Everton Banter Archive March 30 2017

 

Use our rumours form to send us everton transfer rumours.

30 Mar 2017 17:46:34
Lukaku rumours boring me now, look at the facts as it stands, he has turned down the first contract offer and says he wants to play champions league.
Only teams that can afford him
Chelsea
Man Utd
Man City
PSG
Barcelona
Madrid

I can only see Chelsea and Man Utd as any takers, he does not fit into madrids or Barcelona way, and Man City I don't see any interest so you look at 2 other English clubs and one of them might not even get champions league spot, I would keep him one more year and say look give us one more year he knows we're not too far away another transfer window to sign bit more quality and we're in with a shot, if not you go with our blessing.

Believable2 Unbelievable3

31 Mar 2017 07:39:28
I think it is pretty obvious he would like a return to Chelsea. Morinho never really gave him a chance at Chelsea so he is probably a bit reluctant to work with him again. But Chelsea are flying again. His problem is that apparently the Chelsea manager would like a harder working player. We have all debated Lukaku and how "lazy" he is. I saw a stat yesterday that showed he actually covers less ground than any other player in the Premiership (goalkeepers excepted) . It is true that other forwards are economical with their energy, but Lukaku is the most economical. I suspect the Chelsea manager is one who likes hard working players like Costa. They are apparently ready to spend megabucks on Van Dijk. Whether they have enoygh funds or desire to sign Lukaku is in my mind debatable. I can see us not getting the sort of offer we would want for him. then deciding to ask him to stay another season.

Agree1 Disagree2

31 Mar 2017 07:47:17
Degsy, I agree. Don't think the club will accept anything less than a huge bid for him 60/ 70 mil.
That would represent huge profit for what we paid for him and should allow us to buy 2/ 3 players to improve the squad.
I, for one, will support Rom if he stays for another year or will support the manager whoever he chooses to replace Rom, should he leave.
As other people have said before- the club is bigger than any one player and we move on, with or without Rom.

Agree2 Disagree0

31 Mar 2017 08:16:00
Agree 100% geoffjohno. I would add that in the past we have struggled to identify forwards with ability at young ages. I feel in Steve Walsh, we have the man to help us find the player that fits into a system. Like he did at Leicester with Vardy and Mahrez. Lukaku is obviously a special player who will be very difficult to replace as an individual, but we can play in a different way with one who is better at holding play up for support to arrive and we might find that goals start coming from the supporting players again like when we had Cahill. I actually like that football. I admire Shane Long at Southampton who plays that role. A mobile footballer who works his socks off, scores a few goals. but more importantly brings others into the game. We will see what happens at the end of the season, but I am not worried either way.

Agree0 Disagree1

31 Mar 2017 10:40:02
Lukaku and Mourinho have no problems as far as I can see. When Lukaku was at Chelsea he was unproven but Mourinho had fully players at his disposal so instead of taking a chance on Lukaku that he didn't need to he stuck with Drogba etc. Mourinho can't be blamed for that, he made the right decision. They didn't have the luxury of being able to coach Lukaku into becoming a top striker. They were challenging for top prizes at the time.

Mourinho even came out a couple of years ago and said he was reluctant to see Lukaku go. So imho there is absolutely no issue between Lukaku and Mourinho. Since Lukaku has left Chelsea he has become a top player. That's in hindsight and everyone can see that now clear as day.

Now that all the ground work is done with Lukaku and he now has proven himself there is no doubt Mourinho will want him. Let's just hope we get top dollar and Lukaku doesn't force a move where we don't get the maximum fee.

Shane Long good player and I like him. Would love to see him come. Still we would need a goal machine. Surely we should get a 20 plus goals a season striker if Lukaku leaves. Along with a Shane Long type player. Who knows in a year or two we could be delighted Lukaku left. Today no one would be delighted if he leaves.

But as I said earlier hindsight is a wonderful thing and let's hope the club gets even stronger if Lukaku leaves. I have every faith in RK and SW will make that happen.

