2017/18 Squad Thread

[Jeterpool]

Which should be patently obvious to anyone.

Except captain obvious. The've been quiet recently. Maybe everything on here has become obvious and they feel threatened.

[borat]

Get rid of these 2 off your list and I might be interested. I'd take FBK if we can't get Castro but not both of them.

I'd tweak your dream team like this.

O'Caravan
Nabbout/Castro/Burns
Uga/Paartalu
George/Ansell/Mullen/Hoffman
Duncan

Brown/Jackson/Koutrimbus/Clut/BK

Vujica/Sawyer/Cowburn/Allessi/Poljak as squad players.

Castro and Burns would be on Marquee wages, only way to get them here. Paartalu would be on Boogards coin. Ansell can play but we need to make sure he passes his medical.

Don't get the love for Paartalu. His best days were years ago at the Roar and he ended up as a bench warmer at Heart. Follows the biggest pay cheque he can find. I would pass.

The big question is what to do with the last foreign spot (the other earmarked on a Chinese player) and can Kokko be moved back home. If Kokko stays for another season then we should at least try to use him effectively and try a 442 with O'Donnovan and Kokko in tandem.

I would then use our marquee spot on a foreign No 6 and look for a Chinese left winger and Nathan Burns (or Mitch Austin as a fallback).

I would also try to sign Jacob Tratt to strengthen CB and is without a club.

If Kokko can be moved on then a marquee #10 who can also play wide if needed.

[borat]

Except captain obvious. The've been quiet recently. Maybe everything on here has become obvious and they feel threatened.

Every year you get these calls, let's sign all our players on 1 year incentive based contracts. No decent player is coming to Newcastle under those terms

[Mark325]

considerin word on lei lei joinin lionong whowin has gone super quite, if he then ends off no longer going there then I don't really see us getting rid of him just to go scout another chinese player who unless is under marquee wages probably wont be any better then lei lei is

[borat]

considerin word on lei lei joinin lionong whowin has gone super quite, if he then ends off no longer going there then I don't really see us getting rid of him just to go scout another chinese player who unless is under marquee wages probably wont be any better then lei lei is
Lei Lei is off contract. You think he wants to come back? I doubt it

[Mark325]

Lei Lei is off contract. You think he wants to come back? I doubt it

I would assume the club would rather try keeping him then use the time to take a trip to china to find another player, i never heard anything of lei lei having a hard time here

[MFKS]

I would assume the club would rather try keeping him then use the time to take a trip to china to find another player, i never heard anything of lei lei having a hard time here

The Chinese Lightsalesman has a football club over there.

You think one of those blokes he pays the wages of could recommend a player??

Why in ****sname would we need to make a trip to China when the ****ing club owner lives there and can just ring his staff and say pony up a Chinese bloke to send to these shit **** Aussies

[hawk]

Why in ****sname would we need to make a trip to China when the ****ing club owner lives there and can just ring his staff and say pony up a Chinese bloke to send to these shit **** Aussies

So that we get the right guy. A phone call could see them sending anyone in their place.

[Mark325]

The Chinese Lightsalesman has a football club over there.

You think one of those blokes he pays the wages of could recommend a player??

Why in ****sname would we need to make a trip to China when the ****ing club owner lives there and can just ring his staff and say pony up a Chinese bloke to send to these shit **** Aussies

I'd assume most any coach would wanna have some say in who we get, considering the coach gets nothing from giving us his players so why would he not just sent the worst player in his team to us?

[OmeletteDuFromage]

I would assume the club would rather try keeping him then use the time to take a trip to china to find another player, i never heard anything of lei lei having a hard time here

Regardless, lei lei posted on instagram saying bye to the club

[lquiquer]

Regardless, lei lei posted on instagram saying bye to the club

So we don't have a Messi any more.....:fright:

[Mark325]

Regardless, lei lei posted on instagram saying bye to the club

True never saw that, thanks for the info

[halo se7en]

Hoffman posted on IG that he'll miss his bestie Mullen. I'm assuming it's Mullen leaving.

[MFKS]

So that we get the right guy. A phone call could see them sending anyone in their place.

You say that like the bloke cares about us.

Exactly what he done so far to help us succeed??

[Wilso8948]

Hoffman posted on IG that he'll miss his bestie Mullen. I'm assuming it's Mullen leaving.

Na mate he's tight as with Jarrod.

[leftrightout]

I would also try to sign Jacob Tratt to strengthen CB and is without a club.

I noticed he was off contract. He was very impressive this year, i would sign him but we already have Johnny K and Jackson for cover there?
He did play out wide for Phoenix too. Seems someone who can legit play right across the back line.

[MFKS]

I noticed he was off contract. He was very impressive this year, i would sign him but we already have Johnny K and Jackson for cover there?
He did play out wide for Phoenix too. Seems someone who can legit play right across the back line.

He got a release for personal reasons

Wanted to move back home to Sydney area for some reason

So I backing if he wanting to stay in HAL he going to one of the 4 NSW teams.

Smurfs have Grant and WSW have just coughed up for Risdon

So it either us or Gypos for him

[belchardo]

Na mate he's tight as with Jarrod.

i see what you did there.

[borat]

I noticed he was off contract. He was very impressive this year, i would sign him but we already have Johnny K and Jackson for cover there?
He did play out wide for Phoenix too. Seems someone who can legit play right across the back line.

I am hoping we shed Mullen, then use Boogs, Jackson, Johnny K and add Tratt. I think there would be good competition to partner Boogs yet flexible enough to play other positions. I would rather that than stump up huge $$$ for another expensive CB

[Wilso8948]

I am hoping we shed Mullen, then use Boogs, Jackson, Johnny K and add Tratt. I think there would be good competition to partner Boogs yet flexible enough to play other positions. I would rather that than stump up huge $$$ for another expensive CB

Jackson needs to step up this year. Cement that CB starting role. He is not a LB at all and signing Georgievski makes sure he won't be again. 6 and 10 is where the money needs to be splashed.

[PC14]

Dino Djulbic?

Contract not renewed at Perth.

Obviously Tratt, being a youngster would be a better option. However, Djulbic would be a solid option if cheap enough.

[OmeletteDuFromage]

Dino Djulbic?

Contract not renewed at Perth.

Obviously Tratt, being a youngster would be a better option. However, Djulbic would be a solid option if cheap enough.

34, no thanks

[turbojetfireV8]

Hoffman posted on IG that he'll miss his bestie Mullen. I'm assuming it's Mullen leaving.

I'll assume that Mullsy has signed with someone else in that case, doubt a new coach would have made the call so soon. Shame, I rate Mullsy at the very least as a squad member, but definitely as a CB, we were a tighter unit with him and Boogaard in tandem rather than Jackson there.

[OmeletteDuFromage]

http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/article/2017/05/05/jets-turn-facebook-find-overseas-talent


Newcastle Jets are harnessing the power of Facebook to unearth foreign talent as they seek to bolster their roster for next season.
By Dave Lewis
5 MAY 2017 - 6:33 PM UPDATED 3 HOURS AGO

With his eye on attracting a Diego Castro-like visa signing, football operations chief Joel Griffiths - whose playing career took in China, England and Switzerland and France - has turned to the web to scour his far-flung Facebook contacts in a novel approach to player recruitment.

Though the as yet un-named new Jets coach will have the final say, club legend Griffiths is doing his best to provide some interesting options when Mark Jones's replacement is announced.

"We have a foreign (marquee) spot we want to fill and are searching under every rock to find that player," declared Griffiths.

"It's amazing how helpful Facebook can be - there are people I played with in France and Switzerland who I've reached out to for recommendations on players in their leagues.

"We have done a similar thing with players in the MLS, and it's incredible the feedback you can get through that Facebook forum.

"It's a good thing, though obviously it's really important you trust the judgement of those you're talking to."

The Jets, who plan to unveil a new coach imminently, have 10 players coming off contract including imports Morten Nordstrand, Ma Leilei and Mateo Poljak - none of whom look likely to be retained.

Finnish forward Aleksandr Kokko has a year remaining on his two-year whilst Englishman Wayne Brown has two seasons left on his contract.

Highly prized import Rory O'Donovan has just penned a two-year agreement in a significant boost for the wooden spooners.

"Whoever does eventually come in will have a stronger squad than in previous seasons to pick from," insisted Griffiths.

"We have some really good players on our shortlist for available positions ... players I rate highly from my playing days."

[StannyCFCJET]

I'll assume that Mullsy has signed with someone else in that case, doubt a new coach would have made the call so soon. Shame, I rate Mullsy at the very least as a squad member, but definitely as a CB, we were a tighter unit with him and Boogaard in tandem rather than Jackson there.

He has done absolutely nothing this season except get rinsed and have mistakes leading to goals wether playing RB or CB. Im sorry but anyone who rates Mullen wasnt playing here. A squad player is expected to at least play 5 games I reckon and we would need to be comfortable in them doing a decent job for us and Mullen and Kanta to a lesser extent havent done that in a long time.

(Ill beat you guys to it. "here we go Stanny hating Mullen again" I dont hate Mullen just sick of players not performing at all and people saying they should or the club renewing their contract

[turbojetfireV8]

Jackson and Koutroumis mistakes led to far more goals against us, so why not have a shot at them as well? Mullsy was nowhere near as bad as what he's purported by some here to be as a CB, I personally would prefer to keep him, rather than have a choice of Marc Warren or Marc Warren when we are trying to finalise our squad for next season

[Jetmaster]

Jackson and Koutroumis mistakes led to far more goals against us, so why not have a shot at them as well?

It's the"BK Syndrome". Specific to this very foz.

Some guys cop it continuously and every error is jumped on and analysed.

Some like Griff could murder their own mother and it would be covered over quickly.

[StannyCFCJET]

Jackson and Koutroumis mistakes led to far more goals against us, so why not have a shot at them as well? Mullsy was nowhere near as bad as what he's purported by some here to be as a CB, I personally would prefer to keep him, rather than have a choice of Marc Warren or Marc Warren when we are trying to finalise our squad for next season

Jackson is Young so is Johhny K and ive seen them have good games mixed in with the mistakes. When's the last game Mullen was good all season??? I can only name 2 Perth away first time and City in Coffs thats not good enough for a starter or squaddie

[MFKS]

Jackson is Young so is Johhny K and ive seen them have good games mixed in with the mistakes. When's the last game Mullen was good all season??? I can only name 2 Perth away first time and City in Coffs thats not good enough for a starter or squaddie

Jackson young or not made a pile of them and should have been hooked

Only problem was Mullen Boogaard was the only real options

Johnny K made some mistakes but nowhere near as many as the rest of them did

Bloke was also not regularly selected as a starter anyway so he was dealt with after poor form

[MFKS]

34, no thanks

Dino Drill Bits whether 34 or not is an HAL standard player
He also has some Mongrel in him

Being he is better than the blokes we have already exactly why we saying no to him ??

He might be worth a 1 year deal to help with our rebuild that going to take a couple of years particularly if we ain't going to replace our entire shit backline straight away

1 year as a short term plug isn't the worst option

[StannyCFCJET]

Dino Drill Bits whether 34 or not is an HAL standard player
He also has some Mongrel in him

Being he is better than the blokes we have already exactly why we saying no to him ??

He might be worth a 1 year deal to help with our rebuild that going to take a couple of years particularly if we ain't going to replace our entire shit backline straight away

1 year as a short term plug isn't the worst option

1 Agree id take him. jackson and Johnny K would learn more off him the boogs IMO

[turbojetfireV8]

so we would take Djulbic from an equally poor defence as ours this year and who is ready to retire, over someone 7 years his junior - so when are we signing Marc Warren??? sounds like a logical upgrade based on the thinking that Perth offcasts are sound pickups...

