Hello again everyone, my apologies for not being able to analyze my picks from the opening weekend, been having a little computer trouble. For those of you keeping tabs I'm sure you'll agree I didn't do too badly!?
Anyway I thought I'd offer my thoughts on the season so far as well as giving a shortened version of my pics for this weekend.
The opening weekend didn't provide many shocks. Most of the big 4 looked rusty, but only Liverpool paid for it but against a Spurs side who are looking vastly improved this year and playing with a lot of confidence. The biggest shock to me was Evertons capitulation against Arsenal, I watched every second of that game on ESPN and i've never seen a display that lacked as much creativity as Evertons that day. Arsenal were good, but i've not seen anything yet to convince me that they will sustain a challenge for honours they thrashed a shocking Everton fair enough, beat a poor Stoke side....so what? And Celtic although probably not the better team can probably count themselves hugely unlucky to have been 2-0 at Parkhead!
In the chasing group Spurs and City have started well, City fans will be especially pleased with the clean sheets and Spurs fans with the fact they have been pegged back or gone behind and still gone onto win. Spurs teams of previous years may have folded under Liverpool pressure in the opener, this team seemed to thrive in it.
Villa have been the Jekyll and Hyde of the opening games, woeful against Wigan and yet sensational at Anfield!? As for the rest its as you were last year really, Burnley have had a good start and they will need that to get them through the dog days of December and January against quality opposition, Portsmouth are relying on takeover being able to buy quality otherwise the writings on the wall i'm afraid.
Of course all this can change in an instant, and drawing any solid theories about challengers and relegation fodder is pointless until at least October/Novemeber. However this weekend throws up interesting match-ups that will act as an early indicator as to how teams will fare due to a lot of top clashes, or relegation 6 pointers.......if you can call them that at this stage.
Here are my "expert" picks for the weekends Premiership action;
Blackburn Rovers vs West Ham United
Blackburn have looked unspectacular to say the least, they have lost Franco Di Santo through injury and a direct quote from a City fan friend of mine after the opening day game which he attended stated "the ball spends more time in the air than a boeing 747". Typical Alladyce stuff really, but will it work against Upson and co?
West Ham have been shown up by a mindless section of their fanbase, thats not the West Ham fans I know! West Ham fans i've met are lively, passionate and knowledgable and its a pleasure to talk football with them and share a drink before a game.......who those imposters were I do not know!
Look for a response from Zola and his players, showing the true West Ham pedigree
Verdict: Blackburn 0 - 1 West Ham
Bolton Wanderers vs Liverpool
Liverpool have been poor to start the year, it looks like the tag of "Title Favourites" is weighing on them a little. Rafa is ranting already, Gerrard is off form and troubled and Fernando Torres would be best served concentrating on playing his game rather than chasing referees!
However don't get any false hope Bolton fans, you've been no great shakes this year either and Megsons comment about how they are treated differently to all other Premiership teams was laughable, smacks a little of excuse mongering to me!
I tipped Bolton to go down, nothing I've seen has changed that
Verdict: Bolton 1 - 3 Liverpool
Chelsea vs Burnley
One of the more intriguing games of the weekend here, Burnley are off and running with two really good home wins. However they play open football and only an inspired display from Jensen stopped United getting a result. They were beaten easily on opening day by a big strong Stoke side, Chelsea are no midgets either I think this will tell in the end.
Chelsea are starting to click and Lampard looks like he LOVES the 4-4-2 diamond system they use....all this leads to one thing
Verdict: Chelsea 2 - 0 Burnley
Manchester United vs Arsenal
Interesting game this one, United looked good against Wigan but poor against Burnley and average against Birmingham. Which is more likely to happen this weekend?
Arsenal will be confident, but rocked by the news Cesc Fabregas is out of the game with a hamstring strain. Can they be as composed and effective without him?
Look for an Scholes and Fletcher midfield combo to harrass Arsenal and nudge them out of their stride, it might just come down to who takes the chances.
Verdict: United 1 - 1 Arsenal
Stoke City vs Sunderland
Stoke are another of what I affectionately(ish) call the Premierships RAF squadrons, but despite not playing dazzling one touch football they are effective! Sunderland have started well, but unlike West Ham at Blackburn I don't think they have the right defenders to handle this kind of attack.
Verdict: Stoke 2 - 1 Sunderland
Tottenham Hotspur vs Birmingham City
Birmingham have been a bit of a riddle at the start of the campaign, they've picked up points without ever really getting out of the blocks in games. However they have been playing teams who have been rusty or just plain poor.....Tottenham are bang in form, have quality all over the pitch and are confident. They will also want to prove that they aren't going to drop points against so called lower teams this year
Verdict: Tottenham 3 - 0 Birmingham
Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Hull City
Put these 2 teams together and you have a solid mid-table outfit. Wolves create more chances but don't have the players to take them, Hull don't create as much but look like they have forwards capable of scoring goals!
Hull will be the better defensively for sure, but Mick McCarthy has for once fashioned a good footballing side this will be a pretty good game
Verdict: Wolves 1 - 1 Hull
Aston Villa vs Fulham
This is more of the guess which Villa will turn up, than guess the result. If the Villa from Anfield turn up then they'll sneak a win, if the opening day Villa show up then expect Fulham to wander back down the M1 with the points.
However look out for Villa, if they sign Distin/Dunne and Warnock as is rumoured they will be a very hard team to beat
Verdict: Villa 1 - 0 Fulham
Everton vs Wigan Athletic
Everton will be desperate for a result here, they've clearly been distracted by the atrocious behaviour of Joleon Lescott. It wasn't the sole reason for their embarrassment by Arsenal but it contributed i've no doubt. Against Burnley they were no better and without their best defender.
Wigan have flattered to deceive, they took advantage of a poor Villa performance and whilst playing some attractive stuff have not really threatened since.
Verdict: Everton 1 - 0 Wigan
Portsmouth vs Manchester City
This is, in a strange kind of way, a key game for City. This is exactly the kind of game that they would lose in previous seasons (similar to Spurs). Playing well against a poor side in massive turmoil, they should turn them over easily but there-in lies the test!! Will City go into the game focused or complacent?
For Pompey fans its hard to see where the hope comes from, they've not looked like scoring at any point this season and look like a team hoping for a saviour. Will the new owner be that man, well even if he is its not going to help them in this game!!
Pompey 0 - 2 City
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Premier League openers – what have we learnt?
Pause for breath – two weeks of the Premier League are down and already we have had our fair share of headlines. But what have we learnt so far? Here are a few things I have noticed.
Arsenal may do better than many predicted
A flying start if there ever was one; the Gunners charged out of the blocks with that massive 6-1 win at Goodison Park. Goals continued against Pompey as well as that win over Celtic in the final round of Champions League qualifying. The only question mark maybe over the squad depth, does Wenger need to strengthen before the deadline?
