The Footie (UK) Thread: 2006/07

[Bexster]

606 gossip: This stuff is gold. JoshdaJambo has seen Arsenal representatives "looking happy" as they leave Tynecastle. Have they tied up a deal for Hearts keeper Craig Gordon or have they been knocking back some of Vladimir Romanov's vodka?
Please be for Gordon and not the Vodka...

[Captain Stu]

I'm half thinking about going to Melwood just to see who's there. 606 are saying Gamst Pederson is there having a medical, with Kewell going the other way. I'm going to bet it's not true.

Rob, go... NOW!!!

I can't see it being anywhere near true... but me and my mate (a Blackburn fan) spoke of this on monday.

Him: "I still can't believe Pedersen's still here."
Me: "Me either."
Him: "I well thought one of the top four clubs would've tried to snatch him by now.
Me: "Yeah, I'm amazed we've never gone for him... a fasty, tricky, left-sided winger who's proven himself in the league."

...

Me: "Can we have him?"
Him: "Sell us Bellamy back."
Me: "Haha, you wish."
Him: "What about Alonso?"
Me: "FUCK OFF!!"

:D

[Captain Stu]

Gareth Bale has confirmed he is to stay at Southampton until the summer. Ok, so then is the time for the huge massive over-priced war. :rolleyes:

1219: Marlon Harewood's representative Phil Sproson says it is very unlikely the West Ham striker will be signing on the dotted line for another club in the next 11 hours and 41 minutes.

606 gossip: More players have been spotted at rival training grounds. Morten Gamst Pedersen is at Liverpool's Melwood complex. Harry Kewell will be going the other way according to PoolRoss. And Babel is at Newcastle. Assuming that's the Amsterdam forward Ryan and not something to do with Brad Pitt's film being on at the Tyneside Cinema.

606 gossip: RedFoz reckons Manchester United are set to hijack Liverpool's expected deal for Javier Mascherano, while boxy42 says Everton and Newcastle have joined Lens in the race for St Etienne's highly-rated striker Frederique Piquionne.

[Ian Mc]

How many strikers do the Hamsters need?

Grandpa
Tevez
Reo-coker(?)
Harewood
Zamora

You forgot Dean Ashton...when is he due back anyway?

No sign of Babel yet for us...and Tyneside Cinema is shut for refurbishment at the moment.

[Renegades of funk 8]

You forgot Dean Ashton...when is he due back anyway?



about 4 weeks i think :confused:

[Captain Stu]

I reckon Ashton and Tevez has the potential to be a very dangerous, mobile combination.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Ashton faced another setback recently didn't he?

anyway Michael Ball has joined Man City and Arsenal have made a mistake in selling Seb Larsson to Birmingham (albeit for a risky £1m)

[Captain Stu]

Michael Ball?! Hahaha, Everton reject.

Ashton faced another setback recently didn't he?

Yeah, SkySports reported a couple of days ago that a specialist had found scar tissue on the front of his ankle that was hurting when he ran properly. He had some sort of an injection to try and clear it up, they reckon it'll work but if it didn't then he'd need more surgery to remove it.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Larsson will never be good enough to play at Arsenal. It's the right decision.

[Bexster]

Ashton faced another setback recently didn't he?

anyway Michael Ball has joined Man City and Arsenal have made a mistake in selling Seb Larsson to Birmingham (albeit for a risky £1m)
I just get more and more disheartened to see all these kids go. They may well not be good enough, but I often wonder.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I just get more and more disheartened to see all these kids go. They may well not be good enough, but I often wonder.

he's banging them in for Birmingham....

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Dubai have just pulled out of Liverpool takeover

[Captain Stu]

Dubai have just pulled out of Liverpool takeover

Hmmmmm, so I see... I wonder... to me, that screams several things:

1. They weren't willing to wait, which is lame.
2. Maybe Gillett put in an offer that they couldn't rival?
3. Maybe the board has already told them that Gillett has moved to the front of the queue.

If it is impatience, it's not the clubs fault - they're bound by law to listen to any serious rival bids and grant the second party the same access to the books and records and so on that the DiC had access to.

If it's down to them not wanting to wait, forget 'em - we wanna make sure that IF this happens, it happens on OUR terms for the betterment (is that even a real word?) of the club.

[Captain Stu]

DIC chief executive Sameer Al Ansari said the group was disappointed but added: "We won't overpay for assets."

To me, that suggests that the board asked the DiC to match Gillett's offer which was known to be considerably more than what they originally offered.

[rob3000]

I'm concerned.

[EvilElvis]

Upson's joined the Hamsters.


Stoob - Your gonna LOVE this...

Birmingham's Matthew Upson is still holding talks with West Ham and BBC Sport understands he wants a similar escape clause to the Hammers gave Lucas Neill in case the club is relegated. Confidence and loyalty. Don't you just love it.

[EvilElvis]

606 gossip: The cream of the crop is rising to the top and davedaveydave - so good they named him three times - is sniffing out the coup of the day. His dad thinks he saw Reading chairman John Madesjski with Barcelona's Gio van Bronckhorst at Heathrow.


You gotta love it!

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

http://www.myp2p.eu/Matches/Match2.htm

Newcastle v Villa tonight EE

[The Nai]

Paul Hartley's gone to Celtic. I never thought for a second he'd end up at Rangers.

[EvilElvis]

Morten Gamst Pedersen is starting for Blackburn at Stamford Bridge, so was that really the Norwegian spotted at Liverpool's Melwood training complex?


Paul Hartley's gone to Celtic. I never thought for a second he'd end up at Rangers.

Given he's a devout Celtic fan, I'm not shocked either.

Wouldn't have wanted to see him at Ibrox.



Celtic's Shaun Maloney is set to be announced as an Aston Villa player after the Premiership side's match at Newcastle, according to Five Live commentator Ian Dennis. :)

[EvilElvis]

Please be for Gordon and not the Vodka...

I reckon you'll go for Boruc from Celtic at the end of the season.


This may be added by the fact that my mate claims that Gordon is on his way to Ibrox as we "Lost" a 'Keeper yeaterday and Klos is out of contract in the summer. Though I'll believe it when I see it.

[Captain Stu]

I'm concerned.

Why mate?

My Dad doesn't reckon this is the end of it, he thinks that this is the DiC showing that they could, at any second, walk away.

They want this as much as we do, I reckon they're testing our resolve a bit.

Upson's joined the Hamsters.


Stoob - Your gonna LOVE this...

Birmingham's Matthew Upson is still holding talks with West Ham and BBC Sport understands he wants a similar escape clause to the Hammers gave Lucas Neill in case the club is relegated. Confidence and loyalty. Don't you just love it.

I don't get why I should love that :p but yeah, I heard that before.

[rob3000]

Just because let's say they're gone for good, and this american deal isn't that good so we reject that. All of a sudden we go from having two people who might invest to none!

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Pahahahahaha Ollie :cool:

Watch us blow it.

[Captain Stu]

Just because let's say they're gone for good, and this american deal isn't that good so we reject that. All of a sudden we go from having two people who might invest to none!

Yeah, there is that.

I would've killed to be a fly on the wall in that room when that decision came in... the annoying thing is that we won't know 95% of what's happened. For all we know, the DiC could've proposed horrendous terms and Parry/Moores have kicked it into touch for the right reason... or, on the other hand... this could've been the best thing to happen to the club and it's slipped through our fingers.

There's a couple of things that make me very nervous about the Gillett offer:

1. Removing our boardroom, especially Rick Parry, and bring in his own is NOT a good move for the club. We need Liverpool FC men upstairs, not suits.

2. Gillett is apparently worth around $860M, that's under £450M (approx figures) so that would mean we could very well be in a similar situation to United where we have hundreds of millions of pounds of debt secured against the club. The DiC had the money there and then because of the Sheikh being worth something like $25B.

3. The guy's 68 years old, surely he can't be in for the long run at that age?!

4. Since when did American's know fucking anything about football?

*

I'm telling ya mate, something about that Yank just doesn't add up. It just screams of the hostile takeover of United.

[EvilElvis]

2055: Chelsea may have to re-think their spending plans and make a late foray into the transfer market for a defender after all. Ashley Cole is stretchered off after a really nasty fall, his foot catching in the turf.

[EvilElvis]

Hartley celebrates signing for Celtic (http://www.etims.net/images/stories/frank-gallgher.jpg)

[Captain Stu]

Arsenal 1 - Spurs 0 (3-2 agg)

Spurs have been really, really shit, no shape and absolutely no attacking presence. Why the fuck he started Keane is beyond me.

[Captain Stu]

Arsenal 1 - Spurs 1 (3-3 agg)

Mido just scored - cracking ball in and a great header over Almunia. COME ON, SPUUUUURS!!

[EvilElvis]

Arsenal 1 - Spurs 1 (3-3 agg)

Mido just scored - cracking ball in and a great header over Almunia. COME ON, SPUUUUURS!!


Interesting....
2125: About 15 days ago when we started this transfer madness there was that headline from the Daily Mirror that read - Mido told: Get Spurs to final and then leave. Well the Egyptian is on at the Emirates with Tottenham trailing Arsenal 1-0 and 3-2 on aggregate. If he delivers, Celta Vigo are reportedly waiting in the wings.

[Captain Stu]

Aliadiere scores to put Arsenal 4-3 up.

Rocha, fucking retard, slipped and Robinson should never have been beaten at his near post - although it was a good, hard shot.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

\o

[Bexster]

3-1. Bye, bye Spurs :D

They deserved that. Those kids have worked really hard.

[Captain Stu]

Rosicky scored again, it's game over - no way in hell will Spurs score 2 goals in the next 6-7 minutes.

Well played Arsenal.

They sat back, saw what little Tottenham had to offer and then just pushed them back and dicked them.

[Bexster]

Rosicky scored again, it's game over - no way in hell will Spurs score 2 goals in the next 6-7 minutes.

Well played Arsenal.

They sat back, saw what little Tottenham had to offer and then just pushed them back and dicked them.
That's just about described Spurs' season.

[EvilElvis]

Pahahahahaha Ollie :cool:

Watch us blow it.



You're team is gay. :mad:

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Not as gay as yours.

[EvilElvis]

LIVERPOOL buy/DEPORTIVO LA CORUNA & MALAGA sell
No sooner said than done. Liverpool land Spanish duo Alvaro Arbeloa and Francisco Manuel Duran. Defender Arbeloa, 24, is believed to have cost £2.6m from Deportivo La Coruna. As for 18-year-old midfielder Duran, he will boost the youth ranks.


