Aston Villa Banter Archive July 01 2013 to July 31 2013

 

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31 Jul 2013 20:15:09
I agree we shouldn't go for sissokho but that's just reporting made up stuff as usual and I wouldn't want to pay 8 million for caulker, he's young as well, and we still have okore, Clark, vlaar and baker who always puts his body in the way

Josh

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31 Jul 2013 16:09:49
Is gabby playing or sub.

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31 Jul 2013 15:09:34
THE PERFECT ASTON VILLA TEAM 1st 11 2013/14. Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar, Okore Luna, Westwwod, Bacuna, Wijnaldum, Gabby, Benteke, Weimann

Possible Sub Selection: Steer, Gabby, Carruthers, Helenius, Bennett, Baker, Sylla, Delph, Clark, plus some of our next gen stars.

Some of you might say I'm on crack actually it's Pepsi, but I think team will be contenders against any team.

I know Georgino has not yet arrived, who knows if he actually will but that role AM will be filled by some talented player, UPDAVILLA

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Gardner would make any villa team if fit jk

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Sylla needs to be in that midfield otherwise we would see a lot goals against us again. Am I the only sole person that noticed the difference he made since joining us in January?!

Finch

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Personally I think the midfield depending on our opponent will be sylla, Westwood and a rotation of either Delph or Gardner

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31 Jul 2013 12:32:24
Alan Pardew has insisted that Darren Bent is still very much on the radar of Newcastle United.
And when asked if the likes of Gomis and Bent remain on the shortlist, Pardew said: "They are all very much on the radar.

"We will pursue them until we get them. "

Source: Birmingham mail {Ed030's Note - I personally hoped Bent would stay at Villa and Villa would go with 2 up front but that doesn't now look likely. }

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We go with 3 up front ed and bents still not one of them!
Lambo wants work horses not show ponys Finch

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31 Jul 2013 09:23:11
I shall apologise now for any strange posts from myself from tomorrow to Sunday as heading to Dublin for the game guiness can do strange things to a mans mind

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Lol

enjoy brother! UTV!

Leroy

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30 Jul 2013 08:10:29
So doom and gloom merchants out there who have been posting about how awful our pre season results have been.
A Manchester United XI beat Crewe last night by 2 goals to nil. So by your Championship manager mentality our 5-1 win against them must mean we are better than Man Utd. & Newport are better than us?!

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30 Jul 2013 10:03:07
AS we approach the coming season where do we see AVFC finishing in the prem. Last year we struggled and gave away some silly points and had we not we could have been around 10th in a poor year and not struggling till the end of the season. With the way PL has built the team over the last few weeks it does look that we may achieve a place around 8th. Many of the teams that ended just above us we gave the odd point to and had we not then 50+ points would have been achieved. Also we gave MUFC a run for their money and should have got 1 if not 3pts. So the simple question 10th, 9th, 8th or better? I am in for 8th!

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10th will be an achievement for next season. Baby steps my friends!

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Anywhere from 7th to 13 th

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I think we should all wait and see how we are doing around Christmas time.

I am very pleased the way things are going at the moment, if we are in the top HALF at Christmas who knows.

It would be nice to see us finish in the top 10, and it is possible we could do even better.

I have let my heart rule my head before, "LETS SEE"

villadave

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29 Jul 2013 21:59:32
RIP CHRISTIAN BENITEZ
may have been at Birmingham but still never nice to read these sort of story's
Please I ask all villa fans and football fans in general to be respectfull as this is a true tragedy to lose such a young player in the game

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Completely agree. Never nice when someone young dies whoever they played for. Thoughts go to his family & friends

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RIP. such a tragedy

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Very sad to read about Christian this morning.
Condolences to his family and friends

RIP CHRISTIAN BENITEZ

villadave

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RIP Chucho.

Finch

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28 Jul 2013 13:21:16
Can we all stop talking about a right back, we are not going to sign a player for the sake of 3/4 games a season, because if lowton has a season like last he'll be on the pitch every week. We have adequate cover if anything should happen to lowton in the form of herd, donacien, webb, bacuna and okore can also play there so we won't spend money just for the sake of having a player that is specifically a right back. I really like the idea of using back up players that can play in many positions, because we have less players to keep happy, and they get more games as they will slot in anywhere when required. The only positions I do think we need to strengthen are centre back and attacking mid (obviously). I'm a bit worried that we only really have 4 centre backs and again donacien can play there but all it takes is 1 injury and a red card and its panic time, would also make for very good competition for places.

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28 Jul 2013 12:19:04
villa need to get rid of ireland benett stevens bowery

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Agrer woth all except nowery ii tjomk the kid. will come good
And don't forget bent given bannan and hutton

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Bennett and Bowery are going nowhere. Bowery may get a short term loan deal but both are very much in PL's plans. Bennett will be a great player, if and when he makes the move forward to winger. Bowery is strong, lacks confidence though and I think a loan move would see him shine. Stevens is a good player, I like him, but he's not top flight quality, he was a rash signing from McLeish. Unless it's a move home, can't see him going anywhere either.
Azza

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Think Bowery needs a season on loan in the championship, good shout azza.

Finch

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28 Jul 2013 11:50:49
Would love Wijnaldum, would add a bit of trickery and more pace (do we need any more!) hopefully Bacuna can convince Lambert and Wijnaldum

AtrueVillan

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27 Jul 2013 20:37:05
Right, villa are now focusing on offloading their big earnes in order to add a new attacking midfielder, lambert has a short list of two players from abroad and is wanting to get him in beefier the start of the season.

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27 Jul 2013 17:04:24
It gets rather tiresome with some so called fans, and I guess I can even see what David O Leary was meaning when he called Villa fans fickle.

I mean, we go away on a preseason bonding tour and play a few warm up matches in Germany to get a feel for each other and dust off the cobwebs and we draw all of them and suffer several injuries, and people are hitting panic switches calling for heads and stating that we stink.

As soon as we have a few guys back for what many consider to be more competitive friendly matches, starting with Crewe, of which we spank them netting five well constructed goals. its not enou and we have only beaten a poor side and failed to get a clean sheet.


It's quite laughable really.

How about showing just a little patience and perhaps a little more unwavering support? We are on to a good thing here presently, it is amazing what great fan support can do just as it has been seen what poor support can do (players feeling ridiculous a, punts of pressure at home, when it should be a fortress).

Leroy

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Leroy

I have said this before, best letting them get on with it, some things you can`t change.
In the past I have been in the pub with guys talking football, one minute we are going to qualify for Europe, WE LOOSE, and guess what, were going down.

Makes me sick, so I just buy another pint.

villadave

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Leroy we shouldn't bother caring, every pre-season game the majority of us have came on and rubbished the negativity, but there will always be those fools that criticise when we lose and praise when we win, they're worse than that lot on match of the day! Yeah its not ideal watching our beloved villa play out a boring 1-1 draw but I still enjoyed watched every game this pre-season so far. I think its just the braindead that don't realise there is more to football than winning, especially in a friendly.

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Exactly! You can't possibly accuse them of that though, because they'll always come back with the same old 'i've been going to games since I was 6 years old' when they say that it makes me wonder how many they have actually been to in that space of time!

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As we go down we can at least say "it isn't all about winning" can't we ethavfc

dave

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Anyone worried at our naivety at set pieces from pre season though?

Finch

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Finch, defending or attacking? Both are as bad to be honest. Bring back the days of laursen and mellberg!

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27 Jul 2013 11:58:07
Bacunas strike yesterday was immense, carnt wait for the lad to show some defenses up this season, from what I saw and what I expect a natural replacement for the zog but with that bit more technique.

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27 Jul 2013 09:17:27
I think if we have a good start to the season and pick up 4 points in 3 games then we will have a good chance of challenging for a top half/top six place. We need to get into form and I think Benteke and Weimann already are. It's good to see the youths getting used in the first team during pre-season would like to see them feature in cup games this year. We have a stronger enough squad so let's prove we can finish in the top half.

UTV! SOTC!

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Helenius is making an impact as well

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Agree with the youth in cup games, let's be realistic we're not going to win it, the FA cup especially, so instead of having our first team players lose to millwall and bradford, why don't we give the young lads a game to impress, then if they win it will do wonders for their confidence, the media will be up our backsides about winning games with the kids playing and we won't look desperate in making 11 players play every game of the season cause we have no strength or depth in the squad. Not only that but the guys playing week in week out get a rest and lambert gets a chance to see other players without annoying the bigger players by dropping them. Everybody wins.

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27 Jul 2013 08:45:00
Norwich fan in peace just want to wish you all the best for the new season I totally believe norwich and villa will not be fight relegation like last season. It's the quality villa and norwich have bought in instead of one or two class players and the rest make up players. Every signing made by both clubs could walk in to the starting line up.

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Good Luck to you as well mate
Pre the Lambert fiasco there was never any real animosity between the 2 clubs and I hope that the fans can put it behind them now

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Norwich Fan.

Thanks for that mate, I wish you all the best as well for the coming season.
You have a great family club over there and have done very well, I am sure your very proud of the Canaries.

villadave

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26 Jul 2013 22:17:22
I have been told today that when the bomb squad are finally shipped out all remainimg funds will be used to try to sign Bojan Krkic from Barcelona, Aston Villa are eady to launch a opening bid of £13 million, he had a buy out clause with Milan of €15 million after spending last season on loan there but he doesn't fit the italian league. He also bombed at roma a season or 2 ago
Lambert is hoping to make a move in the next week, he has a feeling that this could be a very good attavcking unit of benteke with bojan behind him
I hear rumours many times a day regarding villa but I thought it worth a mention terms of the number 10 position.
He will however take the 23 shirt out of preference

DelBoyTheVillian {Ed007's Note - I can't see this happening to be honest. Bojan has already joined Ajax on loan for a season, with the option of a second season.}

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Why even bother writing all that? Ed just showed u up in one line! Lol {Ed007's Note - I was going to just delete it but sometimes at this time of year you need to let posters know we sometimes, we actually know what we are doing/talking about and won't just post any old BS that is sent in.}

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26 Jul 2013 21:20:54
Get ready for the doomboys saying we'll be relegated because we could only score one in the second half vs crewe! Bet they become one of those fickle football fans now and start joining us lot with the endless praise of the team because we won. I stick by what I have said, other than a bit of confidence for the goal scorers, especially benteke, we haven't gained that much more than the other games this pre-season.

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Been pretty impressed with bacuna in preseason, think he may replace delph in the starting 11 for arsenal. Utv
Finch

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He does look very good, and he can literally play most positions, the only positions I wouldn't risk playing him are centre back and goalie. I even think he'd make a good striker if he was next to somebody big and strong like benteke!

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Looking forward to seeing him now
If Lambert could do for the midfield what he did for the forward line with the bargain signing of Benteke, we could have a season to enjoy

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26 Jul 2013 19:48:48
It was never going to be an easy first few weeks of the season but now the Chelsea game has been put forward how hard?!
I am feeling positive after year of hell for me & three months in hospital with meningitis. the last few months of the season doubled up with our new recruits & contract re-signers has kept me smiling! I am going for a return of 5 points!
Arsenal 1-1
Chelsea 1-1
Liverpool 2-0
yeah its hopeful but why be negative & I would actually take 4 points and have two very tough away fixtures out the way! Then roll on November/December as apart from Manchester United every game is winnable!

Come on you lions!!

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Glad your feeling better kid let's hope for a good season {Ed007's Note - Yeah, good to hear you are on the mend Andy.}

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Andy.

I did not know you had been ill.

Get well soon mate.

villadave

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26 Jul 2013 19:38:09
Could be a productive few days for the plus side of the bank account. well some savings at least!
Nzogbia - Hull/Palace
Bent - Newcastle
Bannan- Blackburn
Given/Laziest player ever Ireland - Doncaster
Delfouneso- Reading
Hutton- Mallorca

I failed my gcse maths but by my calculations that's roughly 12-14 mill in transfer fees & a saving of 100k a week on loans (assuming we still pay some of the wages, unless we do just pay off the man who's nan is always ill!)
. and a total saving of at least 280-300k a week in wages
Then we can get signing a RB, DM & a AM and please Mr Lerner is it too much to ask for Bafetimbi Gomis too? I won't ask for anything for my birthday or Christmas!

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26 Jul 2013 10:06:05
One of my pals is a boro fan and he told me when we signed Bennett he couldn't defend for toffee but was great coming forward a winger in the making there I do believe

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25 Jul 2013 23:04:48
Quick question guys, does anyone else think Hooper from Celtic is a bargain for 5 million? Ok so he's scored goals in the 'scottish' league but he certainly knows where the goal is. Obviously not asking for major money either if Norwich are in for him. Thoughts.

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25 Jul 2013 15:31:03
Westwood, Delph, Bacuna, Sylla, Gardner, Carruthers, KEA!

Easily the worst midfield I have ever seen down the villa! been a fan all my life and cannot remember a squad as s**** as this its shocking! KEA is s****, poor footballer and lambert gives him villa number 8 shirt?

Compare our signings to norwich or to southampton! were not in the same league! lamberts brought aload of crap and the best player bar benteke in nzogbia (who looked class at times last season) is being frozen out for no apparent reason.

ere we go another season with lamberts allsorts, the guy is like a fish up a tree, he's lost and hasn't got a clue!

in lambert we trust. hahhaha yeh someone who drops bent and buys Jordan Bowery (the worst player in the prem by a mile!) well its between him, bannan, bennet and clark!

Danny

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So you're undecided then?

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You've lost the plot ain't you, westwood is one of the best midfielders in the country right now and sylla and delph are improving every week! I'd rather have them than sidwell and reo-coker. If you're going to be such a boring depressive then get back in your arm chair and keep quiet about it! Stick by the villa through thick and thin or sod off to support somebody with a midfield like bayern munich's! {Ed052's Note - Westwood will be playing for England at some point}

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KEA only player I don't rate, this could be Gardner year if avoids injury JK

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Danny you are entitled to your opinion but I will be dis agreeing with your nonsense, sign some mercenary's? and flop like qpr? Your the perfect example of a typical fan that is not in touch with the real world.

I will be enjoying Paul Lamberts effort of getting our team to play its best.

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That is rather harsh mate, whilst by no means is it the strongest midfield we've had I wouldn't say its the worst in the league. I do think we need a solid defensive midfielder & a creative midfielder to bulk it up. I agree with you that N'Zogbia should brought back after his injury too. On the other hand, post January I believe our midfield was one of our assets. I know you're entitled to your opinion, but let's reserve our judgements on the matter until October time after we've overcome the tough fixtures and they've played clubs in and around us.

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I think it would be in your best interest to find another club to put your doom and gloom onto. We don't want or need that kind of negativity at VP. You are a minority of 1 and I would take a guess in saying you aren't even a villa fan. But if you are, please, for the sake of all villa fans, don't be.

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He dropped bent for benteke, a potential superstar! Duh

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You sir are deluded. I disagree 100% with all of the nonsense you put and hope come January you come back on here and realise the project that's been put in place.

Finch

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Oh Danny boy the pipes the pipes are calling you.
What they are calling you is anybodies idea, but I am calling you a complete wa--er. You come on here just to get insulted and you will certainly acheive your objective.
By the way the missing word is waster, not wa--er.

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Are u mental Danny. Westwood, Delph and Sylla aren't the best players in the world but they are good together. You can't call them s**t. El Ahmadi might not be the best but does it matter about the numbers. If they were that bad why didn't we get relegated. N'Zogbia has only been frozen out because he doesn't fit Lamberts style of player. Bent hasn't been in form and is too old for Lamberts style of player. And how's Bowery that bad. Next your going to be saying that Benteke and Guzan are terrible. You need to think again.

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Sorry but my honest opinion! gutted to see villa outplayed and beaten by wigan 3-0 at home, then bradford and millwall its not good enough. yes we improved at end of season but we are yet to win or even keep a clean sheet in pre season (ok friendlies and weaker team but still)

I am not negative just honest and worried! Think if we get a solid experienced defender, couple of quality midfielders then we will be fine.

I did not mean to upset anyone but my post seems to have angered some of you and did not want that and not a majority of one as many fellow villa fans are worried too but I hope your all right and maybe we will be fine and bowery and westwood will be playing for england soon as you think but I doubt it, if they were any good then they would have been in the u21 squad! nzogbia is our best midfielder and delph has quality westwood can pass a ball and has potential but along way of yet.

We need more quality, simple.

danny

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Hi Danny,
I think if you had put your original point in as measured a manner as your last point you would not have got such a hostile reaction
I do appreciate your honesty though
I also take your point at about being "honest and worried" rather than negative. I have made the same point myself
I disagree about Nzogba though. He doesn't do it anywhere near enough for me

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The thing that annoyed me about your post danny is that you said Bowery was bents replacement when evidently that was benteke!

The form table for the final 3rd of the season we were something like 7th or 8th so the young boys did become men and prove their worth for me.

Also disagree that Zog is lazy, plays out of position and when not in possession does f. all

finch

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Plenty of things to pick apart about the original post here from Danny. As finch has pointed out, saying Bowery is Bent's replacement is quite a desperate way to discredit things.

Westwood is terrific, Sylla has been much improved and full of confidence, Bacuna has the most assists this preseason, Tonev has been injured and Delph. well it remains to be seen if he is the right fit for us under Lambert.

You also failed to mention that we are very much in the market for an attacking presence in the middle, with seemingly the only hold up being jettisoning off the deadwood.

How about giving just a little bit of time as we are still yet to play a competitive match yet.

Lets just see how the team fares with the full complement of players available and let's wait to see who we pick up as attacking presence.

Think you have blown the load a little early in this one.

Leroy

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So far this summer, Norwich have spent over£25mil £8 of which was out of Lamberts previous budget, and Norwich are still not finished bringing in players their are 2 valued around £12mil that Hughton wants, and the club are backing him, So who was telling the truth when left Carrow road claiming Norwich didn't have the money to match his Ambitions Have a good season if you can

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You may be a bit on the negative side Danny but at least you have the stones to put your name to your opinions! I do not agree with what you said mate but well done on that. it seems more and more are putting names which makes it easier to spot the Bluenose or Norwich fan who is jealous & trying to wind us up!

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Danny, not trying to be funny, but as I write this, we are now 4 - 0 up after 34mins vs Crewe, with Benteke scoring a hattrick already and KEA threading through a lovely ball for his third.

As I and others have sugested, perhaps a little too soon to panic.

Leroy

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Dear norwich fan, none of the signings you have made this summer would even get even half a look in for our starting 11

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Ok, finch I totally disagree because yes benteke was purchased and was main striker but I can remember games when bent was on bench and bowery was on field! He never scored a goal and dnt think he had a shot on target! He came from chesterfield and scored 16 in 61 games! He would not get into my local pub team!

