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Five New Faces - Can You Name Them?

Five New Faces - Can You Name Them?

The Club Statement by Sacha & Peter late last week went a long way to explain the going-ons within the club and in my opinion was an open and honest account of where our team 'Portsmouth Football Club' find themselves against a back drop of financial instability around the world.

The fact that we do not have to sell anymore key players is of course good news, but it does not mean we won't if the price is right and/or the player in question does not feature in Tony's short or indeed long term plans, but it is a statement of intent and one that I was pleased to hear.

The most intriguing part of the statement however mentioned the arrival of five new faces at Fratton Park in the coming weeks.

The statement read:

'In addition we are currently working on the permanent acquisition of three players along with two loan deals to the end of the season, one from the UK and one from abroad.

'These acquisitions will increase the size of the squad that Tony has by five players. We are confident that a couple will be concluded shortly, but that all five players will be here well before the transfer window closes.

So three permanent singings and two loan deals; one form the UK and one from abroad eh ! But who are they ? - It is not an easy puzzle to solve

Here is my take on who fits the bill in terms of cover we need, wages we will pay and a combination of permanent and loan deals that match the statement.

Challenge me if you like, but remember for every player you disagree with, you have to suggest an alternative !

Chix`s Five

Edu (Valencia) - Defensive Midfielder
The press have been all over this one but that said the Brazilian is an old team-mate of Tony's and does occupy a position where we need strength so it is not that surprising.

Edu (30) has the kind of class and experience that we are after but has suffered a number of injury problems since leaving Arsenal for the Spanish side in 2005.

It is for this reason that I believe he will be a loan signing until the end of the season with maybe a view to a permanent contract if he can prove his fitness back in the Premiership.

Joey Barton (Newcastle United) - Combative Midfielder
This deal seems to be a bit of a no brainer with the only obstacle being the over-inflated (£6.5million) fee.Love him or hate him both Manchester City and Newcastle fans agree that Barton is a non stop battler.

If Tony can focus Joey on the job in hand, I believe Barton could be a great acquisition and in time, even become a fans favourite.

Gary O'Neil (Middlesbrough) - Central/Right Midfielder
Gary obviously needs no introduction and despite reports of a rejected fee I can't really see Boro Chairman Steve Gibson standing in the way of a club with a cheque in their hand requesting the return (for a profit) of a player who, together with his young family, have failed to settle in their new surroundings and wish to return 'home'.

Being stubborn is one thing, being too blind to see a gift horse looking you straight in the mouth is another and I believe Mr Gibson, as much as he wants to retain Gary will relent in the end.

Aruna Dindane (Lens) - Striker
Dindane (28) is a sharp and strong Ivorian striker in the Didier Drogba mould. His agent has made no secret that his client wants to ply his trade in the Premier League and together with Stoke and West Brom, Pompey have been heavily linked. The only downside to this move is that Dindane has not played since he damaged his knee last season. The price tag of around £5 million may be a bit steep too and a deal could be considered a bit of a gamble.

That said Dindane's representatives have claimed that he has totally recovered from his cruciate injury, is looking impressive in training and will only need three or four games to be back at his best. Ideally he would be a great loan signing but up to date reports state that the Lens Club President and the player have agreed they both want a transfer and as a consequence won't even listen to clubs requesting a loan. I think we will see Dindane arrive this week with the possibility of Djimi Traore moving in the opposite direction to soften (but only a little) the financial impact of the transfer fee.

Andy Driver (Hearts) - Winger
Driver is an Englishman (u21) playing for Hearts in Scotland and although on a contract until 2011, Hearts 'alledgedly'are willing to listen as they need the money.

Everton as well as Pompey have been linked but I've a feeling (given that Hearts boss Csaba Laszlo has confirmed Pompey's approach) that Tony and Peter will wrap up this one up quickly. Iniitlally on loan then a permanent deal (with a built in compensation payment) if things work out between now and the end of the season.

Those considered but not chosen

Benjani (Manchester City) - Striker
As much as I would love to see the Zimbabwean international back at Pompey I think this is more wishful thinking on our part and an easy story for the papers to speculate. Man City's spending power does suggest that Benjy would be out of favour if they were to sign a big named striker but to date they haven't and despite some big offers nobody seems to be playing ball.

Peter's statement implies he knows which players are coming, I do not believe that we would be that far advanced without City having a replacement.

Manuel Fernandes (Valencia) - Creative Midfielder
Another player we know and one I rate (remember that goal at Mansfield !) The thing that makes this deal attractive is the suggested fee of only £6m - The amount Harry was prepared to offer when Fernandes was on loan a season or two back - But despite reports that Peter is in Spain 'doing business' this weekend I think this is just the papers putting two and two together and coming up with sixty-five.

Peter maybe in Spain - To sign Edu !

Yohann Pele (Le Mans) - Goalkeeper
Pele playing for Pompey ! - It could be truer than you'd think. The 26-year-old French No3 is out of contract with Le Mans at the end of the season and it doesn't take a genius to work out that David James will not go on forever. Personally I'm not sure a keeper of the calibre of Pele is gonna to sit around waiting for James to retire (or move) though so I'm treating this as a bit of a dead duck

Luis Garcia (Athletico Madrid) - Winger
I thought long and hard about including Garcia in my five (as the forgien loan player) but ruled him out on the basis that he'd probably demand a bigger wage packet than Edu. That and the fact that the ex-Liverpool winger has been touted around every premiership club during the past month or so it would have very easy to sign him before now

Mirel Radoi (Steaua Bucharest) - Centre Back/Defensive Midfielder
Radoi has been strongly linked with us in the past (Summer 2006 from memory) and is currently looking for a move abroad, but again the fact that Standard Liege & Fiorentina are linked suggests that the Romanian international will cost significantly more that the £4.5million being suggested in some quarters. Having said that, his ability to play ably in both midfield and centre back could prove to be the clincher. Radoi would be my wildcat reserve !

