Season › 2016-17 › News Koeman: Deulofeu allowed to leave in search of game time Lyndon Lloyd Thursday, 19 January, 2017 133comments | Jump to most recent Ronald Koeman admits that Gerard Deulofeu's best course of action is to find a new club and has given the green light for him to leave as AC Milan submit a fresh offer for the 22-year-old. The Italian giants were rebuffed this week in an attempt to take Deulofeu on loan for remainder of the season with no option to buy but CEO Adriano Galliani told reporters today that his club has made their final bid. “We have presented a new offer to Everton — paid loan with option to buy. If they accept, that's good. If not then we'll have to move on,†he told Calciomercato.com. “We took a step forward. We hope they will take a step back and we'll meet in the middle. We went from a dry loan to a paid loan with option to buy; we'll see if they accept. We hope so. “I sent an email 10 minutes ago with our definitive offer and we'll see what happens.†Koeman was asked about the speculation around the Spaniard's future at his press conference today as AC Milan try and negotiate a proposed loan move for him. "I spoke to Geri and it's a difficult situation for the player," Koeman explained. If he finds a solution to go and play and get game time it's no problem. "It's really tough when you're not a part of the team; you don't get a lot of game minutes but that's the competition that we have in the team. "I think you always have to first look at what's best for the club and, second, what is the best for the player and the best situation for Geri is that he gets game time somewhere. But the final decision is for the board to accept an agreement." While Koeman's comments were not clear on whether he felt it was better that Deulofeu leave on a permanent deal or just temporarily to play first-team football, the forward has started just five games in all competitions this season and has struggled to convince the Dutchman that he can fit in with the system and pressing game demanded by the new manager. Koeman was similarly phlegmatic when asked about Phil Jagielka's future. The veteran has been linked with a move to Sunderland this month where his former boss David Moyes faces a battle to keep the Black Cats in the Premier League. "It's all about if there is interest for Jags," the boss said. "Of course, in the last few weeks he did not start. But OK, he's important as the captain of the team. "He is not happy because he is not starting and that's a good signal. What you need to do as a player is fight and make it difficult for the manager. "In general, if players are not happy, we speak to them and then we find a solution. What is first, once again, is what's the best for the club and then what is best for the player." Reader Comments (133) 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 Mike Gaynes 1 Posted 19/01/2017 at 15:58:43 Well, that ends the speculation anyway.Good luck, kid. Enjoy the pasta in Milan. Brent Stephens 2 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:03:27 I'm not surprised. The pound is falling and so it is here current conversion rate is four Geri's to the Davies. Minik Hansen 3 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:03:56 Thanks for everything, Deulofeu. It's hard to see you go, but there might be another time for you to be back here, when you've become even better? I hope so! Now let's find another winger that suits what Koeman, Walsh and Moshiri is building. COYB. Gordon Crawford 4 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:08:55 Well that's that then. I just think this is ridiculous. Good look lad I wish you all the best for the future. Kevin Rowlands 5 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:09:50 Three managers and clubs cannot all be wrong about this lad, the occasional rare bit of magic does not make up for his glaring weaknesses. Not a chance he fits in with Koeman's aggressive philosophy, anyway good luck Geri. Mark Andersson 7 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:14:38 No surprise. Hope the lad finds a club and Everton make money on him. Brian Williams 8 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:16:21 Have to agree with Kevin. One or two minutes of magic out of hours of playing time just doesn't cut it, and what sealed it for me was seeing him shit out of several 50/50s against Leicester. At this level, that's not on.It's a shame because for fleeting "seconds" he WAS great, but fleeting seconds ain't good enough IMHO. Ray Roche 9 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:17:04 In the right team and system he'll be a top player. I just wish it was with us. Always liked the lad, one of the few to get you out of your seat. Franny Porter 10 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:20:06 I like the lad, but I have to admit, I can probably count on one hand the amount of good games he has had since joining us.He never seems fit enough and is wildly inconsistent. Eddie Dunn 11 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:23:31 Likable, but physically weak, and little stamina. He has gone backwards and is the epitome of a luxury player. Steve Jones 12 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:30:22 I'm not sure I agree that every player has to be able to press and tackle to fit in. The best teams are built upon a solid defensive foundation that allows the attacking unit to play to its strengths. Given a decent run in the team and being allowed to focus on what he is good at rather than his defensive abilities, I think would show us Deulofeu's true value.Deulofeu had a spell last season of creating numerous assists and goals for Lukaku, in total he created 34 chances last season in 26 games (a lot as a sub). There were also times were he seemed to be a step ahead of his team mates putting the ball into areas players should have been but weren't. We need a strong squad which means keeping players like Deulofeu rather than letting them go just because they are not currently playing; if we get a couple of injuries, then what?Whilst Koeman's honesty is refreshing in some ways, constantly publicising that we don't want players isn't the best way to get a decent fee for them when we sell! Will Mabon 13 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:34:39 I still can't believe that the same guy that's dumped Deulofeu, wanted Depay, a know pain in the arse. From this perspective, it makes no sense. I also don't remember Depay as a tackling presser type at all.I can only guess there's a fallout behind the scenes, a personality clash or huge difference in football philosophy. Something more to it, I think. Andy Crooks 14 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:35:03 Eddie, I agree that Gerard is a luxury player but we are not coming down with them. He needs game time and an arm round the shoulder. I will be disappointed if he is allowed to go. What other player could be described as exciting? He is. Gordon Roberts 15 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:37:15 Time for Geri to move on, clearly doesn't fit with Koeman's plans. Hopefully we will see another winger soon, especially after so much Twitter activity from some individuals who think they are very well connected at Goodison claiming the Depay deal was more or less rubber-stamped. Onwards and upwards Blues. Will Mabon 16 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:39:20 Steve (#12),Agree with all of that. I also think there's a danger of filling the squad with players that are of similar type, giving us no variation. If this is indeed Koeman's intent, he's one unusual manager alright. Anthony Hawkins 17 