I do often wonder if the Pozzos have an extensive library of very dodgy photographs showing players, agents and chairmen in various embarrassing and sexually explicit positions. It would explain one hell of a lot.
We've actually signed an experienced PL player now; this should guarantee a B+ on Gino's transfer homework from the pundits this year.
I've heard the same. If true it's classy of Sunderland not to stand in his way or hold out for better offers. His form's been fantastic since the new year so I guess he's a strong character.
The Sunderland forum is quality. For a club that's been fodder for half a decade, they still get a hell of a lot of people on there. All seem thoroughly entertaining as well. Top work.
At the risk of sounding tinpot it makes me glad I don't support a club their size and fanbase as there's no way I could get through 100 or so threads a day.
If we get him we will have 4 CBs who have proven themselves in the PL, plus Kabasele and Hoban. Great strength in depth at CB.
Wasn't overly excited about this one, but I'm definitely happier at the prospect of signing him after reading what the Sunderland fans have to say about him. Triple signing announced tomorrow?
Solid centre back over a number of years in the Premierleague. Quite an astute signing this if it does go through at that price with a good couple of years left in the legs yet. Was always a solid pick for Spurs in his time there before picking up a few injuries.
Pretty sure agree sing personal terms will be easy and he will fit right into the squad with Capoue and Gomes already here. Can see a back three of Britos Kaboul Prodl being very solid. Especially for set pieces in both attack and defence.
I think we possibly could, and probably for the same price. Not over excited about this as an option, but if he signs, then he is already a legend, and I'll back him whenever he puts the shirt on. Most of my concerns about him (late Spuds career and first half of last season) do seem to be balanced by opinions of his more recent performances, so happy to trust in Gino's vastly superior knowledge on this... That said, still seems like a sign that Gino's learning curve is a steep one.
Same here. First name on the sheet for a defender. I love the others' but cannot understand why anyone would pick three from what we've got without including Cathcart.
I love the guy as well, I just think Prodl could be key for us this season after having his first season in the Prem, he knows the league now, knows the players he's up against and knows what to expect. Just have a feeling he could have a great season for us.
Totally agree. He was magnificent up until he was out for 5 or 6 weeks with his injury in November. 4 very good centre backs backed up by Tommy Hoban and Nyom is a decent problem to have.
Yep. Kaboul or Prodl in the middle. Cathcart right, Britos left. With CDs, loads of quality cover will be needed and used for suspensions and injuries. Prodl and Kaboul can pretty much only play the middle of a back 3 due to the pace needed to play on the outside of the 3.
Wow, we've signed a player that can actually play straight away! Think this could be one of the best bits of business the Pozzo's have ever done for us, very good signing.
Yes you are correct, he can play right back, centre back and as defensive midfield (according to his Wiki page) if my memory is correct the last players we have signed with P.L. Experience were Gomez , Capoo and Ben Watson all very solid professionals who have done extremely well for us, if Kaboul is similar for us we will have done very well
Wobby suggesting we've had a bid accepted http://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/sport/14692046.Sunderland_accept_Watford_Kaboul_bid/
This is a really solid signing given the relatively low fee. We have 4 senior centre backs now and Kasabele and Hoban to get game time when they can and develop further in the background.
Unless he's the crap player I remember him to be (hope I'm wrong about that - if so, I'll say so). That must be the end of Hoban, unless we're planning to string five central defenders along the back. Surely there are other positions that need reinforcing more than central defence?
3 at the back with cover for every position, seems fine to me Especially if Gino wants Europa cup :naughty:
Perhaps, but the same was said about Gomes and Capoue and at such little cost it's a worthwhile risk - better than the 5-7 mill we spent on 4 players last season that have all left. Yeah I agree, I liked Hoban but he hasn't played in years and from what I can remember, with the ball at his feet he was a bit shaky - got away with it in the Championship as his positioning was good but can't see that happening in the Prem. I don't trust Nyom as a full back/wing back, let alone as a centre back. The Belgian chap isn't fit (surprise surprise!) so probably a good shout getting in another CB that will either step in straight away or provide cover to Prodl, Cathcart and Britos.
If the plan really is to start him tomorrow (which I read somewhere) isn't it likely he'll jump in for Watson in midfield? (a shuffle required obviously)