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West Bromwich Albion FC Forums => West Bromwich Albion FC => Topic started by: alex1 on September 09, 2020, 05:59:11 PM
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Being linked with Ivanovic the ex Chelsea player. Was a great defender and goalscorer - in his day! He's 36. Interesting, but we now have other priorities.
https://www.westbromnews.co.uk/2020/09/09/west-brom-negotiate-deal-to-sign-available-player-with-250-pl-apps-journalist/
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The biggest problem is that we have a very weak goalkeeper and brittle back four. No experience / quality in our back five. Can we keep the opposition's chances down low enough to compete? For me we still look more like Norwich than Sheff Utd in terms of naive defending and as exciting as some of our midfielders are if we can't keep it tight at the other end then we are going to struggle big time. I'd have been more confident had we brought in a top class keeper.
Agreed. We conceded a goal a game on average last season. The keeper and defenders aren't going to improve IMO. Our spine is so weak. Johnstone,Bartley,Livermore, HRK/Austin. Sheffield Utd are a very solid and organised side but awful to watch. We are way too open.
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Being linked with Ivanovic the ex Chelsea player. Was a great defender and goalscorer - in his day! He's 36. Interesting, but we now have other priorities.
https://www.westbromnews.co.uk/2020/09/09/west-brom-negotiate-deal-to-sign-available-player-with-250-pl-apps-journalist/
Think this might be ok. We're crying out for some experience at center-half next to Ajayi. Obviously wouldn't want to be tied down to a long contract with him but a year at us for the season may work.
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https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-8714621/amp/Branislav-Ivanovic-talks-West-Brom-ex-Chelsea-man-keen-Premier-League-return.html?__twitter_impression=true
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I’ve always been a big fan of Ivanovic and the Russian league is a decent standard so he could probably still do a job, but it is a bit weird that we would sign a right back when it’s a left back that we are crying out for. O’Shea and Furlong are decent right backs already.
Maybe Ivanovic gives O Shea the opportunity to play centre half, or maybe Bilic wants to consider 3 at the back, with Diangana as a left wing back?
That’s if this is true of course.
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I have got no problem with us signing a Ivanovic or somebody like that for a year or two.
Johnstone, Furlong, O'Shea, Ajayi, Kipre, Bartley and Townsend have little or no premier league experience, and there are doubts if some of those are good enough anyway, Hegazi only had one season and again there are doubts if he is good enough, Gibbs has played most of his career but there seem to be doubts about his future if reports are to be believed.
I am glad we are reducing the age of the squad, it bodes well for the future but you cant have a team of youngsters, you need a few experienced heads.
Even if we Sign Gallagher and Krovinovic to compete for centre midfield alongside Livermore and Sawyers, only Livermore has played in the premier league regular.
And infront of them Grady, Pereira and Edwards havent hardly any premier league experience, Grosicki does and should be ok, Phillips does but sadly there are real doubts if he is good enough, again another year older and the days he can be brilliant are getting less and less.
I think only Austin has a slight chance of being good enough purely because he gets a few goals, HRK will add little and ideally neither will be with us, and Zohore will hopefully be long gone.
Thats why i would be quite happy with Ivanoic and a Deeney, add a bit of experience and know how, help get us established for a year or two and get the others experience of playing premier league football before moving them on, of course we need another striker at the moment too, a quick and mobile one!
From my Chelsea long-term STH mate re Ivanovic when I mentioned we were apparently in for him:
“Really? He was slow when he left us, all his pace was gone and for such a hero and fan’s favourite it all finished a bit badly and everyone wanted him out the team. Shame because he was a legend. The only place he could play would be in a back 3 as one of the two markers with someone covering behind himâ€
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From my Chelsea long-term STH mate re Ivanovic when I mentioned we were apparently in for him:
“Really? He was slow when he left us, all his pace was gone and for such a hero and fan’s favourite it all finished a bit badly and everyone wanted him out the team. Shame because he was a legend. The only place he could play would be in a back 3 as one of the two markers with someone covering behind himâ€
Remember this vaguely. He was awful in that last season. Would be an extremely poor signing.
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Remember this vaguely. He was awful in that last season. Would be an extremely poor signing.
He went on to add:
“As I say i personally wouldn’t let him go anywhere near a full back role, got to have cover round him. Hope Gallagher will get some time. West Brom is a place to go on loan— they do things the right way, he’ll learn a lot regardless“
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Remember this vaguely. He was awful in that last season. Would be an extremely poor signing.
this would be a disaster, we could likely have Zabaleta too
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I cant imagine he would be being brought in to play right back though would he?
Especially with Furlong and O’Shea certainly worth a chance at right back, He would be a centre half.
Not necessarily him but an experienced quality centre half would be ideal and hopefully move Hegazi or Bartley on.
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From my Chelsea long-term STH mate re Ivanovic when I mentioned we were apparently in for him:
“Really? He was slow when he left us, all his pace was gone and for such a hero and fan’s favourite it all finished a bit badly and everyone wanted him out the team. Shame because he was a legend. The only place he could play would be in a back 3 as one of the two markers with someone covering behind himâ€
I really rated Ivanovic when he was at his peak, both as a defender and scoring from corners, but when I read his pace has gone, its clear he's going to struggle. Full backs but also centre backs need pace in the modern game. Otherwise we can't push as a team up the pitch.
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Surely there's no truth to these Ivanovic rumours. Simon Jones Is usually on the money when it comes to us though so who knows.
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Surely there's no truth to these Ivanovic rumours. Simon Jones Is usually on the money when it comes to us though so who knows.
Could be, he's a free agent so only wages to worry about.
The fact that he's probably 2 years past his sell by date won't enter into the equation.
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Could be, he's a free agent so only wages to worry about.
The fact that he's probably 2 years past his sell by date won't enter into the equation.
Well it bloody should!!!
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Could be, he's a free agent so only wages to worry about.
The fact that he's probably 2 years past his sell by date won't enter into the equation.
2 years? And the rest he was slow and useless at the end of his Chelsea career.
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Percy confirms Ivanovic talks. Jesus wept Albion.
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John Percy Twitter Account
West Brom to continue talks with #cfc legend Branislav Ivanovic over a move to the Hawthorns. Ivanovic could sign for the season in the next 48 hours. Last played in the Premier League in December 2016 #wba
Not happy with this
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fulham spend money as shown the previous 3 years under Khan, the keeper they have bought in on loan was on loan at Real Madrid last season from PSG.
we are working to a budget like we always will be
I was more referring to the fact that Fulham’s keeper They already had is more than useful
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Hmmm, not keen on the reports of him being way of the pace in his "senior" years. I suppose it could be deemed low risk if he is there to help guide the younger defenders but again, there will be far better options out there if you look abroad (i know Ivanovic is coming most recently from Zenit, but he jas been picked up due to his Chelsea days). Another Lugano?
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Will be hard to tell what he will be like playing wise, but can't hurt to have someone with such a high level of expereince in the dressing room?
He's won premier leagues and a champs league - surely our other defenders could learn a lot from him.
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I'm on the fence regarding Ivanovic his legs went years ago and he wouldn't command big wages anymore. We also need some experience at the back. It stands a chance Furlong and OShea won't cut it in the prem. I'll support him as I do with every player who joins but I don't know how to feel
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The board strike again. We will never learn.
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Look at stats yes still playing fairly regularly for ZSP but what's the standard of the Russian league like? I've no interest in it.
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I am not in favour of Ivanovic and when he left the prem he seemed shot. Lugano mark2?
The mad thing is he captained Zenit last year and played in all their champions league games...
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Playing central and done well for Zenit according to Russian tweeters do you knows. Might be ok CD cover and an experienced head in the dressing room.
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So Russia Football fans on Twitter saying he plays CB only now and plays it very well so who knows.
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The board strike again. We will never learn.
I don't agree with this. The big difference is that Ivanovic is a free transfer who would be signing a short-term contract for the season. The mistakes in the past were signing players under TP who were in their late 20s who cost big money and had no sell on fee with long contracts.
