The Footie (UK) Thread: 2006/07

[Wish_Master2100]

Saturday, 02 December 2006

Arsenal v Tottenham, SPURS
Blackburn v Fulham, DRAW
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, UNITED
Portsmouth v Aston Villa, PORTSMOUTH
Reading v Bolton, BOLTON
Sheff Utd v Charlton, SHEFF UTD
Wigan v Liverpool, WIGAN

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, WEST HAM

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, CITY

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, BLACKBURN
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, DRAW

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, NEWCASTLE
West Ham v Wigan, WIGAN

[Renegades of funk 8]

Saturday, 02 December 2006

Arsenal v Tottenham, DRAW
Blackburn v Fulham, DRAW
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, UNITED
Portsmouth v Aston Villa, PORTSMOUTH
Reading v Bolton, DRAW
Sheff Utd v Charlton, DRAW
Wigan v Liverpool, LIVERPOOL

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, DRAW

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, MAN CITY

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, BLACKBURN
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, SPURS

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, NEWCASTLE
West Ham v Wigan, DRAW

[EvilElvis]

Saturday, 02 December 2006

Arsenal v Tottenham, DRAW
Blackburn v Fulham, DRAW
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, UNITED
Portsmouth v Aston Villa, VILLA
Reading v Bolton, BOLTON
Sheff Utd v Charlton, DRAW
Wigan v Liverpool, LIVERPOOL

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, DRAW

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, MAN CITY

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, BLACKBURN
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, SPURS

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, DRAW
West Ham v Wigan, WIGAN

[boxshapedheart]

Laaaarrsssooon.


Saturday, 02 December 2006

Arsenal v Tottenham, SPURS
Blackburn v Fulham, DRAW
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, UNITED
Portsmouth v Aston Villa, VILLA
Reading v Bolton, READING
Sheff Utd v Charlton, SHEFF UTD
Wigan v Liverpool, LIVERPOOL

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, DRAW

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, CITY

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, BLACKBURN
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, DRAW

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, DRAW
West Ham v Wigan, WIGAN

[EvilElvis]

1. Maybe now the players will realise that they really are utter shite. There is not one player at Villa that i would want to go to Leeds, let alone a Premiership club.


You'd have to seriosuly question a player's ambition to got from a club currently 5th in the Premiership to a team facing relgation from the championship.

Good call Dan lad! :D


Man U have done a brilliant piece of buisiness getting Larrson for 3 months.

The best 2 players to have played in the SPL were Brian Laudrup and Henrik Larrson - I think what the fans liked more than anything about them was there was never any scandal around them - they lived fairly quiet lives.
Laudrup used to live in the road behind my house.

Larrson could give Rooney & Turinhand a bit of advice when it comes to being regarded as a decent footballer more than a celebrity...

[Two-Bob Peeters]

having Henrik Larrsson in your squad cerntainly is no hinderence

Saturday, 02 December 2006

Arsenal v Tottenham, DRAW
Blackburn v Fulham, DRAW
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, UNITED
Portsmouth v Aston Villa, POMPEY
Reading v Bolton, BOLTON
Sheff Utd v Charlton, CHARLTON
Wigan v Liverpool, LIVERPOOL

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, EVERTON

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, CITY

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, BLACKBURN
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, DRAW

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, NEWCASTLE
West Ham v Wigan, WIGAN

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

I still remember his performance against Chelsea last season in the CL. Completely changed the game. The guys a ledge.

United have done well.

[EvilElvis]

Bolton boss Sam Allardyce is set to sign Slovenian international right-back Branco Ilic in a bargain swoop. (Mirror)

Manchester United are unlikely to follow up interest in American teenage midfielder Freddy Adu. (Daily Mail)

West Ham boss Alan Pardew is confident he will have the services of Argentine internationals Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano for the rest of the season. (Daily Telegraph, Independent)

Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce has slapped a £5m valuation on Matthew Upson as the defender prepares to return to his side's promotion battle. (Mirror)

Hearts captain Steven Pressley could have kicked his last ball at Tynecastle after being suspended by the club. (Daily Record)

Rangers boss Paul Le Guen insists the club will not be held to ransom by winger Chris Burke's wage demands. (Daily Record, Independent)

Preston striker David Nugent believes his £6m price tag will scare away the Premiership clubs during the January transfer window. (various)


OTHER GOSSIP
Arsenal striker Thierry Henry admits the Gunners will need a "double miracle" to win the Premiership title. (Sun)

Henry has suffered a bust-up with manager Arsene Wenger after storming out of Arsenal's training ground on Friday. (Mirror, Daily Star)

The FA are concerned that Fifa may reconsider the home nations' right to a vice-president's place on its executive committee if the 'playground squabbling' continues. (Daily Mail)

New West Ham owner Eggert Magnusson is planning a hands-on approach at Upton Park and expects to personally negotiate all future transfers. (Sun)

West Ham striker Teddy Sheringham admits big-money gambling is in danger of becoming a major problem for Premiership players. (Mirror, Daily Mail)

Hull chairman Adam Pearson is ready to sack manager Phil Parkinson. (Sun)

The new Wembley has scheduled its first official match, pencilling in England under-21 v Italy under-21 on 23 March. (Mirror)


AND FINALLY...
Tottenham boss Martin Jol claims Arsenal rival Arsene Wenger caused his sex life to flop this summer. (Sun)

Des Lynam, who is giving up hosting Countdown at Christmas because of the workload, has hinted that he wants to return to TV sport. (Daily Mail)

The delay-plagued new Wembley has already hosted its first game with a match between owners Wembley National Stadium Ltd and Australian building firm Multiplex. (Sun)

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Saturday, 02 December 2006

Arsenal v Tottenham, SPURS
Blackburn v Fulham, DRAW
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, UNITED
Portsmouth v Aston Villa, VILLA
Reading v Bolton, BOLTON
Sheff Utd v Charlton, DRAW
Wigan v Liverpool, DRAW

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, WEST HAM

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, MAN CITY

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, BLACKBURN
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, DRAW

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, NEWCASTLE
West Ham v Wigan, WIGAN

[EvilElvis]

Found this page of quotes - Some are funny as fuck!


'I took a whack on my left ankle, but something told me it was my right.' - Lee Hendrie

'I couldn't settle in Italy - it was like living in a foreign country.'
- Ian Rush

Interviewer: 'Would it be fair to describe you as a volatile player?'
David Beckham: 'Well, I can play in the centre, on the right and occasionally on the left side.'

'If you're 0-0 down, there's no-one better to get you back on terms than Ian Wright.' - Robbie Earle

'Germany are a very difficult team to play...they had 11 internationals out there today.' - Steve Lomas

'I always used to put my right boot on first, and then obviously my right sock.' - Barry Venison

'I definitely want Brooklyn to be christened, but I don't know into what religion yet.' - David Beckham

'The Brazilians were South America, and the Ukranians will be more European.' - Phil Neville

'All that remains is for a few dots and commas to be crossed.'
- Mitchell Thomas

'Alex Ferguson is the best manager I've ever had at this level. Well, he's the only manager I've actually had at this level. But he's the best manager I've ever had.' - David Beckham

'The opening ceremony was good, although I missed it.'
- Graeme Le Saux

'One accusation you can't throw at me is that I've always done my best.'
- Alan Shearer

'I'd rather play in front of a full house than an empty crowd.'
- Johnny Giles

'Sometimes in football you have to score goals.' - Thierry Henry

'I would not be bothered if we lost every game as long as we won the league.' - Mark Viduka

'He's put on weight and I've lost it, and vice versa.' - Ronnie Whelan

'If you don't believe you can win, there is no point in getting out of bed at the end of the day.' - Neville Southall

'We lost because we didn't win.' - Ronaldo

'I've had 14 bookings this season - 8 of which were my fault, but 7 of which were disputable.' - Paul Gascoigne

'I've never wanted to leave. I'm here for the rest of my life, and hopefully after that as well.' - Alan Shearer

'I'd like to play for an Italian club, like Barcelona.' - Mark Draper

'You've got to believe that you're going to win, and I believe we'll win the World Cup until the final whistle blows and we're knocked out.'
- Peter Shilton

'I faxed a transfer request to the club at the beginning of the week, but let me state that I don't want to leave Leicester.' - Stan Collymore

'I was watching the Blackburn game on TV on Sunday when it flashed on the screen that George Ndah had scored in the first minute at Birmingham. My first reaction was to ring him up. Then I remembered he was out there playing.' - Ade Akinbiyi

'Without being too harsh on David Beckham, he cost us the match.'
- Ian Wright

'It was a big relief off my shoulder.' - Paul Gascoigne

'I'm as happy as I can be - but I have been happier.' - Ugo Ehiogu

'It took a lot of bottle for Tony (Adams) to own up.' - Ian Wright

'Leeds is a great club and it's been my home for years, even though I live in Middlesbrough.' - Jonathan Woodgate

'I can see the carrot at the end of the tunnel.' - Stuart Pearce

'My parents have been there for me, ever since I was about 7.'
- David Beckham

'I was surprised, but I always say nothing surprises me in football.'
- Les Ferdinand

'It was like the ref had a brand new yellow card and wanted to see if it worked.' - Richard Rufus

'There's no in between - you're either good or bad. We were in between.'
- Gary Lineker

'Winning doesn't really matter as long as you win.' - Vinny Jones

[EvilElvis]

I still remember his performance against Chelsea last season in the CL. Completely changed the game. The guys a ledge.

United have done well.


The final?! Was that not against the Arse?!

Best quote I heard about it was from Thierry Henry

"Everyone was talking about Ronaldinho before the game. I didn't see him today and I didn't see Eto'o. I saw Henrik Larsson. He made the difference by setting up two goals. That was the key."

[Studolph]

Saturday, 02 December 2006

Arsenal v Tottenham, DRAW
Blackburn v Fulham, FULHAM
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, MAN UTD
Portsmouth v Aston Villa, VILLA
Reading v Bolton, READING
Sheff Utd v Charlton, SHEFF UTD
Wigan v Liverpool, LIVERPOOL

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, DRAW

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, MAN CITY

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, BLACKBURN
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, SPURS

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, READING
West Ham v Wigan, WEST HAM

[**dylan**]

Saturday, 02 December 2006

Arsenal v Tottenham, DRAW
Blackburn v Fulham, DRAW
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, MAN UTD
Portsmouth v Aston Villa, PORTSMOUTH
Reading v Bolton, READING
Sheff Utd v Charlton, SHEFF UTD
Wigan v Liverpool, LIVERPOOL

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, DRAW

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, MAN CITY

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, BLACKBURN
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, SPURS

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, DRAW
West Ham v Wigan, DRAW

[Wish_Master2100]

Little update on Alex Curran;

It's all true. Whatever you've read. The first child isn't Gerrards, she is a coke head, and he's got a team of around 10 people (lawyers, PR people etc) working around the clock to stop this from getting out.

EVERYONE knows, but they're just not allowed to say anything.

And, she gets £10,000 a month spending money from him.

Cunt.

[danlalala]

Little update on Alex Curran;

It's all true. Whatever you've read. The first child isn't Gerrards, she is a coke head, and he's got a team of around 10 people (lawyers, PR people etc) working around the clock to stop this from getting out.

EVERYONE knows, but they're just not allowed to say anything.

And, she gets £10,000 a month spending money from him.

Cunt.
Presumably she's paying for these people with Steven Gerrard's money?

[Bexlehem]

OOo, bugger. Forgot me predictions...

Sunday, 03 December 2006
Everton v West Ham, [WEST HAM]

Monday, 04 December 2006
Man City v Watford, [DRAW]

Tuesday, 05 December 2006
Charlton v Blackburn, [BLACKBURN]
Tottenham v Middlesbrough, [DRAW]

Wednesday, 06 December 2006
Newcastle v Reading, [READING]
West Ham v Wigan, [DRAW]

Arse used to be run by Jewish families - not entirely sure currently, but it always used to be the case. Either way, Arse are a penny pinching-side, no doubt about it.

