Box office signings

Thinking back to the 80s and 90s we were buying players to add to comfortable mid table squads, because that's pretty much what we were at this level.

Super John was as near to box office as you could get during the promotion season, because he was always a top player against us.

Problem now, is were forever bailing out water from a holey boat. The only way we'll attract a big name now is by chucking money at them.

 

Lol, in summary I don't really mind you thinking I'm wrong.

 

I think if we signed anyone now who had scored 100 league goals nearly all in the top two divisions, as Hendrie and Wilkinson both had, everyone would absolutely jizz their load.

As for Geoff Thomas, if you didn't think he'd be any good then I suspect you'd watched too much of that Baddiel and Skinner b.ollocks.

 

It's about what you class as box office. There's no right or wrong. For me the term means increased attendances on the strength of the signing. In my opinion there's very few who have put significant numbers on the gate as a result of their joining us.

 

Fair enough, but if you're setting the bar higher than established England internationals and top flight goalscorers, then it's a self fulfilling prophecy as no one is ever going to conform to your definition. Viv Anderson for example - a modern day equivalent would be someone like John Terry - a regular England international with multiple domestic honours. You wouldn't class him as box office?

 

Viv hadn't crossed my mind to be honest. Had every respect for him and I was pleased we'd signed him as manager. I was hopeful I guess rather than galvanised but, yes, at the time he was a good signing in my eyes.

 

Jan Åge Fjørtoft was certainly box office when he joined in 1998.