Keane signed on a five-year contract

Monday, 3 July, 2017 238comments  |  Jump to most recent

Everton have completed the much-anticipated signing of Michael Keane from Burnley in a deal said to be worth £25m that could rise to £30m.

The 24-year-old became the fifth player to be signed by the Blues this summer in an officially undisclosed deal that, when added to the acquisition of Sandro Ramirez for £5.2m, makes the club the highest spending in the Premier League for 2017 so far with more than £92m splashed out since January.

Keane had been installed as one of Ronald Koeman and Steve Walsh's top targets, with the Everton manager breaking a self-imposed protocol by making his interest in the player public earlier this year after it became common knowledge that he would be leaving Turf Moor this summer.

He signed a five-year contract and will add important competition to the back line for the coming season as Everton bid to make it into the Europa League group stages and mount a challenge for the top four.

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The Stockport-born centre-half spent two years with Burnley after joining the Clarets from Manchester United for just £2m and the Red Devils will receive a 25% cut of the fee thanks to a sell-on clause built into that deal.

A fledgeling England international, Keane is one of the most highly-regarded young defenders in the country and one who was, statistically speaking, one of the most effective players in his position in 2016-17 at the heart of a Burnley side that finished well clear of relegation danger on their return to the top flight. He was among the top four in defensive blocks, clearances and headed clearances last season and ranked first for aerial battles won.

“I'm absolutely delighted to be at Everton," he said, "a fantastic football club with passionate fans and a great tradition and I can't wait to come into training tomorrow to meet all the lads.

“First and foremost, the manager was a big factor in me coming to the club. He played in my position when he was a world-class player for a great Barcelona side and a great Dutch side and the style of football he likes to play will suit me, I believe.

“I watched a lot of Everton last season and I believe I really suit how the team likes to play. I feel like this is a great place to come and continue my development as a player.

“He's convinced me that he can still improve me in certain areas of my game. I'm only 24 which, for a centre-half in the Premier League, is relatively young. I've still got a long way to go and I know this and hopefully under his guidance I'll keep improving.”

 

Reader Comments (238)

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Dean Johnson
1 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:03:08
Love it
Geoff Williams
2 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:03:20
Great news. COYB
Lewis Barclay
3 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:04:10
This is all very unusual. Great stuff.
Ed Wallis
4 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:04:47
Fantastic. What a day. COYB
Eugene McLoughlin
5 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:04:47
This is MAD!!! Moshiri is the man?!!!!
Dereck Harris
6 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:05:00
Does it get any better - five class signings before pre-season gets underway!!!! Roll on mid-August!!!

Rom - methinks he may have pause for thought a second thought even...?

Ha!

Brian Hennessy
7 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:05:18
John Terry wont be happy we have upstaged his big, huge, massive move to Villa !!!
Duncan McDine
8 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:05:33
Get in! Is this really Everton???
Dan Davies
9 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:05:38
Fantastic news. Welcome to both Sandro and Michael. Everton that!
Tony Williams
10 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:06:15
Glad I renewed my season again.
Don Alexander
11 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:06:28
Is it a portent that this lad signs when TW is featuring The Prince Of Centre Halves? Here's hoping.
Geoff Lambert
12 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:06:50
A bit late but it came through.

Next????

Mike Gaynes
13 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:06:57
LOOK OUT WORLD!!
Ian Bennett
14 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:08:41
"We're going to buy the league, we're going to buy the league"
Phil Parker
15 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:08:52
All hail Moshiri, and Bill for finding him. At last. So far, the perfect man for our club.
Kim Vivian
16 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:09:26
Great, great news. Great day - but what are we all going to do tomorrow?
Jay Harris
18 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:10:44
Loving it at the moment but I'll be happier when Rom goes and we get Dembele and/or Giroud.
Mike Gaynes
19 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:11:45
Jay #18 is the winner... first to use the word "but" today.
Paul Tran
21 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:12:54
I'm in danger of getting rather excited here.
Tony Hill
22 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:14:37
What really matters is that we are throwing off the shackles of our most recent transfer years and also chucking the sense that we are a dithering, frightened club. The speed, the decisiveness of it all and the confidence that it will breed are wonderful.
Chris Gould
23 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:15:12
Each one of these 5 signings have been primary targets. All snapped up before pre-season properly gets underway.

Walsh and his team have really got their shit together. This is bloody impressive. Never seen anything like it before. If we can sort out Sigurdsson then it will have been a remarkable window.

I don't think it will end with Sigurdsson. I get the feeling we're now feeling out seondary targets. Who knows how many will follow? Players will see what's happening and give us a second glance.

Does anyone know if Rom reported back for training with the others?

Phil Bellis
24 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:15:18
"Well in... typical Everton this"... 2nd barrier behind the Gwladys St goal, 1960s
Lev Vellene
25 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:15:29
Heh, I spoke to an RS supporter today (first day back after my 3-week holidays), and he was sort of pretending not to recognize any names, instead making almost-jokes...

As we are both Norwegians, I think he's quite stumped! The new season hasn't even started yet, and for the first time in 25 years one of my RS friends hasn't already started any conversation with "how they'll absolutely win this year"! . :D

Derek Williams
26 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:16:57
God Almighty I think I've died and gone to heaven. Unbefeckinlievable!!!
Ian Burns
27 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:17:56
What a day! Pickford; Klaasen and the young lad going to Anderlecht for a season; then along comes Sandro; Keane and a welcome back to Aaron Lennon after his horrendous recent illness.

Tomorrow is going to be boring!

Phil Bellis
28 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:19:45
T Rex, 1972
Monsieur Giroud, is it you?
Eugene Kearney
29 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:23:08
Yipee and Ramirez over the line today too. Now we're really goin' places.
David Milner
30 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:24:10
Best signing of the season so far. Tall towering no nonsense centre half.
Brent Stephens
31 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:24:29
Just typical! Effing great news. I'm like a little kid waiting to open my prezzies. Can't wait for the new season.
Paul Tran
32 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:25:00
Rom's due back on Thursday, with Klaasen and others.
Denis Richardson
33 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:25:48
Crazy talk!

4 major signings in before pre season wtf is going on? This still my Everton?

Just wow - completely new spine signed. Gk, Cb, Mf, forward - all ready for pre season.

It's certainly going to be a different Everton that takes the field this coming season.

Iakovos Iasonidis
34 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:26:22
Do not awake me!
Mike Gaynes
35 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:27:52
From ESPN:

"Keane, who had been entering the final of his contract at Turf Moor, will now line up next to Ashley Williams in Everton's back line..."

I've got a tenner that says it'll be the captain who wins that place, not Williams. Any takers?

James Morgan
36 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:28:08
Welcome, Michael. This all doesn't feel real. I reckon Koeman truly put a rocket up the boards arse to get things done early. As mentioned, these will be the primary targets along side Sigurdsson.

A keeper, centre half, midfielder and two strikers (albeit one for next season) signed up. Madness!

And more to come. I'm not bothered about a right back, I'd actually like to see Kenny given a go, maybe a young left back as understudy to Baines would be good. Bring in Gylfi, another striker (Giroud for me) and a top winger and we will be laughing!

Paul Newton
37 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:31:38
It's hard to know where it goes from here. Will some be shipped out? Will we get more? - all of this makes you greedy, thinking who might we get next? Will it all encourage Ross to stay? And as for Rom .
Mike Gaynes
38 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:32:56
Looking forward to the mea culpas from the "Koeman Out" brigade. You guys didn't see this coming, did ya?
Mike Green
39 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:34:05
Another player citing Ronald Koeman as a major motivation for coming to us. He's a bloody player magnet!

I would love to be a fly on the wall to hear Kenwright's, Koeman's, Walsh's and Moshiri's sales pitches to these lads and our plans for the future. I bet it's all been very interesting.

It's clear that they've made them feel very much wanted and I imagine some of the deals they've put on the table for them have reinforced that. I get the feeling they've been made offers they cant refuse.

Where we've failed in the past few decades is we've had certain things going for us in isolation here and there (good manager, decent league position, good squad etc) but never had everything all in a line like we seem to have now - billionaire owner, new ground planned, global name as manager, high ambition and most importantly in modern football money to spend on quality p

layers and reward them accordingly. And the beauty is I think they feel they're here for a reason, and that reason is to play, perform and win and not be squad fodder sitting on the bench or out on loan if they went to City / Chelsea or the like.

We are, all of a sudden, the place to be. If this is the beginning, where will it all end?

What a great couple of weeks!

Dermot Byrne
40 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:34:10
Mike 35# captions will change too mate
Brent Stephens
41 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:34:36
I could swear we were being told that, yet again, we'd only sign players once we'd sold. Funny old game.
Ian Hams
42 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:34:45
Does anyone know how much that takes our spending to? I'm thinking it must be about equivalent to the last ten years combined.

Happy days indeed.

Will Leaf
43 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:35:09
ToffeeWeb must be redirecting to another club’s news; what in Samhain is going on?
Brent Stephens
44 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:36:08
Mike #35 - my feeling too, Keane and Jags.
Stephen Brown
45 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:36:48
Haven't been so exited in a transfer window since Cottee, Nevin, McCall and McDonald in 1988!!

Come on lads! I'm all for a Rooney return next!

Dermot Byrne
46 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:36:54
Or even captains !
Mike Gaynes
47 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:37:50
Dermot #40, not if he keeps his starting place.

If not, that's an interesting question. Bainesy? Can't give it to one of the new guys.

Mike Hughes
48 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:37:56
The BBC might as well rename the footy page on their website, 'the Everton page'. We're never off there these days. All good news stories as well.

Come on BBC - why not give some of these other lesser clubs a look-in?
There are 91 to choose from you know!

What next? An all-ex EFC MOTD panel?
And first on every week?


Dermot Byrne
49 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:38:54
But not not not Jags as Captain. New Ajax man I think. Dutch boss to Dutch Capt.
Mike Green
51 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:39:17
Who's your tip for captain Dermot? Klaassen?
Paul Hewitt
52 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:40:02
I will wake up soon. And this will all be a dream.
Mike Green
53 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:40:04
Answered my question while I was typing Dermot - god effort! :D
Jay Wood
54 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:40:39
Copy-paste #5: Well played Everton.

Any one else who, like me, is getting mates and supporters of other clubs messaging them and asking "what the feck is going on at Everton?"

It's not just us Blues supporters sitting up and taking notice.

And I doubt we are done yet. I'm guessing 1-2 more (serious) forwards, a midfield play maker, another centre back, left back cover and possibly another back up keeper, depending who heads for the 'exit' door at Finch Farm.

I wanted confirmation in this transfer window that Moshiri was sincere in his stated ambitions for the club.

I've got it.

Mike Gaynes
55 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:40:49
Ian, my math says we're at £104 million and counting.

