Montgomery to delay decision on future

[YEP Digital]

Nick Montgomery is expected to delay a decision on his future until after his summer holiday with Leeds United bidding to lure him away from Sheffield United.

Click on the link for more details: http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/leedsunited/Leeds-United-Whites-target-delays.6288321.jp

 

[Grecian2000]

"Several other clubs are also interested and sources in South Yorkshire said Montgomery would take time to consider his options before deciding on his next move. Grayson met with United chairman Ken Bates on Monday to discuss their plans for the summer,"

I think you'll find the United chairman is Kevin McCabe. Unless, of course, you refer to "United" and assume we all imediately think of the mighty Leeds? Is so, you're in the wrong place!

 

[secretchief]

I like the fact it is 'White's target' as opposed to 'Blades midfielder'.

 

[Revolution]

Nick Montgomery is expected to delay a decision on his future until after his summer holiday with Leeds United bidding to lure him away from Sheffield United.

I'll be right here on the edge of my seat until he makes up his mind...

 

[LouTheBlade]

If he wants to go, he should just go. He's clearly waiting to see what money is on the table which is his prerogative. Personally, I like Monty but I know some fans wouldn't be gutted to see the back of him.....

Irrespetive of that, he knows Leeds want him - he either wants to stay at the lane or he doesnt. If he wants to play for his boyhood club (even though it is Leeds) fair enough. I would imagine by now the wheels at Elland Road have already begun turning and Monty's agent has already been contacted. If that is the case, they should tell dirty Leeds what he wants and make his mind up so we can get on with our own recruitment.

Agents and directors make these situations far more compliacted than they need to be. Either you want to play of one club or the other; you want to earn X amount or the other - what is so fucking hard about making the decision?!!!! In his case he doesnt even have to move house!!!!! I just wish they would all stop fannying around and either find some middle ground which allows him to stay OR; let him go if he wants.

Seems simple to me but what do I know..........

 

[Sensiblade]

"Several other clubs are also interested and sources in South Yorkshire said Montgomery would take time to consider his options before deciding on his next move. Grayson met with United chairman Ken Bates on Monday to discuss their plans for the summer,"

I think you'll find the United chairman is Kevin McCabe. Unless, of course, you refer to "United" and assume we all imediately think of the mighty Leeds? Is so, you're in the wrong place!

I thought according to the Press 'United' were Man United if so he'd be meeting with Glazer

 

[raul]

I hope you've all clicked and left your messages of congratulation Gents.

 

[Bladesman]

Go already Monty if scummy L**Ds are offering you more cash and you want to play for them.

 

[Foxy]

It's a bit of a non-story and speculation really, with very little in the way of actual quotes.

It's one of the biggest decisions of his career at a stage where the money is perhaps more important than in the past, so I think he'll take his time, especially with the advice of his agent.

He's already been offered more money than the Blades have put to him.

 

[Ollessendro]

If he wants to go, he should just go. He's clearly waiting to see what money is on the table which is his prerogative. Personally, I like Monty but I know some fans wouldn't be gutted to see the back of him.....

Irrespetive of that, he knows Leeds want him - he either wants to stay at the lane or he doesnt. If he wants to play for his boyhood club (even though it is Leeds) fair enough. I would imagine by now the wheels at Elland Road have already begun turning and Monty's agent has already been contacted. If that is the case, they should tell dirty Leeds what he wants and make his mind up so we can get on with our own recruitment.

Agents and directors make these situations far more compliacted than they need to be. Either you want to play of one club or the other; you want to earn X amount or the other - what is so fucking hard about making the decision?!!!! In his case he doesnt even have to move house!!!!! I just wish they would all stop fannying around and either find some middle ground which allows him to stay OR; let him go if he wants.

Seems simple to me but what do I know..........

I agree with you Lou about him. However i think we should look at things from a different angle (and also I like to play devils advocate).

What would you do in his circumstances? (and this is a question for all).

Options:

a) Stay at Sheffield United. The club you've grown to love and played for all your career. However they won't pay you the money you're currently earning and what you think you are worth. Crap manager who you probably don't respect (my opinion) and little prospects for the next few years. You're looking to sign a decent contract to set you up (late 20's) but you also want to test yourself against the best. Sheffield united are not going up next season (or probably in the next 2 or 3). Would you stay a Blade?

b) Leeds. Boyhood club. Just up the road so you don't have to move house. Not sure how much cash they can offer (but this will definately be a big factor in his decision). You get to work with a young and fairly exciting manager. It's a new challenge, but you've been grown to love Sheffield United football club over the years. Chances of promotion? Probably similar to the Blades.

c) QPR. More money. There'll be sure to pay you what you want. So you get the lucrative contract you're searching for. Not only that but you get to work with Neil Warnock again. He is no doubt a manager you respect and you'd fit right in with him. Can Warnock get QPR promoted next season? There is a very good chance! So what are the down sides? You'd have to move down South.

d) other options. Why not ust wait and see? it's been a long hard season and you're ready for a holiday. Why not take the break and see what happens. Who knows who might be interested. Boro have expressed an interest before. Even though Blades fans can be very critical, you are fairly respected in the football world. Let your agent earn his money and see what he can get you. Plus what is the rush to put pen to paper? Your contract runs out in July, so who cares if you sign a new deal at United in one months time?

