El Clasico. El Hammering. Real Madrid went into the game one point clear at the top of La Liga under the management of Jose Mourinho and ended the game two points behind Barcelona after a sensational defeat. This must have been the worst result of Mourinho’s career. A local derby, probably the biggest in the world and Pep Guardiola’s men played them off the park from start to finish.
It was a night to remember for Messi and Co and certainly a night to forget and brush under the carpet immediately for Cristiano Ronaldo and his team-mates. Some people would have placed their free bets on Madrid before the game, but it wasn’t to be for a number of reasons.
Barcelona are the best team in the world and love to show their skills to the rest of the world. That was evident on Monday night and Madrid had no answers to their skill, delicacy and provision. Splendid football that sent a shockwave out to the other teams that could potentially face them in the Champions League knockout stages. Frightening.
Their one touch passing and movement is a pleasure to watch and the DVD would be a present to savour for many years because there won’t be many footballing displays like that over the the next decade, especially in a game that was so big. We learnt Messi doesn’t need glue on the end of his boot to keep hold of the ball and he shone above his opposite number Ronaldo. This was the game that would put an end to all the speculation about who is the best player in the world and Messi didn’t disappoint.
Barcelona now have a striker who can finish a chance so easily in David Villa. A real poacher in the box and a great signing. Their defence looks solid and the partnership between Carlos Puyol and Gerard Pique is flourishing.You can really tell they have a good understanding and the fact they can play together for Spain really helps the national side. Xavi and Andreas Iniesta pass the ball with ease, elegance at its best. They define the word football.
As for Madrid, Mourinho had a hold over their rivals last season after knocking them out of the Champions League with Inter but this time Guardiola got revenge and in some style. Ronaldo didn’t have it his own way and once again frustration went to his head when he pushed the Barca manager near the end. Stupid. And then because Madrid couldn’t tackle Messi they had to spoil the game and kick him to the ground. Shame on you Sergio Ramos. The tackle was a disgrace and could have broken the master’s leg. The reckless kick certainly deserved a red card.
All the talk amongst paypal betting pundits before the game was about Madrid’s defensive record and how strong they were at the back but they were cut apart and looked vulnerable down the middle.
Xavi Alonso failed to control the midfield and Karim Benzema hardly had a sniff up front as the helpless special one looked on. This result really brought Mourinho back down to earth after a great start at the Bernebeu but don’t write him off just yet because he has the tactics and management style to plot revenge when the two sides meet again and that could well be the title decider.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Despite improvements, Roy must go
Liverpool fans are clearly keen to find any excuse to knock Roy Hodgson at the moment, and their capitulation to Spurs after having taken the lead has added fuel to an already intensely raging fire. However, despite the result, Hodgson should be commended for keeping faith in the same tactics that he employed so effectively against Chelsea, with Liverpool impressively upsetting the fixed odds that day.
Having said this, whilst Roy has finally shown that he has found his feet at the top level of football management, his discovery comes as too little too late to save his career at Liverpool Football Club. This was proved by the performance of a Hodgson favourite, who clearly is not at a level required to play at a top football club. That man's name is Paul Konchesky.
With Konchesky having been almost entirely at fault for allowing Aaron Lennon to slip past and score the winning goal, he has shown yet again why Liverpool fans have taken an instant dislike to the kind of player that Hodgson sees as having a future at the club. Whilst it is clear that Hodgson required some continuity from his success at Fulham, the question has to be asked as to why that couldn’t have been embodied by Mark Schwarzer or Brede Hangeland!
As the Kop continues to voice its disapproval at the way that the Liverpool team is playing, time is surely running out for Roy Hodgson and his "modest" style. With the club likely to seek a big name manager appointment to replace Hodgson, his decision to reach for the stars by accepting the job at Liverpool may have been the biggest mistake of his career.
Whilst he may one day say he was never really given a chance by the Kop to earn their respect, the fact remains that the big clubs will always demand to be favourites in the bookmaker odds and secure instant success, and he has failed utterly to provide both those things.
Having said this, whilst Roy has finally shown that he has found his feet at the top level of football management, his discovery comes as too little too late to save his career at Liverpool Football Club. This was proved by the performance of a Hodgson favourite, who clearly is not at a level required to play at a top football club. That man's name is Paul Konchesky.
With Konchesky having been almost entirely at fault for allowing Aaron Lennon to slip past and score the winning goal, he has shown yet again why Liverpool fans have taken an instant dislike to the kind of player that Hodgson sees as having a future at the club. Whilst it is clear that Hodgson required some continuity from his success at Fulham, the question has to be asked as to why that couldn’t have been embodied by Mark Schwarzer or Brede Hangeland!
As the Kop continues to voice its disapproval at the way that the Liverpool team is playing, time is surely running out for Roy Hodgson and his "modest" style. With the club likely to seek a big name manager appointment to replace Hodgson, his decision to reach for the stars by accepting the job at Liverpool may have been the biggest mistake of his career.
