Football League plan to close loophole exploited by Watford
11:30am Friday 15th February 2013 in Latest Sport
By Frank Smith, Deputy Group Sports Editor
Football League plan to close loan loophole
The Football League plan to close the loophole that allowed Watford to sign ten players on loan from Udinese.
The Hornets were taken over by the Pozzos in the summer and the Italian family then loaned 12 players in total from their other clubs, Udinese and Granada.
Other Football League clubs are only able to take on loan four players from another club during a season and name five loanees in a match-day squad of 18 players.
Watford were able to take an unlimited number on loan from Udinese because international loans are currently considered “permanent transfers”.
The ruling is a FIFA directive but the Football League is keen to create legislation which brings foreign loans into line with the regulations which cover British-based players – four loan players from one club and a maximum of five loanees in total.
Exact details of the new proposals are unknown but the matter will be voted on at the governing body’s annual meeting in the summer.
The restructured legislation is being put forward by the Football League’s ‘working party for player related issues’ and would need a majority decision by clubs in the Championship, League One and League Two.
But should Watford achieve promotion this season, they would no longer be under the jurisdiction of the Football League and it is unclear whether the Premier League plan to change their regulations.
Hornets head coach Gianfranco Zola claimed he was unaware of the Football League’s plan to close the loophole but stressed he would be unaffected should it make the change.
Watford’s transfer policy in the summer and the Football League regulations which allowed it to happen have been heavily criticised by sections of the media in the last week following several outbursts by Crystal Palace manager Ian Holloway.
The Eagles boss said: “I think we need to look at that and shut the loophole. That can’t be right, can it? But fair play to Watford and Gianfranco Zola. There is a loophole and they’re not breaking any rules but that’s wrong.
“In this country we can borrow two players (the rule says four) from one club. Why can’t that be the same for players from abroad as well? Why can’t we have the same rules? How simple is that.”
He continued: “How can they let this happen? I strongly suggest they look at it. Is that a fair playing field or have I now got to get a link with a foreign club and get all their players playing for me and then what happens to the English players? What happens there? Where would Wilfried Zaha be now?,” Holloway added, regarding the Crystal Palace winger who has signed for Manchester United.
When Zola was asked for his response to Holloway’s comments, he replied: “I don’t even want to comment on it. My duty is to take the players at my disposal and make a team. That’s what I try to do.
“The rules are rules. We’re not doing anything wrong. I understand that some of the people don’t have the resources that we have and they might complain about that but that is not, to be honest, my concern. As I said, I have my problems to deal with and making these players into a team is my only concern.”
Holloway claimed failing to change the rules would reduce the opportunities for British players.
That could have been the case at Watford, and in some instances may have happened, but the likes of Tommie Hoban, Connor Smith and the more experienced members of the squad, like Lloyd Doyley and Fitz Hall, have shown British or Irish players will be selected if they deserve a place in the team.
On the lack of opportunities for home-grown players, Zola said: “That is not really the case. Not only here but everywhere; the best players play on the pitch. So if the local players who are here play better than those that come from abroad then they play, that is for sure.
“I believe in the opposite; I think the young players here will have a big benefit from playing with them [the foreign players].
“When somebody like Matej Vydra, Fernando Forestieri or Almen Abdi come here, I’m sure it will be a big push for the other players that are here to get better and that is exactly the point.
“You need the players that you have here to get better and if you have good players in front of you, then you can improve,” the Hornets boss added.
Click here to see a video of the interview with Gianfranco Zola.
Comments(85)
AMP4WFC
says...
11:54am Fri 15 Feb 13
Just because other clubs don´t have the same oppurtunity as us, they get a pain in the a**. It´s not a "loophole" it is just the way the rules are and Watford are playing by the rules. Perhaps it´s not the only rule they should look at...... Typical.
garston tony
says...
12:05pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Closing the loop hole isnt really going to change much, rather than loaning so many players to WFC they'll just be signed on a permanent basis from the off
Anybody_There
says...
12:09pm Fri 15 Feb 13
It's like saying that people who drive at 29mph are using a loophole to get round a 30mph speed limit.
Hornet Cornet
says...
12:12pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Anybody_There wrote:That doesn't make any sense at all old boy
Why are the WO calling it a loophole. It is the current rules and they are being abided by. It's like saying that people who drive at 29mph are using a loophole to get round a 30mph speed limit.
DouglasRinaldi the better Brazilian
says...
12:13pm Fri 15 Feb 13
I honestly think that our system of importing loans is much more ethical than being taken over by a Middle Eastern company who rack up loads of debt. All we're doing is improving the quality of football in England for a number of young European players, not to mention our own home grown youth that have flourished under Zola and the Pozzos (Tommie Hoban and Connor Smith to name but two).
If the Football League are planning to stop this, why don't they have a look at other clubs such as Leicester and Cardiff who plan to spend their way out of the league, regardless of the amount of debt they end up in. We haven't spent a penny on transfers. This is like allowing somebody to get away with murder and locking someone up for littering.
Rant over.
Eastsussexhornet
says...
12:25pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Hornet Cornet wrote:Why? It makes sense to me...
