This Player Has Been Brilliant For Us

This Player Has Been Brilliant For Us – Alan Pardew

11:06 am, Tuesday, October 23rd, 2012 by Ed Harrison · 274 Comments

We only got one point at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, but we are hoping the great display the lads put on at Sunderland, will be a springboard for Newcastle to start playing well on a consistent basis, and start picking up some wins.

Mike Williamson - in action at Sunderland on Sunday

Alan Pardew has said this is a big week for the club with a Europa League game on Thursday night at home to Club Brugge, and a home league game against West Brom on Sunday.

Two wins there and we’ll be feeling very good about things next Monday morning.

This is what the Newcastle manager told the local press today:

“It’s a big week, because we’ve now set ourselves up for Brugge.” “If we beat them, we’re almost there in the Europa League – and then West Brom. If we win that, suddenly we’re where we want to be.”

“Willo’s been brilliant. People forget I’ve never favoured anybody over anybody else, and Willo put in one of his great performances. He was brilliant for us.”

Mike Williamson has been one of Newcastle’s best buys at a bargain basement price of £1M from Portsmouth, and he has so far made 83 appearances for the Tyneside club, since joining in January of 2010.

And while he has his critics on Tyneside, the more games he plays the better he seems to get, and he played a great game alongside the majestic Fabrico Coloccini on Sunday afternoon.

Newcastle have three excellent experienced center-backs in the squad right now, and when we bring in another central defender – hopefully in January – a young up and coming center-back may be the answer – someone like Virgil van Dijk, who is a 21 year-old center-back at FC Groningen in the Dutch Eredivisie.

That would make sense, and we also have 19 year-old Australian Curtis Good coming through the ranks in the Newcastle U21 side, and we cannot forget local lad Remie Streete either, who turns 18 a week on Friday.

Both Curtis and Remie are excellent long term prospects at Newcastle.

Comments welcome.

You can also reach Ed at admin@nufcblog.com

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Tags: Mike Williamson · Newcastle News

274 responses so far ↓

1 toon_army_redlichtie85 // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:08 AM

First – for a reason! Willo is a legend
2 fray bentos // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:11 AM

@WWYCD from previous post

Its unbelievable isn’t it?! welcome to the world of the crazy fickle fans

Just think how poor that Stoke defence probably was compared to the average Stoke defence

Probably yet another daft reason to get on Pardew’s back, not playing Xisco
3 fray bentos // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:11 AM

@WWYCD from previous post

Its unbelievable isn’t it?! welcome to the world of the crazy fickle fans

Just think how poor that Stoke defence probably was compared to the average Premierhip defence

Probably yet another daft reason to get on Pardew’s back, not playing Xisco
4 fray bentos // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:13 AM

Credit to the whole defence on sunday, well done lads
5 Colo-Sus // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:14 AM

I have always liked Willo. Honest player, nothing flash and yes he make sthe odd error but hes a good squad player and Ed is right…alonside Colo he plays alot better as hes allowed to be the heading machine.
He is good cover, and tbf Saylor makes alot of errors to but doesnt get anywhere near as much stick!

The CB i would get if poss would be Alderwiereld or Van Dijk…leave Dougals for me

Jan Ins

Debuchy
Alderwireld

Jan Outs

Ba (maybe Hope to godd he doesnt)
Marveaux (Loan)

I think Marveaux has fallen out of favour, he seems tohave no desire, does not get the english ga,e, much like Benny at first but with out the quality,

I think he could come good but needs to buy into the team ethos or Toodles!
6 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:17 AM

Prime example of some fickle fans loads on here say willo isnt good enough and should be given the boot but all of a sudden after one u21 game xisco should be ahead of shola???
7 WWYCD // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:18 AM

fray
Haha aye its impressive reasoning isnt it? Its even stated that Stoke reserves were in no way a match for our reserves (who arent amazing all things considered) and had no senior players, we pumped them last month with the same score line (have a feeling Inman bagged a hattrick but could be wrong) but because Xisco played hes first team again

Sorry like not for me hes still poor and hasen’t earned the right to get a game ahead of Shola or even Campbell
8 WWYCD // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:20 AM

Always liked Willo, makes mistakes but very good back up and not much difference between him and Saylor over all
9 fray bentos // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:25 AM

Find it crazy that fans seem to know how good these reserve and youth players (in rergards to 1st team football), when really they know very little unless they are part of the training staff

If pardew doesn’t believe he warrants the 1st team then thats all we need to know really

Wilko on the other hand has proven again and again that he is a very usefull part of our squad, we can say this because he has actually played in our first team
10 bills-son // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:27 AM

When you compare Willo to Marcelino £7M, Boumsong £8M, Bramble £6M and others too bad to mention – Willo is in a different league. For £1M he has been fantastic value for money and he IS without doubt a decent Premier League squad player.

Fans always go over board on praise and criticism – Tiote and Cabaye (good as they are) are nowhere near as great as many fans make out and Willo and Simmo are nowhere near as bad.

What I really like about Willo, Simmo and Perch previously is that – even though they know they are getting stick from fans – they never hide in a match and keep giving 100%. As fans, giving 100% is what we want and demand. We’ve had plenty of mercenary players with far greater skill who haven’t given even 25% commitment in 90% of the games they played in.

Give me Willo, Simmo and Perch every time over the previous half hearted lot.
11 beefman13 // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:32 AM

Bills, thats correct the lad always gives his all and so do virtually all the other players brought in to the club since relegation.

It is so refeshing to have lads put it on the line for us.

I still feel we need another quality centre half, that said and i am quite sure we will get one in january.
12 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:33 AM

Just spotted Pardew here at the OV (maybe it is a coincidence, but Perch was here earlier) lol
13 fray bentos // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:33 AM

@bills-son

Well said

When it comes to some fans (and this goes for any fans, not just ours), players are either awfull or amazing, there doesn’t seem to be any inbetween
14 Big Pappa Cissé // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:37 AM

No one doubts Willo’s ability, but is it bad to want a better player for the position ? . Don’t get me wrong he is Premier League quality (last season proved that) but for a team wanting to break into the top 4 there are so many better options out there. He would get his game every week at a team like Wigan but people like Collocini are on a whole other level. Harsh but true
15 nufc 11 // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:39 AM

His has alot of things going for him that S.Taylor dosent he is a better CB but I have siad for a long time S.Taylor is a far better RB than CB he loves to get forward and join in he goes missing in the centre and drops off, where Willo is steady if not great odd mistake to tho.
16 Big Pappa Cissé // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:45 AM

@ Nufc 11

I have to disagree there like, I have seen Taylor play at right back and he got murdered by the winger he was marking ( don’t ask me who ) and as for Willo being a better CB I don’t see that either. Taylor is a better header of the ball
(despite being smaller), he is quicker, scores goals, gets forward and has a better passing range than just lumping it up the field IMO
17 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:51 AM

Munster Mag- Re your post to me. The formation 4-2-3-1 was spoken of openly by Pardew pre season to anyone who sort him out. He is generally very forthcoming in answering genuine interest questions particularly to writers for the fanzines. In my hearing he has not strayed outside the managerial side of the club. When I last asked him (after the Reading game ) why he was not playing a more adventurous less long ball game he was not surprisingly tetchy. He wants to kill off games by improving ball retention something which is practiced a lot in training. It was often said that when players are available -it has always been unclear whether he meant from injury or by purchase in transfer market- his preferred Option is 4-2-3-1 . I wasn’t the only one asking question but in a group of fans. He feels the more creative and key players will best function under this system and he feels the key players have so much more to over.e You know that with Simpson, Williamson in a back four you’ve got problems passing out of defence and the one area of Tim’s game requiring attention is his kicking – your right on possession and long ball concerns. Pardew also has issues on us giving too many free kicks away. He wants to play a pass and move game and he really faught to get Anita who’s nailed on to play alongside Tiote. The problem has been having only Santon capable of bombing on- Fergi is seen as a left back but is still not ready. Anyway interestingly WBA tend to play 4-2-3-1 so who knows we might look to match them even without Tiote. Finally you asked about who I would select well in the 3 on the left Marvaeux, Cabaye and, HBA. Marv has so much more to offer as he showed pre season. Anita is perfect for this system because he is quick in thought and deed.
18 beefman13 // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:55 AM

I noticed before the mackem game ray wilkins stated that willo and colo were the toons best defensive pairing.

For me personally its colo and saylor.

Willo did have maybe his best game for us on sunday and it suits him playing alomgside colo no doubts about that.
19 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:59 AM

Ian…sorry I missed your reponse the last few days. Nice to see you on the blog again (with or without your Costa ) lol

…so are you saying Pardew preferres 4-2-3-1 to 4-4-2? but he is sticking to 4-4-2 because our defenders cannot pass the ball to safe their life?

How about buying a new CB and RB lol (just saying)

Okay, back to my treatments at the OV (I am feeling a backlash coming )
20 beefman13 // Oct 23, 2012 at 12:11 PM

jesper, i think we will sign a centre half, also simpson has still not signed his new deal, someone may come in for him i reckon west ham maybe for simpson so it could be a right back and centre half coming in IF simpson goes?
21 warwick // Oct 23, 2012 at 12:24 PM

Xisco getting a chance is like some groundhog day meme that continues to filter through among the deluded.
How could he play for U21´s is it not the reserves?
A hatrick for the reserves is nothing in reality lets be honest. Nile ranger was banging in hatricks for the reserves as well.
Not sure where he reckons he´s getting the fan support from either.
End of the day he´s away at the end of the season, simply not been good enough, if he was he would play or be around the fringes.
Thank the oh so unwise one for that mistake.
22 bollance // Oct 23, 2012 at 12:26 PM

Ian

Interesting post. To play more of a passing game we need to be able to pass the ball from the back to the strikers with the defence pushing up to the halfway line like everton did to us this season and what man utd do every time we play them.

If you want to do this you need a quick back 4 or probably more specifically a fast centre back pairing as the full backs will have pushed on. Sadly we don’t. Try to do that vs west brom and we will have a repeat of last year at home!

Everton have distan who is very fast even now and man utd have rio who is still fast.

