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Quoted from Jarmo.Is.God

So much love for this guy, and hope it comes off!

Was the scapegoat, yet cracked on, scored 16 goals in 14/15 season, including the final!

He might not be prolific, but he helps other people and the team massively by his hold up play etc.

So underrated from our non-league days its criminal

Echo this ten fold, people always complain about his missed chances but the matter of the fact is if he was clinical he'd of been much higher up the leagues as his all around play was excellent. Great signing short term as he improves our forward play massively.

Quoted from AdamHaddock

Good news. Has he played much football lately?

I wasn't a massive fan of him first time around, Hurst loved playing him though. 9 goals (3 penos) in 10 games in the National North this season.(ohmy)

Shop might pair well with Payne considering they did a full season together at Shrewsbury, so they will know how each other works already. If he does sign I won't be disappointed, he might do well in League Two.:)

Gawd we are desperate if this is seen as a good move.

Quoted from AdamHaddock

Good news. Has he played much football lately?

Yes.

https://www.herefordtimes.com/sport/19031067.uncertainty-future-lenell-john-lewis-hereford-fc/

Hurst took him to Shrewsbury when he went there. He didn't score much but played a lot for them. Has a lot of experience and would certainly give his all for the cause.

He’d be signed for his attitude as much as his ability. The first in unquestionable. And something we are desperate for.

If we get 50% of the player LJL was when here before, he's a massive improvement on what we've got at present (Payne aside who we've not seen)/

It's that simple. We need better than what we've got. I don't think LJL will score freely but the one thing he will do is bring a high energy and press game that forces sides into mistakes. The ball also sticks with him when it goes up there. Just have to hope those two attributes are ones that the rest of the team can benefit from.

I said when PH came in that LJL would soon follow

Quoted from ginnywings

We won't sign him, he's scored some goals this season. ;)

He's not doing anything at the moment with his league suspended and maybe not starting up again this season. Would be better than Green, Jackson or Gibson as a back up, but I sincerely hope we are setting our sights a bit higher than players from the NLN. We already have one training with us.

Heard from more than one person we are talking to him. :-/

He went to Hereford more so out of convenience in terms of location (only an hour from Shrewsbury) and the link with Gowling more than anything else.

Everyone was wondering what Josh Gowling was doing at Blundell Park the day PH signed, now we know.

Quoted from Tinymariner

Everyone was wondering what Josh Gowling was doing at Blundell Park the day PH signed, now we know.

Can he return, and bring his boots?

Really not convinced on this signing, seems like nostalgia taking the lead instead of any real common sense.

Quoted from NorthseaMariner

Gawd we are desperate if this is seen as a good move.

Yes, we are desperate. Didn’t you notice?

Told you yesterday he was getting the boys back together.

Quoted from pontoonlew

Really not convinced on this signing, seems like nostalgia taking the lead instead of any real common sense.

Who knows? Perhaps he just what we need right now.

Hurst was praising the effort of Loft for Scunny on Saturday for his non stop running and saying he would take that all day long.

He's a piece of the jigsaw we have been missing for me. He is physical and can hold the ball up. How many times this season, have we seen the ball go forward and come straight back because we don't have a physical presence up front. If he can keep injury free, I wouldn't be disappointed.

Disley signing tomorrow, one small problem is that he can’t train Thursday’s because of the queue at the post office

It’s a low risk move really isn’t it. Doubt he’ll be on much, but he provides another option up top. Still can’t believe some people didn’t rate him. If you want to see why he was so good for us, watch the second leg of the Eastleigh play offs. It was Palmer scoring the goals but LJL creating them with his hold up play. Plus he scored a decent amount too.

Obviously a few years ago, but only 31 so might still be able to help.

Anyone see Akinfenwa for Wycombe last night? Man alive if he can get in in the championship the shop can do 30 mins in league two

Our current options are two lads who were at Folkestone Invicta and Halesowen Town (step 7) last season. LJL has scored 9 in 10 a level above, and has spent his entire career in divisions above that. So I’d say he’s an improvement on what we’ve got.

Quoted from Mariner93er

It’s a low risk move really isn’t it. Doubt he’ll be on much, but he provides another option up top. Still can’t believe some people didn’t rate him. If you want to see why he was so good for us, watch the second leg of the Eastleigh play offs. It was Palmer scoring the goals but LJL creating them with his hold up play. Plus he scored a decent amount too.

Obviously a few years ago, but only 31 so might still be able to help.

A few years ago, pre knee injury AND in the conference.

Let me ask a question, if he hadn't played for us previously and you just read his CV, would you be happy with this?

Does Hurst only sign ex-players?

We seem to be scraping the bottom of the barrel. I doubt this signing or any of them so far will be good enough to save the team this year. LJL is a very limited player who is past his prime.

Maybe that is what Hurst is doing, building a team for the national league next year.

Hope I'm wrong.

Perm any 2 from LJL, Payne & Hanson is the idea. At any given time there could be 2 out of 3 match fit.

Quoted from pontoonlew

Really not convinced on this signing, seems like nostalgia taking the lead instead of any real common sense.

or he's signing someone who gives AFF (well i hope he does lol)

Quoted from MarinerMal

Does Hurst only sign ex-players?

We seem to be scraping the bottom of the barrel. I doubt this signing or any of them so far will be good enough to save the team this year. LJL is a very limited player who is past his prime.

Maybe that is what Hurst is doing, building a team for the national league next year.

Hope I'm wrong.

He had not managed any of the first 3 signings....

Talking nonsense pal

He will allow us to spend more time in the opposition half. He’s a right flipping nuisance and if he’s anything like the player we had he will be a massive asset.

Quoted from headingly_mariner

He will allow us to spend more time in the opposition half. He’s a right flipping nuisance and if he’s anything like the player we had he will be a massive asset.

At the very least he’ll relieve a bit of pressure on our own defensive line and reduce the number of times the opposition comes at our defence.