Agree0 Disagree0

31 Mar 2017 14:37:10
I am not so sure NBTB. Lukaku has a big ego (so I have heard) and he thought he was ready at Chelsea. He played games with them like he is with us now. Mourinho did not stand for it and so let him go. The last thing Lukaku wants now, is to go to Man Utd aand be 2nd choice to someone. I think that Mourinho is cautious about Lukaku's temperament and likewise Conte is. I am not sure that Man Utd and Chelsea will "fight it out" for him. Only time will tell. But although I love Lukaku with us, I don't yet see him as the finished article. Only the finished article will get into those two teams.

Agree0 Disagree1

31 Mar 2017 22:04:41
Why is Man UK and Chelsea the finish article . Lukaku left Chelsea because he wanted to develop as a player not rot in the reserves. He went to WBA on loan then to us to learn is trade as a Striker. He scored goals under Martinez even though Martinez never play to his strength playing balls to him with his back to goals. Why do supporters put him down while is still developing. I think he will stay myself. But if he goes we will make twice the money. I think him and Barkley tomorrow we be legends by @
2.30 COYB.

Agree1 Disagree0

31 Mar 2017 23:06:19
Lukaku is gone. Enjoy him until the summer then get excited about who might replace him and look forward to next season.

No need to sound so desperate about ONE player. It's the team that matters and it will get even better in the summer.

Bring it on!

Agree1 Disagree0

31 Mar 2017 23:39:03
Totally agree BlueJohnUns.

Blue 1959 I'm not getting on his back at all. Hope he stays but don't think he will.

Degsy we'll have to agree to disagree on this one. Imho Man Utd would be delighted to have Lukaku. As much as I rate Ibrahim and much as he is world class, Lukaku would be very much welcome there I'd imigine. Long term solution for them up front. Chelsea would also love to have him. Isn't all the goals he scored from play. Makes him way out in front on goals scored this season from play. Didn't Kane take some penalties. That's enough for any top team to want him.

Utd would accommodate both Ibrahim and Lukaku. At 36 Ibrahim will be on his last legs. Even though he is still one of the best in the world. Something crazy like 11 leagues won in his last 13 league battles for whomever he played for. Top, top player.

I agree Lukaku is not the finished article. That shows how good really can be if we both agree there is room for improvement. If that happens he will truly be world class.

We will survive without him. I know he's not gone yet but if he was staying he would of said so by now. Why would he hold back from coming out and saying he staying if that was the case? Only reason I can see is because he's off come summer.

Only thing I don't want happening is Lukaku choosing his next club and it affects the fee we get.

Agree1 Disagree0

01 Apr 2017 07:43:06
Hopefully because he's putting pressure on for the Club to go after some real quality additions. I also think he's gone but Utd will only be in the CL if they win the EL this year, so Lukaku may hold out for another year but wants the club to know he expects changes.

Nothing to support that, but just a possibility.

Agree0 Disagree0

01 Apr 2017 08:14:12
I agree NBTB. He'll have his pick of a few teams in the summer. He and Jose have exchanged a few pleasantries in the press about each other and Jose even said nice things about Rom when he left them.

It's the unknown that we are afraid of here. I don't think anyone actually cares about Rom but more about how do we replace his goals. If we new there was a tried and tested replacement I'd personally pack his bags for him.

So while we have this uncertainty people are going to speculate and some are going bury their heads in the sand. Be sure though we will have a solution and options ready for when Rom leaves.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed004's Note - Just to add a United perspective. I think 70%+ of fans would replace Ibrahimovic with Lukaku but if Ibra stays I do not think Lukaku will come in. I think most fans would make the swap because, although Ibrahimovic has done a remarkable job for his age he does limit us and the team has to be set up for him. Currently we don't have a counter attack at times which is frustrating or are able to press from the front.
Currently I think there is a good chance Lukaku will stay for another year. Chelsea will only move for him if Costa goes and same with Ibra at United. Additionally I think that Lukaku will only go somewhere he is considered first choice automatically.
P.s good luck today!}

01 Apr 2017 11:35:08
Thank you for the input Ed004. Hope your right and he stays.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed004's Note - Your welcome}

30 Mar 2017 13:09:25
Anyone got a pair of size 10 boots to lend me. I might get a game. Coleman and mori out for a long time now.

