The North American disease strikes again. The hockey play-offs are on and the great North American tradition of rioting when you win gets underway. Surely this must lead to a European ban for all NHL clubs? If you ask me this is why hockey/baseball/basketball/gridiron football will never catch on in the rest of the world. If you can’t even get your reason for wanton destruction right, how can you ever expect normal thugs and hooligans to relate?
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are a smidgen away from securing their respective league titles. Lyon are being made to work a bit harder to win their seventh consecutive French title although with four games to go and a four point lead on Bordeaux harder it might be but it looks like pretty inevitable anyway.
It’s possible for Inter to win another scudetto if they win (home to Cagliari) and Roma shockingly lose at home to struggling Torino. Not probable, and even so I’m sure Inter fans would rather wait until the Milan derby to sow another title up. That opportunity comes next weekend.
Which brings us to the Premiership and a match that will see Manchester win another Premiership title (I know Chelsea would still be able to catch United on goal difference but a goal difference of at least 20 makes the task and impossibility) or make the race interesting for at least one more week.
The fact that both teams hold a slight edge in their respective Champions League semi finals and this could be the first of two meeting over the next few weeks only adds more flavour to the pot.
No matter the outcome of this game Manchester United will finish the season atop of the mini league that also includes Saturday’s opponents, Arsenal and Chelsea. Going into the game United have 13 points, Chelsea 7, Arsenal 6 and Liverpool with four draws and no wins. Chelsea also enjoy a very good record over Manchester United in the Premiership and have taken more points off of them than any other side.
The defensive records of both teams this season have been outstanding (United 19 against and Chelsea 24 against) and when you add in the fact that the goals for either team have not been coming as freely in the last few weeks an avalanche of goals seems unlikely.
The Everton vs. Aston Villa match holds a lot of promise with Villa three points a flagging fifth place Everton. Only Manchester United have scored more goals in the Premiership this season than Villa (who would have picked that?) and they have recovered from a truly terrible march to score 15 goals in the last three matches – albeit against three of the cellar dwellers.
Birmingham were Villa’s victims last Sunday and find themselves in the last relegation spot. Birmingham desperately need at least a point this weekend against Liverpool and hope that Spurs do them a favour against Bolton and Reading come a cropper at Wigan. That would leave the Brummies ahead of the other two on goal difference and a run-in that has them face Fulham and Blackburn Rovers.
As chance would have it Birmingham are a bit of a bogey side for Liverpool with the Reds only winning twice in 9 Premiership games. A few years back a Championship Birmingham took Liverpool to penalty kicks before losing in the Carling Cup Final of 2001.
In Italy Fiorentina needs to see off sixth place Sampdoria to maintain at least a four point gap on fifth place Milan and to essentially kill off any reasonable hope that Samp might have of securing the fourth and final Champions League spot. Fiorentina have won their last six at home are playing a side that has a on the face of it a relatively poor away record this season. However, three of Sampdoria’s away wins have come in their last four games and only a surprising 1-0 loss against Reggina a couple of weeks ago brought a solid run to an end.
If Fiorentina can win this one then they will be very much in the driving seat with their remaining fixtures against Cagliari, Parma and Torino. On the other hand Sampdoria need the win to cut into Fiorentina’s lead but then have games against Roma, Palermo and Juventus in prospect.
Finally MLS has the first Los Angeles derby of the season and who is betting that this one will finish with eleven-a-side?
Here we go again. The intent is good, using a major tournament as the platform is not such a good idea.
Raphael Honigstein on the consummate late developer Luca Toni.
Last weekend in Serie A six of the top seven teams faced each other. The top three (Inter, Roma and Juventus) all won. The next four teams (Fiorentina, Milan, Sampdoria and Udinese) all suffered losses and remain locked in a tight struggle for the last Champions League spot.
Fiorentina are four points ahead of Milan and Sampdoria and Udinese are a point further behind. Down at the less glamorous end of the league seven teams are in a dog fight to avoid the three drop spots. Last weekend only Empoli (draw), Cagliari and Reggina (wins) did themselves any favours while the woes of Torino, Catania, Parma and Livorno continued.
With five games left until the end of the season this weekend has a schedule that has eight fixtures that are crucial to the title race, the last Champions league spot or relegation. Only Juventus with third place almost guaranteed away to Atalanta, and Siena (eight points above the last relegation spot) versus Genoa (comfortably in eighth) have a “who cares” look about them.
With two successive wins Inter appear to have regained some traction in a bid to win their third scudetto. This weekend Inter is in Turin to play Torino and both teams currently enjoy four point gaps – Inter on second place Roma and Torino on eighteenth place Reggina.
Torino made Walter Novellino the thirteenth (particularly unlucky) coaching casualty of the Serie A season and followed the lead of a number of struggling clubs by bringing back a former coach. In this case Gianni De Biasi who quit the team sitting firmly at the foot of the Spanish Primera Liga Levante to rejoin Torino. Novellino stepped in to replace De Biasi last summer.
Turin’s other team has the second worst home record in Serie A but only two of the sixteen home games this season have been decided by more than a single goal and both times Torino won. A new coach, a home record that is perhaps not as bad as it may appear might add up to a tough assignment for Inter especially given that they will again be missing top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic. A knee problem has caused the big Swede to miss the last three matches and the next question whether or not he will be ready for the Milan derby in a fortnight.
Roma appears to have the easier game with slumping Livorno the opposition. Livorno have only one win in their last 15 league games and one win against Roma in Rome in the same number of attempts. Livorno sunk to bottom spot after losing to Cagliari last weekend and although they still have time to escape with games against Milan, Atalanta, Torino and Empoli still to come they will have to start scoring goals more regularly. Seven goals in 15 games have taken them to the precipice.
Reggina pulled off a surprise 1-0 win over Sampdoria last Sunday courtesy o####oal from Franco Brienza. The January transfer window signing from Palermo has now scored seven times and if Reggina are to survive then the former Italy international is the most likely hero. However, considering that Reggina are one of three teams without an away win this season – and have only scored eight goals on the road - any away match is going to be problematic.
This weekend it is Milan at the San Siro and Reggina are likely to face a resurgent Inzaghi who has scored two doubles in Milan’s last two matches. No matter the outcome this weekend Reggina will maintain control of their own fate as they will face fellow strugglers Parma, Catania, Empoli and Cagliari in their final four games.
When coach Davide Ballardini took hold of the Cagliari reigns (the return of another former coach) the club had collected a miserable ten points in their first 17 games. In the next sixteen games another 22 points have been earned and last weekend Cagliari was able to jump two points above the last relegation spot by beating Livorno with a double from Acquafresca.
Another key game this weekend has the Sardinian side up against second from the bottom Empoli. Empoli (with another recalled manager Gigi Cagni) have shown signs of resuscitation with a win and a draw in the last two after a run that saw only a single point from a possible total of 21.