Happy with that. Works extremely hard, will bring others into the game and make the ball stick. Seems to have got over his injury and scored a few allbeit at a lower level, but undoubtedly an improvement on what we have. Still only 31 - plenty have got over bad injuries with some time lower down to re-find their form.

As for the stick he got whilst here, was massively unfair - yes he missed a few howlers, but more than made up for that with goals he made for others, his workrate and still got 16 himself - he also looked like he gave a intercourse, which is more than you can say about 90% of what we've got at the moment.

Hanson, Payne and Shop - not awful at lg 2 level by any account if they can stay fit.

If he's the player he was 5 and a half years ago he'll be a cracking signing. Chances are he isn't, but he'll still be an improvement.

Quoted from Neilo83

Is this confirmed?

No, but the rumours have been gathering momentum for some time. He's not playing at the moment as his league is currently suspended and we desperately need reinforcements up front, so it would make perfect sense. Hurst has signed him more than once and he's obviously fit and firing as he's scored 9 goals this season. He's got more to offer than Green, Jackson or Gibson for sure.

As things stand, teams in the NLN and NLS will be looking to get their wage bills down. If the non league structure goes t1ts up this season, there will be plenty more to choose from, but right now is what is important and who is realistically available and wants to come here.

A number of managers do this
Not necessarily or just for ability but things like hard work, setting example, trust, loyalty, good in dressing room

Cloughie always too McGovern and O'Hare with him - and latter was very rarely a starter

PH needs people he can trust and knows

And LJL only 31 - has scored a few this season (admittedly two tiers below) - knows PH and Payne - played at a good level

He really can't be any worse than our strikers apart from Hanson

Payne, LJL, Rodman (?)

Good buys IMO

At the minute I’d just be happy with someone who understands the offside rule, doesn’t foul the oppo when they’re facing their own goal and who has taken a shot in the last 6 months.

Just having a quick look on Twitter at the reaction, it genuinely never fails to amaze me how some of our fans don't quite seem to grasp the concept that there's more to playing up front than just scoring goals.

LJL will be brought in to do the grafting. He'll be there to chase everything down, to make sure defenders don't have any breathing space, to force them into making mistakes. It'll be up to the likes of Payne, Scannell, Wright, Morais etc. to take advantage of those mistakes. Also to work off his ability hold the ball up.

We're 23rd in the league and with less than a week to go before the transfer window shuts. We were never going to sign 11 players who are perfect. Hurst recognises the value and importance of what people bring to the team. Just like how he isn't going to put two flair players in central midfield, he isn't going to just chuck two poachers up front.

LJL improved when he was with us especially in terms of his first touch, that was reflected in the goals he scored before he left. He's a unit as well and isn't easily bullied, I also remember even through it didn't always go well for him he never gave up, always put in a shift and backed himself from the spot. Looking at what we had even with Payne being added if he's anywhere near match fit I'd take him.

Plus the main thing is Hurst trusts him to set the right tones and examples on and off the pitch.

Quoted from pontoonlew

Really not convinced on this signing, seems like nostalgia taking the lead instead of any real common sense.

It's not fans signing him, it's an experienced professional football manager. IF Hurst is looking to bring him in it'll be because he feels he can offer us something now, rather than the fact that he was good for us 5 years ago.

We desperately need to bolster our attacking options, because...

Hanson = massively injury prone and only just returned from a lengthy spell out.

Green = low on confidence, perhaps past it?

Payne = just returning from injury but looks a good signing on paper

Sisay, Jackson Jr, Gibson......maybe they might come good at some point, but right now they can't be relied on. We need experienced heads to get out of this shite.

We really do not have much.

Quoted from ska face

Our current options are two lads who were at Folkestone Invicta and Halesowen Town (step 7) last season. LJL has scored 9 in 10 a level above, and has spent his entire career in divisions above that. So I’d say he’s an improvement on what we’ve got.

I do love how pepple on here slate Jackson Jr and Gibson for coming from non-league and tryin to mek their way in the pro game. The 2 of them have scored more goals than Hanson and Green combined. You only hav to look at our midfields lak of assists to see our issue ain’t a striker one. We don’t have midfielder who can pass to feet or and don’t look fit meaning we hardly have any possession. Coupled with he fact that our defenders like to hoof of our strikers are stuffed. Hurst was right on Saturday some of our so called experienced players seem to be looking for their last payday.

Quoted from diehardmariner

Just having a quick look on Twitter at the reaction, it genuinely never fails to amaze me how some of our fans don't quite seem to grasp the concept that there's more to playing up front than just scoring goals.

Same with defensive midfielders. Usually always the first to be slagged off!

I can imagine LJL pinning one or two lazy bar stewards against the dressing room wall and explaining the basics.
As a minimum he'll demonstrate how a great attitude can enhance a career in football

Quoted from diehardmariner

Just having a quick look on Twitter at the reaction, it genuinely never fails to amaze me how some of our fans don't quite seem to grasp the concept that there's more to playing up front than just scoring goals.

LJL will be brought in to do the grafting. He'll be there to chase everything down, to make sure defenders don't have any breathing space, to force them into making mistakes. It'll be up to the likes of Payne, Scannell, Wright, Morais etc. to take advantage of those mistakes. Also to work off his ability hold the ball up.

We're 23rd in the league and with less than a week to go before the transfer window shuts. We were never going to sign 11 players who are perfect. Hurst recognises the value and importance of what people bring to the team. Just like how he isn't going to put two flair players in central midfield, he isn't going to just chuck two poachers up front.

Yep, a lower league Emile Hesky, and someone who will be appreciated more by the players in the team than the fans.

Some fans also fail to realise how little our pulling power is these days, We have been consistently poor to mediocre for years and have little to offer players. Location is a problem, so is poor training facilities and ultimately our average league position. The one thing going for us is our fan base, but the club have failed time and again to ignite it with a team to get behind. We have had god knows how many different managers and caretaker managers since we came back into the league, and they all fail because of the ineptitude and short sightedness of the board. The board failures always get shunted onto the players and managers shoulders and they are sacked, before the whole shebang starts all over again.