This gave me a lugh - (Gotta love the BBC guys)

WATFORD buy/CRETEIL sell
The Hornets are throwing around the funds from the Ashley Young sale like confetti. Central defender Cedric Avinel comes in from Creteil on an 18-month loan deal and midfielder Douglas Rinaldi arrives from Brazilian side Veranopolis EC on loan. A Brazilian called Douglas. Genius.

[Captain Stu]

That's just about described Spurs' season.

Pretty much, that's gonna be another reason for Defoe to leave - their full strength side (apart from Berbatov) couldn't beat a side comprising mainly of Arsenal's younger players... I don't think it's fair to call them the kids actually because most of them are playing in the Premiership week in, week out.

But yeah, Spurs lost that game without even trying.

[EvilElvis]

Not as gay as yours.



No-one is gayer than Kieron Dyer. Demanding to make the team bus turn around so you can get you earrings is gayness personified.

I've not even started on his fight (read: Getting a doing from Bowyer)

[EvilElvis]

Rosicky scored again

The goal was credited as an oggy by Chipmonda.


He must hate playing at the Emirates - Gave away a penalty at the last game.

[Bexster]

Pretty much, that's gonna be another reason for Defoe to leave - their full strength side (apart from Berbatov) couldn't beat a side comprising mainly of Arsenal's younger players... I don't think it's fair to call them the kids actually because most of them are playing in the Premiership week in, week out.

But yeah, Spurs lost that game without even trying.
After last season, I expected them to be competing much more than this. It's almost a shame...

I think Defoe will leave in the summer if the season doesn't improve. Although I don't really know where he'd go to be honest.

The goal was credited as an oggy by Chipmonda.


He must hate playing at the Emirates - Gave away a penalty at the last game.
At the moment, I would think no one likes playing there apart from Arsenal. They're quite successful there.

[rob3000]

I'm really happy Arsenal are through to the final.

[EvilElvis]

At the moment, I would think no one likes playing there apart from Arsenal. They're quite successful there.

Villa are still undefeated there. :cool:

[Bexster]

I'm really happy Arsenal are through to the final.
Should be a good game actually

*enters lots of competitions to win tickets...*

Although, it's another game to play again. I suppose we're gonna struggle a bit later on in the season. I hope not though.

And Cashley. Lol :D

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

No-one is gayer than Kieron Dyer. Demanding to make the team bus turn around so you can get you earrings is gayness personified.

I've not even started on his fight (read: Getting a doing from Bowyer)

Your team is so gay we turned around, dropped our pants, and you still couldn't work out how to fuck us.

[EvilElvis]

Your team is so gay we turned around, dropped our pants, and you still couldn't work out how to fuck us.

So you admit, Newcastle enjoy getting a shafting? :D

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

So you admit, Newcastle enjoy getting a shafting? :D

We attempt to mock the gayness of other teams.

[EvilElvis]

We attempt to mock the gayness of other teams.


By paying Kieron Dyer £60,000 per week for paying roughly 3 games a season?

[EvilElvis]

What Ambition? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/stirling_albion/6315815.stm)

Livingston striker Robert Snodgrass has gone from Barcelona trialist to being loaned to Stirling Albion within the space of a month.
Spanish giants Barca offered the 19-year-old his chance in December after he impressed for the Scotland side that reached the U19 Euro final.

But he will now be with Scottish Second Division promotion hopefuls Stirling until the end of the season.

And he is likely to make his debut against Peterhead on Saturday.

Snodgrass broke into the Livi first-team in 2004 while the club were in the Scottish Premier League.

But he has made just seven appearances this season and has failed to score.

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

Turing down a chance to go to Barcelona for Stirling Albion... W.T.F? :confused:

[EvilElvis]

Last two updates..


"He can't walk, he's not OK," is Jose Mourinho's blunt assessment of Ashley Cole. But the self-styled Special One is not going to go into the market for a replacement left-back. "The supermarket is closed," he said. Hope not. There's no milk in the fridge and the loo roll's running thin at home.

There are unconfirmed reports that Liverpool have Javier Mascherano's registration and it is only a matter of time until his move from West Ham is rubber-stamped.

[Renegades of funk 8]

after seeing motd i hope harper is in goal on saturday :D

[Two-Bob Peeters]

he's banging them in for Birmingham....

i think i got my players confuzed here

[Captain Stu]

Heard a Spurs fan on the radio before say "we went there with little or no belief but at least they gave it their all and can be proud of that."

Erm, were we watching the same game? I saw Spurs turn up and wait to be rogered. :confused:

Yeah, there is that.

I would've killed to be a fly on the wall in that room when that decision came in... the annoying thing is that we won't know 95% of what's happened. For all we know, the DiC could've proposed horrendous terms and Parry/Moores have kicked it into touch for the right reason... or, on the other hand... this could've been the best thing to happen to the club and it's slipped through our fingers.

There's a couple of things that make me very nervous about the Gillett offer:

1. Removing our boardroom, especially Rick Parry, and bring in his own is NOT a good move for the club. We need Liverpool FC men upstairs, not suits.

2. Gillett is apparently worth around $860M, that's under £450M (approx figures) so that would mean we could very well be in a similar situation to United where we have hundreds of millions of pounds of debt secured against the club. The DiC had the money there and then because of the Sheikh being worth something like $25B.

3. The guy's 68 years old, surely he can't be in for the long run at that age?!

4. Since when did American's know fucking anything about football?

*

I'm telling ya mate, something about that Yank just doesn't add up. It just screams of the hostile takeover of United.

5. The daft cunt wants us to build a new stadium and then share it with Everton, the stupid Yank twat.

I really, really, really don't want this bastard to buy my club. I am completely opposed to it.

i think i got my players confuzed here

Were you thinking of Bendtner?

[Bexster]

Heard a Spurs fan on the radio before say "we went there with little or no belief but at least they gave it their all and can be proud of that."

Erm, were we watching the same game? I saw Spurs turn up and wait to be rogered. :confused:



5. The daft cunt wants us to build a new stadium and then share it with Everton, the stupid Yank twat.

I really, really, really don't want this bastard to buy my club. I am completely opposed to it.



Were you thinking of Bendtner?
I admit, I'm completely confused about this as well. I can only think that either, a) he's offered more money, and they're doing this on a completely financial basis, or b) he's offered something invaluable to them that they couldn't turn down. Either way, after the deal being so 'done' for this long, it's weird that it's just changed so quickly. I can't see them doing anything against Liverpool being financially stable, but stranger things have happened.

And he's going to have full scale riots on his hands from reds and blues if he tries to put Liverpool and Everton in the same stadium.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Were you thinking of Bendtner?

that's the one, Larsson is the defender/midfielder who isn't much cop

[Captain Stu]

I admit, I'm completely confused about this as well. I can only think that either, a) he's offered more money, and they're doing this on a completely financial basis, or b) he's offered something invaluable to them that they couldn't turn down. Either way, after the deal being so 'done' for this long, it's weird that it's just changed so quickly. I can't see them doing anything against Liverpool being financially stable, but stranger things have happened.

And he's going to have full scale riots on his hands from reds and blues if he tries to put Liverpool and Everton in the same stadium.

This concerns me... I think that something will hit us like this, if he bought us outright - it would take every single penny of his money and I can't see that happening. I just know it's gonna be a bunch of high interest loans secured against the club and the stadium and that's beyond shit. I'd sooner stay £80M in the red and have a 45,000 seater stadium than being upwards of £400M in debt and have a 65,000 seater stadium.

I tell you one thing, chuck, Everton fans won't be rioting - it's the only chance the losers have got of getting a new stadium. They've got zero funds, no potential investors and can't find a new site to build on... they found one site and it got rejected. :D They'll be rubbing their grubby little hands at the thought of a free new stadium. Fuck off, nobody in their right mind wants to share with the local rivals.

[Shining Demon]

as a Man U fan, I find it highly amusing that all those people that were ABU back in the 90's are now ABC - it seems anytime a team wins more than two titles, neutrals turn on them instantly. Having said that, I fookin hate Chelsea!

[Captain Stu]

England squad's announced tomorrow! There's something seriously wrong if Barton isn't called up.

[Captain Stu]

Very, very interesting article... or so I thought: http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A19411256

Dubai International Capital's decision to walk away from its proposed takeover of Liverpool is the end of a love affair that grew cold with astonishing speed.

It was only a fortnight ago that Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry was in bullish mood about the arrival at the Shankly Gates of the investment arm of the Dubai government.

He told BBC Five Live's Sportsweek: "A huge amount of work has been going on, we'll have something to say soon.

"Yes, the deal is looking positive and yes, I'm confident it will go through. This will take us to the next level.

"But it's not a quick fix, a rich man's plaything. It's a long-term model for success, based around the new stadium."

Not any more it isn't.

It appears hesitation on the part of the Liverpool board, led by chairman David Moores, to formally accept DIC's bid in the wake of a second offer from American George Gillett has killed the deal stone dead.

This was meant to be the dream scenario for Liverpool. The deal that would see the Sheikhs of Dubai lavishing riches on Anfield that would put them alongside Chelsea.

It was never going to be work of a maverick benefactor on a Roman Abramovich scale, DIC is too shrewd and businesslike for that, but it seemed a perfect fit.

Now it appears that, as far as Moores and Parry are concerned, Gillett is the best a man can get.

Gillett may prove a palatable alternative - and do not rule out interest from other parties waiting in the wings as DIC pulled out.

DIC was welcomed with open arms by both Liverpool Football Club and their fans.

Serious people with serious investment and serious lovers of sport. There was even talk of some of the DIC hierarchy having Liverpool screen-savers on their mobile phones.

Boyhood fans and all that.

But it is clear this trail has been going cold over the last few days as the shadow of Gillett, owner of Montreal Canadiens ice hockey team, suddenly re-emerged.

Gillett appeared to have been seen off by DIC, and initial suggestions that Liverpool may take his renewed takeover bid seriously were swiftly sidelined by sources within Anfield.

But Gillett has made crucial moves in the last week that forced Liverpool to reconsider him as a serious proposition.

He completed his due diligence programme within three days - after DIC had taken the best part of a month over the same process.

He happily agreed to personally underwrite the potential £200m-plus cost of a new stadium without hesitation.

Was DIC reluctant to underwrite in such a fashion? If it was, it may have suggested to Liverpool a slight dent in their enthusiasm.

He delivered guarantees on future transfer funds.

And, crucially, Gillett was able to reject what some previously saw as a key plank of his proposal - namely a groundshare with neighbours Everton.