So we need to pass the ball better and faster centre backs. Late Xmas present in January? Young fast centre back to be groomed by colo.
23 rainrix // Oct 23, 2012 at 12:27 PM

This is worth a read, especially willos duel success rate, almost 70%.

http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/12040/8187511/Art-of-defending
24 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 12:29 PM

Jesper Hiya mate. Or as Pushy might say “so your not giving me the bums rush” Having missed you a few times delighted your still around-LOL I read you and noticed you’ve come out of retirement on the football front. 4-4-2.is the safe option but Pardew is not the defensive manager he’s often labelled it’s a case of a small squad and injuries. Catch you later got to see a dog about a new owner.
25 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 12:35 PM

Beefman…I would really appreciate a new CB and RB if tht will motivate Pardew to play 4-3-3 (4-2-3-1) more often.

…I am not counting on Simpson to sign a new contract and I am more or less sure and both Pardew and MA has come to the conclusion that their gamble didn’t pay off (back to the drawingboard they go )
26 Grafton83 // Oct 23, 2012 at 1:35 PM

Before we all go completly mental lets keep a little perspective. Willo did his job on Sunday and did it well that’s one game.

My memory is slightly longer than that though, he has made numourous errors this season and last. I don’t think it’s any defense to say well he isn’t 1st choice. He’s there to do a job and all too often he hasn’t.

So for me he’s ok, happy to have him here as a 4th choice CB but I’d prefer us to buy someone better in the very near future because we need it. Willo for all his good intentions and hard work is not going to help us finish in the top half.
27 toon1986 // Oct 23, 2012 at 1:44 PM

Billance agree million % we need a big strong and quick centre half. It’s what we’ve lacked for years but surely u must be joking by saying rio is still fast ? Jesus , did u see the spurs game ? They tore him a new ars**ole!!
28 chris_g // Oct 23, 2012 at 1:44 PM

Grafton83 – maybe you should refresh your memory by reading the link that rainrix posted, and in particular the bit that said:

“Mike Williamson currently averages over 16 clearances per game. Not only is that more than double the number that Coloccini manages, no other footballer in the top four leagues in Europe averages more than 12″
29 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 1:48 PM

Grafton….He is not the best CB by any stretch of the imagination, but to say he wont be able to help us finish top half is way off. Didn’t he play the majority of games last season? I know we started really well with Colo and STaylor, but Willo did help finish 5th – simple truth.

Don’t get me wrong, I believe most to all fans would happily have him upgraded to take us forward, but he’s nowhere near as bad as some make out. As for getting carried away, I don’t think anyone is, we all know the pecking order at the club and where he fits with that.
30 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 1:49 PM

Grafton
Willo has also had many fine performances too, one of the stand out ones bieng liverpool at home last season
You take colocini out of our back four and there isnt a single one of our cb’s who look comfortable or assured, when colo’s playing wilo is a different player and to be honest not much between him and taylor playing when alongside colo
31 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:02 PM

Ibiza…I need for you to send some more money. I have enroled Wizard for two weeks as well at the OV Spa

…he was simply not making sense lol
32 mindshaft // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:03 PM

I really can’t unstersatnd people saying Tiote should be dropped for europe to taech him a lesson, and what lesson is that then, he’s going to miss a couple of league games which is the punishment for receiving a red card
Obvious thing to do is actually play him in Europa to give him competitive games and keep match fresh so he doesn’t lunge in again

Jeez the XBox football managers on here do my nut in
33 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:06 PM

Rainrix
Thats a great article and when you look at willos stats at the bottom its hard to build an arguement that he has no place here
34 hotdog // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:15 PM

mindshaft – “he doesn’t lunge in again” – You could be waiting a while take a look at his disciplinary record.

I think most fans will back Williamson as they know he has limitations but Grafton is right here and may I add who was it who got beat by O’Shea for the scums goal!
35 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:15 PM

Jesper….I’ve arranged for you to pick up some gift certificates at the wellness centre front desk. So glad you’re enjoying your treatment and are well on the road to recovery. Don’t miss this afternoons seminar at 4pm….boy you’re in for a treat.

Mindshaft….I’d like to see some of our fine armchair managers tell Tiote they’re not going to play him. Seems a bit silly, cutting your nose off to spite your face, he can’t play PL, so swap him with one of the Europa players….I thought people were worried about the depth of our squad and the quality of our Europa teams. Obviously is conversations between Pardew and Tiote haven’t been satisfactory, further action may be needed.
36 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:16 PM

Hotdog…..I know this one….it’s either Willo or Simmo…it always is.
37 hotdog // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:25 PM

Ibiza – You would have heard the willo one but simmo is our Gary Neville, dont you think?
38 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:32 PM

Hotdog…..That all depends….what do you think of Gary Neville? Or is the suggestion Simpson should be a pundit and give up football?
39 Krul to be Kind // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:33 PM

mindshaft

That was me who said on a previous thread about Tiote, are you telling me in all honesty that you are happy with him running around like a madman possessed? he obviously wants to play so he should curb his ill tempered game i said curb… not erradicate btw so he gets more game time, I for 1 am pretty fed up with continuous suspension, good player mind so we need him more on the pitch than in the stands, he may not get a lot of red cards but he collects yellows at a crazy rate!
40 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:36 PM

Krul…Maybe someone just needs to explain to him you don’t win anything by collecting yellow cards – perhaps he thinks it’s some sort or reward scheme and he’s saving up for a new TV or something?
41 Kebabacus // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:37 PM

Willo and Colo compliment each other well, as do Taylor and Colo. Feck, I would look decent if I played next to Colo, and every time I head a ball I go cross-eyed.

Our problem is depth. If Colo is out, who is the leader in the back four? Who is going to pass it out calmly? Saylor and Willo are good old fashioned no-nonsense defenders. We need another classy ball-playing CB.

Anyone got a link for the reserve goals from last night btw?
42 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:39 PM

Punishing Tiote even further for me is absolutely ludicrous. The only reason he got sent off the other day was because of his reputation, had any other player put in that tackle on Sunday they would have got a yellow card at most, but because it was Tiote he got a red.

Drop him for Europe? Madness.
43 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:42 PM

Quasi….M…M….M…mad…could be a song in that somewhere……

Sorry, I do tend to wander off topic at times, as you may have picked up by now.
44 hotdog // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:42 PM

Ibiza – haha he’s a canny pundit Neville even though he was an obnoxious little toad when he played. The one thing simmo does very well is “read the game” his positional sense is great and as a centre back its good to know that if you are in bother your full back can help you out. As with Willo we know his limitations ie Pace / Crossing but we could end up with a Full back who is good at those things but cant defend.
My rule of thumb is, would “that player” get into the current top four clubs and help us achieve that aim. In willo and simmo’s case the answer is no, unfortunately.
45 Kebabacus // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:44 PM

Willo and Colo compliment each other well, as do Taylor and Colo. Hell, I would look decent if I played next to Colo, and every time I head a ball I go cross-eyed.

Our problem is depth. If Colo is out, who is the leader in the back four? Who is going to pass it out calmly? Saylor and Willo are good old fashioned no-nonsense defenders. We need another classy ball-playing CB.

Anyone got a link for the reserve goals from last night btw?
46 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:46 PM

Hotdog….I can go along with that. Can these two help us get in the top 10? Without a doubt (they already have). 8th – 6th? I would think so, but you wouldn’t really want Willo starting each game. Top 4? Probably not, but as squad / back up they still could feature.

Obviously the club want to and will upgrade them as time goes on and I fully support that. In the meantime though, i just feel we should all be supporting them more than we do. We know their weaknesses, if you’re going to be p*ss*d with someone, surely it’s the board, not the players who do give it their all, but perhaps have somewhat limited abilities.

I agree….Neville is a very decent pundit – a little shocked really. He doesn’t come across as biased, says it as it is – how refreshing.
47 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:47 PM

Ibiza

You may be on to something there perhaps you could be the one to write it, though you may have been beaten already…

As a long time reader I am more than aware of your tendencies to go off on a tangent, but I’ll not begrudge you

What are your thoughts about dropping Tiote for Europe and his red card in general?
48 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:51 PM

Quasi….As a newbie you have the benefit of no reputation….give it time

I’m really split on the Tiote thing. As a Newcastle fan, I do see the side where it’s his reputation that got the red. Trying to see it from the other side, I can see why some would feel he deserved the card. It was a really tough call and trying to be neutral, I think it was a really tough call, 50/50, so no major complaints.

I half expected it, he has seemed slightly more possessed than usual since his return…it was on the cards some might say…

As for dropping him, unless he’s not taking instruction from Pardew and doesn’t seem to give a t*ss, then it’s a ridiculous idea. Swap him with one of the Europa squad. Simple. We need players to be fit and ready and we needed some quality in the Europa team (I mean, we can’t just play kids now).
49 Jamiemac // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:53 PM

Really interesting point by Ian Toon. Do you think if Pardew gets the rb and cb he needs for 4-2-3-1 that would mean selling Ba or Cisse? Can’t see either being happy as a back up player.
50 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 2:57 PM

Jamie…Isn’t Ba gone in January anyway?

I personally don’t get why either would be really unhappy with rotation. There are 38 PL games, plus Europa and domestic cups. If we want to compete on multiple levels we need “purples” being involved across the board with a good mix of youth. Should be around 50 games this season (more or less), so that would be approximately a minimum of 25 starts a piece. They would also get sub appearances etc, etc. Obviously you would mix and match it throughout, but as a general guideline I don’t get it. But hey, that’s me.
51 hotdog // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:00 PM

Ibiza – I always get you to agree with me im very persuasive you know

I think the crowd at SJP do get behind Simmo and willo. We do need to find, a say, Gary Cahill for me, 26 and cost £7million what a difference a player like that would make at both ends and he is English
52 Jamiemac // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:03 PM

Ibiza

Fair point there. But say Cisse hits form and starts banging them in all over the place (wishful thinking) and lets say he starts 35 out of 50 games i just cant see Ba being happy. Not sure about the other way round, maybe Cisse is happy waiting for a chance.
53 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:03 PM

Hotdog…Well, since real Ruddy left the blog I’ve been on the lookout for someone elses rear to climb into….you never know, you may be that lucky so and so…fingers crossed.