And disagree with people saying we still gna buy quality, I really hope we do but cnt see it!

And the person getting excited abt us beating crewe, u need to wake up! Kea is poor player and do not care if he can split crewes defence in half, I want to see him do it in the prem.

Danny

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KEA won't cut it in the prem agree with Danny on this

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Lets just give el ahmadi a little bit more time to settle in, he's came from a slow league where he had a lot of space and a lot of time on the ball and he doesn't get that in the prem. let's not forget that when petrov first joined us, he wasn't our best midfielder by some way, it took him a couple of seasons to find his feet and only then he became the heart of our team and very good player!

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25 Jul 2013 16:01:52
3 games in 8 days, Arsenal, Chelsea and liverpool thanks to the FA!

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Number 23 still up for grabs who do you it will be?

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Blimey Mate, we have to play these teams sometime. We are in the same league as them so we have to. it's in the rules and everything.
Personally speaking, I would rather play these lot early. What would you prefer, this as your final 3 fixtures?

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Gomis

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Mendax, I think we are all just annoyed that 8 days into the season we'll be bottom of the table with every member of the press laughing at us and every twit on MOTD saying we're contenders for relegation. But when you look at the fixtures this year there are actually 3 runs of 6/7/8 games where we COULD go unbeaten! You're right that's its better to get them out of the way, I guess our season starts a week after everybody else! But if we looking at it overall, we all play the same teams the same number of times, we just have to not use bad runs against big teams as an excuse when we lose to somebody like wigan this year. Forget about who we play when, let's just beat the teams we can, and try our absolute hardest against those we stand less of a chance against.

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Agreed mendax. we'v more chance of taking points off the big boys early on in the season than towards the end of it.

Finch

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25 Jul 2013 15:30:44
Reading the morning papers and am amused to see that spuds are upset that Bale is being unsettled by Real's attempts to sign him. How interesting that when the boot is on the other foot they can't see the funny side of life. What goes round comes round!

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25 Jul 2013 14:56:53
I think we should use Bennett as a winger. He is a good crosser and dribbler but struggles with defending. I think we should use him in a more attacking role and he could become our Bale. You never know.

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His crosses are great and not scared to take players on, I think the only two people that can't see bennett is a winger are bennett and lambert!

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I remember putting a similar comment up months ago about Bennett being a winger and how bale was also a terrible left back until his position changed. Maybe he will get a chance in a more advanced position this year, we don't have to play 4-3-3 just because it worked out well in the end last season. So maybe there's a chance it'l happen!

Clark as a dmc anyone?

Finch

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Agree clark is a cdm, both bennett and clark are very good players but awful defenders, so i'm not understanding why they are defenders! Clark had his best game vs arsenal (two cracking goals and a top class performance) in the dcm role but my only probably is if he did play that role, he can't pass the ball as well as the likes of westwood, delph and sylla and I certainly wouldn't play him over them 3. So for the mean time unless we want another season with 3 centre backs we should keep him as CB cover.

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I also remember clarks awesome performance against a certain Manchester United as a dmc, that day he was smashing

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25 Jul 2013 13:34:46
My favourite time of the season. The excitement of being linked to players, the possibilities and hopes for a new season, nothing beats it and we have been linked to some very exciting players (and Troy Deeney!) I would however like to see some experience brought into the squad. I am 100% behind PL's policy and ethos, I just believe that with Premiership and playing experience in the squad it would add a lot, not just on the pitch but on the training ground.
Players who have been there and got the T-shirt, it's a valuable commodity to have. Who would you like to see in though? Or am I completly wrong, let the barrage of insults commence.

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Thing is mate although our lads struggled last season, they now are experienced prem players. I get your point though, perhaps pirlo could drop into midfield to help us out ;)

Finch

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Finch good point well made! We survived last year and unlike those that have been and got the t-shirt our team can only improve, every season we take a small step, be it 2/3 places a year then in a few years out current squad are all recognised premier regulars with 4/5/6 years of prem experience and we're a top 10 team challenging for europe every season

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25 Jul 2013 10:04:12
Rumour has it that Doncaster are interested in Stephen ireland, either way who ever buys him are going to get an over paid under performing player, a modern day example of a poor professional attitude. Be glad to see the back of him.

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25 Jul 2013 09:54:28
Slightly off topic, but here we go. Players and managers were moaning about the state of the pitch in Hong Kong, where vertonghen got injured. Sorry but there is no excuse I as a lad and most others had to play on pitches worse than that every sunday, and they wonder why grass roots football is struggling.

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The problem is they are so used to playing on 'grass' which would be fit enough to carpet my living room. The can't play on a bit of frost, or when its a bit boggy, and they complain when it starts cutting up. I've seen sunday league pitches that could be mistaken for farmers fields, get the pro's to play on that and they'd drop like flies!

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Find some pics of Villa park in the 50s/60s and then you will really apprieciate the quality of todays grounds. In those bygone days the players trained on the actual pitch, hence the condition. No sympathy with spuds. I went to a 6th round game in the early 60/s and they turned the pitch into a mudbath with hose pipes prior to the match. Water polo would have been easier to play.

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24 Jul 2013 23:42:28
I'm not being funny here but I think we need another centre half, vlaar is just not good enough in my opinion, okore and baker are our best pairing, an Clark and vlaar are liabilities, new cb please Lamborghini, oh and a creative midfeilder while your at it ;)

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I think i'm with you, this might sound stupid to suggest but, vlaar is a very good leader and organizer, and he's very very good on the ball as well as being able to hit a shot, he's strong as well, so does anybody else think he'd make a great box to box midfielder?. I don't know with vlaar yet, he's came from a very different league like el ahmadi and you kind of wonder whether it will have took them a season to settle into the prem. I think because they're slightly older than the young'uns from abroad they'll find it harder to adapt, because they've been playing the same way for 6/7 years now!

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I think Vlaar will be a lot better this year. I think part of the problem last year was that he had Clark alongside him and didn't seem to have confidence in him (I think Okore will change this and Vlaar will be able to concentrate on his own game rather than constantly worrying about Clark)
That said, I think 4 Paul McGraths as a backline would have struggled with a midfield as porous as ours was last term, infront of them

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24 Jul 2013 16:22:32
Maybe i'm reading too much into this, but weimann has taken n'zogbia's number, and n'zogbia has been given number 36. Our squad numbers for the players that aren't for sale are 1-25 (no 19 for petrov) with the exception of lowton who has asked for 34 again, and everybody from 35 upwards appears to be those players we are trying to sell. N'zogbia being number 36 can only suggest he isn't wanted or need and will be sold, probably in january due to his injury. Weimann, gardner and baker who all opted to keep their numbers last season have been given a number between 1 and 25 leaving no gaps other than 19, so unless n'zogbia has specifically asked for 36, that to me looks like he's not going to be there for long.

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I think you're right pal, despite being supportive of the likes of N'Zogbia, Ireland and Bent in the past I think it is time they moved on. I'm glad to see Gardner, Carruthers & Baker get more traditional squad numbers. I agree with you on the notion that the 'Bomb Squad' will be gotten rid of, and as far as I'm concerned, the quicker the better.

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You said you wanted to keep Ireland a couple of days ago Jon?!

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A guy can change his mind, over the last season I've been umming & arring about him. Based on playing skills I think he can be one of the best in the league, however based on what we've heard about the unrest he's caused, he should go as no man is bigger than the team. He has obviously managed to piss someone off in the club as he's been given the number 40. On the other hand we are not in posession of all the facts and I think to get rid if him on his playing ability is a mistake but if issues have arisen (which we can only presume) he has to go.

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Jon.

"PISS SOMEONE OFF"

Sure has 43,000 of us

He has got no playing ability, the only playing ability he had was at Man city, and that lasted 8 months.

He is bone idle, tells lies about family members, and can't make his mind up.

villadave

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24 Jul 2013 09:55:05
I really think we should be concentrating on extending Paul lamberts contract because I strongly believe we are going to have a good season and the last thing we need is the manager leaving

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Hes done a fantastic job but I would wait till january.

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Why wait, do it now before they all come sniffing.

Offer him 5 years NOW and have done with it.

villadave

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24 Jul 2013 08:14:12
Do Spurs and their "honourable" chairman really have the cheek to say they will not stand for Real Madrid's dirty tactics regarding Gareth Bale?! Haha course they would never do something like unsettle a player would they? Karma Daniel. look it up!
Seems offering substantially less than a players worth for a 2nd time won't work either but look on the bright side after Bale leaves you will be able to finally buy a striker!
Who do they think they are?

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I don't think we should start throwing stones in that particular glass house Andy
Ask Norwich and Sunderland fans what they think of our board after the Lamber and Bent signings
It's a dog eat dog world in the premiership and they are all, largely, as bad as each other.
If you are going to look to Premiership clubs as providers of some sort of moral compass you are going to get badly lost

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23 Jul 2013 15:12:43
Club insider confirms that there will be no further signings until we have off loaded some of the players that are not required within the squad as their wages are draining too much from the pot. Given, Hutton, Stevens, Bannan, Ireland, Delfouneso & Bent all need to be moved on although PL is aware he needs a creative midfielder to feed Benteke and the rest of the strike force.

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Yeah they need to be shipped out quick hutton back to spain, bent to fulham/newcastle, bannan to leeds, stevens can be loaned out easy i'd assume. someone please take ireland and delfouneso is a good player shudnt be hard to get rid off. then with one r 2 more signings we have a GREAT squad in my opinion

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Stevens is staying and going out on loan along with the fonz. Huttons pretty much a player of the past now as he's agreed a 2 year deal with mallorca. Bent will be at another team before the start of the season, therefore plenty of funds available.

I think the only deadweight we'll have left come august 17th will be Ireland and Bannan.

And I expect one or two more signings but only towards the close of the window.

UTV

Finch

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Hi all

Personally I would simplify the whole thing, and slap a price of 1mil on each of them with the exception of Bent.
The club buying must then pay the wage agreed with the player.

No asking us to make up any shortfall in his wages, that would be reflected in the sale price.

Get them out fast, and clear the air

We don't want wage liabilities.

villadave

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Well said dave, I think this is the first time I've publicly agreed with you. Ireland seems to want to leave and could still be a useful player to a newly promoted team or even qpr or someone. Out with the old and useless and in with the hungry new talent

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If only it was that simple villadave. You tell a person who gets £30k a week for another two years that they need to move on but the club that they are going to will only pay them £10 to 15k a week. Naming no names ie a brilliant defender we have. Who will make up the shortfall other than us paying them off. So they will bench warm or go out on loan. Unfortunately its not about playing football anymore but getting more money and how many cars, houses etc you can buy. Plus their agent wants their 10ish percent and 10 percent of 30k per week is better than 15k. Also when you are as good as said defender, loads of clubs keep on knocking the door to buy them.

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So basically dave if your theory has any logic to it. the buying team in question would pay villa £1m for Steven Ireland and would be signed on a 6month contract because his wage demands dictate so. Otherwise they would be in the same predicament we'r in right now?!

Finch

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I think Dave means that the low selling price (1mil) is a compensation for the higher wage that player will ask for.

Meaning Ireland, Nzogbia etc might have a higher monetary value, but as they are bound to demand a higher salary, this is offset by the relatively smaller 1 mil transfer fee.

This is what I gathered atleast.

Btw, the squad numbers were released today and if you look at the list, there will be atleast 6 or 7 players set to depart for absolute certain.

Even and zogbia is listed as number 37 now. so only a matter of time now.

Leroy

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Leroy.

Spot on mate, you got it in one.

All I want is them out, and a small market value would attract more interest.

These contracts need sorting, they are too detailed and complicated.

At the end of the day black is black & white is white.

For gods sake if I move to another job for less pay, no bugger pays me any shortfall.

A contract needs to be no more than a sheet of A4.

To the likes of Ireland, Hutton, & co
If you think you are any good,
"GO, GET OUT AND PROVE IT SOMEWHERE ELSE"


villadave




villadave

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Ok I get you villadave, thanks for the clarity Leroy!

Its going to be tough shifting Ireland.

Bents still a quality striker and I'm sure once we get one concrete offer 3 or 4 others will come in. I think he'd do well at a team like stoke or dare I say west ham but that's no concern to me.

Don't think we'll struggle to get rid of Hutton, that's as good as a done deal now as he wants to go back to mallorca and agreed terms. Its his agent that's stalling it, trying to get a better payout for it. That's what's been reported in Spain anyway.

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Yeah hutton's agent isn't best pleased, the deal was a season long loan (until huttons conract end) with the option to sign after the year (will be activated if they get promotes again) not much money in it for the agent. Not sure how accurate this is but i'm pretty certain these are the details.

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23 Jul 2013 13:20:27
Villa in need with new RB to contest spot with Matt Lowton, and possible back-up considering if he gets injured during the course of the season.

Any names?

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Chris herd? Josh webb? Jores okore? don't think we need to sign right back cover based on lowtons consistancy, we have players that can fill the role well enough if anything should happen but its pointless us signing a player solely as back up to matt lowton, and can't think of a right back under £10m that would keep him out of the team, or even challenge for his place so the only game he'll get is the FA cup 3rd round.

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23 Jul 2013 08:59:32
Aston villa's forgotten man, Stephen Ireland has begged for the opportunity to prove his worth and put his past behind him and knuckle down at aston villa. stephen said "I want to get my career back on track, it was only last year I was voted fans player of the year here, I think I coul succeed at astonvilla". Could it be too late for the former Irish international?

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Simply put he is not fit to wear the shirt and HAS to go. His performance against Bradford in the home leg of the semi final last season was easily the laziest showing I have ever seen in over 30 years at Villa Park. He is nothing short of a disgrace and if anyone would actually pay his undeserved, over inflated wages then I would gladly drive him to them myself.

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The only reason he says this is because no other club will offer him the bumper contract he has at Villa.

Finch

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Personally, I think we should keep the lad on for the season, I think his contract expires in the summer, so you'll get very little for him now so may as well lose him on a free next summer. I've no idea if this rumour is true but at least give the lad a chance to prove he's worth a new contract and who knows he may rekindle his form from his City days. We keep saying that we need a CAM and we have one already who just needs to work on his attitude. I know he's on a lot but what is 60k a week to a top flight club, and remember there only expensive if they don't play well!

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No chance stephen he's had enough time to prove himself. pure rubbish. love the way lambert is droppin all the dead wood at the club if he keeps it up we wil have a full squad of pretty good young talent and then things can only get better. if we can hold on to the playersss

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What avfcjon? how do you work out that we may as well keep him now because someone will only pay a small amount of money and let him walk for "free" next season? that is nonsense surely a nominal fee will at least pay some off the money he has frankly done nothing to earn over the years he has been at Villa. I would say the way he has offered nothing but a poor attitude and blatant disregard for the history & heritage of OUR club yet still earnt probable millions is nothing short of "free"
Whilst I agree if a player does earn a huge wage but performs on the field we as fans choose to look the other way it makes it all the more noticeable when they have an attitude such as Ireland's.
The problem is that we have had too many players off his attitude and standing earning huge wages for doing nothing and I am glad that finally we have a manager in Paul Lambert that is trusting in hungry, talented youth who actually want to play for the club and is getting rid of the bad apples who poison the squad and thankful that Randy Lerner has supported him financially both in new recruits & keeping players who show spirit & pride on the field and are not more concerned in their pimped up ostentatious pink Bentley's & mock tudor mansions.
You are entitled to your opinion but the sooner we get rid of the players from our squad like "the lad" who has been given too many already the better in mine.

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I'd take £2/3m quid, because with the wages we will save with him off the books PLUS the fee we'll have made a bit of income off him at least, where as if we keep him we're paying out more than half a million quid to make nothing in a year, which is a loss. Surely an income, be it ten thousand or ten million, is better than a loss. Agree with the above poster, paying the bents and irelands 60k a week to kick a ball around bodymoor with the youth team is about as effective as putting the tea lady on the same wages.

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I'll be the tea lady for £600 a week let alone 60k!

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Ireland's problem is not that he is the "forgotten man" at Villa. His problem is that we remember all too well (apart from avfcjon that is)
The fact that Ireland was voted player of the Year the year before last says more about the atrocious football of Mcleish than it does about Ireland who seemed to win the award for no other reason than he could trap a ball and pass it 5 yards. GET RID!

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True mendax, in fact you saying that makes the tea ladies 60k a week wages more justified now, as she probably came a close second that year.

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I see you're point guys, I'll readily admit that's he's underachieved. However, think about it we need a CAM and we're going to sell a proven Premier League player for very little who could fill the void. I know his wages are an issue but if we shift Given, Bent, Bannan etc. then we can afford to keep Ireland on. If he's true to his word then we could have the Stephen Ireland of 3/4 years ago, if not then we can attempt to get rid in January or release him next summer.

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Why are you calling yourself avfcjon Stephen Ireland? And stop posting on here saying how good you are!

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Nowhere near good enough

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23 Jul 2013 08:27:10
Just to add meat to the Benteke deal bones -
There is NO release clause in the contract!

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22 Jul 2013 22:59:34
This lad with the camera outside the training ground gives more of a insight that the majority of the papers, well play kid! Hats off to ya.

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22 Jul 2013 19:36:15
Why are people so worried about the scores in the friendlys it's about fitness and bonding with new players got to say I'm really looking forward to us pushing on next season and we got some little gems in the reserves onwards and upwards I say comprades

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Because half of their brains are asleep I think mate, you can't take anything from games like that except fitness and team building. What would we gain for the prem season by giving it %110 against a german league 5 side other than lots of injuries, we wouldn't learn how to defend or attack against the van persie's and the top players like that and the youth wouldn't get a chance to show a bit of talent and get a bit of first team football with the big boys. People need to relax and see the bigger picture.

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Completely agree Villamurf there is zero point worrying about results of pre season friendly's especially when PL is clearly testing what his best starting line up is. My own worry is that quicker, classier players even not 100% match fit are liable to be caught in late challenges by lower league players and pick up knocks or injuries before the season has even started. Wycombe were over physical on Saturday and left several of our players hurt.

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22 Jul 2013 16:56:39
Benteke puts in transfer request = Mercenary
Benteke withdraws request, signs new deal at 3x the value = loyalty
??

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Oh don't open that can of worms mate
We'll be here for weeks
Football has gone nuts

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I think its about time to give it a rest now.

villadave

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Its probably posted by the same guy who said this site was boring and we all had nothing to talk about but Benteke! who cares he signed. I hated him but now I love him again and I don't care I'm a hypocrite!

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21 Jul 2013 13:53:30
Rumour has it Paul Lambert could talk your wife into bed.