Despite sitting above Empoli, Cagliari are in more need of the win as they finish the season against Inter, Fiorentina, Udinese before a final round game against Reggina. Empoli have to play Genoa and Udinese then finish with Livorno and Reggina.
Further up the table Fiorentina will be hoping to continue a run of eight games that has seen them go W,L after losing to Inter. Palermo have won their last two games (another multi-manager team) but have lost ten times awy from home and only collected twelve points in 16 games. Even a moderately decent road record would have had the Sicilian team challenging for a Champions League position.
The winner of the Sampdoria vs. Udinese match will retain a credible interest in fourth spot while the loser can forget it and battle instead for a UEFA Cup spot. Sampdoria have only lost once at home this season although another six games have finished as draws. Last weekend’s single goal loss to Reggina was the first time Sampdoria have been shut out in fourteen matches while Udinese loss to Roma was their first set back in eight league games.
ZUCO2 - Do you agree with me that the title race in the Serie A is officially open?
Bobby – Serie A is like Liga this season – it seems that every time the leader has built a substantial lead they seem to find away to drop points and to cast new doubts on the eventual winner ……again.
Inter will finish with way less points than last season (97 points) as they have already dropped 22 points while Roma are heading for a big improvement (last season 75 points and they already have 64 points with 8 games left). They look like they are both heading for a points total in the mid-80s.
Flashman - Nice of you, Bobby, to acknowledge Colin Jose. He is just a great, great guy. I got to knock around with him a bit years ago. An amazing knowledge of the game, not just the Canadian side of it.
Bobby – Mr. Jose was kind enough to contact me a couple of years ago. It was a real thrill for me because I remember when he wrote for World Soccer years ago when I was growing up and the magazine seemed very exotic. These were the days when the world was a much bigger place and World Soccer was the only reliable source of information from around the globe.
MasMaz – And even though Masch did nothing that I can see to deserve to be sent off, where was captain fantastic? Shouldn't he be there telling him to shut-up and pull him away, by force………..
I am deeply disappointed in Bobby's response to this issue. I expected low brow commentary from the clowns on FFF, but Bobby, say it aint so. Masch's behavior is only relevant if the standard response to it is to be sent off. At this time it is not, and Liverpool at Old Crapford in March is not the time to create the standard.
A journalist's job is to be critical when necessary. Bennett made a decision that taints a season. Another foreigner was singled out and made an example of, while worse English offenders are let off.
Steve Nicol put it best on FFF. Bennett didn't even warn him. Sure his behavior was erratic and insupportable, but he should have pulled Gerrard aside and said keep him quiet or he is out.
I agree that this type of behavior needs to stop. That is the beauty of this injustice from the corrupt FA. They can point to Macherano and say he is to blame, that no one but he is at fault. BS. Another year handed to United.
You don't make these type of statements in the final stretch of the season. This was selective enforcement and a travesty. Who will say that an Englishman would have seen red? I have seen Terry, Gerrard, ACole, Barton, Bowyer etc, do worse for years.
Bobby – This is a bouncing ball.
“Even though Masch did nothing that I can see to deserve to be sent off,” – “where was captain fantastic? Shouldn't he be there telling him to shut-up and pull him away, by force,” – “Bennett didn't even warn him” - “sure his behavior was erratic and insupportable, he should have pulled Gerrard aside and said keep him quiet or he is out,”- “I agree that this type of behavior needs to stop.”
So we have a player Mascherano that did nothing but was sent off even though his captain should have told him to shut up and pull him away …if he was doing nothing why would Gerrard have to tell him to shut up and pull him away?
Bennett didn’t warn him? What’s a yellow card an indication of? Most sane people realize that it is a clear indication that you are one indiscretion away from being sent off.
But of course Mascherano was doing nothing according to you. But then we find out that Mascherano’s “behavior was erratic and insupportable” – that's all very well except you spent the rest of your post claiming he was hard done by.
And to cap it all off you agree that “this type of behavior needs to stop” – would that be the bad behavior or the not doing anything behavior?
Arsewatcher - Cool Canadian Soccer History site, Bobby. I liked the hockey connection part. I remember playing against Peter Zezel in U-16....dude was a great centre-back.
Bobby – There have been a number of very good hockey players that played were also decent soccer players.
Bonmot - Might you have some information on how Nate Jaqua and Joseph Ngwenya are doing in Austria?
Bobby – From this account it seems that Nate Jaqua has made a good start in Austria. If you are looking to stay current on his progress then the Yanks Abroad website is excellent. The last piece I read on Joseph Ngwenya was that he has been having trouble settling down and there is speculation that he may return to MLS.
Sleeper000 - Croatia are to play Scotland on Wednesday. This is Scotland's first international match with a new coach. However, the stadium will probably be half full. Do you think this is due to lack of interest in international friendlies or perhaps that Scotland are not playing a more popular opponent like France or Germany? I for one never take friendlies seriously, other than taking a look at some talented up and coming players. What is your take on the fixture?
Bobby – I’m surprised that they have sold half the tickets. There is so much soccer at this time of year that I don’t think friendly internationals mean enough to really catch many people’s interest. If it was England it might be different but I don’t think the opposition is really the issue. I’m sure it will be a useful exercise for George Burley but that is about it.
TNGooner - I'm convinced Arsenal's slump has to do with Adebayor's hair. Since he took the braids out and went for the mini-afro, he's only scored once and Arsenal has only won once (against Milan)...Ade needs to bring the braids back and get the Gunners back on track!
Bobby – I have a similar theory but it relates to players who decide to go blonde. I cannot think of a player who has played better after having a run-in with a bottle of peroxide. The Romanians started it when they all went blonde at the 1998 World Cup and it did not do them any good.
Thewobegonboy - I subscribe to FSC, Setanta, and that other footy channel that broadcasts La Liga. Are there any other options for watching European soccer in North America? I know you don't control FSC programming, but you often talk about watching games that weren't broadcast to the masses and I was wondering what mechanism allowed you to view those fixtures. Satellite? Online streaming? Secret handshake with the cable guy?
Bobby – It probably has more to do with what is available in Canada rather than anything untoward. We sometimes get different games from the ones offered in the USA and we also get games on stations called the Score, TLN and TV5. During MLS season there is also HDNet, TFC games on multiple Canadian broadcasters and depending on where you reside you may be lucky enough to get additional MLS games – in Winnipeg I watch the NER on a station out of Boston.
Vang60 - As a part time viewer of the Premier League, I think that the sending off of Mascherano was ABSOLUTELY influenced by Sir Alex BLEEP SON and MANURE since the referees in the league have NEVER had a spine against MANURE ARSENAL OR CHELSEA players dissent in the past and find it easy to implement any new policy against Liverpool. Disgraceful. The Premier League has just lost me as a fan. BLEEP YOU ALL.
Bobby – Lost another half a BLEEP fan.
