Boost for Silva as Brands favours continuity

Tuesday, 2 April, 2019 101comments  |  Jump to most recent
The combination of Everton's recent revival and Marcel Brands's aversion to unnecessary upheaval makes it highly likely that Marco Silva will retain the reins at Goodison Park this summer following a turbulent first season as manager.

The Portuguese arrived last year with the anointment of majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri and, in partnership with the Director of Football, undertook a positive squad-rebuilding initiative that looked to have enhanced the club's top-six prospects for 2018-19.

We didn't do anything but prepared more for the summer. Now, on April 2, the players are already decided. We've done a lot of work on that and let's see what is possible

Marcel Brands

A promising start evaporated in December and a run of relegation-level form followed that raised serious questions about Silva's suitability to the Everton role and speculation that he could be replaced before next season.

Handsome victories over Chelsea and West Ham have eased the pressure on the manager's shoulders as well as any urgency on Brands's part to lead another change in the hot seat this summer, particularly given the chaos that has characterised the last few years at Everton.

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Asked at the Football Innovation Summit in London today what his preference would be in the close season, the Dutchman explained that he prefers continuity while he has also revealed that the club's summer transfer targets have already been lined up.

“Definitely not to break everything up and bring everyone new in,” Brands explained.

“I think one of the most important things in my job is to not get too emotional.

“One of the most difficult things in my job is to find the right manager, that is one of the most important guys in the club and if you find him, give him the time.

“Give him the possibility to work and if the manager is fitting in the club, fitting with the culture, then make a plan, and go step-by-step.

“Sometimes you have to change the plan a little bit but I am not the guy — and have never done so — who changes the whole direction of the club.

“We had a lot of changes in the last three of four years but when the manager gets sacked, the club would bring a whole new staff. That is not good for a club.”

Another summer of important recruitment is expected as the management team look to move more unwanted personnel on and add quality in key areas.

Brands admitted that there was little activity during January because it is not an optimal time to sign players but says that he and his team have still been working on drawing up a shortlist of desired players in the interim.

“We didn't do anything in the winter window because there was no big need for that and I don't like to bring players in during the winter window because there is no pre-season, the games go on and on and it is difficult for the players to adapt.

“We didn't do anything but prepared more for the summer. Now, on April 2, the players are already decided. We've done a lot of work on that and let's see what is possible and what we can do but the positions and names are ready.

“The players we brought in last year were all under 25 so we don't want to invest big money in players who are older. Everton is a club that also has to sell players so it is necessary to get younger players to invest in."

More detailed quotes at Liverpool Echo



Reader Comments (101)

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Steve Ferns
1 Posted 03/04/2019 at 00:07:31
Nothing new here. Brands has often said he stands by his manager and explained about Cocu. He also, in the same interview series, went on about promoting from within. How van Bommel (fine player) has replaced Cocu seamlessly, being promoted after coming through the PSV system implemented by Brands. He says he expects Van Bommel to move on and Ruud Van Nistelrooy to step up into the top job following the same path as Van Bommel. Perhaps this is why Unsworth is not looking elsewhere? I feel really reassured by everything Brands says. He just ouzes calmness, experience, intelligence and foresight.
Mark Andersson
2 Posted 03/04/2019 at 00:37:50
Interesting read bu both Brands and Steve Ferns...

Silva and the team need to keep doing what they have done against Chelsea and de hammers and the fans will back him...

Once again its a question of kets see what happens next season... maybe that can be are new motto...

Mike Gaynes
3 Posted 03/04/2019 at 00:42:43
Much longer article in the Echo in which Brands emphasizes the importance of improved scouting in the backroom shakeup. I love that. SO important for this club to find those underpriced jewels out there.

https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/marcel-brands-big-backroom-shake-16066789

I remain unconvinced by Silva, but I'm totally impressed by Brands, and it's hard to argue with his commitment to continuity.

Joe Corgan
4 Posted 03/04/2019 at 00:58:44
No-one can argue that Brands speaks well but what is he really saying here? I’ve read the full interview in the Echo and there’s definitely a few key points.

On the face of it, being patient with a manager is a fine strategy. Nobody wants to constantly lurch from pillar to post although it hasn’t done Chelsea’s trophy cabinet any harm. And Man City got rid of both Mancini and Pellegrini despite their records. So how badly would Silva have to do to get sacked? Despite a recent uptick in performances and results I would hope Brands would have the guts to pull the trigger if next season is as bad as this one has been.

Brands also talks about scouting. Finding bargains and getting the most bang for our buck. Again, these are noble principles which would serve us well if they worked. On the other hand, I think we all hoped that Moshiri’s takeover would lead us to compete financially with the moneybags teams at the sharp end of the league. Instead we’re still looking around for yellow-stickered whoopsies. Yes we’ve spent (and wasted) a lot of money since Moshiri came in, but let’s not also forget how much we recouped from the sales of Lukaku, Stones and others. Not an insignificant amount, especially when added to record TV money.

I know this is a pessimistic perspective but regardless of what Brands says ultimately he and Silva will be judged by our league position and right now it’s not good enough. We’re currently at the trailing end of a group of clubs including Wolves, Watford and Leicester, none of whom were even in the Premier League four years ago.

Anthony Murphy
5 Posted 03/04/2019 at 01:27:14
This is exactly the approach the club and Moshiri need in the coming years with BMD on the horizon.
Dan Parker
6 Posted 03/04/2019 at 02:25:27
I remember when Moyes had a wobble and we finished fourth from bottom. Bill persevering paid off in terms of stability when we needed it. We’ve played some cracking football at times this season albeit fleeting and whatever the results for the remainder of the season, I’ve seen enough to stick.
Mark Andersson
7 Posted 03/04/2019 at 03:05:08
Good post Joe Corgan BIG IF we carry on the form of late, Silva will have a bit of breathing space, however fans with short memories and erratic views will turn on him if we get off to a bad start...

Sounds like Brands has been told to keep us mid table at worst while we sell off our better players and hope we can find enough good players to keep the status Que. Yep just like the Moyes era.

Jamie Crowley
8 Posted 03/04/2019 at 04:10:45
Brands' approach is what is needed. We really can't afford yet another change of manager. It would be chaos.

We've played some great stuff this season at times. The large majority of us were stating at the start of the season, that we needed to be patient with Silva and give him time.

He's seen us through a really terrible time this winter, and it's looking like we've come out the better.

There's still just two things that stick in my craw with Silva.

1. The League Cup exit
2. The Newcastle defeat

He needs to show better decision making for me. I won't belabor or drudge up the two points above, it's all been done to death. But those two instances can't be repeated next year. Next season Marco, put out your strongest lineup and win some silverware, starting with the League Cup. And don't ever protect a lead when we're pummeling the opposition, and read a game that wrong ever again please.

Stick. We're on the verge of turning a corner. And in Brands I believe we have a highly intelligent, very talented man.

