Afonso: Net Busting Samba Spectacular

nigel (mumbai) wrote...

Nico one...appart from the technique, he seems to have the two priceless qualities of the natural goalscorer - ice in his veins and instinct.

Congratulations to all at MFC who worked to pull this one off. Let's hope he's available to sink another two or three nails into the coffin of King Kev

Posted by: nigel (mumbai)  | February 1, 2008 5:24 AM

Mac in Baku wrote...

Who is going to tell Rocky and Stewy that they are not taking the free kicks any more?

Posted by: Mac in Baku  | February 1, 2008 5:40 AM

lauren wrote...

can't believe that we have got Alves!! well done Boro!!

AV How long does the international clearance take? Or the thing that allows him to make his debut??

**AV writes: Heerenveen have to send his pink slip to Dutch FA who stamp it to say he has no outstanding suspensions, fines or legal obligations then they send it to our FA to stamp it to say he is no under their jurisdiction who send it to Boro to give him clearance.

I can't see it before the Newcastle game.

Posted by: lauren  | February 1, 2008 7:19 AM

Gary Thornton wrote...

Next home game is going to go OFF! Sort of signing fans have been waiting for since TLF. Barcodes must be so sick!

Posted by: Gary Thornton  | February 1, 2008 7:56 AM

kev wrote...

I read some place that southgate was going to fly over to get the paper work, so he could play the Toon game...

This is the best player we have had here at the riverside i think... hope he keeps the goals going in....

kev - stockton

**AV writes: The latest information is that Boro have secured international clearance overnight but now need a visa - and there is an outside chance they may get that tomorrow so he could possibly play at Newcastle.

Posted by: kev  | February 1, 2008 8:45 AM

Dennis Wilson wrote...

Well done BORO!! Thank you GIBBO your a star, come on Boro!!!

Posted by: Dennis Wilson  | February 1, 2008 9:08 AM

Pauline Johnson wrote...

Hi AV
Thanks for posting the Youtube footage.

Alves looks like a "natural" goal scorer. Good awareness, awesome skill, anticipation in spades. Hopefully our young players too will benefit from having him in the side.

We've missed having a fox-in-the-box since we lost Ravanelli. I expect that he won't get as many goals here as he did in Holland because of the better defences, but if he can get them against our fellow strugglers it will keep us up this season.

Having Alves to worry about for the opposition defenders, should make it a little easier for Aliadiere, Tuncay or Mido to score too, hopefully!

This certainly counts as a spectacular signing. Well done to all at MFC for pulling off this coup.

Regards
Pauline
Acklam

Posted by: Pauline Johnson  | February 1, 2008 9:09 AM

Never Happy wrote...

What a free kick number 31 was, made Ronaldo's against Pompey look like a tap in.

Come on Boro!

Posted by: Never Happy  | February 1, 2008 9:16 AM

Ian Gill wrote...

At the cost of the transfer we should be able to afford someone to collect and deliver the pink slip(s) to the relevant bodies. Is it possible to do this sort of thing by fax?

**AV writes: That has been sorted overnight. The new race against time is to get his visa stamped by immigration.

Posted by: Ian Gill  | February 1, 2008 9:17 AM

Andy wrote...

The only thing that worries me when i saw this video for the first time is that most goalkeepers in it look like retarded monkeys and most defenders would struggle to get into Derbys team. Its going to be a HUGE step up for Alves. I hope he can make it!

Posted by: Andy  | February 1, 2008 9:24 AM

Nigel wrote...

nigel (mumbai) - I agree, 'ice in his veins' for certain, just what we need.

Mac in baku - I suspect Alves will be quite happy to explain to Stewie and Rocky who takes the free kicks.

There should be a good crowd at the Riverside for Fulham.

Posted by: Nigel  | February 1, 2008 9:33 AM

Never Happy wrote...

45 goals in 38 league games. If he scores half as many in 38 league games for Boro Alves will be an outstanding sucess.

Posted by: Never Happy  | February 1, 2008 9:51 AM

yerkokinarentyer wrote...

Quality signing - well done to all at the club for making this happen. Once again Steve Gibson has put his money where his mouth is. I really hope this re-galvanises the whole club and area and we get back to where we all want to be.

AV - Any truth in the rumour in today's Daily Mail ( not that I read it or anything you understand, I was just looking at a friend's copy, ahem) that we came extremely close to also bagging Wagner Love ?

Now that would have been awesome...however as it is I'm happy to come out of the realms of fantasy land and say I'm delighted we've got Alves.

Come on Boro. Another nail in the coffin of the Geordie revolution on Sunday please....

**AV writes: I think there was some initial contact with Love's people but I don't think it went much further.

Posted by: yerkokinarentyer  | February 1, 2008 10:07 AM

David Morrison wrote...

I love watching Alves goals. His free kicks are amzing. Fergie says ronaldo's the other night was the best in the premier league. I think this guy will score better ones.
He just dosnt miss the target.

On Sky last night they kept on saying his goals record is 0.8 per game, thats a goal nearly every game and he should be worth 30 million not 13. I just hope we can give him the bullets becaus he certailny has the gun.

I cant wait for Newcastle on sunday ill be there and i hope he plays, if not im defo going to Fulham. Well done boro exactly what we need. is this Gibbo's spectacular signing a little bit later than planned?

Great signing, great atmosphere, great excitement.
come on boro!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: David Morrison  | February 1, 2008 10:23 AM

Steven wrote...