Gregz - Can Arsenal's poor run of form be attributed to a lack of steel in defence? The first choice back line are individually very good defenders, however, especially in central defence we really lack height and strength. We really miss a player like Sol Campbell don't we? Also, how much is Arsene's insistence to not add to his squad harming Arsenal choices of winning trophies?
Bobby – You nailed it and it isn't just lately. I think it is a case that lately it has cost them points. Tony Adams was the rock for so many years and then it was Sol Campbell. I think it is why Wenger perseveres with Senderos. Overall he is a poorer defender than Gallas or Toure he is better in the air. I just don’t think you can win the Premiership without a centre half that is dominant in the air.
Regarding Wenger’s reluctance to add to his squad there is another angle to it I think. Because Arsenal is slumping the knee-jerk reaction is he should have signed players with the automatic implication that such signings would have meant a guarantee of silverware. There are more than enough examples of god team signing players and they have had the opposite effect. It’s interesting that there are a number of Arsenal fans criticizing Wenger but are quick to point out the bad signing other teams have made. Signing players does not come with a guarantee of success.
MasMaz - You pointed out that Drogba and Anelka were offside... and then you said so what. What is going on over there? Red Devil mania is sweeping through Canada like the plague. Can you imagine the outcry if Man Utd lost a game on a call like that?
Bobby – Drogba was marginally offside coming back from a ball that was knocked forward 40 yards and was still well outside the penalty area. The Arsenal central defenders didn’t win the ball and then they didn’t clear it.
If you prefer to focus on a marginal offside call rather than accepting that Arsenal lost because they were unable to defend against the most basic of attacks – a thump up the park and down the middle – then good for you. Others might think you are missing the point.
DVXPrime - Here's an interesting question about the surnames (not the "nicknames or mascots) of the UK-based teams. Poring through FourFourTwo magazine's annual preview issue, I found four common surnames: Rovers (Blackburn, Bristol), Wanderers (Bolton, Wolverhampton), Albion (West Bromwich, Brighton and Hove), and of course, United (Manchester...need i say more?). Oh, and Rangers (Queens Park, Glasgow). By any chance can you provide some insight or history on why some teams chose those surnames? Thanks.
Bobby – I think some others have done a pretty good job of answering this one. Names are a bit like uniforms ..easily copied.
Ursusarctos - Verbal's comments were not phrased as a question, but accounting for some rhetorical excess-- which I also indulged in in my previous reply to RINGO-- the two paragraphs sum up my views fairly well also. How would you characterize these views-- is there some justice in LFC feeling hard done by (even accepting the stupidity of Masch's actions) in light of ALL the circumstances verbal mentions? The Masch episode appears inconsistent with precedent (Terry et al) -- do you agree or not, and should precedent even matter?
Bobby – Mascherano was not sent off for dissent he was given a second yellow card for dissent which meant he was off. A more accurate description might have been a second yellow card for crass stupidity.
Do you not think it was obvious after the Cole incident on Wednesday that there were going to be ramifications is there was to be close to a repeat of the incident? Anyone who watches the Premiership on even a semi-regular basis knows what Bennett is like. Players know the officials they can intimidate and the ones that are card happy.
What came over Mascherano goodness only knows. You talk precedent and others who may have got away with it but timing is everything and Mascherano's decision to chirp and get involved in something that had nothing to do with him cost his team a chance at a comeback.
Neophyte - As far as Mascherano goes, he was the only one who had any passion for LFC. Too bad he went out of his way to get that red. You can put any excuse you want on it but it was aggressive, excessive and plain stupid. It wasn't why they lost. They simply didn't match United's tenacity (foul for foul) or desire. They looked flat...then gave into blaming the official.
Bobby – That wasn’t passion that was stupidity. Passion is not running around chirping at a referee and leaving your team with only ten men. Passion is about applying yourself to winning the game. What Mascherano did was the opposite.
Chad876 - I think refs treat ManU players differently than they do other teams if you think its a lie how many penalties have been awarded to United and each time Ronaldo is touch the refs blow.
Bobby – If you are going to make a statement like that you need to back it up. And from the stats I’ve read you are way off the mark. So Chad let’s have your facts?
Redfan2000 - Time seemed to stop you commenting on the Inter vs Liverpool game, so what was your summation of the two legs?
Bobby – Liverpool was the better team and won it through perseverance and patience. Against ten men and with around five minutes to go in the first leg Liverpool could have easily panicked but they stuck to it.
There were only perhaps two moments when Inter threatened in Milan and the Reina save low to his left was probably the pivotal moment. If that deflection had gone in then Inter might have made a real go of it.
But as it turned out, Reina saved, Burdisso gets a second yellow and Torres scores a terrific goal. We could argue about Inter playing most of the time with ten men and the impact it had on the outcome but you can only play against what is in front of you and Liverpool won without ever really being tested by the Inter attack.
Weah11 - Do you see a clear out (coaches + some players) if Chelsea fail to pass Fenerbahce? I read that Lippi is interested in coming to the EPL.
Bobby – Can I see coaches and players moving on if Chelsea fails to pass Fenerbahce? I can see coaches and players moving on even if they go on to win the Champions League and the Premiership. It is part of the normal process.
By the same token you will not see a clear out (I would define a clear out as six or seven legitimate members of the first team squad leaving). In fact I can’t think of the last time a big club had a real clear out of staff.
It’s down to the fact that players at top clubs are making incredible money and there are very few clubs outside maybe a dozen or so in Europe that are willing to match their wage demands. The fans response to failure is to call for a clear out but the reality is that there has to be another club willing to pay a transfer fee and to pay the salary demands.
Without that other side of the equation most players are more than willing to sit tight and allow their bank balances to grow. Lippi is just one of a number of high profile managers who will be available this summer. It’s a summer of a major final and so that means we will also see national team managers resigning or getting fired.
Don’t be surprised if most of the media interest is around managerial appointments rather than player signings this summer.
Thierry_Henry - Some Arsenal fans are starting to tell Wenger what he should do. As if he doesn't see what's wrong with the team. Just because we've drawn 4 matches in the last few weeks...
Look, at the beginning of the season Bobby suggested we will not be in the top 4. If it wasn't for injury to Eduardo, we would be first. So, relax and keep faith in the magin man, Wenger.
Bobby – As MasMaz pointed out I picked Arsenal to finish third. I have the article from last August archived and hopefully it will be rolled out at the end of the Premiership season for the benefit of all.
Foxcube - Perhaps you did in on TV but I'd love to hear your comments on Mancini's U-turn (or anyone could share?). Another question is why the top 4 in England don't break away from the league and have their own TV deals. Thanks!
Bobby – Mancini has a reputation for being overly emotional at times and speaking before thinking. I think that was one of the moments. The big four don’t breakaway and do their own tv deals because they are not allowed to.
My understanding is that centralized TV broadcast sales is part of the Premier League regulations and to be changed 75% of the 20 teams have to vote to change. As turkeys very rarely vote for Christmas you are not likely a change anytime soon.
