Capel Saint Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 I was wondering the other day why Saints haven't been looking at the Scandanavian leagues for players? We used to get players that were fairly cheap and of a good quality Lundekvam, M Svensson, Ostenstad etc. They were used to the faster pace of English football and seemed on the most part to adapt well. Is it because Scandanavian clubs have increased the prices for their players and are now asking silly money? Or is there not the same level of quality players coming through the ranks in these leagues? Any thoughts? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saintjersey Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 As AP said our scouting network is terrible, so I'm guessing we just don't have the capabilities to find the talent anymore. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ToreSF Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Norwegian players are poor and expensive. Rennes just had to pay 5 million euros for a 24 year old midfielder who isnt even a regular on our terrible national team. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capel Saint Posted 4 August, 2009 Author Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Norwegian players are poor and expensive. Rennes just had to pay 5 million euros for a 24 year old midfielder who isnt even a regular on our terrible national team. Is there any reason for the decline in quality of players? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ToreSF Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Is there any reason for the decline in quality of players? To many foreigners making it harder for norwegian talents to play regulary at top level. Hopefully the poor club economy we see these days will change that. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
david in sweden Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 (edited) I was wondering the other day why Saints haven't been looking at the Scandanavian leagues for players? We used to get players that were fairly cheap and of a good quality Lundekvam, M Svensson, Ostenstad etc. They were used to the faster pace of English football and seemed on the most part to adapt well. Is it because Scandanavian clubs have increased the prices for their players and are now asking silly money? Or is there not the same level of quality players coming through the ranks in these leagues? Any thoughts? There are a number of reasons for this. The scouting is one. When we were in the Prem. we had the likes of Terry Cooper travelling around the world looking for likely signings...but no more. When we were Prem. we signed Lundekvam and Östenstad, they were experienced but not regular Internationals (in a Norwegian side that was quite good). Likewise in Sweden, when we signed Anders S. (under S. Gray) he was a fringe player in a (then) good Swedish side. Same situation with Michael Svensson, who had graduated to the squad without becoming a regular and we signed him at that point. Incidentally, the £2 million we paid was a good price for a defender (at that time). Though we later signed M. Nilsson (was in the same category) an occasional utility player who had a good Euro tournement, and we bought him cheap, but he didn't fit in anywhere in the defence, because he was better as an attacking midfielder. Promising young Swedes often go to Holland, France or Germany, (M.Svensson did) because the general standard isn't as high as the Prem. Just now there is a big generation switch in the Swedish side. Very few top class players left, and some of their new youngsters are STILL playing in Sweden's Prem. which is not SO good as the Prem. and nearer CCC. Expect to see (a) Prem side spend £5 million + on goal-poacher Rasmus Elm (one of Kalmar's THREE brothers). But really their better players are either too young ..or not " English " enough in their playing style. They are just promising players in a good side. We would want to buy someone with pedigree (like the Svenssons) but they wouldn't want to play at this level (rather like our two Poles) and still keep their internatoiomnal dreams alive. At the moment, League 1 needs good, tough, older experienced types. Edited 4 August, 2009 by david in sweden Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capel Saint Posted 4 August, 2009 Author Share Posted 4 August, 2009 There are a number of reasons for this. The scouting is one. When we were in the Prem. we had the likes of Terry Cooper travelling around the world looking for likely signings...but no more. When we were Prem. we signed Lundekvam and Östenstad, they were experienced but not regular Internationals (in a Norwegian side that was quite good). Likewise in Sweden, when we signed Anders S. (under S. Gray) he was a fringe player in a (then) good Swedish side. Same situation with Michael Svensson, who had graduated to the squad without becoming a regular and we signed him at that point. Incidentally, the £2 million we paid was a good price for a defender (at that time). Though we later signed M. Nilsson (was in the same category) an occasional utility player who had a good Euro tournement, and we bought him cheap, but he didn't fit in anywhere in the defence, because he was better as an attacking midfielder. Promising young Swedes often go to Holland, France or Germany, (M.Svensson did) because the general standard isn't as high as the Prem. Just now there is a big generation switch in the Swedish side. Very few top class players left, and some of their new youngsters are STILL playing in Sweden's Prem. which is not SO good as the Prem. and nearer CCC. Expect to see (a) Prem side spend £5 million + on goal-poacher Rasmus Elm (one of Kalmar's THREE brothers). But really their better players are either too young ..or not " English " enough in their playing style. They are just promising players in a good side. We would want to buy someone with pedigree (like the Svenssons) but they wouldn't want to play at this level (rather like our two Poles) and still keep their internatoiomnal dreams alive. At the moment, League 1 needs good, tough, older experienced types. Interesting, cheers David. I wondered if Saints, once they get the scouting network back up and running, they could find some promising talent that could fit in well at League 1/CCC level who the club could nuture and who would hopefully improve to be good enough at CCC level once we achieve promotion. (Thinking positively here!) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