With Giroud and Sigurdsson, we'd be over £150 million.

Who woulda thunk it?

Lev Vellene
56 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:41:27
Mike #35

Are all three right-footed (I have no idea!)? If so, I still think Jags will be kept as a strategic reserve, to play the games where he'll be most useful.

And that whole thing about Captains is so weird for non-British me... I would hope Jags can stay a Team Captain (to deal with everything 'community'-like), as he is good at that! But Everton really need a dedicated on-field plan for who'll Captain the playing side!

Chris Williams
57 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:42:49
Not seen anything like this since the days of John Moores in 1960, so guys enjoys this journey, it doesn't happen to us often, and remember this is only the beginning so far.

A few more in, a few out? An interesting journey for us all, and it may even take a couple of years steady improvement, a bit of tweaking, just as it did then all those years ago, before we won anything.

Just enjoy the ride.

Mike Gaynes
58 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:44:27
Dermot, seems odd to me they'd hand the armband to a lad of 24 who just joined the side and has never played in the league. Even Keane makes more sense to me than Klaassen.

I remain convinced it will eventually be Seamus.

Tony Hill
59 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:45:13
Our only left-footed centre-back is Funes Mori, unless you count Galloway.
Ary Lima de Moraes
60 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:47:01
LB cover would be appreciated. Otherwise we have at least 2 good players per role

Still think we should sell Barkley tho

Jamie Crowley
61 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:47:14
I'm on Cape Cod presently near the ancestral Crowley home of Boston and I just coughed up a hunk of "lob-stah" reading this.

Fucking mint.

Roll on new season!

Mike Gaynes
64 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:50:25
Boston?

Hey, wasn't a fella named Crowley the first patriot to die in the Revolution?

Lev Vellene
65 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:50:35
Mike G (#58)<

It looks like we've got us a lot of players a lot more "talkative" than our old ones, so I hope the pre-season will help Koeman into finding his "Generals" (as we might need more than one...).

Jags or Williams may still get that nod due to their experience. But of those two, only Williams is a talker...

Tony Pickering
67 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:50:57
Agree with Mike (#39) – it seems Koeman's reputation and influence is attracting players to us. Shows the wisdom of Mr Moshiri in going for a manager with a "name."

Didn't he, at the time, say something about four famous clubs in the NW, and we needed a big name manager to compete. Enter Ronald Koeman. Followed by several players!

Happy days.

Andrew Ellams
68 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:51:13
Keane may not be captain yet, but he will be one day.
Kunal Desai
69 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:54:15
Oh Sandro Ramirez, Oh Sandro Ramirez
Keano, Keano, Keano, Keano, Keano
super super Dave, super super Dave, Super Super Dave, super davey Klaassen.

Can't think of one for Jordan Pickford.

Steve Foster
71 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:57:29
I'm worried this can't be right!

Can't help but worry that something will go wrong and the football gods will get angry at us upsetting the natural order.

Pickford gets dropsy, Keane injured, Davy is addicted to Amsterdam brownie cakes and then the RS sign Ronaldo and Messi.

Please let this be the start of something good!!

John Newman
72 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:58:31
Genuinely made up – not just about this boss signing, not about the huge amount of cash being spent on players but too see and hear the happiness and positivity amongst us blues. After all, it's us who live and breathe Everton everyday. We hurt when the club does...

This new lease of life and direction is only what the club and its fans deserve... long may it continue.

What a time to be a blue. COYB!!

Tony Hill
73 Posted 03/07/2017 at 20:59:54
We must hope, of course, that all this boldness and courage transfers to the pitch. It would be tremendous to see an Everton side, especially away, playing as an Everton side should.
Julian Exshaw
74 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:00:26
I'm so excited and I just can't hide it .
Gary Mortimer
75 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:01:09
But where's the Arteta money???
Chris Keher
76 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:01:59
There's way too much positivity on here. This gives us a real problem. Who's bloody name are we supposed to get on the back of the shirt this year?
Phil Bellis
77 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:02:06
We appear to have a professional transfer team in place.

One great thing about the 60s and 80s teams was we had several "captains" on the pitch.. Heading that way again...

If not Seamus, why not Schneiderlin?

John Otway
78 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:02:41
If anyone happens to see that managerial genius, Stuart Pearce, would they kindly invite him to pull his foreskin over his head and whistle up his arse!! Sincerest apologies to all from HSE.
Ian McDowell
79 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:03:23
Brilliant news. Absolutely delighted with this news.
Ben Dyke
80 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:05:18
Hallelujah! Its raining men, hallelujah!
Phil Bellis
82 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:07:37
Kunal... Wild Thing... The Troggs...

Not getting me coat, having a great time winding up the few RS showing their faces out in Liverpool.

Ed Wallis
83 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:08:10
It is brilliant, a really exciting day.

A short note though on Bill, he was involved again in the transfer and even gets a mention. Gets so much stick but he is Mr Everton. He has saved, created a base and now the club is growing.

Stadium, great youth system, growing first team and pricing for local kids & youth to follow the Blues (unlike the lot across the park). He has kept the roots of club involved.

Now we all got to grasp the optimism and turn it into results. We will push top six this season but truly believe we will be in a great position the season after. We have got to be patient and support the team during this fantastic transition.

Bill Gienapp
84 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:08:40
The fact that the "Koeman out" brigade appears to have gone into hiding speaks volumes. Sadly, it seems some would rather be proven right, even if it means remaining miserable.

And Mike (#35), I'll take that bet (in the spirit of good fun, of course). You might very well be right, but for all the carping about Williams, I've yet to see any evidence that Koeman doesn't rate his performance.

Jon Withey
85 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:11:16
I really like him – what a great signing.
Kevin Tully
86 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:15:35
When you are paying the manager a fortune and spending literally £100's of millions on players (regardless of any departures) means that nobody at the club, including the supporters, can be content with anything less than Champions League qualification.

Let's all hope this marks the end of our inferiority complex, especially across the park. We're back!!!

Steve Little
87 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:19:42
Tony (#73): Spot on mate.

I really felt a lot of last season's performances were way too insipid, despite some good home results. Particularly as we often improved in the final quarter when we had to I really felt we were capable of so much more generally.

Hopefully Koeman was just being functional with what he had available to him and now with a lot more of his own men he can really give us a season to remember.

Roll on August 12!!!

Josh Barber
88 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:20:36
Can't wait for the new season to start! I don't know what I'll do for the rest of this transfer window haha. I can't help but wonder if this is a small ploy to show Lukaku our real intentions this season.

Guess I'll be watching to see if Barkley and Rom get sold and what other striker they will bring in to replace Rom at that point.

Tom Bowers
90 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:24:04
It was often said that a successful side contained a solid keeper, a solid centre-half, and a class centre forward. It could well be that Everton are getting to that stage.

Pickford and Keane are two the emerging young stars of last season and Sandro is no slouch. With the likes of Klaassen, Schneiderlin, Gana and Tom Davies in the midfield one can be forgiven for thinking this team is finally equipped to go places.

The incoming of new players may not yet be over but with Lukaku and Barkley still around who knows what else will happen. Everton still have the experience of Mirallas, Lennon and McCarthy to call on plus the youth of Lookman, Kenny and Calvert-Lewin.

Of course signings are one thing and getting the right formula on the field another. With Moshiri and Koeman showing their hands we can certainly look forward to better times.

Dave Older
91 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:24:13
I have just toffeegasmed after today's events. Love it.
Mike Oates
92 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:32:08
At last we are on the move, now gel as a team please !!!!
Anyone have an idea if FFP will force us to sell Lukaku and or Barkley to balance the books ?
Frank Wade
93 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:32:57
Tony (#67), Mike (#39), re Koeman's influence, let's not forget Steve Walsh's influence/reputation in our recent market success. I heard Sandro mention him in his interview on Official site. After Leicester's success, his reputation is sky-high as well.

I read that young Henry Onyekuru chose to join Everton even though we were not offering the highest wages. We've come a long way.

Ian Hollingworth
94 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:37:04
Love it.
Top 4 finish and home and away victories against the shite would make a very pleasant season.
Mike Gaynes
95 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:38:36
Dave #91, you have invented a great new word. Suggest you get it copyrighted immediately so you can collect royalties from the rest of us when we use it.
Brian Williams
96 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:39:23
I noticed both Keane and Sandro mentioned Bill Kenwright as playing a part in the clubs appeal in their interviews too.
Joe Clitherow
97 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:42:42
Again, who are these people and where have they hidden Everton Football Club?
Gary Willock
98 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:43:14
Even if we subsequently sell Rom and Ross and make a profit overall, this behaviour (buy young quality first) is absolutely awesome to see.

I have a feeling we'll all be praising the Moshiah by the end of this pre-season. Those who doubted should swiftly give themselves a swift smack on the head.

COYFBB!!!!

Jim Lloyd
99 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:47:10
Phil Bellis (82) Yep, just like the sixties when Sir John was active. 3rd or 4th barrier behind the Gwladys St goal. I think the lads and lasses behind the goal now, are going to be in for some great times!! As are we!
Great news indeed.

One of the things I like is the number of "captains" we'll have on the pitch...and fighters too, or should I say winners...or both!

When Farhad Moshiri said that wanted to give his all to Everton, it looks like he means it.

Well done Mr Moshiri!

Frank Wade
100 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:47:45
Yes Brian 96, and we should credit Bill for getting Mr Moshiri on board too. It took a while to get the right man, but we can't deny the boy done good in the end.
James Lauwervine
101 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:47:55
Welcome Michael, you have made an excellent decision. I'm loving this summer of spending so decided to pick an early (and very young) team for next season – average age is less than 23! I just wanted to see all the new names together really. I've also decided to assume that Lukaku and Barkley are leaving and got rid of anyone over 27 (bit harsh I know). Anyway, here it is by all means disagree with/slate it:

Pickford (23)
Kenny (20), Holgate (20), Keane (24), Galloway (21)
Gana (27), Schneiderlin (27)
Davies (19), Lookman (19), Klaassen (24)
Sandro (21)

Subs: Robles (27), Funes Mori (26), McCarthy (26), Besic (23), Dowell (19), Calvert-Lewin (20)

Graham Coldron
102 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:49:23
It wasn't that long I was hoping that Chris Long's great goal in a pre-season friendly was the start of something big: SC Paderborn
Jeff Hough
103 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:56:41
What the hell's going on? 5 new signings and we're barely into July. Bring back DJ Spuddles!
Paul Kennedy
104 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:58:30
I don't think any of us believed we were going to be this pro-active so early. If we can just get another striker, I am more than happy. Great – no last minute leftovers.
Soren Moyer
105 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:58:43
Six down, six more to go!
Fran Mitchell
106 Posted 03/07/2017 at 21:58:56
Key Koeman signings since he came.