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:41:56 This is a real shame as Deulofeu can be an amazing player. He can change a game, as we have seen.I was excited to see him join the club and will be disappointed to see him leave. Tony Abrahams 18 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:42:58 Hope Geri, can sort himself out, because on talent alone, he would possibly be the best player in our current squad. Mike Gaynes 19 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:43:42 Steve (#12), keeping players in case of injuries is of course always a good idea... IF the players are willing to be reserves. Geri isn't, and you can't keep a young guy locked in if he wants to go somewhere else and get game time. Patrick Murphy 20 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:52:13 It's all in the mind with Geri. If he could have applied himself fully and stopped all of the histrionics after every tackle, he might have had a chance at Goodison. Plus can there ever have been a player of such a tender age that runs out of gas after a few minutes? Psychologically and physically weak; no place for him in most ambitious teams, I'm afraid. Thomas Surgenor 21 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:54:20 Ridiculous! If Koeman is going to stick with this new formation, then Geri could really thrive as will Mirallas. They are very direct players.8 Defensive minded players in a team should be more than enough. Let the front 3 roam and create havock. Their only defensive duty should be to press the back line. Brian Harrison 22 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:54:38 Well you have to think that there has been a fall out between Koeman and Deulofeu, because based on talent alone he is definitely worth keeping. But sadly when the manager decides for whatever reason he doesn't want you then he needs to find another club, and AC Milan is a top club with a great ground. I am sure that many of our fans will be sad to see him go; at times, as the song said, he was "magic you know". Geoff Williams 23 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:55:28 Jagielka is a much better footballer than Ashley Williams. I just don't understand what people see in Williams, he is slow and exceptionally weak in the air. Gareth Clark 24 Posted 19/01/2017 at 16:57:58 Geoff (#23),You're delusional. Kevin Rowlands 25 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:00:51 Will, how do you know he wanted Depay? I seem to remember him saying in a recent presser that whilst one or two rumors were true most of them were bullshit, his words. If we were seriously interested why didn't we counter Lyons offer? I think we can file the Depay interest in the bullshit department. Frank Boyle 26 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:03:35 Great shame, this. Looked exceptional when he first joined us but has never really come up with the goods. Add to that his unsuccessful loan spell at Sevilla and his failure to progress into the senior Spanish squad at at time when it's a squad in transition, I think we're looking at a prime example of unfulfilled potential. Steve Jones 27 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:04:09 Not so much disappointed he's leaving as much as the fact he didnt really step up with us.Always hoped he was going to make it to the real galactico level and we'd see 'our' boy tearing the life out of hapless defences for at least as long as it took for him to be recalled to Spain. I find it sad that it looks like that will never happen. James Hughes 28 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:10:42 I was trying to compose something thoughtful and concise. I see that I was too slow and wiser heads beat me to it .Tony Abrahams (#18) made my first point and then Brent (#20) sums up my second point. Thanks to both as they give us a great snapshot of Geri and where he is right now. Steve Jones 29 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:15:49 Mike Gaynes (#19), We are short on creative players so to sell one without first having a replacement makes little sense. Whilst Koeman's handling of players out of the first team isn't the best way to inspire them to stay and fight for their places, Deulofeu is under a long and no doubt lucrative contract and he hasn't put in a transfer request. So yes, we can keep him as part of the squad. As Koeman has said, the club comes first. Mirallas may be flavour of the month but he is inconsistent too and could easily get injured. Craig Walker 30 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:27:13 I don't think he's good enough but then neither is Lennon. I think we need to be more ruthless. Geri has talent but is too inconsistent. Won't miss him throwing his arms up after losing the ball again. Michael Lynch 31 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:31:49 I'm glad that Koeman isn't willing to, or being forced to, hang onto players that he doesn't want. I'm guessing Mirallas has done what was asked of him prove he can be a starter and Geri hasn't. Kev has definitely raised his game recently and I'm guessing he's shown that on the training ground too, while Geri still looks like Bambi with a fag behind his ear. Also glad that he's not keeping Jags beyond his sell by date. It's all good, as long as we buy a couple more strong young players who can fit straight into the first team squad. Jason Broome 32 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:37:28 What is happening at my club? Niasse you are crap, go to a club of your level... Hull!Cleverley you are crap, do likewise... Watford!Deulofeu you are our best winger, our most skillful and exciting player... you ain't good enough for Everton, go to a club of your level... Serie A Legends AC Milan! Jonny Flynn 33 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:40:10 Geoff, are you for real? Jags has been a great player for us but he's cost us lately. Williams is a far better option for us going forward. Be sad to see him go, a credit to the club, but if we are building he has to go, blunt as it sounds! Steve Durham 34 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:41:00 Madness when you look at the dross we are still paying a salary to. No-one can convince me that Mirallas or Valencia would do that 'just off Lukaku' role better than Geri. In a good side he could be destructive. Also, I will get dogs abuse on here for this but he hasn't performed any worse than our home-grown saviour Barkley. If roles were reversed and Geri had been born up the road there would be an outcry that he was being let go. Brent Stephens 35 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:41:51 James (#28), "Tony (#18) made my first point and then Brent (#20) sums up my second point".