The Footie (UK) Thread: 2006/07

[Epic Failure]

bloody hell that was a turn up for the books. does that suggest he wanted us to go for a takeover or that he was against it and the other do? the plot thinkens....:(

[Peace77]

Damn Chavski, the machine has oiled out another win.

[Captain Stu]

Fucking hell folks, I was driving to practise and heard Wrighty on TalkSport talking vaguely about Arsenal and Dein so I rang Kat and she checked online and told me what happened.

I sent a group text to my usual footie text friends - Dan, Ollie and Sarah - because I was all ":eek:" about it.

I dunno which side of this to believe, there's two ways I can see it being:

1. Dein was against a potential takeover, the 45% shareholders were for it and so he left out of principle.
2. Everyone except Dein was against a takeover.

The numbers are too perfect... this Yank owns 9% and the board members in questions have another 45%... well blimey, that'd make the Yank majority shareholder when he secures them. The numbers point to a takeover in 12 months.

for at least one year.

Seriously, how can no-one be paying serious attention that simple bit of the sentence? They could've said "not selling" but no, "not selling for at least one year" says clearly to me that this time next year they'll re-evaluate it all and see if it suits then.

I think Dein, a true Gooner, knows that without new ownership or investment, Arsenal will fall off the title hunt behind United, Chelsea and Liverpool and with the 4th Champions League space being taken away in a few years, that'd cost them around £35-40M.

Also, fuck off Boro. :)

[Bexster]

bloody hell that was a turn up for the books. does that suggest he wanted us to go for a takeover or that he was against it and the other do? the plot thinkens....:(
I really am in shock. That's the last thing I ever imagined would happen. Dein was probably one of the most powerful men in English football, and probably in world football truth be told, and he was ours. The amount of times news filtered though that the FA couldn't do something they wanted because Dein stood in the way.

I don't know if he wanted a takeover. I know he was a businessman, but he always made fought for Arsenal. He never let the FA talk to Wenger about the England managers job. It's got to have been going on for a while though.

Oh, and what's all this about the Shareholders saying, we won't sell our shares for at least a year. We don't want to be bought out by Americans period.

:(

[Captain Stu]

Oh, and what's all this about the Shareholders saying, we won't sell our shares for at least a year. We don't want to be bought out by Americans period.

:(

Tough titties, I think you have to or face a trophyless period.

[Bexster]

Seriously, how can no-one be paying serious attention that simple bit of the sentence? They could've said "not selling" but no, "not selling for at least one year" says clearly to me that this time next year they'll re-evaluate it all and see if it suits then.
That's why I think Dein was against a takeover. This one year thing seems like they're trying to placate someone for a while - or making themselves look the good guys while Dein is squeezed out.

I think Dein, a true Gooner, knows that without new ownership or investment, Arsenal will fall off the title hunt behind United, Chelsea and Liverpool and with the 4th Champions League space being taken away in a few years, that'd cost them around £35-40M.
He's always been a true Gooner. While Hill-Wood and the others stood in the background, he always came forward to stand for us whenever we needed it.

It's a rock and a hard place. Maybe he knows and just doesn't want to be a part of it.

Tough titties, I think you have to or face a trophyless period.
Yeah, but I don't have to like it.

[rob3000]

Three points but performance was poor. Masch and Gerrard played well, Sissoko and Crouch were useless.

[Captain Stu]

Three points but performance was poor. Masch and Gerrard played well, Sissoko and Crouch were useless.

With Masch settling in as well as he seems to be, I am more than prepared to humbly suck eggs and eat my own words... and sell Sissoko, his passing is abysmal!

I don't care about the performance against teams like Boro, I'm willing to bet they sat back, yeah? 10-men behind the ball and did little or no attacking?

[Bexster]

Three points but performance was poor. Masch and Gerrard played well, Sissoko and Crouch were useless.
This stage of the season, the 3 points is all that matters really, right?

[rob3000]

Pretty much, I don't remember Reina making a save actually.

[Captain Stu]

This stage of the season, the 3 points is all that matters really, right?

Exactly, especially seeing as Arsenal won last night.

Pretty much, I don't remember Reina making a save actually.

Typical.

For me, titles are won by games like this... and I'm not saying we'll win the title! But, you know what I mean, it's more these games against the anal, defensive teams rather than spanking the relegation teams.

[Epic Failure]

Tough titties, I think you have to or face a trophyless period.

i'm beginning to suspect you are right. I don't have a huge problem with the owner being American as long as he is there for the right reasons and not to fuck with the running of the club. From what i have seen of investors so far - Gillette yes, Abramavich no, not sure about Lerner or Glazer to be honest.

Let's not forget that people like the Hill-Woods have been involved with the club for generations. i'm not convinced that the idea of Dein being forced out cos he was against a takeover is necessarily the whole story yet...

[Captain Stu]

We'll never hear the whole story, we'll hear what Arsenal want us too... but this situation is very, very similar to that at Liverpool really with Moores and Dein both having serious longterm involvement in the team.

[boxshapedheart]

U.S.A. U.S.A.


Twas a bit of a shock to hear.

[EvilElvis]

U.S.A. U.S.A.


Twas a bit of a shock to hear.

I remember the Rangers fans used to chant that when Claudio Reyna played for us.


He scored in a game and celebrated by taking off his jersey and having a tshirt with the US flag - The fans just chanted USA even louder, mind you this was a few weeks after 9/11.



Lolzers at Inverness. Knocked out of Europe by Elton John!

[Two-Bob Peeters]

don't like Dein anyway, his position in the FA was well dodgy

[Mikey]

don't like Dein anyway, his position in the FA was well dodgy

I thought it was awesome (totally biased-ly), but if I wasn't an Arsenal fan, I'd agree with you. Not so much dodgy, but more "Oh er."

Yes.

[Epic Failure]

in general the whole Dein-Arsenal-FA bias thing was a load of balls, with the exception of the fact that he clearly had a role in preventing Wenger getting invloved in the England job reckoning. but i ain't going to blame him for that:D

[Captain Stu]

Pffft, Dein's involvenment is 100% pure dodge... plus he was pretty much single handedly responsible for us ending up with chuffing Sven so there you go. :mad:

So, details have come out this morning and it looks like

2. Everyone except Dein was against a takeover.

Looks like he wanted Kroenke to end up as a majority shareholder but the others didn't. This whole "12 months" thing still reeks.

Also, someone on TalkSport just raised a good point that could signal an even bigger gulf in the money in the Premiership because, if enough foreign people takeover top teams in the country, said teams could start seeking individual television rights like some French/Spanish/Italian teams do. Obviously, that'd mean oodles more cash for the big sides but it'd again distance them from the rest of the league.

[Captain Stu]

Inter Milan have renewed their interest in Arsenal striker Thierry Henry. (Daily Mail)

He's going now, for sure... Wenger too, next summer, when his contract's up.

Livorno striker Cristiano Lucarelli, 31, wants to join Manchester United in a £6m deal. (Daily Mirror)

I could only see Ferguson buying such an old forward if it was simply for cover.

Chelsea have sent scouts to check on Heerenveen's Brazilian striker, Afonso Alves, 26, who has scored 29 goals in 29 games this season. (Daily Mail)

That's a fucking impressive record!

Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse - on loan at Marseille - claims he will be sent back to Anfield in the summer. (Daily Mirror)

FUCK OFF!!! We don't want him back and Marseille don't want him for the exact same reason - he's too fucking lazy and has no finishing class.

Birmingham's on-loan Arsenal midfielder Fabrice Muamba has told boss Steve Bruce he will only stay if they are promoted. (Various)

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has targeted West Brom trio Diomansy Kamara, Curtis Davies and Jason Koumas. (Independent)

Charlton are lining up a £2m summer swoop for Cardiff captain Darren Purse. (Independent)

Hibernian midfielder Michael Stewart has been told he will not be given a new contract. (Various)

Michael Stewart has rejected a severance package to leave Hibernian immediately. (Daily Express)

Michael Stewart has been released from his contract two months early for his role in a dressing-room revolt against manager John Collins. (Daily Mail)

John Collins says it was a football decision to release Michael Stewart and nothing to do with last week's player revolt. (The Herald)

Hibernian goalkeeper Simon Brown will not be given a new contract in the summer. (the Sun)

Celtic goalkeeper Artur Boruc could be a summer signing target for Lazio. (Daily Express)

Greek defender Takis Fyssas will leave Hearts in the summer. (The Herald)

Kilmarnock have given striker Paul Di Giacomo a new contract. (The Sun)

Aberdeen boss Jimmy Calderwood fears losing defender Russell Anderson because of club debts. (Daily Record)

Wolves, West Brom and Birmingham are all keen on signing Chelsea youngster Scott Sinclair, who is on loan at Plymouth. (Daily Star)

Crystal Palace keeper Gabor Kiraly is set to quit the club at the end of the season and return to his native Hungary. (Daily Star)



OTHER GOSSIP

Arsenal are braced for a £650m hostile takeover bid from American businessman Stan Kroenke. (The Sun)

Arsene Wenger's future at Arsenal is in doubt after his closest ally, vice-chairman David Dein, left the club on Wednesday. (Daily Star)

Hostile takeover? Not good... with Dein leaving this could end up being even more vitriolic than the Glazers takeover at United. A hostile takeover is NEVER going to be good for a football club.

A window on Chelsea's team coach smashed on Wednesday when it was hit by a rock upon arriving at West Ham's Upton Park. (The Sun)

Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson claims Middlesbrough are "paranoid" about facing Cristiano Ronaldo. (Daily Mirror)

No, he's a diving cunt still...

Teddy Sheringham is a shock candidate to take over as manager of relegated League One side Brentford. (Daily Mirror)

Everton will earn a £1.65m windfall from Manchester United if Wayne Rooney helps them to win the treble this season. (Daily Star)

Bristol Rovers have asked their fans to vote on where they will play their home games next season. (Daily Star)

The Scottish FA is set to scrap Scottish Cup semi-final replays. (Daily Record)

Tesco has struck a deal with St Mirren to turn their stadium into a supermarket, with the football club moving to a new ground nearby. (The Herald)

Gretna say they would like to share a stadium with threatened rugby club Border Reivers. (The Herald)

AND FINALLY...

Sunderland boss Roy Keane watched Chelsea play Blackburn on Sunday and reckons the Black Cats could beat the Blues. (Various)
On-loan Arsenal striker Julio Baptista on the Premiership's limitations: "I am Brazilian and I enjoy playing the ball, making clever touches and taking bicycle kicks. But the game is so fast there is no time."

Baptista can fuck off! He criticised the weather in the north, well bollocks to you sunshine - the weather in London's much bloody worse!

Plus, you don't like the English game BECAUSE YOU'RE TOO USELESS AND SLOW, YOU TUBBY GOALHANGER!

Fuck off. :)

[Bexster]

For me, titles are won by games like this... and I'm not saying we'll win the title! But, you know what I mean, it's more these games against the anal, defensive teams rather than spanking the relegation teams.
These defensive teams are what scuppered us this season, right royally.

in general the whole Dein-Arsenal-FA bias thing was a load of balls, with the exception of the fact that he clearly had a role in preventing Wenger getting invloved in the England job reckoning. but i ain't going to blame him for that:D
Nor me. I liked keeping our manager.

Looks like he wanted Kroenke to end up as a majority shareholder but the others didn't. This whole "12 months" thing still reeks.
Interesting. One of the headlines on the paper I just got a passing glance at this morning was 'Arsenal sack Dein'. If he was the one who wanted the takeover, then at least it shows the willingness of the rest to do whatever to stop it. (Although yeah, the investment would be good, I won't deny that)

Also, someone on TalkSport just raised a good point that could signal an even bigger gulf in the money in the Premiership because, if enough foreign people takeover top teams in the country, said teams could start seeking individual television rights like some French/Spanish/Italian teams do. Obviously, that'd mean oodles more cash for the big sides but it'd again distance them from the rest of the league.
Pissing money. Remember when football was a game?

He's going now, for sure... Wenger too, next summer, when his contract's up.
Don't think so. Depends what's going on and where they think the club should be going. Essentially, I don't think they'll go then.