[plague]

hahahahahaahahahhahahaha Dino ****ing Djulbic.



you blokes don't watch soccer.


hahahahahahahhahahaahahaahahha

hes ****ing terrible

[MFKS]

hahahahahaahahahhahahaha Dino ****ing Djulbic.



you blokes don't watch soccer.


hahahahahahahhahahaahahaahahha

hes ****ing terrible

No shit he ain't the greatest

But I take him over Boogaard any day

Bloke actually puts in and gives a ****

[plague]

But I take him over Boogaard any day


Hang on homie why don't you try and set the bar a bit lower in order to fit your point in?



Bhahahahaha "BAD PLAYER IS NOT QUITE AS BAD AS OTHER BAD PLAYER"

That's a seriously hot take for so early on a Sunday morning Member.

[MFKS]

Hang on homie why don't you try and set the bar a bit lower in order to fit your point in?



Bhahahahaha "BAD PLAYER IS NOT QUITE AS BAD AS OTHER BAD PLAYER"

That's a seriously hot take for so early on a Sunday morning Member.

Hey we up shit creek with our squad next season too.

It not a quick fix until we can get rid of our over paid blokes like Brown Boogaard Kokko and the other dozen over paid on contract hacks

The new bloke going to need to be a miracle worker greater than Jesus to get this shit sorted in 12 months

In the meantime signing blokes like Dino Drill bits on 12 month deals to plug some holes in the short term is something we should look at

He is a HAL standard player and by my counts we have 3-4 of them on the books

Time to get the number up

[turbojetfireV8]

would rather get Fyfe back here if we are dropping the bar as low as Djulbic, at least Fyfe was once a good player...

[Roundball Enthusiast]

Hey we up shit creek with our squad next season too.

It not a quick fix until we can get rid of our over paid blokes like Brown Boogaard Kokko and the other dozen over paid on contract hacks

The new bloke going to need to be a miracle worker greater than Jesus to get this shit sorted in 12 months

In the meantime signing blokes like Dino Drill bits on 12 month deals to plug some holes in the short term is something we should look at

He is a HAL standard player and by my counts we have 3-4 of them on the books

Time to get the number up

I don't have time to go back and find the 50 quotes of you saying we're a squad full of "standard aleague players" and "We need to get better players to replace the shit ones we have" etc..

But fvck me, you talk some shit. Everyones opinion is bollocks, but yours is gospel every time you press a key? ffs make up your mind.

We're either looking for world beaters or a squad full of standard aleague players, slightly better than our current squad of aleague players, with added mongrel.

[Mark325]

http://www.foxsports.com.au/football/a-league/sydney-fc-look-to-build-on-aleague-double-success-by-announcing-a-few-signings-this-week/news-story/d27b205e85971072e7cbd320571fb0e9

they're sayin they'll need to try and squeeze holosko into the salary cap but he'd surely be a marquee at most other clubs in the a-league. Do people think it'd be worth throwin cash at him

[turbojetfireV8]

don't rate Holosko as a match for our squad, think we could spend the money more wisely than that

[Frodo]

don't rate Holosko as a match for our squad, think we could spend the money more wisely than that

This.

Plus Holosko isn't worth Marquee wages. Decent player but not red hot.

[OmeletteDuFromage]

Get bonevacia in ernie

[MFKS]

Get bonevacia in ernie

He has signed for WSW already according to most internet sauces

[pv4]

He has signed for WSW already according to most internet sauces

Honestly yet to see this rumour with any basis behind it. Only player I've heard that is almost definitely signed for WSW already is Risdon from Perth, whom is a great signing for them.

Hoping Ernie gives Roly a call, I would blow a load if he signed for us.

[borat]

Get bonevacia in ernie

Signed and sealed for WSW I beleive.

Of the Nix carcass I can really only see us picking up Tratt and maybe Lia, considering he likes to follow Ernie

[borat]

Honestly yet to see this rumour with any basis behind it. Only player I've heard that is almost definitely signed for WSW already is Risdon from Perth, whom is a great signing for them.

Hoping Ernie gives Roly a call, I would blow a load if he signed for us.

Ernie needs to earn his position and sign Castro, that's the marquee we need.

[The Camel]

Ernie needs to earn his position and sign Castro, that's the marquee we need.

Castro would be awesome.

Trying to think of what Aussies we should bring in due to lack of Foreign spaces currently available (unless we can offload Kokko). Burns, Milligan and Spira are the three standouts in my mind.

[OmeletteDuFromage]

Castro would be awesome.

Trying to think of what Aussies we should bring in due to lack of Foreign spaces currently available (unless we can offload Kokko). Burns, Milligan and Spira are the three standouts in my mind.

Even just some of aussies getting no game time in europe, Vujica style. Preferably better than him but.

Wouldnt mind a look at Tom Beadling

[Grimario]

Even just some of aussies getting no game time in europe, Vujica style. Preferably better than him but.

Wouldnt mind a look at Tom Beadling

If we didn't already have Jackson and JK that fit the "young centre back" position, I'd agree.

[Mark325]

If we didn't already have Jackson and JK that fit the "young centre back" position, I'd agree.

JK feels more like a midfielder honestly and i'm pretty sure commentary have said a few times that mid is his preferred position. So it may not be the worst to look at Beadling, sign Spira to start and him as backup

[Grimario]

JK feels more like a midfielder honestly and i'm pretty sure commentary have said a few times that mid is his preferred position. So it may not be the worst to look at Beadling, sign Spira to start and him as backup

The other thing in Beadling's case is Sunderland just got relegated... so first team might be a bit closer.

[lil_masi]

When are we announcing Burns signature?

[turbojetfireV8]

Ernie might have the nous to get the best out of Kokko if he puts the right players around him, will be interesting to see

[MFKS]

The other thing in Beadling's case is Sunderland just got relegated... so first team might be a bit closer.

The other thing in Beadings case being how shit Sunderland are if he can't get in the side maybe he not that good ???

Just because you play in Europe doesn't make you any good

[OmeletteDuFromage]

The other thing in Beadings case being how shit Sunderland are if he can't get in the side maybe he not that good ???

Just because you play in Europe doesn't make you any good

As if, Hooles a gun!

[Jetmaster]

As if, Hooles a gun!

Speaking of.....is he now in Europe meeting all the clubs fighting over his services?

[MFKS]

Speaking of.....is he now in Europe meeting all the clubs fighting over his services?

I backing by about end of June when the players return he back "training " with the Jets just to stay sharp whilst his agent deals with Madrid and Milan and Manchester

Then it just doesn't work out and by mid July he is signing on again here and he hasn't missed a beat of preseason

[OmeletteDuFromage]

I backing by about end of June when the players return he back "training " with the Jets just to stay sharp whilst his agent deals with Madrid and Milan and Manchester

Then it just doesn't work out and by mid July he is signing on again here and he hasn't missed a beat of preseason

The Griff has already publicly said he wont allow it

[MonkeyKplunk]

He can **** off to an NPL club and learn how to play football again

[idontwannaplaywithhowey]

The Griff has already publicly said he wont allow it

Even if he PM's him on facebook?

[The Camel]

Even just some of aussies getting no game time in europe, Vujica style. Preferably better than him but.

Wouldnt mind a look at Tom Beadling

Kwame Yeboah is coming off contract come the end of June. Is playing plenty of minutes in the seconds in Germany and scoring goals. I reckon he could be a good option for the sort of player the jets could try and bring home from Europe.

[cobra23]

lets just sign the messi look a like getting around in the middle east

[white city]

lets just sign the messi look a like getting around in the middle east

Whoever we recruit will give a good indication on how far Martin Lee's finances are willing to go in making us competitive.

just how much money is available for a marquee?. i hear Castro will remain in Perth aswell.

[hawk]

i hear Castro will remain in Perth aswell.

oh fk

[Wilso8948]

Honda on the outer at Milan. One can dream. Imagine him at 10

[ForeverRed]

All uncontracted players released today other then kanta

[Roundball Enthusiast]

All uncontracted players released today other then kanta

Kanta given 1 year.. WTF.

Bloke has to go. Injury prone and has been useless for years. Up side is, he's probably SUPER cheap. As he knows he'll get less at Magic when his year is done.

[hawk]

Kanta given 1 year.. WTF.

Bloke has to go. Injury prone and has been useless for years. Up side is, he's probably SUPER cheap. As he knows he'll get less at Magic when his year is done.

doesnt count in the cap so gets a reprieve apparently

[hawk]

Ernie might have the nous to get the best out of Kokko if he puts the right players around him, will be interesting to see

Only one kokko

http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/uncyclopedia/images/b/b9/Th_coco_pops_monkeyX150.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20090717104952

[plague]

Kokkos pre season will be sprinting from the 50 yard line to delay a run behind the wingers crossing the ball in.

Then toe poke it.

Rinse repeat.
Merrick football.


Good luck sir.

[Jeterpool]

All uncontracted players released today other then kanta

Probably comes down to a simple fact we can remove most, if not all, of his contract outside the cap so we can spend the remainder of the cap on the squad.

So if we have 6 spots to fill and we recruit Kanta and a marquee, we have more to spend (on average) on the remaining 4 spots.

[Grimario]

probably comes down to a simple fact we can remove most, if not all, of his contract outside the cap so we can spend the remainder of the cap on the squad.

So if we have 6 spots to fill and we recruit kanta and a marquee, we have more to spend (on average) on the remaining 4 spots.

but kanta is so shit why do we keep wasting money on players that aren't good enough that means other players see our club as a joke and know they don't have to perform when they come here gypo out

[Jeterpool]

but kanta is so shit why do we keep wasting money on players that aren't good enough that means other players see our club as a joke and know they don't have to perform when they come here gypo out

Didn't say I agreed with it. Just suggesting a reason why the decision may have been made.

I suggest 1 year deal is a sign of the confidence they have.

I think they've been pretty ruthless in the cuts they've made, but there's a bit of value in the market this season and not a lot have been re-signed. There wasn't that value last year.

[Macca]

Didn't say I agreed with it. Just suggesting a reason why the decision may have been made.

I suggest 1 year deal is a sign of the confidence they have.

I think they've been pretty ruthless in the cuts they've made, but there's a bit of value in the market this season and not a lot have been re-signed. There wasn't that value last year.

:gent::trolls:

[rhysd]

They arrived at the culling decision fairly fast. How long has merrick been overlooking the squad?

[Grimario]

Didn't say I agreed with it. Just suggesting a reason why the decision may have been made.

I suggest 1 year deal is a sign of the confidence they have.

I think they've been pretty ruthless in the cuts they've made, but there's a bit of value in the market this season and not a lot have been re-signed. There wasn't that value last year.

My post wasn't serious... I was mocking the froth at the mouth brigade who ignore all logic when discussing outside the cap signings. If the foz allowed posting in all caps, that would have made my sarcasm clearer.

[Bon]

As bad as Kanta has been since his injury, he actually wasn't so bad in those last 3 or 4 games he played in..
Maybe he looked alright cause of how sh!t everyone else was around him..

[Jeterpool]

They arrived at the culling decision fairly fast. How long has merrick been overlooking the squad?

He's experienced in the league and would know the players, I'd think.

It's not out of character for the club to move this quick - last year the players departing was announced the day after the end of season awards. It was similar the season before.

[Jeterpool]

My post wasn't serious... I was mocking the froth at the mouth brigade who ignore all logic when discussing outside the cap signings. If the foz allowed posting in all caps, that would have made my sarcasm clearer.

My sarcasm detector isn't working today mate :thumbsup:

My response can perhaps be read as snappier than it was meant to.

[idontwannaplaywithhowey]

He's experienced in the league and would know the players, I'd think.

It's not out of character for the club to move this quick - last year the players departing was announced the day after the end of season awards. It was similar the season before.