He looks like a great player as his record is unbelieveable! You must notice that the defending and goalkeeping in that video clip is very poor (Newcastle standard!) so i hope he can step it up playing agianst quality defences.

Does anyone remember watching the youtube clip of Dong-Gook Lee and thinking he looked like a superstar?

Hopefully this one will be another Juninho and not a Branco!

Posted by: Steven  | February 1, 2008 10:54 AM

dave wrote...

Dont get carried away with Alves. Holland is a very poor league compared to what it used to be. Don't expect him to get anywhere near a goal a game here.

But well done gibbo i hope the fans come in support of Gibbo in the next home game.

Posted by: dave  | February 1, 2008 10:56 AM

Ken wrote...

Come on master Downing - ink that new contract. With senor Alves to get on the end of your assists you'll be able to negotiate an even better salary increase for next season. you know it makes sense. (Then pass the pen to Mr Wheater, our next full international).

Posted by: Ken  | February 1, 2008 11:03 AM

captain K wrote...

any more news on the visa situation??

**AV writes: I think he is still in the queue at the British Embassy in Amsterdam.

Posted by: captain K  | February 1, 2008 11:10 AM

Mick wrote...

Allelujah! At last the Boro get it right!

I've re-posted a message here that I originally posted in September.

"I've said to many people that we should have signed a consistant goalscorer during the transfer window. I wanted us to sign Alfonso Alves, whose record speaks for itself (34 goals in 31 games for Heerenveen).

People have mentioned how we went down playing attractive football when we had Ravanelli, but at least then we had a consistant goalscorer in Ravanelli.

Over the last 10 - 20 years, how many "right place, right time" strikers have we had (Slaven excepted)? The last true finisher we have had was probably Marco Branca!

We never seem to have anybody at the club who sees the value in buying a player like this. The amount of times we've missed on players of this type is infuriating. Players like this are worth every penny. They can do nothing all game, but will regularly change the game in your favour with clinical finishing.

Look at the difference Bernie Slaven, Uwe Fuchs, Marco Branca and Alun Armstrong made to our promotion campaigns of the past. Without them, we would not have been promoted.

Players like this make a huge difference. A player like any of the ones I've just mentioned would make a huge difference to our team right now. We should have bought one in the transfer window."

Posted by: Mick | September 18, 2007 2:00 PM

So, as you can imagine, I'm very, very happy with this tranfer.

Posted by: Mick  | February 1, 2008 11:21 AM

chris wrote...

He will be there on sunday. Collecting his visa is a formality due to already being given his work permit. Probably just has to collect it in person...then it's only 45 mins to Teesside .I just hope he starts the game on sunday and SG does not leave him on the bench till the 70 th minute.....

Posted by: chris  | February 1, 2008 11:35 AM

Chris from Beverley wrote...

Well done Boro for finally bringing in what looks like a class forward.

Formations will be interesting from now on. If we can get Mido fit, he will provide the perfect foil. However, it will be difficult to play Alves, Mido, Aliadiere and Tuncay all at the same time, so someone is going to get upset.

£250,000 for BH to Celtic was a good bit of business.

All we need now is to tie down Wheater and Downing, and the Riverside should be rocking again.

Come on Boro !

Posted by: Chris from Beverley  | February 1, 2008 11:36 AM

adam wrote...

Everyone is getting carried away. He has played most of his career in poor leagues. he has only 1 goal from 8 games for Brazil.

I think he will get about 10-12 goals a seaosn for boro where defenders are better and games a lot tighter. Over priced but certainly better option than dong gook lee and aliadamare.

This is a signing that will make or break southgate. From now on southgate has no excuses he has been given plenty of money to build his own team.

Time for southgate to deliver!

Posted by: adam  | February 1, 2008 11:44 AM

chris wrote...

Just noticed he has been allocated his squad number.....21 ....LOOKING BETTER ALL THE TIME!!!!!

**AV writes: We've just asked the question and been told no number has yet been allocated.

Posted by: chris  | February 1, 2008 11:45 AM

Andrew wrote...

Hi AV,

Thanks for posting the You Tube Video.

Is there any truth to the below story?

(I read it on Football 365)

'AZ Alkmaar are prepared to see Afonso Alves banned from playing for new club Middlesbrough for the rest of the season after announcing they will take their claim on the Brazil international to FIFA.

The Dutch club are still insistent they have a pre-contract agreement with the striker, a claim which is disputed by Alves.

The 27-year-old was sold by Heerenveen to Boro for an undisclosed fee on transfer deadline day but AZ chairman Dirk Scheringa will ask FIFA to investigate.

He told De Telegraaf: "He really has a chance of getting banned from playing for the rest of the season.

"We have a water-tight contract with him."

The Dutch FA (KVNB), who signed off the transfer to Boro on Thursday, have already ruled that the agreement between the player and AZ is invalid because the club have not met certain conditions.'

**AV writes: I suspect AZ are just rattling the cage a bit in order to strengthen their hand before the various parties sit down to discuss their compensation claim.

Posted by: Andrew  | February 1, 2008 12:02 PM

Brad wrote...

another Maccarone but with more attitude?

Posted by: Brad  | February 1, 2008 12:04 PM

Mitch From Sydney wrote...

Awesome, we got him!

Lets hope that he scores plenty of goals and fires Boro back into Europe where they belong. Let hope that he brings the best out of the likes of Tuncay and Rochemback who have their good and bad days.