Liverpool chairman Moores, who owns 51.6% of the club, would get £8m more from the Gillett deal, but it would be unfair to suggest this would sway a deal.

Moores has never been motivated by personal gain from Liverpool - which suggests he was having serious reservations about choosing DIC ahead of Gillett over and above financial considerations.

I understand Moores has recently come under pressure from minor shareholders to consider Gillett's offer, which is worth £500 a share more than DIC's.

Now DIC have made that decision for him and only time will tell if Moores' hesitation to rubber-stamp a deal at a London Docklands hotel on Tuesday will be fatal.

Gillett covers many bases for Liverpool.

He is rich. He is a sports lover.

But Liverpool have trumpeted the merits of the DIC proposal so loudly, it will be interested to see how they pitch Gillett as the new dream ticket.

One thing is certain. Any deal must be done quickly and DIC's withdrawal has hardly accelerated the process.

Building work on Liverpool's new stadium is scheduled to start in March - and finance from a new owner is at the very heart of the foundations.

Liverpool cannot delay further. And Gillett is now in pole position to exploit DIC's withdrawal.

I bolded the things that caught my eye.

[Renegades of funk 8]

England squad's announced tomorrow! There's something seriously wrong if Barton isn't called up.

there's something seriously wrong if fatboy frank plays, and robbo and....

[rob3000]

Apparently he's now not up for the ground share.

[Captain Stu]

there's something seriously wrong if fatboy frank plays, and robbo and....

Fatty, no way... he can fuck off - Barton and Gerrard in the miggle for me thanks and Carson in goal.

Apparently he's now not up for the ground share.

READ THE ARTICLE I JUST POSTED! READ THE ARTICLE I JUST POSTED! READ THE ARTICLE I JUST POSTED! :D :p

He happily agreed to personally underwrite the potential £200m-plus cost of a new stadium without hesitation.

I'm no financial whizz... but to me, that suggests that either the money will come from his pocket or any loans would be taken out against HIM and not the club.

Anyone? Am I right or mis-reading things?

And they're 100% spot on when they talk about Moores, he has never ever done things out of selfish money-loving greed. He's been Liverpool through-and-through so we have little reason to doubt him.

[rob3000]

ah cheers.

[Captain Stu]

:cool: :D

[Bexster]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/6314293.stm

Young Gunners to get final chance

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger insists he will deploy his youngsters again in the Carling Cup final against Chelsea after his side beat Spurs in the semi-final.
The likes of Theo Walcott, Denilson and Justin Hoyte played their part in a dramatic 3-1 extra-time win over their rivals and Wenger said: "They did well.

"Our young team has improved a lot, in mental strength as well as quality.

"Now we want to go on and win it. I will play the right mixture but involve all the players who have got us here."

However, Wenger did not rule out playing the likes of Tomas Rosicky, Cesc Fabregas and Gilberto Silva again when they travel to the Millennium Stadium.

"The senior players were very important for us tonight," said Wenger. "We needed to be mentally strong after they equalised and, after a brief wobble, we came through.

"Fabregas and Rosicky, in particular, gave us that extra edge to keep the ball and make that final pass and they made a big difference.

"I will think about the right combination for the final but my young players have earned this opportunity for the club and I want to give them a chance to finish it."

Spurs boss Martin Jol admitted his side's focus must now be on their other cup endeavours, as well as attempting to qualify for Europe through the league.

The Dutchman has led the club to the last 16 of the Uefa Cup and FA Cup, while they are just five points off of sixth place in the league, and he said: "Our focus now must turn to our other challenges.

"It is is never okay to lose to Arsenal but I thought we fought well in difficult circumstances.

"We were a bit unfortunate with their second goal, Ricardo has lost his footing, and that did not make things any easier for us."
I'm really glad about this. I don't mind that we could lose it if Chelski go all out, but I'm happy that he's giving them the chance.

[Captain Stu]

I think Chelsea will field a full strength side - a trophy, even a very minor one, will take a bit of glare off Mourinho.

Fair play to Wenger, that's gonna give the younger ones a massive boost to know that Hleb, Henry, Rosicky, etc won't just waltz back into the side on reputation.

[Captain Stu]

Heard an ex-Spurs player on TalkSport just now talking about their problems - saying they lacked a midfielder who can really control and dominate the game. He was heard to remark:

"Tom Huddlestone, Jermaine Jenas... they're both fantastic footballers..."

Errrrrrrrm. :confused:

[Bexster]

I think Chelsea will field a full strength side - a trophy, even a very minor one, will take a bit of glare off Mourinho.

Fair play to Wenger, that's gonna give the younger ones a massive boost to know that Hleb, Henry, Rosicky, etc won't just waltz back into the side on reputation.
Yep. It's gonna give them one hell of a boost in confidence. If Chelski think they're just gonna walk in and take the throphy now, they've got another thing coming :D

Heard an ex-Spurs player on TalkSport just now talking about their problems - saying they lacked a midfielder who can really control and dominate the game. He was heard to remark:



Errrrrrrrm. :confused:
Spurs are missing Carrick. As much as I don't particularly rate the guy, he was good at Spurs.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Heard a Spurs fan on the radio before say "we went there with little or no belief but at least they gave it their all and can be proud of that."

Erm, were we watching the same game? I saw Spurs turn up and wait to be rogered. :confused:

Apart from extra time I thought we did alright tbh. I honestly expected us to be beat 3-0 in normal time. We may have been playing their kids, but thier youth team is pretty fuckin special. They all have the ability to come into the team straight away and be able to play effectively to arse's style of play. I think the big difference is the absence of prob our 3 main key players - King, Lennon, Berbatov. If they had played I'm confident we would have turned them over. I agree that offensively we were pretty weak, but I thought for the most part we defended pretty well and everyone worked hard at closing down. We could never go at them all guns blazing cos we woulda got dicked on the break, like what happened last week.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Spurs are missing Carrick. As much as I don't particularly rate the guy, he was good at Spurs.

Agreed. So so much.

[Captain Stu]

Yep. It's gonna give them one hell of a boost in confidence. If Chelski think they're just gonna walk in and take the throphy now, they've got another thing coming :D.

Well, I still think Chelsea will win.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder slammed the timing of the January transfer window as he failed to do as much business as he would have liked.

Roeder saw his side beat Aston Villa 3-1 on Wednesday but says having the transfer window to deal with during such a busy period of football made it almost impossible to handle.

"As hard as I tried today I couldn't make a breakthrough," said Roeder.

"I think it's a terrible time to have a transfer window.

"I've got to manage a football club and prepare a team for a game but I've been working from 8am this morning trying to get players in.

"And on the final day it's not just about getting a body in, it has got to be somebody who is fit to wear a Newcastle shirt and they are in short supply at this stage."




Every other manager managed it, you gormless twat.

[Captain Stu]

Talk about your shitty excuses for not signing anyone.

[Bexster]

it has got to be somebody who is fit to wear a Newcastle shirt and they are in short supply at this stage
Proof that being picky gets you absolutely nowhere :rolleyes:

[Captain Stu]

Roeder clearly has laughably high standards - even a one-legged hatstand is a better defender than Bramble.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

well 1 defender is a start i guess... now all they need is another 3..

it's a shame their defence is so awful, they have a really good team otherwise

[Captain Stu]

Also...

"As hard as I tried today I couldn't make a breakthrough," said Roeder.

Little tip for next time: the window lasts for longer than one day. :D Try identifiying players you want before January 1st and then spend the month trying to negotiate deals.

DURRR!!

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

It's abit silly really, how long have Newcastle been crying out for a quality defender now?

We can all see it, surely the management can see it yet they continue to do nothing about it.

[Captain Stu]

It's abit silly really, how long have Newcastle been crying out for a quality defender now?

We can all see it, surely the management can see it yet they continue to do nothing about it.

Innit, look at Upson - surely he'd have sooner gone to Newcastle (had they expressed an interest) rather than Wham. Which is better, chasing a UEFA Cup spot or staving off relegation?

Poor, poor planning and a bit of a braindead manager/chairman combo.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Nah, we don't have any money to spend, so Upson wasn't an option.

We needed four loan signings. A centre back, two left backs and a right back. We got a slightly taller version of Bramble.

[Bexster]

Also...



Little tip for next time: the window lasts for longer than one day. :D Try identifiying players you want before January 1st and then spend the month trying to negotiate deals.

DURRR!!
Nah, they haven't covered that subject in his UEFA coaching course yet :D

[Captain Stu]

Nah, they haven't covered that subject in his UEFA coaching course yet :D

Hahaha, now that is a zing.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

You do realise that Roeder isn't actually taking the course?

[Bexster]

You do realise that Roeder isn't actually taking the course?
Then that explains it all a whole lot more.

[EvilElvis]

Anyone remember the name of the player who signed a contract giving him a juniors weekly pay instead of the usualy £20k Per week after he as injured?

I think he was Italian

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

Tomassi.

[EvilElvis]

Tomassi.

Cheers Dave! :)

[Captain Stu]

Scott Carson and David Bentley named in the Under-21 squad.

Fucking bollocks, utter fucking bollocks. :rolleyes:

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

As poor as Robbo has been in club football this season, I still don't think he deserves to be dropped as England's No.1.

[Captain Stu]

Couldn't disagree more, chief, he should be dropped on the grounds that his form has been crap. If you're comparing to the rest of the English keepers, he wouldn't even be in the squad - he's been overtaken by Carson, James *shudder* and Kirkland.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Couldn't disagree more, chief, he should be dropped on the grounds that his form has been crap. If you're comparing to the rest of the English keepers, he wouldn't even be in the squad - he's been overtaken by Carson, James *shudder* and Kirkland.

Maybe James, but I still don't think Carson's ready yet. It's alot easier to look good for a club like Charlton when they're fighting relegation as they're generally kept busy and there isn't so much pressure to deliver when compared to keepers playing for the top clubs. If he continues to play well after he goes back to Liverpool then fair enough he should get a chance then.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

James is the best keeper we've got at the moment. There ain't much scope for debate in my book.

[Captain Stu]

I hate the guy... but yeah, on form, James should be starting.

Plus Robinson's England form has been on the decline for a while.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

i think Foster is better than Carson and Kirkland at the moment.

But James is our best at present, he's made some fine performances this season

[EvilElvis]

Rangers sign Gow (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/f/falkirk/6322689.stm)

Falkirk striker Alan Gow has agreed a three-year deal with Rangers after signing a pre-contract agreement.
Ibrox boss Walter Smith failed to land the 24-year-old before the January transfer window closed - despite making three bids for the player.

But Gow will move in the summer and told the club's website: "I'm pleased to sign a pre-contract with Rangers.