FUCK OFF!!! We don't want him back and Marseille don't want him for the exact same reason - he's too fucking lazy and has no finishing class.
You should be careful, buying faulty goods you can't return :D

Hostile takeover? Not good... with Dein leaving this could end up being even more vitriolic than the Glazers takeover at United. A hostile takeover is NEVER going to be good for a football club.
Nope. And this time, they're only facing a small number of shareholders, not like United. I don't want this, and if the news this morning is true, then it's gonna be a hell of a fight.[/QUOTE]

[Captain Stu]

THANK GOD! SOMEONE ARRIVED! It's so lonely in this thread in the mornings until you or Sarah arrives. :(

These defensive teams are what scuppered us this season, right royally.

Us too. :mad:

Interesting. One of the headlines on the paper I just got a passing glance at this morning was 'Arsenal sack Dein'. If he was the one who wanted the takeover, then at least it shows the willingness of the rest to do whatever to stop it. (Although yeah, the investment would be good, I won't deny that)

Yeah, they showed that on the paper review on SSN this morning and I was a bit confused. I'd have thought "sacking" Dein would be a PR disaster! 25 years or something at the club and fired for wanting outside investment to further the club? Kinda makes Hill-Wood out to be the bad guy to me.

You should be careful, buying faulty goods you can't return :D

I kept the receipt though... :(

[Two-Bob Peeters]

another late arrival..

anyway, i also maintain it was down to Dein that Sven picked Walcott

[Captain Stu]

For sure.

[rob3000]

Sell Cisse to anyone, Benitez clear doesn't want him. He's worked hard to get back from two leg breaks, but it's not like we owe him anything.

[Captain Stu]

ANd, more to the point, he's nowhere near Premiership standard. He has immense pace... but his finishing is terrible, all he can do is hit the ball hard, his work ethic is pitiful and he only tries if and when he feels like it.

Cunt, he better not come back and leach off of us.

Also, one more win (apparently) and we're guarenteed entry into the Champions League next season (ie, even if we lost our remaining games, the lowest we'd finish is 4th)... good stuff.

[Captain Stu]

Ahahaha, Chelsea are apparently after Pedro Leon, a player from the Spanish 2nd division and I just bought him a few weeks ago at the start of my 5th season on FM07. :D

Damn Morinho, always copying me... :rolleyes:

[Captain Stu]

3rd post in a row, woo!

Did any of you see the goal that Messi scored against Getafe? Fucking hell, it's so like Maradonna's 2nd goal against England that it's almost scary. He picked the ball up just in front of the the halfway line and then dribbles and dances past 3-4 players before rounding the keeper. It's gorgeous, sheer gorgeousness. :cool:

[Bexster]

THANK GOD! SOMEONE ARRIVED! It's so lonely in this thread in the mornings until you or Sarah arrives. :(
Heh. I'm actually trying to work this morning. Failing, but trying.

Yeah, they showed that on the paper review on SSN this morning and I was a bit confused. I'd have thought "sacking" Dein would be a PR disaster! 25 years or something at the club and fired for wanting outside investment to further the club? Kinda makes Hill-Wood out to be the bad guy to me.
Sacking is not good. Doesn't give a good image at all, and shows the rest of the board to be quite ruthless.



I kept the receipt though... :(
Sorry. You're past your 28 days. Try reselling on ebay.

Sell Cisse to anyone, Benitez clear doesn't want him. He's worked hard to get back from two leg breaks, but it's not like we owe him anything.
Someone'll want him.

3rd post in a row, woo!
Post whore.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

the FA have only offerered Man Utd and Chelsea 25,000 tickets each for the final... disgraceful.

at least it's an even allocation this time i guess though...

[Captain Stu]

I'm telling ya, Wembley's not gonna be full - the ticket prices are an absolute disgrace. They want to bring people back to "the home of football" but then they charge up to £95 a pop? Fuck off, that's daylight robbery.

[Bexster]

30,000 seats not accounted for in the allocations? That's an awful lot of corporate seats...

And competition winners...

It's gonna suck.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

17,000 allocated to 'club wembley' and the rest goes through to grass roots etc like normal.

[Bexster]

Ah yes. That's a bit better.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/6571099.stm

BBC's round up of why Dein left.

[Peace77]

Maybe Wigan will get Cisse and have the formidable striking duo of Heskey and Cisse?

[Captain Stu]

Ah yes. That's a bit better.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/6571099.stm

BBC's round up of why Dein left.

Sounds about right... and yes, he WILL be back.

[timesfooall]

Club Wembley? Grassroots? Shambolic. At least im going :D

[Bexster]

Maybe Wigan will get Cisse and have the formidable striking duo of Heskey and Cisse?
PAH, HAH, HAH... Wait. Hasn't Heskey had a really good seaon this year by Heskey standards...

Sounds about right... and yes, he WILL be back.
Oh yeah. If they've pushed him out, he won't stay away.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

according to the London Lite, he's interested in a lower league club with potential

[Captain Stu]

according to the London Lite, he's interested in a lower league club with potential

Who, Dein?

PAH, HAH, HAH... Wait. Hasn't Heskey had a really good seaon this year by Heskey standards...

Yeah, by his own low standards - he has been Wigan's starman really.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Dein indeed, i wonder if he's interested in property development in south london!

[Captain Stu]

He'll be Chairman of Arsenal within 3 years.

[timesfooall]

Having read up on it i can seriously see him joining forces with that american guy and trying to takeover the Gooners.

[Captain Stu]

Having read up on it i can seriously see him joining forces with that american guy and trying to takeover the Gooners.

Innit, out of a combination of ambition and spite!

[timesfooall]

Innit, out of a combination of ambition and spite!

Totally, i think he generally loves the club and would want to get them back for 'stabbing him in the back'.

[Captain Stu]

For sure, he may be a bit bent and totally dodgy but he loves Arse.

[Bexster]

It's gonna go down to the minor shareholders and what they do. As the article says, if Hill-Wood and co (I had no idea Hill-Wood had so few shares) get control of that extra 5% and keep it, then there's no way Kroenke will get in.

But you never know what's gonna happen.

[Renegades of funk 8]

england vs brazil tickets go on sale tomorrow, i think i'll try to get one but if i do then i'll have be a loner at the game :) :(

[Wish_Master2100]

england vs brazil tickets go on sale tomorrow, i think i'll try to get one but if i do then i'll have be a loner at the game :) :(

I've already got mine lolz.

I'm telling ya, Wembley's not gonna be full - the ticket prices are an absolute disgrace. They want to bring people back to "the home of football" but then they charge up to £95 a pop? Fuck off, that's daylight robbery.

Tickets for last years final were £90 (maximum price)

Hopefully, if all goes well, I'll be able to get a ticket for this years final

[rob3000]

Quick question - one of my mates, an everton fan, reckons the everton version of "It's a grand old team to play for..." aka The Celtic Song is more famous than celtics version.

I don't know, so wanted to see what people who aren' fans of either or live in liverpool or glasgow think! Thanks!

[EvilElvis]

Quick question - one of my mates, an everton fan, reckons the everton version of "It's a grand old team to play for..." aka The Celtic Song is more famous than celtics version.

I don't know, so wanted to see what people who aren' fans of either or live in liverpool or glasgow think! Thanks!

Can't comment. Never been to Celtic Park - But a few mates are season ticket holders, so I'll ask for their opinion.

[sunnydalehighdropout]

Can't comment. Never been to Celtic Park - But a few mates are season ticket holders, so I'll ask for their opinion.

I beg your pardon?

[EvilElvis]

I beg your pardon?

I work with people that have a few personel problems

[Epic Failure]

i'm actually looking forward to the war breaking out over us. Let's be honest we've had a shit season so we need something to talk about. :D

The attitude of the current majority shareholders intrigues me. If they are just doing it to piss off Dein then that's bad news, but if they are doing what they genuinely believe is in the best interests of the club then i'm all for that - provided, of course, that they can back it up.

They might have to be willing to stick some investment in themselves to fund new players, if they don't they'll lose support from fans as this american dude is bound to want to spend - he has a history of it.

It's a different situation from United, as we aren't a PLC, the decision will basically come down to a couple of people and what they decide to do.

[Captain Stu]

I can't see how refusing new investment is for the betterment of the club... unless these directors themselves are going to pump money in because that's what Arsenal need. Out of the top 4, I'd say they need the most squad strengthening.

[Epic Failure]

I can't see how refusing new investment is for the betterment of the club... unless these directors themselves are going to pump money in because that's what Arsenal need. Out of the top 4, I'd say they need the most squad strengthening.

yeah, so if the don't invest themselves, the pressure outside the boardroom to get someone in who would invest will become massive. Interesting time:)

[EvilElvis]

I can't see it being as interesting as Jose Vs Abrohamovic.

The board and fans are on Wenger's side as he's constantly bought wisely (Give or take a few exceptions) The new owner would make a mistake replacing him.

Chelski's own future runs on who wins between Jose and Roman..

[Bexster]

i'm actually looking forward to the war breaking out over us. Let's be honest we've had a shit season so we need something to talk about. :D

The attitude of the current majority shareholders intrigues me. If they are just doing it to piss off Dein then that's bad news, but if they are doing what they genuinely believe is in the best interests of the club then i'm all for that - provided, of course, that they can back it up.

They might have to be willing to stick some investment in themselves to fund new players, if they don't they'll lose support from fans as this american dude is bound to want to spend - he has a history of it.

It's a different situation from United, as we aren't a PLC, the decision will basically come down to a couple of people and what they decide to do.

I can't see how refusing new investment is for the betterment of the club... unless these directors themselves are going to pump money in because that's what Arsenal need. Out of the top 4, I'd say they need the most squad strengthening.
We don't know that half of it. Are we refusing investment or not? There's gonna be plans we don't know about, and I haven't got a clue how it's going to go.

All I know is that Dein has always been Arsenal, so I can't believe he'd do anything that would damage us. And I agree, we do need investment if we're gonna keep up. Wenger's found us some real diamond players over the years, but it's not enough. At least we've already got the new stadium out of the way.

So yeah. Interesting times.

[Captain Stu]

Allegedly, Wenger has warned the board that he might quit/not sign a new contract...

[Captain Stu]

PREDICTION THREAD!! ...

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

SI have released details of a massively online multiplayer football managment game coming in March 2008.

Details over at www.sigames.com

[Captain Stu]

SI have released details of a massively online multiplayer football managment game coming in March 2008.

Details over at www.sigames.com (http://www.sigames.com)

That sounds like something we should DEFINATELY do.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

sounds excellent, the online mode on FM at present isn't all that.

[Captain Stu]

I wonder if we'd be able to setup our own league! Talk about fantasy football!

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

There's be loads of different games worlds, but as long as you're all in the same world you can set up your own competitions or even league structures if you want. A game world consists of 1000 users.

Wonder how long before the first Fooboarder playing it dies in a car crash?

[Two-Bob Peeters]

"i was spending 1/14th of my life trying to sign Andy Keogh"

[sunnydalehighdropout]

SI have released details of a massively online multiplayer football managment game coming in March 2008.

Details over at www.sigames.com

Cum!

[sunnydalehighdropout]

Portsmouth goalkeeper David James has called for performance-related pay.

The 37-year-old England international is concerned by the rising cost of the game for the supporters.

"I'd like more bonus-related contracts in football," James told the Daily Mirror, adding there had been times when Pompey had not tried hard enough.

"Some supporters have taken six hours to get home. Think of the pain of going up to Blackburn and watching a miserable performance."

The proposal has won support from Alan Boore, deputy chairman of the Football Supporters' Federation.

"As more and more performance-related pay is coming into other professions, why not football?" said Boore.

"It should be on a voluntary basis whereby players who do not think they have played well offer to repay some of their wages.

"That would encourage them to take more responsibility for bad performances.


If a player is performing to a standard which justifies his pay then that should be reflected in their wage packet

"It would be up to the clubs to manage their budget and use the money saved to cut ticket prices."

James conceded there have been a handful of games this term during which Portsmouth had not tried hard enough, including their 3-0 defeat at Blackburn.

