2016/17 Squad Thread

[Guerny]

RE: shirt sales

You are all crazy!!
I've already ordered next seasons jersey with "LONG WANG" printed across the back.

Get on board you f**kers!

[borat]

I am actually supportive of this as a concept. Signing a Chinese player as a means to promote the Jets in China and bring in much needed sponsorship and exposure makes perfect sense. But its the timing of this that what bothers me the most.

Miller left these 2 positions open for a reason, he wanted to spend whatever we had left in the cap on the best 2 attacking players we could recruit. We signed younger inexperienced players like Clut and Duncan, imo, to free salary cap space for these signings. We may not have signed Brown for instance, and instead gone for a legitimate attacker rather than a utility type player. It seems that we had a plan for recruitment and its being derailed now. And despite that its still fine as he is the owner and thats what he wants to do, but to then say the goal is to make top 3 within a couple of seasons is at odds to this. If the team is to become a developmental team for Chinese players thats one thing but they won't be coming close to the top 6. Mariners for example, are a developmental team for meth addicts and vagabonds.

Just waiting now on the inevitable pressure to be applied to Miller to play this player over better performing team mates.

[anfield]

I am actually supportive of this as a concept. Signing a Chinese player as a means to promote the Jets in China and bring in much needed sponsorship and exposure makes perfect sense. But its the timing of this that what bothers me the most.

Miller left these 2 positions open for a reason, he wanted to spend whatever we had left in the cap on the best 2 attacking players we could recruit. We signed younger inexperienced players like Clut and Duncan, imo, to free salary cap space for these signings. We may not have signed Brown for instance, and instead gone for a legitimate attacker rather than a utility type player. It seems that we had a plan for recruitment and its being derailed now. And despite that its still fine as he is the owner and thats what he wants to do, but to then say the goal is to make top 3 within a couple of seasons is at odds to this. If the team is to become a developmental team for Chinese players thats one thing but they won't be coming close to the top 6. Mariners for example, are a developmental team for meth addicts and vagabonds.

Just waiting now on the enviable pressure to be applied to Miller to play this player over better performing team mates.

I agree with many of these points. The facts are whatever Chinese player comes wont be up to the required standard, unless the are in the marqee category.

There is alot of money in Chinese football at the moment. Any decent Chinese player will stay in their league where the money is.

Chinese football is a long way behind japan and south Korea in terms of player talent produced.

The only way forward is getting 2-3 Chinese kids to join the youth team. Im sure FFA could bend some rules if needed to allow this.

[stopper2]

I am actually supportive of this as a concept. Signing a Chinese player as a means to promote the Jets in China and bring in much needed sponsorship and exposure makes perfect sense. But its the timing of this that what bothers me the most.

Miller left these 2 positions open for a reason, he wanted to spend whatever we had left in the cap on the best 2 attacking players we could recruit. We signed younger inexperienced players like Clut and Duncan, imo, to free salary cap space for these signings. We may not have signed Brown for instance, and instead gone for a legitimate attacker rather than a utility type player. It seems that we had a plan for recruitment and its being derailed now. And despite that its still fine as he is the owner and thats what he wants to do, but to then say the goal is to make top 3 within a couple of seasons is at odds to this. If the team is to become a developmental team for Chinese players thats one thing but they won't be coming close to the top 6. Mariners for example, are a developmental team for meth addicts and vagabonds.

Just waiting now on the enviable pressure to be applied to Miller to play this player over better performing team mates.

Stop it Borat, you are making too much sense!
Seriously though, if Miller had some European based players earmarked for the 2 visa spots and now he gets told he will have to trial some Chinese players and sign one of them, I don't think he would be too impressed.

[Grimario]

I agree with many of these points. The facts are whatever Chinese player comes wont be up to the required standard, unless the are in the marqee category.

There is alot of money in Chinese football at the moment. Any decent Chinese player will stay in their league where the money is.

Chinese football is a long way behind japan and south Korea in terms of player talent produced.

The only way forward is getting 2-3 Chinese kids to join the youth team. Im sure FFA could bend some rules if needed to allow this.

Unless the Chinese player is at a club where a gazillion dollar signing has just been put in in front of them. Some players actually want to play, develop and improve, not just earn money, yeah?

[stopper2]

Unless the Chinese player is at a club where a gazillion dollar signing has just been put in in front of them. Some players actually want to play, develop and improve, not just earn money, yeah?
Yes, Song was a prime example of that. Wanted to test himself in a physically tougher league like ours with the ultimate goal of playing in Europe, yet he could've earned a lot more in his home country of South Korea

[Grimario]

Yes, Song was a prime example of that. Wanted to test himself in a physically tougher league like ours with the ultimate goal of playing in Europe, yet he could've earned a lot more in his home country of South Korea

Yep, that's the type of development player we should be looking at and given the ties Ledman/Lee has with the CFA, I wouldn't be surprised if we got a Chinese youth international or former youth international in.

[MFKS]

Yep, that's the type of development player we should be looking at and given the ties Ledman/Lee has with the CFA, I wouldn't be surprised if we got a Chinese youth international or former youth international in.

This is the Jets we are talking about.

We be lucky to get the Chinese kid doing the dishes at the Chinese Restaurant at Wallsend Plaza doing 3 dishes and Rice/Noodles for $9.90

[Grimario]

This is the Jets we are talking about.

We be lucky to get the Chinese kid doing the dishes at the Chinese Restaurant at Wallsend Plaza doing 3 dishes and Rice/Noodles for $9.90

Where's that place? I might be living in Wallsend soon...

[anfield]

Yes, Song was a prime example of that. Wanted to test himself in a physically tougher league like ours with the ultimate goal of playing in Europe, yet he could've earned a lot more in his home country of South Korea

I hear your point. But song was from south Korea, A much stronger football country then china. China has less depth, which makes their players in more demand in their homeland.

[leftrightout]

I hear your point. But song was from south Korea, A much stronger football country then china. China has less depth, which makes their players in more demand in their homeland.

China has invested a crazy amount of money into development of football in the last 5 or so years. You will start to see kids coming through from that investment now. Chinese national team is only going to get stronger and stronger.

[Grimario]

China has invested a crazy amount of money into development of football in the last 5 or so years. You will start to see kids coming through from that investment now. Chinese national team is only going to get stronger and stronger.

Like the swimming team a few years back?

[anfield]

China has invested a crazy amount of money into development of football in the last 5 or so years. You will start to see kids coming through from that investment now. Chinese national team is only going to get stronger and stronger.

They will get stronger, but it will take time. Miller and supporters want Visa players to have istant impact. Otherwise might as well use Australian players.

[skippy]

Where's that place? I might be living in Wallsend soon...

Mezz bar is the only thing you need to know about living in Wallsend champ. That and the 10 ticket schooner book at the lemony.

[The Dunster]

FFA needs to introduce a 451 VISA Marquee

[Grimario]

http://www.theherald.com.au/story/4030878/andrew-nabbout-trials-with-jets/

Miller full of praise for him, reckon it's nailed on.

Did not like the last line though...


Meanwhile, Jets defender Daniel Alessi suffered a serious knee injury at training last week.

[borat]

http://www.theherald.com.au/story/4030878/andrew-nabbout-trials-with-jets/

Miller full of praise for him, reckon it's nailed on.

Did not like the last line though...

Certainly sounds like it but someone will have to leave to accommodate him. Wonder who that will be. My money is on Cooper at this stage.

[lil_masi]

Alessi out for the season. Very disappointing!!

[Grimario]

http://www.newcastlejets.com.au/article/news-alessi-to-miss-hyundai-a-league-201617-season/1e3kev0i5efhs1fg6d3pk8j2o6

FFS.

[Jeterpool]

Nabbout injury replacement is my guess

[Jetmaster]

Left back - start again.

[lil_masi]

Nabbout injury replacement is my guess

Doubt it. We'll need to find another u20s player. Unfortunately because Alessi could cover both RB and CB

[Jeterpool]

Doubt it. We'll need to find another u20s player. Unfortunately because Alessi could cover both RB and CB

Fair point.

[MFKS]

Alessi out for the season. Very disappointing!!
We certain he wasn't like that when we signed him??

Wouldn't put it past the club to sign blokes with busted knees to big money contracts


Sounds like the kind of stupid thing we would do

[Jeterpool]

It's disappointing for the young bloke. I hope he has a good recovery and comes back to us next season stronger

[borat]

Nabbout injury replacement is my guess

Nabbout is 23 so not possible as an injury replacement for Allessi who is one of our u20s.

I doubt they will replace Allesi

[MFKS]

Nabbout is 23 so not possible as an injury replacement for Allessi who is one of our u20s.

I doubt they will replace Allesi

Does this U 20 bloke have to be a Skip or could we bring a Chinese kid in??

[borat]

Does this U 20 bloke have to be a Skip or could we bring a Chinese kid in??

Must be Australian.

[furns]

We certain he wasn't like that when we signed him??

Wouldn't put it past the club to sign blokes with busted knees to big money contracts


Sounds like the kind of stupid thing we would dounless you're his agent - how would you know how much coin he is on? It's more likely he is playing for peanuts considering he is on an u20's contract and had very few senior appearances.
Remember, Middleby, Palmer and Stubbins have gone ffs. Time to give the new organisation the benefit of the doubt a little more often, because the constant negativity in here drives ppl away from this website. I want people to join and actually stay here because they enjoy talking to fellow Jets supporters, not lurk on here for a week and then decide "f*ck that shit". Which is what currently happens.

[Cyc10n]

unless you're his agent - how would you know how much coin he is on? It's more likely he is playing for peanuts considering he is on an u20's contract and had very few senior appearances.
Remember, Middleby, Palmer and Stubbins have gone ffs. Time to give the new organisation the benefit of the doubt a little more often, because the constant negativity in here drives ppl away from this website. I want people to join and actually stay here because they enjoy talking to fellow Jets supporters, not lurk on here for a week and then decide "f*ck that shit". Which is what currently happens.
I agree with you furns, I haven't written on the forum for a while and before that I had only posted a couple of times, there seems to be a lot of negativity on the forum and I've been looking at the forum every couple of days for years and it seems to be the same people commenting day in and day out, the forum hasn't really gone up with new people coming in and having their say.
I can tell you alessi did his injury a little while ago as I was at the doctor when they booked the poor kid in to get looked at..

[sammydog]

Time to give the new organisation the benefit of the doubt a little more often, because the constant negativity in here drives ppl away from this website. I want people to join and actually stay here because they enjoy talking to fellow Jets supporters, not lurk on here for a week and then decide "f*ck that shit". Which is what currently happens.

Fully agree with this.

Good luck enforcing it. Take out the negative stuff from the forum and all you'll have is tumbleweeds.

F@ck, I think thats me being negative........sorry.

[belchardo]

Fully agree with this.

Good luck enforcing it. Take out the negative stuff from the forum and all you'll have is tumbleweeds.

F@ck, I think thats me being negative........sorry.

Is it positive to say that tumbleweeds would provide better commentary than some on here? :rof:

[plague]

there seems to be a lot of negativity on the forum and I've been looking at the forum every couple of days for years and it seems to be the same people commenting day in and day out,

I don't see a lot of negativity at all.

I see a lot of frustrated fans looking back on the best part of a decade of failure on and off the park.

I also see a lot of optimism from fans who are more than happy to believe the new regime is going to be different from the last.

Both these groups deserve the same airspace as far as I'm concerned.

Then there are the outrageously funny blokes who are not only handsome and funny but enjoy the shitshow and feel entitled to just have a laugh at life every now and then.

Their opinion (and handsomeness) should also be respected (and laughed at).

[sammydog]

I don't see a lot of negativity at all.

