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Ossington Mental Youth
05-10-2011, 01:32 PM
was listening to the new ICF podcast this morning and they hinted at TFC maybe signing a Spanish or Italian striker, any ideas of whos a free agent this summer?

Let the dreams and guess begin

JonO
05-10-2011, 01:34 PM
Is Mista still available?


C'mon - someone had to say it

Whoop
05-10-2011, 01:34 PM
I've heard Dutch... and not van Nistelrooy.

Ageroo
05-10-2011, 01:42 PM
I've heard Dutch... and not van Nistelrooy.

is it Kluivert........:D

__wowza
05-10-2011, 01:49 PM
was listening to the new ICF podcast this morning and they hinted at TFC maybe signing a Spanish or Italian striker, any ideas of whos a free agent this summer?

Let the dreams and guess begin


well we are going to have a leftover $600k in the summer, so we're in a good position to pick up some BIG talent.

Dreadlocks
05-10-2011, 01:56 PM
I love hearing about the plans to get better but to me we are ok (in MLS standards) at striker imo.

Our most pressing need is at attacking mid.....

Ossington Mental Youth
05-10-2011, 02:04 PM
tend to agree on the attacking mid, also some more FBs would be decent for depth (or starting, although i really like Eckersley and Yourassowsky)

TFCRegina
05-10-2011, 02:14 PM
Is Mista still available?


C'mon - someone had to say it

As soon as I saw Spanish, I was like "Mista"!

JonO
05-10-2011, 02:22 PM
tend to agree on the attacking mid, also some more FBs would be decent for depth (or starting, although i really like Eckersley and Yourassowsky)
We are starting to look okay at FB. Certainly I think LB is covered with Yourassowsky and Borman. Maybe some depth at RB?

69Chevy396
05-10-2011, 02:32 PM
If they sign a striker what do we do with Santos, Martina and Gordon? Not that they are the answer to this dreadfully low scoring club, but I think an attacking midfielder is much more important......Nobody can tell me why Martina has suddenly disappeared?

Yohan
05-10-2011, 02:33 PM
We are starting to look okay at FB. Certainly I think LB is covered with Yourassowsky and Borman. Maybe some depth at RB?
Attakora at RB? I'm ok with that

I do think an AM is more of a priority than a striker

Gazza
05-10-2011, 02:33 PM
is it Kluivert........:D

Bas Ent

Ageroo
05-10-2011, 02:34 PM
Bas Ent

LMAO.......FTW

FreekAce
05-10-2011, 02:37 PM
If they sign a striker what do we do with Santos, Martina and Gordon? Not that they are the answer to this dreadfully low scoring club, but I think an attacking midfielder is much more important......Nobody can tell me why Martina has suddenly disappeared?

same reason soolsma did? earn a spot. good motivation.

denime
05-10-2011, 02:40 PM
If they sign a striker what do we do with Santos, Martina and Gordon? Not that they are the answer to this dreadfully low scoring club, but I think an attacking midfielder is much more important......Nobody can tell me why Martina has suddenly disappeared?

Her did not disappeared,Martina did not satisfied Winter's standards and that's why he is not playing.He has to earn this post back,Martina is not going anywhere,his contract is guaranteed for this year.

VoxPopuliCosmicum
05-10-2011, 03:03 PM
Is Mista still available?


C'mon - someone had to say it

Italian striker? Is Lombardo still available?

(...just for the sake of balancing out the miserable memories as between our former Spanish and Italian strikers)

Ossington Mental Youth
05-10-2011, 03:03 PM
Her did not disappeared,Martina did not satisfied Winter's standards and that's why he is not playing.He has to earn this post back,Martina is not going anywhere,his contract is guaranteed for this year.

was gonna say, he hasnt been that good lately, no sense in rewarding that sort of behavior.
Also id say Martina is more a winger than a striker which still leaves us with 2 strikers...

Troll
05-10-2011, 03:12 PM
It's Giuseppe Rossi... but I didn't tell ya.

West220Side
05-10-2011, 03:21 PM
I've heard Dutch... and not van Nistelrooy.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Ck6LQcv4sOg/S86iHO4KUwI/AAAAAAAAN8A/V_pD_C_lAPE/s1600/Jan+Vennegoor+of+Hesselink+35.jpg
Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink?

prizby
05-10-2011, 03:25 PM
i heard Rossi (i wonder if a bunch of people start saying they hear its Rossi, MLS Rumours might have a "rumour")

Nodoubtguy
05-10-2011, 03:30 PM
hahahaha.....Rossi??? that's possibly the funniest rumor ever.

a 24yo who's scored over 30 goal in all competitions this year in Europe??? hahahahahah

Dreadlocks
05-10-2011, 03:31 PM
Didn't Rossi just sign again for a couple of years in Spain?

Nodoubtguy
05-10-2011, 03:34 PM
Didn't Rossi just sign again for a couple of years in Spain?

till 2016....

He's tied for 3rd in La Liga's scoring race with David Villa....behind only Ronaldo and Messi. Villarreal are also in a CL spot in Spain right now. The more I think about this, the more I laugh.

menefreghista
05-10-2011, 03:35 PM
I was going to guess Del Piero, but he signed for another year with Juve.

Gazza
05-10-2011, 03:47 PM
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Ck6LQcv4sOg/S86iHO4KUwI/AAAAAAAAN8A/V_pD_C_lAPE/s1600/Jan+Vennegoor+of+Hesselink+35.jpg
Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink?

If you buy his shirt, MLSE will make you pay more per letter.

BS1327
05-10-2011, 03:50 PM
In the Dutch midfield department, Mark Van Bommel's contract is up this summer with AC.

**After posting, realized this had nothing to do with the thread, as Van Bommel's neither Italian, Spanish, or a striker, but was the result of the comments everyones been putting!

rocktml
05-10-2011, 04:02 PM
Not from Italy or Spain but...........Emmanuel Olisadebe?

TFCRegina
05-10-2011, 04:30 PM
In the Dutch midfield department, Mark Van Bommel's contract is up this summer with AC.

**After posting, realized this had nothing to do with the thread, as Van Bommel's neither Italian, Spanish, or a striker, but was the result of the comments everyones been putting!

It's ok! Your guess is probably as accurate as all of the previous guesses!

trane
05-10-2011, 04:41 PM
hahahaha.....Rossi??? that's possibly the funniest rumor ever.

a 24yo who's scored over 30 goal in all competitions this year in Europe??? hahahahahah

I am glad you said it.

BS1327
05-10-2011, 04:41 PM
It's ok! Your guess is probably as accurate as all of the previous guesses!

Haha, I know. I just like how quickly minds can wonder. :rolleyes:

Troll
05-10-2011, 04:43 PM
It's ok! Your guess is probably as accurate as all of the previous guesses!



