WPM 2021/22 Squad Speculation, Confirmation and Mutual Termination

I also think that Hooper wasn't and isn't a guy that keeps running all the time. I remember how exasperated he was to watch when he appeared static on the field - I only relaxed once he started scoring goals for fun despite being largely static.
So in a way speedy guys like Sotirio and Waine simply present us with a different option to what someone like Hooper would do.
Hooper seemed to have a magnetic understanding with David Ball (especially towards the end of the regular season) and I hope this might be the foundation for another partnership option, and if Hemed is around to be part of it, we may perhaps see Ball dropping back to an AM sort of role?

aitkenmike

wilbaker

Weird to see Hooper signed with the Hemed deal still up in the air, does that mean if Hemed resigns Hooper is our Davila replacement?

I think it means Hemed is goneski

Clever use of the word ski in there aitkenmike

Mainland FC

I also think that Hooper wasn't and isn't a guy that keeps running all the time. I remember how exasperated he was to watch when he appeared static on the field - I only relaxed once he started scoring goals for fun despite being largely static.
So in a way speedy guys like Sotirio and Waine simply present us with a different option to what someone like Hooper would do.
Hooper seemed to have a magnetic understanding with David Ball (especially towards the end of the regular season) and I hope this might be the foundation for another partnership option, and if Hemed is around to be part of it, we may perhaps see Ball dropping back to an AM sort of role?

Playing Hooper and Ball up top with Piscopo and an Uli replacement behind them would allow us to play the classic 4222 as well as a 4231 with Ball dropping into either the central or right AM spot and Hooper occupying the striker role by himself. If we had Hemed and Hooper then I reckon David Ball’s role would be dependent on whether we need an import to replace Devlin or not. If we do then Ball would probably occupy Uli’s spot, if Devlin stays and we sign an Uli replacement then Ball and Waine would probably be coming off the bench in whichever role is needed. 

Friar Tuck

Mainland FC

I also think that Hooper wasn't and isn't a guy that keeps running all the time. I remember how exasperated he was to watch when he appeared static on the field - I only relaxed once he started scoring goals for fun despite being largely static.
So in a way speedy guys like Sotirio and Waine simply present us with a different option to what someone like Hooper would do.
Hooper seemed to have a magnetic understanding with David Ball (especially towards the end of the regular season) and I hope this might be the foundation for another partnership option, and if Hemed is around to be part of it, we may perhaps see Ball dropping back to an AM sort of role?

Playing Hooper and Ball up top with Piscopo and an Uli replacement behind them would allow us to play the classic 4222 as well as a 4231 with Ball dropping into either the central or right AM spot and Hooper occupying the striker role by himself. If we had Hemed and Hooper then I reckon David Ball’s role would be dependent on whether we need an import to replace Devlin or not. If we do then Ball would probably occupy Uli’s spot, if Devlin stays and we sign an Uli replacement then Ball and Waine would probably be coming off the bench in whichever role is needed. 

Yep, you've pretty much nailed why we shouldn't sign Hemed as well. Last 2 import slots to replace Uli and Devlin. 

Is Steinmann more likely to come back here now since we're getting the band back together?

If Hemed resigns, will probably see Ball play the Uli role.

billyspleen75

Friar Tuck

Mainland FC

I also think that Hooper wasn't and isn't a guy that keeps running all the time. I remember how exasperated he was to watch when he appeared static on the field - I only relaxed once he started scoring goals for fun despite being largely static.
So in a way speedy guys like Sotirio and Waine simply present us with a different option to what someone like Hooper would do.
Hooper seemed to have a magnetic understanding with David Ball (especially towards the end of the regular season) and I hope this might be the foundation for another partnership option, and if Hemed is around to be part of it, we may perhaps see Ball dropping back to an AM sort of role?

Playing Hooper and Ball up top with Piscopo and an Uli replacement behind them would allow us to play the classic 4222 as well as a 4231 with Ball dropping into either the central or right AM spot and Hooper occupying the striker role by himself. If we had Hemed and Hooper then I reckon David Ball’s role would be dependent on whether we need an import to replace Devlin or not. If we do then Ball would probably occupy Uli’s spot, if Devlin stays and we sign an Uli replacement then Ball and Waine would probably be coming off the bench in whichever role is needed. 

Yep, you've pretty much nailed why we shouldn't sign Hemed as well. Last 2 import slots to replace Uli and Devlin. 

Is Steinmann more likely to come back here now since we're getting the band back together?

If Devlin goes then Matti would be the number 1 guy I'd want to come in as his replacement. Only stumbling block is that he's contracted at East Bengal until May 2022 and apparently they're likely to command a transfer fee. Ideal line up without Hemed might be something like this for me, depends on tactics whether Ball or Waine starts alongside Hooper.

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Friar Tuck

billyspleen75

Friar Tuck

Mainland FC

I also think that Hooper wasn't and isn't a guy that keeps running all the time. I remember how exasperated he was to watch when he appeared static on the field - I only relaxed once he started scoring goals for fun despite being largely static.
So in a way speedy guys like Sotirio and Waine simply present us with a different option to what someone like Hooper would do.
Hooper seemed to have a magnetic understanding with David Ball (especially towards the end of the regular season) and I hope this might be the foundation for another partnership option, and if Hemed is around to be part of it, we may perhaps see Ball dropping back to an AM sort of role?

