Bloody Football!

[The Piper]

And I say that having grown up as a Spurs supporter.


AHHH! Now we know the problem:dancing:


Yes Arsenal are contenders,it's just that Wenger is such a misery.
So it's anyone of the four really.
City have the games in hand and i can well see them winning those.
It's going to be an exciting finish to the season which is great for the neutral and brown trousers if you support any one of the top four.

[Stavros]

I think City have a strong squad but are over-rated. Although I think Arsenal would be in a stronger position if they had a fit Walcott, Wilshere and Ramsay, I think its just do-able. Mourinho winning it would confirm that he must be one of the best managers Europe has ever had. Also tight at the bottom, in a manner of speaking. I would like to see the back of Fulham and Crystal Palace, I don't even know why Palace still exists as a football club, but Cardiff and Norwich look like contenders. Not so long ago Solskjaer was touted as Ferguson's successor, I think he might still be in the frame if things look shaky in Wales and Moyes gets his books.

[beaufont]

Pretty sure Utd will give Moyes time but their resolve will be seriously tested if they go out of the Champions League. If they do replace him it will be for a big name & I don't mean Schwarzenneger :banana:

[Stavros]

I don't think they would make a move without a replacement ready to step in.

Meanwhile, the Telegraph is revealing new allegations about the FIFA award of the World Cup to Qatar -

Qatar World Cup 2022 investigation: former Fifa vice-president Jack Warner and family paid millions


A senior Fifa official and his family were paid almost $2 million (£1.2m) from a Qatari firm linked to the country’s successful bid for the 2022 World Cup, The Telegraph can disclose.

Jack Warner, the former vice-president of Fifa, appears to have been personally paid $1.2 million (£720,000) from a company controlled by a former Qatari football official shortly after the decision to award the country the tournament.

Payments totalling almost $750,000 (£450,000) were made to Mr Warner’s sons, documents show. A further $400,000 (£240,000) was paid to one of his employees.

It is understood that the FBI is now investigating Trinidad-based Mr Warner and his alleged links to the Qatari bid, and that the former Fifa official’s eldest son, who lives in Miami, has been helping the inquiry as a co-operating witness.

full story here
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/10704290/Qatar-World-Cup-2022-investigation-former-Fifa-vice-president-Jack-Warner-and-family-paid-millions.html

[robertlouis]

So nobody fancies Arsenal's chances? Some of their best young players seem to get injured easily, but Wenger's next is the 1,000 game of his career in London. Rosicky's strike was wickedly brilliant. And I say that having grown up as a Spurs supporter.

Would that be the Arsenal that lost 6-3 at the Etihad and 5-1 at Anfield? :whistle: But I have to agree about Rosicky's goal on Sunday, stunning technique.

What unites the current top four is that all their back fours can have horrific off days. The difference is that Man C and Liverpool are the only two who currently look irresistible going forward.

And with Chelsea and City still to visit Anfield, plus their current momentum, Liverpool are looking at least as strong as the others.

I still take City to win the title, but after that it's anyone's guess.

[Stavros]

It occurred to me today that if the match with Olympiakos is crucial to Moyes' survival (and he claims it isn't because he has the backing of the Board) and if the players don't like him, could they under-perform and get beaten to ensure that Moyes goes?? Sick, I know, but given Moyes has not used Giggs who might at least inspire some of the other players, you can't rule anything out.

[robertlouis]

It occurred to me today that if the match with Olympiakos is crucial to Moyes' survival (and he claims it isn't because he has the backing of the Board) and if the players don't like him, could they under-perform and get beaten to ensure that Moyes goes?? Sick, I know, but given Moyes has not used Giggs who might at least inspire some of the other players, you can't rule anything out.

I can't help thinking that Moyes' failings are shown just as much by what Martinez has done at Everton with pretty much the same group of players that he inherited at the start of the season, where they are playing with a flair, style and freedom that they didn't show previously. Everton are definitely better to watch this year.

Maybe the United board should have gone for Martinez, who seems to combine the pragmatic and romantic with the panache which denotes all great managers. Watch this space?

[Stavros]

I don't understand what the process was; I am assuming Ferguson was a key figure in the decision but I understand some Board members and respected elders were too -didn't I read somewhere that Bobby Charlton didn't want Mourinho at United? There are good managers in Europe who would have wanted Ferguson's job, yet it seems Jurgen Klopp maybe didn't want it; I don't know. You look at Real Madrid and ask how many managers have they had in recent years? Is Carlo Ancelotti doing something there now Mourinho didn't? It hasn't stopped Ronaldo who's goal scoring form is beyond the ability of most other players...

[up_for_it]

I can't help thinking that Moyes' failings are shown just as much by what Martinez has done at Everton with pretty much the same group of players that he inherited at the start of the season, where they are playing with a flair, style and freedom that they didn't show previously. Everton are definitely better to watch this year.

Maybe the United board should have gone for Martinez, who seems to combine the pragmatic and romantic with the panache which denotes all great managers. Watch this space?

I've been a fan of Martinez since his days managing Swansea, and I think its worth pointing out that he's revolutionized the culture of every club he's managed. So much that Swansea actually built his passing style and attacking play into the club's philosophy so that future managers have to adhere to it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l61hr-rdsB0

BBC's 'Final Days' docu on Swansea in 2003

He's a great young manager and I can't wait to see how he develops. Its worth fantasizing about what he could to with a proper transfer budget, and I really wish United would have hired him, I think the players they currently have (Kagawa, Young, RVP, Rooney, Mata, Januzaj) reflect his attacking style of football much more than Moyes' effort to adhere to a boring 442, which he will try to impose during the summer transfer window by buying players that fit it. I really think Martinez is an asset to the Premiership because he's one of the those managers who indicates the future of the game, which in some respects is a more continental style of football.

As for today's game- its obvious Moyes lost the dressing room weeks ago and I recently read that even Giggs is now among his detractors. Its obvious the players need to step up and take charge, since they bear a lot of responsibility for their current predicament, but my big worry is that Moyes has failed to properly motivate them, which doesn't bode well for the future. Sure, he currently has to contend with a group of players such as RVP and Hernandez who wanted to work with SAF and became a bit jaded, but at the end of the day, I worry about putting 100 million quid in that man's hands this summer given how badly he's failed in the dressing room. If United take a bath and fail next season after splashing out big, the club will have manufactured a financial crisis that will be hard to come back from. To circle back around to Martinez- its really telling how much he's done with Everton since Moyes left. United have traded an success for mediocrity.

[SammiValentine]

I've been a fan of Martinez since his days managing Swansea, and I think its worth pointing out that he's revolutionized the culture of every club he's managed. So much that Swansea actually built his passing style and attacking play into the club's philosophy so that future managers have to adhere to it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l61hr-rdsB0

BBC's 'Final Days' docu on Swansea in 2003

He's a great young manager and I can't wait to see how he develops. Its worth fantasizing about what he could to with a proper transfer budget, and I really wish United would have hired him, I think the players they currently have (Kagawa, Young, RVP, Rooney, Mata, Januzaj) reflect his attacking style of football much more than Moyes' effort to adhere to a boring 442, which he will try to impose during the summer transfer window by buying players that fit it. I really think Martinez is an asset to the Premiership because he's one of the those managers who indicates the future of the game, which in some respects is a more continental style of football.

