From Russia, With Love

By Karl Hinchcliffe • Aug 11th, 2008 • Category: Lead Story, News |

Written by our usual match reporter, Karl Hinchcliffe.

Evertonian’s have thus far endured a summer of discontent on the transfer front. We have, in usual tabloid style been linked with a plethora of players this summer; some good, some bad, some diabolical. Bill Kenwright in his usual show biz style has also asked to ‘watch this space’. The wait is all about to end – or so we are led to believe. Widespread reporting suggests we are about to make our belated first signing over the next couple of days who will hopefully arrive from Russia with love.

Everton look to be short of attacking options, following the respective departures of James McFadden in January and Andrew Johnson last week to Fulham. This is about to be alleviated by the signing of Brazilian international Vagner Love from CSKA Moscow. FollowEverton understands that Love will arrive at the club initially on a season long loan, with the option to buy for £13million next summer.

Love has enjoyed much success whilst at CSKA; his spell at the Russian club has yielded two Russian Championships and a UEFA Cup winner’s medal. He has played his part in the clubs recent success and averages a goal every other game, which is no mean feat given the improving standard of football in the cash rich ‘Rosgosstrakh’ Premier League. His form has not gone unnoticed and he has attracted interest from big clubs all over Western Europe. His standard of football has been such that he has been recognised internationally with 21 Brazil caps now emblazoned with his name.

Vagner Love will certainly be a welcome addition to the squad and indeed starting XI. His pace, trickery and eye for goal will give many a Premier League defence and torrid time. If he signs and hits it off with the Yak we have a potential 40 goal partnership, which should go some way to helping us achieve our ‘Top 4’ aspirations.

This signing once completed may go some way to appease an increasingly disgruntled fan base. Let’s also hope he is followed or chased into Finch Farm by a few midfield reinforcements. This weekend’s game against Blackburn may look a much more inviting prospect if we have a Samba style football on show.

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