Pickford: talented keeper, key trait being distribution, long range passing.

Williams and Keane: proven, big, tough, no-nonsense defenders.

Gueye and Schneiderlin: high energy ball winners, good passers.

Klaassen: high energy attacking midfielder, offers goal threat.

Bolasie: very fast, direct, high energy winger. Not best final ball.

Sandro: high energy striker, play across forward line.

All signings are definitely meeting a specific criteria. We have a better idea of how he wants us to play. Solid defense, high energy pressing and counter attack football (Pickford will have a key attacking role I expect).

I expect maybe one more winger, especially with Bolasie's injury and Deulofeu's expected exit.

A big striker (Giroud?) also would fit into this model, a man to hold the ball and bring the wide attackers and at midfield into play.

A left back and another centre back are also possible entries, considering Baines' age and the number of games next season and Funes Mori's inconsistency. Back up and Europa centre backs we have Pennington, Galloway, Browning so maybe Koeman will deposit faith in them.

Another attacker, I feel, will depend on whether or not Barkley stays or goes.

Peter Laing
107 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:00:54
Spare a thought for Davie Moyes, he will be soon taking his Preston team training in Blackpool beach...
John Mckay
108 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:01:26
It's all very exciting, hopefully these players will be decent.

Pickford – good young keeper lots of potential: £30m

Klaassen – not seen too much of him, done well for Ajax; unproven in the Premier League – £24m

Onyekuru – young Nigerian striker ripping apart a poor Belgium league; unproven in the Premier League – £7m

Ramirez – up and coming Spanish talent had one good season for a poor Malaga team. Unproven in the Premier League – £5m

Keane – ex-Man Utd and and Burnley centre-back and newest addition of England squad, had a solid season for a average/below average team. £25m

Total cost: £91m

Cleverley out – £8m
Deulofeu out – £11m
19m

Expected sales:

Ross Barkley – £25-30m
Romelu Lukaku – £70-100m

Potential sales:

£114m minimum return imo.

Difference / net spend:
£23m

If we don't bring anyone else in and sell Ross and rRom as expected we wouldn't have spent a penny like the last 10 years.

Happy with the players we've bought in although some unproven at this level, unless we keep Ross & Rom or spend another £50-70m we haven't really spent anything this window.

Hope for another £50-70m spend if Rom and Ross go.

Scott Mongomery
109 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:04:08
I've just listened to the Keane interview and he naturally cites Ronald Koeman as a big draw for coming to the club. Interestingly, he also says Bill Kenwright and his relationship with his advisers was very important.

I'm not an apologist for some of the things Kenwright has done and said during his tenure but I don't think he gets an appropriate level of credit when he has a positive influence and undoubtedly he has done well in some transfer dealings over the last few years.

Jamie Sweet
110 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:05:05
I'm loving this.

There is a little devil in my ear saying we're just spending the Lukaku money. But even if that was true, I think we're spending it very well!

Jon Withey
111 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:06:50
Still short a winger and probably a striker – although I'd be happy to have Lukaku stay obviously.

You'd think we'd have to balance the books for the stadium though. I'm guessing Lukaku out; Giroud or Rooney in.

Dave Older
112 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:10:01
I haven't felt this elated since we beat Man Utd in the 95 Cup Final. Wooooahh I am having another toffeegasm!!!!!!!
Kevin Tully
113 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:16:14
Even if we end up with a minus net spend, it's the enormous change in the way we are going about our business that is most exciting for me. You can be sure these new additions have heard all about the plans for one of the finest stadiums in the country. Those poor reds won't be at all happy...
Jim Lloyd
115 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:17:02
I think I'm just going to enjoy the fun of seeing this all unfold. I'm sure Mr Moshiri can sort out the finances without us fans worrying whether the books balance or not.

I can't help thinking that we're on a winner, whether Barkley and Lukaku stay or go.

Dave Older
116 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:17:39
Mike ~ 95, good point I better get to work on that.
Chris James
117 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:21:25
"If you build it, they will come"

And boy are we building something, we always had the history and the class, but now we've got the new owner, a no-nonsense pedigree manager, the top scout and even a new stadium on the way.

5 class signings before pre-season and as many have said we've got some gas in the tank yet.

By my reckoning we've spent £86 - £96M thus far:
> Pickford: £25-30M
> Keane: £25-30M
> Klaassen: £24M
> Onyekuru: £7M
> Sandro: £5.2M

But against that we have substantial likely/possible transfer income in the £100M - £163.5M range:
> Lukaku: £80M
> Barkley: £30M
> McCarthy: £20M
> Deulofeu: £10.5M
> Niasse: £10M
> Cleverley: £8M
> McGeady: £5M

Which means even if we stumped up the figures suggested for remaining targets and spend another £85-100M:
> Sigurdsson: £35-40M
> Dembele: £30-40M
> Giroud: £20M

We could end up having a net spend as little as £8M (or as much as £96M)
> Outgoing: £171M - £196M
> Incoming: £100M - £163M

I know, I know this is all total Football Manager nonsense, but right now it is hard not to get carried away!

Ray Smith
118 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:22:49
Stuart Pearce must be feeling a bit of a chump, stating he would be amazed if Keane joined Everton. I have always rated him, however, he needs to take a rain check or ship out of punditry.

As for Jamie Carragher, none of Everton's signings would get in Liverpool first team.

I appreciate he's looking for a reaction, however, his credibility has take a big hit in my eyes.

Alasdair Mackay
119 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:23:50
So we've brought in 5.

I feel like any more than 7 might be too much integrating for one season and we may have to replace Ross and probably will have to replace Lukaku.

I would quite like those situations resolved now before we bring any more in.

Great window, though.

We're on our way back.

Dave Pritchard
120 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:25:46
Massively raising expectations. I was getting a bit tired of last season's uninspiring performances but all this is creating a lot of interest even from outside of our club. We're still behind Terry going to Aston Villa on Sky Sports News... but who cares?
Mike Green
121 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:29:16
Frank (#93) and Brian (#96) - they did and you're right.

It adds even more to the feeling the stars are coming into line and the team involved in this probably make up for each others failings to present the full package (Kenwright has the heart and charisma, let's say; but Moshiri has the strategy and the finance; Walsh has the inside track and the contacts; Koeman has the players respect and the kudos etc etc.)

I know it's early days and they're stereotypical press conferences etc, but these lads really sound like they've bought into whats planned at Everton (Klaassen not wanting to talk to anyone else, Sandro and Keane both saying its the right club and right move for them etc) which is music to my ears.

These are young, quality, ambitious lads who I think are the type who want to work their backsides off to achieve success and not think it's a given, or their right, and they've decided / been persuaded that they want to do it here. And as far as I'm concerned any player that doesn't buy into that now can get up and go and I hope that's the club's view too. There are clearly plenty of players out there to fill their places.

Next season could really be quite a buzz. Bring it on.

Joe Foster
122 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:30:30
I wonder if that gobshite Pearce is well and truly astounded?
Sean Patton
123 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:30:34
I'm not entirely convinced by this as the one memory I have of Keane is when Lukaku schooled him for his goal in the 3-1 Burnley game.

A bit harsh, perhaps... but he made one mistake and was punished.

Colin Grierson
125 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:38:03
My 12-year-old son summed it up for me.

"I can't wait to go to school tomorrow, Dad! My mates are already jealous. Imagine what they'll be like now!"

I told him that this was just the beginning. I said it feels like the beginning of 'Our time' for the first time since the mid eighties. Good times! COYB!

Joe Edwards
126 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:44:38
I really am proud of the way our club has conducted its business this transfer window, Mr Moshiri has obviously demanded focus,commitment and professionalism as a minimum from staff who in the past haven't been able to negotiate a 5 euro reduction on a pair of Raybans sunglasses from a looky looky man on a Spanish beach.

All our signings should take us closer to establishing us as a regular top team as well as making us an attractive team for top players to sign for. Now just sign Giroud, Smalling and Rooney and I'll be in heaven!

Eddie Dunn
127 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:47:03
Dermot & Mike (Gaynes) – if he comes. perhaps Mr Rooney will get the armband!
Eddie Dunn
129 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:48:48
This really is developing into a fairyland of signings! Is it all just a beautiful dream?
Jakob Herd
132 Posted 03/07/2017 at 22:57:01
Poor Michael Keane – his England career has just died...

How about that for a negative counterweight?

David Metcalf
133 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:08:59
Fantastic to see us getting players in well before a ball is kicked in anger... Seems light-years since we were so proactive in terms of pre-season signings!! Great to see, though!!
Tom Bowers
134 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:10:03
I think the best part of all that's happened so far is that they are still 4/5 weeks away from the season starting and that they haven't left things until the last minute or waited till Barkley or Lukaku departs. It means players can start to fit in right away in pre-season games etc.
Dan Davies
135 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:11:06
Jay, Klaassen also mentioned our manager's name. No offence to Darren, mind, since he's being moderated big time like.
Gerry Morrison
137 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:22:36
Mike Gaynes.

It was Crispus Attackus. I know that because I am in Boston at the moment, and I went on a guided tour with a little old lady dressed in a funny costume yesterday and she told me.

Stan Schofield
138 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:27:42
Jay@131: I agree. Opinions can, and often do on TW, quickly get polarised.

Although I don't agree with some of the 'Koeman out' comments made over last season, there are valid criticisms of him, and the current signings of these good players, and their press conference comments in support of the Everton management, don't necessarily negate these.

I realise there is a lot of elation about the current signings, but I'm more cautiously encouraged than elated. But I might become elated depending on how we perform on the pitch. Only time will tell.

Mike Gaynes
139 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:34:11
Gerry (#137), glad you enjoyed that tour, it's really fun, isn't it?

Mr Attucks was killed at the Boston Massacre in 1770, and is the first American martyr, but the first patriot to die in the actual Revolutionary War when it started in 1774 was one Samuel Crowley.

Mike Gaynes
140 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:36:17
Carragher trolling our signings:

"When Everton sign 4/5 players but none of them would make the Liverpool team!"

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/5382/perform-desk/2017/07/03/36813862/liverpool-legend-carragher-trolls-evertons-new-signings-on

Kase Chow
141 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:38:04
All the players we've bought so far appear to have their best years ahead of them whilst having already accomplished a great deal. This is exciting!

It's exciting because if they achieve their potential with Everton then we will have some team. Also, the fact we have done good business early and decisively shows a level of professionalism hitherto unknown in my Everton supporting life (I'm approaching 40).

It's also exciting because each of these players appear to be a tad bit self confident/arrogant aka winners. Half the reason we always lose to Liverpool is because we sh1t the bed when we play them. The players we've brought in would RELISH going to Anfield and turning them over

If I could 'Like' I would. I'm so pleased and I hope we sell Rom (I rate him so highly but I only want players on the bus that are committed to us) and sign a top top forward desperate to win with Everton.