As for today's game- its obvious Moyes lost the dressing room weeks ago and I recently read that even Giggs is now among his detractors. Its obvious the players need to step up and take charge, since they bear a lot of responsibility for their current predicament, but my big worry is that Moyes has failed to properly motivate them, which doesn't bode well for the future. Sure, he currently has to contend with a group of players such as RVP and Hernandez who wanted to work with SAF and became a bit jaded, but at the end of the day, I worry about putting 100 million quid in that man's hands this summer given how badly he's failed in the dressing room. If United take a bath and fail next season after splashing out big, the club will have manufactured a financial crisis that will be hard to come back from. To circle back around to Martinez- its really telling how much he's done with Everton since Moyes left. United have traded an success for mediocrity.

moyes held everton back just as much as martinez has done things for them though, which is the ironically amusing thing.............. he desevres a big xmas bonus already x love him,top guy.

oohhhh manchesterrrrrrrrrrrrrr.........:D

[SammiValentine]

I don't understand what the process was; I am assuming Ferguson was a key figure in the decision but I understand some Board members and respected elders were too -didn't I read somewhere that Bobby Charlton didn't want Mourinho at United? There are good managers in Europe who would have wanted Ferguson's job, yet it seems Jurgen Klopp maybe didn't want it; I don't know. You look at Real Madrid and ask how many managers have they had in recent years? Is Carlo Ancelotti doing something there now Mourinho didn't? It hasn't stopped Ronaldo who's goal scoring form is beyond the ability of most other players...


they should all stick to having a bevyy and wanking over various pairs of giggs used shorts. (rumour)

[Stavros]

I had to go to a pub to watch this evening's game, and although the result was satisfactory there were some hairy moments, with Olympiakos allowed to run at the defence unchallenged, and it isn't as if Olympiakos are a world class team. That said there was some passion, some momentum which has been lacking, but now I suppose they will lose RVP for a while if it is as bad as it looked on the night. Martinez...yes, one of those under-rated managers...who knows....

[robertlouis]

I had to go to a pub to watch this evening's game, and although the result was satisfactory there were some hairy moments, with Olympiakos allowed to run at the defence unchallenged, and it isn't as if Olympiakos are a world class team. That said there was some passion, some momentum which has been lacking, but now I suppose they will lose RVP for a while if it is as bad as it looked on the night. Martinez...yes, one of those under-rated managers...who knows....

Sounded like an exciting match on radio 5 - even Alan Greene said so. But I take back what I said after the first match.

That said, the last eight in the Champions League look about the strongest ever. Both Chelsea and Utd will have their work cut out. And as the fixtures pile up even Mourinho will find it difficult to balance the needs of his team and his never-satisfied owner in both competitions.

[Stavros]

Most bookies are offering Manchester United at 16/1 as the rank outsiders with Bayern Munich favourites, closely followed by Real Madrid and Barcelona. But you can get 20/1 for United with some (Coral, apparently). Perhaps now is the time for Moyes to use Chicharito and Januzaj...? Worth a punt?

[beaufont]

Most bookies are offering Manchester United at 16/1 as the rank outsiders with Bayern Munich favourites, closely followed by Real Madrid and Barcelona. But you can get 20/1 for United with some (Coral, apparently). Perhaps now is the time for Moyes to use Chicharito and Januzaj...? Worth a punt?

No better putting your money on something else, I would say Utd winning the Champions League is as likely to happen as them finishing in the top 4 of the Prem this season. This Utd team is lacking in world class players & the weakest for many a year. Nobody is affraid to visit Old Trafford these days apart from Mr.Moyes.

[robertlouis]

Most bookies are offering Manchester United at 16/1 as the rank outsiders with Bayern Munich favourites, closely followed by Real Madrid and Barcelona. But you can get 20/1 for United with some (Coral, apparently). Perhaps now is the time for Moyes to use Chicharito and Januzaj...? Worth a punt?

If I was going to put money on an English team it would be Chelsea, but I don't see either them or Man U winning it this year.

[The Piper]

Don't put your pennies on Man.Utd they've got Bayern M in the next round.
Chelsea may go thru',they drew Paris SG.

[SammiValentine]

most bookies are offering manchester united at 16/1 as the rank outsiders with bayern munich favourites, closely followed by real madrid and barcelona. But you can get 20/1 for united with some (coral, apparently). Perhaps now is the time for moyes to use chicharito and januzaj...? Worth a punt?



lol !!!!

[robertlouis]

lol !!!!

Arsene's 1000th turned into a nightmare, Man City strolled against Fulham, and Liverpool continued with their we'll score more than you approach against Cardiff.

So it's as you were at the top, except that Arsenal are losing touch with others.

And with Chelsea and City still to visit Anfield, the dream is still very much alive.

[robertlouis]

By the way Sammi, are you going to find yourself in the weird position of shouting for United in the Manchester derby on Tuesday?

[SammiValentine]

By the way Sammi, are you going to find yourself in the weird position of shouting for United in the Manchester derby on Tuesday?

Weird? Who doesnt want Mr Moyes to have a nice long career at old trafford. ;-)

:banana:

[robertlouis]

Weird? Who doesnt want Mr Moyes to have a nice long career at old trafford. ;-)

:banana:

You're priceless. :Bowdown:

[robertlouis]

United humbled at Old Trafford by City, Arsenal only draw at home to Swansea.

If Liverpool beat Sunderland at home tomorrow night, as they should, we may be talking about the top three consolidating, with Arsenal looking over their shoulder primarily at Martinez' strong Everton side rather than the very inconsistent Spurs.

Squeaky bum time, as someone once said. Anyone remember him? :whistle:

[The Piper]

Anyone remember him? :whistle:



Isn't he the bloke who recomended Man Utd took on David Moyes?
Best days work he's ever done for Everton,that's for sure.

[robertlouis]

Isn't he the bloke who recomended Man Utd took on David Moyes?
Best days work he's ever done for Everton,that's for sure.



2 - 1. Bit tight and nervy, but the main thing is to keep on winning. Phew.

[The Piper]

I'd have settled for that before kickoff.
Sunderland are fighting for their lives,it was one of those banana skin games.
One point from catching Chelsea.
Every time i look at the table those two games in hand City have,depress me.
They look the favorites at the moment.

[robertlouis]

I'd have settled for that before kickoff.
Sunderland are fighting for their lives,it was one of those banana skin games.
One point from catching Chelsea.
Every time i look at the table those two games in hand City have,depress me.
They look the favorites at the moment.

Sunderland actually came up with a smart, if blunt, game plan - Poyet is a good tactician. The way Liverpool are playing just now, especially going forward, you simply have to park the bus and focus on the main threats. The 5-3-2 formation nearly paid off. Putting two men on Suarez almost worked, except that it gave Sturridge the room to hit the vital second goal.

But I'm just as happy with winning ugly as winning spectacularly. Now let's see which Tottenham team turns up at the weekend.....

Yes, City's two games in hand are a concern, but if we can beat both City and Chelsea at Anfield then anything is possible.

Yes, I said "we". :whistle:

[SammiValentine]

Sunderland actually came up with a smart, if blunt, game plan - Poyet is a good tactician. The way Liverpool are playing just now, especially going forward, you simply have to park the bus and focus on the main threats. The 5-3-2 formation nearly paid off. Putting two men on Suarez almost worked, except that it gave Sturridge the room to hit the vital second goal.

But I'm just as happy with winning ugly as winning spectacularly. Now let's see which Tottenham team turns up at the weekend.....

Yes, City's two games in hand are a concern, but if we can beat both City and Chelsea at Anfield then anything is possible.

Yes, I said "we". :whistle:

Almost worked as in they should of had ten men half way through the 1st half ???:-D One of those games where things like that can cost you........but it didnt fortunately.

onwards and upwards, now lets bum spurs head in and hope arsenal are worried enough about 4th spot to do something against city.