#18 is still there. Where has #20 gone?! Jason Broome 36 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:46:31 Losing Deulofeu doesn't sit right,Last year Mirallas wasn't good enough and had no future at the club. New manager, more game time... and he's having a good season.This year Deulofeu hasn't been given game time and is simply going through what Mirallas went through. The answer... Give him game time and guess what will happen!?I'm beginning to dislike Koeman. I hope Deulofeu becomes a great player as this could be another Mustafi moment. Brent Stephens 37 Posted 19/01/2017 at 17:58:15 Ah James (#28) should have said #2 not #20. Len Hawkins 38 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:00:50 He is a luxury player who has the stamina of a three-toed sloth and, worst of all, he is a diver, and I don't care who they play for I hate divers. As someone has already pointed out enough managers here and in Spain have decided he isn't good enough so I think it is goodbye. Mike Gaynes 39 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:02:53 Michael (#31), well said. One thing Koeman has loudly and clearly done is challenge underperforming players to step up their levels. Kev did, Geri didn't. Barkley is finally showing signs of doing so. Cleverley didn't or couldn't.Jason (#32), maybe you can remember a single moment this season... just one... when Geri looked remotely like "our best winger." I sure as hell can't. Patrick Murphy 40 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:03:20 Steve (#34),Of course Everton still have players on the books who we would like to see the back of, but we can't force them to leave we have to wait for other clubs to show an interest in them. It's not a question of the manager saying "I want to keep these players and lose those players", but if an opportunity arises to let someone leave who the manager doesn't fancy, obviously that will happen. Deulofeu isn't Messi, he's not even McFadden, funny how these players become almost legendary when they are not in the team or are about to leave the club. I do understand that Deulofeu has raw talent and one day he may fulfil his potential, but he hasn't done too much to impress the new manager since Koeman arrived and that's what counts. Steavey Buckley 41 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:05:33 The manager has made it very clear to Gerard that his playing style does not fit in with him. The same with Niasse, who also had to go. Tony Abrahams 42 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:06:16 Jason, I'm not disputing what you say about getting rid of Gerry, but if you think Mirallas is having a good season, I just don't see it? I think if he continues to play like he did against Man City, then you might have a point, but I can't agree with you up to now, mate. Will Mabon 43 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:12:01 "Will, how do you know he wanted Depay"Kevin, we never know for sure as we don't work within the club. Were all of our signings confirmed as a target in advance by Koeman himself? No.There's been wide-scale talk and speculation about Depay, more than there was about Lookman as an example, who we actually signed. Koeman also didn't specifically refute the Depay rumours in his "Bullshit" interview, did he? So, based on this, I feel it's highly likely there was mileage in it.I believe we didn't counter Lyon's offer as Man Utd wanted a sale, not a loan arrangement as we apparently sought. This was rumoured many times as an obstacle. Peter Laing 44 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:17:05 My perspective, he had me on the edge of my seat in his first stint at the Club prior to the injury that curtailed his season. The 4-0 hammering of Stoke in which Geri starred literally terrorising their defence will live long in the memory. I haven't been on the edge of my seat since and the players' performances particularly since his return on a permanent basis have been fitful at best. Kevin Rowlands 45 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:17:24 Will, he confirmed in his press conference that we were after Lookman; never once did I see a quote or hear him say that about Depay. Also, for the posters concerned that we don't have a replacement what about Lookman? I'm pretty sure he's a winger! Colin Glassar 46 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:20:54 Gutted tbh. The most naturally talented player we've had since Duncan McKenzie. Will Mabon 47 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:24:09 "Also, I will get dogs abuse on here for this but he hasn't performed any worse than our home-grown saviour Barkley. If roles were reversed and Geri had been born up the road there would be an outcry that he was being let go."Steve, I'd prefer Geri to stay and also feel he hasn't had the game time required to properly integrate and show himself in Koeman's team, so there's no basis for comparison. To imply he's performed equivalent to Barkley though, is crazy.I wonder what the hell it would take for some to "see" Barkley. Have you not been watching the games? Did you miss the City match? Two of the goals directly laid on by him and much more, in that game alone. Chris Williams 48 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:26:30 Aye, Colin, and we got rid of him too. And Hickson, Ball, Collins, Vernon, Young, Stevens Steven, Rooney and so on.All better than Deulofeu and the way it seems that football is and always has been.And we move on. Geoff Williams 49 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:26:43 Gareth (#24), I suspect I've seen a great deal more of Williams than you. I will state as a fact he will not be in the Everton team in 12 months. All his inadequacies will come to light. I will say to you watch his positional play, watch how he tries to avoid heading the ball, particularly at defensive corners, and lastly watch the number of times he gives the ball away. Mark Melton 50 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:31:41 I agree with Colin (#46_. I'm bitterly disappointed. We should keep him as a squad player. He can be deadly off the bench. Think of all those goals he set up for Lukaku last season. Kevin Tully 51 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:31:56 Deulofeu Reminds me of Januzaj on loan from Man Utd at Sunderland. Looks good for about 5 mins over the 90. Look at Spurs or Chelsea: no room for passengers in the Premier League I'm afraid. You need an 11 which can run and tackle for the whole 90 mins if you want to achieve anything. Will Mabon 52 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:33:04 "Will, he confirmed in his press conference that we were after Lookman."I didn't see that but as said, he didn't confirm them all. Based on the level of chat and discussion of the loan v purchase issue I feel it safe to conclude on balance that we were interested.Perhaps the only way as fans then, is to never consider anything possible unless Koeman says it or a player arrives out of the blue. Of course, many times, the manager or club as a whole will want to say nothing of their interest in a player, and won't. Dean Adams 53 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:33:14 Geoff (49), my view is that perhaps you just don't want to see the organisational skills Williams used during our last game against Man City, or indeed any of the clearances he made, heading or otherwise, in any of our recent games. I guess we all see things differently from wherever we may be. Ian McDowell 54 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:35:13 What a servant Jags has been. I was gutted for him when he injured his knee and missed the FA Cup Final in 2009. He, like many top players before him has lost that bit of pace now. Once that's gone it makes you look half the player in the EPL. Nick Armitage 55 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:38:03 Koeman is showing the ruthless streak he showed as a player, he wants winners around him and sadly Deulofeu isn't showing him what he wants. Brian Cleveland 56 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:39:58 I don't know if anyone else noted it, or I'm the only nit picker, but if they take one step forward and we take one step back, we won't meet in the middle, we're still the same distance apart!!! Hence no deal! ;-) Will Mabon 57 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:40:54 "Jason #32, maybe you can remember a single moment this season... just one... when Geri looked remotely like "our best winger." I sure as hell can't."For Lukaku's goal in the 1-2 