We are in serious danger of relegation with less than half a season to find a fix and if LJL can help us to somehow scrap and fight our way to safety, even if that is by 1 point in 22nd, then he will have done his job. Better players can come in the future, Right here, right now is all that matters.

Quoted from 140751

I do love how pepple on here slate Jackson Jr and Gibson for coming from non-league and tryin to mek their way in the pro game. The 2 of them have scored more goals than Hanson and Green combined. You only hav to look at our midfields lak of assists to see our issue ain’t a striker one. We don’t have midfielder who can pass to feet or and don’t look fit meaning we hardly have any possession. Coupled with he fact that our defenders like to hoof of our strikers are stuffed. Hurst was right on Saturday some of our so called experienced players seem to be looking for their last payday.

I’m sorry Mr Jackson, ooooh, this is for real.

They’re not getting slated, it’s just a statement of fact.

Don't see lenny as a long term solution, but a short term contract till end of season to keep us up? I'll try anything

What a waste of a salary.. he was a donkey when he left 4 years ago and has no place in our team . intercourse off Hurst and all your old clueless ideas

Quoted from GrimRob

He's 31, he's come from the National League North, but he's The Shop so I am pleased! (If it happens)

You can't STOP the SHOP 8)

Quoted from 140751

I do love how pepple on here slate Jackson Jr and Gibson for coming from non-league and tryin to mek their way in the pro game. The 2 of them have scored more goals than Hanson and Green combined. You only hav to look at our midfields lak of assists to see our issue ain’t a striker one. We don’t have midfielder who can pass to feet or and don’t look fit meaning we hardly have any possession. Coupled with he fact that our defenders like to hoof of our strikers are stuffed. Hurst was right on Saturday some of our so called experienced players seem to be looking for their last payday.

Fair point if we were playing in step 7 but we're not. They may be prolific at that level, but our level is beyond them at the moment, and may always be beyond them. We need experience and nous right now, not two strikers with L plates on. I'm not going to write them off as yet because you never know, but they are not going to add what we need right now and that's all that matters.

Quoted from realist

What a waste of a salary.. he was a donkey when he left 4 years ago and has no place in our team . intercourse off Hurst and all your old clueless ideas

A donkey that signed for a league 2 club when we were in the conference, and then a league 1 club when we were in league 2?

We need to bolster our attack with some experienced heads for our survival scrap, no ones saying he's gonna be the next Mendonca.

Quoted from MarinerMal

Does Hurst only sign ex-players?

What else can he do except bring players in he knows or are highly recommended by his trusted contacts?

Looks like we're only bringing in payers till the end of this season, which is probably the most sensible approach because lets face it, Town are in a REAL mess.

His name is a shop, his name is a shooooooop!

Oh John Lewis, his name is a shop! 😎🐟🐟🐟⚓⚽🖤🤍🖤🤍

We also don't have the time to get players up to speed with the way Hurst wants to play. Bringing in known quantities makes the transition easier as they know what is expected of them and Hurst knows exactly what they offer and where.

I was always a huge Lenny fan. The reality was that if he could finish as well as he could create, harass and link the play then he'd never have been anywhere near us. That's Conference players. I remember when it looked like we were re-signing him after we got promoted and I thought we perhaps needed to be signing a bit better quality given we were in the league. However, the demands are now different. We aren't looking to be pushing for the Top 7, as I believed the aim should've been in 16/17, but somehow getting enough points to finish 22nd or higher. Lenny may well be the answer for that, the ball will stick up front a whole lot better than it has been doing and there won't be any question regarding his work rate. Him and Slim Jim may work well with Payne. We still need wide players and midfielders who are going to better support the front men and make sure they aren't so isolated though.

Does Hurst only sign ex player?
Rather that then the previous manager who admitted he hadn't seen some of them; was reliant on others telling him; and admitted he'd got it wrong

LJL was a donkey... bollox!
He was not a prolific scorer but brought a lot to the team... I recall Disley and PH saying he does so much unnoticed work for others and the team

We are NOT going to sign a prolific scorer from L1/2 - especially in January
Can you imagine teams giving away their prize assets?

If LJL comes and it works out well I can see players like Scannell, Spokes, Morais, Bennett, Wright all flourishing
Ball held up - bringing others into the game

Bring it on - cos it can't be any worse

Didnt rate him before .Not sure where people think his hold up play was good .As I remember his first touch was a pass .Just because he is scoring 2 leagues down doesn't mean he will at this level .
As for signing for Higher level clubs he was signed by his buddy Hurst not the club and didnt do anything hence now being 2 leagues below us .If it wasn't for that they probably wouldn't have looked at him .He is probably an improvement on Green .Anyone would be .But I was hoping we might be able to get better .But if he comes he comes nothing anyone on here can do

Quoted from Norseman

As for signing for Higher level clubs he was signed by his buddy Hurst not the club and didn't do anything hence now being 2 leagues below us .

Didn't do anything apart from being a part of a squad that were whiskers awy from being promoted to the Championship.

He was offered a new deal by Hurts's replacement too.

Also, Hurst wasn't ever manager of Newport.

You have to admit that Payne. LJL and a fit again Hanson would be streets ahead of what we had to pick from at the start of the year.

I think LJL would be a very positive signing. I'd like to see Rodman back too. They both improve our squad.

Another ear cupper. Away at Dartford after a string of misses he scored a penalty. Mate, you scored a pen as you bloody should do. No need to be chippy considering the number of cows arses you’d previously missed.
It’s a big no from me, but would be delighted to be wrong

John Lewis?

I'd rather we bought Debenhams.

Quoted from arryarryarry

John Lewis?

I'd rather we bought Debenhams.

