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Update from Ceres Arabs from yesterday's AGM and Q&A with Mike Martin
The Federation of Dundee United Supporters` Clubs AGM took place yesterday at Frews in Dundee. The following are notes from the meeting and the Q&A with Mike Martin and Jimmy Fyffe.
- Mark McMahon was re-elected as Federation Chairman
- Norman McFarlane was re-elected Secretary
- Gary Chalmers was re-elected Vice Chair
- Barry Cairncross was re-elected Treasurer
There are 28 supporter clubs affiliated to the Federation, Ceres Arabs now beings it's 5th year as a paid up Federation member club with the League Cup game in Dingwall planned for the first bus of the season.
Q&A with Mike Martin and Jimmy Fyffe:
Csaba has the absolute final say on what players are getting signed.
As a part of player contracts, an accommodation allowance is now included to help with the 25 mile radius rule.
The players will get a bonus only if they win a game, there will be no bonus for a draw. These funds will be paid out at the end of the season - but only if we go up. If we don't then the bonus will be halved.
The club are close to filling the goalkeeper coach position.
3, possibly 4 new signings will be announced on Monday and/or Tuesday.
Some of the players who've been signed had better money offered elsewhere, but they came to United because they see a change in culture and attitude at Tannadice and feel that they want to be a part of that.
Mike Martin, Luggy, Csaba, David Southern and Laurie Ellis are meeting up every 3 days.
The Challenge Cup will be for the reserve squad this season, Craig Easton and Scott Robertson will be the ones in the dugout for those games.
An application has been made to the SFA to allow 15-year-olds to play in the reserve team and in the Challenge Cup. Celtic are believed to have made a similar application.
An application has been made for United's academy to have elite status.
Sunday morning warm-down sessions are planned, the players will have Monday off and be back in at St Andrews on a Tuesday morning.
On a Friday, the players will train at Tannadice.
The players report back for their first training session next Thursday.
The club will make a financial loss this season.
A new sports bar will be opening half way through the season.
The take-over process is going "very well", due diligence has been complete for some time, Mike Martin could not elaborate further due to confidentiality.
United still own 20% of Ryan Gauld. It was also confirmed that United would get a sell-on fee for Stuart Armstrong.
The Scottish Cup game against Aberdeen was worth £100,000 to United - an unexpected, un-budgeted for but welcome windfall.
Mike Martin's 33% share purchase was made back in October. When questioned on why this wasn't made known to fans, he said that he didn't feel it was something worthy of being announced.
It looks like the trial game won't now take place, it's felt that it would now be unnecessary.
United's website and social channels have been discussed at board level and there's talk of a specific role being created to oversee this area.
A modern ticketing system using an app and QR codes is being looked at.
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I don’t have a problem with trialists as long as they’re brought in with a view to supplementing what’s already there, not to build a whole squad with them. It’s worked well in the past, guys like Ciftci and GMS were once just trialists with us.
Thank fuck they’re finally getting someone in to oversee the website and social media. Hopefully it’s not just gonna be Rice sidestepping into that role ala Bowman and Grady.
We’ll maybe finally get back the archival footage of past games, which mysteriously disappeared from arabzone, while folk are still expected to pay the same price without it on there.
Interesting and am danger of begging to feel a bit more positive about MM....
and then we get the bit about his share purchase....cos why would we think someone buying 33% of United's shares was important......odd to say the least.
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Thanks for this bowers.
Happy about the downgrading of the Challenge Cup, and the prospective news on the squad is welcome.
As stated above, why would MM not think the fans might want to know who holds a large chunk of shares in the club?
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Still suspicious of Martin. Speaks a good game. Why not state about the shares? Why not buy ALL of thompsons shares? The things that he has said in the media about our club is standard PR.
According to A90 Arab Society twitter page, they stated that Jim Spence allegedly said that Mike Martin was part of the Edinburgh mafia running our club..... Is this true? What do they mean? Some statement to make on twitter.