defeat to Leicester? Jason Broome 58 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:46:07 Thanks Will. I was about to mention that. Joe Digney 59 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:48:42 If Koeman doesn't want him, let him go to Milan then go test Boro and make an offer for his ex-Barcelona teammate, Traore... What a beast he is. Darren Hind 60 Posted 19/01/2017 at 18:56:07 Deulofeu openly stated that he was being ask to play a game that went against the grain.I thought then his days were numbered never a good idea to bitch about the tasks you're given when you know your comments will get back to the boss.Don't know how much Geri earns, but the more he gets, the harder it will be for him to find another club. Mike Berry 61 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:06:01 Geri is not a 90-minute man and has been found lacking in his "application" when previously in Spain at senior club level. Obviously very gifted but that does not always work well for the team.Interesting that he is being allowed to leave; we appear to have cooled on Depay and the Algerian lad from Liege is not coming. I strongly suspect that Walsh and Koeman have someone else in mind, as a forward has been on the menu as stated.As for Jags, an excellent servant but no longer good enough and at 34 it is expected, as is his move to Sunderland, as he may be able to keep them up.Transfer business not done yet and I feel there could still be a big spending move. Karl Jones 63 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:11:41 Ridiculous decision. He'd be in my team every week, playing as a floating No 10 behind Lukaku. We've put up with dreary slow football with hardly a chance created for weeks before Sunday, and this lad has the ability to create a goal from nothing. The guy has so much ability and will score goals if you treat him right. I just can't believe it. Daniel A Johnson 64 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:17:57 He will likely move to Milan and be anonymous just like he has for his whole career.Its no mistake he's not at Barcelona or Man Utd etc.Physically weak, cant last 90 mins, doesn't have an eye for goal and is pretty ineffective the majority of the time despite the odd good cameo.What pissses me off is the likes of Kone and Gibson are still in situ yet the like of Geri could be leaving. Colin Metcalfe 65 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:22:11 Strange decision by Koeman... and all the while Lennon is keeping his head down hoping nobody notices he still here! Dave Ganley 66 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:25:15 It's a pity he's going but im not surprised. Patrick (#40) nails it. He has raw talent but hasn't done enough to convince Koeman he can be a consistent asset. As some have pointed out, he showed against Leicester exactly what he can do. However, after that when we needed more of the same, he suddenly turned into the show pony, something he does all too often. Instead of trying to beat a man or whip in an early cross, he insists on doing multiple stupid step overs and loses the ball again and again. Unfortunately, he shows his class all too seldom. He prefers to posture with arm-flailing when he loses the ball and stand there and admire a pass when one comes off instead of pass and move. Sorry Colin (#46), he's not even in the same league as Duncan Mckenzie. Duncan could and did show his class week after week, wasn't a workhorse but I can remember as a kid watching him and being in awe of his skill. Shouldn't be mentioned in the same breath as Duncan. Arteta and Pienaar have more skill and produced it regularly than Geri let alone Duncan Mckenzie.Chris (#48), I think you'll find some of those players you listed wanted to leave and weren't got rid of like you stated. Rooney, Stevens and Steven all wanted to go. Apart from Alan Ball who I know wanted to stay, I don't know about the others, (before my time) but those 3 definitely wanted to go.It appears to have come across that Koeman is getting rid of Geri but it wouldn't surprise me to learn that Geri went to see him and asked for more time on the field, Koeman couldn't promise a start. Geri reiterates that he wants more playing time and Koeman says maybe it's best you go elsewhere as he can't guarantee it. Pure speculation on my behalf, but possible. Geri hasn't been remotely consistent so to be honest, it's his own fault he has to seek pastures new. Wish it could have worked out but it wasn't to be. I really don't think it is a case of getting rid of talent because he doesn't fit in it a system, I think it's because he just isn't consistent. He doesn't have to be a tackler, closing down would help but he just doesn't seem to have or be bothered to have any kind of fitness capable of lasting 45 minutes let alone 90. Not exactly a pleasure to say "Keep me!" Players should be contributing in a game even when they aren't the star player. Unless Geri manages to create something, you would never know he's on the pitch. Shame really, hope it works out elsewhere. I was surprised when he flopped at Sevilla, now I know why. Brian Hennessy 67 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:25:40 Disappointing to see him going. It will be interesting to see who we have lined up. With Bolasie injured and Geri on the way out, we certainly need a wide player.Surely we cant be about to sell Jags and Geri without replacing them with something better... or can we? Dean Adams 68 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:30:11 I have always hoped that Deulofeu would make it and be a star for us but, to be fair, he has been given plenty of latitude by three successive managers and not really shown enough consistency to hold down a place. Those suggesting he is similar to Mirallas are just doing Mirallas a disservice. He is working hard for the team and club even though he was singled out for harsh treatment by Bobby of the brown shoe variety!! Mark Morrissey 69 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:47:12 Such a shame. Lovely lad. Great with the kids when he came into Alder Hey over Xmas. I personally don't want him sold but if we get good money back then fair enough. Good luck to him Michael Penley 70 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:47:23 What is everyone on about? This isn't a decision by Koeman for Geri to find another club, as the headline would have us believe. Geri isn't happy not playing and has obviously told Koeman, and Ron has told him he is allowed to go somewhere else to get playing time. That's all it is. If he goes on loan and improves, that's good for us. Frank Wade 71 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:47:59 Geoff (#49), on Williams. I can remember two incidents from Sunday. First half, a free by Silva, from the Holgate 'foul' on Aguero, was cut square towards Aguero on the penalty spot. This was read by Williams who intercepted and cleared.Second half, Sterling danced inside Funes Mori from the end line on the right, but again, was read by Williams, who tackled Sterling and cleared.I know that these are just two incidents but they are illustrations of the experience and reading of the game he brings, most likely saving two goals in the process. I agree he's not the best centre half in the league, but he has saved many goals this season and is a very important clear head in the middle of our back 3.I agree with most that Geri has the talent, but he has never fulfilled his potential... Put him in Tom Davies's shoes last Sunday, he has made forty yards beaten two players, lays the ball off and is barged over by Stones. Does he jump up and carry on and get into position for