Getting on a bit and yet another victim of the Grimsby 's'.

https://www.soccerbase.com/players/player.sd?player_id=10880

Has he actually signed officially yet?

Its right about Jackson getting unfairly slated.

The service has been excrement to say the least and when you have a partner that cant pass,shoot,hold the ball and link play up(Green) you may aswell not be playing as the chances will not come.

The guys a natural finisher and with LJL at his side could well be the magic cog for the midfield to make those chances by holding the ball up without fouling every two minutes.

Gibson im not so sure tbh and he isnt as composed as Jackson.

Quoted from Theimperialcoroner

Another ear cupper. Away at Dartford after a string of misses he scored a penalty. Mate, you scored a pen as you bloody should do. No need to be chippy considering the number of cows arses you’d previously missed.
It’s a big no from me, but would be delighted to be wrong

To be fair, there was a few of us being vocal about him coming in including me (moaning at the decision not abusing the player), and he earned that penalty through sheer bluddy persistence chasing a lost cause. Then when he lined up to take the pen there were a few loud “oh noes”. And he delivered. An ear cupping fairly delivered.

Quoted from Theimperialcoroner

Another ear cupper. Away at Dartford after a string of misses he scored a penalty. Mate, you scored a pen as you bloody should do. No need to be chippy considering the number of cows arses you’d previously missed.
It’s a big no from me, but would be delighted to be wrong

Ha! I remember that. He was terrible that day but at least his penalty went in.

Like you, I remain to be convinced but it's not like we can do any worse so may as well change it up.

Quoted from ska face

I’m sorry Mr Jackson, ooooh, this is for real.

They’re not getting slated, it’s just a statement of fact.

I would luv to see the stats that back up your point - surely they would be classed as facts? I’m not saying that Jackson Jr and Gibson are perfect but let’s be clear our so called experience have clearly done no better.

Quoted from Rodley Mariner

If he can do what he did before then he will take pressure off the defence and allow the midfield to get forward as he held the ball up so well. Part of our problem has been how quickly the ball comes back at us.

100% agree with this. We don't get enough players into the box and I think the reason for this is that the midfield don't have the confidence to get forward. I was watching Lineker, Shearer and Wright discussing Man Utd and Liverpool on Sunday. They showed how Man Utd will sometimes have 4 players running into the box when the ball is being crossed in. We only seem to get players in the box for corners and free kicks. They also showed how Liverpool's poor goal scoring run is built on a lack of confidence, slowing the play down, not committing enough men forward. Its a different level, but its the same problem for Town.

Confidence breeds confidence and lack of confidence breeds even more lack of confidence.

Quoted from friskneymariner

Rodman next.

The Alex Rodman who has played 120 games in League One in the last 3 seasons? Yes please

Quoted from ska face

I’m sorry Mr Jackson, ooooh, this is for real.

They’re not getting slated, it’s just a statement of fact.

I appreciate the compliment mate. Any dad who is able to get his lad a deal in football should be applauded. But you don’t hav to be related to any of our squad to know they need to start winning games and fast, or that we need to score goals sharpish.

Quoted from LondonMariner43

100% agree with this. We don't get enough players into the box and I think the reason for this is that the midfield don't have the confidence to get forward. I was watching Lineker, Shearer and Wright discussing Man Utd and Liverpool on Sunday. They showed how Man Utd will sometimes have 4 players running into the box when the ball is being crossed in. We only seem to get players in the box for corners and free kicks. They also showed how Liverpool's poor goal scoring run is built on a lack of confidence, slowing the play down, not committing enough men forward. Its a different level, but its the same problem for Town.

Confidence breeds confidence and lack of confidence breeds even more lack of confidence.

Those clever sods are talking about PL players though. The problem with Hurst teams right up to his leaving was exactly that. A midfield player getting in front of the ball had vertigo from being so high up the field.

I didn't rate LJL or Hurstball but just now this is our only option. Tricky midfielders not required. Poor pitch irrelevant because the ball won't be down there much. We need to graft out some points and players like Payne and LJL are the sort to do it.

A big gob in the middle of the park would help as well and I would still not be surprised to see another keeper arrive.

We have to accept that we are in the sh!t and planning for any long future is a waste of time at this moment. Just sign big nasty bu99ers who will make us hard to beat.

Can't wait for this place to go into meltdown when Derek Niven comes out of retirement to sign a two year deal.

Quoted from 140751

I would luv to see the stats that back up your point - surely they would be classed as facts?

No problem mate - you can Google which leagues Halesowen and Folkestone play in, then Google which division Hereford play in, then compare the results.

Quoted from Jarmo.Is.God

He had not managed any of the first 3 signings....

Talking nonsense pal

Only signing ex-players was a bit of a tongue in cheek comment which seems have been taken too seriously by some.

You were correct the first 3 weren't but the next one was and if LJL signs.... ;)

Being more serious let's look at the signings

Sam Habergham - was well liked at Lincoln but is coming back after a serious knee injury. IF he can get back to his best could be a good signing.
Rollin Menayese - a Loan from a fellow struggling club in League Two.
Jay Matete - A 19 year-old from a League One side. A tough situation for a young lad to come into.
Stefan Payne - Possibly the best signing so far and could give some presence up front as we can't rely on Hanson too much these days but another coming back from a long term injury.
LJL? - I understand people saying he is better than what we have but I am not sure he improves on that too much, especially now we have Payne.

Are those signings enough to keep us up? I have my doubts. You may think they improve on what we have and it's hard to argue with that but do they improve us enough? I guess time will tell.

I'm not blaming Hurst for any of the signings either, he has no choice now but to roll the dice and it can't be easy to attract players to the club.

I really hope the new owners have a club in the Football League next year, to start with a National League club would just make their job all the more difficult, I think.

Quoted from MarinerMal

Only signing ex-players was a bit of a tongue in cheek comment which seems have been taken too seriously by some.

