Di Canio calls for clarity on transfer embargo (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Seems like Paolo would like to bring another striker and winger in on loan then? I agree about Ritchie, I was at Shrewsbury and Bury and although he did ok in both matches he has definitely lost that cutting edge. Is there any players we could send out on loan to reduce our wage bill? Williams will be a big miss, maybe time to give Storey a run out?

Wouldn't of happened under fitton ...

Wouldn't of happened under fitton ...

Seems to me he would bring in another 5 given the chance! I dont believe there is any end to it and PDC will always want more of everything. I am afraid the club have reached its limit and PDC has plenty of players to choose from. I dont see how the club can just find 1.5% - nor do I see why they should - so quickly. Sure more fans, more players out on loan. But - in reality - the 5 loans were brought in to cover this contingency of injuries etc.

Its not the boards or Di Canios fault that we have gone over the cap, the tribunal caught the board out by insisting that we pay the full amount for Collins and Troy, otherwise there would have been plenty in the kitty for PDC to bring in his loanees. as far as i can see , with the Villa match coming up there will be more monies to play with, and if we win well we could well be looking at the pot at the end of the rainbow. We know this board will back PDC to the hilt, and as we are futher forward in our quest for the championship i dont think the board will cut the money supply now.
Onwards and Upwards

Or diamond mike.

Why don't some of the board get a part time job to help out. When times are tough everyone else does in society. Oh I forgot this is football full of .overpaid demi-gods

oldlegtrailer wrote:
Why don't some of the board get a part time job to help out. When times are tough everyone else does in society. Oh I forgot this is football full of .overpaid demi-gods

Would help if that post made some kind of sense.....

Redhouse Red wrote:
Wouldn't of happened under fitton ...

No, cos we'd have been in the Blue Square....

jedthered wrote:
Its not the boards or Di Canios fault that we have gone over the cap, the tribunal caught the board out by insisting that we pay the full amount for Collins and Troy, otherwise there would have been plenty in the kitty for PDC to bring in his loanees. as far as i can see , with the Villa match coming up there will be more monies to play with, and if we win well we could well be looking at the pot at the end of the rainbow. We know this board will back PDC to the hilt, and as we are futher forward in our quest for the championship i dont think the board will cut the money supply now.
Onwards and Upwards

Good shout Jed....have to say that missing Roberts is the biggest impact as he brings another level to our play.
...
I'd like to see PDC use one or two of the other options up front - Give Benson or A.Rooney a start along with Storey for instance...he can't do worse than the forwards in the last 2 games can he?
...
Fortunately we seem to have a good set of options at the back even with Macka injured we have enough there...wing play is a concern though...if the supply line is broken then we'll struggle big time....hence a bit of pace through the middle is needed....either that or ask Storey to play as a form of winger.

First we do not want to go back to those dark days.JW clarified all on Sat.He said more or less can be resolved quickley.Think there waiting to see the gate against Villa and if the Town can sneak the win.No way does this Board to fall into deep debt.
Pdc has passion but this time fear he may have gone over the top,he was not at the Town when they nearly folded.
Pdc has still a big squad ok key players are injured this is where skilled and experience FL managers earn there crust.
Sorry going out now and getting 5 players aint the answer and who know's he may even have a fall out with four of them.
Will be interesting now to hear the Boards reply

I think there is a lot of Club Politics going on here.

Canioman says he is not angry, so why bring it up in the post match interview, when in all honesty we haven't done that well against the bottom club. In fact we haven't done that well in a few games. The whole focus was taken away from the game and put on the clubs position.

I'm quite sure that Canioman has known about this and talked about this with Wray and the details were explained to him well in advance, so why bring it up. Surely it is down to Wray, the Chairman, to sort out such matters. Seems to me the managerial dummy has been spat out because right now the flow of players has been stemmed. I'm quite sure that other managers have to function under worse conditions, with a smaller squad and smaller budget.

Canioman said,

“I’m not angry; I only want to know what is going on. It’s not a big criticism. Let me know because you have to make a decision.


I'm sure you DO know what is going on, and if you are not angry, then why the outburst, and "let me know because you have to make a decision", now what kind of thinly veiled threat is that, after the support you have had.

I wonder if this is why Jeremy was dissappointed with Sky not showing this game and the money for that being used to ease the situation?

I am afraid Paolo until this is resolved you wil have to use your skills to utilise the squad in a different way.The players we have were all signed for a purpose and perhaps the time is right for these players to show their worth.Also leave Jeremy Wray to sort out the situation and dont moan on air as if you are the only person who cares.You have had a free rein in the past and now is the time to show your worth just like all other managers at this level have to do.

Don't Panic .......

Don't Panic ....... Mr Mainwaring

Don't Paaaannniiiic .......

I think Paolo should dust off and lace up his boots. The old boy should personally show what he wants doing on the pitch instead of the gesticulating from the sidelines. Save the top boys a few quid too.

the wizard wrote:
I think there is a lot of Club Politics going on here.

Canioman says he is not angry, so why bring it up in the post match interview, when in all honesty we haven't done that well against the bottom club. In fact we haven't done that well in a few games. The whole focus was taken away from the game and put on the clubs position.

I'm quite sure that Canioman has known about this and talked about this with Wray and the details were explained to him well in advance, so why bring it up. Surely it is down to Wray, the Chairman, to sort out such matters. Seems to me the managerial dummy has been spat out because right now the flow of players has been stemmed. I'm quite sure that other managers have to function under worse conditions, with a smaller squad and smaller budget.

Canioman said,

“I’m not angry; I only want to know what is going on. It’s not a big criticism. Let me know because you have to make a decision.


I'm sure you DO know what is going on, and if you are not angry, then why the outburst, and "let me know because you have to make a decision", now what kind of thinly veiled threat is that, after the support you have had.

I think if PDC is not careful he could divide his support by this use of the media to further his cause.

He is still a bit wet behind the ears when it comes to managing and trying act like some Alex F or Arsene W I don't think he has quite reach that category yet.

I think PDC has done very well in most departments here and we have become a vibrant club again, but I do worry about this media side of him, as with a few other incidents, in my humble opinion it would have been best discussed behind closed doors and the relevant information released in a professional and considered fashion.

Chish and Fips wrote:

the wizard wrote:
I think there is a lot of Club Politics going on here.

Canioman says he is not angry, so why bring it up in the post match interview, when in all honesty we haven't done that well against the bottom club. In fact we haven't done that well in a few games. The whole focus was taken away from the game and put on the clubs position.

I'm quite sure that Canioman has known about this and talked about this with Wray and the details were explained to him well in advance, so why bring it up. Surely it is down to Wray, the Chairman, to sort out such matters. Seems to me the managerial dummy has been spat out because right now the flow of players has been stemmed. I'm quite sure that other managers have to function under worse conditions, with a smaller squad and smaller budget.

Canioman said,

“I’m not angry; I only want to know what is going on. It’s not a big criticism. Let me know because you have to make a decision.


I'm sure you DO know what is going on, and if you are not angry, then why the outburst, and "let me know because you have to make a decision", now what kind of thinly veiled threat is that, after the support you have had.

I think if PDC is not careful he could divide his support by this use of the media to further his cause.

He is still a bit wet behind the ears when it comes to managing and trying act like some Alex F or Arsene W I don't think he has quite reach that category yet.

I think PDC has done very well in most departments here and we have become a vibrant club again, but I do worry about this media side of him, as with a few other incidents, in my humble opinion it would have been best discussed behind closed doors and the relevant information released in a professional and considered fashion.

Agreed, he has forced Wray out into the public arena with this, when as I said last evening it would have been better coming from Wray at CG after the mess was all sorted, and things back on track.

While there is no doubting our success over the last 15 months cracks are starting to appear, and Canioman has used this topic to divert the attention away from the game performance of the team.
We cannot keep buying or loaning players as our financial structure will not support it, easy as that. He has to realise we are not made of money.

i wonder how much bostock is being paid to do nothing why go on about bringing in more players when you dont use players with that sort of quality and i wonder how big tranmere's budget is cant imagine it being that big and they are unbeaten. with the money pdc has spent if we dont challenge for promotion there is something seriously wrong.

This is nothing more than a mountain out of a mole-hill. I am actually very reassured about how the club is being run. The fact that the only reason we are just 1.5% over the cap is because of the surprisingly high tribunal fees set for Collins and A-H (even Shrewsbury and Exeter fans were surprised). The reality is that excluding this, it means that the club is being run well within budget. I suppose that if we all get our tickets for the Villa game earlier than planned, it would boost the cash-flow and help get the ban lifted. I am off to the CG today to get mine.
COYR

Bostock?... anybody?

MITTED wrote:
This is nothing more than a mountain out of a mole-hill. I am actually very reassured about how the club is being run. The fact that the only reason we are just 1.5% over the cap is because of the surprisingly high tribunal fees set for Collins and A-H (even Shrewsbury and Exeter fans were surprised). The reality is that excluding this, it means that the club is being run well within budget. I suppose that if we all get our tickets for the Villa game earlier than planned, it would boost the cash-flow and help get the ban lifted. I am off to the CG today to get mine. COYR

Season ticket holders only, us mere mortals have to wait a bit longer to get ours.
Time for PDC to "manage" and not rely on the cheque book so much.

If PdC needs more players to push forward a promotion charge then he has not bought well. We should have a good (and large) enough squad with what we have here.

It seem's to me that if we have a bad couple of games PdC whats to bring in new players rather than trying to work & improve the squad we have at the moment. If Bostock isn't in the plans send him back to Spurs to release funds.

It's all well saying IF we beat Villa we can bring in new players, but that money will only last a short while before the whole thing blows up again.

I think the board's financial projections have not only been affected by the transfer fee paid for Troy but also that attendances have not risen much (if any) from last season.

I glad that JW is in charge and responsible for the clubs finances, but he must sometimes put his foot down with PdC and say enough is enough.

PdC blackmailing him with not getting promotion, is a poor excuse. Come on Paolo , lets see how good a coach you are, work with what you got and get us promotion!!

In the face of injuries and embargoes our manager states he will do everything he can - "60 hour day" - to deliver on his promise of promotion this year. And by and large our fans are complaining. Did I miss something?

ciclosporindorset wrote:
Seems to me he would bring in another 5 given the chance! I dont believe there is any end to it and PDC will always want more of everything. I am afraid the club have reached its limit and PDC has plenty of players to choose from. I dont see how the club can just find 1.5% - nor do I see why they should - so quickly. Sure more fans, more players out on loan. But - in reality - the 5 loans were brought in to cover this contingency of injuries etc.

Bang On

I dont understand why we have got bostock if he is not being used and so far we are wasting money by having him on the books. Only PDC knows the reason why he is not using him and if it carries on he needs to go back to Spurs to free up funds as he must be an expensive option that is not being used.

Mr Wray will sort this mess, which is
not of his making..
As to the request for yet more players PdC chose what he has and he must
get his choices to produce his expectations.
I suspect that he has more players and finance than most fo theClubs in
As to his rant he should be aware that the tail cannot wag the dog.

We all love PDC but he is starting to worry me. Sometimes his explanation of things gets lost in translation all the above comments are valid every time we lose or play badly he needs new players maybe thats why were not consistent because some of the players never feel they will be good enough for him and the fear gets to them. Hope I'm wrong though

Fingers again!

Should have read 'I suspect that he has more players and finance than most of the Clubs in League 1'.

Davidsyrett wrote:
If PdC needs more players to push forward a promotion charge then he has not bought well. We should have a good (and large) enough squad with what we have here.

It seem's to me that if we have a bad couple of games PdC whats to bring in new players rather than trying to work & improve the squad we have at the moment. If Bostock isn't in the plans send him back to Spurs to release funds.

It's all well saying IF we beat Villa we can bring in new players, but that money will only last a short while before the whole thing blows up again.

I think the board's financial projections have not only been affected by the transfer fee paid for Troy but also that attendances have not risen much (if any) from last season.

I glad that JW is in charge and responsible for the clubs finances, but he must sometimes put his foot down with PdC and say enough is enough.

PdC blackmailing him with not getting promotion, is a poor excuse. Come on Paolo , lets see how good a coach you are, work with what you got and get us promotion!!

Top post.

LeGod wrote:
I dont understand why we have got bostock if he is not being used and so far we are wasting money by having him on the books. Only PDC knows the reason why he is not using him and if it carries on he needs to go back to Spurs to free up funds as he must be an expensive option that is not being used.

Agree 100%! He cant be cheap

How did the board allow this situation to develop. Surely when transfers are on the cards they look at whether they are approaching the 65% max allowance level. A constant eye on the balance sheet is required. This is slack business practice.

