Not arguing mate, if that was the case then so be it, I was pretty sure it was “option” but I wouldn't bet my house on it. I concede Orta isn't as terrible as I once believed but I am still not convinced he is that great. If Bielsa likes him (which he obviously does) and Bielsa is being listened to then I'm fine with that.
It may look like I stick up for Orta but the worst thing he did as far as I’m concerned was giving every man and his dog a 4 year contract
As I recall, that was favourably received on here! Think we were riding on a crest of a wave results-wise at the time.
Not by me wj... it sure looked like his bonus scheme was linked to the number of deals he did. 4 years is too long unless you are utterly convinced by the quality of then player and have factored in his age, likely end value etc. I for one remember questioning 4 years for Philips
You do mate and that’s fair enough...you just take it a bit far with putting cibicki and grot in the good signings list
I think I was one of many who was quite happy that we were investing in players futures, having lost so many so cheaply. We were deffo riding on a crest of a wave then. Everyone was playing well. Had we been playing even averagely, I might have stopped to think about it properly. I didn't. I would never have questioned the Phillips contract. Don't forget, I was the wally who followed him through the u23s, proclaiming he was the dead spit of a young Souness (which is quite the compliment, & not one I've ever dished out). He's never disappointed me. There are better things to come from him too, I believe. I'm not even sure his DM role & Bielsa are the reasons for his performances this year - I think he could have played anywhere in centre mid & been a great success. And still can. And might.