ReggaeGunner -I watched the Roma vs Milan match and I was very impressed by the player Vucinic. Why doesn't Spalletti play him in the starting 11 and let Totti play off him or is he more effective coming off the bench. Whenever I see him play he seems to be the difference when he's on the pitch. Always a threat to the other teams when on the pitch. Another to mention is Aquillani, he shoots the ball well.
Bobby – You would think that Spaletti is going to find it more difficult to keep Vucinic out of the starting line-up based on his scoring record off the bench. He’s scored in the three games in the last few weeks when he has come as substitute; there again he failed to score in the game he started.
He’s not overly quick but seems very composed when a chance comes his way. Maybe we will see him in the Rome derby on Wednesday as he scored against Lazio earlier this season.
Venti_Vidi_Vici - Platini was quoted today encouraging English fans to oppose foreign ownership in the EPL. He seems to jump at every opportunity to criticize the EPL and the FA. He disapproves of foreign ownership, lack of English players, the foreign national team coach, the violent play and the 39th match, just in the few months he’s been at the helm. Does he have some anti-English agenda, or is he just concerned with the state of English football, and the effects it has, and could have, on European football?
Bobby – I would suggest that Platini’s issue is more about money than it is about the nationality of the league. The Premiership has the largest TV contract, the largest crowds and has become a magnet for international businessmen looking to make money.
However I don’t think you will see President Platini turning down Sky’s bid for the Champions League rights even though it is English money.
Flashman - Nice move by your network to get the Canada-US U-23 game on this week. The way Toronto FC look to be deliberately not improving their roster, I'm convinced they're looking to tank deliberately and get a high draft pick. One of whom could be playing for Canada in that game. Should be interesting to see what's he's like.
Now, can we expect any changes in Champions League telecasts here in Canada now that Sky has snagged the bulk of future broadcast rights? We've got certain games now for free on basic cable with TSN. Though they act like they can barely stand showing them, with the total lack of support for soccer shown on that network. Will this new deal mean that FOXSWC will be taking games away from them, showing other games concurrent with those that might remain on TSN or will nothing change?
Flashman - What do you make of Amaudo Guevara, like? New York soccer journalist Ives Galarcep is reporting tonight that Mo Johnson is on the verge of re-connecting with the Honduran midfielder he coached in New York by signing him for Toronto FC. Guevara ticked off Toronto fans last year by refusing to come to the team with a deal for him already worked out. Now we're supposed to get over it and welcome this talented but flaky guy back in. Should we? Can we? Will we? And if he does join TFC, what can we expect from him on and off the field.
Bobby – I think there is a general concern that Toronto has done little so far to improve their roster. Based on the moves to date they have gone backwards since the end of last season. It seems to me that the fans gave them unbelievable backing during the first year and expected little but good effort in return from the first year team.
A year on and they expect a lot more. These fans do not strike me as the gullible Maple Leaf types who are willing to sit back and accept any rubbish put their way while MLSE milks fans dry. Without a good start I can see the vociferous support turning ugly.
In terms of Guevara nothing has been announced yet. If he signs for Toronto then you can expect to see a Riquelme-type player (I said type) who the team has to be built around and to get the most out of him all the plays have to go through him. Guevara fell out with Preki in no time at all last season and I have a great deal of admiration for the Chivas coach so I have my doubts that Mo and John Carver will have more success with him.
The Sky deal is for the UK only. Although Fox Soccer Channel in the US and Sky are both News Corp. companies it is my understanding that they operate completely independently. Fox Sports World Canada is owned by Can West Global and has deal with that is limited to the provision of certain games.
ESPN is the current North American rights holder for Champions League and I believe they have at least two seasons left but I stand to be corrected on that. ESPN owns 32% of TSN and TSN and Setanta sub license Champions League games from ESPN.
RonW - When Inverness Caley was promoted to the SPL I think there was talk of them playing home games in Aberdeen. Where are they playing now? One of the best sports headlines ever was about ten years ago when Caley were in the lower leagues (maybe even non-league) and they beat Celtic ... "Super Caley Went Ballistic Celtic Were Atrocious"
Bobby – Inverness Caley Thistle did opt to play their home games at Pittodrie during their first season in the SPL but finished up being able to move back to their own stadium around the half way point in the season after renovations were completed in super quick time. That was in early 2005 and they have played out of their own stadium since. The Sun’s headline was an all-time great when ITC beat Celtic in 2000. I think at that time ITC was in the first division.
22justin -We all know you are a closet Serie A lover, just admit it. Serie A is the TRUE BEST LEAGUE IN THE WORLD. YOU KNOW IT AND I KNOW IT.
Bobby – A closet has nothing to do with it. I've watched Serie A for years. Best is subjective so I will let you argue that one out with others.
RINGO – Have to agree with Bobby, that 1970 cup final was the best one I remember, the '75 Fulham/West Ham game is right up there also, not for the game itself but because it was the first time I went to Wembley. Sad to say that the first three goalscorers for Chelsea have all since died, and in the order they scored, Ian Hutchinson died in 2002, if I where David Webb I might be slightly concerned.
That final could have become the first time no-one won the cup. If David Webb had not 'cheeked' in the winner at Old Trafford the second replay was to have been played at Highfield Road, Coventry three days later ,and if that had ended in a draw both teams would have held the cup for six months each. The England world cup squad where leaving for the Mexico WC five days later ,leaving no more time for another game.
Bobby – There was also the story that might be of interest to those that think the game nowadays is a bit rough. A few years ago a newspaper (or the Beeb) asked then Premiership referee David Elleray to review the 1970 Cup Final from a disciplinary point of view and to judge the game against then current standards.
By the end of the first game at Wembley which finished 2-2 Elleray said that both sides would have finished with eight men each with the first sending red card coming in the 13th minute. What’s more Chelsea would have got 13 yellow cards and Leeds seven.
Henry14 - Last week somebody asked you if Arsenal should sell RVP and rightfully said no now l do think Rosicky who will be 28 needs to go and we can built our left hand side on a younger and not so much injury prone guy and Vela will be a good player + a new winger l feel should he be sold.
Bobby – What makes Rosicky injury prone? One season? Rosicky has played in two-thirds of Arsenal’s Premiership games since he joined the club which puts him ahead of the Freddie Ljungberg and I don’t remember a clamour for Freddie to be sold because he was “injury prone.” Rosicky’s scoring record is very close to the Swede’s so it seems like a fair comparison.
Why you would get rid of a player who is in his prime years and suggest that he should be replaced by another youngster - it doesn’t make a lot of sense to me. Or is it a case that what you haven’t seen is better than what you have?
Sleeper000- The English FA denied FIFA's request to increase Martin Taylor' punishment due to their belief that it was only a single isolated incident and they did not want to set a "horrible" precedent by extending Taylor's suspension. Question, what could FIFA do to enforce their request other than placing sanctions on the English FA which let's face it, will never happen? I am not trying to argue what should be done, I am simply curious as to what is the extent of FIFA's power in this scenario.
