http://www.oleole.com/blogs/spread-the-word-football
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Thursday, 6 August 2009
at
04:13
So fresh after rejecting a £10 million bid from Spurs, it has been annouced that Newcastle have chosen to accept a bid of £8million instead???? It was interesting to read that the team statiscally did better without him last season, although stats don't always tell the true story. He is a good young player with bags of potential, and whilst I wish him the best of luck at Tottenham, I really wish he stayed at the club. He was pretty much the only bright spark at the club last season in what was a very dismal year otherwise. And gradually Im beginning to accept the fact that we might not get promoted straight away. No Viduka, No Owen, No Martins, No Bassong. It's looking bleak already. He is sure to get a few games, with the Spurs treatment table having its own waiting room forever occupied with centre backs. Having missed out on the Europa league, there are still plenty of games to be played, considering that tottenham are a very good cup team. Good luck to the guy. At least he tried when he played unlike a certain current MUFC No.7!
Posted In
Bassong,
Tottenham
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Ala Madrid Alonso..
Wednesday, 5 August 2009
at
17:40
The protracted departure of Xabi Alonso from Liverpool has finally happened. And with his exit he takes the title credentials of LFC. I genuinely believe he held the key to the club being challengers to the devil's throne. Alberto Aquilani is a virtually done deal from Roma, but he is not of the same quality in my opinion.
In Alonso, they have lost one of the most accurate passers of the ball and someone with a bit of grit. Someone who wasn't afraid to get stuck in. Someone who freed Gerrard into being the magical player that he can be. Mascherano's future still seems to be in the balance and if he leaves there will devastation at Anfield.
I would have let Mascherano go out of the two, as I think his temperament and lack of vision will leave Liverpool vulnerable at times. And while he is definately tougher tackling than the Spaniard, he can't bring much else to the squad. A squad whose lack of quality depth may have to pay for his hot headedness at times next season.
In the current climate, the talked about £30m seems a fair price for him. Aquilani is getting brought in for £20m. That would insuniate that Liverpool are getting a player that is 2/3 the quality Alonso. I never fail to understand Rafa sometimes. FACT!
Verdict: Win the title this season? Not with Rafa's policy.
Posted In
Liverpool,
Real Madrid,
Xabi Alonso
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Sir Bobby Robson (R.I.P)
at
17:18
I found out the news that Sir Bobby Robson had passed away whilst I was on a coach to Snowdonia. Needless to say I was pretty gutted for the rest of the journey.Being a Newcastle fan, I always knew this was coming but it still didn't fail to shock my system. The man who had given us the most glorious years in recent times was gone. This wasn't the first time that he had to battle through Cancer and everyone who followed football would have loved to have seen him get through it.
The solace is knowing that no matter how much the football world needed him and will definately miss him, the man upstairs needed him more.
Characters of his like are few and far between in these eras, where money and the marketability can sometimes outweigh ability. Someone who could control his audience, whether they were prima donnas or a room full of journalists, part of his personality touched a part of everyone. Let alone his personality but his trophy haul is one to be admired also. Barcelona and PSV saw his biggest clubs triumphs.
But who can forget Italia '90. Semi-finals against Germany. The pain and the heartache. Yet, he was arguably made into the footballing idol that he is that night. Had it not been for a misplaced penalty, there may have been an extra star above the three lions these days.
Whilst my thoughts are with his family in such a difficult time, I offer him the greatest thank you for what he gave to the game we love.
Posted In
Sir Bobby Robson
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Been away guys...
Monday, 3 August 2009
at
00:56
Sorry, I was away this weekend climbing Mount Snowdon for Charity over this weekend. I will post an article up on Sir Bobby Robson tomorrow and also a quick small feature on the Emirates Cup.
Thanks
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Ibrahimovic or Eto'o?
Wednesday, 29 July 2009
at
09:00
We've seen blockbuster deal after blockbuster deal this transfer window and this week saw the latest of them! Eto'o and €46million headed to Inter whilst Ibrahimovic went the other way. But who got the better player? Inter or Barcelona?
Both are genuine goalscorers with bags of skill. Ibrahimovic would be my pick in terms of skill out of the two. He has been at the forefront of Nike adverts in recent years and has often found a way to duplicate those skills on the field. In no way am I saying that Eto'o can't do that, because he has on several occasions at Barcelona but Ibrahimovic does it with a bigger degree of variety.
In terms of speed and raw pace, I would pick Eto'o by a slim margin. Again neither is slow and are both often found drifting out wide and drifting past defenders with consummate ease. Eto'o' s change of pace is more favourable than Ibrahimovic. Agility wise they are almost inseparable again. The elastic legs of Eto'o have got him out of trouble on numerous occasions, running in and out of players and around goalkeepers. Ibrahimovic can do this also. But he can also do it to score. I beg anyone to look at his goal against Bologna last season which won 'Goal of the Year' in Serie A. Even during his early years at Ajax, he was reaching the unreachable.
He also tends to reach the unreachable when it comes to balls in the air. He is a clear 4 inches taller than Samuel and can be a target man for his comrades. This will certainly add a dimension to Barcelona's style next season, where I assume he will be playing the central role of the front 3.
