The Footie (UK) Thread: 2006/07

[Captain Stu]

Take it you mean West Ham, but yeah they have a sound side just definetly think the arrival of the Argies upset them. I'm a big fan of Reo-Coker, shame England seem to have too many cent mid players.

Yeah, I like 'em too, Tevez is a cunt - he has oodles of talent but he's clearly shown over the last couple of months that he cannot and will not play as part of a team. Zamora was right to publically slam him, it must be a nightmare to play alongside someone that selfish with the ball.

I don't mind Mascherano, he's been way more low-key but, when he leaves, Bowyer will just fit into that defensive role.

Reo-Coker's ace, he should be given an England chance ahead of Fatpard - as should Parker and definately Kev Nolan.

[timesfooall]

Ye i defo think Lampard is a squad player rather than first choice, we have Nolan, Carrick, Hargreaves, Lampard, Gerrard, Reo-Coker, Parker and King is very useful. Out of that least Gerrard is obviusly the best but Lampard doesnt strike me as being better than the others, he is a lot better at scoring flukey goals but overall im not too convinced.

[Captain Stu]

Ye i defo think Lampard is a squad player rather than first choice, we have Nolan, Carrick, Hargreaves, Lampard, Gerrard, Reo-Coker, Parker and King is very useful. Out of that least Gerrard is obviusly the best but Lampard doesnt strike me as being better than the others, he is a lot better at scoring flukey goals but overall im not too convinced.

Aye, I'd be very interested to see Nolan and Gerrard in the middle - Nolan's got a good range of passing on him and he's a take-no-shit sort of tackler without being overly dirty. Plus, it's another Captain-figure on the pitch.

Flank them with Cole and Lennon, phwoar.

[timesfooall]

Aye, I'd be very interested to see Nolan and Gerrard in the middle - Nolan's got a good range of passing on him and he's a take-no-shit sort of tackler without being overly dirty. Plus, it's another Captain-figure on the pitch.

Flank them with Cole and Lennon, phwoar.

Yep, and it would leave Gerrard to roam about get in the box and create, with Nolan the guy hanging back to disrupt oppositino attacks. Cole and Lennon providing width on the wing, Rooney and Crouch up front. And if its not going to play recall Becks and put him on with 10 mins to go and Free Kick here, Cross there and anything could happen. I would rather see Bridge at left back than cole as well, cant believe he is still at Chelsea wasting his talent on the bench.

[Wish_Master2100]

If our form carries on like this, I don't see why we can't take third. The game against Arsenal at the weekend is gonna be vital for both sides.

Just goes to show how much of a poor start Liverpool have had, if Stu of all people is conceding that third is the best Liverpool will do.

[Captain Stu]

Just goes to show how much of a poor start Liverpool have had, if Stu of all people is conceding that third is the best Liverpool will do.

Come on now, as soon as United bummed us I said that was our title challenge gone.

[EvilElvis]

R.I.P Bobby (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/rangers/6120900.stm)


Rangers legend Bobby Shearer dies

The former Rangers captain Bobby Shearer has died after a short illness, aged 74.
Shearer, nicknamed Captain Cutlass for his combative playing style, played for the Glasgow club between 1955 and 1965.

He won five league titles, three Scottish Cups and four League Cups during his time at Ibrox.

Rangers legend John Greig led the club's tributes and told www.rangers.premiumtv: "He was a great captain because he led by example."

Shearer appeared 407 times for Rangers, including 165 successive games for the Ibrox side.

Greig, who made his first appearances for Rangers during Shearer's captaincy, said: "It's very sad news and my thoughts are with his family.

"I have a lot to thank Bobby for. He was the captain of the team when I came in and he really helped me settle in."

Shearer was one of the mainstays of the Rangers side in the early 1960s and captained the side to their second domestic treble in 1963-64.

Greig added: "He was a great captain because he led by example. He personified the Rangers spirit with his will to win and it rubbed off on everyone around him."

[Captain Stu]

lolerz, apparently Graham Poll is reported to have said to a group of Chelsea players in the game at White Hart Lane - "some of you need to be taught a lesson" regarding their discipline.

Apparently, they disagree. :rolleyes:

Alleged talk of Chelski wanting Aaron Lennon, yeah... that'll happen, totally. *cough*

[Captain Stu]

Manchester City are lining up a move for Excelsior Rotterdam striker Andwele Slory. (Daily Mirror)

Manager Stuart Pearce has not conceded defeat in his battle to keep defender Sylvain Distin, who has been linked to Newcastle and Middlesbrough, at Manchester City. (Daily Mirror)

Struggling French club Monaco may try to lure former player Glenn Hoddle to manage them. (Daily Mail)

Leeds boss Dennis Wise is to target out-of-favour Manchester City right-back Danny Mills, who is on loan at Hull, for a return to Elland Road. (Daily Mail)

Southend striker Freddy Eastwood is being eyed by Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neil. (Daily Mail)

The latest club Sven-Goran Eriksson has been linked to taking over is Ukrainian side Dynamo Kiev. (The Times)

OTHER GOSSIP
Chelsea players and, in particular, Ashley Cole are at odds with referee Graham Poll after the club's defeat at the hands of Tottenham. (Various)

Former Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric has insisted he is committed to buying into Leicester, despite revealing he has had offers from other clubs. (Daily Mirror)

Former England boss Sir Bobby Robson has revealed how he once talked Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson out of retirement in 2002. (The Sun)

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd has had a meeting with manager Glenn Roeder, captain Scott Parker and senior player Shay Given about the club's current predicament. (Daily Mirror)

Meanwhile, Shepherd said he appointed ex-boss Graeme Souness against the will of the fans. (Daily Telegraph)

Bolton midfielder El Hadji Diouf claims referee Mark Clattenburg apologised for disallowing a Stelios Giannakopoulos goal in the 1-0 loss against Wigan. (Daily Mirror)

West Ham have granted the Icelandic consortium bidding to take over the club access to its accounts. (Daily Telegraph)

But the West Ham board will discuss a rival offer from businessman Kia Joorabchian as a conclusion to the matter draws to a close. (The Times)

Dundee United boss Craig Levein guided his side to victory over struggling Rangers but has defended his counterpart Paul Le Guen. (Daily Record)

Former Rangers striker Ally McCoist believes Rangers need a nasty streak to turn around their form. (Daily Record)

AND FINALLY...
Southend boss Steve Tilson has challenged Rio Ferdinand to a game of table tennis after the Manchester United player's boast at his qualities in playing the game. Tilson wants to bet a week of his wages against Ferdinand's for charity. (The Sun)

[weeniebeenie]

Southend boss Steve Tilson has challenged Rio Ferdinand to a game of table tennis after the Manchester United player's boast at his qualities in playing the game. Tilson wants to bet a week of his wages against Ferdinand's for charity. (The Sun)

I have a sneaky suspicion that charities would be hoping that Ferdinand loses. Not that Southend dont pay well!

[**dylan**]

El Hadji Diouf arrested over beating his wife up (http://uk.news.yahoo.com/07112006/140/football-star-held-wife-assault.html)

Bolton Wanderers striker El-Hadji Diouf has been arrested over allegations he beat up his wife. The Senegal international was held by police following reports of an assault at the couple's home in the early hours of Sunday morning. It was reported his wife Valerie called the police after suffering a cut lip.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "Police were called to an address in Bolton at 6.45am on November 5 following reports of an assault.

"Officers arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of committing assault.

"He has since been bailed pending further inquiries to appear at a police station tomorrow."

[Captain Stu]

I bet he spat on her too.

[Bexster]

4. Big fat sweaty LOLZ at Wenger, he definately came off looking like the cunt. I don't blame Pards for celebrating, he's been having a dire time lately, his team pulls off a massive victory and damn right he should be allowed to celebrate. If we disallow that shit, why bother even watching footie at all?
True. :rolleyes:

I think I threw my phone down in disgust in the middle of Sainsburys on sunday when that result came through.

[Ian Mc]

Hometown club or not, the professional opinion of Newcastle must be really low if he chose to go to Middlesborough instead.

Luque is a proven team goalscorer in Spain, i think he needs a 10-15 match straight run in the team to fully integrate himself. I like Luque and think he can do the job.

Is that why Damien Duff turned down Liverpool for us?

Luque was a proven player in Spain, but to me that's nothing, I've seen so many players make it in Spain and nowhere else, that's why I never buy into any of the hype you guys give some guys in that league.
Luque has been given chances, his biggest quality is that he can finish and that he can do nothing for 89 minutes and turn it on for the last minute and make a difference.
However, I sat there and watched him on a couple of occassions last season and in the reserves this season and he is just a lazy twat, even in the reserves he's been lazy...maybe if he sorts his attitude out then he could contribute something but at the moment he isn't deserving.

[Captain Stu]

Is that why Damien Duff turned down Liverpool for us?

I'd say that was more down to first-team football, Newcastle wanted him as a talisman of their team... Liverpool wanted another superstar to rotate. Plus I bet we weren't offering anywhere near as much dough.

I'm actually amazed at how dire Luque has been.

[Ian Mc]

I'd say that was more down to first-team football, Newcastle wanted him as a talisman of their team... Liverpool wanted another superstar to rotate. Plus I bet we weren't offering anywhere near as much dough.
.

Sheppard just gave a statement which touched on our extortionate wages...apparently it has something to do with the weather up here.

Yes Freddie :S

[Captain Stu]

Sheppard just gave a statement which touched on our extortionate wages...apparently it has something to do with the weather up here.

Yes Freddie :S

Hahaha, that's gotta be one of the all-time best excuses ever! That's right up there with Ferguson speeding down the hard shoulder on the motorway because he had the squits. :D

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I'd say that was more down to first-team football, Newcastle wanted him as a talisman of their team... Liverpool wanted another superstar to rotate. Plus I bet we weren't offering anywhere near as much dough.

I'm actually amazed at how dire Luque has been.

apart from the Bottle-job traitor Gerrard, name another 'superstar' :D

talking of superstars, Ronaldinho won the FIFPro overrated good once every ten games buck toothed cunt of the year award again....

