This might turn out to be something of a masterstroke. He's well-thought-of in some circles and seems to be what we need. Certainly good for the squad in any case. Welcome, Giorgos.
None too optimistic of this signing, but a central midfielder was certainly needed. Would have preferred Ballack here but beggars can't be choosers.
An inspired signing. Kara is exactly what we need right now. He has whacks of experience which can only rub off on the youngsters and indeed the whole squad. As an individual he is a fighter who works hard and has excellent technique. He's proven that he can be a match winner and, importantly a leader. All of those qualities don't come along as a free transfer too often.
Interesting. I am in Spain at the moment and there are several Italians and Germans in the hotel. The news was on Marca TV in the bar and this signing got a general thumbs up from the foreign contingent. He is very well thought of out here on the continent. Could be a winning move from MJ
I have admit that I do not know too much about Kara game. I know he has an engine and being Greek is very passionate. Quietly excited by what others are saying about him, if he can pass and control the centre of the park it could be a very shroud bit of business. Welcome on board Kara, the name printer in the club shop must be quaking in his boots.
Not too sure what to expect. We now have Diarra 31 and Karagounis 35. The plan obviously hasn't gone to plan for Jol but we were very light in CM so a welcome addition.
Karagounis is a temporary solution for the loss of Dembele. Obviously not a longterm fix, but its a signing which may help us get to January or the summer in better shape. MJ knows he has to replace Dembele, but struggled to get deals done on deadline day (due to other clubs changing their mind on fees, or player's wanting more money than we were prepared to pay). On paper I'd prefer Ballack, but I think having the egos of Berba and Ballack in the same Fulham dressing room could have had bad results, and I know which player I'd rather have!
Your first para sums it up perfectly, Surly. As for Ballack, there's more evidence to suggest that he's not the player he was than there is for Karagounnis, and I definitely agree with what you say about his ego. I'm much happier with the one we got.
And he comes over really well in this, his first, brief interview posted by the Club - you can actually believe these are his comments rather than the usual PR spin (ie nonsense) churned out by some when a new signing comes along. http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2012/september/12/fighting-spirit
I know Karagounis very well having watched him for many years. He is an honest player, not a mercenary, that likes to play football. He left Panathinaikos, the club he loves and supports since a kid, not for money but because he was not in the plans of the manager. This move has made angry a lot of supporters as his abilities can change games.