Key player – Thomas Vermaelen. The ‘Verminator’ is already a cult figure with the Arsenal fans after a great start to his Gunners career.
City are in business.
Two games two wins, the Arabian revolution is well underway at Eastlands.
It has been the talk of the summer, how will City cope with the influx of new signings? Well it seems like they will be just fine. The one thing that has surprised me has been their defending. Yes they have an impressive forward line but at Blackburn in particular they were made to scrap for the result and are yet to concede. An exciting season ahead for City fans.
Key player – Emmanuel Adebayor, Two goals in two games is just what City needed from their big money striker. The key is sustaining it throughout the season.
Everton need players.
With the Lescott deal seemingly completed Everton need to strengthen their squad desperately. Their whole pre-season has been tainted by the Lescott situation and with no players arriving the team has looked stale and dis-jointed in their two opening games. With others around them adding players to their squad, Moyes has some work to do if they are to repeat last year’s 5th place finish.
Key player – Anyone who Moyes brings in
The promoted trio could stay up.
The land mark result was, of course, Burnley’s win over Man United but all three promoted clubs could stay up this term for the first time since 2002. Wolves grabbed their first ever Premier League away win at Wigan while Birmingham got four points at home and were unlucky to lose at Old Trafford. Bear this in mind before placing any Premier League football bets as some of the other Premier League strugglers may start to get worried.
Key players – Robbie Blake, James McFadden and Andy Keogh, all earned their sides valuable early season points.
Spurs may finally challenge the top four.
They flatter to deceive most years but after a flying 100% start Harry Redknapp may finally have turned Spurs into the real deal. Jermin Defoe is in red hot form, Luka Modric is finally justifying his transfer fee and Aaron Lennon is producing an end product to his pacy runs and dribbles. Injuries in defence may let them down, Woodgate and King will always miss games. But it maybe the year were things finally click at the Lane.
Key player – Jermian Defoe, continued his England form with his club to help Spurs win all three of their games.
Arsenal may do better than many predicted
A flying start if there ever was one; the Gunners charged out of the blocks with that massive 6-1 win at Goodison Park. Goals continued against Pompey as well as that win over Celtic in the final round of Champions League qualifying. The only question mark maybe over the squad depth, does Wenger need to strengthen before the deadline?
Key player – Thomas Vermaelen. The ‘Verminator’ is already a cult figure with the Arsenal fans after a great start to his Gunners career.
City are in business.
Two games two wins, the Arabian revolution is well underway at Eastlands.
It has been the talk of the summer, how will City cope with the influx of new signings? Well it seems like they will be just fine. The one thing that has surprised me has been their defending. Yes they have an impressive forward line but at Blackburn in particular they were made to scrap for the result and are yet to concede. An exciting season ahead for City fans.
Key player – Emmanuel Adebayor, Two goals in two games is just what City needed from their big money striker. The key is sustaining it throughout the season.
Everton need players.
With the Lescott deal seemingly completed Everton need to strengthen their squad desperately. Their whole pre-season has been tainted by the Lescott situation and with no players arriving the team has looked stale and dis-jointed in their two opening games. With others around them adding players to their squad, Moyes has some work to do if they are to repeat last year’s 5th place finish.
Key player – Anyone who Moyes brings in
The promoted trio could stay up.
The land mark result was, of course, Burnley’s win over Man United but all three promoted clubs could stay up this term for the first time since 2002. Wolves grabbed their first ever Premier League away win at Wigan while Birmingham got four points at home and were unlucky to lose at Old Trafford. Bear this in mind before placing any Premier League football bets as some of the other Premier League strugglers may start to get worried.
Key players – Robbie Blake, James McFadden and Andy Keogh, all earned their sides valuable early season points.
Spurs may finally challenge the top four.
They flatter to deceive most years but after a flying 100% start Harry Redknapp may finally have turned Spurs into the real deal. Jermin Defoe is in red hot form, Luka Modric is finally justifying his transfer fee and Aaron Lennon is producing an end product to his pacy runs and dribbles. Injuries in defence may let them down, Woodgate and King will always miss games. But it maybe the year were things finally click at the Lane.
Key player – Jermian Defoe, continued his England form with his club to help Spurs win all three of their games.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Blue Dawn
A new Premiership season is on our doorstep. For City fans, it is perhaps the most eagerly anticipated season in the club’s history. Do we step forward into a new, exciting era? Or has nothing really changed? Will we forever be consigned with the ‘typical City’ disease? The answers are coming.
In the league, I predict that we will finish in 6th place. Our first opponents, Blackburn, will represent a tough test. Indeed, Allardyce and his men are already talking of a tough battle that lies ahead.
If Hughes had bought fresh talent from the likes of La Liga / Serie A / Bundesliga, then I could understand the threats currently being levelled at City’s newcomers. What we all know of course is that Hughes has done the exact opposite. The assertion that Blackburn will ‘kick lumps’ out of City does not completely stand up given than they will be facing a team of weathered Premiership professionals. Clearly the game is City’s to lose and the key question mark hangs over the team’s ability to understand and gel with each other under competitive Premiership conditions.
The biggest unknown
There’s been a lot said over Mark Hughes’ job prospects. There is no doubt that there is big pressure now on the Welshman and his team. Many – including an increasingly irate David Moyes for one – would probably like to see us fail. Hughes will know this, just as he will know that as a manager, these are the moments that you have to seize with both hands. No other club in the world has the resources that he has at his disposal. These are the kinds of chances that only come along once.
There are many unknowns ahead. Yes, this is now Hughes’ team, but in a sense we are starting again. It is a whole clean slate up front and, to a certain extent, in the engine room.
It could be perceived that in these first few games Hughes may, strangely enough, be at his most vulnerable than at any other point during his tenure at the club. I would tend to agree with this assessment.
But the realm of perception can be misleading and does not give us the answer to the biggest unknown: if things don’t go according to plan, just how far will the Khaldoon-Mansour-Cook axis go before it wields the knife? Everyone naturally assumes the worst because the law of football these days is based on return for investment. No return for investment equals the sack, at least that is the convention. But since when have City been conforming to the norm? How then, are we to gage Mansour’s flexibility, or what his reaction will be if we are adrift of the top five a couple of months into the season? As always with City, we are left guessing. It is a season of great promise and excitement, but also a campaign of murky unknowns.
Until the first ball is kicked in anger, there is nothing more to say except to wish Hughes and his squad the best of luck.
Here goes nothing.
In the league, I predict that we will finish in 6th place. Our first opponents, Blackburn, will represent a tough test. Indeed, Allardyce and his men are already talking of a tough battle that lies ahead.
