I don't really want to get into the slinging match, but clearly some people have got a chip on their shoulder about Bertos and are arguing everything other than genuine football talent.� Who knows, maybe he shagged their sister/girlfriend.
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Whatever it is, any criticism needs to be held till he has played for the Phoenix, within the Phoenix structure and game plan.
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I'm pretty sure there are plenty of cases where a player has not worked so well in one team, under one manager but after transfering has looked awesome.��And vice-versa.
Thats not to say that Bertos has even been crap for the Glory, or will be awesome for the Phoenix, we will have to wait and see.
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And just because a player comes off contract it doesn't mean Perth didn't still want him.� Players come off contract and evaluate their options.� As it is Bertos had the option of returning home to be under his National coach, close to his family so favoured the Phoenix contract.� Pretty fricken simple (and common sense) if you ask me, but still speculation so take what you will.
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Bertos has looked pretty good in the All Whites under Ricki, and I reckon he will thrive being home, with some of his good mates (Christie plus others I'm sure).
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I'm sure everyone here will admit he's sh*t if he doesn't perform this year, and�I damn well hope you knockers come back and face the music if he turns out to be awesome.
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One thing I would like to point out is that if a club really wants a player they would usually try to retain him before he comes off contract.
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Hope�"the knockers"�wasnt refferring to me. I was just asking the question. I am very very happy he's joining the Nix.
But the story quite clearly states that negotiations between Perth and Bertos failed, which means that they did train to re-sign him, but realised that they were fighting a losing battle.