And I'm really glad about the result today. We really, really needed that going into the Chelski game next weekend.

[EvilElvis]

Little update on Alex Curran;

It's all true. Whatever you've read. The first child isn't Gerrards, she is a coke head, and he's got a team of around 10 people (lawyers, PR people etc) working around the clock to stop this from getting out.

EVERYONE knows, but they're just not allowed to say anything.

And, she gets £10,000 a month spending money from him.

Cunt.


She's seeing some guy known as Pancake who is a drug dealer and who owns a security firm

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Fair play to Arsenal, they played well today.

But we were fucking shit to be honest. You'd think in a derby game we'd be up for it and show abit of fight and passion. Can't be arsed to talk about some of the dubious descisions which led to the goals cos we didn't deserve anything from the game. Jol got his tactis and team selection completely wrong today as well. Defoe and Huddlestone should have started today, particularly Huddlestone. Our midfield was wank today, Zakora was useless. Jenas came on in the 2nd half and was the only one to show abit of fight and belief.

It's really pissed me off, its not the result thats bothered me, it was the lack of passion thats fucked me off. Absolutely disgraceful performance.

Rant over.

p.s. Ollie, yeah I meant Larsson in the CL final.

[A Partridge in a Jtee]

i'm amazed that something went our way for once, cheers Spurs for setting us back on track. :) bring on Porto and the Chelski :)

[EvilElvis]

Nice dive by FPR to win the penalty.

[EvilElvis]

Newcastle are considering an audacious bid to land Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko on a five-month loan deal. (News of the World)

David Beckham will not be buying American outfit LA Galaxy but is expected to consider offers from Major League Soccer sides in the summer. (Mail on Sunday)

Bolton boss Sam Allardyce is planning a double swoop for Everton's James Beattie and Deportivo La Coruna Aldo Duscher. (Sunday Express, Star on Sunday)

Chelsea midfielder Lassana Diarra is set to end his nightmare at Stamford Bridge with a move to Marseille. (News of the World, Star on Sunday)

Newcastle are prepared to James Milner and Steve Carr in part-exchange for £10m-rated Charlton striker Darren Bent. (Mail on Sunday, Star on Sunday)

Tottenham are planning a January swoop for Manchester City defender Sylvain Distin. (Star on Sunday)

Birmingham defender Matthew Upson has put Liverpool, Tottenham and Portsmouth on alert by revealing he could be sold next month. (News of the World, People)

Sheffield United are leading the chase for Lillestrom striker Michael Mifsud. (News of the World)

Charlton boss Les Reed is bidding to make Gillingham starlet Matthew Jarvis his first signing. (People, Star on Sunday)

Manchester United will recall young striker Giuseppe Rossi next month from his loan spell at Newcastle. (Sunday Telegraph)

Watford boss Adrian Boothroyd wants to sign five players in January to beat the drop. (News of the World)

Arsenal are planning a shock swoop for out-of-favour Chelsea defender Glen Johnson. (People, Star on Sunday)

Chelsea are lining up a £5m move for Valencia defender Miguel in the January transfer window. (News of the World, Star on Sunday)

Portsmouth are interested in signing Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie. (People)

Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock wants to sign Egyptian duo Amr Zaki and Ibrahim Said. (News of the World)

Wigan boss Paul Jewell is chasing Lens £2.5m-rated midfielder Seydou Keita. (People)

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is lining up a bid for Portsmouth right-back Andy Griffin. (News of the World)

Liverpool look set to win the race against Everton and Middlesbrough to sign Derby midfielder Giles Barnes. (various)

Middlesbrough midfielder Gaizka Mendieta is set to join Malaga in the January transfer window. (People)

Cardiff City want Celtic midfielder Stephen Pearson to boost their promotion push. (Star on Sunday)


OTHER GOSSIP
Arsene Wenger's rift with striker Thierry Henry, following a training ground bust-up on Friday, is widening with the two set for showdown talks on Monday. (various)

Arsenal striker Julio Baptista issues manager Arsene Wenger with a 'play me or else' ultimatum. (News of the World, Sunday Times)

Bayern Munich have threatened to withdraw from the G14 coalition of elite European clubs as early as next season. (Sunday Telegraph)

Liverpool are close to agreeing a £450m takeover deal with the former owner of the Harlem Globetrotters, George Gillett. (News of the World)

Liverpool are on the verge of falling into foreign ownership but have rejected Gillett's £450m bid. (Mail on Sunday, Sunday Telegraph)

Newspaper probe reveals shock details about who is really in charge at Portsmouth, claiming that Russian businessman Alexandre Gaydamak has not completed his £32m takeover and Milan Mandaric still owns a 50% stake in the club. (News of the World)

AND FINALLY...
Manchester United new signing Henrik Larsson will bank £1m for just 10 weeks' work if he is a success at Old Trafford. (Sunday Express, Mail on Sunday)

Actor Sean Bean has shown why he is such an avid Sheffield United fan by writing a whopping 1,200-word foreword for a new book about the Blades. (Sunday Express)

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill was recently spotted at a 70th birthday bash for former Rolling Stone Bill Wyman. (Sunday Express)

[Bexlehem]

OTHER GOSSIP
Arsene Wenger's rift with striker Thierry Henry, following a training ground bust-up on Friday, is widening with the two set for showdown talks on Monday. (various)
The press would love that, wouldn't they. Aren't two people allowed to have a simple disagreement anymore?

Arsenal are planning a shock swoop for out-of-favour Chelsea defender Glen Johnson. (People, Star on Sunday)
Can we not, please.

Bayern Munich have threatened to withdraw from the G14 coalition of elite European clubs as early as next season. (Sunday Telegraph)
It's sour grapes. He's acusing G14 of being selfish, but he only wants out because he doesn't think his team is getting anything out of it.

And the two penalties yesterday shouldn't have gone, but I agree, Spurs had no fight in them. They had a couple of chances, but they didn't really put anything behind it. It's exactly what Arse needed - the other team to come to the Emirates and just roll over.

[rob3000]

Little update on Alex Curran;

It's all true. Whatever you've read. The first child isn't Gerrards, she is a coke head, and he's got a team of around 10 people (lawyers, PR people etc) working around the clock to stop this from getting out.

EVERYONE knows, but they're just not allowed to say anything.

And, she gets £10,000 a month spending money from him.

Cunt.
Interesting! Will it ever actually come out in the press?

And is it definitely they're first kid, not their second?

[rob3000]

And she's a complete tramp, I know people who have seen her taking cocaine out in town. No shame.

[EvilElvis]

Chelsea midfielder Lassana Diarra is set to end his nightmare at Stamford Bridge with a move to Marseille. (News of the World, Star on Sunday)


Quick question: Who is he?!

[EvilElvis]

It's sour grapes. He's acusing G14 of being selfish, but he only wants out because he doesn't think his team is getting anything out of it.

And the two penalties yesterday shouldn't have gone, but I agree, Spurs had no fight in them. They had a couple of chances, but they didn't really put anything behind it. It's exactly what Arse needed - the other team to come to the Emirates and just roll over.

Chelski are not involved in G14 as it happened before Abrohamovic took over - they are waiting for a team to leave so that they can replace them.


Interesting stat:

There has only been 2 scores at the Emirates: 1-1 or 3-0

[Renegades of funk 8]

fucking hell, you know its a tight league when we lose a game 2-0 and are still only 5 points of 3rd and 7 above the relegation zone

[rob3000]

I was reading Gerrard's bio, and he mentioned something about Lampard having a run in with Americans after 9/11 or something? He went in to no detail, anyone know what it was?

[EvilElvis]

I was reading Gerrard's bio, and he mentioned something about Lampard having a run in with Americans after 9/11 or something? He went in to no detail, anyone know what it was?


I heard it was Terry.

They were pissed and hurled abuse at the Americans

[weeniebeenie]

I heard it was Terry.

They were pissed and hurled abuse at the Americans

I think Lampard, Terry and Gudjhonson were getting pissed in an airport hotel on the same day/day after and dissing the Americans watching the news.

They all got bollocked and apologised.

[Bexlehem]

Interesting stat:

There has only been 2 scores at the Emirates: 1-1 or 3-0
Oo. More 3-0's please :D

Chelski would have an interesting time in G14, especially now Dein is chairing it. I'm not sure Bayern will actually leave it though.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Quick question: Who is he?!

youth player i thought.

why have the BBC ruined classic FA cup action by having Alan Ball and Mark Lawrenson in the studio and Mark Bright as the summariser?

a reminder, FA cup draw on in about an hour :)

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Nice dive by FPR to win the penalty.

how on earth did it get a penalty, just look at thw way he falls

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNwI99ZZxjY

[Two-Bob Peeters]

always drawn right at the end, i was on the edge of my seat expecting chelsea... so close

Amir fucking Khan...

[rob3000]

Arsenal at home...could have been easier. Anyone know when the games are played?

[Jamie]

Arsenal at home...good have been easier. Anyone know when the games are played?
6th and 7th of Jan

Full draw:

Blackpool v Aldershot/Basingstoke
Barnet v Colchester
Sheff Utd v Swansea
Reading v Burnley
Portsmouth v Wigan
Mansfield/Doncaster v Bolton
West Ham v Brighton
Leicester v Fulham
Derby v Wrexham
Wolves v Oldham
Bury/Chester v Ipswich
Man Utd v Aston Villa
Sheff Wed v Man City
Tamworth v Norwich
Salisbury/Nottm For v Charlton
Cardiff v Tottenham
Preston v Sunderland
Liverpool v Arsenal
Bristol Rovers/Bournemouth v Hereford
Watford v Stockport
Crystal Palace v Swindon
Bristol City v Coventry
Peterborough v Plymouth
QPR v Luton
Southend v Barnsley
West Brom v Leeds
Hull v Middlesbrough
Birmingham v Newcastle
Torquay/Leyton Orient v Southampton
Everton v Blackburn
Chelsea v Macclesfield
Stoke v Bradford/Millwall

[danlalala]

West Brom v Leeds
Shit.

Also, FPR managed to dive and disguise it as falling over fairly convincingly. Still saw straight through it though, the greasy cunt.

[EvilElvis]

6th and 7th of Jan

Man Utd v Aston Villa



Fucking cunt! :mad:

[Wish_Master2100]

I nearly pissed myself, I thought we were going to get Chelsea in the cup.

Other gossip, John Terry had a run in with Ledley King in a recent game? Words were exchanged?

JT called him a 'Black Monkey'.

He's also said the same to Rio Ferdinand before.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I nearly pissed myself, I thought we were going to get Chelsea in the cup.

Other gossip, John Terry had a run in with Ledley King in a recent game? Words were exchanged?

JT called him a 'Black Monkey'.

He's also said the same to Rio Ferdinand before.

heard that a while back, surely something would have been done if it was true

[EvilElvis]

My mate has got this ace MOTD mug (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/EvilElvis/Image007.jpg)


Anyone know where I can get one?

[EvilElvis]

heard that a while back, surely something would have been done if it was true


The FA fine Chelski?! Due to the actions of England's captain?!

You taking the piss?

[Jamie]

My mate has got this ace MOTD mug (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/EvilElvis/Image007.jpg)


Anyone know where I can get one?
Nope (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/MATCH-OF-THE-DAY-LARGE-MUG-BRAND-NEW-IN-BOX_W0QQitemZ280054350719QQihZ018QQcategoryZ68296Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

[Wish_Master2100]

heard that a while back, surely something would have been done if it was true

England captain supremo? Model professional?

No way.

Wayne Rooney? I think it would be a different story.

[EvilElvis]

Hibs pair were misled, says agent


Hibernian midfielders Scott Brown and Kevin Thomson were misled by the club and their former agent, claims their present representative, Willie McKay.
Brown handed in a transfer request on Saturday as he and Thomson attempt to win a salary rise at Easter Road.

"They signed new contracts in March, but they were misled and badly advised," McKay told BBC Sport.

"Former manager Tony Mowbray told them that, if they played well, he would look at it again in August."

Mowbray has since left for West Bromwich Albion and has been succeeded by John Collins.

