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Secret talks preface Simpson's decision to stand down (From Watford Observer)
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Secret talks preface Simpson's decision to stand down
11:39am Monday 1st December 2008
Graham Simpson has resigned as chairman of Watford Football Club.
Simpson broke the news to shareholders of the Hornets’ parent company, Watford Leisure Plc, this morning, who had attended what was expected to be an emergency meeting where the chairman and the other two members of the club’s board were set to face a vote of no confidence.
However, the packed meeting was delayed by more than 20 minutes, while representatives of the club and former directors Jimmy and Vince Russo held behind closed doors discussions that appear to have resulted in the chairman’s decision to quit.
Although Simpson cited “everything that is happening at the moment” as the reasons why he had decided to stand down - and he later confirmed he was also standing down as a director - no specific explanation was given.
Director Andrew Wilson has taken over as interim chairman, but chief executive Mark Ashton’s long-term future at Vicarage Road is unclear.
Simpson said: “This may come as a little bit of a surprise – I don’t think it will be a surprise for everybody – but for me personally, over the last few months, this has been a very difficult time.
“I’ve enjoyed my stay as chairman immensely but I do feel in the event of everything that is happening at the moment and after discussing with my fellow directors that now is the time I should stand down as chairman of Watford Football Club.”
This announcement was greeted with applause by some shareholders present, to which the out-going chairman responded: “I understand the applause and I accept that you’re pleased.
“I’ll hope you’ll also bear in mind that if I have made mistakes I sincerely apologise. I have always done, and that’s the most important thing for me, the very best, or I believe to be the best for the club. Nobody gets it right all the time and I sincerely apologise to anyone who I may have offended by doing the wrong thing.
“We’ve had a discussion with Jimmy and Vince and they are withdrawing their motion [of no confidence] which I think is good for the club. That’s the important thing...what is most important for all of us here is that we’re shareholders and we love Watford Football Club.”
Asked about Ashton's future, Simpson said: "We've heard what I've decided to do today, there will be some restructuring in the board.
"I think it's very unfair for Mark to comment on himself, at this moment in time. That's something that he will deliberate on in the next few weeks, months or whatever and it's not fair for me to do so [comment].
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Your Say YourWatford
Vicar*o*rage, Bushey says...
11:53am Mon 1 Dec 08
a1derek, St Albans says...
11:56am Mon 1 Dec 08
Of course, if financial impropriety is now proved, we will now be deducted points!
Berks Horn, London says...
12:00pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Vicar Rage, Watford says...
12:11pm Mon 1 Dec 08
I recall him giving an interview when Boothroyd was chopped, saying he couldn't wait for today's EGM so he could put things straight and give people answers.
Obviously had a change of mind then.
Let's see what details emerge, but it's another example of all that is bad with the club. Appoint a new manager and then quit.
Surely if things were rosey and there was nothing in the background to be worried about, he'd not resign?
saf1981, Radlett says...
12:11pm Mon 1 Dec 08
a1derek wrote:alderek - That is hugely offensive to a man who has clearly only ever had the best interests of the club in his heart. I've often disagreed with his decisions but right or wrong I don't doubt his motives. He steadied us through many a wobbles (caused a couple himself) but to accuse the man of financial impropiety is ignorant and just plain out order.
Oh come on Vicar*O*age! Did he say where the missing £12 million went in his resignation speech?
Of course, if financial impropriety is now proved, we will now be deducted points!
Derek Payne, says...
12:18pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Are you sure he hasn't just offered his resignation (could be a very different thing)...
Bendean, St Albans says...
12:25pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
12:28pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ashton as chairman. im sorry but that would be what some supporters deserve.
Robert Peel, St Albans says...
12:28pm Mon 1 Dec 08
NG_Watford, Watford says...
12:31pm Mon 1 Dec 08
johnny b, bushey says...
12:34pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Derek Payne wrote:Derek,
Is this story definitely true?
Are you sure he hasn't just offered his resignation (could be a very different thing)...
I would imagine it came via a text from A.M. who is of course there as a shareholder
ab11uk, watford says...
12:34pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Achilles_of_Herts, Watford says...
12:37pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Berks Horn, London says...
12:40pm Mon 1 Dec 08
NG_Watford wrote:If that's the case then I find that really sus.
Did you notice that the Russo brothers withdrew the vote of no confidence..... he resigned before the real truth came out..
a1derek, St Albans says...
12:46pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Somewhere between £10-14m that CANNOT be accounted for.
My guess is GS has fallen on his sword before the truth came out.
I agree GS did a good job steadying the ship after the Vialli fiasco, but to then go and do exactly the same is pure folly!
And to do so in murky circumstances? I am not accusing, but I think I have a right to ask the question don't you?
gilesy97, Surbiton says...
12:49pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Derek Payne, says...
12:51pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Derek Payne, says...
12:56pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Vicar Rage, Watford says...
1:01pm Mon 1 Dec 08
If the man really is squeaky clean, why would he resign?
The Russos withdrew their vote of no confidence, and at the same time Simpson steps down. In other words, a deal has been done.
So why has Simpson decided to do that?
T Smith, Watford says...
1:13pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Berks Horn, London says...
1:20pm Mon 1 Dec 08
henry, oxhey says...
1:41pm Mon 1 Dec 08
There's never a dull moment at WFC -except on the pitch on Saturday - but there never seems to be much consideration for the legitimate concerns of the fans without whose support the club has no purpose.
Chris the Vic, The Vic says...
1:45pm Mon 1 Dec 08
As one of the most outspoken critics of GS I detest the stupidity of many of the accusations.
As with those who sought to justify the ring fencing comments a year or so back, most people havent a clue about the accounts or cash flows etc. I feel certain that GS has been honest and not committed the crimes he is accused of..In recent times his performance along with that of both Ashton and Aidy was abject..NOT DISHONEST.
In many cases his statements and that of the board were interesting in what they didnt say rather than what they did say.
The trust with its experts failed to grasp that as did many clappers...see my comments re the staements made in the accounts by both GS and MA.
Also be warned developments will be revealed in the next few weeks which will fill in much of the detail about why today happened. Whilst we await these developments I look towards Boy Blunder Aston to negotiate a lucrative exit ( a reward for failur) as I doubt he has the ability to do what is right and honourable unlike GS.
But please dont make anymore uncalled for and unsubstantiated claims about GS's honesty it is not what he deserves..albeit he has for a long time been perhaps economic with the truth which is a distance from being dishonest,
Berks Horn, London says...
2:00pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Why would GS fall on his sword when the Russos withdrew their vote of no confidence? Sounds like a deal to me? If so, why? Or maybe he did just get sick of the criticism and finally cave - who knows. I don't at the moment.
Either way you can't expect his honesty not to come under a degree of scrutiny - you admit he's been economic with the truth yourself. At the least he's undoubtedly been the architect of a fair amount of spin.
VitalWatford, Leighton Buzzard says...
2:12pm Mon 1 Dec 08
I still can't quite see where people come from with the whole £15m hole etc...The financial accounts make clear but bad reading - £18m on players is easily calculated without too much effort and the wage bill is what's expected of a top flight side these days...