"There have been two or three games where we have been found wanting in the trying department," said James.

"The football supporter is having to fork out more and more cash on kits, matches and travel. There is much more burden on fans nowadays.

"If a player is performing to a standard which justifies his pay, then that should be reflected in their wage packet."

[rob3000]

I completely agree. There's been times where players have tried in the slightest yet they're still getting 50/60/in some cases 100 grand a week.

[sunnydalehighdropout]

Also, i've just looked at the Serie A table...

Inter Milan have dropped just 15 points all season. Must have been a bad couple of weeks, im sure that a month ago they'd dropped only 8.

[Bexster]

SI have released details of a massively online multiplayer football managment game coming in March 2008.

Details over at www.sigames.com
I'm in. Looks fab.

Best quote of the day, from Peter Hill-Wood

"Our objective is keep Arsenal English, albeit with a lot of foreign players."

:D

[Captain Stu]

Right on, James, he's spot on - if these fucks had to play well to earn what they earn, the league would be a LOT more entertaining. MOTD would be a weekly spunkfest.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Baros accused of racism for this

http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance/search/milan%2Bbaros/video/x1r79k_milanbaros

lol

[Captain Stu]

I can't see the vid in work... but is that him allegedly telling a black player that he smells?

Lamest "racism" gesture ever.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

yeah basically all he does is waves his hand and holds his nose

[Bexster]

Kroenke's bought another percent or so worth of shares...

[EvilElvis]

Anyone heard about the may pay day for nurses -

They are doing a campaign to get every premiership player to donate a day's pay for nurses


They've named the players here (http://www.maydayfornurses.com/index.php?module=players)


73 players out have donated...


Interestingly, none from Chelski. Reading and Fulham's squads have signed up.

[EvilElvis]

While I was on a crappy net access I never got to say that I am gutted that Juan Pablo Angel has left Villa.

He was our best player for a while, but it never worked out, esp as he was being played as an out an out striker, when he is better just behind the main strikers

[Ian Mc]

Anyone heard about the may pay day for nurses -

They are doing a campaign to get every premiership player to donate a day's pay for nurses


They've named the players here (http://www.maydayfornurses.com/index.php?module=players)


73 players out have donated...


Interestingly, none from Chelski. Reading and Fulham's squads have signed up.

Blardy...they could make a fortune from that! No Newcastle players though (I didn't see any anyway) ...come on lads!!

Nice idea.

[Novacane]

Looking forward to Hearts winning us the league tomorrow. :)

[Bexster]

Anyone heard about the may pay day for nurses -

They are doing a campaign to get every premiership player to donate a day's pay for nurses


They've named the players here (http://www.maydayfornurses.com/index.php?module=players)


73 players out have donated...


Interestingly, none from Chelski. Reading and Fulham's squads have signed up.
Were you reading that right? It says the entire Reading and Fulham squads have joined up :confused:

Yeah, I heard about this a while ago. Seems kinda interesting.

[EvilElvis]

Reading and Fulham's squads have signed up.

Were you reading that right? It says the entire Reading and Fulham squads have joined up :confused:

Isn't that what I put?

[EvilElvis]

Looking forward to Hearts winning us the league tomorrow. :)

Hearts are the only team the SPL not to have scored against Rangers this season.

[Novacane]

Hearts are the only team the SPL not to have scored against Rangers this season.

Nice stat!

I'm just hopeful, because Celtic scoring more than one goal in any game soon is unlikely.

[EvilElvis]

Nice stat!

I'm just hopeful, because Celtic scoring more than one goal in any game soon is unlikely.

Aye - there are a few Celtic fans on Altnation forum and they are getting pissed off with the way the team is playing just now.

Think they've only won 1 league game since beginning of March.


Edit: David Weir signs 1 year extension at Rangers - I want Svensson to stay and learn from him - I think Svensson will be quality given time.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Anyone heard about the may pay day for nurses -

They are doing a campaign to get every premiership player to donate a day's pay for nurses


They've named the players here (http://www.maydayfornurses.com/index.php?module=players)


73 players out have donated...


Interestingly, none from Chelski. Reading and Fulham's squads have signed up.

it's a nice idea and all that, but they already pay for the NHS via their taxes, it's the governments fault that the nurses are on shit pay. more presuure should be put on them

[Bexster]

Isn't that what I put?
Sorry Ollie. I misread your full stop as a comma :o

[EvilElvis]

Sorry Ollie. I misread your full stop as a comma :o

It's ok! :)

[EvilElvis]

Real Madrid director of sport Predrag Mijatovic insists the club have not given up hope of signing Man Utd winger Cristiano Ronado. (Daily Express)

Emre has vowed to stayed on at Newcastle United after being tipped for a move to Bayern Munich and Galatasaray. (Daily Mirror)

Aberdeen skipper Russell Anderson says he could quit the club at the end of the season. (Daily Record)

Hibs are set to land Motherwell midfielder Brian Kerr after fighting off interest from Colchester United. (Daily Record)

OTHER GOSSIP
American billionaire Stan Kroenke is poised to mount a £650m hostile takeover of Arsenal. (Daily Express)

Sir Alex Ferguson will be satisfied with just the Premiership title this season as his Man Utd side also chase success in the FA Cup and Champions League. (Various)

England boss Steve McClaren has visited Michael Owen in training and is still hopeful the striker will be ready for the crucial Euro 2008 qualifier against Estonia on 6 June. (Various)

Alan Curbishley has told his West Ham players to stop over-celebrating goals - because it could cost them Premiership survival. (Various)

Stuart Pearce has urged Watford to stand by Aidy Boothroyd even if Manchester City send them back down to the Championship today. (Various)

Dwight Yorke believes that landing a Championship medal with Sunderland would rival his trophy-winning feats at Manchester United. (Various)

Bolton boss Sam Allardyce claims referees are not fit enough to last a Premiership season. (Daily Mirror)


AND FINALLY...
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba is releasing a rap album under the alias Drogbacite. (The Sun)

Paul Scharner will continue dyeing the Union Flag in his hair if Wigan beat Liverpool at Anfield today. (Daily Express)

[Bexster]

ARRGH!! JAMMY CUNTS

4th minute of injury time :mad:

[Bexster]

For anyone vaguely interested, Arsenal Ladies have scored against Umea IK in the first leg of the UEFA Cup final, an away goal, despite heavily being the underdog. Umea are the only professional ladies team in Europe, and have won the cup 3 times out of the last 4. Arsenal are the first English team to make the final.

*cue women's football jokes...*

[rob3000]

Bit of a boring match, classic end of the season fixture. 3 points is nice though, and Kuyt's second was decent.

[Bexster]

Bit of a boring match, classic end of the season fixture. 3 points is nice though, and Kuyt's second was decent.
He's one of my fantasy strikers, so I'm happy.

Bloody Jenas.

[Jamie]

This ref is a joke, he's blowing for every little bit of contact.

[Peace77]

I think Chelsea have won this title now. The frame of mind they will be in at Stamford Bridge, I reckon they will beat us.

[rob3000]

Bah, two games in a row the ref has failed to give a pen.

[EvilElvis]

Bah, two games in a row the ref has failed to give a pen.

Is the ref Rob Styles?

[EvilElvis]

Did anyone see Berbatov being interviewed on Football Focus today?

"I learnt most of my English from watching the Godfather Movies"

"When I grew up Alan Shearer was my hero. I used to collect football stickers and I had loads of his stickers" - The BBC Journo even got him an England shirt signed by Shearer.


There was also a very interesting feature on ticket pricing and how it was costing some fans more than £1 per minute for seats at the FA Cup Final

[Novacane]

Who is this woman commentating on MoTD, Fulham vs Blackburn? :(

[Epic Failure]

Who is this woman commentating on MoTD, Fulham vs Blackburn? :(

there was an article in today's times about Dave Bassett slagging her off. It is a bit weird having a female commentator, but she's no worse than most of the rest of the beeb commentators.

[Novacane]

there was an article in today's times about Dave Bassett slagging her off. It is a bit weird having a female commentator, but she's no worse than most of the rest of the beeb commentators.

She was pretty crap.

[EvilElvis]

She was pretty crap.

She's better than a lot of the blokes that do commentary - Archie Macpherson & Gerry McNee for example.

[Epic Failure]

She was pretty crap.

hence my point that she was no worse than most of the other beeb ones:D to be fair, at least she seemed to get the names of the players right. which is more than can be said about Motty:rolleyes:

[EvilElvis]

Manchester United and Chelsea will battle this summer to sign Tottenham's Dimitar Berbatov, with bids likely to break the £20m mark. (Sunday Mirror)

Louis Saha will be offered as bait, says the News of the World, with Berbatov looking "certain" to switch to Old Trafford.

Spurs could also lose Didier Zokora and Pascal Chimbonda with Sevilla plotting to sign the pair. (News of the World)

Carlos Tevez is wanted by Portsmouth if West Ham lose their battle to stay in the Premiership. (Sunday Mirror)

But Redknapp does not believe he could raise the necessary cash. (News of the World)

Bayern Munich plan an audacious bid for Chelsea ace Arjen Robben. (News of the World)

Meanwhile Chelsea will recall Glen Johnson from Portsmouth and offer him another chance, and are also looking at the Portugal international Miguel, while Paulo Ferreira and Geremi will be offered to other clubs. (Sunday Times)

Liverpool are ready to make a fresh swoop for brilliant Benfica winger Simao Sabrosa. (News of the World)

Obafemi Martins has assured the Toon Army: "I'm not going anywhere". (The People)

Aston Villa's Jloyd Samuel will be offered a deal at West Ham when his contract expires this summer. (The People)

Celtic goalkeeper Artur Boruc was seen in the players' lounge at Villa Park, prompting talk of a move to re-join Martin O'Neill. (Sunday Express)

Bolton and Portsmouth are tracking Getafe striker Dani Guiza. (The People)

Pompey are also targeting Senegal hotshot Babacar Gueye. (News of the World)

Spurs are lining up experienced French goalkeeper Gregory Coupet as cover for Paul Robinson. (The People)

The other Paul Robinson, the one who plays left-back for West Brom, is being eyed by Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder. (News of the World)

Tottenham and Newcastle will fight for Javier Saviola when he is free to leave Barcelona on a free this summer. (The People)

Gavin McCann will be a shock casualty of Martin O'Neill's end-of-season clear-out at Aston Villa. (The People)

O'Neill has put Craig Bellamy and Jonathan Woodgate top of his summer shopping list. (News of the World)

Bolton and Newcastle want to snatch Marek Saganowski from Southampton. (News of the World)

Burnley and Wales goalkeeper Danny Coyne is attracting interest from Norwich. (News of the World)

Cardiff are leading Wolves and Crystal Palace in the chase for Plymouth left-back Peter Capaldi. (The People). [We think they mean Tony Capaldi, whose future Ian Holloway discussed in this week's column for BBC Sport]

Jason Euell is a summer target for Crystal Palace. (News of the World)

OTHER GOSSIP
Jose Mourinho will have to agree to four strict rules laid down by Roman Abramovich if he wants to stay as Chelsea manager (The People, the News of the World) and they are:

Work on all football matters with Frank Arnesen
Maintain a lower media profile
Never criticise the board or club policy
Start producing entertain football

Graham Westley tried to save Morell Maison's job before taking over as Kettering manager. (The Non-League Paper).


AND FINALLY...
Arsene Wenger is the most disliked boss in the Premiership among fellow managers says Herry Redknapp. "He is not a barrel of laughs," says Harry. (News of the World)

Fulham goalkeeping coach Dave Beasant did not know he had been sacked when new boss Lawrie Sanchez called to reinstate him. "At least it meant I didn't have too much time to worry about getting the boot," he said. (The People)

[Bexster]

I'd love to be a football commentator. I'd be tons better than the guys on there now.

[Zippy Ate My Drumkit]

The woman commentator on MOTD was shite for one reason, and one reason only:

She was trying to be like the male commentators.

She reeled out all the usual clichés that every other crap commentators do. She pandered to that in an order to be accepted by the masses, when if she had simply been herself it would have been far better.