[robertlouis]

Almost worked as in they should of had ten men half way through the 1st half ???:-D One of those games where things like that can cost you........but it didnt fortunately.

onwards and upwards, now lets bum spurs head in and hope arsenal are worried enough about 4th spot to do something against city.

Ah, I love your tactical insight Sammi - "let's bum spurs head in" lol. :Bowdown:

But let's. Exciting, isn't it?

[The Piper]

:banana:

LOOKING GOOD.

[beaufont]

Sick of Mourinho trying to play mind games all the time - now saying Chelsea will not win the title & wish some of the other managers would call him out on it.

Personally as an outside interest I would like Liverpool to win it this year, great to watch & scoring plenty of goals. And also anything that put's a smile on Sammi's face has to be worthwhile :dancing:

[robertlouis]

John Terry scores own goal to bury Chelski's title chances. Couldn't happen to a nicer bloke.

And the Mersey Reds march relentlessly on. No slips between now and the end of the season please chaps.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Sick of Mourinho trying to play mind games all the time - now saying Chelsea will not win the title & wish some of the other managers would call him out on it.


:iagree:

He is right though, My Liverpool FC is going to win the league!

[robertlouis]

:iagree:

He is right though, My Liverpool FC is going to win the league!

Don't say that - you'll jinx them! :(

[JenniferParisHusband]

True, and we almost got a scare today. Message rescinded... but still....

[robertlouis]

True, and we almost got a scare today. Message rescinded... but still....

Yes indeed. One definite penalty, one iffy penalty and Carroll's manhandling of Mignolet would have been penalised in a rugby lineout, so justice done.

But it's another win. Now for Man C next weekend. Ooer.

[The Piper]

Simple,win next four games = Champions....

[JenniferParisHusband]

Man City, check.

Bring on Chelski!

YNWA!!!!

[robertlouis]

Terrific game to watch. Both sides should have had a penalty. However, Henderson will be a loss, probably for three games. He's been a revelation in the more forward role this season. Sturridge's injury is just as worrying. There's simply no-one to replace him. The thinness of the squad could still see them lose it.

But come on, Liverpool. Win it for the 96.

[JenniferParisHusband]

2014 keeps on getting better! JFT96, YNWA!!!

[beaufont]

Liverpool win tomorrow & the title has to be theirs for me, even if Chelsea manage to beat them next week. Sunderland have pulled a couple of great results out of the bag this week which help their fight against relegation & helps Liverpool's cause.

[robertlouis]

Terrific game to watch. Both sides should have had a penalty. However, Henderson will be a loss, probably for three games. He's been a revelation in the more forward role this season. Sturridge's injury is just as worrying. There's simply no-one to replace him. The thinness of the squad could still see them lose it.

But come on, Liverpool. Win it for the 96.

Don't go overboard yet fellas. Remember that there's no Henderson and no Sturridge. Start with Coutinho, or put him in the hole behind Suarez, but it won't be easy, as Norwich will simply park the bus. 1 - 0 on an iffy penalty will do nicely.

Meanwhile, let's see if Man C are actually imploding by watching what happens when they play West Brom on Monday. Stumbles by the other contenders could still be enough to bring the title back to its spiritual home.

Fingers crossed.

[Stavros]

Stumbles by the other contenders could still be enough to bring the title back to its spiritual home.
Fingers crossed.

Football has a 'spiritual home'?? I have read some pious rubbish online over the years, and that is equal to much of it.

[The Piper]

I have read some pious rubbish online over the years, and that is equal to much of it.

Come on Stavvy, let us enjoy it, now we're back.

Well it's looking good at the top,i'd say if we beat Chelsea next week,it's as good as ours.

See our blue cousins from across the park wiped Mr Moyes eye this afternoon,love it.

[robertlouis]

Football has a 'spiritual home'?? I have read some pious rubbish online over the years, and that is equal to much of it.

Take that pompous finger out of your arse just the once, Stavros, and enjoy the ride.

There's a romance about Liverpool's race for the title and you'd have to be pretty stony to be wholly impervious to it.

[Stavros]

Romance there may be, but to call Anfield football's 'spiritual home' is something you ought to think about. Football does not have a 'spiritual home'. When I was growing up Liverpool were an average team and there was nothing special about them or their ground. If Liverpool win the title, and this is not guaranteed, then we can hand out congratulations.

[The Piper]

News reports today say Moyes will be gone within 24Hrs.
We''ll see on that one,probably end up at somewhere like Torquay,and that will only be if he's lucky.Moyes moved because he wrongly thought he was guaranteed success.
Sorry mate you've got to work for it.
But thanks for doing such a shit job.

[Stavros]

The reports were true, and he is gone. I wonder if they could not wait for the end of the season in order to send a message to the 'financial community'?
The Telegraph has covered this quite well, pointing out that Moyes cleared out Ferguson's back-room staff losing the dressing room in the process, coupled with his lack of charisma as a manager; that he made a mess of the summer transfer options, and tactically got it wrong:
A group of players accustomed to sharp sessions with the ball under Ferguson were now being asked to improve their fitness in much more physically demanding training routines, where lengthy, and often tedious, sessions practising shape and defensive drills replaced the possession work favoured by Ferguson.
Yet rather than produce a fitter team, one which mirrored the one Moyes produced at Everton, United appeared lethargic and increasingly incapable of passing the ball, as borne out by their abject performance at Goodison Park on Sunday.
Tactically, Moyes also left players bewildered.
Midfielders were told not to get ahead of the ball, a move which reduced their goal output and left the forwards isolated and starved of possession up front.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/10778462/David-Moyes-failed-to-learn-lessons-of-Bondi-and-was-out-of-his-depth-from-moment-he-replaced-Sir-Alex-Ferguson.html


As an aside Arsene Wenger has been criticised for training techniques that set intense fitness and 'hard work' as soon as the players return from their summer holidays -this has been alleged to be the cause of injuries early on in the season (Walcott, Ramsay and Wilshere being obvious casualties), and tiredness. I think I read somewhere Brendan Rodgers takes a difference approach which is more relaxed and maintains a regular regime throughout the season.


I don't know if Giggs or anyone else can turn United around in the next year, Ferguson left an ageing squad and one in need of a creative midfielder, and so on. Ferguson's links with the Moyes family go back to the 'legendary' Drumchapel Amateur Football Club, and I think that Scottish connection and Ferguson's loyalty to the Moyes family might have played a strong part in his decision, plus the absence of other managers willing to take on the job, though how far United went in offering the job to other people is not clear.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2322312/Sir-Alex-Ferguson-David-Moyes--remembered-The-Drum.html

United may break its connections to Scotland now -even though it has provided the club with its most successful managers; but let's not go there right now...

[robertlouis]

Ferguson's links with the Moyes family go back to the 'legendary' Drumchapel Amateur Football Club[/URL]



Not quite sure why you chose to put quotes around "legendary", Stavros.

Drumchapel is notoriously one of the most deprived parts of the city, yet another misbegotten attempt by Glasgow to provide a better environment for its citizens following the slum clearance programmes of the 50s and 60s. Essentially a wasteland of flats without services and amenities, it duly fell prey to the usual problems of violence, crime and drugs.

What the club provided was an escape, with discipline and fun. I should know. Although I came from an altogether more prosperous part of the city, I was proud to be chosen to play for them in my youth for a couple of seasons until I ultimately chose rugby instead. And the impressive roll call of players for the big two in the city, for major clubs south of the border and of course for Scotland was, and remains, very impressive.

