ryu.yokoi

Something along the lines the manager has said recently though! I think he was referring to the assertion that Yakubu was somehow a more proven commodity than Angel in the prem.

ABSO-freaking-LUTELY! Every single match report I've read in recent weeks has complained of the lack of service our strikers are receiving - that JPA is having to go back for the ball too much, etc.... Without Barry we have no legitimate left wing replacement since Hitz likes the center and Whitts is too lightweight. We atleast have three strikers to throw up front, we have no magic coming from midfield right now, except for Hendrie's sporadic moments of genius iscoring himself in recent weeks, there's been no creativity for other players.

Brilliant band. Perfectly crafted pop songs like "Boy with the Thorn in his Side" and "There is a light that never goes out" are absolute classics.

Gotta agree with you 100% OzVilla. No knock on Beattie, but I'd rather take Wiltord on a free (the absence of a transfer fee would cancel of his wages for the duration of his contract), this would add class to the striker force and get someone in who can play with JPA (and cover for Nol if he is injured). If we sign Beattie, I'll hope he bangs them in, but I don't think another '9' is our key concern at the moment.

I agree with this sentiment. However, considering the sheer class of DOL's previous two signings, I think this loan move will lower the bar a bit on our expectations (and consecuently excitement) for next season.

It is, Baros, agent confirmed an official approach. Unfortunately, agents talk a lot of rubbish. I have no uncles or cousins mopping at B6, but if we've got a clue here, we are looking for a year loan with option to buy. Pool paid a decent sum for Baros, from what my scouser friend tells me they are a little uncertain about Milan, and would probably prefer to test him elsewhere rather than risk an underperforming season if he doesn't pan out. This way we could keep our precious kitty, and secure the transfer rights next summer if Baros impresses the Holte. Pederson is an interesting case too, and would seem to be an adequate solution for both those like me who dream of Villa having an explosive left winger to mirror Nol, and those who think Barry deserves another season to prove he can do his thing (which he undoubtedly does pretty often) on a weekly basis. Bring Pederson in, introduce him slowly (and carefully) so he can get used to the pace of the prem: we 'll have a star for the future and a backup for Gaz. Ofcourse, if we do have the six mill we are quoted by some as having, I say we table a bid for D'Alessandro and shock the soccer world with our ambition.

Oh thats almost as Vile as the site of Spongebob Dickie!

Nah, doesn't matter. Whats important is that Juan Pablo has found his form again, and is playing at the level he was at River three years ago. I think that the addition of Nol will be crucial to JPA finishing off this season on this high. To be honest, I could care less if he scores 20 League goals at this point, I'd of taken 18 all comps at the start of the season! All I care is that Villa keep winning, and JPA make important contributions be it through assists, holding up the ball, scoring, or just being a leader. My favorite part of his goal against Fulham was the way he reacted to his teammates, sorta telling them "this ain't over, get back over there cause we are gonna be celebrating again in a few minutes when we take the lead." Thats confidence and leadership, and considering all he's gone through, I am so proud JPA can provide that as well as goals to the club.