Surely not.............
Wouldn't get any of those soft, there was definitely contact penalties if he played for us, can he really be on £325k a week?
please no
Raheem Sterling Chelsea 2024Getty
Chris Burton
25 Jul 2025 09:31+01:00
Raheem Sterling 'open' to Fulham move as Chelsea outcast looks to end Stamford Bridge nightmare with another transfer across London
R. Sterling
Chelsea
Fulham
Premier League
Transfers
Raheem Sterling is reportedly open to the idea of joining Fulham on loan as the experienced forward looks to end his nightmare at Chelsea.
https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/raheem-sterling-open-fulham-move-chelsea-outcast-end-stamford-bridge-nightmare-transfer-london/bltc8dea82a5b60a673
Sorry ... no idea how to upload links :(
I'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
Great potential signing. With Iwobi off on international duty Sterling gives experienced support on the left. If we can get him then we need better support for Wilson on the right.
Shame we couldn't get Lookman back instead of Sterling.
If Marco thinks he can get a tune out of him, I'm happy to have him. That being said, he looked well passed his best last season. Expected him to retire, if I'm honest.
Another OAP and signs of desperation, we are really scaping the barrel here guys, is there no longer term investment in players who are going grow with the club, become valuable etc, Brighton and Brentford has done exceedingly well out of that kind of buying, we cant keep bringing in OAP's with such short sighted views. It is almost as if we do what is needed to "Survive"
Can he take a corner or place a free kick. If the answer is yes to either I'm in.
Interestingly it's all over the established news outlets... something's happening there - whether it's an agent drumming up interest or something else who knows..
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/ce83846xexvo
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/07/25/fulham-raheem-sterling-move-revitalise-career-chelsea/
Look, for me there's a very exciting and incredibly talented player in there who at one point was the star man for England and Man City..
He's 30 and has definitely lost his way for some reason at both Arsenal and Chelsea..
If Marco can get him back on form, and this squad can rally around him and make him feel loved and in love with football again, then it's a no brainer. He's still got at least 2-4 yrs where he can be useful at this level and let's be honest, it'd be one of the most recognised names we've signed since Berba in terms of career and reputation, even if it has gone through the mud a bit.
The other thing is that, if he plays for us and does well -then we win.. but if he plays, does well, wants to stay - it still becomes a statement of intent about what's going on at the club - that we can be a place for players like him.
Players want to play with other good players.
He'd be a better potential signing for us in my mind than what we thought of about Willian when he first signed for us, and look how he turned out.
Would clearly have to come down some way on wages to stay/sign permanently.
Can see him gelling well with Bassey, Iwobi, ESR etc.
What's happened to Raheem Sterling's form?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cn84gl39xx9o
Also, in his last full season at Chelsea he still managed 8 goals and 7 assists.. which is a good return for Fulham and obviously something he can do better than.
https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/raheem-sterling/leistungsdaten/spieler/134425/plus/0?saison=2023
Quote from: Wingnut on July 25, 2025, 01:11:25 PMIf Marco thinks he can get a tune out of him, I'm happy to have him. That being said, he looked well passed his best last season. Expected him to retire, if I'm honest.
So did Willian at Arsenal, and he didn't do too bad for us.
Quote from: KentFulham on July 25, 2025, 01:28:45 PMAnother OAP and signs of desperation, we are really scaping the barrel here guys, is there no longer term investment in players who are going grow with the club, become valuable etc, Brighton and Brentford has done exceedingly well out of that kind of buying, we cant keep bringing in OAP's with such short sighted views. It is almost as if we do what is needed to "Survive"
Exactly this
Quote from: Angus Telford on July 25, 2025, 02:10:12 PMQuote from: KentFulham on July 25, 2025, 01:28:45 PMAnother OAP and signs of desperation, we are really scaping the barrel here guys, is there no longer term investment in players who are going grow with the club, become valuable etc, Brighton and Brentford has done exceedingly well out of that kind of buying, we cant keep bringing in OAP's with such short sighted views. It is almost as if we do what is needed to "Survive"
Exactly this
If Marco wants these players, what's the answer, get rid of Marco ?
Quote from: alfie on July 25, 2025, 02:13:27 PMQuote from: Angus Telford on July 25, 2025, 02:10:12 PMQuote from: KentFulham on July 25, 2025, 01:28:45 PMAnother OAP and signs of desperation, we are really scaping the barrel here guys, is there no longer term investment in players who are going grow with the club, become valuable etc, Brighton and Brentford has done exceedingly well out of that kind of buying, we cant keep bringing in OAP's with such short sighted views. It is almost as if we do what is needed to "Survive"
Exactly this
If Marco wants these players, what's the answer, get rid of Marco ?
It is certainly a discussion that is needed, Is Marco in it for himself, short term signings for short term survival, maybe the odd sucess before he moves on. Or is he wanting to build a long term team capable of great things. If the former, then yes, maybe moving MS on for a manager with a longer term vision is what we need
Quote from: KentFulham on July 25, 2025, 02:20:37 PMQuote from: alfie on July 25, 2025, 02:13:27 PMQuote from: Angus Telford on July 25, 2025, 02:10:12 PMQuote from: KentFulham on July 25, 2025, 01:28:45 PMAnother OAP and signs of desperation, we are really scaping the barrel here guys, is there no longer term investment in players who are going grow with the club, become valuable etc, Brighton and Brentford has done exceedingly well out of that kind of buying, we cant keep bringing in OAP's with such short sighted views. It is almost as if we do what is needed to "Survive"
Exactly this
If Marco wants these players, what's the answer, get rid of Marco ?
It is certainly a discussion that is needed, Is Marco in it for himself, short term signings for short term survival, maybe the odd sucess before he moves on. Or is he wanting to build a long term team capable of great things. If the former, then yes, maybe moving MS on for a manager with a longer term vision is what we need
I mean, it's classic cherry picking though. Been linked with an array of players from all ages, just signed up some young players to longer term deals, but we'll focus in on Sterling to suit a narrative. Before getting carried away, let's at least see what business we do first. You might well end up correct.
