keeps resurfacing. I wonder whether it IS true. I thought it was utter crap but I must say, he stood applauding the Toon fans for about 5 minutes at Anfield. Would prefer to see him doing some coaching at Newcastle actually. Also, Watto for Newcastle keeps coming back. Noooooo! What do you lot think?

-- Anonymous, May 13, 2001

Answers

AP.

-- Anonymous, May 13, 2001

Watto back, yes please - where did the rumour come from?

-- Anonymous, May 13, 2001

The Pink.

-- Anonymous, May 13, 2001

It would have to be a knock-down price. He's been far from a superstar at either Villa or Everton and was in a personal nightmare here before being sold.

-- Anonymous, May 13, 2001

As for the main story, letting him go now would mean needing to buy 2 right backs and a left back. Not at all sure I want the matching set with another Quinn or 3. I would be much happier if the next signing was a change of manager before any more money is spent. There, I've said it.

New signings are coming here expecting a change in management within the next 18 months. May as well grasp that nettle firmly now.

No idea how Mpenza's been doing, but Craig Bellamy who we upped our bid to 6mil for and went back for 3 times lived up to expectations. Gudjonsson who we didn't rate going to 5mil for is a great player. Dacourt was the only really first class player to be approached and we can expect the rest of his quality to make the same decision until the succession is resolved. Until then it's more shit or gold- diggers.

-- Anonymous, May 13, 2001

I agree Softie that the managerial succession is looming as a major potential problem in attracting top players - in addition to all the others of course. However, they could be cleverly sidestepping this particular problem by approaching the likes of Akyel Fatih, Galatasaray's Turkish International FB, who has unashamedly declared "I'll play for whoever offers me the most money".
Good on ya kid - there's honesty for you!

-- Anonymous, May 13, 2001