:wink5:

ArmenJBX
05-10-2011, 04:50 PM
I have it from good authority it is a young Italian striker playing in Villareal in Spain!

trane
05-10-2011, 04:56 PM
I heard we are getting Giusseppe Rossi to play on the wing and Balotelli to play as the CF, there is a chance we also get Pazzini to play the other wing.

Troll
05-10-2011, 05:10 PM
I heard we are getting Giusseppe Rossi to play on the wing and Balotelli to play as the CF, there is a chance we also get Pazzini to play the other wing.


Now you're being rediculous.

drewski
05-10-2011, 05:20 PM
i heard Rossi (i wonder if a bunch of people start saying they hear its Rossi, MLS Rumours might have a "rumour")


hahahaha.....Rossi??? that's possibly the funniest rumor ever.

a 24yo who's scored over 30 goal in all competitions this year in Europe??? hahahahahah


maybe he means Paolo Rossi? :lol:

Mikey
05-10-2011, 05:20 PM
Does "in the summer" mean just in time for ticket renewals...?

Ossington Mental Youth
05-10-2011, 05:24 PM
no 'this summer' means in time for the window to open in soccer leagues all over the world

Mark TFC
05-10-2011, 05:44 PM
Not from Italy or Spain but...........Emmanuel Olisadebe?

+1 :)

denime
05-10-2011, 05:53 PM
My source told me the Italian player coming to TFC this summer is Andrea Lombardo.

Gazza
05-10-2011, 06:06 PM
I heard we are getting Giusseppe Rossi to play on the wing and Balotelli to play as the CF, there is a chance we also get Pazzini to play the other wing.


I don't see Balotelli as a "Winter-type guy" nor do i see him fitting into our system. :)

AmherstNY_TFC
05-10-2011, 06:39 PM
Reading this thread makes me say, "Oh God, no!" The last thing we need is some overpaid washout from Europe eating up too much cap space and destroying team chemistry.

If we're going to "rebuild," then we need to be "all in" on rebuilding. If the idea is to groom players from the academy, and supplement that with trades for prospects, then management needs to commit to that program. Blowing 600 grand on a Designated Player is not going to do much for the long-term success of this club. And, if he is in his early 20's, he'll hit the bricks the minute an offer from a decent European club comes in.

Hoping that there is some savior who is out of contract in Europe is the kind of short-term thinking that MLSE is famous for. These are the kinds of decisions that don't help this team in the long term.

If we're going to commit to a ground-up rebuild, then commit to it.

Dreadlocks
05-10-2011, 06:42 PM
Are you serious? lol

Bolotelli would fight everyone in the league - including his team mates and coach...us suporters wouldn't be too safe either!

TFCRegina
05-10-2011, 06:56 PM
My source told me the Italian player coming to TFC this summer is Andrea Lombardo.

We know he's a system player. After all, he played for Dale Mitchell and hardly ever scored a goal.

ensco
05-10-2011, 07:05 PM
It'll be classic MLSE. They'll do something very big to drive ticket sales. They are willing to spend to defend the base, it's how they think, they'll NEVER cut prices, but they absolutely have to know this thing is getting away from them.

Del Piero.

celt-nick
05-10-2011, 07:07 PM
Now you're being rediculous.

Nope, I heard it as well! ;)

ginkster88
05-10-2011, 07:16 PM
It's probably Huntelaar.

69Chevy396
05-10-2011, 08:10 PM
http://www.judiciaryreport.com/images/Karima-El_-Mahroug-2-21-11-1-2.jpg
Italian, knows Ronaldo really well, and can secure a work permit easily due to her political connections

mmmikey
05-11-2011, 11:24 AM
^ would do a good job minding the post on corners.................

Dreadlocks
05-11-2011, 11:26 AM
http://www.judiciaryreport.com/images/Karima-El_-Mahroug-2-21-11-1-2.jpg
Italian, knows Ronaldo really well, and can secure a work permit easily due to her political connections


^ would do a good job minding the post on corners.................

^Made me choke on my lunch!

Maltese Falcon
05-11-2011, 11:31 AM
I heard it was Flilippo Inzaghi...he's young by Italian standards no?

tfcleeds
05-11-2011, 11:33 AM
Maybe Diego Tristan, who's recently retired? He's 35, but then again, he'd probably be Mista v.2. He'd also spend more time at Rama and Fallsview Casinos than on the training pitch.

jloome
05-11-2011, 11:35 AM
I still think we should target younger south american or african players. I know transfer fees complicate things but contrary to rumour, MLS does pay them on occasion.

South Africa's out, as the fees are too high, as are -- for the most part -- Uruguay and Argentina. But there are a lot of other countries with leagues at parallel skill level to MLS but with lower pay.

EDIT: On the rumour front, maybe Diego Forlan, as he's on the outs with his club, isn't he?

Ossington Mental Youth
05-11-2011, 11:43 AM
I heard it was Flilippo Inzaghi...he's young by Italian standards no?

Whered ya hear this? (just out of curiousity)


I still think we should target younger south american or african players. I know transfer fees complicate things but contrary to rumour, MLS does pay them on occasion.

South Africa's out, as the fees are too high, as are -- for the most part -- Uruguay and Argentina. But there are a lot of other countries with leagues at parallel skill level to MLS but with lower pay.

EDIT: On the rumour front, maybe Diego Forlan, as he's on the outs with his club, isn't he?

i definitely agree with this, theyve proven to be cheaper and just as effective, i guess its a matter of Mariner making those contacts, im certain in the future thisll be more than likely

ManUtd4ever
05-11-2011, 11:46 AM
I still think we should target younger south american or african players. I know transfer fees complicate things but contrary to rumour, MLS does pay them on occasion.

South Africa's out, as the fees are too high, as are -- for the most part -- Uruguay and Argentina. But there are a lot of other countries with leagues at parallel skill level to MLS but with lower pay.

EDIT: On the rumour front, maybe Diego Forlan, as he's on the outs with his club, isn't he?

I wish! I'm note sure of his contract status with Atletico Madrid, but if he's available on a free transfer he will surely garner serious attention from several high profile European clubs.

Maltese Falcon
05-11-2011, 11:47 AM
^ lol I was just making a joke...because the rumour is a young italian/spanish, inzaghi is 37

DangerRed
05-11-2011, 11:54 AM
Don't mean to be a Debbie Downer, but I'll believe it when I see it. Winter has said there is no immediate plan to sign a DP, so this could be someone younger, like Armen said, or, more likely, no one at all.

It's Called Football.. Come on.

Maltese Falcon
05-11-2011, 11:57 AM
Yeah I'm going for the "don't count on it" approach.

