It's easy to see why so many people are becoming more and more disillusioned with the game of football, or rather its "stars". No longer are many players wanting to play for the love of the game, it seems, or even for the love of the club. Of course, we will always have the Steven Gerrards, John Terrys, Gary Nevilles, Ryan Giggses and Jamie Carraghers of the world, but all it takes is one to make the average football fan's heart sink.
Emmanuel Adebayor and Ashley Cole both left a club that seemed to have treated them quite well, to both fire a barrage of abuse back at it. Cole, when he left Arsenal, seemed to have forgotten that they had helped nurture him towards becoming one of the best full-backs in the word. Adebayor left the Emirates, and spent more time goading the Arsenal players and fans than winning over the Manchester City faithful.
It would be foolish to hope that all players are faithful servants to their club, and only move on for the right reasons, but isn't there some sort of etiquette any more? An etiquette that Luis Figo, Sol Campbell, Michael Owen or Kenny Miller (twice) could have had a lesson in? Is it just me, though, or did those players seem to do it with a bit of dignity, albeit the slightest bit of dignity?
And then there was Wayne Rooney, who seemed to take it to new levels. I don't want to go over all that again - I've already had my tuppence worth - but it was a wholly depressing scenario; Wayne Rooney holding one of the world's biggest football clubs to ransom. Manchester United have only Sir Alex Ferguson to thank for somehow managing to keep him at the club whilst completely belittling his approach to the transfer talks.
If you're not already aware of why I'm so frustrated and annoyed on this crisp (I think, I haven't been out to check), December, Sunday afternoon, check a paper, go to your favourite sports website, or just type 'Carlos Tevez' into Google. And your heart will sink - well, if you can put aside any allegiances you have and think of it as a purely football matter.
At Manchester United, Tevez felt as though he was bigger than the club - a la Rooney? - and he duly succumbed to the money on the table over at Eastlands. Tevez isn't in it for the money, obviously. Just ask West Ham! But off he went, leaving behind the fans who absolutely adored him ("Fergie, sign him up" etc.). And without a second thought, signed for their newly-loaded city rivals.
Manchester City didn't exactly cover themselves in glory either, acting like one of those snotty families who come into money, leave the council estate, and act as though they always belongs in the upper echelons. And the fickle finger of football was quickly pointed at City fans. But who can blame them, Tevez has scored almost 40 goals in 60 games for the club - a phenomenal return.
Although it's been his conduct which leaves a lot to be desired. Who can forget the taunting of United when he scored against his old team? Straight out of the Adebayor book of idiocy, it was another case of wondering why he didn't celebrate with his fans and his team-mates. Had he, like Adebayor, signed for City only to prove a point to his former employers? And if not, what better way to prove the sceptics wrong than to see out the five year contract you've signed?
Or just a year and a half of it.
There were signs of unrest only a week or so ago, when he was substituted against West Brom. This has clearly set a good example for players such as Mario Balotelli. And now poor Carlos is homesick and wants to leave. It really isn't surprising that there has been so much disharmony and petulance at City this season. Tevez is club captain!
It's a despicable transfer request. Regardless of whether he really is just homesick or not, it's an appalling lack of respect to Manchester City and their fans. And it serves to increase the worrying trend that players can now just pick and choose wherever they want to be, when they want to play, and when they fancy chucking the toys out.
City have rejected the request. But even with the billions in reserve, they cannot keep Tevez in Manchester if he doesn't want to be there. And perhaps that is the most worrying thing of all.
Sunday 12 December 2010
Tuesday 7 December 2010
England stuff Aussie turkeys
So, all the pre-series hype is living up to expectation. The Australian team had been roundly dismissed, and over the course of the opening two Tests, there has been little to dispel these dismissals. Australia, for the most part, have been woeful. England, for the most part, have been superb. As a result, even the Aussie media have turned on Punter & Co.
At Brisbane, on a pretty flat track, England got off to a rather precarious start. A superb hat-trick from Peter Siddle had the Gabba absolutely rocking, albeit with some wafting help from Matt Prior. Over the next two days, Mike Hussey and Brad Haddin did everything they could do dispel the notion that Australia are at their weakest for decades.
Step forward much-maligned Alistair Cook.
Cook was under a lot of pressure coming into this series. Criticised, damned even, in many quarters, the English media would have been sensing (and baying for) blood when England began their second innings. 428 balls, 235 runs, 630 minutes and 27 boundaries later, no less with a glorious * against his name, Cook left Brisbane on top of the world.
Much has been said of the Aussie attack and the generosity of the Gabba pitch, but you can only beat what is presented to you. And beat them Cook did, with all manner of sticks. It was as satisfying for Cook as it was demoralising for a nation (no, not you England – he actually is a good player). Add to that the importance of the situation – first Ashes Test, away from home, staring down the barrel, and facing a mountainous struggle to bounce back – and the significance of that innings should be realised. If it wasn’t realised then, it certainly was after the second Test in Adelaide.
Credit must be handed also to Andrew Strauss and Jonathan Trott. Whilst Cook deservedly took the plaudits in Brisbane, without Strauss and Trott as support, his record-breaking task would have been all the more difficult.
Adelaide was as one-sided a victory as England could ever have dreamt of – Australia’s first innings defeat at home since 1993. Dominant with bat, ball and in the field, England took a justified 1-0 lead in the series. And not even Alistair Cook – and Nasser Hussain’s incessant moaning on Sky Sports about his records tumbling – could detract from what was a barnstorming return to cricket’s top table from Kevin Pietersen.
Assured, confident, stylish and cocky – Pietersen really was on fire. His career-best 227 was the highlight of another stunning England batting performance after the bowlers had made surprisingly short work of Australia – except Mike Hussey. But it was in the final over before close of play on day four when Pietersen produced the match-winning swing of momentum – with the ball.
