This just in from the Liverpool FC official website and slowly popping up in all other soccer news sites.
Although the official LFC website didn't provide the figures, soccernet believes the fee to be around £20m. Which in my opinion does seem alot for a player with an injury history. I mean, Michael Owen was free! He started(sub appearances) for the last few seasons were 14(13), 17(11), 15(7), 26(6).
Nevertheless, we all know the skill Aquilani possess and I'm sure he learned alot from Totti. In fact, I rate him as 'the next Totti'. So hopefully he will come good for Liverpool. Undeniable this guy has skill. He was captain of the Italian U-19 and U-21 squads, so he has some positive mental attributes about him. Rafa also described him as having a 'winning mentality' which is essential in all good players and sportsman.
Though the dismal appearance record seems to make him out to be somewhat of a gamble, I'm sure Rafa knows what he is doing. Afterall, it was said that AA only suffered recurrence of his ligament injuries because Roma were trying to rush him back too quickly. Let's hope now his injuries are behind him. Steven Gerrard was injury-prone, but looks to have shaken that off in the last two years, which was about the age AA is now.
So I wish he stays fit and we can see what a great player he is. Because no matter how much skill you have, if you can't stay fit to kick the ball, you're no use either. Like a certain Harry Kewell we knew.
31.7.09
End of the Alonso Saga
News has been going around that Xabi Alonso has handed in a transfer request to Liverpool. No deal has been agreed yet, so it may be a little pre-mature to say goodbye to Alonso, but I'll do it anyway.
I understand his decision to leave, and believe it has nothing to do with Rafa undermining him at the start of last season. The Spanish boys probably grew up as young footballers dreaming of playing for Barcelona or Real Madrid one day, so this is a dream come true for him. So although, I still think UEFA should step in to intervene with Real Madrid's tapping up antics, and isn't Real's biggest fan, I'd say thanks for 5 good years, of which maybe 3 were great. I like I'm sure all pool fans round the world, we wish you all the best.
There have been a few names tossed around the papers as replacements, but Rafa hasn't commented on anything about them yet. Perhaps it's his way of not giving up hope on Alonso, but I think if he wants to leave, let him go. The club will move on, we will sign a high-profile replacement. Currently the names in the press are Lee Cattermole and Alberto Aquilani. Aquilani would be a good signing, but I'm not sure about Cattermole for £12million. In any case, that's just speculation.
People like to say that Liverpool are in debt, and they don't have the money to compete for the top players. I'm afraid that is a myth. Man United are in more debt- about £500million more. And no one talks about them being unable to afford players. We got our refinancing deal, our owners have sold off their other acquisitions. We will have money, despite what Rafa says.
Rafa is just trying to say he doesn't have money, so he wouldn't be paying exuberant prices for players. For example, we all know that Joleon Lescott is a decent defender, but no way is he worth £20million. But because it's Man City who came knocking on Everton's door, he suddenly became worth that much. So don't believe what you hear from the papers, or from Rafa himself.
Two seasons ago, he suddenly had something like £17million to sign Mascherano and another £24m+ addons to sign Torres, despite claiming the lack of funds. Last season, for all the "lack of money issues", he claimed he had, we still signed a £20million striker. Whether he turned out to be a flop or not is beside the point, really. The fact is, we had money to sign him, even when the papers and manager said we don't.
And the reason why the manager said we don't is because he didn't want to pay over-the-odds for Barry. And that is really one man who is over-rated.
So with the sale of Alonso, Arbeloa, Dossena, Leto, Hobbs, Anderson and Pennant, Rafa would have raised £40million plus however much he said he didn't have. Having only spend £9million this season to sign G. Johnson (because the rest came from the Crouch money), I will expect some, or at least one, high-profile signings. So Chelsea and Man United fans, don't start celebrating yet!
I understand his decision to leave, and believe it has nothing to do with Rafa undermining him at the start of last season. The Spanish boys probably grew up as young footballers dreaming of playing for Barcelona or Real Madrid one day, so this is a dream come true for him. So although, I still think UEFA should step in to intervene with Real Madrid's tapping up antics, and isn't Real's biggest fan, I'd say thanks for 5 good years, of which maybe 3 were great. I like I'm sure all pool fans round the world, we wish you all the best.
There have been a few names tossed around the papers as replacements, but Rafa hasn't commented on anything about them yet. Perhaps it's his way of not giving up hope on Alonso, but I think if he wants to leave, let him go. The club will move on, we will sign a high-profile replacement. Currently the names in the press are Lee Cattermole and Alberto Aquilani. Aquilani would be a good signing, but I'm not sure about Cattermole for £12million. In any case, that's just speculation.
People like to say that Liverpool are in debt, and they don't have the money to compete for the top players. I'm afraid that is a myth. Man United are in more debt- about £500million more. And no one talks about them being unable to afford players. We got our refinancing deal, our owners have sold off their other acquisitions. We will have money, despite what Rafa says.
Rafa is just trying to say he doesn't have money, so he wouldn't be paying exuberant prices for players. For example, we all know that Joleon Lescott is a decent defender, but no way is he worth £20million. But because it's Man City who came knocking on Everton's door, he suddenly became worth that much. So don't believe what you hear from the papers, or from Rafa himself.
Two seasons ago, he suddenly had something like £17million to sign Mascherano and another £24m+ addons to sign Torres, despite claiming the lack of funds. Last season, for all the "lack of money issues", he claimed he had, we still signed a £20million striker. Whether he turned out to be a flop or not is beside the point, really. The fact is, we had money to sign him, even when the papers and manager said we don't.
And the reason why the manager said we don't is because he didn't want to pay over-the-odds for Barry. And that is really one man who is over-rated.
So with the sale of Alonso, Arbeloa, Dossena, Leto, Hobbs, Anderson and Pennant, Rafa would have raised £40million plus however much he said he didn't have. Having only spend £9million this season to sign G. Johnson (because the rest came from the Crouch money), I will expect some, or at least one, high-profile signings. So Chelsea and Man United fans, don't start celebrating yet!
28.7.09
More Alonso News
So it's exactly what I said.
Peter Crouch moved to Tottenham to renew his Crouch-Defoe Partnership under the same manager under a different club. Bent, makes way and moves to Sunderland. Poor chap, he has been under-rated all his life, even when he scored something like 22 league goals, Theo Walcott - who never played a single Premier league game at that time - went to the World Cup with England instead. I'm sure we all remember that incident. And now again, he is being chucked out of even Tottenham. Admittedly, I would pick Defoe over him, and they are sort of similiar kinds of strikers.
More news on the Xabi Alonso speculation today. It was better news for Liverpool that Real might be pulling out of the deal for Alonso. Quotes from Real Madrid president Florentino Perez was quite annoying to the ears of this Liverpool fan though.
He said "Some people obviously thought that because we said we wanted more Spanish players, they could ask for fees which don't correspond to reality.
"A year ago, certain players we've asked about would have cost less than half the price we're being quoted now.
"If necessary, we'll find the Spanish players we would like for the squad in our youth system."
Well, I believe Alonso is definately worth more than £30million, and thats the price Real are not willing to match. But more importantly, alot of things can change in a year! Alonso was almost out of Anfield a year ago to finance the Barry deal (Thank God it didn't happen) but if Madrid want to talk about prices a year ago, why didn't they buy him last year? It's only because he was performing so well in the season which just ended isn't it? So therefore, his value goes up! Duh!
And secondly, Real Madrid is the one who is inflating prices in the market. By breaking the world record transfer fee (by some margin) for Cristiano Ronaldo, they have opened the flood gates for inflated prices for players. Everyone is going to say, 'if Ronaldo was worth £80million, then [insert random player name here] is worth [insert ridiculous price here], if not more'.
And so finally, if Cristiano Ronaldo was worth £80million, Alonso is easily worth at least AT LEAST £35million, if not more.
Peter Crouch moved to Tottenham to renew his Crouch-Defoe Partnership under the same manager under a different club. Bent, makes way and moves to Sunderland. Poor chap, he has been under-rated all his life, even when he scored something like 22 league goals, Theo Walcott - who never played a single Premier league game at that time - went to the World Cup with England instead. I'm sure we all remember that incident. And now again, he is being chucked out of even Tottenham. Admittedly, I would pick Defoe over him, and they are sort of similiar kinds of strikers.
More news on the Xabi Alonso speculation today. It was better news for Liverpool that Real might be pulling out of the deal for Alonso. Quotes from Real Madrid president Florentino Perez was quite annoying to the ears of this Liverpool fan though.
He said "Some people obviously thought that because we said we wanted more Spanish players, they could ask for fees which don't correspond to reality.
"A year ago, certain players we've asked about would have cost less than half the price we're being quoted now.
"If necessary, we'll find the Spanish players we would like for the squad in our youth system."
Well, I believe Alonso is definately worth more than £30million, and thats the price Real are not willing to match. But more importantly, alot of things can change in a year! Alonso was almost out of Anfield a year ago to finance the Barry deal (Thank God it didn't happen) but if Madrid want to talk about prices a year ago, why didn't they buy him last year? It's only because he was performing so well in the season which just ended isn't it? So therefore, his value goes up! Duh!
And secondly, Real Madrid is the one who is inflating prices in the market. By breaking the world record transfer fee (by some margin) for Cristiano Ronaldo, they have opened the flood gates for inflated prices for players. Everyone is going to say, 'if Ronaldo was worth £80million, then [insert random player name here] is worth [insert ridiculous price here], if not more'.
And so finally, if Cristiano Ronaldo was worth £80million, Alonso is easily worth at least AT LEAST £35million, if not more.
27.7.09
Quiet Weekend
The weekend just concluded, and it's been a quiet week in terms of transfers.
Crouch is almost moving to Tottenham, Bent is almost moving to Sunderland, Terry almost moved to City, Toure is nearly there. Liverpool are still chasing Silva, Madrid are still chasing Alonso. It's the same old stories, but nothing concrete.
The only news comes from Italy/Spain where Ibrahamovic and Eto'o swapped places. Mourinho made a public comment about losing Zlatan, as a coach, but as a manager, it was good business. And indeed it was. 45million euros plus Eto'o. I really wonder how the chairman pulled that stunt.
I know Eto'o wanted to leave, but still. Eto'o isn't worth only 50million euros either. That makes it almost a 100million euro deal. And let me tell you this, I rate Eto'o much higher than Ibrahamovic. "Zlatan Ibrahamovic makes Dimitar Berbatov look as hardworking as Dirk Kuyt", was one comment on F365. I can't say I agree with that, but certainly I enjoy Eto'o's pace and energy so much more than the admittedly lazy but sublime skills of Ibrahamovic.
That being said, I think it was a steal on Inter's point of view. Absolutely great business!
That's my only comment. On the only transfer story. It's back to reading about Terry, Alonso, Crouch, Silva....
Crouch is almost moving to Tottenham, Bent is almost moving to Sunderland, Terry almost moved to City, Toure is nearly there. Liverpool are still chasing Silva, Madrid are still chasing Alonso. It's the same old stories, but nothing concrete.
The only news comes from Italy/Spain where Ibrahamovic and Eto'o swapped places. Mourinho made a public comment about losing Zlatan, as a coach, but as a manager, it was good business. And indeed it was. 45million euros plus Eto'o. I really wonder how the chairman pulled that stunt.
I know Eto'o wanted to leave, but still. Eto'o isn't worth only 50million euros either. That makes it almost a 100million euro deal. And let me tell you this, I rate Eto'o much higher than Ibrahamovic. "Zlatan Ibrahamovic makes Dimitar Berbatov look as hardworking as Dirk Kuyt", was one comment on F365. I can't say I agree with that, but certainly I enjoy Eto'o's pace and energy so much more than the admittedly lazy but sublime skills of Ibrahamovic.
That being said, I think it was a steal on Inter's point of view. Absolutely great business!
That's my only comment. On the only transfer story. It's back to reading about Terry, Alonso, Crouch, Silva....
25.7.09
The Liverpool Non-Stories
Just a few comments about the stories in the papers today.
As far as I'm concerned, they are non-stories. They claimed that Liverpool are 'stepping up the chase' for Villa, and that Aberloa is going to Madrid with Alonso in exchange for another player, Negredo being the name thrown around. But then, there are no quotes. Not from Rafa, nor the owners. Rafa is enjoying the sunshine and humidity in Singapore, whilst the owners are over negotiating a loan refinancing deal with RBS.
Although I would love to see Silva and Negredo at Liverpool, Liverpool fans should not get excited because these stories are meaningless. And hence I will stop commenting on them now.
In other news, Captain Stevie G has been cleared of charges of affray. He is the only one of the seven involved who was cleared. This, obviously, has nothing to do with the fact that he is the captain of the Liverpool team, or in fact just a professional footballer at a big club. It's all a bit silly really, how the world turns a blind eye when a professional footballer is treated differently, especially one of Steven Gerrard's stature. Having said that, Joey Barton must have done some really really bad things to deserve what he got.
And finally, I wish Liverpool all the best in Singapore. I wish I was there to be part of the tour!
As far as I'm concerned, they are non-stories. They claimed that Liverpool are 'stepping up the chase' for Villa, and that Aberloa is going to Madrid with Alonso in exchange for another player, Negredo being the name thrown around. But then, there are no quotes. Not from Rafa, nor the owners. Rafa is enjoying the sunshine and humidity in Singapore, whilst the owners are over negotiating a loan refinancing deal with RBS.
Although I would love to see Silva and Negredo at Liverpool, Liverpool fans should not get excited because these stories are meaningless. And hence I will stop commenting on them now.
In other news, Captain Stevie G has been cleared of charges of affray. He is the only one of the seven involved who was cleared. This, obviously, has nothing to do with the fact that he is the captain of the Liverpool team, or in fact just a professional footballer at a big club. It's all a bit silly really, how the world turns a blind eye when a professional footballer is treated differently, especially one of Steven Gerrard's stature. Having said that, Joey Barton must have done some really really bad things to deserve what he got.
And finally, I wish Liverpool all the best in Singapore. I wish I was there to be part of the tour!
23.7.09
Tap Up Much?
Okay, Madrid, that's enough.
I know it worked with Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo, but this tapping up business is truly getting out of hand. In no ethical world can you discuss our clubs players in interviews. You should never, ever pin point a player you are targetting. That is just bad conduct, and terribly unprofessional. It's like saying you fancy your mate's girlfriend!
And that's not the worst part. They are still trying to haggle a bargain. Alonso is clearly one of the best in his position in the world. Save for maybe Xavi or Pirlo. And Real Madrid know that. And if they want him so badly, why don't they meet our price? £35million and Wesley Sneijder would do just fine thanks. But nooo, they are trying to haggle.
It's like saying, there is hardly any other car like a Ferrari in this world, but I want to buy it for a price of a Holden. With no disrespect to Holden, there is a reason why the prices are as they are.
To quote Real Madrid Sporting Director Miguel Pardeza, the chief "tapper-up",
"The problem with Alonso is there are no alternatives, with the way football is evolving, the creative central midfielder is becoming fewer and fewer.
"Alonso is not a fad, there are just not may alternatives - not in the Americas or in Europe are there players who can perform his task."