Now you’ve called me out, I have to disagree. We don’t need a CB. We need midfielders you fool. Don’t you know anything?

There, that’ll throw people off
54 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:05 PM

Ibiza

Seems like reputations, like Tiote’s, precede ourselves and no doubt I’ll be lumbered with one soon enough, I just hope people don’t misinterpret what I say, as I’ve seen that been done on this blog.

Given that we have a lack of depth in the squad, and that Tiote will be missing for the next 3 prem games, it only follows logic that Tiote should be playing in the EL to keep our other EL players (especially the likes of Bigi or Anita) fit and ready to play in the Prem (that is unless Tiote has not been following orders)

I come down totally one sided on the “Tiote was hard done by” side. I think it was nothing more than slightly late, his studs were facing the ground, he didn’t lunge in, the tackle was careless but nowhere near reckless or dangerous so in my mind he did not deserve to be sent off.
55 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:06 PM

Jamie….Well, the idea is to progress as a club, any players wanting to be part of that will have to acknowledge that for that to happen more players of better quality will arrive and therefore create more competition. If they can’t handle that then perhaps they need to play at a different club – Big fish in a small pond.

Hope that isn’t Demba’s mentality, he’s a decent striker and we would currently miss him. Don’t want him to go, but if he doesn’t buy in to our progression there isn’t really any room to be sentimental.
56 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:07 PM

Is it just me or does anyone else think that Gary Cahill is so overrated it’s unreal? He is a very average defender who just happens to score the odd time (with pretty spectacular goals I’ll admit) but that isn’t what his primary function is, it’s to defend and in my opinion he does that pretty poorly (being English doesn’t change that fact, it just makes him more expensive)
57 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:09 PM

Quasi…If you’re feeling left out I would happily start a smear campaign. Just say the word

On Tiote for EL – completely agree.

On Tiote and the red card – can see that totally, easier to judge at home with replays though. If I was the ref, what would I have thought – still 50/50. Given the fact he hadn’t misbehaved yet and it was 25 minutes in you would have thought he could of been slightly more lenient….but hey ho, here we are. More peeved that they didn’t pick up a single card, not like they played a perfectly clean game.
58 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:12 PM

I’m indifferent on Cahill tbh. Seen some good, some bad. Perhaps I haven’t seen him enough. Certainly wouldn’t be the first player I think of for my wishlist. Did anyone see the link on newsnow, with an Arsenal CB (25 year old)? Can’t remember his name, nor do I remember hearing of him before. Anyone know anything about it? The article was reporting (probably not the right word, perhaps speculating) he was top of Pardews wish list.
59 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:14 PM

Ibiza

Where my anger lay is that only minutes before the Tiote challenge, Seb Larsson kicks Shola in the chest and doesn’t even get a warning, let alone a booking for it, so that made me think that Atkinson was going to err on the side of caution with regards bookings. If he thought it was 50/50 why did he not err on the side of caution and give him a yellow? What is it that he is sending Tiote off for exactly? Reckless challenge? Violent conduct? From my point of view, there is no way that he could have come to that conclusion from the position he was in and for that reason I have judged Tiote to have been treated unfairly.

Perhaps I am going down my own route to creating a smear campaign all by myself
60 hotdog // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:15 PM

Ibiza – I would be honoured to take Ruddys place. Only in this cyber world though, then i can scuppa off like ruddy haha

Quasi – He looks accomplished in an England Shirt against top strikers so that will do for me and he would get us into the top four IMO. However he aint available and hopefully Mr Carr can unearth a diamond again!
61 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:17 PM

Ibiza

I assume you’re referring to Johan Djourou. In my mind, he certainly isn’t the CB we need to push us on for top 4 (if that is the long term intention) but he would be somewhat of an upgrade on Willo as a squad player. I would still rate Saylor higher than him.
62 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:22 PM

Hotdog

I’ll agree that he does seem to perform better (slightly) for England, but I think he is worse than Jags and Lescott, and that if Saylor was fit for a sustained period of time then he should be given a shout as England’s CBs are pretty poor.

I think it is fair to say that Cahill will not be joining Newcastle any time soon as he is a starter for a brilliant Chelsea side so it will be up to Carr to go furrowing for some gems!
63 hotdog // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:27 PM

Quasi – We will have to agree to disagree as i wouldnt put any of them ahead of Cahill. You really make my argument for me though “Starter for Chelsea” who are top!!
64 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:27 PM

Quasi…I felt that way too at the time. Softening as time goes on. The referee was dreadful all the way through, I’m just calling it a write off.

Hotdog….Promise you wont leave me. Developing quite an abandonment issue over here. I…I…just want to be accepted….
65 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:31 PM

Hotdog

I don’t think anyone would say that Cheslea are top due to their fine defending. Might have more to do with the likes of Mata and Hazard so I am not making an argument for you. Seems like we will have to agree to disagree here.

Ibiza

Seems like it and I am trying to say to myself “I would hav e been happy with a point before the game, I would have been ecstatic with a point after going down to 10 men before the game etc” So why am I disappointed we didn’t win? Perhaps it was the lateness and luckiness of the goal that has put a dampener on what was a fine performance and result on our part.
66 toon1986 // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:33 PM

Billance agree million % we need a big strong and quick centre half. It’s what we’ve lacked for years but surely u must be joking by saying rio is still fast ? Wow , did u see the spurs game ? They tore him a new ars**ole!!
67 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:35 PM

Quasi…As soon as Tiote went off I feared the worse. Whilst we retreated somewhat on the attacking front (understandable imo), we defended superbly. As time went on, I started to remember out unbeaten start last year and it was back again, I was really so proud of them. It was sickening to see the ball go in the net so late on – I started to believe we had got the three points. Gutted, but yes, before hand and given the circumstances, a point if more than acceptable. Brugges and West Brom next….
68 Munster Mag // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:35 PM

Ian Toon and Billson, interesting posts lads. Ian, I am assuming that Pards will play Ba, and not Ben Arfa, in the middle of the 3 behind the top man – or perhaps at the top, but with no Cisse. Its an interesting one because Pards envisaged playing them together , with Cisse in the more advanced role.If not, Pardew may have made a bad error, seeing as they dont seem to be played in the national team together either? Re centre half, I respect any player like Willo who makes the most of hoimself, but realistically, if we are going to challenge the top 4, then we need top 4 rated defenders, and he isnt at that level. Re Simmo – this guy is badly underrated and is an excellent defensive full back. I. encoraged by the 4-2-3-1 , but dont know why Pards gets tetch about long balls. For example, who is telling Krul to kick long – Pards and Co….this is not anti Pardew as I like him, but playing the ball on the deck is a philosophy that you either believe in or you dont, and irrespective of fornation. We have the players to play more on the deck passing, irrespective of 4-2-3-1 . West Brom will be an interesting barometor of where we are – they look a lot better than us so far.
69 Munster Mag // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:36 PM

Ibiza, I had to listen to Marco Gabbiadini on the radio. It wasnt pleasant….
70 hotdog // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:37 PM

Quasi – Chelsea have the best defensive record with 6 conceded.

Ill leave it now though
71 funguswatty // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:38 PM

i met willo at he metro centre a while back and he seems to love the club and the fans ,he also came a cross a great lad
72 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:39 PM

Ibiza

Coloccini was like a man possessed in that derby and if he can replicate anywhere near that form then I for one will not worry one little bit about our defence. The same goes for our entire back 4, I thought Simmo, Willo and Santon were excellent as well.

It is understandable why we gave up some of the initiative and in games like these you need to take what few chances come along and it is a shame that Ba couldn’t convert either of his chances as that would have wrapped the game up for us (not blaming Ba as he had an extremely tough role to play and done it really well).

If we can get a win against Brugges that should set us up nicely against WBA, who have started the season on fire and were unlucky not to win that game against City let alone lose!
73 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:41 PM

Munster…That does sound unpleasant. What monster forced you in to this vile torture?

Some good news though, I sent your dossier to the blog elders and you are officially relieved of your neggar title. You have been reclassified as:

Positive but expensive to keep happy.

Hope you’re pleased. We can review this after January.
74 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:43 PM

Hotdog

Again, that could also have a lot to do with how well their midfield retain possession. I didn’t say they had a bad defence, I said their being top was not done to their fine defending. Stats can be deceiving. Still don’t think Cahill is a good defender, and you seem to be referring to the fact that Chelsea are top, have conceded 6 goals and because Cahill starts for them that is all down to him?

Tenuous, but yes let’s leave it there.
75 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:45 PM

Quasi…Hear hear! Isn’t it nice to have European games back…nice to get a dose of Newcastle mid week. I would say it helps keep me sane, but i’m pretty sure supporting Newcastle contributes more towards my insanity than anything else.
76 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:46 PM

*”their being top was not just down to their fine defending” that is meant to say.
77 hotdog // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:47 PM

Quasi – Yeah but……………………ohh go on then

Ive got to go, have fun – Ibiza behave yourself or ill bring ruddy out of exile
78 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:49 PM

Hotdog….Really? Don’t make promises you can’t keep. I’ve already told you how fragile I am. Please don’t build me up for a fall.

Take it easy and stay clear of that mustard.
79 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:51 PM

Hotdog

We should have just agreed to disagree

Ibiza

Well to be fair to NUFC it is considerably less craze inducing as it used to be, but this could just be the calm before yet another NUFC shitstorm! I don’t believe it is but as NUFC supporters we can never be sure
80 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:53 PM

Quasi….Not comparing this to the previous constant geordie rollercoaster. Stomach still hasn’t settled from that one like. Intense. Long may this current set up last imo.
81 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 3:54 PM

Anyone else surprised by this? No, me neither

http://www.nufc.co.uk/articles/20121023/haris-is-the-fifa-king_2281670_2957335

I wonder if he started himself and he ended up injured?
82 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:00 PM

Ibiza

I share your sentiments, think the current set up, despite their mistakes and gaffes are setting us up not only for progression but sustainable progression. Like I said before, by 2020 I think we will all be celebrating a trophy
83 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:04 PM

Ibiza…which seminar is it ( I am running a bit late here )

Seminar 1: “YOUR BODY – Your Survival Suit”

Seminar 2: “YOUR BODY – Increasing Its Energy”

Seminar 3: “YOUR BODY – Its Team to Maintain Wellness”

Seminar 4: “YOUR BODY – Little Known Foods That Reduce Common Symptoms”

Seminar 5: “YOUR BODY – Reducing The Greatest Risk Factor To Its Wellness”

Seminar 6: “YOUR BODY – Reducing The #1 Threat to Its Wellness”

Seminar 7: “YOUR BODY – Reducing The #2 Threat to Its Wellness”

Seminar 8: “YOUR BODY – Reducing The #3 Threat to Its Wellness”

Seminar 9: “YOUR BODY – Reducing All 3 Major Threats at Once”

Seminar 10: “YOUR BODY – How It Can Have Optimal Health & Energy”

*And Wizard are nowhere to be found after our body treatment this morning lol
84 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:08 PM

Jesper…I think you may be at the wrong location mate. Do you still have the free map given to you at check-in? If not, it’ll cost another £200 to re-print one (now you start to see the real scheme here)….