[Ian Mc]

Tottenham and Newcastle will fight for Javier Saviola when he is free to leave Barcelona on a free this summer. (The People)


Honestly...why would he come to us??

[rob3000]

Honestly...why would he come to us??

$$$

[Ian Mc]

$$$

Oh yes...I forgot that we throw that stuff around.

[Peace77]

I am really willing Newcastle to win it but Chelsea are so damn resilient, the robots that they are. Come on Bramble, score a cracker.

[EvilElvis]

Great Result for Newcastle and Man Utd.

Is the pressure getting to Chelski?

[Peace77]

Thank you Newcastle!

[Jamie]

Let's hope Arsenal can do the same for us

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Who is this woman commentating on MoTD, Fulham vs Blackburn? :(

i don't mind if it's man, woman or alien, as long as they're half decent... i never saw it, but i'm sure she can't be worse than the owman who commentates on BBC london on Fulham or Watford matches.

unless it's the same one...

[Bexster]

Great Result for Newcastle and Man Utd.

Is the pressure getting to Chelski?
Yaay. I actually predicted that in the prediction league. Very happy. And it means United won't suffer too much in the title race.

[EvilElvis]

Anyone see Jose's interview after the game?


I think he's just handed the title to Man Utd - He wasn't happy and the pressure is getting to him

[EvilElvis]

Anyone know how long Matt Upson is out for?


Today's Villa game just reeked of drab end of season affair. Just wish Portsmouth had bothered to at least try. Sorensen made 0 saves in the 2nd half. Congratulations to David James for breaking the record of clean sheets...


And congratulations to Celtic who finally won the tite (Which they should have won months ago) - Nakamura scored with an injury time free kick.

[Renegades of funk 8]

fucking shite that woman commentator

[sunnydalehighdropout]

And congratulations to Celtic who finally won the title

For the second time in a week, "I beg your pardon"?

[Bexster]

Anyone see Jose's interview after the game?


I think he's just handed the title to Man Utd - He wasn't happy and the pressure is getting to him
Is he going all Keegan on us? :D

[friartuck]

Is he going all Keegan on us? :D

You went down in my estimation when you said that!

[EvilElvis]

Is he going all Keegan on us? :D

"If we were Man Utd that (A handball incident) would be a penalty. We are not so it's not given..."

Not quite as awesome as Keegan, but Fergie's mind games are winning

For the second time in a week, "I beg your pardon"?

I had accepted it in january (The Paul Le Guen era saw to that) - they just had to confirm it - which they did today.

It's not nice delaying the inevitable.

[sunnydalehighdropout]

I had accepted it in january (The Paul Le Guen era saw to that) - they just had to confirm it - which they did today.

It's not nice delaying the inevitable.

Yes, in the privacy of my own brain i too had accepted. But i never congratulate 'them'. However, i still swear by Strachan's banana diet.

[EvilElvis]

Yes, in the privacy of my own brain i too had accepted. But i never congratulate 'them'. However, i still swear by Strachan's banana diet.

Just to prove how fickle football fans are, Strachan was booed by the Celtic fans at last week's game and they happily chanted his name today.

He also did a nice touch of getting some young fans on to the pitch to celebrate with the players.

[Bexster]

You went down in my estimation when you said that!
:D

I feel it had to be said.

"If we were Man Utd that (A handball incident) would be a penalty. We are not so it's not given..."

Not quite as awesome as Keegan, but Fergie's mind games are winning
Fergie's a master at the mind games.

[sunnydalehighdropout]

Just to prove how fickle football fans are, Strachan was booed by the Celtic fans at last week's game and they happily chanted his name today.

He also did a nice touch of getting some young fans on to the pitch to celebrate with the players.

He should get them on the banana diet asap.

[EvilElvis]

He should get them on the banana diet asap.

Who?

The fickle fans or the kids?

[sunnydalehighdropout]

Who?

The fickle fans or the kids?

The kids.

[EvilElvis]

The kids.

But they'd probably end up being better than the Rangers players! :(

[Epic Failure]

ronald mcdonaldo has won both PFA awards apparently.

Drogba and Scholes 2nd and 3rd, Cesc and Lennon in the young player.

[Bexster]

ronald mcdonaldo has won both PFA awards apparently.

Drogba and Scholes 2nd and 3rd, Cesc and Lennon in the young player.
What a surprise :rolleyes:

I won't deny that the girl's had a good season, but I don't think he should have been allowed to win both. Just greedy.

[sunnydalehighdropout]

But they'd probably end up being better than the Rangers players! :(
Get them sat down with a Reverend too :D

[Epic Failure]

What a surprise :rolleyes:

I won't deny that the girl's had a good season, but I don't think he should have been allowed to win both. Just greedy.

tis rather. bloody mancs:rolleyes:

[EvilElvis]

Premiership team of the season

Edwin VAN DER SAR - Manchester United

Gary NEVILLE - Manchester United
Patrice EVRA - Manchester United
Rio FERDINAND - Manchester United
Nemanja VIDIC - Manchester United

Steven GERRARD - Liverpool
Ryan GIGGS - Manchester United
Paul SCHOLES - Manchester United
Cristiano RONALDO - Manchester United

Didier DROGBA - Chelsea
Dimitar BERBATOV - Spurs

[Mr. Brownstone]

can i just say... c'mon the hoops (took yer bloody time).

[Bexster]

Premiership team of the season

Edwin VAN DER SAR - Manchester United

Gary NEVILLE - Manchester United
Patrice EVRA - Manchester United
Rio FERDINAND - Manchester United
Nemanja VIDIC - Manchester United

Steven GERRARD - Liverpool
Ryan GIGGS - Manchester United
Paul SCHOLES - Manchester United
Cristiano RONALDO - Manchester United

Didier DROGBA - Chelsea
Dimitar BERBATOV - Spurs

:confused:

That's a bit of a finger up to the other players who played really well this season, and didn't play for United.

[friartuck]

You can't argue with the midfield three of Ronaldo, Giggs and Scholes, but leaving Jamie Carragher out of the eleven is ludicrous.

I'd stick Essien in ahead of Gerrard as well.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

definitely Essien, Gerrards had a good season, but not team of the year worthy

[Two-Bob Peeters]

For the second time in a week, "I beg your pardon"?

i think i've found the answer...

http://images.wikia.com/uncyclopedia/images/thumb/5/5c/OldFirm.jpg/180px-OldFirm.jpg

[Captain Stu]

Premiership team of the season

Edwin VAN DER SAR - Manchester United

Gary NEVILLE - Manchester United
Patrice EVRA - Manchester United
Rio FERDINAND - Manchester United
Nemanja VIDIC - Manchester United

Steven GERRARD - Liverpool
Ryan GIGGS - Manchester United
Paul SCHOLES - Manchester United
Cristiano RONALDO - Manchester United

Didier DROGBA - Chelsea
Dimitar BERBATOV - Spurs

Absolute gigantic horse bollocks. Yet another typical example of how all that matters in these popularity contests is winning the league.

Hahnemann, Friedel, Carson, James and Foster > Van Der Sar.
Carragher > Ferdinand.
Finnan, Taylor > Neville.

I'm not surprised FPR won the player of the season - personally I think Drogba should've won it because even when Chelsea played badly, he still scored some - FPR's goals have almost all been against shit teams who can't defend. Stick him against a tough tackling fullback and he's gone.

I dont think you should be allowed to win both, Doyle wuz ROBBED of the young players award, he's been outstanding.

Also, nice one Chelsea, THE best chance you'll get (and possibly the last) to close the gap on United and you can't even score a goal against poxy ruddy Newcastle. :mad: Dunno how they didn't get at least one penalty though, they had 3 decent shouts.

[Mikey]

Also, nice one Chelsea, THE best chance you'll get (and possibly the last) to close the gap on United and you can't even score a goal against poxy ruddy Newcastle. :mad:
That pissed me off royally. :rolleyes:

[Bexster]

You can't argue with the midfield three of Ronaldo, Giggs and Scholes, but leaving Jamie Carragher out of the eleven is ludicrous.

I'd stick Essien in ahead of Gerrard as well.
Yeah, thats more like it.

I'm not surprised FPR won the player of the season - personally I think Drogba should've won it because even when Chelsea played badly, he still scored some - FPR's goals have almost all been against shit teams who can't defend. Stick him against a tough tackling fullback and he's gone.
Morning :)

FPR's been in the headlines more and that's what's swung it. Dogba's been a lot better this season, as much as I hate saying it, and I think they've been on a par. They've both picked their games up, neither of them dive half as much as they did, but throughout the season as a whole, you've heard more of FPR, and he had all this 'hardship' to overcome in English football for being such a cunt in the World Cup.

I dont think you should be allowed to win both, Doyle wuz ROBBED of the young players award, he's been outstanding.
Well no. He shouldn't have won both. But Cesc would have won it if he hadn't, so that's where it should have gone. Not only has he been a rock in the midfield at Arse, he's done it in the main team, and in the middle of the Baby Gooners. He's held his own against some of the major forces this year, and looked great coming out the other end. Plus this is the second season in a row where he's played amazing football and not been given the recognition for it. He may not have the goals in the league this year, unlike Doyle, but he's been playing consistantly great football for 2 seasons now.

Also, nice one Chelsea, THE best chance you'll get (and possibly the last) to close the gap on United and you can't even score a goal against poxy ruddy Newcastle. :mad: Dunno how they didn't get at least one penalty though, they had 3 decent shouts.
You want Chelski to win the championship? :eek: Surely not.

[boxshapedheart]

Voted for by the players right? They coulda just been lazy and gone for the players at the top. I know I can usually never be arsed with surveys. A lot of our players have been fantastic, but odd that the WHOLE of the premiership rates them at the very top.


Doyle didn't even come second or third in the YPFA award? Fucking disgrace.



We seem to have this rep about no-one getting pens against us and us getting all the pens, but it's so not the case.
Erm, innit. :o

Also I can't resist a HAW HAW at Mourinho's face. :D If I sat down and watched the highlights of all the games again since the start of the season, actually keeping a tally this time, you can sure as hell bet that would show up that Chelsea have enjoyed the bulk of decisions.

[Bexster]

Voted for by the players right? They coulda just been lazy and gone for the players at the top. I know I can usually never be arsed with surveys. A lot of our players have been fantastic, but odd that the WHOLE of the premiership rates them at the very top.


Doyle didn't even come second or third in the YPFA award? Fucking disgrace.
Innit. Doyles been much better than Lennon. Plus, I know it's been voted by the players, but I agree that a lot have just been pretty lazy :rolleyes:

[Captain Stu]

Morning

MORNING!! :D

FPR's been in the headlines more and that's what's swung it. Dogba's been a lot better this season, as much as I hate saying it, and I think they've been on a par. They've both picked their games up, neither of them dive half as much as they did, but throughout the season as a whole, you've heard more of FPR, and he had all this 'hardship' to overcome in English football for being such a cunt in the World Cup.

Hardship my cock, he weathered a storm... true... but he fucking made the damn storm by being a little turd. People don't hate him for no reason, they hate him because he's a poncy, diving little fairy. :)

Well no. He shouldn't have won both. But Cesc would have won it if he hadn't, so that's where it should have gone. Not only has he been a rock in the midfield at Arse, he's done it in the main team, and in the middle of the Baby Gooners. He's held his own against some of the major forces this year, and looked great coming out the other end. Plus this is the second season in a row where he's played amazing football and not been given the recognition for it. He may not have the goals in the league this year, unlike Doyle, but he's been playing consistantly great football for 2 seasons now.

Fabregas has been good, I agree there, but I wouldn't say he's been the best young player - at times he has looked very much out of his depth which is understandable because of all the responsibility he has on his shoulders. Frankly I think people expect too much of him and personally I only think he's started to show his TRUE form over the last month or so by chipping in with some goals. Considering that he's the more attacking threat (in theory) in the middle with Gilberto, he hasn't contributed nearly enough.

My beloved Doyley just took to the league like a veritable duck to water.

But I'd sooner he won it than that that fairy. There should be a rule, if you're even considered for the top award then you should be inelligible for the young players. Lamo popularity contest this is.