Ossington Mental Youth
05-11-2011, 12:00 PM
im not counting on it by anymeans but its fun to speculate and see whos out there.
i dont think anyone saw any of the signings we did make coming, id argue many in the future will be the same

Nodoubtguy
05-11-2011, 12:00 PM
EDIT: On the rumour front, maybe Diego Forlan, as he's on the outs with his club, isn't he?

I would die if this ever happened....

But I know one Uruguayan that I really think we could get and could make an impact.....Sebastian "El Loco" Abreu

He has been all over the world playing (Mexico, Spain, Israel, Greece, Argentina, Uruguay) and has always had a great strike rate. Is currently in Brazil playing for Botafogo (11 goals in 20 games).

Has 26 goals for Uruguay internationally, but will probably be best remembered for one PK....

-VOgUUp-w88

Whoop
05-11-2011, 12:04 PM
There will be a striker coming to TFC in the summer transfer window.

Roogsy
05-11-2011, 12:07 PM
:willy_nilly:

Pigfynn
05-11-2011, 12:08 PM
There will be a striker coming to TFC in the summer transfer window.




^ You gonna put any mustard on that or do we have to eat it plain? :D

WestStandGeoff
05-11-2011, 12:12 PM
I would die if this ever happened....

But I know one Uruguayan that I really think we could get and could make an impact.....Sebastian "El Loco" Abreu

He has been all over the world playing (Mexico, Spain, Israel, Greece, Argentina, Uruguay) and has always had a great strike rate. Is currently in Brazil playing for Botafogo (11 goals in 20 games).

Has 26 goals for Uruguay internationally, but will probably be best remembered for one PK....


I 100% support us signing ANYONE with the nickname "El Loco".

ManUtd4ever
05-11-2011, 12:12 PM
Even if we get a high calibre striker, we will still be missing a critical cog in the offense at AM. Santos and Gordon are a decent enough one-two punch up front.

Nodoubtguy
05-11-2011, 12:21 PM
I 100% support us signing ANYONE with the nickname "El Loco".


nickname???

http://www.ibotafogo.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/camisas-loco-abreu.jpg

and he has some skill too!!

B8q3AA0QvGc

s2cazz
05-11-2011, 12:38 PM
Between now and when they get a striker we will hype the rumours to the point of

http://www.truthminber.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/pazzini_inter.jpg

or

http://img.fannation.com/upload/truth_rumor/photo_upload/261/850/full/rossi.jpg

And we will end up with

http://arquivo.futebolparameninas.com.br/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/800px-Christian_Vieri.jpg

or

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2316/2232473909_cd7fe542fa.jpg

Ron Manager
05-11-2011, 12:43 PM
I still think we should target younger south american or african players. I know transfer fees complicate things but contrary to rumour, MLS does pay them on occasion.

South Africa's out, as the fees are too high, as are -- for the most part -- Uruguay and Argentina. But there are a lot of other countries with leagues at parallel skill level to MLS but with lower pay.

EDIT: On the rumour front, maybe Diego Forlan, as he's on the outs with his club, isn't he?

We almost had Forlan. He was the striker that fell through around the very start of the season.
I have a friend who has a close contact inside the club.

s2cazz
05-11-2011, 12:46 PM
We almost had Forlan. He was the striker that fell through around the very start of the season.
I have a friend who has a close contact inside the club.

Is that like how we almost had Nesta last year?

Nodoubtguy
05-11-2011, 12:49 PM
We almost had Forlan. He was the striker that fell through around the very start of the season.
I have a friend who has a close contact inside the club.

don't play with my heart like this!!!

Pigfynn
05-11-2011, 12:55 PM
I know Ron Manager and I believe him.

mmmikey
05-11-2011, 12:57 PM
Forlans wage demands are huge. Tottenham went in for him a couple of times but he was asking above 60k a week. I would be very surprised (more like freaking insanely crazy out of my mind happy) if TFC could even get in the ballpark of his wage demands.

ManUtd4ever
05-11-2011, 01:00 PM
We almost had Forlan. He was the striker that fell through around the very start of the season.
I have a friend who has a close contact inside the club.

Interesting. In that case, I applaud Mariner for setting his sights so high. I just don't think a player of that stature would realistically consider TFC at the age of 31. I hope I'm eventually proven wrong.

Yohan
05-11-2011, 01:04 PM
Interesting. In that case, I applaud Mariner for setting his sights so high. I just don't think a player of that stature would realistically consider TFC at the age of 31. I hope I'm eventually proven wrong.
well, Henry and Marquez came to NY at 31/32, Beckham at 32 and Omar Bravo at 30...

tfcleeds
05-11-2011, 01:05 PM
Wow...it's amazing to consider. After his WC performance too. It would have been an impressive coup had we been able to swing that. But yeah, he had more attractive options.

Couchy81
05-11-2011, 01:06 PM
Forlan would have been un believable. I know 2 Uruguayans that would have bought seasons for their entire families.

WestStandGeoff
05-11-2011, 01:31 PM
Forlans wage demands are huge. Tottenham went in for him a couple of times but he was asking above 60k a week. I would be very surprised (more like freaking insanely crazy out of my mind happy) if TFC could even get in the ballpark of his wage demands.

$60k per week works out to roughly $3M per year... neither a stretch for a player of Forlan's calibre, nor for the league when you consider what Henry and Marquez are making.

Nodoubtguy
05-11-2011, 01:36 PM
$60k per week works out to roughly $3M per year... neither a stretch for a player of Forlan's calibre, nor for the league when you consider what Henry and Marquez are making.

JDG makes $2M, so $3M for the reigning WC Golden Ball winner seems like a steal!

Cristiano14
05-11-2011, 01:47 PM
I cannot believe we almost signed Forlan, that would have been the most epic signing in the history of football, a Canadian club signing the best player at that summers world cup would have been one of the happiest days of my life

Ossington Mental Youth
05-11-2011, 01:49 PM
Forlan woulda been unreal.
Wonder what happened?

Pachuco
05-11-2011, 01:50 PM
Forlan would be absolutely nuts to come to TFC. After that WC performance he could aim as high as the best clubs in the world. BTW - would be perfect in that he could probably play as an AM for TFC with another striker up top.

trane
05-11-2011, 01:56 PM
Forlans wage demands are huge. Tottenham went in for him a couple of times but he was asking above 60k a week. I would be very surprised (more like freaking insanely crazy out of my mind happy) if TFC could even get in the ballpark of his wage demands.


60 K in $ or in pounds? Because in $ it does not sound unreasonable to me. My only issue with him is age. But he would have 2 or 3 impact seasons in this league.

But he will never come. Most CL clubs with money would take him at least to come off the bench.

WestStandGeoff
05-11-2011, 02:55 PM
60 K in $ or in pounds? Because in $ it does not sound unreasonable to me. My only issue with him is age. But he would have 2 or 3 impact seasons in this league.