Calling himself “the original pie-chucker”, KP ‘chucked’ one which pitched in the rough, beat the dangerous and returning-to-form Michael Clarke all ends up, and was snaffled by Alistair Cook (is there a trend here?). The only thing more astonishing was that it had to be referred. Clarke later apologised for not walking, perhaps rightly so. But it was a massive wicket, and the scenes of jubilation when England walked off were mirrored the following day as Graeme Swann cleaned up.
On pitches not entirely suited for spin, Swann has to be on top form to be a success in this series. Hussey rightly punished the uncharacteristic short stuff in Brisbane, but the spell which blew away Australia’s tail (and the notable scalps of Ponting and Katich), will live long in England fans’ memories. Clinical, accurate and, at times, unplayable, and set against the backdrop of the delirious Barmy Army’s rendition of a Joy Division classic, Swann did tear them apart. Again.
Next stop, Western Australian Cricket Association ground in Perth. Personally, this is a nightmare for me. Watching the opening session of each day’s play live until lunch (2am), going to bed, spending the next working day avoiding any details in order to get home and watch the extended highlights was difficult enough when play began at midnight. Play in Perth begins at 2:30am, and apart from late Saturday/early Sunday, it looks like more highlights for me.
By the time the third Test begins, Australia will have dropped two of their pace men and probably their spinner, will have lost an opening batsman to injury, and Marcus North’s international career is hanging by a feathered edge. England, conversely, have a team that picks itself. Stuart Broad will miss the rest of the tour, which is a blow, but England have three reliable seamers to choose from as a replacement; Chris Tremlett the most like-for-like.
Australia face a huge task to claw back the famous urn. One more win will do it for England. The signs from the first two Tests are that an England win is almost a foregone conclusion.
Mike Ashley: the joke is (on) you.
Finally, a word on the furore at St. James’ Park, where Mike Ashley has come out of hiding to again stamp his ridiculous mark on Newcastle United. Not content with overseeing the club’s relegation, while he tried his best to offload the club, he has now gone and sacked the man who admirably steered the Toon Army back into the top flight.
I’ve read in a few places the wonderful depiction of the situation as the 'Cartoon Army of Sid James’ Park', and it is something that the fans do not deserve. Generally regarded as among the best around, the fans are suffering the ludicrous rule of a guy who seemingly wants nothing more than having his Sports Direct brand beamed into space from the Gallowgate End.
OK, Newcastle have had a couple of terrible results recently, not least the feeble defeat at West Brom. But you can’t sack a man who has just tanked your fiercest rivals 5-1, or who won the Championship with 102 points. There seems to be little doubt that Mike Ashley has been waiting for any moment to get rid of Chris Hughton, and has again emerged into the spotlight of the fans and players wrath alike.
Martin Jol has been installed as favourite, even though Alan Pardew had been odds-on. I’m not sure if Jol would want to take the job from his assistant at Spurs, but with the disgrace that was his contract "negotiation" at Ajax during the Summer, I wouldn’t be overly surprised. Either way, another period of instability looms for Newcastle, and Ashley, and relegation would be nothing more befitting for Ashley in particular. Shame he is going to tear those fans apart. Again.
At Brisbane, on a pretty flat track, England got off to a rather precarious start. A superb hat-trick from Peter Siddle had the Gabba absolutely rocking, albeit with some wafting help from Matt Prior. Over the next two days, Mike Hussey and Brad Haddin did everything they could do dispel the notion that Australia are at their weakest for decades.
Step forward much-maligned Alistair Cook.
Cook was under a lot of pressure coming into this series. Criticised, damned even, in many quarters, the English media would have been sensing (and baying for) blood when England began their second innings. 428 balls, 235 runs, 630 minutes and 27 boundaries later, no less with a glorious * against his name, Cook left Brisbane on top of the world.
Much has been said of the Aussie attack and the generosity of the Gabba pitch, but you can only beat what is presented to you. And beat them Cook did, with all manner of sticks. It was as satisfying for Cook as it was demoralising for a nation (no, not you England – he actually is a good player). Add to that the importance of the situation – first Ashes Test, away from home, staring down the barrel, and facing a mountainous struggle to bounce back – and the significance of that innings should be realised. If it wasn’t realised then, it certainly was after the second Test in Adelaide.
Credit must be handed also to Andrew Strauss and Jonathan Trott. Whilst Cook deservedly took the plaudits in Brisbane, without Strauss and Trott as support, his record-breaking task would have been all the more difficult.
Adelaide was as one-sided a victory as England could ever have dreamt of – Australia’s first innings defeat at home since 1993. Dominant with bat, ball and in the field, England took a justified 1-0 lead in the series. And not even Alistair Cook – and Nasser Hussain’s incessant moaning on Sky Sports about his records tumbling – could detract from what was a barnstorming return to cricket’s top table from Kevin Pietersen.
Assured, confident, stylish and cocky – Pietersen really was on fire. His career-best 227 was the highlight of another stunning England batting performance after the bowlers had made surprisingly short work of Australia – except Mike Hussey. But it was in the final over before close of play on day four when Pietersen produced the match-winning swing of momentum – with the ball.
Calling himself “the original pie-chucker”, KP ‘chucked’ one which pitched in the rough, beat the dangerous and returning-to-form Michael Clarke all ends up, and was snaffled by Alistair Cook (is there a trend here?). The only thing more astonishing was that it had to be referred. Clarke later apologised for not walking, perhaps rightly so. But it was a massive wicket, and the scenes of jubilation when England walked off were mirrored the following day as Graeme Swann cleaned up.
On pitches not entirely suited for spin, Swann has to be on top form to be a success in this series. Hussey rightly punished the uncharacteristic short stuff in Brisbane, but the spell which blew away Australia’s tail (and the notable scalps of Ponting and Katich), will live long in England fans’ memories. Clinical, accurate and, at times, unplayable, and set against the backdrop of the delirious Barmy Army’s rendition of a Joy Division classic, Swann did tear them apart. Again.