I'd also ideally like Barkley to stay but to learn from Davvy Klaassen... the first time passes, the decisiveness, the technique but if he wants to go then so be it. And let's replace him.

We do need a few more players tho: 2 striking options (assuming Rom goes), another effective winger (Mirallas inconsistent as is Lennon, Bolasise injured and Lookman a bit inexperienced), a centre back (in truth I don't rate any of our centre backs last season as being solid).

A few more pieces of the puzzle left...

Mike Berry
142 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:43:01
I think Robbie Fowler hit it on the head when he said how well Everton had done by getting business done early.

Prices will rise and with their being a lack of quality centre backs and teams scratting for them, I think we have done exceptionally well to acquire Keane's services.

Kieran Kinsella
143 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:50:44
Stephen Brown (#45),

I vividly remember that summer too. We were all over Shoot! magazine. Cottee got off to a blinder and . the rest is history...

The big positives here are that we spending real money and that good players are coming here over other good clubs.

The unpredictable part is how it will work out. I remember the summer Liverpool brought in Barnes, Beardsley, Houghton and gelled right away. Man Utd had a spree with Webb, Wallace, Phelan etc and flopped. So there are no guarantees in football but we've every reason to be optimistic.

Chris Leyland
144 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:54:48
Mike G – Carragher is the worst type of Liverpool fan, the one who used to be an Everton fan and can't stand stand it when it looks like we are challenging them. As for his claim than none of our signings would get into their first team, he is delusional.
Si Cooper
145 Posted 03/07/2017 at 23:59:15
'Crispus Attackus'??? I thought TW had gone even more highbrow with posters discussing Koeman's tactics in Latin!

I haven't seen enough of the lad to be sure that he will significantly strengthen our defence on his own (so to speak) but he's the right age and rated by many so it seems like a great signing.

At any rate, I am delighted the club is doing such meaningful business at such an early stage of the window.

Gavin Johnson
146 Posted 04/07/2017 at 00:08:39
Jordan Pickford & Michael Keane would walk into the RS 1st team every week. Much better than what they currently have.
Ernie Baywood
147 Posted 04/07/2017 at 00:22:14
I love that we have some new talent for next season, but the statement we're making is so much bigger than that.

All I can think is that if I was an ambitious young player... I'd want to sign for Everton right now.

All it took was a bit of ambition from the club to change the perception.

I wonder what's going through Rom's and Ross's minds right now?

Dave Abrahams
148 Posted 03/07/2017 at 00:22:45
I am as happy as anyone on here with some really great signings IMHO and I am really looking forward to the new season and happy days, but it is tempered by the fans who instead of savouring what is happening at Everton want to have a go at the Everton fans who were not impressed by the people who came into the club and were doubtful that they could turn the club round.

These fans are and always will be great Evertonians and were just giving their honest opinions in how they felt. I hope they were wrong and stay wrong; nevertheless, they were and are entitled to their opinions.

Andrew James
149 Posted 03/07/2017 at 00:24:31
Mike Gaynes

While I can see why you and everyone else is happy about our great work on recruitment, that doesn't make Koeman exonerated from some awful tactical and selection decisions last campaign.

The recruitment also doesn't make him right. We brought in, at no little expense, Steve Walsh to do it.

Koeman has a lot to prove for me because Moyes and Martinez were given much less and the former finished higher up the table with cup runs. Koeman has just returned us to a league position our players should have had us in before Martinez had his wicked way.

I'm excited by the signings but a little worried about Koeman's tactics and choices.

Mike Gaynes
150 Posted 04/07/2017 at 00:32:39
Proudly wearing my Everton jersey to theater rehearsal tonight. None of these colonials ever heard of Everton but I'm flying the colors anyway.
Martin O'Hare
151 Posted 04/07/2017 at 00:40:14
I will be in Liverpool from 31st July to 23rd August. I'm a lifelong Blue but now living in Sydney, I am desperate for one or two tickets for the Stoke City game, so, if there's any season ticket holders not going to the game, please get in touch.

Also, there's a website called StubHub where I can purchase tickets for the Man City game, what end of the ground will the Everton supporters be in?

I need help!!

John Daley
153 Posted 04/07/2017 at 00:48:22
"When Everton sign 4/5 players but none of them would make the Liverpool team!"

Nothing ever changes really, does it? They'll be 'challenging for the league' again come September.

Nigel Gregson
154 Posted 04/07/2017 at 00:54:24
I'm still waiting for the creative Arteta replacement...
James Flynn
155 Posted 03/07/2017 at 00:56:59
I hope the 5 in so far isn't the end of our dealings. As long as further signings look as promising as the first five, go get em. The more the merrier.

4 of those are in the squad. Just those 4, or 2-3 more added, it's going to take a good while for everyone to get on the same page. We'll find out how good our coaching staff is.

It's looking like Moshiri meant every word: “We are a great club and we don't want to be a museum."


Mark Andersson
157 Posted 04/07/2017 at 02:08:41
Happy Monday, it seems. I'm not the least bit excited, just intrigued by all that unfolds We saw what happened to Spurs a few seasons back when they bought a shed load of players all at once.

Football is all about the right mix of ingredients blending together. Koeman and Walsh have done well in identifying early who they want. Only time will tell if their blue print will be a successes or not.

I don't get wound up by ex-Liverpool players mocking us, and I wont gloat this season when we beat them. I do however want Koeman's new look team to play attractive football and win more than they loose.

Jamie Crowley
158 Posted 04/07/2017 at 02:38:55
Mikey Gaynes -

One Samuel Crowley, clearly a forefather of one Sir James C Crowley IV, was a patriot of the highest bloodline!

And the event that kicked the whole thing off I believe was a Sullivan (Irish-American for sure, might have the name wrong) popping out of a pub in Boston fairly juiced (shocker) and having a verbal pop at the British.

The British soldiers took none too kindly to the Irishman's words (not historically verifiable but urban legend mentions the word 'cunt' was used... a lot!) and they shot the poor fucker dead.

The locals were none too happy with this event, took to the hills and trees with guns (hence our cultural affinity to these things), dumped some tea in the harbor, and the rest is history.

Happy 4th mate!!!

Peter Thistle
159 Posted 04/07/2017 at 02:39:39
Not sure about Keane. The statistics are biased because he was playing for a team that was mostly under attack and not retaining possession.

If you look at the top stat defenders, they were all lower league players because they couldn't attack. Hope he works out well as Jagielka is on his way to the bench.

Alexander Murphy
160 Posted 04/07/2017 at 02:51:55
John (#153).

Won't be long before "the you know whos" are rolling out the "It's our year" bus again.

Perhaps we should run a TW sweep on how far into the new season we get before one selected pundit makes their last delusional remark to this effect.

Preferred dates would be late October or early November. The sure measure that they've popped is when the glory hunters hop onto someone else's horse!

Andrew Presly
161 Posted 04/07/2017 at 03:11:06
In a way it's a shame we're going to do it this way but let's do it and I'll worry about how I / we feel at that point.
Alexander Murphy
162 Posted 04/07/2017 at 04:22:25
Mike G (#58),.

Regards the armband, I'm completely in favour of your suggestion of Seamus as Club Captain. Said it elsewhere.

My suggestion would be have Seamus as Club Captain, and assign two Vice Captains.

My thinking is that Seamus should be our next Club Captain and recognising that tells him, injured or not you're the man, the leader!

Then having two vice Captains means that Shay can lead from within and still be involved with two lads on the pitch. Even if they are older or experienced players (such as Baines, who appears not to have a prissy ego) Shay will be watching from the stands and picking up on stuff to pass on to the others.

Get well in good time Seamus, properly fixed. We want you back lad, not a moment too soon and not a week too early. Take care, Shay.

David Pearl
163 Posted 04/07/2017 at 04:29:54
Andrew, it's not like we've just spent £87m on one midfielder. The others have been spending these amounts for the best part of 15 years.

I'm not totally convinced by the signings made. All have question marks... but it's good to see us having a go. How long has it been that we've been able to say that?

Mike Gaynes
164 Posted 04/07/2017 at 04:42:40
Yankee Doodle Jamie, loved your retelling of the start of the Revolution. Best version of history I've heard since Mr. Peabody and Sherman. (Do you go back far enough to remember them?)

I'll quietly wish you a Happy 4th as well, out of deference to the Brits here who might still be a bit tetchy about Yorktown.

Not that they would have us back, eh? Certainly not at the moment.

Enjoy your fireworks.

Alexander Murphy
165 Posted 04/07/2017 at 04:43:32
David (163),

Absolutely spot on.

We can realise that 50>60% of these won't be utterly fantastic. It's just the way of these things. On the other hand if a higher bunch work out then bloody smashing. Gana was a terrific surprise last season, cost us almost bugger all.

We have been sat upon our arses watching big mouths telling everyone how marvellous they are for decades.

Even on the BBC website there are fans of the all mouth clubs from fragrant corners of the British Isles and further realising that Everton Football Club have abandoned the pity club mentality.

Bloody tough start to the season for a brand new squad. Get it right and we could be Champions by October!

Let's start enjoying being Evertonians again.

Mike Gaynes
166 Posted 04/07/2017 at 04:51:43
Alexander (#162), to my mind, there's one captain, and he's on the pitch. Jags has earned the armband and should keep it unless he loses his position. Baines would be next in line.

Unfortunately, Coleman won't play until the New Year, so I'd say he's unlikely to become captain until next season at the earliest.

John Daley
167 Posted 04/07/2017 at 05:36:06
Jagielka has been a good player but he's never convinced as captain. Too much a joker, pal to all, about as likely to offer a verbal rebuke or harangue an official as Goldfinger's mate Oddjob with a 'Grab Bag' of Pickled Onion Monster Munch mashed up in his gob.

Coleman has all the attributes you would look for, but I quite fancy Klaassen to claim the captaincy before close of season.

Looi Walters
168 Posted 04/07/2017 at 06:02:54
As others have mentioned, it's great to have the main targets wrapped up pretty early. Main difference here compared to the past, where we get linked to everyone but always seem to lose out, and then transfer deadline day came to be a lottery of sorts, seems to be that extra bit of dough.

We're probably just short of a striker, an experienced one like Giroud, in the likely event that Lukaku goes (probably just haggling on the price). The board have delivered, the pressure is now on for Koeman to do so too.

I hope the wave of optimism and positivity will help us in the tough opening fixtures, then it remains to be seen how this team will come into their own. With the added input of Walsh in scouting not just the ability but the mentality and attitude of the players, I can't help but be optimistic!

Will Mabon
169 Posted 04/07/2017 at 07:37:53
Mike @ 164:

"I'll quietly wish you a Happy 4th as well, out of deference to the Brits here who might still be a bit tetchy about Yorktown."