So talking about our player is bad enough. To praise him, although it's part of the tapping up process, is understandable because he IS an awesome player. So don't, then give me this crap:
"They stalled, from day one - the demands of Liverpool were beyond what Madrid was willing to pay and that is very difficult to understand. "
Very difficult to understand? Oh maybe because in your own words "there are no alternatives... who can perform his task". Does Real Madrid think every club in the world is a feeder club to them? So maybe Liverpool want to hold on to the player who has no alternative! Liverpool have been a more successful team than Madrid in recent history. We've been to more finals, semi-finals and quarter-finals, and even won the Champions League once in the last 5 years. We will not be a feeder club to you!
I really hope Alonso stays, and that he can see that Madrid doesn't value him like the Liverpool fans do. Having said that, we know that all footballers have their price, even Cristiano. So then, if Alonso is as valued to you, Madrid, as he is to us, then give us an offer we can accept. Or just shut the hell up!
I know it worked with Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo, but this tapping up business is truly getting out of hand. In no ethical world can you discuss our clubs players in interviews. You should never, ever pin point a player you are targetting. That is just bad conduct, and terribly unprofessional. It's like saying you fancy your mate's girlfriend!
And that's not the worst part. They are still trying to haggle a bargain. Alonso is clearly one of the best in his position in the world. Save for maybe Xavi or Pirlo. And Real Madrid know that. And if they want him so badly, why don't they meet our price? £35million and Wesley Sneijder would do just fine thanks. But nooo, they are trying to haggle.
It's like saying, there is hardly any other car like a Ferrari in this world, but I want to buy it for a price of a Holden. With no disrespect to Holden, there is a reason why the prices are as they are.
To quote Real Madrid Sporting Director Miguel Pardeza, the chief "tapper-up",
"The problem with Alonso is there are no alternatives, with the way football is evolving, the creative central midfielder is becoming fewer and fewer.
"Alonso is not a fad, there are just not may alternatives - not in the Americas or in Europe are there players who can perform his task."
So talking about our player is bad enough. To praise him, although it's part of the tapping up process, is understandable because he IS an awesome player. So don't, then give me this crap:
"They stalled, from day one - the demands of Liverpool were beyond what Madrid was willing to pay and that is very difficult to understand. "
Very difficult to understand? Oh maybe because in your own words "there are no alternatives... who can perform his task". Does Real Madrid think every club in the world is a feeder club to them? So maybe Liverpool want to hold on to the player who has no alternative! Liverpool have been a more successful team than Madrid in recent history. We've been to more finals, semi-finals and quarter-finals, and even won the Champions League once in the last 5 years. We will not be a feeder club to you!
I really hope Alonso stays, and that he can see that Madrid doesn't value him like the Liverpool fans do. Having said that, we know that all footballers have their price, even Cristiano. So then, if Alonso is as valued to you, Madrid, as he is to us, then give us an offer we can accept. Or just shut the hell up!
20.7.09
Pre-Season 2009/2010
This blog has died. But I hope to revive it this season.
I'm sure having a personal blog, food blog, soccer team blog to maintain other than this shouldn't be a problem. Saying that, I'll try to update more this season. Afterall, I do watch 6 hours of live Premier League matches on the weekend. This season I might even catch some of the Real Madrid matches given the talent on show there.
I was never a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo's off-field behaviour, or perhaps even on-field antics, but anyone who is not blinded with bias, can tell you that he is a extremely gifted player. But I would watch Madrid for two players - Kaka and Benzema. I don't think I have to give any reason why. Just youtube those names.
Back to the more familiar league. I have to agree with my closest friend I discuss soccer with, that Man City is England's Real Madrid. It's ironic though, that that came from a Chelsea fan, because last I checked his team tried to buy success too. But like Chelsea, Man City would have to trial and error for a couple of seasons before getting it right. I have to admit though, Tevez, Santa Cruz and Adebayor were good starts, but a good start - that's all it is.
Being a Liverpool supporter, I detest the fact that Gareth Barry rejected us. I understand his reasons though, and I believe him when he says it wasn't because of the money. It was because the transfer to Liverpool failed to materialize last season, and he had to regain the trust of his Villa fans all over again. Having said that, Gareth, City was a strange choice, given that they didn't even qualify for Europe when Fulham did.
For all the millions that City are bidding, they aren't exactly buying world beaters. I might be saying something different should someone like Samuel Eto'o come in. But they brought in Barry, Tevez, Santa Cruz, Adebayor. I don't think Real Madrid would have brought in any of those players. Including Bellamy, Wright-Philips, Robinho and perhaps even Kompany and De Jong, Man City have a bunch of 'almost' players. Barry and Santa Cruzalmost made it to a top 4 club. Wright-Philips, Bellamy, Tevez and to some extent Robinho did and failed. They ended up being fringe players at the top clubs, and never regulars. Adebayor is perhaps an exception, but then again, Arsenal fans wouldn't miss him too much given his terrible chance-to-goals-ratio.
Then again, on the flip side of the coin, perhaps the top clubs saw something in them which they were just too starved of opportunity to produce. And may do so playing together, regularly at City.
On to Liverpool. Like many other supporters of this club, I believe we would be a strong side, if not the strongest side in the league if we keep everyone we ended the season with last season. By that, we mean Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano.
No doubt Glen Johnson was a great addition, given Aberloa's less than competent attacking approach. He was improving though, but Johnson is a ready-made attacking full-back. Rafa knows we lost out on the title last season because we failed to break down the so-called smaller sides, not so much because we can't beat the big boys. In the light of that, an attacking full-back, though not urgent, is a great tactical purchase.
I'm a fan of Alonso ever since he came to Liverpool. Even in the season where he wasn't performing/playing much and Rafa threatened to sell him, I still wished he stayed. This summer though, it looks likely he would move on. As much as I love my players to be loyal, if you offered me the chance to play alongside Kaka, Benzema, Cris Ron, Raul, Robben, Sneijder, Van der Vaat, Higuian just to name a few, I would jump at that chance too. So although he would be greatly missed, I will support Alonso's decision if he decides to leave the club for Madrid.
There has been speculation that Sneijder (and some cash) might be coming the other way, I wouldn't mind that at all! Wesley Sneijder is an awesome player, and if Madrid doesn't know how to appreciate such talent, I'm sure Liverpool would use him well. There is also speculation that with the Alonso money, Pool could bring in David Silva or Ashley Young, whom either would be great signings.
I would be at the edge of my seat if either of those 3 players come to Liverpool in the close-season, even if it means Alonso leaving. If I'm not already dying for the new season to begin!
I'm sure having a personal blog, food blog, soccer team blog to maintain other than this shouldn't be a problem. Saying that, I'll try to update more this season. Afterall, I do watch 6 hours of live Premier League matches on the weekend. This season I might even catch some of the Real Madrid matches given the talent on show there.
I was never a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo's off-field behaviour, or perhaps even on-field antics, but anyone who is not blinded with bias, can tell you that he is a extremely gifted player. But I would watch Madrid for two players - Kaka and Benzema. I don't think I have to give any reason why. Just youtube those names.
Back to the more familiar league. I have to agree with my closest friend I discuss soccer with, that Man City is England's Real Madrid. It's ironic though, that that came from a Chelsea fan, because last I checked his team tried to buy success too. But like Chelsea, Man City would have to trial and error for a couple of seasons before getting it right. I have to admit though, Tevez, Santa Cruz and Adebayor were good starts, but a good start - that's all it is.
Being a Liverpool supporter, I detest the fact that Gareth Barry rejected us. I understand his reasons though, and I believe him when he says it wasn't because of the money. It was because the transfer to Liverpool failed to materialize last season, and he had to regain the trust of his Villa fans all over again. Having said that, Gareth, City was a strange choice, given that they didn't even qualify for Europe when Fulham did.
For all the millions that City are bidding, they aren't exactly buying world beaters. I might be saying something different should someone like Samuel Eto'o come in. But they brought in Barry, Tevez, Santa Cruz, Adebayor. I don't think Real Madrid would have brought in any of those players. Including Bellamy, Wright-Philips, Robinho and perhaps even Kompany and De Jong, Man City have a bunch of 'almost' players. Barry and Santa Cruzalmost made it to a top 4 club. Wright-Philips, Bellamy, Tevez and to some extent Robinho did and failed. They ended up being fringe players at the top clubs, and never regulars. Adebayor is perhaps an exception, but then again, Arsenal fans wouldn't miss him too much given his terrible chance-to-goals-ratio.
Then again, on the flip side of the coin, perhaps the top clubs saw something in them which they were just too starved of opportunity to produce. And may do so playing together, regularly at City.
On to Liverpool. Like many other supporters of this club, I believe we would be a strong side, if not the strongest side in the league if we keep everyone we ended the season with last season. By that, we mean Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano.
No doubt Glen Johnson was a great addition, given Aberloa's less than competent attacking approach. He was improving though, but Johnson is a ready-made attacking full-back. Rafa knows we lost out on the title last season because we failed to break down the so-called smaller sides, not so much because we can't beat the big boys. In the light of that, an attacking full-back, though not urgent, is a great tactical purchase.
I'm a fan of Alonso ever since he came to Liverpool. Even in the season where he wasn't performing/playing much and Rafa threatened to sell him, I still wished he stayed. This summer though, it looks likely he would move on. As much as I love my players to be loyal, if you offered me the chance to play alongside Kaka, Benzema, Cris Ron, Raul, Robben, Sneijder, Van der Vaat, Higuian just to name a few, I would jump at that chance too. So although he would be greatly missed, I will support Alonso's decision if he decides to leave the club for Madrid.
There has been speculation that Sneijder (and some cash) might be coming the other way, I wouldn't mind that at all! Wesley Sneijder is an awesome player, and if Madrid doesn't know how to appreciate such talent, I'm sure Liverpool would use him well. There is also speculation that with the Alonso money, Pool could bring in David Silva or Ashley Young, whom either would be great signings.
I would be at the edge of my seat if either of those 3 players come to Liverpool in the close-season, even if it means Alonso leaving. If I'm not already dying for the new season to begin!
2.9.08
All Roads Lead to City
Ha, two years the big shock was Tevez and Mascherano moving to West Ham on transfer deadline, looks like this year, Manchester City pulled off the coup of the season so far. Robinho! gg.
I believe Robinho can finally show his true potential at Man City. He would get first team football without question. Him on the left, Wright-Philips on the right. That's the best wing combination in the league imo. Arsenal and Liverpool don't have real wingers. Chelsea uses J. Cole as a "winger". Man Utd have the aging Giggs and injured Cris Ron - who is an awesome footballer but isn't a traditional winker. I mean winger.
Man City also pulled off Vincient Kompany, and we all remember buying him in our Championship Manager games since he came onto the scene at 17 years old. Kompany, Richards, Ben-Haim, Zabaleta. That's an impressive backline. Probably only back four with the bigger names on paper are those at Chelsea. In mid-field, they have the impressive Elano and inflential Ireland. And I've been impressive with Johnson as well. Add SWP and Robinho to the wings.
Up front they have Jo and Sturridge. And that is when Benjani, Vassel and the luckless Bojinov are injured.
It's only too bad they sold Corluka. But I guess it's who they have, not who they haven't. If Man City can get their team to gel together quickly, they could easily be the team to watch this term!
I believe Robinho can finally show his true potential at Man City. He would get first team football without question. Him on the left, Wright-Philips on the right. That's the best wing combination in the league imo. Arsenal and Liverpool don't have real wingers. Chelsea uses J. Cole as a "winger". Man Utd have the aging Giggs and injured Cris Ron - who is an awesome footballer but isn't a traditional winker. I mean winger.
Man City also pulled off Vincient Kompany, and we all remember buying him in our Championship Manager games since he came onto the scene at 17 years old. Kompany, Richards, Ben-Haim, Zabaleta. That's an impressive backline. Probably only back four with the bigger names on paper are those at Chelsea. In mid-field, they have the impressive Elano and inflential Ireland. And I've been impressive with Johnson as well. Add SWP and Robinho to the wings.
Up front they have Jo and Sturridge. And that is when Benjani, Vassel and the luckless Bojinov are injured.
It's only too bad they sold Corluka. But I guess it's who they have, not who they haven't. If Man City can get their team to gel together quickly, they could easily be the team to watch this term!
8.8.08
Pre-Season Madness
Okay, I know I hardly use this soccer blog anymore. But there are a few things I have to say about this pre-season of EPL.
Firstly it's about Liverpool. They signed Robbie Keane as their big-name signing this year. Seriously, why? Sell Crouch and buy Keane for twice the amount? I really think Crouch was severely under-rated by Rafa. Crouch loved Liverpool, was a great professional and he gave his best in the limited games Rafa gave him. I liked him as a player. Keane, on the other hand, has never been a 20-goal-a-season striker. If you can buy Torres with 27mill pounds, I don't think Keane is worth 20mill.
If anything, Rafa should forget both Keane and Barry and sign one David Villa. Valencia are in financial crisis now, there is no better time to buy him. Him, or the David Silva dude. It seems they worked well with Torres in the Euro and Villa and Torres looked like best friends; if you remembered when Villa scored his hat-trick, he ran to the bench to celebrate with his good friend nando Torres.
Now, Barry is a good player, but to sell Xabi Alonso to finance his deal? Rafa clearly lost something there. There is no way Barry is a better player than Alonso is. If anything, we should get rid of Kuyt. That mosquito only has work-rate and nothing else. He is just there to annoying his opponents, if you remember how he forced Frank Lamps into and error to score when they played Chelsea in Europe. Barry is some-what a winger too anyway, and Kuyt really isn't. Rafa vowed to keep Kuyt today, and it really worried me. Keep Alonso too please!
Next thing I have to say is about Cris Ron. Man United should have just sold him. That ungrateful show-boater. Admittedly, he got Man United quite far, but which club got him that far? He admitted today that he wanted to go to Real Madrid because he had won everything with Manchester and yet didn't want to seem ungrateful. But lest we forget WHO MISSED THE PENALTY IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL?!? Your Manchester team-mates are the reason why you have a champs league medal round your neck, Cris. You owe them big time imo! To leave right after the club won the tournament for you, that would be ungrateful to club who did so much for you.
Now I think the club which improved the most on paper would be Tottenham. They got rid of the over-rated Robbie Keane, and would do well to symphon 30mill pounds out of Man United for Berbatov. They brought in the Luka Modric and Gomes the keeper. I was impressed with Gomes when I saw him play for PSV in the champs league. But the little known fact is that Tottenham's best buy could be Giovanni Dos Santos. I don't think he will get to play just yet, but when he proves himself on the pitch, he might have an awesome second half of the season. Mark my words. He is an awesome youngster!
I'm following closely the developments of Asharvin's potential transfer to Spurs and believe they would have gotten another world class player should they be able to land him. Yes, I did watch the UEFA Cup last season.
Chelsea are quite scary this time round too. Although they kept Lampard - who has proven to screw up the Chelsea system (and especially Ballack) - and Drogba - because he is such a cry-baby - they did very well to bring in a quality right-back in Bosingwa and a genius mid-fielder in Deco. I had been an admirer of Deco since the time he played for Porto FC, and I think Chelsea managed to pull off a great steal by signing him. Well done to them. Come on Rafa... would Torres be your only good buy?
