Just seen that Townsend is not renewing.
Just like to say thanks a lot Andros for many brilliant bits of football. You are one of my favourite players because you always try something dangerous and exciting. A real legend in my book. The goal at Man City and that one that blasted into the Homesdale goal top corner were my best. I think it was against Burnley. Thanks a lot buddy for so much pleasure. Good luck.

If it is the case that Joel Ward will be offered a new contract and Andros Townsend will not, then I think we are moving in the wrong direction! Ward was a liability last year and it would be a surprise if he improved this time round. Townsend has flair. If you happen to believe (highly unfashionable view) that football is about entertainment, then it's a curious decision.

It's quite possibly the case that both were offered an extension but that one wanted to stay and the other didn't. Wages will come into it but so will contract length and discussions about likelihood of a first team place.

Also forward players have flair and defenders generally not - follow your train of thought and we'd still have Vince Hilaire! But more seriously Andros is now on the backburner as a first team regular behind the likes of Olise and Eze. Useful squad player and good for when we are packing midfield with players who track back.

My guess is he will turn up at Norwich.

Edited by Omph (14 Jul 2021 10.05pm)

Aside from his stunning goals and crossing ability, I don’t believe Andros is given sufficient credit for the unbridled enthusiasm he shows in every game. This can rub off on other players - as can the negative vibes some are guilty of.
That’s why he is one of my favourites.
Norwich is my second favourite club, so I hope he goes there and they both do well next season.

I notice that Clyne was with the squad at St Georges Park in the recent video. Couldn't see any other out of contract players.

Personally I'd sign both Ward and Clyne, as we have no idea if Ferguson will be good enough even if can get fit. Unless of course we can sign an excellent young right back, or have one coming through the system.

Not sure if there is any significance in Clyne being present in terms of the club wanting to keep him, or perhaps he might simply have a different approach to training (and risking injury) when not under contract - he trained with us when out of contract before.

If both Ward and Clyne sign then two things are apparent.
1. Ferguson must be toast
2. Clyne needs to stay fit because he is (in my opinion) better than Ward.