david in sweden Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Interesting, cheers David. I wondered if Saints, once they get the scouting network back up and running, they could find some promising talent that could fit in well at League 1/CCC level who the club could nuture and who would hopefully improve to be good enough at CCC level once we achieve promotion. (Thinking positively here!) .......signings really are down to the managers style of play. There are a number of reasons why Stuart Gray failed, but his signing of Anders Svensson was inspired IMHO. Unfortunately, Strachan didn't realise his potential and thought him lazy because he wouldn't back track to defend and win midfield balls. Anders was (and still is, at 33) a superb player in the " hole " behind the strikers. His performances for Elfsborg really lift their side and his recent games for Sweden (nearing 100 caps BTW) have been MOM rated. Many teams are "fixed " playing the style the manager chooses (recall last season) and new players must fit in or they are a waste of space and money. When we finally see what formation AP will use ..442, 451, 424, or .??? then we can start to find the weak spots and search for better replacements - in case of longterm injuries and suspensions. As most people on here have observed, we need a good CH now that Thomas is injured again, and TWO reliable, experienced strikers (of any generation) as it seems obvious (to me at least) that our two Polish front men, want away soon, but won't say so ....in case they lose there signing-on fees. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capel Saint Posted 4 August, 2009 Author Share Posted 4 August, 2009 .......signings really are down to the managers style of play. There are a number of reasons why Stuart Gray failed, but his signing of Anders Svensson was inspired IMHO. Unfortunately, Strachan didn't realise his potential and thought him lazy because he wouldn't back track to defend and win midfield balls. Anders was (and still is, at 33) a superb player in the " hole " behind the strikers. His performances for Elfsborg really lift their side and his recent games for Sweden (nearing 100 caps BTW) have been MOM rated. Many teams are "fixed " playing the style the manager chooses (recall last season) and new players must fit in or they are a waste of space and money. When we finally see what formation AP will use ..442, 451, 424, or .??? then we can start to find the weak spots and search for better replacements - in case of longterm injuries and suspensions. As most people on here have observed, we need a good CH now that Thomas is injured again, and TWO reliable, experienced strikers (of any generation) as it seems obvious (to me at least) that our two Polish front men, want away soon, but won't say so ....in case they lose there signing-on fees. Yes, it would seem imperitive that AP signs two new strikers albeit possibly one of those may be have to be a loan as I wouldn't have thought there are too many decent strikers that haven't found a club. At least we almost have a squad that is accepted to play League 1 football and want to stay at Saints - with the exception of Rasiak and Saga of course. I guess as fans, we have to be patient and leave it to the guys in charge to find the right players whioch is going to take time. This season is going to be consolidation with hopefully a strong push for promotion the following season. It will be interesting to see if the new owner is willing to get his chequebook out. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Channon's Sideburns Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 I'm off to Gothenburg next week...I'll have a look. ;-) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Danish Saint Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 At the moment, both Norwegian and Swedish football is suffering from lacking youth programs at the top clubs. Especially in Norway, clubs are relying on foreign and EU-players and old home-grown ones. This makes for lack of consistency at all the clubs. Younger players are not getting blooded the right way or being called on again and again, like we are doing. The number-one transfer target in Norway at the moment is Erik Huseklepp of Brann Bergen, who is rumoured to sign for Rennes. Don't know much about Swedish football, but the pattern seems familiar to Norway. Danish Premier Leauge is in turmoil at the moment. Normal powerhouses like FC Copenhagen and Brøndby are struggling a bit with thin squads and (like Norway) foreign players. Tradional clubs like OB Odense, AGF Aarhus and AaB Aalborg are on the way up, but last-mentioned has just sold of most of their talented players to minor foreign clubs. This makes it very difficult to spot the right kind of players, that could do a job at Saints. Taking our leauge status into consideration, my first two recommendations would be: Søren Rieks - Central midfielder at EfB Esbjerg. Good fighter, with very good passing skills. Not afraid to try his luck from distance. Christoffer Poulsen - Centerback at FC Midtjylland. Very good defender with good aerial abilities and awareness. A bit young, but a Class A-prospect. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