You want Chelski to win the championship? Surely not.

Yup, I'd sooner Chelsea won it than United... as much as I despise Chelsea, they've never once stopped chasing United which is a tough game to play.

Mourinho's post-match interview was legendary where he talked about "the new rules" and "the end of democracy!" :D

Plus United are getting ever closer to our league title record and we just can't have that because no English team will EVER come close to being as amazing as our 80's side was. :)

AND AARON LENNON MY FAT BLACK ARSE!! He's been such a mind-bottling disappointment this season, I'm so glad that Shaun's been getting some regular play - hopefully he can get his England place back.

[rob3000]

I definitely want Chelsea to win the league. I can't argue with with Ronaldo winning both awards, but that team of the year made me laugh a lot.

[Captain Stu]

I definitely want Chelsea to win the league. I can't argue with with Ronaldo winning both awards, but that team of the year made me laugh a lot.

Did you lolz, Rob, DID YOU?

I nearly honked when I saw it... Friedel was on MOTD2 last night and said that what they all do is vote for a team and then single out one player as their nomination for best player of the year. They've well all just taken the easy option and go for the players who're favourites to win the league.

I wouldn't for one second argue with players like Vidic, he's been a rock this season but half of them I would contend fo sho.

[boxshapedheart]

Friedel said he picked a different team.

[timesfooall]

Well done Ronnie, :D

Scholes, Giggs, Vidic and Evra all deserved their place, the rest are up for debate. Nev has been solid as usual, Rio has been just avergae and Van Der Sar had a very good first half of season but we have been leaking goals recently.

Mourinho was hilarious, 'This is the end of democracy, we are going back to old times' lol love it.

Also i didnt think it was a penalty, O'Shea touched the ball :p

[Bexster]

Hardship my cock, he weathered a storm... true... but he fucking made the damn storm by being a little turd. People don't hate him for no reason, they hate him because he's a poncy, diving little fairy. :)

There are not many words to describe him any better :D The press keep making a big deal of what happened to him after the world cup, therefore it's all their fault.

Fabregas has been good, I agree there, but I wouldn't say he's been the best young player - at times he has looked very much out of his depth which is understandable because of all the responsibility he has on his shoulders. Frankly I think people expect too much of him and personally I only think he's started to show his TRUE form over the last month or so by chipping in with some goals. Considering that he's the more attacking threat (in theory) in the middle with Gilberto, he hasn't contributed nearly enough.
No, he hasn't had a perfect season at all, but he deserves something. He's had two, three seasons of getting himself in there and making himself known. Some of the play he's shown has been more suited to a prem verteran rather than a kid just barely 20. But because of Arse's useless moments this year, he's had to go back more to his defensive role this year, which is a shame he's had to suffer due to his team being nonces this year.

He never gets any recognition because of who he plays for. Thierry's always been the same in the grand scheme of things. [/end moaning]

And yeah, Doyle's done really, really well. He deserves recognition too. Unlike Lennon, who has not lived up to expectation at all.

Yup, I'd sooner Chelsea won it than United... as much as I despise Chelsea, they've never once stopped chasing United which is a tough game to play.
Yeah, but I won't have them winning everything. They'll be unsufferable. Forget them winning the Carling Handbags, they don't really care about that. They win the championship, and that'll spur them on so much to win the other 2. If they win everything, we'll NEVER hear the end of it. And then I'll emigrate and become an Ultra at Roma.

[B]AND AARON LENNON MY FAT BLACK ARSE!! He's been such a mind-bottling disappointment this season, I'm so glad that Shaun's been getting some regular play - hopefully he can get his England place back.
You never know. If we get a manager who finally realised the potential of using fast wingers into Crouch's head, then not only will he play, but we'll start winning things.

[Captain Stu]

Evra's been no better than the majority of other fullbacks and he's been worse than some. Taylor should've been in there because not only does he play well, he defends solidly and chips in with a brilliant goals return.

My arse, those two decisions (Sheffield United and Boro) are two of the clearest cut penalties you will ever see. No matter how slow you look at it or which angle you use - both penalties, 100% of the time.

[Captain Stu]

[biased Arse fan moaning]He never gets any recognition because of who he plays for. Thierry's always been the same in the grand scheme of things. [/end moaning]

WAAAAAAH! :D Jamie Carragher knows your pain! One of England's two most consistent and reliable defenders and he NEVER gets anything - he has to sit on the bench while Turdinhand racks up undeserved caps and Gerrard gets the award votes when he's been the lesser of the two this season.

Poor Jamie. :(

Yeah, but I won't have them winning everything. They'll be unsufferable. Forget them winning the Carling Handbags, they don't really care about that. They win the championship, and that'll spur them on so much to win the other 2. If they win everything, we'll NEVER hear the end of it. And then I'll emigrate and become an Ultra at Roma.

Thing is, they won't win the European Cup because it's the one place you need a huge dollop of luck and *touches wood* that's the one place they never seem to get it. They escape with penalty appeals, blatant handballs and obvious sendings off in the league and domestic cups but in Europe, they're shit and it makes me happy. :)

You never know. If we get a manager who finally realised the potential of using fast wingers into Crouch's head, then not only will he play, but we'll start winning things.

Mmmmmm, Crouchy. :)

[timesfooall]

My arse, those two decisions (Sheffield United and Boro) are two of the clearest cut penalties you will ever see. No matter how slow you look at it or which angle you use - both penalties, 100% of the time.

Sheff united defo. But I think O'Shea touched the ball.

[Captain Stu]

Sheff united defo. But I think O'Shea touched the ball.

If he did, it was the most slight of grazes from his studs - no human eye could have seen it and in those cases refs are supposed to favour the attacker.

Also, Richardson was blates offside for his goal, I don't see how it wasn't given. He was in front of Rooney, Shrek rolled the ball between his feet to round the keeper and Richardson nicked it.

Did nobody else click to that? :confused:

[Bexster]

Evra's been no better than the majority of other fullbacks and he's been worse than some. Taylor should've been in there because not only does he play well, he defends solidly and chips in with a brilliant goals return.
This year has not been the year of the defence.

WAAAAAAH! :D Jamie Carragher knows your pain! One of England's two most consistent and reliable defenders and he NEVER gets anything - he has to sit on the bench while Turdinhand racks up undeserved caps and Gerrard gets the award votes when he's been the lesser of the two this season.

Poor Jamie. :(
I like Jamie. He's deserved some recognition for ages now, and he never gets it.

Thing is, they won't win the European Cup because it's the one place you need a huge dollop of luck and *touches wood* that's the one place they never seem to get it. They escape with penalty appeals, blatant handballs and obvious sendings off in the league and domestic cups but in Europe, they're shit and it makes me happy.
They better not. I'll hold you responsible now.

Mmmmmm, Crouchy. :)
When will people realise that HE'LL HELP US WIN THINGS PEOPLE :mad:

[timesfooall]

If he did, it was the most slight of grazes from his studs - no human eye could have seen it and in those cases refs are supposed to favour the attacker.

Also, Richardson was blates offside for his goal, I don't see how it wasn't given. He was in front of Rooney, Shrek rolled the ball between his feet to round the keeper and Richardson nicked it.

Did nobody else click to that? :confused:


Hahaha Andy Gray said that before they showed the replay, the replay came on and he was at least a yard behind him, he shut up then.

[Captain Stu]

When will people realise that HE'LL HELP US WIN THINGS PEOPLE :mad:

They never will, seriously. People are STILL stuck with the assumption that just because he's 6'7" that means he must be a useless gangly stump who's only good for headers... you know, Niall Quinn. :D

He's not the fastest in the world, he knows that, but he's easily our best player for bringing others into the game. He's lethal with his back to goal and a fast striker running past him with some midfield support, he has a good eye for a diagonal ball and he's actually a decent finisher once he's playing with some confidence - you only have to look back at his splendid run of England goals and his hat-trick against your lot to see what he can do when he gets some gametime and a string of chances. He's a lot like Andy Cole in that sense, he might take a few chances to get a goal but if you keep providing chances, he WILL score and you can put money on that.

[boxshapedheart]

Sheff united defo. But I think O'Shea touched the ball.
It looked a clear pen, but they didn't really have the best angle on it. O'Shea gets miiiiiighty close and I had a bit of belief that he juuuuust touched the ball with the edge of his studs, but the angle is crap to confirm or not. Meh. I'd like another camera angle please!

If it was the other way, I'll admit I'd be claiming a pen though.


If he did, it was the most slight of grazes from his studs - no human eye could have seen it and in those cases refs are supposed to favour the attacker.

Also, Richardson was blates offside for his goal, I don't see how it wasn't given. He was in front of Rooney, Shrek rolled the ball between his feet to round the keeper and Richardson nicked it.

Did nobody else click to that? :confused:
Nah, Richardson was onside. Gray thought he was off til he saw the replay. The moment Rooney drags the ball, he is blatantly onside.

[Bexster]

They never will, seriously. People are STILL stuck with the assumption that just because he's 6'7" that means he must be a useless gangly stump who's only good for headers... you know, Niall Quinn. :D

He's not the fastest in the world, he knows that, but he's easily our best player for bringing others into the game. He's lethal with his back to goal and a fast striker running past him with some midfield support, he has a good eye for a diagonal ball and he's actually a decent finisher once he's playing with some confidence - you only have to look back at his splendid run of England goals and his hat-trick against your lot to see what he can do when he gets some gametime and a string of chances. He's a lot like Andy Cole in that sense, he might take a few chances to get a goal but if you keep providing chances, he WILL score and you can put money on that.
He's scored enough goals from different positions these past couple of years to prove that he's a great player, but people seem to shut their eyes and put their fingers in their ears when he does. Defences still don't have a good hold on how to handle him for an entire match, and outside of England, he's a fantastic resource to use against other teams. Apparently, according my Mum's Arsenal supporting workmate, Crouch's hat-trick against us was a fluke. Mum think's he's a great player, and willing to admit he completely deserved it, but people still think he can't play.

Crouch and Owen for England please.

BTW, he's the same height as my brother. That makes Crouchy fucking huge :eek:

[timesfooall]

It looked a clear pen, but they didn't really have the best angle on it. O'Shea gets miiiiiighty close and I had a bit of belief that he juuuuust touched the ball with the edge of his studs, but the angle is crap to confirm or not. Meh. I'd like another camera angle please!

If it was the other way, I'll admit I'd be claiming a pen though.



Nah, Richardson was onside. Gray thought he was off til he saw the replay. The moment Rooney drags the ball, he is blatantly onside.

Of course i would be trying to claim the pen if it were against us, but it isnt so it wasnt a pen :D

[Bexster]

TRANSFER RUMOURS
Celtic have joined the chase for West Brom midfielder Jason Koumas, who is also wanted by Aston Villa, Blackburn, Everton and Man City. (Daily Mirror)

Everton are set to beat Real Madrid to the £1m signing of Swiss midfielder Bruce Lalombongo. (Daily Mirror)

Portsmouth striker Andy Cole, currently on loan at Birmingham, will decide at the end of the season whether to join Australian club Queensland Rovers. (Daily Mirror)


Back to top

OTHER GOSSIP
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is considering a £92.2m buy-out of Manchester City. (Thai newspaper The Nation)

Manchester United have only four fit defenders for the Champions League first leg against AC Milan. (Various)

Chief executive Peter Kenyon led a Chelsea delegation which went to LA to sound out Jurgen Klinsmann about the manager's job. (Daily Express)

Portsmouth director of football Avram Grant was also on the trip - ahead of taking over in the same role at Chelsea in the summer. (Daily Express)

Blackburn's Tugay has been offered a new one-year contract. (Daily Mirror)

Bradford want Peter Beagrie as manager - after giving up on getting Stuart McCall. (Daily Mirror)

American tycoon Stan Kroenke will need financial support from investment bankers in order to complete his takeover of Arsenal. (Daily Star)

Gerard Houllier and Spurs sporting director Damien Comolli are being linked with the director of football role at Arsenal. (Guardian)
I read yesterday Wenger wanted to go with his chief scout as his new Driector as they'd already been working together for years, and very little would have to change.


