“I think there could still be another three signings”
Mat Kendrick of the Birmingham Mail did a web chat earlier on from the ol’ U S of A and it threw up a fair few interesting points. I like Mat (not that I know him or anything) because unlike all of these ridiculous in the know wannabes on Twitter and the like, at least we know he is actually a lot closer to the club and the various going ons. According to those nonsense ITK people, Clyne was nailed on to be a Villa player, and Whittingham should have been signed by now with Hutton going the other way. Yep.
Anyway here are a few bits of the chat which you can find in the entirety here: Mat Kendrick Web Chat
On Vlaar: “the Vlaar signing on hold at the moment. I might be wrong, but if it does happen, it might not take place until another defender leaves”
On potential Andy Carroll signing: “it seems the manager would definitely like to bring in a new striker. The Andy Carroll thing keeps being mentioned and Lambert has refused to knock it down, but I would be surprised if it happens”
On Richard Dunne: “Spoke to Dunne at length the other day, he knows his standards dipped last season and he is keen to be part of the new era”
On who will be our number one next season: “really tough one that. I think it really is too close to call. Guzan and Given will be great rivals this season, but they are still great friends too and sat together on the flight last night laughing and joking”
On Stephen Ireland potentially leaving: “not sure Villa are actively looking for a buyer for Ireland, but equally if there was an offer it could be considered”
On a ‘marquee’ signing being made: “the big signing you talk about would probably hinge on Villa getting a couple of the high earners off the wagebill. I’m not saying it won’t happen, but I think the recruitment drive so far shows the market Villa are shopping in”
On Clark starting this season: “I’d like to think Clark will get one of the starting roles in central defence this season, yes”
On next seasons captain: “I think Bent will be skipper this season yet, but a final decision has not been made. Lambert has made it clear that the club captain is still very much Petrov, though”
On Makoun’s role this season: “I’m not so sure what will happen with Makoun if I’m honest. I think if Villa can find a taker for an acceptable price then he will be off”
On future signings: “no idea who will be next, but I think there could still be another three signings”
On Gabby and Bent’s friendship: “I don’t think Gabby and Bent are best mates, but I think they get on ok. As for any sulking, this manager won’t tolerate any of that.”
and lastly on James Milner: “For those asking about Milner back at Villa Park, I agree, I would love to see it too, just not sure how it would fit in with Villa’s current wage policy, unless City were prepared to subsidise half his salary”
As you can see some really interesting points raised, with plenty more in the full piece. Fair play to Mat for doing it from the States, and for all those who got involved.
Few things stand out for me. Maybe the Given/Guzan race is a lot closer than some think, which will please a lot of people. As I’ve written previously I’d be happy with whoever starts on the opening day, because by the sounds of things Lambert will go with the man he sees as the better fit, and not pick by reputation.
I’m also pleased to see that it looks like Clark will be our starting defender. Alongside a more physical ‘typical’ centre half, I think he could shine. With regards to Makoun and Ireland I hope they both stay, so it be interesting to see if anything happens before the transfer window.
Lastly it’s always nice to see we’re still after a few more players, certainly needed and very encouraging.
Remember to check out the full piece at the link if you haven’t.
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I dont understand the makoun story about getting a work permit or whatever it was in the paper the other day. Surely they would have ensured whatever was required was covered for the length of his contract. Not like every player in the premiership can speak english
It does seem pretty bizarre mate. As you say there must have been numerous other players who couldn’t speak English to a decent standard who have been granted permits. Seems like there is something happening, but it’s all gone a bit quiet on the subject. Hope he gets a chance here.
I think Ireland is going with Makoun staying.
I still can’t shift how weak and hopeless Ireland looked in our mauling by Newcastle a couple of seasons ago. Makoun might not be perfect but he is capable of keeping the ball and fighting to win it.
I’d like to see them both stay if possible, namely because they’re capable of keeping the ball. I’d like to see them play with the security of someone like El Ahmadi behind them. I certainly don’t want to see them both go.
Ireland ran the show in the first half against Philadelphia Union. Would hope that Lambert is looking favourably on him after that, as he was our best midfielder on show.