PDC Will sort this out his own way he will just fall out with a couple of players again this week send them packing to balance the books . The loser in all this will be Paolo,s agent as he brokers most of the player deals in the club may be that's why Paolo needs such a big squad

SAPFanSTFC wrote:

jedthered wrote: Its not the boards or Di Canios fault that we have gone over the cap, the tribunal caught the board out by insisting that we pay the full amount for Collins and Troy, otherwise there would have been plenty in the kitty for PDC to bring in his loanees. as far as i can see , with the Villa match coming up there will be more monies to play with, and if we win well we could well be looking at the pot at the end of the rainbow. We know this board will back PDC to the hilt, and as we are futher forward in our quest for the championship i dont think the board will cut the money supply now. Onwards and Upwards

Good shout Jed....have to say that missing Roberts is the biggest impact as he brings another level to our play. ... I'd like to see PDC use one or two of the other options up front - Give Benson or A.Rooney a start along with Storey for instance...he can't do worse than the forwards in the last 2 games can he? ... Fortunately we seem to have a good set of options at the back even with Macka injured we have enough there...wing play is a concern though...if the supply line is broken then we'll struggle big time....hence a bit of pace through the middle is needed....either that or ask Storey to play as a form of winger.

Talk about over reaction - storm in a tea cup - mountain from molehill -CALM DOWN CALM DOWN!!

SAP is spot on - please read this link to today's Western Daily Press - it tells you all you need to know -crisis what crisis. Not in particular JW's comments ....and relax!!

http://www.thisissom
erset.co.uk/search/s
earch.html?searchPhr
ase=Swindon+FL+embar
go&where=&searchType
=

oops S/b "NOTE in particular.... rather than NOT in particular - otherwise it reads all wrong lol!

Paolo's interview was a bit strange but aren't they always, personally I love them... Why use ten words to say something when 500 are available...

If our squad is threadbare then, recall Rooney, use Bostock, play Flint, I think we have a good squad who are not quite firing at the moment....

PDC loves it here and I love him being here....

Paulo winges in public when he doesnt get his own way,criticises his team in public, good coach bad manager time to go before he bankrupts the club.

Malkym, Wray concludes in that article,,

"Rest assured this isn't a situation where he is getting annoyed or upset with the board."

So why, why did Canioman go in front of his Chairman and blow this into the press with all his other added comments like he has. Spoilt kid who wants to be the centre of attention, my way, let me have my way, I want players, more players , give me the players, I have injuries, maybe the board sack me.

For pities sake this will be sorted in no time, agree with above as I said on Saturday a storm in a tea cup.

For the grace of our Lord Canioman, just calm down and let the Chairman do his job, while you get on with yours. Plenty of others have managed with less, and will continue to do so without bleating like a demented sheep. The backing he has had during his tenure must be the envy of many a lower league manager, and for a short while, while things are being sorted, the ever revolving door is closed. Perhaps you should look at what Peter Reid had to put up with at Plymouth, playing club bills and players wages out of his own pocket.

I expect by tomorrow afternoon all will be resolved and back to normal.

I for one am not panicking although I agree with the comments this is the Chairman's territory not PDC's to bring to the media's attention.

Ahh but how much did the Press - in this case primarily our illustrious local rag - blow the powder keg sky high by stirring the pot over zealously?

All getting so so boring.JW has said it will be sorted/Just maybe Pdc has thrown his toys out of the pram for the last time????
Send back players he dont use or work with what he has

All getting so so boring.JW has said it will be sorted/Just maybe Pdc has thrown his toys out of the pram for the last time????
Send back players he dont use or work with what he has

Angolan Red wrote:
Paulo winges in public when he doesnt get his own way,criticises his team in public, good coach bad manager time to go before he bankrupts the club.

Really?

You are criticising him and his methods and talking nonsense.

In Paolo we trust!

I've never heard so much negativity in my life. it's a good job the majority of fans don't think like you lot on this forum! Moan, moan, bloody moan. I am glad we have a manager in PDC who says it how it is! None of this Player Power crap we had under Wilson and Hart. We are 4th in the league and playing Villa in the cup, we need to support PDC and the Board to the hilt here, some of you have already got him hung drawn and quartered! It's the same old "armchair" moaners on this forum...your opinions are not wanted or needed especially when you dont pay to watch one of the best Swindon Town Teams I've seen in years!

This board is more up and down than a whores knickers!
.
We had talk today of our MASSIVE squad - which is likely to be bigger than anything in L1 - is that the whopping 23 professionals employed by STFC?
.
Check the official site if you don't believe me - ignore Louis Thompson as he is a youth and loanees as not ours and the STFC pro players total 23
.
That is not massive at all - so unlike last year where we were closer to 30 - injuries will hit us - thus we need to use the loan market
.
This was what fans wanted and complained massively about last year!
.
Then if you remove the player flexibility and say each player is an RB, CB or CM etc - we currently have 2 in every spot except RB where we have 3 - Caddis, Thompson and Smith (Devera being the 4th CB)
.
Smith like Pavett I fully expect to be released in Jan - taking us down to 22 and only 2 in each spot
.
Our current loans in totals 3 - the same as our loans out - so nothing excessive there - and really just like for like
.
Caddis = Ward (with JD now RB)
Risser = Bostock (CM for CM)
Rooney = Rooney
.
Also earlier in the season we had calls for a new striker as we wouldn't be able to fire ourselves up if we were to rely on Storey as our 4th option
.
Yet now our main striker (who I was slated for suggesting could play on the wing for as little as one game) is out for a month and PdC should turn to young Storey??????
.
We get so much moans and groans whenever a point is dropped yet people are calling for a 18 year old to save the day!
.
If he did play him and we failed to score so dropped points - it would be why are we playing a kid!
.
We also have talk of play Bostock - yet CM is not where our injuries are
.
He clearly wants a striker to replace Williams while he is out - is that really such a big issue??????
.
We had complaints when players were out of position (A Rooney on the wing or Bessone at RB) now we are calling for him to do that with Bostock - or completely change our system to accomodate him
.
I personally think (and know I'm not alone) that Bostock is clearly a long term target and is viewed as that - we have 21 games before his loan expires and expect he will sign on post that giving him what 35+ games this year alone to make an impact
.
I think all this whole thing is PdC is simply saying if we don't have the ability or flexibility to dip in the loan market when needed to cover injuries we will struggle to challeng at the top as we have heavily cut the squad this year
.
OK the tribunal thing has caused a slight issue - but this can be easily resolved
.
As said wait for Villa and see if that takes us back under due to gate receipts and potential next round earnings
.
Or if waiting 3 games is too long - the Board could pump in £170k in equity to take us under again (as 50% of the fees is what took us over)
.
Then sell players like Caddis, Risser and Rooney if not required and release Smith to free up cash for Jan push
.
Also hopefully we get a bonus from Austin's sale which will then easily keep us way under the 65% limit - I said the other day that alone if we get £1m would gicve another £650k in wages!
.
I can see what he is saying if this is to continue for the remainder of the campaign
.
However - if it is only short term I personally think we should wait and see how we fair at home before making any rash decisions - i.e. equity injection
.
We are no longer playing Sat-Tues-Sat-Tues-Sa
t so Benson should be able to play more with out the need for rest
.
Rooney will be getting fitter each game - so should be fine to play at least half of each
.
Roberts was rested to prevent long term damage so should be back and Ward has provided the experience at the back to not miss Macca (I would now have hinm compete with Navarro for the DCM slot personally)
.
So if it is only really Williams missing we should see how the others cope - as the below looks pretty sufficient to me to take on Coventry and Scunny!
.
Fodders
Thompson Flint Ward McEveley
Ritchie Ferry Miller Roberts
Collins Benson
.
Bedwell Devera Troy Navarro Bostock Rooney RDV/Storey
.
Options on the bench
.
Rooney for either CF - like for like
.
Storey for pace
.
RDV for more "creativity" or dropping deep
.
or
.
Bostock for a 451 / 4411 if we want to try a "plan b" - ala Port Vale at home and if it requies PdC belllowing at him for 90 mins - so be it as he ran them ragged!

Malkym wrote:
Ahh but how much did the Press - in this case primarily our illustrious local rag - blow the powder keg sky high by stirring the pot over zealously?

Malkym,

I think it was Canioman that has stirred the pot by making the initial statement when it is Wrays domain to do so, and then mentions the sack, what sort of cloaked message in public was that.

For all his good points, PR is not his forte, and we have said this before.
Perhaps he needs to realise that in this country we have a virtue called P A T I E N C E, he needs to learn it.

"Or if waiting 3 games is too long - the Board could pump in £170k in equity to take us under again (as 50% of the fees is what took us over)"

My understanding is that the 65% wage cap is on the turnover (i.e: transfer fees, attendance, bonuses from cup competitions) and not the investment made by owners.

LR: I know you always see things through rose tinted glasses (i.e: our relegation season!!) but whilst I agree with your confidence in the board & PdC, this club cannot be run on a spend, spend, spend, attitude. PdC has a decent size squad here and has to work with-in those parameters. The vast majority of the clubs in the lower 2 divisions would love a budget the size we have. He's spent the money, bought in his player's, so lets see the results. I do not wish to see this club go back to the dark days of a few years back. PdC must work with-in this clubs budget.

As I've said earlier, if this season is all about promotion, then whats the point of bringing in players for the future if they don't feature this season (I.E: Bostock, Story).

If we really need players now to play in the first team then off-load the ones that aren't, to free up some more money.

Having reflected on this for a day or two, I'm now wondering whether this is not really about PDC wanting more players, but is really just him giving his existing players a kick up the collective arse.
.
I really hope he's not getting hot under the collar about being unable to sign players. Whatever, sounding off like this in public (again) does him no favours as a manager and it does us no favours as a club. Other clubs already see us as buying our way up the League. If PDC is not careful, he will get himself a reputation as a manager who operates a scattergun approach to signing players - if they don't work out, get rid of 'em and sign some more. Life's not like that down here. This is LEAGUE ONE, LEAGUE ONE. I continue to have faith in PDC, but it has to be recognised that he is very lucky to have Wray and co in charge at STFC. They quite rightly allowed him the opportunity to repair the damage done with his many duff signings last season. To his great credit he seized that opportunity with both hands. He has already had similar leeway this season - a situation many managers would love to find themselves in. As others have said, it's time for PDC to let his managing do the talking.

London Red wrote:
This board is more up and down than a whores knickers! . We had talk today of our MASSIVE squad - which is likely to be bigger than anything in L1 - is that the whopping 23 professionals employed by STFC? . Check the official site if you don't believe me - ignore Louis Thompson as he is a youth and loanees as not ours and the STFC pro players total 23 . That is not massive at all - so unlike last year where we were closer to 30 - injuries will hit us - thus we need to use the loan market . This was what fans wanted and complained massively about last year! . Then if you remove the player flexibility and say each player is an RB, CB or CM etc - we currently have 2 in every spot except RB where we have 3 - Caddis, Thompson and Smith (Devera being the 4th CB) . Smith like Pavett I fully expect to be released in Jan - taking us down to 22 and only 2 in each spot . Our current loans in totals 3 - the same as our loans out - so nothing excessive there - and really just like for like . Caddis = Ward (with JD now RB) Risser = Bostock (CM for CM) Rooney = Rooney . Also earlier in the season we had calls for a new striker as we wouldn't be able to fire ourselves up if we were to rely on Storey as our 4th option . Yet now our main striker (who I was slated for suggesting could play on the wing for as little as one game) is out for a month and PdC should turn to young Storey?????? . We get so much moans and groans whenever a point is dropped yet people are calling for a 18 year old to save the day! . If he did play him and we failed to score so dropped points - it would be why are we playing a kid! . We also have talk of play Bostock - yet CM is not where our injuries are . He clearly wants a striker to replace Williams while he is out - is that really such a big issue?????? . We had complaints when players were out of position (A Rooney on the wing or Bessone at RB) now we are calling for him to do that with Bostock - or completely change our system to accomodate him . I personally think (and know I'm not alone) that Bostock is clearly a long term target and is viewed as that - we have 21 games before his loan expires and expect he will sign on post that giving him what 35+ games this year alone to make an impact . I think all this whole thing is PdC is simply saying if we don't have the ability or flexibility to dip in the loan market when needed to cover injuries we will struggle to challeng at the top as we have heavily cut the squad this year . OK the tribunal thing has caused a slight issue - but this can be easily resolved . As said wait for Villa and see if that takes us back under due to gate receipts and potential next round earnings . Or if waiting 3 games is too long - the Board could pump in £170k in equity to take us under again (as 50% of the fees is what took us over) . Then sell players like Caddis, Risser and Rooney if not required and release Smith to free up cash for Jan push . Also hopefully we get a bonus from Austin's sale which will then easily keep us way under the 65% limit - I said the other day that alone if we get £1m would gicve another £650k in wages! . I can see what he is saying if this is to continue for the remainder of the campaign . However - if it is only short term I personally think we should wait and see how we fair at home before making any rash decisions - i.e. equity injection . We are no longer playing Sat-Tues-Sat-Tues-Sa t so Benson should be able to play more with out the need for rest . Rooney will be getting fitter each game - so should be fine to play at least half of each . Roberts was rested to prevent long term damage so should be back and Ward has provided the experience at the back to not miss Macca (I would now have hinm compete with Navarro for the DCM slot personally) . So if it is only really Williams missing we should see how the others cope - as the below looks pretty sufficient to me to take on Coventry and Scunny! . Fodders Thompson Flint Ward McEveley Ritchie Ferry Miller Roberts Collins Benson . Bedwell Devera Troy Navarro Bostock Rooney RDV/Storey . Options on the bench . Rooney for either CF - like for like . Storey for pace . RDV for more "creativity" or dropping deep . or . Bostock for a 451 / 4411 if we want to try a "plan b" - ala Port Vale at home and if it requies PdC belllowing at him for 90 mins - so be it as he ran them ragged!