Lets also say a little prayer to the Heathen gods to make sure that he isn't Boro's answer to Steve Marlet. (remember that one). Lets hope he is Ravanelli without the wingeing.

It would be the best if he is go for the Newcastle game. Although if he ends up playing we had better win. I can't remember the last "Derby that isn't a Derby" that had so many Bragging rights in the Balance.

I cant WAIT! We have Alves, They have Keegan back and they haven't won yet, then there is Viduka, and Owen and even Arca who deserves a mention as he was the Sunderland player who ended Shearer's career. If we win we leapfrog them in the table.

I cant imagine a better game for a player like Alves to make he Debut.

Posted by: Mitch From Sydney  | February 1, 2008 12:06 PM

CHRIS wrote...

Looks like sky are allocating boro's numbers now becouse they have definatly got him down as 21....but we will see

Posted by: CHRIS  | February 1, 2008 12:13 PM

ayupyabugga wrote...

i've got to say, having seen the goals, that the man has got the lot. A cool head, poachers instinct, bravery, movement, can shoot (on target) and looks pretty pacey, too.

If i was Stewie Downing i'd be licking my lips knowing i can put a ball in the mixer and there'll be someone there to slot it home.

I can't wait for Fulham to soak up the atmosphere and hopefully, a full match like the the first thirty minutes of the Wigan game.

Come on boro..............

Posted by: ayupyabugga  | February 1, 2008 12:17 PM

Wayne Taylor wrote...

I know there seem's to be a lot mentioned about the differences in leagues etc. but what needs to be remembered is players like Ronaldo and Romario also produced the same in these leagues.

We know the quality of those two players and therefore hang fire and let Alves feet do the talking.

I am excited by the fact Gareth is now looking Strikers that offer a lot more, have good reputations, goal scoring records and the right qualities.

I think there has been some changes by Gibson and the board, they appear to be opening up the wallet and giving him the opportunites e.g. he stated this morning that he was also trying to sign Fred during the transfer window.

Hopefully all goes well for Alves and the Boro from February onwards starting at Newcastle. Then when the Summer comes I think we will see another Striker coming in, maybe Fred.

Come on Boro

Posted by: Wayne Taylor  | February 1, 2008 12:22 PM

chris wrote...

http://www.skysports.com/football/team/0,19734,11680,00.html

there is the link vic

Posted by: chris  | February 1, 2008 12:23 PM

Chris wrote...

Hi AV

Fantastic signing! Typical Boro to keep us all biting our nails right up until the last minute!!

Lets hope he gets his visa in time to play against the Barcodes on Sunday and that AZ don't scupper everything with FIFA! Hopefully this buy signifies Boro's intentions and we will see an increase in attendances too!! Should also encourage Stewie and Wheats to sign on again!!!

Come On Boro!!!

Posted by: Chris  | February 1, 2008 12:23 PM

David Morrison wrote...

Have some people on this blog not watched the you tube footage?

It dosnt matter about defending in this league - this guy is absolutely quality. Look at his free kicks. What can defenders do about them? it was probably he who won the kicks in the 1st place.

Alves is quick strong and looks angry and up for it.
He's got the presence of a Ravanelli but the style of a romario. come on people this guy is going to be awesome no matter who he plays against.

The defending in this league isnt great ,the only difference to other leagues is that teams have a more defensive mentallity thus snuffing out teams as a whole not one individual. Boro are creating chances and this guy will finish them its as simple as that.

I'd be more concerned if we had one chance a game and be expecting him to finish it, boro are making several chances of real quality...

come on boro....!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: David Morrison  | February 1, 2008 12:29 PM

ian from dubai wrote...

Hi AV from Dubai where while you are all waiting for snow on Teesside, Tiger Woods is trying to play golf in a force 10 gale, 12 degrees and a full on sandstorm with visibility about 500m

First time I have posted but regular reader. I work for a Dutch co and have lived there. Scheringa, AZ's chairman is the Dutch Freddie Shepherd and just loves his name in the paper. In addition De Telegraaf is the Dutch equivalent of the Daily Express so I would'nt worry to much about this story.

The comments of your previous contributers re the dutch league are true but last season Alves scored against the good and the bad,. He had a fantastic season.

The only worry would be that it was another of these one season wonders but lets not think negative now. Ten goals before the end of the season will see us well and truly safe.

**AV writes: Welcome. We are a friendly bunch.

Posted by: ian from dubai  | February 1, 2008 12:43 PM

Richard wrote...

We all hope that Afonso hits the ground running and we all have the "perfect" debut of him scoring in a win against the barcodes in mind.

If it doesn't happen - and only "if", we'll be back down to earth with a bit of a bump.

I agree wholeheartedly that we should be optimistic and dream the dream, but let's also get behind the player and the club for the longer term and recognise, like Keagan and the Mags are finding out, it doesn't happen overnight.

The guy's got to be given a chance to settle into his new environment and get to know his workmates and what Southgate's trying to achieve.

I'm chuffed as hell that we've got the guy, but what I find equally encouraging for the longer term, is that Steve Gibson has confirmed that we were also seriously evaluating Fred.

The fact that we were prepared to bring another "spectacular" signing in as well, had all factors been favourable, bodes well for the continuing ambition of the club.

As far as Fred is concerned, I'm left with the re-assuring feeling that it was Boro who decided, as much as any other party, that Fred wasn't for us - at least at this time.

