Once again, my apologies for a lack of updates. My health has not been too good recently, but hopefully I am now on the road to recovery.
24-0.
No, not the score we will put past Oxford United ;) nor a result of a Swindon RFC game, but rather the wonderful statistic of our friendly campaign to date. 24 goals scored, none conceded! I think we are the only British team to boast such a great record in pre-season friendlies in recent times!
As you will no doubt have seen, more players have arrived since my last blog. The two Alan's (Connell & McCormack), Etienne Esajas (sadly injured after last night's game at Cirencester), Alessandro Cibocchi and Mehdi Kerrouche. At this rate, we'll be renamed 'The Foreign Legion!'
However, the recruitment is not over yet - as Paolo has said that he wants a target-man type striker and a winger/defender. A new Goalkeeper might also come in, and it has been rumoured that Dean Brill could be joining soon as Yeovil Town did not take him on following a recent performance for them against Truro City. Steve Brooker could fit the target-man mantra, whilst Cardiff City utility defender Alex Evans could be poised for a loan deal. The Wales Youth International has played for Cardiff's Reserve Team last season and is tipped to be a big star of the future.
In Paolo we trust - Forza Swindon!
Tuesday 26 July 2011
Thursday 14 July 2011
Italian Tour Concludes, 16 Goals, Optimism Rising?
Two great performances on tour have given Swindon fans a real sense that they are in for a very good season.
An 11-0 win over a Norica XI, followed by a 5-0 win over a Marche XI meant that the brief tour to Italy concluded on a very positive note.
With new recruits Comazzi, Da Vitta, Lanzano, Atiku and Risser all signed up for the new season and Etienne Esajas tipped to sign soon, Swindon Town have pulled in some very exciting names and coupled with some good performances should be a strong bet for automatic promotion.
However, we have seen it all go badly wrong before - and Swindon fans will not need reminding that whilst hopes can be built up they can easily be knocked down. 1990 and 1993 are cases in point - 1990 saw Swindon Town win the Play-Off Final at Wembley only to be denied promotion, whilst in 1993 Swindon Town had high hopes for the Premier League - these were short lived and relegation became a certainty.
There is talk that Matt Ritchie, Simon Ferry and Paul Caddis could move on, with Anthony Edgar, Gavin Mahon and Kyel Reid possibly coming in on free-transfers to replace them. Various League 1 clubs are targeting Ritchie, who would cost £400,000 and Hamilton and St. Mirren respectively wish to sign Ferry and Caddis.
Two new strikers are due in shortly, believed to be David Mooney and Ben Burgess. Cheltenham Town and Yeovil Town are said to be after one time target Jason Prior, whilst Chris McDonagh is heading to Macclesfield Town on trial.
An 11-0 win over a Norica XI, followed by a 5-0 win over a Marche XI meant that the brief tour to Italy concluded on a very positive note.
With new recruits Comazzi, Da Vitta, Lanzano, Atiku and Risser all signed up for the new season and Etienne Esajas tipped to sign soon, Swindon Town have pulled in some very exciting names and coupled with some good performances should be a strong bet for automatic promotion.
However, we have seen it all go badly wrong before - and Swindon fans will not need reminding that whilst hopes can be built up they can easily be knocked down. 1990 and 1993 are cases in point - 1990 saw Swindon Town win the Play-Off Final at Wembley only to be denied promotion, whilst in 1993 Swindon Town had high hopes for the Premier League - these were short lived and relegation became a certainty.
There is talk that Matt Ritchie, Simon Ferry and Paul Caddis could move on, with Anthony Edgar, Gavin Mahon and Kyel Reid possibly coming in on free-transfers to replace them. Various League 1 clubs are targeting Ritchie, who would cost £400,000 and Hamilton and St. Mirren respectively wish to sign Ferry and Caddis.
Two new strikers are due in shortly, believed to be David Mooney and Ben Burgess. Cheltenham Town and Yeovil Town are said to be after one time target Jason Prior, whilst Chris McDonagh is heading to Macclesfield Town on trial.
Monday 4 July 2011
Estonian International Next To Sign?
Estonian International Left-Back/Left-Midfielder Taijo Teniste has joined Swindon Town on trial, according to today's Swindon Advertiser.
Wikipedia lists him as having played seven games for Estonia, with 112 appearances and nine goals for Levadia Tallinn. He scored 16 goals in 17 appearances for former club Premium Tartu.
Not the tallest of players at 5ft 8.5 in, but he certainly sounds quite decent nonetheless.
Also being linked with us is Finnish striker Roope Riski, who is a current U21 International player currently at AC Cesena.
Wikipedia lists him as having played seven games for Estonia, with 112 appearances and nine goals for Levadia Tallinn. He scored 16 goals in 17 appearances for former club Premium Tartu.
Not the tallest of players at 5ft 8.5 in, but he certainly sounds quite decent nonetheless.
Also being linked with us is Finnish striker Roope Riski, who is a current U21 International player currently at AC Cesena.
Friday 1 July 2011
Knight-Mare For Leon, But Deals Close For Remaining Trialists?
Leon Knight's time with Swindon Town has ended almost as quickly as it began.
Less than 24 hours after going on trial with The Robins, fitness problems have ruled him out of travelling with Swindon Town to Italy next week. A shame for Leon, as he seems a more mature person now, but hopefully he will get a new team soon. Good luck to him.
Meanwhile, fellow trialists Oliver Risser and Ibrahim Atiku remain with the squad - and Risser could soon be a permanent addition to the squad as he is being tipped to sign a one year deal. Mattia Lanzano is expected to sign a contract this weekend as well.
Paolo will also be hoping to push through three deals by Monday morning - one can only assume that will include two strikers and a wide player. So maybe this will mean David Mooney, Rene Howe and Joe Anyinsah joining up? Three potential gems there, just waiting to be unearthed by Paolo.
No updates on Steffan Jones joining - it seems very strange that no team is looking at him, as he is undoubtedly a player who has potential to do well at League 2 level. A free agent, who would not command a huge salary and can overlap/come short/track back and tackle with a good eye for goal too. Pretty much a 'slot him in and he'll do the business' type player and over 6ft tall too! So a real handful for opponents at set-pieces.
Also, I've been asked (kindly!) to post this link about a proposed Sports Village/Complex that it is hoped will be built on the site of RAF Lyneham in the future:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sports-Village-For-Lyneham/
I have to say, it seems like a brilliant idea - far better a use than just sticking a bunch of houses there. Besides, if it can help Swindon Town out and be a sports hub for the area then great! All for it!
Less than 24 hours after going on trial with The Robins, fitness problems have ruled him out of travelling with Swindon Town to Italy next week. A shame for Leon, as he seems a more mature person now, but hopefully he will get a new team soon. Good luck to him.
Meanwhile, fellow trialists Oliver Risser and Ibrahim Atiku remain with the squad - and Risser could soon be a permanent addition to the squad as he is being tipped to sign a one year deal. Mattia Lanzano is expected to sign a contract this weekend as well.
Paolo will also be hoping to push through three deals by Monday morning - one can only assume that will include two strikers and a wide player. So maybe this will mean David Mooney, Rene Howe and Joe Anyinsah joining up? Three potential gems there, just waiting to be unearthed by Paolo.
No updates on Steffan Jones joining - it seems very strange that no team is looking at him, as he is undoubtedly a player who has potential to do well at League 2 level. A free agent, who would not command a huge salary and can overlap/come short/track back and tackle with a good eye for goal too. Pretty much a 'slot him in and he'll do the business' type player and over 6ft tall too! So a real handful for opponents at set-pieces.
Also, I've been asked (kindly!) to post this link about a proposed Sports Village/Complex that it is hoped will be built on the site of RAF Lyneham in the future:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sports-Village-For-Lyneham/
I have to say, it seems like a brilliant idea - far better a use than just sticking a bunch of houses there. Besides, if it can help Swindon Town out and be a sports hub for the area then great! All for it!
Tuesday 28 June 2011
Apologies & Latest Developments
Sorry that the Blog hasn't been updated in a while - I've been in and out of hospital the past week having surgery on my back. Thankfully, the good staff at the Great Western Hospital seem to have put me right for now!
Anyway, to matters Swindon Town and Paolo is close to signing Alberto Comazzi. The former Verona defender would be a key player for us, and has experience of playing at the top level of European football. Paolo's hopefully caught a good one there!
However, I am equally baffled as to why Paolo is entertaining the troublesome Leon Knight. The former Brighton and Northampton Town striker, who has a very questionable reputation, has been invited to trial with Swindon Town pre-season. I cannot help but feel that signing him would be a mistake. He has had more clubs than Arnold Palmer and would be a liability. Best to avoid him and get a target-man like Ben Burgess or Rene Howe in, or go for a non-league striker like Michael Wilde, Carl Preston or Chris McDonagh.
Also, another departure confirmed today - captain Jonathan Douglas has quit the club and is moving to Brentford. Good luck to him.