Bobby – FIFA has no real interest in extending Taylor’s punishment. It is pure posturing and Blatter playing to the masses knowing that he would be guaranteed media coverage if he raised the subject.
Does anyone really belief that FIFA has any interest in questioning the suspensions dished out every week because once they cross that line that is what it leads to. There are worse challenges than Taylor’s every week in leagues around the world and the precedent of FIFA issuing or mandating additional suspensions over and above those assessed by the national associations would grind the system to a standstill.
It’s also a quick way to finish up in court and FIFA has a very poor court record! The press release can be found here but I read nothing of a “horrible” precedent.
Finally, regarding the Arsenal goal that was disallowed for offside. It was not discussed on Monday’s show. However, a player cannot be played “onside” by a deflection off an opponent. To be played onside in such a situation the opponent must be judged by the referee to have full control of the ball. Otherwise the referee’s decision is based upon the position of the attacking player when the ball is last played by a teammate.
Craigy_f – 1. Your comment (on Friday) about the ‘top teams’ wanting the ties at this stage of the FA Cup to be ‘easy (pardon my paraphrasing) was spot on. When do you think this kind of thinking emerged? 2. So which two Serie A games did you watch, your thoughts. 3. I’ve seen stuff questioning whether the Tykes can actually claim to be ‘giant-killers” in the FA Cup sense – thoughts? 4. No matter the draw permutations, do you see a final involving two Premier League sides? 5. Do you see the same disdain in other leagues for the domestic cups that seems to exist in the Premier League? 6. When was the last time a midfielder scored 30 goals for a English top flight team? 7. As an analyst on a nationally broadcast TV show do you get invited to many games? 8 Is the number of Premier League clubs left in the FA Cup indicative of: Lack of skill gap in the Leagues, Lack of desire to win it amongst the Premier League teams, The Magic Of The FA Cup, A.N. Other.
Bobby –1. I think it has come about perhaps as a distorted sense of entitlement based on the ever increasing amount of money that comes the way of Premiership teams. 2. Juventus vs. Roma and Genoa vs. Sampdoria. The derby was the most enjoyable for me. Even though it was scoreless until late in the game there were chances and every time Cassano got the ball you felt that something great might happen. He is a fantastic talent – pity that he is such a nutter. 3. Barnsley deserves the moniker after Saturday’s display. 4. If I had to bet on it yes. But I hope not. I would like to see WBA make it. 5. I think a lot of the other leagues are worse in terms of their domestic cup competitions. Many Coppa Italia matches are played in front of ridiculously small crowds and the two leg final in midweek hardly helps. Copa del Rey is a bit better but from what I have seen weakened teams being fielded is common place and again scheduling on midweek days does not give it much prominence. Real Madrid hasn’t won the cup since 1993 and Barcelona since 1998 so that probably tells you something about the priority. The Germans and the French seem to take their cup competitions a bit more seriously and it still has some importance in Scotland. I would suggest that the competition started to be devalued in England when the European Cup Winners Cup was scrapped, and shortly after Manchester United opted for a trip to Brazil.
However as a footnote the FA website had the following piece up on Monday – “The weekend's eight FA Cup Fifth Round ties attracted 248,795 fans, producing an average of 31,099 per tie. This is the highest since 1981, when the average for the completed round was 32,053. In that year the clubs drawn at home were Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, Peterborough, Southampton, Tottenham and Wolves”.
6. I can’t think of one - particularly if you are talking league goals. You would have to go back to years to the days of inside forwards who you could argue would be today’s midfielders. In that case it might by the late Dennis Violet for Manchester United in the late 50s when he scored 32 goals. If it goals in all competitions then Matthew Le Tissier would probably be the answer in the mid nineties.
7. No.
8. Fear of negatively impacting on their Premiership position and sometimes the luck of the draw with top flight teams going head-to-head.
LGB or EGB – 1. Do you think Rafa is gone at the end of this year? 2. If so, who’s an ideal replacement? 3. Also, whether it’s Rafa or a new gaffer, where does Liverpool need to strengthen? 4. Where you at all surprised at the result by Liverpool v Barnsley? 5. Have you seen a more under-achieving team than this? In any sport for that matter?
Bobby –1. It is pretty close to the Topic of the Week question so I will keep my powder dry. 2. You need to see who is available - to early to tell. 3. Covered last week and I believe Redfan2000 reposted. 4. Yes. 5. Lots of them – your expectations are higher than mine.
Footiefan - Why didn't Gallas get punished? He clearly made contact with Nani. Doesn't send out a bad message that you can kick someone from behind and get away with it?
Bobby – JayAlves has provided a pretty good summary of the FA’s position on it. When I saw the incident I was sure he was going to get sent off.
Craigy_f – Creative players for Inter - just Figo - you've got to be joking Pele, Stankovic, Jiminez. Right about Ibrahimovic, likes to come deep and create. Cesar is having a good season.
Bobby – Can you see Mancini fielding Pele and Jiminez in a Champions league match against Liverpool? Same comment is probably just as applicable to Cesar. As for Stankovic I haven’t seen much in the way of creativity out of him for at least the last two seasons. Very good player but very little in way of flair anymore.
RINGO - Ron Harris against Cristiano Ronaldo. Who comes out on top? A) On the pitch. B) In a back alley.
Bobby – On the pitch Chopper. In a back alley Ronaldo – because he can run quicker.
Henry14 - Q1 Where would you rate Ronaldo in terms of trophies and individual accomplishments in the list of all time greats? Q2 Spurs v Chelsea who will win? Q3 Is the Barnsley result the biggest Cup shock in this Millenium?
Bobby – Q1. Close to the top ten all time as a player – I don’t know how to rate a player in terms of trophies. He would be a shoe-in to the top ten if he had played more seasons during his prime years. By the time he hit 23 he had a lot of miles on him and a body that was breaking down. Q2 – Tune in Friday and I might hazard a guess. 3. No – I think Shrewsbury knocking Everton out in 2003 was a bigger shock.
Gregz - What is your thoughts on the commentating of Ray Hudson? A bit of an acquired taste isn't he.
Bobby – An acquired taste is a good way of putting it.
Gunner44 - You got all of today’s prediction wrong except Roma/Madrid hope it's the same for the Arsenal-Milan game tmrw.
Bobby – That’s fine but the picks were over the two legs not the first leg. I may be wrong in all of them after two legs but at least give me a chance!
African_Footballer_of_the_Year - The proposed transfer of Daniel Cousin from Glasgow Rangers to Fulham that was agreed on January 22nd is still awaiting FIFA aproval. What gives? Is it really that complicated of a question that it takes nearly a month to make a ruling?