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 02:23:26 PMQuote from: KentFulham on July 25, 2025, 02:20:37 PMQuote from: alfie on July 25, 2025, 02:13:27 PMQuote from: Angus Telford on July 25, 2025, 02:10:12 PMQuote from: KentFulham on July 25, 2025, 01:28:45 PMAnother OAP and signs of desperation, we are really scaping the barrel here guys, is there no longer term investment in players who are going grow with the club, become valuable etc, Brighton and Brentford has done exceedingly well out of that kind of buying, we cant keep bringing in OAP's with such short sighted views. It is almost as if we do what is needed to "Survive"
Exactly this
If Marco wants these players, what's the answer, get rid of Marco ?
It is certainly a discussion that is needed, Is Marco in it for himself, short term signings for short term survival, maybe the odd sucess before he moves on. Or is he wanting to build a long term team capable of great things. If the former, then yes, maybe moving MS on for a manager with a longer term vision is what we need
I mean, it's classic cherry picking though. Been linked with an array of players from all ages, just signed up some young players to longer term deals, but we'll focus in on Sterling to suit a narrative. Before getting carried away, let's at least see what business we do first. You might well end up correct.
We do regulary sign up the youngster in the youth, we do that every year, rare does one really make it through, we do have issues holding on to anything with a prospect there such as Roberts, Elliot, Sess (First Time Round) etc. Our AVG squad age each year tends to be the oldest in the PL.
Agree we have been linked with younger players, we are most years, but rare we take that punt. We are very cautious. I expect we will end up with something like Nelson (Loan) Calvert Lewin, Sterling (Loan) Dewsbury Hall
My views
I think Sterling could be a good signing, I read he has only failed to hit double figure goals (all comps) in a season twice in the last 13 seasons. One of which was last year where he barely played for Arsenal.
If we can get him back playing week in week out I think there's no reason he couldn't rediscover some form and turn into a smart purchase (on a year loan with low wage contributions)
On paper I think he had a similar season to Willians last at Arsenal and look how that signing turned out. I think regular games could be what he needs to turn it around and if we get him back to even 50% of his best then it would be a good signing.
Don't think KF is being selective when the most concrete links as of today are Sterling, Nelson and Lecomte.
One day off our slowest start to a transfer window since transfer windows became a thing.
Even this time last year, Sessegnon and ESR were essentially done deals and public knowledge.
I doubt there's a single PL team, or FFC squad in recent history, that doesn't have 2-3 academy players on its periphery so agree with Kent that's pretty much irrelevant.
Quote from: Angus Telford on July 25, 2025, 03:03:29 PMDon't think KF is being selective when the most concrete links as of today are Sterling, Nelson and Lecomte.
One day off our slowest start to a transfer window since transfer windows became a thing.
Even this time last year, Sessegnon and ESR were essentially done deals and public knowledge.
I doubt there's a single PL team, or FFC squad in recent history, that doesn't have 2-3 academy players on its periphery so agree with Kent that's pretty much irrelevant.
Consider me shocked. Reluctant to accept anything remotely positive that deviates even a smidge from your original point, and continue to suggest we're only being linked with older profile players.
You really are adorable Angus.
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 03:07:28 PMQuote from: Angus Telford on July 25, 2025, 03:03:29 PMDon't think KF is being selective when the most concrete links as of today are Sterling, Nelson and Lecomte.
One day off our slowest start to a transfer window since transfer windows became a thing.
Even this time last year, Sessegnon and ESR were essentially done deals and public knowledge.
I doubt there's a single PL team, or FFC squad in recent history, that doesn't have 2-3 academy players on its periphery so agree with Kent that's pretty much irrelevant.
Consider me shocked. Reluctant to accept anything remotely positive that deviates even a smidge from your original point, and continue to suggest we're only being linked with older profile players.
You really are adorable Angus.
Equally I'm stunned that such intelligent, insightful and well-reasoned replies as this haven't brought everyone around to your way of thinking. How obstinate of them to dismiss such profound discourse. I only hope one day, in a less febrile era, users of the internet forums you grace will rightfully recognise you as the Aristotle of our time.
Possibly your best ever post Angus. Well done. Finally!
I presume this will be a loan deal. If we only pay about 100k of his wages then I don't see it as a bad deal. Basically giving him Willian's contract. I still think Sterling has something in the tank and he'll be wanting to get into the England fold for next summers World Cup.
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
Whilst i don't like his theatricals, I used to be impressed by his play in his early to mid years.
I think about Willian's drop in performance, which i suspect might have been partly down to system and coaching, and i reckon that Marco could get the best from Sterling.
Despite his wage demands (which we hopefully wouldn't go anywhere near) i think he would look at Willian's rejuvenation and want a piece of that.
I can't believe that some may think that he doesn't have the skill potential.
Having said that.... i admit that the age of our team concerns me, so i hope that changes soon, especially in light of our recent young gun contracts.
Most concrete links
Lacomte - signed 32
Sterling - 30 (for some reason I thought he was way older than this TBF)
Nelson -25
KDH - 26 (27 soon)
Romulo - 23 (RB Leipzig bound)
Failing Romulo - Tolu arokadare?(24)
+ Looking to integrate an exciting 18 year old king into the team more already
Outgoings
Willian- 36 (35 last season)
Vinicius - 30
On the whole younger than what's departed albeit not radically, bar the GK where age is a lesser issue generaly.
Id like some young wonderkids like anyone,but surprised Raheem is actually only 30. That's really not that old these days in football terms. 4 years younger than Willian when he came in and made a major contribution for us. With Nelson our "younger player coming into their prime" pick, Raheem as our LW competition with Sess (25) and Iwobi....that could be great TBF, and allows Godo to go out on loan and see if he can develop into a real talent himself. Warming to the idea personally. Guys played for 4 of the biggest teams in the league, if we can pull off another fulhamish revival it could be epic for us.
Quote from: jayffc on July 26, 2025, 11:37:12 PMMost concrete links
Lacomte - signed 32
Sterling - 30 (for some reason I thought he was way older than this TBF)
Nelson -25
KDH - 26 (27 soon)
Romulo - 23 (RB Leipzig bound)
Failing Romulo - Tolu arokadare?(24)
+ Looking to integrate an exciting 18 year old king into the team more already
Outgoings
Willian- 36 (35 last season)
Vinicius - 30
On the whole younger than what's departed albeit not radically, bar the GK where age is a lesser issue generaly.