He still needs to do more to win me over. I have my doubts.
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wylie1 wrote:
PatReilly wrote:
.......why would MM not think the fans might want to know who holds a large chunk of shares in the club?
Is it really something that fans need to know? I for one have no interest in how much of their money another person spends.
Folk can spend their money on whatever they wish, and I have no interest, unless it affects something to which I am likely to have a financial input. So yes, fans should know the ownership breakdown of the club which they help to finance.
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UniDundee wrote:
Nothing there.
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PatReilly wrote:
UniDundee wrote:
Nothing there.
Hes deleted it. Thankfully I have a screen shot of the tweet.
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UniDundee wrote:
PatReilly wrote:
UniDundee wrote:
Nothing there.
Hes deleted it. Thankfully I have a screen shot of the tweet.
'Thankfully' you might have a screen shot, but we haven't. There's nothing there either.
In any case, someone writing something on their account about somebody allegedly saying something means very little, more so if it's been deleted.
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Is Spence still ITK, now his baldy buddy has moved on?
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wylie1 wrote:
PatReilly wrote:
wylie1 wrote:
Is it really something that fans need to know? I for one have no interest in how much of their money another person spends.
Folk can spend their money on whatever they wish, and I have no interest, unless it affects something to which I am likely to have a financial input. So yes, fans should know the ownership breakdown of the club which they help to finance.
You would need to apply that to everything, then.Such as wherever you buy your groceries as one example. Ask your supermarket owner, say Lord Sainsbury, about his shares in the company. Tell him you need to know because you have a financial input there. Do you think you would get a reply?
I do apply this principle to 'everything'. There are, to use your example, several supermarkets which I will not use.
And I cannae see why fans wouldn't want to know who owns the club they support. But if you don't want to know, that's your right.
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After reading that summary you really need to look to the future. Players coming to the club as they see a more positive feel about the club is good to hear. Time to stop regurgitating the past. The past few years have scunnered even the most loyal arabs
The future is tangerine
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wylie1 wrote:
PatReilly wrote:
And I cannae see why fans wouldn't want to know who owns the club they support. But if you don't want to know, that's your right.
Of course we want to know who owns the club, but we don't need to know the financial details.
Sorry, wylie1, think we misunderstood each other. Aye, you are correct, I don't care how much he spent.
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Glad to see we are just using the Irn Bru Cup for the young players to get first team experience.
Everything else is nothing to revelatory.
The sports bar in Tannadice is way beyond due.
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Tek wrote:
Glad to see we are just using the Irn Bru Cup for the young players to get first team experience.
Everything else is nothing to revelatory.
The sports bar in Tannadice is way beyond due.
Think it’s across the road in the building behind Gussie.
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Beharder wrote:
After reading that summary you really need to look to the future. Players coming to the club as they see a more positive feel about the club is good to hear. Time to stop regurgitating the past. The past few years have scunnered even the most loyal arabs
The future is tangerine
Too many false dawns to give MM a blank cheque approval rating and especially given Csaba's continuing employment after last season's shambles as well as having no sign that Csaba is for changing his ways. However the most I would conceded is that perhaps the perpetual decline is being now starting to be arrested at least in parts. Still feeling scunnered and no reasons yet to be optimistic.
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annanarab wrote:
Beharder wrote:
After reading that summary you really need to look to the future. Players coming to the club as they see a more positive feel about the club is good to hear. Time to stop regurgitating the past. The past few years have scunnered even the most loyal arabs
The future is tangerineToo many false dawns to give MM a blank cheque approval rating and especially given Csaba's continuing employment after last season's shambles as well as having no sign that Csaba is for changing his ways. However the most I would conceded is that perhaps the perpetual decline is being now starting to be arrested at least in parts. Still feeling scunnered and no reasons yet to be optimistic.
I get the feeling that your a glass half empty kind of guy.
Your absolutely right about MM he has only been in charge for 5mins so its a wait and see situation.