Southgate and Gibson have continuously said that the character and attitude, as well as the skill-set of the players we bring in, will have to be a good match for the club's needs at any particular time. The fact that they are prepared to hold off and seek out the right guys is reassuring.

The likes of Jason Euell were always a low-cost stop gap to enable us to continue to compete while Gareth got his playing squad vision up and running. With the Afonso Alves signing and the way the team is playing currently, it feels now, like we're on the way.

That's all about the longer term vision.

However, let's get back to focussing on this weekend's dream and believing that it can become reality!

Come on Boro!

Posted by: Richard  | February 1, 2008 1:05 PM

sluggar wrote...

great video AV. the best thing about his goals is that most of them are tap ins!!!

Posted by: sluggar  | February 1, 2008 1:08 PM

Matt wrote...

Regarding his squad number - there's no way he'll be number 21, as that's Ross Turnbull's number.

We don't know what he'll be, but it's not unfeasable that he'll assume the number 8 shirt vacated by Woody - or just something in the 30's or 40's!

**AV writes: I'm not sure if 8 is out of the equation now after being used this season. Available numbers - 12, 13, 16, 20, 23, 24, 25, 30 then 40 and beyond.

Posted by: Matt  | February 1, 2008 1:11 PM

Danny wrote...

Hey Danny here from Durham. This guy looks like just the spark we needed. Get the flags out guys coz the good days are back. :)

Posted by: Danny  | February 1, 2008 1:31 PM

Dave wrote...

Well done Boro looks a great signing pity we did not get Fred also. Did anyone watching you tube notice a great majority of assists came from the left winger who seemed to have quite an understanding with Alves.

Anyone know where we can get a decent left winger who can cross a ball?.

Posted by: Dave  | February 1, 2008 1:35 PM

London-based Boro fan wrote...

Another first-time poster/regular reader reporting for duty, AV (Middlesbrough born, but resident in London)! Must be all the excitement generated by the Alves signing! ;)

Have just been looking at Lawro's predictions for this weekend's fixtures & guess what? He reckons the Barcodes are going to get their first win under KK:

"Newcastle v Middlesbrough 1330

If Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan needed any reminder how short he is of good players, the last two matches - both 3-0 defeats by Arsenal - have provided it.

I think he will get his first win here - and the team will score their first goals - since his return to St James' Park, but they will be nervously hanging on at the end.

Prediction: 2-1"

Here's hoping his saying that puts a hex on their chances...

**AV writes: Welcome aboard. Don't worry about the predictions of KK's former defensive coach and his bias against Boro. If his tips had been bang on we would be six points adrift of Derby by now.

Posted by: London-based Boro fan  | February 1, 2008 1:37 PM

James wrote...

I thought we got international clearance at ten past midnight last night? That's what the club have said isn't it?

**AV writes: Yes, that allows him to play for Boro. Right now he needs a visa to alllow him to become resident in the country. More red tape than a ribbon factory.

Posted by: James  | February 1, 2008 1:39 PM

Si wrote...

Wait for this... Alkmaar aren't letting the matter lie. Their chairman is still convinced Alves agreed to be their player, and they've said they'll take the matter to FIFA, to try and get him banned for the rest of the season.

Who knows, we may even get docked points if we play him at St. James's. Or even the week after.

It's as if the Alkmaar chairman is saying, "You robbed us of a player who was legitimately ours...so we're just returning the favour! For a while anyway."

What have Alkmaar to gain from this? Apart from allowing themselves to feel better about themselves? Pathetic.

Reminds me of Kenny Dalglish's reaction to Alex Ferguson nipping under his nose to sign Roy Keane for United - in that Alves, like Keane with Blackburn, probably agreed a deal without officially putting pen to paper.

And Alkmaar must've planned to seal the deal before Alves's head was turned by 'Boro - and I think they didn't. They can't believe it, and they're bitter.

Well, if that's the case, they should stop taking their bitterness out on us as we have enough to deal with without this mess...

Posted by: Si  | February 1, 2008 1:52 PM

bradinho wrote...

Two points:

I may be wrong but I think I saw Afonso scoring a hat-trick against Feyenoord and they are no slouches!

Wasn't Alves wearing no.12 for Heerenveen? Co-incidence but tha shirt number IS available!

Posted by: bradinho  | February 1, 2008 2:00 PM

Never Happy wrote...

AV - from the Boro website

He is going to be wearing the number 12 shirt with Afonso Alves printed on the back.

This will match the number of goals he will score between now and the end of the season.

Next season he is changing to the number 38 shirt.

C'mon Boro!

Posted by: Never Happy  | February 1, 2008 2:09 PM

Jack wrote...

Hi what great news and the Barcodes and Boro live aswell in Brazil. Cant wait to watch this one just hope we supply the crosses because he can finnish as you have seen.

Anybody doubting him, you dont score from free kicks like that if you have no talent. One more Brazilian legend in the making for Teesside.

Come on Boro

Rooting for ya from Sao Paulo

Posted by: Jack  | February 1, 2008 2:26 PM

Ste Mac wrote...

I am really excited by this guy and I hope an early goal can really bring the old Boro buzz back.

It has been obvious for a couple of months now that Boro are very close to being a really good team and we only need someone with the killer instinct.

With a genuine finisher we shoudl have battered Blackburn, Wigan, Bolton, Birmingham West Ham away... if the Fonz is that man then we really can be a force to be reckoned with next season.