Mike, I've never heard a single Brit say a bitter word with regard to that history. Then again I don't meet many that know so much about it nowadays!

I have family and friends over there, and lived there twice myself – so I understand the difficult job you have coming, having to eat all that barbequed food and drink so much beer (good thing the American beer is harmless).

Have an enjoyable day.

Gerry Killen
170 Posted 04/07/2017 at 07:40:04
Please excuse the wobbly writing – still getting to grips with all the activity at Goodison Park.

First of all, thanks to Bill Kenwright for bringing Mr Moshiri to our club, with his business acumen and financial clout, we are now a real professional outfit.

Also, thanks to Ronald Koeman and his scouting staff and the speed these deals are done. No more dithering about. This is only the beginning, the Sleeping Giant has been woken up. COYB/

Hugh Jenkins
171 Posted 04/07/2017 at 08:06:38
July 4th – Independence day!

Hopefully, this July 4th will signal Everton's independence from that mawkish band of ex- RS that infest the media like the rats that brought the "black death" and "bubonic plague".

Let us rid ourselves of these forefenders of doom and, like our American cousins, mark today as the rising of a great "Nation" of football, fit to walk in the steps of those that have gone before.

For Everton, this is the revolution of the 21st Century and – as has happened before – we come again!

Bob Parrington
172 Posted 04/07/2017 at 08:34:36
Wow! Shit! Jees! OMG! After all these years I reckon, at 69, being a Blue since the early Fifties, like other oldies on here, this seems unbelievable. Good signings, not just squad fillers.

Some return from Deulofeu, Cleverley and McGeady still likely leaves something in the kitty, assuming Rom goes. Wages reduced with the 12 or so others off the books.

I'm just thinkin' – who's next?

Better get them all working well together before the start of the season, eh?

Ray Roche
173 Posted 04/07/2017 at 08:58:45
Some of our Colonial friends are getting a bit uppity today...might have to send a gun boat in to quieten them down .;-)
Dermot Byrne
174 Posted 04/07/2017 at 09:00:38
Had a blank spot, Mike (#58). If and when fit and playing (no certainty of either as team develops over summer), Coleman is the man. Agree.

I really like Jags as a guy but never have been convinced of his captaincy. Would make a better Ryder Cup captain!

I think he would be drowned out by Pickford and Keane.

Andy Meighan
176 Posted 04/07/2017 at 09:09:59
Too many people on here getting carried away before a ball has been kicked. Regardless of who we sign Koeman needs to address this disgraceful away form out and to have a go at teams. Not implement the pedestrian narrow shite we witnessed all last season.

One thing in his defence he looks to have addressed the spine of the side: 'keeper, centre-back, centre-midfield and striker Will it bear fruit? God only knows...

50 years of being a fan has told me not too get too excited – that's why I won't. Let's not forget, the teams above are going to strengthen as well... Massively!

John Keating
177 Posted 04/07/2017 at 09:11:28
Barkley and Lukaku sign new deals and that'll do me.
Vishal Poorundersingh
178 Posted 04/07/2017 at 09:31:20
Very happy to be an Everton fan. Now bring on Wayne Rooney.
Raymond Fox
179 Posted 04/07/2017 at 09:33:27
How good is Keane? Is he much better than we have? I'm asking because I have not seen much of the lad.

I have mixed feelings about the signing, because we have several young players waiting to get their chance that must feel that their now further down the pecking.

Difficult balance for Premier League managers, I know, especially Koeman where we are going for the top 4-6 and he knows the team must have a good season.

John Sagar
180 Posted 04/07/2017 at 09:42:20
Like kids in a sweet shop, both hands full and an even bigger smile on our faces. Happy days!!

I just wish my dad could understand all this – lifelong Blues family and now bloody dementia has stolen the glory from him.

Dermot Byrne
181 Posted 04/07/2017 at 09:52:47
I notice both players have mentioned Ronald Koeman being a factor in them signing. Credit where due?
Erik Dols
182 Posted 04/07/2017 at 09:54:36
Raymond (#179), I have to be honest, I did not see him play that often apart from MotD – and even there not that often, I don't always make it till Burnley is on.

But I love stats and Keane has really good stats in some aspects of the game. He was in the top in clearances made in the Premier League last season. High on the list of headers won as well (those two have an overlap of course). He combines that with a relatively low rate of tackles and fouls. That suggests he has excellent positioning and timing skills.

Don't expect him to play killer passes, he has room to improve his game on the ball. If I had to buy a central defender in the Premier League purely on stats, it would either have been Michael Keane or the lad from Bournemouth, Steve Cook. And perhaps that says something about stats as well, of course a defender from Bournemouth or Burnley gets more chances at clearing a ball than one from Chelsea or Man City.

To ask your question directly: I think he is at least as good as Jags or Williams already and he is only 24. Good business IMHO.

Brian Garside
183 Posted 04/07/2017 at 10:04:32
I´m not convinced with Keane. But if anyone can improve him, it´s Ronald Koeman.
Neil Pickering
184 Posted 04/07/2017 at 10:15:36
Firstly, I'm made up we are being so decisive in the market. I think Pickford and Keane will be great signings but the other 3 I reserve judgement on.

If the squad stays as it is in terms of Lukaku and Barkley staying then I want to see another top class centre-back, left back cover, and 1 more striker. If they both go, I think we need another 2 strikers to add the 3 I already said.

My thoughts on Rooney are that from a business and commercial perspective it's a complete no-brainer for the club if it's a loan deal. He will put us on the map. As far as Rooney the player goes I think he's probably shot, but the roar of the Gwladys and Z-Cars might squeeze one more year out of him.

Stan Schofield
185 Posted 04/07/2017 at 10:17:10
Will@169: American beer harmless?! I lived in Texas for a while, and was surprised both by the range of microbreweries and the strength of the beer. I tend to prefer 'session' beers at around 4%, but was caught out sometimes by quite a few being from about 6% and higher, one being at 14%!
Terry Underwood
186 Posted 04/07/2017 at 10:40:03
Mike at #64

Crowley, was, in fact, known as the most evil man in the world. Ozzy Osbourne wrote a song about him (Mr Crowley).

If you remember the old hammer movie, The Devil Rides Out, the baddie in that, Mr Mocatta, was supposedly also based on Crowley.

Sorry, rambling a bit here. Is this really Everton? I shall miss the panic loan deals on the last day of the window. At least we had something to moan at then...

Mike Berry
187 Posted 04/07/2017 at 10:43:41
I am pleased that the stats hold up and that he has been in a team under pressure. That's how you learn your trade – not strolling around smoking a cigar in a tepid league somewhere else.
Dale Rose
188 Posted 04/07/2017 at 10:50:47
Great signing. All of the red shite in my office have all gone quiet. COYB.
Steve Ferns
189 Posted 04/07/2017 at 10:51:32
I don't really want to see anymore signings in defence.

Keepers:-
Pickford, Robles, Stekelenberg, Hewlett.
I expect one of them to leave. Hewlett looked worthy of being 3rd choice from what I saw of the u23 games. If we have an injury crisis we can always get someone in on loan.

Right back:
Coleman, Holgate, Kenny.
We have a serious issue here. Coleman has a big question mark over him. Kenny has a more pleasant question mark over him after last season's form and the world cup win, whilst Holgate can do as cover, but is surely not good enough for more than 10 games at right back. I would like to see Kenny be given a go and then it makes sense to bring Martina in on a free to cover for him and replace him. Then as Coleman comes back we can assess Kenny's development and Coleman's recovery before deciding if we actually do need a first choice right back.

Left Back:
Baines, Galloway, Garbutt, Robinson.
We have numbers here. Especially when you factor in that Funes can play here short term if needed. However, I think it is agreed that Baines is more or less unchallenged. I would like to save the cash, to elevate Galloway to undoubted backup and see were we are at in January or even next summer. If someone like Luke Shaw, Robertson from Hull or Chilwell of Leicester are available for the right price, I would bring them in. But I wouldn't go throwing big money here this summer.

Centre-halves:
Keane, Williams, Funes, Jagielka, Pennington, Holgate, Galloway.
Koeman will surely know a good centre half when he sees one. Moyes always seemed to, but he did sign Per Koldrup! For me the big question is will Everton play with 2 or 3 centre-halves. I think we only did so once after Schneiderlin came in, and never when he was actually on the pitch. The reason being that the 3rd centre half occupies the space Schneiderlin wants to when we have the ball, and he's happy to drop right back when needed. Therefore, if it is to be just two, then why not go with Keane / Holgate and Williams / Jagielka. The two older guys can rotate with each other to establish the younger guys. Pennington can cover as fifth choice. I would sell Funes and only replace him if Jagielka also pursues a move. But with EL games I think we need him, especially to rotate with Williams.

Thus, I think we are now sorted in defence and just could do with cheap / free cover at right back, and should only sign a Baines replacement if something presents itself that is too good to turn down. Signing another centre halve will prevent Holgate getting games, and for me Holgate has the makings of a top player and now just needs games to develop and I want to see him get those games at centre half, particularly when we rest Keane in the less important games.

Barb Ellis
191 Posted 04/07/2017 at 11:01:03
Jon (#111),

Correct me if I am wrong, but I don't think FFP Influences the building of a new stadium. Also, youth development is exempt as well.

Ernie Baywood
192 Posted 04/07/2017 at 11:07:42
Erik 183 I can't claim to have seen that much of him but, although I rate my own footballing knowledge, I'll defer to some extent to the professionals.

What I can see is he's the right position, the right age and has the right profile (ie highly rated).

Will he turn out to be great? The most learned experts in the world couldn't tell us that for sure. Too many variables, too many unknowns.

We're giving this a real crack though aren't we? As someone else said earlier, we've abandoned the self pity and starting acting like a big club.

Dermot Byrne
193 Posted 04/07/2017 at 11:15:33
Just met a Kopite mate in local Co-op. "Any news" he asked.

"Eh?"

"Just wondered who you've signed since I left home 10 mins ago".

To his credit he said it is good to see then said maybe we (the RS) can learn how to do transfer business.

Skipped out of shop like a deer on coke. Happy day.

Steve Ferns
194 Posted 04/07/2017 at 11:20:38
I should have included (World Cup winner) Callum Connolly as a left back option over Antonee Robinson.
Derek Knox
195 Posted 04/07/2017 at 11:24:25
Dermot@ 194

I have just seen a statement, from ex-boy blue fan, Jamie Carragher, on newsnow everton, saying that none of our new signings would be good enough to get in the RS team.

I appreciate he is probably just winding us all up, but why doesn't he keep his gob firmly shut.

There is always someone, when we get any good news, to be all too quick, to pour oil on the flames of our joy.