If Hughes had bought fresh talent from the likes of La Liga / Serie A / Bundesliga, then I could understand the threats currently being levelled at City’s newcomers. What we all know of course is that Hughes has done the exact opposite. The assertion that Blackburn will ‘kick lumps’ out of City does not completely stand up given than they will be facing a team of weathered Premiership professionals. Clearly the game is City’s to lose and the key question mark hangs over the team’s ability to understand and gel with each other under competitive Premiership conditions.
The biggest unknown
There’s been a lot said over Mark Hughes’ job prospects. There is no doubt that there is big pressure now on the Welshman and his team. Many – including an increasingly irate David Moyes for one – would probably like to see us fail. Hughes will know this, just as he will know that as a manager, these are the moments that you have to seize with both hands. No other club in the world has the resources that he has at his disposal. These are the kinds of chances that only come along once.
There are many unknowns ahead. Yes, this is now Hughes’ team, but in a sense we are starting again. It is a whole clean slate up front and, to a certain extent, in the engine room.
It could be perceived that in these first few games Hughes may, strangely enough, be at his most vulnerable than at any other point during his tenure at the club. I would tend to agree with this assessment.
But the realm of perception can be misleading and does not give us the answer to the biggest unknown: if things don’t go according to plan, just how far will the Khaldoon-Mansour-Cook axis go before it wields the knife? Everyone naturally assumes the worst because the law of football these days is based on return for investment. No return for investment equals the sack, at least that is the convention. But since when have City been conforming to the norm? How then, are we to gage Mansour’s flexibility, or what his reaction will be if we are adrift of the top five a couple of months into the season? As always with City, we are left guessing. It is a season of great promise and excitement, but also a campaign of murky unknowns.
Until the first ball is kicked in anger, there is nothing more to say except to wish Hughes and his squad the best of luck.
Here goes nothing.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
The Opening Weekend: Predictions
Thats right folks 11 long weeks are all but over, and after the highly entertaining entree of the Community Shield its time to get down to the serious nitty gritty. Stamford Bridge on a Saturday lunchtime is the venue for this years opening game and others will follow over the weekend where every single fan hopes for glory and entertainment for the coming season.......and Just for Men as a Christmas Present!!
For my part i'm going to play a couple of roles this year. As some of you may know I'm a fully paid up Season Ticket holder at Old Trafford and will be giving you the talking points from our home games from my point of view in the stands, who played well and who didn't, why did the ref miss that foul etc etc
However before the majority of weekend fixtures I'm also going to have a go at putting my footballing "knowledge" to the test to see how many games and scores I can get right, i'm hoping you'll add you own in the comments section and we can see who gets the best every weekend.....i'm afraid I can offer no prize money, have you seen the price of a season ticket these days!?!?
Anyway as is tradition we shall begin at the beginning, week one of the new Barclays Premier League campaign!
Aston Villa vs Wigan
Villa have lost thier leader in Martin Laursen, but Wigan have lost their flair and pace with Valencia now gone. The Latics defence will not be able to cope with the power and pace of Villa's attack.....
Prediction: Aston Villa 3 - 1 Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs Man City
Worst possible game to start for City, even a big 4 team would have been better as they'd have been out to prove themselves. As it is City face their two biggest achilles heels, away games and mid-table teams......Blackburn will be up for giving the Nouvea Riche a bit of good ol Lancastrian 'Umble Pie!
Prediction: Blackburn Rovers 2 - 2 Manchester City
Bolton vs Sunderland
A lot of heightened enthusiasm at the Stadium of Light this season, some good young players hungry to show what they can do, up against a team of strong willed veterans. Won't be a classic by any means but it'll be tense and nervy and hard to call, I expect a late winner either way
Prediction: Bolton Wanderers 0 - 1 Sunderland
Chelsea vs Hull
After last seasons second half collapse Hull would've been hoping for an easier opening gambit than this doozy! No real quality added by Hull, going up against a Chelsea side who looked strong against the Champions at Wembley.....sorry Tigers fans this is a no brainer!
Prediction: Chelsea 4 - 0 Hull City
Everton vs Arsenal
Game of the day without a shadow of a doubt! Arsene Wenger will be cursing the fixture computer for this one, they've lost a physical presence in Toure and Adebayor and will be going against the best aerial team in the Premiership. Not to say Everton don't play football, they do!
Vermaelen will be in for a baptism of fire, and with some strikers back I expect Everton to make a positive statement here.
Prediction: Everton 2 - 1 Arsenal
Portsmouth vs Fulham
Wow Portsmouth are really pushing hard for the "yo-yo" tag that West Brom have been given. It seems to be as soon as something good starts going for them, something else gets in the way and drags them back down. They've lost Defoe and Crouch, I don't see Distin staying or Sol Campbell and Niko Kranjcar will be on his way by Januray!
Fulham MUST keep hold of Brede Hangeland so they can continue their good progress under Roy Hodgson, they are a good solid team with people capable of nicking goals for them and I don't see any trouble in this game for them.
Prediction: Portsmouth 0 - 1 Fulham
Stoke vs Burnley
This is an odd one as almost every year a newly promoted side turns over one of the mid-tablers from the previous season. Burnley are well equipped to deal with Stokes aerial threat and this is really just a Championship game for them in style at least. It may all come down to who can finish a half chance or produce a moment of Magic
Prediction: Stoke City 0 - 0 Burnley
Wolves vs West Ham
Another of the more intriguing games of the weekend, a Wolves side who have added some quality and have a lot of youthful skill and pace about them versus a Hammers team who will be expecting a progressive season under the watchful eye of Gianfranco Zola.
However as I said before there is always a promoted team that picks up a win on opening day, and to me this fixture looks the most probable source
Prediction: Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 - 1 West Ham United
Man Utd vs Birmingham
The team talk from McLeish is going to go something along the lines of "there's no better time to hit them than today, and they've not got Ronaldo anymore!" Its going to be a matter of go out and enjoy yourselves and we might pick up a point, and given Uniteds last 2 opening day fixtures (o-o against Reading, 1-1 vs Newcastle) he might have a point. However those two sides went down, so maybe McLeish will settle for a defeat?
Birmingham are an unknown quantity and with a new strikeforce taking on a United backline which is Brown, Neville, Van der Sar and Vidic-less....you just never know
Prediction: Manchester United 3 - 0 Birmingham City
Spurs vs Liverpool
This is going to be a matter of who is fit and who's not for Liverpool. Gerrard has just this minute pulled out of the England squad with a Groin "tweak". Carragher and Torres have both picked up ankle knocks. Combine this with Skrtel, Agger, Mascherano and Babel, it leaves Liverpool looking vulnerable.