"However, I'm fully committed to playing for Falkirk between now and the end of the season."

Falkirk boss John Hughes said before the transfer window closed that he was aware Gow wanted to join Rangers, but stressed the club would only sell if they received £500,000.

Wolverhampton Wanderers also had a bid for Gow rejected, while Aberdeen and Hibernian spoke to the player about the possibility of a pre-contract agreement

[Captain Stu]

Apparently, some of the senior England players are appalled at the thought of Barton getting a call-up because of his "controversial" comments following several players book releases last year.

Fuck.Off.

What he said was absolutely spot on - don't release a chuffing book until you've got more than three interesting things to write about, ie, wait until you retire from playing.

Others hotly tipped for call-ups - Gareth Barry, Stuart Taylor and... allegedly... Gary McSheffrey. Now that one I don't understand. :confused:

*
*
*

Apparently, the Premier League are deeply investigating the transfers of Mascherano and Tevez to West Ham and when Manuel Fernandes joined Portsmouth. If severe irregularities are found, they could be docked points!

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Apparently, some of the senior England players are appalled at the thought of Barton getting a call-up because of his "controversial" comments following several players book releases last year.

Fuck.Off.



hahah, i hope Barton whacks 'em all one

Others hotly tipped for call-ups - Gareth Barry, Stuart Taylor and... allegedly... Gary McSheffrey. Now that one I don't understand. :confused:

Gareth Barry is fair enough, but i don't think Taylor is ready yet, but he certainly has potential.

Gary McSheffrey is championship quality and no more, Steve Bruce paid 4 times too much for him also there are FAR better strikers elsewhere


Apparently, the Premier League are deeply investigating the transfers of Mascherano and Tevez to West Ham and when Manuel Fernandes joined Portsmouth. If severe irregularities are found, they could be docked points!
apparantly because according to premier league rules clubs aren't allowed to buy players owned by a third party. so does that mean Liverpool (Mascherano) and Everton (Fernandes) will be investigated/fined as well?

[Bexster]

Apparently, some of the senior England players are appalled at the thought of Barton getting a call-up because of his "controversial" comments following several players book releases last year.

Fuck.Off.
Barton, in his right mind, could play them off the park. And I agree entirely with them. And if they don't like it tough. Their only alternative is to show how 'professional' they are as players, and sulk in the corner, only serving to make Joey look even better.

Others hotly tipped for call-ups - Gareth Barry, Stuart Taylor and... allegedly... Gary McSheffrey. Now that one I don't understand. :confused:[/QUOTE]
England team is stale. This is the time to bring whole new ideas in and try them isn't it. But McSheffrey is a little confusing, yeah.

[Captain Stu]

apparantly because according to premier league rules clubs aren't allowed to buy players owned by a third party. so does that mean Liverpool (Mascherano) and Everton (Fernandes) will be investigated/fined as well?

Well, that's what I'd have thought, but apparently not because our transfers have all gone through the Premier League. We're awaiting clearance from them before we play Mascherano - we won't play him until we get it.

Wham and Pompey didn't get this clearance... or something... and so have fielded an illegible player because it wasn't all rubber-stamped accordingly.

Barton, in his right mind, could play them off the park. And I agree entirely with them. And if they don't like it tough. Their only alternative is to show how 'professional' they are as players, and sulk in the corner, only serving to make Joey look even better.

Exactly, if they complain - it proves his point completely.

Barton has been far more influential this season than Fatty. Fatty might have more goals but Barton's been grabbing games by the scruff of the neck week-in and week-out.

[Captain Stu]

We ain't being bought out by one American... it's actually two! Gillett is partnered by Tom Hicks, owner of the Texas Rangers, and a meeting between the pair of Parry/Moores on monday/tuesday was enough to scupper the DiC bid.

This Hicks guy has a very successful background in construction and apparently, any teams he's involved in end up with state of the art, top of the line stadiums. Hmmmmm.

Also, the DiC can suck my balls saying Liverpool acted with no "honour"... since when did corporate takeover bids involve honour? It's all about the right move for the football club, fuck 'em. They gave the board 12 HOURS to make a decision upon hearing that a rival bid came in, frankly that's pathetic because as soon as a bid comes in - the club is legally bound to show "due dilligence", ie, allow them access to the financial records and so on.

[Bexster]

Gillett and Hicks have worked together in the past on the board of a major US meat-processing firm.
Just like football then :D

It seems promising. Yeah, there's this issue with Gillet being declared bankrupt once, but Hicks seems sound. Who knows. Until you can know what the DIC offered that fell short of the US bid, who knows. I suppose Gillet changing his idea of groundsharing is probaby a huge factor. Maybe they turned up to the meeting with pre-prepared stadium plans and stuff.

[Captain Stu]

It seems promising. Yeah, there's this issue with Gillet being declared bankrupt once, but Hicks seems sound. Who knows. Until you can know what the DIC offered that fell short of the US bid, who knows. I suppose Gillet changing his idea of groundsharing is probaby a huge factor. Maybe they turned up to the meeting with pre-prepared stadium plans and stuff.

Seems like a HUGE coincidence to me... we're hours away (allegedly) from signing on with the DiC and in comes a pair of businessmen one of whom has an extensive contruction background and suddenly they're number one?

They must've offered something good and it sounds like the DiC representitives were arseholes.

[Bexster]

I can understand, to a certain extent, that maybe the DIC felt annoyed that, this deal seems to have been pretty done and dusted, and allowing the US bid due dilligence was just a legal formality and nothing to worry about. But then Liverpool say hang on a minute, and the DIC get arsey. I can see that. But the 12 hour demand was a bit much from them. Surely better to find out what's going on than to jump to comclusions and issue demands.

[Captain Stu]

If their bid was as good as they seem to think it is, no rival bid in the world would've been able to match it.

It's all speculative, obviously, but I have 100% faith in David Moores - the guys a truly decent bloke and he's not about to sell us up the river to fatten his own pocket. As much as he's the head honcho, he's also a lifelong Liverpool fan. :)

I would literally KILL to have been able to see/hear that meeting that went on in London on tuesday where the DiC got pissy.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

If Milner doesn't get a call-up it's a shambles.

Best English right winger at the moment going on recent form.

[Captain Stu]

If Milner doesn't get a call-up it's a shambles.

Best English right winger at the moment going on recent form.

Lennon > Dyer > Bentley > Milner.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Bentley? no way

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Lennon > Dyer > Bentley > Milner.

Lennon hasn't performed for weeks.
Dyer doesn't perform for more than 10 minutes a match.
Bentley better than both the above.
Milner has 3 goals in his last 4 games, 2 assists, and is playing well in an absolutely awful team. He can also play left wing if needed.

Bentley and Milner should be in the squad.

Do England have any other wingers?

[Captain Stu]

Shaun would be instant first choice, hopefully he at least makes the squad.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Shaun would be instant first choice, hopefully he at least makes the squad.

WP? He doesn't even play.

[Captain Stu]

Yet when he does, he still shows signs of what he's capable of.

[Bexster]

SWP needs to play more football. The one thing Bentley and Milner have in abundance is match practice. SWP shot himself in the foot by further committing to Chelski. He'll deserve his place when he gets more play.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

I'd say give Milner a crack on the right. He's on good form and shows strength going foward. Lennon and SWP are the kind of players to liven up a stalemate in the second half but I can't see them holding their own for 90 minutes.

[Epic Failure]

squad announced (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/6319849.stm)

barry, woodgate, barton and dyer all in.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

laughably they still stick with Jenas.

and no Matty Taylor? dissapointing. but overall nice to see some new inclusions

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Parker and Dyer to miss the rest of the season then.

[Wish_Master2100]

Few snaps from Wednesday's Semi final.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/Wish_Master2100/100_5711.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/Wish_Master2100/100_5719.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/Wish_Master2100/100_5717.jpg

[foofan182]

laughably they still stick with Jenas.

and no Matty Taylor? dissapointing. but overall nice to see some new inclusions

Jenas has been overshadowed by Huddlestone in the Spurs midfield yet still managed to pip him to an England place. I don't see how that works.

Good to see Joey Barton called up, committed player and I think a good back-up for Owen Hargreaves. Bet the team gathering will be interesting given the tension between Barton and Lampard...likewise disappointed to see Matthew Taylor left out but it's tough given that Barry has been in good form and Downing is improving.

As for the Under-21s? Potential European Champions with Psycho in charge. Looking at that squad, some of those should really push on to the full squad

[EvilElvis]

Maccarone vs McClaren (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/middlesbrough/6323097.stm)

England coach Steve McClaren has come under savage attack from his former Middlesbrough star Massimo Maccarone.
Maccarone, 27, launched his tirade in the Italian media after joining Siena.

He said: "The ever-smiling Steve 'The Magnificent' McClaren is the most two-faced and false person I've had the misfortune to meet in football."

Maccarone, signed by McClaren for £8m in 2002, added: "Only in England can someone with such evident limits become the head of the national team."

He told La Gazzetta dello Sport's official website, www.gazzetta.it: "He disgusted me by leaving me on the bench for the 2004 League Cup final after having told everyone I was his number one and he was counting on me.

"At the end all he could do was mutter 'I know, I know'."

Maccarone, who made 102 appearances for Boro and scored 24 goals, also turned his fire on McClaren's successor at Middlesbrough, Gareth Southgate.

He said: "During the McClaren years, Southgate came to me endlessly, disguised as my friend, to give me support and encouragement, slating McClaren's treatment of me at every single opportunity.

"When he became manager I was ready and excited by the fresh start that he promised me, but he conducted himself exactly as McClaren had done.

"I felt utterly betrayed by Southgate as he was the one who convinced me to stay and then promised me a run of five or six games which he never gave me."

But his attack shocked his representative Paolo Fabbri, who said: "I am really doubtful whether Massimo would be so rude as to criticise Steve McClaren and Gareth Southgate in this way.

"Yes, he was very upset not to play more often, any player would be, and yes, he might have specific points to make about McClaren and Southgate on a technical level - but I do not believe his frustrations go beyond that.

"It is said he didn't like Middlesbrough as a club, yet I know for an absolute fact that was not true because he was always very complimentary about the stadium and the training ground, the fans and the entire organisation.

"When he knows what is being said in his name, I am sure Massimo will be pretty upset because it is just not his style to be so rude and make comments of such a personal nature."