Anybody_There wrote:That doesn't make any sense at all old boy
Why are the WO calling it a loophole. It is the current rules and they are being abided by. It's like saying that people who drive at 29mph are using a loophole to get round a 30mph speed limit.
a1derek
says...
12:28pm Fri 15 Feb 13
cliff46
says...
12:33pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Why weren't they moaning?---- because Doncaster were relegated.
Little was being said openly about us during the first half of the season but now we are doing well suddenly the moaners have appeared in greater numbers.
Obviously it all Zola's fault because he is doing too well
peter10531089
says...
12:35pm Fri 15 Feb 13
What is a total joke is that this is seen as the "death of English football" yet Sheikhs or Russian Oligarchs are allowed to spend massive amounts on foreign imports without an eye raised.
The fact that Pozzo/Watfords prudent model is being actively perused, hunted down and shot by the media and authorities is ridiculous, where as anyone can buy a club and then leverage massive ammounts of debt on to it in like the Portsmouth model. It is a simply inexcusable misunderstanding of priorities from an institution (the Football League) who should be offering governance and protection to the game and, through its clubs, its supporters/customers
.
Harry's Bar
says...
12:43pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Eastsussexhornet wrote:Is Cornet saying that the post doesn't make any sense or that the analogy doesn't make any sense, thereby agreeing with the post.
Hornet Cornet wrote:Why? It makes sense to me...Anybody_There wrote: Why are the WO calling it a loophole. It is the current rules and they are being abided by. It's like saying that people who drive at 29mph are using a loophole to get round a 30mph speed limit.That doesn't make any sense at all old boy
craig239
says...
12:45pm Fri 15 Feb 13
melloyellow
says...
12:49pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Harrydownunder
says...
12:56pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Watford-James
says...
12:56pm Fri 15 Feb 13
DouglasRinaldi the better Brazilian wrote:Well said. Some seriously misguided people around. Unfortunately they are likely to be the ones who make up the rules. "Don't rock the ship Watford!" because either I am 1) pouring cash into an unsustainable Championship club and don't want to be out played by someone who isn't spending more cash than me 2) achieving success in the premier league by spending, you are a threat. 3) a selling club and your quality loanees are making my club owned players look overpriced.
Always going to happen, if Ollie throws a tantrum everybody takes notice, same story with other loud mouths like Colin Wnaker and 'Arry.
I honestly think that our system of importing loans is much more ethical than being taken over by a Middle Eastern company who rack up loads of debt. All we're doing is improving the quality of football in England for a number of young European players, not to mention our own home grown youth that have flourished under Zola and the Pozzos (Tommie Hoban and Connor Smith to name but two).
If the Football League are planning to stop this, why don't they have a look at other clubs such as Leicester and Cardiff who plan to spend their way out of the league, regardless of the amount of debt they end up in. We haven't spent a penny on transfers. This is like allowing somebody to get away with murder and locking someone up for littering.
Rant over.
Either way we are a successful minority and no-one else is in such a strong position to gain from the current situation. Ultimately none of the above reasons has anything to do with fairness, ethics or conflict or interest between two clubs in league games, but just money and power. "Don't rock the boat Watford."
Harry's Bar
says...
12:57pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Andrew1963
says...
1:02pm Fri 15 Feb 13
craig239 wrote:Yes but then we would have to pay 100% of the salaries rather than the % agreed under the loan arrangement. This is about reducing running costs not about the lack of a pot to buy players. Cassetti is the prime example - free agent - signs for Watford via Udinesse. Anyway I am very happy with the situation, and if young players like Vydra can boost their careers by signing for us - permanent or loan, it can only do us a lot of good, especially if we get into Premiership this or next season.
Ok Mr Holloway You Win. We will have to sign them permanently to please you. I suggest we get a deal from Udinese say 3 for £10 that should keep him happy!
juvehorn
says...
1:04pm Fri 15 Feb 13
akureyri
says...
1:05pm Fri 15 Feb 13
lutondown
says...
1:07pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Andrew1963 wrote:Yes but as the financial clout is the Pozzo family, it's all elementary. They cannot nor will not stop us.
craig239 wrote:Yes but then we would have to pay 100% of the salaries rather than the % agreed under the loan arrangement. This is about reducing running costs not about the lack of a pot to buy players. Cassetti is the prime example - free agent - signs for Watford via Udinesse. Anyway I am very happy with the situation, and if young players like Vydra can boost their careers by signing for us - permanent or loan, it can only do us a lot of good, especially if we get into Premiership this or next season.
Ok Mr Holloway You Win. We will have to sign them permanently to please you. I suggest we get a deal from Udinese say 3 for £10 that should keep him happy!
Maybe inadvertently they'll do us a favour, the better players sign and the doubting Thomas's from outside the club along with some of our more miserable fans are shut the frick up.
mellow yellow
says...
1:11pm Fri 15 Feb 13
lutondown
says...
1:12pm Fri 15 Feb 13
mellow yellow wrote:Yes mate it does.
Jesus wept! Now we have to put up with accusations we are damaging the 'English' game! What total tripe. The great Liverpool squads of the 70s and 80s had as many Welsh, Irish and Scots as English players... And let's see how many home nationals started last night in Newcastle... For Newcastle a total of one, for their opponents a total of one Ukrainian. Puts it in perspective, no!?
gilesy97
says...