 

[LouTheBlade]

Olle,

All very reasoned options but I dont think the interest from elsewhere is concrete enough for Monty to simply sit it out. If I was him (a player who does very well with limited natural ability) I would be looking for a quick resolution that best suits my circumstances. The resolution rests with either Leeds or the Blades from what I can see as they are the only two that have had public interest declared.

However, based on your four scenarios and putting myself in Monty's shoes.....I would take the leap in moving south and go to QPR, provided Warnock can guarantee regular football. If not, yes sit it out. I just fail to see how a player of limited skill (dont get me wrong I love Monty to bits) can hold court over where he's going and who's contract he accepts.

Monty is a courageous little battler and an absolute diamond to have in certain games but he isnt the sort of player that you would see loads of clubs clambering for. I would bet a decent sum of money that the supposed interested clubs are about half (if not less) than those being reported. Agents are good at creating speculation to get a good deal for their client.

 

[SheepdipBlade]

Not sure I'd be that desparate to stay at a club where the fans liken me to a rapist.

 

[Foxy]

All very reasoned options but I dont think the interest from elsewhere is concrete enough for Monty to simply sit it out. If I was him (a player who does very well with limited natural ability) I would be looking for a quick resolution that best suits my circumstances. The resolution rests with either Leeds or the Blades from what I can see as they are the only two that have had public interest declared.

Publically yes. But as I said above, he's already had a concrete offer more than we've offered him from someone other than Leeds.

 

[Eskimo]

Established first teamer, club knows his strengths and weaknesses, generally well liked or jump ship for more brass like Tongy (where is he now) or Killer (warming the bench for sunderland) Hulse. Not many established players leave the Blades (lets not talk about the kids) and go on to better things do they?

 

[Big Mart]

I agree with you Lou about him. However i think we should look at things from a different angle (and also I like to play devils advocate).

What would you do in his circumstances? (and this is a question for all).

Options:

a) Stay at Sheffield United. The only club stupid enough to have given you a contract and pay you silly money all these years, despite the fact that you still can't control a football.

b) Leeds. Boyhood club. Just up the road so you don't have to move house. Just remember not to drive to the Lane every morning, because we know you're not the brightest.

c) QPR. The chance to work with another footballing no brain in Uncle Neil. Plus you can team up with Liegertwood again and terrorise the Championship next season in what would be a midfield dream team.

d) Piss off now, you're worse than useless.

:gallop:

 

[Coily]

I agree with you Lou about him. However i think we should look at things from a different angle (and also I like to play devils advocate).

What would you do in his circumstances? (and this is a question for all).

Options:

a) Stay at Sheffield United. The only club stupid enough to have given you a contract and pay you silly money all these years, despite the fact that you still can't control a football.

b) Leeds. Boyhood club. Just up the road so you don't have to move house. Just remember not to drive to the Lane every morning, because we know you're not the brightest.

c) QPR. The chance to work with another footballing no brain in Uncle Neil. Plus you can team up with Liegertwood again and terrorise the Championship next season in what would be a midfield dream team.

d) Piss off now, you're worse than useless.

:gallop:

A Big Mart post on Monty is not the same without the phrase 'splay-footed twat'.

 

[raul]

It'll have been time for his medication Coily.

 

[Ollessendro]

Olle,

All very reasoned options but I dont think the interest from elsewhere is concrete enough for Monty to simply sit it out. If I was him (a player who does very well with limited natural ability) I would be looking for a quick resolution that best suits my circumstances. The resolution rests with either Leeds or the Blades from what I can see as they are the only two that have had public interest declared.

However, based on your four scenarios and putting myself in Monty's shoes.....I would take the leap in moving south and go to QPR, provided Warnock can guarantee regular football. If not, yes sit it out. I just fail to see how a player of limited skill (dont get me wrong I love Monty to bits) can hold court over where he's going and who's contract he accepts.

Monty is a courageous little battler and an absolute diamond to have in certain games but he isnt the sort of player that you would see loads of clubs clambering for. I would bet a decent sum of money that the supposed interested clubs are about half (if not less) than those being reported. Agents are good at creating speculation to get a good deal for their client.