the Barkley pass? I think he would have lain down, had a bit of a roll and looked to Clattenberg. Hope he learns from his experience and matures at Milan. Peter Morris 72 Posted 19/01/2017 at 19:57:42 You're dead right there Frank. As soon as Geri gets any physical, he's on his backside . That, I fear, will always be part of the way he plays the game. Tom Hutton 73 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:00:43 I will be sad to see him go, so much potential that has never shown through.As others have suggested when he arrived some of the skill was sublime but sadly has been found wanting on stamina and consistency.I hope wherever he ends up he plays well and enjoys a good career, if not back with us in 6 months having proven himself.I would love to see him back and have a great future with the blues. Good luck for the future. Ciarán McGlone 74 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:02:29 We're crying out for a proper Number 10... and we let the most talented and technical player at the club go.He'll be worth £50 million once he gets genuine game time in a decent team with a decent manager. Xavier Spencer 75 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:09:23 Not good enough. End of. Move on. Tom Flower 76 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:13:36 Flattered to deceive following his permanent transfer and failed to show the required level of skill or application to succeed. His performance away at Man City this season was nothing short of shameful. A real shame because he showed tremendous early promise and his equaliser away at Arsenal was a taste of what he could do. Two good managers have now formed the same conclusion about him. Good luck to him though. Kevin Rowlands 77 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:14:48 㿞 million? Oh my aching sides! I wouldn't be at all suprised if Coleman and Baines are breathing a huge sigh of relief today, they must have looked at the team sheet on gameday and seen Geri's name and thought oh fuck my workload has just increased ten-fold today. Anyway, nice lad and good luck in the future, Geri. Clive Mitchell 78 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:16:17 Mike Gaynes (#39) – a single moment this season when Geri looked like our best winger? Against Leicester in the Cup he looked like our only player. And of course Leicester in the Cup was a typical Everton performance this season from the rest of them dire. As Steve (#34), said – just look at the dross we are still paying a salary to. Unlike all of them Geri has time and scope to improve. But not to worry... at least we've still got Lennon. Give me strength. Neil Cremin 79 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:18:55 Before last Sunday, I wrote on a number of threads that I thought that Koemann was too quick to dismiss players and demotivating him. I do not think man management is his strength. Now, with one great win last Sunday (thanks mainly to two young players who Koemann has avoided using until recently), Koeman is the Messiah. For me the jury is still out and unless we can follow up with a good win at Palace on Saturday we have taken one step forward and (only) one step back. I believe a good manager would coach Delefeu to be the player he want and could be to benefit the team. Just look at Del Boys twitter and you can see he is committed. Selling him would be a mistake as I believe he has something to contribute to the team as have Barkley, Mirallas, McCarthy all players who Koemann has publically humiliated. I will retract all these comments if we win on Saturday and end up with at least two more significant signings, a support/alternative to Lukaku and a back up central defender to cover for aging Williams/Jags. Otherwise, we are as we are every year, talk a lot about signings with a couple of frantic final day purchases and one significant win to give us false hope. Once a Blue ,always a Blue. Clive Mitchell 80 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:19:23 Dean (#68) Mirallas was 'singled out for harsh treatment'? It wouldn't have been harsh if he'd been shot. Patrick Murphy 81 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:20:42 If Geri is that good, how come no major Premier League clubs are interested in taking a punt on him? Perhaps if Geri the magician belongs in a better team with a better manager, then the likes of Davies, Holgate, Barkley and Lukaku et al should all piss off now and join these so called better clubs with better managers. The only consistent thing about some Blues is their not so endearing way of doing the club and anything connected to it a major disservice. Charlie Lloyd 82 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:27:24 Arguably suited to the Italian League more than the Premier League. No-one can deny he's talented. But it's not happened consistently enough. Sacrifice the individual for the team. That seems to be the way. Dean Adams 83 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:27:47 Clive (#80), I have no idea what you are alluding to there. Are you suggesting that he deserved to be singled out for harsh treatment, or it would only be harsh if he had been shot? Confused by your comment would be an understatement, please clarify. Winston Williamson 84 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:31:38 Well, to me Geri was a part of the 'best squad in a decade' who failed to live up to the title.Koeman has come in and assessed the squad, told the players what he wants and some of them either can't or won't comply.He's had his time and not achieved anything. Time for a change this applies to a number of them. Ciarán McGlone 85 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:31:57 Patrick..Who has said he belongs in a better team with a better manager? Patrick Murphy 86 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:34:19 Ciaràn this is what you wrote "He'll be worth £50 million once he gets genuine game time in a decent team with a decent manager." Have I misread your words? Ciarán McGlone 87 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:36:04 Yes you have Patrick. You do that quite a lot.I clearly want him to stay here. I thought that was abundantly clear. Brent Stephens 88 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:38:07 I see Geri as having to improve in some of his skills and decision-making (knowing when to get a cross in and being able to execute it accurately) and also his attitude and application. I guess the skills and decision-making could develop but he should have developed the attitude and application by now you don't need time to develop them, surely? Patrick Murphy 89 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:39:41 I can see you want him to stay, but I didn't understand what you meant by 'better team and better manager' it's clear that Koeman doesn't fancy him otherwise he would not allow him to leave? As for misreading things quite a bit, I'm not sure that's true but if that's how you see it! Seamus McCrudden 90 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:41:50 He's had plenty of time and chances with us. Great exciting player at times who just cant hack the physicality of the prem unfortunately. Ciarán McGlone 91 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:47:00 I meant that he has not be given a fair crack in his proper position with a coherent bunch of players around him. I think letting him go is extremely premature and we will regret it.He's a luxury player and frankly I couldn't give a toss if he doesn't track back. He brings more creativity than most of the rest put together.Big mistake... But then again we've plenty of potential