SW11_Saint

We can only hope - would take their tally of England internationals from 5 down to 0!! (and end the crowing on that front!).

Think you're spot on Wes. I see my "exclusive" was already reported in the Echo (oops!) and this might have been too, but I did hear that he was just watching the Salisbury game from the Stands to get a perspective on how good/bad we really were. He was so incensed by what he saw he stormed into the dressing room at half time and gave them the rollocking of their lives - making it clear that he expected automatic promotion this year and that anyone who wasn't making the effort or up to it would be out. The result - 4 goals in the second half! I do honestly believe we're seeing the "Pardew effect" before our eyes. Not to say I think we'll walk every game (in fact I suspect Millwall will be a draw) but I do think we have the right man, with the right ambition and authority (finally!!!) at the helm. Good times ahead I hope.

Five you mean... (sorry, pedantic in the extreme!)

I agree. If I could choose I'd rather he went elsewhere, but I'm actually pleased for him that he's still able to make a living "playing" for a bit longer. Won't change my opinion of his time with Saints. Do we think less of Mick Channon or Bobby Stokes for playing there at the tail end of their careers? No. So I won't of Antti either.

I have it on reliable authority that AP has did little else in the first week of his tenure than make phone calls to agents/clubs re. players. I expect to see 2-3, maybe more new faces in the next week or so.

And here's another report... http://www.dailyexpress.co.uk/posts/view/116524/Angry-laszlo-slams-broken-hearts/

interesting "outside" view on us... http://sport.scotsman.com/sport/Southampton-3--0-Hearts.5494301.jp

Looked okay. A couple of lazy passes gave possession away, but other than that did what a traditional "stopper" is supposed to do. Not sure what his injury was, but hopefully not too bad - the key obviously is keeping him fit. Does look huge though, seemed to be about a foot taller than those around him (although they included Perry and Murty, so no surprise!). How ironic (for him) that he leaves Burnley for a bigger club/greater success, and they end up in the Prem League... still, think he could do a "Daren Moore" type job for us and will do well in this league.

Thought Murty looked good yesterday. Clearly has more fitness to gain, but certainly didn't struggle on that front. Got up the line well, delivered some excellent crosses and linked up with midfield very well, I think he'd be a great addition. Also clearly brings some great leadership qualities. I am sure Kelvin wants to hang onto the captaincy, but Murty would be a great choice in my book too. Other than the general marshalling of the team, he stepped in to mediate in a spat between Wooton and Thomas. Sign him up Pards!

4 is a midfield number, always has been with Saints - Steve Williams, Nick Holmes etc. have worn it with distinction.

Water under the bridge - we are where we are. Who knows, without the brinksmanship with Pinnacle, we might never have got Liebherr. Onwards and upwards...

Am going but expect it to be a lower gate than Ajax...

As did I!

Just confirms what we know - that we have a fair few gaps to fill to complete our starting 11!! Wonder if Matt Holland might get that no. 7?

He'll probably be in South Western House initially if he doesn't already live locally - Saints have a few flats there, and WGS, Crouchie, Jesus, Jermaine Wright among others have all lived there temporarily.

Done.

At least we can hope he didn't waste any club money trying to 'clear his name' here...! PS I still don't quite get where all the money went. Stop it, stop it, stop it...!!!

Well, he hasn't started officially as manager yet, so of course we wait to see the outcome, but my point was that at last we seem to have a sensible manager with clear ideas and a pragmatic approach. A 'luxury' we have not had for some time! I have always admired Pardew, seems to have that certain gravitas that you need - I have a good feeling. A feeling, note, before you jump down my throat. It is VERY important however that we are patient and give him time to build a decent squad/team - remember he's not only starting on -10, but has also inherited a squad that is dessimated (wasn't good enough to stay up last year, and is weaker now). I do have a good feeling though...

Clear messages, sensible and pragmatic, but also showing real ambition. Can someone wake me up - I think I may be dreaming...

Talking of the Guardian - somewhat miffed that Pardew's appointment doesn't even warrant one line in it's sports section. It's obsession with the Premier League (+ Newcastle) is getting a little tedious...

Looks like you're in the minority. Not exactly euphoria, more relief and pleasure at a sensible and positive appointment. Don't forget, this sensible approach is very new to us as a club! 7.5/10 for me...

Been warming to him since he became a serious contender. Ticks all the relevant boxes - - Good experience, successful at both Reading and WHU (not so well at Charlton, but I think there were mitigating circumstances there, and he can hopefully learn from that a la WGS at Coventry), - Young enough to see us as a long term projects, - Intelligent guy from what I have seen of him, - Assertive, - Well respected in the game and a 'tracksuit' manager Onwards and upwards with Alan Pardew's Red & White Army!!! Let's give him a rousing welcome tomorrow (and a happy birthday!).

And the winner is... ... not even on the list!

Didn't work out for him, but then neither did it for Dowie or any manager since Curbishley. I don't think it necessarily reflects badl on AP - did well enough at Reading and WHU to show he has some talent.