2017/18 Squad Thread

[pv4]

From that list I would like any of:
Johan Absalonsen (V)
Ivan Franjic
Corey Gameiro
Brett Holman (M)
Jade North
Mitchell Oxborrow
Avraam Papadopoulos
Blake Powell
Petros Skapetis
Daniel Arzani
Nick Fitzgerald
Michael Jacobson (V)
Osama Malik
Connor Metcalfe
Ruon Tongyik
James Donachie
Leroy George (V)
Nigel Boogaard
Riley McGree (injury replacement for Jake Adelson)
Kosta Petratos
Patricio Rodriguez (V) (injury replacement for Ronald Vargas)
Ronald Vargas (V) (M)
Alex Grant
Chris Harold
Jamal Reiners
Adam Taggart
Deyvison Rogerio da Silva Bobo (V) (M)
Jordy Buijs (V)
Milos Ninkovic (V) (M)
Alex Wilkinson
Luke Wilkshire
Roy Krishna (V)
Matija Ljujic (V)
Jonathan Aspropotamitis
Alvaro Cejudo (V) (M)
Raul Llorente (V)
Steven Lustica
Chris Oikonomidis (on loan from S.S Lazio)
Michael Thwaite

[Jeterpool]

I'm fairly confident this list is correct or thereabouts for uncontracted AL players at the end of this season:

Thanks mate - I didn't get around to posting your link yesterday. Cheers

[leftrightout]

Id take Absalonsen but we really need some quality at the back. There are some quality young defenders in that list.

Corey Gameiro is an interesting one. So many injuries and a horror run but if he gets past it could really be a bargain buy and is extremely talented. Could be worth a punt if his price is low!

[StannyCFCJET]

From that list. I'd be chasind Arzani or 2nd option Kamau as Nabbouts replacement and Tongyik or 2nd options Deng or Donachie as Boogaard replacement

Azarni activated a one year extension the other week

[Macca]

I feel like Arzani's stocks are too high at the moment. Would demand too much for what he's worth. We need to be doing more smart business like we have done with Dimi and Nabbout - pick people up who we've done the homework on but are out of favour, get 2 good seasons out of them and sell on at a profit. We just need to make sure we are continually bringing on a few of these each season, as not all will work out and we also don't want to lose the core of our team all at once if possible. Gameiro could be worth a shout.

No to Buijs thanks :gent:

[leftrightout]

First cab off the rank in that list should be to secure McGree for 2 years.
How does it work when he is on loan?
I rate him so highly, i think we can get 18 months to 2 years of great football out of him and sell him on for a profit easily!

I also believe the A-league would be the best thing for his career.

[Jeterpool]

I feel like Arzani's stocks are too high at the moment. Would demand too much for what he's worth. We need to be doing more smart business like we have done with Dimi and Nabbout - pick people up who we've done the homework on but are out of favour, get 2 good seasons out of them and sell on at a profit. We just need to make sure we are continually bringing on a few of these each season, as not all will work out and we also don't want to lose the core of our team all at once if possible. Gameiro could be worth a shout.

No to Buijs thanks :gent:

With this in mind, because this would also be the approach I'd be taking, we have 6 spots with those coming off contract. Don’t count Alessi because Champness has been upgraded, so I’ve accounted for that spot. Langlois and Thurgate are Scholarship spots and don’t count towards the cap:

Boogs
Kosta P
“Nabbout”
Vargas
Rodriguez
“Clut”

I’d re-sign

Boogs
Kosta P
Vargas
Rodriguez


I think we need a starting winger and a developing striker, I’d be looking at:
Nicholas D’Agostino
Corey Gameiro
Nick Fitzgerald
Chris Harold
Jamal Reiners
Adam Taggart

I'm trying to keep in mind that Ernie probably wants to increase the average age a bit more too. But honestly, in the areas we need to recruit, there isn’t much quality in the market this year and I think we will be looking for fringe players overseas.

I also think we could look to move on Wayne Brown, but I've softened in recent weeks from "must/should" to "could". There's a lot to be said about making as few changes to the squad as possible.

Finally, I think we could see Dimi go. In which case I would chase maybe Steve Lustica - but again there's no stand out "gettable" or even "wantable" names.

[Jeterpool]

First cab off the rank in that list should be to secure McGree for 2 years.
How does it work when he is on loan?
I rate him so highly, i think we can get 18 months to 2 years of great football out of him and sell him on for a profit easily!

I also believe the A-league would be the best thing for his career.

It would have to be another loan unless we bought him out. The Nabbout money could be used for this purpose.

[Macca]

It would have to be another loan unless we bought him out. The Nabbout money could be used for this purpose.

Have many A league clubs paid transfer fees? What (if any) interaction does this have with the salary cap?

[380]

Elsey for Boogs if he decided to reject an offer.

[StannyCFCJET]

Elsey for Boogs if he decided to reject an offer.

I rate Jackson higher

[Frodo]

Elsey for Boogs if he decided to reject an offer.

I was just about to say I hope we go for Elsey.

Let's get Brosque that diving POS and turn him into our diving POS.

Oh and Taggart.

[StannyCFCJET]

I was just about to say I hope we go for Elsey.

Let's get Brosque that diving POS and turn him into our diving POS.

Oh and Taggart.

Hopefully Merrick could fix Taggart's attitude

[Premy]

How good would it be to pinch Nickovic from FC. If we could get him and let go of Pato but keep Ronnie with Dimi and Roy for a front 4 with Champness and possibly Mcgree for back up

[pv4]

Azarni activated a one year extension the other week

I haven't seen this reported. Do you have a link?

[StannyCFCJET]

I haven't seen this reported. Do you have a link?

The foxsports podcast guys talked about it a few weeks ago

[Alton]

Elsey for Boogs if he decided to reject an offer.

Why aren't we looking at an injury replacement for Boogs?

[The Camel]

Elsey for Boogs if he decided to reject an offer.

I would prefer Tongyik, Donachie or Deng

[Jetmaster]

Why aren't we looking at an injury replacement for Boogs?

Jackson, Kanta, Johnny K...

Also, I think we could get Taggart but his injury record is against him.

[Mark325]

We should be looking at retaining Pato, Vargas and possibly Mcgree on another year loan if possible.

Boogs has definitely had a solid season, but at the same time we should be looking at getting use out of Jackson or Johnny K or having Merrick sign some other younger player.

We do need to look at replacing Nabbout, someone like Kamau or Fitzgerald would be someone I’d look at.

[Premy]

Sign Ninkovic

[Jeterpool]

Hopefully Merrick could fix Taggart's attitude

I think he'd need to fix his hamstrings first

[pv4]

Why aren't we looking at an injury replacement for Boogs?