Whilst he may one day say he was never really given a chance by the Kop to earn their respect, the fact remains that the big clubs will always demand to be favourites in the bookmaker odds and secure instant success, and he has failed utterly to provide both those things.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Manchester United Transfer: Danish goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard joins the Premier League club
26-year-old Danish international goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard has formally joined Manchester United but will be unable to play until the transfer window reopens in January.
He joins United via Aalesund and has signed a three-and-a-half year contract with the EPL club.
Is Lindegaard the long-term successor to 40-year-old Edwin van der Sar?
He joins United via Aalesund and has signed a three-and-a-half year contract with the EPL club.
Is Lindegaard the long-term successor to 40-year-old Edwin van der Sar?
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Rooney back with a bang
Wayne Rooney scored a match winning penalty on his first start since his contract saga. The all-British clash at Ibrox was hardly a classic, with both sides producing brave defensive displays and it was a late penalty that won it for the visitors with three minutes to go. The spot kick was awarded after Steven Naismith's high boot caught Fabio in the area and Rooney stepped up to send Allan McGregor the wrong way.
The 1-0 win continues Manchester United's 100 per cent in the group and the clean sheet was their fifth in as many games so far in the competition. Rangers' hopes of reaching the next round were handed the killer blow in Spain, where Valencia destroyed Bursaspor 6-1, in the group's other match to take their place alongside United in the knock-out stages. Although they were unable to upset the Champions League predictions and make the second round, they have at least booked a place in the Europa League.
Barring a 2-0 loss next week in Spain, United will go through as group winners and the Champions League betting tips indicate they will top the group.
The first half was a tight affair with few chances, Rooney going close for United and Kenny Miller's wrong decision to shoot rather than pass, going down as the half's only real chances. Rooney looked lively and was clearly eager to impress the travelling fans as well as his team-mates.
The second half was dominated by United, but the visitors failed to break Rangers shape and when they did they found an in-form McGregor waiting for them. The late penalty was perhaps a touch unfair on the hosts but all in all United controlled the majority of the 90 minutes.
The 1-0 win continues Manchester United's 100 per cent in the group and the clean sheet was their fifth in as many games so far in the competition. Rangers' hopes of reaching the next round were handed the killer blow in Spain, where Valencia destroyed Bursaspor 6-1, in the group's other match to take their place alongside United in the knock-out stages. Although they were unable to upset the Champions League predictions and make the second round, they have at least booked a place in the Europa League.
Barring a 2-0 loss next week in Spain, United will go through as group winners and the Champions League betting tips indicate they will top the group.
The first half was a tight affair with few chances, Rooney going close for United and Kenny Miller's wrong decision to shoot rather than pass, going down as the half's only real chances. Rooney looked lively and was clearly eager to impress the travelling fans as well as his team-mates.
The second half was dominated by United, but the visitors failed to break Rangers shape and when they did they found an in-form McGregor waiting for them. The late penalty was perhaps a touch unfair on the hosts but all in all United controlled the majority of the 90 minutes.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Wenger shuffles his pack as injuries bite
Robin Van Persie, Andrey Arshavin and Cesc Fabregas are all set to sit out Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Braga on Tuesday.
Van Persie and Arshavin are to be rested by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger while Fabregas is nursing a persistent hamstring complaint that Wenger doesn’t want to inflame in Portugal.
The Frenchman’s decision to rest key players comes in the aftermath of their hugely disappointing North London derby defeat to Spurs, where they conceded a 2-0 half time lead to lose 3-2. If you saw the livescore coming in at 2-0, you would have been forgiven for thinking it was all over.
The defeat cost them the chance to go top of the Premier League table and Wenger knows the importance of bouncing back against Aston Villa on Saturday.
However, their trip to Portugal to face Braga is far from a foregone conclusion, despite their 6-0 win in the reverse fixture at the Emirates in September
Braga defeated Celtic and Sevilla to qualify for the group stages and can draw level with the Gunners with a win so Wenger is putting faith in some of his squad players to get the result they need.
However, a win for the London club will seal their passage into the next round with a game to spare so it is worth keeping on the Livescores this evening.
The likes of Manuel Almunia, Abou Diaby, Thomas Vermaelen and Aaron Ramsey will also miss out the Group H clash though injury so the pressure is on the likes of Denilson, Jack Wilshere and Marouane Chamakh to step up and began to heal the wounds caused by that painful Spurs defeat on Saturday.
Van Persie and Arshavin are to be rested by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger while Fabregas is nursing a persistent hamstring complaint that Wenger doesn’t want to inflame in Portugal.