Yes Simpson made mistakes but he is not a dishonest man and this decision is timely as he has felt for a long time its time to move on - he has never hidden that fact.
Things won't improve under the Russo's - you've only got to look at the nonsense on the pitch to know that...
Nostradamus, Leighton Buzzard says...
2:16pm Mon 1 Dec 08
I am delighted he's gone and I think he's done a WORSE job than during the Vialli days because of the amount of money that was at his disposal over they last two years. Appointing a manager one week and resigning the next just sums it up for me!
bartonboy, says...
2:32pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
2:35pm Mon 1 Dec 08
he thought u know what the fans are so nasty to me(to be honest i think they have been very weak compared to what he has done)
that il appoint this unknown and il leave.
didnt he appoint a unknown at the start????
Barton I think ur brain is probably slightly smaller than ur cousin/dad Joey
ledlobbo, Bricket Wood says...
2:58pm Mon 1 Dec 08
HOOF, England says...
3:05pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Derek Payne, says...
3:14pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Achilles_of_Herts, Watford says...
3:21pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Johnjones1959, Aylesbury says...
3:23pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Graham Gimpson, Ricky says...
3:31pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Will those spineless sycophants at the Supporters Trust now resign? Bet they didn't see that coming from their beloved Graham Simpson.
Or if they did - which I very much doubt coz they are only fed the info MA and GS want them to hear - they were 'bound by confidentially' and unable to tell us fans.
I look foward to the sycophantic tribute to Simpson on their pathetic website.
Bet they won't be able to cosy up to the board now the Russos are back.
This mess has happened on your watch Graham Sterry - resign, now.
ab11uk, watford says...
3:32pm Mon 1 Dec 08
apatters, Poole says...
3:48pm Mon 1 Dec 08
.. remember that Watford Leisure is a PLC, and is listed on the AIM market (one step down from the FTSE), and as such the Directors need to lodge audited accounts. If these are inacurate or there is anything wrong then the Directors go to prison.
I met GS on a number of occaisions and he might of got a number of things wrong - like possibly thinking AB was the messiah - but I believe every decision he made was in the best interest of the Club.
Fair play Graham and bonne chance......
JonBoy, Watford says...
3:56pm Mon 1 Dec 08
what I'm getting at is this. Has anything other than the chairman changed? Business as usual?
Roger68, St Albans says...
3:57pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
4:01pm Mon 1 Dec 08
he was clapped when he resigned the guy has left in disgrace. he never offered his resignation before only when the russo's made a threat did he leave clinging to his money like a certain mesirable christmas character.
i can only suggest rodger you apologise to the rest of us for supporting this dictator and leave the board.
Do the honerable thing like ur overlord and walk away your finished.
Johnjones1959, Aylesbury says...
4:01pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
4:03pm Mon 1 Dec 08
sim osrry but the guy has gone. if nothing was wrong he wouldnt have simple as that.
Johnjones1959, Aylesbury says...
4:12pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Prof Plum, Rickmansworth says...
4:14pm Mon 1 Dec 08
What a mess.
ab11uk, watford says...
4:17pm Mon 1 Dec 08
all those staff on 240k each were they?
please use a calculator maybe you could ask simpson for the money for one if needs be
VoR, Watford says...
4:18pm Mon 1 Dec 08
There was no egm as GS resigned before hand but meeting still went ahead with some answers to some questions, which will be reported by Matthews so I will not bother.
All I'll say is, this is maybe the final nail in the coffin with regards to our heritage, we'll now lose our identity and will become a feeder club for Chelsea & Arsenal youth players which leads me to the Academy . . that will be terminated in due course to save funds, so most of you have your wish but to what cost.
Gone is last proper supporter that was high enough to do anything in the interest of WFC.
We've no one left unless Taylor takes up the reigns.
We are not Watford anymore and some on here have to take part of the blame.
You don't know what you got 'till it's gone!
You have been warned!
A very very sad day!
Prof Plum, Rickmansworth says...
4:21pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
4:21pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
4:23pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Berks Horn, London says...
4:30pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Roger68, St Albans says...
4:30pm Mon 1 Dec 08
enlightened one, Watford says...
4:31pm Mon 1 Dec 08
About time cashton followed homers lead,then at last we will have our club back.
ozzi, kins cross says...
4:35pm Mon 1 Dec 08
VoR wrote:yeh why downt u go and crie vro u idut. anywaye wat all the fus abowt@/ wat this go to do with foortbal?'@.
Interesting take on your own ideas here ab11, let me state some actual facts....... There was no egm as GS resigned before hand but meeting still went ahead with some answers to some questions, which will be reported by Matthews so I will not bother. All I'll say is, this is maybe the final nail in the coffin with regards to our heritage, we'll now lose our identity and will become a feeder club for Chelsea & Arsenal youth players which leads me to the Academy . . that will be terminated in due course to save funds, so most of you have your wish but to what cost. Gone is last proper supporter that was high enough to do anything in the interest of WFC. We've no one left unless Taylor takes up the reigns. We are not Watford anymore and some on here have to take part of the blame. You don't know what you got 'till it's gone! You have been warned! A very very sad day!
Johnjones1959, Aylesbury says...
4:38pm Mon 1 Dec 08
RealityfromSouthMimms, South Mimms says...
4:41pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
4:42pm Mon 1 Dec 08
leeds?
Johnjones1959, Aylesbury says...
4:50pm Mon 1 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
4:53pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Chris the Vic, The Vic says...
4:55pm Mon 1 Dec 08
The advantage of it to GS is that he avoids exposure at the AGM where his statements would have come under the microscope. This leaves Boy Blunder as a deserved casualty.
Where I disagree with Roger is that Ashcroft will have played his hand in private. With the election not too far away he will want this problem dealt with, and dealt with quickly and quietly.
The future will be difficult for a new owner, a new board and the new manager but they start with a clean sheet and hopefully the support of the majority of the club including the fans.
Certainly a new beginning and hopefully a bright future in spite of the short term difficulties.
But the accusations and abuse of GS should cease. He was very good for the club and yes in recent years he chaired a disastrous period but we are still in existence, far better off than our beloved (?) neighbours up the M1, and we still have hope even if we may not have Tommy S for long.
derry pigweed, northampton says...
5:13pm Mon 1 Dec 08
2 down 1 to go
Taxi for Ca$hton
darrenbdarren, says...
5:20pm Mon 1 Dec 08
And that £500k salary's not something I've made up - it's right there in the club's audited accounts on the watfordleisureplc website.
Unlike most "fan" chairmen, who never make a penny out of it, Simpson made a packet.
Who knows whether the post-GS era will be better or worse, but at least we've got the wage bill down!
lovefriedonions, kings langley says...