More contract renewals, unbeaten and a couple more players coming in. What's not to like being a villa fan atm. Good times and bad, bring on next season.

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I wish he would try with mine, then I might believe that he can walk on water!

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How much has paul lambert spent since taking charge? is it over 40 mil yet,
and to think he can recoup his outlay from selling 1 of his purchases is nothing short of miracle! Paul lamberts claret and blue army!!

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The whole point of football management is to hang on to players.

If he sold Tonev he would not recoup his outlay would he

We don't want to sell them.

villadave

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I think his point was if we'd had sold benteke for 25, we'd have then signed 10/11 players and only be £15m out of pocket. But I have to agree villadave, we should be holding on to players and i'm fairly sure we will (we even managed to keep the guy who tried very hard to force a move). Do you think if somebody had have bid for westwood or lowton he'd have sold them? PL's system is a very clever one either way, there was speculation over weimann, he upped his wages, gave him a reason to stay and everybody else looked else where, same applies with the other players who had some speculation surrounding them. The whole pay rise based on performances thing really works, obviously those that play well will have clubs interested, so what does lambert do? Cross his arms and put his phone on silent? no he sticks an improved contract offer on the table, the players sees the sum of money, paul lamberts says its due to his performance last season and the player then asks for a pen. Paul lambert is a genius, and I really think he is the man to take us back where we belong, for a very long time.

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20 Jul 2013 21:51:29
is gomis signing for the villa? I have heard we
have had a bid accepted
where is Darren bent going to end up this season I think Newcastle could be the place but from what I have read there are 4 to 5 options for him

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Bent will choose Fulham he stated months ago he wants a London move

So that will be Fulham or even palace

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Shmiggles

Not sure we need a player like Gomis anymore now that Benteke is staying.
So I would not put money on it.

And yes according to reports today, Bent would prefer a move to London, Fulham look to be one up on Newcastle on that score.

"Desperate measures by Spuds might yet crop up" with Bent

villadave

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Gomis was in advanced talks with newcastle two days ago and said he would be interested in a move

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20 Jul 2013 15:37:12
So all you lot what do you think we need still to complete the squad and who would you like to see at B6 next season?

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Would love to see a really good attacking midfielder.
I think we are short of goals if the strikers are having an off day

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Hi Andy.

I know it probably won't happen, but would like to think it can.
I would like to see Kiyotake or Costaginos added to the squad.

I think either would give us a real threat from midfield, ie penetration & goals, something we have been missing for a while now.

villadave

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Good call, was thinking exactly the same. I'd love to see Kiyotake he looks class.

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Most the players we've signed are attacking players and helenius certainly looks good

I'd like another decent centre half or right back or even a good ball winning defensive midfielder

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I think we still need another dmc too as well as an attacking one too much depends on getting rid of the deadweight first though

Finch

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20 Jul 2013 12:25:24
So CB tied down (never doubted it from the start), we've got to talk about who and how many we want in now? Deadwood still delayed on departures and lingering around, but I'm hoping they will develop sooner rather than later. I think we need 2-3 players, RB, CM and AM. Names mentioned and likened to: Sadio Mane, Chadli, Kiyotake, Serge Aurier, Rolando. and the list goes on! Any views and rumours to tell? Kick off with them to share with all :)

Az

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Really think we need a cam. Would love all the names mentioned, but I reckon nick powell of man united on a season long loan would be equally effective. In response to needing a cm, I believe 5 will be enough (westwood, sylla, delph, gardner, el ahmadi). Personally, I think herds best position is rb and is good enough to cover for lowton. Desperately need a cam though.

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Lambert would rather develop his own players not man utd's

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Powell's no better than any of our current squad, or even the under 21s.

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20 Jul 2013 01:07:22
I told you on the 14th that Benteke will sign a four year contract this week. I also told you the details of the contract I. e. money goals league position etc. for bonuses.
To which someone replied " he's not welcome" oh and the classic " that ship sailed a long time ago" I also told you Lambert would wish if it you weren't too harsh on Christian as his head was turned on international duty,
Some replied to my comment that it made sense and that's all that really matters, at least we have some fans who understand the picture. Finally the reason Bent was frozen out last season was not about football but I'm sure you all know about that, Lambert strongly believes in ethics.

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20 Jul 2013 00:45:11
I would like to add and support to what villadave is saying.
In recent years it has somewhat irked me that there is a portion of Villa fans who are prone to moaning, and many friends and colleagues who support other clubs will always note the negative atmosphere amongst the villa faithful. Whilst it is has been frustrating in recent years in particular the Mcleish era, playing negative football and with a lack of passion it is a shame we have at times not really shown our true backing and support. I am not belittling any of the posts here that are at times negative as this is a forum and it is great for fans to communicate their ideas and frustrations, and I will be prone to a few moans in the future, (when we lose to a league one side in next years FA cup run) but it is with great pride that there seems to be a new era at Villa park even with difficult moments last season and supporters are starting to realise their is claret and blue in our veins.

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I'm with you, under houllier and especially mcleish everybody I know were saying we would get relegated and even this season villa fans have said it, but I guess there will always be pessimists. Its a great thing we are building, and what makes it feel special for me is when fans, players and managers of other teams talk about how great what we're doing is. Its a proccess, and last season did show there is none stop improvement. All I ask for now, is for us to start the season how we finished last season, then improve on that as much as we improved last season. If we keep doing that we'll be a top 5/top 6 team in a few years! Norwich fans said lambert could only go so far, he would never take a team to the top, but we all know that was just with norwich, lambert is a truly great manager that will get the greatest out of any team in the world and I really hope he stays at villa for years and decades to come! UTV

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Paulmcgrathmylord.

Well said mate, straight from the heart.
I am glad you feel the same way, I am sure thousands more do in truth.

A new era is upon us and PL should have a new contract offered "NOW".

Just look at the whole Villa set up now, its brilliant, Stadium, Training facilities, and players who could be together for 8 years or more.

"If that does not excite us nothing will"

villadave

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You guys make me recall the quote by Antonio Gramsci:
'Pessimism is of the spirit, optimism is of the will"
I reckon we should adopt it as a Villa fans maxim

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I agree too. Good call

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Blimmey Mendax.
Whats with the Philosophy mate.

Had to look all this lot up first, thought you were Insulting me.

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Wouldn't dream of it Dave (insulting you that is)

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How about "Prepared?" Been good for over 125 years for the club.

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Yep, that's good too
Hey, I'm not going to fall out with anyone over it mate. Just thinking out loud

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Mendax, only joking mate,
Not used to big words like that.

villadave

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19 Jul 2013 22:54:57
deal done Benteke stays @villa Best news for all but Levy. bring on 2013/2014 excited for the first time in years. all is forgiven as long as the buy out clause is £40mill

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19 Jul 2013 22:09:18
Hi All.

Its great that some of you guys are now using sign off names, so much easier when trying to reply.
Have got to change mine though the missus thinks I am cheating.

Great news today, I think we have now got some real potential within the squad, and am looking forward to a very good season, we do need AMF though, have to wait and see on that one.

You guys are awesome out there and I am proud to be a Villa fan and enjoying every minute exchanging thoughts and ideas with you all.

Come on you LIONS

villadave

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19 Jul 2013 21:23:53
Could not believe the news today, whilst totally disappointed in his behaviour I am pleased he is staying. He is a top quality striker with bags of potential. The most important thing now is to offer PL a new contract. He has proven himself to be a great leader and man manager with a great eye, ethos and passion for the club and a culture that is being bred at Villa Park is something to be proud of.

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19 Jul 2013 19:48:15
Wooo Benteke is staying. Now we have him secured to the club for a while we should focus on th attacking midfielder. Also having him secured to a new contract may interest player more now that our best/most wanted player is staying. Can't wait to see him in an Aston Villa short again.

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19 Jul 2013 19:46:07
I hope all you people who slagged off the bloke about benteke now start sucking up to him well done who ever you are and well done to pl and the villa board!

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19 Jul 2013 19:21:49
Well well he's signed a new deal after talks with lambert. I reckon he was being fed wrong info from his agent about spuds

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19 Jul 2013 19:14:12
Well none of you saw that coming!
Well done Benteke for seeing sense! Now sack your agent, we don't want a repeat next summer!

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19 Jul 2013 19:10:14
So what have we learnt today?
1. neither England or Australia have decent opening orders
2. Villa Dave wouldn't tell his wife stuff
3. Leroy needs new informants
4. Money talks
& 5. I have spent the last few weeks slagging him uphill & down dale (like all of us. admit it!) but am glad for whatever reason he changed his mind!
. sorry I called you a judas Christian!
Have to say though this site is so much better lately & I also felt I should take a leaf out of Leroy's & Villa Dave's book and leave a sign off!

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Hi Andy.

All you've listed correct but schuush about No 2

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Unfortunately mate, the fact the site has been better lately will change now benteke has signed a contract. No nobody has that whole fiasco to talk about they will go back to making ridiculous unrealistic rumours.

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I don't think so ethAVFC

I am not sure what you mean when you say the site has been better lately?
I have only been posting for about three weeks so I can`t comment on that.
But what I have found is that all or most of us have one thing in common, we have a passion for ASTON VILLA.
And I for one will continue to post whatever happens at Villa Park.

Listen to Mendax, leroy, Finch, Andy Bucks etc, to name a few, you can't tell me that these guys are limited to talking about Benteke.

villadave

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I wanna know what VillaDave is not telling missus VillaDave
Mendax

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Told my informants to go and do one :)

I agree, this site has been improving recently with a lot more activity. it helps that we just resigned a truly world class player too though :)

Happy to take it on the chin for being wrong if this is the result.

Excitement level is extreme right now to say the least. I'm thinking season ticket sales may be on the up too.

Leroy

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19 Jul 2013 19:05:40
Benteke signs new deal sweeeet

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19 Jul 2013 18:58:00
Benteke has signed a new villa deal until 2017. It's expected Eric Kismet will have discussions with Benteke in the coming days & is expected to be fired from his job.

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19 Jul 2013 18:52:20
Benteke has withdrawn his transfer request and signed a new contract until 2017 according to the BBC.

If this is true we can look forward to the new season with optimism. vtid

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19 Jul 2013 18:43:22
So the big man is staying. Come on the villa.

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19 Jul 2013 18:37:45
Ha ha its been brilliant the last few weeks on here so much said and so many arguements and what do you know? We should have all stuck together in the first place now get behind the team silverware is on the cards next season UTV

Naturalvillan

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Steady on mate
After last season I would settle for a nice, boring, dull mid table finish.
I doubt Mrs Mendax could take the stress of a repeat of the past year

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19 Jul 2013 18:35:32
beneke has signed a new deal at the might avfc

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19 Jul 2013 18:18:16
bentekers stays - unlucky spuds!

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19 Jul 2013 18:17:27
Right then "SORTED"
Congratulations to Learner, Lambert & Faulkner.
Time to focus on football again.

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19 Jul 2013 18:13:37
Absolutely fantastic news for AVFC with the resigning of Benteke.

I stand here happy to be proved wrong and tip my hat to the strength and guile of Paul Lambert (and to a lesser extent Randy Lerner) as this marks a special moment in our immediate future.

We have a very special player at the club for atleast this coming season who has a point to prove on the eve of the world cup.

Its great that we held firm and have been rewarded for doing so.

Looking forward to many more positive comments. and perhaps that attacking midfielder coming in soon :)

Leroy

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19 Jul 2013 17:52:45
Benteke signs a contract extension with Villa until 2017! Official! :)

Couldn't be happier.

Still room for a couple more signings hopefully but bring on the new season!

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19 Jul 2013 18:01:16
Wow, what a great weekend to come. Big Ben signs for 4 years. Well done PL.

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Great news about Benteke.

Some of us will need to eat humble pie but, "hey what the hell"

Just need an AMF now and we should be in a great position, options all over the park.

villadave

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19 Jul 2013 17:59:18
To be honest, Benteke is the most inconsistent player we have ever had, but a brilliant player, in most ways we should be happy he's staying, however, Lambert must now be regarded right up there with the best, Uncle Randy, you need to get Lambert on a long term, watertight, contract "NOW" because every other club will be looking at him with admiration after this!!

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The most inconsistent player we have ever had?
What are you smoking mate
Mendax

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Have to agree with mendax here, a 20 goal a season striker, no way is he inconsistent. we haven't had that since heskey!

MATTtheCAT

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19 Jul 2013 17:59:11
Oooo Christian benteke ooooo Christian benteke

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19 Jul 2013 17:58:37
Benteke has signed new contract and withdrawn transfer request?! Slightly annoying how he's gone about it but I will get behind him now

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Slightly annoying? You suggest that he had a plan to cause mischeif when he had his head turned by media reports that spuds wanted him. No doubt they did, but PL talked sense to him and he saw the light. We should have another 2 years at least before the hunters come sniffing around but by then with some luck he may have helped us up the table.

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19 Jul 2013 17:57:24
Well it would appear benteke has now made a massive U-turn is tv are to be believed. Apparently he has withdrawn his transfer request and signed a contract extension until 2017! Earlier I stated if he's going next year he can go now, but surely if he has chosen to stay as apose to being forced to stay, he actually does want to be at the club now? let's see if this is all true first!

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19 Jul 2013 15:54:46
The reason we want another season is called "stability". If Benteke does leave it will no doubt be a pro-longed last minute transfer that will suit no-body but Spurs and Mr Levy (who is extremely shrewd to say the least). All the talk of a marquee signing is absolute fantasy, it does not suit Lambert or the clubs ambition moving forward. I fear that if he does go and let's face it he kept us up last year we will be in the same dog fight for the coming season, something that I for 1 wish to avoid. VTID

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19 Jul 2013 10:53:41
I wish people would stop with the 'benteke should stay for one more year'. Its ridiculous if you ask me, yeah we may need his goals next season, but why don't we just sell him for a massive profit and use the money to buy somebody else that will score us goals as well as the attacking mid we've been missing for years. let's say he does stay, we double his wages, he scores 20 goals then packs his bags and sods off for £15m, we'll still be in the same situation we are now, we just have another year to put up with endless rumours about it and £10m less to reinvest in the squad.

Also to anybody thinking lukaku is a good replacement, aside from the fact he is worth more than benteke, are well forgetting that in march he was telling benteke to leave villa? Why would he tell his mate to leave us then join himself.

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If he stays mate I think will sign a new contract which makes sure if does go it won't be cheap but I'm pretty somebody will come in for him once a big forward leaves then moves will start coming rather sell him abroad but wouldn't be surprised if Liverpool come knocking once suarez does one

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This is doing my head in.

I have said before, we have many more good young players on the books at VP, why are we talking about Benteke every day

If he goes he goes, and that's it.

villadave

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19 Jul 2013 09:18:47
Benteke has pledged his future this morning to Aston Villa if a move to Spurs does not materialize. Benteke has pledged to train hard and give his all for Aston Villa despite the uncertainty surrounding his future with the club.

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Nothing was said about pledging his future at all so don't try and get villa fans hopes up

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Why are you spoiling the party?
I know you posted before it was official but you should have a little hope or are you a spud?

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19 Jul 2013 09:05:15
Not so much a rumour as an observation of situations at MUFC and THFC.

MU want Bale and are prepared to pay £60m. Spurs reply "not for sale. "

Chelsea want Rooney and are prepared to pay £25/30m. MU reply "not for sale, even if he puts in a transfer request. "

Spurs want Bentakee amd are prepared to pay £20m. Villa reply "start at £25m. "

Can you spot the difference? that's right Villa have given a price as opposed to a rejection. Simple solution, give him his request back, show him his contract and tell him "you are a Villa player, get on with it!"
Close the door after you.

Next.

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But he is for sale. If we were given £25m i'd bite their hand off, we've made a huge profit, and we could but 3/4 good players with that money. Its no good holding onto him for one more year if he's just going to up and leave next season anyway. We're building a team for the next 10-15 years, not the next season. Take the £25m when you can instead of selling him for £15m next year for the sake of one more season.

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I wholeheartedly agree with the original poster.
Regarding the reply from ethAVFC, how are we going to build for the next 10 years if we apply the logic you suggest?
We made huge profits on Milner, Barry, Young and Downing. are we any better off?. NO
Lets's suppose we do as you say and buy another ccouple of players of Benteke's ability (not easy to do by the way) and let's suppose that Okore, Tonev and Westwood have outstanding seasons along with the Benteke replacements, do we sell them all for a huge profit as well?
When, exactly, does the building process begin and end?
It's players that win games, not accountants
At some point you have to put a stake in the ground and say sorry, we are putting our ambitions as a football club first
This assumes of course that we have any
Over to you on that one Randy!
Mendax

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The difference is, okore, tonev, westwood and the rest all see the future of the team we are building, that is what we are trying to achieve under paul lambert, we had to sell young, milner, downing and barry as we were spending a lot more money than we were earning. The whole philosophy now is bring in quality players on lower wages so we make more than we spend and build a great squad in the future instead of having irelands and bents on the bench. Benteke cannot see what the rest can, and he'll no doubt be off next season, so if he is a player that isn't part of our future then why should we bother keeping him for one year? Not to mention double his wages.

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Problem is if a player wants out for whatever reason, he can become a liability in many ways.
That is why I think the structure of contracts needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
Until then I would suggest we stand firm and make things difficult for want away players who are in the first 18 mths of a 3, 4, or 5yr contract.

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Mendax.

Do I detect some doubt as to Villa`s ambitions, or are you just trying to make a point?

You are correct we did make huge profits on the likes of Milner, young,
etc etc, and personally I think we are "better off".

The players togetherness and the team spirit we have now is far better than it has been for years.

Apart from the obvious Contracts are being signed, that's got to be good

villadave

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EthAVFC, I think you are being a little presumptuous in claiming that you know that "Okore, Tonev and Westwood and the rest see the future of the team we are building". A lot of these players have not kicked a ball for us yet. I suppose you thought the same about benteke 12 months ago or do you think that the new group of players are basically just better people? (without knowing any of them personally)
The unpallatable truth is that we are now being seen as a selling club by other teams as well as players alike. I suspect that in 12 months time we will be having the same conversation about another new player we have bought this year. It sort of blows your romantic notion of a group of young foreign men who know little about us but want to be part of some glorious Villa project, out of the water
As the originally poster intimitated, other clubs don't seem to have this preoccupation about keeping an unhappy player yet our fans trot it out all the time
We seem to be finding a way to fool ourselves that rolling over and being used a s a stepping stone by an arrogant 22 year old is OK because we can get rid of a potentially disruptive influence and and make a tidy profit in selling him.
We are morphing in to Wigan, and we all know where they have ended up
For Chrissake, we won the European cup in 82, Benteke should kiss the ground with gratitude that we have signed him. instead, we adopt the view that after one good season he is too good for us
Mendax

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Hi Villa Dave
When I said better off, I was thinking mainly of league position and yes, I was trying to make a point (I'm a bugger for that)
I was also still in my Benteke depression
I agree with your thoughts that the transfer system needs to be overhauled by the way
The current system is of benefit largely to agents. That cannot be right
Mendax

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Hi Mendax.