Id like some young wonderkids like anyone,but surprised Raheem is actually only 30. That's really not that old these days in football terms. 4 years younger than Willian when he came in and made a major contribution for us. With Nelson our "younger player coming into their prime" pick, Raheem as our LW competition with Sess (25) and Iwobi....that could be great TBF. Warming to the idea personally.
I pretty much agree with this
Quote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
If he is the Willian replacement , I don't think it's a bad call. But if it's instead of signing someone in the Nelson age range then probably it's a little short sighted when we do need to get the age of the squad down . Or we risk a hodgson / jol moment when silva leaves
Can't beat a bit of sterling silva....
Why is this even a discussion, he is rank !!
Quote from: ex-Pat on July 27, 2025, 04:21:59 PMWhy is this even a discussion, he is rank !!
You don't have to join in.
Quote from: ex-Pat on July 27, 2025, 04:21:59 PMWhy is this even a discussion, he is rank !!
F me
You got something right for once 👏🏼
Someone on Tiff claiming he lives 15 minutes drive from Motspur Park, can't see him signing for a team outside London.
Quote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Quote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMMarco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Good summary
Quote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Is it a massive conflict of interest for the club to sign people who they believe can make us finish higher in the table right now and possibly get us over line into europe?
Considering it sounds like they will sign Nelson as our 25yr old (who could have plenty resale value if he has a great couple seasons) + Raheem possibly signing on a free (bar considerable wages)...cos in that instance, they could well see Raheem as a squad element that could help us take the step up that allows us to qualify for europe and in turn....attract good young players, like - Fofana, who reportedly doesn't want to go to Everton (and probably us) because he likely wants a club in Europe.
Making moves that the club and manager feel can help us finish higher in the table *right now*, is not a conflict of interest, it's in all our interests. It is an outcome that in itself would allow the club to make more money and attract better talent. With NO transfer fee for Raheem - if he managed 2 years of good service and it helped take us up a level, it's good thing for everyone involved.
Quote from: jayffc on July 28, 2025, 12:51:38 PMQuote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Is it a massive conflict of interest for the club to sign people who they believe can make us finish higher in the table right now and possibly get us over line into europe?
Considering it sounds like they will sign Nelson as our 25yr old (who could have plenty resale value if he has a great couple seasons) + Raheem possibly signing on a free (bar considerable wages)...cos in that instance, they could well see Raheem as a squad element that could help us take the step up that allows us to qualify for europe and in turn....attract good young players, like - Fofana, who reportedly doesn't want to go to Everton (and probably us) because he likely wants a club in Europe.
Making moves that the club and manager feel can help us finish higher in the table *right now*, is not a conflict of interest, it's in all our interests. It is an outcome that in itself would allow the club to make more money and attract better talent. With NO transfer fee for Raheem - if he managed 2 years of good service and it helped take us up a level, it's good thing for everyone involved.
Totally agree, I remember people judging Willian on what happened at Arsenal, and he didn't turn out too bad.
Quote from: alfie on July 28, 2025, 12:58:26 PMQuote from: jayffc on July 28, 2025, 12:51:38 PMQuote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Is it a massive conflict of interest for the club to sign people who they believe can make us finish higher in the table right now and possibly get us over line into europe?
Considering it sounds like they will sign Nelson as our 25yr old (who could have plenty resale value if he has a great couple seasons) + Raheem possibly signing on a free (bar considerable wages)...cos in that instance, they could well see Raheem as a squad element that could help us take the step up that allows us to qualify for europe and in turn....attract good young players, like - Fofana, who reportedly doesn't want to go to Everton (and probably us) because he likely wants a club in Europe.
Making moves that the club and manager feel can help us finish higher in the table *right now*, is not a conflict of interest, it's in all our interests. It is an outcome that in itself would allow the club to make more money and attract better talent. With NO transfer fee for Raheem - if he managed 2 years of good service and it helped take us up a level, it's good thing for everyone involved.
Totally agree, I remember people judging Willian on what happened at Arsenal, and he didn't turn out too bad.
He played a massive part in keeping us in the league and finishing top 10 and taking the club up a level.
Now we're trying to take that next step with a settled and better squad all round from that.
This theory might carry more weight if we weren't also singing another 25 year old winger at the same time. We've had zero FFP issues to date, and managed 2 club record sales in recent years. If this weren't the case I'd perhaps be more concerned with our approach too.
Quote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Surely by your logic, all managers have a conflict of interest? No elite level manager is going to want a squad of long term prospects because they're judged on short term results, and not every prospect will develop quickly enough to have an instant impact. A DoF should be setting the strategy in terms of building a squad that fits a wider footballing philosophy set from academy through to first team and ensuring you have a range of age groups in the first team squad.
Quote from: jayffc on July 28, 2025, 01:03:42 PMQuote from: alfie on July 28, 2025, 12:58:26 PMQuote from: jayffc on July 28, 2025, 12:51:38 PMQuote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Is it a massive conflict of interest for the club to sign people who they believe can make us finish higher in the table right now and possibly get us over line into europe?
Considering it sounds like they will sign Nelson as our 25yr old (who could have plenty resale value if he has a great couple seasons) + Raheem possibly signing on a free (bar considerable wages)...cos in that instance, they could well see Raheem as a squad element that could help us take the step up that allows us to qualify for europe and in turn....attract good young players, like - Fofana, who reportedly doesn't want to go to Everton (and probably us) because he likely wants a club in Europe.
Making moves that the club and manager feel can help us finish higher in the table *right now*, is not a conflict of interest, it's in all our interests. It is an outcome that in itself would allow the club to make more money and attract better talent. With NO transfer fee for Raheem - if he managed 2 years of good service and it helped take us up a level, it's good thing for everyone involved.
Totally agree, I remember people judging Willian on what happened at Arsenal, and he didn't turn out too bad.
He played a massive part in keeping us in the league and finishing top 10 and taking the club up a level.
Now we're trying to take that next step with a settled and better squad all round from that.
This theory might carry more weight if we weren't also singing another 25 year old winger at the same time. We've had zero FFP issues to date, and managed 2 club record sales in recent years. If this weren't the case I'd perhaps be more concerned with our approach too.
I get the sentiment of comparing Willian and Sterling, but its not one I think is apples and apples. Willian didn't look broken to me at Arsenal. Struggling yes, but I think you could still see he was working hard and showed glimpses of class. Sterling just looked cooked to me. Legs gone. Mind working, but legs not willing. Yards of pace gone. What made Sterling excellent, was his reading of the game along with his pace to anticipate pockets of space that bagged him a lot of goals. If his legs aren't up to it anymore, he'll be a passenger.