As for Wizard. Unfortunately he’s been detained. Seemed to think it was okay to run around naked whilst whipping his backside with a daffodil. Such a noble flower being shown such disrespect. Be on your best behaviour, he was a guest of yours and this doesn’t reflect well on you either.
85 Dannyo // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:11 PM

So, Doug Freedman leaves Palace for Bolton.
Zaha available at a reasonable price now then?
86 Munster Mag // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:17 PM

Ibiza, you are very kind.I am a grumpy bastaerd though. I got a free ticket for the stand at Thomond Park so decided to go and record the Mackems game and try to avoid the score . I couldnt handle not knowing the score so I tuned in to one of the Dublin stations and suffered Gabbiadini having an orgasm when the makems scored. Not nice. Fine result though.
87 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:29 PM

Munster….Got to say this comment has left me feeling quite queasy and grumpy…

“Gabbiadini having an orgasm”

Gross.

Was a painful end to the game, but overall I was delighted with our lads. That fighting spirit is still there and i personally think our good fortune last year was more down to that than luck.
88 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:31 PM

Ibiza…I still have the map (I can see where I went wrong ) lol

…I knew Wizard was up to no good lol

I am at a Dafodil convention now; it must be here
89 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:38 PM

Jesper…Good man. I knew I could count on you. We’ll see how Wizard’s doing in a few days.

So…who is delving in to the Champions league tonight? Do Celtic have even the slightest of chances?
90 roshan MAGPIE // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:49 PM

only if ranger had the attitude of xisco he would have been real good what a waste of talent
91 Ibizatoon - Back by popular demand // Oct 23, 2012 at 4:54 PM

Roshan….Joke? I’ve never really heard a squeak out of Ranger until now, doesn’t scream good attitude to me.
92 89Norcal // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:11 PM

When you put Williamson’s contribution next to his transfer fee, he really is a bargain when you consider some clubs are flaunting their £15-35 million center backs (valued or bough) and we still finished 5th.

Let’s just hope these huge bargains translate to flexibility and extra transfer funds for Pards SOMEWHERE down the line of his 8 year deal. Otherwise he will soon be the most stressed man in England.
93 89Norcal // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:15 PM

@Ibiza, Barcelona edge that H2H 3-2-1. Barca have won on aggregate every time in recent history but Celtic put up a solid fight. Granted that was against the 07/08 Barca that was on a slight decline.
94 bills-son // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:31 PM

On Tiote – if you take out his suspensions, injuries, time to get his form back after injuries and suspensions (normally takes him 3 games) + his ACN time away – out of a possible 84 Prem games I doubt he’s been playing and match fit in more than 25 of them. I think he’s played one full Prem game out of eight this season which leaves an average of 12 match fit games over the past two seasons.

That is no good for him or NUFC. Pardew needs to sort Tiote out – and fast. We need controlled aggression, less yellow cards and more time on the pitch. Simple as.
95 Jail for Ashley // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:31 PM

I’ve always been a fan of Willo he was one of my favourite players in the Championship,but the simple fact is he is not good enough when not partnered by another reconized CB,I don’t think we should get rid of him at all but bring in another commanding defender who Willo would feel more comfortable with during Collo’s absences and STaylors almost constant state of injury.
96 Jail for Ashley // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:33 PM

Bills-son @10,
Very true,just such a shame we never had a decent scouting system in place when that kind of money was available for players.
97 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:35 PM

It’s my son Villads’ two year old birthday so I am passing on the CL

…I am knacked lol
98 Jail for Ashley // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:36 PM

Bills-son,
When you break it down like that I think we would be more than lucky to get the 20M that is being bandied about.
99 gonufc (up and Hatem) // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:37 PM

Haven’t been on since the derby.

I thought Tiote’s red was really harsh. In a freeze frame it looks a definite red but it was a ‘swiping’ motion rather than a straight leg ‘stamping’ motion so thought it was only a yellow.

Obviously, the crowd’s reaction had an effect- Did no one else think the referee seemed INCREDIBLY weak and gave anything the crowd shouted about?

He was even giving ‘phantom’ fouls in the box when Newcastle were attacking if he had given a free kick that the crowd disagreed with- evening it up or making up for it are the signs of a feebly weak minded referee surely!
100 Conaldo (The Wizard) // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:40 PM

Tough day. Thought I was in for a nice relaxing day at the spa de l’optimism, how wrong was I?!
Where to start. First of all, Jesper was an hour late. We got our time zones mixed up. Then when we eventually got there, I lost the map so got charged a fortune. They showed us to our rooms, each named after famous optimists, and we had complimentary daffodil face cream on our pillows. When they came to pick is up for our treatment, my robe had a giant spider in it, so I threw off my robe and began to beat the spider off with the therapeutic daffodil they gave us. Apparently that was a crime or public indecency or something?! Madness. So the OV police came and chased me around the spa, but they were on unicorns so were so much faster than I was. And basically I spent the day in a pink cell with, would you believe it, Kets! He’s actually not a 8 year old, he’s a small goblin like creature, apparently 694 years old! Anyway, after several hours “cooling off” in the cell blocks, I had developed a burning hatred for Williamson and Simpson, and now have a prison tattoo of Paul Scharner on my derrière.

Now i feel all negative and upset, and I’m banned from the Spa de l’optimism.
101 Jail for Ashley // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:46 PM

Weirdo
102 Conaldo (The Wizard) // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:48 PM

Jealous
103 Jail for Ashley // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:54 PM

A little bit.
104 breno95 // Oct 23, 2012 at 5:58 PM

Don’t start with the OV BS.
Keep the content of posts at a sensible level and on the subject of football.
If that’s not possible then don’t post anything.
Thanks
105 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:00 PM

Wizard…I’ll talk to Ibiza (I think you need some more treatment)

…I was at a Dafodil Convention at 4 pm I feel so in tune with my inner child (nothing but positive energy ) lol
106 Conaldo (The Wizard) // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:00 PM

I am so very sorry Breno. Do forgive me.

So football…

If we play the same team we did against Bordeaux against Brugge we will win.

Happy?
107 Wor Cheik // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:01 PM

http://truenewcastleunited.wordpress.com/ for a new blog looking at weekly news for newcastle united!!!!
Only in its first few days
108 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:04 PM

Wow jail if that’s how you talk about players you’ve always been a fan of, I dread what you say about players you don’t rate at all.
109 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:06 PM

Wizard…to answer that question I hope we’ll go 4-3-3 against Brügge with Tiote, Anita and Bigi in midfield, but I fear the silver supremo will stick to his beloved 4-4-2 with both Cisse and Shola on top!

*Wozaa…I think I still need some treatment (can feel the negativity creaping up onme lol)
110 jesperfuglsang // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:06 PM

*creaping =creeping
111 Jail for Ashley // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:06 PM

FMJ,
It is an honest assessement of a player who gives his all but as I said isn’t good enough when not with another commanding CB.
112 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:10 PM

I agree with your honest assessment.

Just doesn’t really make you sound like a fan of his.
113 Jail for Ashley // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:13 PM

FMJ,
Besides,I spend too much time slating our portly owner and his sidekick that I barely have the energy to slate any player I don’t rate,although Dan Gosling has warranted a few lines from me in the last couple of years.
114 Mister Tuff // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:14 PM

Bill @#94 -I think your post is interesting – unfortunately your statistics are not correct. I think you will find that the total number of PL games that NUFC have played since Tiote made his debut to date is 80 games. He made his debut in the PL on 18.9.10 -away to Everton and missed the first four games of the season and of those games he has played well over 50. So I think your post is not very accurate when you include unkown/unquantifiable factors such as it takes him 3 games to get fit.
115 Jail for Ashley // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:17 PM

FMJ.
I still have affection for my first car,it was a heap of sh!t but it served its purpose and just because its not as good as my motor now doesn’t mean I like it any less.
116 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:25 PM

Willo and Simmo are decent blokes and have put some decent shifts in, however they both lack quality and would have no home at other clubs who desire top 4 or even top 6, they need to be backup only, and not firsy backup at that.

Would bin Simmo, think Tav will be better shortly, much more competent on the ball, need Debuchy in, although that one has run and run, but Debuchy would enable us to actually keep the ball rather than constantly trying to win it back, thats why Mr T and Cabs are picking up so many booking for me.

Willo is nowhere near Saylor as a footballer for me, is a nice guy though if that warrants a place in the first team, not sure him and Captain Marvel will be looking forward to Shane Long, Odemwingie and Lukaku, one swallow doesnt make a summer and all that.
117 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:26 PM

JFA
Fair assesment of wilo tbf, think he’s a very underrated player and the work hes done for us in getting us promoted, finishing mid table then finishing 5th
But tbf your assesment could also be apllied to perch at CB and even taylor

Mister tuff
I think he means out of a potential 80 mr.T has only played 25ish at the top of his game out if the 54 games he’s played for us
118 Super Magpie // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:27 PM

On Willo

Decent squad player who can do a job. He has his good games and his bad. We’ve had worse in the past and they’ve cost more money. His problem is his inability to keep the ball on the ground and pass it out from the back. However, I was amused to see him ghost past one of the scum players on Sunday. He has improved this season, his performances against Norwich and the scum were fantastic.