Agreed, we should have signed Spira by now.

If SFC lost their captain and mainstay CB, they'd replace him..

[StannyCFCJET]

Agreed, we should have signed Spira by now.

If SFC lost their captain and mainstay CB, they'd replace him..

Then what's the point of Jackson having a contract if we never give him a go

[Jeterpool]

Then what's the point of Jackson having a contract if we never give him a go

He can hang the nets without needing a ladder. That's a big money saver

[Hutcho]

Sign Ninkovic
Pretty sure he did a 1 year deal with Sydney.

[The Camel]

Then what's the point of Jackson having a contract if we never give him a go

We need a right sided defender. Jackson is too one footed

[Alton]

We need a right sided defender. Jackson is too one footed

Spiranovic

[StannyCFCJET]

We need a right sided defender. Jackson is too one footed
Lets give him a chance to earn the spot first ffs

[380]

Nah, we are in all sorts

[The Camel]

Lets give him a chance to earn the spot first ffs

I am more than happy for him to be NTS's backup but I do not rate him on the right hand side. He has been average and looked uncomfortable on the occasions he has played there. I would much rather us replace Boogaard with Donachie or Tongyik or Deng or Spira

[Alton]

I am more than happy for him to be NTS's backup but I do not rate him on the right hand side. He has been average and looked uncomfortable on the occasions he has played there. I would much rather us replace Boogaard with Donachie or Tongyik or Deng or Spira
Put Kanta there until we get someone

[Mark325]

would rather johnny k go there temporarily as opposed to jackson, especially for the right side.

Last season john was on fire, and looked good in his little bit at rb earlier this season, give him another run and see how he goes

[Alton]

would rather johnny k go there temporarily as opposed to jackson, especially for the right side.

Last season john was on fire, and looked good in his little bit at rb earlier this season, give him another run and see how he goes

Yeah I will go along with that

[plague]

Arzani is trash.

[pv4]

Then what's the point of Jackson having a contract if we never give him a go

Backup striker

[StannyCFCJET]

I am more than happy for him to be NTS's backup but I do not rate him on the right hand side. He has been average and looked uncomfortable on the occasions he has played there. I would much rather us replace Boogaard with Donachie or Tongyik or Deng or Spira

Disagree Jackson has done a good job whenever played and I hear Merrick thinks the same

[The Camel]

Disagree Jackson has done a good job whenever played and I hear Merrick thinks the same

He was dogshit at Left Back against Barbarouses and Victory

[Hunter403]

He was dogshit at Left Back against Barbarouses and Victory


Let's be honest, most defenders are dogshit against Barbarouses. Jackson is not alone there.

[Jeterpool]

He was dogshit at Left Back against Barbarouses and Victory

I disagree. I thought he handled Kosta well and took him out the game

[380]

I disagree. I thought he handled Kosta well and took him out the game

This. Barbashitus spent more time complaining about the treatment he was receiving from Jackson to play half decent football that day.

[Jetmaster]

I disagree. I thought he handled Kosta well and took him out the game

Totally agree - he was given a job and he bullied Barbar out of it and I think was only beaten once. Ernie brought Ivan on in the second half as he tired.

[StannyCFCJET]

I disagree. I thought he handled Kosta well and took him out the game

Agreed

[MonkeyKplunk]

Jackson and/or Johnny K will be fine. Probably more than fine.
They want to be professional footballers, so they need to put their big boy pants on at some point.

What's with all the negativity?
Second place and finals bound for the first time in 7 years and NOW you numpties start questioning Merricks lineup choices?
Pretty sure the man has earnt the right to say he knows how his squad will perform.

[Jeterpool]

Further, his previous start to the Victory game was against Sydney in Round 14, when he put in another strong performance beside Topor-Stanley.

Lachie coming into the side is not the area of the pitch I am worried about. He's ready and won't let us down.

[Alton]

Further, his previous start to the Victory game was against Sydney in Round 14, when he put in another strong performance beside Topor-Stanley.

Lachie coming into the side is not the area of the pitch I am worried about. He's ready and won't let us down.
They will attack him to his right, takes a week to turn.

[Jeterpool]

They will attack him to his right, takes a week to turn.

Fortunately if they do, they'll narrow their own angle on go through on their left foot - and for many A-League players that's just their standing leg.

[plague]

What's with all the negativity?
Second place and finals bound for the first time in 7 years

Second place is the first loser.

Good for you having such low standards.

Some of us aim higher.

Merrick OUT.

[StannyCFCJET]

Second place is to high for me prefer wooden spoons

Good for you having such high standards.

Some of us aim much lower

Plauge OUT Mariners here I come.

Fixed

[Jetmaster]

Second place is the first loser.

Good for you having such low standards.

Some of us aim higher.

Merrick OUT.

But out of all the losers we'll be the best!

[380]

Ok time to fess up and eat a huge piece of humble pie. I have never ever been a fan of the Hoff and if you were to ask me prior to this season to make a short list of A League players who were state league level at best the Hoff would have featured quite high on that list.

Never let it be said i can't admit when i am wrong but the Hoff has been a stand out this season for us and i am really pleased for him and the club. I might add however most of that good stuff has been away from RB so perhaps i was right at least a little bit.

Go the Hoff, start him up front against the Reds this week Ernie.

[StannyCFCJET]

Ok time to fess up and eat a huge piece of humble pie. I have never ever been a fan of the Hoff and if you were to ask me prior to this season to make a short list of A League players who were state league level at best the Hoff would have featured quite high on that list.

Never let it be said i can't admit when i am wrong but the Hoff has been a stand out this season for us and i am really pleased for him and the club. I might add however most of that good stuff has been away from RB so perhaps i was right at least a little bit.

Go the Hoff, start him up front against the Reds this week Ernie.

Didnt appreciate his huge efforts last two seasons

[380]

Nope ,Sorry. But this season he has been a standout.

Late bloomer perhaps.

[belchardo]

Ok time to fess up and eat a huge piece of humble pie. I have never ever been a fan of the Hoff and if you were to ask me prior to this season to make a short list of A League players who were state league level at best the Hoff would have featured quite high on that list.

Never let it be said i can't admit when i am wrong but the Hoff has been a stand out this season for us and i am really pleased for him and the club. I might add however most of that good stuff has been away from RB so perhaps i was right at least a little bit.

Go the Hoff, start him up front against the Reds this week Ernie.

shouldn't this be in the confessions thread?

[la bazzle]

Anyone who says he wasn’t terrible before is just lying. It’s ok for a player to be shit and improve....