Posted by: Ste Mac  | February 1, 2008 2:35 PM

Holgate Ender wrote...

Dont want to rain (or snow) on the parade here but the goals on YouTube don't count and until he delivers on the pitch all this hysterical talk sounds just like Geordie KK delusion.

He might be the new Juninho but he might just as well be the new Maccarone or the new Kezman, the last red hot top scorer in Holland who came over and did nowt in a good team.

Let's just wait and see.

Posted by: Holgate Ender  | February 1, 2008 2:40 PM

Never Happy wrote...

Just watched the clips again and he plays like Thierry Henry in his pomp.

One difference Alves can also head a ball.

C'Mon Boro!

Posted by: Never Happy  | February 1, 2008 2:46 PM

Geordie Lurker wrote...

You Smoggies are always the same. One sniff of a good player at your little club and you lose the plot and start thinking you can be a world power.

No one wanted this fella for a reason. He has been on strike, caused unrest and is only using you as a stepping stone for a big club but you will fall for it and think he really wants to be there like you did with the other one that no-one else wanted, Juninho.

If he is any good he will be on strike and off to a CL team within a year. If he is rubbish then Gibson has wasted the pot on the new Maccarone and you will be stuck with him and bankrupt.

Posted by: Geordie Lurker  | February 1, 2008 2:46 PM

Richard wrote...

On Alves's Squad Number, I'd like him to take 23.

TLF wore it and it would be great if Afonso went on to become as well-loved and regarded a Brazillian on Teesside as TLF!

However, I wouldn't care if he played in pyjamas and carpet slippers if he gets close to 23 goals a season!

Posted by: Richard  | February 1, 2008 2:50 PM

Nigel wrote...

Alves has created a buzz we haven't had on Teesside for a long time, he is clearly the 'spectacular' signing SG promised in the summer.

If he plays on Sunday we may just get the win, its certainly reassuring to see Lawrenson is predicting yet another Boro defeat, that bloke must have had a bad experience at Ayersome sometime in the past!

Posted by: Nigel  | February 1, 2008 2:50 PM

Ralph Malph wrote...

Ste Mac has beaten me to the punch with the Fonz but I'll be very disappointed if Uncle Eric doesn't give us some variation on Happy Days in a headline soon, preferably Monday.

Posted by: Ralph Malph  | February 1, 2008 2:51 PM

macthesmoggie wrote...

Geordie Lurker wrote
"You Smoggies are always the same. One sniff of a good player at your little club and you lose the plot and start thinking you can be a world power."

As opposed to the Barcodes believing they are a world power when they're not even a north-east power!

I'd rather be signing a 'good player' than re-employing a manager from the past with a history of failure and who's stuck in the 1990's. You didn't attract any 'good players' during the window, even though your recent games suggest you need at least 11.

Posted by: macthesmoggie  | February 1, 2008 3:10 PM

Ian Gill wrote...

Holgate Ender

Goals mean points and if Alves can deliver them that is excellent. It may well take a while for him to settle in to our team so we will need patience.

You hope that the players take time to work on delivering the ball where he wants it and conversely him to be adjusting his runs to suit our style of delivery. Ronaldo's free kick against was no accident, it will have been the result of many hours of practice.

Hopefully he may get a run out on Sunday .

The AZ scenario is interesting because the KNVB have given Alves clearance to leave Holland and join Boro.

My understanding is that any obligations have been satisfied or clearance would not have been granted. In that case surely AZ's grievance is not a football matter therefore it is difficult to see how FIFA can become involved. But who knows.

Posted by: Ian Gill  | February 1, 2008 3:12 PM

Clive Hurren wrote...

Geordie Lurker

"One sniff of a good player at your little club and you lose the plot and start thinking you can be a world power."

If that isn't the biggest case of pot calling the kettle black and white stripes I don't know what is!!!!

Let's just remind everyone at your little club what happens every time you get a new striker / manager, shall we? Let's just think back to the arrival of the Messiah, the Saviour, King Kev or whatever you call him. The whole of Toon-town went into raptures about the second (third) coming and the glorious future in store.

Two 3-0 defeats and a 0-0 later and reality starts to bite. All of which brings back memories of your glorious past. 1969 wasn't it, last time your ever so little club won anything?

Shall we win a cup for you?

Posted by: Clive Hurren  | February 1, 2008 3:29 PM

Dennis Wilson wrote...

Geordie lurker,

go to yer own site, you sad little man, so no one wanted Juninho eh, well how come we sold him for a big profit and he brought much attention to the Boro, come back at the end of the season and we will see who is laughing, as the song goes

cheer up Kevin Keegan oh what can it be to a ............

Posted by: Dennis Wilson  | February 1, 2008 3:29 PM

Mick wrote...

To Geordie lurker;

"You Smoggies are always the same. One sniff of a good player at your little club and you lose the plot and start thinking you can be a world power."

That's a bit rich coming from a Newcastle fan! We think we are a world power, do we?. You idiots have got it into your minds that you're the third biggest club in the world! Your breathtaking delusion and arrogance are beyond belief!

I think you would have loved a player with a goalscoring record like Alves', but you're jealous. Jealous that we've signed a player for such a large fee with such potential that it might take the limelight away from all this "King Kev" nonsense.

Well, don't worry, for some reason the national media think Newcastle are great (you must have Joseph Goebbels doing your PR) and the regional news is so biased (i.e. Look Newcastle and Newcastle tonight) that they'll be kissing Keegan's backside no matter what's happening at the Boro.