Anyway, to matters Swindon Town and Paolo is close to signing Alberto Comazzi. The former Verona defender would be a key player for us, and has experience of playing at the top level of European football. Paolo's hopefully caught a good one there!
However, I am equally baffled as to why Paolo is entertaining the troublesome Leon Knight. The former Brighton and Northampton Town striker, who has a very questionable reputation, has been invited to trial with Swindon Town pre-season. I cannot help but feel that signing him would be a mistake. He has had more clubs than Arnold Palmer and would be a liability. Best to avoid him and get a target-man like Ben Burgess or Rene Howe in, or go for a non-league striker like Michael Wilde, Carl Preston or Chris McDonagh.
Also, another departure confirmed today - captain Jonathan Douglas has quit the club and is moving to Brentford. Good luck to him.
Thursday 23 June 2011
Three More Players Due, As Paolo Moulds His Squad
Paolo expects three more players to join Swindon Town, with strikers being key to his recruitment.
Rumours abound over who will be added to the squad, with ex Reading youngster Abdul Bell-Baggie being linked as well as Blackpool striker Ben Burgess and Peterborough's Rene Howe.
Rumours abound over who will be added to the squad, with ex Reading youngster Abdul Bell-Baggie being linked as well as Blackpool striker Ben Burgess and Peterborough's Rene Howe.
Da Vita Joins Paolo's Army
Former Blackburn Rovers and Livingston striker Raffaele Da Vita has today signed as a Swindon Town player.
The Italian striker scored 21 goals in 67 appearances, whilst at Livingston, and will hopefully be a pivotal player for The Robins in their quest for promotion. Impressive scoring stats, but I'm sure that he'll find League 2 more tough than the Scottish Second Division!
Still, not a bad signing by the looks of things - Benvenuti a Swindon, Raffaelle!
The Italian striker scored 21 goals in 67 appearances, whilst at Livingston, and will hopefully be a pivotal player for The Robins in their quest for promotion. Impressive scoring stats, but I'm sure that he'll find League 2 more tough than the Scottish Second Division!
Still, not a bad signing by the looks of things - Benvenuti a Swindon, Raffaelle!
Monday 20 June 2011
Manic Monday!
Today has been the busiest day of transfer activity so far at The County Ground, with three players leaving the club - two permanently and one on loan.
As expected, Lescinel Jean-Francois has joined Sheffield United and teams up again with former boss Danny Wilson. Elliott Benyon has been loaned to near-neighbours Wycombe Wanderers for the season, and within the last hour it has been reported by the Swindon Advertiser that John-Paul McGovern has moved to Carlisle United.
I'm a little disappointed that Benyon has been loaned out, as I had hoped he'd be a leading light for us this season. I guess this means three new strikers will be coming in now along with new defenders, a holding midfielder, winger and hopefully two new goalkeepers.
Not too worried to see Lescinel and McGovern go, good luck to them at their new clubs.
Simone Verdi, Ben Burgess, Rene Howe, Abdul Baggie and David Mooney have been linked with potential moves to Swindon Town.
As expected, Lescinel Jean-Francois has joined Sheffield United and teams up again with former boss Danny Wilson. Elliott Benyon has been loaned to near-neighbours Wycombe Wanderers for the season, and within the last hour it has been reported by the Swindon Advertiser that John-Paul McGovern has moved to Carlisle United.
I'm a little disappointed that Benyon has been loaned out, as I had hoped he'd be a leading light for us this season. I guess this means three new strikers will be coming in now along with new defenders, a holding midfielder, winger and hopefully two new goalkeepers.
Not too worried to see Lescinel and McGovern go, good luck to them at their new clubs.
Simone Verdi, Ben Burgess, Rene Howe, Abdul Baggie and David Mooney have been linked with potential moves to Swindon Town.
Friday 17 June 2011
Reading Friendly Added For Saturday 30th July
Brian McDermott will be bringing his Reading side to Swindon Town, as part of the pre-season friendlies.
The losing Championship play-off finalists will prove a stiff test for Paolo Di Canio, and should give us an indication of what we can expect from the new campaign.
Games against Chippenham Town and Hungerford Town are reportedly in the pipe-line as well.
The losing Championship play-off finalists will prove a stiff test for Paolo Di Canio, and should give us an indication of what we can expect from the new campaign.
Games against Chippenham Town and Hungerford Town are reportedly in the pipe-line as well.
Dario's Crewe Up First For The Robins
Dario Gradi's Crewe Alexandra will be our first opponents of the new football season.
The two railway towns will go head to head on Saturday 6th August, and then follows a local derby match against neighbours Cheltenham Town. All eyes will be on the 20th August and 3rd March, however, as those are the dates of our derby matches with Oxford United. We play them at The County Ground on Saturday 20th August and away at The Kassam Stadium on Saturday 3rd March. August concludes with a trip to Shrewsbury.
All in all, some good opening fixtures which will test the caliber of Paolo's team and also give a measure of how good Paolo will be as a manger. The final friendlies are being confirmed, so it looks as if things are falling into place.
AUGUST FIXTURES:
Saturday 6th August - Crewe Alexandra (H)
Saturday 13th August - Cheltenham Town (A)
Tuesday 16th August - Dagenham & Redbridge (A)
Saturday 20th August - Oxford United (H)
Saturday 27th August - Shrewsbury Town (A)
In other news, defenders Marlon Broomes and Ellis Deeney (ex-Aston Villa) have been linked with moves to The County Ground.
The two railway towns will go head to head on Saturday 6th August, and then follows a local derby match against neighbours Cheltenham Town. All eyes will be on the 20th August and 3rd March, however, as those are the dates of our derby matches with Oxford United. We play them at The County Ground on Saturday 20th August and away at The Kassam Stadium on Saturday 3rd March. August concludes with a trip to Shrewsbury.
All in all, some good opening fixtures which will test the caliber of Paolo's team and also give a measure of how good Paolo will be as a manger. The final friendlies are being confirmed, so it looks as if things are falling into place.
AUGUST FIXTURES:
Saturday 6th August - Crewe Alexandra (H)
Saturday 13th August - Cheltenham Town (A)
Tuesday 16th August - Dagenham & Redbridge (A)
Saturday 20th August - Oxford United (H)
Saturday 27th August - Shrewsbury Town (A)
In other news, defenders Marlon Broomes and Ellis Deeney (ex-Aston Villa) have been linked with moves to The County Ground.
Thursday 16 June 2011
Fixtures On Their Way & So Is McGovern
The fixtures for our upcoming League 2 campaign will be released at 10.00 today.
Also, John-Paul McGovern is set to sign for Carlisle United later today or by Monday at the latest.
Have heard, unofficially, we will be away for the 1st game - however we will see in just under four hours.
Also, John-Paul McGovern is set to sign for Carlisle United later today or by Monday at the latest.
Have heard, unofficially, we will be away for the 1st game - however we will see in just under four hours.
Swindon Get Bristol City In The Carling Cup
Swindon Town have been drawn away to rivals Bristol City in the 1st Round of this year's Carling Cup competition.
The match takes place on either Tuesday 9th August or Wednesday 10th August at Ashton Gate, with kick-off at 19.45.
Meanwhile, the fixtures for our League 2 games will be released at 10.00 tomorrow. I have a feeling we will be at home for the first game, but it remains to be seen.
The match takes place on either Tuesday 9th August or Wednesday 10th August at Ashton Gate, with kick-off at 19.45.
Meanwhile, the fixtures for our League 2 games will be released at 10.00 tomorrow. I have a feeling we will be at home for the first game, but it remains to be seen.
Wednesday 15 June 2011
McGovern, Pericard and Lescinel Jean-Francois Gone
More players were today shown the Exit door at The County Ground, as John-Paul McGovern, Vincent Pericard and Lescinel Jean-Francois departed for pastures new.
McGovern is reportedly signing for Sheffield United (I pity the poor Blades!), whilst Vincent Pericard is wanted by a side in the Scottish First Division (believed to be either Dundee or Partick Thistle) and Lescinel Jean-Francois is wanted by both Sheffield United and Notts County.
Good luck to them at their new clubs. I have a feeling that a few of these players will need it!
Also departing are David Morrison (Fitness Coach) and Ken Ryder (Chief Scout). Again, good luck to them for the future.
No definite news on new signings, but Accrington Stanley winger Jimmy Ryan has been spoken of as possible replacement for John-Paul and Harry Kane is once again being hotly tipped for a season-long loan with Swindon Town. Ex Preston defender Neal Trotman has also been mentioned in conjunction with a possible move to Wiltshire.
McGovern is reportedly signing for Sheffield United (I pity the poor Blades!), whilst Vincent Pericard is wanted by a side in the Scottish First Division (believed to be either Dundee or Partick Thistle) and Lescinel Jean-Francois is wanted by both Sheffield United and Notts County.
Good luck to them at their new clubs. I have a feeling that a few of these players will need it!