Spurs however are starting to settle, under Redknapp they will not be caught cold and if Liverpool are without either Gerrard or Torres then it'll give them a big pre-match boost. Spurs defending will be the key, and again thats a matter of who they have fit!
In a battle of the treatment table, its going to be a tight and entertaining affair
Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 1 Liverpool
The one thing I love about opening day is that you just don't know who is playing well, who has kept fit or who has lost a yard of pace. Its a bit like a blindfolded Bungee Jump where the guy who measures out your rope has lost his ruler!!
They are MY predictions anyway, if you think you can do better or just want to laugh at me when I get it wronger than Michael Fish in a stiff breeze.....then step up and add your own!
See you Monday!
For my part i'm going to play a couple of roles this year. As some of you may know I'm a fully paid up Season Ticket holder at Old Trafford and will be giving you the talking points from our home games from my point of view in the stands, who played well and who didn't, why did the ref miss that foul etc etc
However before the majority of weekend fixtures I'm also going to have a go at putting my footballing "knowledge" to the test to see how many games and scores I can get right, i'm hoping you'll add you own in the comments section and we can see who gets the best every weekend.....i'm afraid I can offer no prize money, have you seen the price of a season ticket these days!?!?
Anyway as is tradition we shall begin at the beginning, week one of the new Barclays Premier League campaign!
Aston Villa vs Wigan
Villa have lost thier leader in Martin Laursen, but Wigan have lost their flair and pace with Valencia now gone. The Latics defence will not be able to cope with the power and pace of Villa's attack.....
Prediction: Aston Villa 3 - 1 Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs Man City
Worst possible game to start for City, even a big 4 team would have been better as they'd have been out to prove themselves. As it is City face their two biggest achilles heels, away games and mid-table teams......Blackburn will be up for giving the Nouvea Riche a bit of good ol Lancastrian 'Umble Pie!
Prediction: Blackburn Rovers 2 - 2 Manchester City
Bolton vs Sunderland
A lot of heightened enthusiasm at the Stadium of Light this season, some good young players hungry to show what they can do, up against a team of strong willed veterans. Won't be a classic by any means but it'll be tense and nervy and hard to call, I expect a late winner either way
Prediction: Bolton Wanderers 0 - 1 Sunderland
Chelsea vs Hull
After last seasons second half collapse Hull would've been hoping for an easier opening gambit than this doozy! No real quality added by Hull, going up against a Chelsea side who looked strong against the Champions at Wembley.....sorry Tigers fans this is a no brainer!
Prediction: Chelsea 4 - 0 Hull City
Everton vs Arsenal
Game of the day without a shadow of a doubt! Arsene Wenger will be cursing the fixture computer for this one, they've lost a physical presence in Toure and Adebayor and will be going against the best aerial team in the Premiership. Not to say Everton don't play football, they do!
Vermaelen will be in for a baptism of fire, and with some strikers back I expect Everton to make a positive statement here.
Prediction: Everton 2 - 1 Arsenal
Portsmouth vs Fulham
Wow Portsmouth are really pushing hard for the "yo-yo" tag that West Brom have been given. It seems to be as soon as something good starts going for them, something else gets in the way and drags them back down. They've lost Defoe and Crouch, I don't see Distin staying or Sol Campbell and Niko Kranjcar will be on his way by Januray!
Fulham MUST keep hold of Brede Hangeland so they can continue their good progress under Roy Hodgson, they are a good solid team with people capable of nicking goals for them and I don't see any trouble in this game for them.
Prediction: Portsmouth 0 - 1 Fulham
Stoke vs Burnley
This is an odd one as almost every year a newly promoted side turns over one of the mid-tablers from the previous season. Burnley are well equipped to deal with Stokes aerial threat and this is really just a Championship game for them in style at least. It may all come down to who can finish a half chance or produce a moment of Magic
Prediction: Stoke City 0 - 0 Burnley
Wolves vs West Ham
Another of the more intriguing games of the weekend, a Wolves side who have added some quality and have a lot of youthful skill and pace about them versus a Hammers team who will be expecting a progressive season under the watchful eye of Gianfranco Zola.
However as I said before there is always a promoted team that picks up a win on opening day, and to me this fixture looks the most probable source
Prediction: Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 - 1 West Ham United
Man Utd vs Birmingham
The team talk from McLeish is going to go something along the lines of "there's no better time to hit them than today, and they've not got Ronaldo anymore!" Its going to be a matter of go out and enjoy yourselves and we might pick up a point, and given Uniteds last 2 opening day fixtures (o-o against Reading, 1-1 vs Newcastle) he might have a point. However those two sides went down, so maybe McLeish will settle for a defeat?
Birmingham are an unknown quantity and with a new strikeforce taking on a United backline which is Brown, Neville, Van der Sar and Vidic-less....you just never know
Prediction: Manchester United 3 - 0 Birmingham City
Spurs vs Liverpool
This is going to be a matter of who is fit and who's not for Liverpool. Gerrard has just this minute pulled out of the England squad with a Groin "tweak". Carragher and Torres have both picked up ankle knocks. Combine this with Skrtel, Agger, Mascherano and Babel, it leaves Liverpool looking vulnerable.
Spurs however are starting to settle, under Redknapp they will not be caught cold and if Liverpool are without either Gerrard or Torres then it'll give them a big pre-match boost. Spurs defending will be the key, and again thats a matter of who they have fit!
In a battle of the treatment table, its going to be a tight and entertaining affair
Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 1 Liverpool
The one thing I love about opening day is that you just don't know who is playing well, who has kept fit or who has lost a yard of pace. Its a bit like a blindfolded Bungee Jump where the guy who measures out your rope has lost his ruler!!
They are MY predictions anyway, if you think you can do better or just want to laugh at me when I get it wronger than Michael Fish in a stiff breeze.....then step up and add your own!
See you Monday!
Premier League ready for the off
After a long arduous summer the Premier League is back. The first day of the season is always one full of optimism as each team starts with a clean slate and dream of success over the next nine months. But where will they finish? I have put my neck on the line here and gone for my predictions:
Top Four
1st) Man United
2nd) Chelsea
3rd) Liverpool
4th) Arsenal
Despite the loss of Ronaldo I still feel it's a safe bet that United possess enough quality to life the title once again. Carlo Ancelotti should inspire Chelsea to second but I feel the budget troubles at Arsenal and Liverpool will scupper their title charge.
Europa League spots
5th) Villa
6th) Everton
7th) Man City
8th) Tottenham
Controversial but I still feel there is a way to go before the oil millions make their mark on Man City. I still feel the club is unbalanced and boss Mark Hughes is a bad run away from the sack. Everton will perform well again but their small squad will struggle to cope with the extra games in Europe. I expect Martin O’Neil to strengthen his Villa squad before the deadline and should secure 5th. Harry Redknapp will ensure Spurs don't make a similar start to last year and should be a comfortable 8th.