[Captain Stu]

apart from the Bottle-job traitor Gerrard, name another 'superstar' :D

talking of superstars, Ronaldinho won the FIFPro overrated good once every ten games buck toothed cunt of the year award again....

Alonso, Riise, Hyypia, Carragher, Finnan, Kuyt (based on the way he's playing right now).

[Bexster]

apart from the Bottle-job traitor Gerrard, name another 'superstar' :D

talking of superstars, Ronaldinho won the FIFPro overrated good once every ten games buck toothed cunt of the year award again....
Makes a change from Fat Ron winning it :D

*puzzled and can't think of another player to fit that description...*

[Captain Stu]

And Ronaldinho winning the FIFPro thing again is garbage, he's been shite the last 12 months.

Alls he does now is score 2 goals the week before playing Chelsea and then get marked out the game.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Alonso, Riise, Hyypia, Carragher, Finnan, Kuyt (based on the way he's playing right now).

????!

Hyypia is slow and past it now, maybe a few years ago yeah, i'd agree. Carragher and Finnan are usually solid average defenders, nothing special. if we branded them superstars. in the same respect we'd also have to include say Lucas Neill, Linvoy Primus, Olof Mellberg and Arjan De Zeeuw

[Bexster]

????!

Hyypia is slow and past it now, maybe a few years ago yeah, i'd agree. Carragher and Finnan are usually solid average defenders, nothing special. if we branded them superstars. in the same respect we'd also have to include say Lucas Neill, Linvoy Primus, Olof Mellberg and Arjan De Zeeuw
A legend, only because in all the time he's been here, no one has been able to pronounce his name properly.

[Captain Stu]

De Zay-oow?

[Bexster]

De Zay-oow?
I think that's right. That's how I say it anyway.

[Captain Stu]

I think that's right. That's how I say it anyway.

Snap, I used to say "De Zee-ewe" but that's a load of balls.

[danlalala]

(like how Rio Turdinhand benefited heaps from playing with Radebe)

Lucas Radebe = greatest sportsman in the history of competition.

[EvilElvis]

Hehehehe! (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/southend_utd/live_text/default.stm)

[Captain Stu]

Hehehehe! (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/southend_utd/live_text/default.stm)

What the...!!! :eek:

[Renegades of funk 8]

go southend :D

[EvilElvis]

What the...!!! :eek:


And Man Utd played a few big name players


Man Utd
29 Kuszczak
22 O'Shea (75 Lee )
06 Brown
27 Silvestre
04 Heinze
07 Ronaldo
25 Jones (90 Shawcross )
24 Fletcher
23 Richardson
14 Smith (60 Evra )
08 Rooney



But you'll get the "It's only the Carling Cup" excuse - which is weird given their celebrations when they won it last season...

[Captain Stu]

29 Kuszczak
22 O'Shea
06 Brown
27 Silvestre
04 Heinze
07 Ronaldo
24 Fletcher
23 Richardson
14 Smith (60 Evra )
08 Rooney

All of those feature heavily in the Premiership.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! :D :D :D :D

[Mr. Brownstone]

southy southy, southy southy, heh.

celtic are currently in extra time with freaking falkirk, 1-1. grrr.

[Bexster]

Nice one Southend. Way to totally ruin Fergie's week :D

[friartuck]

What an abysmal result.

[EvilElvis]

southy southy, southy southy, heh.

celtic are currently in extra time with freaking falkirk, 1-1. grrr.

5-4 to Falkirk on penalties. :D

[EvilElvis]

Both Charlton and Newcastle win on penalties

[boxshapedheart]

We just weren't up to it again. Ronaldo and Rooney were creating stuff - their goalie made good saves. But no-one else was really doing anything for us. The pundits were going on about a pen Rooney should have got, but really the whole thing was so crap and we didn't deserve it. 2 games in a row we weren't up to scratch in that cup.

Rennie was such a "Look at me" cunt today. Giving Flahavan a yellow card for getting a stud put back on his boot? Stupid git.

[Mr. Brownstone]

5-4 to Falkirk on penalties. :D

i know. pish. :(

[O.B.gene]

come on Southend!!!! :D:D:D

[Bexster]

Both Charlton and Newcastle win on penalties
Chesterfield equalised? Well, they've done themselves really proud.

[EvilElvis]

Chesterfield equalised? Well, they've done themselves really proud.


Chesterfield scored with the last kick of the game in extra time!

[EvilElvis]

i know. pish. :(


Celtic can't do the treble!

Got to be Rangers best result of the season :D


Yep! We'll get beat on wednesday!

[timesfooall]

Hmmmm what a strange result. Credit to Southend they defended well and got stuck in, still think we didnt deserve to lose but its our own fault we didnt take our chances and their keeper probably had the game of his life. We should of had a stonewall pen but we didnt get it, cant use that as an excuse with the way footie is today. Very disappointed to be going out in the early stages. :(

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Rennie is the worst referee in football, he's only in the premiership because he's black. /not rascist, it's true

[O.B.gene]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=eBV1pqzAEuI
(http://youtube.com/watch?v=5P6UU6m3cqk)

[timesfooall]

Chelsea may make a move for River Plate striker Gonzalo Higuain in the January transfer window and beat Manchester United to the 18-year-old's signature. (Daily Mirror)

Wigan forward Lee McCulloch's lack of first team football could see him consider a move to Charlton in January. (Daily Mirror)

Arsenal are aiming to agree a deal which will give them first refusal on Le Mans goalkeeper Yohann Pele. (Daily Mail)


Back to top

OTHER GOSSIP
Sir Alex Ferguson shook hands in March 1984 on a deal to join Tottenham as manager at the end of that season before changing his mind. (Daily Mail)


Celtic midfielder Jari Jarosik has been called up by the Czech Republic for the first time in a year and is set to face Denmark despite his lack of first-team action for his club. (The Sun)

Real Madrid boss Fabio Capello has revealed he dropped David Beckham to the bench because of the damaging effect of the midfielder being dropped by England. (Various)

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has had a chat with struggling Jermaine Pennant to help him regain his form. (Daily Mail)

West Ham are ready to ditch Kia Joorabchian's takeover offer after he cut his price with the rival Icelandic consortium now in the driving seat. (The Sun)

But both of these bids could be scuppered by an anonymous American bidder entering the fray. (Daily Telegraph)

Rangers boss Paul Le Guen insists he will not raid the transfer market to improve his side's fortunes. (Daily Record)

Wigan defender Andy Webster says the higher standard of the Premiership compared to the SPL is proving a tough challenge. (Daily Record)

Kilmarnock manager Jim Jefferies admitted he thought Motherwell boss Maurice Malpas was going to "banjo" him after the pair clashed during the CIS Cup quarter-final tie. (The Herald)

AND FINALLY...
Birmingham boss Steve Bruce joked that if managers started their own fight club he would not want to do battle with Bolton's Sam Allardyce. But he reckons a fight between him and ex-team-mate Bryan Robson "would be a decent one". (Daily Star)


All quiet on the western front:rolleyes:

[timesfooall]

double post

[Captain Stu]

Chelsea may make a move for River Plate striker Gonzalo Higuain in the January transfer window and beat Manchester United to the 18-year-old's signature. (Daily Mirror)

Wow, surprised!! :rolleyes:

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has had a chat with struggling Jermaine Pennant to help him regain his form. (Daily Mail)

He's not doing that badly, for fucks sake, he needs a run in the team like ALL players do before you get the best out of him. :confused:

[timesfooall]

To be honest from what ive seen he hasnt played him that much, so you cant expect him to be in the form of his life.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Looks like Steeeeeeeeed may be starting against Vale tonight.

Forgot about him.:D

[Captain Stu]

To be honest from what ive seen he hasnt played him that much, so you cant expect him to be in the form of his life.

Precisely and a few times he's brought him on the frigging left-wing.

[Bexster]

FA have brought charges of Improper Conduct against Alan Pardue and Mr. Wenger.

Bit harsh. It was a bit of argy bargy, but nothing that bad.

[Captain Stu]

Improper conduct? They should have brought charges of being little girls on the touchline. :D

[Bexster]

Improper conduct? They should have brought charges of being little girls on the touchline. :D
Exactly. Handbags, yeah, but not a proper charge. FA got nothing better to do with their time.

[Captain Stu]

Exactly. Handbags, yeah, but not a proper charge. FA got nothing better to do with their time.

Innit, probably took about £10,000 worth of time to decide that... but god forbid they take measures to prevent cheaters and divers. Oh no no no. :mad:

[Bexster]

Innit, probably took about £10,000 worth of time to decide that... but god forbid they take measures to prevent cheaters and divers. Oh no no no. :mad:
It's taken them how long, 7 years, to sort out plyers having coins thrown at them, but 5 seconds and a lot of money to pick out handbags.

Twats.

[EvilElvis]

You gotta love the fact that the FA are paying Sven £13k PER DAY till he finds a new job.

Guess they need to find excuses to find teams to cover their costs...

[Captain Stu]

Another point, why the fuck did Pardew get charged with anything? All he did was celebrate a fucking game. :rolleyes:

Some cunty Brum just said on SS1 that he thinks Liverpool will get beat 7-0. lolz at you, you live in Birmingham and are a thicko.

[Renegades of funk 8]

you live in Birmingham and are a thicko.

:D

[Captain Stu]

Dudek
Peltier
Agger
Paletta
Warnock
Pennant
Sissoko
Zenden
Gonzalez
Fower
Bellamy

Hmmm, not a bad side... interested to see Agger back and Gonzalez and Pennant playing together.

[EvilElvis]

Some cunty Brum just said on SS1 that he thinks Liverpool will get beat 7-0. lolz at you, you live in Birmingham and are a thicko.


Thats funny!

Care in the community actually works!

[EvilElvis]

Villa chairman to fund cup trip (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/aston_villa/6105264.stm)


Aston Villa chairman Randy Lerner will pay for 6,000 fans to travel to next week's Carling Cup game at Chelsea.
Lerner's gesture comes after manager Martin O'Neill praised the fans who travelled to Leicester in the last round of the competition.