saint_stevo Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Erik Huseklepp? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
exeter_saint Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Martin Vingaard of FC Copenhagen, classy winger.... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Channon's Sideburns Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Not being funny, but couldn't the club use the knowledge of the posters above? It could then be followed up by more research..and viewings surely? Less expense for the company as well. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Danish Saint Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Martin Vingaard of FC Copenhagen, classy winger.... Totally agree, and he would be on my list. The problem is that he just signed for FC Copenhagen last year from Esbjerg. So the club would really have to splash the cash on this one. Vingaard is on the verge of breaking into the national squad as a replacement for Martin Jørgensen of Fiorentina, who's getting a bit too old now (32). Not a prospect for Saints, as he's been qouted of wanting to finish his career, where he started, at AGF Aarhus. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Danish Saint Posted 4 August, 2009 Share Posted 4 August, 2009 Not being funny, but couldn't the club use the knowledge of the posters above? It could then be followed up by more research..and viewings surely? Less expense for the company as well. If the club approached me to become their Scandinavian scout, I'd be more than happy to have a go at it :cool: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Capel Saint Posted 5 August, 2009 Author Share Posted 5 August, 2009 If the club approached me to become their Scandinavian scout, I'd be more than happy to have a go at it :cool: By the sound of your posts I reckon you could do a good job! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Danish Saint Posted 5 August, 2009 Share Posted 5 August, 2009 One player, I believe Saints should take a very good look at, is Jonas Kamper, currently playing at Arminia Bielefeld in the German 2.Bundesliga. He's the classic right winger, with good skills. Been in German football for three years now, so his contract is due. Very good technical skills and a fun player to watch. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
exeter_saint Posted 5 August, 2009 Share Posted 5 August, 2009 Totally agree, and he would be on my list. The problem is that he just signed for FC Copenhagen last year from Esbjerg. So the club would really have to splash the cash on this one. Vingaard is on the verge of breaking into the national squad as a replacement for Martin Jørgensen of Fiorentina, who's getting a bit too old now (32). Not a prospect for Saints, as he's been qouted of wanting to finish his career, where he started, at AGF Aarhus. seen him play at parken a couple of times, and up close at a pre-season friendly vs vejle. his touch and technique is class with great timings of his passing and a bullet of a shot. defensively the FCK left back oscar wendt has always impressed me, while up front Morten Nordstrand would be a good purchase... isnt the busiest worker but hes a terrific finisher, he's also on the fringes of the national team. Either way if i was any of the above i wouldnt give up champions league for league 1! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Danish Saint Posted 5 August, 2009 Share Posted 5 August, 2009 seen him play at parken a couple of times, and up close at a pre-season friendly vs vejle. his touch and technique is class with great timings of his passing and a bullet of a shot. defensively the FCK left back oscar wendt has always impressed me, while up front Morten Nordstrand would be a good purchase... isnt the busiest worker but hes a terrific finisher, he's also on the fringes of the national team. Either way if i was any of the above i wouldnt give up champions league for league 1! Nordstrand would also be on the list, but again.... Prospect of playing Champions Leauge, on the verge of the national squad... needs to be playing top-level football, not Leauge 1. We need to find the gems, that are not too obvious for everyone else. Left-back at AGF Aarhus, Michael Lumb, is also a good target, but with Harding and Fish already at the club, I don't see the need at the moment. A utility player like Ulrik Lindkvist at the same club however could be tempted. It all depends on the ambitions of Leibherr, Cortese and Pardew. There's nothing wrong with the facilites at Saints.. (stating the obvious, I know)... it's the -10 points in Leauge 1, that would scare most players away. