The Virgil Van Dijk Stays at Southampton Thread

The why is simple. We've had one of the best scouting, and academy setups in English football over the last 10yrs.

When Liverpool first started to buy players from us many of their fans openly criticised their club's poor record at developing players, pleased at least they could benefit (at a cost) from a well run club. These days the most vocal ones appear to see themselves as badly dressed rich dudes pulling all the top totty with a wave of their huge wad. Of course the best totty fall for that better dressed bunch in Europe.

If you produce or sign better players, then develop them, its not really a surprise if all the clubs with more dosh come calling. We could be really crap at this and then not be seen as a 'selling' club, and relegated, or playing Charlton now.

 

I have never looked at the Charlton forum...do we know they don't go on there as well?

 

It is far too easy to do so.

 

I'm not really a prolific poster on any board to be honest. I came across this thread and passed comment. I didn't realise some on here were as precious as they seem to be, so I will bow out as I've obviously ruffled some feathers.

 

Not sure why the fact they're a basket case -which is a shame btw - means he can't give an opinion on us?

 

You forgot Manchester United and West Ham

 

Yeah, but you should worry about your own club rather than a team that has finished in the top eight of the PL for the last four seasons....we're doing alright thanks mate...

 

It's not the fact that he has an opinion, it seems to be born out of jealousy as far as I can see.

 

Everyone is entitled to their opinions...I have no problem as long as people don't get abusive. Haven't seen any of that.

 

As much as I dislike Jim he does get insider info....

 

I'd like Jim White more if he didn't shout out everything as if he was announcing the second coming of the Messiah. Some things aren't just that surprising or important, Jim.

 

I just scrolled back a few pages... all boy-bitching. No news, rumours, views about VVD then?

 

It was an opinion. Nothing more, nothing less and believe me there's not an ounce of jealousy from me. Infact, I'm not sure what I should be jealous of?

 

*grabs popcorn to settle down at work with*

 

Whooops! And then a Jim White tidbit arrived while I was reading back. We knew this about Conte's interest though didn't we?

 

Why should I worry? They are where they are and I enjoy football. Not sure what my worrying would achieve in any case?

 

I've just read one of your earlier comments, it seems to be more motivated by Les Reed...You said " big up old Les" that suggests a dislike of the man.

 

Just a figure of speech.

 

Is it, I'm not sure how you came to that conclusion?
My comment was based on some previous comments that claim that Les has more influence on transfers than your manager.

 

We have a sophisticated scouting system, so transfers are the concern of many members of staff.