[Jeterpool]

His re-signing didn't fill me with excitement and he didn't set the house on fire in that first season back but he knows what the club is about and we saw following the two wins on the coast just what it meant to Hoff.

I thought he was good last season and despite the collapse still showed some pride in the shirt.

He's been terrific this season.

[StannyCFCJET]

Anyone who says he wasn’t terrible before is just lying. It’s ok for a player to be shit and improve....

Wrong

[WolfMan]

Yeh I’m gonna have to interrupt with facts.

As right back, Hoffman regularly ranks in the top 3 - 4 in the league with regards to tackles won (and percentage of tackles won) aerial duels won etc.

I’ve said it many times before, he isn’t a sexy footballer. Most of the stuff he does goes unnoticed (until he makes a mistake, then it’s all anyone sees for the most part)

[Macca]

Yeh I’m gonna have to interrupt with facts.

As right back, Hoffman regularly ranks in the top 3 - 4 in the league with regards to tackles won (and percentage of tackles won) aerial duels won etc.

I’ve said it many times before, he isn’t a sexy footballer. Most of the stuff he does goes unnoticed (until he makes a mistake, then it’s all anyone sees for the most part)

His play with the ball though (which was previously lacklustre) has improved a lot this season. Not just in terms of bagging a few goals and playing further up the park. His crossing early in the season from fullback (while not perfect) was creating a lot of chances for us, and he has managed to link up relatively well with some more technically gifted teammates such as Dimi and Nabbout to create danger going forward.

[WolfMan]

Agree with you completely. His attacking as a fullback has improved sharply under the tutelage of Merrick.

Just saying he has consistently been an above average fullback in this league defensively for a number of years

[la bazzle]

I’ve said it many times before, he isn’t a sexy footballer. Most of the stuff he does goes unnoticed (until he makes a mistake, then it’s all anyone sees for the most part)

Thats lovely, but those mistakes were always very costly. He was gash, now he's decent. And that's ok

[redwah]

Still wish he would stay wide instead of cutting infield every time he goes forward...even when he plays forward

[Premy]

https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/football/a-league/sydney-fc-park-put-talks-over-new-contracts-on-hold-until-end-of-season-as-club-bids-to-arrest-form-slump/news-story/a0f0b1118642ca6d4f4f3b45156f062b

Some give Laurie and Griffo a lift to Sydney and sign up Nikovic.

[Mark325]

https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/football/a-league/sydney-fc-park-put-talks-over-new-contracts-on-hold-until-end-of-season-as-club-bids-to-arrest-form-slump/news-story/a0f0b1118642ca6d4f4f3b45156f062b

Some give Laurie and Griffo a lift to Sydney and sign up Nikovic.

what is the story bout? apparently it's a member only thing

[Premy]

what is the story bout? apparently it's a member only thing

Sydney have put contract talks on hold with several of their off contracted players.

[Imyourhero]

We should sign Usain Bolt. Heard he's a speedy winger.

[parksey]

so what happened to vujica? he was our best player at the start of the season.

if he's not injured, bring him back in at left back, shift george to the right and put hoffman centre back (when he returns from suspension).

[turbojetfireV8]

if only Bert would realise LJ is shit and give Johnny K a run instead... either that or bring in an injury replacement FFS Bert

[plague]

give Johnny K a run instead...

not only do you have the best name on the Foz (or at least the fastest), you are also very correct often, including this time.

[Wilso8948]

Anyone think we should look at Christian Theoharus from Victory? He looks extremely talented on the ball with a wicked pass an shot. Would love to see what he could do under Merrick.

[Jeterpool]

Anyone think we should look at Christian Theoharus from Victory? He looks extremely talented on the ball with a wicked pass an shot. Would love to see what he could do under Merrick.

Is he off contract?

[Wilso8948]

Is he off contract?

No idea. That would involve research and logical thought. Both of which aren't my strong points.

[pv4]

Is he off contract?

He is currently contracted for next season but only a week or so ago publicly stated his intentions to attempt to head to Europe in the offseason.

[Jeterpool]

He is currently contracted for next season but only a week or so ago publicly stated his intentions to attempt to head to Europe in the offseason.

So he's going to Gosford?

[leftrightout]

Yeah i pointed him out earlier in the season. He is very good one on one, fast and wants to attack. He would suit us well.
Wants to go to Europe, may need game time before he goes. Ernie has a good record of getting players like him to succeed. Would be worth a shot.

[Jeterpool]

Yeah i pointed him out earlier in the season. He is very good one on one, fast and wants to attack. He would suit us well.
Wants to go to Europe, may need game time before he goes. Ernie has a good record of getting players like him to succeed. Would be worth a shot.

BUt he's contracted. Why would Victory release him? They're starting to play him and it isn't confirmed George is sticking around

[Tommyjet]

Theoharus is rumoured to be heading to a German club

[plague]

Bayern Munich once again poaching Oz's best talent.

[Jetmaster]

So what happened to that kid who played half a game against Juventus and went straight to Italy?

[Tommyjet]

Pasquali? At Ajax now

[mic22]

Dimi has been looking very unhappy and frustrated lately... Any thoughts?

[StannyCFCJET]

Dimi has been looking very unhappy and frustrated lately... Any thoughts?

Looked ok last night and always looks happy on Insta with his brother and son

[Grimario]

Dimi has been looking very unhappy and frustrated lately... Any thoughts?

Maybe frustrated with how we have been playing the last month or so?

[halo se7en]

Dimi has been looking very unhappy and frustrated lately... Any thoughts?

I noticed it too. Watch his reaction for McGree’s hat-trick goal. He was annoyed at not getting a pass from Pato, and when McGree fires in, he stands still.

[Jetmaster]

Geez we draw the long bow. Maybe he had a blue at home, or had a headache, or got a speeding ticket....or just wondered what he was doing in Gosford.

[plague]

who the **** is happy to be at Gosford?
of course the bloke should be cranky.

[halo se7en]

Geez we draw the long bow. Maybe he had a blue at home, or had a headache, or got a speeding ticket....or just wondered what he was doing in Gosford.

Lol I don’t know... the other boys seemed to be pretty delighted putting 8 past the scum.

[Jetmaster]

Lol I don’t know... the other boys seemed to be pretty delighted putting 8 past the scum.

Ok then - Griff has told Kosta he can look elswhere next season, Dimi has now asked to go overseas in the off season and hates us all.

Better?

[Jeterpool]

Dimi has been looking very unhappy and frustrated lately... Any thoughts?

I reckon they all looked annoyed the last few weeks.

If anything, he may have had his nose out of joint because Roy took the pen. Watch the game back and you will see what I mean. Roy tucks the ball under his arm and in another shot you see Roy and Dimi chatting with Roy having his arm around Dimi.