I'd expect any interview/conversation regarding the appointment would have included detail regarding who you would keep/let go/recruit and reasoning so the club knows the new coaches plan and they can act accordingly post appointment.

And it's good the club have acted decisively and quickly.

[MFKS]

My post wasn't serious... I was mocking the froth at the mouth brigade who ignore all logic when discussing outside the cap signings. If the foz allowed posting in all caps, that would have made my sarcasm clearer.

As opposed to the logic you are showing where you have just condoned our shit club

1 Taking up a limited spot in the 23man roster.
So that now 6 spots not 7 available for Merrick to fashion his squad. Let's not forget one is a back up keeper so it really 5

2 Have rewarded mediocrity. Kanta done nothing last season to warrant a renewal. That not me talking. That the reality. He barely played. So are they awarding it on his past non existent level of performance??

3 Justified being as shit as we possibly can be again next season by keeping the losers who get us to the bottom and keep us there. We have been shit ever since Kanta got here?? Coincidence??

But it all good your logic as this level of shite isn't costing us on the salary cap that much

It ain't a bargain just because it free

[Grimario]

As opposed to the logic you are showing where you have just condoned our shit club

1 Taking up a limited spot in the 23man roster.
So that now 6 spots not 7 available for Merrick to fashion his squad. Let's not forget one is a back up keeper so it really 5

2 Have rewarded mediocrity. Kanta done nothing last season to warrant a renewal. That not me talking. That the reality. He barely played. So are they awarding it on his past non existent level of performance??

3 Justified being as shit as we possibly can be again next season by keeping the losers who get us to the bottom and keep us there. We have been shit ever since Kanta got here?? Coincidence??

But it all good your logic as this level of shite isn't costing us on the salary cap that much

It ain't a bargain just because it free

1. A signing that Merrick condoned given it happened after he arrived.
2. The whole A-league and salary cap structure rewards mediocrity. You have to have mediocre players in your squad - look at MV's bench when they lost the GF... some of those steaming turds wouldn't even make our bench, never mind starting line up. If you can do it with a player outside the cap, yay.
3. He's a squad depth player that covers multiple position and is being paid outside the cap. We've been shit since you posted on this forum. Coincidence??

And you still completely ignore the entire point that has been made every single time. Congrats on doing that. You're an expert at ignoring everyone's point.

And what is with your "English isn't my first language" posting style these days? Are you trying to come off deliberately as a mouth breathing Knights supporter?

[MFKS]

1. A signing that Merrick condoned given it happened after he arrived.
2. The whole A-league and salary cap structure rewards mediocrity. You have to have mediocre players in your squad - look at MV's bench when they lost the GF... some of those steaming turds wouldn't even make our bench, never mind starting line up. If you can do it with a player outside the cap, yay.
3. He's a squad depth player that covers multiple position and is being paid outside the cap. We've been shit since you posted on this forum. Coincidence??

And you still completely ignore the entire point that has been made every single time. Congrats on doing that. You're an expert at ignoring everyone's point.

And what is with your "English isn't my first language" posting style these days? Are you trying to come off deliberately as a mouth breathing Knights supporter?

Yes

A shit sandwich is still a shit sandwich.
It doesn't make the slightest difference to what price point you sell it for it still a shit sandwich.


He's a squad player??
We have 14 other blokes barely making it as HAL players
We don't need any more

[lil_masi]

Yes

A shit sandwich is still a shit sandwich.
It doesn't make the slightest difference to what price point you sell it for it still a shit sandwich.


He's a squad player??
We have 14 other blokes barely making it as HAL players
We don't need any more

Totally agree with the member.

Kanta is such a waste of limited squad spots available.

We have 17 signed + 1 keeper = 5 sports left.
We have Uga,Brown,Cowburn and Koutrumbis as DM. That's already 4. If Kanta re-signs makes 5. We actually need a quality starting DM eg Milligan which was mentioned so that could potentially mean 6 DM. That alone leaves only 3 spots left. We need a AM and wide players, because the only wide player remaining is Nabbout!!

Ppl saying kanta is versatile. Our CB are Boogs and Jackson. First we need a better starter, then we also have Koutrumbis and Alessi as backups.

In Summary, Kanta is wasting a much need squad spot!!

[Bon]

Yes

A shit sandwich is still a shit sandwich.
It doesn't make the slightest difference to what price point you sell it for it still a shit sandwich.


He's a squad player??
We have 14 other blokes barely making it as HAL players
We don't need any more

Who would you sign then?
If everyone is so sh1t, who is good?
Who will come here for fvck all?
?

[Grimario]

Yes

A shit sandwich is still a shit sandwich.
It doesn't make the slightest difference to what price point you sell it for it still a shit sandwich.


He's a squad player??
We have 14 other blokes barely making it as HAL players
We don't need any more

Who will we get then, Member? Who would you get to make the sandwich less shit? You keep going on about bringing in better players but WHO?

[Grimario]

Who would you sign then?
If everyone is so sh1t, who is good?
Who will come here for fvck all?
?

**** off Bon. Replying while I got stuck on a phone call.

[Bon]

**** off Bon. Replying while I got stuck on a phone call.

Come on mate.. No need to pretend that you are actually working..
We all know you are drifting off, daydreaming of disc golf.. :gent:

[Jeterpool]

Come on mate.. No need to pretend that you are actually working..
We all know you are drifting off, daydreaming of disc golf.. :gent:

Playing FM

[Grimario]

Come on mate.. No need to pretend that you are actually working..
We all know you are drifting off, daydreaming of disc golf.. :gent:
Yes. Trip to SA next week, Sydney event early June, trip to Perth mid June. Living the dream.

Playing FM

If only. On a heated NBN meeting at the moment :(

[MFKS]

Who will we get then, Member? Who would you get to make the sandwich less shit? You keep going on about bringing in better players but WHO?

If we can get him it a big if it be Milligan

Straight away we got the best no 6 in the comp

If he not available go Jedinak

There two Aussies if you shopping at the big end of town

I would also be looking for a foreigner for the 6 as well

There thousands of them on the planet

If not I be looking at raiding our opposition in the HAL and taking one of theirs whether in contract or not

Tap the ****er up if need be

[idontwannaplaywithhowey]

If we can get him it a big if it be Milligan

Straight away we got the best no 6 in the comp

If he not available go Jedinak

There two Aussies if you shopping at the big end of town

I would also be looking for a foreigner for the 6 as well

There thousands of them on the planet

If not I be looking at raiding our opposition in the HAL and taking one of theirs whether in contract or not

Tap the ****er up if need be

So Milligan, who has already been touted (albeit unlikely due to being on massive coin)
Jedinak, who is no chance of coming whatsoever.
And then 'someone else'.

I doubt that's the well thought out answer Bon was looking for.

[Bon]

So Milligan, who has already been touted.
Jedinak, who is no chance of coming whatsoever.
And then 'someone else'.

I doubt that's the well thought out answer Bon, Grim and everyone else was looking for.

Fixed..

[Grimario]

What kind of formation does Ernie play with? Is it two central mids with an attacking mid, fast wingers and a single focal point up front... so basically what we had last season? Some mix of Brebner/Muscat/Lia behind Fred in his first winning season and Muscat/Brebner/Celeski behind Carlos in his second winning season.

What position are Shabow and Petratos? Is one of them a youth player? (Or are Vujica/Alessi on youth deals?) If not, we already have 18 on the books plus need a GK so that means four spots, not five. Neither of their signing articles mention youth squad...

http://www.newcastlejets.com.au/article/confirmed-petratos-brothers-headed-for-the-hunter/k0m3bh2n6o0n15607pubzuyjo
http://www.newcastlejets.com.au/article/news-young-attacking-ace-mario-shabow-to-join-jets/15p43s46xkamb1arns81wehwff

With one spot earmarked for a creative midfielder and needing a GK, that means three spots for the rest of the squad. We have one wide player in Nabbout (unless Petratos or Shabow are?) so you would have to think we're getting someone there as well, unless he intends to play people out of position which might mean Roy shoved over on the wing. That leaves two (maybe three) spots for the rest of the squad.

Cheap Australian GK (Glen Moss has been linked), quality wide player and attacking mid (both foreigners because Australian players are shit) and then two Australian players for the rest of the squad. Is that about what sums up our recruitment requirements?


Completely ignores the fact that we are going to get stuck with a Chinese and Chilean player for the last two visa spots :(

[pv4]

Lawrie has basically alluded to the Chinese import will use one of the marquee spots, yes?

So the question is what Chinese wingers / 10s are out there that would be worth marquee wages, whilst somehow luring them out of the CSL?

[Wilso8948]

What kind of formation does Ernie play with? Is it two central mids with an attacking mid, fast wingers and a single focal point up front... so basically what we had last season? Some mix of Brebner/Muscat/Lia behind Fred in his first winning season and Muscat/Brebner/Celeski behind Carlos in his second winning season.

What position are Shabow and Petratos? Is one of them a youth player? (Or are Vujica/Alessi on youth deals?) If not, we already have 18 on the books plus need a GK so that means four spots, not five. Neither of their signing articles mention youth squad...

http://www.newcastlejets.com.au/article/confirmed-petratos-brothers-headed-for-the-hunter/k0m3bh2n6o0n15607pubzuyjo
http://www.newcastlejets.com.au/article/news-young-attacking-ace-mario-shabow-to-join-jets/15p43s46xkamb1arns81wehwff

With one spot earmarked for a creative midfielder and needing a GK, that means three spots for the rest of the squad. We have one wide player in Nabbout (unless Petratos or Shabow are?) so you would have to think we're getting someone there as well, unless he intends to play people out of position which might mean Roy shoved over on the wing. That leaves two (maybe three) spots for the rest of the squad.

Cheap Australian GK (Glen Moss has been linked), quality wide player and attacking mid (both foreigners because Australian players are shit) and then two Australian players for the rest of the squad. Is that about what sums up our recruitment requirements?


Completely ignores the fact that we are going to get stuck with a Chinese and Chilean player for the last two visa spots :(

He played a front three of Mcglinchey, Burns and Krishna up front so no reason why he wont play O'donnovan on his own. I think we need to add at least Burns if not FBK as well to really start to threaten opposition week in week out. Would also bring the best out of Nabbout.

[Jeterpool]

I'll have a go at naming my recruits.

As I see it we have the following positions filled, moving on who I think realistically can go:

* Goal Keepers - Duncan
* Full backs - Cownburn, Hoffman, Vujica, Georgievski, Alessi
* Central defenders - Boogaard, Koutroumbis, Jackson
* Holding Midfielders - Ugarkovic, Brown, Koutroumbis, Kantarovski*
* CAM - Clut, Brown, Shabow
* Wingers - Nabbout
* Strikers - O'Donovan, Kokko, Brymora, Petratos

I've assumed Georgievski is taking up Mullen's wages, O'Donovan taking up Nordstrand's wage.

We have 5 positions left. I'd attempt to recruit, considering the possible wages of Kennedy (which was outside the cap), Haliti, Hoole, Poljak, :

* CDM Coverage Milligan - Marquee wage+
* Winger/Striker Burns - Hoole's and Plojak's wage
* Foregin CAM - Marquee wage. I've no idea who is achievable in this area. I can't suggest a name. I'm purposefully not putting up Broich, Carussca, Castro because I don't think they're attainable for various reasons.
* Starting keeper - Alex Cisak - BK wage + cap increase
* Fringe Chinese Striker - Possibly a loan from Shenzen Ledman.

I'd also look to move Kokko on and bring in either Yeboah or Halloran as an attacking option who can play across the front and offers some coverage out wide which we lacked last year.

That leaves a foreign spot open for a guest player later in the year if we so choose.