Also departing are David Morrison (Fitness Coach) and Ken Ryder (Chief Scout). Again, good luck to them for the future.
No definite news on new signings, but Accrington Stanley winger Jimmy Ryan has been spoken of as possible replacement for John-Paul and Harry Kane is once again being hotly tipped for a season-long loan with Swindon Town. Ex Preston defender Neal Trotman has also been mentioned in conjunction with a possible move to Wiltshire.
Tuesday 14 June 2011
Lescinel To Depart - Chilvers In As Replacement?
It now seems certain that Lescinel Jean-Francois will not be part of the playing staff at The County Ground in 2011-12.
The Haitian defender has not agreed a new contract, and looks destined to leave the club. By a twist of fate, he could be replacing Liam Chilvers at League 1 side Notts County who is apparently heading down to Wiltshire to join Swindon Town.
It is hoped that Jonathan Douglas will stay at The County Ground, but I would guess that he is looking at League 1 rather than League 2 football next season. Wycombe Wanderers have shown interest in the Scottish midfielder, so if Jonathan does depart I hope that we can sign an enforcer like Gavin Rae or Gavin Mahon instead.
With Paolo having already signed two players yesterday, I would expect a further six faces in if Jonathan leaves. Maybe seven or eight, if David Lucas or Phil Smith (or both) are sold as well.
The Haitian defender has not agreed a new contract, and looks destined to leave the club. By a twist of fate, he could be replacing Liam Chilvers at League 1 side Notts County who is apparently heading down to Wiltshire to join Swindon Town.
It is hoped that Jonathan Douglas will stay at The County Ground, but I would guess that he is looking at League 1 rather than League 2 football next season. Wycombe Wanderers have shown interest in the Scottish midfielder, so if Jonathan does depart I hope that we can sign an enforcer like Gavin Rae or Gavin Mahon instead.
With Paolo having already signed two players yesterday, I would expect a further six faces in if Jonathan leaves. Maybe seven or eight, if David Lucas or Phil Smith (or both) are sold as well.
Monday 13 June 2011
Ex-Robins Fly South?
It's been reported on the Weymouth Proboards Forum that Zamaretto Premier League side Weymouth are set for a swoop for three ex Swindon Town youth players.
It's believed that the three players are Josh Parsons, James Richards and Tom Ryan.
Paul Bodin has, apparently, been in touch with new Weymouth boss Brendan King and mentioned these players to him.
Whether or not these players will want to sign up to a club that seems to be in continuous trouble remains to be seen though.
It's believed that the three players are Josh Parsons, James Richards and Tom Ryan.
Paul Bodin has, apparently, been in touch with new Weymouth boss Brendan King and mentioned these players to him.
Whether or not these players will want to sign up to a club that seems to be in continuous trouble remains to be seen though.
Paolo Gets His Men As Devera and Smith Sign For The Robins
Paolo Di Canio today made his first two signings, ahead of the new season:
Joe Devera, a full-back with over 170 appearances for Barnet and Jonathan Smith, a highly rated non-league midfielder formerly at Forest Green Rovers and York City, agreed terms to become Swindon Town players for the 2011-12 season.
Both players are young, hungry and tall - both tower at over 6ft, so should pose problems for opposing defences at set-pieces next season!
Fans of Barnet and York City have been glowing in their references of their former players, so it looks as if Paolo has got in two good players. Maybe not the most jaw-dropping of signings, but they sound like grafters, and a good work ethic is worth far more than anything else on a football pitch.
Rumours are that Paolo is also interested in Newport County's Danny Rose and Luton Town players Robbie Wilmott, Matthew Barnes-Homer, Jake Howells and Amauri Morgan-Smith.
Welcome to The County Ground, Joe and Jonathan!
Joe Devera, a full-back with over 170 appearances for Barnet and Jonathan Smith, a highly rated non-league midfielder formerly at Forest Green Rovers and York City, agreed terms to become Swindon Town players for the 2011-12 season.
Both players are young, hungry and tall - both tower at over 6ft, so should pose problems for opposing defences at set-pieces next season!
Fans of Barnet and York City have been glowing in their references of their former players, so it looks as if Paolo has got in two good players. Maybe not the most jaw-dropping of signings, but they sound like grafters, and a good work ethic is worth far more than anything else on a football pitch.
Rumours are that Paolo is also interested in Newport County's Danny Rose and Luton Town players Robbie Wilmott, Matthew Barnes-Homer, Jake Howells and Amauri Morgan-Smith.
Welcome to The County Ground, Joe and Jonathan!
Saturday 11 June 2011
Not So Marvellous Marvin...
Today, it has been reported that Swindon Town are bidding for former Aldershot striker Marvin Morgan.
The 25 year old striker is currently on loan at Dagenham & Redbridge, and is out of contract at the end of the month.
I'm not too convinced that he is the sort of player we should be going for, if we are to strive for promotion next season. He has a good record in non-league, but in League Two he hasn't scored more than 15 league goals in a season which would be a necessity if he is to be a first-choice striker in a promotion-chasing team. Plus, he is quite temperamental (he once posted on Twitter that he hoped Aldershot Town fans would die after they booed him at Aldershot's game against Hereford, which they lost 2-1) and if he fell out with the equally fiery Paolo Di Canio there would only be one winner.
Aldershot Town clearly don't rate him, so why should Swindon Town rate him when we're supposed to be a better side than them (no disrespect intended!) There are better targets out there like Dean Bowditch and Chris Zebroski, so I am a bit disappointed that the club seems to be going for cheap cast-offs once again.
Thursday 9 June 2011
Carling Cup Draw 1 Week Today
Swindon Town will soon know who they will have to face, if they want a shot at Wembley glory in the Carling Cup, as the draw takes place next Thursday.
Last year, we crashed out to Leyton Orient in the first round, so let us hope that we can go on a good run this season.
I've got a sneaking suspicion that we'll be playing Brighton away.
Last year, we crashed out to Leyton Orient in the first round, so let us hope that we can go on a good run this season.
I've got a sneaking suspicion that we'll be playing Brighton away.
Tuesday 7 June 2011
Transfer Update: Benyon Heading Back To League 1?
It has been revealed in today's Swindon Advertiser that Elliott Benyon has been attracting the attentions of League 1 sides Leyton Orient and Wycombe Wanderers.
The striker, signed from Torquay United earlier this year, has so far failed to score for The Robins.
Meanwhile, Michael Timlin may be heading to Southend United with Chris Barker joining Swindon Town in exchange.
Paolo hopes to bring in five players before next Friday and is waiting on Lescinel Jean-Francois, Nathan Thompson and Michael Timlin to either commit to the club or leave before he makes his next move.
The striker, signed from Torquay United earlier this year, has so far failed to score for The Robins.
Meanwhile, Michael Timlin may be heading to Southend United with Chris Barker joining Swindon Town in exchange.
Paolo hopes to bring in five players before next Friday and is waiting on Lescinel Jean-Francois, Nathan Thompson and Michael Timlin to either commit to the club or leave before he makes his next move.
Monday 6 June 2011
The Waiting Goes On...
There will be no players moving to Swindon Town until the end of the week at the earliest, according to an article in today's Swindon Advertiser.
It had been hoped that three players would have signed by the start of the week, but as Paolo is on holiday in his native Italy it seems that we will have to wait a little bit longer for the first new face of the summer.
Meanwhile, out of the four out-of-contract players, only Mark Scott has agreed to stay on for next season. Lescinel Jean-Francois, Michael Timlin and Nathan Thompson have not yet agreed terms, and it looks as if Timlin could be used in a swap-deal for Southend United's Chris Barker as Paul Sturrock is very keen on capturing Timlin.
Nathan Thompson is wanted by Conference Premier sides Kidderminster Harriers and Bath City, and Callum Kennedy is wanted by Barnet along with goalkeeper Phil Smith.
It had been hoped that three players would have signed by the start of the week, but as Paolo is on holiday in his native Italy it seems that we will have to wait a little bit longer for the first new face of the summer.
Meanwhile, out of the four out-of-contract players, only Mark Scott has agreed to stay on for next season. Lescinel Jean-Francois, Michael Timlin and Nathan Thompson have not yet agreed terms, and it looks as if Timlin could be used in a swap-deal for Southend United's Chris Barker as Paul Sturrock is very keen on capturing Timlin.
Nathan Thompson is wanted by Conference Premier sides Kidderminster Harriers and Bath City, and Callum Kennedy is wanted by Barnet along with goalkeeper Phil Smith.
Jordan Hopes To Impress, Whilst Mark Remains Committed To The Town
Jordan Pavett and Mark Scott have both reiterated their desires to do well for Swindon Town in the upcoming campaign.
It's hoped that Jordan will play some part of pre-season, with Mark hopefully getting game time in the Cirencester Town and Swindon Supermarine friendlies.
No more news on definite players coming in, hopefully movement will take place this week.