Goalscoring abilities seem to be very similar again. Samuel Eto'o is the 4th highest goalscorer in La Liga ever and has become so with a style-range of goals. Whilst Ibrahimovic has a similar range, if not bigger, he can often be found going through barron spells, most notably his two year international drought. And whilst Eto'o is only one of two players to have scored in separate Champions League Finals, Ibrahimovic has had the reputation of going missing in 'big' games.
Mentality no doubt plays a part, and there have been rumours circulating for years that Eto'o has struggled to get along with some of his FCB couterparts and has previously physically lashed out. Ibrahimovic on the other hand has always lead a slightly quieter playing style, often letting his football do the talking. Both have been known to also have chronic joint injuries over the years, with Eto'o being the more affected.
Verdict: I feel Barcelona have got the better player. Just. However I think that maybe Inter got the better overall deal?
Posted In
Barcelona,
Eto'o,
Ibrahimovic,
Inter Milan
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1 comments
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Wembley Cup Day 2 Review
at
14:02
Day 2 started off with the European Champions Barcelona play the African Champions Al-Ahly. With a half full stadium, the crowd was never going to be loud. However anticipation was growing as Lionel Messi was annouced to be on the bench. Pep Guardiola had guaranteed him 45 minutes on friday.
The game was a comfortable 4-1 win for Barcelona, although they gave a better perfomance against spurs 48 hours earlier. Al-Ahly also had a fair amount of chances but failed to take all except one of them. Ruben Rochina was troublesome again much like friday and it was his hard work that set up Bojan to tuck away from a narrow angle. Hany El Egezy equalised for the Egyptians soon after only to see Rueda snatch the another goal. The catalan youngster switched the ball onto his left foot and unleashed a 25 yard pile-driver into the top corner.
Another 2 goals in the 2nd half from Suarez and Pedro saw Barcelona take the game to 4-1 with 3 of their goals coming from narrow angled well placed shots. The introduction of Messi at half-time failed to invigurate the game but did put some fire into a few of the Ahly tackles heading his way. Having just come back to fitness, Guardiola was visibly worried about his prize asset's protection.
The second game saw Celtic against Tottenham and the hoops faithful turned out in their droves. They were in good voice even before the game had begun. Throughout the entire tournament, the vast majority of the press had felt that spurs had underperformed. They didn't have their ideal central defenders for either game and it showed. Compared to a world re-known Barcelona academy and full strength Celtic, the press' judgement was slightly unfair. They leaked two easy goals in the first half. Chris Killen and Georgios Samaras made light work of the defence with their goals. Killen got a free header past Gomes and Samaras drove his own straight line run from the half way line to fire in from the edge of the box. The second half drew out to be keep ball session, as some weak Spurs defending let Celtic through a number of times but it went unpunished.
Celtic lifted the trophy on their first ever visits to Wembley and across both games it was deserved. Bad defending by both oppositions played a part, and definately the Barcelona youngsters left a good account of themselves. The player I most enjoyed this tournament was Ruben Rochina. I was really impressed with his level of skill and his general ability.
Verdict: Great Tournament!
Posted In
wembley cup
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Wembley Cup Day 1
Saturday, 25 July 2009
at
14:36
The Innaugral Wembley Cup. It had been raining heavily for most of the afternoon but by the time play had started you wouldn't have said so. Well apart from the light drizzle in the first game.
Celtic vs Al-Ahly was the first game and the hoops stuck out a familiar team. Despite this Al-Ahly made the better start of the two teams and were knocking the ball about in way that showed why they were African Champions. Celtic took the lead against the run of play earlier on and this caused the crumbling of the Egyptians. The second soon followed from the penalty spot and with half-time approaching it was back to the Hieroglyphics board.
The second half brought no change and saw Ahly leak 3 goals of great finishes. The game died out pretty much soon after and the end of the game was welcomed. Celtic won 5-0 but at least 4 of those goals came from terrible defending. Celtic fans were very loud throughout the game and will have been best pleased by the performance of Mark Antoine Fortun'e. He looks strong and quick. He could prove vital for the hoops this season.
Game 2 - Barcelona against Spurs. Well if there was ever a game run by one man, this was it. YAYA TOURE. What a player. He ran round half the Spurs team like they weren't even there! He spread long range passes over invisible defenders and made Wilson Palacios look extremely weak. It was his weaving run from the half way line that took him to the bring of goalscoring glory until Huddlestone tackled him and the ricashay landed at the feet of Bojan, who duly converted from close range.
The second half saw 11 changes from Pep Guardiola, with what looked like the Barcelona u19's team. Did they get outplayed? No. Spurs were further embarassed in the second half as they got out passed and out pressured all over the pitch. Ruben Rochina is definately a player to watch out for. The young striker showed some great touches and brilliant skill around the pitch. 19 year old Jake Livermore saved spurs blushes with a late header but 1-1 did not do this young unknown Barcelona any justice!
Day 2 should be fun!
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This Weekend's Wembley Cup
Thursday, 23 July 2009
at
07:50
Barcelona, Tottenham Hotspur, Celtic and Al-Ahly. All in one stadium. This is bound to be fantastic!