[lil_masi]

What kind of formation does Ernie play with? Is it two central mids with an attacking mid, fast wingers and a single focal point up front... so basically what we had last season? Some mix of Brebner/Muscat/Lia behind Fred in his first winning season and Muscat/Brebner/Celeski behind Carlos in his second winning season.

What position are Shabow and Petratos? Is one of them a youth player? (Or are Vujica/Alessi on youth deals?) If not, we already have 18 on the books plus need a GK so that means four spots, not five. Neither of their signing articles mention youth squad...

http://www.newcastlejets.com.au/article/confirmed-petratos-brothers-headed-for-the-hunter/k0m3bh2n6o0n15607pubzuyjo
http://www.newcastlejets.com.au/article/news-young-attacking-ace-mario-shabow-to-join-jets/15p43s46xkamb1arns81wehwff

With one spot earmarked for a creative midfielder and needing a GK, that means three spots for the rest of the squad. We have one wide player in Nabbout (unless Petratos or Shabow are?) so you would have to think we're getting someone there as well, unless he intends to play people out of position which might mean Roy shoved over on the wing. That leaves two (maybe three) spots for the rest of the squad.

Cheap Australian GK (Glen Moss has been linked), quality wide player and attacking mid (both foreigners because Australian players are shit) and then two Australian players for the rest of the squad. Is that about what sums up our recruitment requirements?


Completely ignores the fact that we are going to get stuck with a Chinese and Chilean player for the last two visa spots :(

Shabow is an attacking mid. Petratos is a central striker. So none of them are naturally wide players.

We need a quality winger eg Burns + we need another winger as a backup/pushing the starters as it'll mean only Nabbout and Burns as wide players on the books.
Need a quality AM. Need a quality CB to partner either Boogs or Jackson and a quality DM.

So by my wishlist we need 5 spots available (which we have without getting Kanta!)

[Wilso8948]

Lawrie has basically alluded to the Chinese import will use one of the marquee spots, yes?

So the question is what Chinese wingers / 10s are out there that would be worth marquee wages, whilst somehow luring them out of the CSL?

He said it was mentioned as an option but also stated it would be someone in the national team setup. I honestly cannot see how that would happen. Why would a chinese player of national team standard look to the A league? Surely they are heading to Europe or staying in China where the average wage for them would trump A leage marquee money.

[Jeterpool]

Completely ignores the fact that we are going to get stuck with a Chinese and Chilean player for the last two visa spots :(

Ah, now as Pv4 said a consideration is bringing in a marquee Chinese player. Chilean player isn't on the cards for this year as per our interview with Lawrie.

[Wilso8948]

I'll have a go at naming my recruits.

As I see it we have the following positions filled, moving on who I think realistically can go:

* Goal Keepers - Duncan
* Full backs - Cownburn, Hoffman, Vujica, Georgievski, Alessi
* Central defenders - Boogaard, Koutroumbis, Jackson
* Holding Midfielders - Ugarkovic, Brown, Koutroumbis, Kantarovski*
* CAM - Clut, Brown, Shabow
* Wingers - Nabbout
* Strikers - O'Donovan, Kokko, Brymora, Petratos

I've assumed Georgievski is taking up Mullen's wages, O'Donovan taking up Nordstrand's wage.

We have 5 positions left. I'd attempt to recruit, considering the possible wages of Kennedy (which was outside the cap), Haliti, Hoole, Poljak, :

* CDM Coverage Milligan - Marquee wage+
* Winger/Striker Burns - Hoole's and Plojak's wage
* Foregin CAM - Marquee wage. I've no idea who is achievable in this area. I can't suggest a name. I'm purposefully not putting up Broich, Carussca, Castro because I don't think they're attainable for various reasons.
* Starting keeper - Alex Cisak - BK wage + cap increase
* Fringe Chinese Striker - Possibly a loan from Shenzen Ledman.

I'd also look to move Kokko on and bring in either Yeboah or Halloran as an attacking option who can play across the front and offers some coverage out wide which we lacked last year.

That leaves a foreign spot open for a guest player later in the year if we so choose.
Good post. I would have a dead set crack at Castro though. Would bring fans back week after week.

[lil_masi]

Good post. I would have a dead set crack at Castro though. Would bring fans back week after week.

Reports were he was close to resigning with Glory

[Wilso8948]

Shabow is an attacking mid. Petratos is a central striker. So none of them are naturally wide players.

We need a quality winger eg Burns + we need another winger as a backup/pushing the starters as it'll mean only Nabbout and Burns as wide players on the books.
Need a quality AM. Need a quality CB to partner either Boogs or Jackson and a quality DM.

So by my wishlist we need 5 spots available (which we have without getting Kanta!)
Another good post. Was it Baro mentioned from MV being looked at? Probably the likely to leave seeing as though theres Ansell, Donachie and now Williams moving there (All Aussies).

[Jeterpool]

Good post. I would have a dead set crack at Castro though. Would bring fans back week after week.

Agree....


Reports were he was close to resigning with Glory

But that's why I disregarded him.

[Grimario]

He played a front three of Mcglinchey, Burns and Krishna up front so no reason why he wont play O'donnovan on his own. I think we need to add at least Burns if not FBK as well to really start to threaten opposition week in week out. Would also bring the best out of Nabbout.

Yup, that's why I suggested he might play Roy out of position as a wide player. He played Archie out wide as well and it was effective coming in to the far post. Same with whoever the other bloke was wile Allslopp was in the middle.
Ah, now as Pv4 said a consideration is bringing in a marquee Chinese player. Chilean player isn't on the cards for this year as per our interview with Lawrie.
As if I listen to anything you guys do. There's no mention of disc golf.


Still hasn't been answered... do we have 17 or 18 players?

Duncan
Cowburn
Hoff
Vujica
Georgievski
Alessi
Boogaard
Koutroumbis
Jackson
Ugarkovic
Brown
Kantarovski
Clut
Shabow
Nabbout
O'Donovan
Kokko
Petratos

Is one of those players on a youth contract?

[Grimario]

Another good post. Was it Baro mentioned from MV being looked at? Probably the likely to leave seeing as though theres Ansell, Donachie and now Williams moving there (All Aussies).

We're being linked with Milligan, Burns, Baro, Carrusca and Glen Moss.

[Jeterpool]

Yup, that's why I suggested he might play Roy out of position as a wide player. He played Archie out wide as well and it was effective coming in to the far post. Same with whoever the other bloke was wile Allslopp was in the middle.
As if I listen to anything you guys do. There's no mention of disc golf.


Still hasn't been answered... do we have 17 or 18 players?

Duncan
Cowburn
Hoff
Vujica
Georgievski
Alessi
Boogaard
Koutroumbis
Jackson
Ugarkovic
Brown
Kantarovski
Clut
Shabow
Nabbout
O'Donovan
Kokko
Petratos

Is one of those players on a youth contract?

Alessi was a Youth contract this year. May still be this year. Brymora has been offered a scholarship contract.

Also :rof:

[Nou Camp]

Nichols released from WSW

[Jeterpool]

Nichols released from WSW

Oooooh.

See I'm torn on him. For ages I haven't been able to tolerate him. He's no doubt a good A-League player but far out he can be a toss pot sometimes.

[Mark325]

Considering we only have two foreign spots left, I'd rather have Baro over Carusca and have Nichols as are attacking mid and sign a winger Chinese player

[Grimario]

Oooooh.

See I'm torn on him. For ages I haven't been able to tolerate him. He's no doubt a good A-League player but far out he can be a toss pot sometimes.
He has a really punchable face.


Considering we only have two foreign spots left, I'd rather have Baro over Carusca and have Nichols as are attacking mid and sign a winger Chinese player
Chinese marquee winger... are we talking aged fading superstar or splashing on a young prospect with resale? Or just fringe loan player?

[MFKS]

So Milligan, who has already been touted (albeit unlikely due to being on massive coin)
Jedinak, who is no chance of coming whatsoever.
And then 'someone else'.

I doubt that's the well thought out answer Bon was looking for.

If we can stump up marquee wages for Milligan then a bloke playing in the Championship aint out of the equatio n.

They aint on tmas much as you think at that level

His career is also winding down .

I doubt we could get him anyway but i dont think he is as out of reach for HAL clubs as you make out


I also on record on the foz suggesting Milligan well before the Jets mentioned it this week

[Mark325]

Chinese marquee winger... are we talking aged fading superstar or splashing on a young prospect with resale? Or just fringe loan player?

Ideally I'd be lookin at young prospect with resale, but I know nothin bout football over there so no clue

[The Dunster]

Nichols released from WSW

He's only 28 or so but his forms been declining for a few years now. He's been released for a reason and I hope the Jets don't offer him the sort of money WSW wouldn't because they knew his true value. For $100k or less though I'd consider him / take a punt.

[turbojetfireV8]

Don't rate Nichols, would prefer to see what else comes up. Also with Glen Moss being a Kiwi, is he a visa spot or not? If so, go cheaper locally...

[idontwannaplaywithhowey]

If we can stump up marquee wages for Milligan then a bloke playing in the Championship aint out of the equatio n.

They aint on tmas much as you think at that level

His career is also winding down .

I doubt we could get him anyway but i dont think he is as out of reach for HAL clubs as you make out


I also on record on the foz suggesting Milligan well before the Jets mentioned it this week

For me the Jedinak thing isn't about the money (I also didn't suggest it was). It's about his desire to stay in Europe till the next world cup. Even at Championship level that is preferable to being involved in our rabble. Just my opinion but he is a leader, respected by his manager, 1st on the team sheet for Villa, he aint coming.

[Grimario]

Don't rate Nichols, would prefer to see what else comes up. Also with Glen Moss being a Kiwi, is he a visa spot or not? If so, go cheaper locally...

He's got dual, apparently.


Source: FM17

[OmeletteDuFromage]

He's got dual, apparently.


Source: FM17

Raised in Aus by the looks of it

[Wilso8948]

Nichols is far and above anyone we've had at this club in years. Let's not kid ourselves. Outside of troisi I'd say he's the most creative Aussie in the comp. (obvs better ones overseas). Sign him. Solves an issue at no.10 and keeps a visa spot open

[Frodo]

Nichols is far and above anyone we've had at this club in years. Let's not kid ourselves. Outside of troisi I'd say he's the most creative Aussie in the comp. (obvs better ones overseas). Sign him. Solves an issue at no.10 and keeps a visa spot open

The only person in the HAL with a more punchable face than Nichols is Hoole... But he is definitely a better attacker than we have had for the last 3-4 seasons.

Not saying i want to sign him, but i'd be interested to know how low he would be willing to drop his wages.

[Frodo]

Jedinak is a wank. Walked away from the premier league to earn more coin in the Championship because he was too scared to fight for his spot. They replaced him with Flamini, whom i love, but Flamini isn't exactly the greatest midfielder to grace the premier league.
Went to Aston Villa and only played 3/4 of the games in a team that finished closer to relegation than promotion.
I'd rather pay Poljak peanuts than think about throwing money at Jedinak.

[StannyCFCJET]

Jedinak is a wank. Walked away from the premier league to earn more coin in the Championship because he was too scared to fight for his spot. They replaced him with Flamini, whom i love, but Flamini isn't exactly the greatest midfielder to grace the premier league.
Went to Aston Villa and only played 3/4 of the games in a team that finished closer to relegation than promotion.
I'd rather pay Poljak peanuts than think about throwing money at Jedinak.

Pretty sure the Palace boss Pardew? Sold him wasnt his choice. At least from what ive hears from palace fans

[Mark325]

What other centre backs would people rate having here? Id be happy with Baro but when you consider we have one foreign spot on someone not Chinese it makes it a bit harder

[halo se7en]

Nichols, Georgevski, O'Donovan... developing a team of utter ****s. Love it!