Just for once the term "legendary" is not hyperbole.

Oh, and, useless fact, Moyes and I went to the same school, as did Katherine Grainger the Olympic rower and Alex Kapranos, leader of the band Franz Ferdinand.

[Stavros]

I never know how far to trust the Mail, and I wasn't sure how well known the place might be, so I accept your criticism. You have had an interesting life and passed through some nodal points of modern Scottish life, perhaps that is one reason you have become a troubador. It also seems to confirm a belief that Scots often achieve more for themselves when they leave the country of their birth, just as I wonder if the long-established connection between Scotland and Manchester United -indeed, English football has now come to an end.

[robertlouis]

I never know how far to trust the Mail, and I wasn't sure how well known the place might be, so I accept your criticism. You have had an interesting life and passed through some nodal points of modern Scottish life, perhaps that is one reason you have become a troubador. It also seems to confirm a belief that Scots often achieve more for themselves when they leave the country of their birth, just as I wonder if the long-established connection between Scotland and Manchester United -indeed, English football has now come to an end.

Thanks for the compliments Stavros. Gosh!

As it happens, I have played tennis with Gordon Brown (!), and was privileged to know two sadly-passed and much missed giants of the Scottish political scene in John Smith and Donald Dewar, and with John, his wonderful family too. I've noticed the same thing in Ireland; small countries operate very much like villages, and it's just as noticeable now when I go back north to see just how much better informed the man in the street is about all that's going on in and around Holyrood, including the gossip, than the equivalent down south.

I'm very happily settled in York - love it, in fact, as it has a very rich cultural and historical life to offer as well as being a very pleasant place to live - but I do wonder how I'll feel if the vote in the referendum is for independence. It would certainly increase the sense of obligation to the country and the institutions which educated and formed me, that idea of putting something back.

Weather's fecking awful though...... ;)

[JenniferParisHusband]

Don't go overboard yet fellas. Remember that there's no Henderson and no Sturridge. Start with Coutinho, or put him in the hole behind Suarez, but it won't be easy, as Norwich will simply park the bus. 1 - 0 on an iffy penalty will do nicely.

Meanwhile, let's see if Man C are actually imploding by watching what happens when they play West Brom on Monday. Stumbles by the other contenders could still be enough to bring the title back to its spiritual home.

Fingers crossed.

Sturridge might (emphasis on might) be back tomorrow!!!

Less than 24 hours!

[Stavros]

As it happens, I have played tennis with Gordon Brown (!), and was privileged to know two sadly-passed and much missed giants of the Scottish political scene in John Smith and Donald Dewar, and with John, his wonderful family too. I've noticed the same thing in Ireland; small countries operate very much like villages, and it's just as noticeable now when I go back north to see just how much better informed the man in the street is about all that's going on in and around Holyrood, including the gossip, than the equivalent down south.


John Smith and Donald Dewar were men for whom I had guarded respect, but Gordon Brown never impressed me, indeed, I consider him one of the willing architects of the demolition of the Labour Party, and integral to the corrupt nature of Labour politics north of the border which Dewar was also involved in. For some reason, the moral integrity of politicians which sounds so admirable on tv or on the platform, deserts them when it comes to managing local parties. Even worse in Wales.

I think the cultural change in English football might not be the decline of Scottish managers, but the end of the commitment to long-term management that we saw with Ferguson and which I suspect will end with Wenger leaving Arsenal this summer -particularly if they don't beat Hull in the FA cup. He might leave anyway.

[The Piper]

Shit.
Ah well,have to win the last two games and hope City slip up.

[robertlouis]

Shit.
Ah well,have to win the last two games and hope City slip up.

Shit indeed. :(

[The Piper]

Shit indeed. :(

Yep RL
City are across Stanley Park next game,the Toffees don't like doing us favours,but lets hope this time they oblige.

Away to Palace,home to Newcastle. 6 points, i beg of you.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Shit.
Ah well,have to win the last two games and hope City slip up.

I'm going to be a big Everton fan next week.

[robertlouis]

Yep RL
City are across Stanley Park next game,the Toffees don't like doing us favours,but lets hope this time they oblige.

Away to Palace,home to Newcastle. 6 points, i beg of you.

That said, and the first goal was an unfortunate gift, Mourinho showed his tactical acuity yet again. Nothing so blunt as "parking the bus", but they certainly made sure that Liverpool's creativity and above all their blistering pace, were tamed throughout.

Rodgers has proved this season that he is a great manager, but he still has some way to go. And a bigger squad with quality depth wouldn't go amiss either. If Adam Lallana leaves Southampton ( and I hope he doesn't), he'd fit better into Liverpool's style than any of the other big clubs.

[The Piper]

Rodgers has proved this season that he is a great manager, but he still has some way to go. And a bigger squad with quality depth wouldn't go amiss either. If Adam Lallana leaves Southampton ( and I hope he doesn't), he'd fit better into Liverpool's style than any of the other big clubs.


That sounds like you think it's all over.

[robertlouis]

That sounds like you think it's all over.

I don't, actually, but it's now City's to lose. My remarks were about what needs to happen over the summer for Liverpool to mount an even better challenge next season as well as give them the depth for a successful Champions League campaign.

The current season mustn't be a flash in the pan, because Man U will come back stronger and better, you can depend on that. What we don't want is the re-establishment of the current big four of Manchester City and United, Chelsea and Arsenal. Liverpool need to stay up there and a bigger squad with some seriously quality additions is fundamental to that aim.

[JenniferParisHusband]

That sounds like you think it's all over.

He may not, but I do. I blame the David Moyes statue that PaddyPower set up outside Anfield!

It is City's to lose now, and even though Everton has a history of beating them at home, most of that history is against lesser teams. I'm still hoping for a miracle, but I don't see it happening.

Still, it's been a good year, and considerable improvement. Next season with the Champions League money we can get some depth, and hopefully a better back four. Lallana would be a nice fit, and the German duo they keep talking about would also be good for depth and quality. But that back four has been awful all year. That's where I hope they spend some money.

Is anyone over there reporting that there is going to be a straight up swap of Bale for Suarez or is that just the American media's made up BS? It's obviously not going to happen. Just curious to know if anyone closer to Liverpool know if the Suarez leaving stuff has any truth to it. I can't imagine after this year he would want to go.

Ok, now let's just take a minute and laugh at Manchester United.

[Stavros]

Did anyone see Real Madrid's demolition of Bayern last night? It was entirely predictable as Bayern are a predictable team unable to create the kind of defensive wall Mourinho so cleverly assembled for the Liverpool game. In fact I thought United could easily have beaten Bayern but failed to put away two relatively easy shots in the first leg, and in the second allowed Robben to perform his tired old routine of nudging the ball left of the defender until there is an open space to shoot from -something Real prevented him from doing.

Real are not invincible either, notwithstanding Ronaldo's impressive form -if Chelsea make it, then as with Barcelona and Bayern they can just strangle the game and score a winner on the break. Benzema and di Maria are both over-rated players.

[robertlouis]

I hear that all the No 22 buses are being diverted via Stamford Bridge today. :dancing:

[Stavros]

The No 22 travels down Fulham Road and stops outside the ground, surely? Or within walking distance.

[robertlouis]

The No 22 travels down Fulham Road and stops outside the ground, surely? Or within walking distance.

I'm joking, Stavros. Mourinho is parking them right across the pitch.

[Stavros]

A Scot with a sense of humour? Whatever next? In any case, on this occasion, it didn't work! And Mourinho usually gets it right.