So there you have it, my thoughts on who the five will be together with those I considered and decided against.

What do you think ? - Do you agree with me or am I way off the mark ?

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Writer: Chix

Date:Sunday January 11 2009

Time: 5:04PM

Your Comments

I want barton!

Gleams

I'm up for Dindane, Fernandes, O'Neil, Saviola and some right sided defensive cover.

stillthewhizz

Me too Gleams - I think he'll be a great addition to the squad despite what some might think. Whizz - One of the four you mention would have to be a loan player ... None of them (as far I am aware) are available on loan... You are gonna have to give at least one of them up. As for right sided defensive cover we have Johnson, Cranie and Wilson and Pamarot at a push .. How much do we need ;) I don't see either full back position as a priority tbh [Edited by hickin] [Edited by hickin]

Chix

No mention of Viera either Chix. I reckon Benjani will be here sooner rather than later (Man C have a habit of keeping things quite close when it comes to arrivals) so I'll put him in your 5 in place of Zinadin Dindane

UKTony

PS I DON'T want Barton

UKTony

Fernandes, O'Neil, Saviola/Lita permamently, with Benjani (UK Loan) and Edu or Viera (Foreign Loan)

jbaker

Chix I meant a right sided defender of quality mate. And jbaker how can it be a toss up between Saviola and Lita? Ha ha.

stillthewhizz

Sorry Chix but i can't ever see Barton becoming a fans favourite, in fact i could see it driving a wedge between some fans and the club instead.

Steve C

There were lots of scouts watching the Edinbrgh derby at Easter Road today and Hearts are keen to hang to thier side. Driver looked a good prospect with a good cross, wish I had known of the link with Pompey would have watched more closely. I am on the side of signing Barton and Fernandes who has not come on as expected but he will. Would also gp for Saviola as the striking option. Good stuff Chix let's see what the next week brings eh.

eastneydave

God forbid, but a part of me wants Barton here. Don't get me wrong the man is scum, but he can play football, and he would inject much needed fire in the belly. He can Pass, tackle, score and NEVER knows when to give up!

pentonpompey

chix - one problem: who's your second loan player? Barton? I think tony may want to talk to distin and co BEFORE going for Barton. If they arn't happy with him coming, he should NOT come. O'neil I thought was dead and buried... but tonys more recent comments suggest otherwise. However I really don't see middlesbrough letting any of there squad go - so I can't see that one coming off either. Andy Driver - I've never heard of him. He COULD come I guess... but I wouldn't have him in my 5. and finaly, Dindane I don't see happening either...

pompeycarpet

If the gamble on the new players fail, we could get relegated!!! Risk has to be calculated & on that basisBarton & GON on the fact they have played here & can perform.

storagematt

Wow - What a debate ! I'm not convinced Javier Saviola will come to Pompey and to be honest 'm not entirely sure he is the prospect some of you suggest - He didn't make it at Barca or Real and despite two loan moves (in Spain) nobody has come in for him) If he does rack up in the premiership I reckon Everton have the ace as they will a) offer more dosh and b) can put him straight into the team - Can't see Pompey doing that !

Chix

My 5 would be Edu (loan) (same reasons as you say), Benjani (man city will be close to bringing someone in, and confident someone will come. They won't mind him leaving. Barton (loan) - as you say, he's a conbatitive midfielder. Problem is, he doesn't ever STOP being combatitive. not on the pitch, the training field, the streets, the chippie, the pub. Having said that, I think Tony will want to try him out on the fratton park fans, we will agree a fee now to sign him. Next up - Fernandes. Ok, it's a fairly unlikely, however I can't think of anyone else who COULD come - and my 5th choice is no-one (i.e. I only think we'll sign 4 players max)

pompeycarpet

I'm not going to get drawn on the whether Barton is a positive or negative influence but will say that I reckon it's nailed on he is coming - Vierra, good shout UKTony - I did give him some thought but we can't have him and Edu on loan (if Sasha's statement rings true) and Edu is again imo nailed on for a loan .. a permanent move for Edu cwould just be too risky I think unless it's a 'games played' contract ala Kanu..

Chix

oh, two other players I considered were Nathan Dyer and Andrew Surman from southampton (if theyre still there?). I remember Tony was a fan of them a while back, and we had links flying all over the place for them.

pompeycarpet

oh, and tow other players I considered were Engleaar and Mendes. however we don't really seem to be linked with either as much as I would have liked, and it's VERY rare to sign a player your not heavily linked with first!

pompeycarpet

For once I'm really struggling to come up with a list of players whom we will go for. We have no idea what funds we have available, what we can pay in wages (considering we have to reduce by 25%) So it could be a bunch of nobodies or one or two decent signings and squad fillers...Oh I don't know!

pentonpompey

Lol Carps .. but Peter has said 5 ! - The hardest one to pick is the UK Loan player .. other than Driver I can't see anybody else - As for Barton on loan, I can't see Newcaste agreeing to that when they have another club (Bolton) willing to buy

I haven't commented on the Lita suggestion yet .. I know he is cheap but surely if a championship player is going that cheap why what is wrong with him ?? and more to the point why isn't he linked with all and sundry - I smell a fish iro of Lita .. I'm just not sure which one !