The latest names to be linked with Swindon Town are ex-Chelsea and Notts County full-back Jon Harley, ex-Northampton Town midfielder Abdul Osman, Lancaster City hot-shot utility man Alex Kenyon, ex-Shrewsbury Town defender Kelvin Langmead, ex-Rochdale goalkeeper Owain Fon Williams, ex-Tranmere Rovers midfielder Bas Savage, ccurrent Southend United full-back Chris Barker, current Walsall goalkeeper Jimmy Walker, current Wrexham goalkeeper Chris Maxwell, ex-Barnet striker Tresor Kandol and ex-Watford defender Matt Sadler. Looks like the silly season has started on the rumours front!
It's hoped that Jordan will play some part of pre-season, with Mark hopefully getting game time in the Cirencester Town and Swindon Supermarine friendlies.
No more news on definite players coming in, hopefully movement will take place this week.
The latest names to be linked with Swindon Town are ex-Chelsea and Notts County full-back Jon Harley, ex-Northampton Town midfielder Abdul Osman, Lancaster City hot-shot utility man Alex Kenyon, ex-Shrewsbury Town defender Kelvin Langmead, ex-Rochdale goalkeeper Owain Fon Williams, ex-Tranmere Rovers midfielder Bas Savage, ccurrent Southend United full-back Chris Barker, current Walsall goalkeeper Jimmy Walker, current Wrexham goalkeeper Chris Maxwell, ex-Barnet striker Tresor Kandol and ex-Watford defender Matt Sadler. Looks like the silly season has started on the rumours front!
Sunday 5 June 2011
First Signing Imminent?
According to the Swindon Advertiser, we will soon be seeing the first new face of the Paolo Di Canio revolution at The County Ground.
Paolo has, apparently, been trying to entice three young Italian players to Wiltshire - so it remains to be seen if one of these will be among the new arrivals.
Whoever we sign, they must be committed towards fighting hard to get Swindon back into League 1 at the earliest possible opportunity.
Paolo has, apparently, been trying to entice three young Italian players to Wiltshire - so it remains to be seen if one of these will be among the new arrivals.
Whoever we sign, they must be committed towards fighting hard to get Swindon back into League 1 at the earliest possible opportunity.
McGovern Free Transfered
John-Paul McGovern has been free transfer listed by the club, according to the GiveMeFootball.com website.
John-Paul was one of the better players last season, but wants to stay in League 1 and possibly move back north.
Notts County, Oldham Athletic and Hartlepool United are said to be interested in acquiring him.
Meanwhile, the Harry Kane rumours are hotting up. We would do well to get this young striker on a season loan, and with transfer targets being missed we have to get new players in soon.
Vincent Pericard is reported to have agreed a deal with a League 1 side, so good luck to him.
Phil Smith has been the subject of bids by Barnet and former club Crawley Town, but whether or not he would move to Underhill or The Broadfield Stadium remains to be seen.
Mark Howard is reported to be interested in joining Swindon Town, having moved back south from Aberdeen recently after six years in Scotland.
More transfer news as/when I get it.
John-Paul was one of the better players last season, but wants to stay in League 1 and possibly move back north.
Notts County, Oldham Athletic and Hartlepool United are said to be interested in acquiring him.
Meanwhile, the Harry Kane rumours are hotting up. We would do well to get this young striker on a season loan, and with transfer targets being missed we have to get new players in soon.
Vincent Pericard is reported to have agreed a deal with a League 1 side, so good luck to him.
Phil Smith has been the subject of bids by Barnet and former club Crawley Town, but whether or not he would move to Underhill or The Broadfield Stadium remains to be seen.
Mark Howard is reported to be interested in joining Swindon Town, having moved back south from Aberdeen recently after six years in Scotland.
More transfer news as/when I get it.
Saturday 4 June 2011
Douglas & Pericard Next To Leave?
As Paolo Di Canio looks to rebuild the Swindon Town squad, it is becoming evident that he has little to no faith in the current batch of players.
Six players have already left the club, whilst Jonathan Douglas and Vincent Pericard seem likely to leave within the next seven days. Douglas is wanted by former Swindon Town boss Danny Wilson at Sheffield United, whilst Pericard has a handful of League 1, Scottish League and European sides interested in him.
Paolo is certainly working hard clearing out any deadwood, and hopefully new arrivals will come soon after. However, with rival clubs already swooping, let us hope we don't leave it too late in terms of recruitment!
Six players have already left the club, whilst Jonathan Douglas and Vincent Pericard seem likely to leave within the next seven days. Douglas is wanted by former Swindon Town boss Danny Wilson at Sheffield United, whilst Pericard has a handful of League 1, Scottish League and European sides interested in him.
Paolo is certainly working hard clearing out any deadwood, and hopefully new arrivals will come soon after. However, with rival clubs already swooping, let us hope we don't leave it too late in terms of recruitment!
Friday 3 June 2011
Sheehan and Cuthbert Leave Swindon Town
Alan Sheehan and Scott Cuthbert have today left Swindon Town for League 1 sides Notts County and Leyton Orient, respectively.
The fees are undisclosed, but it seems that these players were not willing to play under Paolo so have decided to try their luck elsewhere.
Slightly disappointed to see Scott leave, but Alan Sheehan - well, I would have driven him to Nottingham free of charge! Not sorry to see this lazy player leave at all.
Meanwhile, Swindon have been linked with loan bids for Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur) and Milan Lalkovic (Chelsea).
The fees are undisclosed, but it seems that these players were not willing to play under Paolo so have decided to try their luck elsewhere.
Slightly disappointed to see Scott leave, but Alan Sheehan - well, I would have driven him to Nottingham free of charge! Not sorry to see this lazy player leave at all.
Meanwhile, Swindon have been linked with loan bids for Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur) and Milan Lalkovic (Chelsea).
Pre-Season Dates & Transfer News
Swindon Town today confirmed the dates of two friendly matches:
The Robins will face Swindon Supermarine on Tuesday 19th July at The Webbs Wood Stadium before playing Cirencester Town at The Corinium Stadium on Monday 25th July. Kick-off times are likely to be either 19:30 or 19:45.
Swindon are also working to arrange one 'high-profile' game at The County Ground possibly on Friday 29th July, possibly against West Ham United or a Tottenham Hotspur XI.
The Robins might also play Chippenham Town and Hungerford Town, as part of their pre-season campaign.
Thursday 2 June 2011
AFC Wimbledon Max It Up, Whilst Rumours Post Causes Concern
League rivals AFC Wimbledon today swooped for Swindon Town target Max Porter.
The 24 year-old midfielder has signed a deal with the Dons, and becomes their first signing ahead of the new season.
Swindon Town are still in the market for five new players, and there are rumours circulating that these will include a goalkeeper, defender, midfielder and two new strikers. Scott Dobie and Gavin Mahon are believed to be two of these players.
Meanwhile, a post on the Football Rumours website is causing concern in certain quarters:
02 Jun 2011 15:54:27
Swindon Town are contemplating as to whether to keep Paulo Di Canio on as manager. He was appointed fairly recently but has already fallen out with the board as regards to his transfer budget. He is requesting a £10m to spend on players this summer.
Now, this post probably has 0% truth, but it has unsettled a few fans who seem to think that the negative reaction from the GMB Union plus interest from Premiership clubs might cause Paolo to think again. As a fan of over 10 years, I really hope that there are no more surprises on the scale of the 1990 fiasco and Glenn doing a bunk to Chelsea after winning us promotion to the Premier League in 1993. Nothing with the club is ever smooth, but let us hope that Paolo is given a chance and if he does leave it is after he wins us promotion to League 1. A £10m transfer budget is very unlikely, but Paolo will not settle for second best and if the Board will not release funds then there could be clashes.
The 24 year-old midfielder has signed a deal with the Dons, and becomes their first signing ahead of the new season.
Swindon Town are still in the market for five new players, and there are rumours circulating that these will include a goalkeeper, defender, midfielder and two new strikers. Scott Dobie and Gavin Mahon are believed to be two of these players.
Meanwhile, a post on the Football Rumours website is causing concern in certain quarters:
02 Jun 2011 15:54:27
Swindon Town are contemplating as to whether to keep Paulo Di Canio on as manager. He was appointed fairly recently but has already fallen out with the board as regards to his transfer budget. He is requesting a £10m to spend on players this summer.
Now, this post probably has 0% truth, but it has unsettled a few fans who seem to think that the negative reaction from the GMB Union plus interest from Premiership clubs might cause Paolo to think again. As a fan of over 10 years, I really hope that there are no more surprises on the scale of the 1990 fiasco and Glenn doing a bunk to Chelsea after winning us promotion to the Premier League in 1993. Nothing with the club is ever smooth, but let us hope that Paolo is given a chance and if he does leave it is after he wins us promotion to League 1. A £10m transfer budget is very unlikely, but Paolo will not settle for second best and if the Board will not release funds then there could be clashes.