AND FINALLY...
The Queen has revealed she supports Arsenal, following in the footsteps of the Queen Mother who was, according to a senior royal source, "a self-confessed Gooner, due largely to her admiration of former player Denis Compton". (The Sun)
:D

I knew I loved the Royal family. Apart from that Villa loving William...

[Captain Stu]

Defences still don't have a good hold on how to handle him for an entire match...

That is EXACTLY why I want us to keep him. No European teams can handle him, the same reason that Carew was an effective European striker - people just can't deal with someone that tall, especially if they're genuinely good in the air which is an area Crouchy seems to be improving.

I wanna go back to this...

Jose Mourinho will have to agree to four strict rules laid down by Roman Abramovich if he wants to stay as Chelsea manager (The People, the News of the World) and they are:

Work on all football matters with Frank Arnesen
Maintain a lower media profile
Never criticise the board or club policy
Start producing entertain football

On first glance, this seems to make some sort of sense for a couple of the points... yes, Mourinho should maintain a lower profile because too many times this season he's filling the back pages for non-footballing reason and yeah, having a go at the higher-ups is way off.

But having to run everything past Arnesen? Fuck off, Mourinho's the manager - he's this poncy made up title "Director Of Football". Everyone knows its a figurehead job, not a real role. The first team footballing matters are first and foremost the job of the manager and no-one else.

As for the entertain(ing) football, shouldn't they be more concerned about making up the points they've lost? I'm sure most people would sacrifice entertainment for success...

[Two-Bob Peeters]

it was definitely a penalty. and a red card. The Gook-Dong would have scored

[Bexster]

Quote from Wenger in the Arsenal Newsletter

We only got one point on Saturday at White Hart Lane when it should have been three. In fact if they could give us six points then it should have been six. We dominated the game
No wonder we're not doing well. He doesn't understand the scoring system :D

[Captain Stu]

Oh Arsene, the club decides that he can pick the new Director Of Football and all of a sudden he thinks he can change the rules of the beautiful game. :rolleyes:

[boxshapedheart]

Quote from Wenger in the Arsenal Newsletter


No wonder we're not doing well. He doesn't understand the scoring system :D
Haha. Brilliant.

That reminded me, after Chelsea won against Valencia, Essien said in the post-match interview: "we deserved the 3 points". Bless.

[Wish_Master2100]

Haha. Brilliant.

That reminded me, after Chelsea won against Valencia, Essien said in the post-match interview: "we deserved the 3 points". Bless.

Yeah I saw that, he must have been so happy he didn't even know what he was saying!

I bet JT gave him a right slap for that.

[Peace77]

As far as penalty decisions go, both should have gone against Man United, but I'm happy they didn't :D. Also, Chelsea did not deserve a penalty - both Terry and Sibierski were 'embracing' each other every time.

With Mourinho's complaints about luck, just read today's article in the Times about numbers of injured players. Granted they had Terry, Cole and Cech missing for long periods but I think we have had far worse luck with injuries. Instead of buying Mikel, who was already a Man United player, for £16m (to add to Ballack, Lampard, Makalele, Essien, Geremi, Diarra), they could have bought a couple of central defenders with that money.

Another thing, I understand why non-Man United fans may hate Ronaldo but why does Fabregas not get any hate? That guy has been so disrespectful to managers such as Fergie and Mark Hughes in the past. According to Ashley Cole, he was the famous Pizza-thrower.

[Captain Stu]

Another thing, I understand why non-Man United fans may hate Ronaldo but why does Fabregas not get any hate? That guy has been so disrespectful to managers such as Fergie and Mark Hughes in the past. According to Ashley Cole, he was the famous Pizza-thrower.

:confused:

Arf? He has?

Anyway, disrespecting Ferguson usually makes me like someone more so YAAAAAAAAAAAAAY CESCYBABY!!! :D

[Jamie]

Another thing, I understand why non-Man United fans may hate Ronaldo but why does Fabregas not get any hate? That guy has been so disrespectful to managers such as Fergie and Mark Hughes in the past. According to Ashley Cole, he was the famous Pizza-thrower.

I think that's your answer as to why non-United fans don't hate him.

[Peace77]

I wasn't necessarily referring to non-United fans with Fabregas though. Just the media and football fans in general.

[Captain Stu]

Yeah... what's he supposed to have said then?

And if it was him who threw the pizza, fuckin' A! :D

[Two-Bob Peeters]

he was a bit of a knob to mark hughes, being a bad loser (well, non-winner should i say) and moaning about his style of play saying he's a disgrace to Barcelona or something like that

[rob3000]

What the fuck? Ferguson said John O Shea got the ball and it wasn't a penalty. Jesus...

[sunnydalehighdropout]

he was a bit of a knob to mark hughes, being a bad loser (well, non-winner should i say) and moaning about his style of play saying he's a disgrace to Barcelona or something like that

Heh, but Hughesy pwned him.

'Hey, i've won more medals than you can even dream of son'. :D

[sunnydalehighdropout]

i think i've found the answer...

http://images.wikia.com/uncyclopedia/images/thumb/5/5c/OldFirm.jpg/180px-OldFirm.jpg

NOoooooooooO!

[Captain Stu]

What the fuck? Ferguson said John O Shea got the ball and it wasn't a penalty. Jesus...

Hahahahahaha, are you surprised? He's as bad as Wenger sometimes...

[Bexster]

Another thing, I understand why non-Man United fans may hate Ronaldo but why does Fabregas not get any hate? That guy has been so disrespectful to managers such as Fergie and Mark Hughes in the past. According to Ashley Cole, he was the famous Pizza-thrower.
Coz he's never really in the media much. It gets mentioned, but never in a big OMG kind of way. Which is good.

:confused:

Arf? He has?

Anyway, disrespecting Ferguson usually makes me like someone more so YAAAAAAAAAAAAAY CESCYBABY!!! :D
:D Yaay!

Nobody's said anything about the Battle of the Buffet except Cashley. Another case of what happens in the locker room stays in the locker room, except for Cashley being a twat. Even is Cesc did throw it, I'd be laughing.

Hahahahahaha, are you surprised? He's as bad as Wenger sometimes...
And that's an insult and a half...

[EvilElvis]

According to Ashley Cole, he was the famous Pizza-thrower.


So you're the one who bought Ashley's book.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Oh dear...

Bristol City come to Millwall on saturday knowing a win will get them promoted... and it's also our last home game of the season... Brizzol have sold out their allocation and have started invading the Millwall message boards bragging about how some fans have got tickets in the Millwall end and that about 500 are going to travel without tickets and try and force the club to open the lower tier of the away end...

it's all gonna go tits up... the police better be on top of this.

[Peace77]

So you're the one who bought Ashley's book.

No, read it in the Times. However, I would rate Ashley Cole over Chuck Palahniuk as my favourite author.

[EvilElvis]

SPL Team of the season (Nabbed off BBc)

Artur Boruc (Celtic): Arsenal and AC Milan are rumoured to be in the hunt to lure the Polish shot-stopper supreme away from Celtic Park after an almost error-free season that has been pivotal to Celtic's success.

Steven Whittaker (Hibernian): The 22-year-old marauding right-back was rewarded for his early-season performances when he was called into the senior Scotland squad for the first time for the game against Ukraine in October. Consistently steady in defence he has provided an extra attacking outlet for Hibs in their run to CIS Cup victory and the Scottish Cup semi-finals.

Russell Anderson (Aberdeen): He has been the rock on which Aberdeen have built their, until recent lapses, sustained challenge to Rangers for the second Champions League spot - but a Uefa Cup place is almost sealed. The Dons captain must count himself unfortunate not to have featured more for Scotland in the Euro 2008 qualifiers given his obdurate consistency.

Stephen McManus (Celtic): The imposing 24-year-old centre-back has embodied Celtic's never-say-die spirit all season and looks a prime candidate to inherit the club captaincy if/when Neil Lennon departs. Made the step up to full international level with Scotland and looks the part on the bigger stage.

Lee Naylor (Celtic): Treated with some suspicion by the Celtic faithful before his £600,000 switch from Wolves, the talented left-back has proved to be one of the best value buys in recent seasons - solid in the tackle, quick, with good awareness and useful going forward to deliver whipped crosses into the box. Celtic fans certainly know who the young Englishman is now.

Scott Brown (Hibernian): His skillful, energetic running has been a prominent feature all season, and, when he's on song, Hibs are usually at their fluent best. Would be a huge loss if, as rumoured, he heads west to Ibrox in the summer. Made an impressive debut for Scotland against Georgia and will be an integral part of Walter Smith's future national squads.

Barry Ferguson (Rangers): It would be a shame if the Rangers captain's season is remembered more for his influence off the pitch than on, following his part in Paul Le Guen's downfall. Ferguson has been back to his strutting, box-to-box best best for club and country.

Shunsuke Nakamura (Celtic): Celtic's talismanic deadball specialist and all-round midfield maestro is a well-deserved SPFA player of the year and it was fitting that yet another of his trademark precision free-kicks should seal the title for Celtic at Rugby Park. His spectacular late strike against Manchester United gave Celtic victory and helped them through to the last 16 of the Champions League for the first time ever.

Steven Naismith (Kilmarnock): The 20-year-old, recently voted the young player of the year by his peers, has netted 17 times so far to help the Rugby Park club clinch a top-six place in the SPL and has attracted interest from, among others, Arsenal. Always an exciting prospect, Naismith is now blooming into a fully-fledged talent.

Kris Boyd (Rangers): It seems almost ludicrous that, despite another free-scoring season, the enigmatic striker still attracts criticism for his lack of movement outside the opposition box. With the correct nurturing from Smith and Ally McCoist and an increased application on Boyd's part, he could arguably grow into a more complete frontman - but you can't argue with his astonishing stats of almost a goal a game.

Scott McDonald (Motherwell): The diminuitive Australian striker has signed a pre-contract agreement at Celtic and, with 14 goals already this season, he has a higher tally than any of Celtic's current strikers. His dynamic energy and impressive strike rate could provide Gordon Strachan with the perfect foil for Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink.

[Epic Failure]

Cesc has the advantage that 1) there are worse divers at the arse; 2) he hasn't been involved in any controversy against England.

and he's feckin ace :cool:

[Captain Stu]

I reckon Nakamura could move to the Premiership, maybe not a top four side but a top-mid table side. I could see him doing well at someone like Blackburn or Reading maybe if they're able to consolidate their form next season.

[EvilElvis]

I reckon Nakamura could move to the Premiership, maybe not a top four side but a top-mid table side. I could see him doing well at someone like Blackburn or Reading maybe if they're able to consolidate their form next season.

He's already stated he using Celtic as a stepping stone.


Which ever teams gets him better be ready for the Japanese - Their media report on every game (They were recording the fans celebrating yesterday) Celtic pull in a lot more fans because the Japanese fans want to see him play - they fly over to watch Celtic's games! :eek:

[Epic Failure]

He's already stated he using Celtic as a stepping stone.


Which ever teams gets him better be ready for the Japanese - Their media report on every game (They were recording the fans celebrating yesterday) Celtic pull in a lot more fans because the Japanese fans want to see him play - they fly over to watch Celtic's games! :eek:

it's just like Inamota:D

[sunnydalehighdropout]

I reckon Nakamura could move to the Premiership, maybe not a top four side but a top-mid table side. I could see him doing well at someone like Blackburn or Reading maybe if they're able to consolidate their form next season.
i can definately see him in an Everton top for some reason. Maybe someone like Blackburn or Newcastle (lolz) too.

[Captain Stu]

He's a hard worker, outstanding crosser/deadball man... fuck Everton, they only like stumps (preferably bald ones) who have more nostrils than braincells. :D

[Wish_Master2100]

Oh dear...

Bristol City come to Millwall on saturday knowing a win will get them promoted... and it's also our last home game of the season... Brizzol have sold out their allocation and have started invading the Millwall message boards bragging about how some fans have got tickets in the Millwall end and that about 500 are going to travel without tickets and try and force the club to open the lower tier of the away end...

it's all gonna go tits up... the police better be on top of this.

