You asked for a constructive reply to this, so I'll try to give one.
We all agree that Ricardinho was one of the few positive additions made by Pep last summer. But KR made sure not to trigger his appearances related extension clause towards the end of last season, though still offered him a new contract.
It appears from these indicators that Pep offered quite a high wage, more than could be justified for a 33 year old left back from the Azerbaijani league. Likely the same situation for Pekalski, Mehmeti, and Tiendalli, too.
Yes, he was Player's Player, we all would love to have kept him around, he was impossible not to enjoy in yellow (and as a Brazilian, I assume he enjoyed being in that kit too). But we can't just keep people on at unjustifiable wages, no matter how popular they may be with the fans and squad (even though part of me thinks there is some of that behind Scott Shearer's extension).
And yes, we have already filled that void with a loan. An ex-England U21 player from Everton who turned down Championship clubs to come here. Did you have anyone specific in mind who you'd have preferred?
Thank you. But after he said he was settled in the area, was the new contract so uncompetitive. We'll never know the truth.
Maybe I want the best so much I worry we are not going to get as fans what has been mention, in terms of budget, as we have been let down so much in the 35 years I've been following OUFC.
The Everton guy is a great buy, but why so early in business are we bringing in loans and not permanent, if the budget was going to be so competitive? That's my primary concern, not criticism.
Also with a couple of weeks before the serious friendlies start, why do have so many players to bring in? Especially when KR said he wanted business done early.