I see a lot of frustrated fans looking back on the best part of a decade of failure on and off the park.

I also see a lot of optimism from fans who are more than happy to believe the new regime is going to be different from the last.

Both these groups deserve the same airspace as far as I'm concerned.

Then there are the outrageously funny blokes who are not only handsome and funny but enjoy the shitshow and feel entitled to just have a laugh at life every now and then.

Their opinion (and handsomeness) should also be respected (and laughed at).

Which one of the aforementioned three groups do you fit in?

[hawk]

Which one of the aforementioned three groups do you fit in?

all 3 for a lot on here

[sammydog]

all 3 for a lot on here

See, I was thinking that handsome ruled pretty much everyone out of the third option.

[plague]

Which one of the aforementioned three groups do you fit in?

All 4.

[Wilso8948]

Thanks for the kind words Plague.


Anyone else think Alessi is just Baressi in disguise? Probably the same Knee. Conspiracy.

[plague]

Thanks for the kind words Plague.


Wilso gets it.
Hawk gets it.


#alltakesmatter

[Grimario]

Our last remaining left back stretchered off at training...

https://twitter.com/B5Grant/status/753764065424486402

[lquiquer]

our last remaining left back stretchered off at training...

https://twitter.com/b5grant/status/753764065424486402

ffs !!!

[Grimario]

ffs !!!
https://twitter.com/B5Grant/status/753766637619191808

Ivan still on the stretcher waiting for an ambulance.

[MFKS]

Only in Newy.

2 defenders signed

2 defenders seriously injured prior to first preseason game

FMD

5
5
5

Just have to laugh about it and go back to drawing board

On a positive would appear our Chinese Marquee search is opening up in scope.
Should be able to look at players in 4-5 positions soon

[borat]

Our last remaining left back stretchered off at training...

https://twitter.com/B5Grant/status/753764065424486402
Alessi is a CB/RB.

[Grimario]

Alessi is a CB/RB.

And that is Vujica on the stretcher...

[Grimario]

https://twitter.com/rawprawn25/status/753776039260594176

Todd Blackwell ‏@rawprawn25 14m14 minutes ago
@shaunwilson34 @B5Grant @NewcastleJetsFC

Ivan's managed to hobble off the the assistance of Andrew Nabbout and Physio, Justin Doherty

[borat]

And that is Vujica on the stretcher...

Who is not our last remaining LB. just trying to keep some perspective

[Grimario]

Who is not our last remaining LB. just trying to keep some perspective

Cowburn's a midfielder forced out to LB.
Hoole was awful there.
Jackson is a CB forced out to LB.
Alessi was a versatile signing who could play across the back if needed.

Who is our LB that isn't someone forced out of position?

For some perspective, of course.

[The Dunster]

On a positive would appear our Chinese Marquee search is opening up in scope.
Should be able to look at players in 4-5 positions soon

:lol:

[borat]

Cowburn's a midfielder forced out to LB.
Hoole was awful there.
Jackson is a CB forced out to LB.
Alessi was a versatile signing who could play across the back if needed.

Who is our LB that isn't someone forced out of position?

For some perspective, of course.

Well that's your opinion but clearly Miller thinks Cowburn isn't a stop gap LB considering he played seemingly rates him in the top 3 Fullbacks in the comp.

http://www.theherald.com.au/story/3875804/nick-stacks-up-with-rivals/

But sorry to derail your posts so will let you get back to the sky is falling and all.

[Grimario]

Well that's your opinion but clearly Miller thinks Cowburn isn't a stop gap LB considering he played seemingly rates him in the top 3 Fullbacks in the comp.

http://www.theherald.com.au/story/3875804/nick-stacks-up-with-rivals/

But sorry to derail your posts so will let you get back to the sky is falling and all.
It's all good, no torn ligaments or anything... someone connected with him studs up, apparently.

Might still be broken though.

And regarding that article... it's not hard to be better than the likes of Manny Muscat or whatever NPL player is at the coast :gent:
I think Cowburn is fantastic but it's not his natural position and if Vujica is injured, my point was more that our cover and depth is continuing to dwindle.

[MFKS]

It also does throw up opportunity for Miller to sign someone else.

You never know the injury replacement may cut the mustard and we re sign them in the future

Bit of a test for Ledman to see whether they will fund the injury replacement or go without like the FFAil done last season with Labi

[MFKS]

Also who is the bloke going studs up on his own teammates in training??

Save that for the Gypos FFS

[Roundball Enthusiast]

Also who is the bloke going studs up on his own teammates in training??

Good on him. Go hard son.

[lquiquer]

It also does throw up opportunity for Miller to sign someone else.

You never know the injury replacement may cut the mustard and we re sign them in the future

Bit of a test for Ledman to see whether they will fund the injury replacement or go without like the FFAil done last season with Labi

Must be time to sign Sam Gallaway.......:roflz:

[The Postman]

Yelp!

1 or 2 injuries to a starting player and we are well and truely in trouble.

GK - BK / Dunc
RB - Hoff / (Alessi)
CB - Mullen
CB - Boogs / Jackson
LB - Cowbie / (Ivan)
CM - Ugar / Kanta
CM - Poljak
RAM - Hoole
CAM - Brown / Clut / Cooper
LAM - Labi
ST - Morty / Pav / Brennan

[borat]

It also does throw up opportunity for Miller to sign someone else.

You never know the injury replacement may cut the mustard and we re sign them in the future

Bit of a test for Ledman to see whether they will fund the injury replacement or go without like the FFAil done last season with Labi

There is bugger all quality u20 Aust LB's. It was why I could pick out Vujica out as a potential signing because its a small list. It certainly wasn't from my knowledge of the Croatian youth leagues. My guess is they won't replace Allessi as the club have enough cover at RB/CB. If Vujica were long term injured they might or they might just wait until we need someone.

Realistically u20's are not signed because we need them but rather because we have to. If they become useful and can crack the HAL team then thats a bonus but otherwise they are playing NYL.

[borat]

Yelp!

1 or 2 injuries to a starting player and we are well and truely in trouble.

GK - BK / Dunc
RB - Hoff / (Alessi)
CB - Mullen
CB - Boogs / Jackson
LB - Cowbie / (Ivan)
CM - Ugar / Kanta
CM - Poljak
RAM - Hoole
CAM - Brown / Clut / Cooper
LAM - Labi
ST - Morty / Pav / Brennan

We are signing another 3 players. 23 man squad is plenty of depth.

I see us lining up like

-------------------BK

Hoff-----Boogs---------Mullen------Cowburn

------------Poljak------Ugarkovic

Hoole-----------------------------------Brown
----------------Nordstrand

-----------------Visa Striker

Res

Duncan
Jackson
Kanta
Clut
Haliti

[hawk]

Also who is the bloke going studs up on his own teammates in training??

Save that for the Gypos FFS

cunce who have to be a hero at training. Stupid asswipe. Hasnt the mentality to save it for the real enemy.

[MFKS]

I
There is bugger all quality u20 Aust LB's. It was why I could pick out Vujica out as a potential signing because its a small list. It certainly wasn't from my knowledge of the Croatian youth leagues. My guess is they won't replace Allessi as the club have enough cover at RB/CB. If Vujica were long term injured they might or they might just wait until we need someone.

Realistically u20's are not signed because we need them but rather because we have to. If they become useful and can crack the HAL team then thats a bonus but otherwise they are playing NYL.

Yeah but our left back doesn't have to be U20.
We have to have 3 U20s in any position.

How about we find a solid left back and pick up some U20 player elsewhere in the squad

[Mark325]

Yeah but our left back doesn't have to be U20.
We have to have 3 U20s in any position.

How about we find a solid left back and pick up some U20 player elsewhere in the squad

But, with the knowledge that it won't be an international or a big name aussie, who do you feel we could pick up?

[plague]

But, with the knowledge that it won't be an international or a big name aussie, who do you feel we could pick up?

Steve Lustica

[borat]

I

Yeah but our left back doesn't have to be U20.
We have to have 3 U20s in any position.

How about we find a solid left back and pick up some U20 player elsewhere in the squad

Yes it does. You specifically referred to an injury replacement in your previous post. Injury replacements are like for like.

[OmeletteDuFromage]

But, with the knowledge that it won't be an international or a big name aussie, who do you feel we could pick up?

Get some random Chinese one, fills the chinese quota.

Chinese version of Lee Ki Ji, get on it miller.

[skullboy]

Get some random Chinese one, fills the chinese quota.

Chinese version of Lee Ki Ji, get on it miller.

Spot on. We are more likely to find a solid left back in China than a forward with any skill. Particularly on the money we will be paying.

[hawk]

Spot on. We are more likely to find a solid left back in China than a forward with any skill. Particularly on the money we will be paying.

for just $2 a day.....

[The Dunster]

Been doing some scouting for a few Chinese signings. If we can't fit them under the salary cap I'll be happy to store them at my house.

http://img.xcitefun.net/users/2009/04/45766,xcitefun-asian-babes-playing-hard-soccer-in-.jpg
http://65.media.tumblr.com/e6a8b40ffdd225d781b656b814a8424d/tumblr_n7f4pgsUMc1qmwkdao3_500.jpg
http://media.funlol.com/content/asian-soccer-girls-2.jpg
http://chiny24.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Chinese-Soccer-Girls-632.jpg
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/X-J4tSVQ4DI/maxresdefault.jpg

[stopper2]

Find Millers comments interesting re: not signing anymore minimum wage players in reference to the clash with the NPL select side ie Virgili and Moriyasu. Brennan and Pav for eg I assume would be minimum wage, with Nabbout currently trialling, he probably would not fit in the minimum wage category but he surely wouldn't be considered higher than the next tier of players ie probably Cooper, Cowburn....surely?

[The Dunster]

Find Millers comments interesting re: not signing anymore minimum wage players in reference to the clash with the NPL select side ie Virgili and Moriyasu. Brennan and Pav for eg I assume would be minimum wage, with Nabbout currently trialling, he probably would not fit in the minimum wage category but he surely wouldn't be considered higher than the next tier of players ie probably Cooper, Cowburn....surely?

We are talking about a team that sacked a player who scored nine goals in twenty two appearances - so I wouldn't let logic enter into the debate.
He's not had a lot of game time given he was behind Berisha at Victory but when he did play he did make a difference and showed some class.
I'd give Nabbout a contract and punt some of the shit we already have on the books that's failed to make the grade.
Brennan for example wouldn't be as good as Virgilli in my opinion - and thats no endorsement to sign Vigilli either.

[stopper2]

We are talking about a team that sacked a player who scored nine goals in twenty two appearances - so I wouldn't let logic enter into the debate.
He's not had a lot of game time given he was behind Berisha at Victory but when he did play he did make a difference and showed some class.
I'd give Nabbout a contract and punt some of the shit we already have on the books that's failed to make the grade.
Brennan for example wouldn't be as good as Virgilli in my opinion - and thats no endorsement to sign Vigilli either.

Really don't want to be drawn into another Triff debate, overall as a visa player he just did not impress enough in those 22 appearances to warrant another season in the A League.

[furns]

Triff wasnt sacked - he left. Big difference.

[The Dunster]

Triff wasnt sacked - he left. Big difference.

No difference at all. Miller constantly whined how unhappy he was with him and the bloke left because he didn't feel welcome.

Then you have Sash who was top scorer and given the boot as well / did not get another contract.

The club hates goal scorers and will do all they can to get rid of them.

Go Jets.

[plague]

Really don't want to be drawn into another Triff debate, overall as a visa player he just did not impress enough in those 22 appearances to warrant another season in the A League.

Impress who?
You?
Glad you're offering the contracts champ.
Who you signing this week, another bloke that can't get a run in front of carney arms Connor Pain?