Tuesday 31 May 2011
The Saga Continues...
The Milan Misun saga continues, amid revelations that Swindon Town have not actually signed the defender from Celtic.
This comes only four months after it was believed he had signed a 2.5 year deal with The Robins.
The defender, 21, is currently in a state of limbo - with Celtic not keen on keeping him and Swindon Town seemingly not keen on buying him.
I suspect it would be best for both parties if his contract was torn up, so that he may move on elsewhere. Misun is clearly not going to play under Paolo at The County Ground and with interest coming from Dundee I suspect he will favour a return to Scotland.
Scott Cuthbert has reportedly been offered a deal to return north as well, with Partick Thistle offering him a two year deal.
David Prutton is also close to exiting The County Ground, with Yorkshire sides Barnsley and Sheffield United interested in the midfielder. A proposed move to Brighton fell through earlier this month as the Sussex side dropped their interest in him.
Jordan Pavett will be in the frame for a starting berth, if he can prove his worth during pre-season. It is expected that Jordan will partner Billy Bodin against Cirencester Town (date TBC) and two new strikers at least will be signed by July 1st. Scott Dobie and Stephen Brooker have been mentioned, but nothing as yet is confirmed.
Speaking of friendlies, it is strange that the club has not yet released its pre-season plan - although that could be in part due to the change of manager. I won't expect AC Milan to give up a Saturday to play us at The County Ground, but if we could have a few home games v Reading, Tottenham Hotspur and Bristol City then that could make for a good campaign with a few away games at Bath City, Newport County, Hungerford Town, Swindon Supermarine, Chippenham Town and Cirencester Town. Scrap any 'jollies' abroad - the players don't deserve it.
This comes only four months after it was believed he had signed a 2.5 year deal with The Robins.
The defender, 21, is currently in a state of limbo - with Celtic not keen on keeping him and Swindon Town seemingly not keen on buying him.
I suspect it would be best for both parties if his contract was torn up, so that he may move on elsewhere. Misun is clearly not going to play under Paolo at The County Ground and with interest coming from Dundee I suspect he will favour a return to Scotland.
Scott Cuthbert has reportedly been offered a deal to return north as well, with Partick Thistle offering him a two year deal.
David Prutton is also close to exiting The County Ground, with Yorkshire sides Barnsley and Sheffield United interested in the midfielder. A proposed move to Brighton fell through earlier this month as the Sussex side dropped their interest in him.
Jordan Pavett will be in the frame for a starting berth, if he can prove his worth during pre-season. It is expected that Jordan will partner Billy Bodin against Cirencester Town (date TBC) and two new strikers at least will be signed by July 1st. Scott Dobie and Stephen Brooker have been mentioned, but nothing as yet is confirmed.
Speaking of friendlies, it is strange that the club has not yet released its pre-season plan - although that could be in part due to the change of manager. I won't expect AC Milan to give up a Saturday to play us at The County Ground, but if we could have a few home games v Reading, Tottenham Hotspur and Bristol City then that could make for a good campaign with a few away games at Bath City, Newport County, Hungerford Town, Swindon Supermarine, Chippenham Town and Cirencester Town. Scrap any 'jollies' abroad - the players don't deserve it.
Sunday 29 May 2011
Quartet Offered Deals To Stay
Lescinel Jean-Francois, Nathan Thompson, Michael Timlin and Mark Scott have all been asked to stay on at The County Ground next season, according to the BBC.
Lescinel and Timlin look as if they could do well at League 2 level next season, and possibly young Nathan Thompson will see some action too, but I cannot see why we are keeping (no pun intended!) Mark Scott on. He is 20 and nowhere near the standard needed to play at League level and has only played at non-league whilst on loan at Chippenham Town and Hungerford Town. Good at that level, but I can't see him being a challenger for a first-team place.
Connor Thompson, in my opinion, should be the third-choice 'keeper as he is already a Northern Ireland Youth International. If Mark is to progress, he needs to move on.
The futures of Jonathan Douglas, Alan Sheehan, Jakub Jesionkowski, Scott Cuthbert and Vincent Pericard are uncertain, but I would guess that most if not all of these players will be moving on. Douglas is wanted by a number of League 1 sides, but he is based in Wiltshire and is settled here so it's 50/50 if he stays or goes. As for Sheehan, he is wanted by Preston and has already gone on trial with them. I hope he goes, as he's failed to deliver here.
Scott Cuthbert is wanted by Partick Thistle and Kilmarnock, and may favour a return north of the border whilst Pericard is wanted by Notts County, Dunfermline Athletic, Oldham Athletic and Tranmere Rovers. Jakub is available on a free, according to the GiveMeFootball website, so I doubt he will be staying on. Rumours are that he will move to Newport County if they sell Glyn Thompson to Cheltenham Town.
Thomas Dossevi is expected to leave for a team in France, believed to be FC Lorient.
Swindon Town are apparently looking at Thailand International Ronnachai Rangsiyo, who is a 22 year-old striker with 15 appearances for his country and four goals. He has previously been on the books of Everton, and currently plays for BEC Tero Sasana.
Lescinel and Timlin look as if they could do well at League 2 level next season, and possibly young Nathan Thompson will see some action too, but I cannot see why we are keeping (no pun intended!) Mark Scott on. He is 20 and nowhere near the standard needed to play at League level and has only played at non-league whilst on loan at Chippenham Town and Hungerford Town. Good at that level, but I can't see him being a challenger for a first-team place.
Connor Thompson, in my opinion, should be the third-choice 'keeper as he is already a Northern Ireland Youth International. If Mark is to progress, he needs to move on.
The futures of Jonathan Douglas, Alan Sheehan, Jakub Jesionkowski, Scott Cuthbert and Vincent Pericard are uncertain, but I would guess that most if not all of these players will be moving on. Douglas is wanted by a number of League 1 sides, but he is based in Wiltshire and is settled here so it's 50/50 if he stays or goes. As for Sheehan, he is wanted by Preston and has already gone on trial with them. I hope he goes, as he's failed to deliver here.
Scott Cuthbert is wanted by Partick Thistle and Kilmarnock, and may favour a return north of the border whilst Pericard is wanted by Notts County, Dunfermline Athletic, Oldham Athletic and Tranmere Rovers. Jakub is available on a free, according to the GiveMeFootball website, so I doubt he will be staying on. Rumours are that he will move to Newport County if they sell Glyn Thompson to Cheltenham Town.
Thomas Dossevi is expected to leave for a team in France, believed to be FC Lorient.
Swindon Town are apparently looking at Thailand International Ronnachai Rangsiyo, who is a 22 year-old striker with 15 appearances for his country and four goals. He has previously been on the books of Everton, and currently plays for BEC Tero Sasana.
Saturday 28 May 2011
Akinde Moves To Crawley
Crawley Town have swooped for Swindon Town target John Akinde.
The former Ebbsfleet and Bristol City striker has penned a deal with the Surrey club, ahead of their first season in League 2.
The former Ebbsfleet and Bristol City striker has penned a deal with the Surrey club, ahead of their first season in League 2.
Friday 27 May 2011
By Prior Appointment - Swindon To Bid For Rocks Hot-Shot?
A number of Football League sides, believed to include Swindon Town, are interested in Bognor Regis Town striker Jason Prior.
The Rocks striker hit an amazing 44 goals in 2010-11, as Bognor ultimately failed to win promotion to the Ryman Premier League despite being odds-on for promotion at the start of last season.
Bognor managers Jamie Howell and Darren Kilpatrick highly rate their prolific striker, and admit that he could play in the Football League, but with Prior having only one year left on his contract at Nyewood Lane and The Rocks struggling for cash, a bid of £50,000 could be enough to seal a deal for Prior.
Fellow Bognor player, Ben Johnson, is also a target for League 2 sides including Dagenham & Redbridge, Gillingham and Crawley Town.
The Rocks striker hit an amazing 44 goals in 2010-11, as Bognor ultimately failed to win promotion to the Ryman Premier League despite being odds-on for promotion at the start of last season.
Bognor managers Jamie Howell and Darren Kilpatrick highly rate their prolific striker, and admit that he could play in the Football League, but with Prior having only one year left on his contract at Nyewood Lane and The Rocks struggling for cash, a bid of £50,000 could be enough to seal a deal for Prior.
Fellow Bognor player, Ben Johnson, is also a target for League 2 sides including Dagenham & Redbridge, Gillingham and Crawley Town.
Wednesday 25 May 2011
Forza Swindon!
Paolo Di Canio has announced that fellow Italians Fabrizio Piccareta and Claudio Donateli will be joining him on the coaching staff at The County Ground.