Well, I really hope Alves plays on Sunday and rams those words down your throat. I hope we stuff you so badly, the "King Kev" honeymoon will be well and truly over and you'll start a "Keegan out" campaign, like you do with all your managers. Then, you'll all probably come out with lies like "we didn't want him anyway" like you always do.

I hope all these things happen and Newcastle become a laughing stock after all the "King Kev" hoo haa. You Geordies deserve it!

Posted by: Mick  | February 1, 2008 3:37 PM

Never Happy wrote...

A skunk coming on here and telling us we have delusions of grandeur.

I suppose supporting the most over rated and over hyped team in the country has to have some effect on the old barcode grey matter.

Posted by: Never Happy  | February 1, 2008 3:37 PM

smoggymaca wrote...

Geordie lurker (what u doing on a Boro forum u plum?) I think you will find that the little fella was wanted by Arsenal and as far as im aware we stole him from under there noses. I'm sure u would have given up your giro for 2 weeks to watch the little fella play for the skunks!

As for Alves, is that a green monster sitting on your shoulder? As you realise you're stuck with Fatduka on 80k a week instead of a current Brazilian international? jealousy must be a bitter pill to swallow.

"I will LOVE it' when we stuff the Barcodes at the weekend an King Kev is crying over his porridge on Monday morning. Now go crawl back under your rock.

Posted by: smoggymaca  | February 1, 2008 3:55 PM

Ian Gill wrote...

Never Happy

Barcode? Grey Matter? Sorry mate I cant make the link.

You start getting worried when KK has the three 'Wise' monkeys alongside him to find talent. Probably £3million a year across the three of to do the job of a chief scout.

Posted by: Ian Gill  | February 1, 2008 4:06 PM

David Morrison wrote...

Geordie lurker... ha ha what a name..

Did you come up with that name after seeing your teams defence? Its what they do i suppose, LURK! LURK around like a couple of teenagers on a street corner then when the cops turn up they scatter. haha.

I really cant wait for Sunday, Alves or not its going to give the team a huge boost knowing he is going to be on the end of those moves.

I hope he plays at least some part, maybe last 20 mins to rifle a peach of a free kick from 30 yards.

come on boro!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: David Morrison  | February 1, 2008 4:09 PM

jc wrote...

I've just watched the YT vid, and I hadn't realised that he'd played for Tesco in the past! How much are we going to have to pay them in compensation?

It would be fantastic if he could come straight in and carry on where he left off for Heerenveen, but it seems unlikely since it always takes time to adjust to the Premiership, as well as his new team mates. Remember how long it took Bergkamp to score? Just hoping people don't get disillusioned if we don't get instant results.

Posted by: jc  | February 1, 2008 4:36 PM

steve h wrote...

As you know, I'm usually the optimistic type, but I can't help thinking that people are getting carried away here.

Somebody mentioned being happy if he scored 22 or 23 goals in 38 games. As far as I can remember only the likes of Henry, Drogba and Van Nistelroy have topped 20 Premiership goals in recent seasons.

If he's so good, how come he hasn't played in a major league before? He's already 27! I believe Ronaldo and Romario were teenagers when they were scoring goals in Holland and soon moved on to bigger leagues.

Forget Youtube, there's a similar video on there for Dong Gook.

Having said that, we are in desperate need of a goalscorer. His free kicks look sensational. He will be a good addition to our squad.

Do you know how much we paid for him? Figures of £12 and 13 million have been mentioned. That sounds over priced when you compare him to Yakubu, Anelka and Defoe.

They are proven Premiership goalscorers over a long period. We have bought potential. There's no guarantee Alves will score lots of goals in the Premiership. Look at our last record signing...

But we have him now, and at the very least it proves that Steve Gibson has still got ambition and is prepared to invest. It should also get the fans buzzing and increase attendances. Let's hope proves to be a good signing and goes on to be a Boro legend.

COME ON BORO!

Posted by: steve h  | February 1, 2008 4:42 PM

Neil (USA) wrote...

Great news about Alaves signing. Kudos to Gibbo and Lamb for pulling it off.

As for the game on Sunday, it seems some of us on the site are getting carried away. This will not be an easy game. True, the skunks are not playing well, but they've had some tough games (excepting Bolton at home...).

Their confidence is low, so I think we have a good chance to get something from the game, but some of the posts I've read are talking like it will be an easy win for us.

Geordie Lurker...just one question. It seems that we get a lot of supporters from "bigger clubs" on this blog ragging on us because we're a "small club" who think we're a big club. If we are so small, why do the likes of you and Diabolical Derek (or whatever that Darlo chap is called) come on this site?

I can't imagine going onto a Hartlepool or a Darlo (or Leeds --- hmmm... would be fun though) site and crowing about how big we are compared to them. It just doesn't make sense.

Posted by: Neil (USA)  | February 1, 2008 4:42 PM

lee drury wrote...

AV
Who do you think GS's midfield and attack will be now The Fonz has arrived?

**AV writes: I'm not sure. I think we have the squad to play a few ways now with 4-5-1/4-3-3 a viable option. Imagine a five of Downing and Aliadiere wide with Arca and O'Neil in the middle and Tuncay roaming free behind Alves.

For the first time in a lot of years we have options.

Posted by: lee drury  | February 1, 2008 4:45 PM

Scott Duncan wrote...

I cant believe that some people are on here giving Alves a hard time just because he has played in Holland.