Difficult to say if he's going to be an asset or not but it's a gamble worth taking on a free. He played a full season in Russia so appears to have kept himself in shape and fit and we do need more experience in the defence.
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I really hope this rumour isn't true. Worried that Percy seems to have confirmed it.
Ivanovic is exactly the kind of player we should be avoiding. Yes he offers experience but that is all, his pace went years ago. I doubt his wages will be small beer either.
Coming in as a centre back I can sort of understand but how many do we need unless we are moving Hegazi or Bartley on? Bartley, Hegazi, Kipre, Ajayi with O'Shea offering cover there as well.
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I really hope this rumour isn't true. Worried that Percy seems to have confirmed it.
Ivanovic is exactly the kind of player we should be avoiding. Yes he offers experience but that is all, his pace went years ago. I doubt his wages will be small beer either.
Coming in as a centre back I can sort of understand but how many do we need unless we are moving Hegazi or Bartley on? Bartley, Hegazi, Kipre, Ajayi with O'Shea offering cover there as well.
Neither Hegazi or Bartley are good enough and O'Shea is likely to start the season as first choice right back.
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I don't agree with this. The big difference is that Ivanovic is a free transfer who would be signing a short-term contract for the season. The mistakes in the past were signing players under TP who were in their late 20s who cost big money and had no sell on fee with long contracts.
Difficult to say if he's going to be an asset or not but it's a gamble worth taking on a free. He played a full season in Russia so appears to have kept himself in shape and fit and we do need more experience in the defence.
This deal only makes sense if one of the CBs is going. He's not being brought in as a starter from various reports.
We don't need 5 CBs or 6 if you count DOS. We need strikers. I've give up on GK.
He's ot going to be coming on chepa wages I'd wager.
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Joseph Masi Twitter Account
As per @JPercyTelegraph , I understand Albion are closing in on a deal to sign Branislav Ivanović. Slaven Bilic previously tried to sign him for West Ham. Can play across the back four and brings some crucial Premier League experience following the departures of Brunt & Barry #wba
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Ivanovic has to be a central option and we already have 4 Centre Backs as a full back he wouldn't even be on the side that we need to strengthen that's before we factor he'd get rinsed out wide.
I could just about cope with a deal like this if we were a team of callow youths with the bulk of the squad having less than say a 100 senior appearances under their belts but that's not the case. The absolutely ONLY way I could be comfortable with this as a short term fix if it allows us to trade out Hegazi for cash which could be used to fund other deals.
But right now this looks bad. The very worst reason to sign a player is "experience" it never makes up for an inability to do a job on the pitch.
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I think I've said before but sometimes players are signed for their dressing room and in his case leadership and experience. Peltier last year for example, no one was excited but he was a squad player and obviously had an effect somehow that we won't see at all.
It's not like we're going to be giving Ivanovic 50-60k p/w is it. Maybe 20-30k with a performance bonus which in PL terms is not a lot.
Imagine he helps Kipre and Ajayi adapt and is there for cover. Him costing us 1.2-1.5m in wages for a season could be worth 100m to us next year if he does bits behind the scenes we don't see!
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Played well at centre back for Zenit including in the champions league. Decent option and allows us to sell Hegazi/Bartley.
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This looks like it’s a Slav signing which if it is I’m not against. We need an old head in there especially at the back I’m assuming he’s coming in playing CB. If it means we sell Hegazi off and free some cash up for a defensive mid/goalkeeper I’m for it, don’t think there would be a huge drop off between Ivanovic & Hegazi anyways.
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I've seen us before try to consolidate other parts of the team whilst neglecting the main priority. Ivanovic potentially takes away valuable funds from other urgent priorities, most notably a proven goalscorer, not a makeweight. Also a higher priority is the central mid position where we urgently need either Krovinovic or Gallagher.
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In fairness McAuley was playing fairly regularly for us at centre back at that age and older, he had absolutely zero pace and definitely wasn’t as good as Ivanovic. I’m sure his reading of the game will make up for his lack of pace. You could say we will set up very differently to how we were then which would be a valid point.
I’m not sure on this one, but wouldn’t be too bad a signing.
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This deal only makes sense if one of the CBs is going. He's not being brought in as a starter from various reports.
We don't need 5 CBs or 6 if you count DOS. We need strikers. I've give up on GK.
He's ot going to be coming on chepa wages I'd wager.
Think Hegazi or Bartley will be sold
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Ivanovic has played 71 games in the past 2 seasons, whilst the Russian league isn't the best in the world it's not terrible either. Remember, we can't constantly sign good, young players and expect it to be easy or avoid relegation. When we first went up we got Shorey and Scharner. Both stayed for about 2 seasons and were on big money/at the end of their careers. However, they still worked for us at the time. A bit of experience is vital when you first go up.
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In fairness McAuley was playing fairly regularly for us at centre back at that age and older, he had absolutely zero pace and definitely wasn’t as good as Ivanovic. I’m sure his reading of the game will make up for his lack of pace. You could say we will set up very differently to how we were then which would be a valid point.
I’m not sure on this one, but wouldn’t be too bad a signing.
In the Pulis team, defenders were hardly allowed to set foot outside the penalty area, so the issue of having to get back quickly from up the pitch hardly ever occured. A lack of pace is a weakness in a defender. If a quick forward knocks the ball past him, his only recourse is to pull him down with a yellow or red card to follow.
Not saying Ivanovic wasn't a great defender in his day.
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I think I've said before but sometimes players are signed for their dressing room and in his case leadership and experience. Peltier last year for example, no one was excited but he was a squad player and obviously had an effect somehow that we won't see at all.
How can you know?
I'm ok with this deal if Bartley goes as he only has a year left anyway so he can walk on a free at the end of this season. So let's get something for him while we can hopefully.
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Ivanovic has played 71 games in the past 2 seasons, whilst the Russian league isn't the best in the world it's not terrible either. Remember, we can't constantly sign good, young players and expect it to be easy or avoid relegation. When we first went up we got Shorey and Scharner. Both stayed for about 2 seasons and were on big money/at the end of their careers. However, they still worked for us at the time. A bit of experience is vital when you first go up.
Excellent level-headed post. None of our current centre backs were playing in the champions league last season, or ever will.
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Neither Hegazi or Bartley are good enough and O'Shea is likely to start the season as first choice right back.
I know that's why I said he could offer cover at CB.
Hegazi needs a strong partner next to him which Ivanovic could offer but would prefer to see what Kipre can do.
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I usually hate deals of this type but I'm unconvinced by either Bartley or Hegazi as the partner to Ajayi or Kipre. Ivanovic on a short deal to help facilitate the sale of one of the aforementioned to help fund a CM and CF purchase, then I'm on board with it. He has played a decent amount of games over the last couple of seasons which is encouraging.
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Ivanovic has played 71 games in the past 2 seasons, whilst the Russian league isn't the best in the world it's not terrible either. Remember, we can't constantly sign good, young players and expect it to be easy or avoid relegation. When we first went up we got Shorey and Scharner. Both stayed for about 2 seasons and were on big money/at the end of their careers. However, they still worked for us at the time. A bit of experience is vital when you first go up.
That's a very impressive stat mate and puts a whole new complexion on this signing. It suggests he has no fitness issues so, in terms of experience, ability and class, he is head and shoulders above what we already have.
Could be a perfect foil for the younger, faster Ajayi / Kipre.
Interesting
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I know that's why I said he could offer cover at CB.
Hegazi needs a strong partner next to him which Ivanovic could offer but would prefer to see what Kipre can do.
Hegazi won't be in the team, he's never been good enough. His last game at Huddersfield was a disaster. Our decline last season coincided with his return from injury. Bilic correctly doesn't trust him. He won't be playing.
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Hopefully he will be sold this window to raise more funds.
I'd expect it to be Bartley who leaves the club.
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I'd rather we sold Bartley he really isn't a good central defender, hardly ever heads the ball clear and his control is significantly worse than Hegazi
Bartley is a minor improvement on Stacey North, probably our worst ever central defender and that's being kind to Bartley
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Is this the board getting "creative" that we've heard above. Ivanovic in. Bartley or Hegazi out thus raising funds to get Grant or even using one as a makeweight.