[plague]

he just did not impress enough

Just to be clear there is no bigger wanker statement than this and is further evidence why the club rightfully hates it's fans.

[ForeverRed]

Braedyn Crowley scored another hat trick today playing in the Victorian NPL, another promising forward sent on his way

[380]

Impress who?
You?
Glad you're offering the contracts champ.
Who you signing this week, another bloke that can't get a run in front of carney arms Connor Pain?


Clearly he did not impress the club enough , the ones that count i would think.

[lquiquer]

At least he could score a penalty

[plague]

Clearly he did not impress the club enough , the ones that count i would think.

and that's fine, because they make the decisions and earn the scrutiny and or praise (gosh darn there's all that negativity again).

But they are also the same people who have maintained a level of failure for a decade so back them in all you want guys.

[The Dunster]

and that's fine, because they make the decisions and earn the scrutiny and or praise (gosh darn there's all that negativity again).

But they are also the same people who have maintained a high level of failure for a decade so back them in all you want guys.

Fixed.

[GazFish35]

They're not the same people though. The footballing department has changed so often it's not funny and we've had new CEO's every season.

The only people with any continuity with the club over an extended period of failure are Ando as kit man, and all of us as fans.

[stopper2]

Impress who?
You?
Glad you're offering the contracts champ.
Who you signing this week, another bloke that can't get a run in front of carney arms Connor Pain?
Yeah Triff scored 9 goals, including 5 pens but no assists in those 22 games and how many sitters did he miss that likes of Berisha, MacLaren or Fornaroli would have eaten up?
Fact is when he left there was barely a murmur among supporters, why...because he is just an average striker, a couple of levels below a player like Nordstrand who is clearly quality and made an impact when he came to the club.

[plague]

Yeah Triff scored 9 goals, including 5 pens but no assists in those 22 games and how many sitters did he miss that likes of Berisha, MacLaren or Fornaroli would have eaten up?
Fact is when he left there was barely a murmur among supporters, why...because he is just an average striker, a couple of levels below a player like Nordstrand who is clearly quality and made an impact when he came to the club.

ok.
firstly, assists is a garbage excuse for a stat so get that shit out of here. or better still explain to me why it matters.
How many assists did the Ooga Booga man have? is he any good?
If you don't think Berisha, Maclaren and Fornaroli don't miss sitters then you aren't watching the games. you're the stat dude, why don't you come at me with some numbers on how many sitters they missed as well as Triffo. You should also remember that we aren't signing any of those other 3 blokes, we have what we have, and we have them because it seems that no one wants to play for this club. Compared to what we've had in the past Triffo was far from unimpressive.

also, everyone rejoiced once Nobby came in, but in truth no one had heard of him either.
the level of joy over Nobby sounds roughly the same as the noise around Alidovic after his first half season.
buy boy didn't the same superfans turn on him fast. for a bunch of people claiming they love the club blah blah blah you're all so fickle on these players and are so happy for them to be removed from their workplace.
its a ****ing garbage attitude to have toward people but anyway you guys go for it.

[plague]

They're not the same people though. The footballing department has changed so often it's not funny and we've had new CEO's every season.


same horse different jockey.

[lquiquer]

a couple of levels below a player like Nordstrand who is clearly quality and made an impact when he came to the club.

I think you talking Nordstrand up a bit there.......He is ok but hasn't set the league on fire (yet) and his fitness (Age related?) was bellow par......

[stopper2]

ok.
firstly, assists is a garbage excuse for a stat so get that shit out of here. or better still explain to me why it matters.
How many assists did the Ooga Booga man have? is he any good?
If you don't think Berisha, Maclaren and Fornaroli don't miss sitters then you aren't watching the games. you're the stat dude, why don't you come at me with some numbers on how many sitters they missed as well as Triffo. You should also remember that we aren't signing any of those other 3 blokes, we have what we have, and we have them because it seems that no one wants to play for this club. Compared to what we've had in the past Triffo was far from unimpressive.

also, everyone rejoiced once Nobby came in, but in truth no one had heard of him either.
the level of joy over Nobby sounds roughly the same as the noise around Alidovic after his first half season.
buy boy didn't the same superfans turn on him fast. for a bunch of people claiming they love the club blah blah blah you're all so fickle on these players and are so happy for them to be removed from their workplace.
its a ****ing garbage attitude to have toward people but anyway you guys go for it.

You are kidding...assists is a garbage excuse for a stat so get that shit out of here
Broich doesn't score a heap of goals but (apart from last season) he is usually right up there in terms of assists...but okay this means nothing in the grand scheme of things according to plague:yeahright:
I'm getting the feeling that we are just treading on old well worn tracks here on Triff....time to move on!

[plague]

You are kidding...assists is a garbage excuse for a stat so get that shit out of here
Broich doesn't score a heap of goals but (apart from last season) he is usually right up there in terms of assists...but okay this means nothing in the grand scheme of

Dani Alves has more La Liga assists than both Xavi and Iniesta.

So you're saying Alves is better than Xavi and Iniesta or are you saying that Xavi and Iniesta are underperforming?

explain your assists argument a bit better please.

[The Dunster]

http://s2.quickmeme.com/img/49/491b707254950da7e45c77ee415f6eddde27d55831b363cb42 021a86d73bf30a.jpg

[GazFish35]

same horse different jockey.

The horse keeps changing too!
Wasn't that what we were talking by about? Constantly finding bad horses?

[stopper2]

Dani Alves has more La Liga assists than both Xavi and Iniesta.

So you're saying Alves is better than Xavi and Iniesta or are you saying that Xavi and Iniesta are underperforming?

explain your assists argument a bit better please.

Now you won't an argument just for the sake of trying to prove a point....that the club should have kept Triff!?

Yeah stats don't always give the full picture but still assists give a snapshot of a players overall effectivness.

If you can't understand this then sorry I can't help you.

[plague]

Now you won't an argument just for the sake of trying to prove a point....that the club should have kept Triff!?

Yeah stats don't always give the full picture but still assists give a snapshot of a players overall effectivness.

If you can't understand this then sorry I can't help you.

No.
You pointed to a stat that backed up your argument, then when the stats went against your argument you said stats don't give a full picture.

So if stats don't give a full picture stop pointing to one of them to back up your argument.

Just say you don't like him and be honest. That's all I'm asking.

Because as a fan your opinion is all you've got. I respect everyone's opinion, so stand behind yours.

[plague]

but still assists give a snapshot of a players overall effectivness.


But just to be clear is 'overall effectiveness' a stat or nah?
Because I couldn't find it on the Castrol/Opta index of all things right and true.

Help a brother out please.

[stopper2]

No.
You pointed to a stat that backed up your argument, then when the stats went against your argument you said stats don't give a full picture.

So if stats don't give a full picture stop pointing to one of them to back up your argument.

Just say you don't like him and be honest. That's all I'm asking.

Because as a fan your opinion is all you've got. I respect everyone's opinion, so stand behind yours.

Firstly, the "stats" did not go against my argument, how is comparing a fullback and 2 midfielders from Barca at all relevant to my original comment about Triff playing most of the season and not providing a single assist?

Really you are pulling at strings now and accusing me of not liking him, that is a baseless argument.
So if in Triff's case I feel that as a visa player we can find someone who is better suited to the physicallity of the A-League as a #9, with a bit more pace and aggression, someone who can provide a bit more end-product....be that goals or assists....but I am only saying that because I do not like Triff!!!

You seem to have a habit of clouding the issue or the argument plague and going off on a tangent just so you can get the upper-hand in the argument....am I right?

[MFKS]

There is no stat that says Triff was a lazy **** who didn't do much for most of the time is there? Plague?

It ain't like it was just Millertime who wanted rid of him. Rank and file punters were on his case early on in the season cause they could see his lack of effort

[plague]

There is no stat that says Triff was a lazy **** who didn't do much for most of the time is there? Plague?

It ain't like it was just Millertime who wanted rid of him. Rank and file punters were on his case early on in the season cause they could see his lack of effort

i think the stat you're looking for is 'perception'. most people have access to it.
I've no problem if you don't rate him.
I've no problem if Miller didnt rate him.

I've a problem with people saying "look this is why he is shit" and pointing to some garbage stat that has been shown to be useless.
I also have a problem with the coach bagging him when it seems like the player he was bagging was the exact same player he signed.

even you will admit Miller early in the season had no problem throwing his players under the bus al the while not using subs, bringing defenders on when trailing in games and seeming to play tactics counter productive to the strengths of the players he had on the park.

lets hope the next striker is exactly what the fans want.
lets hope Nobby doesn't turn into Alidovic 2.0.

lets just hope, because thats all this club seems to leave us with.

[plague]

Firstly, the "stats" did not go against my argument, how is comparing a fullback and 2 midfielders from Barca at all relevant to my original comment about Triff playing most of the season and not providing a single assist?

Really you are pulling at strings now and accusing me of not liking him, that is a baseless argument.
So if in Triff's case I feel that as a visa player we can find someone who is better suited to the physicallity of the A-League as a #9, with a bit more pace and aggression, someone who can provide a bit more end-product....be that goals or assists....but I am only saying that because I do not like Triff!!!

You seem to have a habit of clouding the issue or the argument plague and going off on a tangent just so you can get the upper-hand in the argument....am I right?


this is just a dumb post.
stop hustling backwards you know damn well your stat based argument is garbage. either that stats count or they don't. you said they do, so stand behind your argument.
there is no upper hand. i don't care about winning an argument. i care about outing people hiding behind bullshit arguments in order to get away with slagging someone.
you told on yourself.
get over it.
be more like the Member, at least he sticks solid on his point.

[Wilso8948]

Triff was top scorer. Triff couldn't speak English and still was top scorer. Triff woulda been even better this year. Triff had a hot wife. Triff shoulda gotten one more year. Alivodic was shit.

[plague]

anyway all this bagging of players by some of you reminded me of how much negativity is on this foz these days.
so therefore i present this photo as an ongoing peace offering hoping you blokes who keep undermining the players can some day be at peace.
http://letsgofido.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/freeimages-golden-lab-puppies-in-a-row.jpg

[pv4]

stopper - for reference, and i genuinely don't know the answer to this.. what is the goal:assist ratio for other out-and-out number 9s, similar ilk to Triff, in the world?

Like how many goals does Mario Mandzukic get for every assist? Mario Gomez? Lukaku?

Would be interesting to compare, if you're keen.

[Grimario]

stopper - for reference, and i genuinely don't know the answer to this.. what is the goal:assist ratio for other out-and-out number 9s, similar ilk to Triff, in the world?

Like how many goals does Mario Mandzukic get for every assist? Mario Gomez? Lukaku?

Would be interesting to compare, if you're keen.

Mandzukic - 36, 13, 6
Lukaku - 46, 25, 7
Gomes - 41, 28, 6

[380]

Bloke is no longer here, get over it FFS.

[Grimario]

Bloke is no longer here, get over it FFS.

It's the off season. What are we going to talk about... the friendly coming up in 2 days?

Oh, yeah...

[plague]

Bloke is no longer here, get over it FFS.

Don't know anyone holding out hope of a return.
Plenty on here wondering who the replacement is and if he'll be any better.
Legit questions I reackon.

[lquiquer]

stopper - for reference, and i genuinely don't know the answer to this.. what is the goal:assist ratio for other out-and-out number 9s, similar ilk to Triff, in the world?

Like how many goals does Mario Mandzukic get for every assist? Mario Gomez? Lukaku?

Would be interesting to compare, if you're keen.

More importantly we should be looking at the assist to the assist.... And even the assist to the assist to the assist .....assist lol

[Jeterpool]

It's the off season. What are we going to talk about... the friendly coming up in 2 days?