The Frenchman’s decision to rest key players comes in the aftermath of their hugely disappointing North London derby defeat to Spurs, where they conceded a 2-0 half time lead to lose 3-2. If you saw the livescore coming in at 2-0, you would have been forgiven for thinking it was all over.
The defeat cost them the chance to go top of the Premier League table and Wenger knows the importance of bouncing back against Aston Villa on Saturday.
However, their trip to Portugal to face Braga is far from a foregone conclusion, despite their 6-0 win in the reverse fixture at the Emirates in September
Braga defeated Celtic and Sevilla to qualify for the group stages and can draw level with the Gunners with a win so Wenger is putting faith in some of his squad players to get the result they need.
However, a win for the London club will seal their passage into the next round with a game to spare so it is worth keeping on the Livescores this evening.
The likes of Manuel Almunia, Abou Diaby, Thomas Vermaelen and Aaron Ramsey will also miss out the Group H clash though injury so the pressure is on the likes of Denilson, Jack Wilshere and Marouane Chamakh to step up and began to heal the wounds caused by that painful Spurs defeat on Saturday.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Kids to lead the way against Zilina
Despite their recent poor form Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti looks set to rest some of his underperforming players for their Champions League Group F clash with MSK Zilna.
With four wins from four the Blues are certain of qualification and a point tonight against their Slovakian opponents will secure top spot. Youngsters Jeffrey Bouma and Josh McEachran look set to start as Ancelotti shuffles his pack.
However, the atmosphere around Stamford Bridge is very different to the one when they last appeared in Europe and anyone looking to bet on Champions League games should remember this.
Back at the start of the month a convincing 4-1 win over Spartak Moscow mirrored the club's impressive league form, which saw them rack up a six point lead at the top of the Premier League.
But a nightmare few weeks has seen them lose three of their last four league games and see Manchester United draw level with them at the summit.
What is perhaps worse for Ancelotti is the apparent unrest in the camp caused by the controversial dismissal of Ray Wilkins.
The popular assistant boss was sacked last week by owner Roman Abramovich without Ancelotti's permission and his replacement, former opposition scout Michael Emenalo, was also promoted without the Italian's say so.
That led to rumours regarding the former Milan boss's future and suggestions he could be set to quit.
But in a cool, calm and collected pre-match press conference Ancelotti reaffirmed his commitment to the club and insisted Chelsea's recent woes were for on-field reasons. If Chelsea can pull off one of their Champions League specials, they should go some way to proving him right.
A big win against Zilna, who sit bottom of Group F without a point, will start to ease the feeling of gloom around the club ahead of a crucial run of domestic fixtures next month.
With four wins from four the Blues are certain of qualification and a point tonight against their Slovakian opponents will secure top spot. Youngsters Jeffrey Bouma and Josh McEachran look set to start as Ancelotti shuffles his pack.
However, the atmosphere around Stamford Bridge is very different to the one when they last appeared in Europe and anyone looking to bet on Champions League games should remember this.
Back at the start of the month a convincing 4-1 win over Spartak Moscow mirrored the club's impressive league form, which saw them rack up a six point lead at the top of the Premier League.
But a nightmare few weeks has seen them lose three of their last four league games and see Manchester United draw level with them at the summit.
What is perhaps worse for Ancelotti is the apparent unrest in the camp caused by the controversial dismissal of Ray Wilkins.
The popular assistant boss was sacked last week by owner Roman Abramovich without Ancelotti's permission and his replacement, former opposition scout Michael Emenalo, was also promoted without the Italian's say so.
That led to rumours regarding the former Milan boss's future and suggestions he could be set to quit.
But in a cool, calm and collected pre-match press conference Ancelotti reaffirmed his commitment to the club and insisted Chelsea's recent woes were for on-field reasons. If Chelsea can pull off one of their Champions League specials, they should go some way to proving him right.
A big win against Zilna, who sit bottom of Group F without a point, will start to ease the feeling of gloom around the club ahead of a crucial run of domestic fixtures next month.
Spurs fixture provides real test for Hodgson's men
With Liverpool improving overall in recent weeks following a horrendous start to the season that left them languishing in the relegation zone and saw their football odds to win this year's Premier League title lengthen to ridiculous figures, the Reds have managed to improve in recent weeks, although their consistency levels still leave something to be desired.
With an impressive 3-0 over West Ham at the weekend further testament to their progress following their victory over Chelsea at Anfield a couple of weeks ago, Reds fans could be excused for thinking that the future isn't as bad as many feared before their recent takeover.
This is certainly an opinion grounded amongst football betting pundits in numerical evidence when looking at the Premier League table. Currently sitting in ninth position in the league, Liverpool are just three points off fifth place, which is currently occupied by Bolton following their revival of fortunes under boss Owen Coyle.
With just a couple of wins and defeats to the current big four enough to lift Roy Hodgson's men to a Champions League position, now is the time for the Reds to inject a dose of consistency into their play.