You were correct the first 3 weren't but the next one was and if LJL signs.... ;)

Being more serious let's look at the signings

Sam Habergham - was well liked at Lincoln but is coming back after a serious knee injury. IF he can get back to his best could be a good signing.
Rollin Menayese - a Loan from a fellow struggling club in League Two.
Jay Matete - A 19 year-old from a League One side. A tough situation for a young lad to come into.
Stefan Payne - Possibly the best signing so far and could give some presence up front as we can't rely on Hanson too much these days but another coming back from a long term injury.
LJL? - I understand people saying he is better than what we have but I am not sure he improves on that too much, especially now we have Payne.

Are those signings enough to keep us up? I have my doubts. You may think they improve on what we have and it's hard to argue with that but do they improve us enough? I guess time will tell.

I'm not blaming Hurst for any of the signings either, he has no choice now but to roll the dice and it can't be easy to attract players to the club.

I really hope the new owners have a club in the Football League next year, to start with a National League club would just make their job all the more difficult, I think.

Do they improve us enough? At time of writing they need to improve us one place in the league.

Quoted from Son of Cod

Can't wait for this place to go into meltdown when Derek Niven comes out of retirement to sign a two year deal.

With Columbia or Paramount?

Quoted from MarinerMal

Only signing ex-players was a bit of a tongue in cheek comment which seems have been taken too seriously by some.

You were correct the first 3 weren't but the next one was and if LJL signs.... ;)

Being more serious let's look at the signings

Sam Habergham - was well liked at Lincoln but is coming back after a serious knee injury. IF he can get back to his best could be a good signing.
Rollin Menayese - a Loan from a fellow struggling club in League Two.
Jay Matete - A 19 year-old from a League One side. A tough situation for a young lad to come into.
Stefan Payne - Possibly the best signing so far and could give some presence up front as we can't rely on Hanson too much these days but another coming back from a long term injury.
LJL? - I understand people saying he is better than what we have but I am not sure he improves on that too much, especially now we have Payne.

Are those signings enough to keep us up? I have my doubts. You may think they improve on what we have and it's hard to argue with that but do they improve us enough? I guess time will tell.

I'm not blaming Hurst for any of the signings either, he has no choice now but to roll the dice and it can't be easy to attract players to the club.

I really hope the new owners have a club in the Football League next year, to start with a National League club would just make their job all the more difficult, I think.

I have seen enough in 1 game to see Matete will make a difference, to the midfield, but him alone won't keep us up in this mess, so hopefully Payne helps that!

Quoted from devs

Does Hurst only sign ex player?
Rather that then the previous manager who admitted he hadn't seen some of them; was reliant on others telling him; and admitted he'd got it wrong

LJL was a donkey... bollox!
He was not a prolific scorer but brought a lot to the team... I recall Disley and PH saying he does so much unnoticed work for others and the team

We are NOT going to sign a prolific scorer from L1/2 - especially in January
Can you imagine teams giving away their prize assets?

If LJL comes and it works out well I can see players like Scannell, Spokes, Morais, Bennett, Wright all flourishing
Ball held up - bringing others into the game

Bring it on - cos it can't be any worse

You say prolific striker from League 1/2 as though that's what ANY fan has asked for. Everyone was pleased with the signing yesterday.

What you're not taking into account is there is a middle ground between prolific and LJL. I cannot believe what I'm reading from some of these posts, LJL in 2015 has been reinvented over the course of today, he was bang average then (in the conference, 6 years ago) but suddenly he's become the messiah. It's completely typical of our fanbase to do this.

Let's not forget, LJL was part of a team that constantly failed to make the next step and get us out of the league. It took signing Podge and Bogle to finally have a strike force capable of taking us out of the conference.

The one thing we haven't done in games is keep their defenders occupied and we have given them time on the ball. Payne and Lenny will change that! This means the ball will be coming back at us less and be more hurried.

Absolute desperation, the signing that’s confirmed our relegation. I knew Hurst was the wrong decision and this just confirms it.

First of all, I haven't seen any confirmation that he has signed for us, secondly, your post is pathetic.

Quite happy to see LJL come back, if that's what happens. Don't think he'll sit on his short-term contract and waste the season away (unlike others already in the squad).

Hurst can't go out there and kick the ball in the net himself. He needs to rely on his players to do that, and if you were backed into a corner and put under pressure at work, and you needed help to get yourself out of a hole, would you take a risk with people you don't know, or would you in fact call your mates?

He knows what he'll get from the likes of Payne and LJL, in this situation.

This isn't the summer, when he'll be building a squad for the season. Then I'd expect him to show the true breadth of his knowledge, and prove he can unearth the next generation of McKeowns, Pearsons, Disleys, Amonds and Bogles.

Quoted from pontoonlew

You say prolific striker from League 1/2 as though that's what ANY fan has asked for. Everyone was pleased with the signing yesterday.

What you're not taking into account is there is a middle ground between prolific and LJL. I cannot believe what I'm reading from some of these posts, LJL in 2015 has been reinvented over the course of today, he was bang average then (in the conference, 6 years ago) but suddenly he's become the messiah. It's completely typical of our fanbase to do this.

Let's not forget, LJL was part of a team that constantly failed to make the next step and get us out of the league. It took signing Podge and Bogle to finally have a strike force capable of taking us out of the conference.

The team we had the season before (with LJL) was better and more successful, other than a hotly disputed refereeing decision in the final that was a game-changer. We finished a place higher with six points more.

Not hotly disputed enough. A disgraceful piece of refereeing, cannot understand how Ross Joyce can continue to work.

Would be happy with the 3 strikers of Hanson, Payne and the shop to be our 3 main forwards til end of season if he signs.. always liked LJL thought some of the critism was out of order 1st time around.

Good to read on here that alot of people could see what he would bring to the team. If Hurst thinks he's still got it that's good enough for me.