But he will never come. Most CL clubs with money would take him at least to come off the bench.

I'd go as far as to say it doesnt' matter if it's pounds or dollars... 3M pounds per year is about $5M at today's exchange rate. Very fair to me when you consider that's what Henry's making.

ensco
05-11-2011, 03:23 PM
Forlan didn't move to Inter or Juve in the January transfer window because AM were asking too much. They supposedly wanted 5 million euros or something for a player that would be out of contract in months.

But TFC almost got him.

Uh huh.

SuperTCP
05-11-2011, 03:27 PM
Forlan would have been un believable. I know 2 Uruguayans that would have bought seasons for their entire families.

Me too.

trane
05-11-2011, 03:28 PM
I'd go as far as to say it doesnt' matter if it's pounds or dollars... 3M pounds per year is about $5M at today's exchange rate. Very fair to me when you consider that's what Henry's making.

Agreed.


Ensco, yeah it does not add up for me either.

SuperTCP
05-11-2011, 03:33 PM
Between now and when they get a striker we will hype the rumours to the point of

Vieri would be realistic as he tried out for LA last year.

Luca Toni could be another realistic bet.

Del Piero signed 1 more year with Juve , but what's not to stop them from loaning him out for the summer? They could make a deal with MLSE for a % of jersey sales. That would be plenty of money.

ManUtd4ever
05-11-2011, 03:35 PM
It's entirely plausible that Mariner offered Forlan a DP contract that would have taken effect during the summer transfer window, once his existing contract with Atletico Madrid expired.

I also agree that even if that scenario unfolded, it's very unlikely that Forlan ever gave TFC serious consideration.

swan
05-11-2011, 04:51 PM
Even if we get a high calibre striker, we will still be missing a critical cog in the offense at AM. Santos and Gordon are a decent enough one-two punch up front.


you can see this i can see this aswell as others on here lets just hope they can see it to..

mmmikey
05-12-2011, 08:58 AM
$60k per week works out to roughly $3M per year... neither a stretch for a player of Forlan's calibre, nor for the league when you consider what Henry and Marquez are making.

point was tottenhams wage cap is about 60-65k/week and they couldnt come to terms.. rumor was he wanted closer to 100k, which might mean truth is somewhere around ~85k. that would work out to over 4m a season, for a top league and team. i would think he would want a bigger MLS pay day than that.

honestly i would love to see him here, just very skeptical. henry was a diminished player when he signed. Forlan has fallen out with team management, but can still be a very good player.

Of course maybe thats the key: fall out with a Spanish teams management and TFC gives u a DP contract... :scarf:

s2cazz
05-12-2011, 09:03 AM
Vieri would be realistic as he tried out for LA last year.

Luca Toni could be another realistic bet.

Del Piero signed 1 more year with Juve , but what's not to stop them from loaning him out for the summer? They could make a deal with MLSE for a % of jersey sales. That would be plenty of money.

Any would be amazing. I'm not a big Luca Toni fan, but he does play well at the club level and I'm sure he'd light this league on fire.

Section 117
05-12-2011, 09:22 AM
We could of had Luca Toni last year but Mo and Preki were not interested in him. He wanted a 4 year guaranteed contract at JDG type money. But that is past now.

Many of you would be surprised at how many agents of European based players actually contact TFC to see if they are interested in their players, the problem with some of the agents are they want incredible amounts of money for average players

s2cazz
05-12-2011, 09:35 AM
I'd much rather see TFC giving Luca Toni JDG type money than JDG.

TFC1154ever
05-12-2011, 09:59 AM
^ Fuck that, he's fucken shit. He had 2 good seasons and since then has been brutal internationally and for club. No thank you, guys a joke.

Mark TFC
05-12-2011, 10:22 AM
I 100% support us signing ANYONE with the nickname "El Loco".

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9UxHwUfG2qQ/TGkx1zEfEGI/AAAAAAAABBU/iTiofnkCO0k/s1600/Higuita.jpg

s2cazz
05-12-2011, 10:23 AM
^ Fuck that, he's fucken shit. He had 2 good seasons and since then has been brutal internationally and for club. No thank you, guys a joke.

Not saying I disagree, but he'd do more for the squad in 1 game than JDG does all season

KGH
05-12-2011, 11:02 AM
There's only going to be 13 games left out of 34 when the transfer window opens. Based on our current performance the playoffs will already be out of reach. Why would the FO spend the money on a rent a player?

Ossington Mental Youth
05-12-2011, 11:08 AM
who says its a rent?
once again a majority of loans have buy clauses so if it works out its a buy.

also although we arent playing well we were 1 point out of play offs before the dallas game (im hardly suggesting we are going to make them but this league is more up in the air than a good majority out there)

KGH
05-12-2011, 11:11 AM
who says its a rent?
once again a majority of loans have buy clauses so if it works out its a buy

If you were a "quality" guy coming to mls from europe in July would you sign with the team heading to the playoffs, a team in a major market, or TFC?

KGH
05-12-2011, 11:18 AM
also although we arent playing well we were 1 point out of play offs before the dallas game (im hardly suggesting we are going to make them but this league is more up in the air than a good majority out there)

After 10 games we have a whopping 10 points. There are 6 teams ahead of us in our division with better points/game production and 7 teams in the west.

I think we can all admit that even some of the tie's we had to date were lucky.

Unless something drastic changes in the next month playoffs aren't even in the cards:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7fjDS0jKiE&NR=1 (How do you imbed??)

s2cazz
05-12-2011, 11:19 AM
TFC is a team in a major market. Maybe not LA or NY major but TFC has show the potential market in the GTA from day one is large. Their market share is diminished but a "quality" european player would more than likely reverse that. In combination with a winning teamthey would more than likely surpass year 1 numbers. With the increase in ticket prices and the scheduled increases (we all know they want to raise them again) it makes TFC potentialy a very profitable sports franchise.

If they had their ducks in a row and were winning before Vancouver and Montreal were in the MLS Toronto would have had major merch sales across the country.

s2cazz
05-12-2011, 11:24 AM
After 10 games we have a whopping 10 points. There are 6 teams ahead of us in our division with better points/game production and 7 teams in the west.

I think we can all admit that even some of the tie's we had to date were lucky.

Unless something drastic changes in the next month playoffs aren't even in the cards:

U7fjDS0jKiE&NR (How do you imbed??)

fixed

KGH
05-12-2011, 11:26 AM
TFC is a team in a major market. Maybe not LA or NY major but TFC has show the potential market in the GTA from day one is large. Their market share is diminished but a "quality" european player would more than likely reverse that. In combination with a winning teamthey would more than likely surpass year 1 numbers. With the increase in ticket prices and the scheduled increases (we all know they want to raise them again) it makes TFC potentialy a very profitable sports franchise.