5:29pm Mon 1 Dec 08
There is clearly no missing money. Every transaction will be recorded in the accounts, and audited, very carefully given its a listed company and therefore high risk for the auditors - the risk of getting sued is that much higher. Yes there have been some big ****-ups eg the stand cash and some poor buys by Booth...sorry "hoofroyd" that the chairman supported. To suggest he's been involved in large scale fraud and that thats why he jumped is puerile. New mgr has already talked about the "open" conversation he had before joining..he knew GS was looking to leave sooner rather than later.
bartonboy, says...
5:36pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Doe`s the 11 refer to your age?
GrahamTaylor, Watford says...
5:47pm Mon 1 Dec 08
WFC is a private company and such accounts are not available. Not suggesting this is true merely pointing out we will never know all the facts if they are hidden in subsidiary companies. One thing is certain something was agreed to be covered up today to avoid embarrassment.
cliff46, watford says...
5:59pm Mon 1 Dec 08
If its true might be interesting but I don't suppose he will reveal much as he will obviously have had the financial benefit of a gagging clause.
lovefriedonions, kings langley says...
6:06pm Mon 1 Dec 08
All limited company accounts are publicly available, not just the holding company plc accounts. The directors of the top co have to disclose their pay from all group companies, so no he couldn't have been paid an extra £1m by another company in the group, eg wfc.
i imagine GS was simply fed up with all the OTT criticism and thought given he was looking to go anyway, why not go now and avoid further OTT criticism and fighting. I'm not a staunch supporter. Spending the ringfenced ground money was not clever. But i'm objective like some but unlike most on here. The guy did more good than bad.
Mick, Bray, Maidenhead says...
6:21pm Mon 1 Dec 08
I thought you said everything was rosy!!!
As a Director of a Company which conducts and closes business deals i can only say almost certainly that a deal was struck with the Russo's representative's.
I suspect they had evidence which would have been highly damaging for GS & Watford and the only way they would not reveal this was if he resigned with immediate effect!
The fact that GS had the majority share to remain in charge should a vote of no confidence be suggested makes me wish i was a fly on the wall in that meeting room prior to the planned EGM.
Whatever this information was we may never know.
Personally I'm sad that a man who said he loved Watford will forever in my eyes be associated with SPIN and the contempt in which he treated true supporters with his attacks on the WO, EJ and his Radio and TV interviews in which he said on numerous occasions that Watford is a well run club under him and his cronies!!
Graham Gimpson, Ricky says...
6:27pm Mon 1 Dec 08
It was nice of Mark Ashton to turn up today even though Monday is one of the two days - Friday is the other - he 'works from home'. You could be spending a lot more time at your plush home in Bewdley with 'Winning Retail Services' if the Russos get back on the board.
VoR, Watford says...
6:35pm Mon 1 Dec 08
enlightened one wrote:Why do you not believe, were you there today? No thought not, well.........
Sorry VoR but on this occasion I have to disagree with every word,utter guff.
About time cashton followed homers lead,then at last we will have our club back.
Mr Matthews has left out quite a bit really, I suppose he's waiting to tell all in the printed version on Friday.
Reason sited for G.S leaving was for health purposes, he's been suffering greatly with Asthma, no don't you think this is a cop out, it's a very bad chronic illness.
He blamed Aidy for not bringing in more Loan signings of the likes of Foster and Eagles and felt more could have been done in that respect. He blamed himself by standing by and sanctioning Aidys buys, backing to the the hilt in other words.
Criticised SEJ leaving without talking to him 1st, to which I agree with.
Said he was leaving with the club on a better footing than most and certainly better than when he came in, we were 1 day away from going into administration, he turned that around!
Couldn't guarantee the stability of the academy, although sincerely hopes it can continue in it's current state.
Criticised the fans for booing the team on Saturday
Andrew Wilson now becomes Chairman, who is basically Lord Ashcrofts stooge, I feel there is more to come from him, in time.
I congratulate GS for his sterling work with WFC and wish him well for the future.
One last thing..........
I've heard we are more in debt than anyone realises, in excess of + 10 million, the only way we'll no for sure where parts of the money has gone, will be by buying his autobiography, until then, like i've already intimated, this really could be the end of WFC as we know it and fully believe that the Russos are not the answer, as GS did. One other....I think a consortium from Europe is interested in purchasing, early days but to my mind Graham Taylor needs to be involved, otherwise we are lost, all be it solvent.
Now do you all believe that!
Try posting facts without resulting to jumping on the band wagon with your vitriol.
GET BEHIND RODGERS!!!
Vicar Rage, Watford says...
6:40pm Mon 1 Dec 08
The key things that we will never know are what was discussed in that pre-EGM meeting between Simpson and the Russos.
It strikes me as brinkmanship. The Russos clearly knew about, and were prepared to disclose, something that Simpson did not want everyone to know.
Right up until 11am today, Simpson believed (or hoped) that the Russos would not go through with revealing whatever it is they have.
The Russos agree to refrain from airing it at the EGM in return for Simpson's agreement to step down.
If Simpson was upset enough by the abuse he's received, problems he faced or anything else, he could have gone at any time. There's an AGM coming up, he could have done it then.
As much as I would criticise much of what he has done, he's not an idiot. He wouldn't appoint a manager if he fully intended to resign less than a week later.
No, he clearly felt the Russos would back down. When they didn't, this 'compromise' was thrashed out to suit all parties.
Who knows what it was the Russos might have been ready to tell the world - but for Simpson to resign, it must have been pretty damning stuff.
If Ashton posseses a shred of decency, he'll go very quickly and quietly too. Having said that, I'd quite enjoy seeing him made to run around as the Russos' lackey for a while. I reckon there'll be a few former WFC employees echoing those sentiments.
Brains, Tracy Island, says...
7:02pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Yes, some mistakes have been made, but the only person never to make a mistake is somebody that doesn't do anything. Nobody could say that GS did not provide strong leadership along the way. He always did what he felt was right for the club, even if it caused uproar.
The cicumstances behind today's events are interesting. I guess the Brocolli Brothers may well return to the board? This worries me, as I'm sure they were behind RL demise in the first place. Too short sighted! No, just too **** short!!
Be careful what you wish for.
hempstead, Watford says...
7:11pm Mon 1 Dec 08
GrahamTaylor, Watford says...
7:45pm Mon 1 Dec 08
lovefriedonions wrote:You are correct but very little information / disclosure is provided with them, unlike PLC accounts.
graham taylor...is it really you ?? All limited company accounts are publicly available, not just the holding company plc accounts. The directors of the top co have to disclose their pay from all group companies, so no he couldn't have been paid an extra £1m by another company in the group, eg wfc. i imagine GS was simply fed up with all the OTT criticism and thought given he was looking to go anyway, why not go now and avoid further OTT criticism and fighting. I'm not a staunch supporter. Spending the ringfenced ground money was not clever. But i'm objective like some but unlike most on here. The guy did more good than bad.
The fact is the salary referred to in the PLC accounts is that earned from being a director of the PLC no detailed disclosure needs to be made for salaries received by Simpson from one of the subsidiaries.
The 494K (from memory) is from being a director of the PLC. All salaries paid will however be consolidated in the overall numbers.