If he comes, I'd wager the fitness coaches and Silva et all have seen a lot more than me so I trust the process. I'm personally just saying, on the eye, his legs looked gone.
Quote from: jayffc on July 28, 2025, 12:51:38 PMIs it a massive conflict of interest for the club to sign people who they believe can make us finish higher in the table right now and possibly get us over line into europe?
Sterling isn't an upgrade on Willian.
Nelson isn't an upgrade on, er, Nelson.
I fully accept/hope that we'll sign some real quality in due course and then we can debate those separately, but these signings (Lecomte, Nelson, Sterling if it happens) are about treading water, they aren't going to "make us finish higher".
Quote from: Deeping_white on July 28, 2025, 01:09:27 PMSurely by your logic, all managers have a conflict of interest? No elite level manager is going to want a squad of long term prospects because they're judged on short term results, and not every prospect will develop quickly enough to have an instant impact. A DoF should be setting the strategy in terms of building a squad that fits a wider footballing philosophy set from academy through to first team and ensuring you have a range of age groups in the first team squad.
You're absolutely right but, without wanting to open a different can of worms, that's why we're totally exposed to this risk, because we don't have a DOF to set/implement that strategy. Really on the football side it's just Silva
Quote from: Angus Telford on July 28, 2025, 01:16:26 PMSterling isn't an upgrade on Willian.
Nelson isn't an upgrade on, er, Nelson.
I fully accept/hope that we'll sign some real quality in due course and then we can debate those separately, but these signings (Lecomte, Nelson, Sterling if it happens) are about treading water, they aren't going to "make us finish higher".
Lecomte is an upgrade on Benda and Nelson if he remains fit, is an upgrade on an injured Nelson. How Sterling does I don't know. I'm personally not keen but Willian didn't offer anything really last year so I think it's safe to say his legs were definitely cooked.
Quote from: Deeping_white on July 28, 2025, 01:09:27 PMQuote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Surely by your logic, all managers have a conflict of interest? No elite level manager is going to want a squad of long term prospects because they're judged on short term results, and not every prospect will develop quickly enough to have an instant impact. A DoF should be setting the strategy in terms of building a squad that fits a wider footballing philosophy set from academy through to first team and ensuring you have a range of age groups in the first team squad.
That's if you have a competent DoF who is also able to fully commit to the role.
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 28, 2025, 01:19:16 PMQuote from: Angus Telford on July 28, 2025, 01:16:26 PMSterling isn't an upgrade on Willian.
Nelson isn't an upgrade on, er, Nelson.
I fully accept/hope that we'll sign some real quality in due course and then we can debate those separately, but these signings (Lecomte, Nelson, Sterling if it happens) are about treading water, they aren't going to "make us finish higher".
Lecomte is an upgrade on Benda and Nelson if he remains fit, is an upgrade on an injured Nelson. How Sterling does I don't know. I'm personally not keen but Willian didn't offer anything really last year so I think it's safe to say his legs were definitely cooked.
Precisely - the issue with Nelson is the fitness concern - the club will have a better read on that than us. When he was in and around the team as an attacking option, we were comfortably in and around the European places as high as 6th at one point, which is what we're trying to achieve.
Failing that working out - We absolutely can not say for sure that Sterling will or won't be an upgrade on Willian? But certainly don't think it's a stretch to suggest he could* be...especially based on the last season and half of Willian. And the stats suggest as much.
Sterling has 123 goals and 75 assists in the Premier League. Absolutely, his form has curtailed the last few years, but 30 is not that old these days.
He had 15 G/A in 23/24 - That's 5 more than Willian had in his best year for us in 22/23 (a year where Sterling still matched that figure by the way)
4 years younger than Willian was when he joined us first and with an impressive history of winning multiple titles, cups, a player of the year award and scoring and assisting. Willian was actually "cooked" at Arsenal according to plenty of their support. Just like we'd be buying a young player based on the hope he could get better...we'd be loaning sterling on the hope we can help him refind his form - as we have so many players before that have been written off.
Quote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
But it is about making an immediate impact if we want to not only stay in the Premier League but advance and win a Cup or two on the way. Take one season at a time.
Of course I want to see our quality academy players retained and given an opportunity to have a decent run.
Due to money rearing its ugly head in football since the Premier League commenced, making players millionaires overnight.
The days of planning longer term are diminishing due to all the uncertainty as the gravy train continues to spread its tentacles.
Managers and players want to win silverware and have something to show for their labour, and the need to survive short term is due to so many club owners not being football supporters and football people, and I am sure a huge percentage of them would not find the club they own if they did not have access to a Sat Nav.
So we are not in a position to turn our nose up at players like Sterling, assuming he would be interested in Fulham in the first place, and Silva like all football followers knows that results count above everything else.
Let us not kid ourselves.
It is a ruthless business where players via there agents are in a strong position these days to orchestrate clubs to march to the beat of their drum, and you add the lack of genuine interest by far away owners and D of F to what actually happens on the field of play, and the difficulty managers have managing a club 24/7, because that's what managers do, it takes up their whole life day in and day out.
Every minute of the day chewing over the fat, making sure every single player is happy and content to how the team is run, and has to keep the players not starting happy also.
Because once he loses the dressing room he is a dead man walking.
Some of the club owners these days wouldn't know the difference between a football and a snowball.
But they will sack a manager without a second thought to make him a scapegoat for their own shortcomings and ignorance of football and what makes the loyal supporter continue to follow his beloved club in all weathers no matter what the results.
So for me if Marco Silva wishes to sign Sterling, then he has my blessing.
Who's our dof? Do we even have one?
Quote from: Super Mick on July 28, 2025, 01:54:42 PMWho's our dof? Do we even have one?
It's technically Tony Khan
Quote from: btffc on July 28, 2025, 09:00:09 PMQuote from: Super Mick on July 28, 2025, 01:54:42 PMWho's our dof? Do we even have one?
It's technically Tony Khan
Yes a gentleman who probably knows more about Kayfabe than he does about offside. He is improving , and learning on the job , but to quote a phrase ' still has a lot to learn grasshopper "
Looks like the fanbase is well and truly split on this one. Perhaps that in and of itself shows noone really knows and can be sure.