If they had their ducks in a row and were winning before Vancouver and Montreal were in the MLS Toronto would have had major merch sales across the country.

I Love toronto as much as anyone but it'll never be a major market team for anything other than hockey.

ExiledRed
05-12-2011, 11:30 AM
If you were a "quality" guy coming to mls from europe in July would you sign with the team heading to the playoffs, a team in a major market, or TFC?


Well if im just coming over here to make the end of my career as lucrative as possible, Im likely going to go for the money, but, based on the fact that I have to live wherever I end up.....

Toronto has to offer a boatload more money than LA, Chivas, NY, Seattle, Vancouver, San Jose.

It has to offer more, but not much more than NE, Chicago or Philadelphia

(you might think toronto is the greatest place in the world, but if ive never been there, you're not going to persuade me that its a better destination than any of the above)

I would possibly choose Toronto over Kansas, Houston, Dallas, Salt Lake Colorado or Columbus.

Roogsy
05-12-2011, 11:32 AM
We could of had Luca Toni last year but Mo and Preki were not interested in him. He wanted a 4 year guaranteed contract at JDG type money. But that is past now.

Many of you would be surprised at how many agents of European based players actually contact TFC to see if they are interested in their players, the problem with some of the agents are they want incredible amounts of money for average players


You finally revealed it. Do you know hard it has been to hold that one in? :lol:

s2cazz
05-12-2011, 11:32 AM
I Love toronto as much as anyone but it'll never be a major market team for anything other than hockey.

Toronto is a city with a long and proud history of losing. Bring a winning profession team into the equation and see what happens

Roogsy
05-12-2011, 11:36 AM
Toronto is a city with a long and proud history of losing. Bring a winning profession team into the equation and see what happens


YES! THIS!

TFC could have owned this city. I think that is what makes me the most bitter. The lost opportunity. You only get one shot at a first impression and they messed it up.

KGH
05-12-2011, 11:37 AM
Well if im just coming over here to make the end of my career as lucrative as possible, Im likely going to go for the money, but, based on the fact that I have to live wherever I end up.....

Toronto has to offer a boatload more money than LA, Chivas, NY, Seattle, Vancouver, San Jose.

It has to offer more, but not much more than NE, Chicago or Philadelphia

(you might think toronto is the greatest place in the world, but if ive never been there, you're not going to persuade me that its a better destination than any of the above)

I would possibly choose Toronto over Kansas, Houston, Dallas, Salt Lake Colorado or Columbus.

One word....Taxes

s2cazz
05-12-2011, 11:45 AM
YES! THIS!

TFC could have owned this city. I think that is what makes me the most bitter. The lost opportunity. You only get one shot at a first impression and they messed it up.

Exactly. The leafs wouldn't make much of a difference win or lose because the Leafs culture is so ingrained in the lives of so many people. They would see a spike in merch sales but thats about it, but not much of a difference in market penetration because they have already achieve such great market penetration without winning.

If TFC were to start winning now you would see such an increase in market penetration it would be phenomenal. A lot of newbies would become soccer fans just because of the losing culture within the city. If they continues winning (and i'm not saying back to back to back championships, just a top4 finish in the supporters shield race) TFC would be a major contender for attendance and profitability. If they had done this before Montreal or Vancouver had taken a share of the market TFC would be Canada's sweet heart nation wide for soccer fans.

sashavukelich
05-12-2011, 07:58 PM
One word....Taxes

Contracts are paid out by MLS (in the USA) so i'm not sure our players have to register their earnings in Canada and be taxed at canadian rates, i'm sure someone else will be able to shed more light on this :)

phonzo
05-12-2011, 08:10 PM
Little birdie whispers thatspanish last name but not from Spain. Played there for a bit now elsewhere.

boban
05-12-2011, 08:12 PM
Well if im just coming over here to make the end of my career as lucrative as possible, Im likely going to go for the money, but, based on the fact that I have to live wherever I end up.....

Toronto has to offer a boatload more money than LA, Chivas, NY, Seattle, Vancouver, San Jose.

It has to offer more, but not much more than NE, Chicago or Philadelphia

(you might think toronto is the greatest place in the world, but if ive never been there, you're not going to persuade me that its a better destination than any of the above)

I would possibly choose Toronto over Kansas, Houston, Dallas, Salt Lake Colorado or Columbus.
It has to compete with 2, maybe three others. No where near an extensive list as you just posted.
It really isn't that hard to sign a recognizable world footballer to come play here, it really isn't.

boban
05-12-2011, 08:14 PM
Contracts are paid out by MLS (in the USA) so i'm not sure our players have to register their earnings in Canada and be taxed at canadian rates, i'm sure someone else will be able to shed more light on this :)
matters where you work. Not who owns the company.

Section 110
05-13-2011, 07:14 AM
matters where you work. Not who ones the company.
**

You got it. People working for American companies in Canada will pay Canadian taxes.

Toronto may be less appealing to a European footballer because it's in Canada. The draw of the States is more alluring than Canada and even though it's the same league, finishing your career playing in the US sounds better than finishing it in Canada.

Hate to say it but I think it's true - Toronto is not a draw for talented players. The atmosphere might hold some sway (although it's not what it used to be) and we have some pretty fine restaurants. But NY has more, LA has the weather and the glamour, Kansas has BBQ, Columbus has bright yellow uniforms... we just don't top the list!

Of course I would hope that TFC would shell out whatever it takes to land a great player. THere's no excuse not to. Forlan would have made me cry.

boban
05-13-2011, 07:55 AM
Toronto may be less appealing to a European footballer because it's in Canada. The draw of the States is more alluring than Canada and even though it's the same league, finishing your career playing in the US sounds better than finishing it in Canada.

Hate to say it but I think it's true - Toronto is not a draw for talented players. The atmosphere might hold some sway (although it's not what it used to be) and we have some pretty fine restaurants. But NY has more, LA has the weather and the glamour, Kansas has BBQ, Columbus has bright yellow uniforms... we just don't top the list!

Of course I would hope that TFC would shell out whatever it takes to land a great player. THere's no excuse not to. Forlan would have made me cry.
You are totally off. How does one explain players going to Japan, Korean, or some Middle east country to play football. Sorry not buying that Canada is not attractive. Pay the money, the player will come to play, Its that simple. And a lot of people in Europe look at Canada and the USA as the same. It's all 'America' to them. To some extent they are right (ie. 'North America').

backbeat
05-13-2011, 08:00 AM
You are totally off. How does one explain players going to Japan, Korean, or some Middle east country to play football. Sorry not buying that Canada is not attractive. Pay the money, the player will come to play, Its that simple. And a lot of people in Europe look at Canada and the USA as the same. It's all 'America' to them. To some extent they are right (ie. 'North America').