Piccareta takes over the mantle as Assistant Manager, with Donateli coming in as Fitness Coach. Paul 'Zippy' Bodin stays on the Coaching Staff, resuming his role with the Youth Team. Rumours are that a Goalkeeping Coach is set to be appointed soon, to replace George Wood - names being mentioned so far are ex Wales Goalkeepers Martyn Margetson (currently Cardiff City's Goalkeeping Coach) and Paul Jones. However, Italian Andrea Pazzagli (currently a Goalkeeping Coach with Italy's U18s squad) is being mentioned more frequently and could soon form part of Paolo's revolution at The County Ground.
On the playing front, Jonathan Douglas is expected to depart for either Bournemouth or Exeter soon. Another player I won't miss. Milan Misun is expected to leave soon (possibly for a club on the Continent) whilst Jordan Pavett has been linked with Kettering Town, Bath City and Newport County and Aden Flint could be heading back to Nottinghamshire to former club Alfreton Town.
Billy Bodin and Will Evans could each be set for loan moves to Forest Green Rovers, as part of a proposed bid for Reece Styche, whilst Callum Kennedy and Nathan Thompson are to be given pre-season games to make a case for inclusion in the first team. Callum is wanted by Hereford United whilst Nathan is wanted by Barnet.
Thomas Dossevi will be given until June 1st to find a new club, following which his contract will be torn up. I can't see many bidders coming in for him, and so he may end up a free agent before long. I believe that Wrexham have shown an interest, but could they afford to pay a player who has consistently underperformed the wages he was on at The County Ground?
Believed to be coming in on trial with The Robins are Poole Town winger Carl Preston and Chester striker Michael Wilde.
Piccareta takes over the mantle as Assistant Manager, with Donateli coming in as Fitness Coach. Paul 'Zippy' Bodin stays on the Coaching Staff, resuming his role with the Youth Team. Rumours are that a Goalkeeping Coach is set to be appointed soon, to replace George Wood - names being mentioned so far are ex Wales Goalkeepers Martyn Margetson (currently Cardiff City's Goalkeeping Coach) and Paul Jones. However, Italian Andrea Pazzagli (currently a Goalkeeping Coach with Italy's U18s squad) is being mentioned more frequently and could soon form part of Paolo's revolution at The County Ground.
On the playing front, Jonathan Douglas is expected to depart for either Bournemouth or Exeter soon. Another player I won't miss. Milan Misun is expected to leave soon (possibly for a club on the Continent) whilst Jordan Pavett has been linked with Kettering Town, Bath City and Newport County and Aden Flint could be heading back to Nottinghamshire to former club Alfreton Town.
Billy Bodin and Will Evans could each be set for loan moves to Forest Green Rovers, as part of a proposed bid for Reece Styche, whilst Callum Kennedy and Nathan Thompson are to be given pre-season games to make a case for inclusion in the first team. Callum is wanted by Hereford United whilst Nathan is wanted by Barnet.
Thomas Dossevi will be given until June 1st to find a new club, following which his contract will be torn up. I can't see many bidders coming in for him, and so he may end up a free agent before long. I believe that Wrexham have shown an interest, but could they afford to pay a player who has consistently underperformed the wages he was on at The County Ground?
Believed to be coming in on trial with The Robins are Poole Town winger Carl Preston and Chester striker Michael Wilde.
Tuesday 24 May 2011
Prutton Departs For The Owls
Within the last hour, it has been confirmed that David Prutton has left Swindon Town to sign a two year deal with League 1 side Sheffield Wednesday.
Prutton follows Michael Rose out of the exit door at The County Ground, and there are rumours abounding that Thomas Dossevi will be the next player to depart - possibly for a club abroad.
Good luck to David, but I will not be sorry to see him go.
Prutton follows Michael Rose out of the exit door at The County Ground, and there are rumours abounding that Thomas Dossevi will be the next player to depart - possibly for a club abroad.
Good luck to David, but I will not be sorry to see him go.
Paolo Planning For The Long Term
Paolo Di Canio knows that he faces a tall order to get Swindon Town promoted, during his debut season as a manager, yet signs are already evident that he is in it for the long haul and that he is planning to make Swindon Town a force in football once again.
Paolo has already been in contact with Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp, and rumours are that Harry may allow young striker Harry Kane to link up with The Robins on loan next season.
Harry spent last season on loan at Leyton Orient and scored five goals in 18 appearances for the O's including two over Bristol Rovers in a 4-1 win at Brisbane Road. He is an England Under 19 International and looks a very good prospect for the future, and a player who would lead the forward line well for Swindon Town - something we have not had since Charlie Austin departed for Lancashire.
Whether or not Tottenham Hotspur would allow Harry to play in League 2 next season remains to be seen, but if he does let us hope he performs better than the last Tottenham Hotspur loanee - namely Jonathan Obika.
Silly season has started on the Football Rumours site, and I cannot see us going for Ryan Mason, Dominic Adiyiah, Andreas De Vito nor Mattia Vatoli. These players would walk into most Championship sides - people need to get real about who we can realistically get and how much the Board will allow Paolo to have in transfer fees.
Shabir Khan (Worcester City left-back) and Reece Styche (Forest Green Rovers striker) have also been linked with us. Shabir, 25, is a Pakistan International and has played over 100 games for Worcester City. He has recently attracted the attentions of Bradford City and Notts County, so he has the potential to play in the Football League. Reece is based locally and plays for neighbours Forest Green Rovers and is a full England C International aged 22. Very highly rated by Forest Green Rovers manager (and ex-Swindon Town player) David Hockaday, maybe Reece has the potential to move into the Football League as a Swindon Town player?
Paolo has already been in contact with Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp, and rumours are that Harry may allow young striker Harry Kane to link up with The Robins on loan next season.
Harry spent last season on loan at Leyton Orient and scored five goals in 18 appearances for the O's including two over Bristol Rovers in a 4-1 win at Brisbane Road. He is an England Under 19 International and looks a very good prospect for the future, and a player who would lead the forward line well for Swindon Town - something we have not had since Charlie Austin departed for Lancashire.
Whether or not Tottenham Hotspur would allow Harry to play in League 2 next season remains to be seen, but if he does let us hope he performs better than the last Tottenham Hotspur loanee - namely Jonathan Obika.
Silly season has started on the Football Rumours site, and I cannot see us going for Ryan Mason, Dominic Adiyiah, Andreas De Vito nor Mattia Vatoli. These players would walk into most Championship sides - people need to get real about who we can realistically get and how much the Board will allow Paolo to have in transfer fees.
Shabir Khan (Worcester City left-back) and Reece Styche (Forest Green Rovers striker) have also been linked with us. Shabir, 25, is a Pakistan International and has played over 100 games for Worcester City. He has recently attracted the attentions of Bradford City and Notts County, so he has the potential to play in the Football League. Reece is based locally and plays for neighbours Forest Green Rovers and is a full England C International aged 22. Very highly rated by Forest Green Rovers manager (and ex-Swindon Town player) David Hockaday, maybe Reece has the potential to move into the Football League as a Swindon Town player?
Monday 23 May 2011
New Faces?
It has been reported that Swindon Town are already looking at a major squad rebuild during the summer, following the embarrassing capitulation on the field last season.
Here are some players, some already have been linked with us, who could possibly be at The County Ground next season:
Max Porter (Rushden & Diamonds)
Max is an established England C International, with two goals from three appearances. He is a tenacious midfielder and is very highly rated by former Barnet and current England C manager Paul Fairclough. A good passer of the ball who can also get goals when needed.
Former Clubs: Tottenham Hotspur (Youth), Southend United (Youth), Cambridge United, Bishop's Stortford and Barnet
Chance Of Signing: Good - Max would definitely want to play in The Football League and would add pace to the midfield, plus Rushden & Diamonds need to sell players in order to keep afloat.
Jordan Santiago & Ibrahim Farah (both Cardiff City)
Jordan (top photo) is a highly-rated young Canadian Goalkeeper, who is out of contract at the end of the 2010-11 season. He has worked very hard under Cardiff City's Goalkeeping Coach, Martyn Margetson, but has struggled to break into the first team due to the performances of David Marshall, Tom Heaton, Stephen Bywater and Jason Brown and perhaps his future lies away from the Championship side. A great shot-stopper who commands his area well and can deal with corners/set play well too.
Ibrahim (bottom photo) is also very highly rated by the Cardiff City management, and is the first Somali national to play in the Football League. A pacy midfielder who can play on the wing or double up as a striker, he has a great first touch and can dictate play bringing in team-mates and supplying a killer pass when needed.
Chance of Signing: Jordan - Good, but there will be a lot of interest from rival clubs in this young 'stopper. Ibrahim - Good, however any deal would only be a loan deal as he is not on the transfer list at Cardiff City.
Nat Jarvis and Jonathan Meades (also at Cardiff City) are also good shouts for future Swindon Town players.
George Abbey (Free Agent)
An experienced Nigerian International who is no stranger to lower league football, George has previously played for Macclesfield Town, Port Vale and Crewe Alexandra and went on trial with Tranmere Rovers in May 2009 before opting to play in Cyprus. Solid and dependable, but age (32) may count against him if Swindon go for a youthful side.