[EvilElvis]

Carlos Tevez insists he is not upset by the departure of his Argentine team-mate, Javier Mascherano, to Liverpool. (The Sun)

Meanwhile, Mascherano has admitted he "dropped a clanger" by joining West Ham from Corinthians. (The Sun)

New West Ham signing Matthew Upson has criticised former boss Steve Bruce following his departure from Birmingham. (Various)

New Celtic signing Paul Hartley has admitted he will become number one enemy among the Ibrox faithful after turning down a move to Rangers. (Daily Record)

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp has praised Andy Cole's decision not to move on transfer deadline day. (Daily Express)

OTHER GOSSIP
Former Middlesbrough striker Massimo Maccarone has launched a blistering attack on England coach Steve McClaren, labelling his ex-boss "two-faced" and "false". (Various)

Maccarone also said that "only in England could a man with such obvious and limited abilities be made into the national coach". (Various)

McClaren is agonising over whether to include outspoken Joey Barton in Friday's England squad to play Spain - Barton previously criticised England internationals for their high-profile autobiographies following the World Cup. (Various)

George Gillett's £470m takeover of Liverpool could go through early next week. (Various)

Meanwhile, Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has claimed bully-boy tactics from the Dubai International Consortium was behind the collapse of their rival takeover bid. (The Sun)

But sources close to DIC claim the Dubai Royal family pulled out of the deal because of the way the Liverpool board acted during negotiations. (Daily Mirror)

Prospective new Liverpool owner George Gillett has a bankruptcy on his CV from 1992 following the $1bn collapse of his business empire. (The Independent)

West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson has admitted for the first time that the club could go down. (Various)

The Premier League is probing Javier Mascherano's registration after the Argentine's move from West Ham to Liverpool - and the Hammers could be docked points if irregularities are found. (Daily Express)

Meanwhile, the Premier League will also probe Manuel Fernandes' move to Portsmouth to check the registration is all in order. (Daily Mail)

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has told the Chelsea boo boys to lay off Michael Ballack. (Various)

Fans of FC Kaunas in Lithuania are revolting because they are fed up with being a feeder club for Hearts. (Daily Record)

Chris Sutton is suffering from an eye problem similar to that which sidelined Paul Scholes - and the Aston Villa striker could be out for the season. (Various)

Manchester United striker Henrik Larsson claims that Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo could become the best attacking partnership in the world. (Various)

Rangers striker Dado Prso will find out on Tuesday whether his dodgy knee will force him to hang up his boots. (Daily Record)

Bolton are ripping up their sub-standard pitch in a bid to boost their chances of progressing in Europe. (Daily Mirror)

The Premiership has been told that some of its £625m overseas TV rights bonanza should be used to cut ticket prices. (Daily Mirror)

Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock has lectured new signing Jon Stead about diving in the area after the striker took a tumble in the area during a midweek match. (Various)

Scottish Football Association chief executive David Taylor is a candidate for the same post at Uefa. (The Herald)

Hearts' plans to redevelop Tynecastle Stadium have hit a snag over the valuation of land being bought from the local council. (The Scotsman)


AND FINALLY...
England's footballer's WAGs are among the intended market for a new computer mouse designed in Switzerland. The device - which is studded with 59 diamonds - costs a mere £13,000. (The Sun)

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has moored his 282ft super yacht at swanky Sandbanks peninsula in Poole, Dorset. (Daily Star)

[Captain Stu]

Robinson (Tottenham) (David James)
Foster (Watford) (Scott Carson)
Kirkland (Wigan)

Gary Neville (Man Utd)
Phil Neville (Everton)
Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd)
Woodgate (Middlesbrough)
Bridge (Chelsea)
Terry (Chelsea)
Carragher (Liverpool)
Dawson (Tottenham) (Stuart Taylor)
Richards (Man City)

Lennon (Tottenham)
Gerrard (Liverpool)
Hargreaves (Bayern Munich)
Carrick (Man Utd)
Downing (Midd'boro) (David Bentley)
Wright-Phillips (Chelsea)
Parker (Newcastle)
Lampard (Chelsea)
Barry (Aston Villa)
Barton (Man City)
Jenas (Tottenham) (Kev Nolan)
Dyer (Newcastle)

Rooney (Man Utd)
Crouch (Liverpool)
Defoe (Tottenham)
Johnson (Everton).

*

I've bolded what I consider to be the wrong selections and put in brackets who I'd have in instead.

How the fuck Jermaine Jenas keeps getting in the England squad is beyond me.

[Renegades of funk 8]

Robinson (Tottenham) (David James)
Foster (Watford) (Scott Carson)
Kirkland (Wigan)



i'd have robbo, foster and carson for the gks in the squad, agree with the rest though

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Stuart Taylor's a goalkeeper?

[Renegades of funk 8]

Stuart Taylor's a goalkeeper?

still better then dawson :p

[EvilElvis]

ALL Italian football to be suspended this weekend after a Police officer dies during riots.

[EvilElvis]

Dear BBC,

Can you please replace Gary Linekar and Ray Stubbs as host of Match Of The Day and start following the Italian example of Football TV Anchors...

Let's go around the grounds.. (http://i7.tinypic.com/3z1ws9e.jpg)
Getting tactics from the bench (http://i5.tinypic.com/2u89evp.jpg)

And even the French are ahead of us! :mad:

Vive le France?! (http://www.teamgsb.com/stuff/melissa103.jpg)
Team news (http://www.teamgsb.com/stuff/melissa406.jpg)


I may even start giving a damn about the match analysis if they host it...


Ollie

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Italian girl is minging. French girl is yummy.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

ALL Italian football to be suspended this weekend after a Police officer dies during riots.

could you imagine the uproar if that was in England, football would be banned forever, England banned from international competitions etc.

i just counted the midfielders in our squad... 12 who needs 12 midfielders!? not even spurs!

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/rangers/6326341.stm

Quick before they catch it - right-click on the pic of Thomson and check the filename...

[Bexster]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/rangers/6326341.stm

Quick before they catch it - right-click on the pic of Thomson and check the filename...
That is absolute pure genius. Give that picture guy a medal :D

could you imagine the uproar if that was in England, football would be banned forever, England banned from international competitions etc.
British football has never gotten anywhere near as bad as Italian football, but yeah, it's always us that get the finger pointed. I'm not expecting to see any Serie A again for a while.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

I'm not expecting to see any Serie A again for a while.

it's been a joke for years anyway.

Maybe this'll lead to a fresh start.

[Bexster]

it's been a joke for years anyway.

Maybe this'll lead to a fresh start.
You've got to hope so, but I wonder. It'd be a joke to go back to playing without seriously investigating these problems of violence, which they admit they were aware of, but judging by the eventual concessions made to the clubs in the fixing scandal last year, I don't know if they'll do it. I used to love Serie A football, but I just can't take it seriously anymore.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Bah, the BBC have fixed it now.

[F'jo]

Bah, the BBC have fixed it now.

What did it say originally?

[EvilElvis]

What did it say originally?


Kevincuntthomson.

Kevin Thomson joined Rangers during the week - So I assume it was either a Hibs fan or a Celtic fan who did it.


Apparently loads of Rangers fans complained about the title of the picture and the person who did it has probably been sacked now.

[EvilElvis]

Five clubs are in for Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, and Arsene Wenger says he does not know if the German will still be at the club next season as he will only be offered a one-year extension. (Various)

Rangers coach Walter Smith has hinted he will make moves in the summer for Motherwell striker Scott McDonald, Hibs midfielder Scott Brown and Wigan attacker Lee McCulloch. (Daily Record)

Birmingham managing director Karren Brady says she feels the club have been "mugged" by West Ham over the sale of Matthew Upson for £7.5m. (The Sun)

Watford defender Jay DeMerit says he will leave the club if they are relegated. (The Sun)

Reading will sign Luton defender Leon Barnett in the summer. (Daily Mirror)


OTHER GOSSIP
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has agreed to join Real Madrid as long as the Spanish club sign Manchester United's Ronaldo. (Daily Star)

Liverpool's prospective new American owners George Gillett Jr and Tom Hicks will fly to Merseyside on Monday to submit a bid of £470m for the club. (The Guardian)

Tottenham Hotspur are being tipped as the next takeover target for private investors. (The Times)

Fulham manager Chris Coleman has told striker Collins John to toe the line in his final four months at the club before his contract ends. (Express)

Blackburn star Matt Derbyshire has revealed he turned down Manchester United to play at Ewood Park. (The Sun)

Michal Pospisil says Hearts have sabotaged their chances of silverware by selling Paul Hartley. (Daily Record)

Brian McBride is set to sign a new two-year deal with Fulham. (Mirror)

Shaun Maloney says he had to quit Celtic for Aston Villa to reach the top in football. (Daily Record)


AND FINALLY...
David Beckham will appear on US TV in one of the sought-after half-time advert slots during Sunday's live coverage of the Super Bowl. (Telegraph)

Steve McClaren is the fifth England manager to pick Gareth Barry but the Villa player has still only amassed a grand total of eight caps for his country. (The Sun)

BBC Radio Scotland have apologised to misfiring Rangers striker Filip Sebo for joking that he was transferred to Edinburgh Zoo on deadline day. (Record)

Airline Flybe have named a Q400 passenger jet after Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier. (Daily Mirror)

[Bexster]

Tottenham Hotspur are being tipped as the next takeover target for private investors. (The Times)
This is not a fashion statement, dammit :mad:

[Bexster]

Liverpool reveal late Huth swoop

Liverpool have revealed they signed Paraguayan defender Ronald Huth before the close of the transfer window.

The 17-year-old, who signed from Tacuary FC on a two-and-a-half year deal, holds an Italian passport.

Huth becomes boss Rafa Benitez's third deadline day signing alongside Alvaro Arbeloa and Francisco Manuel Duran.

Argentine Javier Mascherano was registered before the deadline, but the Premier League are yet to sanction his move from West Ham.
Good cover for injuries? I know nothing about the guy.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Everton need a second striker on the pitch

Liverpool need to keep the ball better and Gerrard needs to actually touch it

Malaysia have great adverts

[EvilElvis]

Maybe Le Guen got it right getting rid of Ricksen (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfwSfZ2Igns)


Still got his temper...

[Two-Bob Peeters]

my god what a terrible match...

[Bexster]

0-0 in the Derby. Not a good result for Liverpool in regards 3rd place.

[EvilElvis]

0-0 in the Derby. Not a good result for Liverpool in regards 3rd place.

Lolz! When Football Focus was on they announced that "David, sorry, Craig Bellamy has just put Liverpool 1-0 up"

[Wish_Master2100]

What do you reckon the excuses will be for Liverpool not winning?

[EvilElvis]

What do you reckon the excuses will be for Liverpool not winning?