It looks like it's getting exciting as the season is about to start. Just sad to see Liverpool signing players that would get them to 4th, not champions-quality players. I can't wait for the new FM to come out, then I'll show Rafa!
Firstly it's about Liverpool. They signed Robbie Keane as their big-name signing this year. Seriously, why? Sell Crouch and buy Keane for twice the amount? I really think Crouch was severely under-rated by Rafa. Crouch loved Liverpool, was a great professional and he gave his best in the limited games Rafa gave him. I liked him as a player. Keane, on the other hand, has never been a 20-goal-a-season striker. If you can buy Torres with 27mill pounds, I don't think Keane is worth 20mill.
If anything, Rafa should forget both Keane and Barry and sign one David Villa. Valencia are in financial crisis now, there is no better time to buy him. Him, or the David Silva dude. It seems they worked well with Torres in the Euro and Villa and Torres looked like best friends; if you remembered when Villa scored his hat-trick, he ran to the bench to celebrate with his good friend nando Torres.
Now, Barry is a good player, but to sell Xabi Alonso to finance his deal? Rafa clearly lost something there. There is no way Barry is a better player than Alonso is. If anything, we should get rid of Kuyt. That mosquito only has work-rate and nothing else. He is just there to annoying his opponents, if you remember how he forced Frank Lamps into and error to score when they played Chelsea in Europe. Barry is some-what a winger too anyway, and Kuyt really isn't. Rafa vowed to keep Kuyt today, and it really worried me. Keep Alonso too please!
Next thing I have to say is about Cris Ron. Man United should have just sold him. That ungrateful show-boater. Admittedly, he got Man United quite far, but which club got him that far? He admitted today that he wanted to go to Real Madrid because he had won everything with Manchester and yet didn't want to seem ungrateful. But lest we forget WHO MISSED THE PENALTY IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL?!? Your Manchester team-mates are the reason why you have a champs league medal round your neck, Cris. You owe them big time imo! To leave right after the club won the tournament for you, that would be ungrateful to club who did so much for you.
Now I think the club which improved the most on paper would be Tottenham. They got rid of the over-rated Robbie Keane, and would do well to symphon 30mill pounds out of Man United for Berbatov. They brought in the Luka Modric and Gomes the keeper. I was impressed with Gomes when I saw him play for PSV in the champs league. But the little known fact is that Tottenham's best buy could be Giovanni Dos Santos. I don't think he will get to play just yet, but when he proves himself on the pitch, he might have an awesome second half of the season. Mark my words. He is an awesome youngster!
I'm following closely the developments of Asharvin's potential transfer to Spurs and believe they would have gotten another world class player should they be able to land him. Yes, I did watch the UEFA Cup last season.
Chelsea are quite scary this time round too. Although they kept Lampard - who has proven to screw up the Chelsea system (and especially Ballack) - and Drogba - because he is such a cry-baby - they did very well to bring in a quality right-back in Bosingwa and a genius mid-fielder in Deco. I had been an admirer of Deco since the time he played for Porto FC, and I think Chelsea managed to pull off a great steal by signing him. Well done to them. Come on Rafa... would Torres be your only good buy?
It looks like it's getting exciting as the season is about to start. Just sad to see Liverpool signing players that would get them to 4th, not champions-quality players. I can't wait for the new FM to come out, then I'll show Rafa!
5.4.07
Champions League Quarters
I got a few quick comments about the Champions League Quarter-finals.
I've watched two of the matches Milan vs Bayern and Chelsea vs Valencia. And obviously saw the goals and highlights of the other two matches.
First up, AC Milan v Bayern Munchen. I got to say that it must be one of the worse AC Milan defensive displays that I've seen aside from the 2005 Champions League final where Liverpool famously scored 3 goals against them after being 3-0 down. Bayern Muchen hardly deserved to score the two away goals, but the fact is they did and now look favourites to go through. Especially if Milan keep slipping up in defence and their forward line continue to fail to score. Super Pippo is back though given the injuries and suspensions to the other AC Milan forwards.
Next, PSV vs Liverpool. I read a comment on Football365 about someone saying that he knows what Rafa, Carra or Stevie would say that 'the tie isn't over', 'there is still 90mins', or 'we have to be professional' and things along those lines. And well, he was spot on right. But I think they should just say that 'we're through for sure', but of course be quietly professional on the return leg. Then again, I can't see a team with so many form and injury problems possibly come back from 3-0 down at Anfield when the Barcelona first team couldn't (come back from 2-1 down).
This morning it was Chelsea vs Valencia. Well, Valencia played like crap this morning and only pure inspiration got them their away goal. It could prove crucial though but I don't think so. Chelsea are likely to score an away goal (or more) themselves, so Valencia would HAVE to win the tie at home. David Villa was awfully quiet and Canizares didn't look like a keeper would made it to two Champions League finals. He was slow off his line and missed all the catches. He was indecisive when coming up then stopping - one time it lead to the Drogba goal. He better improve, or it wouldn't be a happy time for Valencia.
Manchester United vs Roma will be an interesting fixture. The game is as finely-poised as it could be. Manchester did well to finish the away game only 2-1 down having been reduced to ten men so early in the game. Rooney and Ronaldo did well to combine to produce the ellusive away goal. Lucky for Man Utd, Cris Ron is like two players! I think they would overturn the tie now that they are going to be back at Old Trafford and have 11 men once again.
In summary, I tip, Bayern Munchen, Man Utd, Chelsea and Liverpool to go through. Let's hope I'm right cause ill be putting money on it!
I've watched two of the matches Milan vs Bayern and Chelsea vs Valencia. And obviously saw the goals and highlights of the other two matches.
First up, AC Milan v Bayern Munchen. I got to say that it must be one of the worse AC Milan defensive displays that I've seen aside from the 2005 Champions League final where Liverpool famously scored 3 goals against them after being 3-0 down. Bayern Muchen hardly deserved to score the two away goals, but the fact is they did and now look favourites to go through. Especially if Milan keep slipping up in defence and their forward line continue to fail to score. Super Pippo is back though given the injuries and suspensions to the other AC Milan forwards.
Next, PSV vs Liverpool. I read a comment on Football365 about someone saying that he knows what Rafa, Carra or Stevie would say that 'the tie isn't over', 'there is still 90mins', or 'we have to be professional' and things along those lines. And well, he was spot on right. But I think they should just say that 'we're through for sure', but of course be quietly professional on the return leg. Then again, I can't see a team with so many form and injury problems possibly come back from 3-0 down at Anfield when the Barcelona first team couldn't (come back from 2-1 down).
This morning it was Chelsea vs Valencia. Well, Valencia played like crap this morning and only pure inspiration got them their away goal. It could prove crucial though but I don't think so. Chelsea are likely to score an away goal (or more) themselves, so Valencia would HAVE to win the tie at home. David Villa was awfully quiet and Canizares didn't look like a keeper would made it to two Champions League finals. He was slow off his line and missed all the catches. He was indecisive when coming up then stopping - one time it lead to the Drogba goal. He better improve, or it wouldn't be a happy time for Valencia.
Manchester United vs Roma will be an interesting fixture. The game is as finely-poised as it could be. Manchester did well to finish the away game only 2-1 down having been reduced to ten men so early in the game. Rooney and Ronaldo did well to combine to produce the ellusive away goal. Lucky for Man Utd, Cris Ron is like two players! I think they would overturn the tie now that they are going to be back at Old Trafford and have 11 men once again.
In summary, I tip, Bayern Munchen, Man Utd, Chelsea and Liverpool to go through. Let's hope I'm right cause ill be putting money on it!
8.3.07
Back with the UCL
I haven't blogged in a while, but I just have to this time because of I just watched two Champions League matches: Liverpool vs Barca and Arsenal vs PSV.
First thing I got to say is well done to Liverpool! Okay, being a Liverpool fan I shall be defensive here. There have been criticsm about the team because they lost the home leg 0-1. And then when they beat Barca overall, Stevie G comes out to say they can beat anyone. Critics rush to claim that how can - when you lose a home game 0-1 - claim to be able to win the Champions League. They called Liverpool defending with 11 men and offered nothing but hard work.
Well, firstly, effort wins you games. Skill does count, like when Luis Garcia won some games on his own in last year's competition. But effort does count. And although Liverpool lost the home leg, they were clearly playing like they were 2-1 up - which they were. Obviously, in a normal one-legged game, if you are losing 1-0, you throw everything you got at the opposition to chase the game. But in this case, it is more important to defend for if you concede another goal, you lose. So wasn't it more important to defend your away goals lead?
So we beat Barcelona over two legs, not just over one match!
As for Arsenal, I think they are rubbish. I think they play attractive football at times, but most of the time it's just frustrating. Without van Persie and a full fit Henry, they can't score. Julio Baptista, a highly-rated player he is, doesn't seem to fit into the Arsenal style of play.
And quite so often, Arsenal are playing one pass too many, trying to dribbling once too many times, and often try their flicks and tricks when it's not warranted. Today, I saw the Arsenal team playing with the ball in the PSV penalty box, short passes and dribbling when they should just try to take a shot - afterall, you are chasing the game! Leave the showboating when you are up by 3 or 4 goals!
Anyway, enough ranting for now. It's only a matter of time before I start complaining about the postmatch comments!
First thing I got to say is well done to Liverpool! Okay, being a Liverpool fan I shall be defensive here. There have been criticsm about the team because they lost the home leg 0-1. And then when they beat Barca overall, Stevie G comes out to say they can beat anyone. Critics rush to claim that how can - when you lose a home game 0-1 - claim to be able to win the Champions League. They called Liverpool defending with 11 men and offered nothing but hard work.
Well, firstly, effort wins you games. Skill does count, like when Luis Garcia won some games on his own in last year's competition. But effort does count. And although Liverpool lost the home leg, they were clearly playing like they were 2-1 up - which they were. Obviously, in a normal one-legged game, if you are losing 1-0, you throw everything you got at the opposition to chase the game. But in this case, it is more important to defend for if you concede another goal, you lose. So wasn't it more important to defend your away goals lead?
So we beat Barcelona over two legs, not just over one match!
As for Arsenal, I think they are rubbish. I think they play attractive football at times, but most of the time it's just frustrating. Without van Persie and a full fit Henry, they can't score. Julio Baptista, a highly-rated player he is, doesn't seem to fit into the Arsenal style of play.
And quite so often, Arsenal are playing one pass too many, trying to dribbling once too many times, and often try their flicks and tricks when it's not warranted. Today, I saw the Arsenal team playing with the ball in the PSV penalty box, short passes and dribbling when they should just try to take a shot - afterall, you are chasing the game! Leave the showboating when you are up by 3 or 4 goals!
Anyway, enough ranting for now. It's only a matter of time before I start complaining about the postmatch comments!
18.11.06
18 November Preview
I didn't put money on any matches this week because I didn't have time. I've been playing too much. But anyway, here are the previews and predictions of the matches later.
Man City have Trevor Sinclair, DaMarcus Beasley and Sun Jihai doubtful. But are otherwise at full strength and look strong at home.
Fulham have key man Papa Bourba Diop back in the side. Fulham have not lost away since the first day drubbing at Man United, so this promises an interesting match which is hard to call.
Verdict: Man City.. probably by not more than a goal.
Arsenal do not have Gilberto, Diaby and Lauren while Rosicky is doubtful. They do have Freddy Ljungberg and Julio Baptista back though. After a comfortable win over Liverpool, it looks like Newcastle should be no problem for the gunners.
Newcastle are without Michael Owen, Celestine Babayaro and Oliver Bernard through injury and Emre through suspension. Shola Ameobi, Stephen Carr, Titus Bramble and James Milner, Shay Given and Obafemi Martins might be back.
Verdict: Arsenal... comfortably.
Chelsea has no fresh injuries. While according to soccernet, Cudicini looks to keep his place in goal.
Are West Ham the team that beats Chelsea in Stamford Bridge? It would be interesting if they do that given that they beat Arsenal and Blackburn after a run of bad form. Beating Chelsea would be a great scalp. West Ham look to have a full squad if Anton Ferdinand returns.
Verdict: Chelsea win.. but hope West Ham wins.
Tim Cahill is injured as are long-term absentees Hibbert, Pistone, Naysmith and Bolye. James McFadden is suspended. Everton would be hoping to bounce back after a defeat to Aston Vill at home last week.
Bolton have been strong at home, but can they repeat that form at Everton? They might have to do so without Ricardo Gardner and Joey O'Brien.
Verdict: Everton.. possibly 2-0
Gary O'Neil, Benjamin Mwaruwari and Glen Johson are out, while Kanu might return.
Watford have Clarke Carlisle out, along with Marlon King who will be out for the rest of the season.
Verdict: Pompey should be too strong at home.
Reading have a long injury list: Convey, Mate, Brown, Cox all out injured with Graeme Murty a slight doubt.
Charlton would hope to turn things round under their new 'gamble' of a manager. But have to do so with a number of injuries - Kishishev, Diawarra, Traore, Sorondo, Gibbs are all doubtful while Lisbie is definately out. Amdy Faye is suspended.
Verdict: Charlton with an away surprise.
Verdict: Why both preview? Man United win.
The Riverside has not been a happy hunting ground for Liverpool in recent seasons as they look to recover their loss of away form. Boro have Stewart Downing, Lee Cattermole, Andrew Taylor Chris Riggott and Ugo Ehiogu doubtful while Julio Arca makes his return. Mark Viduka is definately out.
Liverpool have no fresh injury concerns, but the loss of Momo Sissoko could mean Gerrard returns to the center of midfield with Jermaine Pennant filling the right wing spot. The left is open for Bolo Zenden, Riise, Warnock or Mark Gonzalez since Luis Garcia is out injured.
Verdict: Home win.. to add misery on Liverpool's poor away form
Wigan have every chance of walking away with something from this match. They have to do so without Arjan De Zeeuw, Emile Heskey and Gary Teale while Legton Baines and David Cotteril are doubtful.
Gareth Barry is expected to return, while Gavin McCann is suspended. Villa do look strong away from home though.
Verdict: Draw. Villa are the kings of draws ain't they?
Khizanishvili (that's a long name) is out along with Lucas Neil, Morst Gamst Pedersen, Jason Roberts, Steven Reid and Ryan Nelson.
Tottenham do not have wonderkid Aaron Lennon. They are also missing Jermaine Jenas, Pascal Chimbonda, Calum Davenport, Anthony Garnder and Paul Stalteri.
Verdict: Draw.
Hope you get lucky with your soccer bets this week!
Reference: soccernet.com - http://soccernet.espn.go.com/feature?id=280562&cc=3436
Man City vs Fulham
Man City have Trevor Sinclair, DaMarcus Beasley and Sun Jihai doubtful. But are otherwise at full strength and look strong at home.
Fulham have key man Papa Bourba Diop back in the side. Fulham have not lost away since the first day drubbing at Man United, so this promises an interesting match which is hard to call.
Verdict: Man City.. probably by not more than a goal.