What better time to start this quest for a position in the upper echelons of the league than against Spurs this weekend. With both sides no doubt full of confidence after crucial weekend wins, this fixture will be a real test of just how far Liverpool have come.
Joe Cole is set to make a timely return to action after missing the last few games with a hamstring injury and his comeback is likely to bring a smile to the face of Hodgson in the absence of Steven Gerrard.
If Liverpool can win that tie and secure a couple more decent results before Gerrard makes his return from injury, this could yet be a season that could be looked back upon by the Reds faithful with real joy and pride.
With an impressive 3-0 over West Ham at the weekend further testament to their progress following their victory over Chelsea at Anfield a couple of weeks ago, Reds fans could be excused for thinking that the future isn't as bad as many feared before their recent takeover.
This is certainly an opinion grounded amongst football betting pundits in numerical evidence when looking at the Premier League table. Currently sitting in ninth position in the league, Liverpool are just three points off fifth place, which is currently occupied by Bolton following their revival of fortunes under boss Owen Coyle.
With just a couple of wins and defeats to the current big four enough to lift Roy Hodgson's men to a Champions League position, now is the time for the Reds to inject a dose of consistency into their play.
What better time to start this quest for a position in the upper echelons of the league than against Spurs this weekend. With both sides no doubt full of confidence after crucial weekend wins, this fixture will be a real test of just how far Liverpool have come.
Joe Cole is set to make a timely return to action after missing the last few games with a hamstring injury and his comeback is likely to bring a smile to the face of Hodgson in the absence of Steven Gerrard.
If Liverpool can win that tie and secure a couple more decent results before Gerrard makes his return from injury, this could yet be a season that could be looked back upon by the Reds faithful with real joy and pride.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Taylor Twellman speaks with The American Soccer Show
Jason Davis of Match Fit USA and The American Soccer Show spoke today with former MLS star Taylor Twellman about topics ranging from concussions to Sporting Kansas City.
A solid, insightful interview that you should take 25 minutes and check out today.
A solid, insightful interview that you should take 25 minutes and check out today.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
How do you solve this problem, then Martinez?
Wigan find themselves in a precarious position at present. Sitting just one place above the relegation zone, they have been struggling for consistency since the opening day of the season when they were thumped at home 4-0 and 6-0 by Blackpool and Chelsea respectively, only to go and beat Tottenham at White Hart Lane the next week.
Perhaps consistency is one of the things you can't expect when labelled with such a strong reputation as a selling club. If players consider themselves to be constantly sitting in the shop window rather than trying to lay down the foundations of a career, such fluctuations in performance are somewhat understandable. With players such as Wilson Palacios, Emile Heskey, Antonio Valencia and Pascal Chimbonda using the club as a stepping stone to bigger and better things in recent seasons, Wigan find it difficult to keep hold of genuine quality. Anyone thinking about placing a Premier League bet on them staying up should bear this in mind.
Without these players, it's understandable that they have the lowest average Premier League attendances - their win against West Brom last week was only watched by a shade over 16,000 spectators. Fair enough, it's a rugby town, but something needs to be done to reverse this if they are to have a top-flight future.
However, their most pressing immediate problem is in front of goal. With a return of just ten goals from their thirteen league fixtures, it is surprising to see them as far up the table as they are. It's the lowest total in the league and unless Martinez makes a signing or two in January to take the pressure off Charles N'Zogbia and Hugo Rodellaga, it could prove to be their undoing. The football betting already suggests they'll struggle, but they'll have even less chance without their top men.
With an upcoming League Cup quarter final tie against Arsenal fast approaching - a distraction they could arguably do without given both their own league position and the strength of the Gunners in the competition in recent seasons - they are facing a make-or-break stage of their season. In the league Manchester United are next up for the Latics, followed by West Ham and Stoke, and much could hinge on their ability to take at least five points from these three fixtures.
Perhaps consistency is one of the things you can't expect when labelled with such a strong reputation as a selling club. If players consider themselves to be constantly sitting in the shop window rather than trying to lay down the foundations of a career, such fluctuations in performance are somewhat understandable. With players such as Wilson Palacios, Emile Heskey, Antonio Valencia and Pascal Chimbonda using the club as a stepping stone to bigger and better things in recent seasons, Wigan find it difficult to keep hold of genuine quality. Anyone thinking about placing a Premier League bet on them staying up should bear this in mind.
Without these players, it's understandable that they have the lowest average Premier League attendances - their win against West Brom last week was only watched by a shade over 16,000 spectators. Fair enough, it's a rugby town, but something needs to be done to reverse this if they are to have a top-flight future.