"The manager was overwhelmed by the fantastic support we had and made the chairman aware of that," a Villa spokesman said on the club website.

"This is his way of trying to help the fans get down to Stamford Bridge."

Villa progressed to the fourth round of the Carling Cup as a result of a 3-2 win of the Foxes at the Walkers Stadium.

The visitors needed a goal from youngster Gabriel Agbonlahor in extra-time to secure their passage.

[Captain Stu]

Fucks sake, Momo has dislocated his shoulder. He's fucked. :(

Some Birmingham cunt should have been straight-red carded for a lunging, off the ground, two-footed "tackle" on Zenden. Fucking dirty cunt.

[Captain Stu]

Everton and Arseanal are still 0-0 but James McFadden has been sent off for "foul and abusive language" while arguing about an Andy Johnson penalty claim. The referee? Graham Poll. :D

*

This reminds me, I meant to pose this question to you chaps and lasses the other day: Andy Johnson: Cheating, diving cunt or not?

Personally, and this is nothing to do with him playing for Everton, he's one of the worst cheats in the whole league. You only have to breath on him in the box and he's down on the floor, there've already been a couple of high-profile incidents involving him this season and we're only a dozen games in.

Look at his season up with Palace, something like 12 (may be wrong on that) goals were from penalties... it would be very interesting to see how many of those were from questionable penalties.

?

[EvilElvis]

This reminds me, I meant to pose this question to you chaps and lasses the other day: Andy Johnson: Cheating, diving cunt or not?



Andy Johnson: Cheating, diving cunt

[Captain Stu]

Booyeah!!

Abysmal penalty from Bellamy, he did the old staggered run-up, half-stopped and Taylor dived to his right... so Bellamy put the ball to his right and straight into the keepers stomach. Oy vey.

[boxshapedheart]

That was a really shite pen.

Andy Johnson: Cheating, diving cunt
yup.

[Renegades of funk 8]

spurs are losing :D

[boxshapedheart]

Villa chairman to fund cup trip (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/aston_villa/6105264.stm)


Aston Villa chairman Randy Lerner will pay for 6,000 fans to travel to next week's Carling Cup game at Chelsea.
Lerner's gesture comes after manager Martin O'Neill praised the fans who travelled to Leicester in the last round of the competition.

"The manager was overwhelmed by the fantastic support we had and made the chairman aware of that," a Villa spokesman said on the club website.

"This is his way of trying to help the fans get down to Stamford Bridge."

Villa progressed to the fourth round of the Carling Cup as a result of a 3-2 win of the Foxes at the Walkers Stadium.

The visitors needed a goal from youngster Gabriel Agbonlahor in extra-time to secure their passage.
Well, those 6000 fans will be glad they didn't have to pay travel... 4-0 at the mo

[EvilElvis]

Well, those 6000 fans will be glad they didn't have to pay travel... 4-0 at the mo



Mickey Mouse tournament innit?

[boxshapedheart]

Mickey Mouse tournament innit?
Too right!*

*This year. :p

[Renegades of funk 8]

at the moment we're looking at a final that will include chelsea or liverpool or arsenal

[Bud]

1-0 Arsenal with minimal first teamers.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Spurs 1 Port Vale 1. Extra time.

*tut*

[EvilElvis]

My workmates and I were discussing this at lunchtime:


Why not re-vamp the League Cup and make it a British League Cup?

Put lower league teams into localised qualifying rounds and then when there 64 or 32 teams (including the Premiership and SPL teams) make it a knock out like it was over last few nights.


Paul was bemoaning Celtic being knocked out. There was only 18,000 fans at the game - My mate said losing didn't bother him at all. He had tickets for last season's final and couldn't be bothered going along!

[Renegades of funk 8]

Spurs 1 Port Vale 1. Extra time.

*tut*

i can see the goals flood in for spurs now

[EvilElvis]

Rangers crisis deepens... (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_cups/6123792.stm)


I was offered a ticket for the game and thankfully said no!

[Captain Stu]

Mickey Mouse tournament innit?

Only people who get knocked out say that. :D

Nah, it is a Mickey Mouse tournament... but when you win it, you're still glad of a trophy and for Villa it'd be a guarenteed place in the UEFA Cup too so it's not so worthless is it?

[EvilElvis]

Only people who get knocked out say that. :D

Nah, it is a Mickey Mouse tournament... but when you win it, you're still glad of a trophy and for Villa it'd be a guarenteed place in the UEFA Cup too so it's not so worthless is it?


Pfffft! We're still above Liverpool in the league boyo! :p

It's only good if your team wins it, otherwise its a bit shit and the final is an excuse for a day out.

[Ian Mc]

I'd be over the moon if Newcastle won it!!
Although at the moment I'd be over the moon if we actually scored a goal in the league.

[EvilElvis]

I'd be over the moon if Newcastle won it!!
Although at the moment I'd be over the moon if we actually scored a goal in the league.


Ameobi's out for season now ain't he?

[Ian Mc]

Ameobi's out for season now ain't he?

Yup...and what depresses me about that is that we'll actually miss him...what has become of us!!??

[Novacane]

Rangers fans are demonstrating outside Ibrox right now apparently. :D

[Bud]

It's a sad day when you actually miss Ameobi

[Captain Stu]

Rangers fans are demonstrating outside Ibrox right now apparently. :D

Why, got nothing better to do?

[Novacane]

Why, got nothing better to do?

Better than watching the team play i suppose.

Where's Peter van Vossen these days? They need a good striker.

[EvilElvis]

Rangers fans are demonstrating outside Ibrox right now apparently. :D



I've an idea where the problem lies:

Hint: It's not Le Guen or Murray.

[EvilElvis]

Better than watching the team play i suppose.

Where's Peter van Vossen these days? They need a good striker.


Ahem, remember Wayne Biggins?

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

i can see the goals flood in for spurs now

Good call.

[Novacane]

Ahem, remember Wayne Biggins?

:eek: all too well. And Stuart Slater! :(

[Renegades of funk 8]

Good call.

whats the score now?

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

whats the score now?

3-1

[Renegades of funk 8]

3-1

oh right, go me :D

[EvilElvis]

Better than watching the team play i suppose.

Where's Peter van Vossen these days? They need a good striker.

When anyone misses a sitter, it's called a Van Vossen

This is why (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILt3vg7oCzY)

[Ian Mc]

They miss Stephan Guivarch (sp?)

[EvilElvis]

They miss Stephan Guivarch (sp?)


You had to take it too far didn't you Ian!

[Ian Mc]

You had to take it too far didn't you Ian!

I'm sorry :(

[EvilElvis]

I'm sorry :(

I remember in W.C '98 he kept Henry out the French side - he failed to score in the entire tournament despite playing every game - Newcastle signed him and sold him onto Rangers 3 months later. At his press conference at Ibrox he looked as if he'd rather be anywhere else.


We sold him at the end of the season and he promptly vanished.

[Ian Mc]

He was actually injured in the second game and didn't play any other games in the tournament...he made his debut for us against Liverpool and scored, then Gullit took over and he suddenly ended up at Ibrox.

I think he's retired now, I'm not sure.

[EvilElvis]

He was actually injured in the second game and didn't play any other games in the tournament...he made his debut for us against Liverpool and scored, then Gullit took over and he suddenly ended up at Ibrox.

I think he's retired now, I'm not sure.

I'm sure he played every game and never scored and there was so much hype about him... Maybe got him confused with someone else

Seemed a strange transfer when he joined us. I saw him play once and he just did show any enthusiasm.

[Ian Mc]

Yeah, he was injured, I remember watching the game at a birthday party and all of my Sunderland supporting family laughing at me about it.

I remember getting pissed off at him because he scored for you in his first game and almost showed effort, though his true colours came out afterwards....I think he believed his own hype...which isn't much if it comes from France.

Who was the Rangers manager at the time? Was it Dick?

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I know the pub terry hurlock gets his Coke from, want me to give him a call Ollie? he can't do much worse!

[Ian Mc]

For anyone who is interested....it's two years today that Martin Jol joined Spurs.

I love useless trivia!

[EvilElvis]

Yeah, he was injured, I remember watching the game at a birthday party and all of my Sunderland supporting family laughing at me about it.

I remember getting pissed off at him because he scored for you in his first game and almost showed effort, though his true colours came out afterwards....I think he believed his own hype...which isn't much if it comes from France.

Who was the Rangers manager at the time? Was it Dick?

Aye it was Advocaat!


That was the best season I can remember - despite losing 5-1 to Celtic - we struggled in our first few games, but we ended up with the treble at the end.

Just got Arthur Numan's book he said it was his favourite time as a player.

[EvilElvis]

I know the pub terry hurlock gets his Coke from, want me to give him a call Ollie? he can't do much worse!

Big Terry is always welcomed with open arms every time he comes back to Ibrox.

There are a few players who the fans love for showing commitment. Hurlock was one and Guivarch wasn't.

Graham Roberts made a comment "I spent a few years at Spurs and Security panics if I go near the entrace at White Hart Lane. I go to Ibrox and the security welcome me home..."

[EvilElvis]

For anyone who is interested....it's two years today that Martin Jol joined Spurs.

I love useless trivia!


I thought he was at Spurs as Assistant to the manager that lasted 3 months....

[Ian Mc]

Ah right...I should have read it properly then.
Well something happened with Jol and Spurs on this day in 2004 anyway.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Ah right...I should have read it properly then.
Well something happened with Jol and Spurs on this day in 2004 anyway.

Yeh he was made 1st Team coach after Santini left.

He's done a damn good job in the two years he's been in charge as well.

[EvilElvis]

Yeh he was made 1st Team coach after Santini left.

He's done a damn good job in the two years he's been in charge as well.

In all honesty I could have done a better job than Santini.

Fuck that, Tony Adams could have done a better job coaching Spurs

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

In all honesty I could have done a better job than Santini.