On his day he was arguably one of the best, if not best attacking players in the league.
Currently looks out of sorts..
If Marco can rejuvenate him to half or 3/4 of what he was before, which he tends to have a habit of doing, then I reckon most of us would be pretty happy.
Quote from: General on July 28, 2025, 10:13:22 PMLooks like the fanbase is well and truly split on this one. Perhaps that in and of itself shows noone really knows and can be sure.
On his day he was arguably one of the best, if not best attacking players in the league.
Currently looks out of sorts..
If Marco can rejuvenate him to half or 3/4 of what he was before, which he tends to have a habit of doing, then I reckon most of us would be pretty happy.
Indeed he once won fwa player of the year and PFA young player is the year and was nominated twice for ballon d'or.
Why anyone would write him off after the amount of revivals we've managed in our history I don't really get.
It's possible he's completely spent but at 30 yo it seems highly plausible to me that he could have plenty left in the tank if motivated.
Quote from: jayffc on July 28, 2025, 10:39:04 PMQuote from: General on July 28, 2025, 10:13:22 PMLooks like the fanbase is well and truly split on this one. Perhaps that in and of itself shows noone really knows and can be sure.
On his day he was arguably one of the best, if not best attacking players in the league.
Currently looks out of sorts..
If Marco can rejuvenate him to half or 3/4 of what he was before, which he tends to have a habit of doing, then I reckon most of us would be pretty happy.
Indeed he once won fwa player of the year and PFA young player is the year and was nominated twice for ballon d'or.
Why anyone would write him off after the amount of revivals we've managed in our history I don't really get.
It's possible he's completely spent but at 30 yo it seems highly plausible to me that he could have plenty left in the tank if motivated.
My scepticism is nothing to do with his ability but just that every appearance I saw from him last year and season before, was that he just looked physically weak. He looked slow, lethargic but granted, he's always had that look to him, but just weak. I worry he's just one of those footballers that played too much, too early and hasn't really looked after himself hence why appearing to look fine at 30.
But again though, if Silva and co. See it differently and we have a real baller on our hands then I'll be hoping to be wrong on it!!!
Watching Italian TV tonight and their weekly football transfer programme thinks Napoli are undecided between making a bid for Chiesa or Sterling up front.
Willian looked like he was ready for the scrap yard at arsenal. A few weeks with Marco and he was revitalised.
Quote from: Super Mick on July 29, 2025, 12:46:19 AMWillian looked like he was ready for the scrap yard at arsenal. A few weeks with Marco and he was revitalised.
That's Doris' tea for you at Motspur Park... all those added 'ingredients'... it would give anyone a boost.... ::scarf::
Quote from: Woolly Mammoth on July 28, 2025, 01:53:22 PMQuote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
But it is about making an immediate impact if we want to not only stay in the Premier League but advance and win a Cup or two on the way. Take one season at a time.
Of course I want to see our quality academy players retained and given an opportunity to have a decent run.
Due to money rearing its ugly head in football since the Premier League commenced, making players millionaires overnight.
The days of planning longer term are diminishing due to all the uncertainty as the gravy train continues to spread its tentacles.
Managers and players want to win silverware and have something to show for their labour, and the need to survive short term is due to so many club owners not being football supporters and football people, and I am sure a huge percentage of them would not find the club they own if they did not have access to a Sat Nav.
So we are not in a position to turn our nose up at players like Sterling, assuming he would be interested in Fulham in the first place, and Silva like all football followers knows that results count above everything else.
Let us not kid ourselves.
It is a ruthless business where players via there agents are in a strong position these days to orchestrate clubs to march to the beat of their drum, and you add the lack of genuine interest by far away owners and D of F to what actually happens on the field of play, and the difficulty managers have managing a club 24/7, because that's what managers do, it takes up their whole life day in and day out.
Every minute of the day chewing over the fat, making sure every single player is happy and content to how the team is run, and has to keep the players not starting happy also.
Because once he loses the dressing room he is a dead man walking.
Some of the club owners these days wouldn't know the difference between a football and a snowball.
But they will sack a manager without a second thought to make him a scapegoat for their own shortcomings and ignorance of football and what makes the loyal supporter continue to follow his beloved club in all weathers no matter what the results.
So for me if Marco Silva wishes to sign Sterling, then he has my blessing.
That's an easy one...a snowball is an ice cream
Raheem Sterling like Willian is/was being written off.... Willian turned up with a point to prove...and boy (in his first season) did he prove it....as calculated gamble's go - this could be a good one
Quote from: H4usuallysitting on July 29, 2025, 07:16:22 AMRaheem Sterling like Willian is being written off.... Willian turned up with a point to prove...and boy (in his first season) did he prove it....as calculated gamble's go - this could be a good one
Silva does seem to have a knack of bringing the best out of players who seem to be either past their best or seriously under performing... a Sterling of 6 years ago would be an amazing asset... IMHO...
COYW
Let's not forget players like Berbatov, Murphy, Duff, who were also supposedly past it but joined us and were rejuvenated.
However, my main concern with Sterling, aside from whether he has lost his burst of pace, is the position he would be played in. He found success playing very high up the pitch, in teams that dominated possession in the opponent's half, and most of his goals were scored within 12 yards of the goal. When I watched him play for Arsenal, he was playing quite a bit deeper, almost as an orthodox right sided midfielder, and he didn't have the quality of Saka to beat his fullback and create openings. At Fulham, he wouldn't have the luxury of playing so high up the pitch, unless we change our team shape a little bit. On the other hand, maybe his penalty box nous is just the thing we need for all the times we are in a decent crossing position with only 1 player in the box.
Prefer someone above 5'7' for that role....
Chelsea's preference sounds like a permanent deal but willing to cut the fee down to £20m....then it's just between clubs and Sterling to agree wages. If that's true, that won't work for us anyway.
I'd be surprised if it works for any clubs to be honest. Even if he takes a 50% reduction, that's still 175k a week....i can see him sitting on wages despite all the 'motivated' rumours.
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 08:54:14 AMChelsea's preference sounds like a permanent deal but willing to cut the fee down to £20m....then it's just between clubs and Sterling to agree wages. If that's true, that won't work for us anyway.
I'd be surprised if it works for any clubs to be honest. Even if he takes a 50% reduction, that's still 175k a week....i can see him sitting on wages despite all the 'motivated' rumours.
