In today’s transfer market the spending gulf between the top and bottom clubs is vast. But there is now even a money gulf between the top clubs. Two teams who have recently lived in their neighbour’s shadow are enjoying their own very different resurgences, one is free-spending whilst the other uses its limited funds wisely. Manchester city’s new owners have limitless bags of cash to spend and are attempting to mount an attack upon the established top four. Meanwhile, Everton have improved unrecognisably under the expert management of David Moyes. Everton, not a rich club by premier league standards, manage to consistently out-gun their big spending premiership rivals and to finish in the European places. I personally wouldn’t bet against them doing it again this year. Like their close neighbours, Everton could really do with some investment and a new stadium, But Moyes and chairman bill Kenwright continue to just get on with the job, and Everton continue to impress. Everton and Manchester City are now embroiled in one of the most interesting transfer stories of the summer.
Big Money has now made certain super-rich clubs capable of signing a all their transfer targets, leaving the smaller clubs in a position where saying ‘no’ is impossible. City’s impressive spending power has allowed them to amass a formidable strikeforce, but any armchair analyst can see that there is a lack of balance in the side and defensive players are urgently required. Mark Hughes’ primary target is Everton’s Joleon Lescott, who last year had the season of his life. In the Everton defence Lescot was partnered with Phil Jagielka who is now a long term injury victim. If Moyes were to lose Lescott to Man City, the defence that performed so well last year will be broken up entirely. Recent experience tells us that the amount of money available at Eastlands means that a deal is likely.
Hughes has made offers of 15 and 18 million to date, But Moyes has refused to do business, aware that selling his best players to what will probably prove his closest rival is a bad move. Hughes has clearly been riled by Everton’s position on the matter and has, somewhat embarrassingly stating that he would “go over Moyes’ head” and do a deal “with the decision makers”. This has left David Moyes understandably furious, and interestingly, reports have begun to emerge linking city with other defensive targets, notably Matthew Upson.
Even if Everton hold firm over the player’s not for sale status, they will never be able to match City’s wages, and Lescott, who is earning the going rate for a player of his ability at Everton, can suddenly match the league’s top earners with a move to City, tempting even to the most committed of players. In the face of these amounts of money the player will always want to move. In response Lescott has duly handed in a transfer request, which Moyes has rejected. His man-management skills will now be put to the test.
Looking at the transfer sagas of the close season in a wider context we can see that with such huge amounts of money involved managers will be made to work just as hard during the close season as they will have to during the regular season. The precedent was set last season by Martin O’Neil in the big story of last summer, the proposed transfer of Gareth Barry to Liverpool. O’Neil remained determined that if Barry was to leave, it would be for an inflated fee, regardless of the players wishes and contract length. This approach however achieved limited success, as Barry, who was nearing the end of his contract stayed at Villa, only to leave for Man City a year later, for 12 million, while Liverpool were willing to pay around 20 million. Similarly this year, Rafa Benitez attempted to keep Alonso at Liverpool in the face of heavy pressure from Real Madrid. Benitez ultimately failed, his position undermined somewhat by his willingness to sell Alonso for 15 million, just a year earlier. But for Moyes a happy ending is more likely, Lescott has four years remaining on his contract, so a the prospect of him leaving under the Bosman ruling in the near future is out of the question and with the transfer window set to slam shut in a little over two weeks, Hughes has little option but to look at other targets or make an over the top offer that has to be accepted. Either way expect more twists in this story. As for the impact of limitless money in football, it looks as though transfer market hostility is more popular than ever.
Saturday 15 August 2009
Wednesday 12 August 2009
Tittle-Tackle #7
Martin Petrov wants to move on:
Good point, but Man City do pay bench polishers, as in the actual cleaners of the bench area, around £20,000 a week.
No footballer is content with polishing the bench and I am no exception.
Good point, but Man City do pay bench polishers, as in the actual cleaners of the bench area, around £20,000 a week.
Tuesday 11 August 2009
The Left Footer
One of the ongoing sagas in football is the left-hand side of midfield and defence. This is a problem that plagued the England side for many years and resulted in the likes of Steve Guppy and Chris Powell receiving England call ups. If you despise Ashley Cole, at least admit that his presence as a world class full back allowed us to have some consistency on the left of defence.
This problem expands beyond the England side, with many Premier League teams facing this question with regards to left backs and left wingers:
Should we play the left footer or the better player?
Here's the formula:
If you play a right footed left winger it is more important to play a left footed left back because there is a need for width in attack. For example, Ferguson was able to play Rooney effectively on the left hand side because of Patrice Evra's infinite ability to get forward. Simultaneously, Rooney's willingness to cover back allowed Evra to bomb forward with confidence.
In contrast, Aston Villa often looked unbalanced when Martin O'Neill played the two right footed Youngs on the left hand side. Ashley Young looked fantastic last season, but on his forays inside, there was often space on the left that wasn't being exploited. In these situations, Abonglahor was often drawn into this space, consequently removing himself from goalscoring positions. With the signing of his former Boro teammate Stewart Downing, Luke Young will be able to be part of a more balanced left hand side. And hopefully, Downing's arrival will lead to Ashely Young being given the central roaming role that he could thrive in. Alternatively, Ashley Young will remain wide on the left, with Shorey (if he regains MON's confidence) providing the balance going forward.
This problem, has in fact become a template for success on the right hand side of the pitch. The case in point being the play of Lionel Messi for Barcelona. His runs from the the right hand side on his left foot have left defences with few answers, and caused Gus Hiddink to claim that, Jose Bosingwa, playing as a right footed left back would have an easier time defending him. Here it becomes truly odd, because Bosingwa defended Messi exceptionally well. Left footers can move to the right and vice versa -- it depends on the situation.
The point here is clear, the original notion that focused upon the lack of the left footed player, especially within the England setup, was in fact misguided, or perhaps, that area of the pitch has simply changed. Being balanced on the left, doesn't depend upon both players being left footed, it relies on the balance of the two players. Arguably, two right footers with a better understanding will be more successful than two left footers. Further, Messi proves that having the ability to come inside can be more dangerous than to the ability to go on the outside. Simply put, in modern football, the wide positions are becoming more diverse in their duties, and consequently, the traditional concept of the search for a 'good left foot' could be coming to an end.
This problem expands beyond the England side, with many Premier League teams facing this question with regards to left backs and left wingers:
Should we play the left footer or the better player?
Here's the formula:
If you play a right footed left winger it is more important to play a left footed left back because there is a need for width in attack. For example, Ferguson was able to play Rooney effectively on the left hand side because of Patrice Evra's infinite ability to get forward. Simultaneously, Rooney's willingness to cover back allowed Evra to bomb forward with confidence.
In contrast, Aston Villa often looked unbalanced when Martin O'Neill played the two right footed Youngs on the left hand side. Ashley Young looked fantastic last season, but on his forays inside, there was often space on the left that wasn't being exploited. In these situations, Abonglahor was often drawn into this space, consequently removing himself from goalscoring positions. With the signing of his former Boro teammate Stewart Downing, Luke Young will be able to be part of a more balanced left hand side. And hopefully, Downing's arrival will lead to Ashely Young being given the central roaming role that he could thrive in. Alternatively, Ashley Young will remain wide on the left, with Shorey (if he regains MON's confidence) providing the balance going forward.
This problem, has in fact become a template for success on the right hand side of the pitch. The case in point being the play of Lionel Messi for Barcelona. His runs from the the right hand side on his left foot have left defences with few answers, and caused Gus Hiddink to claim that, Jose Bosingwa, playing as a right footed left back would have an easier time defending him. Here it becomes truly odd, because Bosingwa defended Messi exceptionally well. Left footers can move to the right and vice versa -- it depends on the situation.
The point here is clear, the original notion that focused upon the lack of the left footed player, especially within the England setup, was in fact misguided, or perhaps, that area of the pitch has simply changed. Being balanced on the left, doesn't depend upon both players being left footed, it relies on the balance of the two players. Arguably, two right footers with a better understanding will be more successful than two left footers. Further, Messi proves that having the ability to come inside can be more dangerous than to the ability to go on the outside. Simply put, in modern football, the wide positions are becoming more diverse in their duties, and consequently, the traditional concept of the search for a 'good left foot' could be coming to an end.
Monday 10 August 2009
Football and Literature #2: 'The Fight' by Norman Mailer
The first installment of Football and Literature featured Joe Stretch’s Wildlife, a book that contained direct references to football. For this article, we will move away from a direct to connection to football, we will however remain in the realm of sport, and still, footy.
Norman Mailer’s The Fight is a New Journalistic account of the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’, Ali versus Foreman, 1974, in Zaire, Africa. The book, as with all New Journalistic writing, doesn’t simply report, it conveys a substance beyond the facts. Mailer sets the personality clash of the two fighters against the simultaneously inviting and rejecting location of Zaire. The book perfectly communicates the role of personality beyond skill in such individual sporting clashes. As much as this fight was a contest between differing boxing styles, it was a match between the different attitudes that represented these styles. The root of Mailer’s effort is in the fascinating character of his dual subjects: Ali and Foreman.
Football, of course, is an eleven-a-side affair. But, the style/personality clashes that Mailer so ably conveys appear in two ways within football.
Firstly, each team carries a philosophy. In some cases, this approach is young and new, the passing style you may expect Martinez to introduce at Wigan for example. For some teams, a team wide philosophy is built over many years, i.e. Arsene Wenger’s belief in youth and the importance of selling players soon after the reach their peak. It is clear that the heavyweights of football are the managers, if Mailer were to write a book on the Premier League; maybe Ferguson would be his Ali, with Wenger riding the ropes as Foreman. Each manager has a selection of punches to throw, Giggs has long being Ferguson’s left hook, and last season, Delap was Tony Pulis’ long arm jab. Beyond the manager though, every team has a personality, and this persona is organic. This is most clear when you see a manager struggling; his input is outweighed by the mutating attitude of the team. There are other factors, such as club ownership, but teams like Newcastle for example, tend to have a negative attitude that outlives multiple managers. There needs to be balance between the manager’s input and the team’s, manager’s personality might be Ali’s right, whilst the team’s collective attitude could act as his left. In combination, the rights and lefts of each team square off against each other in every game, and they represent the battle of personality.
Secondly, Mailer’s effort links to the public thirst/interest for individual battles within the eleven-a-side game. A strong example of this is the conflict between Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira, an ongoing contest that was summed up by the cult-hit video of their spat in the tunnel in 2004. This was the pinnacle of clash in ideology, but similarly, it was a case of two players with a similarly overpowering will. Further, how often does the media seek to boil down a game to an individual battle? Each match is built from a series of individual battles, which build into a team battle. No goal is a result of one single battle; there is a build up of play that leads to a one-on-one with the keeper or a winger embarrassing a fullback. But, we like to see a match hinging on a fight between two players. We remember Thierry Henry’s consistent embarrassment of Jamie Carragher, or the amusing clip of Phillip Lahm battling Jan Koller in a Haye/Valuev style of encounter. We think about Seaman’s elbow versus McAllister in Euro 96 and Vinnie Jones grabbing Gazza’s balls.
The Fight teaches us as much about team sport as it does about individual sport. All sport is a battle between two entities, and where we can, whether we want to boil it down to its smallest element: two ideologies going at it until one succumbs, or the pair walk away in mutual admiration. With the Premier League starting on Saturday, give it a go, try tand focus on the individual battles and consider their role in making football so successful. Modern sport isn’t just about wins, draws and losses, it’s about personalities and philosophies that are widely known and widely established. These elements cannot exist without the individual fights that we love to watch and talk about, no matter how insignificant or ancillary they are to the final result. Vieira and Keane’s scuffle didn’t even take place on the pitch, but it remains iconic – simply, we just can’t resist the stuff.
Norman Mailer’s The Fight is a New Journalistic account of the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’, Ali versus Foreman, 1974, in Zaire, Africa. The book, as with all New Journalistic writing, doesn’t simply report, it conveys a substance beyond the facts. Mailer sets the personality clash of the two fighters against the simultaneously inviting and rejecting location of Zaire. The book perfectly communicates the role of personality beyond skill in such individual sporting clashes. As much as this fight was a contest between differing boxing styles, it was a match between the different attitudes that represented these styles. The root of Mailer’s effort is in the fascinating character of his dual subjects: Ali and Foreman.
Football, of course, is an eleven-a-side affair. But, the style/personality clashes that Mailer so ably conveys appear in two ways within football.
Firstly, each team carries a philosophy. In some cases, this approach is young and new, the passing style you may expect Martinez to introduce at Wigan for example. For some teams, a team wide philosophy is built over many years, i.e. Arsene Wenger’s belief in youth and the importance of selling players soon after the reach their peak. It is clear that the heavyweights of football are the managers, if Mailer were to write a book on the Premier League; maybe Ferguson would be his Ali, with Wenger riding the ropes as Foreman. Each manager has a selection of punches to throw, Giggs has long being Ferguson’s left hook, and last season, Delap was Tony Pulis’ long arm jab. Beyond the manager though, every team has a personality, and this persona is organic. This is most clear when you see a manager struggling; his input is outweighed by the mutating attitude of the team. There are other factors, such as club ownership, but teams like Newcastle for example, tend to have a negative attitude that outlives multiple managers. There needs to be balance between the manager’s input and the team’s, manager’s personality might be Ali’s right, whilst the team’s collective attitude could act as his left. In combination, the rights and lefts of each team square off against each other in every game, and they represent the battle of personality.
Secondly, Mailer’s effort links to the public thirst/interest for individual battles within the eleven-a-side game. A strong example of this is the conflict between Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira, an ongoing contest that was summed up by the cult-hit video of their spat in the tunnel in 2004. This was the pinnacle of clash in ideology, but similarly, it was a case of two players with a similarly overpowering will. Further, how often does the media seek to boil down a game to an individual battle? Each match is built from a series of individual battles, which build into a team battle. No goal is a result of one single battle; there is a build up of play that leads to a one-on-one with the keeper or a winger embarrassing a fullback. But, we like to see a match hinging on a fight between two players. We remember Thierry Henry’s consistent embarrassment of Jamie Carragher, or the amusing clip of Phillip Lahm battling Jan Koller in a Haye/Valuev style of encounter. We think about Seaman’s elbow versus McAllister in Euro 96 and Vinnie Jones grabbing Gazza’s balls.