Chix

I agree with Carpet. Those would be my four, and I think Gary O would have been the fifth, but I don't think we will get him now. It does indeed appear to be nailed on that Barton will come, and I'm dead against it, but I think it's a cert now, sadly. I think Edu is pretty much a cert too, given the Arsenal connection. I don't personally think we need another striker, but if Benjani could really be snapped up for less than we got for him, then he'd be good value. He would be one more of those elusive players who really want to play for Pompey.

PhilTaglia

I know peter said 5... but I don't think 5 will arrive! Just a hunch though... as for the barton thing, I think if we agree a fee HIGHER than what bolton will be prepaired to pay, Ashley could agree. I can't see any premiership clubs really loaning decent players, I can't think of a championship club willing to lend there star players, and I can't think of a scottish player good enough...

pompeycarpet

Carps - Nathan Dyer can't even get into the Saints team - They keep loaning him out he's at Swansea at the mo I think - As for Andrew Surman I think despite him being a great prospect he's no more than a championship player - Harry might have seen the potential a year or so ago - I'm not sure Tony will .. more...

Chix

Penton - It is difficult isn't it especially given the clues Peter has given and you are right to mention the reduced wages being offered - It could be that we do indeed go for the Littles, Hermann Pamarot of this world rather than emerging talent or experience old timers - The former are cheap in wages high in fees the latter the other way around .. hence no Vierra on my list !

Chix

Wow you guys are really up for a chat tonight - Hang on I am responding but am currently four or five comments behind...

Chix

Thing is Chix, They also said we would sign X amount of Top Top players in the Summer, and we all know what happened there!

pentonpompey

Phil - What four of Carpets his original ones ? Edu, Barton, Benjani & Fernandes.. and GOn to boot .. Not sure those would fit the 'two loans' bill unless you think we could get Benji or Barton on loan .. Assuming the other one on loan is Edu ?

Carps the Scottish player good enough is the one I've mentioned Andy Driver !

Chix

Pents - Yeah sure we do indeed, but I'm taking the line that I think if Peter and Sash have taken the time and effort to come out with a statement about the club it is as good as true - It mentions the fans throughout but (in reality) it was aimed at the 'potential buyers' - I don't see the motive in them 'lying' or getting it wrong anymore - it would reflect badly on them and badly on the club they are trying to sell - so for me he has said 5 and I expect 5 !

Chix

I notice that Gary O'neil wasn't in the Middlesbrough squad for their game against Sunderland yesterday. Does anyone know if he is injured or is this a sign he is on his way home?

Pompey Half Pint

Officially injured Hal-Pint - he didn't play in the cup last week either - I'm sure- He's gotta be on his way back hasn't he ? Question is will he take his old shirt number or go for Diarra's vacated no6 ?

Chix

On one of carpet's points I have it on very good authority that Andrew Surman has talked to Pompey in the past.

eastneydave

How far in the past Dave? He was touted around as potential about the time that Cranie came to us but I've not heard anything since .. Do you think he has the potential for the Premiership now ?? - I reckon he should have got out with Walcott, Bale and Cranie - He might have missed the big-time boat - Time will tell I guess, but if he comes to us he's surely no more than a squad player

Chix

chix - I think when they say 5, they mean they have 5 lined up at the moment, in some stage of negotiations. One of them is bound to fall through, if not two or even three. We may have some "back up" ideas - but I think more will fall through than we have back ups!

pompeycarpet

in regards to the dyer/surman thing, dyer seems to fit the bill for the loan one then if scum are loaning him out a lot... having said that, they were just names that I remembered from a few years ago, that I remember tony watching a lot of. And I think he will be going for players he has seen a lot of.

pompeycarpet

Carps - Fair poit but I quote "We are confident that a couple will be concluded shortly, but that all five players will be here well before the transfer window closes Confident is a big word to use.

On the Dyer front I just can't see us wanting a player that can't even get into a struggling championship side. Must the same goes for Surman really although I would prefer the latter

Chix

Chix: Yes, Edu, Barton, Benjani and Fernandes. Plus GON for the fifth that won't happen. My thinking was Barton and Edu would be the loans. Along the lines of.. if he doesn't get himself in any more trouble for the rest of the year, we'll buy him in the summer.

PhilTaglia

The only problem i seem to have with Fernandes is his lack of commitment to any club. Wonderful player, but I do worry if he is up for the fight?

pentonpompey

So do I get this right? It is five players plus or including Bellend? who we've just signed?

pentonpompey

You aim for 5 & get 2-3 & not from a struggling championship team either. We could be bootom 3 in the next 2-6 weeks if there ain't a massive improvement.

storagematt

confident not certain though chix. If 4 new players arrive, they could very easily claim belhadg was the 5th. In a sence, i would agree about dyer/surman. We don't want to be buying from struggling championship sides. However, Martin Cranie has just returned from a strugling championship side, and went strait into the side,

pompeycarpet

I managed to get down to Pompey over Christmas, and endured that 'game' against West Ham. I then went back to my parents house and watched the DVD of last season, and one thing really stood out - how much better we were/are as a team with Benjani. That guy ran and ran, but linked a lot of our play. So, getting to the point, my four would be Benjani, Edu, Fernandes and Saviola. GON is/was a great servant to the club, but I think we became a better team when he left - sorry to say. What about Kris Boyd for Utaka? Boyd and Crouch ... could be interesting. PUP

Highland_Pompey

fernandes , edu , benjani i would love to see.Also heard adams is in for the wolfsburg striker ( he bosnian ) cant remember his name he 6ft summin and scores goals and very clever

stfc ballboy

Edu scored for Valencia this weekend.