"The small teams come to Anfield to play for a draw and thats what happend today" was Rafa's comments on it.

[Wish_Master2100]

"The small teams come to Anfield to play for a draw and thats what happend today" was Rafa's comments on it.

Bollocks.

It's then up to Liverpool to break them down and score. Lovely sly dig at Everton being a 'Small team'.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

It's then up to Liverpool to break them down and score. Lovely sly dig at Everton being a 'Small team'.

agreed, Liverpool got stuck and the same move kept on repeating

Pass to pennant.

Skills defender but delivers poor cross.

Headered out and cleared.

repeat.

although to be fair, apart from the defending Everton were equally as poor attacking

[EvilElvis]

Rafael Benitez couldn't hide his frustration after the goalless draw with Everton and felt Liverpool were the only team that wanted to win the match.
The Liverpool manager believes his team did everything to try and win and that Everton came only to defend.

"There was only one team that wanted to win and one team that didn't want to lose and it is frustrating because we deserved to win the game," insisted Benitez.

"They had a chance in the second half after our mistake but Pepe made a good save. Apart from that we controlled everything. We had three strikers and Pennant and Riise saw a lot of the ball but they had nine men all the time behind the ball.

"When you play against the smaller teams at Anfield you know the game will be narrow and compact and at times we were a little bit nervous. We have to be disappointed not to have taken all three points."

[foofan182]

Wigan really needed that win today against Portsmouth, should they win their game in hand then West Ham and Charlton are seven points from safety...at the moment they look doomed.

As for my team's result today, No wins in 2007 kinda says it all.

[EvilElvis]

Wigan really needed that win today against Portsmouth, should they win their game in hand then West Ham and Charlton are seven points from safety...at the moment they look doomed.

As for my team's result today, No wins in 2007 kinda says it all.

You are a Wednesday fan innit?

[foofan182]

You are a Wednesday fan innit?

Yep, the fixtures haven't been kind to us recently...Derby, Sunderland, Southampton, two cup ties against Man City and today's match with Preston.

Selling our money-grabbing star player to Charlton for £2.5m didn't help, but I'm still hopeful we'll finish in mid-table.

[rob3000]

Awful game. Before the anti-liverpool clan get going i don't think liverpool played well, but for goodness sake everton just put all their men behind the ball and never went for a winner. Never been so pissed off at a derby. When they beat us 3-0 i was gutted like but at least they made a game of it, and went for the win.

Any complaints on how boring it was can be directed at everton please.

But anyway...I do love derby day. the whole city gets involved it's quality.

[Wish_Master2100]

Before the anti-liverpool clan get going whole city gets involved

Aww, poor you.

We've had our say already thanks :)

[rob3000]

Aww, poor you.

We've had our say already thanks :)

dide did you edit my quote to make me say something else?:D

[Wish_Master2100]

dide did you edit my quote to make me say something else?:D

Just badly edited :)

[Captain Stu]

Good cover for injuries? I know nothing about the guy.

I don't think anybody does really, we'll have to see what happens.

0-0 in the Derby. Not a good result for Liverpool in regards 3rd place.

1-1 against Boro, even worse result which blows Arsenal chance to get closer to us and 3rd place. :D

What do you reckon the excuses will be for Liverpool not winning?

Everton playing for a draw like a bottom side with no creativity at all. We weren't exactly magnificent, Howard made a couple of important saves but they never even contemplated playing a game of football.

"The small teams come to Anfield to play for a draw and thats what happend today" was Rafa's comments on it.

He's absolutely right. :)

Awful game. Before the anti-liverpool clan get going i don't think liverpool played well, but for goodness sake everton just put all their men behind the ball and never went for a winner. Never been so pissed off at a derby. When they beat us 3-0 i was gutted like but at least they made a game of it, and went for the win.

Any complaints on how boring it was can be directed at everton please.

But anyway...I do love derby day. the whole city gets involved it's quality.

I didn't expect such a shit game but as soon as I saw them lining up with five across the middle I knew what we were in for. They basically played Neville and Carsley so close to the back four it became a fucking back six.

Cahill is an utterly pitiful cunt.

Andy Johnson was about 50% fit and playing him was a stupid, stupid risk by Moyes. GOOD!

Also mate, I'd imagine that Mascherano (if the move's been ok'd by then) will make his debut against Newcastle seeing as Alonso picked up his 5th yellow and will be suspended.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Carr such a chubby abortion of a player.
Butt with an absolute stinker of a game.

[Captain Stu]

Carr such a chubby abortion of a player.
Butt with an absolute stinker of a game.

The name's Butt and Carr could quite easily be swapped there. Butt is always doing a poor imitation of a professional footballer, he's just gash.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

The name's Butt and Carr could quite easily be swapped there. Butt is always doing a poor imitation of a professional footballer, he's just gash.

Butt has actually had some spectacular performances this season.
Seriously.

Carr is a shadow.

[EvilElvis]

Thierry Henry will be allowed to leave Arsenal in the summer, with Real Madrid or Barcelona likely to pay £25m for his signature. (Sunday Express, Daily Star)

Cristiano Ronaldo's future at Manchester United is even more uncertain after Barcelona joined Real Madrid in the hunt for the winger. (News of the World)

Ronaldo met Madrid officials in a chance meeting during his mid-season break in Dubai. (Sunday Mirror)

Rafa Benitez will be given a transfer fund of between £100m and £150m when Americans George Gillett and Tom Hicks take over the club. (Various)

Barcelona and Real Madrid are on alert after learning Frank Lampard's contract talks have been delayed. (The People)

Portsmouth want Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate. (News of the World)

Gabriel Heinze is poised to quit Manchester United this summer to join Italian side Juventus in a £5m deal. (News of the World)

Arsenal are chasing teenage Czech defender Ondrej Mazuch, who plays for FC Brno. (News of the World)

The Gunners have pipped Liverpool to sign France Under-16 prodigy Gilles Sunu from Chateauroux (Daily Star)

Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard has asked the club's fans to lay-off Ronaldinho, who has yet to sign a new contract. (Daily Star)

OTHER GOSSIP
Sheikh Mohammed will make a £450m takeover move for Arsenal after his Dubai International Capital group pulled out of negotiations for Liverpool this week. (The People)

Jerzy Dudek has rejected a new contract at Liverpool. (News of the World)

Former Middlesbrough defender Danny Mills says he can understand ex-team-mate Massimo Maccarone's "two-faced" jibe about England boss Steve McClaren. (Independent)

Some of West Ham's relegation rivals want the club deducted points if it is found they broke rules in fielding Argentine pair Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez. (The Mail on Sunday)

Joey Barton has made his peace with England colleagues Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney but is yet to have showdown talks with Frank Lampard. (People)


AND FINALLY...
Liverpool sent someone on a top-secret scouting mission to Barcelona ahead of their Champions League last-16 tie, but there's a chance their agent was spotted. The person in question was 6ft 7in striker Peter Crouch. "I had never played there and I had never been to the stadium so we decided to make a visit," he said. (Daily Star on Sunday)

[Renegades of funk 8]

doubt anything will happen but just seen this

Fulham along with Aston Villa are demanding two back premiership points from West ham because Hammers played an an ineligible player against them. Both clubs believe they should have two points added to their total as carlos tevez played in draws with both clubs .West Ham stand accused of having key documents unseen by by the premier league which would have meant the player along with Mascharano, would not have been registered. Wigan are also involved as owner dave whelan said this resulted in west ham having an unfair advantage in their relegation struggle. A fulham spokesman said active discussions were in place to see what action could be taken as each position is worth about £500,000 so two points lost against west ham would represent a million pounds.

[EvilElvis]

Pics of Ronaldo's medical have been released (http://gfx.tv4.se/imagesdb/editor/fotbolls-vm_2006/15D03A69-545A-49E3-B617-5BA94B43AF3A.jpg)

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Any complaints on how boring it was can be directed at everton please.



oh yeah no doubt about it. but at the same time it doesn't say much about Liverpool if they can't break down a 'small club' in a local derby at home.

Carr such a chubby abortion of a player.
Butt with an absolute stinker of a game.

if Butt had stayed at united he'd still be being picked for england probably!

god knows what happened to Carr

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Lucas Neill is actually a liverpool fan

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v227/seat151/scan0001.jpg

[rob3000]

Yeah, which makes it even more strange he turned down a "dream move" to join west ham.

Just by the way, I was rather disappointed to see Rafa label everton a small club, i know he was probably just annoyed but i don't think he should done it.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

For all these Liverpool self-foolers going "Everton played for the draw, that's why we drew":

BOLLOCKS

You just weren't good enough to beat them on the day. Fingers can be pointed at Rafa's tactics.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

For all these Liverpool self-foolers going "Everton played for the draw, that's why we drew":

BOLLOCKS

You just weren't good enough to beat them on the day. Fingers can be pointed at Rafa's tactics.

you're so anti-liverpool :rolleyes:

although yes, the tactics were rather rubbish, and some players just didn't even show up. If pennant could actually cross a ball there might have been a goal.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

you're so anti-liverpool :rolleyes:


Rubbish, I'm a big Liverpool fan. Always enjoy watching them play.

Except against us, of course.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Rubbish, I'm a big Liverpool fan. Always enjoy watching them play.

Except against us, of course.

i was high on sarcasm when i said that.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

i was high on sarcasm when i said that.

Had a feeling it was so. The Liverpuddings would've probably thought it though.

[Wish_Master2100]

Shhhh, no more Anti-Liverpool jibes please, you know that isn't tolerated in here.

[Captain Stu]

Rafa Benitez will be given a transfer fund of between £100m and £150m when Americans George Gillett and Tom Hicks take over the club. (Various)

*jaw hits floor*

I hope that's over a couple of seasons at least. :eek:

Sheikh Mohammed will make a £450m takeover move for Arsenal after his Dubai International Capital group pulled out of negotiations for Liverpool this week. (The People)

Pffft, second choice :cool: although they're also being linked with buyout bids for Everton and Newcastle.

Yeah, which makes it even more strange he turned down a "dream move" to join west ham.

Just by the way, I was rather disappointed to see Rafa label everton a small club, i know he was probably just annoyed but i don't think he should done it.

Great article in the Mirror yesterday challening the claims of Everton being true rivals. How many times in the last 40 seasons do you think Everton have finished above us?

It was claiming for a truue rivalry, you'd say maybe 20... for a small rivalry you'd say maybe 10... the actual figure is simply 4. Four times in fourty seasons they're finished above us.