I reckon he's fine.

[Bremsstrahlung]

If any player isn’t frustrated with our performances over the last month, I’d be pretty pissed.
He’s probably had a pretty mixed few weeks and I imagine puts a fair chunk of responsibility on himself for our performances. A few poor results, call up to national team and doing well, back to a struggling team.
Should be all good now and a week of no game should see him fired up to make a mockery of FFAs “Big sky/blue grand final” dream.

I don’t really think he meant to kick the corner flag into the crowd either. He looked a bit shocked he did that. Was waiting for ref to give him a red tbh. Idk what would’ve happened if they were supporters of another club? (Coasties need supporters to be able to hit them).

Also, pissed me off, when Roy sarcastically jokes to the linesmen for VAR to give him a goal, the commentators were up in arms “now this will be interesting players are not allowed to request VAR intervene, strongly trying to stamp this out” etc. yet it’s ok for them to sprout it non stop.
Though VAR controversy seems to have settled down.

[Macca]

If any player isn’t frustrated with our performances over the last month, I’d be pretty pissed.
He’s probably had a pretty mixed few weeks and I imagine puts a fair chunk of responsibility on himself for our performances. A few poor results, call up to national team and doing well, back to a struggling team.
Should be all good now and a week of no game should see him fired up to make a mockery of FFAs “Big sky/blue grand final” dream.

I don’t really think he meant to kick the corner flag into the crowd either. He looked a bit shocked he did that. Was waiting for ref to give him a red tbh. Idk what would’ve happened if they were supporters of another club? (Coasties need supporters to be able to hit them).

Also, pissed me off, when Roy sarcastically jokes to the linesmen for VAR to give him a goal, the commentators were up in arms “now this will be interesting players are not allowed to request VAR intervene, strongly trying to stamp this out” etc. yet it’s ok for them to sprout it non stop.
Though VAR controversy seems to have settled down.

Can I also add that I enjoyed the commentary from Simon Hill a bazillion times more than having to endure Speedy on one of our games again.

[Alton]

I reckon they all looked annoyed the last few weeks.

If anything, he may have had his nose out of joint because Roy took the pen. Watch the game back and you will see what I mean. Roy tucks the ball under his arm and in another shot you see Roy and Dimi chatting with Roy having his arm around Dimi.

I reckon he's fine.
He isn't happy playing wide when Ronny is in the team

[leftrightout]

If any player isn’t frustrated with our performances over the last month, I’d be pretty pissed.
He’s probably had a pretty mixed few weeks and I imagine puts a fair chunk of responsibility on himself for our performances. A few poor results, call up to national team and doing well, back to a struggling team.
Should be all good now and a week of no game should see him fired up to make a mockery of FFAs “Big sky/blue grand final” dream.

I don’t really think he meant to kick the corner flag into the crowd either. He looked a bit shocked he did that. Was waiting for ref to give him a red tbh. Idk what would’ve happened if they were supporters of another club? (Coasties need supporters to be able to hit them).

Also, pissed me off, when Roy sarcastically jokes to the linesmen for VAR to give him a goal, the commentators were up in arms “now this will be interesting players are not allowed to request VAR intervene, strongly trying to stamp this out” etc. yet it’s ok for them to sprout it non stop.
Though VAR controversy seems to have settled down.

Yeah I reckon he panicked a bit when he kicked the corner flag. I know it was my first reaction to think shit, he could get in trouble for that.
It’d be very like the FFA to suspend our best player for the finals.

When Roy did the VAR signal, he was obviously having a laugh but he was already on a yellow. Again, could have been sent off with another one. Two little moments that were light hearted and silly but could have been pretty serious to our season.

In the end, they were both seen the way they were meant to be and no stupid ref or VAR decisions came of them.

[Jetmaster]

Seen Berisha, McKay, Brosque and Adlung yesterday all yell at the ref and point to the video screen lately.

For all the bluff from FIFA nobody will get carded.

[halo se7en]

Ok then - Griff has told Kosta he can look elswhere next season, Dimi has now asked to go overseas in the off season and hates us all.

Better?

Now who’s being dramatic? There’s nothing wrong with making some observations about our players, especially one as key as Dimi - and it was hardly an overreaction when a few of us noticed it separately.

[plague]

I heard he missed Bey's Coachella set cause he had to play soccer.

[Jetmaster]

TBH....does he ever look happy?

[Jeterpool]

He looked happy he didn't take someone's eye out with the corner flag kick

[Grimario]

JG reporting Kanta is done. 4-6 weeks, grade 2 hammy tear.

[Jeterpool]

JG reporting Kanta is done. 4-6 weeks, grade 2 hammy tear.

All but settles the Jackson debate.

Feel for Kanta. He deserved a run into the finals with a stellar season. Shame his body let him down

[furns]

All but settles the Jackson debate.

Feel for Kanta. He deserved a run into the finals with a stellar season. Shame his body let him down
makes the CM options a bit thin with both Brown and now Kanta done for the season. Do we think the midfield from the derby will stand up in the finals? Its not as if they were put under any pressure.
Stevie with Mcgree alongside and slightly ahead of him with Dimi playing as the no.10 - would you make any changes for the semifinal or send out the same team?

[StannyCFCJET]

makes the CM options a bit thin with both Brown and now Kanta done for the season. Do we think the midfield from the derby will stand up in the finals? Its not as if they were put under any pressure.
Stevie with Mcgree alongside and slightly ahead of him with Dimi playing as the no.10 - would you make any changes for the semifinal or send out the same team?

Same team as the derby. Best weve looked since the Sydney game. That 11 have earnt their place for the finals

[Jeterpool]

makes the CM options a bit thin with both Brown and now Kanta done for the season. Do we think the midfield from the derby will stand up in the finals? Its not as if they were put under any pressure.
Stevie with Mcgree alongside and slightly ahead of him with Dimi playing as the no.10 - would you make any changes for the semifinal or send out the same team?

I wouldn't make any changes but I saw what I thinnk you have too - we had ample time and space to stop adn think about what we wanted to do. We won't get that in the final - we will be pressed. McGree will have to play a more defensive role, I feel.

[Tommyjet]

Mcgree more than capable of that

[Mark325]

I wouldn't make any changes but I saw what I thinnk you have too - we had ample time and space to stop adn think about what we wanted to do. We won't get that in the final - we will be pressed. McGree will have to play a more defensive role, I feel.

I think they'll both be capable of it, only other option is Cowburn and that ain't happening

[Wilso8948]

I think Hoffman moves to RB at the expense of JK to the bench. Champness to the right and Pato on the left. Ernie may leave Pato until back half to run at tired defenders. I think Boogs will return. If he's running now he'll take the risk in two weeks time.