Next season we simply must break into the top 6. The bar needs to be set high. Third or fourth season top 4 after steady performances and stability. Expectations need to be on the rise, and Silva has to deliver. Spurs have done it the last 5-6 years with the same steady approach, same players, same manager. We can, too.

Jay Harris
9 Posted 03/04/2019 at 05:09:25
Brands is right to speak about not being emotional and trying to minimise change but as supporters our expectations are higher.

We are a fickle bunch 2 or 3 games ago I would say the majority couldnt see and didnt want a future for Silva as Everton manager but now with a bit of slick football and 2 wins under our belt we now want to retain and build.

I am still with Mike Gaynes and the jury is still out with me on Whether Silva has the stamina and ability for the long haul.

Alan J Thompson
10 Posted 03/04/2019 at 05:18:41
Sounds like Mr Moshiri has been on the phone insisting that this is the time, after a few good results, for the world to be told that his pick will be staying.

I'm sure, like most Evertonians, that we want Silva to succeed as it means Everton succeed but he does seem to go from good spells to diabolical performances without any great change in shape and tactics which means we either see it as either the players', or more popularly, the Manager's failing as it does fall within his bailiwick.

Trevor Peers
11 Posted 03/04/2019 at 07:31:14
Silva will be safe as long as the pattern of results is; plenty of wins with a few acceptable losses and not the other way round, plenty of losses and a few acceptable wins.

That's when the pressure comes on and questions are asked about the manager's credibility. Rightly so, people get confused about optimism and pessimism, but it's always about results, Silva has managed some decent results lately, let's hope it continues.

Chris Gould
12 Posted 03/04/2019 at 07:43:34
I don't think there was ever any doubt that Silva was going to be here next season. I think in Brands we have a calm and methodical DOF, and Mosh indicated a while back that he would hold his nerve. They believe in Silva and went to a lot of trouble to get him. He's young, and he's learning. He inherited a load of shite and brought several players straight into the first 11. It was always going to be an up and down season. I've seen enough to be convinced that Brands and Silva will make us a respected force again. Step by step.
Sam Hoare
13 Posted 03/04/2019 at 07:50:15
Where has Marcel Brands been all my life?! He really exudes such calm and experience and whenever he speaks I find myself nodding my head. If he’d had been in from the start of Moshiri’s reign I think we’d be in a much better position.

As for Silva jury is still out. I expect we may well finish 9th-11th which is not really good enough though the West Ham match is the best we’ve played in 2 years or so. I know it’s a dirty word on here but transition is not easy and most good teams are built on continuity. I’m excited to see who we add this summer and hope if we can end the season with some more performances like at Upton Park then there will be cause for optimism.

Tony Abrahams
14 Posted 03/04/2019 at 07:50:30
I think it’s good that we have someone who is both calm, and full of common-sense, making some of the bigger decisions now?

It looks like he tries to bring in, and also acknowledge, the people who do so much hard work, behind the scenes, which usually brings people closer together, because they are shown some trust?

It’s like the Everton job, who would want to take it if they got rid of Silva now? Loads of mercenaries I’m sure, but not many managers who need a bit of time, to build things up, which is hopefully what is starting to happen slowly with Everton right now?

Derek Knox
15 Posted 03/04/2019 at 08:08:17
I can only endorse what many members have said, that in Marcel Brands, we have at Board level what has been lacking for years, someone who knows what he is doing, it's retrospective and hypothetical now, but imagine if we had him on board when Farhad Moshiri took the reins.

I am also still not totally convinced over Marco Silva, until he has proved that the non-football (at times), premature exits from both Cups with less than full strength sides, crazy substitutions and tactics are things well condemned to the past.

I, like many others, who were prepared to back him, even though he was not my choice, was one of those advocating his dismissal, not so long ago.

Admittedly it was probably a bit of a knee-jerk reaction on my part, but if we can get a good run going between now and the season's end, and qualify for the Europa (not ideal, I know but it's a foot in the door) he will be partially admonished but not forgotten and forgiven.

Let's hope Marcel Brands can weave his magic in the summer transfer window, not only with a few additions, but a few exits (high earners/non-producers) I can't see wholesale changes either but a few talented additions and consistency will see us a much better balanced and effective side, and hopefully a joy to watch.

Derek Knox
16 Posted 03/04/2019 at 08:10:50
Tony Abrahams @14, hi Tony is there any chance you could ring me on 07565140075 in the next few days, it would be much appreciated, so thanks in anticipation.
Steve Ferns
17 Posted 03/04/2019 at 08:10:57
Brands can do what we can’t. He watches training. He speaks to players. If he believes the coaching is top notch and everything is being done right, but the results aren’t just there, then he will stick with the manager. That’s what he’s saying.

If he thinks Silva is a fraud and the coaching is crap and Silva’s knocking off early to go golfing, pissing off the players so they want to leave on the cheap, saying our star striker would be failing of still with us in a few years rather than being at a bigger club, etc then he’d want rid.

Brands knows Silva is a good coach and he will stand by a good coach in the tough times. And it’s not a return to the Moyes era. We will try to sign the best young players in the Spurs mould, not scrap around with players no one else wants.

Martin Berry
18 Posted 03/04/2019 at 08:44:51
We got Marcel just at the right time before other clubs realised his worth. I hope we have him at the helm for a long time as he could just be the best signing the club has ever made.
Ajay Gopal
19 Posted 03/04/2019 at 09:34:03
I totally endorse Marcel Brands' views - IMHO, we are very fortunate to have him as the Director of Football at Everton, probably Moshiri's best decision so far since he has joined us. Hopefully, he can further strengthen the squad in the summer, move on the surplus players, and further improve the younger age groups. I don't see us breaking into the Top 6, but rather, I am hopeful that Everton and maybe one other team (Wolves?) will be part of a Top 8, making it a more enjoyable league to watch. But, lots of hard work on and off the training pitch is required to achieve this goal.
Ajay Gopal
20 Posted 03/04/2019 at 09:34:05
I totally endorse Marcel Brands' views - IMHO, we are very fortunate to have him as the Director of Football at Everton, probably Moshiri's best decision so far since he has joined us. Hopefully, he can further strengthen the squad in the summer, move on the surplus players, and further improve the younger age groups. I don't see us breaking into the Top 6, but rather, I am hopeful that Everton and maybe one other team (Wolves?) will be part of a Top 8, making it a more enjoyable league to watch. But, lots of hard work on and off the training pitch is required to achieve this goal.
Sam Hoare
21 Posted 03/04/2019 at 09:42:04
Yes Martin@18, I suspect that as with all industries top talent gets noticed fast. If Brands is as good as I think he may be then it could well be the case that the big (rich) boys come calling soon. If I'm right then I just hope he can do as much good work in his time as possible. Already I feel that our playing squad is in a far healthier position after last summer's window.
Frank Sheppard
22 Posted 03/04/2019 at 09:49:16
Looks like Silva will benefit from the clubs stated policy of continuity. On balance he just about deserves it. Let’s hope he seizes the opportunity with both hands, and can have a long period as manager and make us more consistent, and a Top 6 team. The Top section of the league is getting very congested now, but I still think we are the best of the “most likely to” teams and to think that not too long ago, the two” most likely to” were us and Spurs, with us slight favourites!
Jason Wilkinson
23 Posted 03/04/2019 at 10:31:53
Is Marcel Brands the most overhyped man in football? Based on recent seasons I would suggest he hasn't exactly pulled any trees up in the transfer market. Nor has he implemented anything ground breaking behind the scenes.
So why the love in?
Sam Hoare
24 Posted 03/04/2019 at 10:49:02
Jason, what do you mean 'based on recent seasons'? He's only been with us since the Summer so its obviously very early to judge his role in our club though I think most would agree we did better business this Summer than we have for a good few years. The likes of Richarlison, Digne and Bernard already will be considerably more valuable than what we paid for them.