The Fight teaches us as much about team sport as it does about individual sport. All sport is a battle between two entities, and where we can, whether we want to boil it down to its smallest element: two ideologies going at it until one succumbs, or the pair walk away in mutual admiration. With the Premier League starting on Saturday, give it a go, try tand focus on the individual battles and consider their role in making football so successful. Modern sport isn’t just about wins, draws and losses, it’s about personalities and philosophies that are widely known and widely established. These elements cannot exist without the individual fights that we love to watch and talk about, no matter how insignificant or ancillary they are to the final result. Vieira and Keane’s scuffle didn’t even take place on the pitch, but it remains iconic – simply, we just can’t resist the stuff.
Should the Old Firm be in the Premier League?
As a Rangers fan, I can honestly say I would love to escape the monotonous seasonal one-two that occurs in the SPL. I 'firmly' believe that the Old Firm could compete and feasibly win in the Premier League and I have had many a discussion with friends on why and why not the pair should be allowed in. The argument for such an entry is not only pub talk, but is an ongoing argument at the highest level of football, with two opposing sides being represented by 'money men' and the 'traditionalists'.
The subject of Rangers and Celtic becoming part of the Premier League continues to be a major talking point and Rangers manager, Walter Smith, has clearly defined views on the matter:
I would love to see it happen, because it would be of enormous benefit to both clubs and for the Scottish national team, but I don't know whether English teams, in the end, would vote for that. I don't think they would.
I remember being at Everton once where it was asked at a board meeting and the directors said there would be no chance of it happening. That would be the case in most boardrooms, because Rangers and Celtic would not come down here to be middle-of-the-league clubs. After the bedding-in period they would be among the challengers for the title. I think that would be apparent to most English clubs, and that is why I don't think we will get the opportunity.
The main argument against the introduction of the Old Firm to the Premier League is the simple fact that both clubs are Scottish, despite the fact that one is arguably more Irish than Scottish. Other opponents argue that they wouldn’t bring anything to the league, or that the SPL would simply collapse in the wake of the Old Firm's departure. My reply to people, who bring up nationality as a reason against, is that Cardiff have won the FA Cup, and just last year, nearly won it again. Cardiff are a Welsh team, along with Swansea and Wrexham. Further, Cardiff could, in the very near future, be in the Premier League.
Some of my pessimistic friends comment: 'Well if that’s the case, that Rangers and Celtic have become too big for the SPL, then why shouldn’t a similar isolated duo of teams such as Ajax and PSV play in the Bundesliga for example?' Well, for starters the Eredivisie earns more money than the SPL, so neither of those two clubs are dying a slow death. Also, if you look at the previous winners in that league over the last ten years, no club has one the title more than two times in a row. It is however true that the remaining clubs would be severely hurt financially by the Old Firm heading south of the border.
Most clubs, but especially the smaller SPL sides, rely on their four Old Firm games to boost the coffers; the away fans of both the Glasgow sides outnumber the home supporters when they play clubs like Inverness and Hamilton. But, on the flip side, maybe it is time for the other teams to stop relying upon the Old Firm and to start working with more realistic budgets. Aberdeen, Hearts and Hibs all have good stadiums, with good behind the scenes set-ups, these would be the clubs to step into the void. After a few years finishing in the top two, and getting into the Champions League, they would start to see some real money.
The main, and most moronic, argument against this move is: 'What would they bring to the table?' This argument is where the 'money men' come into play, and the money could quite possibly the thing that allows the Old Firm in. The appeal of the Old Firm is world-wide as Tony Mowbray recently stated. Mowbray, who left West Brom to take charge at Celtic Park this summer, knows that even a well organized club like West Brom finds it very hard to compete at the highest level. But, he is of the belief that the Old Firm, with its fan base, would be able to hold their own in the Premiership.
My first game in charge was in Australia and to see 25,000 Celtic supporters in the stadium suggest it is a world-wide club that would bring a world-wide audience to the Premiership.
I think they would enhance the Premier League.
Bolton's chairman, Phil Gartside, envisages a revamped Premiership set up which would involve the Premier League being reduced to 18 clubs and the introduction of a second tier of 18 clubs, including the two Glasgow sides. His plan won’t work, as middle-level English teams, and even some of the big boys, would not support the arrival of Celtic and Rangers into the Premier League as they know that the Old Firm teams, with Premier League money at their disposal, would ultimately threaten their own place within the league. A different proposal would've have to be created.
If a suitable solution was found, the Old Firm would bring a great deal to English football. The most significant aspect of which would be a following that exceeds all, bar Manchester United and Liverpool. Currently Celtic and Rangers are third and fourth in average home attendance tally, behind Manchester United and Arsenal. They also have a traveling support that is the equal to any in English football. Although it is hard to believe overseas interest in the Premier League could grow, it undoubtedly would if Celtic and Rangers were involved. This would be especially true in North America and Australia, whose large Scottish and Irish ex-pat communities still fervently follow the Old Firm. At the very least, the idea of the Old Firm joining the Premier League qualifies as innovative. It is workable too, both in a geographical and logistical sense. With cheap inter-city flights, it would cost the same for a fan of Chelsea or Portsmouth to travel up to Glasgow as it would to watch their sides play any of the teams in the North East.
The relocation of the Old Firm would be a good thing for the global brand that is the Premier League, it would also benefit the Scottish national team, and eventually the other smaller SPL sides, but can I see it happening in the next 10 years? Possibly. In the next 5 years? No way.
The relocation of the Old Firm would be a good thing for the global brand that is the Premier League, it would also benefit the Scottish national team, and eventually the other smaller SPL sides, but can I see it happening in the next 10 years? Possibly. In the next 5 years? No way.
Josh
Friday 7 August 2009
James Hoxey's 2009/2010 Predictions: Part 2
6. Who's going to win the Champions League at the Bernabeau?
Part of me wants to say Real Madrid. But I am feeling a little bit kind and might just tip Chelsea to tick that big old Champions League box this year. Ancellotti has done it before.
7. Who are the PFA going to dub 'Player of the Season'?
This year, I have really given it a lot of thought. Once I recovered from my headache I decided that this could be a defensive player's year. Joleon Lescott. You read it here first.
8. Who's going to be the PFA's 'Young Player of the Season'?
Young player of the year is a tough shout, but maybe we could see a great debut season from Rafael at United. With Ronaldo gone, Fergie could be looking for a lot more from his full backs going forward.
9. Which manager's going to have a season to remember?
That's going to be Owen Coyle. Being a Scot, you can't look beyond him piping up in a Fergie style.
10. Which manager's going to have a season to forget?
I hate to say it, but super Roy Hodgson might struggle to find that extra spark this season as he will be under a lot more pressure to deliver during this campaign.
11. Give us a random prediction?
Steve Coppell to get a job with a Premier League club.
Part of me wants to say Real Madrid. But I am feeling a little bit kind and might just tip Chelsea to tick that big old Champions League box this year. Ancellotti has done it before.
7. Who are the PFA going to dub 'Player of the Season'?
This year, I have really given it a lot of thought. Once I recovered from my headache I decided that this could be a defensive player's year. Joleon Lescott. You read it here first.
8. Who's going to be the PFA's 'Young Player of the Season'?
Young player of the year is a tough shout, but maybe we could see a great debut season from Rafael at United. With Ronaldo gone, Fergie could be looking for a lot more from his full backs going forward.
9. Which manager's going to have a season to remember?
That's going to be Owen Coyle. Being a Scot, you can't look beyond him piping up in a Fergie style.
10. Which manager's going to have a season to forget?
I hate to say it, but super Roy Hodgson might struggle to find that extra spark this season as he will be under a lot more pressure to deliver during this campaign.
11. Give us a random prediction?
Steve Coppell to get a job with a Premier League club.
Thursday 6 August 2009
James Hoxey's 2009/2010 Predictions: Part 1
1. Who's going to be in the top four, and in what order?
1. Man Utd
2. Chelsea
3. Liverpool
4. Arsenal
This order I feel will be the one come the end of the season. Ferguson could single handedly enter the record books ahead of Liverpool for league titles and finally 'knock them off their f***ing pedestal'. Ronaldo might be gone, but they have strength and depth, and I can see Ferguson playing a narrower formation this season, using the skill and power of the team through the middle channels.
Chelsea are certainly going to look at proving they can still be a force, and it's a good thing they've hired Ancellotti as he is a specialist in managing cultured, seasoned players. With key figures at the club aging, Lampard and Drogba are in their 30s now, maybe the Italian will get a couple more Big Four standard years from this squad.
Liverpool seem to be taking a huge step backwards in selling Alonso and ultimately, Gerrard will have to drop deep to compensate for this, meaning Liverpool will lose a big lump of their attacking force.
Arsenal will probably hang in there, with Wenger proving you can just about stay in the Big Four with kids...
2. Who's going down?
18. Hull
19. Birmingham
20. Stoke
Hull haven't strengthened enough, and, considering their dependence on Premier League veterans such as the heroic Nicky Barmby, it will be only be a matter of time before they lose their legs in the last 10 minutes of games and leak goals.
Birmingham have strengthened, but they seem to lack that special player which many promotion sides bring in to provide those moments of class in a game, like Geovanni offered Hull when they were finding their Premier League 'legs'.
Stoke will be on their way with a severe case of 'Readingitis'; when you combine a great debut season and no strengthening, the only way is down. You can't rest staying up on Delap-mans shoulders.
3. Which team is going to show the biggest improvement?
It has got to be Manchester City. If they keep all of these new players fit, they should be able to improve on last seasons performance you would hope.
4. Who's going to bang in the most goals?
This season will be Fernando Torres' year, he is looking to be the only out and out goal scorer Liverpool play this year, and he's certainly potent enough in front of goal.
5. Who's going to win the FA Cup?
Liverpool. Rafa needs to grab some sort of Silverware this season, I fancy him to make sure Liverpool are at Wembley this year.
1. Man Utd
2. Chelsea
3. Liverpool
4. Arsenal
This order I feel will be the one come the end of the season. Ferguson could single handedly enter the record books ahead of Liverpool for league titles and finally 'knock them off their f***ing pedestal'. Ronaldo might be gone, but they have strength and depth, and I can see Ferguson playing a narrower formation this season, using the skill and power of the team through the middle channels.
Chelsea are certainly going to look at proving they can still be a force, and it's a good thing they've hired Ancellotti as he is a specialist in managing cultured, seasoned players. With key figures at the club aging, Lampard and Drogba are in their 30s now, maybe the Italian will get a couple more Big Four standard years from this squad.
Liverpool seem to be taking a huge step backwards in selling Alonso and ultimately, Gerrard will have to drop deep to compensate for this, meaning Liverpool will lose a big lump of their attacking force.
Arsenal will probably hang in there, with Wenger proving you can just about stay in the Big Four with kids...
2. Who's going down?
18. Hull
19. Birmingham
20. Stoke
Hull haven't strengthened enough, and, considering their dependence on Premier League veterans such as the heroic Nicky Barmby, it will be only be a matter of time before they lose their legs in the last 10 minutes of games and leak goals.
Birmingham have strengthened, but they seem to lack that special player which many promotion sides bring in to provide those moments of class in a game, like Geovanni offered Hull when they were finding their Premier League 'legs'.
Stoke will be on their way with a severe case of 'Readingitis'; when you combine a great debut season and no strengthening, the only way is down. You can't rest staying up on Delap-mans shoulders.
3. Which team is going to show the biggest improvement?
It has got to be Manchester City. If they keep all of these new players fit, they should be able to improve on last seasons performance you would hope.
4. Who's going to bang in the most goals?
This season will be Fernando Torres' year, he is looking to be the only out and out goal scorer Liverpool play this year, and he's certainly potent enough in front of goal.
5. Who's going to win the FA Cup?
Liverpool. Rafa needs to grab some sort of Silverware this season, I fancy him to make sure Liverpool are at Wembley this year.
Wednesday 5 August 2009
Dale McCarthy's 2009/2010 Predictions: Part 2
6. Who's going to win the Champions League at the Bernabeau?
Going to plump for Chelsea. The are well overdue, Lampard and co. get so close every year and they have to win it soon.
7. Who are the PFA going to dub 'Player of the Season'?
Andrei Arshavin was outstanding for Arsenal when he came into a faltering team last season. Arsenal’s Russian playmaker can be devastating and he’s carried last season’s form into pre-season. The Gunners won 50% of games without him last year compared to 67% when he’s in the team, and their points per game increases from 1.79 to 2.42, quite staggering. His starring role at Anfield was one of the greatest performances in Premier League history and he’s only played in 16 league games.
8. Who's going to be the PFA's 'Young Player of the Season'?
If Jack Wilshire gets enough playing time, he's in with a shout of scooping all of individual awards for youngsters, and he could even head to the world cup (he is that good). But Wenger may be cautious in his developmentm which will may see his first team chances limited this term. If this is the case, Lee Cattermole might be a candidate. If he continues to improve, he’ll be undervalued at 10million by Wigan. Personal problems and night clubbing aside, this player could be very special.
9. Which manager's going to have a season to remember?
Anchelotti will make this one to remember by giving Chelsea their first title since 2006.
10. Which manager's going to have a season to forget?
Phil Brown will not be singing at the KC come May -- I’ll be surprised if he makes it to Christmas.
11. Give us a random prediction?
Aston Villa may struggle to finish in the top ten this term. The top four will be occupied by the Big Four. Man City and Spurs will improve on last season. Everton are always there. As I’ve explained, I think Sunderland will climb the table, only leaving two places in the top ten. The loss of Barry will hurt them and Martin No’deals inactivity in the transfer market makes Arsene Wenger look like Florentino Perez.
Going to plump for Chelsea. The are well overdue, Lampard and co. get so close every year and they have to win it soon.
7. Who are the PFA going to dub 'Player of the Season'?
Andrei Arshavin was outstanding for Arsenal when he came into a faltering team last season. Arsenal’s Russian playmaker can be devastating and he’s carried last season’s form into pre-season. The Gunners won 50% of games without him last year compared to 67% when he’s in the team, and their points per game increases from 1.79 to 2.42, quite staggering. His starring role at Anfield was one of the greatest performances in Premier League history and he’s only played in 16 league games.
8. Who's going to be the PFA's 'Young Player of the Season'?
If Jack Wilshire gets enough playing time, he's in with a shout of scooping all of individual awards for youngsters, and he could even head to the world cup (he is that good). But Wenger may be cautious in his developmentm which will may see his first team chances limited this term. If this is the case, Lee Cattermole might be a candidate. If he continues to improve, he’ll be undervalued at 10million by Wigan. Personal problems and night clubbing aside, this player could be very special.
9. Which manager's going to have a season to remember?
Anchelotti will make this one to remember by giving Chelsea their first title since 2006.