stillthewhizz

o'neil didn'yt play for boro saturday is he injured or on his way fernandes, o'neil, edu, benjani and a.n.other please please not barton

robertpog

in other news, looks like Utaka is wanted by Rangers to replace Boyd... you know what straight swap for Medes please. I hope one or two of the signings is a striker, as we don not need 5 midfielders. 2 cm tops, a right winger a dm and a striker. Don't be too surprised to see a dutch player brought in on loan either. If Storie is in Spain, I would like to throw a shot in the dark and say Van der Vaart at Real Madris, he has fallen a long way down the pecking order, but also has a relationship of sorts with Mr Method. VDV (RW, CAM)ON LOAN and Edu(DM) two signings from Spain. Lita (home loan with view to buy). That's 3 and I think the other 2 will surprise us. Benji is a good shout as would play on the right. Pennant is an option with Liverpool loaning him out to see if his stock rises, but I would like to have a little wager on Pazini from Fiorentina, we have been linked with him before and he is certainly looking to move at the moment. Just my six pence worth

harrissman

PhilTaglia - I could go with your five, but I'd be surprised if Barton is loaned.. only because Bolton are also after him - If a loan then I'm pushed to see why Peter Storrie would be that confident in securing him for Pompey rather than Bolton - Bolton is nearer is current location ..umm interesting one this BArton loan suggestion

Chix

Penton - I share you thoughts on Fernandes, He's been with four different clubs and not managed more than 20 games (in any one spell) with any of them (Pompey) included - I think the issue hear is that Benfica really rated him as a kid and pushed him out on loan witha ridicuously high sell-on fee (£12m from memory) His perm move to Valencia hasn't been what they thought it would be so now they are suposedly willing to accept half of Benfica's inital valuation - I also seem to remember that he was one of these 'part owned players - ala Tevez - I'm not sure if this is still the case but we could be better t steer well clear
Also my five was five excluding Belhadj!

Chix

Highland - Benjani worked his socks off for us didn't he and I've love to see him back I'm just not sure I see a role for him in a 4-5-1 - As we know and Man City have found out he aint no good as a lone forward (and wouldn't replace Crouch anyway) also where would that leave Nugent ? We could deploy him on the right side of midfield but we really doesn't have the speed we need and to be honest in that position a hard working Nugent is as good as a hard working Benjani - If Tony was going to play 4-4-2 I could definately see this happening, I just struggle with it in a 4-5-1
As for the Utaka & Boyd rumour I'd love to see that come off but so far the source it's coming from is just a likely to get the winner of the first Grand National to be held on the moon right - I fear egg on my face at a later date !!

Chix

Ballboy - The player you are thinking of (I think) is Edin Dzeko he is 22 years old 6ft 3" and has scored 6 times in 13 games for his country - Value in the region of £7 million - To be honest that's about as much as I know, but I can't see us spending £7m on striker of unknown Premiership quality - Not in this window anyway

Chix

Robertpog - O'neil is injured (alledgedly) - As for Barton, sorry mate I'm convinced he's on his way to Pompey - He'll be ok - have faith in Tony to bring the best out of him (omg !) Seriously if he does come on a prem deal I would expect there to be be so many caveats in the contract that if he does screw up we could just terminate it and send him packing - That said I reckon he'll be ok if handled carefully - I actually thought Keegan could have done it at Newcastle but he wasn't there long enough to make an impact - or was Barton banged up !

Chix

my cousin, my other cousins boyfriend and i were in the pub trying to think about players the other night - i do not like the ideal of signing barton, i do not think we should out of principle 'but' if we did we were all in agreement that he 'would' probably be the type of player we needed and 'if' he signed of course most would get behind him... the idea of signing him is not at all appealing, but if/when done he could well prove himself, i am still not convinced we will tho, and certinly not for £5m plus...
edu in on loan and o'neil are 2 that i feel pretty sure on, as for who else i do not have a clue! we will sign one domestically and one from overseas on loan - edu. all depends on what happens with traore. if he goes back to arsenal i could see another gunner coming in, altho he 'might' sign, altho i doubt it, maybe he will go back?

pompeyrug

whatever tho we have plenty of debate on this, good stuff guys!

pompeyrug

can someone keep a tally on how many names we are linked with by the time the window closes. Perhaps we could run a book on how many that list will run to. Over thirty?

hammersmithblue

Harrisman - I mentioned earlier the Utaka for Boyd swap would be ideal for us but can't see it happening. Mendes has stated that he is happy at Rangers and doesn't want to leave but they (again supposedly) need some cash. I think we will see a stiker but not a big name recognised one. (must take was Dindane)
The Dutch loan deal is a ver good shout but I just can't think of who it might be - wasn't their a player for Hereenveen that Tony rated? - I'm not sure about Van der Vaart (although a good shout) I thought long and hard about Penant as he does fit the bill but doesn't he want to go abroad ?? - But a loan as you say might help his stock price - Pazzini is also a very good shout - Don't you just love the transfer window

Chix

im still worried about barton and the negative effect it will have on other players, his arrival could totally split the camp - is his signing worth making 2 or 3 think sod this im off, or will they be professional enough to get over this and give him the chance? you would like to think that as much as he is the boss TA would have sourced some opinions from senior players on him?

pompeyrug

Rug Yeah the debate has been great - I'm off to work soon but will pick up again tonight if I get a mo - It'll be good to keep this going
HSB I have a file on all transfer link - I'll tot it up and let you know but I'm sure we are well over 30 by now

Chix

Rug can we sticky this great article/debate, and see where the transfer window takes us????

harrissman

Also, next week could REALLY kick start our season. Tottenham away, is a potential 6 pointer even this early in the New Year. Tottenham are back in the lull, and I think a lot of players will want to prove to HR that he quite possibly made the wrong decision

harrissman

also just noticed re: LITA, as Herman could well be going the other way. interesting read on BBC gossip this morning with us being again linked with Saviola.

harrissman

Benjani - yes please. Barton - NO, not under any circumstances. The others you listed Chix - yep, no problem with any of them.