It's all about the numbers... if Chelsea just want him off their books and let him walk away (big ask I know as they spent £47m on him), and we agree to pay him 50% wages, for two years he would end up costing us about £18m... the question then is will Fulham get £18m worth of return from him over those two years?...
Every final table position in the EPL is worth about £1.5m... so we would need to finish 5 or 6 places higher than we did last season... twice... although that doesn't account for European Money received from years 2 and 3 ... so one could argue that finishing in a European spot means Sterling becomes cost neutral ::wink::
Obviously an argument could be made in the complete opposite direction too 🙄
COYW
Quote from: Fulham Tup North on July 29, 2025, 09:17:40 AMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 08:54:14 AMChelsea's preference sounds like a permanent deal but willing to cut the fee down to £20m....then it's just between clubs and Sterling to agree wages. If that's true, that won't work for us anyway.
I'd be surprised if it works for any clubs to be honest. Even if he takes a 50% reduction, that's still 175k a week....i can see him sitting on wages despite all the 'motivated' rumours.
It's all about the numbers... if Chelsea just want him off their books and let him walk away (big ask I know as they spent £47m on him), and we agree to pay him 50% wages, for two years he would end up costing us about £18m... the question then is will Fulham get £18m worth of return from him over those two years?...
Every final table position in the EPL is worth about £1.5m... so we would need to finish 5 or 6 places higher than we did last season... twice... although that doesn't account for European Money received from years 2 and 3 ... so one could argue that finishing in a European spot means Sterling becomes cost neutral ::wink::
Obviously an argument could be made in the complete opposite direction too 🙄
COYW
175k breaks our wage ceiling, and opens up the can of worms for all players requesting that sort of money...... I appreciate what your saying, but that's only going to lead to headaches down the line for both existing contract renewals and signing new players.
How does everyone seem to know that he is on £350,000 a week at Chelsea.?
Sky,Talkpoo,Papers.
Quote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 09:53:03 AMHow does everyone seem to know that he is on £350,000 a week at Chelsea.?
Sky,Talkpoo,Papers.
I read it on HERE!!.. :slap: :slap:
Quote from: Fulham Tup North on July 29, 2025, 09:58:06 AMQuote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 09:53:03 AMHow does everyone seem to know that he is on £350,000 a week at Chelsea.?
Sky,Talkpoo,Papers.
I read it on HERE!!.. :slap: :slap:
That's a slight on my part....looking at wider sources, its slightly lower at £325k.
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 10:07:55 AMQuote from: Fulham Tup North on July 29, 2025, 09:58:06 AMQuote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 09:53:03 AMHow does everyone seem to know that he is on £350,000 a week at Chelsea.?
Sky,Talkpoo,Papers.
I read it on HERE!!.. :slap: :slap:
That's a slight on my part....looking at wider sources, its slightly lower at £325k.
Why would players disclose what they earn to the public.
If we're really interested I shouldn't think he is on anywhere near that amount.
Quote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 10:28:49 AMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 10:07:55 AMQuote from: Fulham Tup North on July 29, 2025, 09:58:06 AMQuote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 09:53:03 AMHow does everyone seem to know that he is on £350,000 a week at Chelsea.?
Sky,Talkpoo,Papers.
I read it on HERE!!.. :slap: :slap:
That's a slight on my part....looking at wider sources, its slightly lower at £325k.
Why would players disclose what they earn to the public.
If we're really interested I shouldn't think he is on anywhere near that amount.
Whilst I agree, it's fairly routine this gets leaked or put on to sites that archive it. Varied accuracy, but I think the details after the Arsenal detail came to light to appease Arsenal fans (they were paying a portion amounting to reportedly 162.5k a week of his 325k, Chelsea footing the rest, things all became quite public.
If we're looking at him, its clear we won't be fishing anywhere near those sums though. Unless the conversation is, 'Are you interested in playing for Fulham? Yes. How does reducing your salary sound to 100k a week or less? Dreadful, no thanks...'....Its why I'm dubious some ITK's seem to think being 'motivated' means a deal can be struck when there's eye watering sums of wages being left off Sterling's table if the deal is permanent. Something doesn't stack up to me.
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 10:34:47 AMQuote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 10:28:49 AMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 10:07:55 AMQuote from: Fulham Tup North on July 29, 2025, 09:58:06 AMQuote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 09:53:03 AMHow does everyone seem to know that he is on £350,000 a week at Chelsea.?
Sky,Talkpoo,Papers.
I read it on HERE!!.. :slap: :slap:
That's a slight on my part....looking at wider sources, its slightly lower at £325k.
Why would players disclose what they earn to the public.
If we're really interested I shouldn't think he is on anywhere near that amount.
Whilst I agree, it's fairly routine this gets leaked or put on to sites that archive it. Varied accuracy, but I think the details after the Arsenal detail came to light to appease Arsenal fans (they were paying a portion amounting to reportedly 162.5k a week of his 325k, Chelsea footing the rest, things all became quite public.
If we're looking at him, its clear we won't be fishing anywhere near those sums though. Unless the conversation is, 'Are you interested in playing for Fulham? Yes. How does reducing your salary sound to 100k a week or less? Dreadful, no thanks...'....Its why I'm dubious some ITK's seem to think being 'motivated' means a deal can be struck when there's eye watering sums of wages being left off Sterling's table if the deal is permanent. Something doesn't stack up to me.
I think it was Mo Salah,when he signed new contract,the numbers were way over the top to what he was actually earning.Something like 120,000 less than what was quoted.
Sterling at any price just doesn't do it for me.
Quote from: H4usuallysitting on July 29, 2025, 07:13:32 AMQuote from: Woolly Mammoth on July 28, 2025, 01:53:22 PMQuote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
But it is about making an immediate impact if we want to not only stay in the Premier League but advance and win a Cup or two on the way. Take one season at a time.
Of course I want to see our quality academy players retained and given an opportunity to have a decent run.
Due to money rearing its ugly head in football since the Premier League commenced, making players millionaires overnight.
The days of planning longer term are diminishing due to all the uncertainty as the gravy train continues to spread its tentacles.
Managers and players want to win silverware and have something to show for their labour, and the need to survive short term is due to so many club owners not being football supporters and football people, and I am sure a huge percentage of them would not find the club they own if they did not have access to a Sat Nav.