Bobby – I had read someplace that FIFA was awaiting documentation from Fulham and it only arrived at the end of last week. I don’t think they are going to make a decision without having all the right forms filled out.
A great
article on two footballing generations of the McGeady family and a wee bit
more.
A loss to
Inter forty years ago still rankles Liverpool.
Here is a look at the last sixteen of the Champions League and who might make up the last eight.
Schalke vs. Porto Porto may have lost a couple of games in Portugal over the last two months but they should have enough to qualify against a Schalke side that made it through from a group that turned out to be very poor. Pick Porto.
Roma vs. Real Madrid I’m picking this one as my surprise of the round. Real has racked up good results this season without being consistently impressive. Roma has a poor record against Real Madrid but they have enough talent to beat the Spanish Champions. Out on a limb on this one. Pick Roma
Olympiacos vs. Chelsea If the Greek side is to have a chance at all then they need to win the first leg. Although two or their three wins in the group stage were away from home the first win (at Werder Bremen) was Olympiacos’ first in 32 attempts. The side is strong on experience but may not be strong enough defensively to win over two legs. Pick Chelsea
Liverpool vs. Inter With a FA Cup defeat and a poor league showing hanging over them this is Liverpool’s last chance for silverware this season. The Champions League and the former European Cup has more meaning to Liverpool than most other clubs but they are facing a side that it out to prove that they can be considered amongst Europe’s best. In three of the last four times Inter has made it to the knock out stage they have lost on away goals. Inter was my choice back in August to take Europe's premier title but it was a choice that was made with little conviction. Pick Inter Celtic vs. Barcelona Barcelona is the only side to win in European competition at Parkhead in the last seventeen matches. By the same token Celtic’s away form in Europe continues to be atrocious. A Celtic win in the first leg is very much a possibility but a visit to the Nou Camp will prove to be too much. Pick Barcelona (They will be happy that Dundee United did not qualify)
Lyon vs. Manchester United A side with the likes of Karim Benzema in it should not be written off but Lyon’s best chance of European glory may have come and gone. United’s movement in midfield and attack will be more than the French Champion’s defense will be able to cope with. Pick Manchester United
Fenerbahce vs. Sevilla Sevilla is finally beginning to generate some real momentum in La Liga after the traumatic experience of the collapse and death of full back Antonio Puerta in September. This is a side that has the benefit of two successful UEFA Cup runs, an outstanding striker pairing of Luis Fabiano and Freddie Kanoute, wide players with real pace and dash (Navas and Capel) as well as quality in almost every other area. Fenerbahce will prove to be a stiff test but Sevilla might be the team that surprises us all this season in the Champions League. Pick Sevilla
Arsenal vs. Milan Arsenal’s youth vs. Milan’s experience – that is how articles in newspapers and on the web are bill-boarding this one although I am not sure that is a totally fair reflection. I’ve flipped back and forward between the teams on this one since the draw was made and would not be surprised if Arsenal win's it. However….. Pick Milan
Here is a link to Jeremy's blog that describes his trip to Barcelona.
And Sepp Blatter has made his views known. Don’t be surprised if the Premier League tries to turn these comments into a press release that talks of positive steps.
John Ley of the Daily Telegraph predicts how the top three in the Premiership will make out over the last 12 rounds.
And a reminder to Canadian fans that a group called the Canadian Soccer Federation
has recently issued a plan that proposes to significantly change the
way the game operates in Canada. Your input is not only accepted but encouraged which is more than can be said for the Canadian Soccer Association.
FA CUP The last sixteen of the FA Cup would seem to be a good starting point for this weekend’s preview. I have read a couple of pieces this week from pundits writing that games such as Manchester United vs. Arsenal rarely life up to expectations.
With the exception of the 2005 FA Cup snore-fest I can think of very few United – Arsenal games that have not been entertaining and in many cases outstanding.
Although both teams no doubt have the Premiership as a greater priority both clubs have a great cup tradition that pre-dates the arrival of Wenger and Ferguson and I can’t see either team rolling over – although the loser may claim otherwise.
The sidebar to this match is the impact it may have on the race for the league title.
A United win will boost confidence and five points to make up with twelve games left will suddenly look not so daunting.
Vice versa for the Gunners – a win at Old Trafford and the rest of the season will hold no fears.
If the visits of Barnsley and Huddersfield to Anfield and Stamford Bridge result in anything but conclusive home wins it will constitute a major surprise. Former Chelsea defender Frank Sinclair is on Huddersfield’s books along with former Everton player Danny Cadamarteri.
If things had gone according to planned Wayne Rooney would have been the next Danny Cadamarteri but it all went pear shaped. The FA Cup has already proven to be special for a Huddersfield club that is celebrating a centenary this year.
Birmingham City were victims in the third round and Oldham were dispatched last round.
Huddersfield may now be a mid-table League One side but there was a time when they dominated English football to an extent rarely seen.
They won the FA Cup win in 1922 and were runners up in 1920, 1928, 1930 and 1938. They also won three straight English First Division Championships (1924, 25 and 26) and runners up in 1927, 28 and 34.
One of England’s legendary managers Herbert Chapman was in charge from 1921-25 before leaving to take the Arsenal job. And as part of their 100th year celebrations Huddersfield is set to play Arsenal sometime in the summer.
Fifteen months ago Barnsley looked set to drop back to League One after securing a surprise promotion by way of the play-offs the season before. Out went manager Andy Ritchie (to surface a short while later at Huddersfield) and he was replaced by Coach Simon Davey.
Davey rallied the troops and secured one more year in the second tier of English football. In the process Barnsley extended their record as the team that has spent more time in English football’s second tier than any other.
Recognizable names on the Barnsley roster - Rohan Ricketts (former Spurs), Tony Warner (former Liverpool back up and on loan from Fulham) and Jon Mackem who had spells with both Manchester clubs. Mackem however is cup tied and not available.
Players to watch out for are apparently the midfield duo of Brian Howard and Anderson Da Silva on loan from Everton.
Quick free kicks
Both Sheffield United (home to Boro) and Coventry (home to West Brom) fired managers Bryan Robson and Ian Dowie this week. Under Robson Bolton and Manchester City were beaten in the FA Cup and Dowie’s Coventry side knocked Manchester United out of the Carling Cup and Blackburn from the FA Cup.
Preston have made it to the 5th round for the third straight year but are still struggling to gain traction in the Championship under former Everton assistant Alan Irvine. Preston sits one point above the last relegation spot but the two clubs below both have a game in hand.
Serie A
The Juventus vs. Roma match this weekend may decide whether or not Roma will retain a passing interest at least in top spot (Inter leads by eight points) or become involved in a fight for second with Juventus and possibly Fiorentina and Milan.
Inter continues to charge with only one Serie A loss in their last sixty-two matches and faces Livorno on Saturday. Juventus and Roma appear to be very evenly matched with Juventus unbeaten in their last 13 (seven draws) while Roma’s only loss in their last sixteen games was a shock 3-0 loss to Siena a fortnight ago.