NinjaTim

Well we know that Peter was abroad on Saturday, as he was speaking on Sky Sports from an airport terminal, and claimed he was wrapping up a deal.
I think there may be one suprise that no-one has thought of. Not sure who though.

sneakay

Be good to get Fernandes and I reckon another bid will capture O'Neil, with Benjani (UK Loan) and Edu or Viera (Foreign Loan), but I reckon a striker option that hasn't been mentioned and I reckon could work relly well is Cisse from Sunderland. He is a striking partner of Crouchie at Liverpool and would be the kind of strong and dangerous forward we want and need.

blarmy

Took forever to read everyone's comments this morning ;) Benjani (loan), Barton (buy), GON (buy) - will all work their socks off for the club so ideally i'd like these 3 players in. I understand everyone's reservations with Barton, but i think he could be good for the club and has had a good season with newcastle so far. Edu (loan) looks a cert. I find it hard to think of the fourth, Boyd from rangers would be great signing but i can't see it happening, neither with Fernandes, i think he is too expensive. However much I'd like to see Saviola here i really doubt he'd come...we're not the most attractive club in the premiership. Veira i think would demand too many wages. So I actually agree with Chix and that we would bring in this Driver from Hearts, I think one of them will come as a shock and we'll be like 'wtf?' :)

Bowlsey

I think Michael Johnson would be an excellent signing and there's talk of Pedro going to Newcastle for £3m surely a better bet than G O'N at £4.5m? Saviola would be class but I can't see us pulling it off. I wonder what D'Allessandro is up to at the moment? I would love to see him back in a Pompey shirt more than anyone

pooky

I'd bring in Benji, Pennant, Bullard, Edu(loan) and Barton(loan).

SUAC51

Would love to sign Michael Johnson but he's had a long term injury hasn't he? Was real class last season though.

NinjaTim

Saviola please! Are we talking about this guy? Javier Pedro Saviola (born December 11, 1981 in Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires Province) is an Argentine professional football player, who plays for Real Madrid. His usual position is as striker. He is known for his speed and ability to score from almost any position. He has scored 12 goals in 44 games for the Argentina national team, and represented his country at the 2006 FIFA World Cup. In 2005, he was the youngest named on the FIFA 100 list of the 125 greatest living footballers. Saviola also holds Spanish nationality.

NinjaTim

yep that's the guy....

Bowlsey

pretty much agree chix they seem to be the logical options to me, but my heart would rather see Benji return lol oh and ninja, Saviola yes please, but could we afford his wages do you think? i don't think so unless we could do it as a loan maybe but our non uk loans pretty much sorted as Edu by the sounds of it, be niec though wouldn't it

pompeym@

bring in michael johnson! this guy is awesome! perhaps if we get benji back then tony will rethink the 4-5-1/4-3-3, or maybe play benji wide right? as long as we get benji, johnson and GON i'll be made up. the other two i'm not too bothered, but saviola and fernandes would just make it an awesome 5!

jbaker

Barton may be a great player, but his impact on the club would be too negative. I don't want to be associated with a club that would have him in their team. Like to see Benji back, and this Wolfsburg striker sounds positive. What's happened to the Edu loan, it was supposed to be almost done and dusted last week.

tracyc

Monday 12 Jan @ 18:30 - 24 Hrs since original article
Well we've now had the benfit of a day since my original five suggestions so I think it's time to pick up on some of the points made during today.
Harrisman looks like you have your wish as Ruggers have now given the article a bit of stickiness - Re Lita I'm still not convinced there's anything in that one despite the link that Hermann could be going to Reading - To me Lita is 'too' cheap and as I said before something fishy about it I'm sure. Saviola I still think will go to Everton as they need him more than us and will probably be more likely to meet his wages demands - I reckon (given the statement from Peter & Sacha) that Tony has a 'wages ceiling' and a player of Saviola pedigree will exceed that.

Chix

Ninja Tim Given Tony's scoff at the Benjani question today I reckon I've got that spot on - It was a nice thought but he really doesn't fit with Tony's plans for a 4-5-1 whereas the serbian guy Edin Dzeko @ 6ft 3" does give us an option - I'm still sticking with Aruna Dindane for the time being though
As for Joey Barton - Brace yourself mate he is coming !

Chix

Tony scoffs at bringing benji back, then "refuses to confirm or deny gary o'neil bid"... hmmm, suspicious?

pompeycarpet

oh, and bolton pulling out of the "race" to sign barton... maybe a loan deal is back on track?

pompeycarpet

Sneakay & Bowlsey Talk of a surprise package - got anybody in mind or are we talking a completely off the wall signing ? Also Bowlsey I'm liking the idea of Boyd from Rangers but it looks as if Birmingham are almost there BUT there was a wrangle over wages so if we could match Brum he'd surely come to the premiership - wouldn't he ?.. But I still think he is St. Andrews bound - Looks like we agree on Vierra too - Far too dear in my opinion

Chix

Blarmy Fernandes picked up a lot of press speculation today but I reckon the papers just fuel each other on these things so I'm giving no weight to it at the minute - As for Cisse, I just can't see that happening Sunderland are more likely to add to their strikeforce rather than let one go - In fact I'm sure they've issued a hands off on both Cisse and Kenwyne-Jones... I could be wrong though !