I believe this is the first time a European Cup/Champions League tie will be contested by two teams from the same city.

[robertlouis]

A Scot with a sense of humour? Whatever next? In any case, on this occasion, it didn't work! And Mourinho usually gets it right.

I believe this is the first time a European Cup/Champions League tie will be contested by two teams from the same city.

...and an Englishman without one. :whistle:

Bet Jose wishes he hadn't sold Sturridge. Most noticeable aspect last night was that Terry and Cahill, arguably the most consistent centre back partnership in the EPL, played like complete strangers and that uncertainty opened the gaps which Atletico exploited.

And now, the postcode final!

[The Piper]

Had a feeling Atletico couldn't be as bad as they appeared in the first leg.

[robertlouis]

Is it going to go down to the wire or will it be cut and dried after this weekend's matches?

Fingernails chewed down to the elbows already......

[The Piper]

Fingernails chewed down to the elbows already......

Reds play Monday,you'll have no arms left by then.

RL,"it's a funny ol' game".Who knows?It may even be Chelsea.

If i knew,i'd be down the bookies.

[The Piper]

Well, trust those toffee eating bastards

Don't worry,we'll beat Palace ten-nil on Monday and wipe the goal difference out.

[beaufont]

Have to say that I can't see City losing either of their remaining 2 games, Everton was their potential stumbling block & they managed to get the result which was needed. All Liverpool can do now is keep the pressure on City by winning their remaining games & hope City slip up.

[robertlouis]

Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck.

That is all. :(

[Stavros]

With only a few days left to go, this is still one of the most astonishing seasons in recent memory. It would be a brave, or foolish person who predicts what will happen next....

[The Piper]

Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck.

That is all. :(


X2..

[robertlouis]

With only a few days left to go, this is still one of the most astonishing seasons in recent memory. It would be a brave, or foolish person who predicts what will happen next....

Come on Villa......

More in hope than expectation. :(

[The Piper]

So,City aren't about to lose at home to West Ham on Saturday,only a major shock can stop them.
The dream is over.

[robertlouis]

So,City aren't about to lose at home to West Ham on Saturday,only a major shock can stop them.
The dream is over.

Yes, but till next season. Don't be despondent. At the start of the season if anyone had offered you second place you'd have taken the bet and smiled. We've had a great season with a falter at the wrong time

And we have the Champions' League to look forward to with hopefully some astute strengthening of the squad. I'd be tempted to do some vulture picking from the relegated sides. Caulker as a centre back for one, from Cardiff, maybe Marshall as a keeper, arguably the best in the league this season, and Whittaker, Snodgrass and Redmond from Norwich. Bring Borini back from Sunderland and search all over Europe for someone to do the dirty work that Mascherano excelled at. Gerrard and Lucas are good, but neither can do that job.

And if Southampton want to sell, Lallana would fit better into Liverpool than any of the other big clubs.

Anyone got Mr Henry's email address?

[JenniferParisHusband]

Yes, but till next season. Don't be despondent. At the start of the season if anyone had offered you second place you'd have taken the bet and smiled. We've had a great season with a falter at the wrong time

And we have the Champions' League to look forward to with hopefully some astute strengthening of the squad. I'd be tempted to do some vulture picking from the relegated sides. Caulker as a centre back for one, from Cardiff, maybe Marshall as a keeper, arguably the best in the league this season, and Whittaker, Snodgrass and Redmond from Norwich. Bring Borini back from Sunderland and search all over Europe for someone to do the dirty work that Mascherano excelled at. Gerrard and Lucas are good, but neither can do that job.

And if Southampton want to sell, Lallana would fit better into Liverpool than any of the other big clubs.

Anyone got Mr Henry's email address?


That defense needs to get sorted, and soon. I keep hearing talk of another striker coming in. Some La Liga guy who scored 64 goals. Don't need him. If you're going to lay out the cash on a top striker, bring in Costa and tell Chelski to f-off! But that ain't happening either. Mascherano types are needed, agreed. I'd bring in Marshall as well, but not sure what would happen with Mingolet after that. Both want to be starters, but both need a solid line in front. Usually, to me it seems, a side facing relegation is there because of their defense. I wouldn't poach any of them. But I'd be looking all over Europe and South America for some gamers.

Met John Henry once at the LFC match in Boston. Nice guy, doesn't know dick about football though. Relies heavily on his "guys."

[robertlouis]

That defense needs to get sorted, and soon. I keep hearing talk of another striker coming in. Some La Liga guy who scored 64 goals. Don't need him. If you're going to lay out the cash on a top striker, bring in Costa and tell Chelski to f-off! But that ain't happening either. Mascherano types are needed, agreed. I'd bring in Marshall as well, but not sure what would happen with Mingolet after that. Both want to be starters, but both need a solid line in front. Usually, to me it seems, a side facing relegation is there because of their defense. I wouldn't poach any of them. But I'd be looking all over Europe and South America for some gamers.

Met John Henry once at the LFC match in Boston. Nice guy, doesn't know dick about football though. Relies heavily on his "guys."

Well, Fulham and Cardiff have gone and Norwich are 99% certain to join them. Marshall is a more commanding presence than Mignolet. They're both great shot stoppers but Marshall has a far better football brain.

We shouldn't forget that there's a lot more academy talent behind Flanagan too - Wisdom, Ibe etc.

I think we'll have to fight hard to retain our Champions League spot next year. Man U will come roaring back and Everton are a very different prospect under Martinez. I agree we need consistency in defence, but it starts with depth. And that midfield hard man role is absolutely key.

[The Piper]

Don't be despondent.




I'm Fucking Mortified ;)

[beaufont]

Yes, but till next season. Don't be despondent. At the start of the season if anyone had offered you second place you'd have taken the bet and smiled. We've had a great season with a falter at the wrong time

And we have the Champions' League to look forward to with hopefully some astute strengthening of the squad. I'd be tempted to do some vulture picking from the relegated sides. Caulker as a centre back for one, from Cardiff, maybe Marshall as a keeper, arguably the best in the league this season, and Whittaker, Snodgrass and Redmond from Norwich. Bring Borini back from Sunderland and search all over Europe for someone to do the dirty work that Mascherano excelled at. Gerrard and Lucas are good, but neither can do that job.

And if Southampton want to sell, Lallana would fit better into Liverpool than any of the other big clubs.

Anyone got Mr Henry's email address?

If Liverpool want to establish themselves as a top 4 team players like Snodgrass & Whittaker should not be on their radar - get the feeling that's your Scottish connection. Caulker is a great shout though & Borini back from loan should be like a new signing for them.

[robertlouis]

If Liverpool want to establish themselves as a top 4 team players like Snodgrass & Whittaker should not be on their radar - get the feeling that's your Scottish connection. Caulker is a great shout though & Borini back from loan should be like a new signing for them.


Could be. :whistle:

Although Liverpool's great sides from the 60s onwards usually had a spine of Scotsmen (including my uncle!). Where's Sounness when you need him?

I guess I'm also dubious, going by the track record, of Rodgers' ability to spot quality players elsewhere in Europe who can adapt successfully to the Premiership, so I think looking at proven quality players in or on the way out of the Premier League would make more sense.

And what about Lallana?

[beaufont]

Lallana has had a fantastic season but Southampton will want top dollar for him & if he is available some of the other top clubs will be interested, I actually think he would suit Arsenal's style just as much as Liverpool.

Marshall from Cardiff will be wanted by some Prem clubs too & would be much better competition/cover than Brad Jones. Don't forget they have Assaidi to come back from his loan at Stoke & he looks pretty useful in the wide role. What about Ashley Cole for left back? Chelsea don't seem to want him anymore & can still a decent job.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Come on Hammers!