The idea of watching the European Champions this weekend is mouth-watering. After the master class that they gave Manchester United in Rome, I'm looking to see how they build on that. With news that the Ibrahimovic/Samuel Eto'o deal is close to completion, things could actually get better at Camp Nou. Messi, Henry, Iniesta, Xavi...the list goes on...and on...and on...
Spurs have been a bit quite in this transfer window but after the way they finished last season, I think continuing the Harry Redknapp way is a work in process. I'm interested to see if David Bentley makes an appearance after Redknapp's call that he may look to sell him. If that is the case, I believe this will be the 'shop-window' opportunity if he gets the chance against the FCB. I've always been an admirer and I wish he went to Newcastle when the opportunity arose!
Celtic and Tony Mowbray. He's stated this morning that he's made some progress with the squad. With several new signings like Mark-Antoine Fortune, this tournament should let him see his ideas in practice for the first time. An assault on the SPL title will be their priority, so tests against sterner opposition is likely to be appreciated.
Al-Ahly. I fancy them to hold their own in this tournament. Being relatively unheard of, the Egyptians are the current African Champions League title holders. I really believe that African football, particularly northern is on the up. Any suspicions that they will be the whipping boys of this tournament will be wide of the mark in my opinion.
Verdict: I fancy the finishing order to be Barcelona, Tottenham, Al-Ahly then Celtic. You can't argue with Spanish football at the moment!
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Adebayor for £25million..
Monday, 20 July 2009
at
16:14
Im guessing Manchester City thought Adebayor's Arsenal shirt number was his price tag. Because I think it far from reflects his ability. I think most Arsenal fans would agree they have got the deal of transfer window. One can help to think that Roy Keane's comments today weren't a sly shot, saying that 'Ronaldo was cheap at £80m compared to other strikers. Don't tell anyone that Im about to agree with a former Sunderland boss, but he has a point.
The problem I have with Adebayor is the fact that he's been 'potential' for far too many seasons. And with him being one of the only constantly available striker at AFC, it was never enough. Someone of his size and stature, should be competing with likes of Drogba physically but he never did it.
Now, I'm sure most people will feel I'm pessimistic about anything Manchester City at the moment. I am not. I really hope they do well and break that routine top 4, which is making it a two-tier league. They surely have the fire power to do it. I'd like to see them bring in another CB, which I dont think John Terry will be. He is Mr. Chelsea. But someone who'll have a wealth of experience to bring along the likes of Micah Richards, stabilise Richard Dunne and free up Wayne Bridge. I'm not sure that Mark Hughes is the man for the Job either. However, let him try. I'm not in favour of the quick turnover of managers that seems to be the latest craze. We need some successful young British managers to come through! Bring Aidy Boothroyd back into football!
As for Arsenal, what this transfer window holds remains to be seen. A new striker is now needed. A defensive midfielder to free up the old Fabregas in my opinion is another weak point. A maybe just a few more squad players. I think quality of depth let them down last season.
Verdict: A steal for Arsenal, but it depends what they do with the money now. Manchester are certainly not done in this transfer window either!
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A little Mention for John Hartson..
Friday, 17 July 2009
at
07:21
With health being a current hot topic in the news at the moment, primarily swine flu, some others have been getting deserved attention. John Hartson, the former Gunner, Celtic, West Ham and Wimbledon player (amongst others) was diagnosed with testicular cancer. This was last week. By Wednesday just gone, it was revealed that it had spread to his brains and lungs. The former Wales striker is now receiving round-the-clock care in Hospital.
The large frame of John Hartson, also represented his character. He's been a battler on the pitch for the best of his playing days, out-muscling and out-strengthening anything that came in his way. Let's hope this character can live within him again, during what must be a very difficult time.
John Hartson, 34 and retired. May you get through this.
Posted In
John Hartson
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Cool French Rap - ALTER...check it out..
Tuesday, 14 July 2009
at
16:56
Posted In
Alter,
Music
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Nick Welton - Niketown Football.
at
02:52
When I first started this blog, I wanted to attract some big names for interviews. Now whilst some of you may think that interviewing the Football category manager of Niketown London would involve someone who'd been bred to work in retail, you'd be wrong. In fact the towering figure of Nick Welton actually has the build of a centre forward. He's even played in Europe!
Plagued by injuries towards the latter end of his career, the financial connoisseur made a final transfer into the heart of retail. Whilst Niketown never has its downtimes, he found the time to answer a few questions on his playing days...and he even found a picture for us too....
Fact file:
Name: Nick Welton
Position: Striker
Team (s) played for: Everton Schoolboys, Hull University, Ashville, Vauxhall Motors (2 spells – 2nd spell reached FA Cup 2nd round live on Sky vs Macclesfield Town after beating QPR in first round), Total Network Solutions (played in UEFA Cup vs Polonia Warsaw in Poland), Rhyl, Mossley, Altrincham, Sutton United, Dulwich Hamlet
Team Supported: Liverpool
The serious questions…
Spread: Did/do you have a match day superstitions or rituals?
Nick Welton: I used to polish my boots watching Soccer AM in the morning to get me in the mood!
S: What is a better feeling? Scoring a goal or winning a game?
NW: Winning a big game
S: Who is your favourite all time footballer?