However, their most pressing immediate problem is in front of goal. With a return of just ten goals from their thirteen league fixtures, it is surprising to see them as far up the table as they are. It's the lowest total in the league and unless Martinez makes a signing or two in January to take the pressure off Charles N'Zogbia and Hugo Rodellaga, it could prove to be their undoing. The football betting already suggests they'll struggle, but they'll have even less chance without their top men.
With an upcoming League Cup quarter final tie against Arsenal fast approaching - a distraction they could arguably do without given both their own league position and the strength of the Gunners in the competition in recent seasons - they are facing a make-or-break stage of their season. In the league Manchester United are next up for the Latics, followed by West Ham and Stoke, and much could hinge on their ability to take at least five points from these three fixtures.
Lazio Transfer Rumours: Reto Ziegler a target?
Via Swiss media outlets, Lazio appear ready to add 24-year-old left winger/left back Reto Ziegler.
Ziegler, at Sampdoria, has an expiring contract and could look to leave the Serie A club.
[Source - Footballpress.net]
Ziegler, at Sampdoria, has an expiring contract and could look to leave the Serie A club.
[Source - Footballpress.net]
Monday, November 8, 2010
Manchester City Transfer Rumours: Clubs line up for Roque Santa Cruz
Via Italian online media report, Wolfsburg, Lazio, Fulham, Leicester City and Getafe all want to capture City striker Roque Santa Cruz this January.
His price is listed at 9 million Euros via the report.
[Source - Footballpress.net]
His price is listed at 9 million Euros via the report.
[Source - Footballpress.net]
West Ham Transfer Rumours - Everton Transfer Rumours: Clubs battle over QPR striker Jamie Mackie
25-year-old QPR forward Jamie Mackie is a target of both Everton and West Ham United via The People.
Will the Scotland international make the jump to the EPL this January?
Will the Scotland international make the jump to the EPL this January?
Fulham Transfer Rumours: Carlos Kameni a target?
Online reports have Fulham tracking Espanyol goalkeeper Carlos Kameni and the Spanish club may part with the 26-year-old Cameroon international in January if a club meets the £5million asking price via The People.
Boss Sven-Goran Eriksson brings in two on trial at Leicester
Leicester boss Sven Goran Eriksson looks likely to offer contracts to on trial winger Fabrice Pancrate and goalkeeper Michael Rensing.
Pancrate came to Leicester via free transfer from Newcastle and Rensing left Bayern Munich in the summer.
Eriksson spoke with Daily Mirror about the duo.
"They have been very good in training," the former Manchester City boss said.
"Pancrate is a very quick winger, while Rensing is a very big goalkeeper."
Pancrate came to Leicester via free transfer from Newcastle and Rensing left Bayern Munich in the summer.
Eriksson spoke with Daily Mirror about the duo.
"They have been very good in training," the former Manchester City boss said.
"Pancrate is a very quick winger, while Rensing is a very big goalkeeper."
Rooney's long-term rehab thrown into doubt
The news that a Premier League player has decided to fly out to America in order to continue recovery from an injury is nothing shocking.
Owen Hargreaves has spent considerable lengths of time seeing American specialists to cure his persistent knee problem after all. So, the news that Wayne Rooney has been sent to the USA to aid his recovery from an ankle injury shouldn't, in itself, be enough to cause United fans any real concern.
However, look a little deeper and this is actually an extremely worrying sign for both United fans and England fans. The 25-year-old is set to be seen by specialists at the Nike Town centre in Oregon as he seeks to ensure that the three-week time period estimated for his return isn't extended by any setbacks. The fact remains, though, that Rooney could have undergone similar rehabilitation work and intensive training at United's Carrington training ground, which clearly has the facilities to help him prepare for first team action again. Anyone who has placed a football bet on Rooney being top Premier League scorer will hope he gets back to full fitness soon.
Mike Phelan, United's assistant manager, revealed that the main reason behind the player's trip to America is to give Rooney a "change of scenery", stating that the absence of the striker from the media glare, which has been intense since his controversial decision to sign a new long-term deal just 48 hours after expressing a desire to leave the Old Trafford outfit, will be of benefit to both club and player.
Rooney's stint in the USA casts fresh doubt over the ease with which the player will be able to bed back in to the first team. With United fans, and England fans, unlikely to forgive the player overnight upon his return, he'll have to get used to taking criticism on the chin and proving that his focus remains on the pitch.
Although sending him away to America will take the pressure off him for now, it will surely only intensify upon his return to the starting line-up and Sir Alex Ferguson surely won't put up with Old Trafford becoming a circus revolving around Wayne Rooney in the long term.
What Rooney and United need to get back on track now is an element of normality, the very thing that life at one of the most famous clubs in global football quite clearly makes impossible.
Meanwhile, plenty of people will be placing a football daily bet on this week's Manchester derby which occurs on Wednesday.
United will be keen to put City in their place as they look to climb the league.