LR,

I doubt very much that Chris Smith is being paid by STFC. His contract was awarded as a result of the Samsung competition and I suspect they pay him. I doubt very much that any club would agree to take on a player and pay him because he won a competition and might turn out to be useful.

I do think the competition is a nice idea as plenty of players have come up from non-league and done very well, Stuart Pearce, Ian Wright and Charlie Austin, but to expect a club to then pay the wages...

COYMR

I can't understand why he's panicking. If you had a squad and a budget the size of stevenage , then you can panic .
A good tradesman works with the tools he's got at hand .We must still have about 22 fit pro's on the books , utilise them , and show us what you've got. There's no need for all this panicking. Just get on with the job

LR - What people are saying is that now is the time for the squad of 'Good Quality' players to step up to the mark - PDC kept them all so make them earn a crust!
---
You stated all of the following but my answers to the Storey question is - yes throw the lad in and give him a chance! If it goes badly wrong after one game then fine....he is still work in progress (but that won't happen from what we've all seen of him).
...equally we have Bostock, A.Rooney, Benson, Collins - OH and RdV...who is a natural forward - OH and Storey!!
---.
WHY OH WHY do we need another forward!?
===.
All your points....they don't add up to the missive with the new smaller but better quality squad....I'm a PDC fan but not blind to everything because of that.
---.
LR Extract:
---.
Also earlier in the season we had calls for a new striker as we wouldn't be able to fire ourselves up if we were to rely on Storey as our 4th option
.
Yet now our main striker (who I was slated for suggesting could play on the wing for as little as one game) is out for a month and PdC should turn to young Storey??????
.
We get so much moans and groans whenever a point is dropped yet people are calling for a 18 year old to save the day!
.
If he did play him and we failed to score so dropped points - it would be why are we playing a kid!
.
We also have talk of play Bostock - yet CM is not where our injuries are
.
He clearly wants a striker to replace Williams while he is out - is that really such a big issue???
===.
...and a final word!!..
...
As per above yes it is an issue because:
1) We have enough options!
2) PDC always quotes fitness - who in ANY league is going to have a striker fit enough to start
3) PDC always quotes quality - who in ANY league is going to have a striker, of the quality required
---.
WHO in ANY league is going to have a striker to meet the above along with all of the other requirements and who is available ON LOAN!?
.....come on PLEASE!!!....Bostock has been with us for 2 months and he still isn't deemed of the right mind and/or fitness.....where are you going to find a player of Williams' quality.....and for 1 MONTH!?
---.
Enough is enough and get on with using what we have for the moment please!

I did not hear Paolo’s post match interview but did he know that the embargo news was not general knowledge prior to the interview ?

It would appear to me that at the start of the season the budget was set and that this will have been discussed with Paolo. I suspect that part of the budget was set aside to pay for Troy and James as well as a certain amount for emergencies. What JW hasn’t expected is that they would have to pay the full amount once the fees were agreed and as a result this has taken up the emergency fund and a bit more.

There is a lot of pressure on Paolo to succeed and suddenly he has no fall back. His fault ?

IMO I think he believes he has the players that can challenge but he may need cover at some time during the season and he is issuing a warning that without this cover we MAY fall short. Nathan has proved a real find but his recent injury has highlighted a lack of cover. We also have no real cover for Wes.

JW has said don’t panic and I believe he is a man of his word so hopefully all will be resolved soon.

COYMR

I think the majority believe we should get on with what we have and I'm with that majority. I also think Paolo's openness creates him problems when he delivers bad news. Personally I'm not worried about him criticising players or letting us know we have a tranfer embargo etc etc. I prefer to KNOW what is going on rather than have the often random conjecture on here.

What I do have a problem with is the constant sniping at our manager. Yes he may use 500 words when 10 will do and I'm far from saying he's perfect. However those firing the bullets at him (and I respect you for your opinions) may I ask you if you think he has developed our players since he's been here? I may have of course got this completely wrong but it feels like some of you think he hasn't and all he has done is bought his way to the title?

.....hopefully the above will prove to a few that I'm not a rose tinted fan....but neither am I in with 'The Blues'...maybe this is all a smokescreen!?
...
Maybe we don't want to be too good too soon or we lose players in January!
...
Maybe just MAYBE....we're all being tested!?....and come the end of January when it is too late for others to steal our players and form being in a 4th - 8th position we'll storm up the league and shout....
--- SURPRISE!!!! ---
...and Paolo will come out of the CG smoking a Cigar in one hand and drinking a huge bowl of brandy in the other.......oh whilst ordering a kebab!
---.
Off to watch the speedway tonight - haven't been in over 25yrs so should be fun.....just have to remember not to stand on the first bend like I and every first timer does....OUCH!!!

if he had bought decent players in the first place,wouldnt have this prop,he needs a decent scout,not an agent telling him who to sign on

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
I think the majority believe we should get on with what we have and I'm with that majority. I also think Paolo's openness creates him problems when he delivers bad news. Personally I'm not worried about him criticising players or letting us know we have a tranfer embargo etc etc. I prefer to KNOW what is going on rather than have the often random conjecture on here. What I do have a problem with is the constant sniping at our manager. Yes he may use 500 words when 10 will do and I'm far from saying he's perfect. However those firing the bullets at him (and I respect you for your opinions) may I ask you if you think he has developed our players since he's been here? I may have of course got this completely wrong but it feels like some of you think he hasn't and all he has done is bought his way to the title?

Dreams, I'm not sure about sniping. I think the posts on here are pretty well balanced. There seems to be an overriding feeling that we are fortunate to have the excellent backing and good stewardship of the club that had been lacking for so long before , but there is also massive popular support for PDC and the work he has done. I too like to be kept informed. I don't mind PDC having a collective swipe at his players and I have no objection to being informed by him about the transfer embargo. It's the way it comes across that causes concern. I do not believe he was throwing his toys out of the pram, but this sort of thing is food and drink to critics outside our STFC world. Like it or not, it invites ridicule, as well as giving further ammunition to those who want to see us fail because of our enviable position.

This will be sorted ASAP
Lot of new trolls on here,
We will not miss Williams for his goal pedigree will we?.
Paolo said he will not bring players in who ain't up to his fitness regime, now he say Rooney is not fit.
Roberts should return on Saturday which frees up de vita to play upfront if need be.
Bostock like everyone else?????????
Why the panic jwray will sort it trust me
Onwards and upwards

SAPFanSTFC wrote:
.....hopefully the above will prove to a few that I'm not a rose tinted fan....but neither am I in with 'The Blues'...maybe this is all a smokescreen!? ... Maybe we don't want to be too good too soon or we lose players in January! ... Maybe just MAYBE....we're all being tested!?....and come the end of January when it is too late for others to steal our players and form being in a 4th - 8th position we'll storm up the league and shout.... --- SURPRISE!!!! --- ...and Paolo will come out of the CG smoking a Cigar in one hand and drinking a huge bowl of brandy in the other.......oh whilst ordering a kebab! ---. Off to watch the speedway tonight - haven't been in over 25yrs so should be fun.....just have to remember not to stand on the first bend like I and every first timer does....OUCH!!!

Ian -was considering going to Blunsdon myself but its off as you probably know.

I was there the last time they won the title in 1967 -45 yrs as they say and you're right don't stand on the bend otherwise you get covered in shale and mud!

Think If I do go for the re-match - I'll go for the cosy option - £35 a seat -in the warm and some nosebag!

A source close to the club told me that Pdc is off if he hears anyone calling him canioman again

Get a grip Paolo!your a manager of a League one club!this is not Man City and we haven't got Sheikh Mansour's Dosh!so shut it and get on with managing what players you have got!also thank your lucky stars you have the superb backing of a very good Chairman and board who have given you great backing(I remember you said to the fans if your not happy go and watch Oxford!well if your not happy at our great club!go and manage Oxford and see how Dosh they give you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

jayden wrote:
A source close to the club told me that Pdc is off if he hears anyone calling him canioman again

LOL

Malkym wrote:

SAPFanSTFC wrote:
.....hopefully the above will prove to a few that I'm not a rose tinted fan....but neither am I in with 'The Blues'...maybe this is all a smokescreen!? ... Maybe we don't want to be too good too soon or we lose players in January! ... Maybe just MAYBE....we're all being tested!?....and come the end of January when it is too late for others to steal our players and form being in a 4th - 8th position we'll storm up the league and shout.... --- SURPRISE!!!! --- ...and Paolo will come out of the CG smoking a Cigar in one hand and drinking a huge bowl of brandy in the other.......oh whilst ordering a kebab! ---. Off to watch the speedway tonight - haven't been in over 25yrs so should be fun.....just have to remember not to stand on the first bend like I and every first timer does....OUCH!!!

Ian -was considering going to Blunsdon myself but its off as you probably know.

I was there the last time they won the title in 1967 -45 yrs as they say and you're right don't stand on the bend otherwise you get covered in shale and mud!

Think If I do go for the re-match - I'll go for the cosy option - £35 a seat -in the warm and some nosebag!

Aren't the speedway play-offs even more ridiculous than the Football League play-offs. You win the title but you might not win the title?

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
A source close to the club told me that Pdc is off if he hears anyone calling him canioman again

LOL

Yes Wiz, and he's going to round up all the people concerned and tell them it's their fault. Shouldn't take too long!

Den sniping was the wrong choice of word. But do people think the manager develops players or not?

Simple Yes or No?

PS Don69 was I'm clearly not 100% with you the line of your post was pure comedy gold...

the don69 wrote:
Get a grip Paolo!your a manager of a League one club!this is not Man City and we haven't got Sheikh Mansour's Dosh!so shut it and get on with managing what players you have got!also thank your lucky stars you have the superb backing of a very good Chairman and board who have given you great backing(I remember you said to the fans if your not happy go and watch Oxford!well if your not happy at our great club!go and manage Oxford and see how Dosh they give you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Like

the don69 wrote:
Get a grip Paolo!your a manager of a League one club!this is not Man City and we haven't got Sheikh Mansour's Dosh!so shut it and get on with managing what players you have got!also thank your lucky stars you have the superb backing of a very good Chairman and board who have given you great backing(I remember you said to the fans if your not happy go and watch Oxford!well if your not happy at our great club!go and manage Oxford and see how Dosh they give you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please imagine a builder (Paolo) that has been employed to build you (JW) a nice new house. At the start of the build you have told the builder what you would like (promotion), you have agreed the cost of the build (the budget) and within the cost of build a contingency is set aside for emergencies (injuries) during the building process. The build starts, the bricks, concrete, fittings etc (the squad) are ordered, delivered and work starts (the season). Shortly after the work has started you receive the bill for the bricks, they have gone up (the tribunal result) and this uses up the contingency. What would you expect the builder to say ?

IMO he might say, I can finish the house but if an emergency arises I may have to compromise and it may not be a nice as you had hoped :-(

I believe this is what Paolo is saying. It isn’t that his players current players aren’t good enough it is if long term injuries hit the squad he has no means to bring in cover (temporary or otherwise) and this may affect performances in the long run.

COYMR

Oi Den! wrote:

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
A source close to the club told me that Pdc is off if he hears anyone calling him canioman again

LOL

Yes Wiz, and he's going to round up all the people concerned and tell them it's their fault. Shouldn't take too long!

If Canioman is the worse thing he is ever called during his life time then he has got off very lightly, very lightly indeed.

Rather surprised that some haven't accused him of being somebody else, but then again, he denied he was God on Saturday, so that should leave the floodgates open. LOL

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
Den sniping was the wrong choice of word. But do people think the manager develops players or not?

Simple Yes or No?

PS Don69 was I'm clearly not 100% with you the line of your post was pure comedy gold...

Simple "Yes" from me.

All good fun Wiz

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Oxon-Red wrote:

the don69 wrote:
Get a grip Paolo!your a manager of a League one club!this is not Man City and we haven't got Sheikh Mansour's Dosh!so shut it and get on with managing what players you have got!also thank your lucky stars you have the superb backing of a very good Chairman and board who have given you great backing(I remember you said to the fans if your not happy go and watch Oxford!well if your not happy at our great club!go and manage Oxford and see how Dosh they give you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please imagine a builder (Paolo) that has been employed to build you (JW) a nice new house. At the start of the build you have told the builder what you would like (promotion), you have agreed the cost of the build (the budget) and within the cost of build a contingency is set aside for emergencies (injuries) during the building process. The build starts, the bricks, concrete, fittings etc (the squad) are ordered, delivered and work starts (the season). Shortly after the work has started you receive the bill for the bricks, they have gone up (the tribunal result) and this uses up the contingency. What would you expect the builder to say ?

