ratio_decidendi

Well I expect so, considering that it's all the same team as before sans Cortese.

People on Twitter are saying that Lovren didn't in fact hand in a transfer request? Would be very surprised if that was true.

Underwhelming, but there's still another preseason fixture abroad to think about.

Fixture coming out shortly according to Jim Lucas on Twitter just now... Waiting with bated breath..

You're obviously concerned at what's happening in the club, but I'm not sure it's really as bad as you make out. - What makes you think the board weren't as surprised by Maurcio's departure as the fans were - there is no evidence that they're actively trying to deceive the fans. - Rickie Lambert leaving can probably be regarded as an exception and not the rule for various reasons (namely Lambert's personal service and attitude along with business potential). - On that note, it makes fine business sense to wait on Cork and Fonte until the manager arrives - what if RoKo didn't want Fonte but we had tied him down to a longer, more expensive contract? - Yes, there's been a transfer request from Lovren, but this isn't irreparable. Any unrest from Lallana has yet to be fully attributed to the player himself, and Shaw is most likely going to leave no matter what happens. There's really no need to be quite so cynical. I suggest waiting until a manager is appointed so as to avoid making any uninformed and misguided judgements.

A likely story!

Must have missed this - what happened exactly?

Just looked at the Mail Online article and you're absolutely right - the article is written as a statement of fact and, if it wasn't true, would be liable for defamation on Lovren's behalf. This is hugely disappointing for us fans but, looking on the bright side, at least he had the guts to formally hand in a transfer request.

Mancini has now usurped Koeman in the odds at BetVictor. For what it's worth, I'd be happy with either although Mancini is almost certainly the more exciting appointment. Completely agree with those who have suggested he'd be able to bring in the 'wow' factor in order to keep current players and sign some really big names. I'm not sure why posters are suggesting he is so adverse to the youth - I mean, he signed up and coming British youngsters Rodwell, Sinclair and Johnson as well as promoting Belgian CB Boyata. Also, would he really be given the opportunity to fully exploit the amazing youth set ups at top clubs like Man City?

Might the paperwork concern the resignation of the manager from his current club...?

Not sure if anyone has seen this, but it's worth watching Pat Nevin's analysis of how England should (and probably will play) against Italy: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27719078 The way the fullbacks and DMs are used is particularly interesting, and accounts for why Glen Johnson is persistently used. Though it still doesn't make sense why England didn't take Clyne as backup who (after watching some of the highlights from last season) is incredible down the right wing.

Still think it will be RonKo. Also, is it just me or does the fact that Ron's on holiday indicate that he'll be the one appointed. I mean, contract agreed with only "paperwork" left to do, so Ron's having a break ready to get to work when he returns? Perhaps a bit too 'tin foil hat', but...

Yeah, I heard as much from a reliable source. Who knows, eh?

A very positive interview indeed, and considering the quality of applicants it's going to be even more exciting finding out who the new manager is (or even more disappointing...).

Yeah, I'd be more inclined to agree with you if the Other option in the poll had more than six percent. But it doesn't, so I don't.

Can confirm that contrary to recent reports, Adam Lallana has not in fact changed. He still cannot shoot.

Fair points on Welback. Thirteen minutes into the game I'm still convinced that, besides a few 'wonder goals', he is absolutely pants in an England shirt.

Strong, but can never understand the logic of playing Welbeck. It's not like he's a bad player, but the guy has had an awful season?

So Alex Crook has just stated that Sherwood is most definitely not in the running for the Saints job... A shame - I could have done with a laugh next season.

I like the sentiment towards the British Legion, but that kit is absolutely hideous.

A player with massive potential, in my opinion. Buying him would provide Fonte and Lovren with some healthy competition, and I wouldn't be surprised if Caulker stepped up to claim a permanent claim to a centre-back position. This would be a sensible purchase.

Not sure if this has been linked at all, but these quotes from David Moyes seem to rule him out completely: http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jun/05/david-moyes-turns-down-job-offers-manchester-united-abroad “I have had a couple of opportunities to go back in and chosen not to do anything just now. I am going to look for what I feel is the right opportunity. I would like to think I proved myself over the 11-year period at Everton and what I am capable of, and the level at which I want to manage.” “I would like somewhere that would give me a chance of being in the Champions League or a club that has ambitions of being in the Champions League."

I really like the idea of a south coast tour - it will probably promote the profile of 'lesser' clubs in this neck of the woods. Also, don't forget that the club "hopes to announce details of further pre-season friendlies soon". A trip to Feyenoord might still be on the cards.

What a stunner.