Number 10s at the club, don't we? James Flynn 92 Posted 19/01/2017 at 20:59:29 The manager who brought him in twice wouldn't give him regular playing time. By the end of last season, he was hardly playing at all.The problem with Delboy is Delboy. Maybe the light will go on over his head someday. He is young yet.3 managers in a row, in 3 seasons in a row, gave him less and less playing time; all the way down to none at all.He's the only one can pull his head out. Dave Ganley 93 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:01:18 Problem is, Ciaran, is that he shows his ability maybe 1 game in 6 the rest he may as well not be there. The ball is in his court. Barca didn't want him, Sevilla didn't want him and now we can't guarantee him a start. He doesn't apply himself and all the talent in the world won't matter if the individual can't or won't apply himself on a regular basis. Professional football is littered with wasted careers from players who had the ability but didn't want to put the time and effort in to make it work for him. Think the likes of Messi, Ronaldo, Bale etc just turn up on matchday and be brilliant? No they work bloody hard every day in training and after training to be that good. Geri's performances say to me that he thinks he can get by on ability alone. It just doesn't work like that. Chris Williams 94 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:02:31 Dave @66I think it is probably irrelevant whether they wanted to leave or not. Deulofeu wants to leave too by the look of it.My point was the history of Everton is littered with players who have left for whatever reason, many far superior to him, many as good and many a lot worse.And the same for every other club throughout the history of the game. It is what happens.He wants to go fine off you go lad, we'll get someone else and as always we will move on.And we'll still be here as will Everton . Patrick Murphy 95 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:04:02 Ciaràn,ah! I see what you mean now and there is some merit to that view, however, nobody can deny that Deulofeu's stamina is not where it should be, particularly in the rough and tumble of the Premier League. We await the new Arteta, like we have since the best little Spaniard left a few years ago. Dave Ganley 96 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:06:40 Fair enough, Chris... see what you mean. Sorry I misread what you meant. Ciarán McGlone 97 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:12:39 I agree he has his issues, but surely that why certain managers get paid handsomely..Maybe if he's gets a chance in the number 10 role on a consistent basis he'd rise to the challenge. But he's never been given that chance... He's been behind Barkley and Mirallas for that role... and I have no idea why. I thought when he played up top in pre-season that Koeman was maybe trying to use him more centrally.. but that died a death.From what I've seen of Koeman so far, he doesn't appear to be arsed about coaching players to become better players. If they don't fit in automatically then they're out. I think he's taking the easy option again if he lets Deulofeu go. Chris Gould 98 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:28:47 I predict that, if he goes out on loan, the club that takes him won't take up the option to buy. He is not the best technical player at the club, as has been suggested on here. Ross is.Geri is not fit enough, disciplined enough, or consistent enough for any team that has ambitions of breaking into the top 4. If he isn't prepared to work hard and get fit then he simply hasn't got the dedication required to become a player who can be relied upon. Blaming Koeman's coaching methods is ridiculous. His fitness and work ethic has to be his own responsibility. Look at how much fitter Ross has got in the last few weeks.Good luck to him wherever he goes, and I truly hope that club buys him on a permanent deal. Chris Williams 99 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:32:22 Dave,Cheers mate, no problem. I'm too old and knackered these days and it's just history repeating itself I suppose.2 more players in before the window shuts and on we go. Ciarán McGlone 100 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:32:56 Barkley is more technically gifted than Deloufeu..??Not even close. Denis Richardson 101 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:39:32 He hasn't set the world alight since coming and his decent performances don't happen enough. I could also never understand why he hardly ever seems to be able to last 90 mins.Anyway, Koeman doesn't fancy him so best for all sides for him to move on. Koeman obviously believes in Lookman more.Also interesting comments re Jags. Great servant but his time as a regular starter at Everton is in the past. If Moyes wants to roll back his years and take him on, I'll wish Jags all the best there. On with the clear out. Chris Gould 102 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:43:24 You're right, Ciaran, it isn't even close. Ross is a two-footed player who can go either way and has a fantastic touch. Geri is very much right footed and can only go to his right. This is the main reason he can't play the number 10 role. Do you honestly think that Koeman and his coaching staff wouldn't have tried it in training?Anyway, no point in arguing, he's going and we'll be just fine. Kevin Rowlands 103 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:44:32 Ciaran, if you think Deulofeu is even close to the player Barkley is and is also worth £50 mill you are seriously deluded. Barkley has the potential to be world class and I believe will be in the future. Geri would get roughed up in an under-12s game, the lads a poster boy for the saying show pony. Unfortunately he doesn't put on a show that often. Ciarán McGlone 104 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:50:44 Barkley has a drop of the shoulder, Deulofeu has every trick in the book.I can't comment on what Koeman does in training... but the player puts in consistently good performances for Spain in that number 10 role. So you're simply wrong in concluding he can't play that role because he's predominantly right-footed. Jay Wood 105 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:51:36 Ciaran @ 97."From what I've seen of Koeman so far, he doesn't appear to be arsed about coaching players to become better players. If they don't fit in automatically then they're out."Hmmm... I think that can be disputed. In the short time he's been here, he's nutured 2 youngsters, Galloway and Davies, from the juniors to the seniors, playing them when he deemed fit, but being selective when he played them.Add to that the numerous times he has been berated for his public pronouncements on Barkley, a player who he has been willing to drop or sub out for not performing to the levels Koeman demands ... and the result ..?We are gradually seeing a 'different' Barkley who finally appears to be taking on board the demands and levels of expectancy the manager has placed upon him.That strikes me as the polar opposite of a manager who "doesn't appear to be arsed about coaching players to become better players."As for moving on Deulofeu, I would be gutted. Whilst accepting some of the criticisms and doubts levelled against him, he is the one player above all others at the club who has mercurial gifts few others possess.All well and good having a team full of work mules, but to be truly successful a well-balanced side needs a thoroughbred or two.Deulofeu for me is a true thoroughbred. Whether he is remembered as one or rather a gelding at the end of his career can only, in the final