Chix

Pooky Michael Johnson is I must admit one player that I overlooked and I think he'll be a good buy .. I think we should watch this one closely as I'd be surprised if he is still at Citeh comes February - A move down south .. umm could be possible - I'll do some diging on him to see what I can find but a very good shout !
SUAC51 Pennant would be a big surprise as I reckon he's off abroad but if nothing comes in for him could be a potential loan signing, but my gut says no - Bullard we have no chance of - I'd love it but if his problem with Fulham is money he isn't gonna get that much more here I would think - The days of being the fourth highest payers in the premiership are over

Chix

Pompeym@ Glad to see you agree with me jbaker Tony will not rethink his strategy of 4-5-1 and he will get players that fit his vision rather than fir a vision around who is available - That said he does need players that can flex a formation so moving from 4-5-1 to say 4-3-3 and 4-4-2 needs to be considered but I think he'll look to strenthen his first option first - 4 midfielders and one striker is what (I'm sure) we will buy

Chix

Tracyc Careful what you say re Barton.. but I know you'll never stop supporting Pompey anyway ;) Edu has gone quiet hasn't it and to be honest I was expecting that to get announced today .. maybe tomorrow - As I said earlier the Edin Dzeko bandwagon is gathering steam so there might be a feww miles left in it - I wouldn't too upset if we signed him.

Chix

Carpet I picked up the very same from Tony's interview as you .. I reckon GON is getting nearer and I also reckon that with Bolton pulling out of Barton is makes our position for a loan or a reduced fee even stronger - All I know is that Newcastle want to offload him but that aren't gonna do it for the proce they asking - I hope not for Pompeys sake - Peter's pretty shrewd we are led to believe so £6.5m for Barton should be laughed out the door - I think I sadi £4.5m max elsewhere on the thread..
Apologies if I've not responded to anybody - Keep the comments coming - I'll do my best to give you my take as things progress

Chix

hey chix "wot an article" good read and all you others for your input.. herr goes. Barton -Yes said so before. O'Neil-not too sure would not be disappointed but he's not good in front of goal when he gets chance. Dindane -dont know him to be honest. Fernandez- looked good at time but never came to fruition until at Everton-mind that goal in the League cup was a cracker and the one against Manu for toffees. Edu would be usefull and another senior pro

plymouth graham

Peter Storie said on the Quay tonight we are close to 4 players midfielders a striker & a wide player two could be here within 48-72 hrs possibly three & the O'neil deal of £4.5m in real terms is worth more like 6m as if he does not come boro will owe us another 1.5m on appearances very soon, sowe are waiting for their response.

pompeyyong

Javier Saviola cames from the same group of Argentinian players as Andres D'Allessandro - think they played together in th FIFA Junior World Cup.

eastneydave

Cheers Plymouth Graham We aim to please! - It 's funny how this particular transfer window has caught everybodies interest a lot earlier than usual - It's normally the last day when interest hots up - although I think Gary O will wing his way back to FP I do have slight reservations about over expectation from us (the supporters) That said I really can't remember him EVER letting us down - Goals (or lack off) are still an issue with Gary but as long as he chips in with the odd one or two that'll be okay - If I were Tony I'd offer him the captaincy as well - Sol has done very little in terms of leadership this season to date.

Chix

Pompeyyong I never get the chance to listen to the football hour (kids bath and bedtime!) So Uncle Pete reckons we are close to 6 players (have I understood you correctley?) or it is just 4 (2 x midfielders, a striker and a wideman?) - 48 hours makes it Wednesday, 72 Thursday it'll be interesting to see how it develops - One thing though if he's confident two will be here are they from the same club I wonder ..umm Edu and Ferandes ??? - The point about GON appearance money is a point well made also - I hadn't thought of that

Chix

it's very rare to change a captin mid-season chix, and normally quite unsettling. Davis has been a real role model for the club, and I feel would be fully deserving of the captincy if he was given it. As for adams transfer dealings, I am 100% confident that he will be looking to bring players in that fit the team, not just good players (a-la redknapp bringing in defoe, which upset the whole balance of our squad!)

pompeycarpet

another thing I got from the interview - Adams mentioned that Edu scored as well this weekend. I'm not entirley sure whether that is him telling the press "we're about to sign him" or "why arn't you suggesting we're about to sign him?" or "i'm not going to drop hints on O'neil, but I will on Edu" - or even "I'm double bluffing you, and actually I want fernandes"...

pompeycarpet

Eastneydave If Saviola comes from the same stock as ADA he'll be an instant hit I'm sure but I'm just worried about why he hasn't really taken off that much in Spain since his return from Monaco

Chix

Carpet Yeah the captaincy thing I think you are right on.. but here's a though - Drop Campbell for Kaboul and then make GOH skipper - I'm not saying it will or even should happen but I'm sure there are not many who would challenge the point that Sol has been lacking this season and Kaboul (albeit for just a few games) looks to be a better proposition .. especially long term... Also in terms of upsetting the team mid-term is it not best to do it now - aren't they upset as it is (upset not sad I mean)

Chix

Also Carps Re Edu my take is that he wouldn't mention him unless he was either 100% confident of gettting him, didn't want him or (as I think) Has already got his signature and is just waiting for a press conference to be organised .... with Fernandes in tow .. who knows ??