As for before that he oversaw a PSV team that won the league in 3 of his last 4 season, having not won it for 7 years or so before that while bringing in a raft of young talent that they can now sell for very decent money. Looks pretty solid to me.

John Raftery
25 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:01:44
Appointing Silva, a manager who had not completed a full season with either of his two Premier League clubs, was a gamble especially bearing in mind the poor state of the squad he inherited. Inevitably after a steady start, and that is all it was, form took a huge downturn in the winter months to the extent we were all looking over our shoulders by early February.

A huge test of Silva’s credentials was whether or not he could drag the team out of the mire and in doing so beat at least one of the top six. By achieving that he has bought himself time and a ticket into next season. I have more confidence in him now than at any time since his appointment was first mooted back in late October 2017.

Sometimes in management the hardest thing is to do nothing and allow events to unfold. At this stage in regard to Silva, it should not be hard for Brands to do nothing.

Derek Knox
26 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:11:46
Jason @23, think you're being not only a bit harsh there, but unfairly judgemental on his involvement in the Transfer Window.

Personally feel that the last major Summer Transfer Window he did really well, I know Mina has come in for criticism on his propensity for picking up injuries, plus the fact he was a late starter for us, again down to injury.

It wasn't that long ago though that many on here were singing his praises, (Mina) saying that he looks a 'player' once he has settled in. Remember also, that Brands was not here when Tosun and Walcott were signed, as it has transpired that both players have not only been over-priced, but have not exactly made any significant contribution on the field of play.

Okay the long standing problem position of striker was not addressed in either of the 2 windows that Brands has been involved with. As Steve Ferns mentioned earlier on this thread, Brands has access to more behind the scenes running, than we as fans would ever be privy to.

Which raises another point and I think, a very valid one, what was Marcel Brands's agenda from above? Again we don't know, and therefore it is totally a matter of conjecture to speculate, and declare him to be over-hyped.

We are all entitled to our opinions on here, I wouldn't have it any other way, because if we all agreed on everything, it would be a bit robotic and less interesting. Although one thing we should do, and I say that collectively is to try to ascertain the facts, however elusive they may be, before making unsubstantiated statements.

Jason Wilkinson
27 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:18:36
Sam #24
I was referring to other managers buys, not Marcel's four year history. I cant see anyone paying more than we did for Richarlison. Digne has been decent going forwards and lamentable at the back on several occasions. Bernard has shown some skill and if he can adapt to the rigours of the prem could become a star.
We started the season crying out for a centre forward. I would argue we still are.
I am not saying Marcel and Marco wont come good. Based on the evidence so far I have not seen the new Gill and Ferguson.
Paul Birmingham
28 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:26:52
It’s reassuring that MB thinks and plans ahead and sees the bigger picture. His insight and vision will be an asset to EFC going forward, and he has assembled a bespoke scouting team, which will hopefully unearth the next Messi! Here’s to hoping..

I’ve no doubt that MS, is a good football coach and will improve and it’s too early yet to say the the corner has been turned as we need solid consistency.

No better chance to get one back on Arsenal and beat them well next Sunday.

Then to be unbeaten to the end of this season.

Good signs and all positive, but we need consistency.

Amit Vithlani
29 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:33:41

"Digne has been decent going forwards and lamentable at the back on several occasions."

Lamentable? On Several Occasions? Seriously?

As for him being "decent going forwards", you might want to consider the fact that he is amongst the leading defenders in the league on chances created/crosses delivered. He is also amongst our top assist makers this season.

Player of the season for me.

Stan Schofield
30 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:35:52
As a long-suffering supporter, it's natural to feel sceptical about what the top management says, because they're bound to say the things that Brands has said. He's not going to say he likes lack of continuity and upheaval, is he?

But having said that, although our league position remains consistent with mediocrity, and despite the cliff-edge after the Anfield derby, I feel that this season there have been real signs that consistent improvement at Everton will happen soon. This is because for the first time in a long while, there have been games where we've showed great quality in our play, and unusual cohesion and desire in the team, with some truly great football, plus (more recently) a return to such signs after three months of frustration.

We could of course be let down yet again, but at least there are those clear signs of progress, so reasons to be both hopeful and expectant.

Russell Smith
31 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:43:53
Brands and Silva have never changed their stated aims since both were appointed. They were tasked with reducing the size of the squad, reducing the wage bill, lowering the age of the team, and only buying younger players who could be developed into bigger stars. They had to do this whilst still challenging the top 6.
Bearing in mind the unbalanced state of the squad when they took over it is little wonder that everything hasn't gone to plan. But in one transfer window they started to address the first four objectives, and over the past 5 games we are finally starting to see the nucleus of the 5th objective breaking into the top 6.
A number of posters think Brand is only stating the obvious, but prior to him when did any of us really think there was a properly considered plan? He is absolutely correct in that we have to have some continuity. Hiring and firing managers and coaching staff only results in the players having to adapt to a new style of playing, which takes time, just as Silva has found. All the players both now and previously speak highly of Silva's coaching abilities so he obviously has something that we don't always see as we are not on the training ground everyday. He is from reports a workaholic who is at FF well before the players arrive and is still there hours after they have left. He does "get" what Everton are, unlike Koeman, and Brands clearly sees him as an asset. Every change of management leads to another "development" season, but it will take more than one season to bring about consistent results and I believe that given time Brands and Silva will get us back among the top tier teams.
John Hammond
32 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:49:25
Nah still think we need to get Moyes back in.

Joking aside, so much work has been done to cut the squad down and get us playing half decent football (sometimes) as well as preparing for the upcoming summer transfer window that changing manager again would've been madness. Compared to our position last season we've scored more and conceded less (joint 4th for clean sheets) so although there's not been the progress we've all craved there's at least been some.