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Is this the board getting "creative" that we've heard above. Ivanovic in. Bartley or Hegazi out thus raising funds to get Grant or even using one as a makeweight.
It seems entirely plausible. It might even enable us to buy both Krov and Grant, rather than just one of them, especially if Zohore is also sold.
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Disastrous potential signing, can you imagine Harvey Barnes running at Ivanovic !??
I cannot see how this can possibly be sanctioned.
I remember when Lescotts legs went, when GMac could no longer get away with using his excellent positioning to bail him out, and Lugano - oh dear, Gary Neville being embarrassed at the Hawthorns
Ageing defenders are not capable they fall off the edge of a cliff, not gradually decline, this is a bad, bad move
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I've seen us before try to consolidate other parts of the team whilst neglecting the main priority. Ivanovic potentially takes away valuable funds from other urgent priorities, most notably a proven goalscorer, not a makeweight. Also a higher priority is the central mid position where we urgently need either Krovinovic or Gallagher.
unless it allows us to sell a cb to raise funds for the required area. I’d hazard a guess ivanovic is a better cb than Bartley at least.
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Diego Godin is going on a free transfer from Inter to Cagliari.
If you are in for 36 year old Ivanovic, surely you are better of getting the 34 year old who was arguably the best defender in the world 4 years back?
Might not be possible but you would think we could outbid Cagliari.
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Again, i am not fussed if its Ivanovic or not, but i can see the logic to signing a proven quality defender for reasons stated previously, most defenders in their prime wont be joining Albion, thats why we have the likes of Ajayi, Kipre and O'Shea who have done well and now have the chance to step up.
For what its worth, a few of my closest mates are Villa fans (i know, i know!) and they all said the moment John Terry went to Villa, he just settled the defence down, the panicking stopped, it was when Johnstone was on loan there and they said he looked a quality assured keeper with Terry infront of him compared to the nervous one he had been before.
Rightly or wrongly it looks like Johnstone is number 1 so maybe Slaven has seen with the current crop he is nervous and wants a proven leader and organiser in the defence, even if that player will have a few miles on the clock.
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Ivanovic is another really tough one to judge. We've seen players deteriorate fast in their 30's, and Ivanovic is will be 37 before the end of the season.
Hopefully if the club is really considering it they've really gone over data on him. Clearly the head will be fine, but the key is whether the sharpness and mobility is still there. He's not played a game since May though and 6 months could make a huge difference.
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If the Ivanovic deal is a back fill for a trade out then it is much more likely to be Hegazi than Bartley. Hegazi is a big name in Egyptian football and that might draw interest from the Gulf Leagues he has 2 years left on his contract. Bartley by contrast has 1 year left on a contract is saleable into the Championship a league without a pot to pee in.
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Again, i am not fussed if its Ivanovic or not, but i can see the logic to signing a proven quality defender for reasons stated previously, most defenders in their prime wont be joining Albion, thats why we have the likes of Ajayi, Kipre and O'Shea who have done well and now have the chance to step up.
For what its worth, a few of my closest mates are Villa fans (i know, i know!) and they all said the moment John Terry went to Villa, he just settled the defence down, the panicking stopped, it was when Johnstone was on loan there and they said he looked a quality assured keeper with Terry infront of him compared to the nervous one he had been before.
Rightly or wrongly it looks like Johnstone is number 1 so maybe Slaven has seen with the current crop he is nervous and wants a proven leader and organiser in the defence, even if that player will have a few miles on the clock.
If we want a proven leader and organiser for the defence, can't think of anyone better than Foster, who will be available, and who knows the club.
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Fourth official on twitter claims Ivanovic has his medical with us tomorrow.
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Fourth official on twitter claims Ivanovic has his medical with us tomorrow.
Wonder if it will be in the morning with a view of him being involved on the weekend...
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Wonder if it will be in the morning with a view of him being involved on the weekend...
Throwing him in at the deep end!
Would surprise me but crazier things have happened.
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New topic created following confirmation from the Perce
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Still don't see anything wrong with this signing. Experience, free transfer, won't be huge wages, squad player and won't play all the time. Would rather him in than Bartley (seeing as no one on here rates him as PL defender).
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Madeley saying he was on massive wages at ZSP. Assuming that has come down.
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Madeley saying he was on massive wages at ZSP. Assuming that has come down.
It has come down to zero at the moment so what he was on should have little relevance now.
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True but footballers are that filthy rich they won't accept cheeky wba wage offers, they would rather retire. I'd be very surprised if he was 'cheap'
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True but footballers are that filthy rich they won't accept cheeky wba wage offers, they would reather retire. I'd be very surrised if he was 'cheap'
People like money. £15k a week at any age is still incredible.
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People like money. £15k a week at any age is still incredible.
Not if you don't need the money. If we get him at 15k then i'd be happy with that.
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People like money. £15k a week at any age is still incredible.
You can AT LEAST treble that.
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I would be shocked if we went for him on anything over £25k a week (which is cheap in premier league terms but still mind blowing for us normal people!)
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Slaven seems to be pushing this one, either we are looking to sell a defender or he does not rate Cedric especially after comments in press.
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Slaven seems to be pushing this one, either we are looking to sell a defender or he does not rate Cedric especially after comments in press.
Wrong thread (feel free to point me the right way anyone) but what comments were they?
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I'd be happy with this as we desperately need some experience at the back. He's been playing regularly at Zenit too which bodes well. Let's not forget McAuley who was a similar age and never looked out of place at this level.
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I'd be happy with this as we desperately need some experience at the back. He's been playing regularly at Zenit too which bodes well. Let's not forget McAuley who was a similar age and never looked out of place at this level.
McAuley was signed in his early 30s. Ivanovic hasn't played a match since May.
If Slav wants him I'm on board, but it's not a masterstroke by any metric imo.
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McAuley was signed in his early 30s. Ivanovic hasn't played a match since May.
If Slav wants him I'm on board, but it's not a masterstroke by any metric imo.
Agreed. Probably as good as we could hope for seeing as we are shopping in the Bargain bins.
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This is madness. Why would we wasting a squad number on a player who hasn't played at EPL pace for years. This goes back to the days of buying old timers with the experience to rip us off. What happened to reducing the average age of the squad - we need to reduce the median age as well
As someone points out in his strap line, Einstein's definition of madness was trying the same thing over and over and expecting different results.
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This is madness. Why would we wasting a squad number on a player who hasn't played at EPL pace for years. This goes back to the days of buying old timers with the experience to rip us off. What happened to reducing the average age of the squad - we need to reduce the median age as well
As someone points out in his strap line, Einstein's definition of madness was trying the same thing over and over and expecting different results.
We aren't doing it over and over again though. All our other signings (apart from Button) have been young and raw. Ivanovic could be the exception to the rule that brings a bit of nous and experience.
71 games in the last 2 seasons suggests his fitness defies his years, so has to be worth a go on a free.
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Not if you don't need the money. If we get him at 15k then i'd be happy with that.
He won't accept that sort of money. He will be waiting for a bigger club to come in.
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We aren't doing it over and over again though. All our other signings (apart from Button) have been young and raw. Ivanovic could be the exception to the rule that brings a bit of nous and experience.
71 games in the last 2 seasons suggests his fitness defies his years, so has to be worth a go on a free.
Agreed, think this is all about bringing some know-how into what is a very inexperienced squad for this level. He's also a winner and a bit bonkers by all accounts. We've lost the experience of Brunt, Barry and Mozza recently and quite rightly as you can't hide in midfield if you do not have the legs,and that experience needed replacing. We've seen GMac prove that you can play at the top level a bit longer in the CD role and you can only presume that he still has a level of fitness and desire for Billic to want him.
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Fitness, sports science etc all mean players ages these days have upped a bit. A bit like the general public I guess.
When you were above 30 as a football in 80/90s you were done or considered old or pretty much done. I can actually see players in the coming 10/20 years all going till 40 quite easily.
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You can AT LEAST treble that.
The media suggests when he signed his deal at zenit it was £50k a week. £15k might be on the low side but I’d not expect to pay him as much as £45k either. Not another two years on.