I don’t think I’ve ever saw him dribble past an opposition player before either until last Sunday.
119 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:27 PM

On that surface that seems like a good analogy but it’s not really. You can be fond of the memory of Williamson playing in the championship but essentially what you’re saying is you’re a fan of him but you think he’s championship quality unless playing alongside a much more decent player.

Just confused me but I’m over it now. I just threw up a little bit in my mouth as well. Not that that has anything to do with anything but it’s a strange phenomenon is all.
120 breno95 // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:29 PM

No need for aologies.
I think from the squad available it does not matter who AP chooses to play. We have a far better collective group of players than Brugge so I expect nothing more than a win on Thursday.
Here is an experimental line up to ponder and resist playing regulars:-
Harper (if Elliott still unfit)
Tavernier, Perch, Good, Ferguson
Obertan, Amalfitano, Bigi, Marv
Campbell and Xisco.

Anyone of the opinion that 11 could get a result against Brugge?
121 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:29 PM

bollance- you make a number of valid points. I understand your reservations of holding a higher line with Colo and Williamson as CD’s
Though with Colo orchestrating the defence we can condense play. Ajax used Anita quite often in a defensive covering roleccas well as getting him forward. He’s a quick pass and go type who is disciplined depending on the state of the game. This identifies my firm reservations in Simpson lacking the same ability to provide the necessary cover as he lacks the nous on use of options. By that I mean when to attack and when to consolidate. He has improved defensively largely because Pardew has limited his attacking. Saylor is often too
gung -ho. We naturally need to pass better as you say. That’s where Anita can take the burden for ball transmission away from those defenders who look to go long. We. ‘Ve a good blend of skill,power and pace but not all in the right places. Pardew got the tactics all wrong v Man U and too slow to rectify it. The point you make re WBA and last season could be considered alongside what Man U
learnt from us spanking them previously. I conclude that Pardew had a strong desire to implement a system in the reasonable expectation that the players rightly required would be signed. Pardew has been working on the transformation of Jonas as part of a holding midfield unit it could just happen. He’s a player he trusts to carry out instructions and is a good passer and rarely gives the ball away. Pluses would also have HBA not being a tracking player. Finally bemused by speed and Rio. Distin and Colo would be perfect combination though.
122 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:31 PM

Breno it’s quite risky to have so many second string players in quite a tricky euro game. I wouldn’t expect that much from that team tbh.

Can’t understand how xisco is suddenly considered such a useful asset after so many years of f… All.
123 Super Magpie // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:34 PM

Check

Odemwingie and Long ripped us apart last season at home. It was an absolutey pitiful performance and I don’t want to see a repeat on Sunday.

I disagree with about Simpson and Williamson
There are much worse defenders in the league. You’re right in the fact they are not top 6 defenders but have done better than expected since arriving. Tavernier is not better than Simpson, I don’t see the hype surrounding him tbh. He seems average for me.
124 breno95 // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:43 PM

FMJ
Fair comment but fortune favours the brave and all that. Although there is not a cat in hells chance AP would put that 11 out. Some named may start but my view is when will some of these players of the future get their chance to show what they really have? Pretty sure one well known pundit said “you will get nothing playing kids” and we all know what happened there. Now before you jump and name names such as beckham, giggs, butt, scholes etc noone knew of them at that time or how good they were and turned out to be.
We could have the equivalent at the club waiting to show us all.
Now that would be summit for all toon fans to savour if that turns out to be the case.
On Anita I do hope he starts to get more games as I think he is a big key player in improving the way we can play.
125 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:45 PM

bollance- just what does Brad Inman have to do to get a chance?
126 Toon Tang // Oct 23, 2012 at 6:52 PM

i can see celtic snatching all 3 points tonight
127 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:02 PM

Super Mag – you will have to eat your words regards Tav, the lad is technically good and has super pace and a bit of physical presence, everything Simmo lacks, he will be some player in coming years, you heard it here first.
128 Mister Tuff // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:03 PM

check @#116 I totally agree with the part of your post when you state that Tiote and Cabaye are picking up yellow cards trying to win the ball back. I have seen Tiote getting into trouble on numerous occasions after trying to win the ball back after poor play by a team mate -and then correctly berating the team mate for losing the ball in the first place. Tiote is a tremendous player who will always give more than 100%.
129 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:07 PM

check the toastie- I agree. Still has work to do on his defensive awareness and reaction to opposition switch play. Seems to have learnt from Greek tragedy good reports on his reserve outing .
130 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:07 PM

Toon Tang
Sorry pal cant see it at all!
131 bills-son // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:08 PM

Mister Tuff at 114 – Tiote has played 51 games out of 80 Prem matches available. Not great by any stretch seeing as he is an automatic choice when or not banned. Plus I dont think many fans would argue it takes him 2/3 games to get back into his stride. I dont think the gist of my post is far off being a fair assessment.
132 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:09 PM

Forster starting tonight for celtic
And ppl wonder why we wasnt happy warming are bench!!
133 Super Magpie // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:13 PM

Check

I’ll gladly admit I’m wrong if he turns to be a good player. If he is really better than Simmo he would be playing instead of him. Whether he will be in the future or not I don’t know.

Also, I think he’s been moved to CB a lot recently. It shows that he is a versatile player.
134 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:15 PM

Need help what game to watch!!
Manure vs braga
Chelski vs shakhtar
Lille vs bayern
Barca vs celtic?
135 hattambenarfa // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:16 PM

As much as i love tiote i do not see him to be a key player for us. Our key players are colo cabaye and jonas. Simoly because when they do not play we do not looK the same. When these guys are off form the whole team suffers. As opposed to tiote ba and ben arfa who without doubt immensely improve our team but i feel are not essential to us gaining results
136 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:17 PM

Mister Tuff

Tiote and Cabaye currently are wasting far to much energy chasing around trying to win the ball back as players such as Simmo, Willo and Jonas are just aimlessly loafing it up field, most teams in the PL are now adept at keeping the ball, even the bottom teams keep the ball well, we dont most of the time.

These 3 players are guilty of some of the horrendous stuff we have served up in the last 12 months, some of it has been horrible to watch, i hate seeing Cabaye running all over the pitch trying his utmost to get involved, the lad is great and it is a shame we havent invested or brought players through to replace these 3,

Personally would have fast tracked Tavernier and Sammi (perfect for 3 up front on the left hand side), Willo does a job as being the only one in the team who can pretty much head the ball.

My 1st Team for home games, 4231, 433, 451

Krul
Tavernier Saylor (inj) Collo Santon
Tiote Anita
Ben10 Cabaye Sammy
Ba/Cisse

Obviously this may need beefing up away from home, maybe Perchy or Bigi for Anita, however not that bothered as long as we are trying to progress as a football team. Jonas time as a wide man is long gone, if he has to play would play him Full back.
137 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:18 PM

Anyone saying that Tav is currently better than Simmo is off the mark, Simmo is easily the best RB at the club, whether Tav can better him remains to be seen but let’s give Simmo a break, the guy was one of our better players on Sunday.
138 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:18 PM

bills-son- if we retain the ball more there is less of a case for having a Tiote type figure in the side.
139 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:21 PM

Ian Toon

Having a player that can win the ball back when you are not in possession is vital to all teams. The best teams have a Tiote type player, Barca have Busi, Real have Khedira, City have Yaya Toure so I think regardless if we sign better players that can retain the ball we still need Tiote.
140 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:26 PM

Ian – sort of agree but think Tiote is a super player, just think currently with the system we have been playing he is having to chase the ball to much, when we are on top in games Mr T is good on the ball, however personally think on many occasions he is outnumbered and under pressure when he receives the ball, he is still for me one of our ‘deep purple’ players along with Collo, Krul, Santon, Saylor, Cabs, Benny, Ba and Cisse (he shall return). 8 out of 11 super players,

Pardew needs to fill in those gaps, its a real shame it has become a real problem getting Ba and Cisse playing well together, personally think Ba is really selfish when he plays with Cisse.
141 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:29 PM

Check
The most guilty of hoofing the ball is krul, dont thinks he’s ever found one of our lads!
And as for tiote chading posseision most this season he’s picked up a card after hacking someone down after he’s lost the ball, done it against norwich done it against manure and done just before getting sent off against the scum
Tiote is well off form and is turn possesion more than any player in the squad
Dont know how you can blame simmo for our style of play this season he’s only played 2 or 3 games! As for wilo he was fantastic against norwich and the scum had a decent game against manure apart from the first corner and has looked solid in all his europa games, the rest of the matches we had staylor playing instead of him and he’s just as guilty of hoofing the ball to nowhere
142 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:29 PM

Quasi – actually think our football would improve if Tavernier replaced Simpson and also if Sammi or Fergy or Marveaux replaced Jonas wide left, they are big weak links in trying to play pass and move football, Jonas’s legs have gone, just constantly sits behind the ball now, offers virtually no attacking threat.
143 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:33 PM

If tav was ready he would of played when simmo was out
144 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:34 PM

Check

While I agree with the thought that Tavernier can be a very good player I don’t think he is of the standard to displace Simmo yet. He may do in the not too distant future but until that time comes then I’d be content to let Simmo play at RB as he seems to get better and better, his positional sense is excellent, he has improved his passing and seems to go forward a lot more. If he could improve his final cross he’d be an excellent attacking RB.

As for Fergie, I totally agree, it is about time we unleashed the kid properly and to be fair to Pardew he has played Fergie in the League Cup, Europa League and against United in the League so perhaps we are seeing the gradual process where Fergie replaces Jonas.

Jonas can still do a job and when backs are against the wall he is superb at relieving pressure so I wouldn’t write him off just yet.
145 Mister Tuff // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:36 PM

bill @#131 – bill your stats are wrong again – since signing Tiote has started 56 PL games. I know what you mean that it takes him time to get up to speed -three games or so -but to include this type of”factor” in a statistical argument is very misleading.
146 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:36 PM

Check- yes but Ba was immense on Sunday. Never stopped working and proved Pardew selection and substitution of Shola spot on.
147 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:38 PM

Tads

I agree with you on that one. I think Pardew wanted Tav to be ready as he was willing to play him in the EL against Atromitos. Perhaps it was his performance there that led Pards to think that perhaps he isn’t just there yet but with a little more game time in terms of EL games and cup games or maybe even another loan move we could see him come further along and ready to challenge for that RB spot.
148 bollance // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:39 PM

Ian

Thanks for the reply. Rio still has some pace. Last season he did play the ball when hba won the penalty away from home.