1:20pm Fri 15 Feb 13
HemelWFC
says...
1:24pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny
says...
1:25pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Ahhhhhhh that makes me angry, lazy lazy article, ANY club can do what we are doing that's the point. But they wont as it really is not as easy as we have made it look. We are also restricted to only 4 from one club domestically.
Getting really fed up with all this now, who cares if the football league change their poxy rules, we are out of there! I'm sure there wasn't all this fuss in Spain with Granada.
Can feel myself turning green as we speak, you wouldn't like me when I'm angry, watch out Birmingham!!
lutondown
says...
1:28pm Fri 15 Feb 13
gilesy97 wrote:And if they wish to stay, was also part of what Nani says, just in case players decide to move on, it won't always be the new regimes fault. Think that needs to be noted
If I remember rightly , the owners said one the reasons we had so many loans was because of the timescale ie takeover too close to the start of the season. As that won't apply this coming season , we can happily sign of permanently who we wish to.So the FL can close as many "loopholes" as they want , it won't affect us in the future.
lutondown
says...
1:29pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Harry's Bar
says...
1:29pm Fri 15 Feb 13
juvehorn wrote:I am absolutely convinced that when the Football League change the rules to close this "loophole" they will actually create one.
If they bring this rule in, i have a new loophole we can use. The Pozzo's own 3 clubs so they can loan us 4 directly from Udinese, send 4 to Granada who they can loan to us as well. Easy. The only problem being that they may wish to loan players to Granada for their own use. Of course, the easier option is just Free transfer the players between their 3 clubs.
Eastsussexhornet
says...
1:37pm Fri 15 Feb 13
lutondown wrote:That's better!
Grammar Police I meant said not says. I went to Leggatts Way where learning was deemed to be a crime! My defence
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny
says...
1:38pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Harry's Bar wrote:Exactly! As there is no "loophole" at the moment (even though the reporter from our own paper seems to believe there is) there will be one created by bringing in any ruling.
juvehorn wrote:I am absolutely convinced that when the Football League change the rules to close this "loophole" they will actually create one.
If they bring this rule in, i have a new loophole we can use. The Pozzo's own 3 clubs so they can loan us 4 directly from Udinese, send 4 to Granada who they can loan to us as well. Easy. The only problem being that they may wish to loan players to Granada for their own use. Of course, the easier option is just Free transfer the players between their 3 clubs.
I really can't see anything changing anyway, it's all come from Hollowhead's uneducated rant and will be forgotten about once we are in the Prem.
Plus anyone saying we would be mad if it was another club, I don't agree - we have seen multi million pound owners at Leicester and Forest and many others come in and splash the cash, that's just football. Finally we have owners we can be proud of and will do us good.
craig239
says...
1:39pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Eastsussexhornet
says...
1:40pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Harry's Bar wrote:Agreed. For instance, a "transfer" but with a buy back clause after 6 months for instance - in other words a loan. There you are - I have thought of one already. I doubt actually whether there are any plans to change the rules anyway. I haven't seen it anywhere aprt from the WO.
juvehorn wrote:I am absolutely convinced that when the Football League change the rules to close this "loophole" they will actually create one.
If they bring this rule in, i have a new loophole we can use. The Pozzo's own 3 clubs so they can loan us 4 directly from Udinese, send 4 to Granada who they can loan to us as well. Easy. The only problem being that they may wish to loan players to Granada for their own use. Of course, the easier option is just Free transfer the players between their 3 clubs.
lutondown
says...
1:42pm Fri 15 Feb 13
craig239 wrote:Yes matey, that's the spirit. Starting tomorrow. No sit down no shut up
Get behind the team and shout them into the premier league. End of. See ya Hollorway!!
Harry's Bar
says...
1:46pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny wrote:Yes, paragraph 3 is tabloid patter.
Well that's very poor journalism from our own newspaper it states "Watford are able to loan an unlimited number from Udinese" but "other football league clubs are only allowed to loan four players from one club during a season" Ahhhhhhh that makes me angry, lazy lazy article, ANY club can do what we are doing that's the point. But they wont as it really is not as easy as we have made it look. We are also restricted to only 4 from one club domestically. Getting really fed up with all this now, who cares if the football league change their poxy rules, we are out of there! I'm sure there wasn't all this fuss in Spain with Granada. Can feel myself turning green as we speak, you wouldn't like me when I'm angry, watch out Birmingham!!
And for God's sake we are not exploiting a loophole. We are merely following the Football League's rules. We are not bending the rules as "exploiting a loophole" suggests.
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny
says...
1:47pm Fri 15 Feb 13
lutondown wrote:Love it, make the stewards work!! Every remaining game lets be as loud as possible!
craig239 wrote:Yes matey, that's the spirit. Starting tomorrow. No sit down no shut up
Get behind the team and shout them into the premier league. End of. See ya Hollorway!!
garston 'orn
says...