Oh, yeah...

So, what is our line up going to be, people? My guess is that he will put out essentially a first choice team in the first half before a number of changes in the second half:


----------------------------|----BK----|---------------------------

Hoff------------Mullen----------------Boogaard-----------Cowburn (would have been Vujica except for last week).

--------------Poljak-----------Stevie UG--------------------------

Clut-----------------Brown------------------------------Hoole

-------------------------Brennan---------------------------------

I don't know if Nordstrand is back yet. Pav could also replaced by Brennan. I don't think Labi would have enough fitness yet or have clearance.

[stopper2]

this is just a dumb post.
stop hustling backwards you know damn well your stat based argument is garbage. either that stats count or they don't. you said they do, so stand behind your argument.
there is no upper hand. i don't care about winning an argument. i care about outing people hiding behind bullshit arguments in order to get away with slagging someone.
you told on yourself.
get over it.
be more like the Member, at least he sticks solid on his point.

Why get so personal?
You go off all cocks-a-blazing just because I brought up a stat in reference to a comment from Dunster, then because you cop a bit back from myself you start getting narky.
Now you start accusing me of "slagging someone" just because my opinion on them differs from yours.
We had a similar argument a few months back if you recall and I brought up how I would have a striker like Djite in a heartbeat over Triff.
Your response was to bring up a heap of stats....yes STATS....that actually made Triff look pretty good in comparison to Djite at the time.
I still stand my comments that Triff wasn't quite up to the standard we should be expecting of for a visa player and although not the be-all and end-all his overall goals/assists in general play reflected this.
I'm ready to build a bridge now and move on.

[stopper2]

So, what is our line up going to be, people? My guess is that he will put out essentially a first choice team in the first half before a number of changes in the second half:


---------------------------------BK---------------------------------

Hoff------------Mullen----------------Boogaard-----------Cowburn (would have been Vujica except for last week).

--------------Poljak-----------Stevie UG--------------------------

Clut-----------------Brown------------------------------Hoole

-------------------------Brennan---------------------------------

I don't know if Nordstrand is back yet. Pav could also replaced by Brennan. I don't think Labi would have enough fitness yet or have clearance.

Will be interesting to see who gets the nod for the #10 spot, don't think we've gone into a season with so many fighting for the one position.
Brown, Clut, Cooper, even Hoole and of course Noddy will be pushing claims for that all important role over the pre-season.

[plague]

I'm ready to build a bridge now and move on.

A noble gesture but puppies have already been posted.
Others got the gag.
Now I'm off to assist Jetmaster find those stats on "assists for the assist for the assist".
I'll bet BK will be high on that list.

Feel free to assist us getting the data.

[plague]

---------------------------------BK---------------------------------

Hoff------------Mullen----------------Boogaard-----------Cowburn (would have been Vujica except for last week).

--------------Poljak-----------Stevie UG--------------------------

Clut-----------------Brown------------------------------Hoole

-------------------------Brennan---------------------------------


Once again BK leaving one side of his goal open.

You gotta drop him for that alone JP.


cc: Member.

[Grimario]

Will be interesting to see who gets the nod for the #10 spot, don't think we've gone into a season with so many fighting for the one position.
Brown, Clut, Cooper, even Hoole and of course Noddy will be pushing claims for that all important role over the pre-season.

Cooper isn't in with the faintest chance. Will be Clut for mine, Brown playing one of the wider roles.

[Jeterpool]

Cooper isn't in with the faintest chance. Will be Clut for mine, Brown playing one of the wider roles.

I agree. It could be either but I decided to play the more experienced player in there.

[Jeterpool]

Once again BK leaving one side of his goal open.

You gotta drop him for that alone JP.


cc: Member.

:rof: Fixed my original post mate. Thanks for pointing it out.

[Grimario]

Report on Vujica was that it was only a bruised ankle, wasn't it? He might still play... dunno.

With Miller saying that Cowburn is one of the best left backs in the league (cheers borat), would Vujica really have started ahead of him?

[plague]

:rof: Fixed my original post mate. Thanks for pointing it out.

Holy shit you really did.
You're an accountant aren't you?

[Jeterpool]

Report on Vujica was that it was only a bruised ankle, wasn't it? He might still play... dunno.

With Miller saying that Cowburn is one of the best left backs in the league (cheers borat), would Vujica really have started ahead of him?

I'd have been looking for him to. While Cowburn is a solid right back he didn't offer the same outlet going forward as Jason Hoffman. He was also heavily reliant on his right foot which made him predictable.

He is the incumbent but I am looking for Cowburn to make a presence in the midfield after Miller's comments last year.

The response to the tweet said Vujica would be out for a few days. I'd rather save him for August 3rd.

[Jeterpool]

Holy shit you really did.
You're an accountant aren't you?

Nope. Not an accountant.

I was doing it just for a shit stir but cool.

[tomo]

More importantly we should be looking at the assist to the assist.... And even the assist to the assist to the assist .....assist lol

Can someone give this bloke some assistance?

[borat]

Report on Vujica was that it was only a bruised ankle, wasn't it? He might still play... dunno.

With Miller saying that Cowburn is one of the best left backs in the league (cheers borat), would Vujica really have started ahead of him?

Vujica is 19 and has never played a game of senior football. He was brought here for depth and to push Cowburn. If Vujica comes on quickly and plays his way into the starting role then great, but I doubt that is the expectation for this season More likely to come into contention in his 2nd season.

[Jeterpool]

Can someone give this bloke so assistance?

I'll get someone who can.

[plague]

I'll get someone who can.

Let me know if he needs a hand.
Happy to assist.

[Wilso8948]

Looking at that squad really highlights how sub par we are. I'm willing to wait and see on the recruits but I tell you what if we don't pull our finger out in the next month or two and get some quality in it's looking like another long season. Not a pessimist. Just a realist.

[plague]

Nope. Not an accountant.

I was doing it just for a shit stir but cool.

Oh no I appreciate the attention to detail.
Was just wondering what other profession is automatically so pedantic.......I mean diligent.

The hunt continues.

[Wilso8948]

Let me know if he needs a hand.
Happy to assist.

Trifunovic told you lot to get ****ed. He aint helping no one.

[Jeterpool]

Looking at that squad really highlights how sub par we are. I'm willing to wait and see on the recruits but I tell you what if we don't pull our finger out in the next month or two and get some quality in it's looking like another long season. Not a pessimist. Just a realist.

Do you think we're sub-par in one area of the field in particular or across the board? I am of the opinion we are light up front but we are pretty well covered in the midfield and defensively.

I'm not going to read too much into Wednesday's match, but will be wanting a strong performance in the FFA Cup.

[Jeterpool]

Oh no I appreciate the attention to detail.
Was just wondering what other profession is automatically so pedantic.......I mean diligent.

The hunt continues.

Keep hunting.

[The Dunster]

Keep hunting.

Actuary ?

[borat]

Looking at that squad really highlights how sub par we are. I'm willing to wait and see on the recruits but I tell you what if we don't pull our finger out in the next month or two and get some quality in it's looking like another long season. Not a pessimist. Just a realist.

I am completely resigned to the fact we will be cannon fodder next season. Signing this Chinese development player will cruel whatever slim chances we ever had. Infact we might actually be saved from this by loan rules. Herald article last week stated that even min wage Chinese players are on 500k. All that would need to be included in the cap.

[Wilso8948]

Do you think we're sub-par in one area of the field in particular or across the board? I am of the opinion we are light up front but we are pretty well covered in the midfield and defensively.

I'm not going to read too much into Wednesday's match, but will be wanting a strong performance in the FFA Cup.

We are lacking some serious X factor. I was a big fan of Leo last year as he opened up the defence. That's something that is very hard to do. I think we will toil hard all year and scrap within our means but will be on the wrong side more often then not. You only need to look at City in the past few years. Yes I realise they have the cash etc but they have morphed into an extremely intimidating opponent with a few well planned recruits.

[Jeterpool]

Actuary ?

Nup

[Jeterpool]

We are lacking some serious X factor. I was a big fan of Leo last year as he opened up the defence. That's something that is very hard to do. I think we will toil hard all year and scrap within our means but will be on the wrong side more often then not. You only need to look at City in the past few years. Yes I realise they have the cash etc but they have morphed into an extremely intimidating opponent with a few well planned recruits.

Can't disagree with that. As Borat mentioned, with the Chinese development player coming on board it is either going to be a striker or a #10 for the remaining visa spot.

[Grimario]

Looking at that squad really highlights how sub par we are. I'm willing to wait and see on the recruits but I tell you what if we don't pull our finger out in the next month or two and get some quality in it's looking like another long season. Not a pessimist. Just a realist.

Teams have won the league with far worse GK's and defenders than we have. If it is Cowburn as our first choice left back, that'll pretty much be a solid back 4 that we maintain. Of course that doesn't factor in Boogs and Mullen swapping red cards and yellow accumulation so expect Jackson and Kanta to play a bit back there.

The spine of our midfield is pretty good as well... Ugar has half a season of being very promising, Kanta/Poljak are serviceable (but not standouts, obviously), Clut showed a heap of promise 12+ months ago before being shelved and if Miller can get Hoole's confidence up, he could be good for us as well. Who knows how good Brown is... if we see the player on the highlight reel, we're in for a treat. Labi coming back from a year off could go either way.

Out wide and up front is where we have no quality or no depth.

I foresee a season similar to last year. Solid defensively, some good possession but not enough goals.

Unless Lee picks up a genuine Chinese future star, either on the fringe of the NT or a youth international, AND our other import commands a starting spot, I'm with you on the rather depressing sounding reality we have.

Looking forward to 2018!

[plague]

Trifunovic told you lot to get ****ed. He aint helping no one.

That's ok the clubs been saying the same thing to me for years yet I'm still 'ere.

[borat]

Teams have won the league with far worse GK's and defenders than we have. If it is Cowburn as our first choice left back, that'll pretty much be a solid back 4 that we maintain. Of course that doesn't factor in Boogs and Mullen swapping red cards and yellow accumulation so expect Jackson and Kanta to play a bit back there.

The spine of our midfield is pretty good as well... Ugar has half a season of being very promising, Kanta/Poljak are serviceable (but not standouts, obviously), Clut showed a heap of promise 12+ months ago before being shelved and if Miller can get Hoole's confidence up, he could be good for us as well. Who knows how good Brown is... if we see the player on the highlight reel, we're in for a treat. Labi coming back from a year off could go either way.

Out wide and up front is where we have no quality or no depth.

I foresee a season similar to last year. Solid defensively, some good possession but not enough goals.

Unless Lee picks up a genuine Chinese future star, either on the fringe of the NT or a youth international, AND our other import commands a starting spot, I'm with you on the rather depressing sounding reality we have.

Looking forward to 2018!

The chinese player market is grossly inflated so that min wage players are on 500k. Mckinna was talking nonsense in the Herald last week that a loan deal would mean we could secure a better player. That loophole was closed when City tried to sign Lampard so that all the players wages are now included in the cap. So essentially if we go through with this we will sign a bog average Chinese player who will take up the majority of whats left in the cap for a striker.

If you look at the Chinese U20s team, every single player is currently playing either in Europe or for a CSL team. We are not going to attract this type of player. We will sign a player not up to the level of National Youth team, probably from the 1st division (what in 2nd div).

Then you look at the way Perth & Sydney have strengthened. Even the teams that finished below us like Wellington and dare I say the Mariners. I truly fear for the coming season.......which probably means we are nailed on for the title but we will see.