Not being funny but ronaldo couldn't keep us up on his own never mind lennie, its about pulling together às a team, that means everyone ., we can do it , lets get behind Hurst and the boys whatever!!! UTM

Personally think it’s a no brainier.
Assuming Hereford don’t play another game anyway this season it will be good to have Lennie around. If it doesn’t work, not much lost. If it does it’s an inspired choice.

Quoted from friskneymariner

Rodman next.

apparently there's a strong rumour going around about Wes Thomas..........

Quoted from forza ivano

apparently there's a strong rumour going around about Wes Thomas..........

That's come from a Twitter account stating he's going back to a previous club on lucrative terms and once I read the word "lucrative" I ruled GTFC straight out iyf the running.

Quoted from TheRonRaffertyFanClub

With Columbia or Paramount?

David Niven would bring a touch of class 😄

It seems that Lenny has gone from strength to strength since leaving Town. He did well for the Shrews, and he seems to be very highly thought of at Hereford on the evidence of their Fans’ Forum. One poster described him as the best player in the club’s (relatively recent) history. They seem to be resigned to losing him to us.

Quoted from Humbercod

Absolute desperation, the signing that’s confirmed our relegation. I knew Hurst was the wrong decision and this just confirms it.

We’ve got your brother/mate Fenty to thank for that.

Quoted from KingstonMariner

We’ve got your brother/mate Fenty to thank for that.

No wonder Fenty delivered so much shite, look at how accepting our fan base are of it

Quoted from pontoonlew

No wonder Fenty delivered so much shite, look at how accepting our fan base are of it

The problem is we are where we are. Thanks to Fenty (and latterly Horrorway) people are getting excited about signing a Tier 6 player.

Humbocod is a Fentinista, but he’s moaning about where his pal has led us.

Quoted from ska face

No problem mate - you can Google which leagues Halesowen and Folkestone play in, then Google which division Hereford play in, then compare the results.

Folkestone and Halesowen both play the equivalent of one league below NLN/S I think so not a lot of difference really .

My memories of the Shop are him holding the ball in the corner for long periods of tome and also being able to take a last minute penalty when nobody wanted him to .
Made of the right stuff , I just hope he’s still good enough

Wonder what number he was on Hurst's initial list of prospective strikers.

Quoted from GrimRob

Wonder what number he was on Hurst's initial list of prospective strikers.

Quoted from Total Hawsehole

Not hotly disputed enough. A disgraceful piece of refereeing, cannot understand how Ross Joyce can continue to work.

Good job swin doesn’t post anymore, he’d be all over you like a rash for a comment like that.

A very accurate comment for the record 🙂

Quoted from louth_in_the_south

Folkestone and Halesowen both play the equivalent of one league below NLN/S

Yes mate, which is what I said. Thank you.

Quoted from MarinerMal

Only signing ex-players was a bit of a tongue in cheek comment which seems have been taken too seriously by some.

You were correct the first 3 weren't but the next one was and if LJL signs.... ;)

Being more serious let's look at the signings

Sam Habergham - was well liked at Lincoln but is coming back after a serious knee injury. IF he can get back to his best could be a good signing.
Rollin Menayese - a Loan from a fellow struggling club in League Two.
Jay Matete - A 19 year-old from a League One side. A tough situation for a young lad to come into.
Stefan Payne - Possibly the best signing so far and could give some presence up front as we can't rely on Hanson too much these days but another coming back from a long term injury.
LJL? - I understand people saying he is better than what we have but I am not sure he improves on that too much, especially now we have Payne.

Are those signings enough to keep us up? I have my doubts. You may think they improve on what we have and it's hard to argue with that but do they improve us enough? I guess time will tell.

I'm not blaming Hurst for any of the signings either, he has no choice now but to roll the dice and it can't be easy to attract players to the club.

I really hope the new owners have a club in the Football League next year, to start with a National League club would just make their job all the more difficult, I think.

I am encouraged by the signings given the circumstances we find ourselves in. I would be less encouraged if we were pushing playoff spots.

3 reasons for that...
1. As you say, attracting people to Town at this particular moment will be hard. It always is cos if our geographical location , then add our current league position and short term contracts.

2. We are shite. Really shite. It's a low start point and I do think the additions will be an improvement whilst not blowing us away.

3. We just need to stay up, and I dont care how we do it. I'm not expecting free flowing passing football. We just need some fighters, some people who can hold up play, read the game, stick themselves in the way.

Personally I think LJL is a very good signing for us within the current criteria.

Hurst said nothing close but wouldn’t rule out a move for LJL

Quoted from GrimRob

Wonder what number he was on Hurst's initial list of prospective strikers.

999

Quoted from KingstonMariner

The problem is we are where we are. Thanks to Fenty (and latterly Horrorway) people are getting excited about signing a Tier 6 player.

Humbocod is a Fentinista, but he’s moaning about where his pal has led us.

Ha ha! Show me all these post then where I must’ve been vigorously defending Fenty? As these posts will justify you calling me a ‘Fentinista’😂

I was critical of the signs and placards, including banners outside his house as I’m not into witch hunts!

I’ve been critical of his tenure at the club and welcomed his decision on this forum to step down, but I won’t just forget he was the only one prepared to step in with his own money at our most desperate time, no matter how many red crosses I get.

As for ‘Horrowway’ it wasn’t long ago many fishy members were getting over excited (me included) at the mere rumour of Holloway coming, the majority of posters where in full support some even suggesting on here that if Fenty could pull this off, all would be forgiven!
I think there’s more than a few on here attacking Fenty for Holloway’s appointment who’d feel a bit of a prat if they looked back at their old posts.

Quoted from Humbercod

Ha ha! Show me all these post then where I must’ve been vigorously defending Fenty? As these posts will justify you calling me a ‘Fentinista’😂

I was critical of the signs and placards, including banners outside his house as I’m not into witch hunts!

I’ve been critical of his tenure at the club and welcomed his decision on this forum to step down, but I won’t just forget he was the only one prepared to step in with his own money at our most desperate time, no matter how many red crosses I get.