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The media suggests when he signed his deal at zenit it was £50k a week. £15k might be on the low side but I’d not expect to pay him as much as £45k either. Not another two years on.
Saw 90k pw at Zenit mate.
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The media suggests when he signed his deal at zenit it was £50k a week. £15k might be on the low side but I’d not expect to pay him as much as £45k either. Not another two years on.
If he's seen as a potential first pick then i would expect him to come in as one of our top earners. If not then it's anybody's guess what deal they might try and structure.
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Saw 90k pw at Zenit mate.
Fair enough. I saw 3.2m euros in one story and £50k per week in another. I’d still feel £45k was on the high side.
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Would bet my mortgage he's not on a base of 45k p/w
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He won't accept that sort of money. He will be waiting for a bigger club to come in.
Leave him then and let's put that money to a striker.
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Bilic believes he will sign in next few hours, skysports news
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Joseph Masi Twitter Account
Slaven Bilic has just held his pre-Leicester press conf and confirmed Branislav Ivanović is having a medical with the club today. #wba
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As our back four sit very deep the lack of pace would be less of an issue, also his distribution is far better than we currently have, if he also brings on the younger players and is a big influence in the dressing room it's a no brainer.
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Joseph Masi Twitter Account
He would be a great addition, he has done everything and I hope it will be done soon in a matter of hours!"
West Brom boss Salven Bilic confirming the signing of former Chelsea player Branislav Ivanovic!
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Too late for Sunday though, 12pm is the deadline?
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As our back four sit very deep the lack of pace would be less of an issue, also his distribution is far better than we currently have, if he also brings on the younger players and is a big influence in the dressing room it's a no brainer.
Couldn't agree more
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Couldn't agree more
I think he could help Ajayi and O'Shea with his experience.
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I think he could help Ajayi and O'Shea with his experience.
Exactly, footballers are human. Neither of those have played Prem. His whole game day routine, the week before, show them his habits and traits. There is so much we don't see except names of players on paper that I think get's overlooked.
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With sports science and generally the way that foreign players look after their body I honestly don’t care about his age.
As a player (very similar to Deeney) he is better than the other players we have in his position (I’m assuming he plays centre back).
For the right professionals we need to get past this age thing.... the following are either still playing past 34/35 or payed beyond that age and would have got in to our current squad when they reached that age....
Milner
Speed
Carragher
P Neville
Defoe
Lampard
GMac
G Barry
Giggs
Carvalho
Klose
Zanetti
Drogba
Totti
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Not fit for a few weeks Bilic has said.
Heres the BM link
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/slaven-bilic-confirms-west-brom-18919167
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Terms agreed as per Telegraph
"Mike McGrath
@mcgrathmike
·
46m
Terms of Branislav Ivanovic deal to #WBA have been agreed, on a free transfer after leaving Zenit. To be finalised to add Premier League experience for Slaven Bilic this season #CFC #WestBrom"
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With sports science and generally the way that foreign players look after their body I honestly don’t care about his age.
As a player (very similar to Deeney) he is better than the other players we have in his position (I’m assuming he plays centre back).
For the right professionals we need to get past this age thing.... the following are either still playing past 34/35 or payed beyond that age and would have got in to our current squad when they reached that age....
Milner
Speed
Carragher
P Neville
Defoe
Lampard
GMac
G Barry
Giggs
Carvalho
Klose
Zanetti
Drogba
Totti
You have literally named 14 players from hundreds around the world and of those youve named.....
Milner -34
Carragherr - retired at 35
Neville - retired at 36
Lampard, Defoe, Drogba, Barry, all spent their final seasons in lower quality leagues.
On top of that a good number of the others finished at clubs they had a long history and relationship with. Very much part of the furniture and ambassadors with fan support and in some cases legendary status.
The reality does show that most footballers cannot maintain elite standards at past 34/35 and we are talking about bringing in a 36 year old.
Again, it might not be the worst move, but you cant just write out age as a factor.
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This is madness. Why would we wasting a squad number on a player who hasn't played at EPL pace for years. This goes back to the days of buying old timers with the experience to rip us off. What happened to reducing the average age of the squad - we need to reduce the median age as well
As someone points out in his strap line, Einstein's definition of madness was trying the same thing over and over and expecting different results.
100% correct,
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Maybe he's signed as our starting goal keeper! :P
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Random Twitter football saying deal is done, just to be announced.
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With sports science and generally the way that foreign players look after their body I honestly don’t care about his age.
As a player (very similar to Deeney) he is better than the other players we have in his position (I’m assuming he plays centre back).
For the right professionals we need to get past this age thing.... the following are either still playing past 34/35 or payed beyond that age and would have got in to our current squad when they reached that age....
Milner
Speed
Carragher
P Neville
Defoe
Lampard
GMac
G Barry
Giggs
Carvalho
Klose
Zanetti
Drogba
Totti
we could add a list of literally 10's of thousands who could not play at this level at Ivanovic's age, statistically the chances of this being a success are very, very remote, its an expensive risk of cash and squad places, i am vehemently against this (and Deeney).
NO MORE HAS BEENS !
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Will be a good signing. If not on the pitch certainly off the pitch. I've been wanting us to sign an experienced PL central defender because of our defenders only Gibbs and Hegazi have any real PL experience and neither are what I would call leaders.
Ivanovic is hugely experienced and will help the likes of Ajayi, O'Shea etc adjust to life in the Premier League.
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Will be a good signing. If not on the pitch certainly off the pitch. I've been wanting us to sign an experienced PL central defender because of our defenders only Gibbs and Hegazi have any real PL experience and neither are what I would call leaders.
Ivanovic is hugely experienced and will help the likes of Ajayi, O'Shea etc adjust to life in the Premier League.
Agree totally, we need that experience and leadership at the back.
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Joseph Masi Twitter Account
Understand Albion are just waiting on some paper work to complete the signing of Branislav Ivanović. Everything is agreed, just a case of dotting the i's & crossing the t's. Announcement may not be today though - could even be Monday with the small matter of Leicester on Sunday
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Joseph Masi TwitterAccount
Branislav Ivanović is coming into Albion to play at centre-back, Slaven Bilic has confirmed. expressandstar.com/sport/football
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I think Slav’s statement might be indicative of his current assessment of “Kipperâ€
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Can we please sell Bartley/Hegazi to fund Grant then? How many CBs we have now? 7?
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Can we please sell Bartley/Hegazi to fund Grant then? How many CBs we have now? 7?
It's my opinion that this is what's happening here. I certainly hope it's Bartley. We'd then have Ajayi, Hegazi, Kipre, Peltier & Ivanovic cover CB and RB covered by O'Shea and Furlong with O'Shea, Peltier, & even Ivanovic able to cover both positions. (Peltier & Ivanovic if we're absolutely desperate).
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Bilic's comments suggests that this is "his man", as opposed to Kipre who was Dowling's. We can guess which one will get the most game time early on based on that.....
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Kipre probably bought to be sold on for profit after a season if we stay up or kept on if we go down.
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I think Slav’s statement might be indicative of his current assessment of “Kipperâ€
I said when we signed him the jump is too big for him. People had a go at me for criticising that signing but Bilic has all but agreed with me.
However now I know Kipre wasnt a target signing and was instead just seen as an opportunist signing which was seen as too good an offer to ignore I'm much happier with it. It's a signing with an eye on the future. I'm Ok with that when the finances of it dont really impact the present.
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Dont blame Sir Gary for telling Paul Thompson one of them had to go and he wouldnt stand for the boarding signing players he didnt want. Its unworkable.
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Clearly from Slav’s comments this is his signing which I’m comfortable with. I think this could be a very good signing for what he will bring to the team it’s a very inexperienced back 4 & GK at the top level, he’s coming in to play cb where good tactical awareness overcomes a lack of pace as we’ve seen previously, for a free can’t argue with him coming in.
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Clearly from Slev’s comments this is his signing which I’m comfortable with. I think this could be a very good signing for what he will bring to the team it’s a very inexperienced back 4 & GK at the top level, he’s coming in to play cb where good tactical awareness overcomes a lack of pace as we’ve seen previously, for a free can’t argue with him coming in.