However it is long past the time to start looking to the future
Whats gone on has been nothing short of shameful but its gone it cant be changed.
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Taking much of this patter from Martin with a pinch of salt. Especially because I think this particular statement is a load of bollocks and then some.
"Some of the players who've been signed had better money offered elsewhere, but they came to United because they see a change in culture and attitude at Tannadice and feel that they want to be a part of that."
Maybe they did turn down better offers. Doubt it. But wouldn't be down to a "change in culture". How the fuck would they know? We don't even know for fuck sake and I wouldn't be taking less $$$ on the back of it. Pure lup service that. Lies.
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RRDH wrote:
Taking much of this patter from Martin with a pinch of salt. Especially because I think this particular statement is a load of bollocks and then some.
"Some of the players who've been signed had better money offered elsewhere, but they came to United because they see a change in culture and attitude at Tannadice and feel that they want to be a part of that."
Maybe they did turn down better offers. Doubt it. But wouldn't be down to a "change in culture". How the fuck would they know? We don't even know for fuck sake and I wouldn't be taking less $$$ on the back of it. Pure lup service that. Lies.
Let's just stay in the past then instead of giving the guy a chance. Already making some positive moves, ie. Two year deals, player contracts geared towards success. The guys we are signing must see some good reason to buy into that ldea wouldn't you think? But nah, let's just keep harping on about how shite everything is. What's happened has happened, changes are afoot.
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JerryDungle wrote:
Tek wrote:
Glad to see we are just using the Irn Bru Cup for the young players to get first team experience.
Everything else is nothing to revelatory.
The sports bar in Tannadice is way beyond due.
Think it’s across the road in the building behind Gussie.
Ahhhh.
Still, a good idea that will bring the club more revenue.
Should be attempting to get more of the coin that goes to the Troll, Snug, Frews on matchday.
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Arabdownsouth wrote:
RRDH wrote:
Taking much of this patter from Martin with a pinch of salt. Especially because I think this particular statement is a load of bollocks and then some.
"Some of the players who've been signed had better money offered elsewhere, but they came to United because they see a change in culture and attitude at Tannadice and feel that they want to be a part of that."
Maybe they did turn down better offers. Doubt it. But wouldn't be down to a "change in culture". How the fuck would they know? We don't even know for fuck sake and I wouldn't be taking less $$$ on the back of it. Pure lup service that. Lies.
Let's just stay in the past then instead of giving the guy a chance. Already making some positive moves, ie. Two year deals, player contracts geared towards success. The guys we are signing must see some good reason to buy into that ldea wouldn't you think? But nah, let's just keep harping on about how shite everything is. What's happened has happened, changes are afoot.
Who's staying in the past? Happily give the guy a shot but straight talk now, nobodies signing on a fucking culture change promise. There might very well be one but that's pure twoddle.
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RRDH wrote:
Arabdownsouth wrote:
RRDH wrote:
Taking much of this patter from Martin with a pinch of salt. Especially because I think this particular statement is a load of bollocks and then some.
"Some of the players who've been signed had better money offered elsewhere, but they came to United because they see a change in culture and attitude at Tannadice and feel that they want to be a part of that."
Maybe they did turn down better offers. Doubt it. But wouldn't be down to a "change in culture". How the fuck would they know? We don't even know for fuck sake and I wouldn't be taking less $$$ on the back of it. Pure lup service that. Lies.
Let's just stay in the past then instead of giving the guy a chance. Already making some positive moves, ie. Two year deals, player contracts geared towards success. The guys we are signing must see some good reason to buy into that ldea wouldn't you think? But nah, let's just keep harping on about how shite everything is. What's happened has happened, changes are afoot.
Who's staying in the past? Happily give the guy a shot but straight talk now, nobodies signing on a fucking culture change promise. There might very well be one but that's pure twoddle.
That's your opinion, doesnt mean it's true. It's unlikely you were involved in any of the signing talks so it's your uninformed opinion, which could in turn be referred to as twoddle.