Dermot Byrne
196 Posted 04/07/2017 at 11:44:11
Derek, I replied to Jamie's tweet (idiot I am). Just had a few 😂. Of course it gives him coverage but more importantly, what else made him say it? Fear 😱 and of course 🤑. In the end..😹
Mark Rankin
197 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:02:13
Regarding Jamie Carragher's comment, the only thing that matters is Everton making signings that will improve our first team squad now and for the future, Liverpool's first team is irrelevant.
Mark Melton
198 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:02:39
I don't care what Moshiri says in public, Kenwrong is no longer in Charge of transfers, Walsh is. The difference is remarkable...
Dermot Byrne
199 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:09:41
Bang on Mark 198. Concentrate on our own game, the rest will fall over themselves!
Steve Ferns
200 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:12:46
I would like to think you are right Mark, but why do all the new signings keep referencing BK?

Maybe BK is a great snake oil salesman, as many have said on here, and so he is able to play his part in casting a picture or an illusion of what Everton is or stands for and so persuade the players to come here. If so, great. Just leave the numbers and the details to the professionals.

Tony Cunningham
201 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:13:27
Will Mabon (169), I agree with Stan Schofield (186), American beer is far from harmless. They led the way in developing craft ales and I'll always remember the hangover that the 10% 'Double Bastard' ale gave me whilst in California!

Loving this spending, by the end of August our net spend may not be too high but loving not buying the leftover scraps or make-do loan deals... Now when do we get this stadium built?

Brian Harrison
202 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:13:29
I have no worries about Keane, I have been impressed every time I have watched him. I know some say how easily Lukaku turned him to score, but all centre halves get turned like that at least once a season.

There is no doubt all the signings so far will improve the team and the squad. That has to be the main criteria when signing players. Too often in the recent past, because of lack of funds we have had to sell our best and buy 4/5 journeymen players with the money. These signings are better than journeymen players, but until we get into a Champions league place then maybe we will be able to buy the very best.

Brent Stephens
203 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:13:36
Mark, I wonder if Kenwright still negotiates each deal??? Is there a role for each of them here? Koeman says he wants a certain type of player. Walsh seeks one out and recommends. Koeman agrees and tells Kenwright, who then does the deal. My guess as I don't know enough to say that Kenwright is no longer in charge of transfers.
Brent Stephens
204 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:17:31
Dermot "Skipped out of shop like a deer on coke".

Ah, they were the days. Bambi and me.

Steve Ferns
205 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:20:54
From Michael Keane - see video on sky sports website to hear him say the words:

“I’ve also got to say thanks to the Chairman Bill Kenwright - he’s been absolutely fantastic getting the deal through. I also spoke with Steve Walsh, who I knew from my time at Leicester four or five years ago, and they really convinced me that this was the place to come and that Everton is the perfect club for me.”

Or is there some kind of conspiracy whereby the players are told they have namecheck BK in the press conference? Why would they? and what does BK actually have to gain? If he's claiming credit for nothing, then Moshiri wouldn't stand for it, surely?

Dermot Byrne
206 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:22:14
Brent: 56 years old and still the days...the haphazard skip and a co-op cola nowadays.

This interesting from gobshite paper. Pretty accurate apart from prediction.

Link

Brent Stephens
207 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:27:33
I've scrubbed co-op cola off my bucket list and have added that 10% Double Bastard beer referred to on another thread. Going out with a bang.
Steve Ferns
208 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:27:54
Haha that article talks about how rehearsed Keane was and he had to remember to thank BK!
Derek Knox
209 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:33:18
Brent @204

Each potential signing for us, is met by BK, and they have to watch Blood Brothers, with Buffalo Bill, and should they manage to do so, without any adverse reaction, they're in! :-)

Brent Stephens
210 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:39:28
Derek, I believe you!
Amit Vithlani
211 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:40:57
"Poor Michael Keane – his England career has just died...

How about that for a negative counterweight?"

That is not a counterweight at all. I would argue, if this were to come true, it would actually be a positive.

I wager he will learn alot more from the collective team at Finch Farm than under Gareth Southgate's mediocre coaching set up.

Amit Vithlani
212 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:46:26
"Or is there some kind of conspiracy whereby the players are told they have namecheck BK in the press conference? Why would they? and what does BK actually have to gain? If he's claiming credit for nothing, then Moshiri wouldn't stand for it, surely?"

Somehow, I doubt Moshiri gives a flying fuck, but it is a guess. What is more, if Bill gets abit of credit now and then, what is the harm. He is not likely to seize on his apparent popularity with incoming players to take back control from Moshiri.

Ian Hollingworth
213 Posted 04/07/2017 at 12:51:15
Carragher trolling our signings:

"When Everton sign 4/5 players but none of them would make the Liverpool team!"

I am led to believe that Gary Neville has called him out asking why he put Jordan Pickford in his team of the year.

Kim Vivian
214 Posted 04/07/2017 at 13:03:15
I'm bored.
What's happening today?
Andrew Ellams
215 Posted 04/07/2017 at 13:24:10
Carragher would pick Lovren over Keane?
Andrew Ellams
216 Posted 04/07/2017 at 13:35:05
Just seen Sigurdsson has come in from 22/1 to 5/4 today to return to Spurs. Everton still at 4/5 but have I missed something?
Steve Ferns
217 Posted 04/07/2017 at 13:49:59
No idea Andrew, perhaps a reaction to Barkley turning up for training? Maybe Spurs trying to force us to lower Barkley's price - well if you want £50m for Barkley, how about we sign Sigurdsson for £30m?
John Davies
218 Posted 04/07/2017 at 13:53:51
Jamie Carragher, See you next Tuesday.
David Booth
220 Posted 04/07/2017 at 14:04:28
Delighted to see we are making everyone sit up and take notice (thanks Carragher for your usual Kopite level of arrogance and classlessness), and still more to follow it seems.

For all those who are hoping Lukaku would stay however - of which I number myself as one - I am quite reliably informed that the deal with Chelsea is long-agreed and that the only thing keeping it under wraps right now is Chelsea's new deal with Nike - who want him in their shirt when it goes public, not in one of outgoing sponsors, Adidas.

So a replacement 'centre forward' will surely feature prominently among any further additions to our squad?

If it were Giroud, despite the fact he is outside the age parameters of our current recruitment policy, I would be very happy.

He always looks good against us in particular, fits the classic Everton centre forward profile and would bring the rest of the team into the game through his hold up play, aerial prowess and Arsenal/France-honed football brain.

He could make us one genuine team of 11, instead of separate banks of 3, 4, 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 - or whatever that week's favourite formation happens to be.

I was critical of Koeman's selection and tactics at times last season, but clearly we are going to see his much more dynamic team, not Martinez-Lite this coming season. So let's see what type of a manager he really is.

Only one request from me: rid us of this inherent 'we are not worthy' inferiority complex we have at the so-called 'top clubs' and no more sh*tting ourselves at Anfield!

Oh, and PS: Rooney - NO!

Oliver Molloy
221 Posted 04/07/2017 at 14:29:14
Rooney ? ; surely this would be another positive signing.
He would bring experience ,certaintly more pluses than minuses and Rooney himself would want to prove he's still got a lot to offer his own club before he retires.

It will only happen if he is released or we can negotiate a loan deal paying a percentage of his massive wages.

Oliver Molloy
222 Posted 04/07/2017 at 14:29:14
Rooney ? ; surely this would be another positive signing.
He would bring experience ,certaintly more pluses than minuses and Rooney himself would want to prove he's still got a lot to offer his own club before he retires.

It will only happen if he is released or we can negotiate a loan deal paying a percentage of his massive wages.

Si Cooper
223 Posted 04/07/2017 at 14:53:57
David (221), the Lukaku transfer being linked to their new kit sponsors unveiling has been doing the rounds for a couple of weeks now. I have seen 1st July given as the trigger date. Now that date is fast receding can your informant provide the correct one so that we can all relax for a while?
Steavey Buckley
224 Posted 04/07/2017 at 15:14:36
Tyias Browning and Brendan Galloway are at Sunderland on a one year's loan, with McGeady not far behind - Skysports.
John Newman
225 Posted 04/07/2017 at 15:15:18
Quite relaxed today after yesterday’s insanity on here ,great to see were still being linked with Giroud who I feel could fit in nicely and do job for us he’s a decent player who suits a high pressing game and Knows where the goal is, for 20 MIL sign him.
Mike Gaynes
226 Posted 04/07/2017 at 15:46:08
I'm half-surprised by the Sunderland loans (if confirmed). Both certainly need the playing time as both have had their development sidetracked... Browning by injury and Galloway by his failure to impress Pulis. Browning makes sense as he played for Grayson last year at PNE.

However, Galloway's departure raises the question of who will provide cover for Baines. Funes Mori seems the only possible choice off the current roster, but obviously not a true left back. Robinson has yet to make his senior side debut and is, I believe, out of contract (although that can be remedied quickly). Garbutt's mere presence bewilders me after his disastrous loans at Fulham and Wigan -- clearly not good enough.

So do we splash cash on somebody, gamble that Robinson is ready for the big time, or hope that Bainesy has 45 games in that dodgy ankle? Interesting problem.

Peter Laverty
227 Posted 04/07/2017 at 18:15:24
Sit back and relax. Everything from this point forward is all a bonus. If you read enough into the paper talk and the thoughts of others on twitter and, given my thoughts on this post, you'll realise that I've hit the blunt and had a few beers and forgotten what I'm talking about.
Ajay Gopal
228 Posted 04/07/2017 at 18:29:14
The way I see it, we have spent so far:
Pickford 25 million
Klaassen 24 million
Keane 25 million
Sandro 5.2 million
Onyekuru 6.3 million

Possible incomings:
Giroud/Another striker 20 million
Rooney: Loan?

Total outgo about 105.5, say 115.5 including add-ons for Pickford and Keane.

From the following player sales (actual and speculated), we should get:

Cleverly 8 million
Deulofeu 10.5 million
Niasse 6 million (Hull City were prepared to pay 8 million)
McGeady 4 million (reportedly)
Lukaku 70 million (conservatively)
One of McCarthy/Barkley 20 million (conservatively)
Robles 8 million

Total 126.5 million

Giving a negative net spend of 11 million. So, probably opening the door for a big central midfield signing - perhaps a creative player like Sigurdsson/Mata for about 30 million.

Squad:

GK: Pickford, Stek
RB: Coleman, Kenny
CB: Keane, Williams, Holgate, Jags, Funes-Mori, Pennington
LB: Baines, Connolly
LW: Lookman, Mirallas
RW: Lennon, Bolasie
CM: Schneiderlin, Gana, Besic, Barry, Davies
AM: Klaassen, Sigurdsson, Barkley, Rooney
Strikers: Sandro, Giroud, Calvert-Lewin

When everyone is fit, my starting XI from the above:

Pickford
Coleman Keane Funes-Mori Baines
Schneiderlin Gana
Klaassen Rooney Sigurdsson
Sandro

Subs: Stek, Williams, Barkley, Davies, Lookman, Bolasie, Giroud

Top 4, guaranteed!