So we are not in a position to turn our nose up at players like Sterling, assuming he would be interested in Fulham in the first place, and Silva like all football followers knows that results count above everything else.
Let us not kid ourselves.
It is a ruthless business where players via there agents are in a strong position these days to orchestrate clubs to march to the beat of their drum, and you add the lack of genuine interest by far away owners and D of F to what actually happens on the field of play, and the difficulty managers have managing a club 24/7, because that's what managers do, it takes up their whole life day in and day out.
Every minute of the day chewing over the fat, making sure every single player is happy and content to how the team is run, and has to keep the players not starting happy also.
Because once he loses the dressing room he is a dead man walking.
Some of the club owners these days wouldn't know the difference between a football and a snowball.
But they will sack a manager without a second thought to make him a scapegoat for their own shortcomings and ignorance of football and what makes the loyal supporter continue to follow his beloved club in all weathers no matter what the results.
So for me if Marco Silva wishes to sign Sterling, then he has my blessing.
That's an easy one...a snowball is an ice cream
Thank you, and there's me thinking a snowball is a cocktail containing advocaat and carbonated lemonade in approximately equal parts. It may have other ingredients, to taste. It typically contains a squeeze of fresh lime juice, which is shaken with the advocaat before pouring into a glass and topping up with lemonade.
Quote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 10:54:18 AMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 10:34:47 AMQuote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 10:28:49 AMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 10:07:55 AMQuote from: Fulham Tup North on July 29, 2025, 09:58:06 AMQuote from: Coastwalker on July 29, 2025, 09:53:03 AMHow does everyone seem to know that he is on £350,000 a week at Chelsea.?
Sky,Talkpoo,Papers.
I read it on HERE!!.. :slap: :slap:
That's a slight on my part....looking at wider sources, its slightly lower at £325k.
Why would players disclose what they earn to the public.
If we're really interested I shouldn't think he is on anywhere near that amount.
Whilst I agree, it's fairly routine this gets leaked or put on to sites that archive it. Varied accuracy, but I think the details after the Arsenal detail came to light to appease Arsenal fans (they were paying a portion amounting to reportedly 162.5k a week of his 325k, Chelsea footing the rest, things all became quite public.
If we're looking at him, its clear we won't be fishing anywhere near those sums though. Unless the conversation is, 'Are you interested in playing for Fulham? Yes. How does reducing your salary sound to 100k a week or less? Dreadful, no thanks...'....Its why I'm dubious some ITK's seem to think being 'motivated' means a deal can be struck when there's eye watering sums of wages being left off Sterling's table if the deal is permanent. Something doesn't stack up to me.
I think it was Mo Salah,when he signed new contract,the numbers were way over the top to what he was actually earning.Something like 120,000 less than what was quoted.
Various sources across the internet suggest he is earning between £300-£350k per week. Who knows is if it is accurate or not. Again, various sources suggest Arsenal were only paying 30% of that when he was on loan (which amounts to around £100k per week) and with zero loan fee. I don't see any reason why Fulham should go beyond that for a player who contributed very little on his last loan. In fact - we should offer to pay less if we are interested! Personally, I would prefer Adama to stay and sign Nelson on loan, with the attacking budget spent on a 3rd choice striker to challenge for a starting stop and have the versatility to play on the wing.
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 28, 2025, 01:11:39 PMQuote from: jayffc on July 28, 2025, 01:03:42 PMQuote from: alfie on July 28, 2025, 12:58:26 PMQuote from: jayffc on July 28, 2025, 12:51:38 PMQuote from: The Rational Fan on July 28, 2025, 08:05:14 AMQuote from: hovewhite on July 27, 2025, 07:38:42 AMQuote from: bobbo on July 25, 2025, 06:36:04 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on July 25, 2025, 12:26:36 PMI'm not exactly thrilled about this as I thought his legs were gone whenever I watched him. But if Silva wants and can work with him so then so be it.
I don't want him with us he's already a bit of a has been but marco seems to go for older experienced players but I still don't want him . Prolific cheat.
If true I trust Marcos judgement more than anyone on here.
Marco's judgement is probably Raheem has a couple of good seasons left in him, after which Marco will move elsewhere and Raheem will be rubbish. Macro has a massive conflict of interest, he is mostly interested in signings immediate impact and rather than long-term value.
Is it a massive conflict of interest for the club to sign people who they believe can make us finish higher in the table right now and possibly get us over line into europe?
Considering it sounds like they will sign Nelson as our 25yr old (who could have plenty resale value if he has a great couple seasons) + Raheem possibly signing on a free (bar considerable wages)...cos in that instance, they could well see Raheem as a squad element that could help us take the step up that allows us to qualify for europe and in turn....attract good young players, like - Fofana, who reportedly doesn't want to go to Everton (and probably us) because he likely wants a club in Europe.
Making moves that the club and manager feel can help us finish higher in the table *right now*, is not a conflict of interest, it's in all our interests. It is an outcome that in itself would allow the club to make more money and attract better talent. With NO transfer fee for Raheem - if he managed 2 years of good service and it helped take us up a level, it's good thing for everyone involved.
Totally agree, I remember people judging Willian on what happened at Arsenal, and he didn't turn out too bad.
He played a massive part in keeping us in the league and finishing top 10 and taking the club up a level.
Now we're trying to take that next step with a settled and better squad all round from that.
This theory might carry more weight if we weren't also singing another 25 year old winger at the same time. We've had zero FFP issues to date, and managed 2 club record sales in recent years. If this weren't the case I'd perhaps be more concerned with our approach too.
I get the sentiment of comparing Willian and Sterling, but its not one I think is apples and apples. Willian didn't look broken to me at Arsenal. Struggling yes, but I think you could still see he was working hard and showed glimpses of class. Sterling just looked cooked to me. Legs gone. Mind working, but legs not willing. Yards of pace gone. What made Sterling excellent, was his reading of the game along with his pace to anticipate pockets of space that bagged him a lot of goals. If his legs aren't up to it anymore, he'll be a passenger.
If he comes, I'd wager the fitness coaches and Silva et all have seen a lot more than me so I trust the process. I'm personally just saying, on the eye, his legs looked gone.