"The boys were happy to stay at Hibs if the contracts were renegotiated, but Hibs are saying that Tony Mowbray is no longer there," said McKay.

"When I became their agent, I gave them my card to give to John Collins so he could give me a call."

McKay said that, when Collins did not respond, he turned his attention to the club's chief executive.

"For three weeks now, I have been asking Rod Petrie for a meeting," he said.

"My phone is open 24 hours a day for Rod to call me and discuss the situation.

"Rod has been saying that the boys were happy until I arrived, but that was not the case.

"They signed a contract in March, but they were badly advised by Hibs and their agent at the time.

"I'm urging Rod to pick up the phone and sort this out.

"The boys want to stay, but they will not be held to ransom."

McKay explained why it was only Brown that had so far made a transfer request.

"I think Scott feels more strongly than Kevin. Being club captain, he wants to think about it a little longer," he said.

"Clubs have come in with verbal offers. Not for the £3m each that Hibs are looking for, but close to it.

"I know that one club was willing to go to £2m for one of the players."

McKay insists that he is not the villain some have painted him.

"Most Hibs fans understand the situation," he said.

"They know they have a wage structure, but sometimes you have to change the wage structure for a situation like this."

Collins confirmed to BBC Sport that Hibs had rejected Brown's transfer request.

"I read it, ripped it up and put it in the bin," he said.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Put your spare change on Brown ending up at Rangers.



The Celtic fans are mocking Collins attitude on the dealings because when he played for Celtic he kept refusing to sign a new contract and joined Monaco on a free transfer.

[danlalala]

The Celtic fans are mocking Collins attitude on the dealings because when he played for Celtic he kept refusing to sign a new contract and joined Monaco on a free transfer.
Glasgow (40% tax on his wage) or the Principality of Monaco (0% tax on his wage)...?

[EvilElvis]

The weekend gets better and better for Celtic (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/6204334.stm)

[EvilElvis]

Glasgow (40% tax on his wage) or the Principality of Monaco (0% tax on his wage)...?


I'm with you on that one - it's the whole I'm not signing anything I want the best for me and fuck everything else attitude.

Now Collins is a manager and his attitude has changed top "It's whats best for the club not the individual"

[danlalala]

I'm with you on that one - it's the whole I'm not signing anything I want the best for me and fuck everything else attitude.

Now Collins is a manager and his attitude has changed top "It's whats best for the club not the individual"
Did he ever come out and say why he wouldn't sign? Anything like, 'I'd like to leave for a club abroad' or something?

[EvilElvis]

Did he ever come out and say why he wouldn't sign? Anything like, 'I'd like to leave for a club abroad' or something?

Not that I can remember - And this was a time when Celtic were really struggling - Minutes from going bankrupt the season's aim was for a top 5 finish - However, I do recall Fergus McCann (Ex owner of Celtic) trying to compain to FIFA, UEFA and too anyone who'd listen that Monaco wasn't part of Europe as it was a Principality, so they should have to pay for Collins services. He failed.

[EvilElvis]

Only An Excuse taking the piss out of Fergie (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFfGd3ULlGk)

[Bexlehem]

Only An Excuse taking the piss out of Fergie (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFfGd3ULlGk)
Classic clip :D

Liverpool? Damn. That's not going to be easy in the slightest. I just hope Mr. Wenger takes it seriously.

[Renegades of funk 8]

leicster away, not too shabby

[EvilElvis]

Barcelona are preparing to launch a second bid to sign unhappy Arsenal striker Thierry Henry. (Sun)

Everton will offer Simon Davies in a swap deal for Fulham's Luis Boa Morte. (Daily Mirror)

Portsmouth are preparing a new bid for £10m-rated Udinese midfielder Sulley Muntari after failing to land him in the summer. (Daily Mirror)

Striker Danny Cadamarteri is on trial at Oldham after completing a six-month drugs ban. (Daily Telegraph)

Ipswich are to bid for Hibernian star Steven Whittaker. (Daily Mirror)

Liverpool, Tottenham and Portsmouth are all after Birmingham defender Matthew Upson. (Daily Mirror)


OTHER GOSSIP
An unnamed French international has told a newspaper in France that Thierry Henry is an "enormous bighead who can't stand criticism". (Daily Mirror)

Henry may not play for Arsenal until the new year as he recovers from a nerve problem in his back. (Daily Mail)

Boss Paul Ince is considering playing in Macclesfield's FA Cup tie against Chelsea. (Daily Mirror)

Dubai investors will examine the books at Liverpool this week as they look to complete their £450m takeover by Christmas. (Daily Mirror)


AND FINALLY...
Gareth Icke, son of former professional goalkeeper and self-proclaimed "channel for the Christ spirit" David, has been given a late-call-up to England's Beach Soccer team. (The Times)

Sheffield Wednesday striker Chris Brunt eats Gummy Bears at half-time to keep his energy levels up. (Daily Mail)

Torquay chairman Chris Roberts says he had no problem persuading former Czech international Lubos Kubik to take over as boss at Plainmoor because the town just "sold itself". (Daily Express)

[Captain Stu]

BOOYEAH!! 4-0 away from home before half time, that'll do nicely and it was super awesome to see two goals and an assist from Belly... note how he basically played in a total Henry role and, thus, had a total Henry of a game? He can do that every sodding game from now on - he was mag-fucking-nificent. :)

*

Arsenal in BOTH cups? Aw man. :(

*

I feel sorrt for Tezza Henry, poor guy - 4 years of almost non-stop football. :( I hope he's not out for too long.

*

As good as the signing of Larsson is, paying him £100,000 p/w (basic) for 10 weeks (at a total of £1M) is not. That's some bad, bad business.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

DISGRACEFUL BEHAVIOUR BY STOCKPORT FANS

Stockport County would like to apologise to any supporter upset by some fans throwing paper planes in the Cheadle End on Saturday.

White paper was placed on seats in the Upper Tier to display a welcome home to Danny Bergara, who was back at Edgeley Park as the club's Guest of Honour.

However, some supporters then, unfortunately, let the vast majority down by rolling the paper up and throwing it around the stand.

County Managing Director, Keith Agar, said: "It was a silly gesture by some of our fans to throw the paper around and we apologise to anyone who suffered from this behaviour.
"We will not be allowing the use of paper or cards again in the future."

It must be a joke, in all honesty

[Captain Stu]

lolz.

I hope this takeover talk is a load of guff, we're going to be takenover in some part because it's seemingly the only way we're gonna finance the new stadium... but I hope it's only a majority shareholder thing and not a complete takeover.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

It seems more likely to me that it would be a complete takeover. Moores wants around £300m for his 51%? no wonder noone has bought it! especially considering the club are £73m in debt?

If someone was considering buying the club, surely the most feasible option would be to do a Glazer style takeover and use Loans. If you took the whole 100% it wouldn't work out as much as the £6000 a share Moores wants because as soon as you have a certain amount of shares you can buy/force them for normal market price? (isn't that what the glazers did?) so yeah, rather 100% for a tad more (a tad few dozen million more) or £300m for a measly 51% (not to mentoon having to work with that Prat Parry).

that probably makes no sense as, to be fair, i know nothing about business. but if i'm right that's perfect common sense :D

[Renegades of funk 8]

BOOYEAH!! 4-0 away from home before half time

won't be that easy on saturday when we come to town :D

[Captain Stu]

won't be that easy on saturday when we come to town :D

BELLY'S GONNA GET YA!! :mad:

Also, I'm closing in on Sarahface on the Yahoo league. :cool:

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Also, I'm closing in on Sarahface on the Yahoo league. :cool:

notice how she's creeping up in the 'official' league though :mad:

i had a terrible week in both... but they're both pretty tight to be fair, except for sarahs lead on the yahoo one

[Captain Stu]

notice how she's creeping up in the 'official' league though :mad:

i had a terrible week in both... but they're both pretty tight to be fair, except for sarahs lead on the yahoo one

... it was about 250 points before the weekend, the cheating little bone smoker.

[timesfooall]

Whats this 'offical' league everyone keeps talking about:confused:

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Whats this 'offical' league everyone keeps talking about:confused:

fantasy.premierleague.com

[boxshapedheart]

Also, I'm closing in on Sarahface on the Yahoo league. :cool:
Stu stu stu, by "closing in" you indicate that you beat me in the scores so far this week.

Weekly score:
Winchestertonfieldville 66
Furry Beanbag 54.5

:D

notice how she's creeping up in the 'official' league though :mad:
sssshh. :p

[Captain Stu]

Stu stu stu, by "closing in" you indicate that you beat me in the scores so far this week.

Weekly score:
Winchestertonfieldville 66
Furry Beanbag 54.5

:D

I beat you last week... and the gap is much smaller now! :mad:

1. Winchestertonfieldville - 1,072
2. Furry Beanbag - 910

:mad:!!

[timesfooall]

Seriously she must be cheating if she is that far ahead. I demand a stewards inquiry :p

[Captain Stu]

http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/04122006/2/photo/dubai-talks-possible-liverpool-fc-investment.html

Dubai said on Monday it was in talks about a possible investment in Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html) Football Club and would start due diligence on the 18-time English champions within days.


State-owned Dubai International Capital (DIC), which the Gulf emirate also used to buy the Tussauds Group, is in exclusive negotiations with the Merseyside club, DIC said in a statement, confirming months of speculation in British newspapers.

"Dubai International Capital will be commencing due diligence in the coming days," the statement said, without giving a value for any deal.

"We are supporters of the game and of the club," the statement quoted DIC Chief Executive Sameer al-Ansari as saying.

"Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html)'s investment requirement (has) been well publicised and we hope we can agree a deal that will provide the club with the funds it needs both on and off the pitch," said Ansari, a fan of the club who uses the Liverpool emblem as a screensaver on his mobile phone.

Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html) FC has been seeking an injection of cash for more than two years to help reclaim its place at the top of English soccer and fund a new stadium.

The 2005 European champions last won the league title in 1990 and the club has lived in the shadows of Manchester United (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/manunited/index.html) and Arsenal (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/arsenal/index.html), and more recently Chelsea (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/chelsea/index.html), which has benefited from a takeover by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.

The club said in March Chairman David Moores was looking to sell some or all of his 51.5 percent stake.

The Times of London reported on Monday that Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html) was close to accepting a 450 million pound ($890.9 million) deal from DIC.

Under the deal DIC will take on 80 million pounds in Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html) debt and provide the club with up to 200 million pounds for a new 60,000 capacity stadium, the paper said.

Moores valued the club at 170 million pounds, the Times reported.
Belfast property tycoon John Miskelly and American billionaire George Gillett were among other contenders for a Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html) stake, it said.

Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html) have been linked with numerous investors since news broke that the club had held talks with ousted Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in March 2004.
Local businessman Steve Morgan, media investment group L4 and the American Kraft family have also previously confirmed interest in buying Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html) shares.

The bit that interested me was:

"Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html)'s investment requirement (has) been well publicised and we hope we can agree a deal that will provide the club with the funds it needs both on and off the pitch," said Ansari, a fan of the club who uses the Liverpool emblem as a screensaver on his mobile phone."

I'm not aversed to us taking on investers at all, especially if they're football people rather than cold businessmen... but I worry that, by the new year, we'll be floated on the stockmarket and Liverpool PLC will be born. :(

[timesfooall]

Obviously there are pros and cons with the plc. In regards to United most fans where against it, if i remember correctly, but in hindsight i doubt united would have been as dominant in the 90s without us becoming a plc.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/04122006/2/photo/dubai-talks-possible-liverpool-fc-investment.html



The bit that interested me was:

"Liverpool (http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/fo/liverpool/index.html)'s investment requirement (has) been well publicised and we hope we can agree a deal that will provide the club with the funds it needs both on and off the pitch," said Ansari, a fan of the club who uses the Liverpool emblem as a screensaver on his mobile phone."

I'm not aversed to us taking on investers at all, especially if they're football people rather than cold businessmen... but I worry that, by the new year, we'll be floated on the stockmarket and Liverpool PLC will be born. :(

wow, i thought liverpool were already a PLC? so they must currently be LTD, right?