IMO he might say, I can finish the house but if an emergency arises I may have to compromise and it may not be a nice as you had hoped :-(

I believe this is what Paolo is saying. It isn’t that his players current players aren’t good enough it is if long term injuries hit the squad he has no means to bring in cover (temporary or otherwise) and this may affect performances in the long run.

COYMR

Love it Don,sorry Oxen-Red he's not Bob the Buider lol.

Davethered wrote:

the don69 wrote:
Get a grip Paolo!your a manager of a League one club!this is not Man City and we haven't got Sheikh Mansour's Dosh!so shut it and get on with managing what players you have got!also thank your lucky stars you have the superb backing of a very good Chairman and board who have given you great backing(I remember you said to the fans if your not happy go and watch Oxford!well if your not happy at our great club!go and manage Oxford and see how Dosh they give you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Like

Sorry Chaps,missed out how MUCH dosh,oxen red,he's not buiding Blo*dy Houses!!!!!!!!!!!!

mike1990 wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:

the don69 wrote: Get a grip Paolo!your a manager of a League one club!this is not Man City and we haven't got Sheikh Mansour's Dosh!so shut it and get on with managing what players you have got!also thank your lucky stars you have the superb backing of a very good Chairman and board who have given you great backing(I remember you said to the fans if your not happy go and watch Oxford!well if your not happy at our great club!go and manage Oxford and see how Dosh they give you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please imagine a builder (Paolo) that has been employed to build you (JW) a nice new house. At the start of the build you have told the builder what you would like (promotion), you have agreed the cost of the build (the budget) and within the cost of build a contingency is set aside for emergencies (injuries) during the building process. The build starts, the bricks, concrete, fittings etc (the squad) are ordered, delivered and work starts (the season). Shortly after the work has started you receive the bill for the bricks, they have gone up (the tribunal result) and this uses up the contingency. What would you expect the builder to say ? IMO he might say, I can finish the house but if an emergency arises I may have to compromise and it may not be a nice as you had hoped :-( I believe this is what Paolo is saying. It isn’t that his players current players aren’t good enough it is if long term injuries hit the squad he has no means to bring in cover (temporary or otherwise) and this may affect performances in the long run. COYMR

Love it Don,sorry Oxen-Red he's not Bob the Buider lol.

Can he fix it (promotion) ?

COYMR

The much derided Andy King got us to the play offs in this league wit significantly less money at his disposal than Paulo already has.

It's good to see the guy has ambition and desire and I love him being here, I just wish he'd occasionally keep some of it for a quiet chat with JW etc.

Sure this is a complete non-issue and will be sorted but Paulo will need to learn to be a bit more political if he is to ever manage at the top level.

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Hope you took my post as a playful jest too Wiz. No offence intended at all.

jayden wrote:
A source close to the club told me that Pdc is off if he hears anyone calling him canioman again

Ha ha ha! Nice one!

PAOLOS WORDS...
I don’t want to say changed completely, this is my worry for the future – that the plan that I heard 16 months ago the first time I met them has changed in a little way.
.
I dont think it was in JW plan to pay off players that was signed last season by PDC.Not sure how many got payed off but it must have cost a lot of money and that is a big chunck your budget Paolo...

.Nore do i think it was in JW plan just to sign players because you through your toys out the pram

We have 26 players and 23 are fit to play but you still wont more..
IF your such a great manager as you say you are them manage the players that you bought in and get on with your job and stop moaning and winging.
Or if your that hard done by like you said you were pack ya bags and let some1 else have a go..
Im sure there are plenty of managers out there that would love would to work with the team that you have bought in

peatmoor pirate wrote:
The much derided Andy King got us to the play offs in this league wit significantly less money at his disposal than Paulo already has. It's good to see the guy has ambition and desire and I love him being here, I just wish he'd occasionally keep some of it for a quiet chat with JW etc. Sure this is a complete non-issue and will be sorted but Paulo will need to learn to be a bit more political if he is to ever manage at the top level.

Andy King had good connections withing the game and managed to get us some very useful players on loan.....

Oi Den! wrote:

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
I think the majority believe we should get on with what we have and I'm with that majority. I also think Paolo's openness creates him problems when he delivers bad news. Personally I'm not worried about him criticising players or letting us know we have a tranfer embargo etc etc. I prefer to KNOW what is going on rather than have the often random conjecture on here. What I do have a problem with is the constant sniping at our manager. Yes he may use 500 words when 10 will do and I'm far from saying he's perfect. However those firing the bullets at him (and I respect you for your opinions) may I ask you if you think he has developed our players since he's been here? I may have of course got this completely wrong but it feels like some of you think he hasn't and all he has done is bought his way to the title?

Dreams, I'm not sure about sniping. I think the posts on here are pretty well balanced. There seems to be an overriding feeling that we are fortunate to have the excellent backing and good stewardship of the club that had been lacking for so long before , but there is also massive popular support for PDC and the work he has done. I too like to be kept informed. I don't mind PDC having a collective swipe at his players and I have no objection to being informed by him about the transfer embargo. It's the way it comes across that causes concern. I do not believe he was throwing his toys out of the pram, but this sort of thing is food and drink to critics outside our STFC world. Like it or not, it invites ridicule, as well as giving further ammunition to those who want to see us fail because of our enviable position.

Must remember that the budget we had last year was so much greater than most if not all other league 2 clubs.... We spent more just on agent fees (£0.5m almost) than we have probably spend on transfers for 2 or 3 years before.... Yes Paolo has / does / can improve the players.... BUT IMO any half descent manager would have got us promoted with that budget.
It is times like this when the going gets a little harder, when good managers really shine..... He had built HIS team, now he should concentrate on coaching, training & developing the players, not replacing them as soon as times are hard..... Luke Rooney for example.... He was a Significant signing last term and by all accounts had a good per season.. Sooooooo why has he been loaned out... He should have been playing Saturday.....
We all remember the near demise of other club only a few years ago... And the years of financial hardship before that.... I certainly do not want to risk that again anytime soon.... Promotion this year or indeed keeping Paolo just isn't worth ever risking our great club again....
Finally as others have said, the club must try to generate more revenue to help finance the playing side.... For those living out of town do you ever see or hear advertising for our games other on BBC wilts? Answer is probably not.... Also how about the club inviting a 100 kids from different schools in for free each game.... These are our future fans if only we can attract them now.... This gives the sustainability for the future... And there's never been a better time to be or start to be a town fan....

DarrenSTFCRomain wrote:
PAOLOS WORDS...
I don’t want to say changed completely, this is my worry for the future – that the plan that I heard 16 months ago the first time I met them has changed in a little way.
.
I dont think it was in JW plan to pay off players that was signed last season by PDC.Not sure how many got payed off but it must have cost a lot of money and that is a big chunck your budget Paolo...

.Nore do i think it was in JW plan just to sign players because you through your toys out the pram

We have 26 players and 23 are fit to play but you still wont more..
IF your such a great manager as you say you are them manage the players that you bought in and get on with your job and stop moaning and winging.
Or if your that hard done by like you said you were pack ya bags and let some1 else have a go..
Im sure there are plenty of managers out there that would love would to work with the team that you have bought in

spot on

the don69 wrote:
Get a grip Paolo!your a manager of a League one club!this is not Man City and we haven't got Sheikh Mansour's Dosh!so shut it and get on with managing what players you have got!also thank your lucky stars you have the superb backing of a very good Chairman and board who have given you great backing(I remember you said to the fans if your not happy go and watch Oxford!well if your not happy at our great club!go and manage Oxford and see how Dosh they give you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

VERY WELL SAID DON 69

robstfc wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
I think the majority believe we should get on with what we have and I'm with that majority. I also think Paolo's openness creates him problems when he delivers bad news. Personally I'm not worried about him criticising players or letting us know we have a tranfer embargo etc etc. I prefer to KNOW what is going on rather than have the often random conjecture on here. What I do have a problem with is the constant sniping at our manager. Yes he may use 500 words when 10 will do and I'm far from saying he's perfect. However those firing the bullets at him (and I respect you for your opinions) may I ask you if you think he has developed our players since he's been here? I may have of course got this completely wrong but it feels like some of you think he hasn't and all he has done is bought his way to the title?

Dreams, I'm not sure about sniping. I think the posts on here are pretty well balanced. There seems to be an overriding feeling that we are fortunate to have the excellent backing and good stewardship of the club that had been lacking for so long before , but there is also massive popular support for PDC and the work he has done. I too like to be kept informed. I don't mind PDC having a collective swipe at his players and I have no objection to being informed by him about the transfer embargo. It's the way it comes across that causes concern. I do not believe he was throwing his toys out of the pram, but this sort of thing is food and drink to critics outside our STFC world. Like it or not, it invites ridicule, as well as giving further ammunition to those who want to see us fail because of our enviable position.

Must remember that the budget we had last year was so much greater than most if not all other league 2 clubs.... We spent more just on agent fees (£0.5m almost) than we have probably spend on transfers for 2 or 3 years before.... Yes Paolo has / does / can improve the players.... BUT IMO any half descent manager would have got us promoted with that budget.
It is times like this when the going gets a little harder, when good managers really shine..... He had built HIS team, now he should concentrate on coaching, training & developing the players, not replacing them as soon as times are hard..... Luke Rooney for example.... He was a Significant signing last term and by all accounts had a good per season.. Sooooooo why has he been loaned out... He should have been playing Saturday.....
We all remember the near demise of other club only a few years ago... And the years of financial hardship before that.... I certainly do not want to risk that again anytime soon.... Promotion this year or indeed keeping Paolo just isn't worth ever risking our great club again....
Finally as others have said, the club must try to generate more revenue to help finance the playing side.... For those living out of town do you ever see or hear advertising for our games other on BBC wilts? Answer is probably not.... Also how about the club inviting a 100 kids from different schools in for free each game.... These are our future fans if only we can attract them now.... This gives the sustainability for the future... And there's never been a better time to be or start to be a town fan....

Rob, I agree with most of that, although I am happy to back PDC's judgment on Rooney. There was a lot of talk last season about our squad being "championship quality", when the fact of the matter was that PDC eventually built a squad that was good enough to get us out of the basement. Mission accomplished, and on to the next one, improving the quality where necessary. Rooney was an occasional star for us last season but didn't show the consistency PDC rightly expects. No great surprise that he hasn't cut it at this level.
.
I am sure PDC hoped for more from Rooney. However, you never know whether your signings are going to progress at the same rate as the club. There is usually an element of gamble involved. So I would not knock PDC over any signings who did OK for us last season but have been found wanting this time. And pre-season performances? They mean about as much as pre-season results - nowt. Remember all the needless wailing and gnashing of teeth on here when we weren't putting poor opposition to the sword? We did OK when the real business began.

Oi Den! wrote:

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Hope you took my post as a playful jest too Wiz. No offence intended at all.

Den,

NO problem what so ever. I think we have agreed on much and on a few things even agreed to dis agree, but always kept things pleasant. You have absolutely no problem here.

You know, I do support Canioman, because I think he has done so well and wears it on his sleeve, BUT, I think he is also a bit of a dark politician, in as much as he is a manipulator, and sometimes that isn't always a good thing. I support Wray as well, but ultimately Wray, I hope, will still be here even when Canioman is gone, so I'm right behind Wray and if he is playing counter politics then good on him, reigning the boy in. I think Wray, a very astute man, knew a few days ago or more of the situation. I think this has been boiling away for a while behind the scenes for a little while, and Canioman has asked for funds and been refused, and that is why we had the spat in front of the press on Saturday, maximum effect. A lot of chairmen can look and see what is happening here, and while Canioman looks like a good bet, it seems to me "confidential" and patience are not tools in his box . I think Wray will have been embarrassed by the way this has come out, and others will have taken note. While Canioman thinks he may have manipulated Wray, it's been roll reversal, and Canioman now has most telling him to shut up and get on with it. Never, ever boring here is it. I wonder if he has a black trilby with a white band around it ? LOL!!!