Chance of Signing - Very Good, however as stated it depends on whether Paolo chooses youth or experience for his Swindon team.
Joe Anyinsah (Free Agent)
Joe is a winger/striker who is well suited to the lower league, and once netted 13 goals in 47 appearances for Carlisle United. Has had a bit of a nomadic career to date, but is dependable and grafts hard for his team.
Chance of Signing - Very Good to Definite. Joe would welcome a move nearer to his home town of Bristol and could see Swindon Town as a side at which to settle at. A very good player to have at League Two and would be a leading star for the club.
John Akinde (Free Transfer)
Like Joe Anyinsah, John has had a fairly nomadic career to date as well. He was, famously, the first transfer decided by a fans poll whilst at his first club Ebbsfleet United. Moving to Bristol City for £150,000 in June 2008, he has only played 16 first team games for the Ashton gate side with one goal. The rest of his career to date has seen him loaned out to Wycombe Wanderers (twice), Brentford, Bristol Rovers and Dagenham & Redbridge. John is a good striker who could be a handful at League Two level but urgently needs stability and the chance to prove himself.
Chance of Signing - Good. John would be interested in staying locally to Bristol, and could see Swindon as the club at which to relaunch his career. Will need to hit the ground running though, and good performances in pre-season will help his cause to be a first-choice player.
Lee Beevers (Free Transfer)
Lee is a decent central defender/full back who has recently been freed by Colchester United. Has played over 150 times for Lincoln City and played 20 times for Colchester and made seven appearances for Wales U21s. Dependable and can also play a holding role in midfield as well.
Chance of Signing - Possible. Lee has proven that he doesn't mind playing outside his native Midlands/North England, but he might prefer a move to a club closer to home. However, if offered a good deal by Swindon, he could be tempted with a move to Wiltshire.
Stephen Brooker (Free Transfer)
Stephen is no stranger to this part of the country, having played over 100 times for Bristol City between 2004 and 2009 netting 37 times in the process. An experienced striker with a good eye for goal, Stephen was most recently at Championship side Doncaster Rovers where he played 11 times and scored once.
Chance of Signing - Very Good. Stephen has played much of his club football in and around the Home Counties and West of England (with the exception of stints at Port Vale and Doncaster Rovers), so a move to Swindon Town would not be out of the question for him.
Ben Burgess (Free Transfer)
Ben is an experienced striker who has two caps for the Republic of Ireland U21s. Having started his career at Blackburn Rovers over 10 years ago, he has played for Northern Spirit (Australia), Brentford, Stockport County, Oldham Athletic, Hull City, Blackpoool and Notts County and played in Blackpool's play-off win over Cardiff City in May 2010. Not a prolific goalscorer in recent seasons, but at a lower level he should easily manage to get 15+ goals a season.
Chance of Signing: Possible. Like Lee Beevers, Ben might prefer a move closer to home over a move to Wiltshire. However, he has ventured south before in his playing career, so a move to The County Ground is not out of the question.
Liam Chilvers (Free Transfer)
Like Ben Burgess, Liam was recently released from his contract at Notts County. A very solid defender who started his career with Arsenal, he could be the leader that Swindon Town so badly need on the pitch. Won the FA Youth Cup with Arsenal in 2000.
Chance of Signing: Possible(ish!). It depends on whether Liam would consider dropping down to play in League 2, as he has spent the whole of his playing career in clubs outside of the basement division. The fact that Swindon is closer to his home town of Chelmsford might be a point in the clubs favour.
Danny Coid (Free Transfer)
An experienced full back, who has spent most of his career at Blackpool (over 300 games) and played for them in all four divisions, Danny is a tough-tackling no nonsense kind of defender and like Liam Chilvers is a leader who can marshall his defence well. Recently had a loan period at Rotherham United, and despite two red cards he put in battling performances for the Millers in their ultimately unsuccessful promotion attempt.
Chance of Signing: Possible/Difficult. Danny is based in the north of England, so a move south at this stage of his career might not seem too appealing. However, the chance to work with Paolo Di Canio and get himself the chance to prove his worth could tempt him to Swindon.
These 11 players could feature for Swindon Town in a possible 4-3-3 fomation:
(GK) Jordan Santiago
(DL) Danny Coid (capt.)
(DR) George Abbey
(DC) Lee Beevers
(DC) Liam Chilvers
(MF) Ibrahim Farah
(MF) Joe Anyinsah
(MF) Max Porter
(FW) Steve Brooker
(FW) John Akinde
(FW) Ben Burgess
This team looks very strong and could easily win promotion from League 2.
Substitutes:
(GK) Daryl Flahavan (Free Agent)
(DF) Claude Davis (Free Agent)
(MF) Mark Bradley (Free Agent)
(MF) Gavin Mahon (Free Agent)
(ST) Scott Dobie (Free Agent)
Here are some players, some already have been linked with us, who could possibly be at The County Ground next season:
Max Porter (Rushden & Diamonds)
Max is an established England C International, with two goals from three appearances. He is a tenacious midfielder and is very highly rated by former Barnet and current England C manager Paul Fairclough. A good passer of the ball who can also get goals when needed.
Former Clubs: Tottenham Hotspur (Youth), Southend United (Youth), Cambridge United, Bishop's Stortford and Barnet
Chance Of Signing: Good - Max would definitely want to play in The Football League and would add pace to the midfield, plus Rushden & Diamonds need to sell players in order to keep afloat.
Jordan Santiago & Ibrahim Farah (both Cardiff City)
Jordan (top photo) is a highly-rated young Canadian Goalkeeper, who is out of contract at the end of the 2010-11 season. He has worked very hard under Cardiff City's Goalkeeping Coach, Martyn Margetson, but has struggled to break into the first team due to the performances of David Marshall, Tom Heaton, Stephen Bywater and Jason Brown and perhaps his future lies away from the Championship side. A great shot-stopper who commands his area well and can deal with corners/set play well too.
Ibrahim (bottom photo) is also very highly rated by the Cardiff City management, and is the first Somali national to play in the Football League. A pacy midfielder who can play on the wing or double up as a striker, he has a great first touch and can dictate play bringing in team-mates and supplying a killer pass when needed.
Chance of Signing: Jordan - Good, but there will be a lot of interest from rival clubs in this young 'stopper. Ibrahim - Good, however any deal would only be a loan deal as he is not on the transfer list at Cardiff City.
Nat Jarvis and Jonathan Meades (also at Cardiff City) are also good shouts for future Swindon Town players.
George Abbey (Free Agent)
An experienced Nigerian International who is no stranger to lower league football, George has previously played for Macclesfield Town, Port Vale and Crewe Alexandra and went on trial with Tranmere Rovers in May 2009 before opting to play in Cyprus. Solid and dependable, but age (32) may count against him if Swindon go for a youthful side.
Chance of Signing - Very Good, however as stated it depends on whether Paolo chooses youth or experience for his Swindon team.
Joe Anyinsah (Free Agent)
Joe is a winger/striker who is well suited to the lower league, and once netted 13 goals in 47 appearances for Carlisle United. Has had a bit of a nomadic career to date, but is dependable and grafts hard for his team.
Chance of Signing - Very Good to Definite. Joe would welcome a move nearer to his home town of Bristol and could see Swindon Town as a side at which to settle at. A very good player to have at League Two and would be a leading star for the club.
John Akinde (Free Transfer)
Like Joe Anyinsah, John has had a fairly nomadic career to date as well. He was, famously, the first transfer decided by a fans poll whilst at his first club Ebbsfleet United. Moving to Bristol City for £150,000 in June 2008, he has only played 16 first team games for the Ashton gate side with one goal. The rest of his career to date has seen him loaned out to Wycombe Wanderers (twice), Brentford, Bristol Rovers and Dagenham & Redbridge. John is a good striker who could be a handful at League Two level but urgently needs stability and the chance to prove himself.
Chance of Signing - Good. John would be interested in staying locally to Bristol, and could see Swindon as the club at which to relaunch his career. Will need to hit the ground running though, and good performances in pre-season will help his cause to be a first-choice player.
Lee Beevers (Free Transfer)
Lee is a decent central defender/full back who has recently been freed by Colchester United. Has played over 150 times for Lincoln City and played 20 times for Colchester and made seven appearances for Wales U21s. Dependable and can also play a holding role in midfield as well.
Chance of Signing - Possible. Lee has proven that he doesn't mind playing outside his native Midlands/North England, but he might prefer a move to a club closer to home. However, if offered a good deal by Swindon, he could be tempted with a move to Wiltshire.
Stephen Brooker (Free Transfer)
Stephen is no stranger to this part of the country, having played over 100 times for Bristol City between 2004 and 2009 netting 37 times in the process. An experienced striker with a good eye for goal, Stephen was most recently at Championship side Doncaster Rovers where he played 11 times and scored once.