Mid table
9th) West Ham
10th) Fulham
11th) Sunderland
12th) Bolton
13th) Blackburn
14th) Wigan
I expect around three or four points will separate these teams. But the tactical nous of Hodgson and Zola should see Fulham and West Ham secure a top ten finish. Sunderland have been spending big this year and the goals of Darren Bent alone should see them home comfortably. The North-West trio of Bolton, Wigan and Blackburn should gain enough home points to keep them clear of trouble.
Strugglers
15th) Stoke
16th) Wolves
17th) Burnley
Stoke surprised everyone last season and comfortably stayed up. I feel they will be found out to a certain extent this year but still have enough, especially at home, to secure safety. Premier League newboys Wolves and Burnley will look to take this opportunity with both hands. The standard of teams at the bottom of the Premier League is not what it was and I feel the pair can spring a surprise and stay up.
Relegation
18th) Birmingham
19th) Portsmouth
20th) Hull
Sorry Hull, Pompey and Brum fans but I predict relegation this year. Pompey have sold nearly all their best players and the uncertainty surrounding the club will have a negative affect on performances. Hull were in freefall last year and despite the summer break I feel that poor run will continue. Alex McLeish did really well to bring Birmingham up at the first attempt but I just feel there aren’t enough goals in the side to keep them up. However my relegation tips last year proved wildly inaccurate so there is hope for you guys yet!
Agree? Disagree? Feel free to add your comments below.
Top Four
1st) Man United
2nd) Chelsea
3rd) Liverpool
4th) Arsenal
Despite the loss of Ronaldo I still feel it's a safe bet that United possess enough quality to life the title once again. Carlo Ancelotti should inspire Chelsea to second but I feel the budget troubles at Arsenal and Liverpool will scupper their title charge.
Europa League spots
5th) Villa
6th) Everton
7th) Man City
8th) Tottenham
Controversial but I still feel there is a way to go before the oil millions make their mark on Man City. I still feel the club is unbalanced and boss Mark Hughes is a bad run away from the sack. Everton will perform well again but their small squad will struggle to cope with the extra games in Europe. I expect Martin O’Neil to strengthen his Villa squad before the deadline and should secure 5th. Harry Redknapp will ensure Spurs don't make a similar start to last year and should be a comfortable 8th.
Mid table
9th) West Ham
10th) Fulham
11th) Sunderland
12th) Bolton
13th) Blackburn
14th) Wigan
I expect around three or four points will separate these teams. But the tactical nous of Hodgson and Zola should see Fulham and West Ham secure a top ten finish. Sunderland have been spending big this year and the goals of Darren Bent alone should see them home comfortably. The North-West trio of Bolton, Wigan and Blackburn should gain enough home points to keep them clear of trouble.
Strugglers
15th) Stoke
16th) Wolves
17th) Burnley
Stoke surprised everyone last season and comfortably stayed up. I feel they will be found out to a certain extent this year but still have enough, especially at home, to secure safety. Premier League newboys Wolves and Burnley will look to take this opportunity with both hands. The standard of teams at the bottom of the Premier League is not what it was and I feel the pair can spring a surprise and stay up.
Relegation
18th) Birmingham
19th) Portsmouth
20th) Hull
Sorry Hull, Pompey and Brum fans but I predict relegation this year. Pompey have sold nearly all their best players and the uncertainty surrounding the club will have a negative affect on performances. Hull were in freefall last year and despite the summer break I feel that poor run will continue. Alex McLeish did really well to bring Birmingham up at the first attempt but I just feel there aren’t enough goals in the side to keep them up. However my relegation tips last year proved wildly inaccurate so there is hope for you guys yet!
Agree? Disagree? Feel free to add your comments below.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
2009/2010 European League Start Dates
July and August signal the start of the new seasons across many of Europe's top-flight leagues with several kicking-off before the English Premiership, Spanish La Liga and Italian Serie A.
Austria Bundesliga: Friday 17 July
Belgium Pro League: Friday 31 July
Bosnia-Herzegovinan Premier League: Saturday 1 August
Bulgaria A PFG: Friday 7 August
Croatia 1. HNL: Friday 24 July
Cyprus First Division: Saturday 29 August
Czech Republic Liga: Friday 24 July
Denmark Superliga: Saturday 18 July
England Premier League: Saturday 15 August
France Ligue 1: Saturday 8 August
Georgia Umaglesi Liga: Saturday 1 August
Germany Bundesliga: Friday 7 August
Greece Super League: Saturday 22 August
Hungary NB I: Friday 24 July
Italy Serie A: Sunday 23 August
Luxembourg National Division: Saturday 1 August
Macedonia First League: Saturday 1 August
Malta Premier League: Friday 21 August
Moldova National Division: Sunday 5 July
Montenegro First League: Saturday 8 August
Netherlands Eredivisie: Friday 31 July
Northern Ireland Premier League: Saturday 8 August
Poland Ekstraklasa: Friday 31 July
Portugal Liga: Sunday 16 August
Scotland Premier League: Saturday 15 August
Serbia Super Liga: Saturday 15 August
Slovakia Super Liga: Friday 10 July
Slovenia 1. SNL: Friday 17 July
Spain La Liga: Sunday 30 August
Switzerland Super League: Saturday 11 July
Turkey Super Lig: Friday 7 August
Ukraine Premier League: Friday 17 July
Wales Premier League: Friday 14 August
Austria Bundesliga: Friday 17 July
Belgium Pro League: Friday 31 July
Bosnia-Herzegovinan Premier League: Saturday 1 August
Bulgaria A PFG: Friday 7 August
Croatia 1. HNL: Friday 24 July
Cyprus First Division: Saturday 29 August
Czech Republic Liga: Friday 24 July
Denmark Superliga: Saturday 18 July
England Premier League: Saturday 15 August
France Ligue 1: Saturday 8 August
Georgia Umaglesi Liga: Saturday 1 August
Germany Bundesliga: Friday 7 August
Greece Super League: Saturday 22 August
Hungary NB I: Friday 24 July
Italy Serie A: Sunday 23 August
Luxembourg National Division: Saturday 1 August
Macedonia First League: Saturday 1 August
Malta Premier League: Friday 21 August
Moldova National Division: Sunday 5 July
Montenegro First League: Saturday 8 August
Netherlands Eredivisie: Friday 31 July
Northern Ireland Premier League: Saturday 8 August
Poland Ekstraklasa: Friday 31 July
Portugal Liga: Sunday 16 August
Scotland Premier League: Saturday 15 August
Serbia Super Liga: Saturday 15 August
Slovakia Super Liga: Friday 10 July
Slovenia 1. SNL: Friday 17 July
Spain La Liga: Sunday 30 August
Switzerland Super League: Saturday 11 July
Turkey Super Lig: Friday 7 August
Ukraine Premier League: Friday 17 July
Wales Premier League: Friday 14 August
Middlesbrough: Which Mido Will Land At Zamalek?