NW: Ian Rush
S: Who is your sporting hero outside of football?
NW: Tiger Woods
S: Who would be your best partner on the playing field? (Current or retired, i.e. Strike partner, Midfielder partner, Supporting right back, etc.)
NW: Kenny Dalglish
Now some relaxing questions….
S: Do you play FIFA or Pro Evolution?
NW: Neither!
S: Top 3 stadiums, which you have played or would like to play in?
NW: Played at loads of league grounds including Goodison Park, Molineux, The New Den, Loftus Road, Upton Park, Wrexham, Swansea, Crystal Palace, Chester City, Macclesfield Town, Polonia Warsaw, etc. Desperate to play at Anfield!
S: Favourite all time boot?
NW: Nike Tiempo
S: Tell us something we wouldn’t know about you…
NW: I have been a house music DJ since 1991!!!!!
S: Finally, the blog is called ‘Spread’, so we’d like to know, will you spread the word?
NW: Of course!!!
Thank you,
Team Spread
Finally you can find Nick's DJ work at www.myspace.com/nickwelton
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Tevez to Manchester City...
at
02:38
Well, I said it here first. When all the rumours started about where Tevez would end up, I always thought Man City would be his destination. (16/06/09).
So much thought for him not joining Liverpool because 'they are big rivals of Manchester United and I wouldn't like to upset the fans'. There's a big key in the name Carlos...MANCHESTER City. Just to rub salt into the wound, he's also taken the N0. 32 shirt there.
This move surely has to be money driven, he reasons for wanting regular football a fogged out by the fact that Robinho, Roque Santa Cruz and the impending transfer of Adebayor would indicate some time on the bench at the Eastlands. If he stuck out at Old Trafford, he might have got more games ahead of an injury prone Michael Owen and the misfiring Bulgarian Berbatov.
Verdict: But what's done is done. I have to say Manchester City are looking more impressive now and I fancy to break into the European places and even the top 4 next season.
Posted In
Manchester City,
Tevez
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1 comments
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Football...A black and white game.
Saturday, 11 July 2009
at
17:52
I came across a young boy, 13, on friday. He was buying some new boots for the season ahead. And all this before he heads out to Portugal to start pre-season training with Benfica. Wow. He was well spoken, looked reasonably athletic for his age and seemed genuinely interested in some of the tips and advice I had to give to him. However, what made him stand out was the his Pakistani family background. Born in England but both parents were from Pakistan.
Pardon the phrasing, but there has been an 'insurgence' of interest in Asian talent in the last couple of seasons. West Ham run the 'Asians in the Community scheme' which looks to get the majority population of Boleyn involved at the club in different non-playing capacities. Last season saw Chelsea launch their 'Asian star scheme' talent competition. Whether this is a search into a virtually untapped pool or whether its a way to get more people through the turnstiles remains to be seen. No doubt both will have wanted to have seen their efforts recognised.
There are only 7 UK-born Asians out of nearly 1,900 Football League players (calculated on each of the 92 football league teams having an average squad of 20 players, though this figure is likely to be greater). But what are the reasons for this insignificant percentage, considering that most of the Asian youth are 2nd or 3rd generation British?
My assumption is that parents have a large role to play in this. Not many view football as the holy grail of neither sport nor a long term career as their sons or daughters may now do. With the higher importance of cricket in the region, one only has to look within the boundaries to see the strides made by the likes of Monty Panesar, Ravi Bopara and Adil Rashid have made recently. Not forgetting former England captain Nasser Hussain either (Although he was born in India). So culture does play a part, as one can expect.
Secondly, Perception and Pride. Not all Indian and Pakistani doctors and lawyers ply those trades by coincidence. Some are spoonfed the idea from a young age, that the professions you choose during later life, will impact EVERYTHING! And to an extent that isn't wrong, but successes can be made outside of these fields. Somehow, 'Doctor' or 'Lawyer' reasonates better than 'footballer' at the big family gatherings. This really is the 'Show and Tell' for the older generations.
So, we've discussed the role of clubs in this situation, the role of parents as a possible reason. But how about the aspiring players? I mean with the expansive network of scouts that operate at each EPL club, surely a vast number would have been approached. There is the possibility that asian players simply are not good enough. We must remember that compared to the rest of the world, asians are relatively new to the playing side of the game (30 years max.). There is almost an element of giving the culture time to change. Time to learn football. Yes, some are fast, some are skillful but the vast majority lack the positional and technical guile required at the top level.
One must not forget role models. Cricket will always have its asian turnover due to the successes of Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan. But who have the UK asian footballers got to look up to? 7 in total is probably the answer.
I think it will be around 5-10 years before we see an influx of asians in the EPL, as most of them are currently in the academy assembly line, learning the game to the level which is required. Hopefully one day, we'll see a young man of pakistani origin cause a stir upon their £80million transfer. He might even be moving from Benfica.
Posted In
Asian,
Football,
Pakistan
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1 comments
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Today's interesting day...
Friday, 10 July 2009
at
13:38
Mark Bright, Leanne Sanders and Scott Parker all in one day...