But what difference would it make if he waits Lou? I don't think our opinions are much different here as I agree with most of what you said. However I don't see the harm (from his point of view) in sitting it out. Sure it's frustrating from the fans and the clubs point of view, but Monty is simply looking after no1 (as anyone would in these circumstances). For all we know he could be talking to Warnock, Strachan, Blackwell, Grayson and more now. Why should he make a decision straight away? Think about what you'd do if your contract was up at work and you'be been offered a new one. However 3 or 4 other clubs had expressed an interest in you.

Like it or lump it Monty is quite well respected away from Sheffield United. Big Mart will not agree, but on several occassions I've heard pundits describe him as a good player. When the Blades are being commentated on on Five Live the commentators usually rate him. Same goes for Sky Sports. I'm not interested in an argument about his ability (save your words slagging him off Mart because I won't take any bait) but it would be naive to think that other clubs are not interested. I'm sure that many managers think he can do a job.

 

[LouTheBlade]

But what difference would it make if he waits Lou? I don't think our opinions are much different here as I agree with most of what you said. However I don't see the harm (from his point of view) in sitting it out. Sure it's frustrating from the fans and the clubs point of view, but Monty is simply looking after no1 (as anyone would in these circumstances). For all we know he could be talking to Warnock, Strachan, Blackwell, Grayson and more now. Why should he make a decision straight away? Think about what you'd do if your contract was up at work and you'be been offered a new one. However 3 or 4 other clubs had expressed an interest in you.

Like it or lump it Monty is quite well respected away from Sheffield United. Big Mart will not agree, but on several occassions I've heard pundits describe him as a good player. When the Blades are being commentated on on Five Live the commentators usually rate him. Same goes for Sky Sports. I'm not interested in an argument about his ability (save your words slagging him off Mart because I won't take any bait) but it would be naive to think that other clubs are not interested. I'm sure that many managers think he can do a job.

Possibly Olle, but I think he would be more an after thought than a primary target. I don't mean to slate the lad because unlike Mart I would like to see him stay because for what he lacks in traditional football qualities, he makes up for by adding value to the side in other areas. I just dont see clubs like QPR, Middlesbrough and Burnley (who have money to spend) wanting to budget for Monty's wages. He's a good reliable pro but nothing more. Those outside the club may well rate him but they dont watch him every week - he can be hit and miss at times to say the least. I like having him around purely for his usefulness in certain games as he is good at frustrating the opposition.

Yes he may add some combative and disciplined qualities to the sides we have mentioned but would they be prepared to offer Monty more money than United? I just cant see it. Monty would be an option for a side cost-cutting or losing its parachute payments (i.e, ourselves). If he cant agree terms with United then I would expect the other clubs we mentioned to balk at his demands. Those who have watched him and tracked his availability will know all about his capabilities and weaknesses.

I will agree with you that from Monty's point of view he doesnt have to make a decision instantly. Thats entirely up to him, its his life and his career. Perhaps what I would suggest instead is that United offer him terms and a deadline (a reasonable one) to accept. If he reaches that deadline and deems the terms not to be good enough then we should hold the door open for him and wish him luck. I dont care how long anyone has played for the club, if I was chairman I wouldnt let any player hold the club to ransom. I know it seems a little rash to press on a player like that but I am firmly against player power in football and even more against agents.

 

[Ollessendro]

Established first teamer, club knows his strengths and weaknesses, generally well liked or jump ship for more brass like Tongy (where is he now) or Killer (warming the bench for sunderland) Hulse. Not many established players leave the Blades (lets not talk about the kids) and go on to better things do they?

Jaglielka, Brown, Beattie, Kazim Richards, Halford, Sharp, Webber(!?), Unsworth,

 

[Ollessendro]

Possibly Olle, but I think he would be more an after thought than a primary target. I don't mean to slate the lad because unlike Mart I would like to see him stay because for what he lacks in traditional football qualities, he makes up for by adding value to the side in other areas. I just dont see clubs like QPR, Middlesbrough and Burnley (who have money to spend) wanting to budget for Monty's wages. He's a good reliable pro but nothing more. Those outside the club may well rate him but they dont watch him every week - he can be hit and miss at times to say the least. I like having him around purely for his usefulness in certain games as he is good at frustrating the opposition .......


I will agree with you that from Monty's point of view he doesnt have to make a decision instantly. Thats entirely up to him, its his life and his career. Perhaps what I would suggest instead is that United offer him terms and a deadline (a reasonable one) to accept. If he reaches that deadline and deems the terms not to be good enough then we should hold the door open for him and wish him luck. I dont care how long anyone has played for the club, if I was chairman I wouldnt let any player hold the club to ransom. I know it seems a little rash to press on a player like that but I am firmly against player power in football and even more against agents.