[furns]

As others have said, keep the lineup the same. Only if Boogs is 100% recovered should he be risked.

[StannyCFCJET]

I think Hoffman moves to RB at the expense of JK to the bench. Champness to the right and Pato on the left. Ernie may leave Pato until back half to run at tired defenders. I think Boogs will return. If he's running now he'll take the risk in two weeks time.

Boogs has till friday. If he doesnt play the intra club trial then he is out

[Mark325]

Boogs has till friday. If he doesnt play the intra club trial then he is out

Was that him saying he's out of the whole rest of the season or just the semi

[leftrightout]

I think Hoffman moves to RB at the expense of JK to the bench. Champness to the right and Pato on the left. Ernie may leave Pato until back half to run at tired defenders. I think Boogs will return. If he's running now he'll take the risk in two weeks time.

Yep this is what I would do.
Hoff to RB, Pato in.

Pato is a game changer, he has the ability to create chances from nothing, he was crazy good when he came on the other night. Obviously the next opponent will put up a better challenge but I still think he has the ability to tear the a-league up.

[Frodo]

Yep this is what I would do.
Hoff to RB, Pato in.

Pato is a game changer, he has the ability to create chances from nothing, he was crazy good when he came on the other night. Obviously the next opponent will put up a better challenge but I still think he has the ability to tear the a-league up.

I disagree, politely of course.

Leave Hoff up higher to run their defence ragged and cause a bit of havoc. Pato on after 60 mins.

When we play Hoff we basically become a loop-sided 4-4-2. Which I like.

[Jeterpool]

I disagree, politely of course.

Leave Hoff up higher to run their defence ragged and cause a bit of havoc. Pato on after 60 mins.

When we play Hoff we basically become a loop-sided 4-4-2. Which I like.

Agree. Dampness has scored all his goals playing on the left cutting in. He's best played out there

[StannyCFCJET]

Agree. Dampness has scored all his goals playing on the left cutting in. He's best played out there

Hopefully he can soak up any water if it rains as well

[Mark325]

Only thing is bringing on both pato & Vargas off the bench, it feels like we'd then be lessening the energy of the game

[Macca]

Vargas hasn't had the spark since his return that we saw earlier in the season - whether that's the case at training as well I don't know.
One thing he would bring off the bench though is composure on the ball later on in the game, which we have lacked at times in the year trying to close out games.

Pato could start or bench (deserves at least half an hour though). I have faith in Ernie whichever way he decides to go.

[Jeterpool]

Vargas hasn't had the spark since his return that we saw earlier in the season - whether that's the case at training as well I don't know.
One thing he would bring off the bench though is composure on the ball later on in the game, which we have lacked at times in the year trying to close out games.

Pato could start or bench (deserves at least half an hour though). I have faith in Ernie whichever way he decides to go.

I tend to think Pato and Vargas will be better against tired legs - Pato in particular.

The biggest thing I've taken away from Ronny's return was the run he made against Perth down the McDonald's end. The spark is still there - he's just lost a great deal of fitness.

[Wilso8948]

I think the criticism of Vargas is completely unjustified. Anybody who has had a serious brake understands the mental hurdles one must overcome. It could take months and months for him to get back to his best. Those thinking he was going to waltz up and be as good as he was are extremely naïve.

[Jeterpool]

I think the criticism of Vargas is completely unjustified. Anybody who has had a serious brake understands the mental hurdles one must overcome. It could take months and months for him to get back to his best. Those thinking he was going to waltz up and be as good as he was are extremely naïve.

I'm not seeing criticism of Ronny in the last few comment, more discussion around how best we use him. I for one wasn't intending to be critical. I can't imagine the mental demons he would have to overcome.

Ronny essentially needs to go through a pre-season (I think) but he can still, and hopefully will still, add value to the team in our remaining games

[Macca]

I wasn't having a go at him, nor saying that there isn't a good excuse for it - but most can agree he hasn't been as good as he was. I also expect that at training in a lower intensity environment he may be closer to the player we remember (I hope this is the case), indicating he will in time be able to return to that confidence and form.

But unfortunately for both him and us, if he isn't able to perform well enough right now due to whatever physical or mental issues he has, it does create a question of whether and how we use him. I frothed on him a LOT earlier in the season and really hope he can prove me wrong in two weeks time. And again I am confident Ernie will make the right choice based on what he sees in training as to whether he is deserving of a spot or not.

[The Dunster]

I wasn't having a go at him, nor saying that there isn't a good excuse for it - but most can agree he hasn't been as good as he was. I also expect that at training in a lower intensity environment he may be closer to the player we remember (I hope this is the case), indicating he will in time be able to return to that confidence and form.

But unfortunately for both him and us, if he isn't able to perform well enough right now due to whatever physical or mental issues he has, it does create a question of whether and how we use him. I frothed on him a LOT earlier in the season and really hope he can prove me wrong in two weeks time. And again I am confident Ernie will make the right choice based on what he sees in training as to whether he is deserving of a spot or not.

I wouldn't even put him on the bench unless he absolutely destroys the opposition in the club trial on friday - and even then I'd have reservations.

[Jeterpool]

Post on Instagram from the Jets showed the intra club trial. Take away points were: Johnny K at right back, Boogs playing CB, Jake Adelson is playing again as part of his ACL recovery.

[belchardo]

Post on Instagram from the Jets showed the intra club trial. Take away points were: Johnny K at right back, Boogs playing CB, Jake Adelson is playing again as part of his ACL recovery.

any word on how boogs went?

[Macca]

Post on Instagram from the Jets showed the intra club trial. Take away points were: Johnny K at right back, Boogs playing CB, Jake Adelson is playing again as part of his ACL recovery.

I think from the Herald articles that Boogs was always going to play the trial at CB - it will be how he pulls up from it and whether he noticed any shortcomings that will tell if he will play there in a week's time.
He also said he didn't want to impact on whoever may be played there instead of him by having it hanging over their head until game day, he wanted to give them the confidence of a full week's prep knowing where they were playing - so I would expect we should find out today or tomorrow whether he is in or not.

Will also be interesting - if he has to self report any pain or complaints he had with it, despite the rhetoric of him not wanting to play unless 100%, the chances of him ruling himself out would have to be pretty low you'd imagine.

[OmeletteDuFromage]

Post on Instagram from the Jets showed the intra club trial. Take away points were: Johnny K at right back, Boogs playing CB, Jake Adelson is playing again as part of his ACL recovery.

Jets responded saying that his kit was just a spare one for the game, wasnt actually him wearing it.