If he turns out to be anything like Paddy Mulligan, we have ourselves a diamond 💎
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Joseph Masi TwitterAccount
Branislav Ivanović is coming into Albion to play at centre-back, Slaven Bilic has confirmed. expressandstar.com/sport/football
Makes sense as the modern full back position is the most physical demanding position on the field, requires pace, stamina, youth. Pretty obvious as well as Ivanovic has been playing centre back for the last two seasons to a good standard. Presuming Bilic is lining him up to partner Ajayi with Kipre covering or slotting in if we need to change shape to a back three. Be interesting to see who starts in the back four against Leicester mind.
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Surely we have to sell one now. We are looking a bit bottom heavy now with Ajayi, Hegazi, Kipre, Bartley, Ivanovic, Peltier, O'Shea and Furlong in theory competing for 3 positions (unless we go 5 at the back).
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Not terrribly keen on this, but I can see the logic with Semi and the Kipper untested at this level, and Hegazi and Bartley so flakey. You do need a leader at the back.
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Not terrribly keen on this, but I can see the logic with Semi and the Kipper untested at this level, and Hegazi and Bartley so flakey. You do need a leader at the back.
I like Ivanovic but I'm not so sure either. If it was Pulis as the manager I think he would fit as a typical Pulis CB barely left their own box, which is why pace wasn't an issue. A few times last season though we got found out with a high line but got saved by the legs/pace of Ajayi or Hegazi. So I'm not sure. I do still think he's good as he's been playing regularly and probably isn't in it for the money if he joins us. I'm just not sure where he fits into our system.
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Wouldn't be an Albion summer window without signing another ageing player...
Just as I was getting over the fact that we're signing a 36 year old CB who can cover RB, we announce a 1 year extension for a soon-to-be 34 year old RB who can cover CB :-\ Guess which were the only 2 positions we were already well stocked in...
Regardless of the fact I never want to see us sign another 30+ year old again I'm not sure what the plan is here. We have no left footed centre backs and effectively 7 right footed ones:
Right CB options: Ajayi, Ivanovic, Kipre, Hegazi, Bartley, O'Shea, Peltier
Left CB options: Hegazi, Bartley
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Would of preferred someone younger but Ivanović will be great experience for let’s be honest, a very ropey back line.
I might sound hypocritical after talking down Deeney but centre backs and goalkeepers biggest attributes are their experience. Just look at how greater signing Gareth Mac tuned out to be.
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Johnstone, Furlong, O’Shea, Kipre, Ajayi, Townsend and Bartley have never played in this division. Hegazi got relegated in his first season in this division.
I am glad to see us looking at signing an experienced winner to help compliment the current inexperienced group.
Bilic has confirmed he will be joining us primarily as a centre back. We will just need to hope that his legs haven’t gone as we’d seen with Barry last season.
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Johnstone, Furlong, O’Shea, Kipre, Ajayi, Townsend and Bartley have never played in this division. Hegazi got relegated in his first season in this division.
I am glad to see us looking at signing an experienced winner to help compliment the current inexperienced group.
Bilic has confirmed he will be joining us primarily as a centre back. We will just need to hope that his legs haven’t gone as we’d seen with Barry last season.
While it's probably not many times, and I haven't checked, I'm sure Bartley's had game time in the Prem'. If this comes off I'm hoping his legs haven't gone all Lugano, who had the turning circle of the similarly named Belgrano which has been at the bottom of the sea since 1982. Also hope he'll have a similar impact on Johnstone's game as Terry did. Clutching at straws with the last bit ;D .
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Kyle Bartley has actually played about 20 times in the PL but thats over the space of 4/5 yeras. I randomly looked it up the other day.
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Straight in for Bartley. He could have the one leg missing and id still play him instead of Bartley.
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Bilić has inadvertently announced Ivanović in one of his post match interviews.
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Bilić has inadvertently announced Ivanović in one of his post match interviews.
I doubt he ever does things “inadvertentlyâ€
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I can't help but think some of what Bilic did today in regards to the subs especially was to show the board what was missing.
Also leaving Kipre out of the squad and playing Bartley? Possible attempt to show them he's the gaffer and he picks the team so don't bother signing who I don't want.
BI even at 36 can't be worse than KB
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I can't help but think some of what Bilic did today in regards to the subs especially was to show the board what was missing.
Also leaving Kipre out of the squad and playing Bartley? Possible attempt to show them he's the gaffer and he picks the team so don't bother signing who I don't want.
BI even at 36 can't be worse than KB
I don't think Bilic is the type of guy to take it out on a player, even if he wasn't keen on the signing, I'm sure Kipper will get fair dealings here. But after today, even if it is just for one season, it is pretty obvious we need a noisy, confident, experienced leader at the back, so I've come round to Ivanovic
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I don't think Bilic is the type of guy to take it out on a player, even if he wasn't keen on the signing, I'm sure Kipper will get fair dealings here. But after today, even if it is just for one season, it is pretty obvious we need a noisy, confident, experienced leader at the back, so I've come round to Ivanovic
I do, Zohore is a perfect example, and Grosicki has also been undeniably underused, behind Edwards , Harper and HRK today.
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I don't think Bilic is the type of guy to take it out on a player, even if he wasn't keen on the signing, I'm sure Kipper will get fair dealings here. But after today, even if it is just for one season, it is pretty obvious we need a noisy, confident, experienced leader at the back, so I've come round to Ivanovic
Agreed and we need one of those up front and I’m coming round to Deeney
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Agreed and we need one of those up front and I’m coming round to Deeney
Maybe he could do what Kevin Campbell did
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I do, Zohore is a perfect example, and Grosicki has also been undeniably underused, behind Edwards , Harper and HRK today.
Grosicki I don't understand but Zohore hardly set the world alight when he played last year, even Cardiff fans were happy we took him....
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I don't think Bilic is the type of guy to take it out on a player, even if he wasn't keen on the signing, I'm sure Kipper will get fair dealings here. But after today, even if it is just for one season, it is pretty obvious we need a noisy, confident, experienced leader at the back, so I've come round to Ivanovic
I dont think he's taking it on the players at all, rather the board. I don't think he has a personal issue with the player at all.
IF he doesn't want Kipre he's not going to play him, same with Zohore as mentioned.
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Ivanovic is a done deal.
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Ivanovic is a done deal.
??
I cant find any evidence of that.
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Bilic said it was yesterday. It will probably be announced today once international clearance and all that gets sorted.
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Bilic said it was yesterday. It will probably be announced today once international clearance and all that gets sorted.
Until its official it's not done.
Need to get this over the line and Krov and Gallagher and whatever striker it is we really want (lost track with half a million people linked).
Need them in THIS WEEK! No ifs or buts.
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Still nothing.
What's gone wrong this time? 🥱
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Still nothing.
What's gone wrong this time? 🥱
he is still pushing his zimmer frame from the car to the office :-X
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this from West Brom News (via sky sports)
https://www.westbromnews.co.uk/2020/09/14/sky-sports-new-player-set-to-train-today-after-west-brom-medical-passed/
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this from West Brom News (via sky sports)
https://www.westbromnews.co.uk/2020/09/14/sky-sports-new-player-set-to-train-today-after-west-brom-medical-passed/
Yes, so where is the official announcement?
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Masi confirms there is another paperwork holdup and so it won’t be completed until tomorrow now.
He did train this morning though.
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Masi confirms there is another paperwork holdup and so it won’t be completed until tomorrow now.
Here we go.
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Here we go.
Here we go what?
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Here we go what?
round the mulberry bush ?
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Masi confirms there is another paperwork holdup and so it won’t be completed until tomorrow now.
He did train this morning though.
He couldn’t sign today....his arthritic hand wouldn’t allow him to grip the pen 😀
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Hope he gets the armband and comes straight into the side.
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This is the relegation signing particularly if we are playing 3 at the back to accommodate him.
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Hope he gets the armband and comes straight into the side.