The player who has never had pace and is now starting to really be called into question is terry at Chelsea. Most teams are going to play on the break vs Chelsea because Chelsea have excellent ball retention territorially in the final 3rd. Di matteo has a tough task because terry is captain but he must know that terry is goin to become a liablity.

Good deep knowledge of Pards’s master plan.

I may be wrong but I think Inman will be away off on loan and soon. He is too good for the u21s and needs 1st team football as high up the football league. I am all for players working their way up on loan like tav has done. If we were not so short at the back he would be playin in the championship on loan this season, I think he is good enough.
149 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:40 PM

TADS – ever thought that by the time he actually receives the ball he is blowing as he is having to chase shadows most the time and then tries to force it, Tiote may have been a little off form however he would look the bees Knees in a better footballing side, could go to Chelsea and replace Mikel no bother, he would look a much better player with other players who might offer now and then rather than just thinking getting goalside and covering his own patch of the pitch is the role of a full back (Simmo), also applies to Simmo last season.

Anyone having a go at Mr T is missing the big picture. Lack of options around him are the cause of most of his form this year, 2 centre forwards isolated up front and a team static all over the pitch, i wil admit though he has been getting carried away, the Norwich game he was a total loose cannon.
150 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:40 PM

Check- Marveaux has much to offer and we have a gap on the left of a midfield 3. I would look to him rather than Fergi as many have suggested.
151 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:45 PM

Ian Toon

The reason that some people are looking to Fergy instead of Marveaux is purely because in the few games Marv has played this season he hasn’t looked at it, in terms of attitude and effort whereas Fergy, in his few performances, gave his absolute all and 3 assists in 3 games surely merits inclusion in the chase for LW spot, in my mind he deserves it more than Marv at the minute and it’s up to Marv to prove he can be a part of this club’s long term ambitions whenever he does get a chance.
152 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:47 PM

Man U 1-0 down already!
153 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:49 PM

Check- the biggest problem this season has been a lack of movement throughout the side off the ball. Tiote’s problems and build up of frustration stem from him not finding an easy option for a pass. Playing alongside Anita will give him an additional simple outlet. His passing accuracy to date is well below his % figure last season. General level of fitness is questionable and I agree that he’s a player that doesn’t hit the ground running after an enforced absence.
154 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:50 PM

Check
Im in no way saying that mr.T isnt clSs because he is
But when he’s out of form he trys to overcompensate he spent the last few games looking like a ballerina on crack in the middle of the park!
155 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:54 PM

Bollance- Chelsea favour 4-2-3-1 -LOL
156 Quasi.modo // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:55 PM

Right lads I’m off to watch the football as it seems I’m talking to myself here
157 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 7:57 PM

Chelski loosing 1-0
158 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:02 PM

We may see Fergie and Marveaux start on Thursday against Brugge

Who will be rested for west brom – Ba, HBA, Cabs, Colo, Santon, Perch (should start west brom in tiote absence)(poss Krul)

4-3-3 (4-5-1)

Harper
Tav Saylor Willo Fergie
Anita Tiote Bigi/Amalfitano
Obertan Cisse Marveaux

Alternatively Cabaye may play again as he did against Bordeaux, but Brugge aren’t as good so we can afford to rest him surely. Had Gosling not had the knee injury I’d think Pards would have played him ahead of where Bigi or Amalf.

Also if you have Tiote, Anita and Bigi starting that seems too negative though, so maybe Amalf will have his chance…

Point being I can see both Marv and Fergie playing. If Saylor and Willo start together and play the full game, one of them will then have to play 2 games in a very short space of time of course.

I also would think Sammy should get some game time in this fixture at some point.

Thoughts?
159 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:03 PM

Fcuking hell celtic 1-0
160 Ketsbaia9 // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:05 PM

He’s brilliant at being consistently poor. He is by far the worst centre back in the league and he is a lot worse than Marcelino, Bramble and Boumsong. The only mistake we made on signing those players was the fees we paid. Boumsong should’ve been snapped up on a free in the summer (that’s £7m down the drain). The management was very poor then. The management is very good now, however, we needed to spend that little extra to break into the top 4. We will finish mid-table as we haven’t strengthened. Man Utd have signed Van Persie and Kagawa (2 quality players). We have Anita, but we really needed a wing-back, a centre back, a midfielder and a striker.

If we sign Debuchy, Boudebouz, Alderewerield and Remy in January, we might break into the top 7.
161 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:07 PM

Carrying
Think your right about fergie at lb but can see perch playing CB taylor has to start that boy needs the minutes he was looking a wee bit chunky sunday!!
162 Krul to be Kind // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:07 PM

I’m in the’ sort this guy out and quick’ camp re Tiote and just to throw it out there, I do believe he is the ‘purple’ most under pressure for his place from the likes of bigi and perchinho so he isnt a big loss imo, why should one of the younger crop miss the brugges game because tiote got reckless
163 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:10 PM

Kets
On average say between 1 and 1000 how many times were you dropped on your head as a bairn?
Miserable little troll
164 tequilamag // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:11 PM

Ktbk to keep him match fit and because he is a better player than the alternatives.
165 Krul to be Kind // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:12 PM

123… TDS

lol
166 Krul to be Kind // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:12 PM

*163
167 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:13 PM

kets

Mike Williamson sends his apologies for the unspeakable acts he performed against you many years ago. He would now like to let the past remain the past and urges you to judge his on his current footballing merit.
168 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:13 PM

*him on his
169 bollance // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:14 PM

Ian

Like it – good stuff.

The way I see it is you need to attack with a numerical advantage. That scores you goals or creates chances. Against a good defensive team that is hard to do but with someone like hba who can dribble past players it is possible.

Defensively you always need to have the numerical advantage too.

What it all boils down to is pace. Having players who can get in behind and having players who can get back faster then the other team’s attackers like distin used to do while on loan with us.

Are my points valid, does anyone else see pace as being important?

Who has the quickest team in the prem?
170 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:17 PM

tads

Usually for this fixture I’d play Perch mate, but I feel he is the best choice to come in for Tiote in centre mid and I’d like to keep him for saturday’s game.
171 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:20 PM

Carrying
Ideal yeah i suppose but id like to see anita come in at some point!
172 Krul to be Kind // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:22 PM

bollance

I agree with the pace thing, i think you need it in a successful team, its also nicer to watch but if you have a pacy back line thas half the battle, santon has it in abundance and simpson is defo no slouch but we have nil pace in the centre nor centre midfield
173 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:23 PM

bollance

Yes they are valid indeed.

Quickest teams in the prem are in my opinion the top boys…

Arsenal, Chelsea, Spurs, City

However, I’d like to point out that they all have one noticably slow player.

mertesacker, kolo toure/lescott, gallas (although surprisingly quicker than you’d expect for his age) John Terry – then look at man U, rio has lost a yard last couple of years.

ALthough their midfielders, fullbacks and starring centre halves make up for this and therefore when defending in numbers, and attacking in numbers (fullbacks gettting up the pitch) they excel.

What you’ve said makes sense to me.

ps I think a good centre back pairing in the league has to be Distin and Jagielka.

I also really really rate Ivanovic but seems he plays RB a lot under RDM
174 Tsunki // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:24 PM

Ketsy – Are we talking about willo again? Have you ANY other strings to your bow? You cite a want-away, a no-show and switch-off as better than willo and he is none of these. Your rabid view is made obvious by your lack of proof or logic. Wake up man and put the sticker book down
175 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:25 PM

Carrying – Sunday
176 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:26 PM

tads

Yeah definitely. Anita seems to have been out of the picture at the mo. He was good at RB against Norwich. I’d play him in the middle against Brugge as its a good opportunity to show us (well Pardew) what he can do in the position he was brought in to primarily play in.

Maybe we could see him play most of the game against Brugge and then come on for Perchy against West Brom in the second half….

I don’t know…
177 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:28 PM

ian

Thanks, you’ve just saved me from embarrassment at approximately quarter to three on saturday!
178 Krul to be Kind // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:32 PM

I seen someone stating earlier on another thread that they thought willo and collo were more solid than collo and saylor and i think this might have legs, willo has seemingly been more composed on the ball of late imo so good work by the coaching staff, to slate him is ludicrous and same with simmo, reads the game so well very good positionally too, has his weaknesses like every player but a good solid rb!
179 bollance // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:32 PM

Carrying

Yes, think that you are right in your assessment of the fastest teams. I think spurs are the fastest team?

And also about having the token slow player

Jagielka is getting lots of plaudits at the minute but he does come across as arrogant but not to the degree as other England egos. But yes, they are a good pairing.

Samba could have been good for us. I have read that is not happy at present but I am sure at anzil? he is on big money. Fast, strong, heading, positional sense. Could have been good
180 toonLYF // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:32 PM

Hugo Viana controlling this game against ManU at times.
181 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:33 PM

Barca 1-1 god knows how celtic must of had there whole squad in the box!

Carrying
In all honesty i havent a clue who will be in CM vs brugge especially as tiote will be playing amal maybe? We seem to lack cover in CAM role
182 Krul to be Kind // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:36 PM

tads

Im looking forward to seeing amal, hope he gets a game on thurs in cm, i think he might be likened to cabaye in time to come

hope im not getting carried away!
183 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:36 PM

carrying-LOL
184 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:36 PM

tads

this is where kets screams at you that Abeid is the next frank lampard

…actually he probably doesnt think he’s had a good career either ha ha
185 Dannyo // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:38 PM

What are we on about this fine evning?
186 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:39 PM

Carrying
If it was up to kets we would only field boyce scharner and abied cos thats all we’d need!