Roy Steel
229 Posted 04/07/2017 at 18:39:20
All this is hard to believe. We have become much more professional again, all the business being done in a classy way. It all augers well for a successful future.

Well done, Bill, for bringing Mr Moshiri on board and in turn him appointing Ronald Koeman.

Good times ahead for the greatest club and fans in the world. Get ready for a great ride; it's been a long time coming. "

Once a blue..."

Eric Paul
230 Posted 04/07/2017 at 19:25:21
I would have taken Rooney in a flash 2or 3 years ago but things have changed now and he couldn't get in a side that finished 6th last season
Andy Crooks
231 Posted 04/07/2017 at 21:18:53
Michael, Lyndon, I made post early in the thread which was pretty much defending views which I didn't exactly agree with. I think it has been removed so I assume that there were posts that followed that required moderation.

I recently posted a stupid one that you quite rightly binned but I fear that you are stiffling rigorous debate. I know you have difficult judgement calls to make but surely there us room for some dissent.

David Currie
232 Posted 04/07/2017 at 21:59:26
After signing Keane would love for us to go out and get Davinson Sanchez 21yrs old a defender with pace and strength. Would be a real statement of intent and another young player with huge potential.
Darren Hind
233 Posted 04/07/2017 at 23:35:25
Mike @38

"Looking forward to the mea culpas from the "Koeman Out" brigade. You guys didn't see that coming, did ya ?"

I'm kinda disappointed that on a day of celebration you chose to post something like that, However, as a fully paid-up member, I will grant you (and others) your wish and give you the response you were "looking forward to"...

Yes, we did see it coming. We all saw it coming over a year ago, the much vaunted recruitment drive and rumoured war chest has been reported and predicted by just about every website, sports program and newspaper since the day and hour Moshiri walked through the door. The imminent departure of Lukaku and probably Barkley made it a forgone conclusion.

I can't decide whether the majority are giving credit to Moshiri, Kenwright, Walsh or Koeman for the recent acquisitions. There seems to be plenty being handed out to all of them...

I'm too long in the tooth to give any credence to the utterings of a player we have just made a multi millionaire. I know the real reason he has joined us is because we have offered him a better deal than anybody else.

If you wish to believe otherwise, be my guest, but I still clearly remember Lukaku telling us what a big factor Roberto was in his decision to join us; he was shouting "I'm a celebrity – get me out of here" before he got his kit dirty.

These (or similar) deals could and probably would have happened without Kenwright or Koeman. They would not, could not, have happened without Moshiri.

You seem to think people who criticised Koeman last season have been proved wrong, or should somehow be acting contrite? ... Bollocks to that. He deserved everything he got. There was no excuse for the pug ugliness his safety-first tactics subjected us to, thirty-odd times last season.

This is a second chance for Honest Ron. Even the Koeman out "Brigade" will recognise that. Moshiri has put his money where his mouth is and backed him to the hilt. You can be absolutely certain that the guy who enjoyed the least pressured job in the Premier League last season will feel the temperature in his office rise considerably. His excuses have been stripped away and he will be expected to deliver. The 7th place so widely predicted (and too readily settled for) simply will not do.

Ugly football, shameful away performances, and early exits from the cup competitions will see Koeman leave Goodison as if he had been fired from a giant catapult. Moshiri is doing business like a man who will not stand on ceremony if his general is found wanting.

I'm looking forward to next season, If Koeman proves up to it, Happy days. If I see the success I have been dying for, I would have no problem declaring I was wrong about him... but I'd hang fire with the "I-told-you-so's" if I was you. A ball as not been kicked yet. Your guy may not have been the main reason for these signings, but he will stand or fall by them.

We've seen what he's like as a manager when he's not under pressure; now we'll see what he's like when he is...

Tantum tempus narrabo

Andrew James
234 Posted 05/07/2017 at 00:12:57
Ok Jamie Carragher is really going above and beyond with this one...

Pickford and Keane wouldn't get in a RS side that was constantly joked about last season due to the suspect keeper and centre halves?

He might be right about the others because the RS are well stocked in those positions but REALLY? Is this because he's bitter because Keane will undoubtedly get more England caps?

Don Alexander
235 Posted 05/07/2017 at 00:44:54
Andy Crooks (#231) I did as you did and have also had my post removed. That said, we have no idea what other TW'ers submit. Michael and Lyndon do. We all surely appreciate that they run a tremendous forum but would need the wisdom of Solomon to get everything bang on every time in everyone's opinion.

That said, I just hope open difference of opinion goes on because it's thought provoking, the essence of the site, and encapsulates us rampant Evertonians.

What is (or should be) anathema to any Evertonian is personality attack on a.n.other because of a differing opinion. We are, after all, a team too.

I rest my case Mi'Lord.

Ray Roche
236 Posted 05/07/2017 at 08:00:02
Darren, to be fair, Keane mentions Koeman as reason why he DID sign for Everton.

Maybe we do some players a disservice. Maybe some players can see what is going on at Everton and want to be part of it at the start. Sign for a resurgent Everton, play every week, passionate fans, new ground on the horizon, or get splinters in yer trumper at Old Trafford? Tough one, that.

After all, "A ball as not been kicked yet" so let's give Koeman a year or so, eh?

Laurie Hartley
237 Posted 05/07/2017 at 08:10:29
Darren 233 - a good response and you taught me another way of saying only time will tell - which of course it will. In the meantime:-

Omhoog de Blues
Arriba el Blues

and hopefully very shortly

En Haut le Blues

Carragher's Tweet music to my ears - there rattled now.


Laurie Hartley
238 Posted 05/07/2017 at 09:12:51
Spelling alert there!!!!
Michael Kenrick
Editorial Team
239 Posted 05/07/2017 at 11:46:42
Andy (#231), the problem we saw was that people who hadn't even posted on this thread were getting excessive personal attention for their previously expressed views.

Rigorous debate is fine; personal disparagement and point scoring less so... We do what we can to keep it real. Thank you for your support!

Michael Kenrick
240 Posted 05/07/2017 at 11:53:21
Not sure I agree with your "under pressure" scenarios, Darren.

Koeman was under plenty of pressure last season, pressure to get us back in the reckoning. He delivered. Yes, your comments about the dire means that got us to the end cannot be refuted, but make no mistake – he was under pressure.

Your specific assertion that he "enjoyed the least pressured job in the Premier League last season" is a total strawman that doesn't warrant any discussion.
He will be under similar pressure next season, as all Everton managers should be.

Jim Knightley
241 Posted 05/07/2017 at 12:33:37
I don't agree that 7th won't do - much will depend on our cup performances. Those expecting us to compete for top 4 immediately are possibly being unrealistic - we've purchased younger players who will need time. Keane can come in and do a fantastic job- Klaasen will take time to adapt, pickford will make mistakes and Sandro is young and his finishing needs work. I've seen you deride several of these signings on a previous thread Darren, so it is interesting that you seem to think they will catapult us above at least one of those above us, who have or will spend a lot of money too.

These buys are for the long term - they can grow with the club, as we gradually transition the squad. If we lose Lukaku, we lose a player better than anyone we've brought in. Maybe a couple of top class signings will change things, but I do not see top 4 as realistic. We've brought players who have the potential to become top players but I don't think any of them are there yet, with the exception of Keane who could play cb for some of the teams above us.

I'd like to see us improve our points tally and away form, and fight for top 4 as long as possible- maybe we will be in the fight, esp if spurs suffer in the new stadium and Liverpool suffer because of a lack of a squad. But I want to see progress in the cups. There is no reason, if we continue to buy well, that we can't be competing in the business end of the europa come spring. This will be important for growing our reputation, and as a stepping stone for ucl. Given the teams United played this season, we could very well go all the way.

We also need a good domestic cup run. With a better squad, we can still rotate and be a force in the league cup. Our weak departures last season were incredibly frustrating- we must learn from that. We seem to be building a squad big enough to compete on all fronts. But we will need patience- we are building a young squad, and that is an important strategy for the long term, but we've not brought in an alexis sanchez, a kdb, Jesus or Silva, a Pogba, a Mane, a hazard etc. We don't yet have the quality of those above us, at least individually. But, if we can find a real collectivity, and earlier buys will help that, then we can compete differently.

What I'd like to see in the final weeks is the purchase of a genuine creative player, or a very exciting one, along with the striker we clearly need. Maybe Rooney will bring in that extra quality for a season - and giroud can bring the goals. But I wonder if Walsh could pull off a worldly? Assensio on loan - turan in from Barca. Martial, suffering at United, perhaps wants out? Insignie from Napoli etc. It is probably unrealistic, and I'm completely behind the purchases and the long term strategy, but I'd love to bring in someone who is either a different level to the rest, or is genuinely exciting and can do the absurd. Klaasen will be a great box to box guy and finishes very well. Sandro will work hard, score some good goals and we will love the way he plays off the ball. Keane will sure up our defence, and along with Pickford, will be in our back line for years to come.

Whatever happens - I'm completely behind what is going on at the moment. As I've argued multiple times during this past year, I've not felt this level of optimism in the premier league era. We are no longer small time, struggling to compete with bargain basement deals. We are the biggest spenders in the league since January, and in time we will compete at the top end again.

Dave Wilson
242 Posted 05/07/2017 at 12:47:23
I agree Darren.

Koeman is under more pressure. The management had gone to great lengths to bring him in him, Having given him three years to right the ship, they were hardly going to make demands on him in his first season. Unless our premiership status was threatened, his position was never in jeopardy. His first brief seemed to be to stop the rot which had set in under Martinez.

This time is different. Having spent more than any other manager in Europe he will now find himself under intense scrutiny. The expectation is suddenly a whole lot higher and not just within the club. The whole of football will be watching and expecting a big improvement.

Colin Glassar
243 Posted 05/07/2017 at 18:46:26
Fantastic
Darren Hind
244 Posted 05/07/2017 at 19:30:48
Nowhere have I said that I think the signings will or should "catapult" us anywhere.

My point (which I thought I'd made very clear) was a simple one: Koeman has been backed to the tune of nearly £100M. These are the players he (not me) has chosen to spend it on and he will stand or fall by their performances.

It is ridiculous to suggest 7th place will do. We have just spent around £100M after finishing comfortably in front of the rest last time around. Are we really going to humbly accept the same outcome??? The cup competitions will not lend an excuse for standing still in the Premier League either.