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Arabdownsouth wrote:
RRDH wrote:
Arabdownsouth wrote:
Let's just stay in the past then instead of giving the guy a chance. Already making some positive moves, ie. Two year deals, player contracts geared towards success. The guys we are signing must see some good reason to buy into that ldea wouldn't you think? But nah, let's just keep harping on about how shite everything is. What's happened has happened, changes are afoot.
Who's staying in the past? Happily give the guy a shot but straight talk now, nobodies signing on a fucking culture change promise. There might very well be one but that's pure twoddle.
That's your opinion, doesnt mean it's true. It's unlikely you were involved in any of the signing talks so it's your uninformed opinion, which could in turn be referred to as twoddle.
Yeah, it's my uninformed opinion. If that's what he said, my opinion is that its bollocks. For what I think are obvious reasons. Doesnt mean I'm writing the whole fucking regime off.
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Beharder wrote:
annanarab wrote:
Beharder wrote:
After reading that summary you really need to look to the future. Players coming to the club as they see a more positive feel about the club is good to hear. Time to stop regurgitating the past. The past few years have scunnered even the most loyal arabs
The future is tangerineToo many false dawns to give MM a blank cheque approval rating and especially given Csaba's continuing employment after last season's shambles as well as having no sign that Csaba is for changing his ways. However the most I would conceded is that perhaps the perpetual decline is being now starting to be arrested at least in parts. Still feeling scunnered and no reasons yet to be optimistic.
I get the feeling that your a glass half empty kind of guy.
Your absolutely right about MM he has only been in charge for 5mins so its a wait and see situation.
However it is long past the time to start looking to the future
Whats gone on has been nothing short of shameful but its gone it cant be changed.
I’m a glass half full sort of guy but my glass has a big hole in it. I’m looking to the future but not getting excited or even board on the basis of what’s been done yet and without the prospect of a change in management.
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Don't do PussJotter but saw this posted on Mad...
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From Fed update of q&a with Martin and Fyffe says Taylor and Thompson signed majority of players in Jan. So criticisms of signings perhaps shouldn't be laid entirely at Csaba's door.
Here it is in full of their FB page.
Members Update
Q&A following the Fed AGM with Mike Martin and Jimmy Fyffe:
Prior to detailing the content the Committee of the Federation would like to thank Mike Martin and Jimmy Fyffe for giving up their time and providing those present with a very informative and well received session. The plans for the future are very positive and in some cases overdue but the new Board of Directors appear to be acting quickly with the best long term interests of our Club to the forefront and we wish them every success in getting our Club back to its proper place in Scottish Football.
The Club to have a squad of 40 players, 24 regarded as first team players. Loans would not form a major part of the squad and 4 places in the 24 will be "reserved" for youth players although this may not happen this year but will in future years.
A few more players will hopefully be added to the 19 players who have already left the Club.
3 new players expected this week, hopefully 2 on Monday. The 3 includes a goalkeeper
Csaba has final say on what players are brought to the Club. In January 2018 the majority of the players were signed by Stephen Thompson and Darren Taylor not Csaba. Mike Martin responded to a question stating that he believed Csaba to have all the required qualities to ensure we were crowned Champions at the end of the season.
Luggy is in charge of all scouting at all age groups but will eventually focus on central and south of England. Dave Bowman was chosen by Luggy to cover Scotland. The recruitment process has undergone a significant and required review which will hopefully bring benefits moving forward.
Debate still taking place about whether the structure should be primarily our own scouts or recommendations from "contacts".
Player contracts consist of three elements: basic, bonus and an accommodation allowance in relation to the "25 mile rule".
No signing so far had meant the new wage structure has had to be broken although many agents tried to "plead a case".
The players will only get a bonus if they win a game, no bonus for a draw. The bonus will be paid at the end of the season - but only if we are the Champions, if not the bonus will be halved.
The club are close to filling the goalkeeper coach vacancy, with other new posts likely to be filled quite soon.