Fuck that, Tony Adams could have done a better job coaching Spurs

Yeah he was utterly clueless. I remember reading somewhere that one of the reasons he left is because he was promised a luxurious apartment near the coast but was never given one.

[EvilElvis]

Yeah he was utterly clueless.


I remember watching Spurs play on MOTD and if the full backs crossed the half way line, he went mental!


You were heading for relegation with him in charge.

[EvilElvis]

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez wants Valencia keeper Ludovic Butelle to replace Jose Reina. (Daily Mirror)

Sunderland expect to sign Swedish defender Per Nilsson for £1.3m in January. (Daily Mirror)

Cardiff want to extend James Chambers' loan spell from Watford after an injury another on-loan defender, Arsenal's Kerrea Gilbert. (Daily Telegraph)

On-loan Stoke midfielder Lee Hendrie wants to return to Aston Villa, despite interest from other Premiership clubs. (Daily Telegraph)

Everton boss David Moyes is prepared to allow teenage striker James Vaughan to leave the club on loan. (Times)

Liverpool midfielder Danny Guthrie wants a loan move. (Times)

Blackburn are weighing up a move for Egypt defender Wael Goma'a. (Times)

Manchester City boss Stuart Pearce is prepared to allow Danny Mills to join Hull permanently. (Daily Express)


OTHER GOSSIP
The Premier League will pass a new rule allowing ex-players of "exceptional calibre" to become "fast-track" Premiership managers. (Daily Mirror)

Businessman Kia Joorabchian's takeover of West Ham is on the verge of collapse. (Daily Star)

Carlos Tevez scored twice for West Ham in a friendly against Southampton - his first goals for the club. (Independent)

Premiership chairmen want clubs not under scrutiny by Lord Stevens' bung inquiry to be publicly exonerated. (Times)

Chelsea's John Terry will be quizzed by the FA after claiming he was given two conflicting reasons for his sending off against Spurs. (Daily Express)

Dunfermline are on the verge of unveiling Derry City boss Stephen Kenny as their new manager. (Daily Record)


AND FINALLY...
Sir Alex Ferguson's dressing room rant after Manchester United's Carling Cup defeat to Southend was heard by all the Shrimpers players.

Teddy Sheringham has been told to "act his age" after his bust-up with Cesc Fabregas following West Ham's defeat of Arsenal on Sunday. The warning comes from Fabregas' dad, who at 39 is a year younger than the Hammers striker. (The Sun)

[Captain Stu]

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez wants Valencia keeper Ludovic Butelle to replace Jose Reina. (Daily Mirror)

Erm... by all means, bring him in to COMPETE WITH REINA and finally get rid of Dudek but Carson should be our long-term keeping target, he's been playing brilliantly this season and, even though he's made a few clangers, it'd be harsh to drop Reina after he was so amazing last season.

That's a weird story, I saw it on SkySports.com this morning and it seems to have come completely out of the blue. :confused:

[EvilElvis]

My workmates and I were discussing this at lunchtime:


Why not re-vamp the League Cup and make it a British League Cup?

Put lower league teams into localised qualifying rounds and then when there 64 or 32 teams (including the Premiership and SPL teams) make it a knock out like it was over last few nights.


Paul was bemoaning Celtic being knocked out. There was only 18,000 fans at the game - My mate said losing didn't bother him at all. He had tickets for last season's final and couldn't be bothered going along!


Your feelings on this idea?!

Should we email the FA, SFA and BBC (Council telly coverage)

[Captain Stu]

I think it's a good idea, we have a league and two cups over here but nobody tries for the league cup half as much as the FA Cup, I personally would welcome any measures to restore it to it's former days. It used to be a big deal, something to crow about, now it's only really worth it as part of a double/treble or if you win nothing else in a season - you can say that you at least got SOME silverware.

I dare say the most popular option would be a series of group stages. :rolleyes: Scottish teams, non-league teams, championship teams and Prem teams and then they all mix together in the latter stages.

[EvilElvis]

I think it's a good idea, we have a league and two cups over here but nobody tries for the league cup half as much as the FA Cup, I personally would welcome any measures to restore it to it's former days. It used to be a big deal, something to crow about, now it's only really worth it as part of a double/treble or if you win nothing else in a season - you can say that you at least got SOME silverware.

I dare say the most popular option would be a series of group stages. :rolleyes: Scottish teams, non-league teams, championship teams and Prem teams and then they all mix together in the latter stages.

I'd go for the regionalised tournaments first - The thought of say Aberdeen getting Exeter isn't going to appeal for fans who want to travel.

[timesfooall]

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=427662&CPID=8&clid=1&lid=4161&title=Adu+to+link+up+with+United

Hmmmm this is interesting, would be a good move for United becuase he is and exciting prospect and open up the American market more to us.

[Captain Stu]

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=427662&CPID=8&clid=1&lid=4161&title=Adu+to+link+up+with+United

Hmmmm this is interesting, would be a good move for United becuase he is and exciting prospect and open up the American market more to us.

Wait until Chelsea hear about that...

[timesfooall]

Wait until Chelsea hear about that...

Hopefully the boy has sense..........*prays to footie god*

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I like the idea of a 'British League Cup' but it will create a lot of games, most likely for the lower league teams, we'd have to get rid of the Football League Trophy to accomodate the fixtures. plus, with the extra games, we'll get the 'winter break' whinging brigade again... :rolleyes:

Other news i noticed. Michel Platini says, if he is elected UEFA president, he'll scrap the 4th qualifying place in the Champions league for the big nations (England, Germany, Spain, Italy... any others?) they'll be uproar, but i think it's a good idea, in fact i think 3 places is too many. 'Champions' league should be for the champions.... with a qualifying round spot for 2nd place. it's never gonna get to that but it's a start. good on Platini

[EvilElvis]

Wait until Chelsea hear about that...

You just know what going to happen.

Arsenal and Man Utd admit they are interested in a player, chelski come in offer much more money for them to waste away.

Shaun Wright Phillips anyone?

[EvilElvis]

Hopefully the boy has sense..........*prays to footie god*

So he'll be off to Villa then?! :p

[Captain Stu]

Hopefully the boy has sense..........*prays to footie god*

Adu's very very highly rated... but to be honest, I couldn't see him putting Saha out the team, he's not done a thing wrong all season really so it'd be WELL harsh to drop him. But if he was down with a move to be a sub and cup player, it would be a good move.

I like the idea of a 'British League Cup' but it will create a lot of games, most likely for the lower league teams, we'd have to get rid of the Football League Trophy to accomodate the fixtures. plus, with the extra games, we'll get the 'winter break' whinging brigade again... :rolleyes:

Other news i noticed. Michel Platini says, if he is elected UEFA president, he'll scrap the 4th qualifying place in the Champions league for the big nations (England, Germany, Spain, Italy... any others?) they'll be uproar, but i think it's a good idea, in fact i think 3 places is too many. 'Champions' league should be for the champions.... with a qualifying round spot for 2nd place. it's never gonna get to that but it's a start. good on Platini

Yeah, the extra fixtures would be a total cock-up.

I agree, the Champions League should be for CHAMPIONS, like it always used to be, instead of the lame TV-fest that it is now. We won it four times when it was the real trophy you know. :)

You just know what going to happen.

Arsenal and Man Utd admit they are interested in a player, chelski come in offer much more money for them to waste away.

Shaun Wright Phillips anyone?

Well, for at least the past 12-18 months - whenever Adu's been mentioned, the two names on the breath have always been United and Chelsea.

Arsenal would be VERY interesting indeed... Henry in his wide-forward position, Adu up front and Van Persie behind. That'd be lethal as fuck.

I wouldn't exactly be gutted, like, if we decided to throw our name into the hat...

[EvilElvis]

Yeah, the extra fixtures would be a total cock-up.

I agree, the Champions League should be for CHAMPIONS, like it always used to be, instead of the lame TV-fest that it is now. We won it four times when it was the real trophy you know. :)

You wouldn't have won it last time and neither would Man Utd in '99.

[Captain Stu]

You wouldn't have won it last time and neither would Man Utd in '99.

Oh believe me, I know, I ranted for ages when United won it that if it was the "Champions League" they never would have won it.

I'll be honest, I'd sacrifice our boneriffic night in Istanbul if it would also take away United's jammy cunt night in Barcelona. :D

[EvilElvis]

Oh believe me, I know, I ranted for ages when United won it that if it was the "Champions League" they never would have won it.

I'll be honest, I'd sacrifice our boneriffic night in Istanbul if it would also take away United's jammy cunt night in Barcelona. :D


Don't blame you, however no matter how hard I try I can't take away Celtic being the first British team to win the European cup, Even though the club milk it for all it's worth any time you hear them mention "Lisbon Lions" it just induces sleep...

[Bud]

Adu won't come to Arsenal. At the moment we've got 3 young strikers scoring regulary in the Championship and Scottish League.

[Captain Stu]

Don't blame you, however no matter how hard I try I can't take away Celtic being the first British team to win the European cup, Even though the club milk it for all it's worth any time you hear them mention "Lisbon Lions" it just induces sleep...

Psssht, I'd just love to be the guy who presses the button, changes time and watches as Ferguson's only triumph in Europe goes down the shitter. :D

I know, it's petty and spiteful, but it'd be so worth it.

[EvilElvis]

Psssht, I'd just love to be the guy who presses the button, changes time and watches as Ferguson's only triumph in Europe goes down the shitter. :D

I know, it's petty and spiteful, but it'd be so worth it.

Fergie won Cup Winner's Cup with Aberdeen in '83 and Utd in '91(?)


Sadly, their fans still think the current team is on a par with that side.

Fools.

[Captain Stu]

Fergie won Cup Winner's Cup with Aberdeen in '83 and Utd in '91(?)


Sadly, their fans still think the current team is on a par with that side.

Fools.