Arsenal vs Newcastle
Arsenal do not have Gilberto, Diaby and Lauren while Rosicky is doubtful. They do have Freddy Ljungberg and Julio Baptista back though. After a comfortable win over Liverpool, it looks like Newcastle should be no problem for the gunners.
Newcastle are without Michael Owen, Celestine Babayaro and Oliver Bernard through injury and Emre through suspension. Shola Ameobi, Stephen Carr, Titus Bramble and James Milner, Shay Given and Obafemi Martins might be back.
Verdict: Arsenal... comfortably.
Chelsea vs West Ham
Chelsea has no fresh injuries. While according to soccernet, Cudicini looks to keep his place in goal.
Are West Ham the team that beats Chelsea in Stamford Bridge? It would be interesting if they do that given that they beat Arsenal and Blackburn after a run of bad form. Beating Chelsea would be a great scalp. West Ham look to have a full squad if Anton Ferdinand returns.
Verdict: Chelsea win.. but hope West Ham wins.
Everton vs Bolton
Tim Cahill is injured as are long-term absentees Hibbert, Pistone, Naysmith and Bolye. James McFadden is suspended. Everton would be hoping to bounce back after a defeat to Aston Vill at home last week.
Bolton have been strong at home, but can they repeat that form at Everton? They might have to do so without Ricardo Gardner and Joey O'Brien.
Verdict: Everton.. possibly 2-0
Portsmouth vs Watford
Gary O'Neil, Benjamin Mwaruwari and Glen Johson are out, while Kanu might return.
Watford have Clarke Carlisle out, along with Marlon King who will be out for the rest of the season.
Verdict: Pompey should be too strong at home.
Reading vs Charlton
Reading have a long injury list: Convey, Mate, Brown, Cox all out injured with Graeme Murty a slight doubt.
Charlton would hope to turn things round under their new 'gamble' of a manager. But have to do so with a number of injuries - Kishishev, Diawarra, Traore, Sorondo, Gibbs are all doubtful while Lisbie is definately out. Amdy Faye is suspended.
Verdict: Charlton with an away surprise.
Sheff Utd vs Man United
Verdict: Why both preview? Man United win.
Boro vs Liverpool
The Riverside has not been a happy hunting ground for Liverpool in recent seasons as they look to recover their loss of away form. Boro have Stewart Downing, Lee Cattermole, Andrew Taylor Chris Riggott and Ugo Ehiogu doubtful while Julio Arca makes his return. Mark Viduka is definately out.
Liverpool have no fresh injury concerns, but the loss of Momo Sissoko could mean Gerrard returns to the center of midfield with Jermaine Pennant filling the right wing spot. The left is open for Bolo Zenden, Riise, Warnock or Mark Gonzalez since Luis Garcia is out injured.
Verdict: Home win.. to add misery on Liverpool's poor away form
Wigan vs Aston Villa
Wigan have every chance of walking away with something from this match. They have to do so without Arjan De Zeeuw, Emile Heskey and Gary Teale while Legton Baines and David Cotteril are doubtful.
Gareth Barry is expected to return, while Gavin McCann is suspended. Villa do look strong away from home though.
Verdict: Draw. Villa are the kings of draws ain't they?
Blackburn vs Tottenham
Khizanishvili (that's a long name) is out along with Lucas Neil, Morst Gamst Pedersen, Jason Roberts, Steven Reid and Ryan Nelson.
Tottenham do not have wonderkid Aaron Lennon. They are also missing Jermaine Jenas, Pascal Chimbonda, Calum Davenport, Anthony Garnder and Paul Stalteri.
Verdict: Draw.
Hope you get lucky with your soccer bets this week!
Reference: soccernet.com - http://soccernet.espn.go.com/feature?id=280562&cc=3436
15.11.06
Pool Aftermath
Though it hurts to speak about my favourite team after they get shot down 3-0 by the Gunners, it is nice to know that they are not throwing in the towel yet.
The Reds have been misquoted. The new reports come out that Carra and Reina said that 4th place is the target. While I went on to read the full quotes, Carra actually said "We had big ambitions at the start of the season, which is only right at a club like Liverpool, but we also know it's important to make sure we're in the top four as soon as possible, and then we can start thinking about what's above us."
He is not conceding that fourth is the target, it is just the target for now before they can go even higher. Makes perfect sense if you ask me.
I also read Arsene Wenger and Theirry Henry's comments about backing Liverpool. It seems that 14 points from Chelsea and Manchester United are not too far away. They have mentioned that Liverpool have played poorly away, losing five out of six. That was only because Liverpool have played Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal away. They are arguably the other of the big 4 teams in the EPL. Not that that is an excuse to falter, but it's more undersandable. The other two games which they lost were at Bolton, who we know are very commited, physical and strong especially at home; and Everton, when (Merseyside) derbies can go either way.
I personally think that they got the 5 most difficult away games of the season out of the way already. It is now when you see an upturn in form. Of course there are other difficult away games such as Tottenham, Portsmouth, Aston Villa and maybe even Man City, but they would be arguably much easier games than Chelsea or Manchester United.
I am only addressing the away games because the Reds seem fine at home. They beat a previously unbeaten Aston Villa rather convincingly. They can thrash teams at home, be it in the EPL or Champions League, 2-0, 3-0 and so on. Some might not consider it a thrashing when you restrict your opponents to so few chances they can't score and score two or three past them. Well then, stop saying Liverpool got thrashed by Arsenal then.
I believe Liverpool have the right players to turn their season around, especially after most of the tough fixtures are already out of the way. Finishing first does not look a likly outcome having lost to the big teams already, but Riise quoted some interested statistics. At one point last season, Liverpool were 27 points behind Chelsea, in May, they were only 9 points.
If they can make up the 18-point gap then, why not the 14 point gap now?
The Reds have been misquoted. The new reports come out that Carra and Reina said that 4th place is the target. While I went on to read the full quotes, Carra actually said "We had big ambitions at the start of the season, which is only right at a club like Liverpool, but we also know it's important to make sure we're in the top four as soon as possible, and then we can start thinking about what's above us."
He is not conceding that fourth is the target, it is just the target for now before they can go even higher. Makes perfect sense if you ask me.
I also read Arsene Wenger and Theirry Henry's comments about backing Liverpool. It seems that 14 points from Chelsea and Manchester United are not too far away. They have mentioned that Liverpool have played poorly away, losing five out of six. That was only because Liverpool have played Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal away. They are arguably the other of the big 4 teams in the EPL. Not that that is an excuse to falter, but it's more undersandable. The other two games which they lost were at Bolton, who we know are very commited, physical and strong especially at home; and Everton, when (Merseyside) derbies can go either way.
I personally think that they got the 5 most difficult away games of the season out of the way already. It is now when you see an upturn in form. Of course there are other difficult away games such as Tottenham, Portsmouth, Aston Villa and maybe even Man City, but they would be arguably much easier games than Chelsea or Manchester United.
I am only addressing the away games because the Reds seem fine at home. They beat a previously unbeaten Aston Villa rather convincingly. They can thrash teams at home, be it in the EPL or Champions League, 2-0, 3-0 and so on. Some might not consider it a thrashing when you restrict your opponents to so few chances they can't score and score two or three past them. Well then, stop saying Liverpool got thrashed by Arsenal then.
I believe Liverpool have the right players to turn their season around, especially after most of the tough fixtures are already out of the way. Finishing first does not look a likly outcome having lost to the big teams already, but Riise quoted some interested statistics. At one point last season, Liverpool were 27 points behind Chelsea, in May, they were only 9 points.
If they can make up the 18-point gap then, why not the 14 point gap now?
11.11.06
11-12 November 2006 Matches
It’s back online to review the weekend EPL matches and put in a few thoughts and predictions.
Probably Dietmar Hamann might return, if not only to the bench, while punters are expecting Man City to recall Bernado Corradi. There are not fresh injuries to worry about, but I think no matter how you reshuffle your squad, you shouldn’t have trouble beating a Newcastle team at home.
Newcastle could have Kieron Dyer back, unless he gets injured on the way to Manchester, and Shola Ameobi might play his last game before going in for hip surgery. Shay Given might make his return in goal tonight, while Obafemi Martins remains a slight doubt.
Verdict: Man City win… 2-0
Chelsea should face a relatively easy game at home to Watford. I put a few Chelsea players in my yahoo fantasy squad this week. I’m expecting them to have a romp. Ashley Cole and Arjen Robben look set to start after being rested in the midweek Carling Cup. Captain Terry returns from suspension. He’s lucky he only missed a Carling Cup round. I still don’t know if Sheva would return yet though.
Watford only have Marlon King and Clarke Carlisle out, while captain Gavin Mahon looks set to return. But they would have a tough time against Champions Chelsea in any case.
Verdict: Chelsea win… I hope for a 3-0 or 4-0, but it might end up a 1-0 if Watford do nothing but defend with 10 man in the box.
For Everton, James McFadden is suspended for 3 games after his red-card involving under-fire Graham Poll. James Beattie looks set to start along side AJ.
Astong Villa would hope to bounce back from recent defeats to Liverpool and Chelsea, with Gary Cahill set to return to first-team action. Martin Laursen and Aaron Hughes are out, together with Garet Barry who is a slight doubt.
Verdict: Draw… Hopefully 1-1 or 2-2 for a good game to view, but might end up 0-0.
Middlesborough have their defensive stars returning, so look to strengthen their back line. Chris Riggot, Ugo Ehoigu and Stuart Parnaby are returning to match fitness, but might not feature in this game. While Mark Viduka is definitely out with fractured toes. “Good news” is that Abel Xavier is set to return.
West Ham have since bounced back from their slump, winning two games in a row – against Blackburn and Arsenal. Their Argentine stars might make it back to the starting line-up, as they slowly adapt to English football. There are doubts over Anton Ferdinand and Bobby Zamora though.
Verdict: Draw, or West Ham might just nick it. 1-1 or 1-2.
Pompey are looking to bounce back after Manchester United and Chelsea ruined their encouraging start to the season. Portsmouth are boasted by the return of Campbell and Linvoy Primus this week. Kanu looks set to return to the starting line-up while Gary O’Neil and Noe Paramot might feature. Glen Johnson is making his loan totally not worth it as he sits out a long injury. Andy Cole joins him on the sidelines.
Fulham have a number of injury problems of their own. Michael Brown, Simon Elliot and Jimmy Bullard are definitely out, whilst Philippe Christanval and Mark Pembridge are doubts. Better news is that Papa Bourba Diop is expected to return.
Verdict: Portsmouth. Convincingly.
Sheffield are without Chris Armstrong, Michael Tonge, Leigh Bromby and Steve Kabba.
Bolton are only without Joey O’brien and Ricardo Gardner. Kevin Nolan might miss this game due to his fiancée due to give birth. Still, Bolton should win this easy.
Verdict: Bolton… 1-0, hopefully more.
Lee McCulloch and David Cotterill might come in, while Emile Heskey is out. Not that that would make much of an attacking difference.
Charlton are without Kevin Lisbie, while Djimi Traore, Gonzalo Sorondo, Cory Gibbs and Talal El-Karkouri might return. JFH might keep his place in the Charlton strike-force. I expect Charlton to have a difficult game against a resurgent Wigan though.
Verdict: 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 Wigan, but I don’t think it would be a high-scoring game.
This is one game which I wasted money on. I put my money on Blackburn to win. It was a tempting 4.55 odds, but it looks as slim a chance as Watford beating Chelsea,(maybe not as bad). Blackburn are without Savage, Steven Reid and Jason Roberts. Brett Emerton could return, though I hope he doesn’t because he is rubbish, and I’m in Australia!
Manchester United would field the same team as last week. I just hope for the sake of my money that the midweek lost to Southend might derail their momentum.
Verdict: Man Utd win, though I’m hoping for a long-shot upset.
Another match in which I put my money on the home side causing an upset. The home side are without Bobby Convey, David Kitson, Peter Mate, Aaron Brown and Simon Cox though.
Tottenham look on a high after beating Chelsea in a sensational match last week and hope to continue that good form against Reading, though I hope not.
Verdict: Home win… for my money’s sake.
Undoubtedly the big match of the weekend. This one is too close to call, but I might have to go for an Arsenal win despite my truest feelings a Liverpool fan. Arsenal have been playing exceptional good football recently, only that they have failed to find the net. What stops them though is ‘anti-football’ like Fabregas calls it. But Liverpool doesn’t really play anti-football. Just like Man Utd doesn’t, it looks as though Arsenal might beat yet another big name. Freddy Ljungberg and Julio Baptista are not expected to feature in the match today though.
For Liverpool, their only ‘anti-football’ star is Momo Sissoko, so his 3-month injury comes at the worst time. Gerrard looks set to move back to the centre of mid-field while Jermaine Pennant might come in on the right.
Verdict: Home win.
Man City vs Newcastle
Probably Dietmar Hamann might return, if not only to the bench, while punters are expecting Man City to recall Bernado Corradi. There are not fresh injuries to worry about, but I think no matter how you reshuffle your squad, you shouldn’t have trouble beating a Newcastle team at home.
Newcastle could have Kieron Dyer back, unless he gets injured on the way to Manchester, and Shola Ameobi might play his last game before going in for hip surgery. Shay Given might make his return in goal tonight, while Obafemi Martins remains a slight doubt.
Verdict: Man City win… 2-0
Chelsea vs Watford
Chelsea should face a relatively easy game at home to Watford. I put a few Chelsea players in my yahoo fantasy squad this week. I’m expecting them to have a romp. Ashley Cole and Arjen Robben look set to start after being rested in the midweek Carling Cup. Captain Terry returns from suspension. He’s lucky he only missed a Carling Cup round. I still don’t know if Sheva would return yet though.
Watford only have Marlon King and Clarke Carlisle out, while captain Gavin Mahon looks set to return. But they would have a tough time against Champions Chelsea in any case.
Verdict: Chelsea win… I hope for a 3-0 or 4-0, but it might end up a 1-0 if Watford do nothing but defend with 10 man in the box.
Everton vs Aston Villa
For Everton, James McFadden is suspended for 3 games after his red-card involving under-fire Graham Poll. James Beattie looks set to start along side AJ.
Astong Villa would hope to bounce back from recent defeats to Liverpool and Chelsea, with Gary Cahill set to return to first-team action. Martin Laursen and Aaron Hughes are out, together with Garet Barry who is a slight doubt.
Verdict: Draw… Hopefully 1-1 or 2-2 for a good game to view, but might end up 0-0.
Boro vs West Ham
Middlesborough have their defensive stars returning, so look to strengthen their back line. Chris Riggot, Ugo Ehoigu and Stuart Parnaby are returning to match fitness, but might not feature in this game. While Mark Viduka is definitely out with fractured toes. “Good news” is that Abel Xavier is set to return.
West Ham have since bounced back from their slump, winning two games in a row – against Blackburn and Arsenal. Their Argentine stars might make it back to the starting line-up, as they slowly adapt to English football. There are doubts over Anton Ferdinand and Bobby Zamora though.
Verdict: Draw, or West Ham might just nick it. 1-1 or 1-2.