Next stop, Western Australian Cricket Association ground in Perth. Personally, this is a nightmare for me. Watching the opening session of each day’s play live until lunch (2am), going to bed, spending the next working day avoiding any details in order to get home and watch the extended highlights was difficult enough when play began at midnight. Play in Perth begins at 2:30am, and apart from late Saturday/early Sunday, it looks like more highlights for me.
By the time the third Test begins, Australia will have dropped two of their pace men and probably their spinner, will have lost an opening batsman to injury, and Marcus North’s international career is hanging by a feathered edge. England, conversely, have a team that picks itself. Stuart Broad will miss the rest of the tour, which is a blow, but England have three reliable seamers to choose from as a replacement; Chris Tremlett the most like-for-like.
Australia face a huge task to claw back the famous urn. One more win will do it for England. The signs from the first two Tests are that an England win is almost a foregone conclusion.
Mike Ashley: the joke is (on) you.
Finally, a word on the furore at St. James’ Park, where Mike Ashley has come out of hiding to again stamp his ridiculous mark on Newcastle United. Not content with overseeing the club’s relegation, while he tried his best to offload the club, he has now gone and sacked the man who admirably steered the Toon Army back into the top flight.
I’ve read in a few places the wonderful depiction of the situation as the 'Cartoon Army of Sid James’ Park', and it is something that the fans do not deserve. Generally regarded as among the best around, the fans are suffering the ludicrous rule of a guy who seemingly wants nothing more than having his Sports Direct brand beamed into space from the Gallowgate End.
OK, Newcastle have had a couple of terrible results recently, not least the feeble defeat at West Brom. But you can’t sack a man who has just tanked your fiercest rivals 5-1, or who won the Championship with 102 points. There seems to be little doubt that Mike Ashley has been waiting for any moment to get rid of Chris Hughton, and has again emerged into the spotlight of the fans and players wrath alike.
Martin Jol has been installed as favourite, even though Alan Pardew had been odds-on. I’m not sure if Jol would want to take the job from his assistant at Spurs, but with the disgrace that was his contract "negotiation" at Ajax during the Summer, I wouldn’t be overly surprised. Either way, another period of instability looms for Newcastle, and Ashley, and relegation would be nothing more befitting for Ashley in particular. Shame he is going to tear those fans apart. Again.
Tuesday 23 November 2010
England expect as Punter under pressure
5th January 2007
Matthew Hayden. Not out. 23. England suffer a 5-0 series whitewash and tamely lose the Ashes.
24th August 2009
Michael Hussey. Caught Cook, bowled Swann. England seal a 2-1 series win and regain the Ashes.
England go into the 2010/11 Ashes with the humiliation of 2006/07 and the confidence of 2009 undoubtedly at the forefront of their minds. The former a reminder of how formidable a home Australian Ashes team can be, the latter a clear indication of how much the gap between the two old foes has shrunk. Apart from in the world of Glenn McGrath and his obligatory prediction.
I don't intend to bore you with the usual talk of how awful the Aussies have become - no more Langer, Hayden, Gilchrist, Warne and McGrath. The only way was down, of course. Instead let me draw you to a rather more interesting comparison of England's fateful trip four years ago, involving perhaps the least celebrated of the aforementioned five - the wicketkeeper.
In that series, Adam Gilchrist averaged 46 with the bat, with a top score of 102 not out. His counterparts, Geraint Jones and Chris Read averaged 11 and 12 respectively, with top scores of 33 and 26 not out. OK, there are numerous other similar comparisons which could have been made. So what about with the gloves? Gilchrist snaffled 24 catches and added two stumpings in one more innings that Jones and Read combined, who between them took 21 catches and contributed one stumping. Now, England are settled with Matt Prior as their Test choice, whilst Brad Haddin was always going to struggle to fill the void left by Gilly. A snapshot illustration of the gap disappearing.
In the run-up to Thursday's series opener at the Gabba, Australia have flattered to deceive in their pre-empting of what to expect, whilst England have been quietly confident, almost too quietly confident. Whilst Andrew Strauss and his men have been openly speaking against any sort of complacency, under-pressure Australia captain Ricky Ponting's men have been (inexplicably) targeting England's most out-of-form batsman.
Maybe they realise that Kevin Pietersen is a potential series winner if he clicks into gear. Maybe they don't realise they're providing more than enough necessary ammunition for Kevin Pietersen (and his ego) to click into gear.
With perhaps the most difficult (read only) Ashes series in Australia to call in a generation, nothing is certain. But one thing we can expect is fast pitches. With the Aussie selectors in a spin over Nathan Hauritz' lack of form and the subsequent inclusion of the unknown, yet wonderfully named, Xavier Doherty, preparing a spin-friendly pitch for the brilliant Graeme Swann would be cricketing suicide.
Which means if England's quicks, particularly James Anderson, can get the Kookaburra ball to swing, then they may fully justify the pre-series hype. Steve Finn has the height and Stuart Broad the acumen to trouble a shaky Australian batting line-up. Ben Hilfenhaus, Doug Bollinger and Mitchell Johnson, on paper, should be a competitive match-up. But the Ashes aren't won on paper.
Doubts remain over Alistair Cook and Paul Collingwood's form, but both bring much more to the team than their recent records suggest. Ian Bell has justified the faith shown in him lower down the order, while Eoin Morgan can consider himself unlucky to be seemingly preparing for seven one-dayers come January. That's an argument for another day, though.
Jonathan Trott will scratch and probe and frustrate. And he has already shown against the Australians the necessary concentration and resolve to put some runs on the board. In my opinion, the understated South African could be England's key to success down under. If this is the case, why shouldn't England dream they could win the Ashes in Australia for the first time in 24 years.
Exactly why the all-knowing bookmakers have the home team as favourites, of course.
Matthew Hayden. Not out. 23. England suffer a 5-0 series whitewash and tamely lose the Ashes.
24th August 2009
Michael Hussey. Caught Cook, bowled Swann. England seal a 2-1 series win and regain the Ashes.