reckoning, be determined by the player himself. Brian Williams 106 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:52:28 What Koeman is doing is being ruthless and that's exactly what's needed to rid ourselves of the "plucky Everton" and "punching above our weight" labels.Okay, managers make mistakes but Koeman sees Geri in training every day and he's paid to make difficult decisions. On this decision I agree 100%. Yeh it's a shame and I'd love Geri to be as good as he can be, for a couple of minutes per game, for most of the game. He's had plenty of chances to do that and he hasn't.Koeman wants someone who'll have more effect on the whole game not someone who does the odd brilliant thing and very little else. Step up or step out should be our motto. With progress comes change. Ciarán McGlone 107 Posted 19/01/2017 at 21:54:12 ps: I get the feeling this has more to do with Deulofeu's article in the press than any concrete footballing reason.But as you say, no point arguing. I just hope I'm wrong and we don't regret it. Mike Gaynes 108 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:02:47 Ciaràn, Geri couldn't have a better advocate than you.In fact, you're a better advocate than he is a player. Chris Gould 109 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:09:31 Ciaran, playing that role in the Spanish U23s proves nothing. He can't do it in the seniors. He's comfortable playing with the kids, but hasn't got the physicality, stamina, or courage to do it against the big boys.Doing a dozen step-overs does not make him more technically gifted than Ross. Koeman sees them both in training and clearly thinks Ross is the better player in the No 10 role. Do you not trust Koeman to assess a player's potential and ability, bearing in mind that as a player and coach he has trained with world class players for a large part of his life?<[p>You also have most probably never watched Geri in training and therefore do not see what Koeman does on a daily basis. Ray Robinson 110 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:13:51 In some card games, the joker can be a very useful card; in others it is never used. He may well do reasonably well in a less physically demanding league but he has had his chances in the Premier League and can't cut it, save for those few inspirational moments which are too few and far between. Gary Reeves 111 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:14:10 Gutted really! He's still a much better bet as a "supporting forward" than Barkley (and yes,yes I know lots have you haven't come down since Sunday, so Ross amongst others is in the "good books." Still doesn't mask his shortcomings). Chris Gould 112 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:28:12 Mike, Ciaràn has been a great advocate for Geri. And out of respect I have finally worked out how to give his second 'a' an accent.Apologies, Ciaràn, for not working it out earlier. Ciarán McGlone 113 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:31:17 It proves nothing?It proves your categorical statement that he cannot play the number 10 role is wrong.You also state he can't do it in the seniors.. I'll ask one question.. how do you know this? From my recollection, I can't remember him starting a single game in the Number 10 role. If your reasoning is simply based on what I haven't seen in training, then the debate is redundant.The opposition to Deulofeu seems to be centred on inconsistency... That could applied to every single one of our players this season, especially the paragon of virtue that is Ross "one game on, one game off" Barkley. Anthony Dwyer 114 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:34:45 I'd like Geri to stay, but I like the way Keoman is dealing with these situations, both players are aware that there allowed to leave if that suits them.Our current squad needs that firm honest leadership. Ciarán McGlone 115 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:35:55 Perhaps we've been starved of flair for so long that I'm becoming desperate... John Pierce 116 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:35:55 At last, the cull of the wingers! Geri only ever played in moments, and when push came to shove rarely did he turn a game. The 3-2 West Brom away game, he was good for 45 mins the best I've seen him play. Many cite Arsenal in his loan season, but the team performed well that not just Geri. He won't be missed, apart from the marketing department. So you'd think maybe Koeman has figured we are incapable of playing with genuine wingers. I think he knows we cannot play 3-4-3, inevitably it sags to a 3-6-1! We are likely to play the rest of the season 3-5-2. Baines and Coleman our width, strangely that makes Lennon Coleman's understudy! Andy Crooks 117 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:40:15 Ciaran is spot on (sorry I cannot do a fada on a kindle). Gerard is our only player who can terrify defenders. He is a potential genius and he needs a run of games in the right position. To let him go would, in my view, be a poor decision by our coach, a very poor decision. John Paul McGurk 118 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:41:08 Gutted if it happens. Christy Ring 119 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:41:32 CiarÄn, I can see you're a huge fan of Geri, and I admire you're admiration. I thought we had got a gem, but I'll probably get slated, he's a Spanish McGeady, do something special, but for poor old Coleman, a nightmare to have in front of you. As for Ross, different class. Chris Gould 120 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:44:53 Ciaràn, this is taken from the other Deulofeu thread:"For those who still rate him and think he's not been given a fair chance, then just look at his stats.Season Team App Goals2011–2013 Barcelona B 68 (27)2011–2015 Barcelona 2 (0)2013–2014Everton (loan)25 (3)2014–2015 Sevilla (loan)17 (1)2015– Everton 37 (2)In 5 years he has scored 6 goals at senior level. This is from a young Spanish lad with loads of pace and skill and was hoped would be the next Messi for Barcelona.Yes he does well at underage level but the lad is now 22, but he hasn't moved on. Last year Ross Barkley was 22 and he scored 12 goals in the 2015-16 season."Ciaràn, the above is not evidence that he can't play the No 10 role, but no manager who has had him in a senior team has believed he can play it otherwise they would have played him there. Do you honestly think they wouldn't have considered it?What Koeman sees in training that you don't is an important factor. I'm sure Koeman has tried it as I'm sure Martinez did. There's a reason that Geri has never been played there in a senior match. You can't seriously believe that nobody else has ever considered the option?Anyway, bored now. I personally hope that Ajax buy him and we get Dolberg in exchange. Ray Robinson 121 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:46:48 I'm probably in a minority here but, poor current form notwithstanding, I'd be more concerned about Jags leaving than Deulofeu. I make a prediction that Jags will be playing in the Premier League somewhere long after Williams has finished. Ernie Baywood 122 Posted 19/01/2017 at 22:49:26 Plenty of debates on here. My position is that he's an exciting player who will have some shockers. That's in the nature of being a creative player you'll miss more the than you make. Same applies to Lukaku and Ross. So you might not play all three at once, but that doesn't mean there isn't room for rotation. My biggest concern with Del was always 'fitness'. Clearly there's an issue there and it goes beyond his physical conditioning. At 60 minutes, he almost completely