Looking at the trading over the years to Melbourne, I notice that besides from Mitch Clark, we have basically not been able to get our hands on any prized trades. I note that last year it took Mark Neeld to fly up with his entourage to get it done. This year we have asked potential player candidates to migrate over without any luck.

The way I see it and it is only an opinion, however MFC need a powerful negotiator. One that sends the fear of god through other teams spines. One that can broker a rippin deal and get the job done. One that can sell the MFC story and its dream. We cannot continue to pay big money for players as we will be in a similar boat to the Saints and where they find themselves with Goddard.

Who is our Gubby Allen and where do we find him?

Neeld is the man.

As for needing a powerful negotiator, I'd say a few wins would do a lot more than any smooth talking spinster could ever do.

Need more than just a good negotiator.The club needs good knowledgable people, good recruiters and excellent list management. The list continues...strong financial base...increased membership numbers, etc etc.

And FA has come in an inappropriate time for our club. A time where any player considering a move would find any of the top 6-8 clubs attractive. For various reasons but being at a club in a premiership window or a well supported club with good "culture" ...is undoubtedly a strong pull.

If you were a top club in the AFL right now and were traveling well with a good list, you'd be quite happy and comfortable with the introduction of FA. Filling needs has just become much easier.

And as predicted it is much harder for a bottom placed club to compete for FA's. Unless you have managed your list well.

CLARK: "Thank but no thanks."

NEELD: (Waves his hand)"You WILL be a Melbourne player."

CLARK: (Zombie-like) "I will be a Melbourne player."

NEELD; "You WILL bleed red and blue."

CLARK: "I will bleed red and blue."

Neeld is good enough.

How about we try and fix the fundamentals instead of relying on spin. Make it self evident that players will want to come here rather than having to try and convince them with a "powerful negotiator". Too many people here are stuck in the 1960's mentality of the quick fix. Put in the hard yards and the rest will follow, no-one's going to just give it to you. Geez people say Gen-Y has a sense of entitlement, they've got nothing on the baby boomers.

Edited October 1, 201213 yr by Dr. Gonzo

Who is our Gubby Allen and where do we find him?

All I know Allan for is being an integral part of GWS winning a wooden spoon.

How does that make him a hot commodity?