Not accusing of any wrong doing here (although not a GS fan) merely pointing out all the facts are not in the public domain
ozzi, kins cross says...
7:52pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Johnjones1959 wrote:colni predicton this jonjoan 1969 u plunk. so wat ur problam?
AB11 clearly you need to get your head out of your backside you plank
Prof Plum, Rickmansworth says...
8:01pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Berks Horn, London says...
8:02pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Are you rally trying to tell us that GS has been trying to stop the Russos taking over because it is they who want to turn us into Chelski's feeder club? If so why did he keep quiet about that all this time. Why did he appoint a Chelsea stooge as a manager? It doesn't ring true. Give us some facts because we **** well don't have any answers at the moment.
What was said in that meeting to make him resign? Why did Boothroyd go? What does Elton know? None of it makes sense - I just wish someone connected to the club would be honest about what is going on!!
herts hornet, watford says...
8:08pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Mr Sterry of the pathetic WFC Trust RESIGN NOW you have been made to look a fool
And Finally a small thought for Kevin Affleck well done and thank you, you stuck your neck out, got no support from the paper who ran for cover but it seems you were right all along ,enjoy your evening
Berks Horn, London says...
8:12pm Mon 1 Dec 08
GrahamTaylor, Watford says...
8:13pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Simpson has dug a hole and told half truths in the hope that a buyer would bail him out in the future and it would all be brushed under the carpet. The credit crunch means there is no buyer and the inevitable will happen. i.e. more player sales in January in an attempt to prevent the club falling into administration. That’s why Buck is here TS / JMc out Sahar / Sinclair in on loan with Chelsea paying their wages to aid their development, only my opinion of course.
If it were for health reasons why a meeting behind closed doors for 20 mins? Why the timing? Why no mention before? It didn’t impede him from celebrating in Cardiff! Whatever deal was done it was done because there are skeletons in the closet which if released would make any potential buyer very wary of investing in the club. It is also starting to fit together and also explains SEJ outburst, in that he didn’t want to be associated with the mud which was about to be flung. I also wouldn’t be surprised if it was AB that was tipping off both SEJ and the WO.
Jackie Dyke, Kings Langley says...
8:22pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Whats the difference between Simpson and a turkey?
The turkey lasts until Christmas!
VoR, Watford says...
8:25pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Yes mate I really do, we have an identity crisis here.
He stated we'll have at least 6 on loan players from both Arsenal & Chelsea, which will be fine for performance but will stifle our youth players, there will be no need for the academy in due course.
I'm saying proposed success for what cost?
Fine for the younger generation but not for the older ones, I get fed up with having to remember our successes through close nit communities!!
We're lost I tells ya.
Berks....Sorry but I cannot answer your questions, at this time.
djwatford, Hatch End says...
8:26pm Mon 1 Dec 08
"if I have made mistakes!"
He still doesn't believe he's done anything wrong!What's just as bad is nobody has told him he's done anything wrong.
Good riddance Simpson.
Hexham Hornet, HEXHAM says...
8:27pm Mon 1 Dec 08
I would love to see GT come back in some senior director role - as I have said many times before. I would also like to see the finances sorted out properly with a buyer who can afford to cover the club's debts, the business sense to take the club forwards, a love of WFC and a true understanding of the requirements of a football club as opposed to that of normal businesses.
Now is not the time to hurl accusations, but to thank GS for the good he has done (it has not all been bad) and also the gracious way he left the Board. Perhaps the truth will eventually come out, but the club's priority must to be work on getting everything sorted out so the club can move forwards.
We should all get behind the club and celebrate the fact that we can now move into a new era.
Come on you Horns, show Spurs what you are made of!!
VoR, Watford says...
8:27pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Jackie Dyke wrote:Are you really a Dyke Jackie?
VoR you are full of rubbish! You're like a lost Shep in a field!
Whats the difference between Simpson and a turkey?
The turkey lasts until Christmas!
Family member of Billie no doubt!
Roger68, St Albans says...
8:32pm Mon 1 Dec 08
There was only one Scully, Watford says...
8:37pm Mon 1 Dec 08
VoR, Watford says...
8:38pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Anthony Matthews is a shareholder and was there, so look out for Fridays Obbo.
Sorry Tony.
GrahamTaylor, Watford says...
8:42pm Mon 1 Dec 08
VoR wrote:Agree re youngsters. Harefield will be sold for housing or something and Simpson will have finished what he started.
G.T... Yes mate I really do, we have an identity crisis here. He stated we'll have at least 6 on loan players from both Arsenal & Chelsea, which will be fine for performance but will stifle our youth players, there will be no need for the academy in due course. I'm saying proposed success for what cost? Fine for the younger generation but not for the older ones, I get fed up with having to remember our successes through close nit communities!! We're lost I tells ya. Berks....Sorry but I cannot answer your questions, at this time.
The club has been miss-managed pure and simple and if he wasn’t judge, jury and executioner he would have fallen on his sword long ago.
enlightened one, Watford says...
8:49pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Prof Plum, Rickmansworth says...
8:52pm Mon 1 Dec 08
enlightened one, Watford says...
9:02pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Apologies to KA VoR ?
Jackie Dyke, Kings Langley says...
9:12pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Today was a great day for the club and for common sense!
Lets hope us supporters have an exciting new era to look forward to!
Grigg, Lincoln says...
9:18pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Vicarage Rat, Trint says...
9:37pm Mon 1 Dec 08
VoR, Watford says...
9:41pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Jackie Dyke wrote:Yes, yes I think I do.
Why, do you think you are in with a chance VoR?
Today was a great day for the club and for common sense!
Lets hope us supporters have an exciting new era to look forward to!
I wish I could echo your sentiments Jack.
But what would Bill say or is he away on business again?
Thankyou for my little "o" btw
Brains, Tracy Island, says...
9:41pm Mon 1 Dec 08
I really hope that GS is vindicated in the medium term because I think he's a decent bloke. The next few weeks will be really interesting as I'm sure there's a lot more to come out and I'm sitting here in total disbelief to be honest.
I agree that the lack of consistency here really does indicate that this was a knee jerk reaction to something happening this morning.
I'm also worried. We've a great infra-structure and I would hate to see that destroyed by some big time Charlie.
BTW, has anybody else noticed that the (in)famous plan B may have claimed another victim? Harry hasn't been at the last two matches.
Has Harry been sent packing as well?
Now when you make the mascot redundant, you know that you're in trouble!!
Vicarage Rat, Trint says...
9:46pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Hornet Cornet, Hornetsville says...
10:20pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Just to add my point of view into the mix, but I'm glad he's gone as he, like Aidy, lostthe plot 2 years ago. He should've gone then.
We're in a nosedive, the likes of which we've not seen before. The fans can get behind out teenybopper players but the rot set in 2 years ago and the club is rotten, almost to the core.
Boofers has gone, Homer has gone and our decent players were all sold off. We've been throughly mismanaged and we, as fans, have been duped by a bunch of conmen.
Give Buck Rodgers 2 months to sort them out, otherwise I propose that Harry the Hornet takes over.