Portsmouth vs Fulham
Pompey are looking to bounce back after Manchester United and Chelsea ruined their encouraging start to the season. Portsmouth are boasted by the return of Campbell and Linvoy Primus this week. Kanu looks set to return to the starting line-up while Gary O’Neil and Noe Paramot might feature. Glen Johnson is making his loan totally not worth it as he sits out a long injury. Andy Cole joins him on the sidelines.
Fulham have a number of injury problems of their own. Michael Brown, Simon Elliot and Jimmy Bullard are definitely out, whilst Philippe Christanval and Mark Pembridge are doubts. Better news is that Papa Bourba Diop is expected to return.
Verdict: Portsmouth. Convincingly.
Sheff United vs Bolton
Sheffield are without Chris Armstrong, Michael Tonge, Leigh Bromby and Steve Kabba.
Bolton are only without Joey O’brien and Ricardo Gardner. Kevin Nolan might miss this game due to his fiancée due to give birth. Still, Bolton should win this easy.
Verdict: Bolton… 1-0, hopefully more.
Wigan vs Charlton
Lee McCulloch and David Cotterill might come in, while Emile Heskey is out. Not that that would make much of an attacking difference.
Charlton are without Kevin Lisbie, while Djimi Traore, Gonzalo Sorondo, Cory Gibbs and Talal El-Karkouri might return. JFH might keep his place in the Charlton strike-force. I expect Charlton to have a difficult game against a resurgent Wigan though.
Verdict: 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 Wigan, but I don’t think it would be a high-scoring game.
Blackburn vs Man Utd
This is one game which I wasted money on. I put my money on Blackburn to win. It was a tempting 4.55 odds, but it looks as slim a chance as Watford beating Chelsea,(maybe not as bad). Blackburn are without Savage, Steven Reid and Jason Roberts. Brett Emerton could return, though I hope he doesn’t because he is rubbish, and I’m in Australia!
Manchester United would field the same team as last week. I just hope for the sake of my money that the midweek lost to Southend might derail their momentum.
Verdict: Man Utd win, though I’m hoping for a long-shot upset.
Reading vs Tottenham
Another match in which I put my money on the home side causing an upset. The home side are without Bobby Convey, David Kitson, Peter Mate, Aaron Brown and Simon Cox though.
Tottenham look on a high after beating Chelsea in a sensational match last week and hope to continue that good form against Reading, though I hope not.
Verdict: Home win… for my money’s sake.
Arsenal vs Liverpool
Undoubtedly the big match of the weekend. This one is too close to call, but I might have to go for an Arsenal win despite my truest feelings a Liverpool fan. Arsenal have been playing exceptional good football recently, only that they have failed to find the net. What stops them though is ‘anti-football’ like Fabregas calls it. But Liverpool doesn’t really play anti-football. Just like Man Utd doesn’t, it looks as though Arsenal might beat yet another big name. Freddy Ljungberg and Julio Baptista are not expected to feature in the match today though.
For Liverpool, their only ‘anti-football’ star is Momo Sissoko, so his 3-month injury comes at the worst time. Gerrard looks set to move back to the centre of mid-field while Jermaine Pennant might come in on the right.
Verdict: Home win.
9.11.06
Suspension
Sorry for the lack of posts in the past few months. I've been busy with exams and all. The last paper is today though, so I hope to continue posting my thoughts and predictions starting with the Carling Cup midweek really soon.
I'll also update the tagboard as it's probably the last tagboard.com tag-board left on the internet! Haha.
Joga bonito..
I'll also update the tagboard as it's probably the last tagboard.com tag-board left on the internet! Haha.
Joga bonito..
29.9.06
The Worst Best Team Ever
I just watched the champions league match this morning between Inter and Bayern Munich. And I have to say Inter are the worst 'best' team ever.
For those of you who don't know what I mean, Jose Mourinho tried to take the spotlight of his team by claiming that Inter have the best team in the world. We all know he is an admirer of once-his-player Hernan Crespo which probably lays the foundation of his respect for the Italian club. But watching Inter player, you just feel sorry for all the great players they have.
Starting from the back. I don't know what Van Buyten is doing in Inter. He was a flop at Man City and from this morning's game, isn't getting any better. Partnering him was Cordoba because I hardly saw Materazzi. He's error lead to the deciding goal, and almost gave away a penalty. It was also he's poor marking that let to the first goal. Grosso, a star at the world cup - or so the critics say, though I beg to differ - didn't get forward effectively at all, and his unprofessionalism showed - just like the dive against Australia in the world cup - when he's elbow earned him a straight red. It was so obviously delibrate when he looked Sagnol straight in the eye before sending his elbow across. Right back was Maicon, the Brazillian, who didn't impress me much as the attacking full-back he suppose to be, though he was more steady on the ball.
In midfield, Inter lacked creativity. Too bad I didn't get to see Vieira, but his deputy Dacourt didn't fill his boots at all. Figo reminds me of players I hate playing with. They hog the ball so much, trying to beat every person in the team, then lose the ball though there are team-mates in better positions. Not to mention, annoying when he drops to ground so easily. The sub Marciano Gonzalez was rubbish, as was . In attack Zlatan Ibrahamovic, who I was never a fan of, didn't do any constructive. He was another one to hog the ball, then do nothing with it, while giving away needless free-kicks when Inter were in attack. The red card was nothing less than he deserved. Crespo, for all his class that we know him for, hardly touched the ball. And where was Dejan Stankovic to back-up his forwards? I hardly saw him in the game save for a few shots either off target or easily saved.
The midfield was over-run by a lesser known Andreas Ottl, who was making his champions league debut. He reminds me of Xabi Alonso with his passes and willingness to shoot. He is definately a star for the future, not quite Ballack-like, but nevertheless a great central midfielder. When Schweinsteiger, Lahm, Salihamidzic and Makaay were doing nothing productive, Ottl and Van Bommel took centre stage in conquering the midfield. Though Pizarro's goal was nothing short of lucky, he made space and rusn more than his opposite number Crespo. The sub Lukas Podolski - a real star in the world cup - came on to score his first champs league goal, and it was no less than his cameo warranted, he was full of pace and life, and taking the game to then 9-men Inter.
And as if I'm not done insulting Inter yet, their subs did nothing, with Adriano out of form and out of sorts, never looked to be able to recover his goalscoring form lumbering alone up front, while Solari only touched the ball twice.
Inter better do something quick - like sack their manager or something - before they go down as the worst best team in history.
For those of you who don't know what I mean, Jose Mourinho tried to take the spotlight of his team by claiming that Inter have the best team in the world. We all know he is an admirer of once-his-player Hernan Crespo which probably lays the foundation of his respect for the Italian club. But watching Inter player, you just feel sorry for all the great players they have.
Starting from the back. I don't know what Van Buyten is doing in Inter. He was a flop at Man City and from this morning's game, isn't getting any better. Partnering him was Cordoba because I hardly saw Materazzi. He's error lead to the deciding goal, and almost gave away a penalty. It was also he's poor marking that let to the first goal. Grosso, a star at the world cup - or so the critics say, though I beg to differ - didn't get forward effectively at all, and his unprofessionalism showed - just like the dive against Australia in the world cup - when he's elbow earned him a straight red. It was so obviously delibrate when he looked Sagnol straight in the eye before sending his elbow across. Right back was Maicon, the Brazillian, who didn't impress me much as the attacking full-back he suppose to be, though he was more steady on the ball.
In midfield, Inter lacked creativity. Too bad I didn't get to see Vieira, but his deputy Dacourt didn't fill his boots at all. Figo reminds me of players I hate playing with. They hog the ball so much, trying to beat every person in the team, then lose the ball though there are team-mates in better positions. Not to mention, annoying when he drops to ground so easily. The sub Marciano Gonzalez was rubbish, as was . In attack Zlatan Ibrahamovic, who I was never a fan of, didn't do any constructive. He was another one to hog the ball, then do nothing with it, while giving away needless free-kicks when Inter were in attack. The red card was nothing less than he deserved. Crespo, for all his class that we know him for, hardly touched the ball. And where was Dejan Stankovic to back-up his forwards? I hardly saw him in the game save for a few shots either off target or easily saved.
The midfield was over-run by a lesser known Andreas Ottl, who was making his champions league debut. He reminds me of Xabi Alonso with his passes and willingness to shoot. He is definately a star for the future, not quite Ballack-like, but nevertheless a great central midfielder. When Schweinsteiger, Lahm, Salihamidzic and Makaay were doing nothing productive, Ottl and Van Bommel took centre stage in conquering the midfield. Though Pizarro's goal was nothing short of lucky, he made space and rusn more than his opposite number Crespo. The sub Lukas Podolski - a real star in the world cup - came on to score his first champs league goal, and it was no less than his cameo warranted, he was full of pace and life, and taking the game to then 9-men Inter.
And as if I'm not done insulting Inter yet, their subs did nothing, with Adriano out of form and out of sorts, never looked to be able to recover his goalscoring form lumbering alone up front, while Solari only touched the ball twice.
Inter better do something quick - like sack their manager or something - before they go down as the worst best team in history.
12.9.06
Poor Old Ashley
Food for thought (this abstract taken from football365.com):
"My worst fears were confirmed when, as Thierry and I sat in the centre circle after the final whistle, his name was sung from the rooftops while my contribution was recognised by a deafening silence" - Cashley Cole, whose 'contribution' last season was appearances in ten Premiership games.
and now that's the excuse why Ashley Cole left the gunners? I think he is just some spoilt brat. He wanted the money and Arsenal couldn't offer it to him. He also blamed everyone for treating Henry so nicely and didn't ask him out for dinner to talk about staying.
F365 - or at least their mediawatch page - got it right when they jipped him for playing only 10 games last season and complaining about a lack of support for his contribution. While Henry, who has scored 30+ goals every season for the last 4 seasons (or more) and maybe of them spectacular and winners, deserves his applause.
It's alright Ashley, Arsenal have got a better deal by signing Gallas - though I think Wenger would make the same mistake as Mourinho, by playing Gallas as the utility man. He doesn't like the left-back position, but is willing to pay there if he is kept there all season, but I think he would move back to the centre of defence once Clichy comes back fit. Then back out on the left again once Senderos gets fit.
Poor old Gallas.
"My worst fears were confirmed when, as Thierry and I sat in the centre circle after the final whistle, his name was sung from the rooftops while my contribution was recognised by a deafening silence" - Cashley Cole, whose 'contribution' last season was appearances in ten Premiership games.
and now that's the excuse why Ashley Cole left the gunners? I think he is just some spoilt brat. He wanted the money and Arsenal couldn't offer it to him. He also blamed everyone for treating Henry so nicely and didn't ask him out for dinner to talk about staying.
F365 - or at least their mediawatch page - got it right when they jipped him for playing only 10 games last season and complaining about a lack of support for his contribution. While Henry, who has scored 30+ goals every season for the last 4 seasons (or more) and maybe of them spectacular and winners, deserves his applause.
It's alright Ashley, Arsenal have got a better deal by signing Gallas - though I think Wenger would make the same mistake as Mourinho, by playing Gallas as the utility man. He doesn't like the left-back position, but is willing to pay there if he is kept there all season, but I think he would move back to the centre of defence once Clichy comes back fit. Then back out on the left again once Senderos gets fit.
Poor old Gallas.
6.9.06
Gallas, I Support You
Amid more contraversy after the long long defender saga between Arsenal and Chelsea, it turns out that Chelsea have now accused Gallas of threatening to score an own goal or make deliberate mistakes if ever selected for the Chelsea team again.
A claim furiously denied by Gallas himself. He is backed up by his french coach Domenech.
And amidst all that, I support Gallas. I believe Chelsea were capable of releasing such a statement to give an excuse to the fans for letting a class defender go. And then blamed Gallas of wanting too much money. Too much money? He went to Arsenal man, he's wages were probably halved when he went there.
Don't worry, Mr Gallas, I support you. I believe it when you said you wanted a fresh challange - and maybe get first team football in your favoured position at centre back. I believe that is your real reason for joining Arsenal.
The claims by Chelsea are just trying to turn the fans against him - to make it look like he was the traitor of that supposed tight-knitted 'family'. The club, not knowing who is the mastermind behind it, claimed this so as to put Gallas at fault and not the club. Who are the fans going to believe though?
I'm a neutral - but, as I have mentioned more than once, I support Gallas on this one!
A claim furiously denied by Gallas himself. He is backed up by his french coach Domenech.
And amidst all that, I support Gallas. I believe Chelsea were capable of releasing such a statement to give an excuse to the fans for letting a class defender go. And then blamed Gallas of wanting too much money. Too much money? He went to Arsenal man, he's wages were probably halved when he went there.
Don't worry, Mr Gallas, I support you. I believe it when you said you wanted a fresh challange - and maybe get first team football in your favoured position at centre back. I believe that is your real reason for joining Arsenal.
The claims by Chelsea are just trying to turn the fans against him - to make it look like he was the traitor of that supposed tight-knitted 'family'. The club, not knowing who is the mastermind behind it, claimed this so as to put Gallas at fault and not the club. Who are the fans going to believe though?
I'm a neutral - but, as I have mentioned more than once, I support Gallas on this one!
1.9.06
What? West Ham?
I know I should wait for the transfer window to shut before coming out with my transfers of the summer conclusions. But I just have to announce my shock at West Ham's signings of Argentinian stars Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano!
There have been many conpiracy theories. One is Roman Abramovich is a shareholder of the company who owns the players' rights, so they couldn't be sold to Chelsea's nearest rivals. Another is they would just be in West Ham for a year to be 'in the shop window' so as to jack up their prices.
West Ham are a team on the up. With players like Reo-Coker, Yossi Benayoun and Marlon Harewood, it is easy to see a team that is moving forward. But to attract super stars like Tevez and Mascherano? The duo has been speculated to go to Arsenal or Manchester United or even once Real Madrid and AC Milan; and they ended up in West Ham? I would believe the story more if they ended up in Portsmouth!
But soccernet has confirmed it, I just have to say I'm very very shocked. West Ham are going to be a formidable side now. More of my money going on them to win matches! Whatever the reason they ended up in West Ham and not the elite clubs will remain a mystery (until maybe next season), but I have to say West Ham got themselves two great players.
I'm just glad Liverpool has already played them once this season!
There have been many conpiracy theories. One is Roman Abramovich is a shareholder of the company who owns the players' rights, so they couldn't be sold to Chelsea's nearest rivals. Another is they would just be in West Ham for a year to be 'in the shop window' so as to jack up their prices.
West Ham are a team on the up. With players like Reo-Coker, Yossi Benayoun and Marlon Harewood, it is easy to see a team that is moving forward. But to attract super stars like Tevez and Mascherano? The duo has been speculated to go to Arsenal or Manchester United or even once Real Madrid and AC Milan; and they ended up in West Ham? I would believe the story more if they ended up in Portsmouth!
But soccernet has confirmed it, I just have to say I'm very very shocked. West Ham are going to be a formidable side now. More of my money going on them to win matches! Whatever the reason they ended up in West Ham and not the elite clubs will remain a mystery (until maybe next season), but I have to say West Ham got themselves two great players.
I'm just glad Liverpool has already played them once this season!