[Jeterpool]

Jets responded saying that his kit was just a spare one for the game, wasnt actually him wearing it.

Ah, thankyou.

[Mark325]

hopefully boogs pulls up good, would be a huge coop for us to have him back for the finals. Shame that Kanta then pulled up injured as we could've moved him back into the mids

[lil_masi]

Jets responded saying that his kit was just a spare one for the game, wasnt actually him wearing it.

Interesting because build looks similar and he also has a tattoo on the same arm.

Isn't McGree an injury replacement for him? Hmmm

[Mark325]

Boogs and Vargas are part of the preliminary squad against City, very good news for the team

[Jeterpool]

Interesting because build looks similar and he also has a tattoo on the same arm.

Isn't McGree an injury replacement for him? Hmmm

Looking closer, it wasn't him. Different haircut for starters

[Mark325]

Are the only players we don't have signed for next season Pato, Vargas, Mcgree & Kosta?

[StannyCFCJET]

Are the only players we don't have signed for next season Pato, Vargas, Mcgree & Kosta?

Good question im curious as well

[Jeterpool]

Yes

[Jeterpool]

Kosta has been included in the list of players signed for next season. I wonder if that's accurate? While it's not been announced, it wouldn't surprise me because he's playing in the NPL for the club.

Only Ronny Vargas and Pato Rodriguez off contract.

[lil_masi]

Kosta has been included in the list of players signed for next season. I wonder if that's accurate? While it's not been announced, it wouldn't surprise me because he's playing in the NPL for the club.

Only Ronny Vargas and Pato Rodriguez off contract.

Which list is this?

[Jeterpool]

On back page of the Herald today (sorry)

Don't have a photo - paper is in my car

[lil_masi]

Interesting. Might have just forgotten him.

[Jeterpool]

Interesting. Might have just forgotten him.

He was on the list of "currently signed" so there was a concious decision. We will know soon enough

[white city]

I know the season has only just finished.

but do we know of any squad changes for our quest for one better in a-league and ACL qualification.

ie ins/outs????

[Wilso8948]

I know the season has only just finished.

but do we know of any squad changes for our quest for one better in a-league and ACL qualification.

ie ins/outs????

Sentence in today's Herald saying it's likely Pato won't be retained. I'd be very disappointed if true. Decent preseason for imports is so important here.

[white city]

Sentence in today's Herald saying it's likely Pato won't be retained. I'd be very disappointed if true. Decent preseason for imports is so important here.

agreed, he has had really no chance to really prove his worth, a full pre-season would really prove his ability.

is brown being released?

hopefully we can bring in quality imports, in line with what we achieved with Vargas

[Macca]

Would be a shame if Pato does go as he's a super talented player - but it does make sense from a squad point of view. If we are hanging onto Joey and looking to develop him and have him play a bigger role in the coming season(s), then I can definitely understand it. I view them as very similar types of players - direct, wildcard, like to dribble, create goal scoring chances. No doubt Pato is better - but also a foreign / potentially marquee spot, and significantly more salary. I'm not sure you start both of them together very often, as I think you may need a different mix of skills and aptitudes coming from the other wing for some balance.

Squad wise, they may be better off letting him go as we already have Joey - and looking for a similar quality player elsewhere, perhaps central midfield or a striker. Attacking midfielder also a must if Ronny is not resigned.

[Bon]

Saving up a foreign spot for Iniesta.. :gent:

(In all seriousness though, I believe plague would go in to some sort of meltdown of Trump/Star Wars style proportions if that actually happened)

[plague]

Saving up a foreign spot for Iniesta.. :gent:

(In all seriousness though, I believe plague would go in to some sort of meltdown of Trump/Star Wars style proportions if that actually happened)

I'd just cry.
A lot.

Then I would travel to every game and training session he participated in.
And if anyone ever did a nasty tackle on him I'd run out on the pitch and stab them with an umbrella.


But the Jets, and this shitty league don't deserve him.

[Jeterpool]

Would be a shame if Pato does go as he's a super talented player - but it does make sense from a squad point of view. If we are hanging onto Joey and looking to develop him and have him play a bigger role in the coming season(s), then I can definitely understand it. I view them as very similar types of players - direct, wildcard, like to dribble, create goal scoring chances. No doubt Pato is better - but also a foreign / potentially marquee spot, and significantly more salary. I'm not sure you start both of them together very often, as I think you may need a different mix of skills and aptitudes coming from the other wing for some balance.

Squad wise, they may be better off letting him go as we already have Joey - and looking for a similar quality player elsewhere, perhaps central midfield or a striker. Attacking midfielder also a must if Ronny is not resigned.


Sentence in today's Herald saying it's likely Pato won't be retained. I'd be very disappointed if true. Decent preseason for imports is so important here.


agreed, he has had really no chance to really prove his worth, a full pre-season would really prove his ability.

is brown being released?

hopefully we can bring in quality imports, in line with what we achieved with Vargas

We will be in the ACL Qualification stage next year so need to balance the Visa positions to bring an Asian player onto the books. As it stands, we would be in the same position as Victory and Sydney this year where they could not use their full allocation. We need to plan further ahead.

Also makes a great opportuniy for Martin Lee to find a high quality Asian player to come in and increase the club profile overseas.

[Wilso8948]

Would be a shame if Pato does go as he's a super talented player - but it does make sense from a squad point of view. If we are hanging onto Joey and looking to develop him and have him play a bigger role in the coming season(s), then I can definitely understand it. I view them as very similar types of players - direct, wildcard, like to dribble, create goal scoring chances. No doubt Pato is better - but also a foreign / potentially marquee spot, and significantly more salary. I'm not sure you start both of them together very often, as I think you may need a different mix of skills and aptitudes coming from the other wing for some balance.

Squad wise, they may be better off letting him go as we already have Joey - and looking for a similar quality player elsewhere, perhaps central midfield or a striker. Attacking midfielder also a must if Ronny is not resigned.

We need to raise our standards IMO. If Pato is the better we player we do what we can to keep him. Joey is close but not the complete player Pato is. Front 4 of Roy/Ron/Pato/Petratos with some depth in Joey. It only takes one injury and we are short (or suspensions in Roys case). I'm guessing Roy would be looking at Citizenship if we wants to stay attractive in the Aleague. Release Brown as there is the waste in a Visa spot. Look for a high quality Asian.

[Ryans_Rovers]

Nix fan here, kinda surprised it hasn't been posted on here yet but there has been press reports in NZ that Matty Ridenton is going to sign with you guys.

[Wilso8948]

Nix fan here, kinda surprised it hasn't been posted on here yet but there has been press reports in NZ that Matty Ridenton is going to sign with you guys.

