STM

As in this is his last year or hes going into his last year? Still dont see how we afford his wages, even without a transfer fee.

You mean, Rafas a good manager? His centre halves will always look good as there is 2 centre mids sitting in front and the full backs aren't 25 yards up the pitch. On the other hand, Rafa's attacking players sometimes seem isolated.

How are we paying his wages?

The most probable outcome is that he signs a new deal and gets some concessions and a little bit more to spend than he has done. Mike Ashley will do just enough to keep Rafa and hail himself as a hero in the process.

How do you know Odin?

Tempted to stick money on them winning the championship next year, especially if they can get Gayle.

I know it's the wrong topic but those aren't the words of a man who thinks hes leaving the club.(Rafa)

It's absolutely mental. I could totally have seen West Ham or Leicester but hes not going to manage in Scotland, it's a fucking graveyard for managers.

There was definitely a problem with the players, they are all shite. One of the least inspiring squads you would see, based on graft and organisation. It's a miracle Hughton kept them up. If they are planning something exciting with a exciting new manager and a raft of new players, then great. I suspect they will hire someone worse than Hughton and waste a shit ton of money. They will be relegated next year IMO.

hes not going to Celtic man.

It's dead easy to blame the attitude of the players though. A good manager can solve most situations. My belief is that Ole is the sacrificial lamb here. He spends 12 months clearing out the shite, blooding in some youngsters/ new signings and then a top manager can come in and take over a much healthier ship. I think that's what's going to happen.

Aye best of luck. The only the thing I'm bothered about is Rafa getting the transfer fee to find a replacement. Will end up at Watford, Palace, Brighton or West Ham IMO.

Cattermole has scored 7 goals this year man.

I must say, it looks much better since they replaced them pink seats. Much less of an eye sore when they dont turn up.

Foul was by a derby player.

According to Ryder, Gayle wants to play in the premier league next year... but he must surely know that Rafa isn't going to make him first choice. It's a right cluster fuck.

He looks like scoring every time.

Hasn't our data room still got a paper shredder in full use?

If only something could be done! (Provided West Brom don't go up)

Hes a lethal player at this level. Worth loads to a promotion chasing side.

Love Gayle.

Save lad.

I know its body language territory and everything but Rafa seemed in a bloody good mood in his presser. Hardly like a man who was expecting to up root. His "10 days" thing, seemed in relation to West Broms play offs with regards Rondon, rather than his own future.

Sounds romantic but if hes been so brazen with MA, we all know how this turns out. Rafa is much more diplomatic than that.

Really? I just think he was overrated. Tireless, I will give him that, and certainly became more positionally aware with age but he was never a great technician of the ball. Give me a Longstaff type all day.