10. Which manager's going to have a season to forget?
Phil Brown will not be singing at the KC come May -- I’ll be surprised if he makes it to Christmas.
11. Give us a random prediction?
Aston Villa may struggle to finish in the top ten this term. The top four will be occupied by the Big Four. Man City and Spurs will improve on last season. Everton are always there. As I’ve explained, I think Sunderland will climb the table, only leaving two places in the top ten. The loss of Barry will hurt them and Martin No’deals inactivity in the transfer market makes Arsene Wenger look like Florentino Perez.
Tuesday 4 August 2009
Tittle-Tackle #6
After Paul Whitehouse's appearance in a humorous football related advert, here's Ron Manager on the brilliance of Ryan Giggs:
Cor, Ryan Giggs you know, Giggsy isn't it mm. Giggsy Wiggsy mm. Ryany Giggsy Wiggsy, you know, marvelous...you kow, but Giggsy Wiggsy, precocious talent isn't he. Mm, got it all, speed, acceleration, sweet left foot, all the tricks...jiggery pokery, hocus pocus, abra cadabra, I wanna reach out and grab ya. Steve Milliband, spin doctors, ooh, very similar.
Dale McCarthy's 2009/2010 Predictions: Part 1
1. Who's going to be in the top four, and in what order?
1. Chelsea
2. Manchester United
3. Arsenal
4. Liverpool
As I have written in the ‘Do Chelsea stick or twist this summer?’ article, I feel that Chelsea are nailed on to win the title this season. They have quality from back to front, and strong cover in every position. They are also the only side in the top four who haven’t lost key players (assuming that Xabi Alonso departs for Madrid). Ronaldo is a huge loss for Manchester United, and although a fit Michael Owen will score 20+ goals, Ronaldo's presence will be sorely missed. The laughable suggestion that City are going to displace Arsenal needs to be addressed. Yes, City have signed lots of players, and no, Arsenal haven’t, but Arsenal are still stronger at the back, in midfield and in attack. In Cesc Fabregas and Andrei Arshavin Arsenal have two of the leagues outstanding players. Do City have any outstanding players aside from Shay Given? No. Toure was sold because he would have been third choice centre back and Adebayor’s disruptive influence has been replaced by ‘new signing’ Eduardo’s professionalism and undoubted talent. With better full backs, better centre backs, better attacking midfielders and better strikers, Arsenal are only weaker in defensive midfield positions. Arsenal and Man City -- no contest. Can City finish above Arsenal with a team that needs to gel and personalities like Robinho, Bellamy and Adebayor? Not this year. As for Liverpool, their incredible run at the end will be affected by the loss of Alonso, and their lack of attacking depth options means a loss of Gerrard or Torres could see them struggle, but I still see them miles ahead of City.
2. Who's going down?
18. Birmingham
19. Burnley
20. Hull
I see four teams in there this season: Birmingham, Hull, Burnley, and Wolves. I really can’t see any of the other sixteen being dragged in. Of the four, I think Wolves will stay up. They are doing what a lot of successful promoted teams have done in recent seasons and allowing the team that got them promoted the chance to play in the Premier League whilst bringing in new faces with proven Premier League quality such as Kevin Doyle. Birmingham have made lots of changes and whilst I rate McLeish highly, they have’t learnt from teams such as Derby and I see them going straight back down. Burnley will fancy their chances in the top flight after seeing off Arsenal, Chelsea and Fulham in the Carling Cup before demolishing Spurs during normal time in their semi-final second leg. Even with those scalps they weren’t facing full strength Arsenal and Chelsea teams. As a team that like to get the ball down and play, Coyle’s men will probably suffer the same fate as West Brom. If Burnley go to Anfield or Old Trafford and try to play that way, they will be torn apart. Hull may have defied the odds to stay up last year but their form at the back end of the season was Derby-esque. Their only win in their last 21 games was a 1-0 win at Fulham where they were battered for 90 mins before Manucho scored at the death. Even with Bullard returning, I see them finishing rock bottom.
3. Which team is going to show the biggest improvement?
With Steve Bruce at the helm the managerial uncertainty at the black cats has cleared, in Bruce they have one of the finest English managers currently plying their trade in any league. Lorik Cana is a fantastic signing, the Albanian was outstanding against Gerrard in Stade Veledrome last September in the Champions League. If Sunderland manage to get Darren Bent, who scored as many Premier league goals as Wayne Rooney and more than Robin Van Persie, they will have a young striker of true Premier League pedigree who will be playing for a chance to get on Capello’s plane to South Africa. I see them challenging for the Europa spots this year, a vast improvement on last seasons 16th.
4. Who's going to bang in the most goals?
Fernando Torres will defiantly win it if he remains fit. He will score the lion's share of Liverpool’s goals as everything in the attacking third will go through him. Expect Owen to challenge him if he can stay fit, but that is doubtful. Van Persie is an outside bet because he has Eduardo, Roisicky, Arshavin, Fabregas, Walcott and Nasri playing behind him. If he can convert the sixteen shots of his that hit the woodwork last year into goals, he’ll be up there.
5. Who's going to win the FA Cup?
Anyone can win the FA Cup.
1. Chelsea
2. Manchester United
3. Arsenal
4. Liverpool
As I have written in the ‘Do Chelsea stick or twist this summer?’ article, I feel that Chelsea are nailed on to win the title this season. They have quality from back to front, and strong cover in every position. They are also the only side in the top four who haven’t lost key players (assuming that Xabi Alonso departs for Madrid). Ronaldo is a huge loss for Manchester United, and although a fit Michael Owen will score 20+ goals, Ronaldo's presence will be sorely missed. The laughable suggestion that City are going to displace Arsenal needs to be addressed. Yes, City have signed lots of players, and no, Arsenal haven’t, but Arsenal are still stronger at the back, in midfield and in attack. In Cesc Fabregas and Andrei Arshavin Arsenal have two of the leagues outstanding players. Do City have any outstanding players aside from Shay Given? No. Toure was sold because he would have been third choice centre back and Adebayor’s disruptive influence has been replaced by ‘new signing’ Eduardo’s professionalism and undoubted talent. With better full backs, better centre backs, better attacking midfielders and better strikers, Arsenal are only weaker in defensive midfield positions. Arsenal and Man City -- no contest. Can City finish above Arsenal with a team that needs to gel and personalities like Robinho, Bellamy and Adebayor? Not this year. As for Liverpool, their incredible run at the end will be affected by the loss of Alonso, and their lack of attacking depth options means a loss of Gerrard or Torres could see them struggle, but I still see them miles ahead of City.
2. Who's going down?
18. Birmingham
19. Burnley
20. Hull
I see four teams in there this season: Birmingham, Hull, Burnley, and Wolves. I really can’t see any of the other sixteen being dragged in. Of the four, I think Wolves will stay up. They are doing what a lot of successful promoted teams have done in recent seasons and allowing the team that got them promoted the chance to play in the Premier League whilst bringing in new faces with proven Premier League quality such as Kevin Doyle. Birmingham have made lots of changes and whilst I rate McLeish highly, they have’t learnt from teams such as Derby and I see them going straight back down. Burnley will fancy their chances in the top flight after seeing off Arsenal, Chelsea and Fulham in the Carling Cup before demolishing Spurs during normal time in their semi-final second leg. Even with those scalps they weren’t facing full strength Arsenal and Chelsea teams. As a team that like to get the ball down and play, Coyle’s men will probably suffer the same fate as West Brom. If Burnley go to Anfield or Old Trafford and try to play that way, they will be torn apart. Hull may have defied the odds to stay up last year but their form at the back end of the season was Derby-esque. Their only win in their last 21 games was a 1-0 win at Fulham where they were battered for 90 mins before Manucho scored at the death. Even with Bullard returning, I see them finishing rock bottom.
3. Which team is going to show the biggest improvement?
With Steve Bruce at the helm the managerial uncertainty at the black cats has cleared, in Bruce they have one of the finest English managers currently plying their trade in any league. Lorik Cana is a fantastic signing, the Albanian was outstanding against Gerrard in Stade Veledrome last September in the Champions League. If Sunderland manage to get Darren Bent, who scored as many Premier league goals as Wayne Rooney and more than Robin Van Persie, they will have a young striker of true Premier League pedigree who will be playing for a chance to get on Capello’s plane to South Africa. I see them challenging for the Europa spots this year, a vast improvement on last seasons 16th.
4. Who's going to bang in the most goals?
Fernando Torres will defiantly win it if he remains fit. He will score the lion's share of Liverpool’s goals as everything in the attacking third will go through him. Expect Owen to challenge him if he can stay fit, but that is doubtful. Van Persie is an outside bet because he has Eduardo, Roisicky, Arshavin, Fabregas, Walcott and Nasri playing behind him. If he can convert the sixteen shots of his that hit the woodwork last year into goals, he’ll be up there.
5. Who's going to win the FA Cup?
Anyone can win the FA Cup.
Tittle-Tackle #5
The Independent have collected some of Sir Alex Ferguson's best work. Here's an example:
Ah, yes, of course.
If Chelsea drop points, the cat's out in the open. And you know what cats are like - sometimes they don't come home.
Ah, yes, of course.
Monday 3 August 2009
Josh Hortin's 2009/2010 Predictions: Part 2
6. Who's going to win the Champions League at the Bernabeau?
As no team to date has defended the title, I'm ruling out Barca. Real won't win it either, as it's a team competition, for clubs that have reached their upper most peak. I'm going to go with Chelsea or United.
7. Who are the PFA going to dub 'Player of the Season'?
Wayne Rooney -- no question. Now that he is the top player at United, he will come out and show just how good he can really be.
8. Who's going to be the PFA's 'Young Player of the Season'?
Cesc Fabregas has got a shot if Arsenal can buy a good foil for him in midfield. Ashley Young is another one who season by season keeps getting better. Theo Walcott, having put his most serious injury to date behind him, could start the season like he started last year and continue this. But, I'm going to go for two dark horses, and say either Michael Kightly at Wolves or Joe Hart at Birmingham. Joe Hart specifically, will prove to be one of the signings of the summer and could just well keep Brum up.
9. Which manager's going to have a season to remember?
I believe that Mr Ancelotti will become a firm fave with all the media boys this season. He's no Jose, but he will bring something fresh to the Premiership.
10. Which manager's going to have a season to forget?
Mick McCarthy at Wolves. He has spent a far amount of cash in the close season and he now has a very capable squad. It's up to him to get them to perform. Ff they do they could well be the surprise package of the season, if they don't, this could be a season to forget for Mick.
11. Give us a random prediction?
None of my above choices will come true.
As no team to date has defended the title, I'm ruling out Barca. Real won't win it either, as it's a team competition, for clubs that have reached their upper most peak. I'm going to go with Chelsea or United.
7. Who are the PFA going to dub 'Player of the Season'?
Wayne Rooney -- no question. Now that he is the top player at United, he will come out and show just how good he can really be.
8. Who's going to be the PFA's 'Young Player of the Season'?
Cesc Fabregas has got a shot if Arsenal can buy a good foil for him in midfield. Ashley Young is another one who season by season keeps getting better. Theo Walcott, having put his most serious injury to date behind him, could start the season like he started last year and continue this. But, I'm going to go for two dark horses, and say either Michael Kightly at Wolves or Joe Hart at Birmingham. Joe Hart specifically, will prove to be one of the signings of the summer and could just well keep Brum up.
9. Which manager's going to have a season to remember?
I believe that Mr Ancelotti will become a firm fave with all the media boys this season. He's no Jose, but he will bring something fresh to the Premiership.
10. Which manager's going to have a season to forget?
Mick McCarthy at Wolves. He has spent a far amount of cash in the close season and he now has a very capable squad. It's up to him to get them to perform. Ff they do they could well be the surprise package of the season, if they don't, this could be a season to forget for Mick.
11. Give us a random prediction?
None of my above choices will come true.
Sunday 2 August 2009
Tittle-Tackle #4
In the wake of Josh's assertion that Ancelotti will be the manager of the season, Jonathan Northcroft reports on the Italian's attitude to life and to football:
But he is relaxed, without airs, ready with the dry-witted quip. A farmer must be stoical and he is even-tempered in the dressing room. “I won’t shout, I will explain,” he says when asked what he does when unhappy with a performance. “I want to have a discussion with my players. I don’t want to impose upon them. I want to propose to them. Treat them like men. I never want to control the private life of my players. Never. When I played, a coach controlled my private life. He said when I played, when I had to stay at home. In the relationship he was above me. I didn’t like it very much.
"Now, as a coach, I want to have a relationship with my players that is on the same level. I have kids and as a father I’m the same. I have my character and I want to stay with my character when dealing with people. I want to be true.”
Josh Hortin's 2009/2010 Predictions: Part 1
1. Who's going to be in the top four, and in what order?
1. Man Utd
2. Chelsea
3. Liverpool
4. Man City
Man Utd will win it again as Fergie is still as passionate as ever and will want to be the manager of the first team to win four in row. Rooney, Berbatov (now fully settled) and Owen will compensate for the goals that Tevez and Ronaldo scored last campaign. Chelsea will finish second, they were nearly there last year, and did this in spite of the comotion surrounding Big Phil and a sometimes unruly squad. Plus, they were missing Essien. Ancelotti's arrival should provide the stability for them to grab this position. Liverpool for third as I think they have enough quality, even if we assume that they will lose Alonso. As always, it all depends on the fitness of Gerrard and Torres. Man City for fourth. Arsenal are handing it over to them by not strengthening. But, it will be a few more seasons until they are challenging the top three.
2. Who's going down?
18. Birmingham
19. Burnley
20. Hull
Birmingham have strengthened considerably, but I just don't think they will cut it. Burnley have some very very talented youngsters, but again, when it gets to the last ten minutes, will they have the bottle to get a result? Hull, for the simple fact that no one wants to join them as their relegation this year seems to be a forgone conclusion. They desperately lack power up front.
3. Which team is going to show the biggest improvement?
Last season, Man City finished tenth. I think they will do a tad better this season.
4. Who's going to bang in the most goals?
I honestly can't choose. Rooney, given the opportunity to play centrally, will score more frequently. Torres, who continues to get sharper every year. Drogba, because his efforts in pre-season have shown that the old lethal Drogba is back. Owen (there is always a dark horse) has looked sharp in pre-season, and now he's actually at a club he wants to play for, the injuries may just mysteriously disappear. I'm staying on the fence.