[stopper2]

We are lacking some serious X factor. I was a big fan of Leo last year as he opened up the defence. That's something that is very hard to do. I think we will toil hard all year and scrap within our means but will be on the wrong side more often then not. You only need to look at City in the past few years. Yes I realise they have the cash etc but they have morphed into an extremely intimidating opponent with a few well planned recruits.
Yes agree but I also think the young players who have been around for a while at this level are going to have to step up, in particular Hooley and Cooper. Clut has this opportunity now to start afresh at a new club and should, one would hope, make the most of it.

[Grimario]

Then you look at the way Perth & Sydney have strengthened. Even the teams that finished below us like Wellington and dare I say the Mariners. I truly fear for the coming season.......which probably means we are nailed on for the title but we will see.

Mariners have signed some okay imports and a back up GK from Sydney plus Powell and Appiah... who wasn't good enough out of their youth team, wasn't good enough at WSW and not good enough at Nix. Pretty sure Faty and Tavares missed a bunch of time due to injury at SFC and another year older isn't going to have their bodies in any better condition. They traded their best player from last season for a player who is the same style of player, a few years younger but with a much more punchable face.

I don't think they have really improved at all.

[Grimario]

Yes agree but I also think the young players who have been around for a while at this level are going to have to step up, in particular Hooley and Cooper. Clut has this opportunity now to start afresh at a new club and should, one would hope, make the most of it.

Why do you keep suggesting Cooper has to step up? He's not even in first team plans anymore, is he?

[borat]

Mariners have signed some okay imports and a back up GK from Sydney plus Powell and Appiah... who wasn't good enough out of their youth team, wasn't good enough at WSW and not good enough at Nix. Pretty sure Faty and Tavares missed a bunch of time due to injury at SFC and another year older isn't going to have their bodies in any better condition. They traded their best player from last season for a player who is the same style of player, a few years younger but with a much more punchable face.

I don't think they have really improved at all.

I don't think you could disagree that the Mariners have strengthened across the board, considering how bad they were last year. They needed to sign experience and thats what they have done. Now they have added Necevski, Tavres, Faty, Powell, Pain, plus the return of players who didn't feature as much as they should have such as O'Donnovan, Roux & Ferreira. I don't think they are going to win the league but IMO thats enough of a team to push us down a peg or two.

Nix have added Barborouses and Finkler.

And we added players with potential (except for Brown who looks likely to be Leonardo's replacement).......but who barely featured for their teams last year, whilst losing arguably the best keeper in the league. We are relying on youth players to make massive improvements just to be competitive and I don't see it.

[borat]

Why do you keep suggesting Cooper has to step up? He's not even in first team plans anymore, is he?

Someone is leaving to accommodate Nabbout and my bet is on Cooper. Whoever it is, they are agreeing to walk away from their contract. Cooper I believe is good enough still to get another offer whereas Pav and Brennan I don't think are.

[Grimario]

Mariners lost Kalik who has gone straight into first team football in the Croatian top division and replaced him with an older midfielder who played less then half the games last season at SFC.
Uskok out and Faty in is an upgrade but again, he's old and played less than half the games last season.

Were both injured often or deemed not as good as the players starting? Honestly don't remember.

They've signed an experienced GK who hasn't played A-League football since the 2012/13 season. He started in the first friendly they played last week, Izzo in the second... but a bloke who hasn't played in the league for 3 years isn't exactly a great acquisition IMO.


I think they're no better than last year, possibly worse as Austin > Pain.


Also, didn't comment on Nix because I agree, they've improved for sure. Just those two you mentioned will be fantastic for them. 3 years playing together at MV will certainly make it a semi seamless transition.

[MFKS]

Teams have won the league with far worse GK's and defenders than we have. If it is Cowburn as our first choice left back, that'll pretty much be a solid back 4 that we maintain. Of course that doesn't factor in Boogs and Mullen swapping red cards and yellow accumulation so expect Jackson and Kanta to play a bit back there.

The spine of our midfield is pretty good as well... Ugar has half a season of being very promising, Kanta/Poljak are serviceable (but not standouts, obviously), Clut showed a heap of promise 12+ months ago before being shelved and if Miller can get Hoole's confidence up, he could be good for us as well. Who knows how good Brown is... if we see the player on the highlight reel, we're in for a treat. Labi coming back from a year off could go either way.

Out wide and up front is where we have no quality or no depth.

I foresee a season similar to last year. Solid defensively, some good possession but not enough goals.

Unless Lee picks up a genuine Chinese future star, either on the fringe of the NT or a youth international, AND our other import commands a starting spot, I'm with you on the rather depressing sounding reality we have.

Looking forward to 2018!
Disagree our back line is the same useless blokes who allowed a dozen chances a game to be fired at Birraz last year.

This year they are a year older and slower and we going to have Duncan in nets who lets face it we should be thankful it isn't BK

As for our midfield to me it is no better than last season. Clut Hoole Brown have replaced DevonHead Leo and Watson.

No better if you ask me.

Up front we have..... No one yet to replace Triff

Lets not forget our rivals have strengthened and we have really done **** all with our squad bar rearrange some minor players

[hawk]

Nix have added Barborouses and Finkler.

We havent added that quality in years. Go Jets

[Wilso8948]

Disagree our back line is the same useless blokes who allowed a dozen chances a game to be fired at Birraz last year.

This year they are a year older and slower and we going to have Duncan in nets who lets face it we should be thankful it isn't BK

As for our midfield to me it is no better than last season. Clut Hoole Brown have replaced DevonHead Leo and Watson.

No better if you ask me.

Up front we have..... No one yet to replace Triff

Lets not forget our rivals have strengthened and we have really done **** all with our squad bar rearrange some minor players

I totally agree with you. So many teams adding so much quality yet here we are debating about whether or not we will finish above a team who was horseshit last year.
I believe the club is heading in the right direction as a whole. But I am genuinely concerned with the quality of our roster. I believe we are still a few years away yet

[plague]

Disagree our back line is the same useless blokes who allowed a dozen chances a game to be fired at Birraz last year.

This year they are a year older and slower and we going to have Duncan in nets who lets face it we should be thankful it isn't BK

As for our midfield to me it is no better than last season. Clut Hoole Brown have replaced DevonHead Leo and Watson.

No better if you ask me.

Up front we have..... No one yet to replace Triff

Lets not forget our rivals have strengthened and we have really done **** all with our squad bar rearrange some minor players

see this is the shit that keeps getting pissed on as 'negativity'.
The Member is bang on (as he is in roughly 12% of posts).
everyone get with him rather than bagging the bloke.

[plague]

still a lunatic though.

[lquiquer]

Disagree our back line is the same useless blokes who allowed a dozen chances a game to be fired at Birraz last year.

This year they are a year older and slower and we going to have Duncan in nets who lets face it we should be thankful it isn't BK

As for our midfield to me it is no better than last season. Clut Hoole Brown have replaced DevonHead Leo and Watson.

No better if you ask me.

Up front we have..... No one yet to replace Triff

Lets not forget our rivals have strengthened and we have really done **** all with our squad bar rearrange some minor players

So we will finish 7th....allelujah

[lquiquer]

1299

Jesper Lange our next chinese striker!!!?

[tomo]

1299

Jesper Lange our next chinese striker!!!?

How do you get him a chinese passport?

[MFKS]

see this is the shit that keeps getting pissed on as 'negativity'.
The Member is bang on (as he is in roughly 12% of posts).
everyone get with him rather than bagging the bloke.

Hey Plague this 12% thing.

That inadmissible

It a stat


We all know stats are irrelevant see the whole Dani Alves has more assists than Iniesta thing you had going with Stopper


Stop dealing in stats buddy

5
5
5

[Tommyjet]

1299

Jesper Lange our next chinese striker!!!?

Sounds like a miller signing. Danish, was once worth £1m +.
Not the greatest scoring record but i have read he has spent a fair chunk of his career as attacking mid.
after watching his youtube highlights, he reminds me a lot of pablo sanchez (spaniard at adelaide last 2 seasons) not only in appearance but the way he plays.
Can see jesper and morten switching it up in a positional sense continuelly.

[plague]

Hey Plague this 12% thing.

That inadmissible

It a stat


We all know stats are irrelevant see the whole Dani Alves has more assists than Iniesta thing you had going with Stopper


Stop dealing in stats buddy

5
5
5

oh man you gotta leave this alone poor stopper2 might catch on soon and it will all go to waste.


Speaking of stats though I wonder how many assists I get for making you look like a lunatic?

[belchardo]

Speaking of stats though I wonder how many assists I get for making you look like a lunatic?

none, the member sets it all up himself.

[plague]

none, the member sets it all up himself.

Oh I get the Tarek Elrich assist, you ain't taking that one off me.

[stopper2]

Hey Plague this 12% thing.

That inadmissible

It a stat


We all know stats are irrelevant see the whole Dani Alves has more assists than Iniesta thing you had going with Stopper


Stop dealing in stats buddy

5
5
5

:rof::rof::rof::rof:

[stopper2]

Why do you keep suggesting Cooper has to step up? He's not even in first team plans anymore, is he?

Well he is basically playing for an A-League contract this year, if he doesn't step up he no doubt will be playing NPL somewhere.
True at this stage he probably wouldn't even be considered for a bench spot but that is totally up to him to rectify.

[The Dunster]

Well he is basically playing for an A-League contract this year, if he doesn't step up he no doubt will be playing NPL somewhere.
True at this stage he probably wouldn't even be considered for a bench spot but that is totally up to him to rectify.

Cooper is far too good to be playing in the NPL. I'd have thought he would look to play somewhere in Asia like India, Thailand... and so on.

[plague]

Cooper is far too good to be playing in the NPL.

How do you know that?
How many assists did he have last year?
That's the way to measure a bloke.


Hashtagstatscrew4lyf

[lquiquer]

How do you know that?
How many assists did he have last year?
That's the way to measure a bloke.


Hashtagstatscrew4lyf

The question is: Is he good enough for the Chinese leagues?.... We could use him for a swap deal

[RAM]

Cooper is far too good to be playing in the NPL. I'd have thought he would look to play somewhere in Asia like India, Thailand... and so on.

so where NPL players go when they don't want to play in Oz?

[RAM]

Cooper is shit.

[Bon]

Confirmed, Nabbout has signed for 2 years..

[RAM]

Confirmed, Nabbout has signed for 2 years..

Gamble.

Hope he gets fit at least. Looks a bit like Jardel when he signed.

[Roundball Enthusiast]

Whoop. Another squaddie.

[lil_masi]

Confirmed, Nabbout has signed for 2 years..

Can only mean we are releasing someone. That someone being cooper. Because we only had 2 imports and an u20s spot remaining. And I'm guessing we intend to use both 2 spots.

[Bon]

Third time lucky boz?

[plague]

so where NPL players go when they don't want to play in Oz?

Adelaide

cc:Member

[The Postman]

Well, hope he proves us all wrong.

Gives us 9 players for 4 spots up top though

Hooley, Brown, Labi and Morty would be the starters

The back ups
Clut, Nabbout, Pav, Brennan and Cooper

[Wilso8948]

We all thought the same when Taggart signed for us. Here's to be the eternal optimist. Carrnn score some goals farken!

[The Dunster]

We all thought the same when Taggart signed for us. Here's to be the eternal optimist. Carrnn score some goals farken!

He will be a good signing given that he's already scored five a-league goals - unlike other signings the Jets have made in recent times.

[Tommyjet]

one of those players that generally just makes things happen, not always for the better but i think he is worth a shot. interesting though is that out of those 8 or 9 goals for negeri, 4 were dotties.:rof: happy now triffo lovers.

[plague]

Keep hunting.

HR/Risk Management

Boom.

[baldrick]

Confirmed, Nabbout has signed for 2 years..