This thread is awash with excitement and although many will be seeing the new signings in the flesh for the first time next season, their expectations will be sky high. I can assure you this excitement is not generated by the prospect of finishing where we did in May. The club has splashed the cash like never before... what would be the point? Jam tomorrow? They've been listening to that for years! For £100m most people will want to see an immediate improvement.

It makes absolutely no sense to to claim this is the most excited you have been for years when you cant allow yourself to expect the manager who has been backed more heavily than an other in Europe, to finish considerably higher than he did last time. . .to do better than Moyes did with nothing

Michael

Under the same pressure as last season?... are you sure? He followed a manager who had completely lost his way, He inherited a superior squad to everyone else outside the top six. Unlike the other managers, he inherited a 35-goal-a-season striker too.

He was given a free ride after disastrous performances in the cup and he was allowed to go virtually the whole season producing one shameful away performance after another. He repeatedly told us we could not/ would not challenge at the top places and he was not expected to... Not only was his job absolutely secure, he was going to get a massive war chest at the end of it. "Under pressure"? ... The bed tester a Slumberland was under more pressure than Koeman was.

Jim Knightley
246 Posted 05/07/2017 at 20:27:53
Darren - we could come 7th with more points and better away performances. We could win a cup, and make the semis of the Europa League. That would constitute progress wouldn't it? especially with a young team facing the prospect of losing their top scorer.

Football is not only about league progress and it is too simple to state that 7th plus more signings: necessarily a higher finish. The teams above us will all spend a lot of money – several of them will finish with a higher net spend. They all had better squads, bigger wage bills and better first elevens in the first instance. We are playing in the Europa League next season – this season, we only had league and cup football to think about.

Paul Tran
247 Posted 05/07/2017 at 20:51:25
Don't always agree with you, Darren, but I do here, other than your view of the squad Koeman inherited. I'm chuffed that we've bought these players early, thrilled that we're creating a bit of a stir.

We have the players, with more to come. Let's not get too ahead of ourselves and start shouting the odds.

This is the season where Koeman has to deliver, where we'll know how good he really is.

I can't wait!

Andy Crooks
248 Posted 05/07/2017 at 22:21:28
Darren Hind, this is Koeman's team. He has had the money, there can be no excuses. I expect new football; pressing, attacking, guile, tactical nous, and absolute commitment. Anything less will be unforgivable.

I think your cynicism about Koeman will be shown to be unjustified. Come Christmas, if we are not looking like title contenders, I will ask the same questions as you.

Ray Robinson
249 Posted 05/07/2017 at 22:36:14
Darren (#244),

I can appreciate what you are saying in that I would be disappointed if we were to finish 7th after such an outlay on new players but it is possible to make progress by finishing in the same position.

For instance, we could achieve 14 more points and challenge the top four until the final stages of the season – that would be progress even if we ultimately finished 7th.

Peter Laing
250 Posted 05/07/2017 at 22:39:12
Reading the rumour pages, it would appear that the RS are still circling around Virgil Van Dijk. With the same agent as his compatriot Koeman and having previously worked with the Manager at Southampton and money seemingly not a problem – other than Champions League football being on offer – would he choose us over them?

This would be the transfer that would really send a message out to the footballing world – can it be done??

Mike Green
251 Posted 05/07/2017 at 22:40:34
Last season was a mixed bag with plenty of ups and downs – cracking home form, dire away form, torrid cup exploits, pretty average football, pretty awful against the Top 6 bar a couple of flashes against Man City and Arsenal, a couple of really good new players in Gana and Schneiderlin, some bad injuries etc.

I am chuffed to bits with our new recruits but I don't think they will be an overnight fix, I think we'll see a marked improvement but it will probably be the season after that we really see the fruits of those appointments and a few more we could see follow them in.

You are right Andy, there is no hiding place for Koeman, this is his team but I would still take Top 6, challenge for Top 4 and a real crack at a couple of Cups next year.

The year after that, the final year on his contract for 'the project', is the one where I would expect to see us really throwing our weight around with the Top 4.

Year 1 should be seen as the beginning, Year 2 the middle and Year 3 the end of the first volume of the Koeman story.

Brian Williams
252 Posted 05/07/2017 at 22:42:32
At the rumoured £70m fee, I for one wouldn't want it done. Just as good out there at half the price.
Peter Laing
253 Posted 05/07/2017 at 22:47:58
Brian, we would be getting a player in his prime at 25, potentially 10 good years ahead of him. It certainly is a lot of money but who else would be available at half the price?

I'm not convinced by either Williams or Funes Mori and Jags will either move on or become a bit part player.

Sam Hoare
254 Posted 05/07/2017 at 22:55:28
Andy, title contenders? Really?

I can't imagine that. Despite our spending this Summer (in a very inflated market where 100m probably equates to about 50m two years ago) we still have a very young emerging squad that I don't think matches most of our rivals.

E.g. For me

Lloris/Vertonghen/Aiderweireld > Courtois/Luiz/Cahill > Pickford/Keane/Williams

Equally
Kante/Matic/Fabregas >
Dier/Dembele/Alli >
Gueye/Schneiderlin/Klaassen

And
Jesus/Aguero/Sane >
Sanchez/Ozil/Lacazette >
Sandro/Mirallas/Lukaku(Rooney)

I think we are breaching the gap and laying the foundation but we finished around 15 points behind top 4 last season. And they will likely all spend big bucks too. I'd settle for top 6, good performances and the integration of a team that can improve again next year and the year after till we are the ones being chased.

Jim Knightley
255 Posted 06/07/2017 at 03:13:35
Andy you confirm exactly the kind of unrealistic opinion I fear. Namely this claim:

'Come Christmas, if we are not looking like title contenders I will ask the same questions as you.'

I'm sorry, but it's madness. Go look at the bookies odds. Look at finishing places for the top 7 over the Premier League era. Look at wage bills, team values. Look, most importantly, at the quality of the teams.

How can we compete with Spurs' first 11? Who do we have as good as Alli, Kane, Eriksen, Alderweireld or Vertoghen? Spurs are better in pretty much every position. How many of our players would get into their team? And what of Chelsea, the league winners? And my favourites for the title, City?

City's first choice midfield and attack next season, imo, will be:
Gundogan/Fernandinho, KDB, Silva
Bernando, Jesus/Aguero Sane/Jesus

How can we compete with that? Apart from a DM, not one of our attacking players would get in that City team.

Arsenal and Liverpool are possible, but even then, we do not have a midfielder as good as Coutinho or Mane, or Sanchez or Ozil.

It's fantasy, which completely ignores the superior quality of the teams above us - the superior quality what has established a consistent top 4, bar the one season Leicester broke it after woeful under performance from the other top sides, and the season we broke it over a decade ago. If some Everton fans think we can compete for the title, which I expect will be a tiny minority, then they will be facing some genuine disappointment next year.

We don't go from 7th to title contenders, when teams all above us will also spend money, by buying a young relatively unproven gk from a relegated side, one good cb, one young midfield unproven in the Premier League, and one striker, also unproven, whose finishing needs work. How highest profile signing might well be Wayne Rooney - a reject from the 6th best team in the division.

I'm optimistic about the direction in which we are heading, but we will need patience. And some understanding of the quality around us.

Mike Gaynes
256 Posted 06/07/2017 at 04:57:34
Good sense, Sam and Jim.

15 points is a lot.

Darren Hind
257 Posted 06/07/2017 at 05:13:10
I don't think anyone believes Andy is suggesting we will actually win the league. but he has supported Koeman steadfastly and by expecting to see us in the mix come Christmas he is merely showing the courage of his convictions. I can respect that. If hes wrong, he's wrong. Who amongst us has never been there?

I don't get this "I haven't been this excited in years" lark, at least not when it's followed by a meek surrender before a ball is even kicked.... "How do we compete with Spurs?" – WTF is that all about?

Spurs are decent team, but they deserve to be. They have bought shrewdly and with a vision. The players mentioned – Alli, Kane, Eriksen, Alderwiereld and Vertonghen – cost the club around £40m. We've spent that on two centre-halves. Their Belgian centre-halves each cost around the same as Ashley Williams.

We have spent years bleating that we cant compete with teams who spend fortunes, but we have outspent Spurs just about all over the park... and we still cant compete with them???

Spurs compete for the title now because they believe they will. You don't hear them bleating about how much Man City, Arsenal, Man Utd or Liverpool have spent... They just got on with the business of finishing above them.

I envy the fuckers, They are everything we should be. They play with a swagger. They have nowhere near our league pedigree yet they see themselves as superior. How do we compete with them? Well, shedding this accursed inferiority complex would be a start.


Stan Schofield
258 Posted 06/07/2017 at 10:35:35
Regarding being title contenders, although it's sensible to be sceptical about how realistic that is (because lowering your expectations avoids too much disappointment, especially if you're an Evertonian), I'm also becoming a bit sceptical about my scepticism.

Truth is, although we were 15 points adrift of the top 6, it could 'readily' have been much less. I believe there isn't much in it when it comes to quality of players, between us and Liverpool for example, and last season was a big transition from the Martinez regime. If the away tactics had been more assertive, more closely matching the home tactics, who knows where we could have finished.

Now, some will say, "but we didn't do better, we finished 15 points behind, and that's a fact". Although they would be right, I believe there was a clear top 7 last season, and apart from Man City, Chelsea and Spurs, there wasn't really much in it. That's despite crap performances from us away to Spurs, Arsenal and Liverpool, which to me actually underlines the point about away tactics falling short of what they could have been.

So, rather than trying to make predictions of where we might finish, be it 7th, bottom, or Champions, I'd rather say that anything could happen. Football (like life generally) can hinge on minor details, which makes predicting a fairly hopeless task.

The way the club is going at the moment means that there's a certain momentum of spirit, that we're generally on the rise, with new young blood (both recent signings and the Under-23s). It's possible that the new signings will help greatly in changing our mentality to a winning one, where we don't cave in when the going gets tough – surely needed.

So I wouldn't be surprised if we were title contenders, but at the same time I wouldn't be surprised if we finished mid-table. But I think there's more chance of the former than the latter.

Paul Tran
259 Posted 06/07/2017 at 21:17:53
Agreed again, Darren.

I think Koeman quickly sussed out that the talented and inconsistent players he inherited fold like a cheap deck chair when under pressure and that he needed a giant sized broom to sweep several out. Much like his predecessor at the end of his first season.

Where Spurs are ahead of us is buying the mentioned players earlier and therefore cheaper. And having a crafty businessman in charge, also earlier. And bringing a better manager in, earlier.

For all that, they haven't won anything yet, so for me, they're a scalp we can take quicker than some think.

You can't spend all this money and bleat about settling in time. Koeman rightly exercised caution last season, because he had an accurate outsider's view of what he inherited.

Now it's time for the front foot and positive from manager downwards. And that includes us, especially after Sandro's first missed sitter and Pickford's first clanger.


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