Lampards league 2 standard at best flog him to crawley for 500k!
187 Carryingcoals // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:43 PM

bollance

Certainly agree, Samba would be great. Can’t see that though, not a chance.

tads

not forgetting falcao for the bargain price of £30 million too. Quite a mixed bag of a team he’s assembling no isn’t it…!
188 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:46 PM

somebody posted this im sure but im reminding KETS too……

http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/12040/8187511/Art-of-defending
.
Mike Williamson currently averages over 16 clearances per game. Not only is that more than double the number that Coloccini manages, no other footballer in the top four leagues in Europe averages more than 12. Williamson also has the stats on his side in terms of tackles and blocks.
189 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:47 PM

Kets – ” he’s brilliant at being consistently poor”
I prefer ” You never get a second chance to make a first impression”.
190 MagpiesFlyHigh // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:50 PM

“People are stupid. You can’t ask the whole of the population to be intelligent. You need everything to make a world and you need some stupid people.”

Looks like Ba has been reading Kets posts….consistently twisted
191 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:50 PM

786

Haha thanks for that, made my day after all those tools on here blaming every lost point on willo.

Won’t make any difference to kets. Even when presented with evidence he won’t chance his mind.

But thanks anyway!
192 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:54 PM

MFH
Kets isnt stupid hes just too smart to understand!!

786
He also has a decent pass completion rate in those stats

Carrying
Of course falcao and xisco how could we be so blind!
193 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 8:58 PM

FatmanJoe
yup thought it was needed………
constructive critsism on a player is alright……. slagging a player is uncanny and seperates the true supporters from the so called fans…… but i do understand some ppl get fustrated and might not mean to slag just in the heat of the moment but for ppl like kets……..

at the end of the day you get behind your team and back the players but hey thts just me…… them guys who can slag can do what they want……. in no way shape or form are you a true supporter in my book
194 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:00 PM

Statistics mean jack shit in football, just make up your own mind, Willo is now the best CB in Europe statistically, oh my word right up there with Jo Allen better than Xavi and my particular favorite Danny Simpson statistically the best RB in the PL,

That means in our back 4 we have statistically 2 of the best defenders in the world. wow what a backline, put that money away for another 12 months Mikey we are just sound at the back, until we get ripped to bits again.
195 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:04 PM

Check

Wind yourself back in, no ones saying willo is the best defender in Europe but stats are interesting. They don’t mean jack shit at all. Shows he has aspects of his game that are successful.
196 tequilamag // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:09 PM

Or you could have an open mind Check . Loads of people on here have already decided that Willo and Simmo are useless and only ever look for the mistakes; which all players do.
They blank out any good performances as that would mean admitting they got it wrong.
197 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:11 PM

Fatman – Stats are just used to backup some simpletons arguments, if anybody has a point it is better backed up with sound reasoning rather than reaching for the Stat book.

Willo heads the ball away, something pretty much nobody else currently in the team is adept at, he has his uses for sure, however his turning circle is outrageous and is probably the slowest CB in the league, he has some major weaknesses, should be 4th choice CB, however deserves credit for how he has performed this year for sure.
198 davis_toons // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:12 PM

Former-Newcastle GK Ben Foster – just made a great save on Messi sgoot on goal…
199 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:14 PM

tequilamag – here we go, Simmo had a good game at the weekend, hows that 7 out of 10.

Still would drop him though, as he is limited in many aspects of his game.
200 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:16 PM

My whole career rests on stats actually. I would suggest that most people who have government positions etc have their career resting on statistics. So dismissing them out of hand is ludicrous. And the name calling both unnecessary and a sure indication of a person I’ll equipped to debate reasonably.
201 MagpiesFlyHigh // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:17 PM

Ba used the word stupid – I just used the word twisted.

Remember this one of Kets last week

“I’m also hoping that Simpson, Williamson and Tavernier get injured as well. “
202 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:17 PM

tequila – all last year i gave Simmo a clean slate to all games i attended (missed 3 home games) however it wasnt long into the game that my pateince was being stretched, i expect more of full backs that he provides, maybe i just favour the full back who is more attacking in intent as all great full backs are of this type.

He just dissappoints me in so many ways.
203 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:18 PM

nufc786- The relative merits Colo: Williamson . You’ve been extremely selective in your use of statistics and what constitutes a good defender. The telling relative statistic is pass completion % and pass completion in final third . Additionally you make no allowance for interceptions . If you must use statistics then interpret them correctly
because they confirm what we already know that Coloccini is an exceptional defender.
204 tequilamag // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:18 PM

So although he played a good game you would still drop him…
Who would you pick ahead of him then ?
205 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:20 PM

Ian

The most telling statistic for a centre back is not the pass completion in the final third actually.
206 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:21 PM

Fatty- I didn’t say it was.
207 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:21 PM

Fatman – i imagine if you use statistics to gather data then yes it is worthwhile, if you gather them to judge peoples performance then clearly i think you are barking up the wrong tree. This is what happens in football, it is wrong and used by people who dont understand the game for me.
208 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:24 PM

Fatman Jo- my point is that you can be highly selective and cherry pick to prove a point. In this instance I believe them to be meaningless.
209 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:24 PM

Tequila – i would play Anita, Perch, or Tavernier, all more composed, better on the ball and would be able to retain possession better if selected, Simmo loses possession too cheaply too often, it is what the modern game is all about.
210 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:26 PM

The telling relative statistic is the pass completion and the pass completion in the final third.

Yes you did

My performance is judged by statistics. I wouldn’t call the government simpletons for doing it. I don’t like it but that’s the way it is.

I don’t judge players by statistics but I think theyre an interesting indication of a players strengths and weaknesses.
211 geordie157 // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:26 PM

The story a few days ago about a short list of centre backs got me thinking, so i’ve drawn up my list of 7.

Sakho
Shawcross
Mbwia
Douglas
Alderwiereld
Zouma
Maguire

The first two are probably unlikely but would be great alongside Colo or Saylor.
212 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:27 PM

Davis toon
Lol!
Celtic doing themselves proud tonight
213 geordie157 // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:28 PM

If the price was right would anyone take a chance on Charlie Austin or Gary Hooper?
214 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:28 PM

Tav isn’t ready for the premiership yet, perch has had some woeful times at rb and we haven’t seen enough of Anita in that position to say he’s better than Simpson.
215 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:31 PM

Ian toon
786 hasnt twisted or cherry picked any stats to do anything, he simply pointed out wilo has a better clearence rate than any defender in the top 4 in europe, in no way has he suggested that wilo is a better CB than colocini
216 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:31 PM

Fatman – now your being selective. What don’t you understand about”
You’ve been extremely selective in your use of statistics and what constitutes a good defender”.
217 Offkey // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:32 PM

Not a dig at Willo – but it my bet that every hoofball he does is classed as a clearance.
218 tequilamag // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:33 PM

Fair enough if that`s your opinion, I would argue that Tav has not played enough yet to form an opinion on but I have high hopes for him. Anita is not up to PL pace yet. But again he just needs time, the same as Santon did. Perch is good cover for CM but have yet to be impressed with him in defence. On that basis Simmo is first choice for me at RB. And not a stat quoted, though I think to dismiss stats out of hand is wrong, they don`t tell the whole story but they usually have something to back an argument up.
219 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:34 PM

geordie157- Gary Hooper I admired him when we played Scunthorpe in Championship. Quick and strong and right age. Don’t rate Austin.
220 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:35 PM

Sorry Ian not sure what your post means!

Maybe I’m just being slow – it has been a long day. What am I being selective about? What don’t I understand about?
221 Ruddy Marveaux-lous // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:35 PM

Fraser Forster > Tim Krul

2m a pittance.
222 check the toastie // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:36 PM

Fatman – how will anybody ever know if Tav is ready unless he is given a chance, did great away to Man Utd in LC, strong frontline as well.

Perch has only had as many bad games at RB as Simmo, people forget, Spurs away, Liverpool away, Wigan away etc, Perch Chelsea away last year was inspired. Anita played excellent for Ajax for a couple of years who would smash us currently, so there you go Simmo out, plus he is out of contract and has no future with the club shortly.
223 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:37 PM

Tequila
Your right
Simmo is hands down our starting RB, anita is not a rb and tav is not ready if he was he would of made the squad whilst simmo was injured
224 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:38 PM

I know willo isn’t good on the ball particularly although he did embarass two scum bags on sunday. I know he isn’t always picking out tasty through balls that baffle the opposition and unravel the stitches of their back four on a consistent basis.

But alongside colo he makes a reliable centre back pairing and they know each other reasonably well.
225 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:41 PM

Check
Anita was a lb now a CDM never been a rb til we were forced to play him there
226 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:42 PM

offkey- what constitutes a clearance : pass completion. What value placed on a ball into row Z-LOL
Football can be cruel as Celtic discover!
227 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:43 PM

Gutted for celtic like
228 Offkey // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:43 PM

FMJ – Agreed, IMO Williamson is a cracking back up and well worth a measly 1 million……. also would be first choice is a fair few Prem teams.

Would like another purple mind.
229 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:44 PM

People don’t forget check but perch has played less games than simmo has at rb and looked unsteady.

On the one hand your saying give tav a chance and on the other dismissing that perch who was given a few chances there didn’t do particularly well.

Yes simmo has had off days but usually when the whole team had fallen apart.

And again – I feel I am repeating myself here but it’s obviously not sinking in for some reason – I don’t think these are the best defenders in Europe. I think we can buy better. But people are so quick to second guess the gaffer and think they know better than the professionals who see them train hours on end every day because they saw the players have an off day.

Tav Anita perch would be starting if they were showing in training they were capable – like you said, simmo is on his way out… Why would Pards continue to play him unless he was better than those on long term deals?
230 MagpiesFlyHigh // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:44 PM

I’d definitely try to get Simmo a new contract. He is pretty solid for a FB but is not a wingback.
As for Willo the consensus is he is a journeyman EPL player … ideally we need another guy as good as Colo with two snapping at their heels like Good etc.,
I wonder of Mbiwa was misquoted in what he said and how it was translated
231 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:46 PM

Offkey
We’d all love to see a top CB come in tbf but until then happy with wilo at the end of the day he does his role, he defends thats what he’s paid for!
232 MagpiesFlyHigh // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:48 PM

TADS

I agree but we are all wanting to shift up a gear in how we play out of defence and also cut the goals against down this season
233 toonarmydownsouth // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:50 PM

MFH
Was talking about mbwia last night would love to see him here, one poster think it was WWYCD made a good point about he was very similar to colo and saw him as a long term replacement rather than a partner
234 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:51 PM

Fatman- my last attempt. It depends which qualities you want and/ or value in a defender. Pardew likened Coloccini to Bobby Moore who I understand used to tackle little because his ability to intercept passes etc was outstanding. Coloccini is better on the ball whilst Williamson is stronger and arguably better in the air. At the end of the day by being selective and cherry picking you could argue from stats almost anything. Clearances : clearances + retained possession.
235 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:55 PM

Farman- incidentally my posts earlier today suggested that Williamson
should retain his place v WBA.
236 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 9:59 PM

Ian you say ‘my last attempt’ like you’ve been saying the same thing all along..