I'll give him the 1983 one as they beat Real Madrid... but by 1991 it'd slipped downhill for me and it became the Eurodisney of trophies - you know, it may be alright but you know you'd rather be at Disneyworld. :D

[Captain Stu]

I'm bored and looking at Liverpool's page on Wikipedia. :)

Statistically, King Kenny has the highest win-percentage of all our managers (60.61%) compared to Shanks (52.19%), Sir Bob (56.12%) and Big Joe (53.28%).

At present, Rafa is in 2nd place with 56.45%.

[EvilElvis]

I'll give him the 1983 one as they beat Real Madrid... but by 1991 it'd slipped downhill for me and it became the Eurodisney of trophies - you know, it may be alright but you know you'd rather be at Disneyworld. :D


It's funny listening to Aberdeen fans gloat about that, yet ignore recent European performances - such as being beaten by Irish part timers Bohemians!

[boxshapedheart]

I'll give him the 1983 one as they beat Real Madrid... but by 1991 it'd slipped downhill for me and it became the Eurodisney of trophies - you know, it may be alright but you know you'd rather be at Disneyworld. :D
Nothin to do with it being United? :p

Also, bollocks, it's a damn good thing we were in the "Champions" league in '99, no other English club including the "Champions" could do it. Champions should be able to beat the puny runners-up. We were awesome ambassadors of English footy for Europe. :D


And we also won it back in the day too, when it was the real trophy, so there!

[Captain Stu]

And we also won it back in the day too, when it was the real trophy, so there!

Once? Pffft, any cunt can win it once. :D

[boxshapedheart]

Once? Pffft, any cunt can win it once. :D
I know, Villa won it twice! :eek:

[Captain Stu]

I know, Villa won it twice! :eek:

lolz.

[EvilElvis]

I know, Villa won it twice! :eek:

Forest won in twice under old Big 'ead.


Villa have only won it once

[boxshapedheart]

Forest won in twice under old Big 'ead.


Villa have only won it once
Ah bum, I goddarn confused myself. You teams are all the same to me. :p

We're the first English team though so it's ours.

*shakes fist at Celtic for taking the British crown*

[Captain Stu]

Ah bum, I goddarn confused myself. You teams are all the same to me. :p

We're the first English team though so it's ours.

*shakes fist at Celtic for taking the British crown*

Have you got one permanently in your trophy room? No... so it's ours. :D

[boxshapedheart]

Have you got one permanently in your trophy room? No... so it's ours. :D
Well, you Scousers do love to STEAL. :mad: We wuz robbed! I am peeved that you have the one we won in 99. I wants it.

[Captain Stu]

Well, you Scousers do love to STEAL. :mad: We wuz robbed! I am peeved that you have the one we won in 99. I wants it.

*humps it*

:D

[Bexster]

Other news i noticed. Michel Platini says, if he is elected UEFA president, he'll scrap the 4th qualifying place in the Champions league for the big nations (England, Germany, Spain, Italy... any others?) they'll be uproar, but i think it's a good idea, in fact i think 3 places is too many. 'Champions' league should be for the champions.... with a qualifying round spot for 2nd place. it's never gonna get to that but it's a start. good on Platini
I'll go for that. I know it would have meant Arse wouldn't have got through this year, but that would have been coz they weren't good enough and didn't deserve it, and that's right.

I'd go for the regionalised tournaments first - The thought of say Aberdeen getting Exeter isn't going to appeal for fans who want to travel.
True. I wouldn't travel up for that. If I can't travel down to Exeter from Swansea for a game, I'm not going to Aberdeen.

Shaun Wright Phillips anyone?
Can we have him please? Don't want Adu. He may be good in MLS, but is he going to be any good in the Prem?

Once? Pffft, any cunt can win it once. :D
Even Arse won it a couple of times. It says so on my Mum's coffee mug :D

Do you realise, if a Leicester fan wins the Euro Millions jackpot on friday, they could completely outbid Mandaric for the club and provide the club with a fantastic income from the winnings, and still have plenty enough to live off. I've suggested this to my Leicester Dad, but Arsenal Mum says no.

[Bud]

Press needs to get sorted here. No-one is sure if Milan has bid £6million or £25million. It would see City back into the Premiership, that's for sure.

[Bexster]

Press needs to get sorted here. No-one is sure if Milan has bid £6million or £25million. It would see City back into the Premiership, that's for sure.
Last I heard it was £25 mill. As long as he puts the effort behind the bid and sorts City out, we'll be happy. They've got the potential, they just need someone to inject some energy and passion.

[Captain Stu]

I keep hearing £25M, surely £6M is horrendously under-priced? :confused:

I dislike Mandaric, he is well fuckin' dodgy.

[Bexster]

I keep hearing £25M, surely £6M is horrendously under-priced? :confused:

I dislike Mandaric, he is well fuckin' dodgy.
True, but he didn't exactly do Pompey any harm.

[Bud]

The squad is pretty young with low wages so it's looking pretty bright. Conrad Logan is currently keeping out two former international keepers. I just wonder what will become of Rob Kelly.

[Captain Stu]

True, but he didn't exactly do Pompey any harm.

Well, not until his final 12 months or so.

[Bud]

I keep hearing £25M, surely £6M is horrendously under-priced? :confused:

I dislike Mandaric, he is well fuckin' dodgy.

£6M was the cost it took to get us out of Administration. To buy out the club, he has to pay the same. The stadium is currently owned by Teachers in the US. There's plenty of rumours that we (Tigers) will buy that though.

[EvilElvis]

*shakes fist at Celtic for taking the British crown*


As much as it pains me to say this, but the players who Celtic team who won the European Cup were all born withing 30 miles of Celtic Park.


No other club has managed that and the way of the football world now, I doubt they ever will

[Captain Stu]

No other club has managed that and the way of the football world now, I doubt they ever will

Boro would have come close(ish) had they won last season UEFA Cup.

[Bexster]

Well, not until his final 12 months or so.
No, but they're not really in a bad position even now. Leicester would love that.

£6M was the cost it took to get us out of Administration. To buy out the club, he has to pay the same. The stadium is currently owned by Teachers in the US. There's plenty of rumours that we (Tigers) will buy that though.
There's been rumours for ages about merges and stuff. I thought Welford road was being updated though.

In their last prem season, if all of Leicester's games had finished after 80 minutes instead of 90, then they would have finished 2nd.

[Bud]

Welford was going to be re-developed, but the whole RFU messing the clubs around has forced us to delay plans. We'd easily challenge a bigger crowd than City if we had more seats. We do hold the highest attendance there ever for a game.

[EvilElvis]

Boro would have come close(ish) had they won last season UEFA Cup.

Nah!

11 first team players born within 30 miles of the stadium?

[Captain Stu]

Nah!

11 first team players born within 30 miles of the stadium?

I'm sure it said something like that.

[Captain Stu]

Gerry Francis made a good point re: Poll getting abuse last night and sending off James McFaggot.

He reckons that it should go back to the old way whereby the link between team and ref was the Captain, that's it.

It'd be a VERY interesting experiment, say for two matchdays, only the Captain can talkback to the ref - anyone else who does it either gets booked or sent off depending on the severity of the abuse.

Like, McFaggot is justifying his actions by saying he never called Poll "a cheat" but admits he did shout and swear at him... well, that's still not something you should be doing.

*

Poor Momo is out for at least a month. :(

[Captain Stu]

Also, Spurs looked alright last night... Huddlestone played a blinder and that second goal of his was fucking immense!!

[Bexster]

Gerry Francis made a good point re: Poll getting abuse last night and sending off James McFaggot.

He reckons that it should go back to the old way whereby the link between team and ref was the Captain, that's it.

It'd be a VERY interesting experiment, say for two matchdays, only the Captain can talkback to the ref - anyone else who does it either gets booked or sent off depending on the severity of the abuse.

Like, McFaggot is justifying his actions by saying he never called Poll "a cheat" but admits he did shout and swear at him... well, that's still not something you should be doing.

*

Poor Momo is out for at least a month. :(
I'd like that. From a refs point of view, it would be a lot easier. As long as it was a clear cut rule - no grey areas, then it could work.

[timesfooall]

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=427732&CPID=8&clid=1&lid=4161&title=United+confirm+Adu+arrival

:D Come onnnnnnnnnn

[Captain Stu]

S'only a trial... plus, as Bex said, the leap from MLS (crap) to Premiership (awesome) is immense.

[timesfooall]

Don't spoil it!! :p

Nahh i think he is a very special talent from what ive seen when he has played for the US. Heres hoping!

[EvilElvis]

I'm sure it said something like that.

Middlesborough team
Schwarzer
Parnaby
Riggott
Southgate
Queudrue (Yakubu 70)
Morrison (Maccarone 45)
Rochemback
Boateng
Downing
Viduka (Cattermole 85)
Hasselbaink.
Subs Not Used: Jones, Ehiogu, Parlour, Bates.


I'd say 6 possible local's including bench warmers - Jones, Bates, Cattermole, Downing, Morrison and Riggott - but I ain't sure if they are local to 'Boro.

[Captain Stu]

Ah right, fair enough... it must've been their league cup side. There was one where the entire 16-man squad was born and raised within about 20 miles of the ground.

[EvilElvis]

Rangers fans are demonstrating outside Ibrox right now apparently. :D


Roughly 200 fans were demanding "Murray must go" and it's time to "sack the board"


Short term mories these fans

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Also, Spurs looked alright last night... Huddlestone played a blinder and that second goal of his was fucking immense!!

I reckon in 4/5 years or so he'll be playing the holding role for England.

[Captain Stu]

I reckon in 4/5 years or so he'll be playing the holding role for England.

Is he in the U21s?

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Is he in the U21s?

Yup.

[Captain Stu]

Good good, I'd have to agree - if he carries on improving the way he has done, he's gonna be a complete leg-end.

[EvilElvis]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/6133078.stm

Keeper Hedman given Chelsea trial

Premiership champions Chelsea have handed a trial to former Coventry and Celtic goalkeeper Magnus Hedman.
The Blues are keen to boost their goalkeeping options because Petr Cech is sidelined with a head injury.

