LDN Blue

Knew I was close

I still have a hard time forgiving him for walking out on us. offered a new contract multiple times but decided he could further his career elsewhere, big mistake.

Either Milner or Barry, I think it might have been the latter actually!

This is reassuring. I didn't realise Shaw was asking for this much, at least it shows there was interest. if wages were the stumbling block in this case, it is understandable why we didn't pursue it. Shame really..

At least we were trying.

we should really thank Bates for funding such an expensive transfer haha. I remember it was between Frank and Milner, the latter having meant to be cheaper.

LA LA LA LAAAA

Just not sure how I feel about this. On one hand it's a step backwards by the club, on the other we're in need of experienced leaders now we've lost Lampard and Ashley.. In any case, he does belong at Stamford Bridge. I'd have preferred as a coach, but meh.

For those who said NY operate separately from Manchester City....

"Cesc: New signing Fabregas seems to be settling in to life with Chelsea, a club he swore never to play for"

Wenger's said his German players are likely to miss the beginning of the season for additional recovery time. Wondering if Mourinho will follow suit with Schurrle..

Of course there's nothing wrong with projecting the type of player he'll be, but not when it's in comparison to another. How about instead of Del Piero/Aguero, he'll be the new Jeremie Boga

it's the same thing, you start with 'he moves like xxxx' then it becomes 'he has potential to be our own xxxxx' and finally, 'he could've been the next xxxx'

It's sad but I do agree. Chelsea's system of loaning is as flawed (if not more) as it's academy.. So many players are being buried by these useless loan spells

"Cesc and myself have had our battles in the past but I wish him the best because I wish Chelsea all the best." It's not that called off , but always a delight too see him continue to talk of his love for Chelsea

'dead wood' is a bit harsh, but I agree with the premise

See usually I'd agree on this, but I think Rodriguez would've been signed in either case. He simply showcased his talents too well and instigated it himself with that interview. If it was retaliation, then Real definitely benefitted imo.

You could of course start of small, the usuals like Zola, Osgood Harris etc and then just add as you go on people's choices/suggestions.

Del Piero & Aguero comparisons come out. Come on guys, let's be calm here. Boga's impressed and all credit to him, but these comparisons are premature and becomes the reason we then turn our backs on these players. We put them on a pedestal too early.

I'm with TOPTB, having Cech around acts as a distraction for Courtois both by the media and fans alike tbh. There will be cries of 'Cech wouldn't have done that' when Courtois makes a mistake which will inevitably happen. As far as having a reliable back up goes, if Schwarzer didn't convince you guys last season then this conversation wouldn't get very far. As someone said before, it's almost insulting having Cech on the bench with his accolades and he wouldn't be short of suitors. Yes Mourinho is sentimental but he's realistic too. He wouldn't stand in the way if Cech wanted out & I certainly wouldn't believe when people infer he'll definitely remain.. He can be deceitful in transfer windows. A prime example of this situation goes back to Manchester City with Hart (up and coming on loan at Birmingham) competing with Shay Given who was one of the most competent and experienced goal keepers in the league at the time. For the greater future, Given had to be benched and eventually left for first team opportunities.

Biggest hint yet that Zouma will be staying with us and becoming first choice back up at centre back (Ivanovic being first choice right back sub). Really pleased, it means we won't be spending £3xm for someone like Varane unnecessarily.

Lmao, that's what I was thinking. I'm sure the Matrix code is embedded in those lines. Love how Schurrle's becoming a poster boy now

Lmao saw on Goal there's a rumour City want him as cover for Negredo.. really, people get paid to write this!