Not a bad player. Certainly has started developing over the past season.

[StannyCFCJET]

We will be in the ACL Qualification stage next year so need to balance the Visa positions to bring an Asian player onto the books. As it stands, we would be in the same position as Victory and Sydney this year where they could not use their full allocation. We need to plan further ahead.

Also makes a great opportuniy for Martin Lee to find a high quality Asian player to come in and increase the club profile overseas.

Bring back Jin Hyung

[StannyCFCJET]

We need to raise our standards IMO. If Pato is the better we player we do what we can to keep him. Joey is close but not the complete player Pato is. Front 4 of Roy/Ron/Pato/Petratos with some depth in Joey. It only takes one injury and we are short (or suspensions in Roys case). I'm guessing Roy would be looking at Citizenship if we wants to stay attractive in the Aleague. Release Brown as there is the waste in a Visa spot. Look for a high quality Asian.

Pato hasnt done anything close to warrant resigning for someone of his talent

[Jeterpool]

Nix fan here, kinda surprised it hasn't been posted on here yet but there has been press reports in NZ that Matty Ridenton is going to sign with you guys.

What are your thoughts on Ridenton?

If there is truth, what type of player is he? How was he played by Merrick? And do you know if he has an Australian passport?

[Mark325]

I'm wondering if we should look at moving some players on from the remainder of their contract coming into this season who may not offer much value to the team.

I was impressed in the few stints he had, but seems like a younger player like Shabow might not be of much use. If we sign Ridenton that feels like we'd have a few too many players who can slot into the midfield, so possibly moving on Wayne Brown could be an option. I don't think he will be moved on but I can also see the value in moving on a player like Lachlan Jackson, i personally don't think he's got the quality moving forward to stick around.

Would love to keep Pato, but can see why we'd let him go. I agree with Jeterpool, looking into signing an asian player which is what Martin Lee wants makes the most sense, means we'll have a better chance going forward in the ACL

[380]

Pato hasnt done anything close to warrant resigning for someone of his talent

Big call given the minutes he had and the circumstances with which some of those were under.

[StannyCFCJET]

Big call given the minutes he had and the circumstances with which some of those were under.

Everytime he started he did nothing and Even his sparks off the bench hardly led to anything. Id expect someone of his talent to dominate a game like Leroy George and Adrian Merwieski does, Same goes for Vargas who at least in the SF and GF looked really dangerous

[380]

Everytime he started he did nothing and Even his sparks off the bench hardly led to anything. Id expect someone of his talent to dominate a game like Leroy George and Adrian Merwieski does, Same goes for Vargas who at least in the SF and GF looked really dangerous

Ironically the blokes you used as your comparison in Leroy and Adrian played full seasons. Perhaps there is something in that.

[StannyCFCJET]

Ironically the blokes you used as your comparison in Leroy and Adrian played full seasons. Perhaps there is something in that.

Maybe but can we afford the risk as well as resigning Vargas?

[380]

Absolutely , If that can be achieved without paying ridiculous dollars.

[gussie_l]

Nix fan here, kinda surprised it hasn't been posted on here yet but there has been press reports in NZ that Matty Ridenton is going to sign with you guys.

Cheers for the head up!

Article from the 6th.... https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=12045901

[MFKS]

I'm wondering if we should look at moving some players on from the remainder of their contract coming into this season who may not offer much value to the team.

I was impressed in the few stints he had, but seems like a younger player like Shabow might not be of much use. If we sign Ridenton that feels like we'd have a few too many players who can slot into the midfield, so possibly moving on Wayne Brown could be an option. I don't think he will be moved on but I can also see the value in moving on a player like Lachlan Jackson, i personally don't think he's got the quality moving forward to stick around.

Would love to keep Pato, but can see why we'd let him go. I agree with Jeterpool, looking into signing an asian player which is what Martin Lee wants makes the most sense, means we'll have a better chance going forward in the ACL

That is precisely what we shoulkd be doing

Bert has had enough time to assess the players at the club now

If the likes of Jackson Brown Shabow I would even add Vujica to this list as well aint part of the plans going forward then we need to try moving them on now and free up squad space and $$$

Our squad needs to improve more to get better

[Mark325]

That is precisely what we shoulkd be doing

Bert has had enough time to assess the players at the club now

If the likes of Jackson Brown Shabow I would even add Vujica to this list as well aint part of the plans going forward then we need to try moving them on now and free up squad space and $$$

Our squad needs to improve more to get better

Only reason I wouldn't include Vujica is because Ernie renewed his contract for like 2 more seasons.

Reason I say players like Jackson, brown and shabow is because they stick out as guys Ernie had no part in signing

[StannyCFCJET]

Only reason I wouldn't include Vujica is because Ernie renewed his contract for like 2 more seasons.

Reason I say players like Jackson, brown and shabow is because they stick out as guys Ernie had no part in signing

I reckon Merrick rates Brown so hell be going nowhere

[MFKS]

Only reason I wouldn't include Vujica is because Ernie renewed his contract for like 2 more seasons.

Reason I say players like Jackson, brown and shabow is because they stick out as guys Ernie had no part in signing

That Merrick played Johnny K completely out of position over Jackson and Vujica in huge end of season games and dragged him out of the wilderness as he wouldnt play either of them says a lot to me about how he currently thinks of Vujica and Jackson

[Bremsstrahlung]

What’re we gonna do with Ugarkovc and Kanta when we sign Iniesta?

[Jeterpool]

What’re we gonna do with Ugarkovc and Kanta when we sign Iniesta?

stick them right beside him to learn

[Ryans_Rovers]

What are your thoughts on Ridenton?

If there is truth, what type of player is he? How was he played by Merrick? And do you know if he has an Australian passport?

This season was his break thru into the first team, finally locking down a starting role in the midfield. Normally was played in the box to box role, occasionally his weaker role as DM. He ended the season 7th in chances created but who really knows what that means, heck Hoole finished 3rd!!

Ernie signed him at the Nix and has had a lot to do with the development of his game, so he knows exactly what he is getting. Afaik he doesn't have an Aussie passport, personally I am unsure why you would use a visa slot on him unless Wayne Brown was leaving because he would probably be a replacement for him.

[380]

I guess after this season it is a case of in Ernie we trust but i watch every game every weekend. Nix home games i do watch without the volume up for obvious reasons, The commentators are like speedie x 10 in the too hard to listen to basket.

IMO if we have done a deal with Ridenton then Ernie has seen something in him i reckon not too many others have. On his Nix form i see him as one of those " to be omitted " candidates most weeks when the weekends squads are anounced.