HC
P.S: vOr, you know that I love you more than any pig, but you need to wake up and smell the manure, we're in dire dire straits.
T Smith, Watford says...
10:48pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Whatever deal was done you can be sure that the truth WILL eventually find its way to the surface. Simpson will not hide it forever!
derry pigweed, northampton says...
11:05pm Mon 1 Dec 08
Berks Horn wrote:Hopefully Rodgers will follow Homer! as at the moment we WFC are in crisis and trying to retain championship status and we don't need some **** who thinks that managing chelsea reserves to sixth place in the reserve league, who is happy with a home draw vs Doncaster!
Sky is reporting that Rodgers was aware that Simpson might be leaving soon when he took the job. Hmmm.....
This is Disgrace
Oh when the 'Orns, Harrow says...
7:15am Tue 2 Dec 08
I thought Ashton got off very lightly, and was like a schoolboy cowering when he did speak. Whilst I've not always liked him, I thought SImpson was very dignified in the way he spoke.
Who knows whether these secret talks pushed him? Who knows if something was being hidden? Ultimately, Simpson struck me as a Watford fan who is a bit naive. He admitted some mistakes regarding being sucked in by Aidy, thinking he was the next best thing.
He didn't dodge any questions for mine, and spoke at length about the possible effect on football of the credit crunch. If it's true, we may see others alot owrse than us.
He did say to judge him in 18 months time. This I think is the right thing to do, after all by that point we'll know alot more about how good our new manager is or is not, and also financially how we and others stand as football enters a period of change.
GrahamTaylor, Watford says...
8:07am Tue 2 Dec 08
I Have no sympathy re being taken in by Hoofers. Hommer was the Boss buck stops there I’m afraid. You give a manager a budget and he works within it. Thinking AB was the second coming is the same mistake the board made with Vialli. Wasn’t Hommer part of that board too, seems he never learnt any lessons.
I also wouldn’t use naivety and Simpson in the same sentence is a self made successful businessman you do not do that if you are naive. This was calculated the directors got a hard on and thought they would be in the premiership following an excellent start to season and spent accordingly. From there it went horribly wrong both on and off the field.
GrahamTaylor, Watford says...
8:09am Tue 2 Dec 08
Berks Horn wrote:He actually said he was aware he would be leaving (which was common knowledge) but didn’t expect it to be so soon.
Sky is reporting that Rodgers was aware that Simpson might be leaving soon when he took the job. Hmmm.....
Chris the Vic, The Vic says...
8:35am Tue 2 Dec 08
The Russos got there by blackmail..Did they?? Or do they have money already invested in the club...which helped GS to save the club.
Only hope now is GT?? Did he run the club or was there a Chief Exec called Eddie Plumley around when GT managed the club so well.
The End of WFC...rubbish
GS a criminal/fraudster..
.rubbish
Clappers and critics please refrain from all this nonsense.
If I were to speculate Firstly I would reckon we will never become a feeder club for Chelski..for a start they dont need us
Secondly the chat between GS and the Russos prior to the EGM will NOT have been the first convo they had on those matters..but you can be certain there was brinkmanship occurring and the final details of the agreement were finalised prior to the EGM.
What I am certain of is that WFC will carry on even if we revert back to the levels of the old Division 3 or 4 or Divison 3 south...
The only real facts we know is that when GS took over we were in a poor position..During his stewardship we were financially strengthed (mainly not with his money) and towards the end he allowed the club to be badly run by Mark Ashton and Aidy Boothroyd. People who certain clappers defended based on at times complete irrelevances. Those same people who now laud GS and predict doom and gloom. Equally critics state total untruths about salaries etc.
Suggestion if you dont know ask...if you dont agree with comments try and put up a constructive argument and finally please dont point fingers with half baked claims defaming people like Homer whilst you hide behind a pseudonym...You bring the club and support into disrepute. We need to go forward and give whoever is in charge a fair crack of the whip. If they make mistakes and admit to them thank them for their honesty...If they misleadand use spin then they need to go because above all as a plc and a football club we as fans/shareholders etc are entitled to transparency which then allows us to trust those who guide the club. This is what was missing in the last couple of years.
Paradise Watford, says...
8:53am Tue 2 Dec 08
Typical sensationalism based on speculation or fact.... ?
VoR, Watford says...
9:19am Tue 2 Dec 08
Hornet Cornet wrote:I do know that, Cornet.
All,
Just to add my point of view into the mix, but I'm glad he's gone as he, like Aidy, lostthe plot 2 years ago. He should've gone then.
We're in a nosedive, the likes of which we've not seen before. The fans can get behind out teenybopper players but the rot set in 2 years ago and the club is rotten, almost to the core.
Boofers has gone, Homer has gone and our decent players were all sold off. We've been throughly mismanaged and we, as fans, have been duped by a bunch of conmen.
Give Buck Rodgers 2 months to sort them out, otherwise I propose that Harry the Hornet takes over.
HC
P.S: vOr, you know that I love you more than any pig, but you need to wake up and smell the manure, we're in dire dire straits.
I have intimated that in previous posts and with GS leaving we're in a worse state still.
I have heard we're 10 + million in debt.
This is bad! oh so is the smell!
Much luv too. x
Berks Horn, London says...
9:42am Tue 2 Dec 08
GrahamTaylor wrote:Saw him interviewed on TV last night and he didn't seem particularly bothered. What does he know that we don't I wonder.
Berks Horn wrote: Sky is reporting that Rodgers was aware that Simpson might be leaving soon when he took the job. Hmmm.....He actually said he was aware he would be leaving (which was common knowledge) but didn’t expect it to be so soon.
Roger68, St Albans says...
10:42am Tue 2 Dec 08
a1derek, St Albans says...
12:19pm Tue 2 Dec 08
I know a retired very senior accountant who has had a look at the financial statements in depth (he has far too much time on his hands) and his view is that essentially they "don't say much" and certainly "don't reveal the true financial state" of the Club.
However, he did say that we need to look at the liabilities...who they are due to and when they need to be paid as this is not mentioned in the accounts.
I would be very interested to know if this is the area in which maybe the Salad boys had some "dirt" on GS?
Whatever, the figures don't add up and with the deal that has been done I now think it's very unlikely we will ever know the truth.
Let's hope the Russos have the backing or money to stabilise and then move forward the club.
Regards Buck, he says he needs time...I don't think we have too much of that!
Billie, Kings Langley says...
1:42pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Any way, well done the Russos, and sincere good luck for the future. Well done Kevin Affleck. Sincere good luck for the future. Shame on you Supporters Trust...you may have backed the Board but they shafted you along with many others. You were taken in even as many people including your own members warned you.
mkhorn, milton keynes says...
2:58pm Tue 2 Dec 08
WFC4ever, Watford says...
3:21pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Fine the chairman has gone but Ashton is still around and a replacement needs to be found quickly.
ralphinator, Bovingdon says...
3:37pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Good comment from Chris the Vic and, as usual, Roger.
In my view, the Russos may well be the fire to Simpson's frying pan.