[Grimario]

What other centre backs would people rate having here? Id be happy with Baro but when you consider we have one foreign spot on someone not Chinese it makes it a bit harder

Curtis Good

[OmeletteDuFromage]

What other centre backs would people rate having here? Id be happy with Baro but when you consider we have one foreign spot on someone not Chinese it makes it a bit harder

Jacob Tratt, wanted to move closer to home and has the Ernie link

[MFKS]

Other bloke who might be a prospect is Robbie Kruse

It was Merrick who dragged him from the scrapheap at Roar harnessed his talent and got him firing for Victree

[Mark325]

Thought he played RB?

[OmeletteDuFromage]

Thought he played RB?

Think he was naturally a CB in NPL? Not sure, but hes built more like a CB. Similar to Mullen moving out there at times.

[Mark325]

Think he was naturally a CB in NPL? Not sure, but hes built more like a CB. Similar to Mullen moving out there at times.

Okay true, Im just going off of wiki saying he plays predominantly right back, but him being something like 6ft 3inch would make me think he's a CB. Only thing is he is a younger player, it might be better looking at someone with some more experience. Spiranovic would offer that, as would Baro.

[Jeterpool]

The only person in the HAL with a more punchable face than Nichols is Hoole...

Broxham is up there

[weston]

I personally wouldn't mind Nichols. Sign him up

[plague]

Nichols is far and above anyone we've had at this club in years. Let's not kid ourselves. Outside of troisi I'd say he's the most creative Aussie in the comp. (obvs better ones overseas). Sign him. Solves an issue at no.10 and keeps a visa spot open

Bhahahahaha.

He's garbage.


Also: Jedinak.


Bhahahahaha.

He's Gypo garbage.


Just get 2 lightning quick Azian wingers and we'll win the comp with the bozos we have and SuperCoach Ernie.

[MFKS]

Hey for those of you wanting Bitch Nichols

Remember when our new hero Georgevski tagged him studs up around the knee caps ??

I bet you Bitch Nichols hasn't forgotten

[Wilso8948]

Bhahahahaha.

He's garbage.


Also: Jedinak.


Bhahahahaha.

He's Gypo garbage.


Just get 2 lightning quick Azian wingers and we'll win the comp with the bozos we have and SuperCoach Ernie.

Please. Nichols is not garbage. Do I think there's better no.10s out there? Sure. Do I think there's better Aussie no.10s? Sure. But all are playing overseas and staying there bar troisi. He doesn't take a Visa spot and is a good attacker by A-League standards.
Ok I'll ask a question of you. Who on our books has more vision and creativity than him to play that role?

[plague]

Ok I'll ask a question of you. Who on our books has more vision and creativity than him to play that role?

we don't have a no#10 do we?

isn't that our problem?

why do we need to sign an Aussie #10?

get a foreigner like WSW, Perth, City, Brisbane etc etc etc.

besides, from memory Ernie played fat carlos as a 10 but he was too fat to get up field so he was essentially a dm anyway and he just sprayed it to the wingers and they crossed it to Danny ****ing Allsop and won the comp.

Surely the Ooga Booga man can spray similar passes yeah?

More to the point is how a Merrick coached team would use someone like Assface Nicholls anyway yeah.

[evanhayes5]

1442

Have I missed anyone?

From this its clear to see we need a number 10, another centre back, a winger to replace Hoole, a defensive midfielder and someone to play along side ROD.

Milligan is signing for Al Shabab so we can rule him out, If were going down the Australian path for a CDM Paartalu is available, Andy Rose is a name from left field who is out of contract.

Nathan Burns could easily fill the winger spot but I think he is to good to be wasted out wide in the A-league, him and ROD uptop could be a lethal pairing.

Central Defender wise who here would be opposed to having Taylor Regan as a back up defender? He has had a good season with adelaide, and may not demand a huge part of the cap

Which then potentially leaves us with having an international player to fill the winger spot, Marquee wise Im not to sure who is available.
FBK could again be considered.

Which leaves us with a potential starting 11 looking like this

1443

[Grimario]

1442

Have I missed anyone?

From this its clear to see we need a number 10, another centre back, a winger to replace Hoole, a defensive midfielder and someone to play along side ROD.

Milligan is signing for Al Shabab so we can rule him out, If were going down the Australian path for a CDM Paartalu is available, Andy Rose is a name from left field who is out of contract.

Nathan Burns could easily fill the winger spot but I think he is to good to be wasted out wide in the A-league, him and ROD uptop could be a lethal pairing.

Central Defender wise who here would be opposed to having Taylor Regan as a back up defender? He has had a good season with adelaide, and may not demand a huge part of the cap

Which then potentially leaves us with having an international player to fill the winger spot, Marquee wise Im not to sure who is available.
FBK could again be considered.

Which leaves us with a potential starting 11 looking like this

1443

Kokko up front Roy out wide. He'll be expected to be in the far post to tap in after Nabbout runs past everyone and crosses too deep for Kokko.

[plague]

Which then potentially leaves us with having an international player to fill the winger spot, Marquee wise Im not to sure who is available.
FBK could again be considered.


why doesnt anyone want FBK to play through the middle?

1000x better than any of the other (realistic) options popping up on here.

[Frodo]

I like your ideas Evan. Just for Scnitzelgiggles, see below.


This is a terrible line up, using the guys we already have, but it would be fun to see what happened.


- Kokko - O'Caravan
- Clut
- Nabbout - Uga - Brown
- George - Jackson - Koutrombone - Hoffman
- Duncan

Make our fullbacks cover a ship tonne of ground and whip in crosses all day.
Two angry strikers working the defense hard. Solid amount of Mongrel between them would mean the defence wouldn't want to hang on to the ball.
Enough legs in midfield to nip at everyone who comes close to them.
Jackson can deal with anything in the air. Koutrombone can catch the quick forward runs.

[hawk]

Ok I'll ask a question of you. Who on our books has more vision and creativity than him to play that role?

Hate to say it but devon head Carney was, although he has crap engines. He turned the GF for blue aids.

[Frodo]

why doesnt anyone want FBK to play through the middle?

1000x better than any of the other (realistic) options popping up on here.

FBK is too old to play out wide... but not good enough to play in the middle for better HAL teams. He needs the time and space afforded out wide to work fullbacks rather than dealing with midfielders tracking him.
I feel like signing him would be like when we signed Marcos Flores. More talented than everyone we have but past his peak and will be dragged down to our level until he gets injured and we tarnish his career with our mediocrity.

[Frodo]

Hate to say it but devon head Carney was, although he has crap engines. He turned the GF for blue aids.

Worst comment i've ever read from you Hawk.

Devonhead was a 1 in 3 passer. Tried the impossible ball and blamed his team mates when it didn't work.

[furns]

Central Defender wise who here would be opposed to having Taylor Regan as a back up defender? He has had a good season with adelaide, and may not demand a huge part of the cap


Reegz already extended his contract at Adelaide. So, not an option.

[Roundball Enthusiast]

Worst comment i've ever read from you Hawk.

Devonhead was a 1 in 3 passer. Tried the impossible ball and blamed his team mates when it didn't work.

Also missed a sitter on the spot to win it.

[MFKS]

Hate to say it but devon head Carney was, although he has crap engines. He turned the GF for blue aids.

Did he play ??

Didn't even notice him

[Wilso8948]

we don't have a no#10 do we?

isn't that our problem?

why do we need to sign an Aussie #10?

get a foreigner like WSW, Perth, City, Brisbane etc etc etc.

besides, from memory Ernie played fat carlos as a 10 but he was too fat to get up field so he was essentially a dm anyway and he just sprayed it to the wingers and they crossed it to Danny ****ing Allsop and won the comp.

Surely the Ooga Booga man can spray similar passes yeah?

More to the point is how a Merrick coached team would use someone like Assface Nicholls anyway yeah.

If you read back what I wrote I said it would be a win to sign an aussie no.10 because it solves an issue without taking a visa spot. Provided that no.10 is decent enough which I believe Nichols is. This is the part you and I disagree on. Will I be disappointed if we sign a visa no.10? no. But in my opinion Nichols should certainly be looked at as an option.

[Wilso8948]

Please don't play O'Donnovan out wide.. He is an out and out striker. FBK is another one who is far and above anything we have on our books. The fact he started in a grand final team says something.

[MFKS]

Please don't play O'Donnovan out wide.. He is an out and out striker. FBK is another one who is far and above anything we have on our books. The fact he started in a grand final team says something.

Don't let the reality that he done nothing in it cloud your view though

He only up against a retard like Rhyan Grant as well

[Wilso8948]

Don't let the reality that he done nothing in it cloud your view though

He only up against a retard like Rhyan Grant as well

Whilst you ignore the fact he was one of their top players in the weeks leading up to and including the finals. Get off your high horse.

[The Camel]

What other centre backs would people rate having here? Id be happy with Baro but when you consider we have one foreign spot on someone not Chinese it makes it a bit harder

With Boogs game having signicantly deteriorated and the other two CB's being very young I think it would have to be the likes of Baro or someone similar from overseas (Like the Dutch fella at Sydney FC) or if Aussie then Spiranovic is the only experienced Aussie CB that I could think of other than maybe Curtis Good on loan to rebuild his career but he still isn;t that experienced. Whilst I don't mind Tratt as a player he is not what we need right now.

[MFKS]

Whilst you ignore the fact he was one of their top players in the weeks leading up to and including the finals. Get off your high horse.

You brought up that he started in a grand final to big note him
I put a comment in on that

You said nothing about the weeks before so don't move the goal posts now

[Wilso8948]

You brought up that he started in a grand final to big note him
I put a comment in on that

You said nothing about the weeks before so don't move the goal posts now

Oh of course. You're right. There's absolutely no reason why he'd get picked to start in a grandfinal. Are you saying you don't rate him? Surely you see he shits on what we have.

[plague]

If you read back what I wrote I said it would be a win to sign an aussie no.10 because it solves an issue without taking a visa spot. Provided that no.10 is decent enough which I believe Nichols is. This is the part you and I disagree on. Will I be disappointed if we sign a visa no.10? no. But in my opinion Nichols should certainly be looked at as an option.

Oh I get what you're asking.

I just 'assumed' that with the Kanta deal our club must be keen on getting a marquee(s?).
I'd just be throwing all our scouting behind securing the best possible player for, what is, surely one of the most important positions on the field.

Nicholls is no where near the standard required at that position to win the comp.

I'd argue he played his best football as a essentially squaddie at the roar.

Playing next to Dimas and Nico and WSW made him an afterthought for opposition teams to worry about.

I just don't see how he'd fit into a Merrick style team either.

But we agree he's got a proper punchable face yeah?

[borat]

1442

Have I missed anyone?

From this its clear to see we need a number 10, another centre back, a winger to replace Hoole, a defensive midfielder and someone to play along side ROD.

Milligan is signing for Al Shabab so we can rule him out, If were going down the Australian path for a CDM Paartalu is available, Andy Rose is a name from left field who is out of contract.

Nathan Burns could easily fill the winger spot but I think he is to good to be wasted out wide in the A-league, him and ROD uptop could be a lethal pairing.

Central Defender wise who here would be opposed to having Taylor Regan as a back up defender? He has had a good season with adelaide, and may not demand a huge part of the cap

Which then potentially leaves us with having an international player to fill the winger spot, Marquee wise Im not to sure who is available.
FBK could again be considered.

Which leaves us with a potential starting 11 looking like this

1443

Burns is really only effective upfront, and considering we are well stocked there I don't think he is value for money on the wages he would demand.

I am happy to back Merrick to recruit a foreign #10 from outside the HAL. Burns, FBK, Nichols and even Carrusca are not up to this position or worth the marquee $$$ we will throw at it. Merrick has a pretty good record in foreign recruitment so providing we have enough $$$ I am happy for this to be an unknown player. The only current #10 in the HAL that would be worth going after is Martinez imo.