The turnover of clubs on Hossam Mido’s CV doesn’t look set to immobilise anytime in the near future as the Egyptian striker has engineered a career U-turn back to his boyhood club of Zamalek on a season-long loan.
Zamalek spokesperson Sabri Serag told the club's official website: "We paid Middlesbrough 4million Egyptian pounds to acquire Mido's services. We can also sign him permanently next summer if we pay £1million to the English side."
Every ounce of promise exhibited by the 26-year-old has been eclipsed by a negligent tendency to become embroiled in off-field antics, and this coupled with a fiery temperament has been a major source of aggravation for his endless list of employers.
North African giants Zamalek can be credited for unearthing the uncut diamond little short of a decade ago but while the everlasting hope was that he would stamp his impression on Europe with a downpour of goals, it was the tremors of his toys thudding the ground in the aftermath of yet another face-off with his superiors which have developed into his forte. Ten clubs in as many seasons as a professional pays homage to Mido’s inability to settle and such a fact must act in opposition to any would-be suitors, strengthened over the past two seasons with the rapid occurrences of injury.
Yet home comfort could provide relief for Mido as the window of opportunity draws to a closer shut, the age of immaturity sailed past years ago and the last opportunity to charm one of Europe’s watchmen is now distinctly on the horizon. Establishing a partnering with Amr Zaki in the Zamalek attack should prosper in the lesser-standard of the Egyptian Premier League, thrusting Mido back into the international setup in plenty of preparation for the 2010 World Cup if he can consign fitness woes and attitude turmoil to the past.
The former Gent, Ajax, Celta Vigo, Marseille, Roma…(BREATHE)…Tottenham, Middlesbrough and Wigan frontman has it all to prove to discard his bad-boy reputation and, galloping towards the peak years of his career, naivety and rawness are not legitimate reasons for attracting unwanted attention anymore. Even as a character that cannot be divorced from controversy, the urgency to execute a cunning strike of the ball and delve into the goalscoring charts once again has never been so great.
Zamalek spokesperson Sabri Serag told the club's official website: "We paid Middlesbrough 4million Egyptian pounds to acquire Mido's services. We can also sign him permanently next summer if we pay £1million to the English side."
Every ounce of promise exhibited by the 26-year-old has been eclipsed by a negligent tendency to become embroiled in off-field antics, and this coupled with a fiery temperament has been a major source of aggravation for his endless list of employers.
North African giants Zamalek can be credited for unearthing the uncut diamond little short of a decade ago but while the everlasting hope was that he would stamp his impression on Europe with a downpour of goals, it was the tremors of his toys thudding the ground in the aftermath of yet another face-off with his superiors which have developed into his forte. Ten clubs in as many seasons as a professional pays homage to Mido’s inability to settle and such a fact must act in opposition to any would-be suitors, strengthened over the past two seasons with the rapid occurrences of injury.
Yet home comfort could provide relief for Mido as the window of opportunity draws to a closer shut, the age of immaturity sailed past years ago and the last opportunity to charm one of Europe’s watchmen is now distinctly on the horizon. Establishing a partnering with Amr Zaki in the Zamalek attack should prosper in the lesser-standard of the Egyptian Premier League, thrusting Mido back into the international setup in plenty of preparation for the 2010 World Cup if he can consign fitness woes and attitude turmoil to the past.
The former Gent, Ajax, Celta Vigo, Marseille, Roma…(BREATHE)…Tottenham, Middlesbrough and Wigan frontman has it all to prove to discard his bad-boy reputation and, galloping towards the peak years of his career, naivety and rawness are not legitimate reasons for attracting unwanted attention anymore. Even as a character that cannot be divorced from controversy, the urgency to execute a cunning strike of the ball and delve into the goalscoring charts once again has never been so great.
Season 09/10: A Preview
Since the whistle blew on Chelsea's FA Cup triumph over Everton at the end of May, the papers have had a whole lot of business to talk about and the poor little mites who type out page after page of transfer gossip on Teletext ahve gone on long term sick with repetitive strain injury. One thing is for sure, this coming Premiership season is going to be one of the most anticipated in years!
I have a feeling there will be one or 2 more twists in the Transfer Market before this month is over, but presuming there isn't I'm going to give you my take on the nerve shredding 8 months that lie ahead
THE TITLE & TOP 4
The Arabian revolution at the "Middle Eastlands" has thrown one major question over the Premier League upper eschelons....."are City for real?"
My own opinion is that they will win a lot of home games, even against the established favourites such as United, Liverpool and Chelsea. However they have to go out and prove they can win away from home, the addition of a terrier like Tevez is key to this but the flair players like Robinho, Adebayor, Petrov and more must show some steel to along with guile otherwise they'll be 5th at best.
Arsenal are looking shockingly short of strength, determination and leadership. They, like City, have to show they know how to fight and not go to the likes of Stoke and Burnley to get manhandled out of 3 points! How many years can Wenger allow this to happen before he stops crying and does something to rectify it.
Unless City really do show some true grit then the Premiership Title will end up at either Anfield, Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge. Ronaldo's departure hurts United a lot as he is a genuine goal threat from anywhere on the pitch, Michael Owen isn't that threat but a combination of Rooney, Owen an improved Berbatov and others stepping up might make for a more balanced unit.....but they again must step up.
Chelsea have added little over the summer, but they started appallingly last year under Scolari and that won't be repeated with the players seemingly responding to Ancelotti.
For the first time in over 10 years the Anfield regulars have GENUINE hope that this will be their year! It all depends on if Gerrard can maintain last years form, and if Torres can stay healthy....if they do, I hate to say it but Liverpool are champions.
Prediction;
1) Liverpool
2) Chelsea
3) Man Utd
4) Man City
5) Arsenal
THE MIDDLE GROUND & EUROPA
Positions 6 through about 12 should be hotly contested next season, and with Redknapp in charge of Spurs from the start I expect them to come out on top of this bunch but they will be psuhed all the way by Villa and Everton. Villa just haven't added enough to their squad for me, the loss of poor Martin Laursen is a big big blow to them and a player i'm not sure they can replace. Everton will have strikers next season, which is something they did not last year! They may well lose Pienaar but Arteta's return makes up for that, and with Fellaini and Cahill bombing into the box for crosses Everton might be the Dark Horse of the league and even contest a top 4 finish. However as it stands I think an overall lack of creativity will hinder their push and they willbe in the Europa League spots.
