Many strikers have distorted values due to the number of penalties they score. Jerome had 21 goals last season, none of which were penalties.
Redmond won't be going anywhere just yet I don't think. Went to check, as I remembered it as a lot of Austin's goals being pens - apparently only three were though, is that right?
Hey Northants. Our scouting network is the most vast it has ever been. Unfortunately that doesn't mean it holds up much against others in the top flight. You don't need an extensive scouting network to pick up players like Shaqiri - their reputation proceeds them - but our network abroad is still minimal. It'll change but as with most things these days, its dependent on PL cash.
Cheers Supers, I always think when we're linked to players abroad it's a bit to good to be true, hopefully things will change though. I think a lot of these rumours are spouted by atrocious rumour websites like HITC and other Norwich fans being wind up merchants.
Like you, I thought it was more than that, Gruffnuts, but when you consider that Holty had 14 goals in the PL, Austin does seem to be rather overpriced. I'm also not sure that he'd fit AN's approach, where the striker's role is also to set up midfielders following him into the box, something which Jerome does very well.
He took his spot in the starting lineup, sure. But you'd think he'd make the bench still. In other news, Dick Advocaat has just said the whole Sunderland squad is for sale, if they don't want to be there. Not sure they'll have too many takers!
They showed spirit today against Swansea by all accounts. Still should have lost but as with us, the keeper saved the point.
I thought keeping Advocaat was a strange move at the end of last season. I know he kept them up etc.... But at the end he really did look all used up. It looked like the stress of the job had really taken its toll.
Sunderland look like they need stability, so employing someone who has had 10 clubs in 11 seasons was always an odd move.
I was gutted when we didn't sign him, we haven't had a pacey striker to scare defenders since......Jackson. Or, if thinking of better quality, Earnshaw or Bellamy days. Be nice to see him play well and get an England call. He seems a good lad. Plays like Owen style, but with more strength.