I thought you were making appoint,

Its all over now buddy so let's enjoy, I am really chuffed to be honest.

And yes agents are the ones rubbing their hands.

Its looking good, keep posting mate.

villadave

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Mendax, some of the players we have signed last season could have been sold for a profit this season but they kept quiet and got an imoroved contract because they clearly don't want a move. As for the new signings, many of them have spoke about being at villa for the futue and being part of a very very good rebuilding process, how did benteke turn up? He went on strike to force a move, turned up, said hello to a few reporters then went home. Okore especially, is talking to the press every few days about how excited he is for his future at villa. And yes in a few years, I think okore will be too good for villa and may want champions league football, but he's made it quite public that he is dedicated to making this club one of the best in the country again. If we are a selling club, why are we yet to sell any of our best players from last season? And even had benteke have left, it would have been his wish, and we'd have had to bit the bullet, we still kept hold of guzan, lowton, westwood, weimann whi were all very good players for us last year

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Try stopping me Dave ;)

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19 Jul 2013 08:34:14
Decided to join villadave, mendax, leroy and villamurf and make a sign off name, I post on here quite a lot and with the length threads are becoming i'd like to see what was me, and i'd also like you to have somebody to address by name, as villadave previously spoke about. I'd contemplated it before but I didn't bother as if I said something controversial which people didn't like they would automatically disagree with future posts just because i'm the same poster but hey-ho, who cares. While i'm posting, who would everybody LIKE to see replace benteke, as in, if you were paul lambert, who would you go for, doesn't just have to be people we've been linked with

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Morning ethAVFC.

I would like to see Finnbogason at Villa park to replace Benteke (thats if he leaves) even if he stays I think Finnbogason would be a great player to have at the club, he seems to have it all.
Think of the options we would have up front!

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Heard a lot about finnbogason, but admitedly i've never really seen him play, does he have similarities to anybody in the prem? What style of play does he suite, would he rather be a target man like benteke or play next to somebody like the old carew and gabby partnership?

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Nice to know who I am arguing (in the politest sense of the word) with mate
Mendax

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Hi ethAVFC

I have only seen him play in possibly 3 whole games for Heerenveen, and have been very impressed.
He would be a good foil for Helenius who I feel will be a great player for Villa.
Finnbogason is a bit like Defoe in the box but a bit taller and he is very predatory, half a chance and he is on it.
He does not have the power of Benteke.
And yes I think he would fit into our style of play, but we do need an attacking midfielder to supply these balls through the channels.

This is only my personal opinion, other people might not agree.

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Welcome to the dark side ;)

I think leaving a name not only makes it more personal (in a good way) but gives some kind of continuity.

I like the banter and there are no real wrong answers on here as it is all opinion in my view.

It has been a little testy on here regarding Benteke and whether or not we should get rid or not. As mendax has said above, if we continue to sell our best players year in and year out, what does the future really look like?

Having said that, I have been openly a huge fan of Finnbogason. The guy has a proven goal scoring record and is a lethal finisher that has a nose for a goal.

There have been a couple of names thrown around, but to me, Finnbogason should be first on the list. We have a reasonable record with Scandinavian players and they have a cool and calm temperament (except for me ex girlfriend who was Finnish :)) and are very loyal to the cause.

We have seen this with Mellberg, Laursen, Allback, Sorenson and now Okore and Helenius.

That would be my pick, even though Gomis is a more fashionable name, I just think and out and out goal scorer is needed.

Leroy

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Well the posts about benteke are irrelevant now anyway, however I do hope he doesn't up and leave next season anyway. Because really what is the point in us bothering with him for 12 more months? Anyway let's just wait and see what happens in a year. As my original post is now irrelevant. Are there any positions that we think do need strengthening and who would you like to see come in now? I'm presuming the popular answer will be attacking midfielder!

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19 Jul 2013 08:28:07
Just read that spurs are putting in a 20mil bid for soldado and apparently it should be enough to get him. So is It likely they would still be interested in our contract rebel?

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19 Jul 2013 08:14:10
If benteke goes and bent i'm afraid I think its going to be a another long hard season 2 years ago bent goals kept us up and last years bentekes goals also kept us up. don't think weimann or agbonlahor have got it in them to score 15 - 20 goals in a season I see palace hull linked with top players but us no one really worried!

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Are you suggesting that should benteke leave, we'll just stick the money in our account? No, we'll obviously replace him. Had bent have left last season you'd have said the same until benteke came in and scored 19 goals. Even if we didn't replace him I would also like to point out that yes benteke scored goals but if he left, we wouldn't play ten players with no striker would we? Gabby and weimann scored 12 each from on the wings so i'm sure if one (or both) of them pushed into benteke's place they'd get a couple more

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18 Jul 2013 22:00:33
"Just thought I would throw this one into the mix"

I am sure all Villa fans would like to hear VP rocking from 3pm - 4. 50pm every Saturday.

Where do songs and chants originate, would it be possible to compose a couple online.
Example: throw some well known songs about so we have the basics, and then we as fans submit the lyrics?

I remember going to the Baseball ground years ago when Cloughie was the boss, the Derby fans used to bang the seats in between shouting Derby
The atmosphere was electric.

We have some great songs but this is the start of a new beginning at VP.

I like THE BELLS ARE RINGING but not sang enough.

Your thoughts lads, and be honest I won`t be offended.
Just thought it would be good to get away from the transfer saga`s

villadave

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We knew he would score, he is sh**e, but we knew he would score. Agbonlahor.

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18 Jul 2013 15:44:02
I don't suppose anyone has heard of any right backs that PL is interested in, as we only have lowton I think we need some cover incase of injury.

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Webb will probably be used as cover and Okore can play right back as well

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Tell him to take Bardsley off our hands lol

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Chris herd will be the real cover for right back, he can fill in a few other places too so he's a good player to have on the bench

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18 Jul 2013 15:14:59
Is any other Villa fan slightly bemused at the fact that we have one of the best academy�s out there, yet cannot seem to bring through any real stars?

I wonder what is the sticking point? Is it because we don't allow them a good enough run at making the first team?

Is it because the talent is just not there?

It kind of makes you wonder what's the point of spending such a huge amount of money on it if we are not really getting a lot out of it, in terms of players being developed into fine talent.

Maybe its because that's really the only chance we have at winning something these days?

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We don't have the all round quality to be able to give the kids a game, the big teams can afford to drop a starting 11 player to give a youth player a game because they have great quality on the rest of the pitch, we haven't got the ability to drop our best players to give the kids a game because we'd no doubt lose and its too much of a risk, it was also easier to rotate when we were in europe due to playing mid week and needing to give players a rest. Be honest, if you was in paul lamberts position, and had to fight really hard for every point, would you drop the likes of westwood, lowton, weimann, guzan and the rest and play drennan, or carruthers? I wouldn't unless we were a proper top 10 team. If we get enough points on the board early this season we might see some of the youth get a chance.

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Very simple, only one in twenty five will ever make it into the league and one in a hundred will get to the prem.

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I can understand your point pal but the way football is you go down bye bye money we have got some great great kids there who are going to shine through and hopefully this will be the season I'm villa withmy heart unfortunately it's a business to others but I do know we've got a great manager 1 season in he will clock the young kids onwards and upwards

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I understand what you are saying on this and yes it does seem that way, "BUT" think about it

It depends what you deem to be a real star?
We have had several good players come through the ranks, but real stars I am not so sure.

I think if you looked at the stats of most clubs youth policies there would be very few real stars rom any one club.

I would guess 3% or maybe 4% become real stars if you are lucky, in real terms 3-4 out of 100

villadave

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M8 it's because we sell them before they reach the first team is why u never here about them

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Weimann, Baker, Clark, Gardner, and the euro champ youngsters will be class

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18 Jul 2013 08:50:30
I think if Rooney leaves that's when the transfer merrygoround starts man u app 60m for bale so benteke I would think your next move very carefully I still think send him on loan to Cowdenbeath

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18 Jul 2013 08:50:27
With Benteke due to report for training today will give everyone an insight as to how much he wants out of Villa, As when he was at Genk refused to train and play. With Spuds not wanting to meet our asking price I would still not sell him to spuds even if they met the £25 million asking price.
Possible replacements there is a few players that could offer something to villa you have Remy Ba Gomis i'd even have a cheeky loan bid for Hernandez we could offer him game time united prob wouldn't want to loan him but you never know.
Think the whole team will benefit from the "Bomb Squad " gone as so much money tied up in contracts with these players V. t. i. d

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Hernandez will only score goals for man utd, because as we all know from our visit to old trafford, offsides don't count for united players. If he'd have scored last seasons goals in a villa shirt more than half would have been given offside lol

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Your point is well made Andy. The only thing that is different this time however, is that we are on the eve of the world cup.

Im thinking that will serve as an added incentive for Benteke to front up at training.

I just hope we stick to our guns with this apparent deadline that we have set. If the valuation is not met he stays on.

I don't think Randy or Lambert are silly enough to sell him close to the transfer window deadline.

Leroy

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17 Jul 2013 21:23:58
Getting fed up of these spuds fans now.

Can't wait for them to part with all that money to us, then come next summer they will have the drama with Benteke like we have now.

Bale will be off also, so be careful what you wish for hey.

Lambert will replace him with quality along with a few more signings.

We will soon be waving at spuds when we pass em.

They will feel we've well stitched em up.

Good bye Mr Benteke and good riddance, we only want players who actually want to play football and then the money comes with it. Not players who come for the money.

Villa Chris B6

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If you fed up with us Chris how come you been on our page? Anyway you was quite respectful to our team (eventually). This will hopefully be all over soon (seems like it's been going on forever) and both our teams can move on. Best of luck sir, the Epl is big enough for both teams.

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Nah mate it will only be over for another summer. Next summer it may be arsenal or even Chelsea after our next crop.

The frustration my spurs friend is as the last 5 years we think we are actually getting somewhere and players then get pulled from us.

Nothing personal to you as next year will be someone else.

Good luck to you boys down south anyway.

Villa Chris B6

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Guna be a long time before we overtake the potatoes

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The spuds won't be able to win if bale isn't carrying them.

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17 Jul 2013 19:51:57
Anyone else think it's worth trying to swap Bent for Cisse? Seeing he has fallen out with his club & we can provide him with a nice Acorns shirt to wear and not a nasty sponsor in site!
Can you have two separate sponsors on the same shirt in the same game? anyone know the rules on that?

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I can see your thinking on this one, and his goal scoring ratio is pretty good.

Myself I would prefer a younger talent that will grow with the team, "that's if they stay long enough"

So would prefer the cash personally.

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When a club signs a contract with a sponsor, like we have with Defabet, it is very likely that the contract would stipulate that the players will all wear the shirt that is provided with the sponsors logo on it. If a player is given liberty to not do this (by the club) then they are likely in breach of contract and the sponsor could sue them for the full amount of the contract they signed.

Whilst I agree with Cisse entirely, if I were the sponsor I would sue them for the full 8m per year and more on top as the defamation of the brand would be viewed as a tort.

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If he's got a problem with a loan company on his shirt I would expect he's got a problem with gambling on his shirt

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Cisse doesn't work hard enough a bit like bent
They noth wait to be played in.

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17 Jul 2013 12:18:47
D day tomorrow let's see ifs he's got the bottle to turn up to training will be interesting to see what happens

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Sure is villamurf, if he is absent I have read somewhere that PL will hit him with a 20k fine.
Lovely Jubblie.

villadave

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I'm hoping its 20k for every training session missed, that way we should just hold on to him until deadline day and we'd have made back what we payed him in wages!

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Can only fine him 3 weeks wages max. so 20k per week would equal him not being paid. If he continues to not turn up then Villa would have to choose what to do. Make him turn up and train with the kids for his 20k per week or go into dis-honour and not pay him (or fine him) and breach contract allowing him to claim constructive dismissal and leave.

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16 Jul 2013 21:36:53
Don't mean to be the barer of bad news people but Vydra will not be joining AVFC. PL knows he has to replace the potentially outgoing Benteke but he has no need to replace Bent. We have Wiemann, Gabby and Helenius for that, plus Bowery. That is the area he needs to find a gem in, CF, a man to replace our beloved Judas Benteke. In addition to this, a new right back as cover is required, expect something to happen almost immediately when Given, Bent and Ireland depart. As we all know, there is an AM on the radar too, still strong links with Kiyotake, when the money is available, and several others! Expect a big name signing for AM, but an unknown hidden gem for CF. ! #vtid #avfc

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Thats not bad news for me, I hate vydra, signing him would be a massive step back in my opinion.

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I think "hate" is a little strong. I reserve that emotion for far more deserving causes. However, I do agree that this would not be a dissappointment
Mendax

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16 Jul 2013 20:37:02
Anzhi Makhachkala have apparently put in a £26m bid for benteke, which Anzhi negotiators known to be in UK. Its expected Villa will be happy to sell Benteke more freely to Anzhi than Spurs.

dutchvillan

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I wouldn't be surprised if this happened Anzhi have money to splash. It would be better if Benteke went abroad instead of staying in England.

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I doubt he'd make the belgium team if he goes there, but if he's greedy enough to take the money then that serves him right.

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I don't think that it is money that Bentakee is after. His agent is after the money and has sold him the story of "the grass is always greener elsewhere. " But as in the real world we all know that this is not quite true.

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16 Jul 2013 20:34:28
Personally I think this whole idea of Player contracts and agents should be completely restructured.
I think if a player signs a 4 year deal he would have to honour 50% of that contract (2yrs) or pay to get out, if he stays he benefits so does his agent.

If he wants out before the 2yrs he will have too buy himself out, at 40% of the contract value

If he passes the 2yrs mark his agent is then paid a bonus for each year after that, say 10% per year.

I think this would help stabilise a lot of contract rebels.

Example 1: Benteke contract value £1,000,000
So at 40% he would have to pay £400,000 to get out, agent gets nothing, only the fee arranged with his player.

Example 2: Benteke contract value £1,000,000
His penalty clause lapsed so he can leave, but his agent now starts to earn an extra 10% per year ie £ 20,000 this might help.

This structure would obviously need tweeking but the basics would be as above.

Only an idea, but something needs to be done and soon.

What do you think lads?

villadave

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Dave. you have way too much time on your hands mate! Good idea though
Seriously doesn't your Mrs moan you spend so much time on here?!

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I like the idea of that in principle I have to say
Mendax

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Re-The Mrs moaning.

Anything to do with Villa she knows i'm happy.
If i'm happy she`s happy, and if she is happy then I am happy, she is happy that we are both happy, so being happy makes sense.
If that makes sense.

Joking apart, I love it and have found an outlet for my feelings and love for our club.

Chatting with you guys is great fun,
I just get worked up a bit with some of these pie in the rumours.

villadave

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Your idea would revolutionise the whole transfer system. Fees would be reduced hugely as 2 years is all you could expect from any player. They could not totally go against contract law principles. As things stand anyone can buy themselves out of a contract and contracts must be honoured whilst in place. If a player did buy themselves out of a contract, they or their new employers may be sued by the ex club to re coup the transfer fee. Also the player would have to buy out his contract himself as a third party getting involved would be a real conflict of interest and bring themselves into dishonour - as such would lose any case brought against them.

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Haha Dave thanks for clearing that up RE The mrs! I only posted it as i'm jealous that mine always moans when i'm on here & hates football and the fact i've been & I quote "miserable every weekend since the little ginger man came"
She also moans about the "sex" adverts!
You are a legend mate. keep venting. Site is so much better since you, mendax & Leroy arrived!

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Re-Mrs
Thank you very much for your kind words, whoever you are.
If you buy your mrs a kindle fire like I did it might help your cause, she will get lost in it and won`t have a clue what your doing.
It would also be nice to know who you are.

Thanks again mate

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Re-Mrs
I wish I had the money for a kindle fire Dave! Its hard enough to get her of so I can use the laptop so maybe its the way forward! The names Andy, from Bucks been going to VP since 1979 and using this site for a few years but like I said much better since you, Mendax & Leroy appeared! {Ed001's Note - she makes you satisfy her sexually before you are allowed to use the laptop?}

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Cheers Andy.

It would be good then if we could have a whip round for you at VP on match days, soon get your laptop.
Look forward to more banter with you and the lads.
Try and sign off with your name or something so we know its you.

Lets look forward to a great season.

villadave

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Ha! A whip round would be kindly appreciated maybe at the Malaga game? Thanks for that Ed001. I missed an f off & I wish that's what it took! haha I'm blushing!
I've done a sign off now Dave so yes banter aplenty & hopefully a great season! {Ed001's Note - maybe you should try that then, put a smile on her face and she won't care how long you spend chatting about the Villa!}

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16 Jul 2013 13:21:12
Possible team for next year if transfers are completed:
Guzan
Lowton-Vlaar/Baker-Okore-Luna
Westwood-Sylla
Bacuna-Weimann-Agbonlahor/Tonev
Castaignos/Helenius
Subs-Steer, Bennett, Gardner, Carruthers, Albrighton, Helenius/Castaignos, Delph

Reserves- Bowery, Stevens, Clark, Herd, Burke, Drennan, Webb, Johnson, Siegrist, Bannan.

Opinions?.

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Would suit me. i'm not sure we will play a 4 2 3 1, the 4 3 3 we used last season may though need revising when that 'famous belgian' leaves.

busi

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Bannan won't be there hopefully

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15 Jul 2013 21:31:22
Apparently the latest now is benteke wants a move to tottenham finalised by thursday. His attitude on the whole situation is appaling. Would like to see benteke go as soon as possible. Think he has shown his true colours by handing in a transfer request and has no respect when we gave him his break and took a risk with him. We consistently left out a proven premier league goalscorer in his favour and spent 7 million on a virtually unheard player. Its a shame he could have been a legend but we survived without him before and we will again. Without bale tottenham are a very average side and certainly with or without bale will not be challenging for the title next season and are not even in the champions league either. So why does he want to go there so much? £££££££? Hopefully we will get 25 million for him and he will flop there

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Yeh, have just read it myself.

It states he doe`s not want to turn up for training on Thursday, and wants it sorted in 72 hours.

This only indicates to me, you are afraid to face your team mates who welcomed you, and PL who gave you your big chance.

Shame on you Benteke and your agent.
"IF" what we are reading is true, I for one hope you never pull our beloved shirt over your head again.

villadave

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Where did he say this? I want to read what Judas said

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Its sad, but this is an indictment on world football. There are barely any "club heroes" like we used to have in the glory days.