While Juve can look to only one home loss this season Roma’s loss to Siena was their single set back away from the Olympico. The first game between these two this season finished with them sharing four goals – a draw is on the cards again.
The Genoa derby finds both clubs enjoying a good run of form with only two losses in their last ten combine games. Recent form however masks Sampdoria’s exceptionally poor performances away from home. T
heir seven points is by far the worst of teams currently in the top ten and a push for a European spot is going to require an improvement over the last eight away matches.
Mario Borriello was called up to the full Italy squad for the game against Portugal on account of his goal scoring for Genoa this season.
The hard grafting Borriello has scored 12 of Genoa’s 23 goals this season and without his goals Genoa would not be sitting comfortably in ninth spot. Ten of his 12 goals have come in the second half this season and in total his goals have been worth 15 points to Genoa.
Thierry_Henry - From your point of view, do you think Setanta Sport which charges $15/m in Canada will have any success? I think the Premier League might be squeezing its loyal subscribers out. I don't think there are many people in Canada who are soccer crazy enough to pay that kind of money.
If it was hockey, yes. but soccer... I doubt. It's only the die hard or professional analysts like you who will pay for it. I had a few friends from Africa who used to wake up every morning to watch the EPL, but now they don't really bother...btw 300,000 subscribers in china on pay tv. wow. that is not even enough. how much do they pay per month? $15?
Bobby – It is interesting question especially given the news this week that Setantamay be sold. First of all I have been surprised how many people that I come across who I would have expected to subscribe to Setanta but have not.
Their reasons are diverse but price is an obvious issue and a lot are quite happy with a couple of game each weekend on Sportsnet and The Score. The market for seven or eight games a weekend is very limited. I don’t know the Setanta subscription numbers in Canada but I would be very surprised if it was in excess of 30,000.
Admittedly at $15 a month that is a fair chunk of revenue but that is not what the company would pocket. It is probably more like $8 or $9 a month after paying money to the cable and satellite delivery systems. The bad news for fans is that I would reckon that $15 a month is the thin edge of the wedge.
Whoever buys Setanta (and they will certainly be sold) will be faced with actually having to make a profit. The only way to do that is either cut costs, increase prices or increase audience. Guess which is the easiest?
Setanta has been happy to rack up losses while acquiring programming assets and offering discounted subscription fees particularly in the UK. The company line is that Setanta will break even this year or next but there are some legitimate doubts that this might actually happen.
The larger problem is that Setanta has forced programming costs up in the markets where they compete and have in turn fueled the expectation that these markets will generate ever higher rights fees.
If they are not sold and turned profitable in a year or so, a loss making Setanta will be back at the table and having to pay even more for the Premiership.
From the weekly viewing figures I have seen Setanta Canada has not served to increase the viewing figures for the Premiership in Canada.
Last season audiences of 90,000 plus were very normal for Sportsnet Saturday morning games. Just two weekends ago the audience for the Saturday and Sunday games did not exceed 65,000. Sportsnet garnered 104,000 for that horrible Everton-Reading game on Saturday which was a very decent number but Chelsea vs. Liverpool only attracted 77,000.
The news last week that the Score was cutting back on their soccer coverage that had only been beefed up in August to support their one game each week is probably another sign that the Premiership although popular is still a niche market. .
Ringo - Do you know of any viewing figures for FSC/FSWC?
Bobby – Neither channel subscribe to ratings and so I don’t know if there are any reliable numbers out there. I’m guessing that FSWC is probably around 750,000 subscribers in Canada while I believe that FSC in the US is around 30m.
However, there is always going to be a large discrepancy between subscribers and regular viewership.
Craigy_f - Did you watch the Udinese V Juventus game? Did it live up to your billing? Did any other game surpass it?
Bobby – I did not watch it . It wasn’t televised in Canada. I watched Inter-Catania, Roma-Reggina and a good portion of Milan-Siena. None of them very inspiring.
Redfan2000 - What's your opinion on Inter Milan? Can Rafa's redmen overcome the blue of Milan do you think? Who is your favourite for this year's Champions League and UEFA Cups?
If you were Rafa where would you strengthen?
Bobby – I picked Inter to win the CL at the start of the season but it was not a choice made with any great confidence. I think the glass jaw might come into it. Certainly Liverpool can beat Inter but if I had to pick this one I would stick with Inter.
Out of the last 32 I don’t think I could name 20 of the teams left in the UEFA Cup without checking uefa.com. I will have a look when it gets down to the last 8.
As for strengthening Liverpool? Definitely on the flanks – both fullbacks and two wide players. I know a lot of fans want Babel through the middle and it is probably his best spot. His crossing is not good enough. Harry Kewell – I think it is time to cut bait. Jermaine Pennant – not good enough. Yossi Benayoun – gets a pass mark but looks more comfortable coming infield rather than staying wide.
As for the centre of midfield I would say the question (as long as Rafa is around) has changed from who plays with Gerrard to who plays with Mascherano. I thought that Mascherano on Sunday against Chelsea was the only player worth watching.
Neophyte -Did you see the Barcelona v. Sevilla match? La Liga still captures my respect. I love the style and pace I see there. Did you happen to see Capel? I believe he is only 19 yrs. old. He looked incredible. I have seen quite a youth movement in Spain more so than any other league (except maybe Holland). Am I correct or are there just as many U-20's in the Premiership that I'm just not aware of?
Bobby – I did see that game. Capel played well for Spain at the under-20s last summer and I am pretty confident in saying that he played at Emirates against Arsenal earlier this season in the Champions League. T
here are not too many under-20 players in the Premiership. If you take a look at the England under-21 and under-19 squads you will see very few names that are recognizable.
Djnima - Do you think Schuster deserves the credit for Real Madrid's success?
Bobby – Did I miss something? I didn’t realize that Real Madrid had won a trophy this season under Bernd Schuster. I didn’t realize that success for Real Madrid was now defined by leading the league, getting to the knock out round of the Champions League and getting knock out of the Copa del Rey.
A bit too early for assigning credit I think.
Davard - Last week you posted an interesting article by a journalist regarding playing into his late 30's in a recreational capacity, and the subsequent physical toll.
Since I have seen you post about still playing the game today, I am curious what your experience has been relating to your overall fitness and football abilities, and overall knowledge/instincts as you transitioned from 20's, to 30's, 40's and onward.
Being in my 30's, and still loving playing the game, just curious to see what I have to look forward to. :)
Bobby – I guess I would sum it up with “I wish I knew then what I know now.” I was taught that running – and particularly up and down sand dunes during pre season – got you fit and maintained it.
Looking back on it that sort of training may have worked when you were 17-22 but at a certain point it makes you very one paced – especially if you did not have a lot of quickness to begin with.
I have learned over the last couple of seasons how important the core of your body is and how it contributes to fitness and balance. Working with weights has made a ton of difference to me as well as working on flexibility - although I still have Scottish hamstrings!!