David - that quote was only one of a few suggested options
.
Others were wait for up coming cup receipts and Jan transfer window where cash can be raised via Caddis etc
.
I too thought equity didn't count - but it was revealed that the £2m injection in the summer boosted our budget
.
It transpires it is loans which don't count as they can be pulled at any point
.
Equity ever is perm - the board can't take it back unless they sell
.
So doing a similar equity raising exercise wouldn't return us to the dark old days
.
It would hit the boards pockets - so would be up to them to decide if it is worth doing
.
SAP - If you are going to start quoting my post can you at least read it all
.
The start was simply laying it out like Oxon excellent post!
.
Then CLEARLY at the end I summarise and says I would go with what we have! I also mention all the players you decide to shout at me!!!
.
Also what forwards - well we got the likes of Jervis last year who banged them in and helped us - so there may well be someone out there for a month
.
Den - you could be right - remember the I will dip in the market comment was followed up by Pompey Bournemouth and Burnley!
.
Maybe this is just a challenge to Benson, Collins and Rooney to show we are no short of fire power
.
As I said above I'm confident we will do well with the team I mentioned especially at home

Oi Den! wrote:

robstfc wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
I think the majority believe we should get on with what we have and I'm with that majority. I also think Paolo's openness creates him problems when he delivers bad news. Personally I'm not worried about him criticising players or letting us know we have a tranfer embargo etc etc. I prefer to KNOW what is going on rather than have the often random conjecture on here. What I do have a problem with is the constant sniping at our manager. Yes he may use 500 words when 10 will do and I'm far from saying he's perfect. However those firing the bullets at him (and I respect you for your opinions) may I ask you if you think he has developed our players since he's been here? I may have of course got this completely wrong but it feels like some of you think he hasn't and all he has done is bought his way to the title?

Dreams, I'm not sure about sniping. I think the posts on here are pretty well balanced. There seems to be an overriding feeling that we are fortunate to have the excellent backing and good stewardship of the club that had been lacking for so long before , but there is also massive popular support for PDC and the work he has done. I too like to be kept informed. I don't mind PDC having a collective swipe at his players and I have no objection to being informed by him about the transfer embargo. It's the way it comes across that causes concern. I do not believe he was throwing his toys out of the pram, but this sort of thing is food and drink to critics outside our STFC world. Like it or not, it invites ridicule, as well as giving further ammunition to those who want to see us fail because of our enviable position.

Must remember that the budget we had last year was so much greater than most if not all other league 2 clubs.... We spent more just on agent fees (£0.5m almost) than we have probably spend on transfers for 2 or 3 years before.... Yes Paolo has / does / can improve the players.... BUT IMO any half descent manager would have got us promoted with that budget.
It is times like this when the going gets a little harder, when good managers really shine..... He had built HIS team, now he should concentrate on coaching, training & developing the players, not replacing them as soon as times are hard..... Luke Rooney for example.... He was a Significant signing last term and by all accounts had a good per season.. Sooooooo why has he been loaned out... He should have been playing Saturday.....
We all remember the near demise of other club only a few years ago... And the years of financial hardship before that.... I certainly do not want to risk that again anytime soon.... Promotion this year or indeed keeping Paolo just isn't worth ever risking our great club again....
Finally as others have said, the club must try to generate more revenue to help finance the playing side.... For those living out of town do you ever see or hear advertising for our games other on BBC wilts? Answer is probably not.... Also how about the club inviting a 100 kids from different schools in for free each game.... These are our future fans if only we can attract them now.... This gives the sustainability for the future... And there's never been a better time to be or start to be a town fan....

Rob, I agree with most of that, although I am happy to back PDC's judgment on Rooney. There was a lot of talk last season about our squad being "championship quality", when the fact of the matter was that PDC eventually built a squad that was good enough to get us out of the basement. Mission accomplished, and on to the next one, improving the quality where necessary. Rooney was an occasional star for us last season but didn't show the consistency PDC rightly expects. No great surprise that he hasn't cut it at this level.
.
I am sure PDC hoped for more from Rooney. However, you never know whether your signings are going to progress at the same rate as the club. There is usually an element of gamble involved. So I would not knock PDC over any signings who did OK for us last season but have been found wanting this time. And pre-season performances? They mean about as much as pre-season results - nowt. Remember all the needless wailing and gnashing of teeth on here when we weren't putting poor opposition to the sword? We did OK when the real business began.

I wasn't having a go at Paolo or Rooney.... Personally just don't think he's been given enough chance this term... Main point being he was Paolo's signing on a 21/2 year contract so he must have been planning longer term with him...
We haven't got an open cheque book for Paolo just to chop & change his mind at the drop of a hat... Otherwise it will come back to bite especially as spending doesn't guarantee promotion. Just ask Sheffield United fans.... Apparently they could not afford to play one of their players at the weekend, that's according a mate whose a fan anyway...
I love my club too much to risk it's future....

Chish and Fips wrote:

the wizard wrote:
I think there is a lot of Club Politics going on here.

Canioman says he is not angry, so why bring it up in the post match interview, when in all honesty we haven't done that well against the bottom club. In fact we haven't done that well in a few games. The whole focus was taken away from the game and put on the clubs position.

I'm quite sure that Canioman has known about this and talked about this with Wray and the details were explained to him well in advance, so why bring it up. Surely it is down to Wray, the Chairman, to sort out such matters. Seems to me the managerial dummy has been spat out because right now the flow of players has been stemmed. I'm quite sure that other managers have to function under worse conditions, with a smaller squad and smaller budget.

Canioman said,

“I’m not angry; I only want to know what is going on. It’s not a big criticism. Let me know because you have to make a decision.


I'm sure you DO know what is going on, and if you are not angry, then why the outburst, and "let me know because you have to make a decision", now what kind of thinly veiled threat is that, after the support you have had.

I think if PDC is not careful he could divide his support by this use of the media to further his cause.

He is still a bit wet behind the ears when it comes to managing and trying act like some Alex F or Arsene W I don't think he has quite reach that category yet.

I think PDC has done very well in most departments here and we have become a vibrant club again, but I do worry about this media side of him, as with a few other incidents, in my humble opinion it would have been best discussed behind closed doors and the relevant information released in a professional and considered fashion.

Would very much agree with these comments. Why play this out as a soap opera in front of the media?

I'm surprised that there isn't some sort of protocol at the Club about media communications. If nothing else, it avoids different messages being given and confusion reigning.

I think as someone said on a previous thread, there's a bit of a lack of maturity here from DiCanio. This isn't about being honest with the fans. It's about conducting the affairs of the Club in a professional manner.

robstfc wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

robstfc wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
I think the majority believe we should get on with what we have and I'm with that majority. I also think Paolo's openness creates him problems when he delivers bad news. Personally I'm not worried about him criticising players or letting us know we have a tranfer embargo etc etc. I prefer to KNOW what is going on rather than have the often random conjecture on here. What I do have a problem with is the constant sniping at our manager. Yes he may use 500 words when 10 will do and I'm far from saying he's perfect. However those firing the bullets at him (and I respect you for your opinions) may I ask you if you think he has developed our players since he's been here? I may have of course got this completely wrong but it feels like some of you think he hasn't and all he has done is bought his way to the title?

Dreams, I'm not sure about sniping. I think the posts on here are pretty well balanced. There seems to be an overriding feeling that we are fortunate to have the excellent backing and good stewardship of the club that had been lacking for so long before , but there is also massive popular support for PDC and the work he has done. I too like to be kept informed. I don't mind PDC having a collective swipe at his players and I have no objection to being informed by him about the transfer embargo. It's the way it comes across that causes concern. I do not believe he was throwing his toys out of the pram, but this sort of thing is food and drink to critics outside our STFC world. Like it or not, it invites ridicule, as well as giving further ammunition to those who want to see us fail because of our enviable position.

Must remember that the budget we had last year was so much greater than most if not all other league 2 clubs.... We spent more just on agent fees (£0.5m almost) than we have probably spend on transfers for 2 or 3 years before.... Yes Paolo has / does / can improve the players.... BUT IMO any half descent manager would have got us promoted with that budget.
It is times like this when the going gets a little harder, when good managers really shine..... He had built HIS team, now he should concentrate on coaching, training & developing the players, not replacing them as soon as times are hard..... Luke Rooney for example.... He was a Significant signing last term and by all accounts had a good per season.. Sooooooo why has he been loaned out... He should have been playing Saturday.....
We all remember the near demise of other club only a few years ago... And the years of financial hardship before that.... I certainly do not want to risk that again anytime soon.... Promotion this year or indeed keeping Paolo just isn't worth ever risking our great club again....
Finally as others have said, the club must try to generate more revenue to help finance the playing side.... For those living out of town do you ever see or hear advertising for our games other on BBC wilts? Answer is probably not.... Also how about the club inviting a 100 kids from different schools in for free each game.... These are our future fans if only we can attract them now.... This gives the sustainability for the future... And there's never been a better time to be or start to be a town fan....

Rob, I agree with most of that, although I am happy to back PDC's judgment on Rooney. There was a lot of talk last season about our squad being "championship quality", when the fact of the matter was that PDC eventually built a squad that was good enough to get us out of the basement. Mission accomplished, and on to the next one, improving the quality where necessary. Rooney was an occasional star for us last season but didn't show the consistency PDC rightly expects. No great surprise that he hasn't cut it at this level.
.
I am sure PDC hoped for more from Rooney. However, you never know whether your signings are going to progress at the same rate as the club. There is usually an element of gamble involved. So I would not knock PDC over any signings who did OK for us last season but have been found wanting this time. And pre-season performances? They mean about as much as pre-season results - nowt. Remember all the needless wailing and gnashing of teeth on here when we weren't putting poor opposition to the sword? We did OK when the real business began.

I wasn't having a go at Paolo or Rooney.... Personally just don't think he's been given enough chance this term... Main point being he was Paolo's signing on a 21/2 year contract so he must have been planning longer term with him...
We haven't got an open cheque book for Paolo just to chop & change his mind at the drop of a hat... Otherwise it will come back to bite especially as spending doesn't guarantee promotion. Just ask Sheffield United fans.... Apparently they could not afford to play one of their players at the weekend, that's according a mate whose a fan anyway...
I love my club too much to risk it's future....

Yes, Sheff U had the same problem with 2 players on one day earlier in the season. Take your point about the contract. Perhaps the underlying lesson there is not to give a long contract to a player when your club is moving up the League and you don't know how good he is. But then you run the risk of missing out on a good player because someone else is prepared to offer a longer deal - that's what I meant by the element of gamble. Anyway, as I said at the start of my post, I agree with the broader message of yours.

Med Red wrote:

peatmoor pirate wrote:
The much derided Andy King got us to the play offs in this league wit significantly less money at his disposal than Paulo already has. It's good to see the guy has ambition and desire and I love him being here, I just wish he'd occasionally keep some of it for a quiet chat with JW etc. Sure this is a complete non-issue and will be sorted but Paulo will need to learn to be a bit more political if he is to ever manage at the top level.

Andy King had good connections withing the game and managed to get us some very useful players on loan.....

Can't believe anyone can have positive words about Andy king! The man used to stick his fingers upto the town end. Joke.

London Red wrote:
David - that quote was only one of a few suggested options
.
Others were wait for up coming cup receipts and Jan transfer window where cash can be raised via Caddis etc
.
I too thought equity didn't count - but it was revealed that the £2m injection in the summer boosted our budget
.
It transpires it is loans which don't count as they can be pulled at any point
.
Equity ever is perm - the board can't take it back unless they sell
.
So doing a similar equity raising exercise wouldn't return us to the dark old days
.
It would hit the boards pockets - so would be up to them to decide if it is worth doing
.
SAP - If you are going to start quoting my post can you at least read it all
.
The start was simply laying it out like Oxon excellent post!
.
Then CLEARLY at the end I summarise and says I would go with what we have! I also mention all the players you decide to shout at me!!!
.
Also what forwards - well we got the likes of Jervis last year who banged them in and helped us - so there may well be someone out there for a month
.
Den - you could be right - remember the I will dip in the market comment was followed up by Pompey Bournemouth and Burnley!
.
Maybe this is just a challenge to Benson, Collins and Rooney to show we are no short of fire power
.
As I said above I'm confident we will do well with the team I mentioned especially at home

Well,well,well if LR is right that the so called £2m that was called an investment in the summer!it now transpires are LOANS,that is all very dodgy,because as we know LOANS are not an investment,maybe PDC is looking at that!that all needs looking at??????????

Perhaps if a few more fans turned up our revenue % would be a bit higher...

Stratton Red wrote:
Perhaps if a few more fans turned up our revenue % would be a bit higher...

Sorry mate but not everyone has the spare money now a days...
Cant aford 31 pound every home game

Stratton Red wrote:
Perhaps if a few more fans turned up our revenue % would be a bit higher...

Last Tuesday's performance will have done nothing to help that cause! Imagine if that was your first Town game of the season. You could be forgiven for wondering why you bothered.
.
I agree though. For the catchment area we have, a core of less than 8,000 is pretty poor. I know there are people who can't go for various good reasons, but the nearest League clubs are 30 miles away and the stuff we are playing - last Tuesday excepted - has been good.
.
All the old excuses are gone, with perhaps one exception - £25 to watch this level of football is a bit of a barrier. Ok, cheaper in the Town End but to be honest the view isn't great from there. I'm not knocking the board for their pricing policy. They've done their sums. It's a bit chicken and egg. If they thought we'd get 10,000 every week, they might have set the price a bit lower. As it is, the £25 probably deters a few. But they might have to bring it down to £20 to have an appreciable effect on attendances. But what would be the economics of that? You'd have a 25% reduction in price per person, set against a few more coming through the turnstiles - so more than likely lower income. It's a difficult one for them. (With apologies to LR for borrowing his stat hat.)