Owen Hargreaves has spent considerable lengths of time seeing American specialists to cure his persistent knee problem after all. So, the news that Wayne Rooney has been sent to the USA to aid his recovery from an ankle injury shouldn't, in itself, be enough to cause United fans any real concern.
However, look a little deeper and this is actually an extremely worrying sign for both United fans and England fans. The 25-year-old is set to be seen by specialists at the Nike Town centre in Oregon as he seeks to ensure that the three-week time period estimated for his return isn't extended by any setbacks. The fact remains, though, that Rooney could have undergone similar rehabilitation work and intensive training at United's Carrington training ground, which clearly has the facilities to help him prepare for first team action again. Anyone who has placed a football bet on Rooney being top Premier League scorer will hope he gets back to full fitness soon.
Mike Phelan, United's assistant manager, revealed that the main reason behind the player's trip to America is to give Rooney a "change of scenery", stating that the absence of the striker from the media glare, which has been intense since his controversial decision to sign a new long-term deal just 48 hours after expressing a desire to leave the Old Trafford outfit, will be of benefit to both club and player.
Rooney's stint in the USA casts fresh doubt over the ease with which the player will be able to bed back in to the first team. With United fans, and England fans, unlikely to forgive the player overnight upon his return, he'll have to get used to taking criticism on the chin and proving that his focus remains on the pitch.
Although sending him away to America will take the pressure off him for now, it will surely only intensify upon his return to the starting line-up and Sir Alex Ferguson surely won't put up with Old Trafford becoming a circus revolving around Wayne Rooney in the long term.
What Rooney and United need to get back on track now is an element of normality, the very thing that life at one of the most famous clubs in global football quite clearly makes impossible.
Meanwhile, plenty of people will be placing a football daily bet on this week's Manchester derby which occurs on Wednesday.
United will be keen to put City in their place as they look to climb the league.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Back Chelsea to grab Moscow win
Given they sit top both of the Premier League and their Champions League group it would be hard to go against Chelsea right now.
In Europe three wins from three sees them clear of Spartak Moscow in Group F, with the Russian side next up at Stamford Bridge.
The reverse fixture two weeks ago saw Chelsea demonstrate their class, coming away with a professional 2-0 win on the tricky plastic pitch in Moscow.
At home in West London they are even more dangerous and despite Moscow knowing a win will see them draw level with their English opponents, I just can't see it happening and anyone looking to place a Champions League bet should bear this in mind.
Carlo Ancelotti's men will be without Florent Malouda, Frank Lampard and Jose Bosingwa for the game, but they still have enough quality - including Nicolas Anelka, who has hit four of Chelsea's eight goals in the competition already this season.
Another Anelka goal and another Chelsea win looks the likely result on Wednesday night and the Champions League best odds reflect this.
So it seems Chelsea will be marching on into the group stages, so could this finally be their year?
In Europe three wins from three sees them clear of Spartak Moscow in Group F, with the Russian side next up at Stamford Bridge.
The reverse fixture two weeks ago saw Chelsea demonstrate their class, coming away with a professional 2-0 win on the tricky plastic pitch in Moscow.
At home in West London they are even more dangerous and despite Moscow knowing a win will see them draw level with their English opponents, I just can't see it happening and anyone looking to place a Champions League bet should bear this in mind.
Carlo Ancelotti's men will be without Florent Malouda, Frank Lampard and Jose Bosingwa for the game, but they still have enough quality - including Nicolas Anelka, who has hit four of Chelsea's eight goals in the competition already this season.
Another Anelka goal and another Chelsea win looks the likely result on Wednesday night and the Champions League best odds reflect this.
So it seems Chelsea will be marching on into the group stages, so could this finally be their year?
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Napoli Transfer Rumours: Espanyol's Victor Ruiz a target of Italian club
Napoli offered Espanyol €6.9 million for 21-year-old centre back Victor Ruiz via www.tribalfootball.com report.
Former Cameroon international François Omam-Biyik's son being tracked by Mexican national team
Via La Pagina (Spanish), François Omam-Biyik, a World Cup hero for his native Cameroon, played in Mexico during parts of the 1994-99 campaigns.
The striker, known for his aerial prowess, scored the historic header in his country's 1-0 win over defending title-holder Argentina at the 1990 World Cup.
In '95, Omam-Biyik's son Emilio was born in Mexico City when François was at Club América. 15-year-old Emilio is on the books at French Ligue 2 side Chateauroux where his father ended his career.
Now, Mexico, the host of the 2011 U-17 World Cup, is giving Emilio Omam-Biyik a long look as it prepares to form the World Cup roster.
El Tri's U-17 coach Raul Gutierrez recently commented on the scouting of the young Cameroonian-Mexican footballer.
"It's a guy we've been following and of course can be considered, because he is Mexican," Gutierrez said.