John Boswell
33 Posted 03/04/2019 at 11:58:56
A huge ask, I think, to remain unbeaten to the end of the season when you consider that last Saturday was our first win in London for more than 2 calendar years and that our 3 remaining away fixtures are all in London.
Add to this our 3 remaining home fixtures are Arsenal, Manchester United and Burnley.
We play 3 of the top 6 in our run-in. If we remaining unbeaten I will be well chuffed.
COYB
Michael Lynch
34 Posted 03/04/2019 at 12:07:37
But Silva wasn't Brands choice was he? We were persuing him under the previous regime, Brands surely just rubber-stamped the appointment?

Anyway, in my opinion, Silva probably hasn't quite done badly enough to get the sack. I've seen very little decent football from us, despite what others say, and lots of dreadful, championship level football. My guess is that Brands is looking for progress in the squad - new young players being signed and starting to fit in, our home-grown youngsters advancing towards the squad etc - and will give Silva another chance to see if he can work well with the team that Brands is building. If Silva is good at coaching, as has been suggested, then Brands may well let him continue as long as we don't start flirting with relegation. But if we're as shit in the August-December period as we have been for most of this season, I'm confident Brands will pull the trigger and we'll be looking for someone new.

It's all about the squad at the moment, moving on the old and bringing in the new. That, and the new ground. Silva, although the figurehead in some ways, is not the most important part of the process. Brands is clearly the main man.

Jason Wilkinson
35 Posted 03/04/2019 at 12:32:10
Amazing what a couple of wins does to the tone of the posts on here.
a month ago it was sack Silva, what does Brands do and Moshiri hasn't got a clue.
Now its Silva might be a good coach and Brands is a visionary.
A bit of balance required me thinks.
Kev Jones
36 Posted 03/04/2019 at 12:44:56
Jason# 23 ‘Why the love in?’

Maybe we are looking for someone with a leading role at Everton to love because we love Everton. Marcel with his previous record at PSV, his ideas and developing influence at Everton gives us hope that we might have found someone worthy of our love.

Frustrated love can quickly lead to dissppointment and become hate, which might explain how unbalanced ToffeeWebbers can become.

Paul Le Marinel
37 Posted 03/04/2019 at 13:04:41
I like Marcel Brands and his methods of looking for the right players. He comes across as an intelligent thinker and I thought good signings were made last summer and have every confidence, that this summer will be the same and that we can strengthen the squad in bringing in new players, for the positions that are needed.

Andre Gomes is on loan, so I would assume we would try for a permanent deal and also likewise with Kurt Zouma. With Idrissa Gueye, I don't know if he will stay with Everton or try and push a move through for Paris St Germain. If he did leave then I would imagine we would seek out a replacement and also, I would like to think that we will sign a striker.

I think we have a good group of players, but it's just that we need to play good football and maintain consistency as much as we can. Whether or not Marco Silva is the right man for Everton, I think the jury is still out on this one and he certainly has a lot to prove.

To be fair though, the last two results have been positive and have given some room for optimism and hopefully that can continue with the remaining games of this season.

James Stewart
38 Posted 03/04/2019 at 13:09:40
Remain very much unconvinced by Silva, especially tactically, but agree with most blues that Brands is a breath of fresh air.

His transfer's, Mina aside, have been very impressive. No one had heard of Digne in this country before Brands brought him in and now he's the league's best left back. Looking forward to seeing what he can achieve with another couple of windows.

Stan Schofield
39 Posted 03/04/2019 at 13:14:47
Jason@35: I think you've got that wrong. Some people have remained supportive of Silver throughout, and those same people of course continue being supportive given some improved results. At the same time, other people have been sceptical of Silver, and remain sceptical despite the improved results. Some people are so sceptical that they would support Silva being replaced, despite the improved results. So there's a balance of opinions on ToffeeWeb. There may be some people who swing between support and wanting his head, but they'd probably be a minority.

It's also fairly obvious that when we're playing badly, negative posts will outweigh positives, and vice versa when we play well.

Tony Everan
40 Posted 03/04/2019 at 13:18:20
I am happy Marco Silva has been given a big endorsement . The club needs stability, I think were are on the right track, but I'm not expecting a perfectly smooth ride, there will be more bumps on the road.

Marcel Brands is looking at the bigger picture, the improved scouting and backroom staff are important issues.

The fact that he is not happy for the club to stand still and fester is great news, he is thoughtful on how to keep improving the club and pushing it forward.

More importantly he acts on it.

Chris Gould
41 Posted 03/04/2019 at 13:20:53
James, I think Brands deserves credit for getting the transfers in, but I would imagine they were players identified initially by Silva. Silva has said previously that they were the players he wanted and there is no doubt he spent the latter half of last season preparing our pre-season. Whereas Brands was still working diligently for PSV into the early part of the summer. I believe both deserve credit, and I feel optimistic that they will bring in further quality in the summer.
Jon Withey
42 Posted 03/04/2019 at 13:36:58
Player recruitment has been a lot better since Brands - you won't get them all right but I'm hopeful that Mina will come good.

Compare Digne, Zouma, Gomes, Richarlison, Bernard and Mina to previous regimes and it is chalk and cheese in my opinion.

There have been improvements in players such as DCL and Keane which you have to give the manager some credit for.

Despite this season being a bit poor, I've enjoyed watching some of the players when on form.

We still have so many players that we might as well let go - Vlasic, Schneiderlin, Besic, Mirallas, Bolasie, McCarthy, Ramirez.

David Pearl
43 Posted 03/04/2019 at 13:40:09
Well I’m also not totally convinced by our managers ability to change things tactically mid match it’s a good thing to keep him as long as this upswing continues.

What we need to kick on next season though is anyone’s guess. If we sign Gomes and Zouma and get Onyekuru and Vlassic back and firing this current squad should be good enough to continue its progression under the right manager. Perhaps swop a back up keeper for Stek and Tosun for another striker. And keep Gana... what else?

Barry McCafferty
44 Posted 03/04/2019 at 13:45:29
I think a couple of wins against the Arsenal and Man Utd in the next two home games would convince most of us that continuity is definitely required. I think this is probably the first time in Silva's coaching career that he has turned around a team after a dip in form.
Tom Bowers
45 Posted 03/04/2019 at 14:00:24
For those of us who have seen it all before we say the jury is still out on the current regime and some recent improvement can be taken with a pinch of salt.
Yes, we all want to see a resurgence of the glory days but it doesn't happen overnight and Silva will need to convince us more that he is on the right track.

It has been yet another bumpy ride this season much like many others in recent memory despite all the changes since the Kendall era managers and players etc. but we live in hope.

The limitations are there for all to see and have been well discussed and argued over all season.

The season started quite brightly and with a little luck they could have had more points on the board at that time but that first RS game seemed to change the mindset of the team and it was quite a struggle for a while.

Silva should know by now what he has and what he wants to move forward with for next season so it's worth giving him some further time.

