SW11_Saint

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.

The more I think about Pardew, the more I think he'd be a good appointment for us - good league experience including this level (including some success), good contacts in the game, seems intelligent enough... is still young enough to have bold ambition and look on us as a long term project. Altogether now... Alan Pardew's Red & White Army!!!

I quite like Pardew, wouldn't be disappointed if he got the job.

There's only one Markus Liebherr, One Markus Liebherr, Swiss Industrial king, Saints are his play-thing, We're walking in a Liebherr wonderland...! There's only one... (ad infinitum)

Not true at all - all depends on facts and circumstances.

Cherie Lunghi? Hope Powell?

Could be any number of reasons - affinity with the club, seeing the long term potential, big fan-base, state of the art stadium & training facilities, new board with a long term vision, billionairre owner etc. etc. League 1 or not, Southampton IS a plumb job for anyone trying to prove themselves, trying to resurrect their career, or just looking for a long-term challenge...

Try Betfair, you can bet on almost anything there... (or Paddy Power?)

Obviously in the minority, but I think it's okay. Minor issue anyway - it's who's wearing it that matters.

I'm with you on Boothroyd, but can't agree on Coppell being 'dour'. More like reserved and intelligent. But his record speaks for itself, and his teams always play fast attacking football. #1 choice in my book.

Dear oh dear, what a bitter little man you are! Why you're spoiling for fights still is beyond me, but I guess ranting about this is better than you trying to stir up anti-semitic feelings...

Thanks Tony - magnanimous of you. Although many of us may have been frustrated at the timing, especially when we felt we might miss out on a new buyer, I think the vast majority of fans see past that now and will only owe you thanks for the time, money and effort that went into your bid - and we were all particularly impressed with the way you kept Saints fans informed. Didn't pan out for you, which is a shame, but hopefully the club is now in a good place and I am sure you and your colleagues will be welcomed at SMS always (maybe one day not too far away we'll be playing 'your lot' down here again!!!). Cheers.

Please not Boothroyd... personality free-zone, and dire football to boot.

Reading between the lines, as others have said, it seems that the new board have missed out on their #1 target, and are now looking elsewhere. Does seem odd that it has taken this long to sort out their criteria though - given they have "hit the ground running" in other areas (and this is THE most critical area). Given that Coppell wanted some "time off" wonder if this now plays in our favour? (although believe he was talking months rather than weeks - but you never know). Interesting 2p worth from TL too (thanks Tony) - we know AO has consulted with "football people" as he met with MLT, a good move, and hopefully he got some direction on that - perhaps towards whoever Pinnacle might have appointed???

We're in League 1 now, not a prerequisite...

That would be mine definitely. Followed by about a dozen from MLT, then Ivan Golac's vs. West Brom (rocket of a half volley)

Agreed, or a rather nice life-raft!

I think Wotton could fulfil one of those roldes, certainly prepared to get stuck in. In this lower league he might be worth his weight in gold. Certainly proved he'll bleed for the cause... As for the leader - we're lacking there. Murty has good leadership experience, so if we keep him I'd make him captain for now. Would be nice to have a new Steve Williams or someone emerge over the next couple of years though.