Don think you have conpletely missed the point of my post - I never said the investment was a loan
.
What I said is the FL do not count loans as income but they do equity investments - see the adver article when it was announced
.
Which is why I said a small additional equity investment could allow a shot term loan if felt it is required
.
JW pretty much hints at this in his interview on player - he says about money coming in from the board in different manners

Attendance is talked about in JE interview and it was mentioned that Tues would have done no favours!
.
He then said he hopes a good performance and experience against Villa may tempt a few more in afterwards
.
Pricing is always mentioned - but all the price promotions last year showed this had little effect
.
Just look at Chanpionship Burnley was £15 yet got less in than £25 Bournmouth!!!!
.
Don't think they expected 10k every week - but probably more than 7k for games like Burnley
.
Considering we are 4th you might expect 8k or 9k to turn up regularly
.
However to do that we do need to have less Orient and Colchester an return to the form we had last year
.
Then with teams like Coventry, Sheff U, Portsmouth etc to come we should see some "bumper" crowds

JW even - fat fingers!

Sorry, keep forgetting the Orient performance as I missed that one.

You know what? I don't care about any of this. If PDC gets us promotion, I don't care if he spends more than any other club in the league (as long as it ends up within limits and doesn't dock us points). I don't care how much good or bad publicity he brings us. How many players he brings in and sends out. How often he throws his toys out of the pram, etc. etc. As long as he gets us promotion, it's all fine by me. If he doesn't ... Then we all talk about it. But so far ... 4th is fine.

Oi Den! wrote:

Stratton Red wrote:
Perhaps if a few more fans turned up our revenue % would be a bit higher...

Last Tuesday's performance will have done nothing to help that cause! Imagine if that was your first Town game of the season. You could be forgiven for wondering why you bothered.
.
I agree though. For the catchment area we have, a core of less than 8,000 is pretty poor. I know there are people who can't go for various good reasons, but the nearest League clubs are 30 miles away and the stuff we are playing - last Tuesday excepted - has been good.
.
All the old excuses are gone, with perhaps one exception - £25 to watch this level of football is a bit of a barrier. Ok, cheaper in the Town End but to be honest the view isn't great from there. I'm not knocking the board for their pricing policy. They've done their sums. It's a bit chicken and egg. If they thought we'd get 10,000 every week, they might have set the price a bit lower. As it is, the £25 probably deters a few. But they might have to bring it down to £20 to have an appreciable effect on attendances. But what would be the economics of that? You'd have a 25% reduction in price per person, set against a few more coming through the turnstiles - so more than likely lower income. It's a difficult one for them. (With apologies to LR for borrowing his stat hat.)

What about Stevenage 2,500 gates,Tranmere 4,500,Creepies 3,500 when there lucky,then you Wilsons lot 18,000 and can't get out of Div1,it not just about gates chaps!!!!!

Some excellent posts on here tonight.
I have followed these latest trials and tribulations with interest and have tried to look at the greater picture.
Following on from AF/DW era a new one started with the arrival of two very ambitious players, namely JW and PDC. In a very short space of time the club has turned things around and continue to meet the various objectives that were set. By looking at the greater picture eg. the CG redevelopment it seems to me that the club continue to move in the right direction.
I can understand the fans concerns as we all want what is best for our beloved Town but I for one remain happy with all things STFC.
I have followed the Town for more years than most on here and whilst it does not make me any better than any other Town fan I do have the experience to draw on. Things are looking very good right now and I for one remain confident that all our dreams,well realistic ones at least, are soon to be realised. Enjoy !!!

Den thank you for being the only person to respond to the question whether Paolo develops players. I'll take the apathy as a No from everyone else (as expected)!

I suggested in a question and answer session on here last season that they did one training session a month in the outlieing towns, Salisbury / Trowbridge / Chippenham / Wootton etc, to promote the club and get more fans. It was almost exactly a year ago. JW said great idea and would look in to it. It still ain't happened not even the once.....

Ps Den if you drop that ticket price from £25 to £20 that will be a 20% reduction in ticket prices!

Season not over yet - Tranmere and Stevenage havent gone up
.
Sheff U lost out to Charlton, Udders and Wednesday - all with massive budgets and large gates!
.
Before that it was Posh Saints Brighton
.
Before that Norwich Leeds and Millwall
.
See the pattern forming!

Who was it that sang that song with the words= you cant always get what you want? stone the crows i cant remember.

Dreams I agreed with you the other day that he does develop players - players like Ritchie, Caddis, Ferry, Wes, Macca, McEveley etc are much better for a spell under him (an his team!)
.
I did also said that due to the demanding targets - this is however on a reduced scale
.
We won't get 90 odd points if we try and bring through lots and lots of our own youths or signing kids
.
As my list of promotees above shows - you can't be a "developer" and win promotion
.
Crewe in the early 00s was probably the last team to do anything similar!

London Red wrote:
Season not over yet - Tranmere and Stevenage havent gone up . Sheff U lost out to Charlton, Udders and Wednesday - all with massive budgets and large gates! . Before that it was Posh Saints Brighton . Before that Norwich Leeds and Millwall . See the pattern forming!

NO

Steve. Brentford wrote:
Who was it that sang that song with the words= you cant always get what you want? stone the crows i cant remember.

Yes and it was released in that very good year of 1969 Steve and it's still rolling along lol!!!!!!!!!!

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
Den thank you for being the only person to respond to the question whether Paolo develops players. I'll take the apathy as a No from everyone else (as expected)!

I suggested in a question and answer session on here last season that they did one training session a month in the outlieing towns, Salisbury / Trowbridge / Chippenham / Wootton etc, to promote the club and get more fans. It was almost exactly a year ago. JW said great idea and would look in to it. It still ain't happened not even the once.....

Ps Den if you drop that ticket price from £25 to £20 that will be a 20% reduction in ticket prices!

Sorry if I missed your post with the question.

Yes, he does and can develop players, but I'd like to see more, especially time with Collins and Williams as they will both benefit. No, I don't know what does and doesn't go on at the training ground, but I think the message is clear, we have to do more with who we have, provided of course they are not injured.. A lot more nurturing, it seems, is necessary.

London/Wiz noted glad me and Den aren't the only ones.

London I agree his standards are high but that's what I as a fan want.

Wiz I couldn't agree more that he needs to continue the work I just wanted to make the point that despite the high turnover he is improving a high number of players. Of course every player won't buy into it but it's there loss and I don't believe he has or should make exceptions to his standards. He sees the collective as more important and again I agree.

I also don't think he needs any more players at the moment. Our squad is unbelievable. Of course if someone was out for the season then he'd want room for manuevre.

Oi Den! wrote:

Stratton Red wrote: Perhaps if a few more fans turned up our revenue % would be a bit higher...

Last Tuesday's performance will have done nothing to help that cause! Imagine if that was your first Town game of the season. You could be forgiven for wondering why you bothered. . I agree though. For the catchment area we have, a core of less than 8,000 is pretty poor. I know there are people who can't go for various good reasons, but the nearest League clubs are 30 miles away and the stuff we are playing - last Tuesday excepted - has been good. . All the old excuses are gone, with perhaps one exception - £25 to watch this level of football is a bit of a barrier. Ok, cheaper in the Town End but to be honest the view isn't great from there. I'm not knocking the board for their pricing policy. They've done their sums. It's a bit chicken and egg. If they thought we'd get 10,000 every week, they might have set the price a bit lower. As it is, the £25 probably deters a few. But they might have to bring it down to £20 to have an appreciable effect on attendances. But what would be the economics of that? You'd have a 25% reduction in price per person, set against a few more coming through the turnstiles - so more than likely lower income. It's a difficult one for them. (With apologies to LR for borrowing his stat hat.)

At least you make sense..
Ok LR does as well SOMETIMES but he just keep on and on,,on..on..on..on..
on

the wizard wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Hope you took my post as a playful jest too Wiz. No offence intended at all.

Den,

NO problem what so ever. I think we have agreed on much and on a few things even agreed to dis agree, but always kept things pleasant. You have absolutely no problem here.

You know, I do support Canioman, because I think he has done so well and wears it on his sleeve, BUT, I think he is also a bit of a dark politician, in as much as he is a manipulator, and sometimes that isn't always a good thing. I support Wray as well, but ultimately Wray, I hope, will still be here even when Canioman is gone, so I'm right behind Wray and if he is playing counter politics then good on him, reigning the boy in. I think Wray, a very astute man, knew a few days ago or more of the situation. I think this has been boiling away for a while behind the scenes for a little while, and Canioman has asked for funds and been refused, and that is why we had the spat in front of the press on Saturday, maximum effect. A lot of chairmen can look and see what is happening here, and while Canioman looks like a good bet, it seems to me "confidential" and patience are not tools in his box . I think Wray will have been embarrassed by the way this has come out, and others will have taken note. While Canioman thinks he may have manipulated Wray, it's been roll reversal, and Canioman now has most telling him to shut up and get on with it. Never, ever boring here is it. I wonder if he has a black trilby with a white band around it ? LOL!!!

IMO only, your continual use of 'Canioman' is an immature way of disrespect which someone of your undoubted age and apparent wisdom is no more than a low blow and entirely unfunny and clever.

You sometimes have some very valid points which are diluted with the following 'Canioman' insult - which I find boring.

My first STFC game was in 1963 - and I am a season ticket holder - but sometimes I am embarrassed by the the Wizard of Dross comments and opinions which are IMO sneering about our best Manager for years and our best prospects for even longer.

Just use 'PDC' in future and you may gain more support and respect, just a thought - apart from your usual clique.

Now we should get the benefit of not being in the Paint Pot,free week and Coventry have to go to York tomorrow and with a few injuries best to be out of the Pot meaningless comp.

For once I agree with 100% with that!
.
Revenue from League Cup should soften the blow of the early exit financially and the rest / extra training will do us good

sp1dersw3b wrote:

the wizard wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Hope you took my post as a playful jest too Wiz. No offence intended at all.

Den,

NO problem what so ever. I think we have agreed on much and on a few things even agreed to dis agree, but always kept things pleasant. You have absolutely no problem here.

You know, I do support Canioman, because I think he has done so well and wears it on his sleeve, BUT, I think he is also a bit of a dark politician, in as much as he is a manipulator, and sometimes that isn't always a good thing. I support Wray as well, but ultimately Wray, I hope, will still be here even when Canioman is gone, so I'm right behind Wray and if he is playing counter politics then good on him, reigning the boy in. I think Wray, a very astute man, knew a few days ago or more of the situation. I think this has been boiling away for a while behind the scenes for a little while, and Canioman has asked for funds and been refused, and that is why we had the spat in front of the press on Saturday, maximum effect. A lot of chairmen can look and see what is happening here, and while Canioman looks like a good bet, it seems to me "confidential" and patience are not tools in his box . I think Wray will have been embarrassed by the way this has come out, and others will have taken note. While Canioman thinks he may have manipulated Wray, it's been roll reversal, and Canioman now has most telling him to shut up and get on with it. Never, ever boring here is it. I wonder if he has a black trilby with a white band around it ? LOL!!!

IMO only, your continual use of 'Canioman' is an immature way of disrespect which someone of your undoubted age and apparent wisdom is no more than a low blow and entirely unfunny and clever.

You sometimes have some very valid points which are diluted with the following 'Canioman' insult - which I find boring.

My first STFC game was in 1963 - and I am a season ticket holder - but sometimes I am embarrassed by the the Wizard of Dross comments and opinions which are IMO sneering about our best Manager for years and our best prospects for even longer.

Just use 'PDC' in future and you may gain more support and respect, just a thought - apart from your usual clique.

If you don't like it, don't read it, simple. There are many comments here which I don't totally agree with, and then again many more I totally agree with.

Canio-man is born out of the fact, he is very much his own person, his own man, and it is his way or no way, simple as that , and at least its a name as opposed to a string of initials. I find PDC even more demeaning. Sorry if it offends you, that was NOT the purpose nor the intent.
I first went to County Ground in 1958 and have been on/off regular since and the last how many years a season ticket holder, although that may change as we have moved, and the travelling, as you probably know is no longer cheap or enjoyable.

You know what as some have already said how on earth can Paolo start winging about finances when his signings at the start of last season have cost this club dear, the Magera's, Itiku, Kerrouche, Lanzano, Easyjet, Commazi, Cabbochi, then Connell, and Smith were paid up early after fees were paid for them so this was quite a loss. Then there was Leon Clarke who had his Spat with Di Canio just how much money was wasted on this guy.This news should never have come from Paolo and should have been left to Jeremy Wray. If Roberts is out for a while then recall Rooney as he was another of Paolo's I must have players. Come on Paolo look at the whole picture. Glad to see Flint back and MOM Saturday why was he left out.

