AyeDubbleYoo

I think Baines (or another quality fullback) is absolutely essential for us at this point. We can't start the season with the jokers we have at the moment, although all could potentially stay as back-up. If we don't get Viduka I'll need to rethink the avatar!

They are both done deals for Manchester United. what about Owen Hagreaves? mackems.gif That Scholesy's a decent player...

Aye he definately stopped "poaching" on arrival here These days he restricts himself to screamers.

I'd love to see Sissoko, might be an outside chance with them having quite a lot of competition for central midfield positions.

I suppose it is... fair play. Let's hope he turns it into some concrete developments now he's back, and that the boardroom stuff doesn't get in the way of his plans.

Has he made any progress? Sorry if this is a stupid question, I just don't know!

Yep, Reading away would be good for me - a 25 minute walk to the Mad Stad! Other than that I'm not too bothered... Arsenal at home is always one we do well in, and a big club to boot.

I can remember seeing a mini documentary about Bolton's back room staff once (maybe on Football Focus?), but I was really impressed by Big and Little Sam and their modern approach - something we are in dire need of

I'd say staying silent on this speculation and press nonsense is the right way to go - and I wouldn't be convinced by another 'quality article' from the Journal.

Hmm, I think the football authorities have to take the blame for allowing anyone into the ground with a forged ticket - it is their responsibilty to check and verify everyone who goes in, and I don't see how they managed not to do that. If they had proper processes for checking and admitting fans this wouldn't have happened - disgraceful.

Olivier Bernard looked amazing when I first saw him, came on as a sub in a European game I think - looked quick and strong. Don't know if it actually was his debut though.

if we got Shorey it would be amazing, sure Reading would fight to keep him though.

In God's name no!

A hot dog for £4 and tea for £1.50 isn't far away from what a lot of clubs charge.

Thing is, as well as doing the best on the football side of decisions, Freddy's job is also to sell as many season tickets as possible and generate revenue. Like it or not, season tickets are a product and the club's job is to sell as many as they can. So even if he has done it for that reason, I can understand it in a way.

Do we still really think we're going to sign Bridge then, or is it just wishful thinking?

They were always going to offer Ben Haim a new contract though I imagine, doesn't mean he is any more likely to stay than before really.

I think Flamini would be a great buy for any prem club, and we would be in a position to offer him a good number of games - although first team is never guaranteed. If Distin, Ben Haim and Flamini came in I'd be pleased with all three.

Kevin Doyle is class IMO, I've seen Reading a few times this season and all he needs is to add a bit of steel to his silky skills. Sure he'll have a great season next year.

Yep, the release of Titus is definitely as much a statement of intent as it is a pure football decision. We can't afford to be laughed at any more, and Big Sam obviously is aware of what a joke our 'defence' had become.

Yep, I think you're right - I just hope Carr & Baba (if they stay) are only considered back-up and we get some decent FBs in. Also, are there enough players available to build a whole defence this summer? I hope so.

This is the only thing I'm worried about, I think our need for fullbacks is greater than our need for CBs, and we should have replaced Baba and Carr first up. As long as we get the players in though I suppose it's OK.

Worst kept secret in football, and all that?? Hilarious how he says 'my information is...', aye, you and the rest of the country Alan

I'd like to believe that's true, but I fear it might be Freddy running his gob again.

In a way I'm a bit sad for Titus, it's such a shame that he couldn't match his concentration to his natural ability - some games he looks class.