I'm not interested in a debate about Monty's ability so I'm not going to challenge you too much on your 1st point. However many managers will think that Monty is a very good defensive midfielder. Hence he may partner a creative midfielder very well. Deschamps was a water carrier, Keane neither did anything spectacular, Makalele and Mascherao play(ed) a similar. role. Hence if partner them with the right person then it can be deadly. Ok, Monty is not any of the above!!!? However he is very good at breaking up attacks (sorry I'm debating his ability but I think we agree on this) and hence if partnered with the right player can be an asset. I accept your point that he wouldn't be top of the xmas list .... unless you're looking for a gritty, hard working defensive midfielder.

You mention that you might be a little rash in the last situation, i think so. Withou knowing what has been said by the club, him etc and seeing the negotiations I think it is difficult to comment.

 

[Bayingblade]

If he does go to a CCC club, at least there will be two games next season when he actually passes to a United player.

 

[Mousey]

Jaglielka, Brown, Beattie, Kazim Richards, Halford, Sharp, Webber(!?), Unsworth,

Sharp??? He's was at Doncaster who finished below us. How is that a better thing?

Unsworth played for Huddersfield after we got relegated so he dropped a division below us. Better things?

Halford is always on the bench and the fans think he is shit and want rid of him. Better thing to have?

Webber you're clearly just taking the piss. Sitting on the bench of a sinking ship.

Kazim Richards was here for half a season so he was hardly a established first team regular.

Jags and Brown yeah. Beattie a maybe.

 

[Toronto Blade]

A good move on weeds part add to their side while trying to weaken a rival.Didn't know they had it in them.

 

[TheSwollengland]

Leeds based Johnson Press been trying there hardest to disrupt and agitate our preperations via the Satr as well as the Yorkshire post

 

[Ollessendro]

Established first teamer, club knows his strengths and weaknesses, generally well liked or jump ship for more brass like Tongy (where is he now) or Killer (warming the bench for sunderland) Hulse. Not many established players leave the Blades (lets not talk about the kids) and go on to better things do they?

Sharp??? He's was at Doncaster who finished below us. How is that a better thing?

Unsworth played for Huddersfield after we got relegated so he dropped a division below us. Better things?

Halford is always on the bench and the fans think he is shit and want rid of him. Better thing to have?

Webber you're clearly just taking the piss. Sitting on the bench of a sinking ship.

Kazim Richards was here for half a season so he was hardly a established first team regular.

Jags and Brown yeah. Beattie a maybe.

The origial post daid better things.

Sharp has scored 15 goals this seaon for Donny. More than he ever scored in a Blades shirt. Is that not better?

Unsworth left the Blades to play at another Premiership club. Wigan (his team stayed up) and we didn't. Is that not better? (After went on to finish his career in the lower leagues).

Webber was tongue in cheek, but the post stated to do better things and Webber went onto play in the Premiership and reach and FA cup final. Do you not call playing in the Premiership and being involved in the squad that has reached the FA cup final better?

Beattie went on to keep Stoke in the Premiership. Is that not better?

 

[Mousey]

The origial post daid better things.

Sharp has scored 15 goals this seaon for Donny. More than he ever scored in a Blades shirt. Is that not better?

Unsworth left the Blades to play at another Premiership club. Wigan (his team stayed up) and we didn't. Is that not better? (After went on to finish his career in the lower leagues).

Webber was tongue in cheek, but the post stated to do better things and Webber went onto play in the Premiership and reach and FA cup final. Do you not call playing in the Premiership and being involved in the squad that has reached the FA cup final better?

Beattie went on to keep Stoke in the Premiership. Is that not better?

Sharp can score 50 goals for whoever, but they finished below us. He plays for a smaller team infront of smaller crowds. Doncaster won 2 less games than us, that is not better. Billy Sharp was a loser on more occasions than if he was at United, is that better?

Unsworth was in the Premier League for as long as us. As soon as we got relegated, Wigan released him and he dropped 2 divisions (1 below us). That's hardly better is it?

Danny Webber has started a massive 4 games this season with a total of 1 goal. He is hardly playing in the Premier League as you call it. He's more like a waterboy.

Beattie as I said is a maybe, he did do better initally. But look at him now, stuck on the bench week in week out by Sidibe. That has got to be soul destroying.

 

[Robbie]

Sharp can score 50 goals for whoever, but they finished below us. He plays for a smaller team infront of smaller crowds. Doncaster won 2 less games than us, that is not better. Billy Sharp was a loser on more occasions than if he was at United, is that better?
.

Not strictly true, Sharp was on the losing side for 12 games while he was playing with Doncaster, in the same time United lost 15 games in the same interim period.

 

[Grecian2000]

Not strictly true, Sharp was on the losing side for 12 games while he was playing with Doncaster, in the same time United lost 15 games in the same interim period.

Ah, but, Hoofy wouldn't let him near our side and so he would never have played on the losing side at all.

Overall, a season playing quality football as a starter under O'Driscoll or sat on his arse watching some serious hoof? Must have been really difficult for the lad to decide.