If that's the plan at least it means Bilic has a plan, and it gives us a chance
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Hope he gets the armband and comes straight into the side.
That's not an armband, it's the sleeve of a blood pressure monitor.
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Still not signed then?
Pen run out of ink has it?
Get it done Albion!
And what's going on with Krovinovic? All gone deadly silent.
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Still not signed then?
Pen run out of ink has it?
Get it done Albion!
And what's going on with Krovinovic? All gone deadly silent.
The old adage, no news is good news!, might be appropriate here
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We need to sign some people quickly - for my jobs sake.
Albion !!!!
Please sign some players... so then I can concentrate on my job.
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If you're on Twitter just turn the notifications on the WBA page. That way you'll get breaking news as and when it happens.
The way I said that then you'd think I was part of the media team trying to promote the platform :P
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If you're on Twitter just turn the notifications on the WBA page. That way you'll get breaking news as and when it happens.
The way I said that then you'd think I was part of the media team trying to promote the platform :P
I'm not on Twitter but I thinnk I may need to, it's very difficult to close your screen down in work hours :)
Just been listening to Sky Sports - I know... I know...
Saying that Ivanovic has trained with the guys yesterday.
But not signed yet.
It meade me think. That he trained yesterday and didn't like it and is keeping his options open.
That wouldn't happen would it???
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I'm not on Twitter but I thinnk I may need to, it's very difficult to close your screen down in work hours :)
Just been listening to Sky Sports - I know... I know...
Saying that Ivanovic has trained with the guys yesterday.
But not signed yet.
It meade me think. That he trained yesterday and didn't like it and is keeping his options open.
That wouldn't happen would it???
Only Albion can drag things on like this.
I dont want to sound desperate but I'm bloody desperate.
We need these signings.
Get it done. NOW!!!!!
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STILL waiting.
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Or were checking his fitness.
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Or were checking his fitness.
Bilic already said he won't play for 2/3 weeks when he signs anyway due to lack of fitness so it's not that.
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Or were checking his fitness.
Bilić publicly announced the signing Sunday before he has even signed , so can’t be because we’re still looking at him
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Bilić publicly announced the signing Sunday before he has even signed , so can’t be because we’re still looking at him
There is no signing that's the problem. What Bilic or anyone else says matters not one jot if Ivanovic doesnt sign that paper.
He should have been in by now.
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Signed!!
Re Joseph Masi
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Signed!!
Re Joseph Masi
On the official site.
https://www.wba.co.uk/news/branislav-ivanovic-joins-albion
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The difference in Bilić quotes on this deal compared to Cipré are quite telling.
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Adds a wealth of experience, players like Ajayi, O’Shea and Kipre will learn so much.
Think this might mean we shift out Bartley or Hegazi now.
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The difference in Bilić quotes on this deal compared to Cipré are quite telling.
Absolutely, a massive change. We do need an aerially dominant defensive stopper and leader next to Ajayi, I've seen nothing of Ivanovic in Russia but if he can still hack it physically then he brings those attributes to the table. Bilic has certainly got his man here so no excuses from him.
Bilic did say with Ivanovic we now have the right numbers and quality at the back, I personally think we are still overstocked by one unless a back 3 is our default formation, which I am not convinced it will be. I think these are our first choice back 4/5 scenarios now:
O'Shea Ivanovic Ajayi Gibbs
Furlong Bartley/Hegazi Kipre Townsend
Furlong Ajayi. Ivanovic O'Shea Gibbs
Phillips. Kipre Bartley Hegazi Townsend
Phillips as a right wing back could be a shock but he played there quite well under Moore. Even if a back 3 is our default formation, I still think I'd sell a centre back, if it is a back 3 Livermore could slot in as a secondary option - he has played as a centre back before at Hull.
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Bilic already said he won't play for 2/3 weeks when he signs anyway due to lack of fitness so it's not that.
I hope this doesn't mean 2-3 more weeks of Bartley
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I hope this doesn't mean 2-3 more weeks of Bartley
You would imagine Hegazi returns on Saturday after Sunday's 'showing' from Calamity Kyle.
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At 36, it's going to be a struggle for him to match his old brilliant best and for that reason I really hope we don't "accomodate" him. I've always been a big fan, but would have preferred we had signed him when he went to Zenit rather than now.
He could have a career "Indian summer" and do really well for one season and we probably do need a steady head to partner the more front foot Ajayi/Hegazi/Cipre, but as we saw with Bartley on Sunday, if you don't have the pace in this division teams can hurt you.
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Good luck BI.
Get him in for his debut tomorrow and see what he can do and check his fitness.
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Think he might be the most decorated player at club level we’ve had in some time.
Hope this will be a happy year for Bran and the Albion.
Dobrodošao!
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He gets shirt number 20
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Welcome to the Hawthorns Ivanovic
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Think he might be the most decorated player at club level we’ve had in some time.
Hopefully he does a lot better than Anelka did for us.
Welcome aboard Branislav.
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Welcome to the Albion Bran!. And good luck.
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welcone Branislav, i hope youve joined to us for the right reasons if you have you will be a big assett to us
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Age is just a number. ;D. In all seriousness I think its a shrewd signing. Ajayi/Kipre and O'Shea should learn a lot from him. Hopefully means the end for Hegazi/Bartley as both are no good at this level.
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Welcome Branislav. :D
His experience would be huge asset for the team.
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Good to see him on board - at least it prevents Atomic from wetting his bed tonight :D
I have concerns regarding his legs given his age, but his experience will be invaluable to a side severely lacking in his experience of this division.
He should replace Bartley in the side.
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welcone Branislav, i hope youve joined to us for the right reasons if you have you will be a big assett to us
Another Townsend?
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Another Townsend?
I'd say Bilic has pretty much bet the house on this one, if it comes off he will be a genius, if it doesn't we go down as everyone is predicting anyway.
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Another Townsend?
I know Townsend is barely a left back but Ivanović definitely isn't one ;)
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I know Townsend is barely a left back but Ivanović definitely isn't one ;)
Think he's on about Andy Townsend.
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I know Townsend is barely a left back but Ivanović definitely isn't one ;)
I think he means Andy :D
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The emoji not a strong suit on here then...
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Think he's on about Andy Townsend.
I think Branislav is a different character he's won everything dosen't need the money or to be remembered as that bloke who just wanted a last meal ticket, he's here to show he can still compete in the prem at his age.
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Hopefully he does a lot better than Anelka did for us.
Welcome aboard Branislav.
Fortunately Branislav doesn’t come with the sort of baggage that ‘Le Sulk’ did. I think the most controversial thing I ever remember him involved in was being one of that dirty cannibal Suarez’s bite victims.
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He is older, and people say about accommodating but his career has adapted to CB. If he's as fit as a G-Mac and as smart then happy days - our defence needs an experienced head but also mature and it is clear that Bartley isn't that and many (including Bilic it would appear) believe that Hegazi isn't that either.
It was glaringly obvious the spine needs improving and it looks like Ivanovic and Gallagher are both in and that issue is being directly addressed.
Good luck to you Bran!
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Добродошли!
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Good addition. Wellcome.
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Provided he’s still fit enough, a good signing. Welcome.
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Over the moon with this signing.
"Dobar Dan" Branislav
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Hopefully means the end for Hegazi/Bartley as both are no good at this level
In fairness, Hegazi hasn’t played in the Premier League for two seasons. He did of course play pre-relegation and was good - certainly not making the frequent mistakes we see from Bartley.
The Premier experience of both Ivanovic and Hegazi will be very valuable to Ajayi and O’Shea.
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Welcome Bran, now let's see what that experience brings.
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Only just caught up on a lot of this. I was skeptical at first but seems like a smart move.
Was still playing in the champions league for a decent team last year. The amount of stick Bartley gets in here i thought people would be happy with us signing a CB. He can play all along the back 4 (not that Id want him at full back but if we are desperate he can) and is only on a one year contract. Upgrade on Bartley and Hegazi for me.
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The question is does he start next match and if so in what formation with who..
