Just a thought…….

By: David | July 22nd, 2008

A lot of defensive midfield players seem to be flying around on the cheap at the moment. First, the master Claude Makelele has moved on a free to Paris Saint German. He may be getting on a bit but he is still above average in his position, and is very economical with his running.

Then Gilberto Silva moves from Arsenal to Panithinaikos for £1million. This is a shock: Arsenal loose Flamini and then get rid of their other top class defensive midfielder (and one of their only properly experienced players). The guy is still a fixture in the Brazil National Team and already has 60+ caps. And he’s only 31. And he went for just £1million. To put that in perspective, we sold Robbie Savage, a player of considerably less class and international pedigree and who is two years older for £1.5million.

The third player of this type to be available is David Albelda of Valencia. I’m not sure how many of you have heard the quite absurd story of Albelda being sacked by coach Koeman (and the board) last October, despite being their most successful captain ever, a fan favourite and one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. Albelda wanted to move in January in order to get back in the national team, yet despite sacking him the board wouldn’t allow him a transfer.

So earlier this year Albelda tried to buy out his contract for a move, and the case went to court where Albelda rounded up some ex-teammates who sympathised (ie. the clubs best players) and the club got together the other half of the team against them - just remarkable!

Anyway things have calmed down and despite a new coach, Albelda refuses to work for the existing board of directors and the man who effectively forced him out: owner Juan Soler. New coach Emery has asked him to stay but he is supposedly on the market for about £1.5million. He is eyeing a move to the Premier League and Spurs are the most likely destination, given the Spanish connection. However, should nothing develop, it would be nice for Ince to take an interest and find out if he would be interested. The price is no problem, and I don’t think his wages would be too bad either. But would he want to come to us???

It’s just a whim and a prayer to be honest, but Mr Ince, if you are reading (and I sincerely hope you do follow this blog ), please check it out!!!