As for ‘Horrowway’ it wasn’t long ago many fishy members were getting over excited (me included) at the mere rumour of Holloway coming, the majority of posters where in full support some even suggesting on here that if Fenty could pull this off, all would be forgiven!
I think there’s more than a few on here attacking Fenty for Holloway’s appointment who’d feel a bit of a prat if they looked back at their old posts.

Can’t be arsed to trawl through this board for examples. But your comment that he was prepared to put his own money in. Mostly as loans. At the expense of bad management. Poisonous at the core.

As for people being taken in by Holloway. That’s normal. People gave him a chance. Nowt wrong in that. Of course we’ve turned on him once we found out what anarsehole he was. That’s normal too.

Quoted from KingstonMariner

As for people being taken in by Holloway. That’s normal. People gave him a chance. Nowt wrong in that. Of course we’ve turned on him once we found out what anarsehole he was. That’s normal too.

I agree but that wasn’t my point.
Can you agree it’s a bit hypocritical to praise the decision to appoint him, but then criticise that same decision when it all goes wrong?

I liked LJL during his time with us. Not the best of finishers, obviously (though a dead-eye at penalties), but in lower division football, a big, athletic forward willing to run his bits off every game can be a real asset, especially against the weaker teams in the division. I know he's had his injury problems in recent years, but if he's still got 90% of the physical prowess and stamina from his last spell, he'll be an asset for workrate alone. We're not exactly replete with big, strong, quick and athletic forwards willing to run until they can't go any further. Perhaps he'll create more space for the likes of Hanson and Payne to get some chances?

Quoted from Humbercod

I agree but that wasn’t my point.
Can you agree it’s a bit hypocritical to praise the decision to appoint him, but then criticise that same decision when it all goes wrong?

I don’t think there’s criticism of the appointment of Holloway as such. It’s not that people thought he was a good manager, found out that he wasn’t and are criticising the appointment with hindsight. The ire is more about the whiff of something unpleasant about Holloway’s involvement at the club, that was smelt after his departure.

His stated reason for leaving lacks credibility in many people’s eyes, given his previous statement and the timing of announcements about the sale. It appears as though he was up to his neck in it. And he would only have been up to his neck in it with the connivance of the controller of the company.

So I don’t think it’s hypocritical of fans to have praised Holloway’s appointment a year ago, to now criticise it given there’s new information that they couldn’t have known 12 months ago.

What I would say though is that the general group think that goes on at times meant people quickly jumped on any slight negativity. Anyone who expressed reservations at the time of Holloway’s appointment was red-crossed to boogery.

Quoted from KingstonMariner

I don’t think there’s criticism of the appointment of Holloway as such. It’s not that people thought he was a good manager, found out that he wasn’t and are criticising the appointment with hindsight. The ire is more about the whiff of something unpleasant about Holloway’s involvement at the club, that was smelt after his departure.

His stated reason for leaving lacks credibility in many people’s eyes, given his previous statement and the timing of announcements about the sale. It appears as though he was up to his neck in it. And he would only have been up to his neck in it with the connivance of the controller of the company.

So I don’t think it’s hypocritical of fans to have praised Holloway’s appointment a year ago, to now criticise it given there’s new information that they couldn’t have known 12 months ago.

What I would say though is that the general group think that goes on at times meant people quickly jumped on any slight negativity. Anyone who expressed reservations at the time of Holloway’s appointment was red-crossed to boogery.

We are now in exactly the same position with the take over consortium (My 3 Amigos thread).All I get is X's for pointing out we have no information about their intentions for the future of the club.

Holloway was scam, Fenty was a flipping disgrace. People can have their opinions but getting involved with May both as the owner of GTFC and as deputy deputy leader of the council have soured any chance for some credibility leaving the good ship BP. Anyone still claiming he did his best and the like need to just gave their heads a wobble...if that’s his best I’d suggest he step away from anything he’s involved with.

The consortium will lay out their intentions once the purchase has gone through, why lay all your cards out now when they don’t have to?

Let’s face it, when Fenty brushed them off last time and said they couldn’t prove this or that he saw his bottom because he along with his cronies had zero ideas and wanted to see someone else’s and then likely palm them off as his own.

Holloway, enough has been said about that man. People claim it was a good appointment, in truth he had more sinister reasons for taking the job than anyone before him. A charlatan, a crook and for me the worst manager in my 30/35 years supporting town, in truth, a legacy of beating scunny away and that is all.

As for LJL, may be not the best, may be a little injury prone but I’m sure his work rate remains and I’d still argue he’s better than what we’ve got. A crock, a a finished Green and Gibson, not really sure what he is...LJL up top with the new lad wouldn’t be the worst pairing...

A quote from Hursty in the GT today “There’s certainly nothing close to happening there at the minute.”

Read into it what you may.

Quoted from DB

A quote from Hursty in the GT today “There’s certainly nothing close to happening there at the minute.”

Read into it what you may.

That's Hursty though... Remember earlier this month when he's not expecting any signings before the weekend (Port Vale game), only to have signed Sam Habergham already and it get announced a few hours later?

Not a word of this on Hereford or Town OS. Load of bunkum.

Maybe a lot of this rest's on what happens with the national league this week?

Quoted from 140067

Not a word of this on Hereford or Town OS. Load of bunkum.

It’s all over the Hereford Times newspaper site. Official websites only report when it’s a done deal.

Possibly down at cheapside as we speak proving or not his fitness.

Why is everyone obsessed with bringing back former players ffs??

Quoted from DB

We are now in exactly the same position with the take over consortium (My 3 Amigos thread).All I get is X's for pointing out we have no information about their intentions for the future of the club.

I’d like more information about their plans too. Under any normal circumstances I’d be saying the same thing. At the moment I think on a balance of risks we're better off with SPS. I have heaps more confidence that they will take the club forward positively, and have a positive impact on the town too, than I would in Fenty.