5. Who's going to win the FA Cup?
I think a top team will win it this year. I'm going for United, as it's been an oddly long time since this trophy resided at Old Trafford.
1. Man Utd
2. Chelsea
3. Liverpool
4. Man City
Man Utd will win it again as Fergie is still as passionate as ever and will want to be the manager of the first team to win four in row. Rooney, Berbatov (now fully settled) and Owen will compensate for the goals that Tevez and Ronaldo scored last campaign. Chelsea will finish second, they were nearly there last year, and did this in spite of the comotion surrounding Big Phil and a sometimes unruly squad. Plus, they were missing Essien. Ancelotti's arrival should provide the stability for them to grab this position. Liverpool for third as I think they have enough quality, even if we assume that they will lose Alonso. As always, it all depends on the fitness of Gerrard and Torres. Man City for fourth. Arsenal are handing it over to them by not strengthening. But, it will be a few more seasons until they are challenging the top three.
2. Who's going down?
18. Birmingham
19. Burnley
20. Hull
Birmingham have strengthened considerably, but I just don't think they will cut it. Burnley have some very very talented youngsters, but again, when it gets to the last ten minutes, will they have the bottle to get a result? Hull, for the simple fact that no one wants to join them as their relegation this year seems to be a forgone conclusion. They desperately lack power up front.
3. Which team is going to show the biggest improvement?
Last season, Man City finished tenth. I think they will do a tad better this season.
4. Who's going to bang in the most goals?
I honestly can't choose. Rooney, given the opportunity to play centrally, will score more frequently. Torres, who continues to get sharper every year. Drogba, because his efforts in pre-season have shown that the old lethal Drogba is back. Owen (there is always a dark horse) has looked sharp in pre-season, and now he's actually at a club he wants to play for, the injuries may just mysteriously disappear. I'm staying on the fence.
5. Who's going to win the FA Cup?
I think a top team will win it this year. I'm going for United, as it's been an oddly long time since this trophy resided at Old Trafford.
Saturday 1 August 2009
Tittle-Tackle #3
Sir Bobby Robson, explaining his love of football to Amy Lawrence:
Brilliantly summed up. You will be missed Sir Bobby.
I love the unpredictability of it and I love the athleticism and the beauty of it sometimes, and the ruggedness of it. I like the commitment and the competitiveness that football, in spite of its beauty, can give. It's just the adrenaline in me. I fell in love with the game when I was a kid and it's been that constant love affair. I'm immersed in it. I can watch football anywhere.
Brilliantly summed up. You will be missed Sir Bobby.
Friday 31 July 2009
Tittle-Tackle #2
Roy Hodgson explains his managerial reputation to Nick Townsend:
Of course, my track record, if people bothered to study it, would put me in the same category as [Sir Alex] Ferguson enjoys today, but people don't talk about what I've done outside England," he says. "Here, they just talk about Blackburn Rovers, but that's just a very small part of a 26-year career. To most English journalists it's the only part. I've got an excellent track record in Sweden, Switzerland, Italy and in Denmark, where FC Copenhagen was my last job before I went to Udinese. We won the league there by seven points. Admittedly, the fact that I walked out and went to Italy to some extent tarnished that reputation...
Thursday 30 July 2009
Tittle-Tackle #1
Carol Midgley recalls the Spirit of Istanbul:
I expect he pleaded for an extra-time win. You can't commit to Mass every week for a penalty win.
My husband confessed that he plea-bargained with God at half time in Istanbul when Liverpool were trailing 3-0 in the Champions League final. If there was a miracle and Liverpool won he’d shape up and go to Mass every week, he said. Well, they did win. And is his church attendance now nice and regular? Well put it this way — is the Pope a druid?
I expect he pleaded for an extra-time win. You can't commit to Mass every week for a penalty win.
Highlights: The Football League, Maniche and the BBC
A couple of minutes ago, I saw the BBC's trailer for their coverage of The Championship, League 1 and League 2. The Football League Show looks set to be broadcast after MOTD -- Saturday evenings will be getting later. Further, ten games will be shown live, beginning with West Brom v. Newcastle on the 8th August. Our writer, Josh Hortin recently summed up the attraction of The Championship (you can read the article here: http://bit.ly/13RC4p) and it seems that this piece was a fitting precursor to the energy that the BBC trail seeks to convey.
There are a few reasons that the BBC's transmission of these highlights/games is a good thing:
1. The BBC's presentation of football is vastly superior to ITV's. The bungled, time-changing efforts of ITV's coverage of the second tier will be warmly forgotten. As will their penchant for just plonking a correspondent on a pitch to do some links -- always awful.
2. If the initial 11.10 timeslot is taken as a guide, we can hope/presume that the Beeb will be placing the highlights directly after MOTD. If so, the BBC would attract Premier League fans who may not have followed the lower tiers before. I generally never want MOTD to end, watching some competitive Championship/League 1/League 2 football would definitely quench my thirst for more football late on Saturday nights.
3. The relegation of Boro and Newcastle was deserved, they didn't get the points. But, it was a shock for the fourth hotbed of football in the UK (after the North West, Birmingham and London). These highlights will ensure that the wider population remain aware of the fantastic footballing community in the North East.
4. Unlike MOTD, these highlights will be available on iPlayer.
5. Maniche gets to anchor the highlights show. Legend.
I think we'll all be tuning in.
There are a few reasons that the BBC's transmission of these highlights/games is a good thing:
1. The BBC's presentation of football is vastly superior to ITV's. The bungled, time-changing efforts of ITV's coverage of the second tier will be warmly forgotten. As will their penchant for just plonking a correspondent on a pitch to do some links -- always awful.
2. If the initial 11.10 timeslot is taken as a guide, we can hope/presume that the Beeb will be placing the highlights directly after MOTD. If so, the BBC would attract Premier League fans who may not have followed the lower tiers before. I generally never want MOTD to end, watching some competitive Championship/League 1/League 2 football would definitely quench my thirst for more football late on Saturday nights.
3. The relegation of Boro and Newcastle was deserved, they didn't get the points. But, it was a shock for the fourth hotbed of football in the UK (after the North West, Birmingham and London). These highlights will ensure that the wider population remain aware of the fantastic footballing community in the North East.
4. Unlike MOTD, these highlights will be available on iPlayer.
5. Maniche gets to anchor the highlights show. Legend.
I think we'll all be tuning in.
Tuesday 28 July 2009
The YNWAWK 2008/2009 Review: Part 6
GoonerDale:
Bentley's effort against Arsenal.
http://bit.ly/iEKH2.
Jo$shuwaa:
Carlton Cole for West Ham.
http://bit.ly/dehJb
Enough said.
Robbie:
Glenn Johnson. This goal was voted the goal of the season on Match of the Day and have to agree. Johnson takes the ball on his chest in a running motion and delivers an expertly driven, left footed strike that whistles into the top corner. What makes this goal even more special is the fact that Johnson is predominately right footed.
http://bit.ly/X3Rgr
Jack:
Giovanni against Arsenal. Almost as unpredictably brilliant as Hull's start to the season.
It's #7 on this countdown: http://bit.ly/12csv0.
Hoxey:
Fabio Aurelio versus Chelsea. Great free kick, catching Petr Cech flat footed. Shame it was in the end irrelevant, but what can you do?
http://bit.ly/NJmZl
Tom:
Fernando Torres for Liverpool versus Blackburn at Anfield. A great individual goal showing great control on the turn, coupled with a smart finish from a tight angle. It's on YouTube but the best* quality video i could find is here:
http://bit.ly/X3Rgr.
*Best = least shit.
The YNWAWK 2008/2009 Review: Part 5
GoonerDale:
Stevie Ireland. He made Robinho look average in what was a pretty good break out season.
Jo$shuwaa:
Fedorico Marcheda of Manchester United. His crucial goal against Aston Villa was reminiscent of Rooney's entry into the Premier League imagination versus Arsenal in 2002.
Robbie:
Ashley Young. He has been awesome this season, providing assists and a few goals for the Villa. Also, the fact that he had his full international debut for England this season reflects the good season he had, and the bright future that he has ahead of him.
Jack:
I have to agree with Robbie (and the PFA), Ashley Young was arguably the best player on a successful Villa side in 2008-2009. He plays with composure and a good understanding of his abilities, and at times we saw glimpses of a world class playmaker. His contribution could have even led Villa to a Champions League spot if they'd brought in the appropriate support in the January transfer window -- as thousands of Villa fans would say: 'Arsenal got Arshavin, we got Heskey'.
Hoxey:
Cesc Fabregas. I can't believe this guy is still so young -- unreal. Not his best season, but still more consistent than Ashley Young. He should move to Liverpool, then maybe we could consider selling Alonso...
Tom:
Marouane Fellaini. Great pick up for Everton. His skill in the air is his main asset, but his ability to win the ball in midfield with either head or foot strengthened Everton's midfield no end. A nuisance in the opposition penalty area, Fellaini scored a lofty eight league goals.
Monday 27 July 2009
Mr Hoxey: The Best Premier League Captures Ever
Over the last week or so, since the capture of Michael Owen on a free by Manchester United, I have decided to consider and list my all time favourite bargain buys and free transfers in the Premier League.
First up on my list is Sami Hyypia. The big Finn cost Liverpool a cool £2.5million, and after 10 years service as a pretty solid centre back, you simply can't complain. Unbelievably, Newcastle United could have signed him 2 years earlier. Perhaps they wouldn't have been in the pickle they are now if they had seen the ability. He has now left Liverpool after 10 years of pretty solid service. For the real stat freaks, spreading his transfer fee over his appearances equates to a pitiful cost of 7k per game. What a bargain.
Moving away from Liverpool (rather neatly I must add...) is Brad Friedel to Blackburn Rovers on a free transfer, and it must be said he is pretty handy (okay I'll stop with the puns). After being a fantastic servant to Blackburn with 287 appearances, they sold him on to Aston Villa for somewhere around the 2.5million mark. A nice bit of business.
Dimitar Berbatov was another great bit of footballing business. 10.9million to bring him to Spurs for 2 years, and a sell on value of 30million. the Tottenham accountants must have been loving that little nugget. Just to sweeten it for Spurs, he hasn't really delivered the same goods at Manchester United. Perhaps this season, with Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen doing a bit more of the hard work, Berbatov may just start swanning around the right parts of the pitch for goal scoring.
Whilst researching other players to add to my already impressive list, I learnt that Nicolas Anelka cost Arsenal a meagre 500k before he went to Real Madrid on a sulk for 23million. Enough said.
And to finish, here is my list of free transfers or cheap buys which have been so brilliant that they don't really need any explanation.
Gary MacAllister to Liverpool
Kevin Davies to Bolton
Eric Cantona to Manchester United (1.2m)
Jurgen Klinnsmann to Spurs (1m)
Ashley Cole - What a Drama!
That is as much rattling onto my Blackberry as I can do on the topic. Let me know your views on great Premier League signings that could be described as a bargain.
(And yes, I realise that I have left out Ronaldo).
First up on my list is Sami Hyypia. The big Finn cost Liverpool a cool £2.5million, and after 10 years service as a pretty solid centre back, you simply can't complain. Unbelievably, Newcastle United could have signed him 2 years earlier. Perhaps they wouldn't have been in the pickle they are now if they had seen the ability. He has now left Liverpool after 10 years of pretty solid service. For the real stat freaks, spreading his transfer fee over his appearances equates to a pitiful cost of 7k per game. What a bargain.
Moving away from Liverpool (rather neatly I must add...) is Brad Friedel to Blackburn Rovers on a free transfer, and it must be said he is pretty handy (okay I'll stop with the puns). After being a fantastic servant to Blackburn with 287 appearances, they sold him on to Aston Villa for somewhere around the 2.5million mark. A nice bit of business.
Dimitar Berbatov was another great bit of footballing business. 10.9million to bring him to Spurs for 2 years, and a sell on value of 30million. the Tottenham accountants must have been loving that little nugget. Just to sweeten it for Spurs, he hasn't really delivered the same goods at Manchester United. Perhaps this season, with Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen doing a bit more of the hard work, Berbatov may just start swanning around the right parts of the pitch for goal scoring.
Whilst researching other players to add to my already impressive list, I learnt that Nicolas Anelka cost Arsenal a meagre 500k before he went to Real Madrid on a sulk for 23million. Enough said.
And to finish, here is my list of free transfers or cheap buys which have been so brilliant that they don't really need any explanation.
Gary MacAllister to Liverpool
Kevin Davies to Bolton
Eric Cantona to Manchester United (1.2m)
Jurgen Klinnsmann to Spurs (1m)
Ashley Cole - What a Drama!
That is as much rattling onto my Blackberry as I can do on the topic. Let me know your views on great Premier League signings that could be described as a bargain.
(And yes, I realise that I have left out Ronaldo).
Sunday 26 July 2009
Football and Literature #1: 'Wildlife' by Joe Stretch
I've just finished reading Wildlife by Joe Stretch. It's a freshly sharpened novel that takes on social networking and blogging, and the blur that occurs between these spheres and reality. The characters are on the trail of an upcoming mass change in society that will result in the introduction of a 'Wild World'. These characters bleed into internet and technology, whilst the web and technology squats on/in them.
The various extremes and conventions of Wildlife are worthy of lengthy discussion, and if you do read it, ring me for a pint and a discussion. I'll turn up. But, the concern here is the arrival of football in literature, and in Wildlife, the narrative dumps the characters into a banqueting suite at Stamford Bridge for the conclusion of their journey. The windows of the room where Ian The Dickhead begins to introduce the 'Wild World' provide a view of an ongoing Chelsea match.
Inside the suite, one bloke shouts 'Come on, Chelsea' whilst another responds with 'Fuck off, Chelsea.' There is a glass barrier between the insanity of the Wild World intro and the clash of teams occurring on the pitch, but the two elements are connected. The attendees to the football match create an intense community, momentary and anonymous. They might know the season ticket holder two seats across from them or their mate from work, who's come down, but in the large part, they don't know anyone -- but, they have to act as a community for ninety minutes. The anonymity and short lived commune is similar to the nature of web communities, where Joe Stretch sees fleeting moments and relationships between people with no real-life avatar. The difference lies in the fact that the 20/30/40/50/60/70,000 fans at a Premier League game all have a destination and a desire: 90 minutes of play and a win for their team. The characters who sit down in the banqueting suite of Stretch's novel, Joe, Life and Sam the Man, amongst others, have no destination and no real desire. By placing his protagonists within the environment of a tightly fought football match, Stretch forces us to realise their lack of place within a false community.