Believable2 Unbelievable0

30 Mar 2017 18:13:33
Rumours are Hibbo might be getting a recall.

Agree1 Disagree0

30 Mar 2017 21:13:53
The way our defenders are dropping, you will get a game wearing your slippers mate!

Agree1 Disagree2

30 Mar 2017 13:01:55
So looks like mori is out for the season be intresting to see the starting 11 sat it shows how much more depth we have now in the squad when u look at it with Bolasie mori Coleman Mccarthy besic all out and possibly schniederlin I still think it will be a strong 11.

Believable1 Unbelievable1

30 Mar 2017 09:25:15
Lukaku - I know it a paper talk but ed2 reckons he is going.
Maybe a bidding war between Chelsea and utd. Is 70 mil enough for a quality replacement and who would you
A) love to get if you could choose anyone
B) realistically think we will get?

A) Costa or ibra- tough niggly players.
B) probably someone well never think of
Even someone like gayle from Newcastle- scoring goals regular.

Believable0 Unbelievable2

{Ed002's Note - I have explained all along that Lukaku's objective is to play at the highest end of the game - and he cannot reasonably achieve that at Everton.}

30 Mar 2017 09:35:21
2 points.

1) He can't atm, ed. We all agree with that but he is only 23. Any chance we can convince him to stay a year or two to see if we can get up to that level.

2) who do we replace him with. I know you mentioned a few players but if he is definitely going this summer, surely the club should be 'tapping up' quality replacements to see who would come.

Agree0 Disagree2

{Ed002's Note - (1) I don't know what you mean - Lukaku wants to play for a team playing at the highest level and there is no reason why he "can't". Everton had the opportunity for him to sign a new contract and they blew it - I have explained that. Everton are not able to offer football at the highest level to Lukaku. (2) I have explained that Everton are looking for a suitable replacement already. If Everton were to be "tapping up" players again then they can expect a transfer ban and a very large fine - I rather doubt they are that stupid.}

30 Mar 2017 10:42:48
Was meant to say 'We can't'. We know we can't off him champions league football but just hope he thinks we can in a couple of years and helps us get there. (Wishful thinking)

In all fairness, ed, we all know tapping up happens in football. Not openly but questions are often asked about whether a player may or may not be interested in a certain club.

Agree1 Disagree1

{Ed002's Note - (1) As you say, "wishful thinking". (2) Asking the agent of a player whether the player would be interested in a move is not tapping up. If Everton get caught "tapping up" a player again they will not simply get away with a fine next time - it will result in a ban. I will again re-iterate that that regardless of you wanting them to be "tapping up" players again, the club will surely not be that stupid.}

30 Mar 2017 13:08:25
Obviously they won't be that stupid. didn't know we got fined/ caught tapping up. When was it? I mist have missed it.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed002's Note - Early in 2014.}

30 Mar 2017 13:35:07
Thanks ed.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed002's Note - You are welcome.}

30 Mar 2017 14:00:20
We can achieve at the highest level, if you take a league table for 2017 we are top above Chelsea. If we can carry this forward with Lukaku and Barclay staying with a few aditions the champions league should be very possible next year.
I have not had this optimism for years, I believe the foundations are here right now.

Agree1 Disagree1

30 Mar 2017 14:05:22
I would like either Ienacho from city or Rashford, both would get goals, with Rooney or Sigurdson providing 10 or so goals a season.

Agree1 Disagree0

30 Mar 2017 16:52:18
Everest FC or Snowdon United FC are in poll position to sign Lukaku if ED002 is correct. ie He wants to play at the highest level.