"I'll go over and train for a couple of days so they can see how things look," he said on Swedish TV4's website.

Former Sweden international Hedman, 33, announced he had decided to retire from the game after leaving Scottish side Celtic in the summer of 2005.

He added: "I mean, it is one-and-a-half years since I played soccer and that is a long time.

"Chelsea mainly want to see that I'm not overweight and can move well and still have good technique. It feels pretty promising right now."

Cech's long-term absence leaves Carlo Cudicini and Hilario as the only fit first-team keepers at Stamford Bridge.

[Captain Stu]

SOmething I didn't know about the whole "Benitez looking to replace Reina" thing... Reina's contract is up in June, he was only signed on a two-year deal apparently.

That makes it completely different, if this guy's so hot - sign him and bring Carson back.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/6133078.stm

Keeper Hedman given Chelsea trial

Premiership champions Chelsea have handed a trial to former Coventry and Celtic goalkeeper Magnus Hedman.
The Blues are keen to boost their goalkeeping options because Petr Cech is sidelined with a head injury.

"I'll go over and train for a couple of days so they can see how things look," he said on Swedish TV4's website.

Former Sweden international Hedman, 33, announced he had decided to retire from the game after leaving Scottish side Celtic in the summer of 2005.

He added: "I mean, it is one-and-a-half years since I played soccer and that is a long time.

"Chelsea mainly want to see that I'm not overweight and can move well and still have good technique. It feels pretty promising right now."

Cech's long-term absence leaves Carlo Cudicini and Hilario as the only fit first-team keepers at Stamford Bridge.

They shoulda never sold Neil Sullivan.

*snigger*

[EvilElvis]

They shoulda never sold Neil Sullivan.

*snigger*

Sully's at Leeds now innit?

[Two-Bob Peeters]

in other news Millwall have cut their annual losses!






to only £4.8m!

[EvilElvis]

To cheer Stoob up (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/6124214.stm)

[Bexster]

They shoulda never sold Neil Sullivan.

*snigger*
Do you remember when he was the best British goalie behind Dave? Big things were planned I seem to remember.

[EvilElvis]

Do you remember when he was the best British goalie behind Dave? Big things were planned I seem to remember.

He decided to become the Scottish goalie.


A Cockney in goals for Scotland.

Any wonder we turned to Alchy's?!

[Captain Stu]

To cheer Stoob up (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/6124214.stm)

:confused:

EDIT: Fuck, Sissoko's out for THREE months. :(

[Bud]

Carson won't be happy with sitting on the bench for Liverpool. If they are to be rid of Reina, then there is still Dudek as well. I can see Carson leaving to get first team. He's been superb for Charlton.

[Captain Stu]

Aye, Dudek's got no future - he'll be gone soon and it looks like Reina will too. I'd sooner we used Carson as our future keeper, he's shown what he can really do at Charlton - he's immense, definately playing better than any other English keeper.

[Bud]

I'd use him from the start next season. Showing faith in him in the short run, because in the long run he'll be England number 1.

[Captain Stu]

in the long run he'll be England number 1.

Without a doubt... or at least he should be.

[EvilElvis]

:confused:

Shit! Forgot he went to Marseille!

Thought he was still at Liverpool which would have cheered you up...

[danlalala]

Carson won't be happy with sitting on the bench for Liverpool. If they are to be rid of Reina, then there is still Dudek as well. I can see Carson leaving to get first team. He's been superb for Charlton.
If the greedy little cunt had stayed at Leeds, he'd be starting every game. Granted, it's 1st Division, but surely playing every game at 1st division level is better than playing Zero (yes - 0) games and being 3rd choice at a Prem club?

If Dudek and Reina go, he HAS to be a shoe in for Liverpool number one. He is an amazing keeper and will be England number one in the mid term.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Hawks Cup cash fears grow

THE HAWKS admit they are becoming increasingly concerned their FA Cup showpiece is heading for financial disaster.

And the Football Association have also raised concerns over the 'excessive' police bill they believe almost equates to manning an FA Cup final.

The Conference South club were banking on a minimum of 7,800 supporters turning out just to break even as they attempt to meet their £35,000 Hampshire police bill.

But just 2,000 tickets have so far been sold for the biggest game in the Hawks' history. That includes just 190 purchased by Millwall fans.

If sales continue to be sluggish, the Hawks could lose more than £10,000 on the fixture.
Hawks secretary Trevor Brock said unless there was an upturn in sales the club faced crisis.

Brock said: 'We would have expected to have sold more than that. It's depressing really.
'I am urging people to please come out and support us. We are absolutely desperate.
'Obviously we cannot force people to attend and it's still early days. But the bottom line is we need 7,800 people through those turnstiles and are now in serious trouble.

'Whether we attract one or 20,000 fans, the police bill is non-negotiable. Numbers are irrelevant. The fact it's graded as a Category C match is what's driving the cost up.
'We have got to remain positive but at this stage it's very difficult.'

The Hawks' plight has now drawn sympathy from the FA, who gave the green light for the clash to be switched from West Leigh Park.

That decision was made on police advice. Now they have raised concerns over the size of the bill for the privilege of playing at Fratton Park.
Steve Clark, the FA's head of competitions, said: 'I think the police costs involved are excessive.

'The costs are above what you would expect for matches to be held around the country and it is a little hard to understand why.

'In fact, Havant & Waterlooville's policing costs are not far away from what the figures could be for the FA Cup final.

'Obviously Hampshire police have the intelligence for a game like this and it is not for us to criticise. It is not for me to criticise costs and the number of officers employed.

'It's just a shame but this is down to the police. All we can do is offer advice.'
Hampshire police have said they are looking into the Hawks' complaint about the bill but will not comment until they have dealt with the issue.

neil.allen@thenews.co.uk

Basically the police are cunts and are using Millwall hysteria to charge an unreasonable amount to H&W. it's funny how the police can use an 'intelligence' excuse, especially when only 200 Millwall tickets have been sold! Hopefully someone will step in and help them out with the policing costs. i'm pretty sure we would if we wasn't losing £5m a year

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA
Everton v Aston Villa DRAW
Man City v Newcastle NEWCASTLE
Middlesbrough v West Ham BORO
Portsmouth v Fulham PORTSMOUTH
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON
Wigan v Charlton WIGAN

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool ARSENAL
Reading v Tottenham SPURS

[Captain Stu]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA
Everton v Aston Villa DRAW
Man City v Newcastle MAN CITY
Middlesbrough v West Ham WEST HAM
Portsmouth v Fulham PORTSMOUTH
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON
Wigan v Charlton WIGAN

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool LIVERPOOL
Reading v Tottenham TOTTENHAM

*

Also, lolz at Alan Smith - apparently United are possibly gonna farm him out on loan to Cardiff.

[**dylan**]

am i allowed to join in with the predictions since ive only just got the net again?

[Captain Stu]

am i allowed to join in with the predictions since ive only just got the net again?

Of course you are. :)

*

Also, Micah Richards is apparently set to crash the England team today for our friendly with Holland. So he should too, he's made a good start to the season. :)

If I had a choice, seeing as it's a friendly:

Carson
Cole (no point in even saying Bridge seeing as he's not playing again)
Terry
Carragher
Richards
Cole
Gerrard
Nolan (ahead of Parker seeing as Newcastle are doing so shite)
Lennon
Rooney
Defoe/Crouch (both in good form at the mo, give 'em a half each maybe)

[Bexster]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA
Everton v Aston Villa VILLA
Man City v Newcastle DRAW
Middlesbrough v West Ham DRAW
Portsmouth v Fulham PORTSMOUTH
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON
Wigan v Charlton DRAW

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool ARSENAL
Reading v Tottenham SPURS

[**dylan**]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA
Everton v Aston Villa ASTON VILLA
Man City v Newcastle MAN CITY
Middlesbrough v West Ham DRAW
Portsmouth v Fulham PORTSMOUTH
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON
Wigan v Charlton WIGAN

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool DRAW
Reading v Tottenham READING

[timesfooall]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA
Everton v Aston Villa VILLA
Man City v Newcastle NEWCASTLE
Middlesbrough v West Ham WEST HAM
Portsmouth v Fulham PORTSMOUTH
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON
Wigan v Charlton WIGAN

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool DRAW
Reading v Tottenham SPURS

[EvilElvis]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA
Everton v Aston Villa ASTON VILLA
Man City v Newcastle MAN CITY
Middlesbrough v West Ham WEST HAM
Portsmouth v Fulham FULHAM
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON
Wigan v Charlton DRAW

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool ARSENAL
Reading v Tottenham SPURS

[Captain Stu]

Cardiff are preparing to make an ambitious bid to sign Manchester United's Alan Smith on loan. (Sun)

Blackburn could make a surprise bid to lure David Beckham back to the Premiership. (Sun)

Steve Sidwell wants to sign a new Reading contract. (Daily Mirror)

West Ham boss Alan Pardew could make a bid for Southend striker Freddy Eastwood - a former Upton Park trainee. (Guardian)

Tottenham have beaten Arsenal and Wigan to the signing of Brazilian left winger Leonardo. (Various)

Falkirk will learn by Monday if Arsenal will extend striker Anthony Stokes' loan spell. (The Herald)


OTHER GOSSIP

Manchester City defender Micah Richards is in line for an England call-up for the friendly against Holland. (Sun)

Graham Poll will not be chosen to referee Chelsea's Premiership showdown with Manchester United on 26 November. (Sun)

Everton could fine James McFadden despite manager David Moyes' view that the striker's red card against Arsenal was harsh. (Daily Telegraph)

Poll has told "friends" that he remains convinced McFadden called him a cheat. (Daily Mirror)

Gilberto has revealed that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was so angry he did not say anything after the defeat to West Ham. (Daily Mirror)

Manager Paul Le Guen will leave Rangers of his own accord if results and performances do not improve by Christmas. (Daily Express)

Rangers are considering a move to bring Scotland manager Walter Smith back to Ibrox if Paul Le Guen is sacked by Christmas. (The Sun)

Inverness boss Charlie Christie wants to use former Caley Thistle manager Steve Paterson's Peterhead as a feeder club. (The Herald)

Derry City's Stephen Kenny will not be appointed Dunfermline Athletic manager until the end of the Irish season next month. (Daily Express)

Hearts have banned Hearts coach John McGlynn from continuing to write a column for the Daily Record. (Daily Record)


AND FINALLY...