[JenniferParisHusband]

SON OF A BI.... Next year. We get the defense sorted, keep the statue of David Moyes away, bring in some additional scorers, and next year we win it!

F-ing Mancs.

:banghead :frustrated

[Stavros]

It has been an unpredictable season, even if one of the top four clubs won in the end. I don't think anyone expected Manchester United to perform so badly, and at one time it looked as if Arsenal were going to contest the title. Indeed, had they maintained a full first team with players like Wilshere, Ramsay, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Walcott, they might even be champions, but their harsh training regime and injuries also means England are without an influential player, and Wenger takes his side to the FA Cup when in theory he could be on the way out, and next season I think will be his last.

Liverpool were the outstanding team, playing some of the finest attacking football we have seen in years, but as everyone knows, and as Skrtel's own goal exposed, their defence is not good enough. Suarez redeemed himself in the best possible way, but may only stay for one more season, hard to know.

Yaya Toure is the best player in the league, I think that is beyond doubt. The question over City is whether or not they will fall foul of the Fair Play rules, but as most of the players who won today have now been there for some years, I think it shows they are developing a tight unit that will be in the top four next year, while Pellegrini is a softly-spoken, non-controversial manager who gets things done. I don't know what it is, but I always feel there is something lacking in City which Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool have -perhaps charisma?

On now to the World Cup, with a young side that might surprise everyone...

[robertlouis]

Oh well. At least this season finally confirmed a nagging suspicion that in spite of my supposed detachment I am actually a Liverpool fan. And while other teams, notably Arsenal and City, produced exquisite moments of football joy - Wilshere's goal against Norwich, anyone? - the most exhilarating sight this season has been Liverpool consistently breaking with breathtaking speed, elan and style. Let's hope we can build on with a few well-chosen signings.

And credit to City, they came good when it mattered and Pellegrini has turned a difficult dressing room into a strong unit.

So, on to Brazil.....

[robertlouis]

On now to the World Cup, with a young side that might surprise everyone...

I hope you're right about that - yes, this is a Scotsman speaking!

Hodgson isn't naturally inclined towards surprise, but the number of times he's appeared at St Mary's suggests that there will be a solid core of Southampton players in the squad if not the starting eleven. That said, Lallana has been the best English midfielder all season and would deserve a place alongside Henderson.

We'll know the squad on Monday at 2pm.

[beaufont]

Can't argue too much with the squad he has gone for but think the defence looks decidedly weak with Jones & Smalling acting as right back & centre back cover - both players are massively over-rated in my opinion & wouldn't be slected if they didn't play for Utd.

Hoping Rooney can find the same form he started his England career with & pleased to see Lambert chosen, think he will give us something different & plays with a good football brain. At the very least many of this squad will gain valuable experience for future tournaments.

My belief is that a successful tournament for England will be getting past the group stage with greater achievements to come in the future (hopefully).

[JenniferParisHusband]

It has been an unpredictable season, even if one of the top four clubs won in the end. I don't think anyone expected Manchester United to perform so badly, and at one time it looked as if Arsenal were going to contest the title. Indeed, had they maintained a full first team with players like Wilshere, Ramsay, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Walcott, they might even be champions, but their harsh training regime and injuries also means England are without an influential player, and Wenger takes his side to the FA Cup when in theory he could be on the way out, and next season I think will be his last.

Liverpool were the outstanding team, playing some of the finest attacking football we have seen in years, but as everyone knows, and as Skrtel's own goal exposed, their defence is not good enough. Suarez redeemed himself in the best possible way, but may only stay for one more season, hard to know.

Yaya Toure is the best player in the league, I think that is beyond doubt. The question over City is whether or not they will fall foul of the Fair Play rules, but as most of the players who won today have now been there for some years, I think it shows they are developing a tight unit that will be in the top four next year, while Pellegrini is a softly-spoken, non-controversial manager who gets things done. I don't know what it is, but I always feel there is something lacking in City which Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool have -perhaps charisma?

On now to the World Cup, with a young side that might surprise everyone...

Liverpool lacked defense. It's why they can score an almost record number of goals, but still be lacking on goal differential. If they had a solid back 4 they would have won that last draw instead of giving up three goals, and there would have been someone behind Gerrard to back him up when he slipped against Chelski. We would have won the league if we had a decent back 4.

And I would argue that Suarez is better than Yaya Toure on any given day. Just on goals scored alone I could win that argument.

[Stavros]

Something happened to Suarez before the start of the season. Perhaps that biting incident and the punishment made him focus on what really matters, because before he needed at least 10 shots on goal to score 3, whereas this season his striking was lethal, but also seemed to be informed by a more focused intelligence. If I rate Toure higher it is because he is an all-round better player than Suarez.

[robertlouis]

Nine managers in twelve years?

Maybe the problem is you, Daniel Levy.

[robertlouis]

Inevitability crushes romance.

Arsenal 3, Hull City 2. :(

[Stavros]

More like a crushing bore. If Arsenal don't buy a striker how will they fare next season?

[robertlouis]

So Yaya Toure may be on his way out of the Etihad. Shame, because he is a truly great player who can change games. Like Vieira, but without the destructive aggression.

But if he does go, even City will miss him. Next, where should the disgruntled Milner go to get more first-team games?

[Stavros]

I blame David Cameron for not declaring Yaya Toure's birthday a national holiday. I wonder, would he cross the city and join a proper football club? (I mean Toure, not Cameron...)

[JenniferParisHusband]

I blame David Cameron for not declaring Yaya Toure's birthday a national holiday. I wonder, would he cross the city and join a proper football club? (I mean Toure, not Cameron...)

You might have a better shot with Cameron.

[Stavros]

You might have a better shot with Cameron.

Hmmm...is he about to ask for a transfer? In the meantime there are worrying reports that United may make a move for one-foot-wonder Arjen Robben. And we were told things were going to improve under van Gaal....

[Black coffee]

Hmmm...is he about to ask for a transfer? In the meantime there are worrying reports that United may make a move for one-foot-wonder Arjen Robben. And we were told things were going to improve under van Gaal....

Yesterday player for a yesterday club

[The Piper]

Yesterday player for a yesterday club

:lol:



Don't think Robben was any good even yesterday,very over rated.
Of course he missed his true potential of being a world champion.

[robertlouis]

Apparently David Moyes has been questioned about an alleged assault on a 23-year old man at a wine bar in Clitheroe, Lancashire.

Gosh, imagine that.


A wine bar in Lancashire...... :dancing:

[The Piper]

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/malcolm-glazer-dies-aged-86-9449642.html

[JenniferParisHusband]

Ah, the silly season, when Real Madrid turns its eyes to Suarez in lust, and I have to spend the next couple of months dealing with the "Your star player is leaving" crap.

I hate this time of year....

So, think Liverpool will get 3 new players in its back four, or just 2?

[robertlouis]

Ah, the silly season, when Real Madrid turns its eyes to Suarez in lust, and I have to spend the next couple of months dealing with the "Your star player is leaving" crap.

I hate this time of year....

So, think Liverpool will get 3 new players in its back four, or just 2?

And Fabregas is coming back to England. But Stamford Bridge, Old Trafford, Anfield or the Emirates?

And who should Liverpool sign for their defence?

[The Piper]

Rumours of Ronaldo returning to Manchester,but this time City.Any truth in this??????

[JenniferParisHusband]

And Fabregas is coming back to England. But Stamford Bridge, Old Trafford, Anfield or the Emirates?