[Captain Stu]

Obviously there are pros and cons with the plc. In regards to United most fans where against it, if i remember correctly, but in hindsight i doubt united would have been as dominant in the 90s without us becoming a plc.

Well yeah, this move generates a LOT more money for the club which in turn gives Benitez more money to spend on players... but then you lose the atmosphere of the traditional club - been owned by the Moores family for over 50 years - and it'll become the latest badge on some businessman's lapel. :( I'm opposed to it in principle but it just has to happen.

wow, i thought liverpool were already a PLC? so they must currently be LTD, right?

Yup, Liverpool is still a REAL football club... for another few weeks at least.

[EvilElvis]

Whats this 'offical' league everyone keeps talking about:confused:

That was set up before the Yahoo league

More info here (http://bbs.foofighters.com/showthread.php?t=66584)

[timesfooall]

That was set up before the Yahoo league

More info here (http://bbs.foofighters.com/showthread.php?t=66584)

Shit i missed this, o well, im generous in giving a start to everyone :D

[EvilElvis]

Shit i missed this, o well, im generous in giving a start to everyone :D

Your being beaten by an American girl who picked Djemba-Djemba on the strength of his name!

[EvilElvis]

Injured Boyd to miss rest of year


Rangers' leading goalscorer Kris Boyd will not play again this year after damaging his left ankle in Sunday's defeat at Falkirk.
The 23-year-old striker limped off before half-time after a challenge from Bairns defender Kenny Milne.

"Obviously I am disappointed but these things can happen in football," Boyd told the club website.

"I was in pain right away but it got worse and I realised that I couldn't carry on."

Boyd, who has netted 11 goals this season, will miss a tough run of fixtures for the mis-firing Ibrox club.

Rangers host Hibernian at the weekend and face Partizan Belgrade on Uefa Cup duty before entertaining bitter rivals Celtic.

Those home ties are followed by tricky trips to Aberdeen and Inverness, while 2006 ends with St Mirren visiting Glasgow.

Boyd moved to Rangers last January and was an immediate hit, finishing the season with 20 goals for the club, having claimed 17 in the first half of the campaign for Kilmarnock.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Oh arse! :(

[Captain Stu]

Oh arse! :(

Unlucky, Olster. :(

Wonder if you cats knew about this, right before SWP joined Chelsea - he was 90-something percent through a move to Liverpool but then Chelsea came in, flashed £21M at the City board and they cancelled the deal because of all their debt.

Thinking that he might've joined is bad enough... but knowing that he should've is sickening. :mad: Benitez has said he wants to sign him but is sure that Chelsea would up the £10M price that's being batted around for West Ham because we're a rival team. :rolleyes:

[timesfooall]

Your being beaten by an American girl who picked Djemba-Djemba on the strength of his name!

That makes me clincally depressed, she should have minus points for picking that waste of space.

[rob3000]

Wonder if you cats knew about this, right before SWP joined Chelsea - he was 90-something percent through a move to Liverpool but then Chelsea came in, flashed £21M at the City board and they cancelled the deal because of all their debt.
Where'd you hear this?

[Captain Stu]

Where'd you hear this?

Sunday Mirror yesterday, apparently it came from Benitez as he was talking about his fears that Chelsea would raise their price for a club like Liverpool but lower it for a club like West Ham.

If that's true and not just a bunch of cock that's been taken out of context, doesn't that make you feel uber pished off?

[rob3000]

Sunday Mirror yesterday, apparently it came from Benitez as he was talking about his fears that Chelsea would raise their price for a club like Liverpool but lower it for a club like West Ham.

If that's true and not just a bunch of cock that's been taken out of context, doesn't that make you feel uber pished off?
Definitely. I heard loads of stories he was close to joining but didn't believe them, he'd have done much better than that useless Pennant.

[EvilElvis]

Who are Liverpool playing on 31st March?

I maybe in Liverpool for a gig the night before

[Captain Stu]

Definitely. I heard loads of stories he was close to joining but didn't believe them, he'd have done much better than that useless Pennant.

Snap, seems like it might have had some truth to it.

Who are Liverpool playing on 31st March?

I maybe in Liverpool for a gig the night before

Arsenal!!

[Bud]

Did Pennant get booed off the last time he played, or is the Arsenal board I visit lying?

[Captain Stu]

Did Pennant get booed off the last time he played, or is the Arsenal board I visit lying?

There's two stories:

PAPERS: Pennant walked off to a loud chorus of boos.
MY DAD: Was at Anfield and said it was more like a deafening silence, he sure as shit didn't get applauded off like 99.99% of players do.

I believe my Dad, who was there, as opposed to the papers who lie about most things.

[EvilElvis]

Arsenal!!

Anfield?! :eek:

Chances of getting a ticket?! Minimal, I bet...

[Bud]

Pennant is just a big knobber. He loves going out more than training and playing, as rumour goes. Hence Wenger being rid of him.

[Captain Stu]

Anfield?! :eek:

Chances of getting a ticket?! Minimal, I bet...

I think this will illustrate it:

[SLIM] ----- (CHANCES OF GETTING A TICKET) ----- [NONE]

[Jamie]

I think this will illustrate it:

[SLIM] ----- (CHANCES OF GETTING A TICKET) ----- [NONE]
Yup. I have 2 :)

[rob3000]

Anfield?! :eek:

Chances of getting a ticket?! Minimal, I bet...
If you're really desperate I can hook you up, I'd go myself but at the moment it's on saturday. Though I suspect it'll be changed to a sunday, in which case I'll probably go.

[Wish_Master2100]

Sunday Mirror yesterday, apparently it came from Benitez as he was talking about his fears that Chelsea would raise their price for a club like Liverpool but lower it for a club like West Ham.

If that's true and not just a bunch of cock that's been taken out of context, doesn't that make you feel uber pished off?

Similar thing happened with Steven Gerrard signing for Chelsea, fee agreed, personal terms, everything.

Bottles it from the death threats, and then goes and wins you the European cup.

[Bexlehem]

If you're really desperate I can hook you up, I'd go myself but at the moment it's on saturday. Though I suspect it'll be changed to a sunday, in which case I'll probably go.
I can't see it not being on the sunday, unless by that point, everyone's sick of Liverpool Arse fixtures.

[Captain Stu]

If you're really desperate I can hook you up, I'd go myself but at the moment it's on saturday. Though I suspect it'll be changed to a sunday, in which case I'll probably go.

One of my Mam's mates has two tickets in the main stand that are very often free for midweek games. Me and my best mate are top of the list for sparesies. :D

[Bud]

death threats solve everything, obviously.

[rob3000]

Similar thing happened with Steven Gerrard signing for Chelsea, fee agreed, personal terms, everything.

Bottles it from the death threats, and then goes and wins you the European cup.
Is this coming from your sources or papers? Because if it's from the papers it's bollocks, but you seem to know a lot...

[Captain Stu]

I was quite pleased when we signed Pennant, still would've preferred Shaun, but he really doesn't seem to give a fuck - at least Bellamy through his lack of goals seems to have been trying... same as Crouch did last season. Pennant isn't making the effort.

The reason he was "silenced" off the pitch was because he kept taking dives at the slightest hint of contact and then sitting on the floor with his arms raised in the FPR style expecting a freekick and sulking when he didn't get one. Then he started having a go at the ref over these incidents and eventually got booked.

If this carries on, he'll be gone on July 1st, back down to the Championship.

[EvilElvis]

If you're really desperate I can hook you up, I'd go myself but at the moment it's on saturday. Though I suspect it'll be changed to a sunday, in which case I'll probably go.


Cheers! I'm just making plans at the moment nothing definate is happening.


I do want to go to Anfield before they demolish it.

Football heritage innit.

[Captain Stu]

Similar thing happened with Steven Gerrard signing for Chelsea, fee agreed, personal terms, everything.

Bottles it from the death threats, and then goes and wins you the European cup.

Yeah? Source?

[rob3000]

One of my Mam's mates has two tickets in the main stand that are very often free for midweek games. Me and my best mate are top of the list for sparesies. :D
Awesome! I've come in to the land of miracles where (I think) I can buy tickets for most tickets, but I won't abuse it : P

[Wish_Master2100]

Is this coming from your sources or papers? Because if it's from the papers it's bollocks, but you seem to know a lot...

I simply pass on information that I'm told, but the sources are very reliable.

[rob3000]

Cheers! I'm just making plans at the moment nothing definate is happening.


I do want to go to Anfield before they demolish it.

Football heritage innit.
Just ask some time in late feb/march to let me know.

[Bud]

To be fair I heard exactly the same thing.

[rob3000]

I simply pass on information that I'm told, but the sources are very reliable.
Interesting! I finished Stevie's book today, he said those rumours were completely untrue apart from a few hate mail. But then again I wouldn't put the fact I had death threats in my bio either.

[Captain Stu]

Awesome! I've come in to the land of miracles where (I think) I can buy tickets for most tickets, but I won't abuse it : P

YOU'LL ABUSE IT FOR ME THOUGH? *flutters eyelashes*

Cheers! I'm just making plans at the moment nothing definate is happening.


I do want to go to Anfield before they demolish it.

Football heritage innit.

I'm proud to be able to say that I stood, several times, on the REAL original Kop before it got torn down in 1994.

[rob3000]

YOU'LL ABUSE IT FOR ME THOUGH? *flutters eyelashes*



I'm proud to be able to say that I stood, several times, on the REAL original Kop before it got torn down in 1994.
That's great, wish I could say the same!

And yeah, I'll abuse it for you. Every game, even if you don't want to go...just so you can sell them on for more.:D

[Wish_Master2100]

Interesting! I finished Stevie's book today, he said those rumours were completely untrue apart from a few hate mail. But then again I wouldn't put the fact I had death threats in my bio either.

Well, he doesn't want to rock the boat I suppose. He was on the verge of walking out, and then became golden boy almost overnight.

To be honest, I think SG is a very weak man, as a person that is. Just look at all the shit he's put up with over the last couple of years.

Imagine how much it hinders his performance on the pitch?

[Captain Stu]

That's great, wish I could say the same!

And yeah, I'll abuse it for you. Every game, even if you don't want to go...just so you can sell them on for more.:D

Cheers man! I might have to hold you to that one for a midweek game or 12.

Well, he doesn't want to rock the boat I suppose. He was on the verge of walking out, and then became golden boy almost overnight.

To be honest, I think SG is a very weak man, as a person that is. Just look at all the shit he's put up with over the last couple of years.

Imagine how much it hinders his performance on the pitch?

Maybe... or maybe it took all that to realise that what he really wanted was to stay put at his childhood club?

[Captain Stu]

Inter Milan are offering David Beckham complete control of his image rights in a bid to lure him away from Real Madrid. (The Sun)

Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder is still keen on Charlton's Darren Bent, but says he has little chance of signing him while the clubs are in relegation trouble. (The Sun)

Teenage Everton striker James Vaughan is wanted by Crystal Palace on loan in January. (Daily Mail)



Jose Mourinho, who suffers from migraines, was rushed to hospital with acute head pains on Sunday but returned to training on Monday. (The Sun)

Alan Pardew has been warned by new West Ham owner Eggert Magnusson that, as the manager, his "neck is on the line" and "his throat will be cut" if results are poor. (Various)

Thierry Henry admits he can be a pig-headed prima donna who always thinks he is right. (Various)

Tottenham players hit back at manager Martin Jol's criticism following their 3-0 defeat against Arsenal by insisting he picked the wrong team and they were robbed by poor refereeing. (Express)


Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate says Austrian defender Emanuel Pogatetz has cast off his 'Mad Dog' tag. (The Star)

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIT1mbqBot8

Love the guy so much.