Anthony A Hughes
46 Posted 03/04/2019 at 14:36:48
I welcome Brands common sense straight talking,but he's hardly saying anything other that what the majority of the fans would in his position. Let's give it a least another season before we start showering him in accolades and let's see how his incoming transfers perform next season. As has been said we can't have another season of transition, we really must be attempting to push the top 6 next season.
Liam Reilly
47 Posted 03/04/2019 at 14:59:22
Jason #27
"I cant see anyone paying more than we did for Richarlison"

He's not yet 22 and has 12 goals in the PL this season ; is a starter for Brazil and has 2 in 7 or 8 for them.

I'd argue that he'd have plenty of suitors if he was available and would command well in excess of what the club paid for him.

David Pearl
48 Posted 03/04/2019 at 15:18:40
Yep, of the current crop Pickford, Keane, Digne, Gana, Bernard, Richarlison we would make money on. And lose on Schneiderlin, Niasse, Tosun, Walcott and Siggy. Who knows mom Mina but he has to stay fit first.
Fran Mitchell
49 Posted 03/04/2019 at 15:41:37
David: could add Lookman, DCL, Holgate,
Henry and Vlasic all as olayer we signed and would make a profit on, if sold.
Sam Hoare
50 Posted 03/04/2019 at 15:54:59
Jason@27, don't quite understand what other managers transfer records has to do with Brands? Or are you suggesting that we have fared no better under him than previously?

Richarlison will undoubtedly be worth more money now. He has 12 goals already this season mostly playing wide, is the leading scorer under the age of 22 in the league and now starts for Brazil. I reckon if we wanted to sell him we could get close to twice our money. Your description of Digne is pretty uncharitable as others have pointed out.

As for the new Gill and Ferguson we were talking only about Brands. haven't seen many people saying that Silva has nailed it yet.

Paul Bernard
51 Posted 03/04/2019 at 16:01:11
There was a point earlier in the season where I was unsure about Silva.
For me personally I wanted silva here, there was something about him that gave me the young mourinho vibe probably his dedication to the finer details.

If we are to start off on solid foundations then it is important we go public early on regarding Silva's position. Players will need to know who they are playing for this summer if Everton come knocking.

Also glad to hear we are focused on players 18-25 years old, based on that we could have a solid core for the next few years which require a couple of additions:

Pickford, Kenny, Holgate, davies, onyekuru, dcl, digne, zouma, gomes, lookman, richarlison, maybe vlasic. Brands will no doubt persue deals for Zouma and Gomes although I suspect Chelsea wont sell based on their ban and teams like Spurs will try throwing a £30m bid at Barca.

Tony Everan
52 Posted 03/04/2019 at 16:45:40
Tottenham start in their new stadium tonight, capacity 62 062

If we go for 52 000 we will be 8th highest in the Premier League and we will probably be overtaken by one or two more when they expand their grounds.

I am delighted we are on the way to getting our stadium built but I would like the powers that be to be thinking ahead and where 52k would put us on the Premier League attendance scale, long term.

It puts us as mediocre attendance wise .

What I am trying to say is be positive, The new stadium will be fantastic whether it is 52k or 621878 .

If Dan Meis says 60k is possible on the site, all stakeholders should be banging the drum for 60k to be delivered. It is realistic, it will be filled [look at West Ham getting appx 60k into their adapted running track stadium].

I firmly believe that we would fill our purpose built stadium on the banks of the Royal 'greyee'Blue Mersey for every league game.

So come on Farhad tell Dan Meis to make a 'blue' print for a 60k stadium and do a feasibility study on the necessary infrastructure to support it.

Derek Knox
53 Posted 03/04/2019 at 16:53:58
Tony @52, totally agree the bigger the better, have been watching SSN and they have shown a few glimpses of the inside Tottenham's new Stadium, it's own Organic Microbrewery, and various eating establishments within the complex, plus retail outlets, and all the high tech that has been included.

It's definitely the way to go, like the Baseball/Football Stadiums stateside, are huge and are multi-purpose so can generate revenue from other events.

John Graham
54 Posted 03/04/2019 at 17:00:42
I hope Silva will stay as he does have a habit of changing clubs once he becomes unhappy.

apart from a bit of a blip for a few games after the first derby the team has performed quite well this season. good buys and loans in the summer has improved the first team apart from the number 9 position, but the improvement shown recently by Calvert-Lewin shows he has the making of a good target man especially if he gets some new shooting boots.

our style of play has improved dramatically since last season and I feel with another transfer window and a few more young players coming through we have the right men at the top in Brands and Silva to take us into the top 6 and further. Onwards and upwards
COYB

Mike Gaynes
55 Posted 03/04/2019 at 18:03:20
Gana adviser says PSG and others will definitely be back in for him this summer:

https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/everton-told-brace-themselves-more-16071844

Can't blame the man a bit -- he's 29 and if he's ever gonna make his CL dream come true, it must be now.

And he has been as brilliant after the PSG approach as before. My player of the season and nobody else even a close second. So I'll regretfully wish him the very best.

Fran Mitchell
56 Posted 03/04/2019 at 18:17:54
In terms of the stadium, Spurs are in London, so it is much easier to fill. The fact is, Everton are not a team that will attract massive attendences - our base is our local fans.

If we have a massive stadium that always has 10,000 empty seats, the atmosphere will suffer, and the club will have to charge more to the fans that do go.

For me, 52,000 seems ideal for where the club is at, and where we will probably be.

Martin Mason
57 Posted 03/04/2019 at 19:14:28
Mike, I agree, he is one of the top players in the world now never mind Europe or the UK. I could sit and watch him all day. We obviously can't keep him but we are a "selling club" and we'll make good money. I wish him massive success and am proud of our part in his development which has been massive. What a player and a lovely man.
Fran Mitchell
58 Posted 03/04/2019 at 20:04:23
Interesting piece in the guardian that talks of the best 11 of new signings. With 2 of our signings making the list:

"Lucas Digne, Everton
Our highest rated new signing this season, Lucas Digne has made the left-back place his own at Everton. What was a position of strength in Leighton Baines’ pomp has become so once more at Goodison Park. The Frenchman has had a direct hand in seven goals this season (four goals and three assists) and his delivery from wide has been outstanding. The 25-year-old has made more accurate crosses than any other player in the league (68) and he has created more chances than any other defender (56) by a distance. Rating: 7.33"

"Richarlison, Everton
Seemingly over the mid-season slump he failed to recover from in his only season at Watford, Richardson’s return to form will come as a relief to Everton fans given the fee the club spent on him last summer. The Brazilian winger recently scored his 12th league goal of the campaign – a total no other summer signing can better – and he is one of only two players aged 21 or under, along with Marcus Rashford, to have hit double figures this season. His consistency remains an issue, but that is understandable at his age. Rating: 6.89

Paul Birmingham
59 Posted 03/04/2019 at 20:12:31
It’s a damm shame and typical Everton luck, but Gana, has always given his best and even on off days for the team, there’s been too many this season, has led by example in terms of effort and focus.

Not easily replaceable, and if he departs a huge loss, but you’d like to think MB, has a cover plan.

Regards the ground size and capacity, optimum planning scale. I’d like to see the released issue of plans if and when, they go public later, this year.