Didn't Scott Miller say he wouldn't sign any players to contracts longer than he is here for ?

[plague]

Didn't Scott Miller say he wouldn't sign any players to contracts longer than he is here for ?

yeah but when a player of Nabbouts pedigree comes on the market you have to make allowances.


this is why we couldn't land Steve Lustica

[boz-monaut]

Third time lucky boz?

http://38.media.tumblr.com/2ef56b96fb1a4c8b9a07899074db3a70/tumblr_n8h7eoKsrA1r49djjo1_250.gif

[Jeterpool]

HR/Risk Management

Boom.

Not HR

[stopper2]

Can only mean we are releasing someone. That someone being cooper. Because we only had 2 imports and an u20s spot remaining. And I'm guessing we intend to use both 2 spots.
Or Brennan?

[plague]

Not HR

https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--YJ0v2IN5--/j1ws6ayey84g7uzwljpm.gif
http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--7JwMJMcV--/ex5rsfmes1bwkj3b0iuo.gif
http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--qnvTRPpG--/nylmij6cmu3n88w7mt0m.gif

[Jeterpool]

https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--YJ0v2IN5--/j1ws6ayey84g7uzwljpm.gif
http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--7JwMJMcV--/ex5rsfmes1bwkj3b0iuo.gif
http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--qnvTRPpG--/nylmij6cmu3n88w7mt0m.gif
You only get partial points for risk management

[plague]

https://media.giphy.com/media/11f8T4KINZsGas/giphy.gif

the reason I said accountant originally was because my father in law in an accountant but now specialises in Risk Management and he's EXACTLY the type of bloke that would go back and edit that post.

(and yes my father in law is a good bloke).

[The Postman]

1.
2. Daniel Mullen - 16/17
3. Jason Hoffman - 17/18
4. Nigel Boogaard - 17/18
5. Ben Kantarovski - 16/17
6.
7.
8. Mateo Poljak - 16/17
9.
10.
11. Labinot Halti - 16/17
12. Andy Brennan - 16/17
13.
14. Mitch Cooper - 16/17
15.
16. Steven Ugarković - 16/17
17. Radan Pavicevic - 16/17
18.
19. Morten Nordstrand - 16/17
20. Ben Kennedy - 16/17
21.
22. Lachlan Jackson - 16/17
23.

1. Nick Cowburn - 17/18
2. Devante Clut - 17/18
3. Wayne Brown - 17/18
4. Daniel Alessi - 17/18
5. Andrew Hoole - 16/17
6. Jack Duncan - 17/18
7. Ivan Vujica -17/18
8. Andrew Nabbout - 17/18
9.
10.

[MFKS]

Didn't Scott Miller say he wouldn't sign any players to contracts longer than he is here for ?

He is either learning the dark arts of bullshitting or he is making it up as he goes along.

Either way another uninspiring signing.


The squads nearly full now and every signing has been let's just say underwhelming

All hope now rests on us signing the Chinese Joel Griffiths


3 Months ago I was looking forward to this season with some optimism after Miller cleared the Deadwood

To now go fill the squad with a complete lack of x factor leaves me very underwhelmed

May as well just look forward to the campaign to oust the Gypo as that's about all we gonna have to be excited about

[lquiquer]

He is either learning the dark arts of bullshitting or he is making it up as he goes along.

Either way another uninspiring signing.


The squads nearly full now and every signing has been let's just say underwhelming

All hope now rests on us signing the Chinese Joel Griffiths


3 Months ago I was looking forward to this season with some optimism after Miller cleared the Deadwood

To now go fill the squad with a complete lack of x factor leaves me very underwhelmed

May as well just look forward to the campaign to oust the Gypo as that's about all we gonna have to be excited about

Eternal 7th

[Roundball Enthusiast]

Wait, Cahill was/is in China, do they consider him Chinese now? maybe we're getting him.

[baldrick]

Wait, Cahill was/is in China, do they consider him Chinese now? maybe we're getting him.

I saw Timmy having coffee at Merewether Surfhouse on the weekend

[plague]

I saw Timmy having coffee at Merewether Surfhouse on the weekend

I read that somewhere.

[hawk]

He is either learning the dark arts of bullshitting or he is making it up as he goes along.

Either way another uninspiring signing.


The squads nearly full now and every signing has been let's just say underwhelming

All hope now rests on us signing the Chinese Joel Griffiths


3 Months ago I was looking forward to this season with some optimism after Miller cleared the Deadwood

To now go fill the squad with a complete lack of x factor leaves me very underwhelmed

May as well just look forward to the campaign to oust the Gypo as that's about all we gonna have to be excited about

Watch out for the optimistic crew. They dont like these neg facts.

This squad is not a high profile one but with Miller making the choices they may surprise. Might see how they go for a bit before we judge judy

[Tommyjet]

gee i feel sorry for the loved ones of the grade A wankers on this forum

[plague]

gee i feel sorry for the loved ones of the grade A wankers on this forum

"WONT SOMEONE THINK OF THE CHILDREN..............of the 12 year olds in their mums basement"

[skullboy]

He is either learning the dark arts of bullshitting or he is making it up as he goes along.

Either way another uninspiring signing.


The squads nearly full now and every signing has been let's just say underwhelming

All hope now rests on us signing the Chinese Joel Griffiths


3 Months ago I was looking forward to this season with some optimism after Miller cleared the Deadwood

To now go fill the squad with a complete lack of x factor leaves me very underwhelmed

May as well just look forward to the campaign to oust the Gypo as that's about all we gonna have to be excited about

Who are you and what have you done with the member??? There has been way too much common sense coming from this account. The authorities have been notified....

[skullboy]

one of those players that generally just makes things happen, not always for the better but i think he is worth a shot. interesting though is that out of those 8 or 9 goals for negeri, 4 were dotties.:rof: happy now triffo lovers.

Hey - don't besmirch the relevance of penalties scored versus something actually relevant like assists. :popcorn:

Triff was shit. no stats required.

[plague]

Triff was shit. no stats required.

welcome to the foz Coach Miller.
All the best for the new season.

[Wilso8948]

Here's a stat for yall. Triffs wife was a solid 9/10. He therefore deserved another year.

[plague]

Here's a stat for yall. Triffs wife was a solid 9/10. He therefore deserved another year.

#allstatsmatter

[The Postman]

From the Nabbout article in the Herald

"The Jets squad now numbers 21. Miller is expected to sign an overseas striker, a Chinese player and one or two more under-20 development players to complete his roster."

[borat]

From the Nabbout article in the Herald

"The Jets squad now numbers 21. Miller is expected to sign an overseas striker, a Chinese player and one or two more under-20 development players to complete his roster."

Michael Pariss has no real understanding of the squad regulations. His first article on Nabbout last week completely left out any reference to the number of players already signed.

What is certain is that we must sign 1 more u20 player (that makes 22/23). If we are to sign the Visa striker and the Chinese player then someone has to leave to accomodate, a fact Parris doesn't pick up on.

The signing of another (a fourth) u20 could be done as a full time NYL contracted player or injury replacement for Allessi.

[leftrightout]

Jets have stated a Chinese player will come in, they have also said a Visa attacker will come in. I honestly don't think Nabbout coming in will change that. Someone must be getting release or something. Or if there is only one more player to come in at least we should have good $$$ to spend on him.

[MFKS]

Michael Pariss has no real understanding of the squad regulations. His first article on Nabbout last week completely left out any reference to the number of players already signed.

What is certain is that we must sign 1 more u20 player (that makes 22/23). If we are to sign the Visa striker and the Chinese player then someone has to leave to accomodate, a fact Parris doesn't pick up on.

The signing of another (a fourth) u20 could be done as a full time NYL contracted player or injury replacement for Allessi.

This bloke related to kid in the EJ by any chance???

[Tommyjet]

in terms of the striker, i know jesper lange's name has been linked but if we have a fair bit of coin left in the cap(we should) we should throw most of it at Marvin Pourie, a german striker playing for copenhagen most recently. 5 years younger than lange and the potential to either make into our own fornaroli/berisha or make some decent coin off down the track.

[Jeterpool]

This bloke related to kid in the EJ by any chance???

Yes I believe so

[Bon]

http://38.media.tumblr.com/2ef56b96fb1a4c8b9a07899074db3a70/tumblr_n8h7eoKsrA1r49djjo1_250.gif

http://media.tumblr.com/0a06e149fbe4f39a17772c7055685f15/tumblr_inline_mwl6joxZpO1rhignx.gif

[pv4]

http://media.tumblr.com/0a06e149fbe4f39a17772c7055685f15/tumblr_inline_mwl6joxZpO1rhignx.gif

https://media.giphy.com/media/137XhGMjSAmVY4/giphy.gif

[borat]

Jets have stated a Chinese player will come in, they have also said a Visa attacker will come in. I honestly don't think Nabbout coming in will change that. Someone must be getting release or something. Or if there is only one more player to come in at least we should have good $$$ to spend on him.

Totally agree,just find it interesting that the reporter doesn't ask the one obvious question.

My bet on who is leaving is Cooper as he is most likely to be wanted elsewhere in the HAL. But it got me thinking a little more left field. What if Lee lined up a CSL gig for Boogs or Mullen. Would free up a huge amount of cash and with either Kanta or Jackson ready to replace them.

[plague]

What if Lee lined up a CSL gig for Boogs or Mullen.

But then who would provide the assists for BK's penalty failures?

Who would provide the team lulz?

It's a brilliant idea but would take away much of the gameday experience.

[MFKS]

But then who would provide the assists for BK's penalty failures?

Who would provide the team lulz?

It's a brilliant idea but would take away much of the gameday experience.

This is the Jets we are talking about. Either someone within the squad will step and deliver.

Either that or we will recruit in to fill the void


Dont fear mediocrity is a mastered art form with us

[lquiquer]

But then who would provide the assists for BK's penalty failures?


Don't worry we got Kanta

[Jeterpool]

For those who are losing track with where we are at with meeting our minimum requirements, this is taken straight from the A-League website


How many Players does a Club have on their Hyundai A-League Player Roster?

At all times during the Season, a Club’s Hyundai A-League Player Roster must have:

a minimum of 20 Players; a maximum of 23 Players;
a minimum of 2 Goalkeepers;
a minimum of 3 Australian Players aged 20 or under;
and a maximum of 5 Foreign Players.

Guest Players and Mature Age Rookie Players sit outside the Club’s Hyundai A-League Player Roster. Players on a Club’s Foxtel National Youth League (NYL) Player Roster, including Contracted NYL Players, are also eligible to participate in the Hyundai A-League.

What is the minimum salary for a Hyundai A-League Player?

The minimum salary for Players in the Hyundai A-League in the 2015/16 Season is:

Under 20 - $41,000 (excluding superannuation);
and 20 and over - $55,000 (excluding superannuation) -



See more at: http://www.a-league.com.au/about/salary-cap-system/19l4z69nq786n13oyz89nari1m#sthash.NIuiV0Pq.dpuf
Read more at http://www.a-league.com.au/about/salary-cap-system/19l4z69nq786n13oyz89nari1m#g2cPmOAO4HmfRmOh.99

Having a further read of it, Mitch Cooper falls under the criteria for a "Loyalty Player" of which $200,000 can sit outside the cap. BK and Kanta are the only other 2.

Did Pav come through our Youth system? Cowburn (if he's still under 23) and Pav could also fulfill the criteria to have up to $150,000 sit outside the cap.

[MFKS]

Cowburn is u 23 that for certain

As for Pavicevic he is a Sydney based junior who was dragged up here 4 or so years ago and put into the NYL and EJ NPL sides.
So depending on how FFA view where junior starts as being NYL/NPL arrival or they go back further.