Looking back over the years, the only player in the last 20 years to score more league goals in a season in the Erividisie was the magnificent Marco Van Basten. He got 35 in the mid 80s whilst playing in the great Ajax team.Van Nistelrooy, Ronaldo, Huntelaar, Romario have all played in the Dutch league for bigger teams and failed to beat 34.

What makes his 34 goals even more special was the fact that he played for Heerenveen. He didnt play for Ajax or PSV, he played for little Heerenveen!

Another thing, if he couldnt finish or handle the big time, he wouldnt of made those 8 appearances for Brazil. Look at the attacking talent they have got. Just to make the squad, let alone the starting 11, is a massive achievement for a player hardly known in his home country.

I read a quote from Ronaldinho in the summer when we were first chasing AA, who said that he was the best finisher in the Brazil squad. Now if that isnt a recommendation then I dont know what is!

Im looking forward to him playing in our shirt, and I hope he will be available to play, even if hes a sub, against the skunks on Saturday.

Those free kicks are something special and hes bound to get a goal of the month award at some point to add to our last two!

Posted by: Scott Duncan  | February 1, 2008 4:56 PM

chris wrote...

Interview with southgate on sky sports saying unlikely Alvez will be available for sunday :( or maybe this just a tactic?

Posted by: chris  | February 1, 2008 5:21 PM

Andy wrote...

I just love it, love it when the green- eyed monster starts lurking on this blog. Rattled a few cages this one and silenced a few critics.

This is the signing that has brought back the feel good factor to Teesside. He might take a little time to settle but its hard not to get excited when you see what Elvis is capable of.

Posted by: Andy  | February 1, 2008 5:52 PM

robin mitton wrote...

Hi AV and BORO FAITHFUL,

Just checking flights from Paris to Newcastle...and yes plenty all year round! Can't wait to come home for a weekend now...goodness me the imagination of it is overwhelming.

Well done NEW team and OLDER team!

Robin Mitton
FOOTBALL FOR NATIONS Ltd

Posted by: robin mitton  | February 1, 2008 6:03 PM

Nigel wrote...

At least when Diablo Derek appears we have a bit of sport, when a Barcode appears its too easy to be a sport!

Posted by: Nigel  | February 1, 2008 6:42 PM

Mainy wrote...

Geordie Lurker, noone wanted TLF? Strange how Arsenal tried to sign him from under our noses and we sold him for a hell of a profit. He openly admits he only left to try and win a place in the World Cup but broke his leg.

About Alves, AV i believe you can use the same number so long as the player who originally had it has left the club so no 8 is an option. I think he will get no 12, it was his no at Heerenveen and seemed to score plenty of goals whilst wearing it I've heard.

Posted by: Mainy  | February 1, 2008 7:13 PM

Clive Hurren wrote...

Isn't it a shame we didn't also buy Daniel Alves from Sevilla! Then truly we could have enjoyed a game of 2 Alves!

Posted by: Clive Hurren  | February 1, 2008 7:22 PM

jc wrote...

If we have to play Mido on Sunday, I hope he and Viduka don't get too close to each other, just in case they get locked in mutual orbit.

(CH - game of 2 Alves! Marvellous.)

Posted by: jc  | February 1, 2008 8:19 PM

Richard wrote...

Clive - Big Laff. Loved it!:D

Posted by: Richard  | February 1, 2008 9:32 PM

mohd alan wrote...

Several months ago I posted my concern at what I perceived as "asset stripping" when The Yak, Viduka and Morrison left. I was further concerned when Woodgate went. At the end of my post I asked Steve Gibson to prove me wrong and make that sensational signing .

Well he has done it and done it big time no doubt about it. This signing sends out a lot of signals all of them positive. Witness the posts above.

To those who question whether Alves can cut it in the Premier a couple of points

a) Class is always class no matter what the oposition

b) The Gate will not be playing Alves wide right or wherever the Ex played Maccarone

c) Alves will have better support around him than when he was at Herrenveen

d) Alves has his own points to prove and is hungry for success

I am sure that the Gate will not be expecting an easy game at Sid James, there are no easy games in the Premier.

With this signing, however, we have very clearly demonstrated our intent

Well done and thankyou Steve Gibson

**AV writes: The club have come in for a lot of stick over the past 12-18 months because they were rationalising their cost-base in line with their income, a policy that was widely derided as a lack of ambition

But to spend recklessly beyond your means on 'assets' that have diminishing returns, little resale value or - bottom line - are not producing consistently on the pitch is not 'ambitious' it is stupid.

What we have seen has been a prudent reshaping of the squad that has produced something now very close to as good a squad as we have ever had without the kind of long term financial risks other clubs have taken.

Posted by: mohd alan  | February 1, 2008 10:16 PM

Nick S wrote...

AV wrote: I think he is still in the queue at the British Embassy in Amsterdam.

Aren't there professional visa service gadgies whose job it is to stand in the queue? That's how it works for business types and celebs heading abroad.

Btw, the visa section at the Consulate in Amsterdam isn't open on Saturdays, and it's appointment-only, and the online appointment thing is down, so if he didn't get it sorted by now, he'll have to be back there on Monday. Unless Gibbo and Lamb had enough of a clue to get it fast-tracked. Which, somehow, I doubt.

Posted by: Nick S  | February 1, 2008 11:39 PM

Keenog from USA wrote...