If Emilio Omam-Biyic decides to play for Mexico's U-17 national team at next year's World Cup, he will join the growing list of sons of foreign-born players who go on to represent El Tri at the youth and senior international levels -- Jonathan and Giovani dos Santos, Nery Castillo and Luis Roberto Alves (Zaguinho).
The striker, known for his aerial prowess, scored the historic header in his country's 1-0 win over defending title-holder Argentina at the 1990 World Cup.
In '95, Omam-Biyik's son Emilio was born in Mexico City when François was at Club América. 15-year-old Emilio is on the books at French Ligue 2 side Chateauroux where his father ended his career.
Now, Mexico, the host of the 2011 U-17 World Cup, is giving Emilio Omam-Biyik a long look as it prepares to form the World Cup roster.
El Tri's U-17 coach Raul Gutierrez recently commented on the scouting of the young Cameroonian-Mexican footballer.
"It's a guy we've been following and of course can be considered, because he is Mexican," Gutierrez said.
If Emilio Omam-Biyic decides to play for Mexico's U-17 national team at next year's World Cup, he will join the growing list of sons of foreign-born players who go on to represent El Tri at the youth and senior international levels -- Jonathan and Giovani dos Santos, Nery Castillo and Luis Roberto Alves (Zaguinho).
Manchester United Transfer Rumours: Michael Owen to look to MLS to finish career?
Via a report from an Italian website, comes the speculative rumour that 30-year-old forward Michael Owen may look to end his career in North America's Major League Soccer.
Owen has played for super-clubs Liverpool, Real Madrid and United.
[Source - Footballpress.net]
Owen has played for super-clubs Liverpool, Real Madrid and United.
[Source - Footballpress.net]
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini outdone by former boss Mark Hughes
Former boss Mark Hughes collected 19 points in his first 10 EPL league matches of the 2009-10 campaign.
Current City boss Roberto Mancini has 17 points from his first 10 EPL League matches this season.
Wow.
[Source - The Daily Express]
Current City boss Roberto Mancini has 17 points from his first 10 EPL League matches this season.
Wow.
[Source - The Daily Express]
Valencia Transfer Rumours: Midfielder Ander Herrera a serious target
Real Zaragoza midfielder Ander Herrera looks destined to sign with another La Liga side - Valencia.
A one-time speculative transfer target of Inter Milan, Levante-EMV is now reporting that Los Che will finalize the deal this January. Via the report, Herrera will join Valencia for €12 million.
A one-time speculative transfer target of Inter Milan, Levante-EMV is now reporting that Los Che will finalize the deal this January. Via the report, Herrera will join Valencia for €12 million.
Celtic Transfer Rumours: Olivier Kapo to Parkhead?
Celtic look ready to add former Wigan Athletic midfielder Olivier Kapo. The 30-year-old free agent has been training at Sunderland under former manager Steve Bruce, but now it appears that Kapo and Celtic boss Neil Lennon may have struck a deal via speculative reports including the Daily Mail.
Monday, November 1, 2010
QPR adds Cypriot Georgios Tofas until the end of the season
Queens Park Rangers agreed to terms through the end of the campaign with 21-year-old Cypriot midfielder Georgios Tofas.
Tofas trained at the Loftus Road recently after his depature from Anorthosis Famagusta.
"QPR is such a big club and I'm happy to be here," Tofas said when speaking with the QPR's official website. "I'll give my best for the club."
Tofas trained at the Loftus Road recently after his depature from Anorthosis Famagusta.
"QPR is such a big club and I'm happy to be here," Tofas said when speaking with the QPR's official website. "I'll give my best for the club."
Liverpool duo join Notts County until January
Liverpool's Thomas Ince and Stephen Darby were sent on loan to Notts County through the end of December.
18-year-old attacking midfielder Thomas Ince is the son of Notts County manager Paul Ince.
22-year-old right-back Stephen Darby will start on Tuesday against Hartlepool since captain John Thompson is suspended.
Thomas Ince could also see the firstet-team minutes as well.
18-year-old attacking midfielder Thomas Ince is the son of Notts County manager Paul Ince.
22-year-old right-back Stephen Darby will start on Tuesday against Hartlepool since captain John Thompson is suspended.
Thomas Ince could also see the firstet-team minutes as well.
Palermo Transfer Rumours: Tommaso Bellazzini tracked by Serie A clubs
22-year-old Tommaso Bellazzini, an attacking midfielder at Cittadella, is being observed by three Italian top-flight clubs -- Brescia, Palermo and Udinese -- via Italian online media reports.
[Source Footballpress.net]
[Source Footballpress.net]
nPower League One News: Forward Will Hoskins doing well at Bristol Rovers?
24-year-old English youth international Will Hoskins is off to a solid start at his new club Bristol Rovers. Five goals in fourteen league matches as well as a goal in Bristol's 1-0 triumph over Aldershot Town in the Johnstone Paint Trophy competition.