^this

Canada is an easy sell - socially and economically it is one of the strongest nations in the world as well as being very stable. Toronto is definitely a known entity, granted it doesn't have the ring of NY or L.A., never-the-less it is still an attractive sell that resonates.

Couchy81
05-13-2011, 08:17 AM
Agent: I just got off the phone with Toronto, they are offering $2.4mil/year, DP status, providing real estate agent to hook up a penthouse downtown near the stadium, have a Mercedes ready to go when you arrive leased in your name.

Player: No no no no NO! How many times do I have to tell you, KANSAS HAS SOME SWEET ASS SMOKED BABY BACK RIBS!!!! GIMME DAT BBQ

maninb
05-13-2011, 08:32 AM
After 10 games we have a whopping 10 points. There are 6 teams ahead of us in our division with better points/game production and 7 teams in the west.

I think we can all admit that even some of the tie's we had to date were lucky.

Unless something drastic changes in the next month playoffs aren't even in the cards:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7fjDS0jKiE&NR=1 (How do you imbed??)

What part of "THIS WILL BE A REBUILDING YEAR" don't you guys understand? Everyone in the organization said putting in the new system with younger players is the PRIORITY this year...not the playoffs...sheeesh...

TorontoBlades
05-13-2011, 09:34 AM
YES! THIS!

TFC could have owned this city. I think that is what makes me the most bitter. The lost opportunity. You only get one shot at a first impression and they messed it up.

on a tangent here, but IMO you RPB types have to assume some of the blame for this one - the catchy chants and cheering that are very rarely relevant to what is happening on the field have worn thin on every section but 112...but that's a chat for another time

Whoop
05-13-2011, 09:42 AM
A couple of players playing in Italy might be available.

http://fourfourtwo.com/news/italy/79465/default.aspx



Newly crowned champions AC Milan will hold a party at Saturday's last home game of the season against Cagliari but the mood has been soured somewhat by midfielder Clarence Seedorf criticising the club's contract policy.
Seedorf, Alessandro Nesta, captain Massimo Ambrosini and Andrea Pirlo are all out of contract in the close season after the Rossoneri decided to run down their deals before deciding whether to offer new terms.
"To not have sorted everything out with Nesta, Ambrosini and Pirlo just two weeks from the end of the season is a strategy that I don't agree with," the Dutchman told reporters.

s2cazz
05-13-2011, 10:02 AM
A couple of players playing in Italy might be available.

http://fourfourtwo.com/news/italy/79465/default.aspx

Ambrosini can eat a dick. He's a useless tool.

TFC07
05-13-2011, 10:36 AM
Well if im just coming over here to make the end of my career as lucrative as possible, Im likely going to go for the money, but, based on the fact that I have to live wherever I end up.....

Toronto has to offer a boatload more money than LA, Chivas, NY, Seattle, Vancouver, San Jose.

It has to offer more, but not much more than NE, Chicago or Philadelphia

(you might think toronto is the greatest place in the world, but if ive never been there, you're not going to persuade me that its a better destination than any of the above)

I would possibly choose Toronto over Kansas, Houston, Dallas, Salt Lake Colorado or Columbus.

Vancouver, Chivas, Seattle, San Jose over Toronto?

BTW, Toronto was ranked 2nd best city in the world recently.

Source: http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2011/05/the-worlds-26-best-cities-for-business-life-and-innovation/238436/

Also remember some of best soccer players in the world in the past have played for Toronto pro-soccer team (Eusebio and Roberto Bettega)

When comes to tax issue:

You can always find a way not to pay a lot of taxes as long you have a good accountant (or whoever is doing your taxes).

BTW, I don't buy tax argument especially since a lot of Europeans pay a lot of taxes in their home countries. So they’ll be used to it!

Roogsy
05-13-2011, 10:40 AM
Vancouver, Chivas, Seattle, San Jose over Toronto?

BTW, Toronto was ranked 2nd best city in the world recently.

Source: http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2011/05/the-worlds-26-best-cities-for-business-life-and-innovation/238436/

Also remember some of best soccer players in the world in the past have played for Toronto pro-soccer team (Eusebio and Roberto Bettega)

When comes to tax issue:

You can always find a way not to pay a lot of taxes as long you have a good accountant (or whoever is doing your taxes).

BTW, I don't buy tax argument especially since a lot of Europeans pay a lot of taxes in their home countries. So they’ll be used to it!

Besides...that's where I help them out. ;)

ensco
05-13-2011, 10:49 AM
Vancouver, Chivas, Seattle, San Jose over Toronto?


Is that a serious question?

If you sampled random elite non-North America players, and their wives, and asked them to rank Southern California, the Bay Area, Vancouver and Toronto as places they want to live....I'd wager that 95% would have Toronto 4th.

Roogsy
05-13-2011, 10:52 AM
I'd have to agree with Ensco. Of course I am in the 5% that wouldn't, but I love my city. Those that haven't grown up here won't have the same love as they would nicer weather and nicer vistas.

TFC07
05-13-2011, 11:01 AM
Is that a serious question?

If you sampled random elite non-North America players, and their wives, and asked them to rank Southern California, the Bay Area, Vancouver and Toronto as places they want to live....I'd wager that 95% would have Toronto 4th.
Chivas USA hasn't proven to get big name players and same with San Jose. People forget that not all European players and their wives think the same. Some of them might prefer Toronto over the cities you mention for other reasons (family connections, large amount of immigrants, city's diverse culture etc.). Given Toronto soccer history, signing a big name player from Europe isn’t difficult as some here make it out to be.

Ossington Mental Youth
05-13-2011, 11:02 AM
Little birdie whispers thatspanish last name but not from Spain. Played there for a bit now elsewhere.

any more clues you can throw out?

Cmon guys this wasnt meant to turn into a thread arguing about Toronto as a draw or about our losing team culture here, we've got a billion other threads about that ish and it grows tiresome to some of us

ExiledRed
05-13-2011, 11:07 AM
Vancouver, Chivas, Seattle, San Jose over Toronto?

BTW, Toronto was ranked 2nd best city in the world recently.

Source: http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2011/05/the-worlds-26-best-cities-for-business-life-and-innovation/238436/

Also remember some of best soccer players in the world in the past have played for Toronto pro-soccer team (Eusebio and Roberto Bettega)

When comes to tax issue:

You can always find a way not to pay a lot of taxes as long you have a good accountant (or whoever is doing your taxes).

BTW, I don't buy tax argument especially since a lot of Europeans pay a lot of taxes in their home countries. So they’ll be used to it!


Im sorry man, that list is meaningless in this context.