1:48pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Udinese- Cassetti, Abdi, Battochio, Vydra
Granada- Pudil
Chelsea -Chalobah
Okay we can only have 5 in the squad but with the rotation zola loves so much we'd be fine. I still think it's ludicrous the way watford are being victimised, people just dont like us overacheiveing there expecatations of us, I would just like to see one article which criticised based on real fact, not these silly rants based on thin air. I have to add i thought you can't play for two clubs in one transfer window, yet palace got zaha back on loan and are playing the same number on loanees as us....
rant over
JohnnyHornet
says...
1:50pm Fri 15 Feb 13
JohnnyHornet
says...
1:51pm Fri 15 Feb 13
AMP4WFC wrote:Perhaps, they should look at buying a player then having loaned back to you circumventing pre-contract rules...OOPs Hollowhead forgot that one.
Of course they will........
Just because other clubs don´t have the same oppurtunity as us, they get a pain in the a**. It´s not a "loophole" it is just the way the rules are and Watford are playing by the rules. Perhaps it´s not the only rule they should look at...... Typical.
JohnnyHornet
says...
1:54pm Fri 15 Feb 13
peter10531089 wrote:The Premiership has done more to damage English football than a few international imports taken on by Watford.
I think this will do us good, we are the first to do this and are in a position (i am sure the Pozzo's will find a way) to get players transferred in to the club but this will prevent people in future being able to bring in foreign loans.
What is a total joke is that this is seen as the "death of English football" yet Sheikhs or Russian Oligarchs are allowed to spend massive amounts on foreign imports without an eye raised.
The fact that Pozzo/Watfords prudent model is being actively perused, hunted down and shot by the media and authorities is ridiculous, where as anyone can buy a club and then leverage massive ammounts of debt on to it in like the Portsmouth model. It is a simply inexcusable misunderstanding of priorities from an institution (the Football League) who should be offering governance and protection to the game and, through its clubs, its supporters/customers
.
In GT We Trust
says...
1:58pm Fri 15 Feb 13
"Other Football League clubs are only able to take on loan four players from another club during a season and name five loanees in a match-day squad of 18 players.
"Watford were able to take an unlimited number on loan from Udinese because international loans are currently considered “permanent transfers”.
We're only allowed to take four players from another English club during a season, just like other clubs. And other clubs are just as entitled as us to take an unlimited number on loan from abroad.
So these two paragraphs are completely irrelevant to the debate and recycling them is more a smear by implying dodgy dealing than a rational observation.
lutondown
says...
2:00pm Fri 15 Feb 13
JohnnyHornet wrote:Johnny, I enjoy your posts! Well said as always that man
peter10531089 wrote:The Premiership has done more to damage English football than a few international imports taken on by Watford.
I think this will do us good, we are the first to do this and are in a position (i am sure the Pozzo's will find a way) to get players transferred in to the club but this will prevent people in future being able to bring in foreign loans.
What is a total joke is that this is seen as the "death of English football" yet Sheikhs or Russian Oligarchs are allowed to spend massive amounts on foreign imports without an eye raised.
The fact that Pozzo/Watfords prudent model is being actively perused, hunted down and shot by the media and authorities is ridiculous, where as anyone can buy a club and then leverage massive ammounts of debt on to it in like the Portsmouth model. It is a simply inexcusable misunderstanding of priorities from an institution (the Football League) who should be offering governance and protection to the game and, through its clubs, its supporters/customers
.
No Wheels
says...
2:01pm Fri 15 Feb 13
JohnnyHornet
says...
2:01pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Harry's Bar wrote:Very true, always happens when Half wits make rules, just look at the last Labour government.
juvehorn wrote:I am absolutely convinced that when the Football League change the rules to close this "loophole" they will actually create one.
If they bring this rule in, i have a new loophole we can use. The Pozzo's own 3 clubs so they can loan us 4 directly from Udinese, send 4 to Granada who they can loan to us as well. Easy. The only problem being that they may wish to loan players to Granada for their own use. Of course, the easier option is just Free transfer the players between their 3 clubs.
lutondown
says...
2:03pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny wrote:Well if they let away fans light flares, stand up etc, why can't we? Mind you no flares, they went out with high heels and high waisted trousers.
lutondown wrote:Love it, make the stewards work!! Every remaining game lets be as loud as possible!
craig239 wrote:Yes matey, that's the spirit. Starting tomorrow. No sit down no shut up
Get behind the team and shout them into the premier league. End of. See ya Hollorway!!
Boosey can't comment because he was in grey flannel shorts and winkle pickers! ;-/
JohnnyHornet
says...
2:06pm Fri 15 Feb 13
lutondown wrote:Say it as I see it, Can't stand hypocrisy and double standard, the likes of " Colin " and Hollowhead get right up the bugle. However the need for specsavers is getting nearer, LOL, p.s. Love a wind up as well.
JohnnyHornet wrote:Johnny, I enjoy your posts! Well said as always that man
peter10531089 wrote:The Premiership has done more to damage English football than a few international imports taken on by Watford.
I think this will do us good, we are the first to do this and are in a position (i am sure the Pozzo's will find a way) to get players transferred in to the club but this will prevent people in future being able to bring in foreign loans.