This point is further intensified by the escape of El Rogerio and Anka, from the madness of the banqueting sweet, to the magnificence of the pitch. As a goal hungry Frank Lampard closes in on the penalty box, Anka rides El Rogerio in pursuit. Quickly, the moment collapses with a large exclamation (I'll leave it for you to read), and the exultant connection between the web-based, life-hungry couple and the football match is over. Over, it seems, but the ref awards a free kick and they carry on. The football match continues because reality (and football) cannot cease under the pressure of a big/unusual event. Servers, websites and blogs however, will overload when the moment becomes too large to manage.
Next, El Rogerio and Anka accomplish ultimate communion in the Chelsea changing rooms and their conclusion is completely separate from the Dickhead's 'Wild World'. They've participated, albeit fantastically, in the game, and consequently the technology that has seeped into and influenced them, falls away. This occurs because they have broken the glass windows of the banqueting suite and burst into a real-life community. The entirely human moment of the football match emancipates them, and it is consequently a crucial, and well chosen, pivot for Stretch's novel.
The various extremes and conventions of Wildlife are worthy of lengthy discussion, and if you do read it, ring me for a pint and a discussion. I'll turn up. But, the concern here is the arrival of football in literature, and in Wildlife, the narrative dumps the characters into a banqueting suite at Stamford Bridge for the conclusion of their journey. The windows of the room where Ian The Dickhead begins to introduce the 'Wild World' provide a view of an ongoing Chelsea match.
Inside the suite, one bloke shouts 'Come on, Chelsea' whilst another responds with 'Fuck off, Chelsea.' There is a glass barrier between the insanity of the Wild World intro and the clash of teams occurring on the pitch, but the two elements are connected. The attendees to the football match create an intense community, momentary and anonymous. They might know the season ticket holder two seats across from them or their mate from work, who's come down, but in the large part, they don't know anyone -- but, they have to act as a community for ninety minutes. The anonymity and short lived commune is similar to the nature of web communities, where Joe Stretch sees fleeting moments and relationships between people with no real-life avatar. The difference lies in the fact that the 20/30/40/50/60/70,000 fans at a Premier League game all have a destination and a desire: 90 minutes of play and a win for their team. The characters who sit down in the banqueting suite of Stretch's novel, Joe, Life and Sam the Man, amongst others, have no destination and no real desire. By placing his protagonists within the environment of a tightly fought football match, Stretch forces us to realise their lack of place within a false community.
This point is further intensified by the escape of El Rogerio and Anka, from the madness of the banqueting sweet, to the magnificence of the pitch. As a goal hungry Frank Lampard closes in on the penalty box, Anka rides El Rogerio in pursuit. Quickly, the moment collapses with a large exclamation (I'll leave it for you to read), and the exultant connection between the web-based, life-hungry couple and the football match is over. Over, it seems, but the ref awards a free kick and they carry on. The football match continues because reality (and football) cannot cease under the pressure of a big/unusual event. Servers, websites and blogs however, will overload when the moment becomes too large to manage.
Next, El Rogerio and Anka accomplish ultimate communion in the Chelsea changing rooms and their conclusion is completely separate from the Dickhead's 'Wild World'. They've participated, albeit fantastically, in the game, and consequently the technology that has seeped into and influenced them, falls away. This occurs because they have broken the glass windows of the banqueting suite and burst into a real-life community. The entirely human moment of the football match emancipates them, and it is consequently a crucial, and well chosen, pivot for Stretch's novel.
Ups and Downs: A Fan's Perspective of Ronaldo's Time at Manchester United
As a fan of Manchester United, I have loved and hated Cristiano Ronaldo, the player who has become the most expensive footballer of all time. He had a great career at United, being one of the most successful players to wear a red shirt, but now, it is clear that there will always be blemishes on his time at OId Trafford.
At the start of his United career, signing from Sporting Lisbon for around £12 million, he looked extremely talented and showed massive promise. Eventually, he exceeded all expectations and developed into an outstanding all round player. Ronaldo struggled early on due to his inexperience, and opposition crowds struggled to respect a player who continuously dived. Many players dive but he was one of, if not, the worst in the Premier League and his reputation was growing in the wrong direction with fans and referees.
Gradually, he grew ever more confident (and/or cockier) and developed parts of his game which he hadn’t previously displayed, like strength on the ball and aerial ability. He seemed to dive less, I know a lot of people will disagree with this statement, but in comparison to his earlier antics, he cleaned up his over reliance on simulation. His reputation as an arrogant player and person was well established amongst opposition fans, and this led to me having to defend him often. The main incident that comes to mind is the 2006 World Cup in Germany, where Rooney was sent off for a stamp on Portuguese defender Ricardo Carvalho. here were shots of Ronaldo pleading with the referee to send off his club teammate, and after Rooney was given his marching orders, a camera cut to Ronaldo who seemed to be winking to his bench. A lot of people thought that he was suggesting ‘I made that happen’, but if you watch the action properly, you can quite clearly see Rooney stamping on the defender and any referee, well maybe with the exception of Graham Poll, would give that a straight red card. The ‘wink’, and Ronaldo’s talk to the referee, were irrelevant.
After all this, speculation indicated that Real Madrid were coming to test United’s resolve, with rumours that they were going to bid 50m for the young winger. Instead, he denied wanting to leave United and signed a new contract which made him the highest paid player in the team’s history. With this behind him, Ronaldo probably had the best season of his career. He scored 42 goals, whilst helping United to secure the Premier League and Champions League double. That season earned him a spot as one of the best players in the world, alongside the likes of Lionel Messi and Kaká. At this stage, I still loved this man, and believed that he was the driving force that United needed.
Once this season was over, the speculation started again, and my likening for Ronaldo started to decrease. Reports from Sky Sports were suggesting that Ronaldo had expressed an interest in moving to Real Madrid. United filed a complaint to FIFA over the illegal pursuit of Ronaldo, but nothing was done. Ronaldo stated that he would stay for another season and that he was committed to United.
Some say that I should stop complaining about Ronaldo, as he was still our top goal scorer once again this season. I recognise this, but it was the way he was going about it. When he was coming back from an injury at the beginning of last season, he didn’t look like he wanted to play and sulked more than before. Being at Manchester United should be an honour as we are one of the biggest teams and in my opinion (obviously biased) are the best team there is. Ronaldo loves to win trophies and awards for himself, so why not keep winning these things at United. Take Wayne Rooney for example, I believe that Rooney will want to stay the distance at United. This is the sort of loyalty that Ronaldo did not and will not show.
Reports prior to the Champions League final, were suggesting that Ronaldo was already telling the players that he was leaving in the summer. The timing was awful; an awareness that they would be losing their best player in the summer must have affected the confidence of the other players. Not to discredit Barcelona, who totally outplayed United, but I believe these rumours affected them in the final. What made things worse was another report indicating that Ronaldo made a deal with Real Madrid last season, telling them that he would wait one year before coming out and expressing his desire to leave United. This sort of dealing is totally illegal and is essentially worse than tapping up.
Now Ronaldo has signed for Real Madrid, at a cost of £80million, and United have done a great bit of business, making a £68million profit. I now have a substantially decreased liking for Ronaldo, and it has grown from the increasing show of selfishness that occurred over the course of this season. He was a great player for United and I will admit I loved him, but now I couldn’t care less about him. I can now see what other people saw in him when I had my biased view.
I would put some money on United meeting Real Madrid in the Champions League at some point, either in the group stages or in the early rounds. It will be interesting to see how Ronaldo will be greeted at Old Trafford if this scenario occurs.
Robbie Morrison
At the start of his United career, signing from Sporting Lisbon for around £12 million, he looked extremely talented and showed massive promise. Eventually, he exceeded all expectations and developed into an outstanding all round player. Ronaldo struggled early on due to his inexperience, and opposition crowds struggled to respect a player who continuously dived. Many players dive but he was one of, if not, the worst in the Premier League and his reputation was growing in the wrong direction with fans and referees.
Gradually, he grew ever more confident (and/or cockier) and developed parts of his game which he hadn’t previously displayed, like strength on the ball and aerial ability. He seemed to dive less, I know a lot of people will disagree with this statement, but in comparison to his earlier antics, he cleaned up his over reliance on simulation. His reputation as an arrogant player and person was well established amongst opposition fans, and this led to me having to defend him often. The main incident that comes to mind is the 2006 World Cup in Germany, where Rooney was sent off for a stamp on Portuguese defender Ricardo Carvalho. here were shots of Ronaldo pleading with the referee to send off his club teammate, and after Rooney was given his marching orders, a camera cut to Ronaldo who seemed to be winking to his bench. A lot of people thought that he was suggesting ‘I made that happen’, but if you watch the action properly, you can quite clearly see Rooney stamping on the defender and any referee, well maybe with the exception of Graham Poll, would give that a straight red card. The ‘wink’, and Ronaldo’s talk to the referee, were irrelevant.
After all this, speculation indicated that Real Madrid were coming to test United’s resolve, with rumours that they were going to bid 50m for the young winger. Instead, he denied wanting to leave United and signed a new contract which made him the highest paid player in the team’s history. With this behind him, Ronaldo probably had the best season of his career. He scored 42 goals, whilst helping United to secure the Premier League and Champions League double. That season earned him a spot as one of the best players in the world, alongside the likes of Lionel Messi and Kaká. At this stage, I still loved this man, and believed that he was the driving force that United needed.
Once this season was over, the speculation started again, and my likening for Ronaldo started to decrease. Reports from Sky Sports were suggesting that Ronaldo had expressed an interest in moving to Real Madrid. United filed a complaint to FIFA over the illegal pursuit of Ronaldo, but nothing was done. Ronaldo stated that he would stay for another season and that he was committed to United.
Some say that I should stop complaining about Ronaldo, as he was still our top goal scorer once again this season. I recognise this, but it was the way he was going about it. When he was coming back from an injury at the beginning of last season, he didn’t look like he wanted to play and sulked more than before. Being at Manchester United should be an honour as we are one of the biggest teams and in my opinion (obviously biased) are the best team there is. Ronaldo loves to win trophies and awards for himself, so why not keep winning these things at United. Take Wayne Rooney for example, I believe that Rooney will want to stay the distance at United. This is the sort of loyalty that Ronaldo did not and will not show.
Reports prior to the Champions League final, were suggesting that Ronaldo was already telling the players that he was leaving in the summer. The timing was awful; an awareness that they would be losing their best player in the summer must have affected the confidence of the other players. Not to discredit Barcelona, who totally outplayed United, but I believe these rumours affected them in the final. What made things worse was another report indicating that Ronaldo made a deal with Real Madrid last season, telling them that he would wait one year before coming out and expressing his desire to leave United. This sort of dealing is totally illegal and is essentially worse than tapping up.
Now Ronaldo has signed for Real Madrid, at a cost of £80million, and United have done a great bit of business, making a £68million profit. I now have a substantially decreased liking for Ronaldo, and it has grown from the increasing show of selfishness that occurred over the course of this season. He was a great player for United and I will admit I loved him, but now I couldn’t care less about him. I can now see what other people saw in him when I had my biased view.
I would put some money on United meeting Real Madrid in the Champions League at some point, either in the group stages or in the early rounds. It will be interesting to see how Ronaldo will be greeted at Old Trafford if this scenario occurs.
Robbie Morrison
Saturday 25 July 2009
To suggest that players joining City lack ambition is about as ludicrous as suggesting that John Terry leaving Chelsea will cost England the World Cup
Manchester City’s summer spending spree has prompted many to suggest that their new acquisitions are motivated by money alone. I couldn’t disagree more. To state that the likes of Gareth Barry, Emmanuel Adebayor and Carlos Tevez lack footballing ambition is ridiculous. Barry, Adebayor and Tevez have joined a club with a short term plan to break up the Big Four’s monopoly on the Champions League places and with a mid term plan to challenge for the Premier League and the Champions League titles. I shudder to think at what the long term plan is, sounds ambitious enough to me. Barry, Adebayor and Tevez have also joined a club who, through the signing of Premier League players such as Barry and the attempt to secure a deal for Terry, have weakened the teams around them. If offered the opportunity to work for a club who have had bids rejected for the England captain John Terry, and as he was in January, World Player of the Year, Kaka, most ambitious players would jump at the chance. Manchester City’s pursuit of John Terry signals a real intent, although Chelsea dismissed reports that Terry might be on his way, I’m positive that we will see a forth approach this week topping £40 million.
There seems to be a widespread ‘how dare they’ attitude to the John Terry bid. Many have pointed out that because Terry wouldn’t immediately be playing Champions League football at City, and that this drop in level would effect his ability to perform as a player and captain of the national side. This simply isn’t the case. To suggest that by playing Champions League football Terry faces world class players week in week out is ridiculous. If we presume that Chelsea will be semi-finalists again this year (because they generally are), let's count the world class opposition. As a top seed Chelsea’s group invariably includes two rubbish teams, from rubbish leagues, with rubbish strikers and one half decent German/Italian/Spanish team, not world class opposition. As group winners they will play the mediocre team who finish second in a group with a similar structure in terms of quality, and again, Terry wouldn’t face world class opposition. Then we have Chelsea’s annual encounter with Liverpool, a team that Terry faces in domestic competition. So a semi-final, and two games against world class opposition -- not really the ‘week in week out’ challenge he needs in a World up year. I’m sure that Terry’s ability will not magically disappear because he doesn’t play two games against Real Madrid or Barcelona. Our national side might even benefit from a captain who isn’t burned out.
So, we come to Adebayor, it has been a week since Arsenal sold him and I seem to be the only disappointed Gooner. Every Arsenal fan I have spoken to seems to think that we have offloaded a poor, lazy player for a huge amount. Let's deal with the facts Adebayor scored 62 goals in 114 starts for Arsenal. Last season Adebayor scored 10 league goals in 21 starts, and 6 in 8 in the Champions League, so that’s 16 in 29 last year, not that bad at all. He scored one less than Robin Van Persie in the Premier League, and Robin was voted Arsenal’s best player last season. Granted Van Persie hit the woodwork 16 times and created the most Premier League goals with 11 assists, but, it has to noted that Adebayor, who was out for a long spell only scored two less than Wayne Rooney, and created the same amount with 7 assists. Wayne Rooney is regarded as the exact opposite of Adebayor by many people, a team player who works hard, as opposed to Adebayor a selfish and lazy individual. Is this the same selfish Adebayor who created as many goals for team-mates as the selfless Wayne Rooney? Is this the same lazy Adebayor who missed a long spell after pulling a hamstring desperately trying to reach a misplaced pass in the North London derby?