Big hugs :)

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Maybe... or maybe it took all that to realise that what he really wanted was to stay put at his childhood club?

whatever did happen, I bet he still shit his pants when he saw that effigy burning on sky sports news!

and more amusing, i bet the people that were burning the effigy are now Stevie G's biggest fans again

[Captain Stu]

Jesus fucking christ, this guy that's heading the consortium to buy out Liverpool is the 5th richest man in the world with a personal fortune believed to be £14 BILLION... compared to Mr. Abramovich's measly £9B. :D

But, he's said it won't be a Chelsea type unlimited transfer kitty and stupid wages which is a good thing. I'd sooner see a steady stream of cash into the club but know that, if needs be, we can spend a little extra than we normally would be able to manage.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

coincedentally i was just researching premiership transfer spending over the last few seasons (couldn't find anything mind) and i saw that Liverpool are already a PLC under the name ;Liverpool Football Club and Athletic Grounds plc'...?

[Captain Stu]

coincedentally i was just researching premiership transfer spending over the last few seasons (couldn't find anything mind) and i saw that Liverpool are already a PLC under the name ;Liverpool Football Club and Athletic Grounds plc'...?

That's strange... go to the G14 website (http://www.g14.com/main.php) and click the Liverpool badge. That gives the exact same name... minus the PLC.

I'm absolutely certain that the football club is still an LTD but now you've got my interest up and I'm gonna have to inbreastigate.

[timesfooall]

http://www.footballeconomy.com/stats/stats_turnover_01.htm

Does that make Man Utd more of a real club than Liverpool? :p

[Captain Stu]

http://www.footballeconomy.com/stats/stats_turnover_01.htm

Does that make Man Utd more of a real club than Liverpool? :p

Not at all because the world and his wife knows that United have been a PLC for years.

From United's own page: http://www.manutd.com/documents/clubCharters/doc_10_33.pdf

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I think i've got it! see this website www.lfcshares.com it has share information for Liverpool and on the main page it says this

"Opportunities for supporters to become new club shareholders are rare and only possible when existing shareholders agree to have shares privately transferred."

and i had to check wikipedia for this, but i did learn this ages ago!

"While it is not compulsory for a PLC to "float" its shares (some PLCs retain ownership of all their shares, maintaining the PLC designation for the extra financial status), many do so, and their shares are usually traded on either the London Stock Exchange or the Alternative Investments Market (AIM)"

so basically, i think Liverpool ARE a PLC, but just haven't floated on the stock market and are keeping control of their shares, which tehnically is a LTD...

making my comment and this research pointless!

[Captain Stu]

I think i've got it! see this website www.lfcshares.com (http://www.lfcshares.com) it has share information for Liverpool and on the main page it says this

"Opportunities for supporters to become new club shareholders are rare and only possible when existing shareholders agree to have shares privately transferred."

and i had to check wikipedia for this, but i did learn this ages ago!

"While it is not compulsory for a PLC to "float" its shares (some PLCs retain ownership of all their shares, maintaining the PLC designation for the extra financial status), many do so, and their shares are usually traded on either the London Stock Exchange or the Alternative Investments Market (AIM)"

so basically, i think Liverpool ARE a PLC, but just haven't floated on the stock market and are keeping control of their shares, which tehnically is a LTD...

making my comment and this research pointless!

Good find, I think I'm a bit in the dark - I often confuse "being a PLC" with being floated on the stock market. But yeah, I get you're point.

I'm opposed to us floating on the stock market because you can't undo it.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Good find, I think I'm a bit in the dark - I often confuse "being a PLC" with being floated on the stock market. But yeah, I get you're point.

I'm opposed to us floating on the stock market because you can't undo it.

unless there's a total buy-out! :D

[Captain Stu]

unless there's a total buy-out! :D

Huh? If a club's a PLC and then someone buys out 100% of the club, they're able to un-float the team? :confused:

[Pirate Thom]

Huh? If a club's a PLC and then someone buys out 100% of the club, they're able to un-float the team? :confused:
If you own 75% of the shares, you can delist any company from the stock market, that's how Glazer did it.

[Captain Stu]

If you own 75% of the shares, you can delist any company from the stock market, that's how Glazer did it.

Reaaaaally? I never knew that. :) Cheers.

[timesfooall]

Reaaaaally? I never knew that. :) Cheers.
Thats why i said are united more of a real club than liverpool because they are now and ltd and liverpool a plc :D

[Captain Stu]

Thats why i said are united more of a real club than liverpool because they are now and ltd and liverpool a plc :D United are still a PLC aren't they, they just might not be floated on the market.

[timesfooall]

United are still a PLC aren't they, they just might not be floated on the market.

Nope they are now an ltd.

But im a bit confused as to what ookie posted above, when in school i was told in business studies that the difference between plc and ltd is that anyone can buy shares for a plc, but ltd only the current shareholders can choose who they want to buy the. Thus being on the stock market for a plc. :confused:

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Tottenham players hit back at manager Martin Jol's criticism following their 3-0 defeat against Arsenal by insisting he picked the wrong team and they were robbed by poor refereeing. (Express)

If thats the case then the entire team should be dropped. If they can't put their hands up after that performance and admit they were shit then we've got some serious problems. Sure Jol got the tactics completely wrong but the players have to accept some of the responsibility as well.

A win tonight will go along way in repairing the damage from the weekend.

[Captain Stu]

If thats the case then the entire team should be dropped. If they can't put their hands up after that performance and admit they were shit then we've got some serious problems. Sure Jol got the tactics completely wrong but the players have to accept some of the responsibility as well.

A win tonight will go along way in repairing the damage from the weekend. Yeah, anyone who spoke back like that to the manager should be dropped and fined.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Nope they are now an ltd.

But im a bit confused as to what ookie posted above, when in school i was told in business studies that the difference between plc and ltd is that anyone can buy shares for a plc, but ltd only the current shareholders can choose who they want to buy the. Thus being on the stock market for a plc. :confused:

yup i was taught that as well, but i guess they didn't want to go in depth on it all, the quote i got was from wikipedia. i may not be right, but it does seem the logical explanation

[Wish_Master2100]

Breaking news from my informer, the first game at the new Wembley stadium will be England vs Scotland!

Womens international, that is.

[Pirate Thom]

England vs Scotland!

....Womens international
What's the difference?

[Wish_Master2100]

What's the difference?

Very good.

[**dylan**]

Shaun WP got his first goal for chelsea tonight, i can see that going down well with clubs wanting to make a bid for him.

[Captain Stu]

YAY FOR SHAUN!! Although a goal in Europe probably just stuck another £2M on his price.

Not at all arsed that we lost tonight, never expected us to win but good to see Robbie get two. :)

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

Jose looked distinctly unimpressed by the goal though.

2 highly sexual goals from Tottenham tonight. I WATCHED THEM ON MY PHONE.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

2 highly sexual goals from Tottenham tonight. I WATCHED THEM ON MY PHONE.

Good stuff, I particularly liked Berby's.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

Aye, lovely stuff. It's funny how Defoe is quite good at everything except finishing.

[Captain Stu]

Aye, lovely stuff. It's funny how Defoe is quite good at everything except finishing.

They were on about this on TalkSport before how he used to be a lethal finisher but his approach work was shit and now his approach work and team effort is improving and his finishing has gone down the pan.

[F'jo]

Anyone see this? http://uk.news.yahoo.com/05122006/325/polonium-traces-found-arsenal-stadium.html

[Mikey]

Anyone see this? http://uk.news.yahoo.com/05122006/325/polonium-traces-found-arsenal-stadium.html
*Cue the stories that Wenger had something to do with Alexander Litvinenko's death.*

[Jamie]

*Cue the stories that Wenger had something to do with Alexander Litvinenko's death.*
But he did! (http://www.laughfc.co.uk/zimages/arsenechef.jpg)
EDIT: Better picture ;)

[Mikey]

But he did! (http://www.infactah.com/wenger%20chef.jpg)
Hahahaha! Love it.

Yeah, you're a United fan, right? :rolleyes:

[Jamie]

Hahahaha! Love it.

Yeah, you're a United fan, right? :rolleyes:
The camera never lies :)
And I edited BTW

[Captain Stu]

Wenger would be a lousy cook, he'd never see it when the steak gets burnt.

[Captain Stu]

Urgh, I would like to whole ehartedly punch both Wenger and UEFA right in the middle of their ignorant little faces. :rolleyes: Not regarding the DIC proposed takeover of Liverpool:

1. UEFA are concerned that it is another step towards the biggest few clubs controlling the lions share of the money in the game.
2. Wenger complains that this will further ruin English football.

FUCK OFF!!! :mad:

The DIC has made it abundantly clear that we will NOT see Abramovich-like transfer fees being approved because their main investment is in removing the clubs debt and, most important of all, fronting the £200M necessary to complete the stadium in time for the 2009/2010 season.

UEFA can fuck off, maybe if they had regulations in place already then Chelsea wouldn't have seriously trodden on football and make a simple mockery of transfer fees and suitable wages. THEY are the ones who need to act now to prevent such a problem occurring but isn't it always the way? The bigger clubs have the most money and so experience more influence and domination? It's just bigger now because there's so much more money coming into the game because of larger stadiums, increased ticket prices, TV revenue and the global merchandise that clubs can cash in on.

As for Wenger, I bet every single penny that I will ever earn in my life that he wouldn't be complaining about the effect on British football if the DIC or a similar company were looking to buy into Arsenal. Fucking jealous cunt, he's just pissed off that they won't be the only team with a revolutionary, state of the art stadium anymore. Stupid moany French twat-o-cunt.

Booyeah!

[friartuck]

UEFA have no business in complaining about this. If they actually put a little effort into looking into things like salary capping - which is slowly becoming a necessity in European club football - then maybe their complaints would carry a little weight.

It's ridiculous that they're moaning about something they have the power to change.

[Captain Stu]

UEFA have no business in complaining about this. If they actually put a little effort into looking into things like salary capping - which is slowly becoming a necessity in European club football - then maybe their complaints would carry a little weight.

It's ridiculous that they're moaning about something they have the power to change.

Haha, exactly. It's like "oh no, if only someone had the power to prevent money ruining the game"

*penny drops in about six years time*

"... wait a second!!"

Apparently, the proposed move is to restrict clubs spending on transfers to a percentage of their overall earnings. I for one would gladly welcome this and salary capping. It's taking the piss when a prick like Fatpard earns over £100k a week along with 5-6 other Chelsea players.

[friartuck]

The worst thing for me about Chelsea is the Winston Bogarde syndrome players get: "I don't care if I have a personal arse groove on the bench, I'm earning a shit load of money so I'm going to stay!"

Example: Well done to John Obi Mikel, who picked Chelsea over a club who would actually play him. Oh well, I guess we'll have to use the free money we got to actually buy a good player.

[Captain Stu]

The worst thing for me about Chelsea is the Winston Bogarde syndrome players get: "I don't care if I have a personal arse groove on the bench, I'm earning a shit load of money so I'm going to stay!"

Example: Well done to John Obi Mikel, who picked Chelsea over a club who would actually play him. Oh well, I guess we'll have to use the free money we got to actually buy a good player.

Innit, didn't United make about £4M or something off a player who never even put a shirt on?

[Two-Bob Peeters]

You can see the concern though. Just because they say they won't doesn't mean they won't.

Common sense says they won't though, not unless they can see a return in their investment. which would take a good few years (i.e money generated from extra tickets from stadium, prize money for winning trophies). When Abramovic came along he just put all his money down first because he knew it was guaranteed success and soon enough the cash would be flying in as there are no other contenders. Liverpool can't do this because they'd be directly competing with chelsea, with no guranteed benefit.

If Chelsea wan't there however...

[Captain Stu]

You can see the concern though. Just because they say they won't doesn't mean they won't.

Common sense says they won't though, not unless they can see a return in their investment. which would take a good few years (i.e money generated from extra tickets from stadium, prize money for winning trophies). When Abramovic came along he just put all his money down first because he knew it was guaranteed success and soon enough the cash would be flying in as there are no other contenders. Liverpool can't do this because they'd be directly competing with chelsea, with no guranteed benefit.

If Chelsea wan't there however...

Absolutely right, we don't think we'll see much money up front for the first two years or so until, as you say, we start seeing extra revenue from tickets or win the league or the Champions League again to generate more money. It'd be pointless at the moment (pretty much) to spend £50M over the summer because we're still playing catch-up.