31.8.06
The Break
I don’t like to talk much about international football – much less friendlies and meaningless qualifiers, where frankly, the smaller nations fail to beat the big guns especially in Europe. There may be a shock in one or two games, but throughout a league system format, the smaller nations just ain’t going to collect enough points.
Hence, after a long introduction, I would be talking about the EPL. And how the teams have did so far. And perhaps evaluate their key players and summer signings, along with the last minute speculation.
Manchester United are sitting comfortably at the top despite not having Rooney and Scholes for two games (and one game more), Ruud Van Nistelrooy who left for Madrid and a holding midfielder (till Michael Carrick decided to make an early comeback as a substitute). Cris Ron has been under much stick because of his role in Rooney’s dismissal in the World Cup, but he ended up rising to the challenge. Saha and Giggs have been in sensational form, but goals are coming from all over the place – like in the last games Fletcher and Silvestre scored! Man Utd look to be strong again this year, as they also prove their doubters wrong.
Portsmouth are a surprise second and no doubt have the best free transfers of the season so far. Kanu and Sol Campbell have driven a club from relegation candidates to a team which conceded no goals in three games, and whacked oppositions 3-0 and 4-0! Only time will tell if Portsmouth can keep up their form, because even the manager, Harry ‘Houdini’ Redknapp is afraid of the lack of strength in depth of the squad. He did manage to get Manuel Fernandes though – the looks to get a couple more players before the window closes.
Aston Villa has been showing good form early. Taking points from Arsenal then winning against Newcastle and Reading. It’s a great start for the new manager – and I’ll like to see how good that ‘Petrov’ dude is after O’Neil chased him and lost him and chased him again the whole summer long.
Everton are tied with third with new signing Andy Johnson heading the way. I’ve always been a fan of this man, and he is proving he can score once again. The only surprise is how come no other clubs came in for him earlier. And if you see the goal against Watford, Beattie and AJ look to have a good partnership forming up.
Chelsea with a record of lost one won two isn’t too bad unless they consider they spend at least £60m a year on new players! I believe Shevchenko is still finding his feet in the Premierhsip and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him up there or thereabouts at the top-scorers chart at the end of the season.
West Ham picked up a possible 4 of 9 points which is a decent effort and it sees them sit in 6th in the table. They have been playing good attacking football and have only come undone by a spectacular strike by Daniel ‘the Dagger’ Agger.
Liverpool have done well so far. They sit in 7th with 4 points out of a possible 6. Sheffield United was a blip with early-season jitters kicking in, but a dominate performace against WestHam was a prefect remedy. Signings Fabio Aurelio, Jermaine Pennant and Daniel ‘the Dagger’ Agger have started to impress while Bellamy and Dirk Kuyt have shown glimpses of why Rafa bought them. Riise and Crouch are showing encouraging signs while Gerrard, Gonzalez and Alonso have yet to pick up their form of this season yet though, so I feel the best of Liverpool is yet to come.
Bolton have had a decent start to the season too. With Anelka now in their ranks, they look to have more talent on the field. They can improve though, the only thing good about their performances have been an Ivan Campo wonder strike which will compete with the Dagger for early goal of the month.
Man City overcame a early thrashing by the defending champions to record a draw against in-form Portsmouth and win against Arsenal. Though Arsenal were rubbish on that day, the defensive pairing of Richard Dunne and Sylvain Distin seem to be getting more and more formidable as the season progresses. Good thing Distin didn’t leave!
Fulham somehow overcame a torrid start to their campaign after being walloped by Man Utd 5-1. Jimmy Bullard has been rescuing them – saving a draw and snatching a win. Coleman showed great vision in snapping him up just after last season ended. Let’s just hope the rest of his team can be on par with the on-form midfielder.
That’s the top ten of the league so far. We definitely expected Arsenal and Tottenham to be there, but we’ll have to look at them next time when we review the bottom half of the table while this international break gets moving on!
Hence, after a long introduction, I would be talking about the EPL. And how the teams have did so far. And perhaps evaluate their key players and summer signings, along with the last minute speculation.
Manchester United are sitting comfortably at the top despite not having Rooney and Scholes for two games (and one game more), Ruud Van Nistelrooy who left for Madrid and a holding midfielder (till Michael Carrick decided to make an early comeback as a substitute). Cris Ron has been under much stick because of his role in Rooney’s dismissal in the World Cup, but he ended up rising to the challenge. Saha and Giggs have been in sensational form, but goals are coming from all over the place – like in the last games Fletcher and Silvestre scored! Man Utd look to be strong again this year, as they also prove their doubters wrong.
Portsmouth are a surprise second and no doubt have the best free transfers of the season so far. Kanu and Sol Campbell have driven a club from relegation candidates to a team which conceded no goals in three games, and whacked oppositions 3-0 and 4-0! Only time will tell if Portsmouth can keep up their form, because even the manager, Harry ‘Houdini’ Redknapp is afraid of the lack of strength in depth of the squad. He did manage to get Manuel Fernandes though – the looks to get a couple more players before the window closes.
Aston Villa has been showing good form early. Taking points from Arsenal then winning against Newcastle and Reading. It’s a great start for the new manager – and I’ll like to see how good that ‘Petrov’ dude is after O’Neil chased him and lost him and chased him again the whole summer long.
Everton are tied with third with new signing Andy Johnson heading the way. I’ve always been a fan of this man, and he is proving he can score once again. The only surprise is how come no other clubs came in for him earlier. And if you see the goal against Watford, Beattie and AJ look to have a good partnership forming up.
Chelsea with a record of lost one won two isn’t too bad unless they consider they spend at least £60m a year on new players! I believe Shevchenko is still finding his feet in the Premierhsip and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him up there or thereabouts at the top-scorers chart at the end of the season.
West Ham picked up a possible 4 of 9 points which is a decent effort and it sees them sit in 6th in the table. They have been playing good attacking football and have only come undone by a spectacular strike by Daniel ‘the Dagger’ Agger.
Liverpool have done well so far. They sit in 7th with 4 points out of a possible 6. Sheffield United was a blip with early-season jitters kicking in, but a dominate performace against WestHam was a prefect remedy. Signings Fabio Aurelio, Jermaine Pennant and Daniel ‘the Dagger’ Agger have started to impress while Bellamy and Dirk Kuyt have shown glimpses of why Rafa bought them. Riise and Crouch are showing encouraging signs while Gerrard, Gonzalez and Alonso have yet to pick up their form of this season yet though, so I feel the best of Liverpool is yet to come.
Bolton have had a decent start to the season too. With Anelka now in their ranks, they look to have more talent on the field. They can improve though, the only thing good about their performances have been an Ivan Campo wonder strike which will compete with the Dagger for early goal of the month.
Man City overcame a early thrashing by the defending champions to record a draw against in-form Portsmouth and win against Arsenal. Though Arsenal were rubbish on that day, the defensive pairing of Richard Dunne and Sylvain Distin seem to be getting more and more formidable as the season progresses. Good thing Distin didn’t leave!
Fulham somehow overcame a torrid start to their campaign after being walloped by Man Utd 5-1. Jimmy Bullard has been rescuing them – saving a draw and snatching a win. Coleman showed great vision in snapping him up just after last season ended. Let’s just hope the rest of his team can be on par with the on-form midfielder.
That’s the top ten of the league so far. We definitely expected Arsenal and Tottenham to be there, but we’ll have to look at them next time when we review the bottom half of the table while this international break gets moving on!
24.8.06
Week 1 Midweek
The mid-week matches have been concluded. And I'm pleased to announce. Chelsea got beaten! All thanks to Middlesborough's late show. Unfortunately, I was hoping Chelsea won this time for I was going to put my money on Liverpool - with handicap - to win the premiership, now the odds would probably drop.
Anyway, it's good news for the rest of the Premiership that the defending champions have dropped 3 points so early in the tournament. Hopefully, more teams would come out and play against them rather than hoping for a 0-0 draw which - even if you tried - probably wouldn't end that way.. thanks to a deflected Lampard shot or something.
On the other hand, Manchester United are looking really good. Despite injuries to key players like Carrick, Heinze and Gary Neville and suspensions to Rooney and Scholes (the in the second game), they choked up 8 goals in 2 matches and only conceded once! They look like real premiership contenders at this early stage, though Arsenal and Liverpool who fumbled in their first game, have yet to play their second game.
In a day of draws - involving Blackburn and Everton, Fulham and Bolton, Man City and Portsmouth - it was nice to see O'Neil pick up his first win as Aston Villa manager. Right now the only teams yet to register a point are Wigan and Charlton. For Wigan, they only played one game - which they were unlucky to lose. And for Charlton, they just got whacked by an attacking West Ham and in-form Manchester United. Guess what I'm trying to say is that everyone would pick up points soon and we wouldn't see jokes like Sunderland in the Premiership - simply losing every game.
Anyway, the EPL has well and truly begun with new challengers rising and the defending champion faltering. Let's hope it's going to be a more exciting season for the fans!
Anyway, it's good news for the rest of the Premiership that the defending champions have dropped 3 points so early in the tournament. Hopefully, more teams would come out and play against them rather than hoping for a 0-0 draw which - even if you tried - probably wouldn't end that way.. thanks to a deflected Lampard shot or something.
On the other hand, Manchester United are looking really good. Despite injuries to key players like Carrick, Heinze and Gary Neville and suspensions to Rooney and Scholes (the in the second game), they choked up 8 goals in 2 matches and only conceded once! They look like real premiership contenders at this early stage, though Arsenal and Liverpool who fumbled in their first game, have yet to play their second game.
In a day of draws - involving Blackburn and Everton, Fulham and Bolton, Man City and Portsmouth - it was nice to see O'Neil pick up his first win as Aston Villa manager. Right now the only teams yet to register a point are Wigan and Charlton. For Wigan, they only played one game - which they were unlucky to lose. And for Charlton, they just got whacked by an attacking West Ham and in-form Manchester United. Guess what I'm trying to say is that everyone would pick up points soon and we wouldn't see jokes like Sunderland in the Premiership - simply losing every game.
Anyway, the EPL has well and truly begun with new challengers rising and the defending champion faltering. Let's hope it's going to be a more exciting season for the fans!
21.8.06
Comments on Week 1
The first round of EPL games have been concluded with a big Chelsea win. Needless to say, the biggest disappointment was Liverpool being held to a draw at Sheffield United!
They might have done little to suggest that they can challenge for the title, and with the gap 2 points from Chelsea, the race might be over already. But many fail to note that Liverpool weren't playing their top strength team - probably with the Champions League qualifier against Macabi Haifa in sight. With Gerrard playing on the right where he is much less effective - evident with his surging run which lead to the (arguably controversial) penalty when he was playing in the centre - Liverpool also lost top players Carragher and Riise early in the game. That means that very few tactical changes can be made. Also, Finnan, Xabi Alonso and Peter Crouch were missing from the starting line-up. But whether or not they were on the bench is not important because they never made it to the field. I wouldn't write off Liverpool's chances just yet!
Arsenal struggled too against Aston Villa. But they were at home! It can be said, it's not really their home ground because it's a new stadium, and that's the first time they are playing there as well! For Arsenal, I was glad to see Theo Walcott make an appearance. Arsenal played a pretty much full-strength team. With Campbell out of the club, and Swiss Senderos still injured from the World Cup, they had to play Johan Djourou in defence with Kolo Toure. Worse still, Ashley Cole still refuses to sort out his future and so Wenger wouldn't play him yet - Justin Hoyte fills his big boots. Arsenal had full strength in midfield and attack with names like Fabregas, Helb and Henry filling the team sheet. For Vila, Lee Hendrie had an aweful game again - just coming off the bench to receive a yellow card and doing pretty much nothing else. I'm a fan of the old Lee Hendrie and hope he gets more match practice to dispell his poor run of form. And by the way, what's the news on Baros? He is loaned out? Is he injured?
And the rest...
Everton beat Watford with AJ scoring. If you been following this blog, you would know I'm a fan of Andy Johnson - always quoting his stats. Well, he proved he can score in any level! Great buy Everton!
Reading provided the somewhat shock of the round by beating Southgate's Middlesborough 3-2 after coming from 0-2 down. I don't want to talk about this match because I bet on it to end as a draw. Also, I removed Kitson from my fantasy league team just a day before the season started and he scored!
West Ham hammered Charlton with Troare showing exactly why Liverpool sold him. Darren Bent got his season off to a scoring start though. But Zamora and Carlton Cole upstaged last-season's top scorer Marlon Harewood.
Newcastle had a useful win over Wigan at home. Ameobi was having to fill big shoes, and he did by scoring the winner. I've been a fan of Ameobi although he gets alot of stick from the media as not being a good enough Alan Shearer replacement.
Pompski got off to an excellent start with Kanu the hero (and villian at the same time) scoring 2 goals but missing a what-could-have-been-a-hat-trick penalty. Todorov tapped in the other goal in a 3-0 victory over poor Blackburn (with had two players - Lucas Neil and Andy Todd - sent off). Their not going to repeat their 6th in the league with that performance! Though Brad Friedel made 8 saves, he still let in 3 goals, goes to show the domination as a result of the Pompski Revolution under Harry Redknapp (and Russian money spinner).
Bolton beat a poor Tottenham 2-0 with Ivan Campo scoring a fluke goal. Well, I think he did intend to try to strike it from 40 yards out, but he was lucky that England keeper Robinson was caught by surprise. It wasn't a good result for my yahoo fantasy team because I had Berbatov in it. Neither was it for my money as I bet on a draw.
Chelsea had a thumping victory over Man City and the scoreline should have been much more really. I did have Distin in my yahoo team - but good thing he didn't earn me negative points. Terry was a star in defence (and getting a goal as well) while Lamps and Drogba finished the job.
Lastly, is the biggest victory of the first round were Rooney, Ronaldo and Saha were on form firing Manchester United to the top of the league with a 5-1 win over Fulham. Saha showed us exactly why he left Fulham - to score goals past them! Christanval and Ian Pearce absolutely had no answers to the Manchester forwards' questions. Anyone with Rooney and Cris Ron in their fantasy team would have done well this week.
To conclude, I would access my yahoo! fantasy team
Forwards
Rooney - awesome with 33.5 points! Only problem is his value shot up so much, I don't want to sell him though he is suspended for the next 3 games in case I can't buy him back!
Sheva - didn't do anything, so at least his price dropped.
Berbatov - didn't do much but still got 5 points from drawing fouls.
Mids
Gerrard - a disappointing game by his standards, but he can only improve.
Phil Neville - if they allowed me, I might as well have left it blank. He brought in a miserly 0.5 points. Don't buy defensive midfielders, they can't score points - though they are really cheap
Ballack
Rosicky - both didn't play, what a waste. Anyone knows if Rosicky is injured?
Defence
Terry - was a star in the game against City, raked in loads of points!
Distin - was average considering his team got whacked 3-0 by the champions
Carragher - unfortunate to be stretchered off around just 20+ minutes. He did manage to block two shots before that though - earning some points. His price went up, so I can't sell him too though he might be injured for next week.
Keeper
Reina - 0 saves, let in a goal. That's all there is to say.