To fill the wide attacking position, vacated by Hoole, there are a few Australian players worth looking at imo. Am ruling out your Burns/Kruse type players because they are just not realistic. Will be in the cap but a good salary you would think.

First player I would go for, who I think is realistic, is Mitch Duke. His contract is finishing at Shimzu, has just had a baby and got married over Xmas. Lawrie went to his wedding. Would be a goal threat out wide without needing to be a striker.

Another realistic option, and dare I say it, but maybe go back to Mark Bridge if he is fit. Played out wide and not as a striker I think he still has something to offer, if not for the stupid money Jones wanted to sign him for

My fallback, if all fails, if Mitch Austin. I don't think he is as bad a player as people make out and might flourish in a team where he has less pressure to get a starting role.

Other recruitment options.....I think we pass on Nichols. His form last season was dire so unless we are desperate then I reckon it's a no.

Wayne Brown will fill a starting position and it will be 8/6 or the attacking right role.

Back up DM to replace Poljak. I doubt it will be a star and imo we are nailed on to sign Vince Lia. Been coached by Ernie previously at the Victory and Nix and seems to be leaving Wellington. Another option maybe worth pursuing imo is getting Mitch Oxborrow back.

CB to replace Mullen - Would love this to be Jacob Tratt considering Merrick gave him his first start in the HAL as a senior player. Another option is Poscoliero, who seems to be Perth bound.

[Wilso8948]

Oh I get what you're asking.

I just 'assumed' that with the Kanta deal our club must be keen on getting a marquee(s?).
I'd just be throwing all our scouting behind securing the best possible player for, what is, surely one of the most important positions on the field.

Nicholls is no where near the standard required at that position to win the comp.

I'd argue he played his best football as a essentially squaddie at the roar.

Playing next to Dimas and Nico and WSW made him an afterthought for opposition teams to worry about.

I just don't see how he'd fit into a Merrick style team either.

But we agree he's got a proper punchable face yeah?

Of course. He's got a headbuttable face and a voice to match. I'd also love for us to invest heavily in this position but I suppose I'm being realistic. He is in my opinion a genuine upgrade on all we have. I realise Martinez made a big difference to that side however they really made the finals on the back of a shit season and no recognised striker (A touch of form from Santalab). Something that we would kill for and I feel Nichols had a large role in whenever they played well. I'd even suggest recruiting him and still throwing big money at a foreign marquee 10. Maybe play with one holding mid rather than two however I can't see Brown or Uga being good enough for this role.

[borat]

Of course. He's got a headbuttable face and a voice to match. I'd also love for us to invest heavily in this position but I suppose I'm being realistic. He is in my opinion a genuine upgrade on all we have. I realise Martinez made a big difference to that side however they really made the finals on the back of a shit season and no recognised striker (A touch of form from Santalab). Something that we would kill for and I feel Nichols had a large role in whenever they played well. I'd even suggest recruiting him and still throwing big money at a foreign marquee 10. Maybe play with one holding mid rather than two however I can't see Brown or Uga being good enough for this role.

Nichols maybe an option as a wide attacking player but won't be a #10. I reckon he is off to chase a pay cheque in SE Asia imo.

Brown or Uga will be good enough if Merrick changes the formation. Which may be why Kanta was resigned.

[white city]

I agree the best option at #10 is to look at a foreign marquee. Ninkovic/Castro type, although our record in bringing in foreigners is really poor, every other club does this better than us.

i also believe alot of money needs to spent on a CB. (Aussie marquee-Spiranovic) or any of the current crop on the fringes overseas. we are weak here and the younger ones need a good leader which boogs just isnt currently!

i like all your other options, in regards to wide areas beside Bridge(No thanks).

i think Brown should be played in the 6/8 role partnering Uga.

one think i would really like to see is Kokko and ODonovan partner up. Kokko can really hold the ball up well and could be a good foil to let Roy loose.

[MFKS]

Nichols maybe an option as a wide attacking player but won't be a #10. I reckon he is off to chase a pay cheque in SE Asia imo.

Brown or Uga will be good enough if Merrick changes the formation. Which may be why Kanta was resigned.

Bitch Nicols isn't an option under Merrick

Ernie likes to get balls forward quickly

Bitch Nicols likes 400 touches

He be much more suited to GVE than anyone

Bitch Nicols will not be here so move on

[The Camel]

Burns is really only effective upfront, and considering we are well stocked there I don't think he is value for money on the wages he would demand.

I am happy to back Merrick to recruit a foreign #10 from outside the HAL. Burns, FBK, Nichols and even Carrusca are not up to this position or worth the marquee $$$ we will throw at it. Merrick has a pretty good record in foreign recruitment so providing we have enough $$$ I am happy for this to be an unknown player. The only current #10 in the HAL that would be worth going after is Martinez imo.

To fill the wide attacking position, vacated by Hoole, there are a few Australian players worth looking at imo. Am ruling out your Burns/Kruse type players because they are just not realistic. Will be in the cap but a good salary you would think.

First player I would go for, who I think is realistic, is Mitch Duke. His contract is finishing at Shimzu, has just had a baby and got married over Xmas. Lawrie went to his wedding. Would be a goal threat out wide without needing to be a striker.

Another realistic option, and dare I say it, but maybe go back to Mark Bridge if he is fit. Played out wide and not as a striker I think he still has something to offer, if not for the stupid money Jones wanted to sign him for

My fallback, if all fails, if Mitch Austin. I don't think he is as bad a player as people make out and might flourish in a team where he has less pressure to get a starting role.

Other recruitment options.....I think we pass on Nichols. His form last season was dire so unless we are desperate then I reckon it's a no.

Wayne Brown will fill a starting position and it will be 8/6 or the attacking right role.

Back up DM to replace Poljak. I doubt it will be a star and imo we are nailed on to sign Vince Lia. Been coached by Ernie previously at the Victory and Nix and seems to be leaving Wellington. Another option maybe worth pursuing imo is getting Mitch Oxborrow back.

CB to replace Mullen - Would love this to be Jacob Tratt considering Merrick gave him his first start in the HAL as a senior player. Another option is Poscoliero, who seems to be Perth bound.

The remaining squad positions for the CB, DM, Wide and No. 10 roles HAVE to be better than what we currently have or we will come bottom 3. If we were to sign more back up players for these positions then we are ****ed. If we sign Tratt and Lia in those positions then we are not trying.

Antonis is the bloke I would be going after strongly. With Milligan signing for a new club in the M.E. Antonis is the next best off contract/available Aussie midfielder. He was outstanding for WSW at the back end of the year and he is still under contract with PAOK.

Martinez also has his loan ended and we could try and pinch him off WSW but I would not mind us actually doing some foreign scouting

[borat]

I agree the best option at #10 is to look at a foreign marquee. Ninkovic/Castro type, although our record in bringing in foreigners is really poor, every other club does this better than us.

i also believe alot of money needs to spent on a CB. (Aussie marquee-Spiranovic) or any of the current crop on the fringes overseas. we are weak here and the younger ones need a good leader which boogs just isnt currently!

i like all your other options, in regards to wide areas beside Bridge(No thanks).

i think Brown should be played in the 6/8 role partnering Uga.

one think i would really like to see is Kokko and ODonovan partner up. Kokko can really hold the ball up well and could be a good foil to let Roy loose.

Merrick has form in recruiting foreign players. We have never had a Manager with the ability to do that. I am willing to back Merrick on this.

I think if we are realistic on recruitment, this club shops in the bargain basement bin. Bar the marquee, all our recruitment will need to be unfancied oprions with hopefully a point to prove.

I will bet now we don't sign one player from the supposed list in the Herald.

Been thinking that away to utilise the players we have is to play 433

--------------O'Donnovan-------------Kokko

----------------------------Marquee #10

-------------Uga---------------------------------Brown
--------------------------------New #6

Georgievski---New CB--------Boogs-------------Hoff

--------------------------------Duncan

Res
New GK
Koutroumbis
Kanta
Nabbout
Petratos

[plague]

although our record in bringing in foreigners is really poor, every other club does this better than us.


This is a very good point but as stated earlier by someone very clever and smart that Merrick does actually have a decent track record for finding a good foreign #10 (and more so being able to utilise their strengths).

Maybe Ernie should wait til the Gypo is checking his mentions and sneak out and sign one when he's not looking.

[plague]

Oh and by the way anyone wanting Baro here is having a larf.
Bloke is way too cultured for us.

The superfans on here will be into him from day one for being to aloof and not sticking a boot in derp derp derp.

Will be like those morons and Man U chasing Pique out of town.


Those Jets fans deserve Boogaard and all that he brings.
Let them eat cake.

[borat]

The remaining squad positions for the CB, DM, Wide and No. 10 roles HAVE to be better than what we currently have or we will come bottom 3. If we were to sign more back up players for these positions then we are ****ed. If we sign Tratt and Lia in those positions then we are not trying.

Antonis is the bloke I would be going after strongly. With Milligan signing for a new club in the M.E. Antonis is the next best off contract/available Aussie midfielder. He was outstanding for WSW at the back end of the year and he is still under contract with PAOK.

Martinez also has his loan ended and we could try and pinch him off WSW but I would not mind us actually doing some foreign scouting

How much do you want to bet we don't sign Antonis? Willing to give you decent odds as well.

I am just being realistic. This club will never sign stars from other clubs and has and will always will recruit on potential. We need to find the diamonds in the rough.

Tratt was x10000 better than any of our CB's this season for the record.

Not a fan of Lia myself,but judging by Merrick's comments on recruiting "experienced heads", and that most coaches poach from their previous club, if you look at the Nix off contract then he is the one that stands out as most likely to come to Newcastle.

[MFKS]

The remaining squad positions for the CB, DM, Wide and No. 10 roles HAVE to be better than what we currently have or we will come bottom 3. If we were to sign more back up players for these positions then we are ****ed.

Hate to break it to you but we probably going to finish bottom 3 anyway
Merrick ain't a miracle worker like Jesus Christ

He doesn't have much scope to overhaul our squad fully
We also behind the 8 ball as any competent Aussie player is already under contract for next season already

[The Camel]

How much do you want to bet we don't sign Antonis? Willing to give you decent odds as well.

I am just being realistic. This club will never sign stars from other clubs and has and will always will recruit on potential. We need to find the diamonds in the rough.

Tratt was x10000 better than any of our CB's this season for the record.

Not a fan of Lia myself,but judging by Merrick's comments on recruiting "experienced heads", and that most coaches poach from their previous club, if you look at the Nix off contract then he is the one that stands out as most likely to come to Newcastle.

I am going off the quotes that says we have $$$ to spend and we have an experienced coach who can possibly recruit them. If we sign Lia and have Uga and Brown as our only starting Midfielders (Kanta and Lia are not starting midfielders for NPL let alone A League) then we will get hammered every week.

Also you say Tratt was heaps better than our CB's, that is a massive call seeing he played RB all year. He played ok in that position but it is not a role in the side that we need to fill. He may be a natural CB but he has pretty much zero A League experience playing there.

[The Camel]

Hate to break it to you but we probably going to finish bottom 3 anyway
Merrick ain't a miracle worker like Jesus Christ

He doesn't have much scope to overhaul our squad fully
We also behind the 8 ball as any competent Aussie player is already under contract for next season already

I would say that Antonis (who is available on loan) and Spiranovic are more than competent Aussies who will improve us immesely

[Bon]

Hate to break it to you but we probably going to finish bottom 3 anyway
Merrick ain't a miracle worker like Jesus Christ

He doesn't have much scope to overhaul our squad fully
We also behind the 8 ball as any competent Aussie player is already under contract for next season already

Aren't you supposed to be backing him, loving the stability, giving him a chance, giving him the time to build his own squad, etc etc?
Or was that only Jones?