Some of the players who've been signed , claimed they had better offers elsewhere, but came to United because they want to be a part of the changes that are happening. Jimmy Fyffe said you could sense a more positive feeling when you entered Tannadice these days. Non playing staff seem happier and definitely up for the challenges ahead.
Mike Martin, Luggy, Csaba, David Southern and Laurie Ellis meeting about every 3 days to discuss signing targets. Mike Martin and David Southern handle contracts with the agents of the players Csaba wants to bring in.
A rigid checklist is in place to ensure the risks in recruitment are minimised. One year deals are not longer considered.
The Challenge Cup will be for the reserve squad this season, Craig Easton and Scott Robertson will be in the dugout for this competition.
An application has been made to the SFA to allow 15-year-olds to play in the reserve team and in the Challenge Cup. Celtic have made a similar application and thus the Club is hopeful of a favourable outcome. It is hoped that by doing this sort of thing United can prove to youth players that their best chance of appearing in the first team and making a successful football career is by signing with United where they will be given an opportunity if they have the qualities required.
An application has been made for United's academy to have elite status.
Sunday morning warm-down sessions will now take place, the players will have Monday off and be back in at St Andrews on a Tuesday morning.
Csaba has decided that the players will train at Tannadice on a Friday before a home game.
Specific afternoon training sessions will be held with only the players involved in the topic being covered required to attend. These sessions may at times cut across all squads.
Pre season has been moved back from Monday to Thursday (21 June). Mike Martin will address all coaches on Wednesday highlighting the need for Club standards to be adhered too, including appropriate language in public areas and being respectful of the opposition. His initial feedback from other Chairman was that the Club was not as well liked as he would wish it to be and sees addressing this as an important objective.
The club will make a financial loss this season due to the revenue situation i.e. Championship v SPL income and not costs which are all budgeted and under a more strict control. Success will be rewarded but failure will be addressed quickly.
A new sports bar will be opening half way through the season. It will be on two levels with the top section used for match day hospitality. The George Fox hospitality lounges have been combined and improved at almost no cost to the Club thanks to various sponsors. This facility is to be utilised out with match days and as it now has its own entrance can be used without opening the stand. It is hoped that a variety of non football related functions will utilise this facility providing additional ongoing revenue to the Club.
The share sale process is progressing, due diligence has been complete for some time and Mike Martin is confident of a successful outcome. The prospective new owners have been kept informed in relation to the big numbers for 2018/19 but not the detail of how these sums are to be spent. Mike Martin confirmed that if he is still involved after the share sale he will consider establishing a basis in Dundee. He also stated that Gussie's ownership would revert to the Club when the share sale takes place at the same price he paid.
United still own 20% of Ryan Gauld and will get a sell-on fee for Stuart Armstrong. Mike Martin stressed that some media stories were completely without foundation using Chris Miller as a recent example.
Although a loss was expected for the current year this could be reduced by unbudgeted income with Mike Martin giving the example of the Scottish Cup game against Aberdeen which was worth approx. £100k to United.
Mike Martin's 33% share purchase took place in October. No formal announcement was made as he didn't think it was of interest as Stephen Thompson still remained the majority shareholder. Mike Martin and Jimmy Fyffe both stressed that Stephen Thompson has no involvement with the Club at any level and they believe this will continue until the sale of his shares takes place.
Luggy is now unlikely to hold the trial game previously mentioned although some players will be invited to join "on trial" during the pre season period. It is hoped to announce more pre season friendlies shortly.
United's website and social media communication are under consideration and it is intended to improve this aspect of the Club shortly.
A new card based ticketing system is likely for 2019/20 with feedback from other Clubs being that this will pay for itself quickly. Mike Martin said his aim was for Tannadice to become a "cashless" area, accepting that payment at gates could be made via contactless bank/credit cards, rather than pre purchased tickets.
Another revenue stream being considered is looking at Tannadice as a concert venue , Rod Stewart in June/July 2019 was mentioned.