JonBoy, Watford says...
4:00pm Tue 2 Dec 08
ab11uk, watford says...
4:51pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Affleck is reinstated.
Ashton Goes.
Tory Goes.
Elton is reinstated
Rodger and VoR who have defended this tyrant to withdraw from the board.
The supporters Trust Leaders to go.
I would also like the club to stop building houses on the stadium as this is only leading one way but i dont think that is going to happen.
WFC4ever, Watford says...
5:35pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Its not really up to the club to stop the building work as such now they are in a contract with some sort of health campus (maybe a bad idea in the first place?)
Affleck probably has a much better job working for UEFA I believe.
Elton quit himself...is up to him if he wants to come back.
The "Tory" is the main shareholder...I presume you think the Russos are going to take him over?
Not saying your wrong (Ashton will go probably anyway..) but its all easy to say get rid of this and that but who replaces them now?
If only life was this easy.
Now what can we do about the actual team which is the important thing now so many have got their way with Aidy and Mr Simpson going....?
Give Rodgers time and hope whoever comes in or is left on the board don't sell Smith etc but wasters like McAnuff/Eustace
WFC4ever, Watford says...
5:38pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Prof Plum wrote:Hopefully we'll win or play well otherwise Rodgers will get stick.
Amid all the blood-letting and conspiracy theories I'd almost forgotten we've got a League Cup quarter final on wednesday evening. Come on you 'Orns!!!!
Prof Plum, Rickmansworth says...
6:09pm Tue 2 Dec 08
That said, I agree with all your other your points - although I'd go a step further with the Supporters Trust and suggest the whole thing slips quietly away.
VoR, Watford says...
6:34pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Prof Plum wrote:Blow himself up on a mission ....
ab11 – re your call for Rodger and VoR to withdraw from the board – I think you’d find this forum rather duller if everyone that contributed to it agreed with each other. If you don’t like diverse opinions go and join the Taliban.
That said, I agree with all your other your points - although I'd go a step further with the Supporters Trust and suggest the whole thing slips quietly away.
Hopefully!
Graham Gimpson, Ricky says...
6:58pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Graham Sterry, Frances Lynn,
Have you not resigned yet? Guess you are too busy kissing the Russos' ar*se and apologising for backing the wrong horse and being completely spineless.
Let's hope the Russos realise what a useless organisation you are and don't give you any information. Or they could do what your good friends GS and MA did and spin you the wrong information because they know how easy it is to trick you rose-tinted fools.
I'm waiting for the statement on your website to say you know exactly what went on in the secret talks before the EGM but are 'bound by confidentially'. The truth is, you never had a clue what was going on behind the scenes. Pathetic
T Smith, Watford says...
7:27pm Tue 2 Dec 08
The "board" (and I do use that word tongue in cheek) of the Supporters Trust have to resign! They have been a waste of space for a very long time now and after their pathetic 20 v 0 vote to back Simpson then they should leave immediately.Shame on them, lets hope the other members of the Trust ensure they don't darken our doors again!
VoR, Watford says...
7:38pm Tue 2 Dec 08
WFC4ever, Watford says...
7:45pm Tue 2 Dec 08
T Smith wrote:Looking forward to you and Gimpson setting up your own version in the future to replace the current one...
VoR should just be ignored! But I do admit he's amusing! A bit like having a pet bafoon! The "board" (and I do use that word tongue in cheek) of the Supporters Trust have to resign! They have been a waste of space for a very long time now and after their pathetic 20 v 0 vote to back Simpson then they should leave immediately.Shame on them, lets hope the other members of the Trust ensure they don't darken our doors again!
;)
The members are quite old and your probably young enough to take over...
Hexham Hornet, HEXHAM says...
8:05pm Tue 2 Dec 08
What he and the players need is for us all to get behind them and be real supporters.
Hornet Cornet, Hornetsville says...
9:00pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Anyway, back to GS leaving. I'm glad he's gone... not because he's accountable, but more because he's made so many bad bad decisions and lied to us all.
Get someone in who is going to tell us how things actually are, tell us when things are going wrong, and tell us what the clubs realistic plans are for the future. That's all I want out of the next chairman. And £5m.
HC
WFC4ever, Watford says...
9:11pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Hornet Cornet wrote:Exactly which is why I am not jumping up and down yet.
I ain't knocking Bucky Rodgers, just merely questioning whether he is the man for the job. I hope he is, for our sakes! Anyway, back to GS leaving. I'm glad he's gone... not because he's accountable, but more because he's made so many bad bad decisions and lied to us all. Get someone in who is going to tell us how things actually are, tell us when things are going wrong, and tell us what the clubs realistic plans are for the future. That's all I want out of the next chairman. And £5m. HC
I want to hear what any new plans/ideas a new investor has...
E/G Does he want the best for the club or his wallet to make a quick buck?
ozzi, kins cross says...
11:00pm Tue 2 Dec 08
Hornet Cornet wrote:yeh why downt u go and rob a bank then u idiut. if arl u want is 50£ mil. loowser.
I ain't knocking Bucky Rodgers, just merely questioning whether he is the man for the job. I hope he is, for our sakes!
Anyway, back to GS leaving. I'm glad he's gone... not because he's accountable, but more because he's made so many bad bad decisions and lied to us all.
Get someone in who is going to tell us how things actually are, tell us when things are going wrong, and tell us what the clubs realistic plans are for the future. That's all I want out of the next chairman. And £5m.
HC
T Smith, Watford says...
11:04pm Tue 2 Dec 08
VoR, Watford says...
11:26pm Tue 2 Dec 08
T Smith wrote:Ahhh I see what you're trying to do, failed miserably, good try tho'...A genius? No just an utter, utter Mongaloid of the highest order
Watch this space! My pet "retard" VoR can be the tea boy! Well, maybe not,I hear that Simpson needs a cleaner to remove the traces of "the secret meeting" I immediately thought of VoR! A perfect job for the man whose tongue reaches parts of Simpson that no other person thought existed!LOL! More importantly, when are those so called Watford Trust "board" members going to resign. They are now the only joke (apart from VoR) who are left who pretend they support the success of the club!
Retard instead of Buffoon?.....Lol, Lmfao, Ott, Imho, Atm, Btw.
I'm warming to you, would you be so kind as to post me your address, I would dearly like to send you a Crizzy card.
Many thanks & best wishes....V.x
WFC4ever, Watford says...
9:22am Wed 3 Dec 08
Paradise Watford, says...
9:35am Wed 3 Dec 08
A boxing ring could be set up in the centre circle and you could be the half time entertainment. Maybe get Harry the Hornet and his long lost wife Harriet as the undercard fight?
Ooh, ooh, ooh - just had a brain wave, maybe you two could wear costumes too. Vor, personally I thought T Smith meant to call you a baboon not a buffoon so those are your two options for costumes and T Smith you can either be a retard or a mongaloid (whatever that is, but it sounds fierce so my money is on you).
Winner gets a pie, loser gets a season ticket at Luton
RealityfromSouthMimms, South Mimms says...