Going from seeing nobody in weeks, I have three footballing marvels in one day. The day started 'Brightly', if you'd excuse the pun. Mr Bright came in and has to be one the funniest people I've met. He kindly talked about some work in Barbados he is looking forward to doing. A cool guy overall.
Leanne Sanders has popped in a few times now. Ever friendly as always. Really down to earth.
But then SCOTT PARKER. Legend of a guy. I didn't expect it, but he has to be one of the nicest guys I've ever come across, regardless of being a footballer or not. Really down to earth, chatty and best of all, took the time to fire questions back at me. Really pleasantly surprised and made my day for sure. Being a Newcastle fan as well, it was a pleasure to meet him. Hopefully I'll get to catch up with him soon. :)
Posted In
leanne sanders,
mark bright,
scott parker
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Michael Jackson Memorial
Thursday, 9 July 2009
at
06:25
Now that I've finally had a few days to mull over the Michael Jackson memorial, it was interesting to see such a huge RESPECTED turn out for MJ.Right from the very start it had a mixture of respect, humour, sadness and above all else, the message of peace. I really enjoyed the speeches given by Smokey Robinson and Berry Gordy. Two people who I hadn't invested much of time in before but somehow managed to pull me in with their stories of a young Michael Jackson. Both seemed more wanting to talk in a humourous way rather than sadness.
In terms of moving and emotional moments on the night, I'd have to say that the speeches from Brooke Shields and Paris Jackson, as well as the performance of 'Smile' by Jermaine Jackson, really struck the heart strings of the audience. Who knew of the great trusting friendship that MJ shared with Shields to the point that it was a competition to make each other laugh! It was great to hear stories of a true man behind a performer.
Im curious for the future of the Jackson children. It was almost a moment of unveiling. From the obscurity of not really ever seeing their faces or hearing their voices, we got both as well as the invaluable insight of true emotion from Paris for the closing speech. Jermaine Jackson can still sing. Period. From his eyes welling up at the very start to the almost being unable to finish the song to throwing his rose onto the coffin at the end, he will definately never forget Michael. It was a performance where every word had a memory attached to it.
For some reason, the performance I most anticipated for the night was Shaheen Jaffargholi's. I was surprised to see he had been given the final solo slot. Not that I felt he didn't belong there, more that it should have gone to someone more meaningful (i.e. Jermaine) or someone more well-known (Usher?! Good performance too). That said, I was pleased to hear Berry Gordy's intention to sign the young artist to Motown! I wish him all the best.
Finally, it was nice that the stage was left fitting. A shining spotlight with only the microphone on stage. Just the way the world's greatest ever entertainer would have wanted it. Just how he would have done it himself!
Posted In
michael Jackson
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Is Sporting Failure down to the British Public Or British Media?
Friday, 3 July 2009
at
15:24
This week has seen two big British hopes see defeat. Firstly on Monday, England's U21s crashed at the final hurdle to, wait for it, GERMANY! But at least we had another beacon of hope. Andy Murray, unfortunately his lights were out before showtime started.Theres has been a continued failure in British sports over the years, apart from the Rugby World Cup in 2003, you'd have to go a long way back before any kind of success for the isles. (Let's not include Athletics here, although we haven't troubled USA for a while now). But the question to raise is: 'Is this the fault of the British Public or the British Media?'
"I hope these players don't win tonight, otherwise they'll be called the Golden Generation!". This was the quip of one public contributor on a sports website during Monday's game. Our unwillingness to completely follow our greatest athletes is obvious. Everyone wanted the U21's to get to the Final, the 'doubters' wanted them to lose the final...well, because they dont like the satisfaction of having winners, perhaps in the fear of arrogance. For all of everyone who supported Murray throughout Wimbledon 2009, there would have been a great amount who would have wished for his failure (Scot or Brit debate?) We love 2nd place in this country! loll...
The press also have an uncanny ability to pressure athletes in thinking they have the right to win or that this year 'is their year!'..it never materialises. The countless 'do you think you can win?' interviews must surely cause unnecessary pressure augmentation on players. And pressure affects performance. It also questions what role the press have to play in the public's perception of the sports outcomes.
Do we really care that much to begin with that Murray could win or that the U21s are world beaters? Or do the press force it upon you?
Posted In
Murray,
Press,
Public,
U21s
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Owen to Man Utd....!
at
15:08
Well here's a bit of news I did not expect to be writing about. After 4 below-par seasons at Newcastle, Michael Owen has signed for Manchester United!
I honestly thought that considering his injury proneness and his lack of goals in recent seasons would have meant that he would have needed to have proven himself for at least one more season before any of the big four would be interested.
Add to the fact that we've already seen one player this transfer window refuse to swap jerseys of the Reds of the North, to see Michael Owen make this transition, albeit a few clubs in between, is a strange one. The once prodigal son of the Kop will be the audience to a chorus of boos during his next visit to Anfield without doubt. If he stays fit.
I really have no idea who thought signing Owen for Man U was a good idea. But I'll keep quiet for now, purely on the fact of not wanting to eat my words at a later date, and definately not when it's being served by Sir Alex...
Posted In
Manchester United,
Owen
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Santa Cruz to Man City...