The club must have done some capacity modelling based on perhaps the last 20 years home gates, and perhaps Everton’s away support, which has always been superb even in recent hard economic times and club success, which has been nil, in terms of the first team.

I don’t see an easy cost upgrade option, to 60k, if the initial foot print is built, but to build an easy plug in/ add on upgrade scheme, at minimum cost and planning permission would make sense, if it is cost effective and can be done. Would an upgrade option plan be under written into a legally binding design plan?

I had it on good authority from inside the club 3 years ago that they had a plan that was easily doable to add another tier to the Park End.

So perhaps Dan Meiss, will have the scope to build this option in to his design for BMD, or would the plan to increase capacity be at the option of turning seats to terrace?

Economically and where the fortunes of the UK go, after all the government chaos remains to be seen, but Liverpool and the City region, will need their own contingency plans, to make the future sustainable, and who knows, if Brexit is a factor in terms of economic support plans for the north end docks regeneration?

Still what happens on the park comes first, and I’ll take good fighting performances like last Saturday every week.

That would be some improvement.

Martin Berry
60 Posted 03/04/2019 at 20:14:51
A lot depends on whether we can buy Zouma and Gomes and if Gana goes ( which I think he will) as to who we look to bring in plus other areas.
There is still some deadwood to go but I don't think thats a problem for Marcel as he looks as though he is in totaI control of the situation, think its going to be an exciting summer.
As for the comments about Tottenham's ground yes it is magnificent and looks worth the wait for their fans. However we should not underestimate the possibilities of Bramley dock as the whole are is going to be regenerated.
If its anything like the M & S Arena area and with the back drop of the Mersey then it could be the most spectacular looking stadium and site in the Country as its setting is unique.
Exciting times ahead and our turn is coming...watch that space !
Fran Mitchell
61 Posted 03/04/2019 at 20:19:51
If Gana goes, which I expect he might, wish him well. He's given nothing short of 100% since he arrived

PSG came in for him in January, he could have moaned, he could have downed tools, gone on strike etc to push for the move, but no. He made it clear that he was interested in the move, but at no moment was he unprofessional. And since he was denied, his performances have argueably been even better. He, for me, is our player of the season, with Digne a close second.

Look at Arnautovic at west ham when denied his "dream move" to china - playing woefully, awful attitude, getting booed by his fans.

At 29, the lad deserves a shot at Champions League football. If we get 35-40 million for him, it will be a huge loss, and very difficult to replace...but our failure to meet the standards he set mean we will lose him.

John Pierce
62 Posted 03/04/2019 at 20:24:15
I’m a little disappointed with these comments from Brands. Whilst clearly a measured guy and not prone to hyperbole I’d rather not hear the coach is more or less safe after a season of very mixed fortunes.

I think had Silva not been the third coach in three years he might be on the dole. A very lucky guy for my money. I hope knows he cannot be afforded another run like the one he had over Christmas & the New year. The balance between implementing his style and getting results with what he has, has been THE problem all year. He has attempted to run before he can walk.

What is worth noting, the overall plan on recruitment seems to be solid and with clear intentions. This years crop have been positive but not without some adjustments issues.

I remain very doubtful about Silva but it looks like he has another chance under Brands.

Ian Hams
63 Posted 03/04/2019 at 20:37:10
I think to judge how much the team has improved this season, you realy need to think about who would be playing if you didn't have Richarlison Digne Bernard Gomes and Zuma in the team week in week out.
Dave Abrahams
64 Posted 03/04/2019 at 21:15:14
Fran (61), I agree with you Gana deserves his move to PSG and not many Blues fans would begrudge him the move,however he might have missed the boat there as
PSG are interested in the Man.Unt. midfielder who does the same type of job as Gana and whose contract is up in July, so he is a free agent, can’t think of his name,but United are refusing his demands for a big wage rise to sign another contract, PSG would save money signing the United player.
Tony Abrahams
65 Posted 03/04/2019 at 21:24:12
There was a great picture after Zouma scored on Saturday, with the five players you have just mentioned Ian, all in a little group smiling and congratulating the goalscorer.

Not a bad player amongst them is what I thought, and hopefully we can sign a few more good players this summer to go alongside them?

Gana Gueye, has been unbelievable since PSG, came in for him, and has proven that actions will always speak louder than words. I want him to stay now, but also really respect him now, and if he gets another chance to play for a champions lge team, I wouldn’t begrudge him one little bit.

Mike Gaynes
66 Posted 03/04/2019 at 21:26:28
Dave #64, I think you're talking about Ander Herrera. That deal is reportedly done already. But he's not the same kind of DM as Gana -- more of a covering defender than a ballwinner -- and there may be room for both.

Hope you're right, however, because if PSG is less interested in Gana, it increases the chances he will stay.

Fran Mitchell
67 Posted 03/04/2019 at 21:38:03
Dave - remarkable how the attitude of a player changes everything. Gana has always played to his best, has had off days and especially when Schneiderlin first came, he struggled to replicate his form...but he always giving his best.

If he gets a move, not a single Evertonian will demonise him, he wouldn't be booed upon returning. We'll be disappointed, but we'll all say 'top player, top bloke'.

A rare thing in today's game.

Tony Abrahams
68 Posted 03/04/2019 at 21:40:22
It’s possible that they could compliment each other Mike, because one never stops working and the other very rarely gives the ball away, and the way Gueye has been playing lately, I think he could get into most teams?
Rob Halligan
69 Posted 03/04/2019 at 21:45:49
Some posts here regarding Spurs new stadium. With it being the first game there tonight, amazingly it was not a sell out, or at least it was not full to capacity. Attendance was just over 59K so just under 3000 short of a full house.
Dave Abrahams
70 Posted 03/04/2019 at 21:47:34
Mike (66), yes that’s the player I meant, got a bit more nastiness than Gana and comes up with on or two more goals than our lad, but not much to choose between them, hope Gana stays, but saying that if we get over £30M for a player his age then that’s not bad business, let’s see how it pans out.
Jason Wilkinson
71 Posted 03/04/2019 at 22:13:30
For the avoidance of doubt

I have never once said Silva should be replaced. I believe any manager deserves at least two seasons (grabbing egotistical ex England managers aside)
I can see what Silva is trying to do. The problem he has is the playing staff available cant or wont carry out his plan in equal measure.

I do think one or two additions to the current 11 will transform our fortunes next season under Silva's guidance.
I'm not convinced by Marcel Brands. Lucas Digne; hit overall. Richarlison; hit. Yerry Mina; Miss. Bernard; hit and miss for me. Andre Gomes; hit and miss. Kurt Zouma; miss for me.