For all these Liverpool self-foolers going "Everton played for the draw, that's why we drew":

BOLLOCKS

You just weren't good enough to beat them on the day. Fingers can be pointed at Rafa's tactics.

Waaaaah, I'm sure you say exactly the same thing when Newcastle "aren't good enough to beat" a team who put 10 men behind the ball. Christ, even Quasi Neville himself admitted that's what they did!

*

Absolutely pitiful dive by FPR for United's goal - so much for him not doing that anymore.

Fucking wanker.

Cmon Spurs, you've been playing well so far! :mad:

[Two-Bob Peeters]

does it matter if Neville admits they played for a draw? it doesn't make a difference to the fact that Liverpool wasn't good enough to get the win.

also, a rivalry isn't just about league position, if it was then so many would have become defunct by now

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Newcastle aren't good enough to beat Flu.

[friartuck]

United have been sensational today - in particular Paul Scholes.

[rob3000]

the anti anti anti-liverpool thing is ridiculous guys so how about you just stop it completely? Is that ok? No more little digs when they aren't necessary? Think you can do it?

I heard about that article stu and while i understand what its saying, i can't really agree with it. The rivalry is a massive thing, and I for one would be pretty sad if it ended.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Awful game. Before the anti-liverpool clan get going

....

[rob3000]

....

I just had to say that because whenever i say anything positive about liverpool it gets shot down. It's a repetitive formula. You say something, then wish master quotes and adds another thing. I respond and everything goes to pot, you'll say "yeah you're such a victim" and I'll say "you've never been here" etc.

It's the same everytime, you hate liverpool, i love liverpool. Nothing's going to change it!

[Two-Bob Peeters]

you wasn't even saying anything positive about Liverpool... just unjustly shooting down everton.

and the whole thing is not really different to say for example how Stu always says something about Man Utd being really lucky every week. except noone on the Man U camp gives a toss

[Chandler]

hey what do you guys think about what's happening here in italy? friday hooligans killed a cop in catania and now the federation stopped all the tournaments in italy for 2 weeks. They said they want to play all the games till june without attendance. I've seen a lot of programs today and it seems everybody pointed at the system the FA, british police and clubs used in england to repress violence. Im not sure it could be a solution to our problems here..

[rob3000]

you wasn't even saying anything positive about Liverpool... just unjustly shooting down everton

No no, in this case I know I wasn't saying anything positive about Liverpool. but for some reason, I'm expected to whenever like. The "before the anti-liverpool clan" thing was just because I was expecting you guys to say "I bet the liverpool fans here think they played realy well and should have won 10-0" etc.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

No no, in this case I know I wasn't saying anything positive about Liverpool. but for some reason, I'm expected to whenever like. The "before the anti-liverpool clan" thing was just because I was expecting you guys to say "I bet the liverpool fans here think they played realy well and should have won 10-0" etc.

but we didn't, all you would have had to do was read back a few posts instead of jumping to immediate defense of how everyone hates liverpool...

[Two-Bob Peeters]

hey what do you guys think about what's happening here in italy? friday hooligans killed a cop in catania and now the federation stopped all the tournaments in italy for 2 weeks. They said they want to play all the games till june without attendance. I've seen a lot of programs today and it seems everybody pointed at the system the FA, british police and clubs used in england to repress violence. Im not sure it could be a solution to our problems here..

If it happened in England we'd all be put behind bars or something stupid, our media reacts with a mass hysteria about the slightest thing. god knows how they'd have reacted if something that serious happened in Britain

[rob3000]

Right, tried to get my point across to no avail.

I'll try my best to leave it with you hate liverpool, i dislike you and wishmaster because of it and we're never going to get anywhere.

I'm willing to put a great deal of money that this flares up again.:D

[Two-Bob Peeters]

can't be arsed

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

I like both Liverpool and Man United.

[EvilElvis]

Bringing back Home internationals? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/6329523.stm)


Tentative talks have taken place designed to revive the Home Internationals - but with the Republic of Ireland likely to replace England.
Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic are said to be keen - with England and Wales less so.

But Scotland manager Alex McLeish wants to play England in a friendly at the new Wembley at the very least.

"I would relish the thought of it," he said. "I'm not one for meaningless friendlies, but this is different."

The English Football Association are compiling a list of friendlies for the new stadium.

"If the English FA are thinking about opposition for the new Wembley, I hope we're in their thoughts," said McLeish. "It would be fantastic to go there."

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland manager Lawrie Sanchez has confirmed his association's interest in a revived Home Internationals tournament.

"IFA chief executive Howard Wells and president Jim Boyce are very much for the Home Internationals," he told the Scotland On Sunday newspaper. "Lobbying is taking place.

"I don't think England would partake though, as getting beaten by Northern Ireland leaves the manager's job on the line.

"So, if England don't take part, we could have a Celtic League with an invitation to the Republic."

The Scottish Football Association stresses that it is "very much in the conceptual stage" but that staging the competition over two years was one possibility.

SFA chief executive David Taylor said: "We would like to see some way of introducing some format, some sort of competition.

"If we had a different European Championship, with more teams qualifying for the finals, there may be more dates freed up.

"This is all speculation because the big difficulty is finding dates in the calendar.

"If there were dates then the opportunity may arise.

"Certainly, with Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, England and maybe even the Republic of Ireland, it's one of those ideas which is still kicking around."

An England Football Association spokesman said: "We only have two or three friendlies a year and it's difficult to see how the Home Nations would fit in.

"We also try to play non-European opposition to prepare for the World Cup."

And a Football Association of Wales spokesman added: "It would be hard to turn down Brazil because we had a Home Nations game."

The Home International tournament lasted for a century until 1984.

[Wish_Master2100]

http://www.unitedrant.co.uk/images/voteboris.jpg

Is this what you're all crying about?

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

That's not even vaguely humourous, plus whoever made it doesn't understand what a manifesto is.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

Pub quiz help please. What Welsh player plays for a top Italian team?


EDIT: maybe they mean rugby

EDIT: no, it's football.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Pub quiz help please. What Welsh player plays for a top Italian team?


EDIT: maybe they mean rugby

EDIT: no, it's football.

Err, none of them?

There's one in Sweden and another in the USA though.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

All I know is there's a Welshman playing in Serie A according to the compere at the Blind Tiger in Liverpool.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Craig Davis plays for Verona - but he's on loan to Wolves.

[EvilElvis]

Is it Dichio?

[EvilElvis]

It's Craig Davies of Hellas Verona (http://www.dragonsoccer.co.uk/matches/walessquad-jan2007.pdf)

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

It's Craig Davies of Hellas Verona (http://www.dragonsoccer.co.uk/matches/walessquad-jan2007.pdf)

But he's not playing in Serie A. He's playing in the Championship.

[EvilElvis]

But he's not playing in Serie A. He's playing in the Championship.

But he's registered as a Verona player. If he is injured at Wolves they just send him back and it's Verona's problem.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

But they're in Serie B.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

That's the only team that has a Welsh player in Italy.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

No. I won't believe it. The Blind Tiger MC is hardly ever drunk and confused and old and wrong.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Slap him then demand he gives you extra points.

[EvilElvis]

Just seen the bonecrunching, career threatening challenge that fresh air made on Ronaldo.

Oh dear.

[Captain Stu]

Watching Spurs tonight was paramount to watching porn, there was just so much hard bumming going on.

Jol has serious problems with morale right now.

[EvilElvis]

Watching Spurs tonight was paramount to watching porn, there was just so much hard bumming going on.

Jol has serious problems with morale right now.

Aye!

Something ain't right there - they should be way higher in the league, the players they have are too good to be in bottom half.

[Foo Fighters, United Kingdom]

They're missing King proper badly.

[Captain Stu]

Aye!

Something ain't right there - they should be way higher in the league, the players they have are too good to be in bottom half.

Exactly, you wouldn't expect a team with Defoe, Berbatov, Malbranque, Lennon and Chimbonda... previously this list might've included Robinson... to be faltering so much.

I think Dave's knocked it squaa on the head, they're missing King so badly. Dawson looks proper shit without him.

[EvilElvis]

Dawson looks proper shit without him.

Dawson is too smug and arrogant. Oh wait, it's his brother who is a captian on Question of Sport...

[Captain Stu]

Dawson is too smug and arrogant. Oh wait, it's his brother who is a captian on Question of Sport...

Really? :eek:

[EvilElvis]

Really? :eek:


I'm certain they are related.

He was the mystery guest on QOS last week - and Matt made a comment about it being the less talented Dawson..

[Captain Stu]

Hmmmmm, I can't see anything about it... Matt is from Birkenhead and Michael is from Yorkshire.

[EvilElvis]

Hmmmmm, I can't see anything about it... Matt is from Birkenhead and Michael is from Yorkshire.

May just be cousin's then. Michael's bro played for Hull (According to Wiki)

Though I am sure someone made a comment on them being brother's and with Matt making a jibe at Michael's expense the other week..

[**dylan**]

May just be cousin's then. Michael's bro played for Hull (According to Wiki)

Though I am sure someone made a comment on them being brother's and with Matt making a jibe at Michael's expense the other week..

i thought that was a joke, and also i didnt think they said they were brothers, just namesakes.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

they ain't related are they? i didn't think they was anyway

[Captain Stu]

Jenas out of the England squad. Phew.

*wipes sweat from brow*

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Jenas out of the England squad. Phew.

*wipes sweat from brow*

he shouldn't have even been in it!

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Hargreaves can't play either, that narrows it down to about 325095 midfielders.

someone from another board (an everton fan) says they was singing this chant to Stevie G on saturday.

"who's that cumming over your bird? is it a GANGSTER? is it a GANGSTER!?"

quality

[Bexster]

TRANSFER RUMOURS
Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has urged Manchester United's in-form winger Cristiano Ronaldo to join Barcelona in the summer. (The Sun)

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has told Gunners fans "you know where my heart is" after renewed speculation linking him with Barcelona and Real Madrid. (Daily Mirror)

Birmingham will make a renewed approach to Aston Villa this week to take central defender Liam Ridgewell on loan. (Daily Mirror)

West Brom striker John Hartson has been told he can leave the club on loan if he gets an offer. (Daily Mirror)


Back to top

Heard a transfer rumour? Let us know ...

