would have loved this guy. Damian Wilde 105 Posted 21/06/2016 at 23:45:34 Agree with Jamie, the guy looks softer than one of the inbetweeners. Jim Lloyd 106 Posted 21/06/2016 at 23:53:55 Look at the eyes! Cold as ice and if he paints abstracts in the dark... well watch out! Garry Corgan 108 Posted 22/06/2016 at 00:06:39 Jamie that's what the politbureau want you to think. Peter Gorman 109 Posted 21/06/2016 at 00:22:23 Hate to shatter any illusions but this affable and intelligent chap is just some guy who used to work in the capital markets for RBS.......which explains the cold, dead eyes. David Israel 110 Posted 22/06/2016 at 01:40:29 According to Wikipedia, there are three Alexander (Sacha) Ryazantsev«Alexander Ryazantsev may refer to:Aleksandr Ryazantsev (born 1986), Russian footballerAlex Riazantsev (born 1980), Russian ice hockey playerAlexander Riazantsev (born 1985), Russian chess Grandmaster»I hope our Sacha is the last one. Laurie Hartley 111 Posted 22/06/2016 at 02:00:13 Damian - my view is there are four types of power in this world - muscle, money, mind, and morality.I only want Farhad Moshiri to use his money and his mind. That should be more than enough to get him the land he needs if he wants to build us a new stadium on the waterfront.As far as Mr Usmanov is concerned it is pure speculation on my part that he could be involved. He has stated that his investment in Arsenal is "long term for his family". I don't think he will go back on that - so I think the shares will be staying in his family.As far as him "coming to Everton" is concerned he doesn't have to. Here endeth my speculation :)One thing I am absolutely sure about is that Julie's post # 69 is really good counsel. We have to get 100% behind the team, the manager, and the hierarchy no matter what this coming season.In the meantime I am going to enjoy the optimism I am sharing with Evertonians everywhere at the moment.Up the Blues! Damian Wilde 113 Posted 22/06/2016 at 10:36:41 Laurie, completely agree there is optimism about; RM gone, new business savy billionaire owner, very promising new manager, great youth coming through, decent squad, possible new stadium - exciting times (and a difference from post-Sunderland!). Paul Ellam 114 Posted 22/06/2016 at 19:50:27 Not sure if anybody else has posted this but I think this guy looks like Michael York from Logan's Run. Let's hope he is as successful! Tony Abrahams 115 Posted 22/06/2016 at 21:00:36 Evidence of what Damien, Strong stuff? Brin Williams 116 Posted 22/06/2016 at 21:11:31 Not sure why we are picking holes in one another - why this?, what evidence? how do you know?Let's all stop trying to score points off each other, sit back, enjoy the Euros (watch Wales for best enjoyment) and give it all a fucking rest until news seeps out and we can all stop surmising what is going to happen, who is coming, who is going, how much it will cost. FFS give it a rest(But if all that were to happen I'd have nothing to read!) Add Your Comments In order to post a comment, you need to be logged in as a registered user of the site. » Log in now Or Sign up as a ToffeeWeb Member — it's free, takes just a few minutes and will allow you to post your comments on articles and Talking Points submissions across the site. About these ads © ToffeeWeb