I would like to see Mason Holgate given a chance (I believe he will be better than Zouma or Mina) Tosun is a better player (all round)than DCL right now. Williams, Martina, Walcott, Shneiderlin, Mirallas, McCarthy, Baines and Jagielka need to move on. Baines and Jags have been fine servants and owe us nothing. The rest I would expect a fee.
Marcel Brands may surprise me but right now I'm not convinced. What he has done at PSV doesn't translate to the EPL in my opinion. Prove me wrong Mr. Brands

Jamie Crowley
72 Posted 03/04/2019 at 22:33:04
Rob @ 69 -

And that's exactly why we should not "over-build" capacity. The opener at Spurs' new field had empty seats. That's incredible to me.

There are more than a few "small parks" here in the States for various sports. The smaller parks make for a better game day experience, and the demand for tickets if you constantly sell out creates a fantastic atmosphere.

Fenway Park, PNC Field (Pirates), Wrigley Field, Oriole Park at Camden Yards, etc.

I've been to a lot of stadiums in my lifetime here. Bigger does NOT equate to better, and in fact bigger is often worse. It completely sterilizes the atmosphere.

John Raftery
73 Posted 03/04/2019 at 22:33:23
Zouma has been a hit. He has been our best centre half. I hope we can sign him permanently in the summer although that looks unlikely given Chelsea’s transfer ban.
Liam Reilly
74 Posted 03/04/2019 at 22:47:25
Can't believe Tottenham didn't sell out, especially as it wasn't on the box.

City also tonight, massive game for them to go back to t he top but so many vacant seats.

A full 52K bear pit I s better than 10-15K empty seats to r 90% of the home games.

Terry White
75 Posted 03/04/2019 at 22:49:26
How much are Spurs charging for the tickets to their games? May explain some of the empty seats and it does look as if the weather was not great. I bet that our new stadium will not be charging similar prices.
Peter Warren
76 Posted 03/04/2019 at 23:20:00
Like reading about Brands and at least there’s a strategy.

Best buy this season is Digne, nobody seems disappointed now about Tierney.

Biggest disappointment to me this season has been Mina. I was really looking forward to seeing him play for us. I’ve thought we lacked an aggressive centre half, dominant in the air for years. Hope he gets fit and is able to play next season, would like to see whether or not he’s a good player. Thought he was very good at Stamford Bridge.

Rob Halligan
77 Posted 03/04/2019 at 23:31:39
Terry 75, looking on the spurs website, where they have 3 categories of matches, category A, has the cheapest ticket at £52 and the dearest at £98. Category C has the cheapest ticket at £30 and the dearest at £80. Don't know what our dearest ticket price is, but I bet it's not more than £52.

Spurs next home game is Huddersfield, who have been given an allocation of 3003. Funny figure for an away allocation, but there you go.

Jerome Shields
78 Posted 04/04/2019 at 00:30:30
Brands is following the philosophy that he set out in his first Everton interview. Silva will see out his 3-year contract.

It now looks that it is working out and the objectives for the first season will be realised. As well as the playing squad and Manager, work has started on the backroom staff, starting with the scouting system.

The Summer will continue like last summer, with a continuous attempt to reduce the wages bill, with the priority being to offload players that are surplus and to reduce the age profile.

Transfers in will be to increase competition in positions. It's likely that players that are not up to speed, will be expected to work hard and improve in the preseason.

Brands has had a impressive first season.

Steve Ferns
79 Posted 04/04/2019 at 00:53:57
Apparently, Spurs did sell out. Any “empty” seats were corporate hospitality and some were “safety seats” due to the game being a derby and the police wanting increased segregation. Or so say the Spurs fans on Twitter.
Colin Glassar
80 Posted 04/04/2019 at 07:13:11
Getting rid of the likes of Walcott, Niasse, Mirallas, Bolasie etc would be a great sign of progress. Replace them with 2-3 classy, younger players eg Redmond, Wan Bisaka and Dacoure and we’d be sorted.
Peter Warren
81 Posted 04/04/2019 at 07:36:58
Agree with Colin that getting rid of deadwood will be good although unsure about Redmond.

I know Walcott has been awful the majority of this season and maybe he is but I’m probably one of a couple (maybe with Silva alone!) who think there’s a good player there. Couldn’t argue if he was off loaded after his season this year however.

Brian Harrison
82 Posted 04/04/2019 at 09:37:17
First seeing a few have commented on Spurs new ground, I think of all the new grounds built in this country in the last 15 years, this ground is head and shoulders above the rest including Wembley. Being in London helps enormously but the shrewd operator that Levy is he has already secured NFL games, and with the retractable pitch it wont have the adverse effect that we have seen happen at Wembley after an NFL game. Dan Meiss you have a very hard act to follow as it seems we will be the next Premier league club to have a new stadium, so comparisons will obviously be made. I hope our new ground is as exciting as the Spurs stadium.

Back to Brands and Silva, nice to hear that they are both on the same page when it comes to transfer targets for the summer. Now whether they can land their targets is another matter. their major problem was how to reduce the first team squad from the size it is now. The amount of players on high wages that are out on loan is staggering, we have virtually no chance of recuperating anywhere near the amounts paid for these players. I feel sorry for Brands and Silva as I believe their budget for new signings may well be dependent on how much of the deadwood they can move on. Only clubs who are regularly in the Champions league can possibly fund the wage bill that Everton have at present.

This season was always going to be difficult with a new manager and a new DOF plus 6 new first team players to bed in. I would be quite happy with just 2or 3 new signings as I don't think another 5/6 coming in would help. Maybe its no surprise that we are now starting to put together a run of results as manager and players are beginning to understand one another better. I am hopeful that next season we may see the best of this team, but that will depend on if Gana and Zouma leave who we bring in to replace them. I hope both stay but I fear one or both could go in the summer.

Mark Dunford
83 Posted 04/04/2019 at 09:53:36
I always err on the side of keeping the manager, though I recognised Martinez and Koeman had to go and FS should never, ever have arrived. Silva has a patchy record, but I think that we're heading in a comprehensible direction. There are times when this season has felt like Martinez's tenure on fast forward, but the positives certainly outweigh the negatives and the side is better now it is more settled. We need to sign Zouma (difficult, I know and probably depends on what the player wants to do) and ditch the currently-out-on-loan failures plus the underwhelming FS signings - Tosun and Walcott. Be nice to see what some of the young players can achieve - Holgate, Davies and those winning their league again. There is enough to work with, we still need someone who can organise the defence but this has notably improved since Jags start at Cardiff.
Derek Knox
84 Posted 04/04/2019 at 10:26:20
Mark, as you say difficult one regarding Zouma, with the volatility of Chelsea's record with Managers and players, surely you would think it was a no-brainer, he is playing regularly for us, is loved, and has gained the recognition again of France, his National team.

The situation though is not that simple though unfortunately with this ban that has been imposed on them, mind you they have stock piles of players on loan, as well as the squad they have. the ultimate decision obviously lies with Chelsea, fingers crossed though.

I think the Gomes situation will be easier to resolve, although this could be slightly complicated, if reports are true that there are a couple of Clubs keeping an eye on the situation, but I think the only way that will affect things is that it may bump the price up. That is assuming that they have not already agreed a price with Barca.