Tuesday, 23 June 2009
at
01:38
Roque Santa Cruz has left Blackburn to join up with Mark Hughes at Man City. The fee has set them back £18m, which I'm sure is just back pocket change for the owners. He looks quick and agile, as well as a pretty decent first time and aerial ability. But from speaking to City fans, he seems very injury prone. But the prospect of Tevez, Robinho and Santa Cruz...hmmmmmm, pretty good!
Posted In
Manchester City,
Santa Cruz
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Possibly the Ugliest Away kit in football????
at
01:32
Wow!...Now Whilst I'm a fan of Newcastle, something can't help but making me think that Mike Ashley wanted to make a little parting shot before he left the club! This is AWFUL. What do you guys think? Anything worse out there?
Posted In
Ashley,
Newcastle
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3
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Tony Mowbray - The Celtic Man
at
03:10
Yesterday saw Tony Mowbray make his return to Celtic Park. Now, my knowledge of the SPL really isnt that great. So I turned to the man in the know, Sir Damian Owens, for his opinion on the appointment....
The general feeling is that budget has a lot to do with the appointment. For the amount of money that Celtic have, this is probably one of the best appointments that could have been made. Maybe not as good as a club of this stature deserves, but it will have to do.
But the former Celtic man has many strong plus points. He's been very strong with Hibs in his previous tenure in the SPL and as a former player, should know what the Bhoys' faithful want. His time at West Brom, showed he managed the Celtic way. Attacking football with plenty of passing.
However, he will have to rely on the respect he has to deal with players. His ability to manage big name players and attract them to the club at that are still questionable. And it will also be interesting to see how he deals with his narrow tactical knowledge in big games, such as the Old Firm derby and European ties.
Verdict: Will be interesting to see how he does back in the SPL with one of the big two. It will certainly be a case of time rather than massive results straight away, but no doubt wuth a squad the calibre of Celtic's, he should manage it.
Posted In
Celtic,
Mowbray
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New Fixtures Released....
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
at
02:35
Just wanted to get everyone's opinions on the new fixture lists released this morning, and maybe even a few predictions for the way the leagues are going to go....
I for one was heartbroken to see Newcastle United classified in the Championship fixture list...Away to West Brom on the opening day :( but we have Reading and Sheff Wed the following week...oh the PAIN!!!
Comment away guys...
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Fixtures,
Newcastle
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4
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The Man in the Mirror...
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
at
01:19
Carlos Tevez, the man behind the most string attached loan move in footballing history.
Having recently finished a 2 season loan at Manchester United, the hard working striker is pondering where his future lies. With Man U's newly replenished transfer kitty, a lot of the fans would love to see him stay at the club. According to this morning's papers however, he has been linked with Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Barcelona and Inter Milan. Whichever club does fork out the necessary £25 million, will have bought him outright from Kia Joorabchian (the smug git with greasy hair). But I wonder how he'd fit into the above interested teams...
Manchester City - I think Tevez would be an awesome acquisition for Manchester City. He'd help bring along some of the younger talent at the club and with Robinho, would spearhead a very attractive frontline. At a reported £140k a week deal, the money will never too bad either.
Liverpool - This would be my favourite destination for the little man. With either Alonso or Mascherano destined for Spain this summer, I see Liverpool playing a 4-4-2 come 4-3-3 next season. This ideally being Gerrard and a would be Tevez sitting behind Torres with a supporting 3 man midfield. With the workrate of both supporting strikers this is easily a 4-5-1 when necessary also. Another great idea for Benitez to mess up.
Chelsea - Don't see making this move personally. With the likes of Anelka, Drogba and Malouda/J.Cole, I think he'll end up in the same situation he was at United.
Barcelona - Just don't do it. He'll never break that front 3 or the middle 3 for that matter. And with the array of talent coming through, he'll leave before he's finished unpacking.
Inter Milan - Potentially a good move for him, a slightly slower league for a very technically gifted player. Would be a good replacement for 'taking a mid-career break' Adriano and he could compliment Ibrahimovic very well. Although whether he'll be at the San Siro next season remains to be seen.
Tevez, quality player, class man. He says he'd like to stay in the Premier League, and I for one, believe he'll do just that. Coming to an Anfield or Old Trafford near you soon...
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Tevez
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5
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Minnows in Qualifiers...
Friday, 12 June 2009
at
06:59
This was originally going to be my post yesterday, but some orange man went to Spain.
Andy Townsend brought up the issue on Wednesday night after the England game. Should weaker teams, such as Andorra, Kazakhstan etc have to pre-qualify to be in the qualifiers?
The argument of yes. In England's case, this is 4 extra games they will have to play in a season in order to qualify. 4 more cases for managers to worry about their star players getting injured and tired, in games where a win is almost guaranteed. We are now the best part of 3 weeks after the last game of the season, within touching distance of pre-season at some clubs and some players would not have had any decent rest whatsoever. Theo Walcott for example, is now away for the U21 Championships for another few weeks. In my opinion, the other side of the argument is far more interesting...
No. Qualifiers. It does exactly what it say on the tin. Critics seem to forget that these are the QUALIFIERS for the World Cup. A bigger and better tournament. Every team that is registered with FIFA should have the equal right to qualify for the same reason we all started playing football. Its all well and good to ask this question when the national team is of prominence, but people forget to realise that England didn't even qualify for the last Euros, because we played so poorly in the qualifiers. What if someone had said that about us? There would have been outrage!