What is a total joke is that this is seen as the "death of English football" yet Sheikhs or Russian Oligarchs are allowed to spend massive amounts on foreign imports without an eye raised.
The fact that Pozzo/Watfords prudent model is being actively perused, hunted down and shot by the media and authorities is ridiculous, where as anyone can buy a club and then leverage massive ammounts of debt on to it in like the Portsmouth model. It is a simply inexcusable misunderstanding of priorities from an institution (the Football League) who should be offering governance and protection to the game and, through its clubs, its supporters/customers
.
llloydwithathirdl
says...
2:06pm Fri 15 Feb 13
2) It'll make no difference to us, even if it did.
lutondown
says...
2:10pm Fri 15 Feb 13
JohnnyHornet wrote:You're in good company, king of the wind em all up and stand back is Boosey!
lutondown wrote:Say it as I see it, Can't stand hypocrisy and double standard, the likes of " Colin " and Hollowhead get right up the bugle. However the need for specsavers is getting nearer, LOL, p.s. Love a wind up as well.
JohnnyHornet wrote:Johnny, I enjoy your posts! Well said as always that man
peter10531089 wrote:The Premiership has done more to damage English football than a few international imports taken on by Watford.
I think this will do us good, we are the first to do this and are in a position (i am sure the Pozzo's will find a way) to get players transferred in to the club but this will prevent people in future being able to bring in foreign loans.
What is a total joke is that this is seen as the "death of English football" yet Sheikhs or Russian Oligarchs are allowed to spend massive amounts on foreign imports without an eye raised.
The fact that Pozzo/Watfords prudent model is being actively perused, hunted down and shot by the media and authorities is ridiculous, where as anyone can buy a club and then leverage massive ammounts of debt on to it in like the Portsmouth model. It is a simply inexcusable misunderstanding of priorities from an institution (the Football League) who should be offering governance and protection to the game and, through its clubs, its supporters/customers
.
peter10531089
says...
2:11pm Fri 15 Feb 13
lutondown wrote:I agree with you both too - my point was that the Football League really should be looking at other things that are putting clubs at risk like their "fit and proper person" test - before looking towards closing down the prudent Pozzo model
JohnnyHornet wrote:Johnny, I enjoy your posts! Well said as always that man
peter10531089 wrote:The Premiership has done more to damage English football than a few international imports taken on by Watford.
I think this will do us good, we are the first to do this and are in a position (i am sure the Pozzo's will find a way) to get players transferred in to the club but this will prevent people in future being able to bring in foreign loans.
What is a total joke is that this is seen as the "death of English football" yet Sheikhs or Russian Oligarchs are allowed to spend massive amounts on foreign imports without an eye raised.
The fact that Pozzo/Watfords prudent model is being actively perused, hunted down and shot by the media and authorities is ridiculous, where as anyone can buy a club and then leverage massive ammounts of debt on to it in like the Portsmouth model. It is a simply inexcusable misunderstanding of priorities from an institution (the Football League) who should be offering governance and protection to the game and, through its clubs, its supporters/customers
.
DuffmanWFC
says...
2:22pm Fri 15 Feb 13
So what change the rule to four max loans! We will just buy the ones we want and loan the rest! It's Pozzo's money after all and we won't be paying inflated prices!
I think it unfair that Palace can sell Zaha for £10 Million and then have him loaned back straight away! This enables Palace to spend money they shouldn't have and keep a player they've sold??? Maybe the league should look at that! Mind you Zola is a gent and not a serial moaner like Hollow-way!
KeithMercer
says...
2:23pm Fri 15 Feb 13
The only problem I forsee is when we are in the champions league and you might get Man Utd and Barcelona complaining that ourselves and the little Zebras are colluding to get them knocked out at the group stages. I am sure we will cross that bridge when we come to it , hopefully in the not too distant future .
lutondown
says...
2:33pm Fri 15 Feb 13
DuffmanWFC wrote:And you know what Dufftster? I think any limits on loans will affect Holloway more than us in the future. We'll have our better ones sown up, allowed to loan in four at least from 2 sister clubs plus others from Zolas contacts.
If the football league change the rules for next season it will only be a hollow moral victory for the people who criticise our model!
So what change the rule to four max loans! We will just buy the ones we want and loan the rest! It's Pozzo's money after all and we won't be paying inflated prices!
I think it unfair that Palace can sell Zaha for £10 Million and then have him loaned back straight away! This enables Palace to spend money they shouldn't have and keep a player they've sold??? Maybe the league should look at that! Mind you Zola is a gent and not a serial moaner like Hollow-way!
They can't stop it! We're going to the Prem.
Johnnypaul
says...
2:40pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny wrote:I love it my wife and I will be singing with you we are "pensioners "from Spain ask Kevin .
lutondown wrote:Love it, make the stewards work!! Every remaining game lets be as loud as possible!
craig239 wrote:Yes matey, that's the spirit. Starting tomorrow. No sit down no shut up
Get behind the team and shout them into the premier league. End of. See ya Hollorway!!
mattymashup
says...
2:44pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny
says...
2:52pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Birmingham: Nikola Zigic attitude disgusts boss Lee Clark
Birmingham City manager Lee Clark has dropped Nikola Zigic from his squad after accusing the striker of a lack of effort in training.