Chix

RE saviola - I think it is a similar thing as to why Diara hadn't seeltled too well anywhere. He is an amazing prospect, however he needs to play games, and needs to build up confidence. Or, in other words, he needs to come to pompey :-)

pompeycarpet

RE Edu/Fernandes - I doubt very much we will see both arrive - the liklyhood of any club letting two players for one position go in one transfer window is always very unlikely. particually to the same club, and with one of them only a loan (and so no big money to replace them!)

pompeycarpet

i reckon the two could be benji and johnson. but who is this wide man!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! also, davis for captain, no doubt, unless GON returns (possible wide man).

jbaker

Jbakes Benjani aint coming .. honestly he just doesn't fit the bill anymore as much as he is a workhorse and a beloved member of the Pompey family his time is in the past sorry it just ain't happening (I really hope I don't end up with egg on my face!) Johnson on the other hand is a contender but there's talk of him being the leverage in the Shay Given to Citeh deal - I think the fellas is a great prospect but just can't see it happening either (but hope it does)

Chix

Carpet Saviola did settle at Barca but lost his confidence when Frank Rijkaard told him he was no longer needed. Loans to Monaco and Seville followed in which he averaged a goal every three games (not bad eh!) but neither club would fork out a fee. Barca didn't renew his contract and that prompted the (free) transfer to Madrid - I'm wouldn't liken him to Diarra in the 'not settled' sense and at 27 I think he WAS a great prospect but never really fulfilled his potential at the highest level .. that's not to say he can't do a job for Pompey.. but I stil think Everton are favourites because of his 'expected' wage demands

Chix

oh forgot to mention the point made about Edu and Fernandes both leaving Valencia at the same time. It's a point well made but it would still leave them with Silva, Hernandez, Jocquin, Hugo Viana, Vicente and Baraja - They also have three midfielders currently on loan which could be recalled .. But I still think it's most likely only Edu

Chix

Just like to say full marks for effort on this one Chix!

jbaker

CheersJbaker It's been a bit hectic at times trying to keep up but I reckon it's a format we should definately try again - Just seems a bit more interactive than normal
Keep you comments coming guys and gals - I wanna keep going until we actually see a signing - Will it be today ?

Chix

Edu seems to be the only "concrete" one at the moment, Gario is clouded somewhat, both clubs are playing chess with him, and until his "injury" clears up we will have no idea of his state of mind

paultsmouth

Mentioning Michael Johnson and Barton just raisesa one ouestion in me. Can they adapt to life "Darn Sarf" I doubt it in both cases, just the same as Big Sam would never be our Manager, they don't have Road maps that extend beyond Stoke!

pentonpompey

nice call Penton, but Barton would come because the HMP's down here are in better nick..... well the most comments on an article must now go down to CHIX. I think today will be interesting, could have done with a midfielder registered before midnight last night. Just a thought, could we do a deal with Appiah under the nose of HR....

harrissman

A fit Appiah would be lovely, but he hasn't played since Jesus was a lad. I notice that one or two of the other potentials who've been linked are in the same boat...WHY? we need players who are fit and ready to go, Glen Little and Jerome Thomas anyone?

pentonpompey

Have to admit I like Stokes attitude to signings. Get in proven Prem players who put in a shift. Despite being an ex scummer Beattie will prove to be a shrewd buy as he fits Stokes style of play and this will benefit both parties. As for Matthew Etherington...Why wern't we in for him? I watched him in the weekend game against Liverpool. He caused them all sorts of problems and his delivery is superb. What a wasted opportunity for us. Can't believe West Ham thought they were better off without him!

pentonpompey

I know this is a little off topic, but i think there maybe some weight to the radoi story... but this summer. With Sol reportidly on about 60k a week and his contract expiring i doubt we'll resign him. Radoi would be good replacement bringing us back to 3 quality centre backs... Also he hasn't really been shining off late. I still think Saviola would require too much in wages, so unless we have some sort of deal in place through the diarra transfer that we get first dibs on loans? i doubt it will be him. Same with fernandes, too much money in cost and wages. Edu still looks good in my books and i think it will be sooner rather than later. The striker from Wolfsburg would be very good signing if we can get him for around £5m...anymore than that and i think we should look elsewhere (money is tight!). Still have my fingers crossed for GON, defo need his work rate. With Barton and Davis in the midfield along side him (push GON on right?) and we have a very high work rate in the middle. Krancjar behind crouch and traore on the left... sorted.

Bowlsey

It's all gone a bit quiet on the transfer front, with News Now struggling for stories. I guess the main focus is on our cup game tonight and the fact that we only have 1 central midfielder. 5-1-4 anyone?

sneakay

Mice one Sneakay, can you imagine us taking to the pitch with Kanu, Utaka, Nuge and Crouchie? Weird thing is it would have probably worked had we still got Diarra to be the lone man in the middle!

jbaker

diara has come out saying pompey are his "second team"... why don't we try to sign him back too :-)

pompeycarpet

Tuesday 13 Jan @ 18:30 - 48 Hrs since original article
Well two days have passed since my original predictions and to date I haven't been proved wrong!
If anything a number of the players or players agents you guys have suggested as alternatives to 'my five' has distanced themselves from Pompey so I still think I'm on to a clear winner
As a safeguard however (and I am sticking to my original five) Dindane and Driver have cooled a bit and Johnson and Fernandes have raised their stock.. Let's have a look at some of you recent comments..