I can't read, I can't write etc.

I'd go on Saturday, if it wasn't so expensive.

[EvilElvis]

He's a hard worker, outstanding crosser/deadball man... fuck Everton, they only like stumps (preferably bald ones) who have more nostrils than braincells. :D


Well, he has been playing with Thomas Gravesen this season...

[sunnydalehighdropout]

He's a hard worker, outstanding crosser/deadball man... fuck Everton, they only like stumps (preferably bald ones) who have more nostrils than braincells. :D

Dunno, he's been playing alongside Thomas Gravesen :D

And they pulled a beauty with Mikel Arteta.

Wait, Nakamura plays in midfield right? Tottenham.

[Captain Stu]

Well, he has been playing with Thomas Gravesen this season...

Clinically proven to make you a grade-a moron, truly worthy of Bovine University.

[Captain Stu]

Dunno, he's been playing alongside Thomas Gravesen :D

And they pulled a beauty with Mikel Arteta.

Wait, Nakamura plays in midfield right? Tottenham.

Yeah, I do like Arteta a lot and that's why I hope the stories linking him with a move back to Spain are true. He's seriously too good for the scum.

Nah, Spurs only want central midfielders. They have no need for wingers.

[EvilElvis]

Clinically proven to make you a grade-a moron, truly worthy of Bovine University.

Having said that, Gravesen's been using his ball skills on a porn star, more often than at Celtic park.

Regarded by many as the most overrated player in SPL - He's mainly been a bench warmer for Celtic.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

there's nothing wrong with Gravesen, great player

[Captain Stu]

Having said that, Gravesen's been using his ball skills on a porn star, more often than at Celtic park.

Regarded by many as the most overrated player in SPL - He's mainly been a bench warmer for Celtic.

Christ, if you're over-rated in the SPL then you must be turd. :D

His move to Real Madrid has to be one of the most amazingly bizarre transfers of all-time. Imagine what the odds were when he signed for Everton! You'd have made a killing if you stuck a tenner on that one.

[EvilElvis]

Yeah, I do like Arteta a lot and that's why I hope the stories linking him with a move back to Spain are true. He's seriously too good for the scum.

He'll go. Trust me.

Just find him a decent team and he'll go.

Barcelona, PSG, Rangers, Real Sociedad and Everton are the clubs he's played for so far.

[Captain Stu]

I think he'd suit Atletico Madrid well - his midfield service up to Torres and Aguerro... woah mama!!

[EvilElvis]

Christ, if you're over-rated in the SPL then you must be turd. :D

Highest paid player at the club - not even guaranteed a game. That's bad.

The fact you're being kept out by 35 year old Neil Lennon - That's shameful!

[F'jo]

Oh dear...

Bristol City come to Millwall on saturday knowing a win will get them promoted... and it's also our last home game of the season... Brizzol have sold out their allocation and have started invading the Millwall message boards bragging about how some fans have got tickets in the Millwall end and that about 500 are going to travel without tickets and try and force the club to open the lower tier of the away end...

it's all gonna go tits up... the police better be on top of this.

I'm a Bristol fan, so's my dad, we're not going to Millwall game, too far. Hope dickhead fans aren't gonna start something, spoil if we do go up, last thing we want is police action and things.

[timesfooall]

What the fuck? Ferguson said John O Shea got the ball and it wasn't a penalty. Jesus...

Aye Sir Fergie is correct in everything he says.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

I'm a Bristol fan, so's my dad, we're not going to Millwall game, too far. Hope dickhead fans aren't gonna start something, spoil if we do go up, last thing we want is police action and things.

it does sound like something might happen :/

funniest comment i've heard so far from a Brizzol fan "it's OUR day and the millwall lot should RESPECT it and let us do what we like"

haha, alright mate, you have to beat us first!

[F'jo]

it does sound like something might happen :/

funniest comment i've heard so far from a Brizzol fan "it's OUR day and the millwall lot should RESPECT it and let us do what we like"

haha, alright mate, you have to beat us first!

that guys a classic example of a dickhead supporter, win first then celebrate but not do what we like, celebrations come end of season against rotherham if we go up. RESPECT?! idiot

[Two-Bob Peeters]

it's just annoying to see, it's the attitude with a few of the Millwall kids as well. they always big it up thinking they're hard cos they're Millwall, i'd love 'em to try it on and get battered. that'd learn 'em. christ even some of the older Millwall mob want to batter them they're so fucking embarrasing.

i've always liked Bristol City, they're one of the last few teams with 'real' supporters, and it'd be great to see them go up (mainly 'cos that'd stop Forest going up :D) and i guess you could say i 'respect' them to an extent. But i'd much rather the celebrations wait until the rotherham game! especially if the mob who have bought tickets in the Millwall end are sitting in the 'wrong' places...!

[Captain Stu]

Arsenal defender William Gallas is on Real Madrid's hit-list of summer transfers. (Various)

Middlesbrough hope to sign Portsmouth midfielder Sean Davis in a £3m deal. (Various)

Midfielder Zheng Zhi will ask for a move if Charlton are relegated to the Championship. (The Sun)

Crystal Palace striker Dougie Freedman wants a new two-year deal or he will walk away from the club when his contract expires in the summer. (Daily Mirror)

Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres, who has been linked with a summer move to Liverpool, has the Merseyside club's famous 'You'll never walk alone' slogan on the inside of his captain's armband. (The Sun)

Coventry midfielder Colin Cameron will be released at the end of the season because he does not feature in manager Iain Dowie's future plans. (Daily Mirror)

Chelsea are planning a £45m bid for Valencia striker David Villa. (Daily Star).

Manchester City and Everton are vying to sign Cardiff striker Michael Chopra for £4m. (Daily Star)

Ex-France star Zinedine Zidane is ready to come out of retirement to join Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire. (Daily Mirror)

Liverpool say they have not forgotten about Benfica winger Simao Sabrosa since a bid for the winger was rejected in 2005. (Independent)

OTHER GOSSIP

American tycoon Stan Kroenke is set to meet the Arsenal board so the directors can listen to his £500m takeover plan. (Daily Mirror)

Chelsea's Didier Drogba says revenge over Liverpool is his side's motive in their Champions League semi-final against the side who knocked them out in 2005. (Daily Mirror)

Liverpool's Xabi Alonso, meanwhile, says the Merseysiders are not fazed by the Stamford Bridge crowd. (Various)

Bolton boss Sam Allardyce fears the club's bid to qualify for Europe could be wrecked by an injury crisis. (The Sun)


AND FINALLY...

Brazilian player Cleberson was booked because he kissed a referee. The Cabofriense defender gave match official Ubiraci Damasio a peck on the cheek after a foul was given against him and after being shown a yellow card, Cleberson said: "I did not know it was against the rules." (The Sun)

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho broke a Uefa two-game touchline ban two seasons ago by being sneaked into his side's dressing room in a laundry basket. (Various)

Portsmouth keeper David James doubts England boss Steve McClaren saw him break the clean sheet record against Aston Villa on television because: "I think there was a documentary on the Discovery Channel at the same time".

[Captain Stu]

Good news for City!

Manchester City have received a bid of £90million from a British consortium headed by former player Ray Ranson.

Speculation has been fervent of late with regards a takeover at Eastlands, with City chairman John Wardle having spoken to several parties, as he continues his search for significant investment in the club.

Former Thai Prime Minster Thaksin Shinawatra, who attempted but failed to buy a stake in Liverpool in 2004, has strongly been linked with making an offer but it would appear Ranson has laid down the early marker in lodging an opening bid.

Ranson tried to buy Aston Villa prior to Randy Lerner securing control at Villa Park and has while he has always been linked with making a move for City, it is only now that he has made his interest official.

The offer is believed to cover the club's shares, the repayment of loans in the region of £24million to major shareholders Wardle and David Makin and debt to other parties.

It has also been speculated that Ranson would be ready to hand manager Stuart Pearce a £20million transfer kitty were he to assume control.

An American consortium is also weighing up whether to launch a takeover of their own, according to reports.

This is a MUCH better option than the well-dodgy ex-Thai Prime Minister being interested. He's bent as all fuck he is. Here's hoping this comes about. :)

[rob3000]

"Liverpool's Xabi Alonso, meanwhile, says the Merseysiders are not fazed by the Stamford Bridge crowd. (Various)"

Stating the obvious there, why would anyone be fazed by that crowd?

[Captain Stu]

"Liverpool's Xabi Alonso, meanwhile, says the Merseysiders are not fazed by the Stamford Bridge crowd. (Various)"

Stating the obvious there, why would anyone be fazed by that crowd?

They throw celery, Rob! BIG STICKS OF CELERY!! :(

Also, Roberto, do you know what it's like round Hunts Cross way? Some of the flats me and my chums are investigating are there...

[rob3000]

Nope, Hunts Cross is on the other side of the city to me, never had any reason to go there. I know it's by Halewood though, which is a nice area.

[boxshapedheart]

They throw celery, Rob! BIG STICKS OF CELERY!! :(

Celery hurts. :(

Torrrrrrrrrrrrrrrres having "You'll Never Walk Alone" on the inside of his armband! Saw the pic this morning. But they still insist they aint selling him for less than £27M.




Chelsea are planning a £45m bid for Valencia striker David Villa. (Daily Star).


AND FINALLY...

Brazilian player Cleberson was booked because he kissed a referee. The Cabofriense defender gave match official Ubiraci Damasio a peck on the cheek after a foul was given against him and after being shown a yellow card, Cleberson said: "I did not know it was against the rules." (The Sun)

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho broke a Uefa two-game touchline ban two seasons ago by being sneaked into his side's dressing room in a laundry basket. (Various)

Portsmouth keeper David James doubts England boss Steve McClaren saw him break the clean sheet record against Aston Villa on television because: "I think there was a documentary on the Discovery Channel at the same time".

1. :rolleyes: Fuck off ya big money bastards.

2. Well obv. I mean how dodgy if the players started shaking hands after decisions, let alone hugging or kissing. Stupid sod.

3. HAHAHAHAHA. Oh my I can just imagine it.

4. Hehe, so true. A documentary on what though - that is the question. Dung beetles with large grinny teeth?


An American consortium is also weighing up whether to launch a takeover of their own, according to reports. I was about to say, where's the American interest.

[Captain Stu]

I'm sure City would sooner have a former-player-led consortium buying out than Americans.

Srsly, people are totally freaking out about the amount of American interest in the Premiership. In a warped kind of way, it's a compliment... sort of... and a sign of just how alluring the league really is.

Torrrrrrrrrrrrrrrres having "You'll Never Walk Alone" on the inside of his armband! Saw the pic this morning. But they still insist they aint selling him for less than £27M.

Not seen any, got any pictoors of this? :)

I STILL WANT VILLA OR ETO'O MORE THAN TORRES!!! He's alright, like, but he's not exactly trouser-wettingly, groin-grabbingly astounding.

[boxshapedheart]

I'm sure City would sooner have a former-player-led consortium buying out than Americans.

Srsly, people are totally freaking out about the amount of American interest in the Premiership. In a warped kind of way, it's a compliment... sort of... and a sign of just how alluring the league really is.
Yeah totally. But it's almost an insult now if the Americans don't show some sort of interest!

Not seen any, got any pictoors of this? :)

I STILL WANT VILLA OR ETO'O MORE THAN TORRES!!! He's alright, like, but he's not exactly trouser-wettingly, groin-grabbingly astounding.
Heeeeeeeere it is! (http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,11061-2007180883,00.html)

[Captain Stu]

Yeah totally. But it's almost an insult now if the Americans don't show some sort of interest!

We're a rich Yanks plaything now... but that's the way it's going. Teams need more money to compete on the global stage and the majority of people looking to invest are going to be Americans. Anyone that uses the "omgz we're so English defence" is a bit lame. Although I'm sure I said the same about George and Tom. :o

Heeeeeeeere it is! (http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,11061-2007180883,00.html)

Frigging hell! That's, erm, really obvious! :eek: I thought it might be hard to see but christ, way to show off your true feelings, Fernylad.