Clark, 40, said the Serb had originally been told he was starting Saturday's game against Watford.
"I've finished training absolutely disgusted. I can't just sit and take that, the fans need to know," he said.
"They pay his wages and what he dished up is the worst effort I've seen in 25 years of professional football."
“
I'm an honest man and, whatever the result , I know I've done the right thing and I'll sleep soundly
”
Lee Clark on dropping Nikola Zigic
Clark continued: "The absolute minimum is to give everything every single day.
"Is it because he hasn't been starting? Is that what you do? Down tools and stop trying? The football club deserves more; the fans deserve more."
The ex-Huddersfield manager has not started Zigic, 32, since he scored and was later sent off in a defeat by Bolton in December.
Clark will again go with his young group of forwards against Watford as top-scorer Marlon King misses the game through injury.
"I'm an honest man and, whatever the result , I know I've done the right thing and I'll sleep soundly," Clark added.
"Nikola's future is up to him. There's been no shouting match or bust-up - it's all up to him."
lutondown
says...
2:52pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Johnnypaul wrote:No age restriction on passion mate! Especially since the blue pill hit the market! Lol
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny wrote:I love it my wife and I will be singing with you we are "pensioners "from Spain ask Kevin .
lutondown wrote:Love it, make the stewards work!! Every remaining game lets be as loud as possible!
craig239 wrote:Yes matey, that's the spirit. Starting tomorrow. No sit down no shut up
Get behind the team and shout them into the premier league. End of. See ya Hollorway!!
All vocal support is great
Loyal Supporter
says...
3:01pm Fri 15 Feb 13
mattymashup wrote:Just out of interest (and some concern) do you have some insider info on this? I would suggest that it would not be in the League's interests to dish out a points penalty in this instance (if compared with recent QPR and West Ham rulings of recent seasons) and there are fairly clear guidelines on how such points deductions are applied. Even if it does happen, and I accept it could, I don't think we'd be in for a deduction that would relegate us. However, I accept I could be wrong...let's hope not!!! Let's also hope it gets sorted soon.
Watch this space. We will get enough points for promotion. Then the fl will deduct us enough points to relegate us! Can see it happening I'm afraid!
watfordway
says...
3:11pm Fri 15 Feb 13
watfordway
says...
3:12pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Skully84
says...
3:26pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Skully84
says...
3:54pm Fri 15 Feb 13
mk6 hornet
says...
3:57pm Fri 15 Feb 13
mattymashup wrote:What are you talking about? are you saying we could get an 80 odd point deduction i doubt that very much.
Watch this space. We will get enough points for promotion. Then the fl will deduct us enough points to relegate us! Can see it happening I'm afraid!
10 points at most if we even do get them deducted.
mattymashup
says...
4:17pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Loyal Supporter wrote:I have no inside info, and I wait with baited breath. What I do know is the fl and the other clubs really don't like the way we are shaking up the division. I just have a horrible niggly doubt that we will get absolutely hammered by them! (the fl that is)!
mattymashup wrote:Just out of interest (and some concern) do you have some insider info on this? I would suggest that it would not be in the League's interests to dish out a points penalty in this instance (if compared with recent QPR and West Ham rulings of recent seasons) and there are fairly clear guidelines on how such points deductions are applied. Even if it does happen, and I accept it could, I don't think we'd be in for a deduction that would relegate us. However, I accept I could be wrong...let's hope not!!! Let's also hope it gets sorted soon.
Watch this space. We will get enough points for promotion. Then the fl will deduct us enough points to relegate us! Can see it happening I'm afraid!
Forza Watford!
P.s how about tomorrow we all chant
"gino pozzos Zola made army"!
DuffmanWFC
says...
4:37pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Also there are presenters on radio and sky and in the press that no nothing about our club or what we have done in finding talent and developing it for the last 35 years! Players like Barnes, Blissett, Callaghan, Dyer, Furlong, Young, Sordell, Graham, Phillips, Helguson, James, Holdsworth etc etc!
The fact that we have had academy produced players like Doyley, Hoban, Murray, Smith and Bond play this season is forgotten by these self obsessed parasites!
We've done nothing wrong and we don't make the rules FACT! If we go up then we can still run the Pozzo model and if we don't then we could still sign our best loan players permanently and loan a few others to create a super squad and promotion for next year! Either way the moaners can't stop Pozzo or our club from achieving their ultimate goal... Promotion to the Premier League!
mk6 hornet
says...
4:45pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Boosey
says...
5:18pm Fri 15 Feb 13
As for the other people who are moaning at us, one word springs to mind JEALOUSY.
GET OVER IT! Premiership here we come!
lutondown
says...
5:19pm Fri 15 Feb 13
mattymashup wrote:What they make a punishment just for us and follow no past precedents? Yep right. How's that glass of yours? Half empty no doubt.