stops. Everyone gets tired but something keeps you going. With Del, he was happy to stop once he got tired. No heart, no determination his character (or lack of) will probably limit him forever. Hope he can turn it around at a new club as he seemed a nice bloke and gave us some great moments. Dan Davies 123 Posted 19/01/2017 at 23:34:00 Spanish McGeady! Worthwhile reading the thread for that... wouldn't disagree either Christy. Tickled me that.All the best to the boy and good luck in the future, shame it's not at Everton... we move on. John Daley 124 Posted 20/01/2017 at 00:24:16 Agree with Dazza (@60) and Ciaran (@107) that last month's interview, in which he basically summed up Koeman's style of play as:Link...and expressed his distaste at having to spend more time defending rather than attacking, probably sounded the death knell on Deulofeu's time at Everton. Koeman clearly had his doubts prior to that, hence the lack of starts, but Gerard's gob probably sealed the deal.However, it can't really be seen as a simple case of Koeman forcing the player out when you have AC Milan sniffing around. I would wager that Deulofeu will be desperate for this move to come off, as most players with no real attachment to a club would be if the chance of playing in the San Siro suddenly popped up. It's not like he's going to be skulking out of Goodison with a titty lip on, despondent at the thought of thumbing a lift to some dark, depressing, shithole like Stoke and wondering where the hell his career went so wrong.Go to Italy, turn it on enough times over the next four months to convince Milan to make the deal permanent and he could legitimately make the claim he's actually moved on a level.Those saying he's been a 'flatters to deceive fairy' with no end product throughout his entire time at the club need to remind themselves of the form he was showing (along with the chances he was regularly creating) in the first half of last season, before a lost-the-plot Martinez put a lid on the lads head of steam by dropping him to the bench and leaving him there for five months. He's not really had a run of games to show what he's capable of since.Put it this way; if you were to give AC Milan free pick of any of the wide players on our books (Deulofeu, Bolasie, Lennon, Mirallas, McGeady, Lookman) they would still wind up taking the same one. A world in which it's 'sound' to spunk almost 㿊m on Yannick Bolasie, whilst letting Deulofeu leave on loan, is one so backwards I'm half expecting to hear Charlton Heston's cries of anguish bellowing through the window any minute now, after he stumbles across an arseless birdshit-encrusted Statue of Liberty moored on Crosby beach. Mike Gaynes 125 Posted 20/01/2017 at 05:35:52 Andy #117..."Gerard is our only player who can terrify defenders."Wha?????What planet are you orbiting, mate?The player who left four Chelsea defenders in the dust last March and then spun an England centre-back like a top before finishing in the bottom corner... that wasn't Gerard.The player who left two Leicester defenders for dead on Boxing Day and scored a goal that maybe 20 forwards in the world could score... that wasn't Gerard. Rom with the ball in the open field gives defenders heart attacks. What Geri gives them at this point is the ball. Joe Clitherow 126 Posted 20/01/2017 at 08:00:08 Mikel Arteta and Stephen Pienaar from our recent past, even someone like Trevor Steven going back further were all regarded as creative players. But all of them had much more to their game than just attacking the full back. None of them were in any way tacklers but they all worked hard at their game and became important to the team rather than just "luxury" players. I don't want a "luxury" player, I think it is a myth. Kevin Sheedy was often labelled the "luxury" player. It was bollocks then as it is now. Sheeds worked hard at the role he had on the pitch and worked hard to improve his game to be a world class left side midfielder.Deulofeu should have been for us what Sanchez is for Arsenal, but he is in the same ineffectual bracket as Bilyaletdinov for me. It is strange (or maybe not) that if we rewind a few years we could easily switch the name Deulofeu with Bily in TW discussions and you wouldn't be able to tell the difference. Right down to the same "played out of position", "manager doesn't know how to use him", "mark my words, he'll be a legend when he goes somewhere else" comments.The most laughable thing for me is that he will somehow do well in the toughest defensive league in the world. Well he may well do, and good luck to him, but unless he changes his attitude he will go down the same path to football obscurity as Bily in my opinion.The reason by the way, in my opinion, is much simpler than managers, systems or positions. I think he is just lazy and not prepared to put the workload in to address his shortcomings. A criminal waste of his own talent. Jim Jennings 127 Posted 20/01/2017 at 08:18:05 "I can't comment on what Koeman does in training."And yet you did just that 40 minutes earlier to suit your own argument..."From what I've seen of Koeman so far, he doesn't appear to be arsed about coaching players to become better players." Karl Meighan 128 Posted 20/01/2017 at 08:34:52 I really don't get this "the lad's played out of position" nonsense. First, dozens of coaches 2 managers or more just haven't noticed. If the lad was as good as these posters think, would he not be able to adapt? After all... a great footballer is rarely called out for playing in one position. I've yet to see him hold off defenders, shield the ball, and bring in others all things a Number 10 has to have in his locker and he don't score goals for fun either. Ciarán McGlone 129 Posted 20/01/2017 at 08:52:22 Jim,Where did I say I was commenting on what I'd seen in training?These debates would help if people didn't read things that weren't there. Jim Jennings 130 Posted 20/01/2017 at 09:10:27 Ciaràn,So if not a comment on training, where does this apparent non-coaching of players take place? What would help these debates if is "people" didn't try to deflect their own contradictions with semantics. Karl Meighan 131 Posted 20/01/2017 at 09:27:00 A case of hearts ruling the head here; he hasn't been able to establish himself at a Club with limited creative players. Also, he didn't do it in Seville back in his home Country so move him on with the lots of other deadwood. Ciarán McGlone 132 Posted 20/01/2017 at 09:38:07 Semantics, in your world, being the cold hard words on the page in front of you. Steve Jones 133 Posted 20/01/2017 at 11:27:48 John Daley (#124), Your final statement sums it up for me perfectly. I also agree with your other points which are similar to those I've made in a couple of posts. I still think Deulofeu has a lot to offer, as I said post #12 he had a spell last season of creating numerous assists and goals for Lukaku, in total he created 34 chances last season in 26 games (a lot as a sub). There were also times were he seemed to be a step ahead of his team mates putting the ball into areas players should have been but weren't. Tony Hill 134 Posted 20/01/2017 at 11:40:50 A talented player who may yet make a fine career for himself. He needs a stronger mind and focus but I hope he does well if he goes. He may not go, of course, in which case he's the sort of performer who could yet turn things around anyway. Darren Hind 136 Posted 20/01/2017 at 20:27:26 "Perhaps we've been starved of flair for so long, that I'm getting desperate . ."Now THAT is telling it as it is. THAT is giving us the "unpalatable truth". Delivered with kick-in-the-bollocks candour. 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