Just outside Europe will be Fulham, they have kept ALL their squad thats in Europe this season and Hodgson is a savvy manager who will keep them motivated. However the fact they are in Europe this season might strain the squad and they will probably end up around 10th competing with the likes of an improved Sunderland, Blackburn and West Ham
Prediction;
6)Tottenham
7)Everton
8)Aston Villa
9) Fulham
10) Sunderland
11) West Ham
12) Blackburn
RELEGATION & MISERY
This is going to be an epic battle next season, basically everyone that we haven't covered above will be scrapping for their lives to avoid the dreaded drop. Obviously Burnley start as favourites, they have little money to invest and have only a handful of players who have experienced the Premiership before. However Reading, Wigan and West Ham in recent years have all shocked the "experts" by finishing much higher than anticpated and I guarantee that nobody will work harder than the Clarets next year (look out for a hugely competitive Blackburn vs Burnley derby!!)
Hull managed to escape last season basically because of Newcastle Uniteds shambles of a football club, this year they will need an increased effort or the second half collapse last year might turn into a full season collapse this term!
Personally I don't think Stoke can improve on last year, they won't take anyone by surprise this year and I can't see where there goals come from other than set-plays, and in the Premiership set-pieces will not keep you afloat for long.
Wolves and Birmingham are interesting clubs to watch, Wolves are certainly the better equipped to stay up but in McCarthy they have a manager who has never succeeded in the Premiership yet. Birmingham have experience and passion, but may lack a cutting edge and these two clubs survival may depend on how the Midlands derbies against each other and Villa turn out.
Bolton for me are in REAL trouble, under Sam Allardyce they were supremely fit and athletic and had the belief that they could beat anybody on their day. Megson doesn't invoke that same belief and doesn't utilize Big Sam's scientific approach, they have some decent players but have aimed their spending on classy players who simply don't want to play for them and as a result have missed out completely on adding anything of note. In a similar vein to Stoke can they over achieve again and make set-plays and long ball football work for them enough to survive?
Portsmouth are another team in dire trouble, after a fire sale and a manager who to me doesn't look like inspiring any hope in anything they might struggle. If they stay up it'll be down to their home form and their fans!
Prediction;
13) Wigan
14) Hull City
15) Wolves
16) Stoke
17) Birmingham
18) Bolton
19) Burnley
20) Portsmouth
Obviously these are just my idea on how the season will pan out, and i'm sure that you have your own thoughts, and i'd love to hear them. But one thing I do know id that this yearwill be a dogfight from start, I don't see a clear winner or loser in any game. There are going to be some cracking battles, and i'm particularly looking forward to the Villa/Everton/Spurs/Man City/Arsenal match-ups......i think they will produce some great entertainment and prove the one thing we all know.....
The Premiership is the best league in the World!!
I have a feeling there will be one or 2 more twists in the Transfer Market before this month is over, but presuming there isn't I'm going to give you my take on the nerve shredding 8 months that lie ahead
THE TITLE & TOP 4
The Arabian revolution at the "Middle Eastlands" has thrown one major question over the Premier League upper eschelons....."are City for real?"
My own opinion is that they will win a lot of home games, even against the established favourites such as United, Liverpool and Chelsea. However they have to go out and prove they can win away from home, the addition of a terrier like Tevez is key to this but the flair players like Robinho, Adebayor, Petrov and more must show some steel to along with guile otherwise they'll be 5th at best.
Arsenal are looking shockingly short of strength, determination and leadership. They, like City, have to show they know how to fight and not go to the likes of Stoke and Burnley to get manhandled out of 3 points! How many years can Wenger allow this to happen before he stops crying and does something to rectify it.
Unless City really do show some true grit then the Premiership Title will end up at either Anfield, Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge. Ronaldo's departure hurts United a lot as he is a genuine goal threat from anywhere on the pitch, Michael Owen isn't that threat but a combination of Rooney, Owen an improved Berbatov and others stepping up might make for a more balanced unit.....but they again must step up.
Chelsea have added little over the summer, but they started appallingly last year under Scolari and that won't be repeated with the players seemingly responding to Ancelotti.
For the first time in over 10 years the Anfield regulars have GENUINE hope that this will be their year! It all depends on if Gerrard can maintain last years form, and if Torres can stay healthy....if they do, I hate to say it but Liverpool are champions.
Prediction;
1) Liverpool
2) Chelsea
3) Man Utd
4) Man City
5) Arsenal
THE MIDDLE GROUND & EUROPA
Positions 6 through about 12 should be hotly contested next season, and with Redknapp in charge of Spurs from the start I expect them to come out on top of this bunch but they will be psuhed all the way by Villa and Everton. Villa just haven't added enough to their squad for me, the loss of poor Martin Laursen is a big big blow to them and a player i'm not sure they can replace. Everton will have strikers next season, which is something they did not last year! They may well lose Pienaar but Arteta's return makes up for that, and with Fellaini and Cahill bombing into the box for crosses Everton might be the Dark Horse of the league and even contest a top 4 finish. However as it stands I think an overall lack of creativity will hinder their push and they willbe in the Europa League spots.
Just outside Europe will be Fulham, they have kept ALL their squad thats in Europe this season and Hodgson is a savvy manager who will keep them motivated. However the fact they are in Europe this season might strain the squad and they will probably end up around 10th competing with the likes of an improved Sunderland, Blackburn and West Ham
Prediction;
6)Tottenham
7)Everton
8)Aston Villa
9) Fulham
10) Sunderland
11) West Ham
12) Blackburn
RELEGATION & MISERY
This is going to be an epic battle next season, basically everyone that we haven't covered above will be scrapping for their lives to avoid the dreaded drop. Obviously Burnley start as favourites, they have little money to invest and have only a handful of players who have experienced the Premiership before. However Reading, Wigan and West Ham in recent years have all shocked the "experts" by finishing much higher than anticpated and I guarantee that nobody will work harder than the Clarets next year (look out for a hugely competitive Blackburn vs Burnley derby!!)
Hull managed to escape last season basically because of Newcastle Uniteds shambles of a football club, this year they will need an increased effort or the second half collapse last year might turn into a full season collapse this term!
Personally I don't think Stoke can improve on last year, they won't take anyone by surprise this year and I can't see where there goals come from other than set-plays, and in the Premiership set-pieces will not keep you afloat for long.
Wolves and Birmingham are interesting clubs to watch, Wolves are certainly the better equipped to stay up but in McCarthy they have a manager who has never succeeded in the Premiership yet. Birmingham have experience and passion, but may lack a cutting edge and these two clubs survival may depend on how the Midlands derbies against each other and Villa turn out.