They might have done little to suggest that they can challenge for the title, and with the gap 2 points from Chelsea, the race might be over already. But many fail to note that Liverpool weren't playing their top strength team - probably with the Champions League qualifier against Macabi Haifa in sight. With Gerrard playing on the right where he is much less effective - evident with his surging run which lead to the (arguably controversial) penalty when he was playing in the centre - Liverpool also lost top players Carragher and Riise early in the game. That means that very few tactical changes can be made. Also, Finnan, Xabi Alonso and Peter Crouch were missing from the starting line-up. But whether or not they were on the bench is not important because they never made it to the field. I wouldn't write off Liverpool's chances just yet!
Arsenal struggled too against Aston Villa. But they were at home! It can be said, it's not really their home ground because it's a new stadium, and that's the first time they are playing there as well! For Arsenal, I was glad to see Theo Walcott make an appearance. Arsenal played a pretty much full-strength team. With Campbell out of the club, and Swiss Senderos still injured from the World Cup, they had to play Johan Djourou in defence with Kolo Toure. Worse still, Ashley Cole still refuses to sort out his future and so Wenger wouldn't play him yet - Justin Hoyte fills his big boots. Arsenal had full strength in midfield and attack with names like Fabregas, Helb and Henry filling the team sheet. For Vila, Lee Hendrie had an aweful game again - just coming off the bench to receive a yellow card and doing pretty much nothing else. I'm a fan of the old Lee Hendrie and hope he gets more match practice to dispell his poor run of form. And by the way, what's the news on Baros? He is loaned out? Is he injured?
And the rest...
Everton beat Watford with AJ scoring. If you been following this blog, you would know I'm a fan of Andy Johnson - always quoting his stats. Well, he proved he can score in any level! Great buy Everton!
Reading provided the somewhat shock of the round by beating Southgate's Middlesborough 3-2 after coming from 0-2 down. I don't want to talk about this match because I bet on it to end as a draw. Also, I removed Kitson from my fantasy league team just a day before the season started and he scored!
West Ham hammered Charlton with Troare showing exactly why Liverpool sold him. Darren Bent got his season off to a scoring start though. But Zamora and Carlton Cole upstaged last-season's top scorer Marlon Harewood.
Newcastle had a useful win over Wigan at home. Ameobi was having to fill big shoes, and he did by scoring the winner. I've been a fan of Ameobi although he gets alot of stick from the media as not being a good enough Alan Shearer replacement.
Pompski got off to an excellent start with Kanu the hero (and villian at the same time) scoring 2 goals but missing a what-could-have-been-a-hat-trick penalty. Todorov tapped in the other goal in a 3-0 victory over poor Blackburn (with had two players - Lucas Neil and Andy Todd - sent off). Their not going to repeat their 6th in the league with that performance! Though Brad Friedel made 8 saves, he still let in 3 goals, goes to show the domination as a result of the Pompski Revolution under Harry Redknapp (and Russian money spinner).
Bolton beat a poor Tottenham 2-0 with Ivan Campo scoring a fluke goal. Well, I think he did intend to try to strike it from 40 yards out, but he was lucky that England keeper Robinson was caught by surprise. It wasn't a good result for my yahoo fantasy team because I had Berbatov in it. Neither was it for my money as I bet on a draw.
Chelsea had a thumping victory over Man City and the scoreline should have been much more really. I did have Distin in my yahoo team - but good thing he didn't earn me negative points. Terry was a star in defence (and getting a goal as well) while Lamps and Drogba finished the job.
Lastly, is the biggest victory of the first round were Rooney, Ronaldo and Saha were on form firing Manchester United to the top of the league with a 5-1 win over Fulham. Saha showed us exactly why he left Fulham - to score goals past them! Christanval and Ian Pearce absolutely had no answers to the Manchester forwards' questions. Anyone with Rooney and Cris Ron in their fantasy team would have done well this week.
To conclude, I would access my yahoo! fantasy team
Forwards
Rooney - awesome with 33.5 points! Only problem is his value shot up so much, I don't want to sell him though he is suspended for the next 3 games in case I can't buy him back!
Sheva - didn't do anything, so at least his price dropped.
Berbatov - didn't do much but still got 5 points from drawing fouls.
Mids
Gerrard - a disappointing game by his standards, but he can only improve.
Phil Neville - if they allowed me, I might as well have left it blank. He brought in a miserly 0.5 points. Don't buy defensive midfielders, they can't score points - though they are really cheap
Ballack
Rosicky - both didn't play, what a waste. Anyone knows if Rosicky is injured?
Defence
Terry - was a star in the game against City, raked in loads of points!
Distin - was average considering his team got whacked 3-0 by the champions
Carragher - unfortunate to be stretchered off around just 20+ minutes. He did manage to block two shots before that though - earning some points. His price went up, so I can't sell him too though he might be injured for next week.
Keeper
Reina - 0 saves, let in a goal. That's all there is to say.
17.8.06
Season Preview Part III: Blackburn Rovers
The EPL starts in a few days!.. Here I'll look at how the teams would perform in the coming 06-07 English Premierleague Season. This is based on the players they have as of today, and assuming no shock moves expected in the coming days.
A good signing and Blackburn look to be on the way to improvement. I would have like David Bentley to stay, but looks as though he wouldn't be back next season. Florent Sinama Pongolle is back at Liverpool too, but with the arrival of Dirk Kuyt today, it looks as though as he is moving on as well - not back to Blackburn - but to Lyon.
Anyway, back to Blackburn. They look to have a strong defence with Brad Friedel as inspirational as ever, shielded by Ryan Nelson - whom every club wants to chase now - and in front of him is Robbie Savage, the midfielder who defends like his name says. Partnering Nelson in defence this season would look to be Todd or Khizanishvilli and flanked by Michael Gray and the awesome Lucas Neil. It looks though that Brett Emerton is on his way out.
In midfield, they have the creative, if not aging talent in Tugay. They have pace on the wing with Morten Gamst Pederson. Pederson is an awesome talent and we all remember him being the conquerer of Manchester United - scoring against them in 3 of the games played against them last season! Steven Reid on the other flank is also good talent, with excellent skill on the ball, but I'm not so sure about his crossing.
In attack, they have left Paul Dickov go - thank goodness for Blackburn fans - but brought in another joke in "Franny" Jeffers. Selling Bellamy to Liverpool (*smilez*), Blackburn look to be short upfront with only Jeffers and Shefki Kuqi - until they brought in Jason Roberts. I'm a fan of Roberts, and I think he would soon establish himself as first choice striker in Blackburn - if he isn't already. He has been a great acquisition and would do well I predict.
The future looks bright for Blackburn as they build on their 6th place from last season. However, I don't see them challenging the top four teams for their places this year.
Prediction: 6th
A good signing and Blackburn look to be on the way to improvement. I would have like David Bentley to stay, but looks as though he wouldn't be back next season. Florent Sinama Pongolle is back at Liverpool too, but with the arrival of Dirk Kuyt today, it looks as though as he is moving on as well - not back to Blackburn - but to Lyon.
Anyway, back to Blackburn. They look to have a strong defence with Brad Friedel as inspirational as ever, shielded by Ryan Nelson - whom every club wants to chase now - and in front of him is Robbie Savage, the midfielder who defends like his name says. Partnering Nelson in defence this season would look to be Todd or Khizanishvilli and flanked by Michael Gray and the awesome Lucas Neil. It looks though that Brett Emerton is on his way out.
In midfield, they have the creative, if not aging talent in Tugay. They have pace on the wing with Morten Gamst Pederson. Pederson is an awesome talent and we all remember him being the conquerer of Manchester United - scoring against them in 3 of the games played against them last season! Steven Reid on the other flank is also good talent, with excellent skill on the ball, but I'm not so sure about his crossing.
In attack, they have left Paul Dickov go - thank goodness for Blackburn fans - but brought in another joke in "Franny" Jeffers. Selling Bellamy to Liverpool (*smilez*), Blackburn look to be short upfront with only Jeffers and Shefki Kuqi - until they brought in Jason Roberts. I'm a fan of Roberts, and I think he would soon establish himself as first choice striker in Blackburn - if he isn't already. He has been a great acquisition and would do well I predict.
The future looks bright for Blackburn as they build on their 6th place from last season. However, I don't see them challenging the top four teams for their places this year.
Prediction: 6th
Season Preview Part I I: Aston Villa
The EPL starts in a few days!.. Here I'll look at how the teams would perform in the coming 06-07 English Premierleague Season. This is based on the players they have as of today, and assuming no shock moves expected in the coming days.
I was waiting for Villa to sign some players before I write a preview of them. But the season is starting in just 3 days! I don't think they would sign any big name in time for the season to begin. I'll investigate their line up as of now.
After a disappointing campaign last year, Villa have got a new chairman, new fundings and a new manager. I like the headline 'Lerner drives new Aston Martin' (football365.com). Jokes aside, Villa really should be a force this year under the whole new club board and manager. Martin O'Neil was known as one of the best managers around, but the Scottish League and EPL are two very different leagues in terms of class. He might find some trouble in his first season - especially with the current members of his squad.
Goalkeeper: Thomas Sorensen is the undisputed number 1. With reserve keeper Stuart Taylor making only 2 appearances last term, it is unlikly anything would change. Sorensen is an excellent keeper - stats say he made 240 saves in the EPL alone -, but he needs his defence to help him.
His defence need help though. Wilfred Bouma has been looking less than steady while Liam Ridgewell is prone to his mistakes too. Olof Mellberg is a rock in defence, though they need some pace at the back. Aaron Hughes is Villa's best defender I think. He is consistent and stable.
In midfield, Villa need strengthening too. I don't think very much of Gavin McCann or James Milner. Is Milner still there though? The news of him going to the club permenantly or going back to his former club seemed to have died down. Anyway, the more consistent performers in midfield are Gareth Barry (Garry Barry) and young Steven Davis. I was expecting Barry to jump boat, but thanks to wise words from the new manager, he's decided to stay, I can just say it's good for Villa because he is their best player. Davis on the other hand is a good young prospect, but I don't see him playing for a big club anytime soon.
In attack, O'Neil needs to find Phillips' scoring boots, Angels compass on the field and teach Baros how to kick a ball. Phillips is getting old, but he proves to be the only Villa striker who knows where the goal is. Angel is most probably going to be sold while Baros... I hope O'Neil can bring out what Gerard Houllier and David O'Leary saw in him. Don't worry though, if all else fails, they have promising Luke Moore to come off the bench. This is one player I think would go to a big club one day.
Other than their strikerforce, the Villa team look horribly short of depth. Out of everyone NOT mentioned above, only Mark Delaney made more than 10 appearances last term. All the rest like Lee Henderie, Ulises De La Cruz, Patrik Berger, Peter Wittingham have all made at most 7 starts.
I don't see them being a force yet this season, but I would like to see who O'Neil brings in and what he can do with the team. A highly-rated manager with money should be able to transform even the crappiest teams.
Prediction: 10-15th position
I was waiting for Villa to sign some players before I write a preview of them. But the season is starting in just 3 days! I don't think they would sign any big name in time for the season to begin. I'll investigate their line up as of now.
After a disappointing campaign last year, Villa have got a new chairman, new fundings and a new manager. I like the headline 'Lerner drives new Aston Martin' (football365.com). Jokes aside, Villa really should be a force this year under the whole new club board and manager. Martin O'Neil was known as one of the best managers around, but the Scottish League and EPL are two very different leagues in terms of class. He might find some trouble in his first season - especially with the current members of his squad.
Goalkeeper: Thomas Sorensen is the undisputed number 1. With reserve keeper Stuart Taylor making only 2 appearances last term, it is unlikly anything would change. Sorensen is an excellent keeper - stats say he made 240 saves in the EPL alone -, but he needs his defence to help him.
His defence need help though. Wilfred Bouma has been looking less than steady while Liam Ridgewell is prone to his mistakes too. Olof Mellberg is a rock in defence, though they need some pace at the back. Aaron Hughes is Villa's best defender I think. He is consistent and stable.
In midfield, Villa need strengthening too. I don't think very much of Gavin McCann or James Milner. Is Milner still there though? The news of him going to the club permenantly or going back to his former club seemed to have died down. Anyway, the more consistent performers in midfield are Gareth Barry (Garry Barry) and young Steven Davis. I was expecting Barry to jump boat, but thanks to wise words from the new manager, he's decided to stay, I can just say it's good for Villa because he is their best player. Davis on the other hand is a good young prospect, but I don't see him playing for a big club anytime soon.
In attack, O'Neil needs to find Phillips' scoring boots, Angels compass on the field and teach Baros how to kick a ball. Phillips is getting old, but he proves to be the only Villa striker who knows where the goal is. Angel is most probably going to be sold while Baros... I hope O'Neil can bring out what Gerard Houllier and David O'Leary saw in him. Don't worry though, if all else fails, they have promising Luke Moore to come off the bench. This is one player I think would go to a big club one day.
Other than their strikerforce, the Villa team look horribly short of depth. Out of everyone NOT mentioned above, only Mark Delaney made more than 10 appearances last term. All the rest like Lee Henderie, Ulises De La Cruz, Patrik Berger, Peter Wittingham have all made at most 7 starts.
I don't see them being a force yet this season, but I would like to see who O'Neil brings in and what he can do with the team. A highly-rated manager with money should be able to transform even the crappiest teams.
Prediction: 10-15th position
15.8.06
Can You Score in the Premiership?
I was reading the comments on this poll on football365.com/forum. The thread was 'Can you score in the premiership?' (if you played every minute of every game)
Quite a number of people actually say they can. Those people obviously haven't played against the best. And then there were some, who claim they play for divisions just a bit lower than conference and say they don't think they can. What makes people think they can score 5-10 a season? Rubbish.
Even Emile Heskey and Djibril Cisse can't do that.
Others claim they can probably put away a penalty. Those humble say they can put away 1 out of 5. I don't even think that is possible. The only way you would score is if you get a penalty, blindfold the keeper and tie his hands round his back!
Otherwise from open play, maybe if you are too crap to even mark; and then the linesman forgets to flag you offside, and Theirry Henry sprints through the entire defence, rounds the keeper and lays it at your feet 1 yard before the line. Maybe you might score then.
I wanted to write that all on the forum, but guess what? You have to wait for a review panel to manually check your registeration before activating your account! Ha. It's alright, I got my talking soccer blog!
Quite a number of people actually say they can. Those people obviously haven't played against the best. And then there were some, who claim they play for divisions just a bit lower than conference and say they don't think they can. What makes people think they can score 5-10 a season? Rubbish.
Even Emile Heskey and Djibril Cisse can't do that.
Others claim they can probably put away a penalty. Those humble say they can put away 1 out of 5. I don't even think that is possible. The only way you would score is if you get a penalty, blindfold the keeper and tie his hands round his back!
Otherwise from open play, maybe if you are too crap to even mark; and then the linesman forgets to flag you offside, and Theirry Henry sprints through the entire defence, rounds the keeper and lays it at your feet 1 yard before the line. Maybe you might score then.
I wanted to write that all on the forum, but guess what? You have to wait for a review panel to manually check your registeration before activating your account! Ha. It's alright, I got my talking soccer blog!