Chance of Signing - Very Good. Stephen has played much of his club football in and around the Home Counties and West of England (with the exception of stints at Port Vale and Doncaster Rovers), so a move to Swindon Town would not be out of the question for him.
Ben Burgess (Free Transfer)
Ben is an experienced striker who has two caps for the Republic of Ireland U21s. Having started his career at Blackburn Rovers over 10 years ago, he has played for Northern Spirit (Australia), Brentford, Stockport County, Oldham Athletic, Hull City, Blackpoool and Notts County and played in Blackpool's play-off win over Cardiff City in May 2010. Not a prolific goalscorer in recent seasons, but at a lower level he should easily manage to get 15+ goals a season.
Chance of Signing: Possible. Like Lee Beevers, Ben might prefer a move closer to home over a move to Wiltshire. However, he has ventured south before in his playing career, so a move to The County Ground is not out of the question.
Liam Chilvers (Free Transfer)
Like Ben Burgess, Liam was recently released from his contract at Notts County. A very solid defender who started his career with Arsenal, he could be the leader that Swindon Town so badly need on the pitch. Won the FA Youth Cup with Arsenal in 2000.
Chance of Signing: Possible(ish!). It depends on whether Liam would consider dropping down to play in League 2, as he has spent the whole of his playing career in clubs outside of the basement division. The fact that Swindon is closer to his home town of Chelmsford might be a point in the clubs favour.
Danny Coid (Free Transfer)
An experienced full back, who has spent most of his career at Blackpool (over 300 games) and played for them in all four divisions, Danny is a tough-tackling no nonsense kind of defender and like Liam Chilvers is a leader who can marshall his defence well. Recently had a loan period at Rotherham United, and despite two red cards he put in battling performances for the Millers in their ultimately unsuccessful promotion attempt.
Chance of Signing: Possible/Difficult. Danny is based in the north of England, so a move south at this stage of his career might not seem too appealing. However, the chance to work with Paolo Di Canio and get himself the chance to prove his worth could tempt him to Swindon.
These 11 players could feature for Swindon Town in a possible 4-3-3 fomation:
(GK) Jordan Santiago
(DL) Danny Coid (capt.)
(DR) George Abbey
(DC) Lee Beevers
(DC) Liam Chilvers
(MF) Ibrahim Farah
(MF) Joe Anyinsah
(MF) Max Porter
(FW) Steve Brooker
(FW) John Akinde
(FW) Ben Burgess
This team looks very strong and could easily win promotion from League 2.
Substitutes:
(GK) Daryl Flahavan (Free Agent)
(DF) Claude Davis (Free Agent)
(MF) Mark Bradley (Free Agent)
(MF) Gavin Mahon (Free Agent)
(ST) Scott Dobie (Free Agent)
Paolo Takes The Reigns At The County Ground
A new chapter in the history of Swindon Town Football Club begins today when Paolo Di Canio takes over as manager of The Robins.
The former Lazio, Celtic, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham United striker is perhaps a controversial choice for the Swindon job, given his allegiance to Italian fascism, but his CV alone is impressive and shouts out 'winner':
With Lazio, he won promotion to Serie A in 1987 aged only 19, and with Juventus he won Serie A and the Coppa Italia in 1992 and the UEFA Cup the following year. The honors continued at AC Milan in 1994, when he helped the Rosoneri win the Intercontinental Cup and European Super Cup, and further honors would follow in 1995 with victory in the UEFA Champions League final and in 1996 he would win his second Serie A Winners Medal.
Paolo then moved from his native Italy to Scotland, and in only his first season at Celtic he helped the Parkhead side to a second placed finish in the Scottish Premier League. This was the first season where he had scored more than six goals in a season, finishing with 15 in total from 37 appearances.
A move south to then Premier League side Sheffield Wednesday took place the following season, with The Owls paying £4.2m for Paolo. His stint at the Yorkshire club is probably best remembered for an infamous shove on referee Paul Alcock during a Sheffield Wednesday v Arsenal game in September 1998. Paolo was fined £10,000 and banned for 11 games. Despite this, Paolo became a Wednesday favourite during his two seasons, and scored 23 times in 41 appearances.
Moving to West Ham for a cut-price £1.7m, Paolo enjoyed his best years at Upton Park. He became a Hammers legend and played over 100 times for them, netting 48 goals in total for the East London side helping them beat Manchester United in the FA Cup in the 2000-01 season and later that season would win a special 'Fair Play' award from FIFA after handling a cross so that then Everton Goalkeeper Paul Gerrard could receive treatment after twisting his knee. FIFA described the incident as 'a moment of great sportsmanship'.
Following a row with then West Ham manager Glenn Roeder, Paolo moved to London rivals Charlton Athletic for the 2003-04 season. As an Addick, he featured 31 times and scored four goals.
Paolo returned to his childhood idols Lazio in 2004, and helped the financially stricken side with a return of 11 goals from 50 appearances. The highlight of his second spell at Lazio being a 3-1 win over city rivals AS Roma in January 2005, in which he scored a goal, however by 2005 he had fallen foul of many players and senior management at the club due to his fascist beliefs. Lazio owner Claudio Lotito severed Di Canio's contract in 2006, and after a spell with Cisco Roma he called time on his playing career.
Paolo was linked with the West Ham United manager's job in September 2008, following the sacking of Alan Curbishley, and spoke of his desire to become their manager one day. Paolo's love of West Ham United is well known, and last year a Director's Box was opened at the club in his honor.
On May 23rd 2010, Paolo officially took over from caretaker boss Paul Bodin as the new manager of Swindon Town Football Club. A bold move, but one that has caused controversy and also led to the loss of financial sponsorship from the left-wing GMB Union due to Paolo's beliefs.
The $64,000 question is how good a manager will he be for Swindon Town? Will he make more headlines off the field than on it, and is he the right man to lead the now ailing Wiltshire club back to League 1 at the first attempt?
Only time will tell, but it is certainly an exciting time to be a Robins fan!
The former Lazio, Celtic, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham United striker is perhaps a controversial choice for the Swindon job, given his allegiance to Italian fascism, but his CV alone is impressive and shouts out 'winner':
With Lazio, he won promotion to Serie A in 1987 aged only 19, and with Juventus he won Serie A and the Coppa Italia in 1992 and the UEFA Cup the following year. The honors continued at AC Milan in 1994, when he helped the Rosoneri win the Intercontinental Cup and European Super Cup, and further honors would follow in 1995 with victory in the UEFA Champions League final and in 1996 he would win his second Serie A Winners Medal.
Paolo then moved from his native Italy to Scotland, and in only his first season at Celtic he helped the Parkhead side to a second placed finish in the Scottish Premier League. This was the first season where he had scored more than six goals in a season, finishing with 15 in total from 37 appearances.
A move south to then Premier League side Sheffield Wednesday took place the following season, with The Owls paying £4.2m for Paolo. His stint at the Yorkshire club is probably best remembered for an infamous shove on referee Paul Alcock during a Sheffield Wednesday v Arsenal game in September 1998. Paolo was fined £10,000 and banned for 11 games. Despite this, Paolo became a Wednesday favourite during his two seasons, and scored 23 times in 41 appearances.
Moving to West Ham for a cut-price £1.7m, Paolo enjoyed his best years at Upton Park. He became a Hammers legend and played over 100 times for them, netting 48 goals in total for the East London side helping them beat Manchester United in the FA Cup in the 2000-01 season and later that season would win a special 'Fair Play' award from FIFA after handling a cross so that then Everton Goalkeeper Paul Gerrard could receive treatment after twisting his knee. FIFA described the incident as 'a moment of great sportsmanship'.
Following a row with then West Ham manager Glenn Roeder, Paolo moved to London rivals Charlton Athletic for the 2003-04 season. As an Addick, he featured 31 times and scored four goals.
Paolo returned to his childhood idols Lazio in 2004, and helped the financially stricken side with a return of 11 goals from 50 appearances. The highlight of his second spell at Lazio being a 3-1 win over city rivals AS Roma in January 2005, in which he scored a goal, however by 2005 he had fallen foul of many players and senior management at the club due to his fascist beliefs. Lazio owner Claudio Lotito severed Di Canio's contract in 2006, and after a spell with Cisco Roma he called time on his playing career.
Paolo was linked with the West Ham United manager's job in September 2008, following the sacking of Alan Curbishley, and spoke of his desire to become their manager one day. Paolo's love of West Ham United is well known, and last year a Director's Box was opened at the club in his honor.
On May 23rd 2010, Paolo officially took over from caretaker boss Paul Bodin as the new manager of Swindon Town Football Club. A bold move, but one that has caused controversy and also led to the loss of financial sponsorship from the left-wing GMB Union due to Paolo's beliefs.
The $64,000 question is how good a manager will he be for Swindon Town? Will he make more headlines off the field than on it, and is he the right man to lead the now ailing Wiltshire club back to League 1 at the first attempt?
Only time will tell, but it is certainly an exciting time to be a Robins fan!
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