Hoskins arrived in the summer of 2010 via nPower Championship side Watford (2007-2010).
How many more goals will Hoskins score for the Pirates this campaign?
Hoskins arrived in the summer of 2010 via nPower Championship side Watford (2007-2010).
How many more goals will Hoskins score for the Pirates this campaign?
nPower League One News: Newcastle United's Kazenga LuaLua doing well on loan at Brighton
The 19-year-old Congolese-English winger has been on loan at League One side Brighton & Hove Albion since September. He has four goals and three assists.
In the nine games Kazenga LuaLua has competed in, Brighton has six wins and three draws.
Will a call-up into England's youth squads be upcoming or will LuaLua play for his African birth nation?
In the nine games Kazenga LuaLua has competed in, Brighton has six wins and three draws.
Will a call-up into England's youth squads be upcoming or will LuaLua play for his African birth nation?
Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Omri Altman on trial at club
Midfielder Omri Altman, a 16-year-old at Maccabi Tel Aviv, is now in England on trial at Liverpool via a report by IMscouting.com.
Source - IMscouting report
Source - IMscouting report
Manchester United Transfer Rumours: Sir Alex joins chase with Chelsea for Bayern Munich's Bastian Schweinsteiger
Via Daily Mail and referenced by other U.K. media outlets:
Bayern Munich made it clear that the club intends to keep their midfielder, even though Bastian Schweinsteiger would like to make the jump to the EPL.
Chelsea and Manchester United have been noted in several speculative transfer rumours regarding the 26-year-old German international.
Schweinsteiger appeared in 10 games (9 starts) with 1 goal and an assist for the Bundesliga club so far this campaign.
Bayern Munich made it clear that the club intends to keep their midfielder, even though Bastian Schweinsteiger would like to make the jump to the EPL.
Chelsea and Manchester United have been noted in several speculative transfer rumours regarding the 26-year-old German international.
Schweinsteiger appeared in 10 games (9 starts) with 1 goal and an assist for the Bundesliga club so far this campaign.
Major League Soccer 2010 Stats Review Part I: Toronto FC attempted the fewest shots in '10
Ah, those diligent supporters who flock to BMO. Pining for a winner, hoping for a playoff appearance and maybe questioning why Toronto FC does not shoot more.
In fact, Toronto took the fewest shots (282) in the league in 2010. If you are wondering, Kansas City (393) attempted the most. Thus, shots certainly don't equal playoffs. Still, a team needs to shoot to score.
Let's dig deeper.
Canadian hero Dwayne De Rosario finished sixth in the league with 72 shots (36 on goal -- good for fifth in league) in 27 games played. No other Toronto FC player finished in the top ten. De Rosario had five game winning goals via all those shots. Not bad.
Interestingly, the MLS official site -- where Soccer City FC sourced the above noted full-season stats had Toronto FC with 282 shots and De Rosario with 72 total shots.
Upon more investigation, Toronto FC's official site lists a total of 275 shots on the year and also had De Rosario with only 69 shots attempted.
Thus, some of these numbers seem to be in dispute. But just slightly; roughly seven shots, three of which from Rosario (72-69).
Designated player Julian de Guzman played in 24 games, had 16 shots with five on goal.
Heralded collegiate forward O'Brian White played in 20 games but started only nine. He attempted 19 shots with eight on goal. White scored twice in 2010.
Over/Under Toronto FC attempts 350 shots in 2011. Looks like we'll take the under.
In fact, Toronto took the fewest shots (282) in the league in 2010. If you are wondering, Kansas City (393) attempted the most. Thus, shots certainly don't equal playoffs. Still, a team needs to shoot to score.
Let's dig deeper.
Canadian hero Dwayne De Rosario finished sixth in the league with 72 shots (36 on goal -- good for fifth in league) in 27 games played. No other Toronto FC player finished in the top ten. De Rosario had five game winning goals via all those shots. Not bad.
Interestingly, the MLS official site -- where Soccer City FC sourced the above noted full-season stats had Toronto FC with 282 shots and De Rosario with 72 total shots.
Upon more investigation, Toronto FC's official site lists a total of 275 shots on the year and also had De Rosario with only 69 shots attempted.
Thus, some of these numbers seem to be in dispute. But just slightly; roughly seven shots, three of which from Rosario (72-69).
Designated player Julian de Guzman played in 24 games, had 16 shots with five on goal.
Heralded collegiate forward O'Brian White played in 20 games but started only nine. He attempted 19 shots with eight on goal. White scored twice in 2010.
Over/Under Toronto FC attempts 350 shots in 2011. Looks like we'll take the under.
Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Peter Crouch to Anfield?
Via Daily Star, Liverpool may look to bring in 29-year-old target man Peter Crouch as today's most recent speculative EPL transfer rumour.
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