I see no reason why we'd need Torres, really, when we have Kuyt. They couldn't play together. Same with Crouch, we already have in those two adequate "supporting" strikers.

Plus, if he has "got his heart set on a move to Anfield" at the end of the season, he's burning some serious bridges because he said LAST SUMMER that he was going to give Atletico another few seasons to see how he and Aguerro (who's seriously shit hot, yarg) could do in firing them into a decent European place.

[Captain Stu]

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=462860&CPID=8&clid=8&lid=10&title=Villa:+Valencia+exit+unlikely

With reports suggesting that Chelsea are preparing a renewed bid for David Villa, the Spanish international has admitted his astronomical value is pricing him out of a possible transfer from Valencia.

Villa has been continually linked with a possible move to England, and Chelsea are believed to have had a previous offer for the striker turned down by his Liga employers.

Villa's get-out clause is currently set at £70million, meaning Roman Abramovich is the only realistic suitor if the Che stick to the huge asking price dictated in the player's contract.

Reports in the English and Spanish press now claim the Russian billionaire is ready to sanction a club record £45million bid, despite Jose Mourinho previously claiming that the days of spending 'silly money' are over at Stamford Bridge.

However, Villa believes an exit from the Mestalla will prove extremely difficult due to the stipulations in his contract.

"I've got seven years on my Valencia contract and a transfer clause of £70million," said Villa in The Sun. "Maybe those who should listen to offers are the directors and not me."

That, to me, sounds very much like the Spanish for "I fancy leaving the club but the smart-arses upstairs realised what a talent I am and slapped this humongous pricetag on my head so, if I want a move, they get hella rich off of it."

Or thereabouts. :)

[Two-Bob Peeters]

"Liverpool's Xabi Alonso, meanwhile, says the Merseysiders are not fazed by the Stamford Bridge crowd. (Various)"

Stating the obvious there, why would anyone be fazed by that crowd?

Lol, but they can clap awfully intimidating! :D


Heeeeeeeere it is! (http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,11061-2007180883,00.html)

it's a pretty inspiring line... but you would suggest Torres may be saying "HINT... HINT ;) " although saying that, it may have been the club that do that, and possibly all the time

Portsmouth keeper David James doubts England boss Steve McClaren saw him break the clean sheet record against Aston Villa on television because: "I think there was a documentary on the Discovery Channel at the same time".

well that's not exactly going to get you picked is it Dave! funny though 'cos it's probably true!

[Captain Stu]

As great as James has been this season, he will always be "Calamity James" (ie, more prone than anyone else to making that mistake) and at international level that's just too big a gamble to take.

Predictions for tonight? With it being at Old Trafford, I can see a 1-1 draw although I could see United sneaking it with home advantage.

[Bexster]

Rafa Quote

"My family are really happy here at Liverpool and I am prepared to have my daughter with a Scouse accent, even though it is sometimes a problem for me!"

Heh, heh :D

[Captain Stu]

I love Uncle Rafa and all the Benitez family. :)

[Two-Bob Peeters]

As great as James has been this season, he will always be "Calamity James" (ie, more prone than anyone else to making that mistake) and at international level that's just too big a gamble to take.

Predictions for tonight? With it being at Old Trafford, I can see a 1-1 draw although I could see United sneaking it with home advantage.

it's a bit harsh on James though, he's not that bad. just because of the repuatation from a few mistakes when he was younger... i think Robinson can be a bit of a liability sometimes as well.

[Captain Stu]

I agree, Robinson is by no means the best keeper in England... it's a close call between Carson and Foster. Carson probably has it for me now but with a few more seasons of Premiership football under his belt, Foster will be able to oust pretty much anyone from the number one spot.

James: great shot stopping, gets down so quick for a big lad... but still, you get a team with two proper wingers to ping crosses into the penalty area and he WILL fluff a number of them. His timing has improved a bit but he's never completely gotten over his fear of crosses.

[Bexster]

Well done to Michael Essien for being a eejit :rolleyes:

Chelsea star held on drink charge

Chelsea star Michael Essien has been arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.
The 24-year-old footballer was released on bail pending further inquiries after he was pulled over by police on the Old Kent Road, south London, on Monday.

It is reported the midfielder, who is suspended for the Champions League clash with Liverpool, had been driving a black Range Rover.

Scotland Yard confirmed a 24-year-old man had been stopped in Southwark and arrested by officers.

A Scotland Yard spokeswoman said: "At approximately 0510 BST yesterday morning officers in Southwark stopped a vehicle driving in the Old Kent Road.

"Officers spoke with the driver and subsequently arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of drink-driving.

"He has been bailed to July pending inquiries."

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Old Kent Road!?

there's only one explanation! he went to Millwall for a secret meeting to sign a pre contract agreement! :D

[Captain Stu]

I JUST SPOKE TO PATRICK VIERA!!! :eek:























Well, I answered a question of his...
























... a question on the Yahoo Answers thing. :( :)

http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070424051138AAUiIme

And yes, it IS real.

[Bexster]

Which one are you?

Oh wait, I see you.

[Captain Stu]

Which one are you?

Stu B. :cool:

I'm gonna answer Rudi Voller's next. :D

[Bexster]

Stu B. :cool:

I'm gonna answer Rudi Voller's next. :D
How bored are you in work???

*jumps on bandwagon and answers peoples questions...*

[Captain Stu]

How bored are you in work???

*jumps on bandwagon and answers peoples questions...*

I'm nae bored! I'm having a much-deserved cup-a-soup break as I've been working my arse off this afternoon and I need some downtime... and I love waxing lyrical about football.

Although I do love sitting here on Yahoo Answers and trawling through it, it's well addictive I tells ya.

Next question to answer, Anders Frisk's question about coaches manipulating the media. :D

[Wish_Master2100]

Old Kent Road!?

there's only one explanation! he went to Millwall for a secret meeting to sign a pre contract agreement! :D

He was in the Prince of Wales in Camberwell!

[F'jo]

it's just annoying to see, it's the attitude with a few of the Millwall kids as well. they always big it up thinking they're hard cos they're Millwall, i'd love 'em to try it on and get battered. that'd learn 'em. christ even some of the older Millwall mob want to batter them they're so fucking embarrasing.

i've always liked Bristol City, they're one of the last few teams with 'real' supporters, and it'd be great to see them go up (mainly 'cos that'd stop Forest going up :D) and i guess you could say i 'respect' them to an extent. But i'd much rather the celebrations wait until the rotherham game! especially if the mob who have bought tickets in the Millwall end are sitting in the 'wrong' places...!

It's the same attitude in Cardiff from Cardiff City fans, mind most of them can be real wankers with yob behaviour from what i've seen, especially on match day. Turn up to games which Cardiffs not even playing in! Idiots

[Wish_Master2100]

Imagine if a bunch of Bristol city fans walk into block 19...

[EvilElvis]

Spurs after a midfielder? Surely not! (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/6587589.stm)

Jiri Jarosik has suggested that he would be tempted by a return to the Premiership, with Tottenham reportedly interested in the Celtic midfielder.
Speaking about a possible move to White Hart Lane, the Czech international said: "Tottenham are a superb team, playing still around fifth place.

"The stadium is also always sold out, and many big derby games are played.

"I can see only positives there. But I don't want to go into details, we shall see after the season has finished."

The 29-year-old was signed in June 2006 from Chelsea, after a loan spell with Birmingham City and, although his experience was rather mixed at Stamford Bridge he refuses to rule out a return to London.

"I read it in the newspapers," he said of the rumours.

"The Scottish league is not bad. 60,000 people come to each of the Celtic games, but the Premiership is something else.

"You play in full stadiums against very high-quality opponents. We shall see after the season.

"I am glad not to have been forgotten in England. I am an experienced footballer, I already tried to play in England and I will not be expensive."

Jarosik clinched a Scottish Premier League winner's medal on Sunday as Celtic claimed their second consecutive title.

And his success means he has now won league medals in a record four countries - Czech Republic, Russia, England and Scotland.

Nonetheless, despite the title race being effectively over long before Easter, he insists it was never a foregone conclusion.

"Everybody knows it was not easy, as the season was long," he added.

" I can compare this Celtic team to the Sparta Prague side of the past which had only the highest objectives, ambitions and expectations."

[sunnydalehighdropout]

I JUST SPOKE TO PATRICK VIERA!!! :eek:
Well, I answered a question of his...
... a question on the Yahoo Answers thing. :( :)

http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070424051138AAUiIme

And yes, it IS real.

God damn im so tempted to click the 'report as abuse' button next to your post on there. :D

[EvilElvis]

Lolzers @ SFA - Who decided that money is better than common sense.

Cup Semi final replay between Hibs and Dunfermline - two teams from east coast of Scotland - to be played at Hampden - On the west coast.

Tickets - same price as the frist game (No discount to lure fans) from the TV Game...

Hampden's capacity - 72,000. Tickets sold for tonight's game - 5,000

Even funnier is the fact the Celtic vs Rangers RESERVE game has pulled in 15,000 fans...

[Captain Stu]

Hampden's capacity - 72,000. Tickets sold for tonight's game - 5,000

Hahahahahahahaha!! If someone farts at one end of the ground, you'd be able to hear it at the other end.

That's beyond pitiful, how much were tickets then? £60+?

[rob3000]

You're kidding, 5, 000?!

Scotlands not that big. Do the teams not have a big fanbase or what?

[Captain Stu]

Interesting, United playing the 4-5-1 turns into 4-3-3 formation.

Evra passed fit to start in the middle (no way can he be fit enough for this, no way) so Heinze and Brown (lolz) in the middle and O'Shea at right-back.

Fletcher (lolz) in the midfield with Carrick and Scholes and Fairycunt, Shrek and Sheepshagger up front.

[Novacane]

You're kidding, 5, 000?!

Scotlands not that big. Do the teams not have a big fanbase or what?


Hibs gets 10-15 thousand to a game. Dunfermline, not so much.

It's midweek, it's a replay, it's on TV, Milan vs Man U is on. Plus minor scottish teams are only well supported at local derbies or if they get to a final. Then they demand a lot of tickets, and all their fair weather fans come out the woodwork.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

i've put £1 on 4-0 Man Utd :D 40-1

[Captain Stu]

i've put £1 on 4-0 Man Utd :D 40-1

If United win 4-0 tonight, I'll give you the sodding cash myself.
not really

[sunnydalehighdropout]

1-0 to the cunts after 2 minutes.

[EvilElvis]

Hahahahahahahaha!! If someone farts at one end of the ground, you'd be able to hear it at the other end.

That's beyond pitiful, how much were tickets then? £60+?

It's more to do with the fact that none of the fans really want to travel across Scotland for the game in midweek - Had they put it on at Tynecastle they'd have sold out.

[Captain Stu]

Dida shows YET AGAIN why he's one of the most dodgy, over-rated keepers in the world.

Flukey cunts.

1-0 to the cunts after 2 minutes.

Five. :p

[Two-Bob Peeters]

Dida own goal, terrible keeper :D

[Epic Failure]

fuckin hell that's shocking keeping

[Captain Stu]

Looks like this thread's growing by another 10 pages tonight then if there's 5-6 people in. :cool:

Dida is wank, he's worse than David James.

[Two-Bob Peeters]

yay, i had 5 £1 bets today i had first goal 0-10 mins at 4-1, so i've recouped my bet money already :D

also had scholes or giggs to score first though, boo-urns!

c'mon 2-0 or 4-0!

[Captain Stu]

Oh fuck off, if Heinze's gonna stoop to head the ball at that height then he deserves a fucking kick in the head.

Greasy Argie twat.

[stu250]

i'm in work listening to this on the radio but i have to applaud you guys for the upto the minute commentary - its better than skysports.com live updates.

i bet some of you are sitting there with a sheepy on.

needless to say i got a swap onto days tomorrow so its copious pints and tonk the cockneys.....(again)

stu.

keep up the good work you motty-wannabees.

[Wish_Master2100]

Tooooo quick.

[Captain Stu]

What a fucking goal.

And that, ladies and germs, is the REAL best footballer on the planet. Fuck FPR.