I love Toronto, but I had to get to know it first, there are a dozen cities on that list I'd have picked over Toronto/Ontario if I had a choice. If you want to get defensive about that, fine but it doesnt change the fact that Toronto isnt high on any list of glamourous locations, and the winter here is always going to be a deterrent for a lot of people.

Just ask Huckerby

Whoop
05-13-2011, 11:08 AM
I love Toronto but I'm the opposite.

I hate the humidity of the summers. I love winter.

TFC07
05-13-2011, 11:10 AM
Im sorry man, that list is meaningless in this context.

I love Toronto, but I had to get to know it first, there are a dozen cities on that list I'd have picked over Toronto/Ontario if I had a choice. If you want to get defensive about that, fine but it doesnt change the fact that Toronto isnt high on any list of glamourous locations, and the winter here is always going to be a deterrent for a lot of people.

Just ask Huckerby

Yeah since Huckerby is a big name player. :rolleyes:

To be blunt: Toronto is attractive market for players who come from non-western European countries compare to the cities you have mention in previous post due to make up of city's population

Nodoubtguy
05-13-2011, 11:15 AM
I love Toronto but I'm the opposite.

I hate the humidity of the summers. I love winter.

I'm with you on this one

ExiledRed
05-13-2011, 11:20 AM
Yeah since Huckerby is a big name player. :rolleyes:

To be blunt: Toronto is attractive market for players who come from non-western European countries compare to the cities you have mention in previous post due to our demography

I didnt realise we were talking specifically about big name players.

You keep shifting the rules, are we talking about big names, or are we talking about strong players from non-western leagues?

If were talking about big name players, you tell me, do you really think Toronto wouldnt have to pay a Beckham/Henry type a boatload more cash than LA or New York?

We cant start talking about 'family connections' and 'ethnic demographies' when you're talking about rich athletes spending a few years here and there and making shitloads of cash.

I mean I can see Rohan Ricketts or Ibby, coming here and that being great because they have some family they can link up with, but I cant see a player like say....schevchenko even...thinking, "fuck the west coast because I want to go and live with my aunt in Markham."

TFC07
05-13-2011, 11:30 AM
I didnt realise we were talking specifically about big name players.

You keep shifting the rules, are we talking about big names, or are we talking about strong players from non-western leagues?

If were talking about big name players, you tell me, do you really think Toronto wouldnt have to pay a Beckham/Henry type a boatload more cash than LA or New York?

We cant start talking about 'family connections' and 'ethnic demographies' when you're talking about rich athletes spending a few years here and there and making shitloads of cash.

I mean I can see Rohan Ricketts or Ibby, coming here and that being great because they have some family they can link up with, but I cant see a player like say....schevchenko even...thinking, "fuck the west coast because I want to go and live with my aunt in Markham."

Like I said before, look at Toronto track record. Not every player is going to demand more money from Toronto (and other cities) compare to New York or L.A. It's not a black and white issue! Not every rich athletes think the same way. If money was the only factor, then we will see a lot more big name players in Middle East.

ManUtd4ever
05-13-2011, 11:57 AM
I love Toronto but I'm the opposite.

I hate the humidity of the summers. I love winter.

Me too. Despite my mediterranean bloodlines, I was born and raised here, and I enjoy the seasonal changes.

Unfortunately, most high profile European players would probably prefer living by the ocean and the mountains.

maninb
05-13-2011, 12:07 PM
Just my 2 cents worth...but I have had the opportunity to speak with Bragnani and Caulderon from the Raptors and they told me that in Europe, Toronto is ranked alongside NYC as the best city to play in because it's SAFE, CLEAN, and BETTER FOR FAMILIES than any American city...

Ossington Mental Youth
05-13-2011, 12:10 PM
Me too. Despite my mediterranean bloodlines, I was born and raised here, and I enjoy the seasonal changes.


born and raised here but with german bloodlines and id take 30c with hummidity all day every day (fuck the other seasons)

ensco
05-13-2011, 12:16 PM
Just my 2 cents worth...but I have had the opportunity to speak with Bragnani and Caulderon from the Raptors and they told me that in Europe, Toronto is ranked alongside NYC as the best city to play in because it's SAFE, CLEAN, and BETTER FOR FAMILIES than any American city...

Sorry but it's what people do, in the aggregate, not what they say, that matters. NBA proves the opposite point.

Raptors have never come close to getting fair share of good euro free agents with choices. Garbajosa and Calderon the only ones I can think of over last 10 years. Most teams have more. (Maybe Hedo counts too, but I don't think so personally.)

Of course the team has mostly been terrible, and then there's the MLSE "effect"....

TFC07
05-13-2011, 12:30 PM
Sorry but it's what people do, in the aggregate, not what they say, that matters. NBA proves the opposite point.

Raptors have never come close to getting fair share of good euro free agents with choices. Garbajosa and Calderon the only ones I can think of over last 10 years. Most teams have more. (Maybe Hedo counts too, but I don't think so personally.)

Of course the team has mostly been terrible, and then there's the MLSE "effect"....

Also, its hard to sign free agents espeically when you don't have enough cap space most of the seasons and how teams have certain rights on their own players.

ensco
05-13-2011, 12:46 PM
Also, its hard to sign free agents espeically when you don't have enough cap space most of the seasons and how teams have certain rights on their own players.

I'm talking free agents only. Most competitive NBA teams spend through the cap and pay the tax. MLSE/Raptors never have. It's the reason why no good players will come (or stay for that matter).

But we'll agree to disagree on whether Euro athletes from lesser Euro countries prefer Toronto. You can find exceptions but in aggregate, I don't believe that.

Section 117
05-13-2011, 12:54 PM
Don't kid yourself Toronto is an attractive city for Europeans due to being a very multi cultural city. They can go out speak their native language and not feel so out of place. Obviously most big name players want to go to New York or LA, but with the exception of those teams we are above any other city.

Red Skies At Night
05-13-2011, 01:04 PM
I've spent over a decade recruiting professional talent from all over the globe for a Canadian company. Very few people have any real idea about Toronto, or what it has to offer, other than the obligatory "you guys get a lot of snow don't you?".

The issue isn't what they know, or percieve about Toronto, because most don't have a clue (and their knowledge of most US cities is fairly off-base also) but how you sell the city to a prospect is the key.

This is where Toronto franchises have to put together a good presentation combined with a competitive compensation package to entice players. It can be done. I know this first-hand with professionals in other industries.

Interestingly, it is easier to get 'foreigners' who are working in the US to relocate to Canada (Toronto & Vancouver specifically) than it is if they are still in their homeland.