England go into the 2010/11 Ashes with the humiliation of 2006/07 and the confidence of 2009 undoubtedly at the forefront of their minds. The former a reminder of how formidable a home Australian Ashes team can be, the latter a clear indication of how much the gap between the two old foes has shrunk. Apart from in the world of Glenn McGrath and his obligatory prediction.
I don't intend to bore you with the usual talk of how awful the Aussies have become - no more Langer, Hayden, Gilchrist, Warne and McGrath. The only way was down, of course. Instead let me draw you to a rather more interesting comparison of England's fateful trip four years ago, involving perhaps the least celebrated of the aforementioned five - the wicketkeeper.
In that series, Adam Gilchrist averaged 46 with the bat, with a top score of 102 not out. His counterparts, Geraint Jones and Chris Read averaged 11 and 12 respectively, with top scores of 33 and 26 not out. OK, there are numerous other similar comparisons which could have been made. So what about with the gloves? Gilchrist snaffled 24 catches and added two stumpings in one more innings that Jones and Read combined, who between them took 21 catches and contributed one stumping. Now, England are settled with Matt Prior as their Test choice, whilst Brad Haddin was always going to struggle to fill the void left by Gilly. A snapshot illustration of the gap disappearing.
In the run-up to Thursday's series opener at the Gabba, Australia have flattered to deceive in their pre-empting of what to expect, whilst England have been quietly confident, almost too quietly confident. Whilst Andrew Strauss and his men have been openly speaking against any sort of complacency, under-pressure Australia captain Ricky Ponting's men have been (inexplicably) targeting England's most out-of-form batsman.
Maybe they realise that Kevin Pietersen is a potential series winner if he clicks into gear. Maybe they don't realise they're providing more than enough necessary ammunition for Kevin Pietersen (and his ego) to click into gear.
With perhaps the most difficult (read only) Ashes series in Australia to call in a generation, nothing is certain. But one thing we can expect is fast pitches. With the Aussie selectors in a spin over Nathan Hauritz' lack of form and the subsequent inclusion of the unknown, yet wonderfully named, Xavier Doherty, preparing a spin-friendly pitch for the brilliant Graeme Swann would be cricketing suicide.
Which means if England's quicks, particularly James Anderson, can get the Kookaburra ball to swing, then they may fully justify the pre-series hype. Steve Finn has the height and Stuart Broad the acumen to trouble a shaky Australian batting line-up. Ben Hilfenhaus, Doug Bollinger and Mitchell Johnson, on paper, should be a competitive match-up. But the Ashes aren't won on paper.
Doubts remain over Alistair Cook and Paul Collingwood's form, but both bring much more to the team than their recent records suggest. Ian Bell has justified the faith shown in him lower down the order, while Eoin Morgan can consider himself unlucky to be seemingly preparing for seven one-dayers come January. That's an argument for another day, though.
Jonathan Trott will scratch and probe and frustrate. And he has already shown against the Australians the necessary concentration and resolve to put some runs on the board. In my opinion, the understated South African could be England's key to success down under. If this is the case, why shouldn't England dream they could win the Ashes in Australia for the first time in 24 years.
Exactly why the all-knowing bookmakers have the home team as favourites, of course.
Friday 19 November 2010
Update: What to expect and your help/feedback/criticism needed.
Since I last had a proper attempt at blogging, lots of things have changed. Not least my own personal circumstances. A couple of house moves, a naked encounter with a burglar (don't ask!), and an unrelated graduate job, I'm finally working towards the dream - being a Sports Journalist.
As a result, you'll hopefully be glad to hear that this sports blog will be updated as regularly as possible. For my own personal development, I'd appreciate any feedback at any point, good or bad. Be it on the blog itself, on Facebook (or Twitter - if I can learn how to use it), or simply over a few pints, I'd love to hear what you think. If you think certain aspects of the blog are horrible, tell me - I need to know. Without valuable criticism, I'll never learn. On the flip side, if you think something's excellent, tell me - I need to keep doing it!
Even better, if you haven't already done so, why not add yourself as a follower. I'm aiming to hit the 20 mark by the end of the year.
Although there's been a lot of football material recently, this is not a football blog. I'll be showcasing a little bit of everything really. Cricket, snooker, darts, athletics, rugby union, tennis, and I'll probably throw a bit of random sporting action in here, particularly with London 2012 coming up. Again, suggestions are welcome if there's any particular sport or sporting event you'd like to see featured here.
Personally, I'm hugely excited by the Ashes, which is just over a week away. I'll be trying to provide regular updates, and maybe even analyse a few days play. Football will always remain a passion of mine and that will probably show quite a bit. Christmas darts at the PDC World Championship, the conclusion to the Race to Dubai, and tennis' season finale at the O2 arena are all on the horizon.
So in between practising my shorthand, doing my first journalism exam and paying the rent, there's plenty to be excited about as 2010 rolls to a fascinating close.
As a result, you'll hopefully be glad to hear that this sports blog will be updated as regularly as possible. For my own personal development, I'd appreciate any feedback at any point, good or bad. Be it on the blog itself, on Facebook (or Twitter - if I can learn how to use it), or simply over a few pints, I'd love to hear what you think. If you think certain aspects of the blog are horrible, tell me - I need to know. Without valuable criticism, I'll never learn. On the flip side, if you think something's excellent, tell me - I need to keep doing it!
Even better, if you haven't already done so, why not add yourself as a follower. I'm aiming to hit the 20 mark by the end of the year.
Although there's been a lot of football material recently, this is not a football blog. I'll be showcasing a little bit of everything really. Cricket, snooker, darts, athletics, rugby union, tennis, and I'll probably throw a bit of random sporting action in here, particularly with London 2012 coming up. Again, suggestions are welcome if there's any particular sport or sporting event you'd like to see featured here.
Personally, I'm hugely excited by the Ashes, which is just over a week away. I'll be trying to provide regular updates, and maybe even analyse a few days play. Football will always remain a passion of mine and that will probably show quite a bit. Christmas darts at the PDC World Championship, the conclusion to the Race to Dubai, and tennis' season finale at the O2 arena are all on the horizon.