The one we will truly miss, and difficult to replace will be Gana, apparently PSG are still interested and the player wants his twilight dream to come true, so even if we get a handsome fee for him, getting a like for like player will be nigh on impossible.

This lad Patrik Schick (23 year old Czech striker) has been mentioned a few times on various outlets, (no smoke without fire possibly) but what worries me slightly, is that Roma want to offload, not long after acquiring his services, @ £20M has been mentioned.

Colin @80, Redmond is getting on a bit now mate, but seems to be one of these players who is improving with age, we could have had him from Birmingham, and he wanted to come for £1.5M, but Norwich got him instead. I'd be surprised if we could get Wan Bissaka ( I would think Spuds have him earmarked) and if Palace stay up? Not totally convinced about Dacoure, who would cost a lot @£40-50M would be an upgrade on the possibly departing Gana!

Mal van Schaick
85 Posted 04/04/2019 at 12:38:11
If we beat Arsenal on Sunday and have a good run of decent form ending the season, I would continue with Silva. Buy Zouma, let a few go if they want to, and get a few in and bring on next season. Moshri has backed him and he’ll have the final say this season. However, the fans will have their say if Silva doesn’t keep the style of play or good form continuing.
Paul Cherrington
86 Posted 04/04/2019 at 12:56:48
I have not been a big supporter of Silva for much of this season and would have called him a taxi myself a few months ago. However, things seemed to have got better recently in terms of performance and effort so I would stick with him for now. Of course, next season must be much better but, on the balance of things, I would give him another go at it.
Martin Nicholls
87 Posted 04/04/2019 at 13:14:31
Rob#77 - haven't checked but are you sure away allocation is 3003? 3103 would be exactly 5% of capacity
Rob Halligan
88 Posted 04/04/2019 at 13:18:21
Martin, I checked on the Huddersfield website and it says their allocation is 3003, so I'm unassuming we will get the same.
Martin Nicholls
89 Posted 04/04/2019 at 13:27:05
Rob - as I say, I hadn't checked! As you say, an odd allocation - maybe (as Steve indicated above) Spuds are not operating at full capacity yet? Anyway, on the "I'm alright Jack" principle, I expect to qualify (as you obviously will!) when we play there!
John Raftery
90 Posted 04/04/2019 at 13:53:13
Spurs reportedly had 150,000 interested in the last 6000 tickets with thousands of ‘loyal’ fans complaining they couldn’t get on the website until all the tickets were sold out. To quote Rob in previous threads over the past couple of seasons, absolute joke of a club!
Stan Schofield
91 Posted 04/04/2019 at 14:09:32
Looking at that new stadium, it's very nice, but it looks unnecessarily complicated in some respects. The retractable pitch routine looks to be asking for trouble in terms of maintenance requirements, and making that kind of 'complicated engineering' sufficiently reliable looks (on the face of it) a potential nightmare.
Kevin Prytherch
92 Posted 04/04/2019 at 14:11:41
Some suggested that the reason behind the empty seats was due to corporate places not being filled.

But it is understood Spurs may never be able to play in a full house – because their floating pitch knocks out three rows of seats.

There is an official “absolute” capacity for safety certificate purposes, but that is only available for events when the pitch is not in place – such as NFL games and rugby

Basically, the ground floor, when the pitch is not in place, is 1.5 metres lower than when it is, meaning that the first 3 rows are actually below the football pitch and can’t be sold.

James Hughes
93 Posted 04/04/2019 at 14:16:36
Spuds new stadium has cost a reported one billion of our British pounds. They have delivered a state of the art stadium.

Meanwhile in the backwater that is Scouseland, We HOPE to deliver one in BMD at half that price.

We may possibly, hopefully, click our heels and dream of home, and with a good tail-wind behind us. if god gives us his blessing etc etc fuckin etc. Then sign a deal that will give us an option on maybe, thinking about the potential opportunity, of building a new stadium.

This is in a part of the ripe for redevelopment, that will put the great city right back center stage. we need to stop faffing about and get moving

Mark Murphy
94 Posted 04/04/2019 at 14:55:51
I don’t find it beyond belief that a property in London would cost twice as much as it would in Liverpool. Whether it’s a stadium or a semi detached house, that’s the way it is.
Stan Schofield
95 Posted 04/04/2019 at 14:57:53
Mark, twice, and the rest!
Andrew Clare
96 Posted 04/04/2019 at 15:01:43
Mark and Stan,
You are correct. My son is renting an ex council flat in Brixton that has a market value of £440,000
Thomas Lennon
97 Posted 04/04/2019 at 16:10:26
I think it took 10 years to deliver Spurs stadium (first planning permission granted 2009) so it has taken some time to deliver. We haven't even got to that stage yet.

£1 billion because it is a lot more than just a stadium. 600 homes, a medium-sized hotel and more, not to mention £ losing value over the last 3 years. All done on loans so a big risk but as long as they get that big stadium naming project in place they will breathe a little easier. Time will tell.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northumberland_Development_Project

Worth the risk?

Lee Brownlie
98 Posted 04/04/2019 at 17:33:09
Still way too mych pessimistic defeatest sniding on here!!

Can't see the point in it myself.

We're sticking... it's time to stick. So, hey, weird as it may sound... and no, no pointless 'love-ins' as also has been snidily stated is going on(???) but, ya know, why not let's try a bit of the old positivity for a change, chaps???

It rubs off, ya know!!!

Paul Burns
99 Posted 04/04/2019 at 18:29:06
We had a 12-15 game period recently that was as bad in both performances and results, sometimes against utter dross, as anything seen in the entire history of the club.
Continuity with a manager seems right on the face of it but that nonsense must not be allowed to happen ever again.
Pat Kelly
100 Posted 05/04/2019 at 17:02:40
We may get continuity with Silva. But who wants continuous mediocrity ?
Lee Brownlie
101 Posted 06/04/2019 at 04:37:52
Pat Kelly (#100),

You ask "who wants continuous mediocrity?"

You obviously think you've made a great point there, but clearly you don't get – or maybe don't give a fuck – that is only valid if we all just assume – as you clearly do – that 'mediocre' is all we are, and all our manager is.

So we just ignore anything else to the contrary, then? Like the last two games... ? Like both games against the RS? ... like any other time we haven't been at all mediocre???

Well, fuck that.

Don't get me wrong – if we lose most of our games till the end of the season, go shite again, then I'll almost certainly be right with ya (again), wanting Silva out!! (And no, it wouldn't be the first time I've been inclined that way, either!) But needlessly looking back from when we should be feeling at least pretty positive, based on the most recent performances (and significant others!) to see only the negatives, just to justify your own negative overview – and, okay, of those other like-minded naysayers of the all too regularly absolutely pointless, unhelpful, persuasion... (???) – Naah, not for me, or those like me, that, pal!!!

As I say, fuck that.

COYTs!!!!!!!!!!!!!


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