Loyal Supporter wrote:I have no inside info, and I wait with baited breath. What I do know is the fl and the other clubs really don't like the way we are shaking up the division. I just have a horrible niggly doubt that we will get absolutely hammered by them! (the fl that is)!
mattymashup wrote:Just out of interest (and some concern) do you have some insider info on this? I would suggest that it would not be in the League's interests to dish out a points penalty in this instance (if compared with recent QPR and West Ham rulings of recent seasons) and there are fairly clear guidelines on how such points deductions are applied. Even if it does happen, and I accept it could, I don't think we'd be in for a deduction that would relegate us. However, I accept I could be wrong...let's hope not!!! Let's also hope it gets sorted soon.
Watch this space. We will get enough points for promotion. Then the fl will deduct us enough points to relegate us! Can see it happening I'm afraid!
Forza Watford!
P.s how about tomorrow we all chant
"gino pozzos Zola made army"!
Boosey
says...
5:23pm Fri 15 Feb 13
JohnnyHornet
says...
5:24pm Fri 15 Feb 13
peter10531089 wrote:Have to agree Peter.
lutondown wrote:I agree with you both too - my point was that the Football League really should be looking at other things that are putting clubs at risk like their "fit and proper person" test - before looking towards closing down the prudent Pozzo model
JohnnyHornet wrote:Johnny, I enjoy your posts! Well said as always that man
peter10531089 wrote:The Premiership has done more to damage English football than a few international imports taken on by Watford.
I think this will do us good, we are the first to do this and are in a position (i am sure the Pozzo's will find a way) to get players transferred in to the club but this will prevent people in future being able to bring in foreign loans.
What is a total joke is that this is seen as the "death of English football" yet Sheikhs or Russian Oligarchs are allowed to spend massive amounts on foreign imports without an eye raised.
The fact that Pozzo/Watfords prudent model is being actively perused, hunted down and shot by the media and authorities is ridiculous, where as anyone can buy a club and then leverage massive ammounts of debt on to it in like the Portsmouth model. It is a simply inexcusable misunderstanding of priorities from an institution (the Football League) who should be offering governance and protection to the game and, through its clubs, its supporters/customers
.
lutondown
says...
6:02pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Boosey wrote:I was going to post but looking at my steak pie i bought from Chippy and the news come up about horses. So I'm giving Pies up for lent. Easy decision really. Pie binned.
Roy has given up posting for lent.
mattymashup
says...
6:20pm Fri 15 Feb 13
lutondown wrote:I suppose I am a bit pessimistic when it comes to the fl! It's just a bit strange that they have had all the evidence for two weeks now and still haven't dished out a penalty! Makes me think they will wait till the end of the season. I hope not, I hope it comes soon as I want to know like all on here how many public lashings bazzini will be given on the half way line at out next home game!
mattymashup wrote:What they make a punishment just for us and follow no past precedents? Yep right. How's that glass of yours? Half empty no doubt.
Loyal Supporter wrote:I have no inside info, and I wait with baited breath. What I do know is the fl and the other clubs really don't like the way we are shaking up the division. I just have a horrible niggly doubt that we will get absolutely hammered by them! (the fl that is)!
mattymashup wrote:Just out of interest (and some concern) do you have some insider info on this? I would suggest that it would not be in the League's interests to dish out a points penalty in this instance (if compared with recent QPR and West Ham rulings of recent seasons) and there are fairly clear guidelines on how such points deductions are applied. Even if it does happen, and I accept it could, I don't think we'd be in for a deduction that would relegate us. However, I accept I could be wrong...let's hope not!!! Let's also hope it gets sorted soon.
Watch this space. We will get enough points for promotion. Then the fl will deduct us enough points to relegate us! Can see it happening I'm afraid!
Forza Watford!
P.s how about tomorrow we all chant
"gino pozzos Zola made army"!
As for pessimism in general regarding wfc, I predict 3 nil to us tomorrow, now stick that in your pipe and smoke it!
Forza Watford!
lutondown
says...
6:25pm Fri 15 Feb 13
mattymashup wrote:Yep that's a better kind of pessimism!
lutondown wrote:I suppose I am a bit pessimistic when it comes to the fl! It's just a bit strange that they have had all the evidence for two weeks now and still haven't dished out a penalty! Makes me think they will wait till the end of the season. I hope not, I hope it comes soon as I want to know like all on here how many public lashings bazzini will be given on the half way line at out next home game!
mattymashup wrote:What they make a punishment just for us and follow no past precedents? Yep right. How's that glass of yours? Half empty no doubt.
Loyal Supporter wrote:I have no inside info, and I wait with baited breath. What I do know is the fl and the other clubs really don't like the way we are shaking up the division. I just have a horrible niggly doubt that we will get absolutely hammered by them! (the fl that is)!
mattymashup wrote:Just out of interest (and some concern) do you have some insider info on this? I would suggest that it would not be in the League's interests to dish out a points penalty in this instance (if compared with recent QPR and West Ham rulings of recent seasons) and there are fairly clear guidelines on how such points deductions are applied. Even if it does happen, and I accept it could, I don't think we'd be in for a deduction that would relegate us. However, I accept I could be wrong...let's hope not!!! Let's also hope it gets sorted soon.
Watch this space. We will get enough points for promotion. Then the fl will deduct us enough points to relegate us! Can see it happening I'm afraid!
Forza Watford!