Chix

Sorry Chix 5 in total including 2 loans, 2 close one of witch is a loan(Edu)? & another signing possible this week, so could be 3 this week, but should be at least 2 by thusday evening.

pompeyyong

Paultsmouth
I'm with in as much that Edu appears to be the only concrete link but I reckon that's only because of the links Tony used to have with him In terms of noises. press speculation and tip-offs (or tittle tattle Barton could be more of a definate

Chix

Penton
Johnson and Barton adapting to link down sarf is potentially an issue but surely if forgien players are expected to adapt why shouldn't they - It's a good point but if neither came because of that reason I'd think they're big Northern Softies

Chix

Harrisman
Loved the comment about the nicks - Do you speak from experience I wonder ;) As for the most posts on one article I think me and carpet hit the 200 mark on day in January last year - Sad that we are - As for a midfielder for tonight would have been nice wouldn't it ! - Appiah nah not for me he's a mercanary and holding out for big buck wages let Spurs have him I reckon .. although I'm not sure they'll take him either..

Chix

Penton
Etherington, I know I couldn't believe we didn't even have a sniff around him - As for Stoke buying what suits I think that's right but don't think many of there players would suit us.. most are ex-pompey or Saints anyway ... I'm off to set up the match day live ..back soon

Chix

i dunno chix the way this thread is going 200 is gonna be an easy target to beat lol. but today has been far too quiet for my liking lets hope its the calm before the storm ay bring on tomorrow

pompeym@

Chix, that as you say is just my point, they've bought to suit their club. We on the other hand have bought a bunch of individuals over the past couple of years, and now it's finding us out; worse luck. I remember when Jim Smith was with us, it was apparrantly his job to research the background of each prospect. If they were deemed to not be of a type to blend to the current then they were rejected. Only what I read, but we really did seem to have a real team spirit then...yes I know,,rosey rose specks on!

pentonpompey

chix - sorry, but pleased don't de-value our commitment! hitting 200 was common for the "Matchday LIVE" threads around this time last year. we got it well over 300!

pompeycarpet

Right we are through to the 4th round of the cup (just) now where was I
Bowlsey The Radoi story is one I've been monitoring and I think you just right be right - Sol is on his last legs and I'd be very dissappointed it he is retained after the end of the season - He just can't cope with it anymore and as I said last night show very little leadership also. Radoi would be an excellent replacement - The striker from Wolfsberg aint gonna happen though his manager has issued a hands off today - so there's another dead duck.. or smokescreen !!

Chix

Sneakay
Having jut watched the Bristol City game I'm not sure we didn't actually play 5-1-4 at time I think we were playing 1-2-1-3-1-1-2-1-3 .. and yeh I know that adds up to 15 !Carpet
Do you reckon we are Defoes second team too ?

Chix

Pompeym@
To be honest I expected today to be a bit quiet given tonights game but I am expecting at least one maybe two signings ahead of the Spurs game - This is not me speculating by the way I'm going on the transcripts of the Adams and Storrie interviews.. With a Sunday kick-off I'm expecting one of those famous 1 o'clock Friday press conferences that Peter loves to organise

Chix

oh as for 200 posts... no problem!

Chix

Penton
Your point about Jim Smith old role is a good one and I think Harry (in particular) purchased bargains (don't get me wrong some great ones) during his spells and I think Tony has been left to try and adapt what he has to the style he wants to play - He has said that we won't see his type of players until the summer but in the meantime I think he has to buy what and who he can to enable us to survive - I don't agree or like a lot of his suggestions or tactics but he has the club at heart and has to make do with a depleted squad that Harry brought.. some of whom are on their last legs.. anyway back to transfers..

Chix

PompeyYong
So five in total eh.. I'm becoming more and more correct as time goes on .. I'm still sticking with my five as per the article !

Chix

I still can't see us in for Driver, mainly because your article is the first and only time I've seen his name linked with us ;) Maybe this is the 'off-the-wall' surprise signing I was thinking off...though obv not a surprise for you :P Although Storrie was in Spain for a few days (still is?) maybe we'll be getting 2 players in from spain. Though I doubt Saviola or Fernandes, perhaps Drenthe of Madrid? We were linked with him a few weeks back I remember. I actually think we may come in and buy Edu for 250k-500k, and Loan a player like Saviola/Drenthe from Madrid. It wouldn't surprise that as part of the Diarra deal we get preferential treatment for loan signings ;) I'm also unsure about Dindane, not heard of anything about him recently at all. Still fingers crossed for GON, and dare i say it barton?

Bowlsey

Also Udinese midfielder Christian Obodo seems to have gained more news today. I wouldn't mind seeing him at the club. Only problem with him disappearing for Africa Cup of Nations every year. £4m offer is good value and better spent here than on Barton..... £2m for Barton is the max I'd go in for him.

Bowlsey

No one thinks we have a hope of signing Traore? When is his loan due to finish anyway? This month or not till the summer?

PhilTaglia

We have him til the summer apparently.

jbaker

and no, we don't have a hope of signing him ;-)

pompeycarpet

Could'nt we send Djimi back to Arsen see if he notices.... did he do well again last night ..what a player.

plymouth graham

But where are the new signings? It seems to have gone very quiet!!

Owenspompey

the quiet before the storm...

pompeycarpet

Carpet are you sure? are you very sure? or are we guessing and hoping? Nothing is being said, and nobody is being linked, i am beginning to fear the worse!! We need strengthening before Sunday otherwise we will be beaten, and that would be really really bad.

Owenspompey

yes, I'm sure owens.

pompeycarpet

I believe you carpet, thousands would not, but your word will do for me.

Owenspompey

I hope we dont get another striker in the window! we are playing well with one up front! and nugent and Utaka are pretty good backups for crouchie!

TomNG

another thing - I am also confident that tony only WANTS to play one up front - but knows that if crouch gets injured, we only have kanu... and he can't play 20mins let alone 90!

pompeycarpet

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