Noone could give a s*** about pride or passion of the fans, instead, players run off at the first sign of money.

Until there is a cap introduced, we will never win a thing i'm afraid. All of the leagues in teh world are almost pre determined with only three or four team any realistic shot at winning the trophy.

There must be a cap so that player management/coaching/junior development comes back and figures in the premier league.

Rich get richer poor get relegated. Football is dying these days in my eye. I have to support two teams, Aston Villa, the team I have always supported and loved and Chelsea, as they are atleast always going to make CL and gives me someone to follow during the comp so there is atleast some interest.

This is the way I have learned to "cope" with the vast disparity that we have in the game today.

Leroy

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A big man in size only no bottle to face management and team mates as previously said I would give him away for nothing rather than give him to spurs let him rot in the reserves can't wait for bale to do one aswell

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Read it on Newsnow last night, it was one of the links that you can navigate too, hopes that makes sense.

villadave.

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15 Jul 2013 21:01:00
Benteke will join Tottenham this week
for a fee of £23m all paid in 1 lump sum
10% sell on clause in contract
5 year deal
£85k a week.

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"Rubbish"

Have just read this on your spurs site.

Its 25 mill mate, not 23, or any other figure.

£25,000,000 now do you understand

villadave

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Villadave, your going to look so stupid when spurs get him cheaper than 25. Ready to eat humble pie?

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15 Jul 2013 16:21:07
Difficult to see which way the Benteke saga will go.
Looks like Spurs will not meet the 25m price and with a dirth of other suitors at the moment it could get awkward.

I think we should get this Constagios guy anyway or at least line the deal up. Give Benteke until August to apologise or freeze him out.

Perhaps someone like Athletico will come in with a late 20m swoop as the price should be 25m for Spuds and 20m for anyone else. I just want a settled and sorted squad in time for the new season kick off day.

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I think Athletico will be happy with David Villa as Falcao's replacement. It doesn't look like Spurs will cough up enough but who knows. Personally I don't think anyone will make an acceptable offer for Benteke and he'll end up staying for another season or maybe even just to January, but my opinion doesn't mean much.

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We don't have to sell him to anyone we can keep him here you think he will go on strike with the world cup coming up I don't think so if he wants to go to chas and dave fc the mans head needs looking at because we can pay the same wages as them if we need to I would want 30 mill at least for him and upfront messing hopefully he will be still next season with his fizhog sorted up the villa

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News on London media is the deal will be 23m with add ons a 5 year deal worth 85k a week

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15 Jul 2013 14:01:04
Ashley Westwood has just sign a new 4 year contract

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15 Jul 2013 12:39:52
Benteke's not leaving, he'll sign a new contract by august 1st

Shay given, stephen ireland and alan hutton will all be gone by the end of the month.

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Can`t wait to see the back of Ireland and Hutton.

Have got to go down as two of Villa`s worst ever signings.

villadave

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Could we add Ginola to this list?
How about we name the worst buys we have ever made?
Somewhere near the top may come some guy we plucked from Belgium name of Bentakee!

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15 Jul 2013 10:28:58
Westwood to sign new deal

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15 Jul 2013 09:57:52
Udinese want to keep Vydra but a 10m bid from aston villa would see him coming to villa park according to reports in italy

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15 Jul 2013 08:49:44
It is obvious that the Spuds are not as rich as they make out or they would have stumped up the £25m for Benteke.
If I were in his place I would be telling Spuds that I was in doubt about thier total ambition and then tell PL that I want to stay.
Lots of Spud fans are also questioning why Levy has not paid up the money as Benteke could be their man to get them into Europe/Champions league.
Also lots of Spuds are saying that they don't need Benteke.
What ever happens I am sure that PL will tell Levy to stick the dross that he wants to lose as part of the intended fee right up his White Hart lane.

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Mate the reason we are well off is because of levy's penny pinching we are a self run club who make a profit almost every season. We don't have a sugar daddy to buy us the league unlike other teams so we need to spend our money wisely so excuse us for trying to haggle a bit. Most spurs fans would rather £25m spent on someone who has been proven for more than one season. what's with all the hatred towards spurs now, we didn't screw you over with jenas he had to pass a medical before you signed him and if we tapped up benteke then i'm sure you did it with d bent when he was at sunderland because didn't he do he same thing I spose that has been forgotten about.

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Bent did not do the same thing, sunderland wouldn't sell for below their asking price so we payed it and he signed, that's what you do when you want a player, you give the team the money they want along with a bit of respect, something spurs don't appear to be doing.

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How can you be well off when you can't raise £25m for one of the most exciting prospects to hit the prem. for some years? No suggestion that Benteke was tapped but someone did get into his brain. There is no hatred of Spuds, just a long memory of players that were lured from VP to WHL going back many years. One returned from England duty and told Villa he was signing for Spuds. It appears that Spuds manager at the time was travelling with the England team. Then Hutton & Jenas. Not all Spuds fault but it does leave a smell.

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Having the money and haggling is a trait of all good businessmen. You don't think rich people pay top prices for items do you? They know they are spending a lot of money someone wants to sell so they haggle. If both party's don't agree, they walk away. It's basic business surely you get that?

As for the tapping up, didn't Benteke go on strike to join Villa? You must've tapped him up aswell then going by your logic.

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14 Jul 2013 23:00:53
I keep reading Totenham are preparing to test villa`s resolve with a bid of 20 mil for Benteke.

Is levy stupid or what, sources at villa park have stated that 25 mil is the going price and NOT a penny less.

Read the papers Mr Levy its 25 MILLION.

I can`t help thinking that all this is going to backfire on our man and he will end up staying put,

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You said it "read the papers". It's full of bs and your a fool if you believe it.

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14 Jul 2013 20:53:11
If Benteke is sold obviously need a new striker, but come on, we have no idea who will come in. Luuk de Jong hopefully haha

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14 Jul 2013 19:16:50
Alfred Finnbogason being mentioned again - 24 goals in 31 games last season in Holland and 70 goals in 115 career games to date.

Clearly knows where the net is and seems to be priced at c6m. With Spurs reportedly bidding for Benteke this week, this lad from Iceland could be ear marked as a replacement.

Maybe another Lambert gem.

Can't see Lambert spending big money on one player even with money from Benteke presumably available as a big signing would surpass our wage budget.

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"How I got it wrong". When the rumours started about Helenius coming to VP, I looked on you tube to see who he was. On the goal highlights he looked clinical, but I noted none of the goals were headers, so I posted my concern, low and behold his first 2 goals for villa were headers, so happily, nothing to worry about then.

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Well done for being so honest.

He is going to be really good for us, I have no worries at all.

We have got to give him chance to settle as well, and the goals will come.

villadave

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14 Jul 2013 18:35:03
another drab, 3rd straight, 1-1 draw in germany. people will say oh but used 22 players again. I don't care, we are playing against very weak opposition and if our best 22 cannot beat any of these lightweight opponents it will be another season of struggles. shame because I was starting to think, with all these new signings and last years recruits gelling, that we would really push up the prem to mid-table (ish) this year. we really have to pull our socks up, get benteke situation sorted 1 way or another and finalise any new signings as quick as we can so we can really push on. good luck boys. COME ON YOU VILLA BOYS!

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Early days. If you equate the results they are all away draws which last season we would have lost. PL has stated that it is about fitness and players getting to know each other. Give the lads a chance.

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You again, get real! Their season starts in 1 week so they are already at full speed, ours is 5 weeks away and these were basically training sessions, its clear we weren't fighting for a win because we don't need/want to, especially the likes of albrighton and gardner, its best for them to take it easy and work on fitness. Stop being an absolute donkey, oh no united and city lost in a friendly! They must be going down with us! These weren't games of football mate, they were training excersizes we could've won 13-0 or lost 13-0 and it would make absolutely no difference to our premier league season.

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Keep your chin up mate, early day's, it can only get better!

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Come on mate, hold up a bit.

These games mean nothing, and are only meant to gain match fitness.

The teams PL has put out so far will be nothing like what takes to the field against Arsenal.

I read nothing into so called friendlies.

Man City, Everton, Man Utd, have all lost to poor opposition in the last two days.

Relax.

villadave

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My god the doom and gloom merchants are already out, back your team if your a true fan, or sod off and find a different team to support and moan about. Give them a chance to get fit, and gel together.

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It don't matter about the result the players need to start gelling together and get there fitness back. Some need to recover from injuries and get back into there best form. When this happens (which will be before the season starts) we will be a force to be reckoned with.

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Should pellegrini get the sack at city after their woeful result then?

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Were unbeaten, and have had a good start in my opinion

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If we lose or draw at Wycombe on the 20th then u can b concerned

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Blimey, someone give him a cuddle!
3 games in 4-5 days was only ever going to be about fitness and letting the players get to know each other in a match situation mate
They will be tested soon enough, let's not give up on the team just yet
Chin up!
Mendax

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14 Jul 2013 15:18:21
Swansea bid 2.5 milion for Michy Batshuayi I think he will be one for the future worth a punt.

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14 Jul 2013 14:18:47
Anyone else think that PSG's gamiero would be a good replacement for the enevitable departure of benteke?

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14 Jul 2013 12:49:17
Personally, I want Benteke just to leave, even if we keep him the sane uncertainty will remain every transfer window. We don't need nor deserve such an attitude at a club and if he is forced to stay then he will only cause issues within the camp and will only result in a drop in his value. Cash in on him now and reap the benefits and bring in players like Castaignos, Kiyotake or Parker who hopefully won't leave for pastures new after one season. If I were Lambert I'd preferably look to sell him to Germany or Spain, but if not sell him to Spurs in a deal like £25 mill plus Parker. It would be foolish to keep a hold of an unhappy player when you can find a suitable replacement for a lower price along with a few squad players.

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Really not sure that he wants to leave. Agents are the thorn in every players and supports side and their only looking after their own interests. Not once have I heard or heard another villa player (which I, m very friendly with a number of first team players) that benteke has asked to leave. They, ve all said he's a team player and a nice lad to have around the place. Hand on heart I think he will stay ( bloody hope so got his name on my sons shirt ) really think that he will stay and if he does we all give him and the team all the support they deserve. Villa till I die

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14 Jul 2013 06:36:10
Luc Castaignos seems to be the player Lambert has in mind to replace Benteke. He's expected to be available for about £7/8m - he's a strong 6. 2 ft striker with the strength of the beast & the ability to be a new Villa striking hero.

dutchvillain
(i'm the one who made the Jed Steer call a few months back - so please hear me out again!)

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Would be happy with this. Better than Benteke.

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If you are that man then I'm listening.

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Castaignos is a quality player with a good goal-scoring record. Would love for this to happen even if we keep Benteke.

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Listen to this dude, he knows what he's talking about

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14 Jul 2013 06:24:45
Lambert has apparently had initial talks with FC Twente over Luc Castaignos, the 20 year old striker. It is expected if Benteke leaves, Castaignos could join Villa for a fee in the region of £6-8m.

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13 Jul 2013 22:45:28
Have to say you villa boys are putting a on a brave face seeing how you are about to lose your only chance of survival for the coming season

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Football's a game of 11 players in a team, not one. If we sell Benteke you really think Lambert won't sign a suitable replacement? He resigned Guzan, signed Lowton, Westwood and Benteke for under £10m. They were our 3 best players last season. On top of his signings already this season, what do you think he'd do if he got £30m to spend? My guess is a much stronger squad.

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I'm very confident of a top ten finish next season and improving thereafter I wouldn't be sure pal that benteke will be going but if he does life goes on and a chance for somebody else to shine onwards and upwards I say

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We "Villa boy's" are of course, irritated that we will probably loose a very talented striker, but we really have no worries in regard to survival. The club as you know, is in an excellent financial position and we have a very dedicated Owner & CEO and one of the best Manager's in the EPL. Our squad is young, talented & committed, and our supporters are enthusiastic and positive. Whatever happens with Benteke we still expect to finish in the top 10. Thank you for showing concern, but as you can see, there really is no need, we are, on the whole very very happy with life at Villa park, why wouldn't we be? You don't seem to have mentioned who you support, I do hope life at your chosen club is as encouraging as it is at ours. Kind Regards from all AVFC supporters

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Thing is Villa won't get that money for a one season wonder.

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Benteke isnt't the only player to score goals for us last season, gabby and weimann scored from the wings at arguably more important times. And are you seriously suggesting that if we lose benteke for an £18m profit we won't replace him? You think we'll just put the £25m in the bank? No, we won't spend it all, but that money will get us another player of benteke's ability for cheap and also bring in an attacking midfielder which was the missing link last season! Uncross your fingers and worry about your own team, villa will be fine

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What, exactly was the point of this initial post?
The world of online football transfer gossip truly is the domain of the person
Grow up
Mendax

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Point of original post was made to cause irritation, which didn't really work, as it just caused a positive response by our supporters, so as stated in one of the post's "life is good at VP" so if any other Nobby's want to post, feel free!

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13 Jul 2013 08:28:23
Why not keep Bent now that Benteke wants to leave. Bent is the best finisher we have had in years.

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Because he doesn't fit the way we play so is effectively useless to us
It's been demonstrated pretty clearly
Mendax

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Bent does not have the work ethic that PL requires.
Granted he is a good finisher, but is rarely able to create anything himself.
And I think Bent can also become ineffective if man marked, where players like Lukaku, Benteke, etc are difficult to mark because of their movement and physical strength.

villadave

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I wouldn't say he's "effectively useless to us", he's a player who could come on the bench for any team and score a goal. His finishing alone is worth something. But you're right that Lambert doesn't want us paying 60k a week or whatever he's on if he isn't going to play 90 mins every week.

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"Effectively useless" is this how we now describe an established goalscorer, not so long ago an England International. When Bent was injured for World cup, described by Hodgson as a big loss. We will play with wide players who will cross the ball, so why will bent be useless, his game is to run onto passes and score. His failing at villa is caused by his wages & Benteke's talent, We were all singing his name a short time ago, his time at VP may be over, but he has on the whole shown respect to the club, so stating he is "effectively useless" is out of order.

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So villadave would you have described Lineaker ineffective as well?

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I agree mate, his finishing is second to none.
But because of the way we play, he doesn't get a chance to demonstrate it
Its a shame but it's true.
No point us flogging a dead horse
Mendax

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Your not reading posts properly again are you.

I have said I think he CAN become INEFFECTIVE if man marked.

Not effectively Useless.

I also said he is a good finisher, but not in the system we now play.

I am not having a pop at Bent, but just saying it as it is, he is not needed by PL.

I thought he was a great signing at the time as well, and will be good for another club.

But the system & team we have now sorry but No.

villadave

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Lineker was a more mobile player than Bent, and could link up play better.
He was another great striker, and to answer your question, yes I have seen lineker man marked and become Ineffective.

That's what football is about is it not
To neutralise your opponent?

villadave

villadave

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I'm with mendax here, bent was useless as we had two strikers on the wing who let's be honest, haven't got the best delivery. Our delivery was always route one to benteke who got the ball down and we played from there, bent is useless at getting anywhere near a ball that's booted up to him. don't get me wrong, if you can give the ball to bents feet in the box 4/5 times a game he's a 20 goal a season striker but we couldn't do that last year. However with this said, maybe the players we have brought in (bacuna and tonev mainly) would be able to provide a much better service to bent. Its not worth the risk though, because if we can't get the ball to his feet just like last season then we're paying him 60k a week to warm the bench up for another year.

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To the guy who was quoting Hodgson's comment. I think you are mistaking the description "Effectively useless" with the description "useless"
Clearly Bent has ability and an eye for goal. He is not a player that is "useless" in the conventional sense of the word. That is why I used the caveat of "effectively". It is as much to do with the way we are set up to play that Bent has become "Effectively useless" to us.
I am not having a go at Bent. I am suggesting that he is the victim of circumstance and we have suffered because of it
Does that make it clear what I meant?
Mendax

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Villadave, I think you mean "less effective" if man marked, pretty much the same as any other manmarked forward.

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It is such a shame that because Bent agreed a deal that paid him £60k+ a week that he is surplus to requirements. He may come back to haunt us at a later date. A striker of ability who will always score vital goals and I will be sorry to see him leave.

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Yes I stand corrected.

"Less effective"

Good point

Villadave

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12 Jul 2013 20:46:43
Where is mr negative saying we're going to be relegated because we drew another pre-season with half the youth playing and 10 changes at half time?

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12 Jul 2013 16:00:15
This would be great business but not sure this will happen. Kiyotake deal has gone quiet since being rebuffed and not heard anything about esswein.

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12 Jul 2013 14:13:38
Guys. check out Ederzito for Sc Braga. Seen him play few times looks a beast. He's now coming into his own looks very strong, fast and quite skillful. done up Man united this season. Scored 13 in 18 games, 25yo, valued around £7million. I like look of this guy could fit our philosophy of young and hungry players

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12 Jul 2013 13:04:48
Shay Given going out on loan to Doncaster!

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12 Jul 2013 12:33:15
What do we all think about the prospect of demba ba coming?

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Would be a good player to get. If we swapped Benteke + 16m for Ba and invested in a creative attacking midfielder I would think we can have a good season.

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Benteke no better than Ba, straight swap not a penny more

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Well chelsea got him for 7 million and he's 28 hardly a fair straight swap for a player we want 25 mill for

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Benteke is worth triple the fee of Demba Ba. His age, talent and potential clearly show that

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Benteke for de Bruyne and ten+ million would be a great deal

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11 Jul 2013 21:37:38
Hearing from a source close to the villa that club are looking at belgian striker Ilombe Mboyo

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His profile is poor, also been in nick for gang rape 10 years ago.
Is also a bit temperamental, provokes his own supporters, so I don't think the type of player PL would go for.
Hope not anyway.

villadave

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11 Jul 2013 18:35:07
It is such a shame that Benteke has gone from hero to villain in a matter of days. If he stays will we still be hailing him as our hero or will he be treated with contempt? I beleive that he should be made to stay for at least the coming season and if neccessary sit on the bench and sulk. However if he decides to strike then we don't have to pay him a penny. Spuds are arrogant enough to ask for a reduction in the asking price so perhaps we should knock off 50p and then include some add ons to push the fee to nearer £30m. Will Lerner give in to Levy, There is more chance of me climbing Everest.

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11 Jul 2013 16:34:47
Understand there has been a short unpleasant exchange between Spurs and Villa. Spurs insisted that the fee for Benteke should be dropped to £20 million. Villa refused point blank wanting £25 million at least, paid over 2-3 years.