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lazlo78 Posted 6 August, 2009 Share Posted 6 August, 2009 seen him play at parken a couple of times, and up close at a pre-season friendly vs vejle. his touch and technique is class with great timings of his passing and a bullet of a shot. defensively the FCK left back oscar wendt has always impressed me, while up front Morten Nordstrand would be a good purchase... isnt the busiest worker but hes a terrific finisher, he's also on the fringes of the national team. Either way if i was any of the above i wouldnt give up champions league for league 1! I can only agree with your assessment of these players, but unfortunately they are unlikely to sign for a League One club. Aalborg BK sold some of their pivotal midfielders from the championship season (they are no world-beaters but they were fine players in the best Danish league) to Arminia Bielefeld and Red Bull Salzburg. I find it unlikely that they would have been happy with a transfer to the 3rd English division. So using those as a yardstick, the top players in the DK league are unrealistic targets for us. As soon as they show potential, they'll often have the option of joining a smaller club in the Dutch Eeresdivisie. Norwich just bought Jens Bertel Askou. He is virtually a no-name in DK as far as I'm concerned. He played for a club that was relegated from the best division, and then he went to Kasımpaşa in Turkey. They were relegated and when they won promotion again his contract was not renewed. This is the kind of player that can be attracted to League One. Mind you, he might turn out to be quite good. Once we get back to the CCC it'll be an entirely different story. Then we'll be more attractive to the top players in Denmark... Finally a few names (probably unrealistic targets the whole lot ;-)): - Ken Ilsø, SønderjyskE, 22 years - creative midfielder who likes to take on defenders and also has a good shot from distance. Unfortunately has been "discovered" so all the bigger clubs are looking at him - Sölvi Ottesen, SønderjyskE, 25 years - defensive lynchpin. The Iclandic centre back was generally considered the major factor in keeping Sønderjyske in the top league against all odds. Unfortunately also discovered by the larger clubs - Jonas Troest, Odense BK, 24 years - tall, athletic defender. Not sure what's the deal with him right now. He and his brother are really talented defenders but I don't see him starting for OB. Maybe he is just injured or temporarily out of their first team plans - Jesper Lange, Esbjerg fB, 23 years - aggressive forward with the greatest workrate I've seen for a long time. He is a tenacious tackler although not a goal machine - Libor Sionko, FC København, 32 years - maybe an utterly unrealistic target but this Czech international midfielder seems to be rotting in the reserves at FCK. Creative, offensive midfielder/forward with an eye for goal - Bajram Fetai, FC Nordsjælland, 25 years - an agressive forward who compensates for his technical shortcomings by playing physically and directly. Maybe not good enough for Saints but he scores quite a few goals in spite of not looking like a great player. His style might fit perfectly to League One or even CCC - Michael Beauchamp, Aalborg BK, 28 years - the (former?) Australian internernational defender is no longer wanted at Aalborg BK. He is a somewhat gangly, clumsy player but he is a physical presence and he gives 100% every match - Lasse Nielsen, Aalborg BK, 21 years - talented defender who can operate in central defense or as a full back. Played a lot of games in Aalborgs Champions League campaign last season. Maybe unrealistic as he is probably looking for a lucrative move somewhere Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lazlo78 Posted 9 August, 2009 Share Posted 9 August, 2009 The former Aalborg BK defender and current US International Danny Califf is unhappy at his new club FCM and wants away. He's a real slugger who'll lead the team from the backline. Has probably fallen out of favor because the manager prefers more technically gifted defenders instead... See picture here: http://ekstrabladet.dk/sport/fodbold/dansk_fodbold/superligaen/fc_midtjylland/article1204119.ece http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_Califf Would probably not go to League One, but this guy could seriously shore up our defense... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saint Martini Posted 9 August, 2009 Share Posted 9 August, 2009 (edited) I was going to suggest Amadou Jawo but while I was on holiday he transfered to Elfsborg from Gefle for about 10 million crones (A bit less then a million pounds I think). He would have been affordable and willing to come I think and he would have been a class act in League One. He's lighting quick, full of tricks and not affraid to get stuck in. Plus he's only played at the Swedish highest level for 1.5 years after signing for Gefle from the lower leagues so there's a lot of development still possible for him. To bad Elfsborg got him. Two other players that might be worth considering at Gefle are Yannick Bapupa & Yussif Chibsah. Bapupa is a midfielder that played mostly as a rightwinger last season and when he was at the top of his game he is unstoppable (at least for Swedish defenders). Since Jonathan Berg (older brother of Marcus Berg) arrived he's moved inside playing as a central midfielder next to Chibsah with Bapupa being the more attacking player and Chibsah providing the defensive cover. Chibsah is a smallish but tough holding midfielder that really gets stuck in. He's not a very creative player but very secure in his passing (although not often forward). The problem for both of them would be that they're African and don't have enough caps for a workpermit (Although I think Bapupa might have or would qualify for a double nationality). Edited 9 August, 2009 by Saint Martini Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lazlo78 Posted 15 August, 2009 Share Posted 15 August, 2009 Finally a few names (probably unrealistic targets the whole lot ;-)): - Ken Ilsø, SønderjyskE, 22 years - creative midfielder who likes to take on defenders and also has a good shot from distance. Unfortunately has been "discovered" so all the bigger clubs are looking at him Apparently scouts from Newcastle and Sheff Utd were watching Ilsø today... not a realistic target then Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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