JonO
05-13-2011, 02:05 PM
Obviously most big name players want to go to New York or LA, but with the exception of those teams we are above any other city.
I agree with this. Other than maybe Chicago, which I think is like Toronto but better, there are few other cities I would choose over Toronto. Obviously it comes down to personal choice though. At the end of the day it depends on what the player/his wife is looking for. Imho, although Vancouver is a much more beautiful city than Toronto, Toronto has much more to offer in terms of culture and is half the distance to Europe (which matters if the player still has family there).

Anyway, it's a bit of a silly argument, because outher than LA and NY which have obvious advantages, the rest comes down to person preference...

boban
05-13-2011, 04:30 PM
Sorry but it's what people do, in the aggregate, not what they say, that matters. NBA proves the opposite point.

Raptors have never come close to getting fair share of good euro free agents with choices. Garbajosa and Calderon the only ones I can think of over last 10 years. Most teams have more. (Maybe Hedo counts too, but I don't think so personally.)

Of course the team has mostly been terrible, and then there's the MLSE "effect"....
You can't use the NBA for this comparison. Soccer players are a different breed than they winey US born basketball player. Also, the Raptors have had many talented non US players play here. They just can't put it together because of the winey ignorant US based players.

Soccer players have been all over the world and will play where ever.
How else do you explain strong teams in Ukraine and Russia. We're warmer than that. Factors are more than some tourist brochure - and Toronto has many pluses outside that brochure. MLSE just hasn't coughed up the cash.

Blowing Bubbles
05-13-2011, 06:42 PM
You can't use the NBA for this comparison. Soccer players are a different breed than they winey US born basketball player. Also, the Raptors have had many talented non US players play here. They just can't put it together because of the winey ignorant US based players.



Are you fucking serious? Let me guess you actually think Bargnani is a good player? The guy has some of the most fucking horrible APM numbers in the history of the league and you're blaming "whiney Americans".

Give me a fucking break.

The Euro players that are here (Bargnani, Calderon, Kleiza) are nothing special at all and are all overpaid.

Couchy81
05-13-2011, 07:02 PM
The Euro players that are here (Bargnani, Calderon, Kleiza) are nothing special at all and are all overpaid.

Bargnani's numbers are very similar to Dirk Nowitzki's, Dirk has him beat on steals and defensive rebounds, thats about it. Dirk has also played 13 seasons vs. Bargs 5, so he still has room to improve his defensive abilities.

Personally I thought Calderon should have been named to the all star team a few years ago, he was clutch out there that year.

scooter
05-13-2011, 07:23 PM
since tfc will pay huge money to anyone who is from europe
lets go after torres he's already fn chelsea why not join deguzman at tfc
mista did it

Gazza
05-13-2011, 07:25 PM
since tfc will pay huge money to anyone who is from europe
lets go after torres he's already fn chelsea why not join deguzman at tfc
mista did it

As a Manchester United supporter, i'd rather keep Torres at Chelskie for many years to come.

Gazza
05-13-2011, 07:26 PM
Bargnani's numbers are very similar to Dirk Nowitzki's, Dirk has him beat on steals and defensive rebounds, thats about it. Dirk has also played 13 seasons vs. Bargs 5, so he still has room to improve his defensive abilities.

Personally I thought Calderon should have been named to the all star team a few years ago, he was clutch out there that year.

wow...

Derko
05-13-2011, 07:45 PM
What a silly thread

Couchy81
05-13-2011, 07:54 PM
wow...

lol if you don't agree with me look at the stats, its all there with respect to Bargnani. I know he is a defensive liability, I watch the team like everyone else.

Jose was 100% from the free throw line and shooting .476 behind the 3pt line in the 2007/08 playoffs to cap off that year. Just because we have a shit team doesn't mean an individual player is "nothing special"

Gazza
05-13-2011, 08:02 PM
lol if you don't agree with me look at the stats, its all there with respect to Bargnani. I know he is a defensive liability, I watch the team like everyone else.

Jose was 100% from the free throw line and shooting .476 behind the 3pt line in the 2007/08 playoffs to cap off that year. Just because we have a shit team doesn't mean an individual player is "nothing special"

I don't want to turn this into a basketball thread, but what good is 100% free throw shooting if the guy can't or refuses to drive? He also can't defend to save his life. Add Bargnani to both of those comments.

The Europeans on our team have been holding us back for years! All Calderon and Bargnani can do as a tandem is get you a lottery pick.

Couchy81
05-13-2011, 08:18 PM
I don't want to turn this into a basketball thread, but what good is 100% free throw shooting if the guy can't or refuses to drive? He also can't defend to save his life. Add Bargnani to both of those comments.

The Europeans on our team have been holding us back for years! All Calderon and Bargnani can do as a tandem is get you a lottery pick.

Me neither so this is my last post regarding the Raps, but I disagree with your opinion of neither of them driving the basket, but we'll leave it at that.

Believe it or not, the Raps unit from 2009/2010 with Calderon Bargnani Turkoglu Bosh and DeRozan had the 6th best APM as a unit in the league that year. Take it for what you will.

sashavukelich
05-13-2011, 10:24 PM
I think we are starting to get better at attracting players, but you know what attracts players? Winning. it' sa bit of a 'chicken or the egg' scenario. We need to do something with our basic building block (lol, which aptly describes so many of our players) in order to attract some real talent. I think with Stevanovic, Eckersly and Plata we may have something though.

If Martina can get his head back in the game i'll be thrilled to bits.

James Oliphant
05-13-2011, 11:06 PM
rpKqMC2YfwI

JuliquE
05-14-2011, 01:52 PM
(from an audio tape of Peter's book)
Betty White: Welcome to Peterotica on tape. I'm Betty White reading "The Hot Chick Who Was Italian or Maybe Some Kind of Spanish" by Peter Griffin. Chapter one - Oh god, you should have seen this one hot chick. She was totally Italian...or maybe some kind of Spanish.

ExiledRed
05-14-2011, 04:38 PM
Don't kid yourself Toronto is an attractive city for Europeans due to being a very multi cultural city. They can go out speak their native language and not feel so out of place. Obviously most big name players want to go to New York or LA, but with the exception of those teams we are above any other city.

I dont buy that at all. You make it sound like I could just get on the bus and ask the driver a question in cantonese.

Also, since Ive been in canada I've heard the phrase

"if you cant speak the language you shouldnt live in the fucking country"

more than once.

ensco
05-14-2011, 04:50 PM
I would say Toronto has exactly the same positioning with European athletes that Frankfurt has with North American athletes.

This idea that Toronto has sort some of Euro-friendly, family-friendly identity in parts of Europe is just wishful thinking.

We have no identity.

If you asked Europeans with no connection to Toronto to say something about it, 95% would have nothing to say.

[NBF]
05-15-2011, 08:33 AM
Lets get this straight:


WHO ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?


David Suazo's contract runs out with Inter on July 2011. Is he DP material??????????