In the past four seasons only three players who currently play in the Premier League have scored over 20 league goals in one season. Adebayor is joined on this list by Didier Drogba and Fernando Torres, the two best strikers in the league. If Owen stays fit he is capable of scoring 20+ too, so realistically there are four players who can score over 20 goals this season, and until last week the ‘Big Four’ all had one each. Adebayor has been called a one season wonder by many but he was plagued by injuries last season, as was Torres, yet he was still awarded the plaudits he deserved last term. On paper, Adebayor’s 16 in 29 looks better than Torres’s 17 in 38 last year, if we add to that Adebayor’s 7 assists against Torres’ 5 then Adebayor was worth more goals in less games last season. I am not suggesting that Adebayor is a better striker than Torres, as I feel that Torres is the best in the world, but in the past two years they have had similar scoring records. It’s all there in black and white, yet Torres is lauded whilst Adebayor is criticised. Torres' £25 million fee is regarded as a snip, yet Adebayor has been deemed to be overpriced in an increasingly inflated market. In this market, if Rooney and Torres were to be sold they would cost around £50 million, so is Adebayor really 'over priced' at half this amount?
GoonerDale
There seems to be a widespread ‘how dare they’ attitude to the John Terry bid. Many have pointed out that because Terry wouldn’t immediately be playing Champions League football at City, and that this drop in level would effect his ability to perform as a player and captain of the national side. This simply isn’t the case. To suggest that by playing Champions League football Terry faces world class players week in week out is ridiculous. If we presume that Chelsea will be semi-finalists again this year (because they generally are), let's count the world class opposition. As a top seed Chelsea’s group invariably includes two rubbish teams, from rubbish leagues, with rubbish strikers and one half decent German/Italian/Spanish team, not world class opposition. As group winners they will play the mediocre team who finish second in a group with a similar structure in terms of quality, and again, Terry wouldn’t face world class opposition. Then we have Chelsea’s annual encounter with Liverpool, a team that Terry faces in domestic competition. So a semi-final, and two games against world class opposition -- not really the ‘week in week out’ challenge he needs in a World up year. I’m sure that Terry’s ability will not magically disappear because he doesn’t play two games against Real Madrid or Barcelona. Our national side might even benefit from a captain who isn’t burned out.
So, we come to Adebayor, it has been a week since Arsenal sold him and I seem to be the only disappointed Gooner. Every Arsenal fan I have spoken to seems to think that we have offloaded a poor, lazy player for a huge amount. Let's deal with the facts Adebayor scored 62 goals in 114 starts for Arsenal. Last season Adebayor scored 10 league goals in 21 starts, and 6 in 8 in the Champions League, so that’s 16 in 29 last year, not that bad at all. He scored one less than Robin Van Persie in the Premier League, and Robin was voted Arsenal’s best player last season. Granted Van Persie hit the woodwork 16 times and created the most Premier League goals with 11 assists, but, it has to noted that Adebayor, who was out for a long spell only scored two less than Wayne Rooney, and created the same amount with 7 assists. Wayne Rooney is regarded as the exact opposite of Adebayor by many people, a team player who works hard, as opposed to Adebayor a selfish and lazy individual. Is this the same selfish Adebayor who created as many goals for team-mates as the selfless Wayne Rooney? Is this the same lazy Adebayor who missed a long spell after pulling a hamstring desperately trying to reach a misplaced pass in the North London derby?
In the past four seasons only three players who currently play in the Premier League have scored over 20 league goals in one season. Adebayor is joined on this list by Didier Drogba and Fernando Torres, the two best strikers in the league. If Owen stays fit he is capable of scoring 20+ too, so realistically there are four players who can score over 20 goals this season, and until last week the ‘Big Four’ all had one each. Adebayor has been called a one season wonder by many but he was plagued by injuries last season, as was Torres, yet he was still awarded the plaudits he deserved last term. On paper, Adebayor’s 16 in 29 looks better than Torres’s 17 in 38 last year, if we add to that Adebayor’s 7 assists against Torres’ 5 then Adebayor was worth more goals in less games last season. I am not suggesting that Adebayor is a better striker than Torres, as I feel that Torres is the best in the world, but in the past two years they have had similar scoring records. It’s all there in black and white, yet Torres is lauded whilst Adebayor is criticised. Torres' £25 million fee is regarded as a snip, yet Adebayor has been deemed to be overpriced in an increasingly inflated market. In this market, if Rooney and Torres were to be sold they would cost around £50 million, so is Adebayor really 'over priced' at half this amount?
GoonerDale
The YNWAWK 2008/2009 Review: Part 4
GoonerDale:
The fact that Hull stayed up after winning one of their last twenty-one games.
Jo$shuwaa:
For me, the biggest shock was Manchester City's deadline day swoop for Robinho, that day was a whirlwind one in football, with City takeover only just confirmed they went after everyone, literally everyone. But, when they actually captured him it was a coup of coups, especially when you consider the fact that they beat Chelsea to his signature.
Jack:
The prominence/success of Rory Delap's throw ins was a big surprise. As was the calamity that they caused in many defences, especially at the start of the season. Eventually, keepers were putting the ball out for corners instead of throw ins.
Hoxey:
Robbie Keane. Not much to say except, 20million? And the eventual conclusion, 'Why don't we send him back?'
Tom:
Hull City avoiding the drop. Before the season started they were pencilled in to go straight back down, with a squad that looked way too weak for the Premier League, but a series of shock wins, built upon attacking football, assisted by the odd Giovanni wonder goal made Hull the real surprise package early in the season. Then there was the awful run of form, where they looked to be going straight down. But, through early brilliance and then last gasp fortune, Hull escape the drop in a memorable maiden top flight season.
Friday 24 July 2009
The YNWAWK 2008/2009 Review: Part 3
GoonerDale:
King Kev 'The Messiah' bottled it yet again.
Jo$shuwaa:
Kevin Keegan of Newcastle United, when King Kev left, NUFC took a nose dive that they never recoverd from. His departure showed just how much the Geordie fans love their idols.
Robbie:
Scolari's arrival at Chelsea wasn't good news for the rest of the Big Four. His track record in management was amazing - he was won countless trophies and knows what it takes to get the best out of his stars. After starting the season well, it seemed that Chelsea had found a replacement for Jose. This wasn't to be the case, and Scolari's form as manager slopped, with Chelsea dropping points they wouldn't have dropped under Mourihno.
Jack:
It began with a feud with FIFA Vice President Jack Warner, and ended with a clash with the ownership and the chairman, Roy Keane's departure was a shock considering his decent performance the season before. To a large extent though, it was the element of self-destruction that made his exit more memorable than any other last season.
Hoxey:
Kevin Keegan. Oh! To be a geordie, especially when King Kev leaves. Nothing made me laugh more than those passionate Geordies "boycotting" their beloved football team.
Tom:
Juande Ramos' sacking was almost inevitable for three reasons:
1. He performed pooly in the league, despite having proven quality throughout the squad.
2. He spoke little English and was kept hidden from the fans and media.
3. Spurs are notorious for prematurely sacking managers.
Thursday 23 July 2009
The YNWAWK 2008/2009 Review: Part 2
GoonerDale:
Got to be Roy of the Rovers (Fulham Rovers). He took a team who were dead cert for relegation and turned them into a side who beat the top four sides and challenged for, and attained (pending qualification), entry into the Europa League.
Jo$shuwaa:
Roy Hodgson. I've gone for Roy because in 12 months he has turned a relegation candidate into a top seven team, and moreover, he has done it all on a small budget.
Robbie:
In 07/08, Fulham managed 'The Great Escape' with Roy Hodgson at the helm, and this year he propelled them into seventh position, almost leading them to automatic European qualification. The transformation that he has conducted at Fulham is phenomenal.
Jack:
Roy Hodgson. A great turnaround, from a fascinating English manager. Fulham played an authentic brand of Premier League football, fast and physical. They also played with a higher technical ability than the mid-tablers who finished above them last year, and this can largely be attributed to Roy.
Hoxey:
Roy Hodgson. The manager of the season simply has to be this man. He walks the walk and talks the talk. "At the start of the season if someone told us we would get 50 points we would have given them a funny look." How much more motivational can he be?
Tom:
After pulling off 'The Great Escape' in 07/08, Hodgson built upon this, taking The Cottagers to a very respectable seventh, earning them a place in the Europa League qualifiers. It was their highest Premier League finish to date. Hodgson, something of a football purist, played positive attacking football, and also led Fulham to the top of the Fair Play league.
Wednesday 22 July 2009
The YNWAWK 2008/2009 Review: Part 1
GoonerDale:
Apart from his shocker at Old Trafford against Liverpool, it has to be the monster Vidic. I know his life is made easier by playing beside Rio but he was superb last term. Van Der Sar owes the clean sheet record to him.
Jo$shuwaa:
Steven Gerrard of Liverpool. I hate to admit it, but he had a truly inspirational season, captaining Liverpool to second place, whilst also motivating his team to produce a sustained challenge for the title. They missed him dearly when he was injured.
Robbie:
Stephen Ireland had a great season. He provided Manchester City with goals and assists, whilst also helping out defensively -- a genuine all-round team player. Having spent time on the fringes in recent seasons, he excelled within his new first team role. Despite the money, he has been there most influential player.
Jack:
Edwin Van Der Sar. When they're both fit, central defences don't get much better than Rio and Vidic, however Van Der Sar was the linchpin of United's terrific defensive run during in the spring. A run that would prove decisive in their title victory.
Hoxey:
You will probably laugh, and rightly so, but super Nicky Barmby delivered some important games that helped to keep Hull up and, to quote Mr Motson, "It had to be Nicky Barmby".
Tom:
Ronaldo. When at his best, he was the most talented attacking player in 2008/2009. He will be very difficult to replace. Man Utd will certainly be less likely to win the league without him, even if they spend their £80m very wisely.
No Surprise: Sven and Notts County
A lot of the talk surrounding the appointment of Sven Goran Eriksson as Director of Football at Notts County has been focused upon the oddness of the situation. A languishing League 2 club, who've been stuck in the bottom tier of the Football League for five years, have attracted large foreign investment and have brought a former Mexico, England and Lazio manager into a senior role. However, when you analyse the two aspects of English football represented by this event, you begin to realise that it really isn't that shocking.
Firstly, it is the sort of strangeness that we are accustomed to in England. Whether it be Wimbledon moving to Milton Keynes, or Frank Lampard phoning up a radio show, English football is full of weirdness. The eccentric enigma of Sven is based in equal measure on his managing ability and his (unexplainable) womanising/inexplicably interesting appearance. It follows that Sven's post-Mexico return to English football would be unusual. The two can't help but act strangely in one another's company.
Secondly, these events display the role of tradition in English football. Notts County are an attractive prospect because of their history (they've been at it since 1862). They have had spells in the top flight but they've been in decline since their last departure from the old Division One in 1992, but, the tradition remains. As one of our writers Josh likes to remind me, Juventus' strip is derived from Notts County's. You can imagine the new owners celebrating their return to Premier League in several years time with a friendly match in Turin -- the storied, lengthy heritage of The Magpies must have been a crucial catalyst for the investment from the Middle East.
So, the logic of the interest in Notts County is clear, and when combined with the traditional peculiarity of English football, it really is no surprise that Sven Goran Erikkson is now Director of Football for a League 2 club.
Firstly, it is the sort of strangeness that we are accustomed to in England. Whether it be Wimbledon moving to Milton Keynes, or Frank Lampard phoning up a radio show, English football is full of weirdness. The eccentric enigma of Sven is based in equal measure on his managing ability and his (unexplainable) womanising/inexplicably interesting appearance. It follows that Sven's post-Mexico return to English football would be unusual. The two can't help but act strangely in one another's company.
Secondly, these events display the role of tradition in English football. Notts County are an attractive prospect because of their history (they've been at it since 1862). They have had spells in the top flight but they've been in decline since their last departure from the old Division One in 1992, but, the tradition remains. As one of our writers Josh likes to remind me, Juventus' strip is derived from Notts County's. You can imagine the new owners celebrating their return to Premier League in several years time with a friendly match in Turin -- the storied, lengthy heritage of The Magpies must have been a crucial catalyst for the investment from the Middle East.
So, the logic of the interest in Notts County is clear, and when combined with the traditional peculiarity of English football, it really is no surprise that Sven Goran Erikkson is now Director of Football for a League 2 club.
Monday 20 July 2009
Why we should be proud of the Coca-Cola Championship
England, as the birthplace of football, should be excited to have such a strong second tier of football. No other second tier country in Europe can claim to be as strong financially or competitively when you start down the footballing leagues. The facts are there to be seen; the revenue generated by clubs in the Championship of £306 million reaffirms it as Europe's sixth biggest league. This means that the likes of Blackpool are helping their league to financially rival the Eredvisie and Ligue 1 and to beat Portugal's Primera Liga.
In football today, money is highly influential, and with the Premier League persisting as the richest domestic competition in the world, and with the Big Four having remained in the top ten of The Deloitte Football Money League since 2004/2005, money was bound to trickle down to rest of the English divisions. Take James Beattie at Sheffield Utd, for 18 months the former England striker plied his trade in the Championship, he was able to do so because of the parachute payment system that stabilised United after their relegation. He was earning a reported £40,000 a week. That is a staggering amount when you consider that the average wage for most players at Championship clubs is less than £6000 per week.
But, it isn't just the money that makes the Championship such an attractive league for footballers to play in and for fans follow. Unlike the Premier League, Championship clubs are spread evenly across the country with four in the South West and Wales (Plymouth Argyle, Bristol City, Cardiff and Swansea), four in the Greater London area (Reading, QPR, Crystal Palace, and Watford), five in the West and East Midlands (West Brom, Coventry, Leicester, Notts Forest and Derby), two in East Anglia (Peterborough and Ipswich), five in Yorkshire (Sheff Wed, Sheff Utd, Barnsley, Doncaster and Scunthorpe), two in the North West (Preston and Blackpool), and Newcastle and Middlesbrough in the North East. Furthermore, the average ticket price for a Championship game is £21 for an adult and £12 for concessions. This means that the Championship, in contrast to the Premier League, is fan friendly. Wigan and Sunderland's half full stadiums spring to mind. The high levels of support in the Championship speak for themselves; 17 of the 24 teams in the Championship boast all-seated stadia with a 20,000 capacity or higher. All but two (Blackpool and Scunthorpe) have capacities of over 15,000. Fifteen have Premier League experience, with Swansea, Scunthorpe, Plymouth, Peterborough, Doncaster, Cardiff, Bristol city, Blackpool and Preston being the exceptions. It is also worth noting that ten League One clubs have spectator capacities of 15,000 or higher, and six teams have Premier League experience, how many other third tier leagues across Europe can boast such a record? None.