And who should Liverpool sign for their defence?

Moreno is supposed to be getting his medical on Monday. That takes care of Left Back. I think he will be very good. Flanagan I think will take over Right Back from Johnson (thank God!) But I still think there needs to be someone more experienced there, and honestly, more world class. I was hoping that Serge Aurier was going to sign with us, but it looks like he's going to Arsenal.

And then there's the problem of the Central Defenders. Lord only knows what to do there. Skrtel is the Own Goal king, Toure is too old. Rodgers hates Agger, Sakho hasn't played enough and when he has he hasn't lead and direct the defense the way we need him to, and then, that's where the depth gets really weak. We need one really good Carragher type (like that's going to be easy to find.) who is world class and can be a leader in the back. And on top of that, we need more quality depth there.

That also means a minimum of three new people on the back line, which is usually a recipe for disaster. So I have no clue what they are going to do.

I do like the Lambert signing, and I think Can will be good too. Shauqri would be a nice pickup too. Not quite sold on Lallana coming in though. That's some pretty heavy looks we are giving to a team that finished a solid 7th, well below us.

Eh, what do I know though. I thought we would finish 5th last season.

[JenniferParisHusband]

And Fabregas is coming back to England. But Stamford Bridge, Old Trafford, Anfield or the Emirates?


Are there any Gooner fans on here? They've gotta be pissed about Cesc going to Chelski.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Well, my World Cup is over. Back to the main team, Liverpool. Any other Reds in here a little disappointed with the transfer window or is it just me?

Suarez is practically gone, and typical Ian Ayre, there's no one to replace him. The Defense is the biggest issue, but they're too cheap to spend for a quality back 4. And like under Kenny, we're going to have a ton of mid-field players.

and most of the new guys are from a team that finished 6 places below us in the table, by a good margin.

Nope, not happy so far. Not happy at all.

YNWA

[JenniferParisHusband]

Well, what a difference a month makes. My Reds have improved in most areas, and dismantled Southampton, who seemed to have our number last season. One week until the start of the season, and while I don't think we are going to win the league, it sure will be nice to be playing Europe again. Hopefully number 6 is on its way!

YNWA

[The Piper]

Hopefully number 6 is on its way!

YNWA

For sure,time i had a new shirt;)

Going to miss RL this winter and his additions to this thread.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Where did he go? I wondered why he wasn't commenting earlier.

!

[Magician]

Great result for Arsenal today! Hopefully Ozil continues to play like he did today!

[JenniferParisHusband]

So, ManU drops 4 unanswered after leading 3-1. It almost eases the pain of that Liverpool loss yesterday.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Anyone still post on here? Was hoping the folks across the pond can tell me how Liverpool really looked against Palace. I'd love to see Stevie G. lift a cup one more time before he goes off to LA. Didn't get to see the match here (Fox's premium channel, wasn't going to pay for just FA Cup matches.)

[JenniferParisHusband]

Not like anyone reads this thread anymore, but what a horrible season for my Reds. Kind of hoping Brendan Rodgers is sacked soon, and that they can convince Klopp to come in. The reality though, Liverpool has a lot of problems, the transfer committee, coaching, Ian Ayre's abilities, so many different needs in a lot of positions, the inability to get talent when plays should want to be there. It's a mess. I'm also pretty pissed that Captain Fantastic is going to LA (although the Galaxy is my MLS team!) when he should have only been loaned out, and given the chance to finish his career as a Red later on.

[Ant]

hope England women can do the it tonight in the semi final, would love us to go through

[JenniferParisHusband]

Sorry they didn't go through, Ant. Hell of a game though, and with a really tragic ending. But its nice to see an England team do well.

[Laphroaig]

Not like anyone reads this thread anymore, but what a horrible season for my Reds. Kind of hoping Brendan Rodgers is sacked soon, and that they can convince Klopp to come in. The reality though, Liverpool has a lot of problems, the transfer committee, coaching, Ian Ayre's abilities, so many different needs in a lot of positions, the inability to get talent when plays should want to be there. It's a mess. I'm also pretty pissed that Captain Fantastic is going to LA (although the Galaxy is my MLS team!) when he should have only been loaned out, and given the chance to finish his career as a Red later on.

As a Liverpool fan, what's your take on the "Sterling Saga"?

Personally, I think he's massively overated (and overpriced). I think Liverpool have done well to get £49 million for someone who will probably simply warm the bench in order to increase Man City's english player quota and who's career will eventually go the same way as Sinclair, Wright Philips, Rodwell, Johnson, etc.

[JenniferParisHusband]

As a Liverpool fan, what's your take on the "Sterling Saga"?

Personally, I think he's massively overated (and overpriced). I think Liverpool have done well to get £49 million for someone who will probably simply warm the bench in order to increase Man City's english player quota and who's career will eventually go the same way as Sinclair, Wright Philips, Rodwell, Johnson, etc.

I think Liverpool made out quite well with the money. I don't think he will warm the bench though. He's a good player, and has a lot of talent. But there is a lot of pressure on him now to earn that money. I don't think he was worth the money spent on him, but the potential is there, if City can bring it out of him. To be honest, if he starts the season well, I think he will let it go to his head and start to slump. If he starts poorly, he will be on the bench. If he does slightly better than average, and earns a [lace among the starters, even if he isn't a scoring machine, I think he will eventually improve. Kid has got a lot of talent, but he's got a Balotelli sized ego, and this probably didn't help it any.

Liverpool definitely got the better end of the bargain though, even if he does turn out to be a legend.

[Laphroaig]

Well, less than a week to the start of the new season, any predictions?

I think Chelsea are still the team to beat and the top 4 will be the same as last year (maybe not in the same order). Transfer window isn't over yet though and I suspect there are still a couple of big signings to be made which could alter the picture.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Wow, this thread is actually active again!

Predictions for the Prem
Chelski wins the league.
Man City finish 2nd, 9 points behind.
Liverpool fire Brendan Rodgers by Christmas, but still finish top 5.
Jurgen Klopp stays retired and does not come to the Prem.
Man U(re) finish 3rd, and Arsenal 4th.
Stoke and Southampton look great for the first ten weeks, then reality sets in.
Everton fire Mancini less than 2 months into the season.
All three of the teams that came up will go back down.
Falcao, and Costa both spend a lot of time out, due to injuries.

La Liga Predictions
Barca are unstoppable, and have the league wrapped up with a month to go.
Atletico Madrid will win both meetings against Real Madrid

Ligue 1
PSV have already won the French league
Marsellies will finish 2nd, Lille probably 3rd.
LOrient are the team from last season who will drop in quality the most, near relegation, if not going down.

UEFA Champions League
This is Barca's year. They will beat a German team, probably Bayern, in the finals and win 2 in a row.
No England team will make the final 4.
Juventus will not make the final 4.

[Laphroaig]

Man City's season will strongly depend on a) Kompany and Toure regaining their form, b) Silva and Aguero remaining fit, and c) the speculation about Guardiola not getting to Pellegrini. I've already given my opinion on the infuence of their new signings (nil) and can easily see them finishing 4th. If another club like Liverpool or Tottenham can get their act together and put in a strong season then they could drop out of the top 4 altogether.

I'm fairly sure Costa wasn't fully fit when he arrived at Chelsea and it will be interesting to see if he can keep fit for a full season. Falcao could be a masterstroke by Mourinho or he could be another Torres. Mourinho likes to play one up front but potentially the pair together could be unstoppable.

Arsenal have made a great signing in Cech, but as usual look a couple of players short of a title winning side. That could yet change.