I’d be tempted him kipre semi as a 3
I think Slav will go him Bartley semi
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Interesting conundrum. Flat back four with Ivanovic partnering A.N.Other or a back three which potentially negates forward momentum. Wing backs have to be very good at what they do in the Premier League. I think we'll see Gibbs, Ajayi (Hegazi), Ivanovic and O'Shea for most games from the current crop.
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The question is does he start next match and if so in what formation with who..
I’d be tempted him kipre semi as a 3
I think Slav will go him Bartley semi
Thought Bilic has said he wouldn't be fit for 2 or 3 weeks.... or maybe that was just to start matches (or complete 90 mins)?
Need to play a back 4 a back 3 just isolated the quality players against Leicester.
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PLEASE prove me wrong, welcome me owd mucka !
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welcome to our club and i am sure your experience will be vital to our campaign. my only gripe is can we sign footballers up to speed and ready to play before we are too far behind
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Could be great, could be awful. All dependent on how much he has left in the tank. Hopefully another Lescott (first season) and not an Andy Townsend.
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Has been a world class player for most of his career,.
If he’s half as good as he once was he’ll be our best (and busiest) player this season.
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Could be great, could be awful. All dependent on how much he has left in the tank. Hopefully another Lescott (first season) and not an Andy Townsend.
Judged just on his cameo last night, he did more than Townsend did in his Albion 'career'.
It was nice to see him so animated in conversation with the younger players, as well as organising the defenders.
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Think quicker forwards may try to exploit lack of pace, but overall thought he added alot of strength and composure to the back line. He will also be dangerous from our set pieces as he is strong in the air.
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Gave Sam a rollicking early on for not coming for ball, laughed at that. Unlucky not to score and solid at back, Hegazi O'Shea and Gibbs with Ivanovic should be our back four.
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Gave Sam a rollicking early on for not coming for ball, laughed at that. Unlucky not to score and solid at back, Hegazi O'Shea and Gibbs with Ivanovic should be our back four.
Townsend was excellent tonight, he competed as well as he could in the air, covered the back post several times and got forwards well, great cross to Pereira who should have done better. Gibbs is finished IMV, lazy and not up for the fight. Only on the books as he is on a massive wage and we can't shift him.
Ivanovich leading can only be a good thing for Johnstone who was much better in coming off his line this evening. Hegazi almost cost us twice in the second half by going awol running outside the box and leaving Ivanovich and Townsend isolated. I thought Hegazi played well overall but he can't keep displaying naive positional sense. He like's a child running towards the ball at times, like a moth to a flame when he should know better to keep his position in the heart of the defence.
I'm not sure I'd bring O'Shea in either. He's decent enough but at least Furlong can get up and down the pitch.
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Townsend was excellent tonight, he competed as well as he could in the air, covered the back post several times and got forwards well, great cross to Pereira who should have done better. Gibbs is finished IMV, lazy and not up for the fight. Only on the books as he is on a massive wage and we can't shift him.
Ivanovich leading can only be a good thing for Johnstone who was much better in coming off his line this evening. Hegazi almost cost us twice in the second half by going awol running outside the box and leaving Ivanovich and Townsend isolated. I thought Hegazi played well overall but he can't keep displaying naive positional sense. He like's a child running towards the ball at times, like a moth to a flame when he should know better to keep his position in the heart of the defence.
I'm not sure I'd bring O'Shea in either. He's decent enough but at least Furlong can get up and down the pitch.
Furlong was abysmal. I dont see how anyone cant see that.
As for Hegazi, I didn't actually look at the name of the poster, as soon as I read the comments I knew it was you. He and Ivanovic were excellent.
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Furlong was abysmal. I dont see how anyone cant see that.
As for Hegazi, I didn't actually look at the name of the poster, as soon as I read the comments I knew it was you. He and Ivanovic were excellent.
My guess is that it was agreed that Hegazi could have a bit more licence and Ivanovic hang back.
Wrong thread to be discussing Furlong, but he is clearly picked when we want an attacking RB for balance, so a bit unfair to have a go when that leaves gaps.
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My guess is that it was agreed that Hegazi could have a bit more licence and Ivanovic hang back.
Wrong thread to be discussing Furlong, but he is clearly picked when we want an attacking RB for balance, so a bit unfair to have a go when that leaves gaps.
Yep Furlong and O'Shea are chalk and cheese pretty much. I expect them to be interchanged frequently.
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Furlong was abysmal. I dont see how anyone cant see that.
As for Hegazi, I didn't actually look at the name of the poster, as soon as I read the comments I knew it was you. He and Ivanovic were excellent.
I texted my mate, saying exactly what was said above, he (Hegazi) went awol twice in 2nd half, overall a decent display but still had his aberrations. Ivanovic awesome debut.
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My guess is that it was agreed that Hegazi could have a bit more licence and Ivanovic hang back.
Wrong thread to be discussing Furlong, but he is clearly picked when we want an attacking RB for balance, so a bit unfair to have a go when that leaves gaps.
Furlong was awful going forward as well. Offered nothing. One chance to put in a dangerous cross and he ballooned the ball over the bar.
I like Furlong in general but he was serious poor tonight.
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Solid by the big man. A captain at the back hopefully he can help johnstone by talking him through the game
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Furlong was awful going forward as well. Offered nothing. One chance to put in a dangerous cross and he ballooned the ball over the bar.
I like Furlong in general but he was serious poor tonight.
He didn't have a good game, that's true
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Very vocal at the back.
Leader
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Really good debut but it's still early days. I think games like today are suited to him where it's a slow, aerial battle. It's the quick, passing on the floor teams that I worry about with him.
Regardless, it's a great start.
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Really good debut but it's still early days. I think games like today are suited to him where it's a slow, aerial battle. It's the quick, passing on the floor teams that I worry about with him.
Regardless, it's a great start.
Even with his lack of pace he still has the best positional play, strength and nous of our centre backs. Ajayi is quicker in the recovery, that apart none of our centre backs through have any attributes as good as his. The challenge with Brighton will be keeping Trussard in the hole quiet (Livermore isn’t up to it), Sonny March is also dangerous down their left and Maupay a constant pain. On the up side Dunk is out and they have looked vulnerable from set pieces. Ivanović is nailed on to start.
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He was my man of the match yesterday, and was able to last the full 90 minutes. I agree that at 36 he is not going to be the quickest, and that may force us to play deeper than we should be. However, he brings so much composure and organisation to the defence. Our defence has been crying out for that for several years (since Foster). He's very strong in the air and can also see him scoring a fair few from set pieces.
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He was my man of the match yesterday, and was able to last the full 90 minutes. I agree that at 36 he is not going to be the quickest, and that may force us to play deeper than we should be. However, he brings so much composure and organisation to the defence. Our defence has been crying out for that for several years (since Foster). He's very strong in the air and can also see him scoring a fair few from set pieces.
Thought he was very good and from everything Ive read he was also instrumental in organising those around him which has to be a good thing. I think ultimately we will see Ajayi next to him as that combination could be our best.
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I thought it was telling we used Hegazi (naturally left sided CB) alongside him. He was a right back. Played RCB for Zenit. This doesn't bode well for Ajayi imo, and I'm fine with it.
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Hegazi/Ivanovic partnership has to be the first choice.
Bartley/Ajayi just not up to it.
Look at the goals they let in.
Simples.
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Magnificent display, and him trying to score shows that he still has that desire to win that made him a 3 time prem champion.
Just a shame he was not fit enough for the Chelsea game as I doubt we would have lost the 3 Nil lead then.
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Form is temporary, class is permanent
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His experience could prove invaluable to us.
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Though him and Hegazi looked solid together. We actually headed crosses away for a change.
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He was excellent the other night, loved him talking to the others telling them what to do.
and to think some on here thought he would be a very poor signing and bad business for the club ;)
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He was excellent the other night, loved him talking to the others telling them what to do.
and to think some on here thought he would be a very poor signing and bad business for the club ;)
guilty as charged, and still against it in principle !
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guilty as charged, and still against it in principle !
I was in two minds to be totally honest!
He has the Slavic mentality and I would never argue with that, and if we can bring that to the team then I am all for it.