Bolton for me are in REAL trouble, under Sam Allardyce they were supremely fit and athletic and had the belief that they could beat anybody on their day. Megson doesn't invoke that same belief and doesn't utilize Big Sam's scientific approach, they have some decent players but have aimed their spending on classy players who simply don't want to play for them and as a result have missed out completely on adding anything of note. In a similar vein to Stoke can they over achieve again and make set-plays and long ball football work for them enough to survive?
Portsmouth are another team in dire trouble, after a fire sale and a manager who to me doesn't look like inspiring any hope in anything they might struggle. If they stay up it'll be down to their home form and their fans!
Prediction;
13) Wigan
14) Hull City
15) Wolves
16) Stoke
17) Birmingham
18) Bolton
19) Burnley
20) Portsmouth
Obviously these are just my idea on how the season will pan out, and i'm sure that you have your own thoughts, and i'd love to hear them. But one thing I do know id that this yearwill be a dogfight from start, I don't see a clear winner or loser in any game. There are going to be some cracking battles, and i'm particularly looking forward to the Villa/Everton/Spurs/Man City/Arsenal match-ups......i think they will produce some great entertainment and prove the one thing we all know.....
The Premiership is the best league in the World!!
Monday, August 3, 2009
This is Our Hated City
It’s taken a while. A few years in fact, but finally Sir Alex Ferguson is talking about Manchester City again. For the record, let me just say what a privilege it is. We should all feel honoured.
Within the space of a week, the manager of the red half of Manchester recently delivered a number of tongue lashings for Mark Hughes’ City. It seems the pulpit has now well and truly reopened across Greater Manchester. And not only across the GM region either. Over the course of the last few weeks Rafa Benitez and David Moyes have both sniped at the actions of Manchester City Football Club. It’s nice to know that we are back on the radar.
Ferguson’s salvo
United’s pre-season tour has seen Fergie speak more about those around him rather than his own squad. Perhaps he intends for it to be that way. Speaking from the team’s pre-season tour of Fast East Asia, in one interview the United boss rubbished City’s chances of breaching the top four and then criticised the wisdom of signing three high profile strikers.
Given just after City had signed Emmanuel Adebayor from Arsenal, the second interview was much more interesting. Ferguson argued that the Togo international had in fact sounded out United and Chelsea after agreeing to join City. Then rather startlingly, when prompted to give his opinion about the recent controversial poster of Carlos Tevez (sky blue background with the title ‘Welcome to Manchester’) that has appeared on one of Manchester main shopping streets, Ferguson came out with this: "It's City isn't it? They are a small club with a small mentality. All they can talk about is Manchester United, they can't get away from it. They think taking Carlos Tevez away from Manchester United is a triumph. It is poor stuff."
Dave Wallace, editor of the City fanzine King of the Kippax, gave the perfect retort. Wallace was speaking in the Manchester Evening News (MEN), directly to those who had splashed the Tevez poster with dots of red paint, but his words are also relevant to Ferguson: "They like to dish it out - like the poster they've got at Old Trafford showing how many years it is since we won anything - but they really can't take it back. It shows just how bitter they are."
With regards to the saboteurs with red sponges, another City fan posted on the MEN website: "Bit of advice lads, get a longer ladder and don't use water-based paints next time, it's been lagging it down today and it's all washed off."
Benitez and Moyes get in on the act
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez took the first dig at City at the beginning of the summer. “The question is do you make the right decisions and do what is best for your career? If it's just for money sometimes you will make mistakes and I've been surprised by some decisions this summer – like Barry. I won't say too much but it was clearly 100% for money. The most important thing for me, though, is the passion of the players."
And then last weekend, Everton boss David Moyes seems to have accused City of tapping up his centre back Joleon Lescott: "It is about showing respect - and we are not being shown that. I've always tried to contact the managers and show respect to them in terms of transfers and no matter how much money I might have to spend I would always want to keep that up. It goes back to the managers having a drink together after the game, to the fact managers will still phone each other up when they are looking for a player. That is part of the way it should be done."
The messages of sniping
It is good to know that all of this sniping – particularly with United - is alive and well. Dig below the surface though, and there are serious points to be had.
Ferguson had a point about the imbalance in Hughes’ transfer policy. But since then, Ched Evans, Felipe Caicedo and Valeri Bojinov have all left the club in one shape or another and now a defensive gap has been plugged with the arrival of Kolo Toure.
However true or untrue, Ferguson’s claim that Adebayor sounded out the top clubs during his move to City suggests that he has come to Eastlands for the money. Benitez echoed this with his criticism of Barry’s move. The big question to ask here is whether these players have indeed come to City just for the money, or is it more than that? Money has certainly got a big part to play, but in today’s game, money is heavily linked to ambition. There is a blurring in this linkage which makes it very hard to gage the true motivations of players like Abebayor, Barry, and Santa Cruz who have not necessarily won big things with previous clubs. The money motivation does come into it much more with the Tevez and Toure signings, players that have been successful with the big clubs but who have now took a step down. Had they signed, Samuel Eto and John Terry would have also come into this category.
As for Benitez and Moyes, well, they ought to step back into reality.
Benitez is still smarting over the failure to acquire Gareth Barry last summer. The charge that Barry signed for money is, I think, a tactic to make himself look better in the eyes of the Liverpool faithful. Who, after all, would want to sign a player motivated purely by money? Apologies Rafa, but I can’t buy into that. You had a whole summer to meet Villa’s asking price, and you failed to do that. Players aren’t going to wait around, and this summer you got burned. You should have acted quicker, its as simple as that.
Moyes’ tapping up accusations are the sign of a manager that does not want to lose one of his prize assets. I like David Moyes and I like the idea of what he has done at Everton, plus what he is trying to do. Had Moyes arrived as a manager a decade or so earlier, he might well have been another Ferguson or Clough, men who built glory through footballing skill, judgment and intuition alone. But the days of building glory in that fashion are behind us. Now, if you’re going to be successful on a big scale, you need the big cash base. Then the skill, judgment and intuition comes into play.
Moyes seems to talk of a time where the tapping up of players didn’t happen. Tapping up, sounding out, call it whatever you want – it has always gone on. Agents will always talk and players will always listen. Of course, that does not make it right. But it is football. Tapping up – in one form or another - is all around us.
For City fans solely, the words of Ferguson, Benitez and Moyes are evidence of how far the club has come this summer. As a club, as a set of fans, we are not used to being hated. Instead we have been traditionally seen as the lovable, harmless club of Greater Manchester, a club to either make occasional fun of, to offer commiserations to, or to simply ignore.
But a new hatred appears to be focusing on Eastlands. They are beginning to hate us for our money. They are beginning to hate us for our ambition. They are beginning to hate us even before we have kicked a ball.
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