[borat]

I am going off the quotes that says we have $$$ to spend and we have an experienced coach who can possibly recruit them. If we sign Lia and have Uga and Brown as our only starting Midfielders (Kanta and Lia are not starting midfielders for NPL let alone A League) then we will get hammered every week.

Also you say Tratt was heaps better than our CB's, that is a massive call seeing he played RB all year. He played ok in that position but it is not a role in the side that we need to fill. He may be a natural CB but he has pretty much zero A League experience playing there.

Tratt was CB for SFC NYL week in and out. He is a CB who can play RB not the other way around

[Jeterpool]

Those Jets fans deserve Boogaard and all that he brings.


Can I guess that he brings penalties, red cards and mongrel?

[The Camel]

Tratt was CB for SFC NYL week in and out. He is a CB who can play RB not the other way around

NYL is not A League experience is it

[Macca]

Merrick has form in recruiting foreign players. We have never had a Manager with the ability to do that. I am willing to back Merrick on this.

I think if we are realistic on recruitment, this club shops in the bargain basement bin. Bar the marquee, all our recruitment will need to be unfancied oprions with hopefully a point to prove.

I will bet now we don't sign one player from the supposed list in the Herald.

Been thinking that away to utilise the players we have is to play 433

--------------O'Donnovan-------------Kokko

----------------------------Marquee #10

-------------Uga---------------------------------Brown
--------------------------------New #6

Georgievski---New CB--------Boogs-------------Hoff

--------------------------------Duncan

Res
New GK
Koutroumbis
Kanta
Nabbout
Petratos

Semantics I know but I wouldn't call that 433, a feature of which is the two wingers and lone central striker.
4312 or 442 diamond perhaps.

[MFKS]

Aren't you supposed to be backing him, loving the stability, giving him a chance, giving him the time to build his own squad, etc etc?
Or was that only Jones?

I giving him time

I going to be pretty patient with Merrick

I understand it not his fault if we don't make the semis next season

It because of all the shit ****s still in the squad plus the lack of patience from the Chinese Lightsalesman and his Gypo proxy

I hope we make the six

I don't believe it going to happen though

[Bon]

I giving him time

I going to be pretty patient with Merrick

I understand it not his fault if we don't make the semis next season

It because of all the shit ****s still in the squad plus the lack of patience from the Chinese Lightsalesman and his Gypo proxy

I hope we make the six

I don't believe it going to happen though

All good mate, just clarifying..
I don't think any of us really expect miracles to occur, I'm sure most of us are beyond even hoping..

[MFKS]

I would say that Antonis (who is available on loan) and Spiranovic are more than competent Aussies who will improve us immesely

Are these blokes playing in the HAL currently or are they at OS Clubs??

[Mark325]

[QUOTE=borat
Been thinking that away to utilise the players we have is to play 433

--------------O'Donnovan-------------Kokko

----------------------------Marquee #10

-------------Uga---------------------------------Brown
--------------------------------New #6

Georgievski---New CB--------Boogs-------------Hoff

--------------------------------Duncan

Res
New GK
Koutroumbis
Kanta
Nabbout
Petratos[/QUOTE
that actually works well for us. I'd say we try for spiranovic at centre back, foreign no.6 and use the Chinese spot on no.10
Also, maybe a risk but I wouldn't include petratos on the bench, have heard he's pretty rubbish. I think you could try nabbout coming on as a striker with Clut replacing petratos on the bench. I would also rather Jackson on the bench over Kanta and johnny k coming on as a midfielder

[Jetmaster]

With the contracted players who do you think will actually improve significantly by playing under Ernie rather than Jones?

[Mark325]

With the contracted players who do you think will actually improve significantly by playing under Ernie rather than Jones?

Nabbout, Brown and Kokko for me

[borat]

Semantics I know but I wouldn't call that 433, a feature of which is the two wingers and lone central striker.
4312 or 442 diamond perhaps.

That's just how it looks on screen. 433 with 2 strikers and a #10 and a 3 man midfield with one slightly deeper than the other two.

433 doesn't have to be played with 1 central striker. 442 diamond doesn't work in today's football imo

[borat]

With the contracted players who do you think will actually improve significantly by playing under Ernie rather than Jones?

Pretty much all of them

[borat]

NYL is not A League experience is it

And???? Do you think you magically forget to play CB just because you get pushed wide? .....actually that is what happened to Mullen

If you want to stick with experience then re-sign Mullen. ACL winner and all.......

Or we can move on from what doesn't work and sign a quality player, from Sydney, without a club whose former coach is now with us.

[MFKS]

NYL is not A League experience is it

Most of our blokes would struggle in the NPL anyway

So what if he played NYL at Smurfs and didn't get through

They actually have a strong Yoof program

Tratt done well at Phoenix until he walked out to come back to NSW area

[evanhayes5]

Mitchell Duke is looming likely to be either Holosko or Ibinis replacement at Sydney FC

Ryan Williams has just bee released from Barnsley, would be a good shout for the wide role

[borat]

The Wanderers didn't release Antonis because they don't want him. They need to strike another loan deal which is what they are trying. There is zero chance Antonis is choosing the Jets over WSW.

Spiranovic is surely not a serious suggestion. Once he finishes the year with Inter he will find another team in Asia or the gulf.

If you want to look at Aussies overseas then look a little deeper. Eastern Europe, South East Asia, Scottish league. There are a few decent players there.

I like the look of Ryan Edwards at Patrick Thistle, Andy Rose at Coventry, James Meridith at Bradford or James Wesolowski who is down in the National league now. All experienced viable Australian options who could be enticed to come home

[borat]

Mitchell Duke is looming likely to be either Holosko or Ibinis replacement at Sydney FC

Ryan Williams has just bee released from Barnsley, would be a good shout for the wide role

Damn......cmon Lawrie pull your finger out

[evanhayes5]

The Wanderers didn't release Antonis because they don't want him. They need to strike another loan deal which is what they are trying. There is zero chance Antonis is choosing the Jets over WSW.

Spiranovic is surely not a serious suggestion. Once he finishes the year with Inter he will find another team in Asia or the gulf.

If you want to look at Aussies overseas then look a little deeper. Eastern Europe, South East Asia, Scottish league. There are a few decent players there.

I like the look of Ryan Edwards at Patrick Thistle, Andy Rose at Coventry, James Meridith at Bradford or James Wesolowski who is down in the National league now. All experienced viable Australian options who could be enticed to come home

Spira is with his chinese team in the 2nd division

Sainsbury is with Inter

[borat]

Spira is with his chinese team in the 2nd division

Sainsbury is with Inter

Ahh yes my bad. Sainsbury is only on loan with Inter short term due to the change in the foreign rule in China. Will be on the move again in the off season.

Neither will be at the Jets

[The Camel]

The Wanderers didn't release Antonis because they don't want him. They need to strike another loan deal which is what they are trying. There is zero chance Antonis is choosing the Jets over WSW.

Spiranovic is surely not a serious suggestion. Once he finishes the year with Inter he will find another team in Asia or the gulf.

If you want to look at Aussies overseas then look a little deeper. Eastern Europe, South East Asia, Scottish league. There are a few decent players there.

I like the look of Ryan Edwards at Patrick Thistle, Andy Rose at Coventry, James Meridith at Bradford or James Wesolowski who is down in the National league now. All experienced viable Australian options who could be enticed to come home

The thing with loan deals are though, if the Jets outbid WSW the club who he is contracted to will deal with us and not them, and the player does not get a choice. He could turn down the going out on loan but then would likely get frozen out by his club.

Spira's club got relegated to Chinese div 2. I am sure he would be happy to come home. Sainsbury is the one getting splinters at Inter

[Jeterpool]

Ryan Williams has just bee released from Barnsley, would be a good shout for the wide role

Ryan Williams is exactly the type of player we should target, especially now he has been released.

[borat]

Ryan Williams is exactly the type of player we should target, especially now he has been released.
Yup he would be quality

[borat]

The thing with loan deals are though, if the Jets outbid WSW the club who he is contracted to will deal with us and not them, and the player does not get a choice. He could turn down the going out on loan but then would likely get frozen out by his club.

Spira's club got relegated to Chinese div 2. I am sure he would be happy to come home. Sainsbury is the one getting splinters at Inter

All good fun speculating. I would be just as delighted if you were right but after 12 seasons I have learnt to lower my expectations.

[Macca]

That's just how it looks on screen. 433 with 2 strikers and a #10 and a 3 man midfield with one slightly deeper than the other two.

433 doesn't have to be played with 1 central striker. 442 diamond doesn't work in today's football imo

I feel like two strikers and a 10 is too narrow. Unless you're a dominant possession team where fullbacks can set up camp in enemy territory it might struggle.

I think Juve were playing a diamond last year or the year before? Granted they had some phenomenal midfield players.

[Grimario]

Ansell, FBK and Bray released from MV. Let's get all 3 of them.

[The Dunster]

Ansell, FBK and Bray released from MV. Let's get all 3 of them.

Building a team with players other A-league teams rejected has not worked for us in the past. Can't see it working in the future either.
It simply keeps us a year or more behind the opposition.

[Grimario]

Building a team with players other A-league teams rejected has not worked for us in the past. Can't see it working in the future either.

Worked for Adelaide.
Worked for WSW (apart from the GF).
Worked for Sydney this year as well with rejects from 9th and 10th.

[Grimario]

PS they rejected the guy that won the Joe Marston medal...
PPS we signed him

[OmeletteDuFromage]

Id take Bray though, or at least a trial. Surely better than BK and Arcaba.

[plague]

PS they rejected the guy that won the Joe Marston medal...
PPS we signed him

2018 update: we destroyed him.

[MFKS]

PS they rejected the guy that won the Joe Marston medal...
PPS we signed him

Did they reject him or did we throw more coin at him??

[Mark325]

Bray would be worth a look in, but considering he'll just warm the bench i wouldn't be overly bothered if we do or don't

i hope we dont sign FBK, if we're gonna poach other clubs foreigners they need to be the very best, merrick has found dudes like bonevacia who i rate higher then FBK and who have more years ahead of em too.

Ansell would be far from the worse if we had to steal another teams centre back, but i would rather us look a bit higher if possible

[StannyCFCJET]

Ryan Williams is exactly the type of player we should target, especially now he has been released.

Agreed

[Wilso8948]

Building a team with players other A-league teams rejected has not worked for us in the past. Can't see it working in the future either.
It simply keeps us a year or more behind the opposition.
I feel like this off season there's a lot more quality being released/off contract compared to other years. Signing some of these could either go two ways
- other clubs sign better foreigners and the league goes to another level whilst we get again finish low on the table.
- the Jets bank on some of these quality players being released as they're proven in the A league and other clubs struggle to replace them.
It's a relatively low risk way of recruiting. Other years I'd say no way but this year has seen some very good players hit the market

[The Dunster]

Worked for Adelaide.
Worked for WSW (apart from the GF).
Worked for Sydney this year as well with rejects from 9th and 10th.

We are the Jets. We are not Adelaide, WSW, or Sydney FC.

And who were the rejects at SFC ?