Look at cup football. The FA cup would be nowhere near as exciting if there weren't the odd major scalp every season, and that truly is the beauty of football. Anything can happen. These teams deserve a bit of glory and to be able to live a dream out as well.
Verdict: LET THEM PLAY!!!!
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England,
Minnows,
Qualifiers
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0
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Wayne Rooney....
Thursday, 11 June 2009
at
04:49
I mentioned in the last post that in my opinion Ronaldo wasn't Manchester United's best player. I sincerely do think that Wayne Rooney deserves this recognition.
He's genuinely has the heart of a lion (or three). You get the feeling that he is the kind of player that doesn't care what position he plays in, as long as he is playing. We've seen it countless times for England and he has been a scolding hot red devil. We've seen him play across the front three and increasing in a left wing position. I think my argument is reinforced by the fact that he has played phenomenally wherever he has been placed.
He has excellent touch, an awesome workrate and a footballing mind which is simply great. His array of finishes is also something to be admired. Headers, left foot or right foot, he can apply either power or the required finesse. Let's not forget the agility that he also carries.
I think on his day, he can be one of the best players in the world and he certainly is a playing role-model for young players. You'll have to mind his foul mouth and temperament, although some would argue that is what makes him so loved by his fans.
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Manchester United,
Rooney
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4
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So the Portu-girl star is leaving....
at
04:30
Real Madrid have twice proven that they have more money than sense in the space of a week.
£80million for Cristiano Ronaldo?? I thought £59m for Kaka was excessive earlier this week! According to manutd.com, it was CR7's desire to leave that made the Red Devils accept this latest bid. Good business on their part I think. In opinion he wasn't even MU's best player this season. Let alone the world's.
I don't think that the Premiership in all honesty aren't losing much. We're losing some flair and a few goals from next season's highlight reel. We are also losing a primma donna, sulking and lazy one season wonder. Admittedly he deserved the World Player accolade that he took home last year, but since the Moscow final he hasn't reproduced consistently this season. There have been a number of occasions where his lacklustre behaviour have cost Utd goals this season, and he has almost forced Sir Alex to play him as the central striker due to his inability to track back. I'm sure Patrice Evra breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing the news that Rooney was ahead of him rather than Ronaldo.
So there was THAT strike in Porto, a few free-kicks and a couple of penalties. There were also those dives, those whinges and those tantrums. I think the Premier League has already seen the best Ronaldo has to offer. It won't be coming back after it went missing last season. £80m is great money for what he can longer give the fans. This will probably open the door for Ribery to make his way to Man U in my opinion.
Good luck to the Portu-girl, and Good Ridance.
Posted In
Manchester United,
Real Madrid,
Ronaldo
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13
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England VS Andorra
Wednesday, 10 June 2009
at
20:59
Just a quick note on this one...
England are really shaping up to be a good team now, which is good to see. They seem to be playing with a lot of patience around the pitch and at the edge of the box. 6-0 against a team that were happy to defend for 90 minutes is good going. Every player put in a good performance, except for Rob Green who as David Pleat said 'We could've won today without a goalkeeper'. A sentiment that I echo.
There are several articles as follow-ons to this, I hope you enjoy them :)
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Andorra,
England
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0
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Michael still g-Owen nowhere.....
Tuesday, 9 June 2009
at
05:11
Argentina's wasn't the only defence torn apart(World Cup '98) by a young Michael Owen. The then Liverpool man was feared by every opposition defence, with his blinding pace and exquisite finishing. Fast forward 2 clubs and about 10 years.....
He has played 70 games in 4 seasons now at Newcastle. At a reported £120k a week, he sincerely hasn't proven his worth. The majority of the reason has been his inability to stay fit. His hamstring, knees, groin and metatarsal have been operated on so many times, I wonder if he is planning a acting career to become the new '6 Million Dollar Man'. On second thoughts, I dont think anyone would even pay that for him. He has no pace left, and although the service was lacking, so was his ability to take the chances that were presented to him.
I personally feel that his agent will have hard work trying to shift him to another club, as I think although clubs will have to spend money, there are better players available. Ones with better assurances of playing and staying fit. I really wish this wasn't the outcome for him at the toon, afterall I was optimistic about the black and white future that Newcastle had. But I find it highly unlikely that they will renew his contract this summer, which a huge trimming of the wage bill required. Two Birds, One Stone springs to mind.
As to whether anyone will step in for his services remains to be seen. I imagine, a club like Portsmouth may be a good destination for him. New owner, big name needed but they can't be overly fussy over who they bring in. He'd be a worthwhile punt, this considered with my impression that none of the top 7 or 8 clubs will want to be drawn into tabloid speculation with him.
Verdict: Will leave Newcastle at some point this summer, but only for a bottom half Premiership club, as he doesn't have anything to offer a top half team.
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Owen
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So Kaka finally left...
at
04:52
Kaka exited stage left this morning for the all whites of Madrid...