Spurs tried to offer players in exchange but some of the players aren't interested. Parker wants to go to QPR and Huddlestone isn't wanted by Villa. Sigurdsson doesn't want to move to Villa either.

Chelsea registered an interest in Benteke but won't consider a swop with Lukaku. Chelsea want Benteke PLUS cash for Lukaku.

Villa keen to resolve before the season starts because Villa simply can't afford to keep paying Benteke if he isn't playing and because his value will drop, slowly but surely.

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Sorry but you talk utter garbage. Was you at the end of the table when villa took the call from Levy lol. We would not want Parker or huddlestone as there crap. You must know sigardson very well as he has told you he would not come.
As for Chelsea they are not even interested and Lukaku would not interest us with his wages.
You made yourself look stupid on both comments. Oh and the other thing Villa will not mind paying Benteke 20k to sit on the bench or reserves. We have paid D. B over treble that to do just that.
Benteke has 3 options someone pays the asking price, which apparently no one wants to, villa will not reduce the asking price.
Or Benteke stays eats humble pie probably need to sack his agent to redeem himself in order to play to get selected for world cup.
Or he does not get his move sulks / goes on strike like he did at his 2 previous clubs to engineer a move, then Villa will not need to pay his wages put him with the kids like mutton and warnock. Then he still don't go to world cup.
I for 1 do not care either way if he goes we get min 25m which Lambert will buy good players with. Or he stays and he has to buckle down, with the contempt he has shown to us after giving him the coaching, platform to excell himself, built the squad around him and shown commitment to him by dropping our record signing Benteke can do one.
Villa hold all the cards on this one so there will be some justice. Benteke thought he was clever but it's going to backfire on him. For Villa it's win win all round my fellow Villans. Players will come and go, but we will always be there after these self indulgent jumped up footballers have been and gone.
So happy days and UTV.

Villa Chris B6

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PL let Bent, Given, and Ireland (£180k-£200k worth of wages) sit on the bench last season. He's not going to care about £20k. Let him rot in the reserves.

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Of course we can afford it where paying for bent hutton given and ireland allready so with them gone benteke could spend time with the reserves and serves him right for messing around with our club!

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Villa can afford to pay him while on the bench, and will continue to do so until Benteke gets his finger out of his butt.
Don't know about all you villa fans out there but I am just about fed up with all this crap, about Levy & co,
Chelsea etc etc.

POINT IS HE ain't GOING ANYWHERE UNTIL SOME CLUB STUMPS UP 25MIL +

Benteke IS NOT ASTON VILLA, let's not make him believe he is.

We can and will be as good with or without him, let us discuss players who are committed to our cause.

We have 20+other players at VPark
lets not forget that.
Dave

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Love the passion and determination. This is exactly how I feel about it.

Let him rot in reserves unless he gives some form of apology and attempts to redeem himself.

Its time to take a stand with these selfish prima donnas. We cannot allow ourselves to be a doormat for anyone. We are a proud club and thank christ we have the likes of Guzan, Gabby and Vlaar who will run through walls for the club as they are honoured to wear the claret and blue.

Leroy

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I'm with Dave and Leroy on this one
Unfortunately, I doubt that Randy is
Mendax

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Villa Chris 6B - I am afraid you have made yourself look very very silly. Laughable. You lose your little temper about Villa not wanting Huddlestone. which is what I said in the post, proving you'd didn't read it correctly. Or that you don't understand the written word.

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It looks like you have taken it personally, it was not meant like that.
I was stating that you have posted specifics when in reality almost all of your statement has no truth whatsoever, so there's no need to bite.
Spuds know where we stand on the valuation of Benteke, cash only and a lot of it.
PL would have no interest in there players as there either big time charlies

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Continued from above.
Who are also on high wages, who spuds want to get rid of.
It is not down to the buying club to offer certain players. Usually the selling club would ask for a certain player as part of the deal.
I did read your post correctly and responded with passion of our club.
Anyway good luck to your beliefs but non of it would happen mate. UTV


Villa chris B6

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To Villa Chris B6, thanks for your original response, i't exactly how I feel, however I'm far too tired to respond to all this continuing clap trap, some of the same people posting are contradicting their posts from last week, shame on you.

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11 Jul 2013 09:19:47
I would rather give benteke a free transfer to Cowdenbeath than sell him to spurs LEVY you want at least 80 million for bale so you think your going to get one of ours on the cheap this time next year their supporters will be crying into their watered down beer when bale leaves because they are a one trick pony so Cowdenbeath get ready

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Lol

True true!

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11 Jul 2013 06:57:37
i for one being a business man will not budge on 40 mil, all the cards are stacked our way, he leaves at our price or he plays for us, he strikes he won't get paid or be playing which he does not want as the world cup approaching! do not forget we have kept bent, ireland, given on the sidelines who all earn a lot more then tekkers! I for one am not stressed one bit about this situation, what ever will happen it will be for the best for villa as i'm sure lerner will not be persuaded to business on other people terms as it will definatley send a wrong message to all players in the squad now and in the future!

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10 Jul 2013 23:53:04
Well here it is. gutted that benteke is doing to us what he did to Genk. Will we miss him. yes. But let's look at some stark facts. Next seaon will be his second in the premier, teams will know to defend him deeper and just like Chelksi did get a reaction. Secondly, can anyone tell me when he has had an exceptional season before Lambert made him a player?. We are Aston Villa. always bigger than 1 player. if you wanna go benteke then go, from our part its £25m and not a penny less. Villa are on a exciting mission we must keep the faith that we rebuilding and in any normal business we our bound to have natural waste. Find another gem PL, this one was a fake.

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10 Jul 2013 19:11:54
ASTON VILLA SCOOP OR JUST A RUMOUR!

It appears that the hierarchy at AVFC although they would like to keep Big Ben, Are very Interested in a deal with Chelsea FC, The package would be £12mill for Benteke Plus Lukaku.

Personally if our big man leaves then this would definitely lesson the pain, as we would get a young powerful goal scoring player of similar attributes, plus PL then has the funds for our much needed ACM in Chadli/Kiyotake. Disaster avoided Obective resume!

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I wish mate!

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Never going to happen! Why would lukaku go to villa? Don't think he would be happy losing his place a Chelsea to similar player. If Chelsea get benteke lukaku will demand a move and it will be to a bigger club than villa.

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We already have the money for an attacking mid, we've bid for Kiyotake and Belhanda so the money's there whether we sell Benteke or not.

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10 Jul 2013 20:06:06
Could I propose another scenario that I would love to see employed in response to Benteke's request?
Tell him and anyone interested in buying him that the price is £35 million wth the deal concluded by e/o July
If this is not met, Benteke stays, is told he will get his move next year and reminded, should he start playing silly buggers, that their is a world cup next year and that if he wants to get there, he needs to get his head around the harship of staying at Villa for another year
Seems reasonable to me
What we cannot do is be pushed around over this affair.
Mendax

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Sounds good to me Mendax, 35mil would put most if not all clubs out of this mess.
I don't think we will be pushed around on this one because of the politics involved.
Also the timescale, end of July is good we need things to settle down for a few weeks before the season starts.
Also if this did happen his contract should not be improved at all until some sort of commitment is shown.
Dave

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Forgot to add this to my post above in answer to Mendax.
I think there is a lot more to this story than meets the eye.
I would not be surprised if there is a twist in this somewhere, can't put my finger on it, but it just does not feel right.
Too much being said, and yet not enough being said if that makes sense.
"Lets see"
Dave

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10 Jul 2013 14:46:33
Can see all the arm chair scouts are out linking us with heskey-. esk type players to replace Benteke. Please no Zamora or Chamakhs down B6.

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Totally agree with this. It's not so pleasing on the eye, and this is an opportunity to change out style of play get an attacking mid, and a more all rounded striker. I already think Helenius is a great addition.

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Spot on James86

villadave

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Zamora is too old for Lambert. How old is Chamakhs? Would he fit the profile that Lambert is looking for? I think not. WE must trust him too have been prepared for this scenario as Benteke has been indicating that he would not want to stay after his first year. I have no idea where he is looking but I guess it is eastern Europe where the bargains are to be had.

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Please don't link the villa to these awful players, it makes negative reading.

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10 Jul 2013 12:55:19
Cisse could be offered to Villa in a straight swap for Darren Bent. Any takers!

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Why would they do that? He's the only striker they have.

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Could be the problem he has with Wonga. {Ed001's Note - he doesn't have a problem with Wonga, their previous shirt sponsor was a moneylender too! This is just media bull to make up a story where one doesn't exist. If there is a problem between him and the club, it is nothing to do with the shirt sponsor.}

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10 Jul 2013 10:44:06
Benteke seems to be off. let's say we get £25m for the lad. That's still good business - in Lambert we have to keep trusting! I'm sure he can find some more young gem's on small price tags. Most likely he'll sign 2 strikers of which at least 1 which, we will not have any idea who they are.
Rumour going around is he has spotted a Polish talented striker.

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10 Jul 2013 10:14:17
even if we got 30mil for benteke we are still limited to who we buy because of our wage cap. spurs are not a bigger club than villa but will always finish above us due to them payin the better wages.

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There will always be a bias opinion towards the London clubs, for years now.

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10 Jul 2013 10:01:10
If Benteke goes I'd like to see us sign Gary Hooper. Anyone else think he'd be good for us?

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Bad idear

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10 Jul 2013 09:03:34
Lots of speculation about whether Villa have to sell Benteke and whether his value will drop simply because he has put in a transfer request.

As I see it he is less than 1 year into a 4 year contract worth a reported £20k a week.

Villa paid £8m for him and by all conservative estimations he is now worth £20m

Lambert as demonstrated that he is more than willing to allow players on higher wages (Given, Ireland, Bent) to lanquish on the bench or outside the matchday squad.

To all those clubs and agents who believe they can do a deal at the expense of Villa have, I believe, a rude awakening looming. Although I would be happier to see Benteke included in the 1st team every week it would not surprise me if he isn't and even if we have to pay him for 12 months to make a point we should still make a healthy profit on our initial investment.

In PL we trust

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10 Jul 2013 08:44:33
Benteke has banged on about how much he loves and wants to play for Arsenal so how funny would it be if he signed for Spurs? would really show its all about the £'s! Bet he would get a warm welcome at the Emirates next season!

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10 Jul 2013 08:42:58
I love John Carew! A real Villa legend not a one season wonder. Aleays good when ex players refer to us as "we, our & us" He is right Benteke doesn't deserve to play for Villa. Like John I'd play for Villa for free. if I was any good!

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10 Jul 2013 06:49:35
Ahoy fellow villains, just a quick observation about benteke and spurs waiting till the last knockings to get the price down, surely if they do this and put all their hopes on this deal we've got them over a barrel, so what we say is the gospel, not spurs, we dictate the price or they can re-sign their last great strikers, jimmy greaves, to play up front for them next season!any thoughts?
Randy's rebels!

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10 Jul 2013 02:34:35
Benteke has been offered to Liverpool and Man City for £25 million. It will cost Spurs £30 million as there has been clear tapping up of the player, Eris kismet will have to return the nice brown envelope. Lerners going to play hard ball and has promised Lambert a replacement to be funded regardless of a sale or not.

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09 Jul 2013 22:12:43
All I hear is that villa have made a statement regarding Benteke handing in a transfer! Where is this club statement? As Its not on the avfc website!

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The statement was on there

Anyone else sensing a season struggles again if benteke goes
While wondering will helenius step up and is he capable of 15 plus premier goals
And looking at our signing s so far with the loss of benteke will villa be strong enough ment season now so many teams are signing the supposed young gem strikers from weaker leagues

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It has been confirmed and commented upon by Lambert.

He mentions he is disappointed and also that if Villa´s valuation is met, then the offer would be entertained.

If there are no offers that match the valuation Benteke is expected to honour his contract.

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If an offer is made later in the window villa have declared that they would turn it down, so expect a bid within the appropriate time frame or Christian will be staying put. Which basically means we will not be held to ransom.

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09 Jul 2013 21:57:29
If we do end up having to sell Benteke I think villa should target Loic Remy, he would be available on the cheap and even though his wages would be high he is an extremely talented player

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09 Jul 2013 20:38:42
Villa should try to sign Danny Welbeck and kiyotake for 8m and 10m respectively. Would add class and quality, they also suit Lamberts philosophy, still need an experienced Cdm I suggest Mbia of QPR for 6m

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09 Jul 2013 18:45:32
here are my opinions on who could replace benteke
Defoe, Dzeko, papa cisse, remy, huntelaar, Hooper

also villa should bid for Nolan, mcgeady, barry, milner, A. young, and downing, also bid for zaha on loan

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Are you trying to replace the team mate.
?????
Not a good idea.
Dave

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Not a villa fan.

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I am a villa fan I meant to say to only try buy 2 or 3 of these to gain xp for the club

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Resign 3 of our old players? Not going to happen. Also Dzeko and Remy's wages would be far too much so no.

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My buys with benteke cash would be finnobigson Kyle walker or Danny rose thrownIn the benteke deal and kiyoute and maybe Huddleston or another player in that mold

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09 Jul 2013 18:39:50
What about jelle vossen, currently plays in the Belgian league and is a Belgian international. Looks great! Him and Honda! They would be great.

Villa outpost

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Teams should start avoiding belgian players, they have one good season then want to go to a "bigger" club. Mackemphil.

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09 Jul 2013 17:07:26
Benteke out, John Guidetti in anyone! he'd apparently cost £5m-£8m, which is an absolute bargain!

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We've had this suggestion on this site for about a year now, at some point he will move, so why not us!

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09 Jul 2013 17:05:05
I'd just like to add -

None of us want Benteke to go, maybe he has given a transfer request to try get us to offer him more than £40k p/w which is very low for someone of his ability!
if he goes and we get £25m for him, give Lambert the money & he'll pick up another 4 gem's & make them into star's!

#InLambertWeTrust

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09 Jul 2013 16:14:31
If Benteke goes thn he goes. He is an important player but one player don't make a team. We still have Gabby and Weimann. If he goes to Chelsea then I think we should look at £25m and Ba. If to Tottenham or anyone else then we should just get the money. No one knew him before he joined us. We made him and we will be the one laughing at him when he goes to a 'big' club and is sitting on the bench every game. Lambert and his scouts will be able to work there magic again and find an ideal replacement for the big man.
In Lambert we trust.
UTV

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We already have one, Helenius has more or less the same form and statistics ie Goals, Assists etc, as Benteke before either joined Villa.
They are the same weight, but Helenius has 3" more in height, he is better with his feet than Benteke so we should be OK, PL will probably get another striker as well to act as cover!
"Although it might not go down well"
Tekkers might have second thoughts
villadave

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Fairplay villadave if helenius turns out to be a flop your going to have egg on your face. Although I hope your right and am excited to see what the boy has to offer.

Finch

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I love egg Finchy.

I am pretty sure about Helenius,

Dave

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Henenius is 6"5 and Benteke is either 6"3 or 6"4. I don't know why you'd be watching him in the Danish league but my guess is you've just watched his youtube goals like the rest of us. He looks very promising, but take out the standard of the league he came from and we can only hope he has an impact like Benteke did, you can't just claim he's better than him when he's yet to prove it.

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ANSWER to the THE GUY WHO SAID I WATCH YOUTUBE.

I have watched Helenius perform many times a I have stated before.

Why have I been watching Danish football.

The reason is "I Trade on football matches" on Betfair.

you can watch games streamed live on their website and trade on them in-play.

Does that answer you, I don't lie.

villadave

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Benteke is 6`2 mate, look at his profile.
And in reply to your quote, I did not say Helenius is better than Benteke I said he is better with his feet.

We must give him time to adjust.

Dave

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Different sources have him listed from 6"2 and a half up to 6"4. That's besides the point and a relatively pointless argument as height doesn't have an impact on how good a player is. What I've seen of Helenius is enough to prove he's a better player than the league he played in. Whether he can perform in the premier league is yet to be seen. Hopefully he turns out to be a great signing, which I believe he can be.

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So why did you disagree in the first place then, if its not important.

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Because you brought in Helenius' height and weight and compared it to Bentekes' for some bizarre reason. It doesn't make any difference to how well he plays. They're two completely different players.

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That bizarre reason, I was purely trying to say that statistically there is very little difference between the two, before they came to Villa.

Did I answer your remark about watching Danish football, I watch three games a day from all over the world. on betfair.

Dave

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But there is a difference, a big one. Regardless if they are the same height, weight, foot size or whatever. They're different players so that doesn't matter. Yeah you answered it but just because you've watched a player excel in their league, doesn't mean they'll excel in the premiership. You can notice a player and think he looks good, anyone can. The difference between your judgement and one of the villa scouts' judgement, who actually know what they're talking about, is monumental.

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Whatever
Last response to you mate.
So you are agreeing with me then!
I have said all along that Helenius is a good player.
So do the villa scouts otherwise they would not have signed him.
Answer: I agree with Scouts.
Simple ain't it.
Villadave

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09 Jul 2013 16:01:29
Lots of crap coming from the usual london clubs that see themselves as above all others. However nothing has been heard from Mancs or even pool. Wait and see. I think that the list of bidders will be imprssive and probably high. Chelski will throw in a biggy to put others off, but MU have a habit of stealing our best players but this time they may have to pay the real money. Rooney could leave, they won't get Ronaldo, so Benteke will be high on the wanted list.
1) Chelski
2) Mufc
3) Mcfc
4) Gunners, Benteke knows about them
5) Lfc
6) spuds
7)any number of Euro clubs.
THe hope of Lambert persuading Benteke to stay is minimal, the media have ensured that fact.
Should we hang onto Bent? Personally I think that we should as he manages to hit the net given the chance. Benteke will be missed, but Ce la vie. I remember some great players leaving Villa but we always remain loyal to the boys. Forget Benteke and hail the future.

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09 Jul 2013 14:30:11
Sounds coming out of Villa Park is that we will hold out for £30m for Benteke or he will be playing for Villa next season.

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09 Jul 2013 15:27:28
Well Mr Benteke you have really disapointed me and thousands more Villa fans.
Villa and the fans have given you an opportunity to become a legend and part of a transformation that could become as dramatic as the one whitch took place up north 20+ years ago, we have offered you your oyster.
If you had only sat down and spoken to people who care about football and not £££££ you would see that you would be far better at AVFC than any, and I mean any other football club.
Great facilities, great stadium, Great city, and great supporters who love their Idols, ask any former Villa favourite.
Believe me young man united could and maybe WILL regret this day for a long time to come.
WE WILL RISE, with or without you.
Villadave.

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My post above is supposed to say.
Young man u could and maybe Will,
NOT young man united.
Sorry lads.

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Ask any former Idol? really Dave? except Downing, Barry & Young off course, who have all been slated on this site recently.