So in between practising my shorthand, doing my first journalism exam and paying the rent, there's plenty to be excited about as 2010 rolls to a fascinating close.
Tuesday 19 October 2010
United on the Wayne?
'Once a blue, always a blue'.
A cheap shot for Kopites and a source of bitterness for the Goodison faithful. Yet, when Wayne Rooney made the short move up the M62, he became an instant legend. All of a sudden, the blue became a red. And was worshipped.
Don't get me wrong, this would have happened at whatever club Rooney joined, and probably will in whatever foreign clime he ends up in. Which of course leaves the mouthwatering prospect of him teaming up with his old team-mate Carlos Tevez at the Costa del Eastlands. That's probably the only thing that would further anger the fans that made him one of their [Scouse] own.
Rooney is a player of undoubted quality. 30-odd goals last season were a major step forward for him and for Manchester United. At times unplayable, he tortured defences nation and Europe-wide. The 'white Pele' was seemingly the man who would lead United back to title and European Cup success over the coming years. Then came that ankle injury against Bayern Munich, and whatever else besides. And then came that World Cup, and whatever else besides. So what went wrong? Where did communications break down? Step forward Sir Alex.
Sir Alex Ferguson is a master in his era - a genuine legend of the game. Part of me thinks that today's comments were simply another reason to be in awe of this man's many masterclasses. Rooney was well and truly pushed into the Old Trafford limelight without being in sight - go on Wayne, what say you?
Sir Alex has left Rooney with the most difficult of tasks in explaining the situation, and there is simply no easy way to explain why you are leaving the fans who love you and you claim to love. He has also claimed to have left the door open for Rooney, that the ball is in his court. Let's be clear here, Sir Alex rubber-stamped Rooney's exit today.
"The one thing I said to him was 'respect this club, I don't want any nonsense from you'," said Sir Alex. And therein is the one thing that seems to have been forgotten in this furore.
Wayne Rooney needs Manchester United more than Manchester United need Wayne Rooney.
Unless, of course, United are now a selling club. Unless the money paid for his transfer goes towards servicing debt rather than straight into the kitty. United might not need him, but they do need a world-class replacement.
Where else in the world would Rooney have received the guidance and support that he has done at Old Trafford? What other manager in the world would have shown the patience to allow the raw talent mature into a world-beater, even amongst the shows of petulance? Where else on this planet would Rooney have been learning from esteemed team-mates such as Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes? And where else would a manager have shielded him from the outside world in times of trouble as many times as Sir Alex?
Yes, he was superb last season. But let's not forget that until last season, he hadn't come close to scoring 20 league goals in a season. Manchester United have won three league titles and a European Cup with Wayne Rooney scoring no more than 23 goals in all competitions in a season. That can be replaced.
It would be unfair to blame all this on the allegations about his private life. We will all have our opinions, and mine is that Rooney has been so poor this season [and at the World Cup] that it must have had some effect - not only on his performances, but also on his reasons for wanting to leave United.
He may indeed still love the club, but the petulance still exists, as shown when Rooney completely undermined his manager last week. And the subsequent comments by Sir Alex may have just undermined Wayne Rooney's legendary status at Manchester United.
'Once a liar, always a liar?'
A cheap shot for Kopites and a source of bitterness for the Goodison faithful. Yet, when Wayne Rooney made the short move up the M62, he became an instant legend. All of a sudden, the blue became a red. And was worshipped.
Don't get me wrong, this would have happened at whatever club Rooney joined, and probably will in whatever foreign clime he ends up in. Which of course leaves the mouthwatering prospect of him teaming up with his old team-mate Carlos Tevez at the Costa del Eastlands. That's probably the only thing that would further anger the fans that made him one of their [Scouse] own.
Rooney is a player of undoubted quality. 30-odd goals last season were a major step forward for him and for Manchester United. At times unplayable, he tortured defences nation and Europe-wide. The 'white Pele' was seemingly the man who would lead United back to title and European Cup success over the coming years. Then came that ankle injury against Bayern Munich, and whatever else besides. And then came that World Cup, and whatever else besides. So what went wrong? Where did communications break down? Step forward Sir Alex.
Sir Alex Ferguson is a master in his era - a genuine legend of the game. Part of me thinks that today's comments were simply another reason to be in awe of this man's many masterclasses. Rooney was well and truly pushed into the Old Trafford limelight without being in sight - go on Wayne, what say you?
Sir Alex has left Rooney with the most difficult of tasks in explaining the situation, and there is simply no easy way to explain why you are leaving the fans who love you and you claim to love. He has also claimed to have left the door open for Rooney, that the ball is in his court. Let's be clear here, Sir Alex rubber-stamped Rooney's exit today.
"The one thing I said to him was 'respect this club, I don't want any nonsense from you'," said Sir Alex. And therein is the one thing that seems to have been forgotten in this furore.
Wayne Rooney needs Manchester United more than Manchester United need Wayne Rooney.
Unless, of course, United are now a selling club. Unless the money paid for his transfer goes towards servicing debt rather than straight into the kitty. United might not need him, but they do need a world-class replacement.
Where else in the world would Rooney have received the guidance and support that he has done at Old Trafford? What other manager in the world would have shown the patience to allow the raw talent mature into a world-beater, even amongst the shows of petulance? Where else on this planet would Rooney have been learning from esteemed team-mates such as Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes? And where else would a manager have shielded him from the outside world in times of trouble as many times as Sir Alex?
Yes, he was superb last season. But let's not forget that until last season, he hadn't come close to scoring 20 league goals in a season. Manchester United have won three league titles and a European Cup with Wayne Rooney scoring no more than 23 goals in all competitions in a season. That can be replaced.
It would be unfair to blame all this on the allegations about his private life. We will all have our opinions, and mine is that Rooney has been so poor this season [and at the World Cup] that it must have had some effect - not only on his performances, but also on his reasons for wanting to leave United.