Mikek,

Hello mate, I hope you are well. Good points above and I'm sure, with out any doubt at all, we are so very lucky to have Wray as our Chairman. Fitton at the time was a breath of fresh air, just a shame it all went wrong for him at the end. Since Wray has come on board as Chair we have done so well. I think appointing anybody as rookie manager was always a risk, but I think most are in agreement the merry-go-round of players has got to slow down at least. I'm also concerned perhaps at how all of this is being reported, as I'm sure the "clarity" in the headline was explained some days ago.
Hope you don't mind me asking, what happened to the player that we were after a couple of seasons back, I remember you putting up a strong case, has he made it into the league ?
You thought he had a bit about him.

mikek wrote:
You know what as some have already said how on earth can Paolo start winging about finances when his signings at the start of last season have cost this club dear, the Magera's, Itiku, Kerrouche, Lanzano, Easyjet, Commazi, Cabbochi, then Connell, and Smith were paid up early after fees were paid for them so this was quite a loss. Then there was Leon Clarke who had his Spat with Di Canio just how much money was wasted on this guy.This news should never have come from Paolo and should have been left to Jeremy Wray. If Roberts is out for a while then recall Rooney as he was another of Paolo's I must have players. Come on Paolo look at the whole picture. Glad to see Flint back and MOM Saturday why was he left out.

Spot on Mikek,that's the whole of Stevenage's budget blown away!there's no bottomless pit of Dosh,or as my dear old mum use to say,money don't grow on tress!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm more than happy with the depth of squad, even with the injuries, Rooney, Caddis and, ahem, Risser loaned out and Coke returned.

Whilst there is always room for improvement we're not struggling to fill the bench and don't need any more players currently IMO.

We have plenty of 3 good centre backs to cover Macca.

We have Devera to cover Thompson at RB.

We have RDV, Bessone and Bostock (remember him?) who can play on wing to cover Roberts, and give Ritchie a rest.

Miller, Ferry, Navarro in the middle, presumably Louis Thompson could be 4th choice if needed.

Storey has pace so could cover Williams - I would be quite happy to see him given a go.

The only slight issue is that with the embargo in place we can't act quick to replace Wes if he gets injured.

Plus if a few more pick up knocks eg Ritchie, Collins, then we might need to think of a loan, but I'm sure we can cope for now?

As for ticket prices we will need to get to Championship to see attendances increase. League 1 is a bit better than League 2 in terms of quality but the prospect of playing Orient, Colchester, Crawley etc are not going to draw in the punters, especially at £25. Just have a look at the line-ups of these teams, well done to neutrals who can recognise any of the players. They may give it a try for £10-£15 but highly unlikely at £25.

the wizard wrote:

sp1dersw3b wrote:

the wizard wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Hope you took my post as a playful jest too Wiz. No offence intended at all.

Den,

NO problem what so ever. I think we have agreed on much and on a few things even agreed to dis agree, but always kept things pleasant. You have absolutely no problem here.

You know, I do support Canioman, because I think he has done so well and wears it on his sleeve, BUT, I think he is also a bit of a dark politician, in as much as he is a manipulator, and sometimes that isn't always a good thing. I support Wray as well, but ultimately Wray, I hope, will still be here even when Canioman is gone, so I'm right behind Wray and if he is playing counter politics then good on him, reigning the boy in. I think Wray, a very astute man, knew a few days ago or more of the situation. I think this has been boiling away for a while behind the scenes for a little while, and Canioman has asked for funds and been refused, and that is why we had the spat in front of the press on Saturday, maximum effect. A lot of chairmen can look and see what is happening here, and while Canioman looks like a good bet, it seems to me "confidential" and patience are not tools in his box . I think Wray will have been embarrassed by the way this has come out, and others will have taken note. While Canioman thinks he may have manipulated Wray, it's been roll reversal, and Canioman now has most telling him to shut up and get on with it. Never, ever boring here is it. I wonder if he has a black trilby with a white band around it ? LOL!!!

IMO only, your continual use of 'Canioman' is an immature way of disrespect which someone of your undoubted age and apparent wisdom is no more than a low blow and entirely unfunny and clever.

You sometimes have some very valid points which are diluted with the following 'Canioman' insult - which I find boring.

My first STFC game was in 1963 - and I am a season ticket holder - but sometimes I am embarrassed by the the Wizard of Dross comments and opinions which are IMO sneering about our best Manager for years and our best prospects for even longer.

Just use 'PDC' in future and you may gain more support and respect, just a thought - apart from your usual clique.

If you don't like it, don't read it, simple. There are many comments here which I don't totally agree with, and then again many more I totally agree with.

Canio-man is born out of the fact, he is very much his own person, his own man, and it is his way or no way, simple as that , and at least its a name as opposed to a string of initials. I find PDC even more demeaning. Sorry if it offends you, that was NOT the purpose nor the intent.
I first went to County Ground in 1958 and have been on/off regular since and the last how many years a season ticket holder, although that may change as we have moved, and the travelling, as you probably know is no longer cheap or enjoyable.

To be fair I can see why you're getting the negative posts Wiz for the Canioman name despite your reasons, but of course you can call him whatever you like that's your right. I'm sure if you were posting high praise for PDC rather than the critical comments of late the name would be taken in better spirit.

Personally whilst I think Paolo has turned the club around and moved us forward leaps and bounds, I'm not a fan of his post match interviews at all. It's almost a relief when he gets through one without singling anyone out for extreme criticism. When we've had an off day it's very predictable and to be honest not enjoyable to listen to, almost as hard work as the horrendous Paul Hart interviews.

That being said it's a results business and we're 4th in the league and in the last 16 of the Capital One, so I guess Paolo can do and say as he likes - things are going well!

the wizard wrote:
Mikek,

Hello mate, I hope you are well. Good points above and I'm sure, with out any doubt at all, we are so very lucky to have Wray as our Chairman. Fitton at the time was a breath of fresh air, just a shame it all went wrong for him at the end. Since Wray has come on board as Chair we have done so well. I think appointing anybody as rookie manager was always a risk, but I think most are in agreement the merry-go-round of players has got to slow down at least. I'm also concerned perhaps at how all of this is being reported, as I'm sure the "clarity" in the headline was explained some days ago.
Hope you don't mind me asking, what happened to the player that we were after a couple of seasons back, I remember you putting up a strong case, has he made it into the league ?
You thought he had a bit about him.

Hi Wiz how are you bud hope you and the wife are well and its good to see you in full swing on here and ruffling a few feathers too along the way you naughty boy. I just wish some posters would remember this is only a forum and its all about debate and opinion but one or two take it far too seriously. Yes that guy was Ross Allen still playing for Guernsey and scored 5 goals last month in one game he's got 13 already this season and has netted 85 goals for the club, what a hot shot and one that Paolo should have looked at or given a trial. I know their manager raves about him and say's he would certainly make the step up to the professional game with ease. Mind you with the embargo we are unable to bring even this guy in for the time being.

sp1dersw3b wrote:

the wizard wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Hope you took my post as a playful jest too Wiz. No offence intended at all.

Den,

NO problem what so ever. I think we have agreed on much and on a few things even agreed to dis agree, but always kept things pleasant. You have absolutely no problem here.

You know, I do support Canioman, because I think he has done so well and wears it on his sleeve, BUT, I think he is also a bit of a dark politician, in as much as he is a manipulator, and sometimes that isn't always a good thing. I support Wray as well, but ultimately Wray, I hope, will still be here even when Canioman is gone, so I'm right behind Wray and if he is playing counter politics then good on him, reigning the boy in. I think Wray, a very astute man, knew a few days ago or more of the situation. I think this has been boiling away for a while behind the scenes for a little while, and Canioman has asked for funds and been refused, and that is why we had the spat in front of the press on Saturday, maximum effect. A lot of chairmen can look and see what is happening here, and while Canioman looks like a good bet, it seems to me "confidential" and patience are not tools in his box . I think Wray will have been embarrassed by the way this has come out, and others will have taken note. While Canioman thinks he may have manipulated Wray, it's been roll reversal, and Canioman now has most telling him to shut up and get on with it. Never, ever boring here is it. I wonder if he has a black trilby with a white band around it ? LOL!!!

IMO only, your continual use of 'Canioman' is an immature way of disrespect which someone of your undoubted age and apparent wisdom is no more than a low blow and entirely unfunny and clever.

You sometimes have some very valid points which are diluted with the following 'Canioman' insult - which I find boring.

My first STFC game was in 1963 - and I am a season ticket holder - but sometimes I am embarrassed by the the Wizard of Dross comments and opinions which are IMO sneering about our best Manager for years and our best prospects for even longer.

Just use 'PDC' in future and you may gain more support and respect, just a thought - apart from your usual clique.

I am really not quite sure who 'spiders' is, but his above post is far and away, the very best on here for days, if not weeks.

In his own words, not mine, he has described the situation very well and in better words than I could have done.

Long overdue that someone challenged Wizards rambling and protracted rubbish, well done!!!

Spider the point you overlooked conveniently is everyone is entitled to their opinion on here, perhaps giving someone a nick name could be construed as de-respectful, on the other hand it can be used as a term of endearment.

Carry on Wiz - Spider and even you JB

Wilesy Wray confirmed it is not seen as an issue now by PdC but is a you say a potential issue should other injuries crop up
.
Think all those heavily slating PdC here should remember that

London Red wrote:
Dreams I agreed with you the other day that he does develop players - players like Ritchie, Caddis, Ferry, Wes, Macca, McEveley etc are much better for a spell under him (an his team!)
.
I did also said that due to the demanding targets - this is however on a reduced scale
.
We won't get 90 odd points if we try and bring through lots and lots of our own youths or signing kids
.
As my list of promotees above shows - you can't be a "developer" and win promotion
.
Crewe in the early 00s was probably the last team to do anything similar!

Apologies if I missed the last bit - I thought it was all yours...I get a bit exasperated with the talk of loaning in cover for Williams....I just don't believe anyone anywhere would have a player who could fit in for a month or two and quickly enough.
---.
Don't forget that Paolo is stating that Benson can't play back-to-back matches due to fitness so I struggle to see how we'll get someone of the fitness, quality and mindset who can slot straight into the team...we have enough options to give it a go for a few weeks.
===.
Couple of Questions:
1) Where we have paid off player's contracts does an element of this still count towards the wages?
2) Given that putting more money in doesn't work under the legislation, how CAN the board help out if we won't loan any out, can't sell and probably won't be sending any existing loans back?
....can they announce a lucrative sponsorship deal on some element of the club?
- Still amazed that a pogo stick or a super safe perspex manufacturer haven't come in to sponsor PDC or the dugout walls.
---.
As many have said 7,500 is a pretty poor turn out for Burnley and following league games....I'm guessing that Sat will be a bigger attendance - at least Coventry should bring a fair few.
Following that we have a few attractive games Scunny (who came down), Cup match v Villa, Sheff Utd (with a certain Mr Wilson), then a couple of more home games v more local teams in Yeovil and Brentford - Hopefully the league games amongst those will average over 8,000.

Oi Den! wrote:

Malkym wrote:

SAPFanSTFC wrote:
.....hopefully the above will prove to a few that I'm not a rose tinted fan....but neither am I in with 'The Blues'...maybe this is all a smokescreen!? ... Maybe we don't want to be too good too soon or we lose players in January! ... Maybe just MAYBE....we're all being tested!?....and come the end of January when it is too late for others to steal our players and form being in a 4th - 8th position we'll storm up the league and shout.... --- SURPRISE!!!! --- ...and Paolo will come out of the CG smoking a Cigar in one hand and drinking a huge bowl of brandy in the other.......oh whilst ordering a kebab! ---. Off to watch the speedway tonight - haven't been in over 25yrs so should be fun.....just have to remember not to stand on the first bend like I and every first timer does....OUCH!!!

Ian -was considering going to Blunsdon myself but its off as you probably know.

I was there the last time they won the title in 1967 -45 yrs as they say and you're right don't stand on the bend otherwise you get covered in shale and mud!

Think If I do go for the re-match - I'll go for the cosy option - £35 a seat -in the warm and some nosebag!

Aren't the speedway play-offs even more ridiculous than the Football League play-offs. You win the title but you might not win the title?

I only found out when we got there - Aah well. Like you the comfy seats are a bigger attraction these days although I'd miss the smell, the dust (if it ever stayed dry enough for long enough) and the noise....good job it is a summer sport....largely.
---.
Agree with you Den, although luckily the two Finalists were the top two and only 2pts separated at the end of the season.
---.
Worse for me was when my team London Irish finished 3rd and narrowly lost the Rugby Union play-off Final - being honest whilst we would have all celebrated none of us really felt like we'd be called true champions.
.....having said that they, all know the rules before the season starts I guess.

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
Den thank you for being the only person to respond to the question whether Paolo develops players. I'll take the apathy as a No from everyone else (as expected)!

I suggested in a question and answer session on here last season that they did one training session a month in the outlieing towns, Salisbury / Trowbridge / Chippenham / Wootton etc, to promote the club and get more fans. It was almost exactly a year ago. JW said great idea and would look in to it. It still ain't happened not even the once.....