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He was excellent the other night, loved him talking to the others telling them what to do.
and to think some on here thought he would be a very poor signing and bad business for the club ;)
and to think some on here can judge a player on one appearance. 😉
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and to think some on here can judge a player on one appearance. 😉
he's made 2 appearances....Brentford and Burnley. :D
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Abysmal. Once great but well past it. Please retire.
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Would have see one of the under 17 centre halves play than have to watch him again.
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Abysmal. Once great but well past it. Please retire.
He’s worse than Lugano.
Mind blowing that we lost our best centre half in Hegazi and ended up with Ivanovic.
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Yes , I agree, never thought I'd see a slower defender than Lugano who seemed to run backwards, Ivanovic had topped it. Another astute Dowling decision
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He’s worse than Lugano.
Mind blowing that we lost our best centre half in Hegazi and ended up with Ivanovic.
Peak WBA board type decision. Didn't feel great at the time and is much worse than I thought it could be.
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Yes , I agree, never thought I'd see a slower defender than Lugano who seemed to run backwards, Ivanovic had topped it. Another astute Dowling decision
Much as I'm not keen on Dowling this is one of Bilic Boys.
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He’s worse than Lugano.
Mind blowing that we lost our best centre half in Hegazi and ended up with Ivanovic.
Jim Bowen "look at what you could have won" ;D
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Yes , I agree, never thought I'd see a slower defender than Lugano who seemed to run backwards, Ivanovic had topped it. Another astute Dowling decision
Think this failing is squarely on Bilic.
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From my Chelsea long-term STH mate re Ivanovic when I mentioned we were apparently in for him:
“Really? He was slow when he left us, all his pace was gone and for such a hero and fan’s favourite it all finished a bit badly and everyone wanted him out the team. Shame because he was a legend. The only place he could play would be in a back 3 as one of the two markers with someone covering behind himâ€
My quote from 9th September. I’ll leave it there...
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Bilic demanded him like Karlan Grant and Krov
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Bilic demanded him like Karlan Grant and Krov
You were ok with the signing, if I remember correctly, on the assumption that we would get rid of one of the other CH's.
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You were ok with the signing, if I remember correctly, on the assumption that we would get rid of one of the other CH's.
We did. Hegazi. Then Slav moaned about it.
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We did. Hegazi. Then Slav moaned about it.
Yes, I was annoyed at the time as I still considered Hegazi the best of a bad bunch and couldn't believe we got rid.
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You were ok with the signing, if I remember correctly, on the assumption that we would get rid of one of the other CH's.
Re-read the thread i had reservations but went with Bilic having seen him and having a clue. I was hoping Bartley would go.
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I would take a mutual termination of his deal this window
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I would take a mutual termination of his deal this window
Agreed.
Brought in by Slav for his experience, hes up there with Graham Robert's and Mike Phelan for me
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Agreed.
Brought in by Slav for his experience, hes up there with Graham Robert's and Mike Phelan for me
Can we include Andy Townsend here too ?
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I would take a mutual termination of his deal this window
Fingers crossed.
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Why does he keep jogging to the penalty spot when crosses are coming across the face of our goal?
Where Gibbs was for their goal is exactly where he should be, which would have allowed Gibbs to mark the bloke who scored.
Still, he doesn’t seem too bothered by his appalling performances.
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Someone on twitter claims that Masi recently claimed on his podcast with the express and dingle that we are considering terminating Ivanovics deal.
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Someone on twitter claims that Masi recently claimed on his podcast with the express and dingle that we are considering terminating Ivanovics deal.
Yes please. Anything we save is better than nowt.
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If the contract can be terminated it’s an option we should exercise. Old Father Time has well and truly caught up with Branna. The money could be used elsewhere.
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we really need to get this guy of the payroll. we have better players coaching the side.
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Would rather see Bartley in the team ahead of him and his wages going on a new signing.
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Can we include Andy Townsend here too ?
Yes
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Much as I'm not keen on Dowling this is one of Bilic Boys.
Yes on the basis that “we sold Hegazi but the windows closing and your options are no one or Ivanovic “
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Yes on the basis that “we sold Hegazi but the windows closing and your options are no one or Ivanovic “
Bilic sounded very insistent on BI to me outside of that.
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Yes on the basis that “we sold Hegazi but the windows closing and your options are no one or Ivanovic “
Not at all, they sold Hegazi 40 days after Ivanovic signed? Definitely a Bilić pick.
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I believe its been reported in the press that the club wanted to sign Duffy but Bilic wanted Ivanovic.
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I believe its been reported in the press that the club wanted to sign Duffy but Bilic wanted Ivanovic.
Dodged a bullet straight into the path of a moving train. ;D
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I believe its been reported in the press that the club wanted to sign Duffy but Bilic wanted Ivanovic.
And given the way it’s worked out for him north of the border, then it’s pretty much like choosing which arm you would want to lose
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Not at all, they sold Hegazi 40 days after Ivanovic signed? Definitely a Bilić pick.
My apologies, wiki says that we have loaned him (hegazi) to Al Hittiad, I could have sworn he was sold ?
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Ivanovic might be better hidden behind a midfield that isn't wide open every week , a Pulis system if you like .
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Ivanovic might be better hidden behind a midfield that isn't wide open every week , a Pulis system if you like .
I think he might be better hidden down the back of a cushion or something similar.
Whatever possessed Bilic to sign him?
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My apologies, wiki says that we have loaned him (hegazi) to Al Hittiad, I could have sworn he was sold ?
According to the official site hes on loan for the season with a permanent transfer already agreed in the summer
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I think he might be better hidden down the back of a cushion or something similar.
Whatever possessed Bilic to sign him?
No idea other than we do lack a bit of experience at the back in the top flight .
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According to the official site hes on loan for the season with a permanent transfer already agreed in the summer
The website hasn’t been updated. There were multiple news reports that the deal became permanent at the start of this month.
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Hindsight is a wonderful thing but, I have to admit, I thought he would do ok, his record prior to signing for us was decent and he'd played enough games to suggest he still had legs. The Prem is obviously a different animal, especially behind a midfield as bad as ours. Need someone with his experience but who still has gas in the tank!
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Quite possibly the most astonishing thing yesterday was Ivanovic keeping pace with Werner. I know it broke him, but I still don’t understand how it happened. ;D
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Sadly it could well prove to be the end of his career
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Quite possibly the most astonishing thing yesterday was Ivanovic keeping pace with Werner. I know it broke him, but I still don’t understand how it happened. ;D
My gob was well and truly smacked by this. It only happened because Werner wasn't in full stride and Ivanovic read his run. Nine times out of ten it probably wouldn't happen, but it definitely happened ;D .
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Yep fair play to him, i saw the footrace begin and thought "here we go, hes not going to catch him" but he kept up with him when he had no right too. He's also helped show us the way forward as well unintentionally.
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I was crapping myself when he came on - the idea of him against Werner and with us pressing further up the pitch almost felt like a recipe for disaster.
His 12 minute testimonial or whatever it was will be the last we see him feature in our stripes. A disastrous signing who we are no doubt paying good money to him. Another summer experiment that has failed.
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Best thing he has done all season is get crocked and 'replaced' by Robinson.
I actually feel ever so slightly grateful.
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Another brainless signing , would be Ok I suspect in a Pulis block but Bilic's side was never going to set up like that .
Wages would be decent too I'd imagine .
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I was crapping myself when he came on - the idea of him against Werner and with us pressing further up the pitch almost felt like a recipe for disaster.......
Me too Liam. He did very well there for an old mon more generally suited to a comfortable walking pace. Yes, you know which thread I'm referring to ya mischievous young scamp ;D ;) .
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Quite possibly the most astonishing thing yesterday was Ivanovic keeping pace with Werner. I know it broke him, but I still don’t understand how it happened. ;D
I'm not sure how quick Werner is, he should be breezing past Ivanovic.
Imagine Barnes or Traore or Sterling in that position. They are gone!
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Watching Ivanovic sprinting with Werner reminded me as a 50 year old of when I had to track some 20 year old striker when I last played. I think I more or less collapsed afterwards.