He may indeed still love the club, but the petulance still exists, as shown when Rooney completely undermined his manager last week. And the subsequent comments by Sir Alex may have just undermined Wayne Rooney's legendary status at Manchester United.
'Once a liar, always a liar?'
Sunday 17 October 2010
New Era Same Vibe - NESV begin life at Liverpool with derby defeat.
"I might be in a sample of one, but I honestly believe the team played well today."
You said it Roy.
Is there any better reason to return to the wonderful world of blogging than the need to annihilate the team you hold beloved?
Let me get one thing straight. This [return] was a long time coming. It is not simply wanting to vent frustration and anger. I'm sure you can make your own mind up though.
Where to start then?
I'll begin by apologising for the fact that Maxi Rodriguez is missing from below. As yet, there are no signs of Maxi apologising for being missing at Goodison Park today, as Everton deservedly thumped their local rivals into 19th place in the Barclay's Premier League.
It's hard to lay all the blame on the doorstep of Mr Hodgson. He may well be ruing his decision to give up a position of worship in SW6, as suggested by Sir Alan Lord Sugar - or whatever he wants to be addressed as. The fact is that the squad he has inherited - and indeed his own additions - is simply not good enough.
Jose Reina, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres aside, the current Liverpool crop are average, at best. Throw in the fact that these three have been well below par for much of the season, and the outcome is that Liverpool are languishing exactly where they deserve to be. Even before things kicked off at Goodison Park today, there was a case to be made that Everton were a team in a position defied by their form. No such case can be made for their city counterparts.
Football purists will appreciate Jamie Carragher's footballing career. Carragher will certainly appreciate his new contract. At the heart of the defence, his presence keeps him afloat - just about. Presence and passion does not make a good full-back. It helps, but without pace and an ability to cross the ball, the next two years won't nearly be as frustrating for Carragher as it will be for Liverpool fans.
Martin Skrtel's early promise as a Liverpool player seems to have disappeared. Alternatively, any striker worth his salt will know that there is nothing more uncomfortable at Anfield than Skrtel facing the ball at the feet of a player with pace and power (a la Yakubu). Well, with the exception of those 'Yanks Out' banners being smuggled out. Although it's not his fault he has to partner the hapless Sotirios Kyrgiakos. Paul Konchesky does not lack effort - he lacks quality.
I've never exactly championed Lucas Leiva - the 'Welsh Brazilian'. I've always believed he needed to be given time. Rafael Benitez must have seen something in him? And Hodgson must see something in him? How can two reputable managers have so much faith in him? Today's performance ensures I won't be championing Leiva any time soon. Your time is up, son.
Raul Meireles and Joe Cole are certainly class players. It seems, however, that after the adrenaline of Cole's move north wore off with an ill-judged challenge on Arsenal's Laurent Koscielny, he has lost the ability to unlock a defence. Or find the target. Or beat the first man. Meireles has also failed to deliver. Hitting it from 30 yards is no good unless you can beat the sprawling, heart-and-head-on-the-line blue shirt throwing himself at you. Liverpool, take note.
A performance bereft of passion, lacking belief and missing quality. Playing Gerrard just behind Torres was effective when Torres had an inkling of form. It was also effective when Xabi Alonso was pulling the strings that Leiva and Meireles are fumbling. I would love to say that Everton were fantastic. They weren't. But they showed passion, belief, and enough quality. And David Moyes' men were more than good value for their victory.
If he lasts that long, Hodgson has a lot of work to do in January and beyond. Over to you, Mr Henry.
You said it Roy.
Is there any better reason to return to the wonderful world of blogging than the need to annihilate the team you hold beloved?
Let me get one thing straight. This [return] was a long time coming. It is not simply wanting to vent frustration and anger. I'm sure you can make your own mind up though.
Where to start then?
I'll begin by apologising for the fact that Maxi Rodriguez is missing from below. As yet, there are no signs of Maxi apologising for being missing at Goodison Park today, as Everton deservedly thumped their local rivals into 19th place in the Barclay's Premier League.
It's hard to lay all the blame on the doorstep of Mr Hodgson. He may well be ruing his decision to give up a position of worship in SW6, as suggested by Sir Alan Lord Sugar - or whatever he wants to be addressed as. The fact is that the squad he has inherited - and indeed his own additions - is simply not good enough.
Jose Reina, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres aside, the current Liverpool crop are average, at best. Throw in the fact that these three have been well below par for much of the season, and the outcome is that Liverpool are languishing exactly where they deserve to be. Even before things kicked off at Goodison Park today, there was a case to be made that Everton were a team in a position defied by their form. No such case can be made for their city counterparts.
Football purists will appreciate Jamie Carragher's footballing career. Carragher will certainly appreciate his new contract. At the heart of the defence, his presence keeps him afloat - just about. Presence and passion does not make a good full-back. It helps, but without pace and an ability to cross the ball, the next two years won't nearly be as frustrating for Carragher as it will be for Liverpool fans.
Martin Skrtel's early promise as a Liverpool player seems to have disappeared. Alternatively, any striker worth his salt will know that there is nothing more uncomfortable at Anfield than Skrtel facing the ball at the feet of a player with pace and power (a la Yakubu). Well, with the exception of those 'Yanks Out' banners being smuggled out. Although it's not his fault he has to partner the hapless Sotirios Kyrgiakos. Paul Konchesky does not lack effort - he lacks quality.
I've never exactly championed Lucas Leiva - the 'Welsh Brazilian'. I've always believed he needed to be given time. Rafael Benitez must have seen something in him? And Hodgson must see something in him? How can two reputable managers have so much faith in him? Today's performance ensures I won't be championing Leiva any time soon. Your time is up, son.