10:31am Wed 3 Dec 08
Roger68, St Albans says...
11:22am Wed 3 Dec 08
In a (probably doomed) attempt to get some direction back into the debate, let me restate my point. Hornet Cornet wants someone to take over the club who will "tell us how things really are". So do I. That is why I am asking the Russo's :are you really in charge now? If so will you now start to show some leadership? We need to know how they intend to manage the club through the impending financial crisis. As far as I know the club is not currently in a huge debt situation. But from this moment it is indeed running up debts, which will gradually get worse if the wage bill is not trimmed to about £7M by next season. Even then, the club will be running at a loss, (and accumulating debt) even assuming we stay in this division. Prudently, relegation needs to be planned for, (i.e a Plan D to replace whatever Plan C the Russo's devise to replace Simpson now defunct Plan B). When he became chairman (in a worse financial scenarion than the one we have now) Simpson did have a plan (which turned out to be successful) for avoiding impending administration and even moving the club forward. So if the Russo's are indeed the new owners/drivers of the club what is their plan? If they won't tell us, the WO or the WST must ask. This is not a defence of Simpson (time for all that is past) it is a reasonable request. Discuss, without abuse.
ab11uk, watford says...
12:07pm Wed 3 Dec 08
I feel sorry for brendan. People on the board think the abuse is aimed at him when its actually aimed at you.
You cna quote plans a-z till your blue in the face of being a success under simpson.
the simple fact is he has gone. you ask the russos for a statement of intent and yet you were so happy under the constant spin/empty quotes simpson provided.
Strange how you were so happy for simpson to tell us nothing but now he has gone u seem different
johnny b, bushey says...
12:18pm Wed 3 Dec 08
Fella from the news of the world,reckon,s he,s the equivalant of a british jose mariniho,and will be a prem manager in 4-5 yrs,he,s that good,so everyone cheer up,cos the new messiah has arrived..
WFC4ever, Watford says...
12:21pm Wed 3 Dec 08
Paradise Watford, says...
12:23pm Wed 3 Dec 08
Paradise Watford, says...
12:32pm Wed 3 Dec 08
Okay, they may not be obliged to but at the end of the day the club needs to remember that regardless of who physically owns the club it 'belongs' to the fans too.
If the Russo's are going to take over then we need to know. If Tory is going to stay or go we need to know. If new investment is still being sought we need to know.
Should the club still be for sale I guess we’re all ideally hoping for an oligarch or rich Arab/Asian/American type person who is financially stable (i.e. credit crunch proof) and willing to pump a fortune into a club that is on its downers and has the patience to see it through the hard time and build it up into a club ready to get into and stay in the premiership.
Unfortunately the type of person above is more interested in instant success and is more likely, and willing to pay for, a club that is already moderately successful and already in the premiership i.e. the recent take over of Man City. If even a club like Everton, who are doing rather well for themselves considering, are struggling to find a buyer then what chance Watford?
So the next best thing? I guess anybody with a small fortune who is willing to pay for the club and clear its debts and invest a moderate sum of money into it with no wish of a return but with the hope that we do well in the championship (i.e. top half finish) with the occasional play off success and occasional foray into the premiership (bringing with it the slim chance of survival for more than one season). Not going to be many people willing to invest like that without being fans of the club already, apart from Elton any other rich WFC fans out there?
Unfortunately I think timing has conspired against the club and I think the amount of people out there that may have been interested in taking the club on is shrinking massively day by day. So the best we can hope for? It may be the Russo’s taking as much control as possible, the Tory actually getting interested in his investment and together putting the club on a secure financial setting.
On the subject of the Tory I just don’t get his seeming lack of any interest in the club. I’m sure, relatively speaking, his share of the club didn’t cost that much and I’m sure he’s done well out financially of the clubs recent success but even so surely he won’t be wanting his investment to depreciate in value as it surely would do if relegation/bankruptc
y were to happen. I’d love for him to actually make a comment about the situation and where he stands
VoR, Watford says...
1:33pm Wed 3 Dec 08
Vor......to have Tosspot Smith
We can take them (blind folded)
Paradise Watford, says...
2:08pm Wed 3 Dec 08
The Vicarage won't have seen anything like this since the golden days of Craig Ramages fight against making an effort, Jamie Moralee's fight against a lack of talent, Derek Paynes fight against heightism, Gary Porters fight against Bolton and Petchey's fight against opening his bloated wallet. BRING IT ON, BRING BACK THE CHEERLEADERS (the blokes in the Vicarage Road end that is), BRING BACK PERMS, BRING BACK HARRIET HORNET, BRING BACK THE ANGLO ITALIAN CUP!!!!!
Sorry, properly bored at work today.....
Seriously though, despite all the recent issues isn't it interesting that - unlike in Petchey's day - the fans aren't irate enougth to want to storm the pitch and demonstrate their anger that way.
Not that I'm condoning that action (wasn't it a game against Grimsby on a cold Tuesday night?)but is it a sign that in reality the fans know that we've had it good the past few years and as bad as things are now they're not as bad as they used to be? Or is it just a lack of passion?
ralphinator, Bovingdon says...
2:11pm Wed 3 Dec 08
ab11uk wrote:Par for the course response from an absolute cretin
Oh Roger68 I feel sorry for brendan. People on the board think the abuse is aimed at him when its actually aimed at you. You cna quote plans a-z till your blue in the face of being a success under simpson. the simple fact is he has gone. you ask the russos for a statement of intent and yet you were so happy under the constant spin/empty quotes simpson provided. Strange how you were so happy for simpson to tell us nothing but now he has gone u seem different
Roger68, St Albans says...
2:32pm Wed 3 Dec 08
Paradise--to relieve the boredom a bit--as you say the chance of the club being taken over by a mega-rich or even a mini-rich benefactor is zero, which leaves the Russo's as the only players in the game (and Lord Ashcroft who has also so far remained silent). I cannot believe that the Russo's have forced the issue of a change of Chairmanship without having a plan of action beyond just "Simpson out" . It would be playing fast and loose with the club if that was the limit of their intentions. They have had time to prepare a plan, so what is it?
Billie, Kings Langley says...
2:36pm Wed 3 Dec 08
The Russo's are technically not even Directors, though it is reasonable to assume they will return to the Board, if only to try to protect their investment whilst a buyer is found. Ashton is still a Director, and CEO, so it is reasonable to assume he has a duty to communicate with shareholders and fans (customers) if only to justify his salary (or try to). I avoid the club site...the spin makes me dizzy...anything on it yet?
By the way Ralphinator, I don't fawn after KA, but I do like the truth, and I do think it is a journos duty to seek it. He had the courage to try to do his job...if you think that is fawning just carry on reading the Sun mate. He emerges with credit, unlike the Board and WST.
Roger, I don't normally agree with you, but your last posting is fair enough.
Hornet Cornet, Hornetsville says...
4:53pm Wed 3 Dec 08
ozzi wrote:When did I mention £50m? I am guessing that Ozzi is thye type of 'supporter' who was quite happy to start fights in the Rookery towards the end of last season. This is the last time I refer to Ozzi as he ain't worth the hassle.