Because if they go back further then Hoole Kantarovski are not Jets juniors due to playing for Magic as kids

[RAM]

Likely teams at this stage:

JETS

http://sharemytactics.com/70425/Jets-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70425/)

Pretty solid, need a marquee striker though imo.

ADELAIDE

http://sharemytactics.com/70426/Radelaide-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70426/)

Solid, but lacking firepower imo.

ROAR

http://sharemytactics.com/70427/Brisvegas-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70427/)

Balanced squad imo

GYPOS

http://sharemytactics.com/70428/Scum-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70428/)

Plenty of pace on the counter. Plenty of shit****s in the squad too.

CITEH

http://sharemytactics.com/70429/Citeh-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70429/)

A lot of quality. But weak at LB and need a better CB pairing imo.

VICTORY

http://sharemytactics.com/70430/MV-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70430/)

Aging with Valeri, Berisha and Kalfallah to be very important. Lacking a bit of creativity in the final 3rd without Finkler and Barbarous. Think they'll have to recruit unless they plan on just hitting on the counter.

GLORY

http://sharemytactics.com/70431/Glory-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70431/)

Quality.

FC

http://sharemytactics.com/70432/Shitney-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70432/)

Lacking firepower. No geniune striker. Blackwood is too raw and Simon is shit. Holosko is a winger.

PHOENIX

http://sharemytactics.com/70433/Phoenix-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70433/)

Great front and middle thirds, but woefully thin at the back.

WSW

http://sharemytactics.com/70434/Wanderers-formation-tactics.png (http://sharemytactics.com/70434/)

Need strikers more than we do ffs.

[borat]

Good try but your line ups are well wide of the mark, starting with the Jets. You are missing plenty of regular starters for all teams

[pv4]

CITEH

need a better CB pairing imo.

The things I would do for that CB pairing..

I politely yet forcefully disagree with you yet again.

[lquiquer]

3-5-2 all the way ......Have a go Millertime

Duncan
Mullen - Kanta - Boogs
Hoole - Ugar - Brown - Poljak - Haliti
Nordstrand - New striker

[Wilso8948]

3-5-2 all the way ......Have a go Millertime

Duncan
Mullen - Kanta - Boogs
Hoole - Ugar - Brown - Poljak - Haliti
Nordstrand - New striker

Like the formation but players don't fit. Need supremely fit players in those wide positions to convert to 5 at the back in defence. Hoole possibly. Haliti no chance

[MFKS]

Also need speed at the back playing a 3 man defence

Boogz Kanta and Mullen get most of their yellows for being slow

Then add in they all like to go to ground needlessly


Wouldn't have been a bad formation back in the day we had Zads and Goodwin

[borat]

Missing

Adelaide - Maronne has Achilles injury so will be Kitto/Marino to start. Plus 3 Visa spots to fill (rumoured to be a marquee striker)

Gypos - Ferriera to replace Appiah, Poscoliero and Faty with be CB pairing, Rose replaces McGing

Victory - Signed Baro, to replace Delpierre, and would expect to partner Ansell not Donachie. Muscat all but confirmed Holman yesterday who would play 10, Bozanic back to 6 and Mahazi to the bench. Doubt Austin will start with 2 more Visa signings to come

Melbourne City - Signing a marque #10 Fernando Brandan (waiting for Cahill I believe) and a Visa CB to partner Chapman. Fitzgerald/Kmau/Caceras fighting for 1 place.

Perth - Lowry and Grant CBs, Willaims and Herd at DM. Mills is the english LB they signed from Oldham Athletic. Taggart and Marinkovic competing for 1 spot

SFC - 4231 - Ryall for Grant, Ninkovic at #10, Ibini and Holosko either side and a marquee striker upfront that Arnold/Pignata has been talking about. Blackwood & Carney to the bench

Nix - Barbarouses and Krishna swap places. Lia won't play CB, they are rumoured to be signing Hamill from WSW

WSW - Cornthwaite to partner TPS at CB, Cole won't start and will be Sotirio or the Japanese player they just signed.

And the Jets - well we are getting a striker that we know for sure. Nordstrand will play in his preferred position of 9 or 10 so swap with Brown. My thoughts are well known that Cowburn will start LB. What will be interesting is if Nabbout can force his way into the starting side. Possibly for Poljak with Brown shifting to 6.

[borat]

Also need speed at the back playing a 3 man defence

Boogz Kanta and Mullen get most of their yellows for being slow

Then add in they all like to go to ground needlessly


Wouldn't have been a bad formation back in the day we had Zads and Goodwin

Perth would love it, i.e., I doubt we will ever see 3 at the back again.

[RAM]

Missing

Adelaide - Maronne has Achilles injury so will be Kitto/Marino to start. Plus 3 Visa spots to fill (rumoured to be a marquee striker)

Gypos - Ferriera to replace Appiah, Poscoliero and Faty with be CB pairing, Rose replaces McGing

Victory - Signed Baro, to replace Delpierre, and would expect to partner Ansell not Donachie. Muscat all but confirmed Holman yesterday who would play 10, Bozanic back to 6 and Mahazi to the bench. Doubt Austin will start with 2 more Visa signings to come

Melbourne City - Signing a marque #10 Fernando Brandan (waiting for Cahill I believe) and a Visa CB to partner Chapman. Fitzgerald/Kmau/Caceras fighting for 1 place.

Perth - Lowry and Grant CBs, Willaims and Herd at DM. Mills is the english LB they signed from Oldham Athletic. Taggart and Marinkovic competing for 1 spot

SFC - 4231 - Ryall for Grant, Ninkovic at #10, Ibini and Holosko either side and a marquee striker upfront that Arnold/Pignata has been talking about. Blackwood & Carney to the bench

Nix - Barbarouses and Krishna swap places. Lia won't play CB, they are rumoured to be signing Hamill from WSW

WSW - Cornthwaite to partner TPS at CB, Cole won't start and will be Sotirio or the Japanese player they just signed.

And the Jets - well we are getting a striker that we know for sure. Nordstrand will play in his preferred position of 9 or 10 so swap with Brown. My thoughts are well known that Cowburn will start LB. What will be interesting is if Nabbout can force his way into the starting side. Possibly for Poljak with Brown shifting to 6.

Cheers.

Was just going off TWG's latest squads, which evidently aren't up to scratch. A lot of the arguments you put forward though are based on theoretical signings, I was just putting forward as it stands today (according to TWG).

[RAM]

The things I would do for that CB pairing..

I politely yet forcefully disagree with you yet again.

Malik is good enough, Chapman isn't the same quality and a weak link in an otherwise strong team.

[RAM]

Like the formation but players don't fit. Need supremely fit players in those wide positions to convert to 5 at the back in defence. Hoole possibly. Haliti no chance

Exactly. Haliti at LB? :rof:

[Tommyjet]

Exactly. Haliti at LB? :rof:
Haliti will be our supersub.

Vugacic left wing back.

I agree with others in that it would be great to see a back 3 but dont think we have the cattle.

[Grimario]

Exactly. Haliti at LB? :rof:

Reckon on curren't squad it would be the Hoff at RWB and Cowburn/Vujica at LWB... but there's no way we would play a 3-5-2, surely? I'd be tempted to have Jackson in over Kanta as well... give a natural left foot on one side with Boogard in the middle.

Has anyone been to training and seen anything we are doing or is it all skills and fitness at the moment, no tactical work?

[borat]

Cheers.

Was just going off TWG's latest squads, which evidently aren't up to scratch. A lot of the arguments you put forward though are based on theoretical signings, I was just putting forward as it stands today (according to TWG).
Yeah reading back in my last post I sound like a know it all wanker......so apologies and top post. Good discussion points

[stopper2]

^^^^
Looking at those potential first XI for all the teams, one has to be realistic....we are going to have our work cut out once again just to make the top 6.
Crucial that we get this signing 100% right for the final visa spot since the other one will be handed to a Chinese player just to keep the PR going with our benefactor.....which is all good but...

[leftrightout]

How bloody good is Perths squad... seriously how are they doing that?

Also love phoenix team this year, all attack and a pretty good one at that!
Barbarousos, Krishna, Mcglinchey, Finkler, Bonavacia.... Thats quality!

[GazFish35]

Most off-seasons we seem to have got better (on paper), but others have got "more better". Then add in nearly every off season we turn to shit off the field and the gap between us and the rest gets wider.

How do most people feel about the "Gap" for the up coming season.

I feel its still there, but perhaps hasn't widened by as much this season, or perhaps we've made up ground.


All "on paper" off course - and yes, I know, the game isn't played on paper.

[plague]

Most off-seasons we seem to have got better (on paper), but others have got "more better". Then add in nearly every off season we turn to shit off the field and the gap between us and the rest gets wider.

How do most people feel about the "Gap" for the up coming season.

I feel its still there, but perhaps hasn't widened by as much this season, or perhaps we've made up ground.


All "on paper" off course - and yes, I know, the game isn't played on paper.

I mean haven't Perth won the off season cup like 4 years in a row?

Shame it's not a real trophy unlike our two sitting in Cons cabinet.

[Captain Obvious]

we are going to have our work cut out once again just to make the top 6.

Hello stopper2 I don't believe we've met but it was nice of you to say hi.

[belchardo]

I mean haven't Perth won the off season cup like 4 years in a row?

Shame it's not a real trophy unlike our two sitting in Cons cabinet.

Wasn't the second won in the tinkler era?

[plague]

Wasn't the second won in the tinkler era?

Yeah probably but it was all Cons infrastructure.

[MFKS]

Most off-seasons we seem to have got better (on paper), but others have got "more better". Then add in nearly every off season we turn to shit off the field and the gap between us and the rest gets wider.

How do most people feel about the "Gap" for the up coming season.

I feel its still there, but perhaps hasn't widened by as much this season, or perhaps we've made up ground.


All "on paper" off course - and yes, I know, the game isn't played on paper.

So I will pay we have had an uneventful off season. It is also needs to be noted we had one last season as well even with the FFA taking over from Tinkler the off season build up last year was also pretty quiet and uneventful

As for this gap you are talking about.

You honestly tjink it hasn't widened??

Last season Miller had about 15 blokes in the squad he trusted to play this year it looks like he will have 20
Has the quality improved though?? No LeakyG DevonHead Leo and Birraz

I would say no

We have more depth that is for sure. But we have depth in HAL plodders

Now contrast with our opposition

Smurfs have signed Beard Wilkinson Zullo and Ibini
Perth have signed Taggz Herd Williams and everyone else
Nix have signed Finkler and Barbarousis
Need i go on??

Other clubs are signing greater quality than us

To me our gap has widened and it is a shamr we have wasted our opportunity to bridge the gap

[Hunter403]

So I will pay we have had an uneventful off season. It is also needs to be noted we had one last season as well even with the FFA taking over from Tinkler the off season build up last year was also pretty quiet and uneventful

As for this gap you are talking about.

You honestly tjink it hasn't widened??

Last season Miller had about 15 blokes in the squad he trusted to play this year it looks like he will have 20
Has the quality improved though?? No LeakyG DevonHead Leo and Birraz

I would say no

We have more depth that is for sure. But we have depth in HAL plodders

Now contrast with our opposition

Smurfs have signed Beard Wilkinson Zullo and Ibini
Perth have signed Taggz Herd Williams and everyone else
Nix have signed Finkler and Barbarousis
Need i go on??

Other clubs are signing greater quality than us

To me our gap has widened and it is a shamr we have wasted our opportunity to bridge the gap

Agreed. Amazing that other teams get quality fir their dough and we get plodders. We're not selling the the Newy lifestyle well enough

[Jeterpool]

So I will pay we have had an uneventful off season. It is also needs to be noted we had one last season as well even with the FFA taking over from Tinkler the off season build up last year was also pretty quiet and uneventful

As for this gap you are talking about.