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09 Jul 2013 14:24:11
I don't very often post comments on here, but I thought today I would.

So we have all read the news, watched tv news etc etc. And to either our horror or worst fears bentekkers is off.

Well firstly i'm disappointed as he is/was the best centre forward we have had since Peter Withe. His goals last year saved our fledgling team from certain relegation and he was just simply a joy to watch. it was like winding up a clockwork battering ram and then letting him reak havoc.

i have seen many people post comments on here saying traitor, judas etc etc. guys get a grip firstly our chairman is not a russian or arab oil billionaire he is just surprising more weathly than you or me. when the chelsea's or Arsenal's (apparently)of this world come knocking then a 22 year old is going to listen. we couldn't turn down rediculous offers for an amazing talent who has just one season in the EPL under his belt. now I am not saying either Chelsea or Arsenal have bid but its rumoured they are interested and by virtue CB has handed in a transfer request must surely mean he has had his head turned by a bigger club.

Also a footballer has a career much like me or you, only there career is about 15 years at the top maximum. so tell me if you was approached (head hunted) by a competitor to to the company you presently work for offering more money, and possibly win more trophys would you not go? I think we all know the answer to that one.

Fact is guys, people say Benteke was too good for AVFC, I disagree we was the perfect match, we gave him the platform to showcase his talent, he kept us in the premier league and also we stand to make a very very tidy profit on him.

Lambert has just brough Nicklas Helenius, massive kid, good with his feet, has a shot like a cannon, apparently he can't head the ball but he is only young. Lambert brought him for a reason, maybe just maybe to replace Benteke as he knew he would be going this summer.

if we recieved an offer anywhere between 25-30 million I would be snapping there hand off. for that we could bring in quality additions.

Wilfred Bony hasn't signed for Swansea yet and i'm sure he would prefer AVFC. also we have been after Kiyotake from Nuremburg. they have said hands off but I think 10 million offer would persuade them otherwise.

this isn't also accounting for the fact that given, bent, bannan, ireland, fonz will shortly be off our wage bill and Lambert will probably add to the squad with these off the playing staff.

lets just see what the end of the transfer window brings and see what happens. stop the hatered guys we would all go for the money that is a fact.

VTID

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Actually kenn i'd play for my team for free!

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09 Jul 2013 13:41:37
do you really think the money from benteke will be spent on a top replacement. lener lost 20 million on bent so if benteke leaves the money will make up for what he lost.

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09 Jul 2013 12:32:16
As a replacement for benteke I'd like to see either 1 of these.

Loic remy qpr
Gary hooper celtic
Fabio borini liverpool
Danny welbeck man u loan maybe
Papis cisse newcastle
Nikita jelavic everton {Ed052's Note - Only Remy (maybe) and Hooper would be realistic options}

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Would love remy's but there's no way we can afford to pay him more than 50k a week

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Jelavic would be to much of a risk

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09 Jul 2013 11:18:55
As a Chelsea fan I'm curious. If we offered £20-23 million, Ba and a loan of Piazon (our young Brazilian star who shined at SW6 against you last year) for a season would you take that for Benteke?
Good luck for next season, really want you to do well and looking forward to thrashing you at SW6 again this year ;)
EH17

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Dont particularly rate ba, especially as replacement for benteke, and also I don't think lambert is particularly intrested in developing other teams players. P. s. hopefully this time we'll travel to your place and see a game like the seaon before as apose to that embarrasing display at christmas!

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Myself I would take that offer 23 million plus Ba and loan Piazon for a season thank you and Benteke would be awesome for you the other offer I will take is a straight swap for Torres if he would come hope you guys win the league this year with the special one back
Villa Fan

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09 Jul 2013 09:18:13
So benteke wants to go. Hope he does well for hinself. I'm just waiting for all the rubbish now on all the people who throw names on here to be his replacement just to sound interesting. Sad news for villa but a player is not bigger than the club

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09 Jul 2013 09:05:00
As I understand it Christian your words sometimes get taken out of context and what you have said in the past has been misinterpreted by those naughty reporters. So I thought I would help your basic knowledge of the English language & help you out with a few words & their meanings.

Definition of greed

noun
[mass noun]
intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food: mercenaries who had allowed greed to overtake their principles
greed has taken over football



Origin:

late 16th century: back-formation from greedy



Judas1

Pronunciation: /ˈdʒuːdəs/



Definition of Judas

an Apostle; full name Judas Iscariot. He betrayed Christ to the Jewish authorities in return for thirty pieces of silver; the Gospels leave his motives uncertain. Overcome with remorse, he later committed suicide.


(as noun usually a Judas) a person who betrays a friend or comrade: she was called a Judas and a scab
The Judas joined the highest bidder

Traitor:

Definition of traitor

noun

a person who betrays someone or something, such as a friend, cause, or principle:he was a traitor to his own class


betray a group or person:
He had the gall to deny he had turned traitor as he searched for the biggest payout


ungrateful



Adjective


1. Not feeling or showing gratitude:
2. Not pleasant or acceptable:
"he was so ungrateful for the gamble the nice football team had taken on him"




Synonyms


thankless - unthankful - ingrate


There you go Mr Benteke. Good luck and here is a nice English proverb for you as you leave B6
The Grass is not always greener on the other side. Enjoy the money mate.

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Top post, Greed, Judas, Traitor etc, perfectly well said mate, no need to say anything else.

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Possibly the best I have ever seen and one of the most accurate on this site, well said

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And when combined you get, Benteke!

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Do you like Shakespeare too!

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09 Jul 2013 08:36:53
There is no point dragging this out or keeping an unhappy player. He is not bigger than our club after one reasonable season. I think if we could get 20 mil plus a player that would be a great deal on a player who isn't a consistent, proven player who could get injured, suffer a poor season etc especially after we only paid 7 for him.
I'd rather he went abroad but how about
20 mil +
Spurs - Defoe
Chelsea - Ba
Arsenal - Chamakh, Gervinho
Man City - need a forward themselves so Milner, Lescott?

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Chamahk? Absolutely not

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None are any good why should villa have cast offs, Ireland example

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09 Jul 2013 08:35:12
Right now he's put his transfer request in let's either make a stand and keep or get rid of quick which help us get in replacements he was absolutely brilliant last season but one man don't make a team if he wants to go to Chelsea make sure he buys a cushion for the bench and I think mourinho has the man management skills of a serial killer lambert is a tough scot so I'm confident he will do what's best for the club up the villa

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09 Jul 2013 08:23:58
Hardly a surprise is it? Just another greedy player who is after as much money as possible, just remains to be seen if he is as much of a money grabber as Gareth Barry & goes to Spurs for. ahem champions league football.
It is time to face that every pre season we are going to lose our best player, we are no longer a "big club" in the sense that we can compete financially with the Man City's/Chelsea's etc of this world. Yes we have a proud history but we will not have a brighter future than a mid table finish, a flirting interest in a top 6 finish or a cup run. We used to attract Europe's best now its just promising youngsters, & whilst I admit the crop of recruits this summer look exciting I have no doubt that if Okore, Helenius et al have a good season they will be of to the biggest bidder next season. I will always go to VP and have every faith in PL and also cannot fault RL as he consistently puts his hand is his pocket but unfortunately things will always be this way unless we get a Russian Mafia or Oil Rich Arab to buy us.
I just think now the greedy, ungrateful Belgian has expressed a desire to jump ship to the person who pays the most coin let him go and get a replacement in before the season starts. I expect PL always had someone in mind let's just hope he hasn't already gone elsewhere.

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09 Jul 2013 07:57:38
Loic Remy & Finnbogason anymore? - I'm hearing the duo would command a joint fee of £16m. Finnbogason really would be an ideal replacement for Christian Benteke. Big, strong, talented, fantastic finisher.

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09 Jul 2013 07:51:33
"He was reminded that there are three years remaining on his contract, we consider him to be a Villa player and expect that he will be with us for the 2013-14 season. "
He has time off until 18th July. Absolutely gutted! Randy stay strong & only sell for what he is worth & not a discounted amount!

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09 Jul 2013 07:22:57
not gutted on the benteke thing as it happens but we do need to move on and let this not dampen all the good work done up to now, the club will allways come first!

up the villa!!

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08 Jul 2013 23:54:34
I don't blame him, he's had a chance to further his career, and let's not pretend its all about money, its about the calibre of the respective clubs. As a Villa fan I would obviously prefer him to stay but one leg break or Achilles injury and he is out of the world cup and potential big move for him and the club, say he gets injured he may never return to his old form and his value will greatly decrease, the same can be said if he suffers from second season syndrome. I say cash in on him now and get a few players who will make us stronger as a team instead of over reliance on an individual. With the way Lambert runs his business its hard to imagine that he hasn't planned for this and drawn up contingency plans, it makes me wonder why Bony to Swansea has been so protracted, maybe he's showing interest. Personally, I wish him all the best and if he returns as a Premiership player I won't blame him as he stopped us from going to Huish Park (no offence to Yeovil). Preferably I'd prefer him to go abroad so it doesn't bite us on the ass, but hey ho its not like we're not used to this kind of thing and we'll continue to be a good side. Anyway best to get this out the way early as it gives us the chance to strengthen!

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As said before, his head has been turned he wants bigger and better things, more than Villa can offer him. People saying he don't want to leave and is happy to stay at Villa, Sorry but I said this before, He was only saying what the fans wanted him to say, Their will now start a Bidding war for him, So don't despair all you Villa fans, this could be your biggest pay day of all time Arsenal Spurs Man City and Chelsea all want him, could be up to around £50mil bidding war

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Great post and makes complete sense. I also suspect Lambert & Lerner always had a plan in place incase this happened.

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08 Jul 2013 22:47:26
Benteke hands in transfer request

source: tv at 10:45pm

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08 Jul 2013 22:15:58
all this c**p about benkeke going is head doin! if villa wanna keep him just put a 100mil price on him. simple! if we get offered 30-40mil then yeah they will prob let him go but what is the point every year sellin your best players to the top say 5 clubs! we will never challenge 4 anythin if that's the way its going 2 b. that's it rant over lol

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Nothing you can do when the player wants out. Contracts aren't worth squat these days.

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Well looks like your wrong mate! He's off. While I agree that it's totally wrong to sell your stars, that is the way football has become sadly, no loyalty, greed based, ego maniacs, we just can't compete will the oil barons who can haemorrhage cash from every orifice to get what they want. My prediction is the gap will just grow between the rich and poor clubs and a euro super league will be in place in the not too distant future. Good luck Christian, thanks for the goals!

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08 Jul 2013 22:12:24
We clearly have the money and desire for the attacking mid we have been missing with bids for Belhanda and Kioyate. Any links with any other targets? Not Chadli, I can't see that happening.

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08 Jul 2013 09:55:02
Guzan
Lowton, Vlarr, Okore, Bennett
Sylla
Westwood, Delph
Weiman Tonev
Benteke

Subs
Steer
Agbonlahor
Baker
Bacuna
Helenius
Gardner
Grealish

My guess at the line up for the first day of the season.

Would like to see Grealish slowly intergrated into the first team picture. The kid is a real talent, hope he opts to play for England.

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Decent starting XI but would play Bennett and I can't see PL dropping Baker or Gabby

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Okore and vlaar will be first choice centre backs and I see Luna taking Bennett's spot

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Minus Benteke on your starting 11

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07 Jul 2013 19:14:26
Hi all.

Can I just make a point here.
PL & AVFC have said Benteke is NOT for sale.

Benteke has NOT put in a transfer request.

So how can anyone haggle over a price.

Today I have seen prices ranging from 20-40 mil posted on here, where has this come from! most of it is paper talk, sure I think a few clubs would like Benteke.
I just think we are the one`s doing the haggling.

This one is best put to bed I think, and let's wait and see what happens.

If anyone hears anything concrete great let's hear about it.

villadave

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The guru of football is off again

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The only time this will be put to bed, is when Benteke sign's a revised contract or confirm's his intentions. I don't understand why supporters keep denying there is an issue, if there wasn't something going on he (Benteke) would have already publicly committed to AVFC.
Let's hope PL / Uncle Randy work their charm, hopefully for more than just 1 season, like everyone else I want him to stay, but remember, a year ago he threatened to go on strike at Genk after they declined AVFC's attempt's to sign him.

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Thank you!

This is absolutely correct and I can't see how this can come up over and over again.

In one of the latest articles it states that Spurs are put off by the 25 mil evaluation of Soldado, so how will they expect to take and Benteke?

Point is that the tabloids don't give a crap as long as it sells papers. Birmingham and other locations not named London, have never been given a fair go. London is apparently the only city that matters, the rest are subpar.

It's disgusting really.

We as fans need to take all the apparent speculation with a pinch of salt and stand firm to support our team.

We are looking to do the right things and there is a real progress being made currently.

Leroy

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Re "the guru of football"
Your comment is not really villa banter is it now.
If You don't agree that's fine.

It would be more constructive if you gave your reasons why instead of making remarks like this.

Nothing more to say to you mate.

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Talk about Villa mate and not other guys, opinions.
Why call someone a guru.

Opinions make good reading, not name calling.

JJ

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I find it funny how the journos can say PL has slapped a 40mill price tag on benteke and then to suggest a week or two later he's leaving for 25m, that's a hefty difference of 15mill there!
The simple fact of the matter is that we don't have to sell benteke this season and IF he has another storming season and world cup to go with it, any team in the world would want him. Surely Uncle Randy the business man can see this so I don't know what all the fuss is about.
As for the silence on the matter to me it suggests the contract negotiations are underway which will obviously be difficult. I think we all know he will leave in a years time but two significant factors will be how long will his contract extension be (possibly 1yr) and what kind of salary will be offered (again a guess at 60k).

Finch

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My opinion is that nothing has been sorted with benteke but we hold all the cards he is under contract wouldn't surprise me if there's a big bid from arsenal after the suarez knock back but we don't have to sell him maybe he is going an pl is sorting signing we know nothing about because if everybody is honest how many had heard of benteke maybe you think guru was a bit strong but it was banter and meant that way not to offend so chill and let's look forward to a top ten finish

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That`s fine mate.
I agree with everything you say, in fact I am over the moon having heard that Benteke is out with the lads in Germany.
And yes I am chilled.
Thanks for your reply whoever you are!

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Sorry, what was that,? He's slapped in a transfer request and he never travelled to Germany, Funny how Some Know all fans Know Nothing, Admit it I was right and you were wrong, He was only saying what you wanted to hear just to keep you happy, Deluded Villa fans, his bank account means more to him than you lot

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I agree with the guy above up to the point where he demands that you admit he was right. I love seeing peoples' apparent transfers etc be nothing more than cr*p from their own heads. I would love for people to stop pretending they have the inside scoop when they know absolutely nothing. Rumours are great but when someone's saying something's going to happen because of "their source", 9/10 times it comes to nothing. It's embarrassing really

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07 Jul 2013 13:56:45
Some real lazy journalism in the papers, Benteke 20m to spurs. Lol, yeah right more like double what you guys paid for paulinhio

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07 Jul 2013 13:09:19
If we sell Benteke for a penny less than £25m then someone wants shooting!

Further more I think if he is on 20k per week we should offer to treble and not double his wages in order to keep him. He himself should really think of the benefit of staying at Villa for one more season having another year like that and then moving to one of the top clubs in the World, and not Spurs who will lose Bale next year and likely fade back toward obscurity.
He won't be able to play CL football for them and will only play in a 36k stadium, he could do better than Spuds.

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Why so negative towards Spurs? Media got you a bit hyped up? Spurs would be the ideal place for him if he was to leave Villa. Man united, 2great strikers 2world class strikers. Man city, whichever striker takes there fancy/flavour of the month so no future. Chelsea, same as above really and with Lukaku looking good they won't need a striker. Arsenal, Giroud, Podolski and Higuain on the way. Spurs, Ade and Defoe both apparently on the transfer market. So if you want him to go somewhere he'll become a no 1 striker then realistically which team is best? I understand the media can have a negative affect on the way you think. Think about it rationally if you want him to fail then yes a top 4 team, if you want him to succeed then it's Stay at Villa or Join Spurs.

Next up you say about playing in a 36k stadium and there is a 50k+ stadium being built (which tops yours) and he could train in one of the best training grounds in the WORLD. That's more appealing to a player I'd think.

No need for the negativity, we are not direct rivals and should respect one another for the way our team goes about their business. I for one respect Villa. Best of luck next season.

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Are we not direct rivals? That is a bit aloof when one considers that both teams are in the English prem. I would like to think that you have enough respect for other prem teams to acknowledge that all are rivals. Now you know why supporters are anti spuds.

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I wasn't disrespecting your team saying that we are not direct rivals as in your not good enough but our rivals consist of London based sides and yours are more northern sides. I respect a lot of sides mainly ones who do business correctly. I even respect Arsenal for the way they run their club. So tell me why we are rivals? Other than being in the same league their is no reason to be hating on each other. If that was the case then watching football would consist of watching just my own team. Guess it's just different for me as I'm a football fan not just a spurs fan!

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P. s I think you'll find a lot of fans like spurs as we play good football and run our club correctly unlike teams like Man city and Chelsea who are ruining the beautiful game!

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Re: one of the best training grounds in the world.

He already trains at one of those, it's Bodymoor Heath. He also plays in a squad where he's the main man, not something that would happen in the same squad as Bale. At Villa he'll be in top form in the League cause he doesn't have to waste time in the Europa League and it's PL form that woll keep him in the Belgium squad ahead of Lukaku. If Benteke wants money, he could go to a number of clubs both in the PL and abroad, but if he wants to go to the World Cup as a first choice striker, he'll stay at Villa, which seems to be exactly what both him and his agents seem to be saying. UTV

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Fair enough I didn't come on here to argue with anyone. Was just surprised with the negative comments towards spurs when I feel we have no reason to hate on each other. I personally don't want Benteke at spurs as I feel he'll be another Andy Carroll. Think about this though, do you think he'd be happier just playing Epl football or playing Epl and European football? Also do you think he would prefer to be the number 1 player in a team or playing with some of the best in the world?

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07 Jul 2013 10:36:20
Daniel levy thinks he can leave it to the last minute to sign benteke for 20 million, blokes either delusional or he has been out in the sun to long.

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Or he can't run a club proply.

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06 Jul 2013 17:21:52
I think kiyotake will be rappe up soon, can anyone else see the link in us going to Germany, just 4 training, I mean we must be trying our bests to get him and it just happens that we're going to be an hour away from him in Germany, just my thoughts for a discussion?

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Well Germany would have been planned way in advance before we started watching kiyotake, however the bundesliga is a very good league and the players are much better value for money/salary so could see us pinching the odd player over the preseason tour there.
I'm still concerned about the dm position as we only have sylla to play in this position unless lambo has Johnson in mind.