When the deal’s done, we should press for transparency on their plans. We’ve got the ideal channel for that, and that’s the Trust, a significant shareholder in its own right. I’d urge anyone not a member to join now as the best way of exerting leverage on behalf of fans. If you have doubts about the Trust leadership then get involved and do something about it.

Quoted from KingstonMariner

I’d like more information about their plans too. Under any normal circumstances I’d be saying the same thing. At the moment I think on a balance of risks we're better off with SPS. I have heaps more confidence that they will take the club forward positively, and have a positive impact on the town too, than I would in Fenty.

When the deal’s done, we should press for transparency on their plans. We’ve got the ideal channel for that, and that’s the Trust, a significant shareholder in its own right. I’d urge anyone not a member to join now as the best way of exerting leverage on behalf of fans. If you have doubts about the Trust leadership then get involved and do something about it.

I totally agree with you, but I'd like the trust to tell us what the 'informal' talks were all about. After all they are not governed by boardroom confidentiality on this.

Has it happened yet no.

Quoted from TAGG

Why is everyone obsessed with bringing back former players ffs??

Because at this level, most people haven’t heard of many of the other players that we could possibly sign. Before joining town, how often have you actually heard of the players that we sign (granted they might be touted on here the day before by somebody ‘in the know’)?

People love a rumour but a rumour that we are about to sign Montel Gibson isn’t going to get as many people excited as a Boyle, Amond, Lenny rumour.

Quoted from thefish

Because at this level, most people haven’t heard of many of the other players that we could possibly sign. Before joining town, how often have you actually heard of the players that we sign (granted they might be touted on here the day before by somebody ‘in the know’)?

People love a rumour but a rumour that we are about to sign Montel Gibson isn’t going to get as many people excited as a Boyle, Amond, Lenny rumour.

What?!?!? Were signing montel Gibson AGAIN!! He's already shite and got a 3 year contract why the hell would we give him longer?!?!? Hurst out!

Quoted from toontown

What?!?!? Were signing montel Gibson AGAIN!! He's already shite and got a 3 year contract why the hell would we give him longer?!?!? Hurst out!

And Boyle LJL and Amond Will they be avail. for Sat.

Quoted from DB

I totally agree with you, but I'd like the trust to tell us what the 'informal' talks were all about. After all they are not governed by boardroom confidentiality on this.

You could always contact them and ask. Come back and share the response.

LJL was never prolific for us but that was never his job. We need goals and I'm not certain that he will get them but I'm certain, if he were to sign, that he would make the ball stick at the right end of the pitch and bring others into the game.
The Scunthorpe game was the perfect example of how not to play a football match. We got the ball in defence and aimlessly pumped it forward, completely missing out the midfield. If Lenny could get hold of the ball and keep at his feet for even a few seconds it will allow our players to push and make the best of a bad situation.
If we were rumoured to be signing him when we were second from top rather than second from bottom I would agree that we wouldn't need him. In our position I would much rather Hurst sign someone he knows better than they know themselves rather than taking a gamble on someone he can't trust to give what he needs.
This is now about survival and if we can get players who we know will give their all then maybe we have a fighting chance. UTM

Quoted from CatchOfTheDay

LJL was never prolific for us but that was never his job. We need goals and I'm not certain that he will get them but I'm certain, if he were to sign, that he would make the ball stick at the right end of the pitch and bring others into the game.
The Scunthorpe game was the perfect example of how not to play a football match. We got the ball in defence and aimlessly pumped it forward, completely missing out the midfield. If Lenny could get hold of the ball and keep at his feet for even a few seconds it will allow our players to push and make the best of a bad situation.
If we were rumoured to be signing him when we were second from top rather than second from bottom I would agree that we wouldn't need him. In our position I would much rather Hurst sign someone he knows better than they know themselves rather than taking a gamble on someone he can't trust to give what he needs.
This is now about survival and if we can get players who we know will give their all then maybe we have a fighting chance. UTM

Just re-read this and you are spot on COTD!!! ;)

For Lenny to be fully effective he needs players around him, at times yesterday when we got more numbers forward you could see his value.

Next season though not a certainty just yet it looks like he’ll be playing against slower defenders who won’t get as touch tight so we’ll really see his value.

In terms of return rate looking at his stats he scored 1 in 3 across his career.

Don't underestimate non league players.

Whichever way you look at it, he gives us far more than Green, Payne or Gibson.

Quoted from HertsGTFC

For Lenny to be fully effective he needs players around him, at times yesterday when we got more numbers forward you could see his value.

Next season though not a certainty just yet it looks like he’ll be playing against slower defenders who won’t get as touch tight so we’ll really see his value.

In terms of return rate looking at his stats he scored 1 in 3 across his career.

I like the way he holds the ball and puts himself about. Stats since he came back played in 15 games, scored 3 goals, 1 in 5.

Quoted from DB

I like the way he holds the ball and puts himself about. Stats since he came back played in 15 games, scored 3 goals, 1 in 5.

The 1 in 3 is a career number not a snapshot from a period of time.

You need to realise that this is a forum about football and not a junior school, picking on a certain individual does not make you more popular with the rest of the gang.

Quoted from HertsGTFC

The 1 in 3 is a career number not a snapshot from a period of time.

You need to realise that this is a forum about football and not a junior school, picking on a certain individual does not make you more popular with the rest of the gang.

I posted :-

I like the way he holds the ball and puts himself about. Stats since he came back played in 15 games, scored 3 goals, 1 in 5.

Where did I say anything wrong about him? I like, is a form of praise not criticism, junior school is where you belong as you don't understand simple English praise.

For your benefit, I did say in another post he played well but have ignored this as well. So why are you picking on my posts which have commented on how good LJL played yesterday.

I also on another thread said that I would like to see LJL in the team next season.

How many times do I have to say that overall I think 'the shop' is a good player. Is that sufficient for you or would you like an echo?