The Sheikh is doing this as a business deal, unlike Abramovich who wants a hobby football club to play with at the weekends.

*

Incidentaly, one of the guys who compiles the football rich lists was on SSN first thing this morning and Abramovich has earned another £3Bn in the last 12 months alone. Also Rooney is now the 9th richest footballer in the country and I think that highlights what a state football is in at the moment that a 20 year old can already have earned an estimated £20M.

[Captain Stu]

Apparently Shaun is happy at Chelsea and has no desire to leave.

YOU USELESS FUCKING DICKHEAD!!!

[Bexlehem]

Apparently Shaun is happy at Chelsea and has no desire to leave.

YOU USELESS FUCKING DICKHEAD!!!
I think I've lost all sympathy for him.

I would love to see Fifa/Uefa put in some salary and transfer capping. It will stop players becoming way overpriced. It worked in the NFL. Yeah, it's a different sport and all, and it had it's teething problems, but they had loads of 'big' players earning well more than they deserved. This way, the smaller team could compete, and you're now seeing a whole bunch of different teams doing well in the NFL. That could quite happily happen in football too.

[Captain Stu]

Shaun can get fucked now, the only hope he's got is if he's saying this to avoid rocking the Chelsea boat just in case a move doesn't materialise in January. If so, then fair enough - he's just playing the game - but the thing is, I genuinely believe he wants to stay and actually thinks he's gonna get in the team ahead of Fatty, Ballache, Anklebreaker or Flashy Tricks McGoo.

I think I've lost all sympathy for him.

I would love to see Fifa/Uefa put in some salary and transfer capping. It will stop players becoming way overpriced. It worked in the NFL. Yeah, it's a different sport and all, and it had it's teething problems, but they had loads of 'big' players earning well more than they deserved. This way, the smaller team could compete, and you're now seeing a whole bunch of different teams doing well in the NFL. That could quite happily happen in football too.

Yeah, and then it'd go back to the days of investing in players rather than just buying Generic Superstar X from some small team who can't afford to hold onto him.

I think the best future example will be Torres. He's doing so well in Spain, and for the national side, but he will likely be lured away from Atletico Madrid because they can't offer the massive signing on fee and huge wage packet that United/Chelsea will be looking to offer him. If we cap the salary and restrict fees, it might stop some of the movement and keep some greedy cunts at clubs.

[Bexlehem]

I think the best future example will be Torres. He's doing so well in Spain, and for the national side, but he will likely be lured away from Atletico Madrid because they can't offer the massive signing on fee and huge wage packet that United/Chelsea will be looking to offer him. If we cap the salary and restrict fees, it might stop some of the movement and keep some greedy cunts at clubs.
I've been impressed at how long he's stayed there so far. I'd have thought that maybe he'd have left by now. And Joaquin. There was a fair bit of interest in him to move too, but so far, they've stuck by their clubs.

[Captain Stu]

I've been impressed at how long he's stayed there so far. I'd have thought that maybe he'd have left by now. And Joaquin. There was a fair bit of interest in him to move too, but so far, they've stuck by their clubs.

I wondered about Joaquin at first - Benitez has tried to sign him in the past - but I doubt we could afford him. Shame, he's a hellacious talent.

But yeah, they're both stayed put so far... but I wonder if it's more down to clubs not meeting the unrealistic prices of Madrid/Betis. I know Madrid have said £25M+ for Torres and I think a similar figure was rejected (from Chelsea) by Betis last summer for Joaquin.

[Bexlehem]

I wondered about Joaquin at first - Benitez has tried to sign him in the past - but I doubt we could afford him. Shame, he's a hellacious talent.

But yeah, they're both stayed put so far... but I wonder if it's more down to clubs not meeting the unrealistic prices of Madrid/Betis. I know Madrid have said £25M+ for Torres and I think a similar figure was rejected (from Chelsea) by Betis last summer for Joaquin.
It may be that the clubs are putting the prices up so high to stop clubs from being interested, thus keep them that way.

[Captain Stu]

It may be that the clubs are putting the prices up so high to stop clubs from being interested, thus keep them that way.

More than likely, I couldn't see Atletico Madrid being up in 4th in La Liga at the moment with Torres - he's too important a player.

As for Joaquin, I think the bright lights will beckon.

[Bexlehem]

More than likely, I couldn't see Atletico Madrid being up in 4th in La Liga at the moment with Torres - he's too important a player.

As for Joaquin, I think the bright lights will beckon.
Yeah. And they're still really young, which is a great. I'd like Joaquin at Arse, please. We need a player like him to actually get some meaningful forward momentum in our play. We won't get him though...

[Captain Stu]

NOTE: I was not aware that Joaquin had already moved to Valencia.

[danlalala]

Gabriel Batistuta stayed at Fiorentina for 9 years, and in that time they were relegated once (1992). Despite all the big teams coming in for him, he stuck with them to get them back in the Serie A. The only reason he left was because Fiorentina asked him to leave when Roma bid £22m for him at the age of 30 in 2000. In return for bagging some much needed cash for his adopted home club, he netted himself £70,000 a week without having to ask for it.

In the latter part of his Fiorentina career, he was taking a 10% salary cut to loosen the purse strings at the club.

[Captain Stu]

Gabriel Batistuta stayed at Fiorentina for 9 years, and in that time they were relegated once (1992). Despite all the big teams coming in for him, he stuck with them to get them back in the Serie A. The only reason he left was because Fiorentina asked him to leave when Roma bid £22m for him at the age of 30 in 2000. In return for bagging some much needed cash for his adopted home club, he netted himself £70,000 a week without having to ask for it.

In the latter part of his Fiorentina career, he was taking a 10% salary cut to loosen the purse strings at the club.

He had a girls name though.

[danlalala]

He had a girls name though.
But he has the same birthday as me.

[Bexlehem]

NOTE: I was not aware that Joaquin had already moved to Valencia.
Nor was I... :o

Gabriel Batistuta stayed at Fiorentina for 9 years, and in that time they were relegated once (1992). Despite all the big teams coming in for him, he stuck with them to get them back in the Serie A. The only reason he left was because Fiorentina asked him to leave when Roma bid £22m for him at the age of 30 in 2000. In return for bagging some much needed cash for his adopted home club, he netted himself £70,000 a week without having to ask for it.

In the latter part of his Fiorentina career, he was taking a 10% salary cut to loosen the purse strings at the club.
There aren't enough players like that around these days.

[Captain Stu]

But he has the same birthday as me.

Haha, gay!

(Actually, that's pretty cool... although the name of Batigol is a bit close to Batty-gol, ie, being a batty boy)

Nor was I... :o

I did what I always do in times of uncertainty, I went wiki on him!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joaqu%C3%ADn_S%C3%A1nchez_Rodr%C3%ADguez

Although having been at Real Betis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Betis) for the first six years of his professional career, Joaquín had been heavily linked with moves to bigger clubs such as Barcelona (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F.C._Barcelona), Chelsea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chelsea_F.C.), Liverpool (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liverpool_F.C.), Lyon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olympique_Lyonnais), Real Madrid (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Madrid), Manchester United (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchester_United_F.C.), Newcastle United (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newcastle_United_F.C.), A.S. Roma (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A.S._Roma), and Valencia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valencia_CF). Chelsea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chelsea_F.C.) were the earliest confirmed bidders for the players services, having bid €25.0 million for Joaquín during the summer of 2005 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005). A late bid from Lyon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olympique_Lyonnais) during August (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/August) 2006 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006) did not come to fruition as Joaquín made clear his intentions to Betis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Betis) to stay in Spain (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain). He then left Betis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_Betis) for Valencia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valencia_CF) for a club record fee of €25.0 million.

25 million Euros is only around £16M, that is an absolute (in terms of football transfers at the moment) bargain!!

[friartuck]

Haha, gay!

(Actually, that's pretty cool... although the name of Batigol is a bit close to Batty-gol, ie, being a batty boy)


That was a Great nickname! It means "beat the goal" in Italian, which he frequently did.

25 million Euros is only around £16M, that is an absolute (in terms of football transfers at the moment) bargain!!

Valencia aren't thinking that now - he's been fairly mediocre since signing. I think he's a fab player though, I hope he gets back to top form soon.

[Captain Stu]

Valencia aren't thinking that now - he's been fairly mediocre since signing. I think he's a fab player though, I hope he gets back to top form soon.

Yer, his stats on SkySports were looking less than inspiring.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

he's insanely good on PES6 mind, i love being valencia on that game

[Captain Stu]

he's insanely good on PES6 mind, i love being valencia on that game

Word, I love the Spanish side.

Play a nice 4-4-2 (C2) formation with Alonso in the middle, Reyes on the left, Joaquin on the right and Xavi behind the front two of Torres and Villa.

BOIOIOING!!

[danlalala]

he's insanely good on PES6 mind, i love being valencia on that game
Who do they have in defence these days? I remember back in the days of Leeds' Champs Lge run, Valencia had a cracking back 4.

[Captain Stu]

Who do they have in defence these days? I remember back in the days of Leeds' Champs Lge run, Valencia had a cracking back 4.

Most league apps this season from their defenders is Miguel (14), Ayala (15), Navarro (omgz, his first name is David - 12) and Moretti (14).

http://home.skysports.com/squadlist.aspx?clid=191&cpid=23

Mmmmmmm, Valencia have Albelda. He's awesome.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Who do they have in defence these days? I remember back in the days of Leeds' Champs Lge run, Valencia had a cracking back 4.

Del Horno
Marchena (he's been there fecking ages now)
Ayala
Miguel

also got Curro Torres and two other pretty decent CBs (as stu posted above, Navarro, and Moretti the Left Back) that i can't remember for the life of me. they've still got the old school Baraja and Albelda. and Edu ain't a bad backup CM. shove Vicente on the left, Joaquin on the right with Villa and Morientes up front. sweet.

[Captain Stu]

I thought Del Porno was still injured?

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I thought Del Porno was still injured?

probably, i'm just going with the team i use on PES6!

[Captain Stu]

probably, i'm just going with the team i use on PES6!

Ah rooight. Yeah, he's still injured - last update was that he's "on the road to recovery". Check the SkySports page, he's yet to make an appearance yet.

[Bexlehem]

With that team, Valencia should be pretty hard to beat. And the Spanish team should be doing a lot better than they are with those players.

[Captain Stu]

With that team, Valencia should be pretty hard to beat. And the Spanish team should be doing a lot better than they are with those players.

Intit.

[timesfooall]

Anyone seen this?

http://home.skysports.com/ashes/article.aspx?hlid=433233&clid=3067&lid=4161&nav=

By the way its nothing to do with Cricket

[Captain Stu]

Anyone seen this?

http://home.skysports.com/ashes/article.aspx?hlid=433233&clid=3067&lid=4161&nav=

By the way its nothing to do with Cricket

That's utter fucking garbage, I refuse to go all winter without football. I bet the noncey poncey Italians and Spanish loved that cunty idea.

[Wish_Master2100]

Imagine if the World Cup/European Championship was held in the winter, Oct - Jan time.

Reckon England would do any better?

I honestly think they would.

[timesfooall]

Imagine if the World Cup/European Championship was held in the winter, Oct - Jan time.

Reckon England would do any better?

I honestly think they would.

The eurpopean championships yes, worlds depends where it is in the world whether its summer or winter.

[Wish_Master2100]

The eurpopean championships yes, worlds depends where it is in the world whether its summer or winter.

Very good point, but for arguments sake, our winter.

[EvilElvis]

Cudicini is a doubt for Sunday.

Just a shame Arsenal will be without Henry (I think)

[Wish_Master2100]

Cudicini is a doubt for Sunday.

Just a shame Arsenal will be without Henry (I think)

Arsenal work harder without Henry.

I think they'll do alot better against Chelsea without him.

They do rely on him too much. I don't think he handles pressure well.

[EvilElvis]

Arsenal work harder without Henry.