Playing Hooper and Ball up top with Piscopo and an Uli replacement behind them would allow us to play the classic 4222 as well as a 4231 with Ball dropping into either the central or right AM spot and Hooper occupying the striker role by himself. If we had Hemed and Hooper then I reckon David Ball’s role would be dependent on whether we need an import to replace Devlin or not. If we do then Ball would probably occupy Uli’s spot, if Devlin stays and we sign an Uli replacement then Ball and Waine would probably be coming off the bench in whichever role is needed. 

Yep, you've pretty much nailed why we shouldn't sign Hemed as well. Last 2 import slots to replace Uli and Devlin. 

Is Steinmann more likely to come back here now since we're getting the band back together?

If Devlin goes then Matti would be the number 1 guy I'd want to come in as his replacement. Only stumbling block is that he's contracted at East Bengal until May 2022 and apparently they're likely to command a transfer fee. Ideal line up without Hemed might be something like this for me, depends on tactics whether Ball or Waine starts alongside Hooper.

Screen Shot 2021-06-15 at 2.55.33 PM.png 678.73 KB

Wow, he was their top scorer. But, the article seems to indicate that the club is in financial trouble so they might be in arrears which would probably be a breach of contract.
However, who knows, the nix seem to be prepared to throw around cash and we've paid transfer fees before and he indicated that he didn't want to leave.

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Looks like Tomer might be about to make a decision on his future. His wife also said it's a big day with interesting things to come 

Steimann has been released from his contract but sounds like he might be going to Brisbane. 

If I was a betting man, I'd be putting money on Hemed going to WSW. 

This is from a month ago..

East Bengal's talismanic German midfielder Matti Steinmann has mutually terminated his contract and has left the club, Goal can confirm.

Steinmann, who had signed a two-year contract with the Red and Golds last season, has decided to end his association with the club after just one season.

Why is Steinmann leaving? 

He would have received a salary hike in the second season if he stayed but he is leaving the club due to the ongoing tussle between the club officials and investors Shree Cement Limited over the signing of the final agreement.

Goal had earlier revealed that the German was in talks with his former club in the A-League Wellington Phoenix and was set to leave the club.

He was meant to join Brisbane during this season and never happened.

2ndBest

If I was a betting man, I'd be putting money on Hemed going to WSW. 

 I would put the same bet. They need a decent striker and the other Sydney clubs would unlikely have the room for him 

Ufuks the man

2ndBest

If I was a betting man, I'd be putting money on Hemed going to WSW. 

 I would put the same bet. They need a decent striker and the other Sydney clubs would unlikely have the room for him 

Going to WSW would be an interesting choice given the make up of a large part of their supporter base, especially the RBB. Draping himself in an Israeli flag could lead to a very mixed response.

2ndBest

If I was a betting man, I'd be putting money on Hemed going to WSW. 

He isn't represented by Avid tho ...

If he wants to stay in Sydney, WSW is the only real option. So they are a good shout. I could see Popa wanting him at the Victory but afaik Gestede is locked into a second season, so that might rule them out.

I am sure all will be forgotten once he scores a few goals.. 

I am sure all will be forgotten if he scores a few goals

coochiee

Ufuks the man

2ndBest

If I was a betting man, I'd be putting money on Hemed going to WSW. 

 I would put the same bet. They need a decent striker and the other Sydney clubs would unlikely have the room for him 

Going to WSW would be an interesting choice given the make up of a large part of their supporter base, especially the RBB. Draping himself in an Israeli flag could lead to a very mixed response.

 

Just read Hemed is off to Melb Victory on that other site. Poppa spending big

Royz

Just read Hemed is off to Melb Victory on that other site. Poppa spending big

Whats that other site?

billyspleen75

Royz

Just read Hemed is off to Melb Victory on that other site. Poppa spending big

Whats that other site?

yeah, come on Royz, you know the deal, provide the source so we can all read it.

theprof

billyspleen75

Royz

Just read Hemed is off to Melb Victory on that other site. Poppa spending big

Whats that other site?

yeah, come on Royz, you know the deal, provide the source so we can all read it.

Probably that very knowledgeable football site called Royz brain 

Royz is a low quality troll. Ignore.

nufc_nz

Royz is a low quality troll. Ignore.

 If only there was some sort of tool that could remove troll comments

I view Royz as our supreme anti-jinx Yoda.

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Let's hope one of these isn't Devlin 

"Wellington are in talks with another South American player to replace Ulises Davilla, who's better than Uli but not known to the league. No deal has been completed but its reasonably advanced this early in talks."  - A League Hub

More likely that Hemed will be leaving.

NZPhoenixFan

"Wellington are in talks with another South American player to replace Ulises Davilla, who's better than Uli but not known to the league. No deal has been completed but its reasonably advanced this early in talks."  - A League Hub

More likely that Hemed will be leaving.

Better than Uli? I like that idea.

