Also, I'm struggling to think of anyone I'd rather have over Pennant. Jaoquin? he'd cost at least twice that amount, and I don't even think he's as good. Stelios?? Simao? Pennant is a lot better IMO.
Thats b******s. There comes a point when you have to say "No, thats too much money". And at the end of the day no-one knows who will turn out to be the better buy. Not even Rafa. What we do know is Rafa wants another player or two so we can't afford to blow the entire budget.
Part of the reason for the poor start last year IMO was the lack of right winger. We dicked around trying various players there until Rafa finally did what many were already thinking by playing Stevie there. For the rest of the season our form was that of champions. We really don't want to start this season in the same manner..