That’s the first time you’ve actually attributed anything positive to willo.

(he sighs, realises the tedium of this debate)

Yes. Stats can be used selectively.

Is that what that whole thing was all about? Seriously?

I think everyone realises stats can be used selectively but it was a nice surprise seeing some stats demonstrate willo’s strengths.
237 BelfastMagpie // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:00 PM

I jumped around my living rõom like a mad man when barca scõred haha.

Hate Celtic with a passion !
238 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:02 PM

Fatman- @ 208.
239 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:02 PM

why would i suggest tht willo is better than collo……. far from it………… im simply trying to give willo some credit tht he never gets……….
240 tequilamag // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:04 PM

If Stats are so useless why do PL managers use them so much?
241 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:06 PM

Nufc786- I gave him an 8 out of 10 rating v Sunderland. Your preaching to the converted he’s a good squad player going forward.
242 FatmanJoe // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:07 PM

Hmm

208. Something about stats being meaningless. Ok

I’m off. Feel really dizzy from all the circles we’ve been running around in.

Leah Seun Hai
243 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:09 PM

Ian Toon
indeed willo is a good squad player…… the main reason why i brought tht stat up was for kets……. who keeps slagging willo off
244 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:18 PM

i did not want to kill this blog…….
245 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:25 PM

tequilamag- managers use OPTA to reinforce a point to individual players . They can highlight strengths and weaknesses . Really analyse a breakdown of performance within 24 hours of game. To emphasise :
Pass selection, Positioning , recovery runs , supporting attacks, stopping crosses, running with ball, selecting wrong options. Pardew
uses them to assess fitness levels particularly for players coming back from injury. . Biggest exponent was Fat Sam Allardyce the worst manager in my lifetime at the club.
246 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:28 PM

Ian Toon
so in a way i did cherry pick a stat but tht was, as i said before to stop kets and his normal slagging of willo ………
247 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:37 PM

nufc786- Ok. Can I just say that as in life there are people with mental health and learning difficulties on here from time to time. I try to treat them with respect and not to belittle them . I suspect that many posters are not being unkind just not appreciating whom there dealing with.
Thanks for the stats chat I enjoyed it.
248 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:38 PM

anyone???????????
249 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:44 PM

Ian Toon
pleasures all mine you are a very balanced analyst. are you with ibiza and his OV but i have a feeling your more of a realist………
250 Ian Toon // Oct 23, 2012 at 10:55 PM

What makes you think that?
251 nufc786 // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:01 PM

you come across a balanced person on here tht will niether get too carried away and takes things over the top……

where praises are due they are given thts your general takes on things i guess????????
252 jawballsaswallwell // Oct 23, 2012 at 11:01 PM

Brugge
Harper
Tav Saylor Willo Fergie
Obertan Anita Tiote Sammy
Shola Cisse

Don’t think Sammy will play, but we dont see enough of him. Mareaux will play instead most likely. Willo may get a rest too, for Perch or Colo or maybe for a half each.

Expect us to play well and win by 2
253 Mister Tuff // Oct 24, 2012 at 12:41 AM

I see Nile Ranger has been given a final written warning re his time keeping for training. I see the next step is the big boot and cancellation of his contract -and about time too.
254 karasu // Oct 24, 2012 at 3:51 AM

Willo is a simple squad player, no more. However, there’s nothing to be ashamed about being a squad player. Every squad needs these unsung heroes as first teamers can never last for eternity, both in form and health. They are like the foundation, the base, the safety net, the vital cog during the most deperate of times. Salutations to Michael James Williamson, a proud Magpie whom we can, and should be proud of.
255 Santon03 // Oct 24, 2012 at 5:49 AM

Regarding Xisco, I honestly don’t know what really happened between him and the managers, because every managers here tried to loan him out. Is he really that bad? I don’t know because he was never given any chance. Blame him for taking 50k/week? No, I wouldn’t honestly, even I would be very happy if someone is giving me 50k/week for little work. Feel sorry? Maybe yes because he wan’t given any chance, maybe no because he is getting 50k/week for it. Giving him another chance? Definitely yes, because we don’t really know how good he is now, I don’t want to see him getting 50k/week for reserve games, and if he turned out to be an excellent player now, we will be the one who takes the benefit anyway. So.. why not!!
256 jesperfuglsang // Oct 24, 2012 at 5:57 AM

Santon…one issue that has been rumored about Xisco is that he faked an injury so he didn’t have to play for us!

…if that is true then it is inexcusable!

He haven’t done much to reignite his career – whenever he has been on loan it has been to no success at all.

And Clearly he has not been interested to taken a wage drop to go somewhere else or to stay at NUFC.

You can’t stay he is blameless for excepting £ 50k a week; of course he isn’t. He need to show he is worth that money (there is too much greed in football and I don’t like it one bit)
257 Santon03 // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:03 AM

Regarding Willo, honestly sometimes I really really want to kick him out of the team and sometimes he looked like a great defender probably as good as Terry or Nesta, he is inconsistent.
From what I see, he is very good if he played with the same back four (Simmo, Colo, Santon). When AP changed his CB partner with Perch, he wasn’t as good.
So.. probably depends on how good his partners in defense are. That’s my opinion.
258 jesperfuglsang // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:07 AM

About Wllo I am never going to slack him off cause I really like his character.

But truth to be told if we bought a new CB he would not get into our team. And if we want to play a passing style kind of football on the deck he doesn’t fir in either.

There is no shame in admitting that (Simmo would have problems too)
259 Santon03 // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:12 AM

Jesper

I don’t know about faking injury thing.
About being greedy taking 50k, I don’t think he will get even half of it based on his records at NUFC.
He would probably get 15k/week, that’s 35k/week less, that’s about 1.8million/year. It’s quite huge wage cut and that’s why he choose to stay. After the contract runs out then he will take 10k or 15k/week wage somewhere else, footballers don’t have long career, I can’t blame them for asking for big wage as long as someone willing to pay.
260 Santon03 // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:16 AM

If you are applying for work as manager, you would probably did the same thing asking as high as you can in wage negotiation process. I don’t you would be happy if your get paid lower than your previous job or your staffs. It’s human nature, it’s reality.
261 Santon03 // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:17 AM

“I don’t think you would be happy…” * sorry typo
262 Santon03 // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:18 AM

Even if Xisco nolonger with NUFC, hey we still have Ranger
We used to have Mr. Owen
263 jesperfuglsang // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:26 AM

Santon…Xisco’s contract runs out next summer and he’ll have to try and get a new deal somewhere else. And as you say he’ll never get anything near 50k a week again.

It is not his fault we offered that much but I think his agent was asking it as well! I know how it works in the real world when you renegotiate a contract (so I have no empathy for his situation).

Still don’t think he has been anything to reignite his careeer here nor anywhere else (money breeds greed)
264 Santon03 // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:44 AM

I still can’t believe that he is only 26.

One of the great mistery to me is Owen Hargreaves. What the hell happened to him? He was brilliant when he was at Bayern.
265 cyprus // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:47 AM

Willo-Simpson haters must be waiting for this article to go away! For me, he’s ahead of Saylor as that guy plays one sits out three. We need a consistent line up.
266 Ian Toon // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:47 AM

Jesper- the early bird catches the worm. Is Ov a optimist rating?
267 Ian Toon // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:48 AM

As you would say I am forgetting my manners- good morning.
268 Santon03 // Oct 24, 2012 at 6:59 AM

Seems like Debuchy will join NUFC, Lille is 0 point ater 3 CL games and 11th in ligue1.
269 Ian Toon // Oct 24, 2012 at 7:20 AM

Jesper- is your money breeds greed the thought for the day?
Or just a flippant -Ibiza type comment – LOL.
I prefer – Money breeds greed and kills empathy. Well it seems we’re not destined to meet in person yet again . May your day be a good one .
270 jesperfuglsang // Oct 24, 2012 at 7:24 AM

Good morning Ian to you to

…OV is a very positive state of mind (we don’t dare to say anything bad about them they hear everything ) lol

Have you read 1984? (just kidding)

So have you been on holiday or have we just missed each other lately?
271 jesperfuglsang // Oct 24, 2012 at 7:28 AM

Ian…that could be the thought of the day

…money certain does breed greed and kills empathy! Footballers have no excuses (for me the fun is over; now they have to show they are worth every single penny)
272 jesperfuglsang // Oct 24, 2012 at 7:29 AM

Enjoy your Costa my good sir
273 jesperfuglsang // Oct 24, 2012 at 7:54 AM

Santon…I would really like for Debuchy to join us; then all we need is a ballplaying CB
274 Pushy Pardew // Oct 24, 2012 at 9:01 AM

Jesper
Previous article. I think Xisco must be a constant reminder to Ashley of a time when he got it all wrong. Know harm though in getting the best from him as were paying him £50,000 pw. He is probably fitter than for a long time and could well feature in Europa tomorrow. Abeid hopefully as well.
Ian Toon
Heavy weather for you on getting posters to understand
statistical significance. They behaved as if it’s a perfect science-LOL You could get a high clearance rate by hoofing anything and everything anywhere as you said row Z. LOL. You’ve got more patience than me. Thought of joining in but Celtic game more appealing. I agree re your comments on the treatment on here of those with mental health and learning difficulties. As you say people often don’t appreciate.

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News, Views and Commentary On Newcastle United Football Club By Ed Harrison, A Proud Geordie And Lifelong Fan