I think they'll do alot better against Chelsea without him.

They do rely on him too much. I don't think he handles pressure well.


I heard he had his worst game for Arsenal against Fulham last week

[Wish_Master2100]

I heard he had his worst game for Arsenal against Fulham last week

I think Stu said, hint of sarcasm or not, which I'll ignore regardless for the sake of my argument;

'Poor bastard, four years of constant football'

£100,000 p/w?

Poooor baby, I'd have them all playing 23hrs a day.

[EvilElvis]

I think Stu said, hint of sarcasm or not, which I'll ignore regardless for the sake of my argument;

'Poor bastard, four years of constant football'

£100,000 p/w?

Poooor baby, I'd have them all playing 23hrs a day.

I was meaning, no matter what he tried, nothing seemed to work for him - He hit a free kick and put it well into the stand behind the goal

[Wish_Master2100]

I was meaning, no matter what he tried, nothing seemed to work for him - He hit a free kick and put it well into the stand behind the goal

Oh yeah I know what you meant, it just annoys me, as Arsene Wenger prolly wiped the floor with Thierry Henry, and Henry has got his back up.

BENCH.

[Captain Stu]

I think Stu said, hint of sarcasm or not, which I'll ignore regardless for the sake of my argument;

'Poor bastard, four years of constant football'

£100,000 p/w?

Poooor baby, I'd have them all playing 23hrs a day.

£20 says if you were a pro footballer and did 4 years with practically no rest, you'd get fucked too. Especially when you work as hard and do as much running as Henry does.

[timesfooall]

I disagree when people say that being a footballer isn't a proper job, they are being soft etc. They might get paid way too much for what they are doing but its still a hard job, training most days, playing 90 mins running around constantly sometimes twice a week, having strict diets etc.

[Wish_Master2100]

£20 says if you were a pro footballer and did 4 years with practically no rest, you'd get fucked too. Especially when you work as hard and do as much running as Henry does.

That is his job. His job is to play football, and play well. He has not been doing so recently, so his boss has a word, and he gets the hump.

Put it in perspective.

I do my job, every day, for years, get about 25 days holiday, for basically 1/4 of what Henry earns in one week, in one year.. I get a little bit tired, fair enough, so does everyone, but if you argue with the boss, you suffer the consequenses.

I know it doesn't work like that with football, because someone would just buy Henry from Arsenal, and thus it'd become irrelevant.

But you do understand, at all times, he should be playing well and to his amazing ability we've seen the last few seasons. This season, he hasn't got out of 2nd gear, and has rightly been pulled on it.

Basically, I agree with Arsene Wenger. That was my long winded, around the houses explaination of saying, I agree with Arsene Wenger.

[Captain Stu]

WOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! United 0 - Benfica 1. :D

What a gem of a goal!!

[EvilElvis]

WOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! United 0 - Benfica 1. :D

What a gem of a goal!!

United in UEFA cup.

hehehehe!

[Captain Stu]

Well, United have stepped up within about 8 seconds of the goal but it was deserved. United started off really poorly and were sitting back and letting Benfica come at them.

Haha, Rooney booked for mouthing off. :D

[Captain Stu]

Vidic equalised in the last minute of the first half, literally the last kick (actually a header) of the game.

FUcking typical. Possible foul leading up to the goal.

[EvilElvis]

Vidic equalised in the last minute of the first half, literally the last kick (actually a header) of the game.

FUcking typical. Possible foul leading up to the goal.

Celts 3-0 down at half time - They've never won an away Champions League fixture. Think it's: lost 10 drawn 1


They were 1-0 down after 80 seconds - My workmate has gone to Copenhagen for the game!

Damn me for not getting a Villa top with Allback on the back of it! :D



Also, from BBC Webpage:

2007: It's a miracle: there's been a shot on goal at the Dragao Stadium. Former Tottenham striker Helder Postiga fires straight at Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann



Anyone reckon it's got 0-0 written all over on it?!

[Bud]

That was singlehandedly the most boring match I've seen ever. At the end the Porto backline was just passing it between them with no pressure at all. I nearly fell asleep.

[EvilElvis]

Man Utd & Celtic through - Celtic sneaked 2nd place... :p

[Captain Stu]

Benfica were there usual selves tonight, started off well above their station and then just sat back and waited to be thoroughly beaten. 3-0 was a bit unreflective though because United weren't spectacular, it's just because Benfica were so dire.

[EvilElvis]

Benfica were there usual selves tonight, started off well above their station and then just sat back and waited to be thoroughly beaten. 3-0 was a bit unreflective though because United weren't spectacular, it's just because Benfica were so dire.


3-1 to the home teams in that group wasn't it?

[boxshapedheart]

Thank FUCK for that.

I was not enjoying myself for the first half. We definitely started playing well after they scored that beauty of a goal. Vidic you fucking legend. <3

Ahhh, I can relax now. Phew.

That was singlehandedly the most boring match I've seen ever. At the end the Porto backline was just passing it between them with no pressure at all. I nearly fell asleep.
So do you think there was some kind of [nudgenudgewinkwink] arrangement? :D

[Captain Stu]

So do you think there was some kind of [nudgenudgewinkwink] arrangement? :D

You know what, after seeing when Porto said "oh no, we're not going to be playing for a draw... we want to win!" and then it ending up a 0-0... that's what I thought.

Oh, how convenient. :p

[EvilElvis]

Thank FUCK for that.

I was not enjoying myself for the first half. We definitely started playing well after they scored that beauty of a goal. Vidic you fucking legend. <3

Ahhh, I can relax now. Phew.



Top of the group for you lot. The European Champion's had to settle for 2nd place... :D


Edit: Sarah - You hear that the Celtic chairman admitted they only bought Keane "To sell more shirts in Ireland"

[boxshapedheart]

You know what, after seeing when Porto said "oh no, we're not going to be playing for a draw... we want to win!" and then it ending up a 0-0... that's what I thought.

Oh, how convenient. :p
Especially with people saying it was so boring. Something smellsa fishy!

Top of the group for you lot. The European Champion's had to settle for 2nd place... :D
Barca and Real Madrid in 2nd. Porto (bastards!) too. People are saying we should want Lille which I guess makes sense, but we weren't exactly great against them last year. And I need to see highlights of how they beat Milan today!

[Captain Stu]

So much for boring, Porto hit the post at least twice - looks like Arsenal were very sodding lucky to manage a 0-0 draw.

"We didn't make any mistakes at the back..."

Right, so I just imaged seeing Djorou stepping way too high up the pitch and leaving a huge chunk of space behind him?

[boxshapedheart]

Edit: Sarah - You hear that the Celtic chairman admitted they only bought Keane "To sell more shirts in Ireland"
No I didn't. really? The bitch! Take my Keano away from me and don't even appreciate him. I'll have to add him to my hitlist.

[Bud]

very much so. worst i've seen this year.

[Captain Stu]

HOLY FUCKING SHIT!! Did you guys see the highlights from the Hamburg match?!

Timothee Atouba had one of the worst games in history!! His lousy tackle gave away a penalty and then he was at fault for a second goal because he pussied out of a tackle.

Then he started getting abuse from the crowd so he flipped them off while still on the pitch. The abuse continued, he asked to be subbed off and, as he was, he continued getting abuse so he started aiming fingers everywhere at all sections of the crowd and he was sent off!! He was sent off after being subbed off.

HAHAHAHAHA!!

[boxshapedheart]

Haha, that sounds brill, I haven't seen it yet though.


So much for boring, Porto hit the post at least twice - looks like Arsenal were very sodding lucky to manage a 0-0 draw.

Dangit, another conspiracy theory bites the dust.


Oh, nice to hear Mourhino's interview talking about always wanting Portuguese teams to beat English teams.

And then go on about all England taking all the top men from Portugal.... "Ronaldo, Mourhino...." Good to see he hasn't lost any of his self belief huh.

[Captain Stu]

Oh, nice to hear Mourhino's interview talking about always wanting Portuguese teams to beat English teams.

And then go on about all England taking all the top men from Portugal.... "Ronaldo, Mourhino...." Good to see he hasn't lost any of his self belief huh.

Goddamn, what a flapface.

[EvilElvis]

No I didn't. really? The bitch! Take my Keano away from me and don't even appreciate him. I'll have to add him to my hitlist.


Yep!

Even the Celtic fans are pissed off at him for that one - it was obvious Keane was there for extra hype - same reason they bought Nakamura and Du Wei.


Though Du Wei was utter gash and only played 45 mins against a first division team where he gave away a penalty and sold another goal before being relelased.

[friartuck]

Just back from the Man U game. Thoroughly pleased! My thoughts (in brief):

- Vidic is an outstanding defender. He makes Rio Ferdinand look good.
- Evra was great at getting forward but utter shite at defending. He was largely at fault for the first goal. STICK THE BOOT IN YOU BIG GIRL.
- What a peach from Nelson. He had a great first half.
- Petit is a tidy player.
- Ronaldo was immense and my man of the match. He constantly had Benfica on the back foot.
- That was the first game I saw Carrick play in the flesh. He's not up to much. Though I must admit he sorely lacks experience in European competitions, so hopefully he'll improve for next season.
- Fergie, stop playing 4-5-1, it doesn't work.

Overall, they weren't great but I'm glad we got through, particularly after that early scare.

I love going to Old Trafford around Christmas, if only to sing the 12 Days of Cantona.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

HOLY FUCKING SHIT!! Did you guys see the highlights from the Hamburg match?!

Timothee Atouba had one of the worst games in history!! His lousy tackle gave away a penalty and then he was at fault for a second goal because he pussied out of a tackle.

Then he started getting abuse from the crowd so he flipped them off while still on the pitch. The abuse continued, he asked to be subbed off and, as he was, he continued getting abuse so he started aiming fingers everywhere at all sections of the crowd and he was sent off!! He was sent off after being subbed off.

HAHAHAHAHA!!

I remember him not being too popular with the fans while at Spurs too. Looks like he may not be a Hamburg player for too long either.

[EvilElvis]

Burke happy to stay with Rangers


Rangers winger Chris Burke hopes that his future lies at Ibrox despite having failed to agree a new deal at the club.
The injury-prone 23-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season, meaning he will be free to negotiate with other clubs in January.

"I can't really tell you much," he told Rangers News. "All I will say is that Rangers is my first choice and I do want to stay here.

"Hopefully my future will be sorted and sooner rather than later."

Burke, who joined Rangers in 2000, was offered new terms in October but has put contract talks on hold.

He suffered a third injury of the season at Celtic Park on 23 September and underwent surgery to repair damaged ligaments in his left shoulder.

"The shoulder injury has been frustrating but what a lot of people don't realise is that I've done it twice before in training and that's when it really happened," added Burke.

"The ligaments in my arm were a bit weakened so all it took was a tug on my arm and the shoulder actually came out of the socket which was quite painful.

"That's why I knew in the Celtic game what had happened even though it probably looked to most people that not very much had happened.

"It got to the point that with just a little bit of contact the arm would come out so something had to be done."


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


SIGN the contract Burkey boy

[Casino King]

I went back a few pages to see if this was covered, but WHAT was the deal with the Serbian fans that were throwing flame-throwers at the crowd during pre-game at that one football match.

Are you kidding me? Don't ever again act like ANYTHING NBA-related can compare to what can take place during a European soccer match.

Just don't. Your fans are insane beyond belief.

[EvilElvis]

I went back a few pages to see if this was covered, but WHAT was the deal with the Serbian fans that were throwing flame-throwers at the crowd during pre-game at that one football match.

Are you kidding me? Don't ever again act like ANYTHING NBA-related can compare to what can take place during a European soccer match.

Just don't. Your fans are insane beyond belief.


Nothing NBA related?! (http://keyetv.com/topstories/local_story_340125757.html)

[Casino King]

That ain't America.

Just goes to prove that Europeans are getting sick of soccer.

edit: Okay, obviously I don't think that Europeans are getting sick of soccer. My bad.

Just don't act like we cornered the world on fan riots when you guys are right up there.