Residents of Hertfordshire town Tring are upset with Graham Poll's inability to stay out of the spotlight. "Once upon a time if you told people you were from Tring, they'd say, 'Oh yeah, that's where Walter Rothschild is from'," said one resident. "Now they say, 'Oh, that's where that bloody referee lives'." (Times)
Sunderland manager Roy Keane says he offers referees visiting the Stadium of Light a "cup of tea and a nice sandwich" as a charm offensive. (Sun)

[EvilElvis]

Hearts have banned Hearts coach John McGlynn from continuing to write a column for the Daily Record. (Daily Record)

Lolz! Romanov has banned the Sun from Tynecastle and now he's not letting the staff do a column in the paper, where they can write up their teams chances...




Residents of Hertfordshire town Tring are upset with Graham Poll's inability to stay out of the spotlight. "Once upon a time if you told people you were from Tring, they'd say, 'Oh yeah, that's where Walter Rothschild is from'," said one resident. "Now they say, 'Oh, that's where that bloody referee lives'." (Times)


HAHAHAHAHA! It'd be alright if he was a decent referee, but he's shit!

[Renegades of funk 8]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD WIN
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA WIN
Everton v Aston Villa DRAW
Man City v Newcastle DRAW
Middlesbrough v West Ham BORO WIN
Portsmouth v Fulham DRAW
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON WIN
Wigan v Charlton WIGAN WIN

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool ARSENAL WIN
Reading v Tottenham DRAW

[Captain Stu]

Gutted about the injury to Sissoko... however, it could come with a silver lining. As much as we needed his relentless tackling against Arsenal, this blow (if Benitez has any sense) will put Gerrard back in the middle alongside Alonso and stick Pennant on the right wing to aim crosses in for Crouch and Kuyt seeing as Arsenal don't seem too amazingly dominant in the air.

Should be a good game.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Crouch and 'Kought' have been excellent up front together the last few games, weren't Kought's two goals in the last game both from Crouch knockdowns? <3

[Captain Stu]

Crouch and 'Kought' have been excellent up front together the last few games, weren't Kought's two goals in the last game both from Crouch knockdowns? <3

Yup. :)

First one he nodded it into space for Kuyt to run onto and the second one Crouch headed at goal, it got saved and Kuyt pounced on the lose ball.

I feel sorry for Bellamy but he's paying the price for wasting chance after chance after chance (mostly good, clear chances too) and then being subbed off, on comes Crouch and scores yet again. You just can't keep the lanky cunt down. :D

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD WIN
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA WIN
Everton v Aston Villa Aston Villa Win
Man City v Newcastle Man C Win
Middlesbrough v West Ham West Ham WIN
Portsmouth v Fulham Portsmouth Win
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON WIN
Wigan v Charlton WIGAN WIN

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool Liverpool WIN
Reading v Tottenham Spurs win

[Bexster]

Yup. :)

First one he nodded it into space for Kuyt to run onto and the second one Crouch headed at goal, it got saved and Kuyt pounced on the lose ball.

I feel sorry for Bellamy but he's paying the price for wasting chance after chance after chance (mostly good, clear chances too) and then being subbed off, on comes Crouch and scores yet again. You just can't keep the lanky cunt down. :D
It's gonna be tight on Sunday. I'm not looking forward to it in the slightest.

[Wish_Master2100]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd MAN UTD WIN
Chelsea v Watford CHELSEA WIN
Everton v Aston Villa VILLA WIN
Man City v Newcastle NEWCASTLE WIN
Middlesbrough v West Ham DRAW
Portsmouth v Fulham PORTSMOUTH WIN
Sheff Utd v Bolton BOLTON WIN
Wigan v Charlton WIGAN WIN

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool DRAW
Reading v Tottenham SPURS WIN

[EvilElvis]

Arsenal are poised to launch a mid-winter move for new England recruit, Manchester City defender Micah Richards. (Daily Star)

Manchester United striker Alan Smith has rejected a loan move to both Cardiff and Leeds. (The Guardian)

Marcus Hedman expects to complete his move to Chelsea this weekend and the former Celtic keeper has called it a "dream come true". (The Sun)

Manchester United are on the brink of signing Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres for £22m. (The Sun)

Tottenham have agreed to sign winger Leonardo Vitor Santiago from NAC Breda in the January transfer window. (The Times)

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says he is interested in signing American teenager Freddy Adu if he impresses on his two-week trial. (Daily Mirror)

New England Revolution, managed by former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol, are the latest US club to express an interest in David Beckham. (Daily Telegraph)

Charlton are chasing Hibernian duo Scott Brown and Kevin Thomson but will face competition from a host of other clubs. (Daily Record)


OTHER GOSSIP
FA chief Brian Barwick has warned Premiership stars to improve their attitude towards referees or face the consequences. (Daily Mirror).

Watford manager Adrian Boothroyd has called for a salary cap and draft pick to make the Premiership a fairer league. (Various).

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has dismissed rumours he wants to leave the club in January and says he does not regret his decision to stay with the Gunners. (The Sun)

Tottenham boss Martin Jol is set to raid the transfer market to sign a centre-half as cover for Ledley King. (The Sun)

Birmingham owner David Sullivan insists Steve Bruce's job as manager is safe and has accused fans of deserting the club. (Daily Mirror)

Shaun Maloney has halted his contract talks with Celtic prompting speculation he will leave the club in January. (Daily Record)

Rangers chairman David Murray insists manager Paul Le Guen will have until the end of the season to turn round the club's fortunes. (Various)


AND FINALLY...
Kolo Toure was so keen to impress during his trial at Arsenal that he even went as far as tackling boss Arsene Wenger, when he tried to return the ball from the sidelines. (Daily Telegraph)

A poll has named Reading boss Steve Coppell as the weediest looking Premiership boss with Tottenham chief Martin Jol as the toughest. (Daily Star)

Wigan winger David Cotterill was given the middle names George Best by his Dad - and even got the Manchester United legend to sign his birth certificate. (Daily Star)

[Bexster]

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has dismissed rumours he wants to leave the club in January and says he does not regret his decision to stay with the Gunners. (The Sun)
LEAVE. HIM. ALONE. TO. PLAY. FOOTBALL. :mad:

I can see why Smith turned down the loan, if he did, but short of injuries, now they're out of the League Cup, he's not going to get much football this year.

[boxshapedheart]

Saturday, 11 November 2006

Blackburn v Man Utd [MAN UTD]
Chelsea v Watford [CHELSEA]
Everton v Aston Villa [VILLA]
Man City v Newcastle [DRAW]
Middlesbrough v West Ham [BORO]
Portsmouth v Fulham [DRAW]
Sheff Utd v Bolton [BOLTON]
Wigan v Charlton [WIGAN]

Sunday, 12 November 2006

Arsenal v Liverpool [DRAW]
Reading v Tottenham [READING]

[Bexster]

Carling Cup quarter-final draw:

Tottenham v Southend

Liverpool v Arsenal

Newcastle v Chelsea

Charlton v Wycombe

Bugger.

[Jamie]

Carling Cup quarter-final draw:

Tottenham v Southend

Liverpool v Arsenal

Newcastle v Chelsea

Charlton v Wycombe

Bugger.
Fantastic. Wycombe and Southend stand a fair chance at a semi-final now

[Bexster]

Fantastic. Wycombe and Southend stand a fair chance at a semi-final now
Yeah, that's a good thing. I think Charlton maybe pushed a fair bit for sure. I'll be cheering for them.

[Captain Stu]

Carling Cup quarter-final draw:

Tottenham v Southend

Liverpool v Arsenal

Newcastle v Chelsea

Charlton v Wycombe

Bugger.

Bugger indeed, are we gonna be the new Barca and Chelsea? :mad: But at least we're at our place, cmoooooooon the pooooooooooooool. :)

[Bud]

I wonder if Wenger will continue to use the youth. It'd be interesting if he sends out the same kind of squad he did against Everton.

[rob3000]

Woo hoo a midweek match! I'm there.:D

[Bexster]

Bugger indeed, are we gonna be the new Barca and Chelsea? :mad: But at least we're at our place, cmoooooooon the pooooooooooooool. :)
Yeah, but we're Barca :D

I'll wait til after tomorrow to predict.

[Jamie]

I love working on matchdays. My desk overlooks Portman Road, and I'm working until 6 :D

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

Gotta love Stuart Hall on 5 Live.

[Yoz]

stuart hall is a legend...he makes even the worst goals sound soooo interesting...
anyhow... yeh...newcastle this season:D

come on the Pilgrims!!

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Dogba is a cunt, but he's had an excellent season so far... can't really knock him...as much as i'd like to...

[Bexster]

Dogba is a cunt, but he's had an excellent season so far... can't really knock him...as much as i'd like to...
I'm having that problem. I wish someone would kick him hard in the knees or something. This scoring thing is getting out of hand.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

3 goals and an assist today gives me many fantasy points.