P.s how about tomorrow we all chant
"gino pozzos Zola made army"!
As for pessimism in general regarding wfc, I predict 3 nil to us tomorrow, now stick that in your pipe and smoke it!
Forza Watford!
They kept QPR to end of season did they not? Out of our hands, lets keep racking the points and us roaring them on!
Do the monks not like that
Boosey
says...
6:33pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Skully84 wrote:With a new stand the capacity would only be about 23000, so I would like to think the new stand would incorporate some more excutive boxes to generate more income.
No seriously, it has happened on computer games before(!) At the beginning of the season, Zola said that he aims to get Watford up by 2014. It might be a year early, How would it be if we went up? A Vicarage Road not finished? Can a three sided 17,000 ground account for Prem football? My only solution is a Blackpool-esque temporary stand. You love Blackpool Ian Holloway don't you mate?
Sydneyhornet
says...
9:08pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Semantics, We wont loan people anymore. We really will just have to sign "World Class Players" and take it from there.
Ian Holloway - Palace football club - a nice marriage.
Besides lads lets not focus on the happenings of next season just yet, We dont know what divvy we are going to be in! I hope we are in the "EPL" so i can STOP having to pay $16 per month for Sh#tanta.
COYH, Good luck today up in Brum.
Sydneyhornet
says...
9:08pm Fri 15 Feb 13
Semantics, We wont loan people anymore. We really will just have to sign "World Class Players" and take it from there.
Ian Holloway - Palace football club - a nice marriage.
Besides lads lets not focus on the happenings of next season just yet, We dont know what divvy we are going to be in! I hope we are in the "EPL" so i can STOP having to pay $16 per month for Sh#tanta.
COYH, Good luck today up in Brum.
holtonian
says...
11:32pm Fri 15 Feb 13
JohnnyHornet
says...
8:51am Sat 16 Feb 13
Football League plan to close loophole exploited by Watford.
Should this not say, Football League plan to change the rules after great move by Watford ....Just goes to show the FL as a bunch of stiffs.
lutondown
says...
9:00am Sat 16 Feb 13
Boosey wrote:If I win the lottery I'm buying that stand! If, if only!
Skully84 wrote:With a new stand the capacity would only be about 23000, so I would like to think the new stand would incorporate some more excutive boxes to generate more income.
No seriously, it has happened on computer games before(!) At the beginning of the season, Zola said that he aims to get Watford up by 2014. It might be a year early, How would it be if we went up? A Vicarage Road not finished? Can a three sided 17,000 ground account for Prem football? My only solution is a Blackpool-esque temporary stand. You love Blackpool Ian Holloway don't you mate?
Blankets and monks would be banned
lutondown
says...
9:01am Sat 16 Feb 13
Roar em home
Watford-James
says...
9:08am Sat 16 Feb 13
lutondown wrote:PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY! PO-ZZO's, ZOLA MADE ARMY!
Johnnypaul wrote:No age restriction on passion mate! Especially since the blue pill hit the market! Lol
Ronny oh Ronny Ronny wrote:I love it my wife and I will be singing with you we are "pensioners "from Spain ask Kevin .
lutondown wrote:Love it, make the stewards work!! Every remaining game lets be as loud as possible!
craig239 wrote:Yes matey, that's the spirit. Starting tomorrow. No sit down no shut up
Get behind the team and shout them into the premier league. End of. See ya Hollorway!!
All vocal support is great
Repeat for 90
Watford-James
says...
9:14am Sat 16 Feb 13
WFCCCCC, (low)
WFCCCCC, (high)
WFCCCCC, (low)
WATFORD FC,
WATFORD FC,
WFCCCCC (low)
Repeat for ever
pinched from somebody's post earlier this week but I tried singing it on my walk home from work and it sticks.
mellow yellow
says...
10:29am Sat 16 Feb 13
http://www.birmingha
mmail.co.uk/sport/fo
otball/football-news
/lee-clark-watford-n
ot-stirring-1322721?
gloryhornet4
says...
2:40pm Sat 16 Feb 13
Skully84 wrote:Attendances are not a big issue if you are not paying big wages. The gate is dwarfed by media income.
No seriously, it has happened on computer games before(!) At the beginning of the season, Zola said that he aims to get Watford up by 2014. It might be a year early, How would it be if we went up? A Vicarage Road not finished? Can a three sided 17,000 ground account for Prem football? My only solution is a Blackpool-esque temporary stand. You love Blackpool Ian Holloway don't you mate?
Jimhornet
says...
3:01pm Sat 16 Feb 13
I think this 'loophole', as people are calling it, is dangerous. Although the Pozzo's intentions are clearly to back us long term and build the club, there is a big risk that it could be abused by larger european clubs and used to create 'feeder clubs' in the lower leagues.
Thankfully the Pozzo's got in just in time and we get to watch Vydra and Abdi every week!
bushey tales
says...
9:28pm Sat 16 Feb 13
lutondown
says...
9:38pm Sat 16 Feb 13
bushey tales wrote:But would you not like that!
One sure-fire way to avoid any FL sanctions - get promoted.
LoveKeithDublin says...
11:54am Fri 15 Feb 13