Firstly let me say. that when I said yesterday that he can't be mentioned in the same breath as Zidane, I wasn't implying that he isn't a great player. I feel in time he will be, just not yet. ZZ did it from day one to the last day of his career, albeit that sending off at the World Cup. I've seen many great players not live upto their price tags and at £59m + bonuses, he's going to have to play hard and sell a large number of shirts. I think he'll do both and I wish him all the best at the Bernabeu.
Pato is now rumoured to be leaving the Rossineri to link up with Carlo at the Bridge. His 'father figure and role model' will no doubt have an influencing factor on him joining if Milan choose to sell. It does leave to the imagination how hard hit Milan have been by the financial downturn, selling 2 of their higher valued assets in what could be the space of a week! I wonder what this could now mean for either Anelka or Drogba if the brazilian makes his way to the Blues. There surely isn't room for 3 expectant starters, is there?
ETO'O will NOT leave Barcelona for the Eastlands! So will Man City please stop exciting their fans with players who clearly will not come. Eto'o just seems a bit too happy there to change dwellings. This is starting to remind of era, when a team called Newcastle were linked with everyone under the sun and the fans got all excited for nothing...and we all know where that story goes...
Have a nice day y'all...
Posted In
Chelsea,
Kaka,
Milan,
Pato,
Real Madrid
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0
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Kaka to Madrid..?
Monday, 8 June 2009
at
02:24
This morning's breaking news is that Kaka is apparently having a medical at Real Madrid today. £56 million pound deal. I don't dispute that he is a great player with age seemingly on his side, but I'm not sure he's worth that amount of money.
Let's look at this comparitively. Would you mention Kaka in the same breath as Zinedine Zidane, Figo at his height? Both of these two were sold in the £40m bracket and were truly great and definately ZZ will be amongst the footballers who can be used to finished to debates of 'Was there ever a player who could make and change the game like....?'
I honestly do not think he is worth £56m, but a pat on the back to Madrid and Mr Perez for finally doing something to revive the Galaticos, who in recent seasons have really struggled to find consistency in their play and have been living in the glorious shadows of their Catalan rivals.
It will definately be interesting to see who else they bring in, especially if yet another Red Devil no.7 heads to the spanish plains....
Posted In
Kaka,
Real Madrid,
transfer
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0
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England Prevail....
Sunday, 7 June 2009
at
11:22
England beating Kazakhstan yesterday was surely no surprise to anyone. They played some decent football at times, which is show with 6 wins from 6 now in the qualifiers! Surely a mark of great side is that now fans and critics are no longer looking to individual players who can change or make the game. Recently everybody has been focused on the England TEAM. Finally we're playing the way we should be, although we have yet to face some major opposition. I find it unlikely that Andorra will step up to that plate come Wednesday night...I imagine England will make it 7 from 7...
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So far this week...
Friday, 5 June 2009
at
07:39
Manchester City's spending power will determine a lot of the happpenings in this transfer window. Having just spent £12 million on Gareth Barry, a player worth that money on his day, when he only had a year left on his Villa contract shows their financial muscle. Harry Redknapp revealed that Spurs had tabled an offer for him but they could not compete. Samuel Eto'o has also been linked with a move to the Eastlands, but i fail to see that materialising. Why would he leave a club that has just won everything, to join a club who have yet to win anything? Pep Guardiola has proven he will take a team further than old Sparky!
I wonder how must it feel for a new manager to know that he wasn't first choice? Cue Manuel Pellegrini. Just days after his appointment as Real Madrid manager, Florentino Perez declares that he originally wanted Arsene Wenger to take the helm at the Bernabeu. Thanks for that! The reasons cited for not being able to capture the Frenchman were that he felt he still had a job to do at Arsenal.
What is actually going on at the Emirates? They've not won anything in four seasons and some of their football last season simply was upto standards. In my opinion some experience is needed very quickly in the form of a new centre back, a defensive midfielder and another attacker. If this morning's papers are anything to go by, Wolfsburg's stiker Dzeko is heading to the red side of north London. From what I've seen, he looks to be a good finisher. This would a good opportunity to offload Adebayor!
Carlo Ancelotti took over on Monday at the Chelsea. I think he was allowed to go only with the promise that wouldn't take Kaka with him. This is my reasoning behind the Rossineri's statement that the Brazilian will only be permitted a move to Real should the situation arise. I think Ancelotti will do a great job at Stamford Bridge, and hopefully he will be given the time to stabilise a team and squad, which could be the missing factor for a future consistent title challenge.
Quick Notes...
I am GUTTED Brendan Rodgers has left Watford to join Reading, but best of luck to him...Will somebody please sign up Carlos Tevez????.... Man U have a new sponsorship deal with AON....
Thanks for reading guys...comment away....
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1 comments
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The Closed Season....
at
07:30
Another fantastic season is over and the dust has finally settled on a very one sided Champions League final. Who would have thought that a team that Sir Alex has called his best, would be outplayed so much by FC Barcelona. Afterall, had it not been for some questionable decisions at the bridge, they might not have been in Rome at all! Some would call it fate, as on the night the better team won. If I was a betting man, I would put my house on Iniesta or Xavi lifting the Ballon D'or or World Player awards this year. Simply Class....
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