There was point around four years ago that I would pull a hamstring bending over to tie a shoe lace. Fifty year old+ hamstrings are always going to be problematic but I have experienced a significant improvement since changing my fitness approach.
Overall I think I am in better physical shape than I was a decade ago and it comes down to having a better understanding of what helps you stay in shape and what doesn’t really work. There is no way I can turn up in April without preparing for it and expect not to get injured.
Back in the more serious playing days I could take October to December off but I came to the conclusion that I could not take any months off and I have to keep at it throughout the year. Over time your body will deteriorate but you definitely have a choice about how quickly it will happen. The good news is that you never stop learning and experience helps.
Craigy-F1. Would you attend a Premier League game in the US or Canada?
2. Do you always watch football with the same mindset?
3. Anyone in football you would refuse to interview?
4. Are you a left footer or a right footer?
5. What's the most trouble you've gone through to see a game?
Bobby –1. I doubt it very much. A choice between Birmingham and Wigan and DC United and Toronto FC – I would give my money to MLS.
2. I’m not sure what you mean by mindset. I watch a game hoping that I will be entertained and in some cases astonished at the ability of some players. However, my expectations do change depending on who is playing.
3. Never really thought about it.
4. Where I come from that is a religious question but I am assuming that is not what you mean. Right footed…very right footed although I have always been comfortable playing on the left side.
5. Three memories. Trying to find a game that was on during a cold snap in Scotland. Each game we decided to go to got postponed with two of them while we were on the road or actually outside the park.
The fifth choice was a junior game that we finally got to with half an hour played.
Second memory – having to go to bed very early on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights in order to be allowed to go with my Dad to see Dundee in the European Cup on Wednesdays. For a seven year old that is tough bargain especially because no one at school believed me about getting to go the matches.
The last one involved an incredible amount of weaseling, trading and logistics in order to get to Athens, Georgia to see the 1996 Olympic Final between Nigeria and Argentina. I was working at the Olympics in Atlanta and needed to rearrange a work schedule, get a ticket and arrange a ride to and from Athens.
The only way to get to Athens was with someone who wanted to see the Gymnastics final (?) and had to be in Athens at something like 8:00 a.m. in the morning. He game was not until 3:45 p.m.
It all worked out in the end but there are people who still think I was crazy for passing up on the Mens 4X100 metre final the same day.
But Nigeria won 3-2, the game was a classic and it turned out to be a fantastic day.
Oranjespur 1- What I'm getting at is no team seriously wanting to contend for titles and cups can afford to accommodate a CB that can only play once every 3 games. I'm sure you could give examples but I just don't understand why Tottenham took so long on this issue to find a solid (um er Woodgates health record solid? hmmm) replacement for King.
2- What do you make of Hoddle's Academy setting base in Spain? It seems to me that the FA should try something similar and base it in England. I think Hoddle is on to something here and although the EPL may not see direct benefits from it but the Championship and SPL could.
3- What do you make of Sir Alex finding time to flyout right after the game to South Africa this weekend especially after all the noise he was making about EPL not respecting the 50th anniversary of the crash?
Bobby –1. I guess they thought they had got a temp replacement when they signed Rocha and then again when Kaboul last summer.
2. The FA has had trouble getting an academy for great young players going so I would not hold out hope that they could plan two. I’m guessing that the idea of going to Spain is mostly due to a better climate for outdoor practice.
3. Astounded that something like that would be planned mid season. Another sign that money now trumps game preparation at Old Trafford perhaps?
Henry14 -Q1 Was the impact of the African Cup of nations as adverse as pundits anticipated in terms of points lost or gained during the period in the Prem?
Q 2 What do you think caused Man Utd to lose 5 points during last two games?
Q 3 What is your reaction to the theory that Ronaldo has a Henry disease, that is bottles in big pressure fixtures?
Q 4 What have you seen as a football expert to be Adebayor's improvement this season?
Bobby –1. I am sure that fans of specific teams will be able to points lost because of players that took part in the tournament but I am not sure that many others will be much attention to them.
2. Facing teams that were motivated, brave, well prepared and organized. The statistics would also show that United without Rooney this season are susceptible – missing for all four United league losses I believe.
3. I never bought into the Henry conventional wisdom. However, if Ronaldo hopes to be recognized as the best in the world then he is going to have to turn in performances that make the difference between winning major trophies and finishing second. Kaka has done it, now Ronaldo has to match it.
4. Not an expert, just a guy with a good memory and a few opinions. He looks like a player who enjoys pressure and the limelight without being overbearing or a diva. He is very willing to use his physique to a far greater extent than before and Wenger has shown great confidence in him.
Jeremy St Louis off on assignment to Barcelona and will hopefully be blogging while in Spain. He left this blog before he left.
And finally a group called the Canadian Soccer Federation has recently issued a plan that proposes to significantly change the way the game operates in Canada. After years of the Canadian Soccer Association issuing documents and promises but with little or nothing in the way of delivering on their good intentions the CSF overs up an alternative vision for a professionally run organization.
As well as an outline of their vision for the game the CSF has also gained access to a document prepared by Deloitte & Touche in 2005 that laid out an alternative form of governance for the CSA. The CSA never released this document to the soccer public. You can find and read the document at CSF website.
African Cup of Nations After going four-for-four in the quarter finals of the African Cup of Nations it was just too good to last and although both my semi final picks have made it through to a final game it has turned out to be for third place rather than the actual final.
Although Ghana enjoyed an edge in the play a lack of sharpness in the penalty box cost them a place in the final. Cameroon was bound to create and take a chance and sure enough it happened. Apart from the goal an outstanding moment was Geremi's 30+ yard free kick that hit the junction of the bar and the post - an absolute cracking shot.
I thought the Egyptian back four looked a bit perturbed by the physical play on Angola’s Manucho in the quarter finals and felt that Drogba would cause the defense nightmares. As it turned out the defense played exceptionally well and overall I thought the Egyptians were outstanding for ninety minutes.
They got a couple of breaks from deflections but even so they showed as a well drilled and composed side that were worth their 4-1 win. However, I would be amiss not to mention the rocket of a shot from Keita cutting in from the left that looked to have got the Ivory Coast back in the game.
After handling Cameroon in the group stage and then the semi final victory over the Ivory Coast, Egypt will start as favourites to take their 6th African Cup of Nations title. At the risk of hexing Egypt I will take them to win 2-1.
Serie A One of the best games in prospect in Serie A is Juventus at Udinese. Udinese have only one win in their last six games and are slipping down the table. On the other hand Juventus is unbeaten in their last twelve games but six draws in the run means that although they remain in third position their points total has suffered.
When compared to Inter and Roma Juventus have slipped behind by 8 points and 3 points respectively. If history is a pointer then this game is good news for Juventus. Juventus has only lost three times in 33 visits.
