NYBlue

I was hoping to wake up to some very exciting news about a no10, instead I wake to find out that we have indeed signed someone but for much more money than initially thought. It feels almost like a 'Stones' tax has been applied but that someone actually forgot that he was staying and signed off on the deal.

Does anyone have a link to the Jason Cundy Talksport thing from the other day? I've had a look but can't see it.

A guy in the office just sent this across to me. If you want a laugh read this - http://screamer.deadspin.com/are-everton-really-dumb-enough-to-turn-down-tons-of-mon-1726991842

When I first learnt that we were speaking to Barnsley about buying out the option I thought it was crazy but I guess the logical thought is that we are trying to be buy it out as part of a new contract for John.

I guess it's more of a question whether he would be happy not playing 100% playing time which if he is Pedro's replacement would be a no.

This. The club are in a very difficult position and they are trying to handle it the best way they can while managing games and working on transfer targets. I guess the problem lies in the fact that he said they would reject it in the morning and there hasn't been any official rejection other than the words from RM's interview which have been cut and pasted. For me there was also the dig at the 'authorities' that if they won't do anything then the club will take it upon themselves to protect him.

Seeing the posts regarding RM's post match comments on Stones. I just noticed this on the feed on the OS: Everton says:Roberto Martinez confirms he will reject John Stones's transfer request in the morning. 'Today was a match day, the game was more important'

Take a lead from West Brom and Berhanio, although that does seem to be them pushing for more cash. Whether he has or he hasn't the answer is NO.

Whole heartedly agree. I think he could be the key that really unlocks the potential there is in our team. I think Bobby can use his phenomenal persuasive skills to give us a solid chance though.

That's very shameful article from Sky. I'm wondering if the current Carniero stuff is going to help derail their attempts with Stones. Probably not as they are separate but Chelsea have got them themselves in a right mess right now with Abramovich apparently pretty pissed off with Mourinho. There's more fall out to come from that situation. I find it interesting that Mourinho did what did after signing his new contract.

Didn't he make those comments before the first bid from Chelsea came in? Like MC says they're probably not far off and I wouldn't blame him if he wanted to go but it's on the basis that he won't rock the boat and will only talk to Chelsea if Everton accept a bid.

Over here in the US the feeds are coming directly from the Premier League with default english commentators in position for the standard games which air on the separate channels to maintain the coverage of all games. When it comes to the games that NBC has picked specifically for coverage on NBC Sports etc then they have the english based NBC Sports coverage commentators; Arlo White, Graeme Le Saux, Lee Dixon etc. which then tie back to the NBC Sports studio in CT with Rebecca Lowe, Ekoku and Mustoe. In the case of Lee Dixon and Graeme Le Saux etc they must have secondary contracts to work with other broadcasters. Much like Lineker who fronts the BBC coverage primarily but then does work on the side for NBC Sports and one of the middle east stations. Seeing the financial details hinting at the 1BN that NBC Sports has paid for the next contract. It was inevitable that they paid more with the great job they are doing. Better, quality coverage which improves the brand will only lead to the Premier League charging more and more. They do an amazing job here with their coverage, also helped by the time difference which means their is little sports competition on Saturday/Sunday mornings. I think it all started when the guy in charge of NBC Sports was traveling through NYC and noticed the amount of people wearing club colors that convinced him there was something to pursue which got them their first deal.

I would understand there would be some nervousness around signing him after what happened with Eto'o.

Will take the draw with the opening game. Let's get some players in and move forward.

Same as last season. Emphasises the need to hit the transfer market to give us options.