Agree1 Disagree1

30 Mar 2017 17:14:40
Nothing is impossible Ed, tough ask but you cannot rule Everton out of finishing 4th, 2 wins in the next two games and momentum is with Everton, have to rely on Utd Arsenal and our neighbours hitting a bad patch, but until that door is slammed shut in our faces it is still possible for Rom to get his wish and at Everton as well, as they say it's not over til the fat lady sings.

Agree0 Disagree1

{Ed002's Note - It is unlikely and unsustainable - it would mean zip to him.}

30 Mar 2017 22:50:09
Ed002 I would not be too sure on that. Lukaku is ambitious I agree. But if we were in the Champions League next season (unlikely I know) then who knows what thoughts would go into his head? eg Mahrez staying at Leicester City this season was unlikely. Vardy too. Both were expected to leave and I believe turned down other bigger clubs within the Champions League. It might just make Lukaku postpone his desires for a season and who knows where we will be in a season's time? All very very unlikely I know. but we have to have hope because we have sod all else!

Agree0 Disagree2

{Ed002's Note - I am sorry but Everton will not be able to offer Champions League football to mLukaku next season nor on a regular basis. I appreeciate the Everton fans are expecting £200M per window for new players from Moshiri - how is that working out so far?}

31 Mar 2017 06:56:23
My take is just get shut in the summer and move on. No player is bigger than Everton and regardless of his goal scoring record we will still continue to move forward. We have adapted our game to get the best out of Lukaku, will other big teams do that or will they expect him to adapt to their way of playing as he is, in his words 'world class' I say the latter and here is were his weaknesses will be exposed. I say thanks for the goals Rom, hopefully one will be the winner Saturday and all the best in the future.

Agree1 Disagree0

31 Mar 2017 11:01:05
So one thing that niggles me is continually saying we could've signed Lukaku to extended terms and messed it up can anymore light be shed on that? I read that it was over a value to release him or whatever the term is but surely if that was the case there would've been nothing to stop him going still this summer just that we would've had a figure set lower than the board wants.

Now based on wanting to play at the highest level that must mean champions league but would he want champions league for a team in a league where there is only 2 real candidates for the top of that league? To me that would seem a lack of drive so would surely mean staying in the premier league.

So then you look at the candidates and to be honest it's only really Chelsea fitting the bill so as it currently stands surely that means they pay our asking price or do one!

Whereas had Lukaku signed said contract with lower release fee and we would have to accept that value. Or am I missing something? 🤔.

Agree0 Disagree0

30 Mar 2017 08:54:10
I had a bit of banter with someone recently about Ashly Williams. Whoever it was said he was pretty rubbish and needed replacing. I suggested that he was an organiser and look at our results since he signed. Especially the last 10 games. Well here is a quote from the Echo: Everton have kept 11 clean sheets in the league this season - and so has Ashley Williams.

The 32-year-old centre-half is the only player to have started every one of those games in which the Blues have registered a shut-out of the opposition.
On 11 occasions, more than anyone else in royal blue, he has played a key role in keeping a clean sheet and, but for his extended stay in the Euros, Williams would have started every Everton game this season.
I rest my case.

Believable2 Unbelievable2

30 Mar 2017 09:20:22
No offence, degsy but stays can be manipulated to prove any point. Did he play Chelsea away or them lot at home? It's ok keeping clean sheets against hull at home or Sunderland.
I just worry about him. Doesn't seem fast enough and very often gets caught out of position or weak in the challenge. Maybe a good last ditch tackler but so was hibbert.
I do feel we need to either strengthen cb over the summer or look to integrate holgate, Browning, pennington etc.

Agree3 Disagree3

30 Mar 2017 10:11:52
I agree with Degs on this one. Look at us as a defence now compared to previous seasons. We see out games due to better players who can organise. Williams is the difference. I agree he can make a mistake and is not perfect. You can't argue though with 11 clean sheets.

Also he can keep clean sheets with FM or Jags alongside him. His distribution is more reliable than FM and more accurate than Jags. Finally he was £10 million or so. Pocket money nowerdays for what he brings to the table.