Finch

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Should be careful you can get into trouble if you rappe up

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Finch, buddy, What do you mean? just trying to keep warme.

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06 Jul 2013 11:47:22
Brad Guzan has signed a new 4 year contract.

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Great news, solid, consistant and a good bloke!

His most memorable moment last season for me was a save he made against qpr, anyone remember it?!

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Yep, samba's face was a picture and a half. Turned out quality considering he looked a bit shaky as a reserve keeper

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06 Jul 2013 11:33:47
Tottenham, want the Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke. (Darren Bent's still not getting a game, incidentally. Paul Lambert's got him cleaning the traffic cones alongside Stephen Irel… actually, no, that's not Stephen Ireland, that's one of the cones. ) C&P the guardian.

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What, honestly you mean Tottenham really want Benteke.
We know they do my friend, and so do a few more clubs.
None of us are certain what`s going on at the moment, I think all of this will all become a little clearer in the next 10 days, fingers crossed he stays but there are 11 players in the team, good sides can and do adjust we are getting there and we can adjust as well if the need be.
We will fine.
Dave

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Villadave, Someone's gone to the trouble off cutting & pasting an article, I don't think sarcasm is required, do you? I think it's a brilliant idea, carry on, at least we know the rumours aren't made up on this site.

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06 Jul 2013 07:23:39
Villas hopes of signing kiyotake are fading as it had been made clear he is not for sale, hopefully Lambert has got other options we've heard of like Chadli. I would like to see ba at villa Benteke + Ba= top 8

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05 Jul 2013 20:58:20
Forest fan here.

I've never really seen Lichaj play so could I please get a few replies of peoples opinions on him. And do you think he could be a key player for Forest?

Cheers guys :)

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He's not technically brilliant (though not awful)
He's a totally committed, athletic player who will get up and down the pitch easy enough
He can be a little rash and dive into things when he shouldn't
All in all I think he will be a solid Championship performer
He won't have you on the edge of your seat but he won't let you down either
Mendax

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Agree with all that mendax has mentioned. Perhaps you could even say he was treated unfairly to a degree as many thought that Lichaj should slot in to RB ahead of Alan Mutton.

Lichaj shut down Bale after a splendid defensive performance at RB actually.

Dedicated and a real trier. Not a high ceiling, but may have room to develop further simply through receiving more playing time, as he has been left rotting on the bench at Villa.

I would welcome you to make bids on Chris Herd, Nathan Delfouneso and Barry Bannan, who I think are all in the same boat, but could be very good signings for the championship :)

Bannan and maybe Delfouneso still have some untapped potential, more so than Lichaj I would say.

Lichaj will win over the Forest fans though and will be a very reliable player for you. I wish him all the best, as I do Forest, for the upcoming season

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Blimey, do you have a UEFA, assessors license, Reading this I felt like Lambert, well done.

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I was a fan of lichaj, he's one of few proper full backs left, does the job 95% of the time and isn't too shabby going forward. The best thing about him is there's no faffing, no rubbish and he doesn't complicate things. He has a giant throw too which i'm sure will be handy, more so in the championship than the prem i'd say. I'd have been more than happy for him to stay but he's in a really awkward position as he is far too good to be back up, but not good enough to be keeping lowton out of the team. All in all, he's a solid player with a good head on his shoulders and in all honesty a good addition for you!

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Hi all.
The guys above have said it all, AND VERY WELL.
There is not much I can add to the comments, maybe he could improve his distribution a bit when breaking out of defence.
In a nutshell I think he will be a reliable addition to your squad.
Dave

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He's got an awesome throw in too! Finch

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05 Jul 2013 07:41:51
Villas XI
Guzan
Lowton Okore Vlaar Luna
Westwood Huddlestone
Agbonlahor Kiyotake Weimann
BENCH

Helenuis
Delph
Lescott
Tonev
Bacuna
Pantilimon
Sinclair

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Huddlestone - no, wages too high, too old.
lescott - no, wages too high, too old.
pantilimon - no, would cost us a fair wack, wages too high, had a change of heart and decided to stay as pellegrini said he will play him.
sinclair - no, too expensive, wages too high.
we can't even afford one of the players you mentioned and in all honesty can you really see us adding 250k to the wage bill and spending at least £20mill on 4 more players? no chance mate!

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I know he was poor for a very long time but Delph's improvement for the last quarter of the season was vast and I would much rather keep him in the side than bring in Huddlestone.

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Agree with that, personally i'd rather sylla though, really do like him and he looked settled even coming in jan, he'll be very good with pre-season under his belt

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You've only named 10 players and no main striker.
Where is Benteke?

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It makes me chuckle too see other prem league players linked or wanted by fellow fans. since when have we bought anyone from another team in the division under Lambert? *with the exception of jed steer, a complete unknown quantity. *
Finch

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04 Jul 2013 20:15:30
I'm am now officially adding villa dave to my list of people who post on this page using half a brain cell and some genuine footballing knowledge, this makes the list up to two, including the ever present mendax. Also does anybody else find it humourous how norwich fans were convinced they were big enough to attract weimann to carrow road and instead they got a blues player, and not even their best one at that!

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Thank you. I think
(Not sure about the "using half a brain cell" quote )
Mendax

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Redmond, he will progress into a top player, he has had the best possible start to his career at a top club like Birmingham.

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Thank you also.
(Same feelings about the brain cell bit. ) great comment
Thanks again mate

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Have to agree, Redmond looks like a great prospect. anyone with 'half a brain cell' can see that.
Finch

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Mendax, maybe I should have said more than half a brain cell. I meant well done for being one of few on this site that actually knows more about football than how long a half is. redmond isn't a bad player but I know blues fans that have gone to school with the lad that say he goes missing to easily and gets lazy. considering most of them seem to think zigic could play for united the all seem to admit that they don't think redmond is premier league quality yet, and I have to say you can't see any development happening at norwich.

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Thank you
Mendax

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Can you feel the love tonight?

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04 Jul 2013 09:58:26
Has benteke left NO so why keep slagging the man off I personally think he will stay and just remember without his goals we wouldn't have got any of the players we have signed I really think we will have a good season so if ya wanna keep moaning go to the sty I'm sure you will be welcome there

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I wouldn't sell him anyway when he still has 3 years left on a 4 year contract his agent was very happy to let him sign. I wouldn't let him leave at all until he has just one year left on his contract and by that time he may have seen sense and signed the much improved 5 year contract he has been offered. I think he is being badly advised by his greedy agent who seems like a mercenary clown to me.

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Hi All.
In reply to the guy stating a slagging of about Benteke, I am not slagging him off at all, I am just stating facts, do you really want him playing for Villa if his heart is in his wallet, players that are young like him will have their heads turned bye fellow pro`s, and by the way if he goes and has a baron spell he will wish he had stayed put.
Am I correct or not, I am 63 years old and love villa through and through, I just say it as it is.
If you have rumours state real ones not something you think might happen.

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Well said villa dave

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The man will hopefully be here next season I hope but just because your 63 don't make your a guru I am 43 and watched villa against santos granted I was 3 at the time and watched it all since then age means nothing you could be another doomboy hopefully not DAVE

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Hi all.
Just a word to the guy who said I should go to the sty and would be welcome there.
Its people like you who we don't want on sites like this.
We are talking about Villa here and what we think will benefit the club, I am only interested what goes on when villa are playing, and what our great supporters think about club affairs & players.
So if you think my ideas are not the same as yours that's great, let's here yours.
I am sure we will have a good season, and that we are building a very good young squad, so again I say if Benteke wants out so be it, but let's remember this might also be a rumour or just paper talk hey.
I personally think we will finish in the top 10 this year.

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I did not say my age to imply I know it all.
Sorry if it sounded that way.
It was just to say that I have supported villa for a long time.
I am very excited about the coming season, and that I had the same feeling when Saunders took over.

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What suddenly gives you the right DAVE to say I should not be on this I was positive all season when some people on had already condemned us to the championship as I commented I think we will have a good season but I don't see the point is slagging benteke off when nothing has been resolved until he comes out asks to leave then fine if everybody had the same opinion what would be the use of this very good site

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03 Jul 2013 16:16:54
To all you Villa fans out there I think Benteke will stay with us for another year, If not rest assured we have a great replacement in Helenius, This guy is good believe me, I have seen a lot of him and he is a natural, good feet, speed, shot, in fact everything.
We just need another good passer of the ball from midfield to supply Benteke or Helenius with slide rule passes through the channels and we will be a force.
Hiroshi Kiyotake would be great.
We will get someone but let's be sensible about these rumours.

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Cheers Dave, I agree with you, great to hear your enthusiasm mate.

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Agree, however I don't see the point in holding onto bentekefor a year. I think helenius is a good enough replacement but considering he's 6ft5 he never uses his head so he's a different player to benteke. that said why should we bother fighting for a player just for one more year when we're building a team for the future? He might get second season syndrome and we'll be lucky to get £15m so personally i'd say sell the greedy beggar now and make more than triple what we spent, reinvest that into the squad as a whole so we have quality on the bench too and then carry on making a team of good players that will be with us for many years. Call me ambitious but I can really see us doing a man utd, they were in this position when they starting throwing all their faith in youth and I believe we're finding the quality to push us back up the table soon enough with genuine players that will stay there!

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Thanks for your reply lads, I agree with you, if the right money comes in let him go for sure, then re-invest.
I want guys playing for villa, anyway its not nailed on that Benteke will perform at the same level again! Helenius will be good. so let's be honest and get this site filled with genuine rumours instead of all the crap that I am reading.

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Yep i'm pretty fed up with all the rubbish too mate. People seem to just take the nationality of one of our signing and say we're after everybody else from the same country. E. g. We bought vlaar, so this year we're getting willems, douglas, narsingh, lens, depay and van der wiel. Its a joke at times, it will soon be at the point where people will be coming on here and making runours about their goings on, on computer games.

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Villa Dave, I applaud you. Whoever you are
Mendax

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Good points well made.
However, I have a short termed fiery fanatic approach. I like watching Villa play well and win on a weekend. Benteke was HEAD AND SHOULDERS our best player last season. In fact the best striker I have seen at Villa Park. Losing him would certainly reduce our scope next season. Long term a sale could be beneficial but its a risk I am uneasy with

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Personally, I'd rather spend the money on 2/3 good players than keep one very good player.

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Benteke was a great player for us last season and, hopefully, will be just as good for us this coming season. If, however, he chooses to use his performances last year to gain an improved contract who can really blame him. If Villa do the right thing and offer him a contract reflecting his contribution last year and his current market value then I think he will stay.

One thing is certain, referring to him in unflattering terms is not going to endear Villa fans to him!

If he goes, he goes and there is nothing we fans can do about that other than express how revered he is by the Villa faithful.

A big loss if he were to go

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Thank you Mendax

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Blimey, I didn't realise there were so many like minded un-fickle Villa supporters left, just goes to show enthusiasm can be contagious. Best read I've had in months, shall we start our own page for "positive people" and not let the "negs" on.

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Hi all.
Yes there is some good reading in this last batch, shame there is no names to go with the comments so we know who we are referring to.
I have only just started posting over the last couple of days but look forward to chatting with you guys during the season.
Also a shame that this good site takes so long to update, all these rumours could have joined villa in time for the next update,

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Regarding the guy who talks about a "positive people" only site
I understand the sentiment mate, I really do, but I really don't think we should slag people off because they say something that could be construed as negative. If the comments are from Villa fans with a genuine concern about the team or the club, I don't think they should be ostracised or shouted down in any way. If their point is well meant, is well put and generates healthy debate, that is fine with me
I would love this site to be an area where people can express concerns as opposed to an area that is solely for Villa cheerleaders (that is kept for match day)
Mendax

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Great post Mendax, I think he means what I am trying to say, maybe some fans should be a little more thoughtful as to the wording and content of there post.
Some take it as personal, but I do agree with you.

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Great post Mendax.
I think he means what I am trying to say.

Sent post but forgot to log in full post is from me about wording etc

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To Mendax, re positive people: my point is we posters should have more consideration when we post, not necessarily what we say but how we say it. I'm sure you know kids /adolescents can enter this site, they like all of us, have to contend with these fictitious rumours, not for one moment do I want to stifle honest debate. Then there are the negative people who whatever is said, disagree, it seems just for the sake of it, I'm surprised you chose to comment on this particular post, as you have commented about post negativity in the past. Perhaps our next debate should be about consistency.

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03 Jul 2013 10:35:28
Hope the rumours that Kiyotake is on his way to Villa Park is true. at 23yrs and 6-7mill that would be a bargain, and represent an astute additoon of true quality, and although videos on you tube can be a wee bit contrived he is a creative master with energy to burn fitting nicely into our current ethos

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Hope this is going to happen, he knows where the goal is but he's not greedy, he could pass through any defence in the prem with ease and he's got bags of skill! A proper unselfish player with quality vision, any striker could score 15-20 goals with him in the team.

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I think Kiyotake may well be a far better fit than Belhanda would have been.

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Mate nurenberg have rebuffed our transfer fee he is not for sale put his name into the search engine and read up

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Rebuffed doesn't mean not for sale. It means they want more money. If he wasn't for sale they'd say something along the lines of 'he's not for sale'.

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Only the first bid.

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Well I hope so he looks good but I wpuldnt pay any more than 7.5 mill and don't think lambert will hike up the price

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Apprently he has a release clause of £7m

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I think we should nail this signing down as a priority, he was brilliant in the bundesliga last season which is a more than competitive league.
Finch

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02 Jul 2013 18:49:55
How about a loan deal for kevin de bruyne. Looks like a good player and as a belgium may encourage benteke to stay.

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Good shout, would be a great addition and surely chelski would want him to have some gametime in the Prem

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02 Jul 2013 15:31:35
I've heard belhanda has done a u turn and decided that he doesn't want to sign for Kiev anymore. I don't think he has actually signed a contract yet so is able to do so. Tbh though, I think this chapter should remain closed. He sounds like more trouble than he's worth. Would rather have someone who actually wants to play for us
Utv!

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02 Jul 2013 13:45:09
According to frenc media and papers today
L'Equipe: Arsenal target Younes Belhanda has changed his mind about a move to Dynamo Kiev despite being set to be unveiled.

?????????

Andy

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02 Jul 2013 10:26:24
Reports surfacing that our friend Belhanda has done an arse about face and now does not wish to complete his move to Dynamo Kiev.

Its still unclear whether a full contract or a pre contract was agreed.

Even if this is true it will beg the question as to whether Villa fans would want a player that is somewhat wishy washy joining the club.

Other players have been shortlisted by Villa boss Paul Lambert but it remains unclear if the targrts have been made public only to drive through the decision from Belhanda.

The saga continues.

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If Belhanda can mess about like this I for one wouldn't want him at Villa Park. If he didn't want to play for Kiev why agree to it in the first place?
Unless for the money of course, but if so, why now change his mind?

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Please cast your minds back to last year when a large number of Villa fans didn't want Benteke as he "forced a move by going on strike" and were worried he'd do the same to us. Look at him now!

If Belhanda happens it will be an unreal signing for us! Not only a talented #10 but the missing piece in Lambert's plans

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Benteke may well have to go on strike again if you won't sell him to Arsenal.

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02 Jul 2013 09:37:18
This morning i'm getting the understanding Younes Belhanda has made a U-Turn on his decision to join Dynamo Kyiv. Pictures broke of Belhanda holding a Kyiv shirt but its understood that he has NOT signed a contract yet as this carousel story continues!
Villa have had a bid believed to be around £5m discussed with Nuremberg for Kiyotake but Nuremberg are playing hard ball over further add-ons.
Its expected Belhanda will sign that contract today - but its also been suggested he has had a change of heart.

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01 Jul 2013 22:40:03
Starting to wonder if we need anymore midfielders if helenius plays behind benteke an attacking midfielder seems unnecessary with westy sylla delph gardner herd the zog bacuna and danny johnson plus other youth and wing/mids I would say we got the midfield covered we have options up front and at the back now though I would like to see a right back for cover. herdy can play but isn't the best RB. Lowton can't be expected to play every match, unless hutton is to be retained which is hilariously possible as no one seems to want him he's not completly useless.

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01 Jul 2013 21:38:19
First day back at training and it was clear to see from footage and photos there was no bent, Ireland, bannan, fonz or Stevens! Looks like they have been told to stay away from the first team! If Lambo is keen to move these players on then surely he must have plans in place to being in new players!

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01 Jul 2013 16:35:47
It's great the amount of people who have sources at villa park I suppose we are signing jon Bon jovi after his appearance last month

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Think you have mis read/heard - they've had sauces at Villa Park - Red, Brown and Mayo with their fries and burgers!

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What a gag well done proud of ya

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Weak puns from the pair of you.

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Armchair scout

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Sorry didn't realise your a comedy genius

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01 Jul 2013 15:46:07
Any news on Steer signing today?

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01 Jul 2013 15:41:57
I know a lot of people say this bit I know this guy who trains with Barry Bannan and apparently he's off to Swansea, also Benteke is choosing between Arsenal & Spurs as they've both offered him 80k a week as oppose to Villa who only offered 50k. I really hope I'm wrong but that's the bare bones of what I've been told. Hopefully we can use the money to reinvest though.

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I so hope this is wrong, as the ideal replacement for Benteke signed for Cardiff today "Cornelius"

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I hope your wrong too mate. If we sell for a penny less than £25m there will be uproar. the two steps back mentality that has urked Villa fans for a few seasons now. I think if it were made clear that he can leave for 25m next summer allowing him to impress all suitors and concrete his place in Belgian team before World Cup - it would seem to make sense for everyone, or maybe I just hope.

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If Benteke goes, and I don't think he will, We have a player far far better than Cornelius, and that is Helenius.
Believe me this guy is good, he has great skill on the floor and if he gets sight of goal he has a go.
I have seen a lot of him.
Trust me

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01 Jul 2013 15:33:35
Supposed Villa target Ba could allegedly be bought from Porto for a little as £2.5m.
If this is the case could the same AVFC negotiation team, last seen on a plane from France, jump on another plane, this time to Portugal and earn their money this time, if this price is correct, the lad's an absolute bargain. Please hurry as offer won't last for long.

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01 Jul 2013 08:59:25
I'm so glad the Belhanda saga is over, we can now move on in the real world once again, but before it ends, remember that AVFC have not (ever) stated that Belhanda was signing. That was those supporters who have "sources" in the know, I hope you are all suitably embarrassed by your absurd behavior, I suggest you make your sources, if they existed at all, read all the clap trap written about Belhanda signing for Villa, in the mean time, I can carry on being perplexed about Benteke, because that's quite normal isn't it?

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