For the 09/10 season, Plymouth are charging their fans £450 for an adult season ticket and newly promoted Leicester are requesting £320, but QPR are bucking the trend by charging £650. It is possible that the era of sold out stadiums in the Championship about to end, as clubs become even more desperate to make money.
With the Premier League mostly consisting of the footballing powerhouses of Greater Manchester and Greater London, there is little left for much of the country in the way of a local top flight side, this is where the appeal of some the Championship teams comes into play. The rivalry and sheer competition that exists within the Championship is so intense because every section of every club, from the fan to the chairman, strives for the dreamland of the Premier League. Recently promoted Burnley, for example, are now financially set for the next ten years. This security, alongside the prestige of playing in the Premier League, is what fuels the competition of the Championship.
It becomes clear, when watching the football of the Championship and experiencing the stadia that it is played within, that we should be happy to have such a diverse and strong league helping to make the Premier League, and ultimately England, a stronger force in the world of football.
In football today, money is highly influential, and with the Premier League persisting as the richest domestic competition in the world, and with the Big Four having remained in the top ten of The Deloitte Football Money League since 2004/2005, money was bound to trickle down to rest of the English divisions. Take James Beattie at Sheffield Utd, for 18 months the former England striker plied his trade in the Championship, he was able to do so because of the parachute payment system that stabilised United after their relegation. He was earning a reported £40,000 a week. That is a staggering amount when you consider that the average wage for most players at Championship clubs is less than £6000 per week.
But, it isn't just the money that makes the Championship such an attractive league for footballers to play in and for fans follow. Unlike the Premier League, Championship clubs are spread evenly across the country with four in the South West and Wales (Plymouth Argyle, Bristol City, Cardiff and Swansea), four in the Greater London area (Reading, QPR, Crystal Palace, and Watford), five in the West and East Midlands (West Brom, Coventry, Leicester, Notts Forest and Derby), two in East Anglia (Peterborough and Ipswich), five in Yorkshire (Sheff Wed, Sheff Utd, Barnsley, Doncaster and Scunthorpe), two in the North West (Preston and Blackpool), and Newcastle and Middlesbrough in the North East. Furthermore, the average ticket price for a Championship game is £21 for an adult and £12 for concessions. This means that the Championship, in contrast to the Premier League, is fan friendly. Wigan and Sunderland's half full stadiums spring to mind. The high levels of support in the Championship speak for themselves; 17 of the 24 teams in the Championship boast all-seated stadia with a 20,000 capacity or higher. All but two (Blackpool and Scunthorpe) have capacities of over 15,000. Fifteen have Premier League experience, with Swansea, Scunthorpe, Plymouth, Peterborough, Doncaster, Cardiff, Bristol city, Blackpool and Preston being the exceptions. It is also worth noting that ten League One clubs have spectator capacities of 15,000 or higher, and six teams have Premier League experience, how many other third tier leagues across Europe can boast such a record? None.
For the 09/10 season, Plymouth are charging their fans £450 for an adult season ticket and newly promoted Leicester are requesting £320, but QPR are bucking the trend by charging £650. It is possible that the era of sold out stadiums in the Championship about to end, as clubs become even more desperate to make money.
With the Premier League mostly consisting of the footballing powerhouses of Greater Manchester and Greater London, there is little left for much of the country in the way of a local top flight side, this is where the appeal of some the Championship teams comes into play. The rivalry and sheer competition that exists within the Championship is so intense because every section of every club, from the fan to the chairman, strives for the dreamland of the Premier League. Recently promoted Burnley, for example, are now financially set for the next ten years. This security, alongside the prestige of playing in the Premier League, is what fuels the competition of the Championship.
It becomes clear, when watching the football of the Championship and experiencing the stadia that it is played within, that we should be happy to have such a diverse and strong league helping to make the Premier League, and ultimately England, a stronger force in the world of football.
When a player joins for money, he'll want to leave for football
As Beckham faced the boos last night at the Home Depot Centre, we witnessed a stand off that was in contrast to the majority of player vs. fan disputes that have occurred this summer. Here we have a player who's allegiance to his team is based on money, and money alone, this allegiance rubs against Beckham's other commitment, his wish to remain a high level player for as long as possible. This is where the problem lies, any fan of the LA Galaxy must realise that Beckham's commitment to their club is non-footballing, he came with ideas of image and marketability swimming in his head, and as such, it is clear that a footballing commitment to the MLS never did exist.
The problem here, is that any description of Beckham as disloyal is solely monetary, he came for money, and if he remains, it'll be for the money. It is obvious that Beckham should honour his contract, but, his desire to leave, if it exists, is to do with football. This is much harder for a fan to argue against than a player leaving for more money. Yes, Beckham put himself in this position, but, it's difficult to criticise a player for wanting to play at a higher level, even if he chose to drop down a level in the first place. When a player gets business and football confused, we should probably support them when they begin to put football first again.
Sorry LA fans.
The problem here, is that any description of Beckham as disloyal is solely monetary, he came for money, and if he remains, it'll be for the money. It is obvious that Beckham should honour his contract, but, his desire to leave, if it exists, is to do with football. This is much harder for a fan to argue against than a player leaving for more money. Yes, Beckham put himself in this position, but, it's difficult to criticise a player for wanting to play at a higher level, even if he chose to drop down a level in the first place. When a player gets business and football confused, we should probably support them when they begin to put football first again.
Sorry LA fans.
Friday 17 July 2009
Points on the Sale of Xabi Alonso
As a Liverpool fan, it would be churlish of me to ignore the ongoing story of Xabi Alonso’s future at the club. Real Madrid’s spending spree has been incredible since the transfer widow opened and with oligarchic amounts of money having been spent on some of the world’s top attacking talent, and their sights are now set on a central midfielder. Alonso would be a perfect acquisition for them in this second Galactico era. A deep lying playmaker, capable of setting up attacks for the likes of Ronaldo and Kaka to finish off, and as such, could be the final ingredient in their Champions League push.
Last year, Alonso was clearly upset when Benitez touted his services to Europe’s top clubs in order to raise the cash to sign Gareth Barry. Alonso managed to put the affair behind him, having one of his best campaigns in a red shirt. But a repeat scenario emerged this year and it now looks as though Alonso has decided that his future lies away from Anfield. The new stadium project and the financial problems of the American co-owners have left Benitez with limited funds, and consequently a sell-to-buy approach is required, and after the £17 million signing of Glen Johnson, it is likely to be instituted. A bid in the region of £35 million is what Benitez is rumoured to be holding out for. If Madrid were to offer this figure, then Alonso, despite Benitez’s public statements insisting that no first team regulars are for sale, would in all likelihood leave Anfield.
In his time at Liverpool, Alonso has provided the passing finesse in a hard-working midfield. But could his departure be beneficial? The £35 million would be put to good use but it is not enough money to make a marquee signing of David Villa proportions. Some of it would have to be spent on a replacement in the middle; Lee Cattermole and Roma’s Alberto Aquilani have been suggested at around £6 million and £15 million respectively. In other areas of the pitch, Valencia’s David Silva and Ashley Young also appear to be realistic targets for the money that the sale of Alonso would create. Anything leftover would have to be spent on squad building, as there is a well-documented lack of quality cover, with the midfield and attack being particular areas for concern. If no central midfielders are signed, Lucas will have to make a big improvement. Towards the end of last season he looked to be improving, and for me, some of the fans’ criticism is unjustified when we consider Lucas as a player who is capable of filling the role of a squad player.
Would it be worthwhile for Liverpool to trade Alonso’s skill for a better all round squad? A midfield reshuffle could give Liverpool more options against the teams that caused them their well-documented problems last term. Against teams who make up what they lack in funds and with technically ability, with tenacity and teamwork, Liverpool often lacked the cutting edge. Alonso was Rafa’s key man in a five-man midfield, the playmaker, providing Gerrard and Torres with the sort of passes they needed to create chances. The biggest problem here was that the reliance upon Alonso made Liverpool play narrow, making it easier for defences to cope. If Liverpool were to play a 4-4-2, and the rumours regarding the signing of Silva and Young would seem to support this view, Steven Gerrard could either be deployed in central midfield or as a second striker, allowing other attacking players such as Kuyt, Benayoun and Riera more opportunities in the wide areas.
The problem here would be that against the rest of the top four, where Liverpool, and Alonso played fantastically last year, the defence could be exposed without two holding midfield players. Against attacking opposition, Benitez’s preferred a 4-5-1 formation, which offered balance between attack and defence, but against less ambitious play it didn’t offer enough going forward, especially if Gerrard or Torres were not selected. Despite remaining unbeaten at home, the seven home draws recorded last season were not good enough, with Arsenal, Everton, Man City, West Ham, Hull, Stoke and Fulham all earning a point at Anfield. Whilst the Arsenal and Everton matches were even games, Liverpool weren’t positive enough against the others. Manchester United’s home record of two home draws and one loss was a far better achievement, and it was attained with an attacking philosophy. All season long United seemed to be able to find what they needed to win at home, meanwhile at Anfield, opponents seemed to have enough to hang on. Benitez’s cautious approach is nothing to do with Alonso but his absence from the team could force Liverpool into a more adventurous style of play. On the other hand, without Alonso, Liverpool’s 4-4-2 could prove to be ineffective away from home.
It would be a shame to see Alonso go, but if the price was acceptable then his sale could allow Liverpool to take a forward step. However, any successes without Alonso would be dependent upon the signings made with the funds his transfer would create and the implementation of a more positive philosophy.
Last year, Alonso was clearly upset when Benitez touted his services to Europe’s top clubs in order to raise the cash to sign Gareth Barry. Alonso managed to put the affair behind him, having one of his best campaigns in a red shirt. But a repeat scenario emerged this year and it now looks as though Alonso has decided that his future lies away from Anfield. The new stadium project and the financial problems of the American co-owners have left Benitez with limited funds, and consequently a sell-to-buy approach is required, and after the £17 million signing of Glen Johnson, it is likely to be instituted. A bid in the region of £35 million is what Benitez is rumoured to be holding out for. If Madrid were to offer this figure, then Alonso, despite Benitez’s public statements insisting that no first team regulars are for sale, would in all likelihood leave Anfield.
In his time at Liverpool, Alonso has provided the passing finesse in a hard-working midfield. But could his departure be beneficial? The £35 million would be put to good use but it is not enough money to make a marquee signing of David Villa proportions. Some of it would have to be spent on a replacement in the middle; Lee Cattermole and Roma’s Alberto Aquilani have been suggested at around £6 million and £15 million respectively. In other areas of the pitch, Valencia’s David Silva and Ashley Young also appear to be realistic targets for the money that the sale of Alonso would create. Anything leftover would have to be spent on squad building, as there is a well-documented lack of quality cover, with the midfield and attack being particular areas for concern. If no central midfielders are signed, Lucas will have to make a big improvement. Towards the end of last season he looked to be improving, and for me, some of the fans’ criticism is unjustified when we consider Lucas as a player who is capable of filling the role of a squad player.
Would it be worthwhile for Liverpool to trade Alonso’s skill for a better all round squad? A midfield reshuffle could give Liverpool more options against the teams that caused them their well-documented problems last term. Against teams who make up what they lack in funds and with technically ability, with tenacity and teamwork, Liverpool often lacked the cutting edge. Alonso was Rafa’s key man in a five-man midfield, the playmaker, providing Gerrard and Torres with the sort of passes they needed to create chances. The biggest problem here was that the reliance upon Alonso made Liverpool play narrow, making it easier for defences to cope. If Liverpool were to play a 4-4-2, and the rumours regarding the signing of Silva and Young would seem to support this view, Steven Gerrard could either be deployed in central midfield or as a second striker, allowing other attacking players such as Kuyt, Benayoun and Riera more opportunities in the wide areas.
The problem here would be that against the rest of the top four, where Liverpool, and Alonso played fantastically last year, the defence could be exposed without two holding midfield players. Against attacking opposition, Benitez’s preferred a 4-5-1 formation, which offered balance between attack and defence, but against less ambitious play it didn’t offer enough going forward, especially if Gerrard or Torres were not selected. Despite remaining unbeaten at home, the seven home draws recorded last season were not good enough, with Arsenal, Everton, Man City, West Ham, Hull, Stoke and Fulham all earning a point at Anfield. Whilst the Arsenal and Everton matches were even games, Liverpool weren’t positive enough against the others. Manchester United’s home record of two home draws and one loss was a far better achievement, and it was attained with an attacking philosophy. All season long United seemed to be able to find what they needed to win at home, meanwhile at Anfield, opponents seemed to have enough to hang on. Benitez’s cautious approach is nothing to do with Alonso but his absence from the team could force Liverpool into a more adventurous style of play. On the other hand, without Alonso, Liverpool’s 4-4-2 could prove to be ineffective away from home.
It would be a shame to see Alonso go, but if the price was acceptable then his sale could allow Liverpool to take a forward step. However, any successes without Alonso would be dependent upon the signings made with the funds his transfer would create and the implementation of a more positive philosophy.
Beckham vs. Donovan - The Emails
David Beckham is returning to action with the LA Galaxy tonight, and it seems that the recent spat with Landon Donovan regarding his commitment to the Galaxy is over. But, I've happened upon (made up) a sample of the emails that were flying between the two giants of the LA soccer scene during the tenser moments of DB23's time at AC.
FROM: lan-don@usasoccer.com
TO: db23@milan.europeanfootball.com
DAVEYY,
You're totally smoking that Italian league, but please make sure you're back here dude, we need you, I mean, you're worth twenty times what they're paying you man. Grass goes away, astro turf lasts forever! Munich let me go, but man, I was out of there anyway, cos me and the LA Galaxy go way back. Me and the franchise. You're lucky that you aren't in NYC, the fans of the New York Red Bulls wouldn't stand this, it's easy going in Cali, you picked right. This league's about commitment. Get committed.
On three.....WIN!
Lan-don
FROM: db23@milan.europeanfootball.com
TO: lan-don@usasoccer.com
Landon,
I miss LA mate, just loving Milan right now. Sorry to hear about Munich. Well I'll be back to play the Metrostars, the NJ, the New York, erm, the New York Red Bulls. They changed their name didn't they, haw haw. Their fans are scary though. We'll take the league and all that, no problem.