Agree0 Disagree1

30 Mar 2017 11:32:36
I stayed away from this before now. For me Williams is part of the progress made on defense. I'd give more praise to Koeman than anyone. As the defense as a whole is a lot better. I don't think that is all down to Williams. He played a part.

But imho Koeman was the mian instigator in improving our defense. Others deserve praise also. Robles, Coleman, Baines and Holgate to name but a few.

Agree1 Disagree2

30 Mar 2017 16:00:41
Williams has played 28 games I think this season. So that leaves 17 or so games we have conceded in that he has played. Proves my point about making statistics fit what you want to say.
I think the main point has been mentioned before. We are overall stronger defensively due to rk and we are scoring a few goals too. Players have boight into his system anf ideas and look more confident with anf without the ball. Long term future looks bright under rk and sw with a good bunch of kids to come through.

Agree3 Disagree1

30 Mar 2017 16:49:09
Williams has been an outstanding defender this season along with the defensive midfielders and remaining defenders.

The whole team contributes to this and all have an equal share of the blame and praise.

I wouldn't single him out for critism at all and to be fair I don't think any of the players left deserve anything but praise.

We're slowly changing our mindset and improving as supporters. We have been pretty awful for the past 3 years as a club but the positive tones seem to be coming back. This manager has performed an almost miracle with these players and us fans. The next two years are going to be exciting.

Agree1 Disagree1

30 Mar 2017 18:02:58
Geoffjohno you are right in that 93.5% of statistics can be manipulated toamke a point. I agree with you on that mate. And I don't know the answer to this question, but I wonder how many clean sheets we had in the previous 2 seasons with the same 2 full backs, the same "other" center backs and Williams? I would guess that as a team we are more solid overall. and yes I agree that Robles has had someoutstanding games as well as Stecks. but the only other new defender is the one you are aiming criticism at.

I just don't agree with you. and that's why the Echo also ran the article. because they don't agree with you. Koeman also picks Williams first, then adds in Jags, Mori, Holgate or A. N. Other. so he also does not agree with you. I don't know what else to say on the matter. we are all allowed our opinions.

However, surely you are happier with our results this season and lower goals conceded? I certainly am! Go back to the beginning of this debate. I agreed with you that Williams looks slow. I agreed that he does not look the complete center back. I just think we are better with him until we find someone better.

Agree1 Disagree0

30 Mar 2017 19:40:58
Without wishing to sound like Degsy, I said from the moment he signed that we'd done good business. £58m for Stones v £12m or so for Williams. Based on age that's £4m per season and we'll get more from Williams over the last three years of his career than I think City will get from Stones over the next three years.

Passionate, positionally astute, knows when to put his foot through it and a commander. Plus we banked £36m in the process.

Agree1 Disagree0

30 Mar 2017 19:52:42
Tbh degsy. We don't have much choice now with injuries. I always support whoever wears our super royal blue jersey and always have a bet on Williams first goal.
I'm not really criticising Williams. I am just not lumping all the praise on him for being the defensive messiah. Think it has been more of a team/ system/ manager effect rather than a single player.

All footballers have strengths and weaknesses. Look at John stones performances. I just hope we can continue to play well as a team anf propel our club up the table over the next season or 2.

Agree1 Disagree0

{Ed025's Note - im with you geoff, he has done ok without actually pulling up any trees, im not doing him a disservice when i say hes steady without being as cultured as i would like, the organisation that koeman has brought to the team has been the main difference to our defensive improvement as you say mate..

30 Mar 2017 19:53:29
P. s. under Martinez, we didn't defend. We just thought we would outscore the opposition.

Agree0 Disagree0

{Ed025's Note - and that worked a treat geoff.. :)

30 Mar 2017 21:17:40
I have to agree that it is mainly due to the organisation of Koeman. that much we do agree on. But you can't organise bad players. Jus get the best out of them. I think we should leave it at that and all be happy that we are discussing why we have improved? It is much better than discussing why we let a 2 goal lead slip or who's fault was the 3rd etc. COYB.

Agree1 Disagree0

{Ed025's Note - i agree degsy..

 
Change Consent