Ps Den if you drop that ticket price from £25 to £20 that will be a 20% reduction in ticket prices!

Of course it would! Well, let's say £25 is 25% more than £20 then. No, that still won't get me off the hook, will it?!

London Red wrote:
For once I agree with 100% with that!
.
Revenue from League Cup should soften the blow of the early exit financially and the rest / extra training will do us good

The competition is a complete waste of time, money and effort. I doubt if many people outside the Town and Chesterfield camps even know who won it last season. It's completely inappropriate to have a "showpiece" final for a competition that hardly anyone gives a toss about. Scrap it. We have two perfectly good cup competitions, which both carry the possibility of genuine romance. This other thing, which has as much romance as a wet weekend in Weston, just gets in the way.

joey butler wrote:

sp1dersw3b wrote:

the wizard wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Hope you took my post as a playful jest too Wiz. No offence intended at all.

Den,

NO problem what so ever. I think we have agreed on much and on a few things even agreed to dis agree, but always kept things pleasant. You have absolutely no problem here.

You know, I do support Canioman, because I think he has done so well and wears it on his sleeve, BUT, I think he is also a bit of a dark politician, in as much as he is a manipulator, and sometimes that isn't always a good thing. I support Wray as well, but ultimately Wray, I hope, will still be here even when Canioman is gone, so I'm right behind Wray and if he is playing counter politics then good on him, reigning the boy in. I think Wray, a very astute man, knew a few days ago or more of the situation. I think this has been boiling away for a while behind the scenes for a little while, and Canioman has asked for funds and been refused, and that is why we had the spat in front of the press on Saturday, maximum effect. A lot of chairmen can look and see what is happening here, and while Canioman looks like a good bet, it seems to me "confidential" and patience are not tools in his box . I think Wray will have been embarrassed by the way this has come out, and others will have taken note. While Canioman thinks he may have manipulated Wray, it's been roll reversal, and Canioman now has most telling him to shut up and get on with it. Never, ever boring here is it. I wonder if he has a black trilby with a white band around it ? LOL!!!

IMO only, your continual use of 'Canioman' is an immature way of disrespect which someone of your undoubted age and apparent wisdom is no more than a low blow and entirely unfunny and clever.

You sometimes have some very valid points which are diluted with the following 'Canioman' insult - which I find boring.

My first STFC game was in 1963 - and I am a season ticket holder - but sometimes I am embarrassed by the the Wizard of Dross comments and opinions which are IMO sneering about our best Manager for years and our best prospects for even longer.

Just use 'PDC' in future and you may gain more support and respect, just a thought - apart from your usual clique.

I am really not quite sure who 'spiders' is, but his above post is far and away, the very best on here for days, if not weeks.

In his own words, not mine, he has described the situation very well and in better words than I could have done.

Long overdue that someone challenged Wizards rambling and protracted rubbish, well done!!!

Ahhhh JB,i cant help you with who SPIDERMAN is but i do know Superman is Clark Kent,
Batman is Adam West,Ironman is Tony Stark, Dustman is Billy Bird and now we apparently have Canioman who is Paolo Di Canio all super heroes in one way or the other.

Stentfordman.

Sorry Wiman dont see the attraction to sticking man on the end of a name but i thought i`d give it a go first.

I wish this was the biggest problem in life to deal with though eh....Im off to see catalytic converterman or as Ive just found out his name for short his name is Conman..

Steve. Brentford wrote:

joey butler wrote:

sp1dersw3b wrote:

the wizard wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

the wizard wrote:

jayden wrote:
All good fun Wiz

No probs, I guessed as much.

Hope you took my post as a playful jest too Wiz. No offence intended at all.

Den,

NO problem what so ever. I think we have agreed on much and on a few things even agreed to dis agree, but always kept things pleasant. You have absolutely no problem here.

You know, I do support Canioman, because I think he has done so well and wears it on his sleeve, BUT, I think he is also a bit of a dark politician, in as much as he is a manipulator, and sometimes that isn't always a good thing. I support Wray as well, but ultimately Wray, I hope, will still be here even when Canioman is gone, so I'm right behind Wray and if he is playing counter politics then good on him, reigning the boy in. I think Wray, a very astute man, knew a few days ago or more of the situation. I think this has been boiling away for a while behind the scenes for a little while, and Canioman has asked for funds and been refused, and that is why we had the spat in front of the press on Saturday, maximum effect. A lot of chairmen can look and see what is happening here, and while Canioman looks like a good bet, it seems to me "confidential" and patience are not tools in his box . I think Wray will have been embarrassed by the way this has come out, and others will have taken note. While Canioman thinks he may have manipulated Wray, it's been roll reversal, and Canioman now has most telling him to shut up and get on with it. Never, ever boring here is it. I wonder if he has a black trilby with a white band around it ? LOL!!!

IMO only, your continual use of 'Canioman' is an immature way of disrespect which someone of your undoubted age and apparent wisdom is no more than a low blow and entirely unfunny and clever.

You sometimes have some very valid points which are diluted with the following 'Canioman' insult - which I find boring.

My first STFC game was in 1963 - and I am a season ticket holder - but sometimes I am embarrassed by the the Wizard of Dross comments and opinions which are IMO sneering about our best Manager for years and our best prospects for even longer.

Just use 'PDC' in future and you may gain more support and respect, just a thought - apart from your usual clique.

I am really not quite sure who 'spiders' is, but his above post is far and away, the very best on here for days, if not weeks.

In his own words, not mine, he has described the situation very well and in better words than I could have done.

Long overdue that someone challenged Wizards rambling and protracted rubbish, well done!!!

Ahhhh JB,i cant help you with who SPIDERMAN is but i do know Superman is Clark Kent,
Batman is Adam West,Ironman is Tony Stark, Dustman is Billy Bird and now we apparently have Canioman who is Paolo Di Canio all super heroes in one way or the other.

Stentfordman.

Sorry Wiman dont see the attraction to sticking man on the end of a name but i thought i`d give it a go first.

I wish this was the biggest problem in life to deal with though eh....Im off to see catalytic converterman or as Ive just found out his name for short his name is Conman..

Luv it .... very funny

Steve,

Catalytic Converterman, ah yes,

he charges what he likes,


Batman was a good egg

Spiderman was good egg

I've never said Canioman wasn't good egg, perhaps SpidersWeb would like us to call him Spiderman, but I won't.

If Canioman did but know it he could use that name to market a range of stuff like many males do in the fashion and fragrance word in which we live. Canioman for the dominant male, LOL . Some people will buy anything if they think its a good idea, well, look at me, I keep buying STFC S/T's, although this season is probably the last due to travelling etc.

Best of luck with the Cat, or is it Thrombosis to the wallet, LOL

If were talking superheroes then looking at the photo has 'Canioman' just lobbed the dugout along with all those sat in it at an STFC player who has just missed a pass?
---.
Or maybe he is waiting to catch his very own PDC Express as it crashes into Bury station.

Oi Den! wrote:

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote: Den thank you for being the only person to respond to the question whether Paolo develops players. I'll take the apathy as a No from everyone else (as expected)! I suggested in a question and answer session on here last season that they did one training session a month in the outlieing towns, Salisbury / Trowbridge / Chippenham / Wootton etc, to promote the club and get more fans. It was almost exactly a year ago. JW said great idea and would look in to it. It still ain't happened not even the once..... Ps Den if you drop that ticket price from £25 to £20 that will be a 20% reduction in ticket prices!

Of course it would! Well, let's say £25 is 25% more than £20 then. No, that still won't get me off the hook, will it?!

Chish -no wonder JB has a fixation about you and Wiz being one and the same - have to put my hand up and say the amount of times both of you have posted at the same time at all different times is surely purely coincidental I'm sure, but has made me wonder lol!

You're absolutely right everyone is entitled to express their opinion in a polite and unabusive manner and we've many of us had a go in the past.

I had a little dig at a couple of recent Wiz's tomes but it wasn't meant in a derogatory manner- i don't know where he gets the energy to write these epics lol! suspect there 's ahandy glass of the peaty Scots elixir to hand!

SAP at least it was only Blunsdon! could have been Coventry or some other neutral stadium like Belle Vue!.

Den -agree with the farce of Speedway rules - always were a nightmare -seems like they still are - do they still have to get rid of their best riders if the exceed their points average or whatever they call it.

Den- what do you do for a living? - did you find it too taxing!! to work out that the square root of diddly squat equals the sum of the squares on the other two bananas lol!!

jayden wrote:
A source close to the club told me that Pdc is off if he hears anyone calling him canioman again

Jayden love it - And Stevie's post re Superman etc was pure quality although he forgot Bananaman, Actionman, Iceman, Sandman Fisherman, Ragman & finally Catwo(man) lol!!

When you two post together and I respond is it OK if I start off "Dear Chuckle Brothersmen! ?

Malkym wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote: Den thank you for being the only person to respond to the question whether Paolo develops players. I'll take the apathy as a No from everyone else (as expected)! I suggested in a question and answer session on here last season that they did one training session a month in the outlieing towns, Salisbury / Trowbridge / Chippenham / Wootton etc, to promote the club and get more fans. It was almost exactly a year ago. JW said great idea and would look in to it. It still ain't happened not even the once..... Ps Den if you drop that ticket price from £25 to £20 that will be a 20% reduction in ticket prices!

Of course it would! Well, let's say £25 is 25% more than £20 then. No, that still won't get me off the hook, will it?!

Chish -no wonder JB has a fixation about you and Wiz being one and the same - have to put my hand up and say the amount of times both of you have posted at the same time at all different times is surely purely coincidental I'm sure, but has made me wonder lol!

You're absolutely right everyone is entitled to express their opinion in a polite and unabusive manner and we've many of us had a go in the past.

I had a little dig at a couple of recent Wiz's tomes but it wasn't meant in a derogatory manner- i don't know where he gets the energy to write these epics lol! suspect there 's ahandy glass of the peaty Scots elixir to hand!

SAP at least it was only Blunsdon! could have been Coventry or some other neutral stadium like Belle Vue!.

Den -agree with the farce of Speedway rules - always were a nightmare -seems like they still are - do they still have to get rid of their best riders if the exceed their points average or whatever they call it.

Den- what do you do for a living? - did you find it too taxing!! to work out that the square root of diddly squat equals the sum of the squares on the other two bananas lol!!

Malkym you have great sense of humour - keep it up... what do you think Wiz ?... yep absolutely HIC !!

Chish and Fips wrote:
Spider the point you overlooked conveniently is everyone is entitled to their opinion on here, perhaps giving someone a nick name could be construed as de-respectful, on the other hand it can be used as a term of endearment.

Carry on Wiz - Spider and even you JB

Yes, everyone is entitled to an opinion which is why I posted mine - I trust you didn't conveniently forget this before posting yours?

I accept your nickname opinion but I don't agree with it especially as there is a suggestion of 'batting for the other side' with your term of endearment analogy!

Life goes on and no harm meant by the way.

sp1dersw3b wrote:

Chish and Fips wrote:
Spider the point you overlooked conveniently is everyone is entitled to their opinion on here, perhaps giving someone a nick name could be construed as de-respectful, on the other hand it can be used as a term of endearment.

Carry on Wiz - Spider and even you JB

Yes, everyone is entitled to an opinion which is why I posted mine - I trust you didn't conveniently forget this before posting yours?

I accept your nickname opinion but I don't agree with it especially as there is a suggestion of 'batting for the other side' with your term of endearment analogy!

Life goes on and no harm meant by the way.

'Batting for the other side' he queries, said in a very deep voice...

Hmm...! Not intended I can assure you.

No offence taken Spider.

Is Butler Reg Varney

Malkym,

Ah yes the single malt, but you are normally sooo observant, but you missed my recent post explaining that now it is off limits, for good. Sadly.

After let us say , a few problems, I have been diagnosed as intolerant of wheat and gluten, so scotch is off the menu, but as you are such a good buddy I am allowed brandy, so I'll take it as a yes you will be buying when we meet up one day. On the more serious note, I'm ok now I'm off a list of stuff longer than your arm.
Enjoying the new name, have a good one, Wizman.

Not read many of the posts above but i agree with those that say PDC will have to use the squad he has now built,his squad, and show that he is the man that we all think he is.
The board have have gone done everything and above for PDC.

No good asking for 4-5 players after every defeat and although i think PDC has been correct on most situations he may need to hone his man management skills now maybe a little better.
I personally think we have the squad to cope with the Williams and AM injuries plus a couple more if it did happen.

Angolan Red wrote:
Paulo winges in public when he doesnt get his own way,criticises his team in public, good coach bad manager time to go before he bankrupts the club.

Spot on. He has brought in a load of nothing players, and then moans when the club has hit the limit. He doesn't know what he wants, only goes on constantly about bringing in more players. Anyone could do that, hoping to hit the right combination in the end...I am sure the club is doing OK in spite of PDC rather than because if him

...and he says he can't guarantee promotion because of the embargo. He couldn't guarantee it before the embargo, he's just looking for excuses!