I thin saying stuff like 'better than Davila' is only setting us up to fail. Firstly, Uli was one of the top 3 creative players ever to don the shirt (and likely in a top 10-15 for the league). Secondly, players can't be measured on scales. The first few games Uli played, I thought he was a dud. Same for Hemed, or Hoops (we knew he was unfit). 
Point being, many factors play into how good a player can be for a team. The system used by the team, fitness, friendships off and on the park etc. That's why a great player is one who can be consistently at his or her level for years. I hope all this talk of signing the next best thing doesn't end up jinxing us to be honest 

Cameron Devlin alongside Dane Ingham were reported to have signed with Newcastle Jets ahead of Papas' arrival at the club.

" Off-contract midfielder Cameron Devlin, a regular starter for Wellington Phoenix this season, looks set to join Ingham on the Hunter after previously being linked with Victory. "

https://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/o-neill-primed-for-glory-return-as-geria-zeroes-in-on-melbourne-homecoming

What a coincidence...

"The Newcastle Jets have signed at least two players yet to be announced. The club plans to go hard for new signings, looking at options local and in Europe, Asia and South America."

https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/7297505/papas-in-wings-as-jets-ready-for-rebuild/

NZPhoenixFan

Cameron Devlin alongside Dane Ingham were reported to have signed with Newcastle Jets ahead of Papas' arrival at the club.

" Off-contract midfielder Cameron Devlin, a regular starter for Wellington Phoenix this season, looks set to join Ingham on the Hunter after previously being linked with Victory. "

https://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/o-neill-primed-for-glory-return-as-geria-zeroes-in-on-melbourne-homecoming

What a coincidence...

"The Newcastle Jets have signed at least two players yet to be announced. The club plans to go hard for new signings, looking at options local and in Europe, Asia and South America."

https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/7297505/papas-in-wings-as-jets-ready-for-rebuild/

Devlin going must purely be for family reasons

I was just thinking that. I mean, why else? Surely he'll get paid well... But not stupid money like Davila and we likely would have matched his wages.. So why else other than being in aussie? His gf is from over there if I'm not mistaken so that could maybe be a factor along with being closer to family? 

In any case, this is still speculation and I'm keeping my fingers crossed he stays. 

valeo

NZPhoenixFan

Cameron Devlin alongside Dane Ingham were reported to have signed with Newcastle Jets ahead of Papas' arrival at the club.

" Off-contract midfielder Cameron Devlin, a regular starter for Wellington Phoenix this season, looks set to join Ingham on the Hunter after previously being linked with Victory. "

https://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/o-neill-primed-for-glory-return-as-geria-zeroes-in-on-melbourne-homecoming

What a coincidence...

"The Newcastle Jets have signed at least two players yet to be announced. The club plans to go hard for new signings, looking at options local and in Europe, Asia and South America."

https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/7297505/papas-in-wings-as-jets-ready-for-rebuild/

Devlin going must purely be for family reasons

Or a eff load more money, who really knows. Would suck to lose him but I'm sure Uffie has been looking at back up options. 

newzealandpower

I was just thinking that. I mean, why else? Surely he'll get paid well... But not stupid money like Davila and we likely would have matched his wages.. So why else other than being in aussie? His gf is from over there if I'm not mistaken so that could maybe be a factor along with being closer to family? 

In any case, this is still speculation and I'm keeping my fingers crossed he stays. 

Thought she had moved over here pre-pandemic? 

Looks like Steinmann is off to Roar :(

If Steinmann did return, and played with Lewis, its not a huge loss if Devlin feft.

Still have Rufer as a worthy substitute.
Would Rather have Steinmann than another unknown quantity. 

pierre

If Steinmann did return, and played with Lewis, its not a huge loss if Devlin feft.

Still have Rufer as a worthy substitute.
Would Rather have Steinmann than another unknown quantity. 

Steinmann to Brisbane apparently

Steinmann has been going to the Roar for sometime now without actually getting there. Is this still a thing or a old rumour that hasn’t died yet?

kwlap

Steinmann has been going to the Roar for sometime now without actually getting there. Is this still a thing or a old rumour that hasn’t died yet?

Roar are making an announcement today on someone at 6pm NZ time. And have shown a photo of Thomas Broich supposedly speaking to this mystery signing. Pointers to it being fellow German Steinmann.
https://twitter.com/brisbaneroar/status/1404982057445507076

Devlin leaving, and missing out on Steinmann would be blows. But hopefully opens the door for young Kiwis like Schnell, Zwetsloot, Whyte, Kalua etc to at least get a trial. Scrappy Doo himself came to the Nix, as a pretty young kid that no one in NZ knew. Though what he offers won't be easy to replace, if he's gone.

Wonder when Nix will announce what guys are being released. Presumably that will include Ridenton. I'm sure Talay will also be having a long off season chat to Rufer about what he needs to do, to get back in the team as a starter beside Lewis. Namely lift his workrate. How much does he want it etc etc etc.

Would you make that big a deal about Steinmann though?

Ryan

Would you make that big a deal about Steinmann though?

 Clubs usually make a big deal out of any import signing