See you at training.
123....Do it.
DB
PS. I saw your wife in 'Bring It On' the other day.
FROM: lan-don@usasoccer.com
TO: db23@milan.europeanfootball.com
DAVEYY,
You're totally smoking that Italian league, but please make sure you're back here dude, we need you, I mean, you're worth twenty times what they're paying you man. Grass goes away, astro turf lasts forever! Munich let me go, but man, I was out of there anyway, cos me and the LA Galaxy go way back. Me and the franchise. You're lucky that you aren't in NYC, the fans of the New York Red Bulls wouldn't stand this, it's easy going in Cali, you picked right. This league's about commitment. Get committed.
On three.....WIN!
Lan-don
FROM: db23@milan.europeanfootball.com
TO: lan-don@usasoccer.com
Landon,
I miss LA mate, just loving Milan right now. Sorry to hear about Munich. Well I'll be back to play the Metrostars, the NJ, the New York, erm, the New York Red Bulls. They changed their name didn't they, haw haw. Their fans are scary though. We'll take the league and all that, no problem.
See you at training.
123....Do it.
DB
PS. I saw your wife in 'Bring It On' the other day.
Monday 13 July 2009
The You'll Never Win Anything With Kids 2008/2009 Premier League Review
Over the next two weeks, the neatly crafted, spherical heads of YNWAWK will be introducing themselves via a review of the 2008/2009 Premier League season. We've got various categories, and you should (wildly) anticipate The Serhei Revbrov Award for Worst Signing of the Season and The Jacqui Oatley Trophy for Best Commentator/Pundit of the Season especially.
So, keep an eye out for the first category and the first set of opinions.
So, keep an eye out for the first category and the first set of opinions.
Wednesday 8 July 2009
Ripe For Investment
On the way back from some temporary work, work that has been shortened in length by swine flu (do not ask), but work for two more weeks, two fellow YNWAWK contributors (Robbie and Josh) and myself began to discuss the ripeness of teams for foreign investment. This is to say, how well the nucleus of a team could adapt to an influx of new, expensive players. The nucleus was important, because we were judging the ripeness with regard to the potential for immediate, staggering success. The conversation fell to the difference between a team who have received the overwhelming foreign investment post-Abramovich (Manchester City) and a team who have not (Everton).
Both teams have a large, loyal fanbase and exist within the contemporary heartland of Premier League football, the northwest. But, when you scroll through the Everton team and their yearly successes under David Moyes, you begin to realise that this is a team that could provide instant results (more instant that City, whose overhaul seems to cover nearly every position) if provided with instant money for the right signings. In the car, we imagined that Lescott could move to left back, with a big arrival joining Jagielka in central defence and that Howard would be more than capable of providing a Premier League winning standard of keeping. You can imagine Arteta thriving with a selection of world-class grinders/deep playmakers around him. Fellaini/Cahill would become the spark of the bench, with Yakubu working hard (if fit) with £30m wingers either side of him and a new mystery arrival from Barcelona in behind.
Imaginary/speculative teams – always worth a discussion.
But, after these suppositions, and the realisation that if the money that went to City had arrived at Goodison Park, Everton could’ve challenged quickly and strongly, it became clear that this would butcher an element of Everton’s presence in the league. To move from silky dogfighters to the silky expectations of big investment would deny Everton fans and David Moyes, the rewards that the nature of their achievements provides. After several years on the fringe of The Big Four, Everton fans may wish for the investment that would push them over the edge, and if spent well, it definitely could. But maybe, the style of play that they love (and others despise) in Cahill, Fellaini and even their manager, would go.
Here, I came to the conclusion that a team’s current nucleus and mentality is irrelevant, and that in reality, every team is ripe for large (whether foreign or domestic) investment. There is no turning down investment on this scale.
Outside of the boardroom, we are left to consider whether the Abu Dhabi Group were looking at The City of Manchester Stadium and shirt sales, or Stephen Ireland and Michael Johnson. And what do you think Everton fans, should they have been looking a bit further west?
Thanks to Josh and Robbie for their role in the original discussion.
Jack Burston
GoonerDale had this to add:
'Very interesting, the stadium part is the most valid point, because this is why Roman opted for Chelsea. Initially, he was buying Spurs, but his helicopter journey over London passed by Stamford Bridge and he decided that he wanted Chelsea because the hotel and the Chelsea village complex attached to it looked like 'a more attractive prospect'. He didn't care that they had Champions League football, he didn't consider the huge debt, the stadium was the deciding factor!'
Both teams have a large, loyal fanbase and exist within the contemporary heartland of Premier League football, the northwest. But, when you scroll through the Everton team and their yearly successes under David Moyes, you begin to realise that this is a team that could provide instant results (more instant that City, whose overhaul seems to cover nearly every position) if provided with instant money for the right signings. In the car, we imagined that Lescott could move to left back, with a big arrival joining Jagielka in central defence and that Howard would be more than capable of providing a Premier League winning standard of keeping. You can imagine Arteta thriving with a selection of world-class grinders/deep playmakers around him. Fellaini/Cahill would become the spark of the bench, with Yakubu working hard (if fit) with £30m wingers either side of him and a new mystery arrival from Barcelona in behind.
Imaginary/speculative teams – always worth a discussion.
But, after these suppositions, and the realisation that if the money that went to City had arrived at Goodison Park, Everton could’ve challenged quickly and strongly, it became clear that this would butcher an element of Everton’s presence in the league. To move from silky dogfighters to the silky expectations of big investment would deny Everton fans and David Moyes, the rewards that the nature of their achievements provides. After several years on the fringe of The Big Four, Everton fans may wish for the investment that would push them over the edge, and if spent well, it definitely could. But maybe, the style of play that they love (and others despise) in Cahill, Fellaini and even their manager, would go.
Here, I came to the conclusion that a team’s current nucleus and mentality is irrelevant, and that in reality, every team is ripe for large (whether foreign or domestic) investment. There is no turning down investment on this scale.
Outside of the boardroom, we are left to consider whether the Abu Dhabi Group were looking at The City of Manchester Stadium and shirt sales, or Stephen Ireland and Michael Johnson. And what do you think Everton fans, should they have been looking a bit further west?
Thanks to Josh and Robbie for their role in the original discussion.
Jack Burston
GoonerDale had this to add:
'Very interesting, the stadium part is the most valid point, because this is why Roman opted for Chelsea. Initially, he was buying Spurs, but his helicopter journey over London passed by Stamford Bridge and he decided that he wanted Chelsea because the hotel and the Chelsea village complex attached to it looked like 'a more attractive prospect'. He didn't care that they had Champions League football, he didn't consider the huge debt, the stadium was the deciding factor!'
Do Chelsea stick or twist this summer?
After Chelsea made their opening move by signing Yuri Zhirkov in what has become the most exiting transfer window since its controversial inception, the question must be asked, do Chelsea need to strengthen this summer?
If we consider all of the weaknesses of The Big Four it is easy to pinpoint where Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United are likely to struggle in the upcoming season.
A Championship Manager amateur would have noted that Arsenal lacked the muscle and experience in the middle of the park needed to challenge for the major honours last term. The professor has already addressed the need to strengthen his defence with the signing of Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax, and his pursuit of Blaise Matuidi and the protracted Felipe Melo transfer saga would suggest that he is looking for midfield general to enable Cesc Fabregas to flourish as he did beside Matthieu Flamini two seasons ago. Two signings and The Gunners are seemingly sorted.
Liverpool lacked the strength in depth needed to challenge last season and it would seem that Rafa has solved a ‘problem’ at right back by signing Glen Johnson for over £17m. The need to have adequate back up for the world’s best striker, rather than David Ngog is obvious for all to see and Xabi Alonso will have to replaced if sold. If Alonso is sold to Real Madrid for the £35m being quoted I can’t see Rafa having any problems finding players in these key areas, with that sort of cash to play with. And that’s a facht.
So, we move to the champions Manchester United, whose squad looked deeper than a clown's pocket before their outing in Rome, but now looks depleted with the departures of Carlos Tevez and the World Player of the Year, Cristiano Ronaldo. The way in which Manchester United’s midfield was outclassed at every turn during that night in Rome is something that will have concerned Fergie and it will be an area in which he will be keen to strengthen if Owen Hargreaves cannot prove his fitness. The arrivals of Luis Valencia (who simply is not fit to lace Ronaldo’s boots), Michael Owen (who was on Hull City and Stoke City’s radar) and Gabriel Obertan (who couldn’t find a place in the Bordeaux team and was subsequently loaned out) has not stopped the grumblings of discontent from United fans. A lot has been made of the ‘gamble’ on Owen, yet isn’t a gamble at all, a free transfer on performance related pay is far less of a gamble than say, a punt at David Villa for £45m plus the £120k a week he would demand.
Chelsea’s main problem it would seem, is that they do not have an obvious problem to fix. The front three included Nicolas Anelka the league's top scorer, the frightening Didier Drogba and the Premier League's most improved player Florent Malouda, add to this the return of Joe Cole and new boy Yuri Zhirkov, who can play as a wing back or in attack, and impressive starlet Daniel Sturridge, and Chelsea seem to have the full compliment up front. The middle of the park has never been a problem the always impressive Frank Lampard scores 20 goals a season and with the likes of Ballack alongside him with Essien and Mikel as anchors they surely posses the best midfield in the Premier League. With a sound defence, including four top class centre backs and full backs who are as impressive going forward as they are in defending, in Boswinga and Cole, Petr Cech has as much insurance as he needs.
Perhaps Chelsea need to be patient. If Liverpool don’t provide back up for Stevie G and Torres, then one injury could end their challenge and even see them behind Manchester City in fifth. In North London, if no midfield enforcer is found, the impressive attack of Arshavin, Nasri, Van Persie, Fabregas, Walcott, Adebayor and ‘new signings’ Rosicky and Eduardo won't have the defensive insurance required to mount a serious challenge. Manchester United simply have to replace Ronaldo, they probably wouldn’t have won their last two titles without him, but with Kaka and Benzema opting for Madrid, it seems as though Fergie’s £80m will stay in the bank for now.
The question is, are Chelsea’s signings dependant on how the rest of The Big Four move? It would seem that Ancelotti only needs to make the kinds of signings which announce his arrival as Chelsea boss and signal his intentions. This may have already come as his first duty as Chelsea manager was to announce that John Terry was going nowhere, news that will have delighted Chelsea fans more than any announcement about Owen, Valencia, Obertan, Vermaelen, or even Kaka or Benzema for that matter. I can't see any players who will come in and improve the Blues dramatically, and this squad is far stronger than the rest, so why would anyone take the risk of unsettling the squad, I for one cannot see past them this term if the others don’t strengthen.
GoonerDale.
If we consider all of the weaknesses of The Big Four it is easy to pinpoint where Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United are likely to struggle in the upcoming season.
A Championship Manager amateur would have noted that Arsenal lacked the muscle and experience in the middle of the park needed to challenge for the major honours last term. The professor has already addressed the need to strengthen his defence with the signing of Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax, and his pursuit of Blaise Matuidi and the protracted Felipe Melo transfer saga would suggest that he is looking for midfield general to enable Cesc Fabregas to flourish as he did beside Matthieu Flamini two seasons ago. Two signings and The Gunners are seemingly sorted.
Liverpool lacked the strength in depth needed to challenge last season and it would seem that Rafa has solved a ‘problem’ at right back by signing Glen Johnson for over £17m. The need to have adequate back up for the world’s best striker, rather than David Ngog is obvious for all to see and Xabi Alonso will have to replaced if sold. If Alonso is sold to Real Madrid for the £35m being quoted I can’t see Rafa having any problems finding players in these key areas, with that sort of cash to play with. And that’s a facht.
So, we move to the champions Manchester United, whose squad looked deeper than a clown's pocket before their outing in Rome, but now looks depleted with the departures of Carlos Tevez and the World Player of the Year, Cristiano Ronaldo. The way in which Manchester United’s midfield was outclassed at every turn during that night in Rome is something that will have concerned Fergie and it will be an area in which he will be keen to strengthen if Owen Hargreaves cannot prove his fitness. The arrivals of Luis Valencia (who simply is not fit to lace Ronaldo’s boots), Michael Owen (who was on Hull City and Stoke City’s radar) and Gabriel Obertan (who couldn’t find a place in the Bordeaux team and was subsequently loaned out) has not stopped the grumblings of discontent from United fans. A lot has been made of the ‘gamble’ on Owen, yet isn’t a gamble at all, a free transfer on performance related pay is far less of a gamble than say, a punt at David Villa for £45m plus the £120k a week he would demand.
Chelsea’s main problem it would seem, is that they do not have an obvious problem to fix. The front three included Nicolas Anelka the league's top scorer, the frightening Didier Drogba and the Premier League's most improved player Florent Malouda, add to this the return of Joe Cole and new boy Yuri Zhirkov, who can play as a wing back or in attack, and impressive starlet Daniel Sturridge, and Chelsea seem to have the full compliment up front. The middle of the park has never been a problem the always impressive Frank Lampard scores 20 goals a season and with the likes of Ballack alongside him with Essien and Mikel as anchors they surely posses the best midfield in the Premier League. With a sound defence, including four top class centre backs and full backs who are as impressive going forward as they are in defending, in Boswinga and Cole, Petr Cech has as much insurance as he needs.
Perhaps Chelsea need to be patient. If Liverpool don’t provide back up for Stevie G and Torres, then one injury could end their challenge and even see them behind Manchester City in fifth. In North London, if no midfield enforcer is found, the impressive attack of Arshavin, Nasri, Van Persie, Fabregas, Walcott, Adebayor and ‘new signings’ Rosicky and Eduardo won't have the defensive insurance required to mount a serious challenge. Manchester United simply have to replace Ronaldo, they probably wouldn’t have won their last two titles without him, but with Kaka and Benzema opting for Madrid, it seems as though Fergie’s £80m will stay in the bank for now.
The question is, are Chelsea’s signings dependant on how the rest of The Big Four move? It would seem that Ancelotti only needs to make the kinds of signings which announce his arrival as Chelsea boss and signal his intentions. This may have already come as his first duty as Chelsea manager was to announce that John Terry was going nowhere, news that will have delighted Chelsea fans more than any announcement about Owen, Valencia, Obertan, Vermaelen, or even Kaka or Benzema for that matter. I can't see any players who will come in and improve the Blues dramatically, and this squad is far stronger than the rest, so why would anyone take the risk of unsettling the squad, I for one cannot see past them this term if the others don’t strengthen.
GoonerDale.
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