I have absolutely no problem with Scholes signing for another year, just as long as the Kagawa deal goes through, which is looking positive. When Scholes came back last year there was a lot of uncertainty, myself included. And Yet he played supebly, controlling the tempo of the game in most matches. He can still boss the game against 89-90% of PL opposition, although he will struggle in a midfield two against the better teams. Used sparingly. sixty minutes or so and coming off the bench, he will still contribute massively this coming season.
As for Kagawa, if this deal does come off, then I suspect we will soon all be extremely happy. From what little I have seen of this boy he looks to be exactly what we need in terms of an attacking midfielder: goals, pace and creativity. Added to that the inherent discipline and humble ways of his country folk, and he could shine at the TOD for many years. I certainly would be far happier with him than I ever would have been with Hazard, a world class prima donna with an ego the size of the national debt! Whatever the shortcomings of Park, few could ever question his professionalism and team ethic. Expect Kagawa to be exactly the same, but a hugely talented footballer as well.
As for talk of Baines, at the reputed 12 mil he would be a snip! Some on here have likened him to Irwin, and I would applaud their astuteness. Like Irwin, Baines is a solid, tenacious defender who never resorts to dirty methods, and is disciplined in his role - an honest, dedicated professional who gets on the pitch, gives 110%, then disappears again until the next match - he takes a deadly free kick/penalties corners, is skillful, and crosses like a winger. The truth is Ashley Cole, like him or loath him, is a brilliant full back, and the only reason why Baines is not an England regular.
Kagawa, Baines and 1-2 others and we'll be raring to go!
Paul Whalley Range
As for Kagawa, if this deal does come off, then I suspect we will soon all be extremely happy. From what little I have seen of this boy he looks to be exactly what we need in terms of an attacking midfielder: goals, pace and creativity. Added to that the inherent discipline and humble ways of his country folk, and he could shine at the TOD for many years. I certainly would be far happier with him than I ever would have been with Hazard, a world class prima donna with an ego the size of the national debt! Whatever the shortcomings of Park, few could ever question his professionalism and team ethic. Expect Kagawa to be exactly the same, but a hugely talented footballer as well.
As for talk of Baines, at the reputed 12 mil he would be a snip! Some on here have likened him to Irwin, and I would applaud their astuteness. Like Irwin, Baines is a solid, tenacious defender who never resorts to dirty methods, and is disciplined in his role - an honest, dedicated professional who gets on the pitch, gives 110%, then disappears again until the next match - he takes a deadly free kick/penalties corners, is skillful, and crosses like a winger. The truth is Ashley Cole, like him or loath him, is a brilliant full back, and the only reason why Baines is not an England regular.
Kagawa, Baines and 1-2 others and we'll be raring to go!
Paul Whalley Range