14.8.06
For the Community
Final score: Liverpool 2 Chelsea 1.
Sweet goal for Shevchenko, but sweeter victory for Liverpool. In my opinion, Liverpool deserved to win by more than that 2-1 scoreline. But I suppose when you want to compare with the Premierleague champions who spend at least £50million on new players every season, you can't be too greedy.
As expected, Mourinho started complaining about the lack of preparation for his team amidst 'praise' for Liverpool. Quoting from football365.com Mourinho said "...but if you don't think about the difference of condition of both teams they deserved to win because they were better than us." It sounds like putting an excuse to why you lost while praising the opponent so you don't sound sour grapes. And I was about to predict that he would whine about the internationals disrupting his preparations futhtur, but he already did:
"I have to say this is intelligent. They realise players should be with their teams before the season starts not with their national teams."(football365.com) when commenting that his native Portugal decided not to have an international friendly.
Anyway, we all don't care with all the excuses Mourinho makes about his team. The fact is Liverpool beat Chelsea. And Liverpool weren't playing their first XI. The only first-teamers who started were probably Reina, Carragher, Finnan and Crouch. If you want to count Pennant, go ahead, but we all know that key players like Gerrard, Xabi Alonso and Bellamy weren't in the starting line-up, while Chelsea on the other hand had the best squad they could put forward minus the injuries.
With Mourinho saying that Liverpool would have a psychological blow if they lost to a 50% Chelsea, then Chelsea must have suffered a blow losing to 50% of the Liverpool first team. Chelsea are still the team to beat this season - mainly because of their money - but Liverpool had sent out a good sign to the rest of the Premiership - that Chelsea are beatable!
I like the quote on soccernet.com: "Crouch's late goal gave Benitez another win over Mourinho and tightened his psychological hold. He has beaten him in the Champions League, the FA Cup and the Community Shield. Now for the Premiership."
It might be a "meaningless friendly", but they did do something for the community.
Sweet goal for Shevchenko, but sweeter victory for Liverpool. In my opinion, Liverpool deserved to win by more than that 2-1 scoreline. But I suppose when you want to compare with the Premierleague champions who spend at least £50million on new players every season, you can't be too greedy.
As expected, Mourinho started complaining about the lack of preparation for his team amidst 'praise' for Liverpool. Quoting from football365.com Mourinho said "...but if you don't think about the difference of condition of both teams they deserved to win because they were better than us." It sounds like putting an excuse to why you lost while praising the opponent so you don't sound sour grapes. And I was about to predict that he would whine about the internationals disrupting his preparations futhtur, but he already did:
"I have to say this is intelligent. They realise players should be with their teams before the season starts not with their national teams."(football365.com) when commenting that his native Portugal decided not to have an international friendly.
Anyway, we all don't care with all the excuses Mourinho makes about his team. The fact is Liverpool beat Chelsea. And Liverpool weren't playing their first XI. The only first-teamers who started were probably Reina, Carragher, Finnan and Crouch. If you want to count Pennant, go ahead, but we all know that key players like Gerrard, Xabi Alonso and Bellamy weren't in the starting line-up, while Chelsea on the other hand had the best squad they could put forward minus the injuries.
With Mourinho saying that Liverpool would have a psychological blow if they lost to a 50% Chelsea, then Chelsea must have suffered a blow losing to 50% of the Liverpool first team. Chelsea are still the team to beat this season - mainly because of their money - but Liverpool had sent out a good sign to the rest of the Premiership - that Chelsea are beatable!
I like the quote on soccernet.com: "Crouch's late goal gave Benitez another win over Mourinho and tightened his psychological hold. He has beaten him in the Champions League, the FA Cup and the Community Shield. Now for the Premiership."
It might be a "meaningless friendly", but they did do something for the community.
7.8.06
Crespo to Inter
Chelsea is so rich eh. They just let Hernan Crepo go to Inter for free. But they have an option of taking him back after 1 year. It pretty much is a loan unless Chelsea decide they don't want him.
Inter would be a good team this season with all the additions they made. And they would be looking to "defend" their "title". Lots of inverted commars thanks to the controversial way they won last season.
Anyway, back to Crespo. I'm an admirer of this player ever since he played for Inter in his first spell. I think he is an ideal striker. He can take long shots, and finish when running onto the ball, he is also good in the air and powerful with headers. He has great tap-the-ball-in-van-Nistelrooy-style positioning in front of goal too. But I think the best thing about him is his movement. With him running off a striker partner, he always seems to be able to find space, or make space for his strike partner. I think it's a pity Chelsea had to let him go, because I was picturing in my head how well Sheva and Crespo worked so well together in AC Milan. It was mainly thanks to Crespo's intelligent running.
So all the best to one of the great modern strikers. I hope he finds he settles well where he is, because his football deserves it!
Inter would be a good team this season with all the additions they made. And they would be looking to "defend" their "title". Lots of inverted commars thanks to the controversial way they won last season.
Anyway, back to Crespo. I'm an admirer of this player ever since he played for Inter in his first spell. I think he is an ideal striker. He can take long shots, and finish when running onto the ball, he is also good in the air and powerful with headers. He has great tap-the-ball-in-van-Nistelrooy-style positioning in front of goal too. But I think the best thing about him is his movement. With him running off a striker partner, he always seems to be able to find space, or make space for his strike partner. I think it's a pity Chelsea had to let him go, because I was picturing in my head how well Sheva and Crespo worked so well together in AC Milan. It was mainly thanks to Crespo's intelligent running.
So all the best to one of the great modern strikers. I hope he finds he settles well where he is, because his football deserves it!
6.8.06
Season Preview Part I : Arsenal
The EPL starts in 2 weeks!.. Here I'll look at how the teams would perform in the coming 06-07 English Premierleague Season. This is based on the players they have as of today, and assuming no shock moves expected in the coming 2 weeks.
Out go 3 veterans and in comes one superstar. Can they really balance the team? Campbell was always a rock in defence till last season, Pires, though now slower has the experience and creativity and Bergkamp was more than special as Mourinho says. Can Arsenal do without them? They did bring in an awesome Tomas Rosicky for a steal of about £7m. He would be an awesome player.
Their first team squad is well-balanced and strong. With Henry up front, they can always be guaranteed goals. Reyes is finding his feet in England, and I expect Hleb to do the same this season. Gilberto is showing good form to fill the void left by Vieira in the 'destructors' role, while Fabregas is magnificient in spraying passes round the pitch. In defence, Toure is becoming a world-class player and when fit again, Swiss Senderos is showing what good talent Wenger knows how to nuture. They might lose Ashley Cole to Chelsea though, and when that happens, I hope to see who Arsenal can bring in to replace him. On right-back, they have the young, skilful and pacy Eboue to challange now-fit-again Lauren for the spot. Between the sticks is the now-consistent Lehmann, who I think has come of age to show leadership and steadiness.
They look like a formidable side - at least their first XI- this season. But with back-up players like Van Persie, Adebayor, Ljungberg and Flamini, it can't be that bad. I just hope to see a bit more of Theo Walcott this season!
Prediction: Top 4
Probably first XI:
Out go 3 veterans and in comes one superstar. Can they really balance the team? Campbell was always a rock in defence till last season, Pires, though now slower has the experience and creativity and Bergkamp was more than special as Mourinho says. Can Arsenal do without them? They did bring in an awesome Tomas Rosicky for a steal of about £7m. He would be an awesome player.
Their first team squad is well-balanced and strong. With Henry up front, they can always be guaranteed goals. Reyes is finding his feet in England, and I expect Hleb to do the same this season. Gilberto is showing good form to fill the void left by Vieira in the 'destructors' role, while Fabregas is magnificient in spraying passes round the pitch. In defence, Toure is becoming a world-class player and when fit again, Swiss Senderos is showing what good talent Wenger knows how to nuture. They might lose Ashley Cole to Chelsea though, and when that happens, I hope to see who Arsenal can bring in to replace him. On right-back, they have the young, skilful and pacy Eboue to challange now-fit-again Lauren for the spot. Between the sticks is the now-consistent Lehmann, who I think has come of age to show leadership and steadiness.
They look like a formidable side - at least their first XI- this season. But with back-up players like Van Persie, Adebayor, Ljungberg and Flamini, it can't be that bad. I just hope to see a bit more of Theo Walcott this season!
Prediction: Top 4
Probably first XI:
3.8.06
Man Utd This Summer
Manchester United suffered a bad summer. I think it was made worse by the press really. They make the bust-up between Rooney and Cris Ron probably worse than it really is. Also, the bust-up with Ruud Van Nistelrooy too. I think Man Utd just wanted an excuse to sell him, they probably wanted a bigger fee though.
Also, they failed to attract Patrik Vieira. It would have been strange to see Vieira in an Arsenal jersey, also giving his previous stand-offs between Keane, Ruud and Neville. Nevertheless, two of the three are not in the club anymore. After Vieira's supposed move to Inter supposedly stalled, Man United looked favourite to land him, but in the end, it looks 99% sure he would land up in Inter.
Man United's only signing this summer has been Michael Carrick so far. Fergie says he was worth it, so we shall see how it goes. I would be very interested in seeing Carrick perform at the highest level though.
If Manchester can perform well in the league after this difficult summer, I would credit it to Ferguson, for knowing exactly what he was doing selling Ruud and getting Carrick. It's a gamble, but we'll see how it goes.
Also, they failed to attract Patrik Vieira. It would have been strange to see Vieira in an Arsenal jersey, also giving his previous stand-offs between Keane, Ruud and Neville. Nevertheless, two of the three are not in the club anymore. After Vieira's supposed move to Inter supposedly stalled, Man United looked favourite to land him, but in the end, it looks 99% sure he would land up in Inter.
Man United's only signing this summer has been Michael Carrick so far. Fergie says he was worth it, so we shall see how it goes. I would be very interested in seeing Carrick perform at the highest level though.
If Manchester can perform well in the league after this difficult summer, I would credit it to Ferguson, for knowing exactly what he was doing selling Ruud and getting Carrick. It's a gamble, but we'll see how it goes.
31.7.06
Ruud to Leave Like That
I know it's a bit of old news that Ruud Van Nistelrooy has left Manchester United to go to Real Madrid. But it had been speculation for weeks, and only Man Utd couldn't agree on a fee. The fee turned out to be a paltry 10mill-pounds. Considering they spent 18-mil on Michael Carrick.
I wouldn't even pay 18 mil for Owen Hargreaves, and he is England's first choice defensive midfielder! No doubt Carrick has improved alot in the Tottenham ranks, but even they must be laughing now at the 18mil price tag. I don't know what's going on in Manchester United, but I sure hope Fergie knows what he is doing. Maybe a couple more big name signings would please the fans.
They need them up front to replace the ageing Soljkaer, the injured Smith and someone to partner Saha when Rooney is suspended. They also need a left winger since Giggs is getting way too old. And maybe another central midfielder to partner Carrick. I don't think John O'Shea or Alan Smith would do a good job. Don't get me wrong, I think O'shea is an awesome defender, but we should leave him as a defender.
Man United need a covering right-back as well since the senior Neville seems to be getting old, and he has no understudy. They have got 4 left-backs (or 4 who can play at left-back) in O'Shea, Silvestre, Heinze and Evra. It's a good thing they sold Fortune then. Admittedly, only Evra is strictly a left-back. The others can play at centre-back though I'm not sure about on the right.
If Man Utd doesn't get a few more signings in these key areas, it's hard to see them challenging for the title.
I wouldn't even pay 18 mil for Owen Hargreaves, and he is England's first choice defensive midfielder! No doubt Carrick has improved alot in the Tottenham ranks, but even they must be laughing now at the 18mil price tag. I don't know what's going on in Manchester United, but I sure hope Fergie knows what he is doing. Maybe a couple more big name signings would please the fans.
They need them up front to replace the ageing Soljkaer, the injured Smith and someone to partner Saha when Rooney is suspended. They also need a left winger since Giggs is getting way too old. And maybe another central midfielder to partner Carrick. I don't think John O'Shea or Alan Smith would do a good job. Don't get me wrong, I think O'shea is an awesome defender, but we should leave him as a defender.
Man United need a covering right-back as well since the senior Neville seems to be getting old, and he has no understudy. They have got 4 left-backs (or 4 who can play at left-back) in O'Shea, Silvestre, Heinze and Evra. It's a good thing they sold Fortune then. Admittedly, only Evra is strictly a left-back. The others can play at centre-back though I'm not sure about on the right.
If Man Utd doesn't get a few more signings in these key areas, it's hard to see them challenging for the title.
27.7.06
Bad Boys
There have been a tranfer of two of the top wingers in the EPL. One went to Newcastle in the Duffman, the other to Liverpool.
Jermaine Pennant finally completed his move to Liverpool, and if I must say, now everyone is declaring that they are life-long Liverpool fans! Maybe that is Rafa's plan, bring in people who love the club. It's evident in Robbie Fowler, Mark Gonzalez, Criag Bellamy and now Pennant. Before you know it, Dirk Kuyt says he was a life-long Liverpool fan!
Anyway, if Rafa can really do it, he would have changed some of England's bad boys into the best players. Admittedly, Pennant and Craig Bellamy don't have the best track record when it comes to discipline. Bellamy was famous for his Champions League red-card when he went off the field crying, and his bust-ups with Graeme Souness, but then again, every other player has a bust-up with the latter. Pennant was famous for being banned from driving, and than later caught drink-driving and than later caught turning up for training drunk. That really takes some doing.
But as Pennant is young, it looks as though those are the mistakes of a schoolboy and if he matures into a good sports professional, all that could be put behind him. And not only Liverpool fans would agree with me, but I think Rafa is the man to change them. The main incentive for these 2 new bad boys is they were brought from so-called 'lower clubs', so they must take their chance at a top club. Also, taking their chance in a club where they proclaimed they supported all their life.
I hope Rafa's plan works, I have confidence in him though.
Jermaine Pennant finally completed his move to Liverpool, and if I must say, now everyone is declaring that they are life-long Liverpool fans! Maybe that is Rafa's plan, bring in people who love the club. It's evident in Robbie Fowler, Mark Gonzalez, Criag Bellamy and now Pennant. Before you know it, Dirk Kuyt says he was a life-long Liverpool fan!
Anyway, if Rafa can really do it, he would have changed some of England's bad boys into the best players. Admittedly, Pennant and Craig Bellamy don't have the best track record when it comes to discipline. Bellamy was famous for his Champions League red-card when he went off the field crying, and his bust-ups with Graeme Souness, but then again, every other player has a bust-up with the latter. Pennant was famous for being banned from driving, and than later caught drink-driving and than later caught turning up for training drunk. That really takes some doing.
But as Pennant is young, it looks as though those are the mistakes of a schoolboy and if he matures into a good sports professional, all that could be put behind him. And not only Liverpool fans would agree with me, but I think Rafa is the man to change them. The main incentive for these 2 new bad boys is they were brought from so-called 'lower clubs', so they must take their chance at a top club. Also, taking their chance in a club where they proclaimed they supported all their life.
I hope Rafa's plan works, I have confidence in him though.
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