First time blogger. Boro lad who has lived in Glasgow, Melbourne, and now Indiana. I have been watching with horror over the years the smoggie pessimism that has held the Boro team and town back, but, Gibbo has been a shining beacon of achievement in a sea of mediocrity.

Got my alarm clock set for Sunday morning to watch the Boro thrash the Tackems on Setanta Sports. Go the Boro and hello to Ray and Andy.

Could we be another Blackburn under Dalglish next year !!!!

**AV writes: Welcome.

Posted by: Keenog from USA  | February 2, 2008 4:11 AM

Ian Gill wrote...

I note that Ian Elliott is appearing on Jeff Winters phone in tonight. No doubt Stewiegate is going to get ramped up even further.

Am I alone in the belief contract debates should take place behind closed doors. It appears Mr Elliott escalated the story only to have Steve Gibson getting his retaliation in public. That has resulted in toys flying out of both prams, no doubt Mr Elliott has been of to ToysRUs to restock ready for tonights installment.

Will we be any the wiser, I doubt it. We will, of course, find out that he is a friend of the Downing's, helps old ladies across the street (probably charges for it) and only has the best interests of his clients at heart.

It is all very undignified.

Posted by: Ian Gill  | February 2, 2008 9:27 AM

David Morrison wrote...

It dosnt look good for Alves playing on sunday. Im a little disappointed but i can understand how these things can drag on and the red tape that has to be cut through.

However, we knew he would be signing late on Thursday so i would hope that the wheels had already been put in motion for his visa application, lets hope.

Anyway i can see the riverside being packed out for the game against Fulham and the atmosphere should be amazing. It might be a good thing if he fails to make it for the Barcodes, extra weeks training, settles down after a hectic week, meets his team mates etc..

We have got to remember that he is here for the long term and hopefully we can kick on now have a strong finish to the season and then go for it next year.

COME ON BORO!!!

Posted by: David Morrison  | February 2, 2008 10:05 AM

Ian Gill wrote...

David

If Alves doesnt play at Sid James it may be a blessing in disguise.

He may have passed his medical but they wont know how fit he is, we must remember that he hasnt played much football recently and the last thing we want is him joining Tuncay with hamstring problems or a muscle tear.

It will give the staff to assess him properly. What am I saying, a whole week at Rockcliffe in the hands of our esteemed backroom staff.

Posted by: Ian Gill  | February 2, 2008 11:18 AM

BLT wrote...

Can't wait for tomorrow. The pressure is really on the Geordies and Keegan.

Three games later and no goals, plus no new faces in the window, losing out on Woody and then having the taxi drivers friend promoted above him... Keegan is a ticking timebomb and the Geordies who made themselves look silly with all that blubbing like chubby Gregg's pasty munching bairns are getting twitchy.

If Boro win (and with our away record it is a serious possibility) the barcode instincts will kick in and they will start to boo, Keegan will cry and walk out and it could all unravel in the time it takes to smash up the Bigg Market.

Come on Boro. Let's push little Kev over the edge.

Posted by: BLT  | February 2, 2008 2:03 PM

Nigel wrote...

I agree with Ian, Alves not playing tomorrow might not be a bad thing. I can't see GS using him as more than a sub if he is available, it would be a huge risk to play him from the off. Mido and Aliadiere up front will be a good start.

Not a bad set of results this afternoon, Birmingham must be a tad disapointed as must be Spurs (oh dear!), a win tomorrow would be terrific, opportunity knocks!

Posted by: Nigel  | February 2, 2008 5:14 PM

Ian Gill wrote...

Wonder what happened on the Jeff Winter phone in.

One thing for certain is that it has not been the best week for Stewie, his agnet stirs up a hornets nest then Capello leaves him out of the 23 man England squad.

As for Boro the results could have been better today. We could do with something from tomorrow at Sid James Park.

Posted by: Ian Gill  | February 2, 2008 9:00 PM

Brick wrote...

Reports emanating from the Netherlands claim that Alves has two passports and is not the age that he purports to be. AV, have you heard anything along these lines?

There may be trouble ahead, but plenty to look forward to with a match against Newcastle tomorrow.

Posted by: Brick  | February 2, 2008 9:57 PM

dave wrote...

Everyone should know you cant judge van Nnislerooy or Ronaldos scoring with Alves. The Dutch league is far weaker than it was 3 years ago and its a shame we had to sell our best player (woody) to sign this bloke.

And why do we go on about newcastle? They have been garbage all season and we are still under them. What does that make us?

Posted by: dave  | February 3, 2008 12:36 AM

Lee Drury wrote...

Dave
If a £12 million Brazilion striker and the possibility that our current team could become our best ever does'nt exite you, what will?

Posted by: Lee Drury  | February 3, 2008 10:25 AM

John Powls wrote...

Brick

I don't know about two passports but when my lad and I saw Alves on Sky close ups when he was in the stand at the Wigan game we believed that he had the same tenuous grip on his real age as your average Hollywood actress!

I now see that a former agent of his has jumped on the compo bandwagon and added his complaint to AZs in the queue at FIFA.

3 points or 1 at Sid James today is what we need. Let's get it and set ourselves up for Alves debut against Fulham next week.

Posted by: John Powls  | February 3, 2008 11:36 AM

robin mitton wrote...

AV,

This is no charge for survival...the club are going for Europe. An exciting few months ahead I think...

Robin
FOOTBALL FOR NATIONS

Posted by: robin mitton  | February 3, 2008 1:48 PM