Hornet Cornet wrote: I ain't knocking Bucky Rodgers, just merely questioning whether he is the man for the job. I hope he is, for our sakes! Anyway, back to GS leaving. I'm glad he's gone... not because he's accountable, but more because he's made so many bad bad decisions and lied to us all. Get someone in who is going to tell us how things actually are, tell us when things are going wrong, and tell us what the clubs realistic plans are for the future. That's all I want out of the next chairman. And £5m. HCyeh why downt u go and rob a bank then u idiut. if arl u want is 50£ mil. loowser.
Anyway, back to WFC. Hopefully we'll win tonight and progress. Whatever happens, we've got the added bonus of tv money coming in as well.
My hope for January is that we sell a few players who I don't particularly rate, McEnuff being one of them, and get some decent players in who will keep us in the Championship. I admire Buck Rodgers' aspirations for promotion this season, and I'm not saying it won't happen, but the first matter is to sort out the playing staff and to get players in that he believes will do well for us. Once he gets them in, only then can he think about promotion as the players we've presently got are not good enough to get us up to that position.
I wish Buck all the best as I don't want to see him nor Watford fail.
ralphinator, Bovingdon says...
12:43pm Thu 4 Dec 08
Billie wrote:He went well beyond doing his job: blantantly anti match reports week in, week out with no semblance of balance, laughable puff piece for Ellington and worst of all seriously damaging red top style screaming headlines over 'Administration' article. Journalists should not have their own agenda. They should report fairly and without favour in such a position - he didn't. End of.
All questions need to be directed at Andy Wilson, who is now duty bound to put together a credible Board, as presumably he represents the largest shareholder, Ashcroft. The Russo's are technically not even Directors, though it is reasonable to assume they will return to the Board, if only to try to protect their investment whilst a buyer is found. Ashton is still a Director, and CEO, so it is reasonable to assume he has a duty to communicate with shareholders and fans (customers) if only to justify his salary (or try to). I avoid the club site...the spin makes me dizzy...anything on it yet? By the way Ralphinator, I don't fawn after KA, but I do like the truth, and I do think it is a journos duty to seek it. He had the courage to try to do his job...if you think that is fawning just carry on reading the Sun mate. He emerges with credit, unlike the Board and WST. Roger, I don't normally agree with you, but your last posting is fair enough.
Hans, borehamwood says...
1:59pm Thu 4 Dec 08
Never again should Watford be allowed to mess up so badly. Should we ever make it back into the big time, the Watford Supporters Trust, on behalf of all fans, should ENSURE that the money is used responsibly. I heard Boothers on Talk Sport the other night. His smug arrogance shone through. Aidy, I think you had what we call beginner's luck mate. I don't think clubs will come running after you. Firstly your style of play is crap and you're completely full of bull. Doubt you'll apologise to us fans either. Finally, Ashton do the honourable thing and clear off. Never again must our club be allowed to be abused in the way it has been the last couple of years. We are a solid Championship club by tradition. So what if our only success is yo-yoing between two top divisions and enjoying good runs in the cups. It's better than being a Leeds or Bradford. Let's not pretend to be something we aren't, which was ultimately Simpson's downfall. Come on you Golden Boys!!!!!!!!!
Billie, Kings Langley says...
5:31pm Thu 4 Dec 08
Ralphinator, the sources for the administration article were high level from within the club. If you are telling me that a local paper should not publish such matters of legitimate concern, then there is no point in having newspapers...just concentrate on comics. That is why the legal action never happened. Just like the robust opposition to the motion of no confidence. Sometimes the truth hurts. Self denial and self delusion never get you anywhere. We must beg to differ. I think the playing style and the management of the club in recent times has been awful, and that KA reported on what he saw and what reliable sources told him. You don't like it. I did. You like spin. I don't. It's opinion, the way of the world mate. That's unless you are a WFC Director recently, where you try to ruthlessly silence opposing views...bit like in totalitarian states. I take it you also approve of Robert Mugabe.
WFC4ever, Watford says...
10:38pm Thu 4 Dec 08
I was disappointing Mr Afflect wasn't proved right that McAnuff would be sold because that in my view would have been a blessing in disguise!
ralphinator, Bovingdon says...
10:11am Fri 5 Dec 08
Billie wrote:That's really clever - 'agree to differ, all matters of opinion' blah blah, then resort to the last sentence. Pathetic
Great posting Hans. Ralphinator, the sources for the administration article were high level from within the club. If you are telling me that a local paper should not publish such matters of legitimate concern, then there is no point in having newspapers...just concentrate on comics. That is why the legal action never happened. Just like the robust opposition to the motion of no confidence. Sometimes the truth hurts. Self denial and self delusion never get you anywhere. We must beg to differ. I think the playing style and the management of the club in recent times has been awful, and that KA reported on what he saw and what reliable sources told him. You don't like it. I did. You like spin. I don't. It's opinion, the way of the world mate. That's unless you are a WFC Director recently, where you try to ruthlessly silence opposing views...bit like in totalitarian states. I take it you also approve of Robert Mugabe.
Roger68, St Albans says...
10:29am Fri 5 Dec 08
ralphinator, Bovingdon says...
11:17am Fri 5 Dec 08
Billie--you agreed with part of my earlier post but here is reason for us to disagree again. The KA article in August was NOT a good piece of investigative journalism. Kevin did not have to sleuth out this story. It was fed to him by a third party , for their own purposes , and he published it without checking it with the club. It was wrong in its essentials,but its accuracy is less important that its purposes. It was not meant to inform the public as to the Absolutely spot on in every respect.
Wise up Billie and camp followers, this is not acceptance of spin it is serious, professional analysis ,and a league above your friend Affleck.
Now, if Roger could write for the WO, the world would be a better place....
ralphinator, Bovingdon says...
12:19pm Fri 5 Dec 08
Roger68 wrote:Absolutely spot on in every respect.
Billie--you agreed with part of my earlier post but here is reason for us to disagree again. The KA article in August was NOT a good piece of investigative journalism. Kevin did not have to sleuth out this story. It was fed to him by a third party , for their own purposes , and he published it without checking it with the club. It was wrong in its essentials,but its accuracy is less important that its purposes. It was not meant to inform the public as to the "true state" of the finances at Watford, but was meant to embarras Simpson and to inflame the fans in order to put pressure on Simpson. It worked on both accounts. In retrospect we can see this article as the first shot in the struggle for influence and power at Watford that is only now being resolved. Who fired that shot? The WST knows but will not tell, and the WO will never tell. We can speculate as to who and why, though the list of suspects is not very long. But in all this KA was not a hero-- he was being used, just as we fans were being manipulated by this exaggerated if not false story.The source of the story does not come out of this with much credit either.
Wise up Billie and camp followers, this is not acceptance of spin it is serious, professional analysis ,and a league above your friend Affleck.
Now, if Roger could write for the WO, the world would be a better place....
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Berks Horn, London says...
11:46am Mon 1 Dec 08