Just my humble opinion

[belchardo]

He ended the season 7th in chances created but who really knows what that means, heck Hoole finished 3rd!!

evades man, it's all about the evades!

although i'll take secondary assists if that's all you've got.

[Couscous]

Would Iniesta clamber up Boogs to tape a stray net back in place? No?

Phuck him.

[Mark325]

We're making a play to keep Vargas for next season which I am for, initially was thinking he wasn't worth keeping but considering he performed very well in the semi and grand final and will now have a full off-season I think we may see a better Vargas then anything we saw this season if we keep him around

[The Dunster]

That Merrick played Johnny K completely out of position over Jackson and Vujica in huge end of season games and dragged him out of the wilderness as he wouldnt play either of them says a lot to me about how he currently thinks of Vujica and Jackson

Ernie said that Johnny K is our fastest player and that he used him to stop us being outpaced by players like Barbarousis and Arzani.
Against City it proved correct.
Against Victory it was also correct but we didn't benefit in attack when Johnny K gave away possession a few times or failed to link up with Dimi in transition.
For the most part though it worked - Victory had all sorts of trouble getting into scoring position and only a set piece and some atrocious refereeing with respect to the goal got Victory the win.

[Couscous]

I thought Potato was better than Vargas, except for the semi.

[MFKS]

Ernie said that Johnny K is our fastest player and that he used him to stop us being outpaced by players like Barbarousis and Arzani.
Against City it proved correct.
Against Victory it was also correct but we didn't benefit in attack when Johnny K gave away possession a few times or failed to link up with Dimi in transition.
For the most part though it worked - Victory had all sorts of trouble getting into scoring position and only a set piece and some atrocious refereeing with respect to the goal got Victory the win.

People who said Johnny K had a bad game have NFI

He dont offer a lot in attack but your not playing him as an attacking full back

You can see how good of a game Johnny K had by the impact Kosta Barbarousis had. If he didnt score the goal you wouldnt have known he was out there the other 90 mins he barely was seen.

Credit for that goes to Johnny K who rubbed him out

[Roundball Enthusiast]

https://www.newcastlejets.com.au/news/ridenton-joins-jets

Expecting to lose someone from the mids, given this new signing

[plague]

People who said Johnny K had a bad game have NFI

He dont offer a lot in attack but your not playing him as an attacking full back

You can see how good of a game Johnny K had by the impact Kosta Barbarousis had. If he didnt score the goal you wouldnt have known he was out there the other 90 mins he barely was seen.

Credit for that goes to Johnny K who rubbed him out

isnt Johnny K a natural CB or #6?

blokes out there complaining he didnt run up and back all night?

remember they did this to Brilliante too.

[plague]

https://www.newcastlejets.com.au/news/ridenton-joins-jets

Expecting to lose someone from the mids, given this new signing

is he a Visa spot?

[Roundball Enthusiast]

is he a Visa spot?

I think New Zealand is part of "Australia" for the sake of the A-League. So my guess would be no.

[380]

I thought it counted toward a visa spot ie Barba Victory

[Mark325]

https://www.newcastlejets.com.au/news/ridenton-joins-jets

Expecting to lose someone from the mids, given this new signing

Only player that makes sense is Brown, only one Ernie didn’t re-sign.

I could see us using Ridenton as a replacement for Mcgree, not sure if they’re similar but he might be used in a couple of different ways then just a midfielder

[halo se7en]

People who said Johnny K had a bad game have NFI

He dont offer a lot in attack but your not playing him as an attacking full back

You can see how good of a game Johnny K had by the impact Kosta Barbarousis had. If he didnt score the goal you wouldnt have known he was out there the other 90 mins he barely was seen.

Credit for that goes to Johnny K who rubbed him out

Aside from all the misplaced passes and failure to clear the goal, sure he did alright. Kosta wasn’t seen because MV had no desire to attack. Pretty sure you said that in one of your previous posts that Muscat chose not to unleash his attacking weapons.

[belchardo]

can't help thinking that jonny k's confidence was shot by his deflection for the "goal"

[Jeterpool]

Only player that makes sense is Brown, only one Ernie didn’t re-sign.

I could see us using Ridenton as a replacement for Mcgree, not sure if they’re similar but he might be used in a couple of different ways then just a midfielder

Perhaps there is an offer for Ugarkovic?

[Macca]

I thought Potato was better than Vargas, except for the semi.

After his comeback, Vargas underwhelmed up until the two finals matches. But he was superb before his injury as well.
Pato showed flashes of brilliance but I feel struggled to find a position where he was comfortable and fit into the rest of the team. Probably a little "Arzani" about him too - for all his ability, he hasn't provided as much end product as he should have. Don't get me wrong, I think he's great - but won't be devastated if he ends up moving on.

[Jeterpool]

After his comeback, Vargas underwhelmed up until the two finals matches. But he was superb before his injury as well.
Pato showed flashes of brilliance but I feel struggled to find a position where he was comfortable and fit into the rest of the team. Probably a little "Arzani" about him too - for all his ability, he hasn't provided as much end product as he should have. Don't get me wrong, I think he's great - but won't be devastated if he ends up moving on.

He scored against the Mariners, on his debut, with a well-taken goal. He also took the piss against them down there in the final round

Wonderful legacy to leave if he does move on.

[idontwannaplaywithhowey]

Perhaps there is an offer for Ugarkovic?

This was my exact thought.
I'd be very surprised if he doesn't head back to Europe next season.

[Mark325]

Perhaps there is an offer for Ugarkovic?

Definitely possible and if there is I’d hope we get a pretty good buyout for him cause he’s an amazing player for us, Ridenton would have big shoes to fill

[Jeterpool]

Definitely possible and if there is I’d hope we get a pretty good buyout for him cause he’s an amazing player for us, Ridenton would have big shoes to fill

Especially as a player taking up a Visa spot.

[Macca]

We did well this season without relying too much on Visa players, due to some fantastically performing Aussies. However, Nabbout is gone, most likely McGree too. Hopefully Kanta rests up well over the offseason and comes back full health and can keep it together next season. Losses of Dimi or Stevie could hurt us big time and may be hard to replace from the Australian talent pool, meaning we may have to rely more so on the visa spots.

Not so much an issue for next season, but Topor and Boogs are also getting on and perhaps this time next year, we will have to be looking to the future, especially if Jackson makes no further progress.

Koutroumbis impressed me defensively in the last few games, a lot more than what I'd seen earlier in the season. He has a bit of speed and ability going forward too - could make the fullback spot his own with a bit more game time and composure going forward.

Still a bit threadbare up front after Roy, but we thought that before this season and managed to score goals ok.

[boz-monaut]

discussion moved to next season