Raul Meireles and Joe Cole are certainly class players. It seems, however, that after the adrenaline of Cole's move north wore off with an ill-judged challenge on Arsenal's Laurent Koscielny, he has lost the ability to unlock a defence. Or find the target. Or beat the first man. Meireles has also failed to deliver. Hitting it from 30 yards is no good unless you can beat the sprawling, heart-and-head-on-the-line blue shirt throwing himself at you. Liverpool, take note.
A performance bereft of passion, lacking belief and missing quality. Playing Gerrard just behind Torres was effective when Torres had an inkling of form. It was also effective when Xabi Alonso was pulling the strings that Leiva and Meireles are fumbling. I would love to say that Everton were fantastic. They weren't. But they showed passion, belief, and enough quality. And David Moyes' men were more than good value for their victory.
If he lasts that long, Hodgson has a lot of work to do in January and beyond. Over to you, Mr Henry.
Tuesday 17 March 2009
Arsenal come from behind to set up Chelsea clash.
Arsenal 2-1 Hull City
Arsenal booked a semi-final place against Chelsea thanks to a controversial William Gallas winner with a 2-1 win over a battling Hull City side in tonight's FA Cup tie at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal went behind to Nick Barmby's deflected strike after 12 minutes. Hull almost doubled their lead when Geovanni tested Lukasz Fabianski in the Arsenal goal with a sublime free kick, before Barmby had a goal ruled out for offside.
The home side dominated the rest of the opening period and, with Andrey Arshavin increasingly influential, kept Hull pinned back for much of the second half. Robin Van Persie turned in from Arshavin for the equaliser in the 74th minute after good work by substitute Nicklas Bendtner.
Gallas then nodded into an empty net 10 minutes later, although the Frenchman appeared to be at least a yard offside after Boaz Myhill had flapped at a cross. Arsenal, however, closed out the game to book their first FA Cup semi-final spot since 2005.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger again kept faith with some of the youngsters that have illuminated Carling Cups in recent years; Kieran Gibbs and Carlos Vela in for Gael Clichy and Bendtner in six changes from the team that dismantled Blackburn on Saturday.
Wenger's counterpart Phil Brown also made six changes from the team that picked up a point against Newcastle at the KC Stadium, with striker Manucho entrusted with a lone role in front of a five-man midfield.
As early as the third minute, the Angolan striker turned Johan Djourou with consumate ease, only to look for help which was not coming, allowing Arsenal to regroup and regain possession. A few minutes later, Anthony Gardner brought down Carlos Vela on the right hand side. From the resultant free kick, Van Persie whipped in a delicious free kick, which was well defended by Hull.
A rather uninspiring opening period was quickly turned on its head when Hull City took a shock lead. Andy Dawson, already exerting dominance on the left side, looped a ball into the Arsenal area which was allowed to bounce. Nick Barmby managed to twist and strike a fierce volley off the right boot of the hapless Djourou, and over the despairing dive of Fabianski.
As a stunned Emirates remained in silence, Arsenal looked for an immediate reply; a Gibbs cross and a Van Persie corner both brilliantly defended by the visitors. In the 23rd minute, Gallas brought down Peter Halmosi in Geovanni range. The Brazilian struck a fierce free kick from 25 yards, only to see it expertly tipped over by Fabianski.
The shortly worked corner was then fired into the area where Barmby tapped home; the effort correctly ruled out for offside. Soon after, Arshavin was beginning to pull the strings for Arsenal, but committed work from both Manucho and Dawson exemplified the battling attitude of Phil Brown's side.
On the half hour, a deft Arshavin flick was picked up by Van Persie, who screwed his shot wide. A minute later, the Russian danced his way inside Hull's area, where his shot was deflected wide. Although Arsenal were in the ascendancy, Hull showed their desire to extend their lead when Kamil Zayatte headed over from four yards from Halmosi's left-footed inswinging free; a big let-off for the otherwise faultless Gibbs who had rashly bundled over Craig Fagan.
As Arsenal's dominance grew, aside from a few moments of individual brilliance from Arshavin, they failed to seriously test Myhill in the Hull goal. On 52 minutes, Abou Diaby was guilty of wasting perhaps Arsenal's best chance when failing to convert Arshavin's cross. Moments later, Alexandre Song found a yard of space inside the box, twisting and sending his shot narrowly wide.
With the tempo increased, but clear chances still at a premium, Wenger sent on Samir Nasri and Bendtner for Song and the ineffective Carlos Vela. In the 69th minute, Barmby conceded a free kick 30 yards out, which Myhill did well to push wide from Van Persie's effort, low to his right. Moments later, Van Persie headed Nasri's cross onto the crossbar, as Hull continued to frustrate.
However, their luck ran out after 74 minutes when Theo Walcott's cross found Bendtner, whose initial effort was blocked by Bryan Hughes. First to react, the Dane waltzed past Gardner and sent the ball across the face of the goal. Unmarked, Arshavin had the presence of mind to square inside and find Van Persie to smash the ball into the roof of the net, nothing more than Arsenal had deserved.
Three minutes later, Manucho managed to flick on a long ball into the path of Geovanni, who managed to smash a volley from an awkward angle onto the side of the post. It was the last attack of any note from the Tigers, as Arsenal continued to press.
Six minutes from time, Nasri sent in a free kick which Myhill came for and missed, Emmanuel Eboue getting there before the goalkeeper. Gallas, clearly offside, was left with the simple task of heading into an empty goal. Arsenal pressed to make sure of the win; Bendtner forcing a brilliant save from Myhill, whilst Eboue wasted an opportunity following good work from Nasri and Bacary Sagna.
With 5 minutes of injury time to be played, Hull managed a few brief forays into the opposition half, but Arsenal comfortably held on to set up a semi-final clash with Chelsea at Wembley next month. Although Phil Brown's side will feel aggrieved at the manner in which Arsenal made it 2-1, the result was a fair reflection on a dominant Gunners display.
Arsenal: Fabianski; Sagna; Gallas; Djourou; Gibbs; Walcott (Eboue 82); Song (Bendtner 64); Diaby; Arshavin; Vela (Nasri 64); Van Persie.