[Captain Stu]

I remember him not being too popular with the fans while at Spurs too. Looks like he may not be a Hamburg player for too long either.

Haha probably not, no.

*

Middlesbrough are set to make a £5m bid for Preston striker David Nugent next month. (The Sun)

Andriy Shevchenko fears his first European goal for Chelsea will not be enough to convince Jose Mourinho that he has a future at Stamford Bridge. (Daily Mail)

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill is worried defender Jlloyd Samuel has been tapped up by rival Premiership clubs. (Mirror)

Dundee United manager Craig Levein is locked in talks with Cowdenbeath over midfielder Morgaro Gomis. (Daily Record)


OTHER GOSSIP
Ledley King says Tottenham were dragged into a brawl during their match with Middlesbrough because they were trying to protect "young" Aaron Lennon. (Daily Star)

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack says he has been shocked by Arsenal's failure to mount a serious title challenge this season. (Express)

Gillingham manager Ronnie Jepson apologised to fans during a stop at a service station on the way home from Tuesday's 2-0 defeat at Port Vale on Tuesday. (The Sun)


AND FINALLY...
Portsmouth players Gary O'Neil and Sean Davis struck a bet at the start of the season not to get their hair cut until they score. (Daily Mirror)

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Just don't act like we cornered the world on fan riots when you guys are right up there.

i didn't realise we did... i've never heard of a proper american sports riot as far as i remember.... i know of a Canadian Hockey Riot after one of their teams won a hockey cup/league... but that's about it.

The use of fireworks and stuff in eastern europe just seems to go unnoticed by FIFA until it directly affects them (i.e a match against one of the bigger teams) but it's been going on for so long. usually harmless flares lighting up the stand, i'd actually say it looks impressive.

Be sure to note though, if anything even remotely close to a flare goes off in an English ground, they'd get torn to shreds by the football association. My team nearly got deducted 10 points and would have had to have a match played behind closed doors, just for a fan throwing a half eaten meat pie by the sideline. that was until common sense came in and said that it'd be ridiculous to punish us so harshly

[Renegades of funk 8]

Be sure to note though, if anything even remotely close to a flare goes off in an English ground, they'd get torn to shreds by the football association. My team nearly got deducted 10 points and would have had to have a match played behind closed doors, just for a fan throwing a half eaten meat pie by the sideline. that was until common sense came in and said that it'd be ridiculous to punish us so harshly

haha really, thats hilarious - must of been ages ago though?

[Two-Bob Peeters]

haha really, thats hilarious - must of been ages ago though?

about 3/4 years ago. we'd just conceded a goal and a fan threw the pie, didn't even make the pitch. The press had then decided that it was thrown viciously at the linesman along with several bottles. we was threatened by the FA, but it didn't come to anything... they must have watched the tape and then thought to themselves "why do we read the sun again?"

The fan got banned for life, mind

[Captain Stu]

Despite what he says, it looks like SWP is to be sold. He "wants to stay" and Mourinho wants him to but the Chelski higher-ups are open to offers of £12M.

[Bud]

SWP HAS to go. If he wants to futher his career and really push for an international place then he has to be playing week in, week out.

[Captain Stu]

Definately, I hope the little chocolate fool doesn't think he stands a chance at Chelski and that these statements of his are just him playing the game so that , if a move doesn't materialise, his next 5-6 months wouldn't be plagued by talk of him being a deserter and a quitter.

But yeah, England needs him to get back to his form.

*

Dear Mr Sheikh who wants to buy Liverpool,

I don't expect massive Abramovich fortunes, but for the love of all that is holy... stump up the cash to buy Shaun!!

Yours lovingly,

Stu

[Two-Bob Peeters]

IF Shevchenko goes which looks likely, SWP might have more of a chance of playing, 'cos Mourinho might go back to the 4-3-3(4-5-1) formation with Dogba up front and Robben and SWP as the wingers. you never know.


but i doubt it, he'd probably pick Geremi there in front of him!

[Captain Stu]

IF Shevchenko goes which looks likely, SWP might have more of a chance of playing, 'cos Mourinho might go back to the 4-3-3(4-5-1) formation with Dogba up front and Robben and SWP as the wingers. you never know.

but i doubt it, he'd probably pick Geremi there in front of him!

That's a good point actually. There's no way Mourinho will give Shevchenko much more time because the formation change and Sheva's lack of goals has really dented their Premiership results and I think that's mostly to blame for them being behind United.

But yeah, I could easily see him doing this:

Dogba
Cole Fatpard Essien Ballack Shaun


But, let's be honest, this is more likely:

Dogba
Cole Fatpard Makalele Ballack Essien.


:rolleyes:

[Bud]

I'd really laugh if Shev goes. It'd be a massive slap in the face for Jose and Abramovich, who made such a big deal of signing him.

[Captain Stu]

I'd really laugh if Shev goes. It'd be a massivce slap in the face for Jose and Abramovich, who made such a big deal of signing him.

The whole smegging country would do a collective belly-laugh, as you say, because of their boastings when they got him about him being the best forward in the world and how he was gonna light up the league.

AC Milan must've had fun counting the £30M they made off a player a few months short of his 30th birthday and almost running out of top-flight steam by the looks of things.

Also, I think this further proves how much better the Premiership is than Serie A. Yet another big name player who's made the move and not cut the mustard.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

i completely forgot about Joe Cole, and yeah he'd play Essien over SWP on the wing anyway....

so in order of winger preference (in the 4-5-1) it's probably:

Robben
Cole
Essien
SWP

[Bud]

Plus, it's not like he's begging to stay. The quote about him having his bags packed ready to leave anytime can't mean that he's that happy.

[Captain Stu]

i completely forgot about Joe Cole, and yeah he'd play Essien over SWP on the wing anyway....

so in order of winger preference (in the 4-5-1) it's probably:

Robben
Cole
Essien
SWP

Deffo.

I can see why he likes Essien at times, he's been VERY good this season so far and I think he's the long-term replacement for Makalele who's about 15 games away from the grave.

[rob3000]

I don't care what anyone says, Shevchenko is still a touch of class. He's working hard and still causes problems, it's not like what happened with Morientes.

[Captain Stu]

He is still good but it's proven that he's not good enough for the Premiership, especially in terms of pace.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I don't care what anyone says, Shevchenko is still a touch of class. He's working hard and still causes problems, it's not like what happened with Morientes.

there's no doubt that he's still world class, same with Crespo.

i thinking given some time and a chance (and maybe some tactics that benefitted him) he'd muller the premiership. Again, likewise with Crespo.


completely unrelated but Lolz... 'Keane fury over roasting romp' (http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2006560592,00.html)

[friartuck]

The whole smegging country would do a collective belly-laugh, as you say, because of their boastings when they got him about him being the best forward in the world and how he was gonna light up the league.

AC Milan must've had fun counting the £30M they made off a player a few months short of his 30th birthday and almost running out of top-flight steam by the looks of things.


I don't think Mourinho wanted Sheva - the transfer smacked of Abramovich wanting the best Slavic player going as a pet player. It just didn't seem a very Mourinho-esque signing at all to me. And since when has Mourinho been loyal to any player he's ever managed? In all likelihood he's being forced to play Shevchenko by Abramovich.

I think Milan really miss Sheva (and probably vice-versa at this stage). Milan are playing rubbish in Serie A at the minute.

If Shevchenko does go I don't think Chelsea will revert back to their old formation. There's no way they'll drop Makalele on a regular basis until at least next season when he'll probably be phased out of the team, but only due to his age. Essien is a fantastic player, more effective than any of their wingers so he won't be dropped either. I reckon in the event of Sheva leaving in January they'll ride out the rest of the season -1 striker and buy big (again) in the Summer.

If it were me in charge though I'd drop Lampard in order to revert back to 4-5-1.

[Captain Stu]

completely unrelated but Lolz... 'Keane fury over roasting romp' (http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2006560592,00.html)

Hahahahahaha. What a dirty little slut.

I don't think Mourinho wanted Sheva - the transfer smacked of Abramovich wanting the best Slavic player going as a pet player. It just didn't seem a very Mourinho-esque signing at all to me. And since when has Mourinho been loyal to any player he's ever managed? In all likelihood he's being forced to play Shevchenko by Abramovich.

I think Milan really miss Sheva (and probably vice-versa at this stage). Milan are playing rubbish in Serie A at the minute.

If Shevchenko does go I don't think Chelsea will revert back to their old formation. There's no way they'll drop Makalele on a regular basis until at least next season when he'll probably be phased out of the team, but only due to his age. Essien is a fantastic player, more effective than any of their wingers so he won't be dropped either. I reckon in the event of Sheva leaving in January they'll ride out the rest of the season -1 striker and buy big (again) in the Summer.

If it were me in charge though I'd drop Lampard in order to revert back to 4-5-1.

Never gonna happen though, Fatty's one of his golden boys.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Unless Barcelona maintain their interest, you never know

[Captain Stu]

Would he go though? I don't think he's ever gonna ask to leave but if they accepted a bid then he might do. Who knows.

[Bud]

How many English players have been truely successful abroad? I think Hargreaves is the only player who played consistantly for a big club. But then, he didn't start in an English club.

Obviously Beckham, Owen and Mcmanaman (lolz) have had stints for Real, but none of them have set the football world alight? I think it would help Lampard, but who knows how successful he'd be.

[Captain Stu]

He'd probably be effective but I think the Spanish crowds would be disappointed at how unflashy he is - they wants poncey flicks and tricks, not late runs to the edge of the box and deflected goals every week.

Hargreaves can suck my balls.

[Bud]

He may well suck balls, but he's the only "English" player to have a big part of a successful side.

Agreed about the "workman" type of player Lampard is, he really wouldn't make the Barca fans stand up and take notice.

[Captain Stu]

Maybe, but I just think Bayern are holding onto him out of spite rather than because he's irreplaceable. A United midfield of Carrick and Hargreaves would be ridiculously weak.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

the weak link would be Carrick. Hargreaves + another good midfielder would make a great pair

[Captain Stu]

Compare Lampard to the rest of the Barca midfielders - Xavi, Iniesta, Giuly, Deco and, I suppose, Messi and Ronaldinho (when they're used as wide forwards)... he wouldn't fit in at all.

[Renegades of funk 8]

completely unrelated but Lolz... 'Keane fury over roasting romp' (http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2006560592,00.html)

:D

ARE you the mystery girl or do you know who she is? Ring The Sun on 020 7782 4100.

good ol sun:rolleyes:

[Captain Stu]

I would laugh myself into having a stroke if the girl comes forward and voluntarily that she was getting filled in all holes by some second-rate wannabe footballers.

[Bexlehem]

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack says he has been shocked by Arsenal's failure to mount a serious title challenge this season. (Express)
Arsenal fan says she is shocked by Michael Ballack's failure to mount a serious attempt to play football this season.
:D

the weak link would be Carrick. Hargreaves + another good midfielder would make a great pair
I agree, especially after watching Hargreaves this summer. He was one of England's only outstanding players, and I think he'd fit in over here. Our football isn't that different to Germany. He'd stand out anyway over Carrick, who is generally an overrated player.

[Captain Stu]

Hahahahaha, nice one Bex... it's true too, he's been good in a few games but for the most part he's pretty oblivious and gets out-shone by Essien.

[boxshapedheart]

Carrick's improving, I was completely unimpressed with him at the start but he's slowly improving. Last night he was tackling well, but passing slightly off. Just needs to get himself a good balance.

[timesfooall]

Carrick's improving, I was completely unimpressed with him at the start but he's slowly improving. Last night he was tackling well, but passing slightly off. Just needs to get himself a good balance.

Carrick is playing well, especially against Chelski and Benfica. He is breaking down the oppositions attack a whole lot more, resulting in a goal in the Chelski game.

[Captain Stu]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v186/stu_b_69/Miscellaneous/742061029_l.jpg

[boxshapedheart]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v186/stu_b_69/Miscellaneous/742061029_l.jpg
ya bastard!

[Captain Stu]

ya bastard!

I couldn't help maself. :o :D