05 Jun 2024 19:18:23
So the retained list is out and it appears we are negotiating new contracts with Evans and Heaton.
Makes sense to me to have the older heads around, especially Evans who is rooted in the club.
I assume the club will not expect them to play any league games next season, barring an unprecedented run of injuries like we had last season.
Also Hojlund will wear number 9 according to reports, I don't think I've seen that confirmed.
05 Jun 2024 19:46:55
Said the same below wazza.
2 good pros with long history and I'd imagine both are a good influence on the younger lads.
Evans won't even want to play as much as he did last season I'd say?
It also will hopefully mean we have 2 cbs coming in and both Harry and lindelof will find new homes.
05 Jun 2024 21:12:38
Can't see Maguire moving on, we tried last year and he stayed regardless, I was quite glad he stayed in the end, we needed him.
05 Jun 2024 21:42:19
I think Maguire’s situation is a little different now, given his age he will surely want to be at a club where he’s playing every week.
With Varane gone and possibly Maguire we do look short at CB.
Lisandro
New starting CB
Lindelof
Willy
Evans
+1 other backup.
Branthwaite is an odd one for me because he’s left footed, surely we’re not looking to replace Martinez.
Do we have any youngsters ready to take the other backup spot?
05 Jun 2024 22:29:34
Let's be honest Evans has probably been out best and most consistent CB this season.
It could mean we sell both Maguire and Lindelof as well as letting Varane go. Then look to sign two CB's to join Martinez, Evans and Kambwala.
That'd be ideal, three top CB's fighting it out for two positions, with a talented kid and an old hand there as back up.
As for Heaton, he's another former academy player, a great pro, counts as homegrown, and a really solid squad player who could deputise for Onana and you wouldn't be too worried. He's still good enough to be first choice for any EPL team from about 7th downwards.
Why wouldn't we keep these guys around if they are happy to stick around and be part of that older leadership group in what will hopefully be a younger, hungrier squad next season.
05 Jun 2024 22:43:55
I’d sell Lindelof, promote Willy, and buy another CB.
06 Jun 2024 00:38:35
7th down Shappy! Does that mean we have a replacement already if Onana moves on? ?.
06 Jun 2024 07:37:09
According to the Italian media Maguire has been offered to AC Milan.
06 Jun 2024 15:51:13
Evans is a great 5th man.
Lindelof won’t be sold as he’s in his extension year. It will be difficult.
07 Jun 2024 01:14:35
Don’t get the obsession with a left footed player must play left side and a right footed right side
Professional players should be comfortable with both feet.