OTHER GOSSIP
Newcastle midfielder Emre has launched his defence against an FA charge of racism by saying his words have been misunderstood in England. (Daily Mirror, The Times)

Italian football chiefs are planning to halt the championship for two weeks and order clubs to play behind-closed-doors in order to tackle their hooliganism problem. (The Sun)

Bayern Munich have become the latest club to signal their desire to recruit Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho if he leaves Stamford Bridge in the summer. (The Times)

Manchester City are ready to open talks with midfielder Stephen Ireland about a new deal. (Daily Mirror)

Fulham striker Brian McBride has signed a one-year extension to his Cottagers' contract. (Daily Mail)

Sports minister Richard Caborn wants regulations in place to limit the number of foreign players in England. (Daily Star)

Newcastle are ready to offer striker Antoine Sibierski a new deal after impressing boss Glenn Roeder with his attitude. (Daily Mirror)

Aston Villa's Chris Sutton will have tests on an eye injury to find out if he will be sidelined for the rest of the season. (Daily Mirror)

Steven Gerrard will captain England against Spain on Wednesday, while Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has given the go-ahead for John Terry to return to international action. (Daily Express)


Back to top

AND FINALLY...
Vietnam coach Alfred Riedl will be out of action for two months while he undergoes a kidney transplant. Truck drivers, bankers and even Buddhist monks had offered to go under the knife for the popular Austrian Riedl, who has led the country to silver medals in the 1999, 2003 and 2005 Southeast Asian Games.

Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe's girlfriend Charlotte Meares has treated herself to a new £200,000 kitchen complete with six ovens and two dishwashers - despite the fact she usually only makes pot noodles. (Daily Star)

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has brought a £5.2m mansion in Wimbledon within walking distance of the All England Club and boasts a hall so big that he has an indoor fountain. (Daily Mail)

___________________________________________

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has told Gunners fans "you know where my heart is" after renewed speculation linking him with Barcelona and Real Madrid. (Daily Mirror)
Thank fuck. I was all ready to stage a one woman sit-in outside Highbury at the end of last season, looking all sad and forlorn with a rainsoaked banner pleading with the man to stay. I'm not planning on thinking about it again.

[Captain Stu]

I think the same thing happened to Henry as happened to Gerrard, he got a shock picture of what life would be like away from Arsenal... whom I genuinely believe he does adore... and realises that it's not worth it.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

for someone who's not very good, Sibierski hasn't done too bad at Newcastle

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I think the same thing happened to Henry as happened to Gerrard, he got a shock picture of what life would be like away from Arsenal... whom I genuinely believe he does adore... and realises that it's not worth it.

i didn't see any Henry effigys burning :D

and yeah, i think Henry certainly has a place for arsenal in him,

[Captain Stu]

Especially considering he's not even a forward.

[Bexster]

i didn't see any Henry effigys burning :D

and yeah, i think Henry certainly has a place for arsenal in him,
Arsenal's like a terminal disease. You catch it, and it never leaves you. But in a good way, obviously :D

But in a more serious way, Arsenal's always loved him, the fans worship him, no matter how he's playing, and he's got a team of youngsters around him he can pretty much mould into his way of playing. Why leave?

for someone who's not very good, Sibierski hasn't done too bad at Newcastle
He's done well. Shame about the rest of the team.

[Captain Stu]

But in a more serious way, Arsenal's always loved him, the fans worship him, no matter how he's playing, and he's got a team of youngsters around him he can pretty much mould into his way of playing. Why leave?

I think if Arsenal win the Champions League in the next year or two, he'll go simply to find a new challenge in his remaining years as he'll have won everything over here.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

yeah i agree, and i think the desicion would be respected too, Kinda like Larsson leaving Celtic

[Bexster]

I think if Arsenal win the Champions League in the next year or two, he'll go simply to find a new challenge in his remaining years as he'll have won everything over here.
That depends what Arsenal offer him. We've never been a team to hold onto dominance like the other teams. We just tend to pop up, win stuff one year, and then go back into almost but not quite. He'd have a huge job to put us in front and keep us there. Plus, Arsenal would give him a huge development role, and he'd have so much sway.

Arsenal players don't do all that well when they leave the club. Look at Patrick. He's almost gone into obscurity now.

yeah i agree, and i think the desicion would be respected too, Kinda like Larsson leaving Celtic
Yeah, I'd respect it. I'd still cry and throw a tantrum, but I'd respect it.

[Captain Stu]

I think that's why he's stayed because he wants to leave having won absolutely everything and be able to know that he gave 100% and resisted other offers to stay and finish his bidness.

[foofan182]

Andy Johnson's just withdrawn from the squad. Only Rooney, Defoe and Crouch are recognised strikers in the squad.

Maybe Kieron Dyer could be used as a back-up striker?

[Captain Stu]

Andy Johnson's just withdrawn from the squad.

Haha, good! :D

I dunno if I want Defoe to start considering how piss he's been lately - Crouch and Rooney up front is alright but it depends on how Spain lineup.
... if they play a 4-5-1 then we should do too really.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

but 4-5-1 is so gay man... and i want crouch to play!

[Captain Stu]

Mmyeah, it is, it's totally anal... but I suspect they'll play the Chelsea system that's 4-5-1 one minute and then BAM, they get the ball and it turns into a 4-3-3. If we've only 4 in the middle while they're ploughing Villa, Torres, Fabregas, Alonso, Joaquin and Xavi at us - it's brown trousers time!

I lolzed when I heard, Arteta didn't even get named in the squad - Fabregas has forced him out. :D

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Hartson to Newcastle please.

[Captain Stu]

Additional, the new England kit is well sexy. <3

http://www.thefa.com/static/kitlaunch/home2007/Homekit07reveal.html

lolz, the choice of Robinson to represent "FOCUSSED" seems really fucking lolzable.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Additional, the new England kit is well sexy. <3

http://www.thefa.com/static/kitlaunch/home2007/Homekit07reveal.html

lolz, the choice of Robinson to represent "FOCUSSED" seems really fucking lolzable.

it looks alright... i can't believe they've changed it again already though. there should be a set amount of time before they're allowed to change it again...

Hartson to Newcastle please.

he's old and rubbish. no need for him whatsoever

[Bexster]

but 4-5-1 is so gay man... and i want crouch to play!
Yeah. He should play. 4-5-1 is not the type of system England need top be playing.
Mmyeah, it is, it's totally anal... but I suspect they'll play the Chelsea system that's 4-5-1 one minute and then BAM, they get the ball and it turns into a 4-3-3. If we've only 4 in the middle while they're ploughing Villa, Torres, Fabregas, Alonso, Joaquin and Xavi at us - it's brown trousers time!

I lolzed when I heard, Arteta didn't even get named in the squad - Fabregas has forced him out. :D
Who wouldn't play Fabregas right now :D

But yeah. Spain are the world's biggest underachievers, but they've got the players to hit you if you're not up to it. With those players lining up, England have got to really be at their best (which, lets face it, never happens...)

Additional, the new England kit is well sexy. <3

http://www.thefa.com/static/kitlaunch/home2007/Homekit07reveal.html

lolz, the choice of Robinson to represent "FOCUSSED" seems really fucking lolzable.
So what exactly is different?

[Captain Stu]

I can say, hand on heart, if Spain got their paella-loving thumbs out of their arses... I think they could be the best team on the planet, yes, better than Brazil and Argentina. They've got easily some of the best attacking/ball-moving players in the world yet they always collectively suck on the Internationals.

So what exactly is different?

Pffft, can't you tell - it has an extra stripe on the shoulder. :rolleyes: :D

[boxshapedheart]

So what exactly is different?
I cannae spot it.

Also, what a shitty flash loop. Ooh look - it goes round, and round, and round...

[Captain Stu]

I cannae spot it.

Also, what a shitty flash loop. Ooh look - it goes round, and round, and round...

Bet you it cost about £80,000 too.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

he's old and rubbish. no need for him whatsoever

He has a physical presence and ability to shoot on target that none of our players actually have. He'd do well alongside Martins or Owen.

[Bexster]

Pffft, can't you tell - it has an extra stripe on the shoulder. :rolleyes: :D
Oh... right... yeah...

:confused:

[Captain Stu]

That just furthers the stereotype that John Hartson is a footballer when, in truth, he's a turd sandwich.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

That just furthers the stereotype that John Hartson is a footballer when, in truth, he's a turd sandwich.

He's fat, but he can score. He can also add direction to his headers, unlike Sibierski - Sibi just heads the ball straight up.

[Captain Stu]

Isn't Hartson aiming a bit towards the bottom of the barrel though? Surely Newcastle can be looking much better than him?

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

Isn't Hartson aiming a bit towards the bottom of the barrel though? Surely Newcastle can be looking much better than him?

We have no money.

[Wish_Master2100]

New England kit is tripe.

[Hmmm Noodle Soup]

Never thought I'd say this..but I'm starting to get fed up with Jol. Considering the cash we've spent I expect alot more.

[Captain Stu]

Never thought I'd say this..but I'm starting to get fed up with Jol. Considering the cash we've spent I expect alot more.

That's not exactly unrealistic.

[Bexster]

Somebody told Kenny Jackett about Hartson being available this morning, and he got very excited. Hartson's made no secret about wanting to come back to Swansea, and Jackett could be quite happy to get him in to help the Swan's promotion push going again.

[EvilElvis]

Somebody told Kenny Jackett about Hartson being available this morning, and he got very excited. Hartson's made no secret about wanting to come back to Swansea, and Jackett could be quite happy to get him in to help the Swan's promotion push going again.

Hartson would make Lee Trundle even more marketable.


Edit: I remember the abuse the Rangers fans gave Big John "Hartson, Hows the wife?" Then he'd score against us. Bastard.

[EvilElvis]

Madrid "Sell" Woodgate (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/middlesbrough/6333175.stm)

Real Madrid have announced they have reached an agreement with Middlesbrough over the transfer of England defender Jonathan Woodgate.
Woodgate, 27, joined Middlesbrough on a year-long loan from Madrid in summer 2006 and Real said the two clubs have agreed to make the switch permanent.

Boro, however, are yet to confirm whether Woodgate's future is secure.

The defender has been in good form this season and Middlesbrough are understood to be keen to agree a permanent deal.

Media and communications manager Dave Allan said: "We have been absolutely delighted with the way Jonathan has played for us this season. He seems happy to be back home.

"We are certainly happy with him - very happy - and we hope the feeling is shared equally between us and Jonathan."

Woodgate was on England duty following his return to the national squad when the news broke, although he missed training as he recovered from Saturday's hard-fought 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

The player has flourished at the Riverside this season after an injury-time in Spain, where he made just nine league appearances in two years after joining from Newcastle for £13.4m in 2004.

Such has been Woodgate's success at his home-town club during the current campaign, he was on Friday recalled to the England squad for this week's friendly against Spain.

If he plays at Old Trafford on Wednesday, it will be the centre-back's first cap since facing Sweden in March 2004.