You honestly tjink it hasn't widened??

Last season Miller had about 15 blokes in the squad he trusted to play this year it looks like he will have 20
Has the quality improved though?? No LeakyG DevonHead Leo and Birraz

I would say no

We have more depth that is for sure. But we have depth in HAL plodders

Now contrast with our opposition

Smurfs have signed Beard Wilkinson Zullo and Ibini
Perth have signed Taggz Herd Williams and everyone else
Nix have signed Finkler and Barbarousis
Need i go on??

Other clubs are signing greater quality than us

To me our gap has widened and it is a shamr we have wasted our opportunity to bridge the gap

You make some really good points about our replacements. Some are obviously still unknown quantities.

On paper, I feel we will continue to look weak until we have players that have been involved in the Socceroos. Look at the names the others are bringing in and they've all played international football. Some of players may well be destined for it, but until we have a Troisi or a Burns or Milligan we will look weak.

What isn't mentioned are the outgoings from teams. Melbourne have a lot of work to do, as do WSW and Adelaide in my opinion.

Overall, I think we have increased the gap on the Mariners. Adelaide, Wanderers and Victory have come back to the pack a bit and the others have also moved up - Perth and City especially.

Just for balance on your Miller comments, remember we had to offer like-for-like contracts. Miller had a few spots to fill with most of the cap already used. He was appointed and we started pre-=season training at the same time this year. This year it's definitely more his squad.

[Jetmaster]

How bloody good is Perths squad... seriously how are they doing that?

Also love phoenix team this year, all attack and a pretty good one at that!
Barbarousos, Krishna, Mcglinchey, Finkler, Bonavacia.... Thats quality!

I think an important point is that many of these players and others of their ilk (Berisha, Flores et al) are unknown when they come to Australia.

So the choice is to bring in unknowns who could suit the A-League and hit it off, or pay extra coin for those that have been identified elsewhere and let go. This is where our player identification comes under scrutiny.

Always think back to the original Griff, Kenny Boden....playing 4th Divion in the Old Dart, within 2 years was a local hero and celebrity, record transfer, top wages and Socceroo.

[GazFish35]

I'm not convinced the others have strengthen by as much as they usually do - in comparison to our strengthening.
I'll concede the gap may have widened, but by not as much.

the gap width expansion rate has slowed.

its a big ship to turn around.

;)

[plague]

Can anyone think back to when the pre-season favourites actually won?

Maybe Melbourne a few years back when they best Sydney, maybe Roar in the middle of their run?

Who else?

[RAM]

Yeah reading back in my last post I sound like a know it all wanker......so apologies and top post. Good discussion points

No worries, usually its me sounding like that :rof:

[RAM]

WSW going after Fatty MacDonald :rof:

Ibini goes a long way to suring up FC's attack....

I think we have a good, well balanced squad, but we really need 2 out and out goalscorers. The midfield has plenty of depth, and we have good squaddies in Hoole and Nabbout etc, but we can't rely on Nord and Labo to bang in 20 goals.

[plague]

Is Labi up to full speed yet? Is he fit for the season?
Hope so. Love the bloke.

[MFKS]

I'm not convinced the others have strengthen by as much as they usually do - in comparison to our strengthening.
I'll concede the gap may have widened, but by not as much.

the gap width expansion rate has slowed.

its a big ship to turn around.

;)

I think you are jumping the gun

Victree have basically kept their powder dry and will be making some signings. I think that's a given

Heart are also keeping their powder dry as for their Marquees

Wankers have a solid squad anyway and only bringing a few in. They need to get the signings right and not flop like they did with that Italian striker they got last year.

Roar alrwady have a solid stable experienced elite squad and only need to replace Corona

There's 4 clubs with strong sides who are only gonna get stronger in the next 3 months.

Pissants are probably the only one going backwards due to player loss but they are already at the top


Gypos have signed some experience to go with their Yoof

So when this is all done and October rolls around I am thinking we will have strengthened in about 9th out of 10 ahead of only Pissants

We are trying to bridge the gap. We aren't doing it

Everyone else is doing more

[lquiquer]

Is Labi up to full speed yet? Is he fit for the season?
Hope so. Love the bloke.

Play him on the left (or right) side in a 3-5-2........It's time he reinvents himself

[leftrightout]

Is Labi up to full speed yet? Is he fit for the season?
Hope so. Love the bloke.

I've spoken to a couple of people who have watched train and they reckon he is struggling a bit. Hopefully its just early days and he comes good but!

[Wilso8948]

Play him on the left (or right) side in a 3-5-2........It's time he reinvents himself

Yeh make him run his ass off every week after a knee reco in a position which involves a fair bit of defending when he was signed as a back up striker. That'll do it..

[lquiquer]

Yeh make him run his ass off every week after a knee reco in a position which involves a fair bit of defending when he was signed as a back up striker. That'll do it..

Make him earn his money.... Back up striker!!? (12 goals in 67 games for Jerks and 9 goals in 89 games for WSW......!!!!!)

[Wilso8948]

Its all about the assists

[Wilso8948]

and he's sure as shit closer to a striker then a fullback

[halo se7en]

The gap isn't widening at all this season.

We like to ignore our unknown signing in Brown, but highlight how much both Melbourne clubs have strengthened, despite what they've lost, or because of marquees/visa spots they haven't even signed yet. Most of the players are being recycled around the clubs, so how can the overall gap be widening?

Mariners - brought in some experienced players, but none of which are anything more than the same a-league plodders we end up with. I do expect them to be better, but I expect us to still finish higher.
Nix - Barbarouses and Finkler will help, but they've lost Sigmund, Muscat & Riera. May score a few more but let in a few more? They're notoriously inconsistent. These two signings don't automatically elevate them into finals contention.
Adelaide - just to replace what they've lost will be fantastic work on their part.
Melbourne City - replacing Mooy will take a lot, and who's to say whether the new player(s) will link up Fornaroli just as well? Who's to say he'll have another great season? They've also lost Wilkinson, Novillo, Zullo... they seem to replace like with like and it's a coin toss as to who will shine and who won't. They certainly aren't any further ahead of us this season then last.
WSW - brought in Lustica, the Uruguyan, the Japanese due, and Cornflakes. They've lost Castelen, Andreu, Alberto, Bridge, Vidosic. Same as City, are they really any stronger than last season? Possibly, but I don't expect them to make the GF this season.
Brisbane - they've lost Corona, Donachie and Henrique. Broich is another year older and even last year he looked slow and was unable to put his stamp on games. So far they've signed the world-beater that is Jacob Pepper.
Sydney - one of the few who genuinely seem stronger... but it's Sydney. They'll collapse when it matters.
Perth - I think Perth will build on last season and genuinely challenge.

Plus a big factor that will help us immensely this coming season.... Ben Williams just retired.

[borat]

The gap isn't widening at all this season.

We like to ignore our unknown signing in Brown, but highlight how much both Melbourne clubs have strengthened, despite what they've lost, or because of marquees/visa spots they haven't even signed yet. Most of the players are being recycled around the clubs, so how can the overall gap be widening?

Mariners - brought in some experienced players, but none of which are anything more than the same a-league plodders we end up with. I do expect them to be better, but I expect us to still finish higher.
Nix - Barbarouses and Finkler will help, but they've lost Sigmund, Muscat & Riera. May score a few more but let in a few more? They're notoriously inconsistent. These two signings don't automatically elevate them into finals contention.
Adelaide - just to replace what they've lost will be fantastic work on their part.
Melbourne City - replacing Mooy will take a lot, and who's to say whether the new player(s) will link up Fornaroli just as well? Who's to say he'll have another great season? They've also lost Wilkinson, Novillo, Zullo... they seem to replace like with like and it's a coin toss as to who will shine and who won't. They certainly aren't any further ahead of us this season then last.
WSW - brought in Lustica, the Uruguyan, the Japanese due, and Cornflakes. They've lost Castelen, Andreu, Alberto, Bridge, Vidosic. Same as City, are they really any stronger than last season? Possibly, but I don't expect them to make the GF this season.
Brisbane - they've lost Corona, Donachie and Henrique. Broich is another year older and even last year he looked slow and was unable to put his stamp on games. So far they've signed the world-beater that is Jacob Pepper.
Sydney - one of the few who genuinely seem stronger... but it's Sydney. They'll collapse when it matters.
Perth - I think Perth will build on last season and genuinely challenge.

Plus a big factor that will help us immensely this coming season.... Ben Williams just retired.

Can't possibly agree with that sorry. I always over estimate our chances but there is nothing that tells me we can improve on last year.

The gap is widening because all of the teams immediately around us, Gypos/Nix/SFC have all improved whilst we arguably gone backwards. I would agree that both Roar, Adelaide and Wanderers are all weakened not to our level. And all have plenty of recruitment to come where we don't.

Maybe next years recruitment will be better after a full season under new ownership, but I just don't see where we are going to improve. We are relying on a number of unproven players to suddenly become a lot better to that we can be competitive.

Put it this way, our biggest issue last season was our ability to attack and score goals. Our front 4 as it stands is so far behind all the other teams ion the comp, and this is where signing the Development Chinese player really annoys me. If we had of instead signed Castelen and a Visa striker we are after, then we start to have a starting team that threatens opposition sides.

[RAM]

Jamieson is off to Norway.

Not many LBs around for WSW

[Grimario]

Can't possibly agree with that sorry. I always over estimate our chances but there is nothing that tells me we can improve on last year.

The gap is widening because all of the teams immediately around us, Gypos/Nix/SFC have all improved whilst we arguably gone backwards. I would agree that both Roar, Adelaide and Wanderers are all weakened not to our level. And all have plenty of recruitment to come where we don't.

Maybe next years recruitment will be better after a full season under new ownership, but I just don't see where we are going to improve. We are relying on a number of unproven players to suddenly become a lot better to that we can be competitive.

Put it this way, our biggest issue last season was our ability to attack and score goals. Our front 4 as it stands is so far behind all the other teams ion the comp, and this is where signing the Development Chinese player really annoys me. If we had of instead signed Castelen and a Visa striker we are after, then we start to have a starting team that threatens opposition sides.

I think you are missing the point of the so called gap.

If the teams worse than us are improving, the gap below us is narrowing.
If the teams above us (e.g. Roar, Adelaide, Wanderers) are "all weakened" then surely that means the gap has narrowed as well.

Basically we should all shop at gap.

[borat]

I think you are missing the point of the so called gap.

If the teams worse than us are improving, the gap below us is narrowing.
If the teams above us (e.g. Roar, Adelaide, Wanderers) are "all weakened" then surely that means the gap has narrowed as well.

Basically we should all shop at gap.

Hahaha righto thats a good interpretation

Sorry maybe I should be clearer. Instead of having a semi competitive squad battling for 7th every year, we are now worse wheres our opposition are significantly better.

[Tommyjet]

Is Labi up to full speed yet? Is he fit for the season?
Hope so. Love the bloke.

returned to full contact training this week

[white city]

This wait for some news is getting a little frustrating.

Still no news on an International striker & Chinese Development.

Also quiet on the business/organisation front. With the start of financial year i was thinking we may start to hear some announcements regarding sponsorship's, players, trips to china? or any other further club plans

Any inside rumours or goss?

[furns]

This wait for some news is getting a little frustrating.

Still no news on an International striker & Chinese Development.

Also quiet on the business/organisation front. With the start of financial year i was thinking we may start to hear some announcements regarding sponsorship's, players, trips to china? or any other further club plans

Any inside rumours or goss?

Yes, check out the latest podcast episode on the front page. Lawrie & Scott answer some of those questions.