[EvilElvis]

Tottenham are preparing a multi-million deal to bring David Beckham to White Hart Lane next summer. (Sunday Mirror)

But Beckham himself is prepared to take a pay cut for the chance to return to Manchester United next summer. (The People)

Chelsea are lining up a January move for teenage Nigerian midfielder Adigun Taofeek Salami, who plays in Denmark. (Sunday Express)

Newcastle are expected to lose Michael Owen if they are relegated while Albert Luque is set to quit in January. (News of the World)

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp is interested in signing West Brom's Zoltan Gera and Southend Carling Cup hero Freddy Eastwood. (Sunday Mirror)

Manchester City are looking at Slovenian midfielder Robert Koren after he rejected a new deal at Lillestrom. (Various)

Preston striker David Nugent is at the centre of a four-way race between Everton, Blackburn, Sheffield United and Watford for his signature. (Various)

Arsenal and Manchester United will resume their fight for West Ham captain Nigel Reo-Coker after both had £15m bids turned down. (Sunday Mirror)

Tottenham boss Martin Jol is set to end his search for a left winger by snapping up Morocco international teenager Adil Chihi from Cologne. (Various)

Bolton want to bring old boy Bernard Mendy back to the Premiership but face competition from Middlesbrough for the right-back. (The People)

Watford are weighing up a January swoop for Leeds' striker David Healy to replace the injured Marlon King. (Sunday Mirror)

Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko wants to return to AC Milan, according to the club's president Silvio Berlusconi. (Various)

Blackburn have blocked a bid by Leeds boss Dennis Wise to take central defender Andy Todd on loan, though he is expected to move on in 2007. (Daily Express)

Barcelona are interested in Blackburn defender Lucas Neill but face a fight from Liverpool and AC Milan. (News of the World)

West Ham are ready to launch a £2.5m-bid for Colchester right-back Greg Halford. (News of the World)

Charlton boss Iain Dowie has made Birmingham winger Julian Gray his number one target in the transfer window. (News of the World)

Manchester United midfielder Kieran Richardson is being tracked by a number of Premiership clubs as Sir Alex Ferguson is believed to be disappointed in his progress. (The People)

Mick McCarthy says he will sell £2m-rated goalkeeper Matt Murry if Wolves fail to win promotion this season while Aston Villa are keen to take him on loan. (Sunday Mirror/People)

Birmingham City manager Steve Bruce is lining up a £2m bid for Charlton striker Marcus Bent. (Various)

Bolton lead a host of clubs who have checked on Lillestrom striker Michael Mifsud. (Various)


OTHER GOSSIP
Chelsea captain John Terry is set to become the highest-paid British player of all time when he finalises a new four-year deal worth £27m with team-mate Frank Lampard also set to be offered a £130,000-a-week deal. (Sunday Mirror)

Sven-Goran Eriksson insists his England team were good enough to play in this year's World Cup final: "We had a very, very good team." (Sunday Telegraph)

Eriksson has also defended his decision not to take Spurs striker Jermain Defoe to Germany: "He had a bad season. He did not deserve to go." (Various)

Former England midfielder Steve Stone is to retire after an injury-plagued spell at Leeds. (Various)

Former West Ham player Tony Cottee is heading an English consortium which will join the battle to takeover the club. (The People)

Rafael Benitez insists he will not be tempted away from Anfield despite being reportedly targeted by Real Madrid and an Italian club. (Sunday Mirror)

Former Middlesbrough and West Brom boss Bryan Robson has confirmed he is considering offers of management abroad. (Various)

The Football Association are lining up friendlies against Germany and Brazil as the first internationals to be held at the new Wembley. (The People)

Tottenham midfielder Edgar Davids intends to honour his Tottenham contract despite being frustrated with his lack of first-team action. (Sunday Mirror)


AND FINALLY...
Injured Brighton goalkeeper Wyane Henderson was arrested and evicted for running on the pitch to celebrate his team-mates' win at Bradford after being mistaken for a fan because he was watching from the stands. (Sunday Mirror)

Luton manager Mike Newell criticised assistant referee Amy Rayner after his side's 3-2 defeat by QPR and said women should not be allowed to officiate. "She should not be here. I know that sounds sexist, but I am sexist. If you start bringing in women you have big problems. This is not park football, so what are women doing here? It's tokenism for the politically correct idiots." (Various)

[friartuck]

Barcelona are interested in Blackburn defender Lucas Neill but face a fight from Liverpool and AC Milan. (News of the World)

Lucas Neill's agent is doing a damn good job here fabricating these stories. Neill is average at best and would never get a game at Barca.

[Bud]

If Newcastle were relegated it'd be the biggest team to go down ever.

[friartuck]

Ah I doubt they'll get relegated.

I'd hate to see them go down all the same though.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

If Newcastle were relegated it'd be the biggest team to go down ever.

Ath Madrid a few years ago? Juventus? but yeah i see your point.

also.

£15m for Reo-Coker!? am i missing something?

[Bud]

I'm sure they'll pull it round next year and end up mid-table. My bet with Marc that Arsenal will finish higher than them looks a dead cert though :D

[friartuck]

I'm sure they'll pull it round next year and end up mid-table. My bet with Marc that Arsenal will finish higher than them looks a dead cert though :D

Okay that's an insane bet right there.

A friend of mine bet a whole room full of people a tenner each that Arsenal would finish higher than Man U. He'll be paying out big time come April.

[Bud]

Totally. As much as I love Arsenal, there is no way we can challenge this year. Man U will be the team to run Chelsea close this year.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

i honestly think Man Utd will win the league this year

[EvilElvis]

Official hit by coin in Cup tie (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/6139794.stm)

The all-Welsh FA Cup encounter between Newport County and Swansea City descended into chaos when the fourth official was hit by a coin.
The incident came after Alan Sheffield told the referee he had been verbally abused by County manager Peter Beadle.

As Beadle walked away after being sent off, Sheffield was struck by the missile, causing an eight-minute delay to the game - which Swansea won 3-1.

Sheffield was taken to hospital before he was later discharged.


Gwent police later issued a brief statement regarding the incident.

It said: "A small minority of supporters attended the game with the sole intent of causing trouble.

"During the game an object was thrown from the stand and hit the fourth official who was knocked unconscious and taken to hospital."

A police spokeswoman added: "No-one will say anything more until Monday."

Newport chairman Chris Blight told BBC Five Live he was horrified by the incident and urged fans to come forward with information.

"I can't really explain how disappointed I am that one fan, or even a couple of fans, took it upon themselves to throw the coins as they did," he said.

"That's not what happens in Newport and I'm so disappointed that it has had the effect on this game today.

"If anyone knows who the perpetrators are, please be kind enough to contact any club official or the police, in confidence, to let us know who it is so that we can take the appropriate action and put this right."

[friartuck]

i honestly think Man Utd will win the league this year

They don't have the squad depth to win it in my opinion. If they get Hargreaves and another striker then they'd have a much better chance though.

Man U's first team is playing as good football as I've ever seen the club play. Carrick is really starting to play well, the old guard are playing the best football of their careers, Ronaldo has stopped being a ball greedy tosser, Vidic and Evra are settling in well and Rooney is still a touch of class. I believe they would be a match for any club team on the planet.

But look at their bench: O'Shea is one of the worst players to ever don a red jersey, Fletcher is inconsistent, Richardson is prone to petulence so much so that he's playing shite, it looks like the leg break might have ruined Smith's career, Heinze is made of glass and our youngsters are outclassed by the Championship's whipping boys.

Not going to happen I'm afraid.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

fucking hell, that's some good pessimism that is! you'd fit in well down here at Millwall!

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

I'll tell ya, honestly, I will LOVE IT Newcastle get relegated. LOVE IT.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

Also, I completely agree with Mike Newell. Poor choice of words, but let's face it, he's bang on the money.

[Wish_Master2100]

am i allowed to join in with the predictions since ive only just got the net again?

No you're fucking not.

Jokez.

[Bud]

Kolo Fucking Toure :D

[EvilElvis]

Kolo Fucking Toure :D


What were the odds on Arsenal's two goalscorers today?

Villa look like streching their lead over Liverpool to 4 points.

I hate gloating - and I doubt we'll finish above Liverpool - but the opportunity to annoy St00b about this is too much to resist! :D

[Bud]

Hooray for Zenden and Rafa's love of playing his best player out of position :D

[Bud]

William FUCKING Gallas :D :D :D

[Wish_Master2100]

Danyul missed his predictions this week?

And Boxshapedheart fucking cleared up this week.

[Bud]

That so should have been the fourth. Liverpool have only had 1 shot on target today, although 2 "goals" have been ruled out for offside (correctly for one, unsure over Bellends)

[EvilElvis]

I'm looking forward to laughing at the ref on MOTD2 today


72 mins: Hilarious scenes. The ball very gently hits referee Mark Clattenberg in a, shall we say, unfortunate area and he dramatically collapses. It seems the awkward movement gave him cramp and he gets a quick massage from the physio - on his calf muscles, before you ask. Thierry Henry can barely disguise his amusement.

[Wish_Master2100]

I'm looking forward to laughing at the ref on MOTD2 today


72 mins: Hilarious scenes. The ball very gently hits referee Mark Clattenberg in a, shall we say, unfortunate area and he dramatically collapses. It seems the awkward movement gave him cramp and he gets a quick massage from the physio - on his calf muscles, before you ask. Thierry Henry can barely disguise his amusement.

If Arsenal were losing, Theirry Henry would be crying and whinging instead.

[Bud]

He didn't go down because of that. It was minimal impact which made him stiffen (ho ho ho) his legs and pulled (ho ho) a muscle (ho ho) in his leg.

[EvilElvis]

If Arsenal were losing, Theirry Henry would be crying and whinging instead.


What do you expect?! He is french after all

[Novacane]

What do you expect?! He is french after all

Sitting in the pub, watching the Scotland - France match......Scotland are 1-0 up. The TV camera cuts to a scowling Henry......some wise guy at the bar shouts 'Va Va Voom!". Excellent :)

[Bud]

He's also in a team that's 3rd, with a game in hand :D

Also, hahahah..Spurs.

[Bexster]

Stu, I'm so, so sorry.

:D

[danlalala]

Danyul missed his predictions this week?

And Boxshapedheart fucking cleared up this week.
oh fuck, i thought i'd done them.

shit.

[rob3000]

That was a shocking perfomance. Arsenal looked great at times, Liverpool wouldn't get near them.

We just didn't look like scoring, we don't seem like a team...just 11 players.

[Bud]

You've got no real pace upfront, which I think is your main problem.

[EvilElvis]

You've got no real pace upfront, which I think is your main problem.


I thought thats why they bought Bellamy