This is the issue for me - Willian was able to leverage his technical ability, which is why he was able to play at the top level until he was 37 (unlike most wingers). Sterling, however, doesn't have this to the same extent and has you highlight, relied on his agility and reading of the game to exploit holes in defences, which now seems to be gone.
Also key issue for me is I'm just really a bit sick of our signings/targets being heavily weighted towards Arsenal and Chelsea rejects in recent years (in the case of Sterling, he's both). I think our scouts need to be doing a bit more than that to earn their wage.
Quote from: Neutral Zone Ultra on July 29, 2025, 03:16:03 PMAlso key issue for me is I'm just really a bit sick of our signings/targets being heavily weighted towards Arsenal and Chelsea rejects in recent years (in the case of Sterling, he's both). I think our scouts need to be doing a bit more than that to earn their wage.
Do you really think it was the scouts that suggested these players, I think you may find it was Marco that wants them.
Quote from: alfie on July 29, 2025, 03:19:19 PMQuote from: Neutral Zone Ultra on July 29, 2025, 03:16:03 PMAlso key issue for me is I'm just really a bit sick of our signings/targets being heavily weighted towards Arsenal and Chelsea rejects in recent years (in the case of Sterling, he's both). I think our scouts need to be doing a bit more than that to earn their wage.
Do you really think it was the scouts that suggested these players, I think you may find it was Marco that wants them.
Perhaps, but the scouts should at least be putting alternatives forward. Maybe they are who knows, but the lack of chat in the press is telling.
Quote from: Neutral Zone Ultra on July 29, 2025, 03:23:35 PMQuote from: alfie on July 29, 2025, 03:19:19 PMQuote from: Neutral Zone Ultra on July 29, 2025, 03:16:03 PMAlso key issue for me is I'm just really a bit sick of our signings/targets being heavily weighted towards Arsenal and Chelsea rejects in recent years (in the case of Sterling, he's both). I think our scouts need to be doing a bit more than that to earn their wage.
Do you really think it was the scouts that suggested these players, I think you may find it was Marco that wants them.
Perhaps, but the scouts should at least be putting alternatives forward. Maybe they are who knows, but the lack of chat in the press is telling.
I would imagine the scouts are putting players to the recruiters, it's up to them if they wish to look at them. If the club show an interest then that's when the press pick it up.
Please don't sign Sterling Fulham! Hasn't been effective for several seasons. Won't be motivated to play for us. Huge wages. I just don't see why we would do it.
Quote from: alfie on July 29, 2025, 03:45:11 PMQuote from: Neutral Zone Ultra on July 29, 2025, 03:23:35 PMQuote from: alfie on July 29, 2025, 03:19:19 PMQuote from: Neutral Zone Ultra on July 29, 2025, 03:16:03 PMAlso key issue for me is I'm just really a bit sick of our signings/targets being heavily weighted towards Arsenal and Chelsea rejects in recent years (in the case of Sterling, he's both). I think our scouts need to be doing a bit more than that to earn their wage.
Do you really think it was the scouts that suggested these players, I think you may find it was Marco that wants them.
Perhaps, but the scouts should at least be putting alternatives forward. Maybe they are who knows, but the lack of chat in the press is telling.
I would imagine the scouts are putting players to the recruiters, it's up to them if they wish to look at them. If the club show an interest then that's when the press pick it up.
In fairness Alfie.....we don't even know if the scouts, or Marco suggested Sterling :slap:
Quote from: FFC1987 on July 29, 2025, 05:09:07 PMQuote from: alfie on July 29, 2025, 03:45:11 PMQuote from: Neutral Zone Ultra on July 29, 2025, 03:23:35 PMQuote from: alfie on July 29, 2025, 03:19:19 PMQuote from: Neutral Zone Ultra on July 29, 2025, 03:16:03 PMAlso key issue for me is I'm just really a bit sick of our signings/targets being heavily weighted towards Arsenal and Chelsea rejects in recent years (in the case of Sterling, he's both). I think our scouts need to be doing a bit more than that to earn their wage.
Do you really think it was the scouts that suggested these players, I think you may find it was Marco that wants them.
Perhaps, but the scouts should at least be putting alternatives forward. Maybe they are who knows, but the lack of chat in the press is telling.
I would imagine the scouts are putting players to the recruiters, it's up to them if they wish to look at them. If the club show an interest then that's when the press pick it up.
In fairness Alfie.....we don't even know if the scouts, or Marco suggested Sterling :slap:
Well I guess that's true.
Quote from: Jules on July 29, 2025, 04:45:26 PMPlease don't sign Sterling Fulham! Hasn't been effective for several seasons. Won't be motivated to play for us. Huge wages. I just don't see why we would do it.
15 G/A in 23/24.
Higher than any fulham player the last 2 seasons
Tied with our record breaking striker Mitrovic in our first season back in prem.
13 G/A the season before that
26 G/A season before that
I just can not for the life me undestand why we would consider a move where we take a low fee roll of the dice on seeing if a former 2 time ballon dor nominee who's only 30years old, has something left in the tank to take us up a level. Whilst simultaneously loaning a 25-year-old winger with very good statistics when fit to compete with him.
Truly it's a mystery.
Feel like at some point for rumours we should automate lists of people who have their opinions pro or against a signing and then dpending on whether they sign, or if they're successes or failures we can congratulate those who do get them right.
Quote from: General on July 29, 2025, 06:36:51 PMFeel like at some point for rumours we should automate lists of people who have their opinions pro or against a signing and then dpending on whether they sign, or if they're successes or failures we can congratulate those who do get them right.
Chat gpt will do it!
Quote from: General on July 29, 2025, 06:36:51 PMFeel like at some point for rumours we should automate lists of people who have their opinions pro or against a signing and then dpending on whether they sign, or if they're successes or failures we can congratulate those who do get them right.
Once they're signed we hope they do well though, that's the main thing!
Is Steve Marlet still playing?
Quote from: sunburywhite on July 29, 2025, 07:01:14 PMIs Steve Marlet still playing?
If anyone can get him playing, it's Marco!
Quote from: jayffc on July 29, 2025, 06:39:52 PMQuote from: General on July 29, 2025, 06:36:51 PMFeel like at some point for rumours we should automate lists of people who have their opinions pro or against a signing and then dpending on whether they sign, or if they're successes or failures we can congratulate those who do get them right.
Chat gpt will do it!
Can we sign them up