Booked: Gallas, Nasri.
Hull City: Myhill; Ricketts; Gardner; Zayatte; Dawson; Ashbee (Hughes 46); Barmby (France 76); Geovanni; Fagan; Halmosi (Mendy 67); Manucho.
Booked: Myhill, Dawson, France, Halmosi, Manucho.
Attendance: 55, 641
Referee: Mike Riley
My Man of the Match: Andrey Arshavin
Arsenal booked a semi-final place against Chelsea thanks to a controversial William Gallas winner with a 2-1 win over a battling Hull City side in tonight's FA Cup tie at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal went behind to Nick Barmby's deflected strike after 12 minutes. Hull almost doubled their lead when Geovanni tested Lukasz Fabianski in the Arsenal goal with a sublime free kick, before Barmby had a goal ruled out for offside.
The home side dominated the rest of the opening period and, with Andrey Arshavin increasingly influential, kept Hull pinned back for much of the second half. Robin Van Persie turned in from Arshavin for the equaliser in the 74th minute after good work by substitute Nicklas Bendtner.
Gallas then nodded into an empty net 10 minutes later, although the Frenchman appeared to be at least a yard offside after Boaz Myhill had flapped at a cross. Arsenal, however, closed out the game to book their first FA Cup semi-final spot since 2005.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger again kept faith with some of the youngsters that have illuminated Carling Cups in recent years; Kieran Gibbs and Carlos Vela in for Gael Clichy and Bendtner in six changes from the team that dismantled Blackburn on Saturday.
Wenger's counterpart Phil Brown also made six changes from the team that picked up a point against Newcastle at the KC Stadium, with striker Manucho entrusted with a lone role in front of a five-man midfield.
As early as the third minute, the Angolan striker turned Johan Djourou with consumate ease, only to look for help which was not coming, allowing Arsenal to regroup and regain possession. A few minutes later, Anthony Gardner brought down Carlos Vela on the right hand side. From the resultant free kick, Van Persie whipped in a delicious free kick, which was well defended by Hull.
A rather uninspiring opening period was quickly turned on its head when Hull City took a shock lead. Andy Dawson, already exerting dominance on the left side, looped a ball into the Arsenal area which was allowed to bounce. Nick Barmby managed to twist and strike a fierce volley off the right boot of the hapless Djourou, and over the despairing dive of Fabianski.
As a stunned Emirates remained in silence, Arsenal looked for an immediate reply; a Gibbs cross and a Van Persie corner both brilliantly defended by the visitors. In the 23rd minute, Gallas brought down Peter Halmosi in Geovanni range. The Brazilian struck a fierce free kick from 25 yards, only to see it expertly tipped over by Fabianski.
The shortly worked corner was then fired into the area where Barmby tapped home; the effort correctly ruled out for offside. Soon after, Arshavin was beginning to pull the strings for Arsenal, but committed work from both Manucho and Dawson exemplified the battling attitude of Phil Brown's side.
On the half hour, a deft Arshavin flick was picked up by Van Persie, who screwed his shot wide. A minute later, the Russian danced his way inside Hull's area, where his shot was deflected wide. Although Arsenal were in the ascendancy, Hull showed their desire to extend their lead when Kamil Zayatte headed over from four yards from Halmosi's left-footed inswinging free; a big let-off for the otherwise faultless Gibbs who had rashly bundled over Craig Fagan.
As Arsenal's dominance grew, aside from a few moments of individual brilliance from Arshavin, they failed to seriously test Myhill in the Hull goal. On 52 minutes, Abou Diaby was guilty of wasting perhaps Arsenal's best chance when failing to convert Arshavin's cross. Moments later, Alexandre Song found a yard of space inside the box, twisting and sending his shot narrowly wide.
With the tempo increased, but clear chances still at a premium, Wenger sent on Samir Nasri and Bendtner for Song and the ineffective Carlos Vela. In the 69th minute, Barmby conceded a free kick 30 yards out, which Myhill did well to push wide from Van Persie's effort, low to his right. Moments later, Van Persie headed Nasri's cross onto the crossbar, as Hull continued to frustrate.
However, their luck ran out after 74 minutes when Theo Walcott's cross found Bendtner, whose initial effort was blocked by Bryan Hughes. First to react, the Dane waltzed past Gardner and sent the ball across the face of the goal. Unmarked, Arshavin had the presence of mind to square inside and find Van Persie to smash the ball into the roof of the net, nothing more than Arsenal had deserved.
Three minutes later, Manucho managed to flick on a long ball into the path of Geovanni, who managed to smash a volley from an awkward angle onto the side of the post. It was the last attack of any note from the Tigers, as Arsenal continued to press.
Six minutes from time, Nasri sent in a free kick which Myhill came for and missed, Emmanuel Eboue getting there before the goalkeeper. Gallas, clearly offside, was left with the simple task of heading into an empty goal. Arsenal pressed to make sure of the win; Bendtner forcing a brilliant save from Myhill, whilst Eboue wasted an opportunity following good work from Nasri and Bacary Sagna.
With 5 minutes of injury time to be played, Hull managed a few brief forays into the opposition half, but Arsenal comfortably held on to set up a semi-final clash with Chelsea at Wembley next month. Although Phil Brown's side will feel aggrieved at the manner in which Arsenal made it 2-1, the result was a fair reflection on a dominant Gunners display.
Arsenal: Fabianski; Sagna; Gallas; Djourou; Gibbs; Walcott (Eboue 82); Song (Bendtner 64); Diaby; Arshavin; Vela (Nasri 64); Van Persie.
Booked: Gallas, Nasri.
Hull City: Myhill; Ricketts; Gardner; Zayatte; Dawson; Ashbee (Hughes 46); Barmby (France 76); Geovanni; Fagan; Halmosi (Mendy 67); Manucho.
Booked: Myhill, Dawson, France, Halmosi, Manucho.
Attendance: 55, 641
Referee: Mike Riley
My Man of the Match: Andrey Arshavin
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