[MFKS]

I feel like this off season there's a lot more quality being released/off contract compared to other years. Signing some of these could either go two ways
- other clubs sign better foreigners and the league goes to another level whilst we get again finish low on the table.
- the Jets bank on some of these quality players being released as they're proven in the A league and other clubs struggle to replace them.
It's a relatively low risk way of recruiting. Other years I'd say no way but this year has seen some very good players hit the market

To be fair this major rebuild should have been getting done when we signing Georgevski Petratos O Caravan etc

Changing managers has now cost us as Merrick left with just the shit left over to go through and not able to negotiate with the blokes who have renewed deals at their existing club or signed for rivals like Risdon Rhys Williams etc

Typical Newy Jets though disorganised from top to bottom

[plague]

I feel like this off season there's a lot more quality being released/off contract compared to other years. Signing some of these could either go two ways
- other clubs sign better foreigners and the league goes to another level whilst we get again finish low on the table.
- the Jets bank on some of these quality players being released as they're proven in the A league and other clubs struggle to replace them.
It's a relatively low risk way of recruiting. Other years I'd say no way but this year has seen some very good players hit the market

this is a good summation of the issue and the Jets def think they are doing option #2 but in reality option #1 is happening and we are getting pants again.

everyone* is learning from the New England Patriots motto of letting players go 1 year early rather than 1 year late.






*well everyone except the Newcastle Jets and about 31 other NFL franchises.

[Grimario]

We are the Jets. We are not Adelaide, WSW, or Sydney FC.

And who were the rejects at SFC ?

Come on mate. They have the worst coastie still in the league, rejected by coasties.

[hawk]

We are the Jets. We are not Adelaide, WSW, or Sydney FC.

And who were the rejects at SFC ?

who are we? cant even keep a set of colors in our hood.

http://images.amcnetworks.com/ifc.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/ice-cube-kimmel.jpg

[Jeterpool]

Was told by someone at the Gypo's end of season bonfire jamboree that O'Donovan said, while collecting his top goalscorer award, along the lines of "As much as I love you boys, I can't wait to score a hatrick in Gosford"

[Mark325]

http://www.perthglory.com.au/article/announcement-important-player-updates/18bajfe0vmou71r3u55w1dfhvm

We ain't signing castro... Would anyone be keen on any of the guys they've let go?

[MFKS]

http://www.perthglory.com.au/article/announcement-important-player-updates/18bajfe0vmou71r3u55w1dfhvm

We ain't signing castro... Would anyone be keen on any of the guys they've let go?

That Petratos bloke

Sign him

5
5
5

[StannyCFCJET]

That Petratos bloke

Sign him

5
5
5

Heard he's going to live in Korea with his family cause he misses them

[MFKS]

Heard he's going to live in Korea with his family cause he misses them
We can only hope Dimi and Leaky G gets him a deal to get him to Korea

[Bon]

Glen Moss has been signed..

[leftrightout]

Glen Moss has been signed..

Good signing i think!

[Bon]

Good signing i think!

Yeah, I agree..

I might as well preempt the usual MFKS comments.. Not enough mongrel, no good, wasted signing, probably a gypo, on too much, got him for too long, better blokes to sign, not enough initiative, didn't look hard enough, why didn't we sign De Gea, etc etc.. :gent:

[lquiquer]

Glen Moss has been signed..

He is a Kiwi.... Visa spot? or has he Oz passport?

[Jeterpool]

Glen Moss has been signed..

Really? Wow!!!

Has he retired from international duty?

[Grimario]

He is a Kiwi.... Visa spot? or has he Oz passport?

Oz passport. All of his youth football was on Gold Coast and played in Sydney up until he joined NZ Knights.


Really? Wow!!!

Has he retired from international duty?

Nope. Article says he is off to NZ camp next week.

[white city]

Oz passport. All of his youth football was on Gold Coast and played in Sydney up until he joined NZ Knights.



Nope. Article says he is off to NZ camp next week.

shouldnt this be in 2017/2018 squad thread?

good signing. great competition for Duncan and an experience A-league keeper to assist in junior development

[Jeterpool]

Mods, can this thread please be sticky? Replace last season's squad thread?

[Jeterpool]

He's never kept a clean sheet at Hunter Stadium so he'll fit right in :lulzturtle:

[ForeverRed]

This is a poo signing if he takes a visa spot

[lquiquer]

This is a poo signing if he takes a visa spot

According to Grim he doesn't

[Jeterpool]

This is a poo signing if he takes a visa spot

I think he has duel citizenship too.

[Jetmaster]

When Covic first left I suggested signing Moss who was at his peak back then.

Solid signing and top quality for backup should Duncan improve as I expect next season.

[Grimario]

I think he has duel citizenship too.

Why do his citizenship's fight each other?

[Wilso8948]

Why do his citizenship's fight each other?

That joke was as bland as this signing.

[borat]

I would rather Kennedy were resigned then waste money on another 1st team keeper.

Watch Duncan leave now

[Jeterpool]

When Covic first left I suggested signing Moss who was at his peak back then.

Solid signing and top quality for backup should Duncan improve as I expect next season.

He's certainly the most experienced keeper we've signed since Covic.

[Jeterpool]

Why do his citizenship's fight each other?

I see what I did, and why you did that.

[furns]

Mods, can this thread please be sticky? Replace last season's squad thread?
done
moved the posts into here, unstuck and closed the old one as well

[plague]

unstuck and closed the old one as well

Thread was a great servant to the foz.
Will be sorely missed.
Forever in our hearts.

[Jeterpool]

I would rather Kennedy were resigned then waste money on another 1st team keeper.

Watch Duncan leave now

I can see what you're saying, and while there's nothing to suggest this will be the case, if a keeper were to leave for this reason instead of competing for their spot perhaps that isn't the sort of attitude that we want to create a winning culture.

I think they're on a reasonable level pegging. Moss will leave at some point for internationa duty so Duncan WILL get a chance (barring injury).

I see it as the spot is Duncan's and Moss has to take it off him.

[MonkeyKplunk]

Good signing considering his ability.
He's only on a one year deal, so no doubt on about what we were paying Kennedy any way, but with added mongrel to actually push for a spot rather than being happy sitting on the bench and wasting everyones time.

[borat]

I can see what you're saying, and while there's nothing to suggest this will be the case, if a keeper were to leave for this reason instead of competing for their spot perhaps that isn't the sort of attitude that we want to create a winning culture.

I think they're on a reasonable level pegging. Moss will leave at some point for internationa duty so Duncan WILL get a chance (barring injury).

I see it as the spot is Duncan's and Moss has to take it off him.
That's a pretty naive point of view.

Moss has followed Merrick to 2 clubs now and is a favourite. Merrick isn't signing him to sit on the bench and Moss isn't coming to lose his NZ spot by sitting on the bench. It would be pretty easy for Duncan to assume he is up against it getting a fair go at the #1.

The Jets have 99 problems but goal keeper wasn't one of them.

[furns]

That's a pretty naive point of view.

Moss has followed Merrick to 2 clubs now and is a favourite. Merrick isn't signing him to sit on the bench and Moss isn't coming to lose his NZ spot by sitting on the bench. It would be pretty easy for Duncan to assume he is up against it getting a fair go at the #1.

The Jets have 99 problems but goal keeper wasn't one of them.Yes but problem is we would have nothing on the bench if/when Duncan gets injured.
Would have been happy re-signing Arcaba, but Moss is a much better upgrade and will actually challenge Duncan for the #1 position.

[borat]

Yes but problem is we would have nothing on the bench if/when Duncan gets injured.

Plenty of keepers out there to choose from.

My point is imo Moss is being brought in as #1 and I don't beleive he is worthy of it. Duncan is a younger and better keeper

[The Dunster]

I agree with Borat.

There's a difference between players competing for positions and players competing for the Coaches approval. Merrick will be playing favourites with his boy Moss and Duncan's only chance will be if Moss gets injured or is away on rep duties. New Coach - but same old Newcastle Jets. - creating problems where there doesn't need to be any.
Before the season even starts Duncan will no doubt feel like the Coach is not backing him - even though he had a much better season than many others in the team.

[MFKS]

He's never kept a clean sheet at Hunter Stadium so he'll fit right in :lulzturtle:

That means he one of the few keepers this club has got the better off

Been better if he signed for the Gypos

[Jeterpool]

That's a pretty naive point of view.

Moss has followed Merrick to 2 clubs now and is a favourite. Merrick isn't signing him to sit on the bench and Moss isn't coming to lose his NZ spot by sitting on the bench. It would be pretty easy for Duncan to assume he is up against it getting a fair go at the #1.

The Jets have 99 problems but goal keeper wasn't one of them.

What part do you think is naive? I'd want players who back their ability and the challenge of someone competing for the spot to improve your overall performance - not someone who might run at the first sign of a challenge. But as I said, the least i'd expect, as the incumbant, is first crack at it. Totally depends on the conversation (if there's been one) between Ernie and Jack.

You're probably right, given his pedigree that Moss would warrant the first team spot. The fact Ernie has relied on him at his 2 other clubs also points towards this.

And I think it was a problem - 9 clean sheets in 84 games would suggest we have an issue as a whole defensive unit.

[MFKS]

As for the signing

It good it on 1 year

Fingers crossed he being appropriately paid and not on large figure like our last 2nd keeper was

[borat]

What part do you think is naive? I'd want players who back their ability and the challenge of someone competing for the spot to improve your overall performance - not someone who might run at the first sign of a challenge. But as I said, the least i'd expect, as the incumbant, is first crack at it. Totally depends on the conversation (if there's been one) between Ernie and Jack.

You're probably right, given his pedigree that Moss would warrant the first team spot. The fact Ernie has relied on him at his 2 other clubs also points towards this.

And I think it was a problem - 9 clean sheets in 84 games would suggest we have an issue as a whole defensive unit.

It's naive that you think the decision on who plays #1 will come down to ability or performance. Merrick has chosen Moss as his #1 for the past 3 years and at the at Victory before that.

That has nothing to do with Duncan backing himself. Surely you have been around football long enough to see coaches play favourites.

Merrick's the coach and if he wants a new #1 then so be it. But Duncan has every right to be disappointed and want to negotiate an exit imo. Unless Duncan is already out the door of course.

[Jeterpool]

It's naive that you think the decision on who plays #1 will come down to ability or performance. Merrick has chosen Moss as his #1 for the past 3 years and at the at Victory before that.

That has nothing to do with Duncan backing himself. Surely you have been around football long enough to see coaches play favourites.

Merrick's the coach and if he wants a new #1 then so be it. But Duncan has every right to be disappointed and want to negotiate an exit imo. Unless Duncan is already out the door of course.

Fair enough. I would say I'm more optimistic about the way we'd operate than naive but that's ok.

Don't get me wrong. I can completely see the scenario you outline happening. I guess we will see what happens around pre-season time.

[leftrightout]

Gotta love the foz... complain for years about our goal keeping ranks, we finally have two good, starting goal keepers on our books and there are people unhappy about it because the keeper who was a part of our leaky defence might struggle to get a 1st team run.

[plague]

the keeper who was a part of our leaky defence might struggle to get a 1st team run.

I'd be mad if I was the only one out of that 'leaky defence' to get punished for it though.

[Grimario]

I'd be mad if I was the only one out of that 'leaky defence' to get punished for it though.

We haven't had a leaky defence since Miller got rid of him in 2015.

[Bon]

We haven't had a leaky defence since Miller got rid of him in 2015.

:lulzturtle:

[leftrightout]

I'd be mad if I was the only one out of that 'leaky defence' to get punished for it though.

How is he punished? If he is the best keeper he will get the gig.
Like all players, he needs to keep improving and play well to get a spot. Having an ordinary 2nd keeper is a terrible thing, puts no pressure on to keep form.
Having 2 keepers worthy of playing 1st team football is very healthy for the team.

Also i think Mullen might have something to say about Duncan being the only one "punished"

[idontwannaplaywithhowey]

I'd be mad if I was the only one out of that 'leaky defence' to get punished for it though.

Mullen didn't get his contract renewed.
We signed a starting LB in Georgevski.
Duncan has competition for a spot.
He ain't the worst off in this deal and and 2 of the back 5 have/will be replaced (Mullen and all the blokes played LB badly last year)

[rhysd]

We have serious problems if anyone thinks Duncan is a walking startup.

Great signing.