Man Utd have made some good signings but need to improve defensively and find their best line up before they can be taken seriously as title contenders.

I agree with you about the likes of Stoke and Southampton and that it's a make or break season for Rodgers. Don't think he'll be sacked before Christmas though.

"Everton fire Mancini less than 2 months into the season."

If you mean Martinez then I hope you're wrong. Or was that just the wishfull thinking of a liverpool fan. :)

I don't know enough about the other leagues to make predictions but I do think that (big) if, Falcao is a success and they can tighten up defensively then Chelsea have a chance of European glory. It will take a big effort by any team to dethrone Barca though.

[JenniferParisHusband]

"Everton fire Mancini less than 2 months into the season."

If you mean Martinez then I hope you're wrong. Or was that just the wishfull thinking of a liverpool fan. :)

Well, that could be a little bit of both. Meant Martinez, had City on my mind.

The other leagues, it's getting harder to watch them here in the states, not sure how it is in Scotland. I think the Bundisliga is probably the most entertaining league in the world right now. But it works a little bit like the Scottish league used to when Celtic and Hearts were the two big clubs. You knew one was going to win each year, with an occasional 3rd sneaking into the conversation, but the matches were quick and never lacking for energy. Germany is that way right now. Bayern Munich and Dortmund are the two big teams, and everyone else is playing catch-up. There are some dark horses there this year, like Wolfsburg. They are a dark horse to get far along in the Champions league. But last year they were fun to watch, and have made some acquisitions that make them look pretty good this year.

I don't get a chance to see the German, Portuguese and Italian leagues like I used to, so no predictions there. Everything in the US is going to the pay channels except the Prem. If I lost my Liverpool games, there would be an uprising. We have the Al Jazera sports thing (BeIn Sports) and then Fox Sports has lousy coverage to begin with, doesn't air all the games for their leagues, makes you pay for them, and then has the internet feeds blocked so you can't see them on the internet. If you want to see Valencia or LOrient play, you've pretty much got to wait a week after the match, and then look for highlights. (One more in a long list of reasons to hate Rupert Murdoch!) I watch the other leagues at my local. It's small, but the price I pay for a beer more than makes up for their fees for the matches.

Stoke will be interesting. I think this first match against Liverpool will really determine how their season goes. If they win, they'll be competing for the Europa League. If they lose, and I think they will, they will still be competing, and may even make top 5, but will start to drop come October, maybe even December.

Arsenal always seem to look like they're a few players short. Yet somehow they seem to always keep that 4th spot. I don't get how it happens. Good points about City, I agree about the form an fitness issues. As much as hate City, if they replace with Pep, I think that team is done. Mancini is a long term coach, who is almost always in the mix for the league title. He'd stay another 10 years if he could. Pep doesn't last very long when he goes somewhere. He wins, but he'd leave in three years, and then it would be like David Moyes or something trying to replace him. I have that feeling about Klopp too. I like him, and I think Liverpool would win if he came there, but he wouldn't last very long and then be off for a vacation, or to some other team when he gets homesick for Kraut-land.

I'm pretty sure if Costa and Falcao aren't injured at the same time, Chelsea will survive, and actually do quite well. They've got a Brazilian 19 year old named Kenedy, who I see great things in. Plus it seems strange that Loic Remy is third in line at the forward spot. If both stay healthy and find their form, I may have underestimated how fast they claim the league. But I think they both will be out at least 7 games this season. Costa still looks off, but that first goal he scored just screamed confidence. So, I don't know.

[Laphroaig]

Firstly just to clear something up, Mancini left City a couple of years ago and is now managing Inter (for the second time, after a spell at Galatasaray). Current City Manager is Pellegrini, who was supposed to have been a "long term project" but long term seems to be relative at City.

I do agree with you about Guardiola, and as Mourinho has failed to stay at any club beyond 3 years it will be interesting to see how long his second spell at Chelsea lasts as well.

Remy was always signed as a back up player, in the same way Demba Ba was. He's had his injury problems as well and if you remember, his move to Liverpool collapsed after a failed medical. Hmmm, that means Chelsea have 3 injury prone first team strikers. Never heard of Kennedy but he sounds like someone they will send out on loan (as happened to Lukaku) to gain more experience.

Most of the big European leagues are available here via Sky, if you are prepared to pay the extra for the sports channels. I'm not, so I'm stuck with whatever leftovers the BBC and ITV can pick up.

The Scottish League is dire at the moment. Realistically, Celtic have the title wrapped up already and it's just the race for second place...

[Laphroaig]

Forgot to add, Celtic and HEARTS!!! Hearts last won the Scottish league over 50 years ago. They have however, just been promoted having won the Championship. Even better, Motherwell won last years play off, thus condemming Rangers (who I assume you meant to say) to (at least) one more season outwith the top flight.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Again, you're right. This is why you don't post at 2 am after working all day. The mind wanders to strange places when tired. Are Rangers still trying to work their way into the EPL? I haven't heard about that for a while. Not a chance in the world of it happening, but I was wondering if they were still trying to push for it. I don't know if they could compete against the big EPL teams for revenue, but there is a part of me that kind of likes the thought of Scottish teams competing across England the way Welch teams do.

[Laphroaig]

The attempts by Rangers and Celtic to get into the English leagues has stopped for now but I'm sure once Rangers reestablish themselves in the top division, the topic will eventually rear it's ugly head again.

Rangers (and even moreso Celtic) are huge global brands with fans all round the world. Both (when in the top flight) can regularly attract home crowds of over 50,000. Celtic's average home gate last season was around 44,000. Not many English Premiership clubs can beat or even match that. There's no doubt that in terms of attendance and the global fans they attract, they would both be an asset to the English league.

What holds the Scottish game back is the lack of TV money and as a direct result a lack of big sponsorship deals. At the moment Scottish football lags way behind the English game. But, hypothetically, either club, given the support they have and with access to the kind of funds available to the EPL could easily compete in the top 10. It would take a few years to build the teams up to that level though.

The rules over which leagues clubs can play in are somewhat "murky". For example Berwick Rangers (based south of the border in Berwick upon Tweed) have hapily played in the Scottish leagues for years and of course, you've mentioned the example of Welsh teams playing in England. Of course (rightly so) objections by the clubs that they would ultimatly replace in the English league are likely to scupper any plans.

[JenniferParisHusband]

The only thing I ever really worried about with the talk of them joining the EPL was the Champions League. England already has 4 spots, I think Scotland has 1, for the top team, and the second is Europa? Not sure on that, but it sounds right. The Scottish teams would get a bit more exposure, even in the Championship, but that spot would go to Spain, or Germany or something.

[Laphroaig]

I won't even pretend to understand how UEFA allocates the European places. It's all to do with each countries "coefficient".

At the moment Scotland has 1 champions league place but the club winning it has to play (at least) 2 qualifying ties to get to the proper group stages. Celtic play Malmo next to get to the league stage.

There are 2 europa places, 1 to the runners up and 1 to the cup winners. Both have to play (at least) 3 rounds before reaching the group stage. St Johnstone were knocked out at the first hurdle and Aberdeen lost last night in the 3rd round.

To be honest, things couldn't get much worse than they already are...

How are Gerrard and Lampard getting on in the MLS?

[JenniferParisHusband]

I got lucky, I was an LA Galaxy fan from when I lived in LA, even though I live closer to another (crappier) team now. The MLS is a strange league. It is a lot tougher than people give it credit for being. It's nowhere near the elite European leagues yet, but I watch a team in Spain like Real Madrid, and expect them to destroy any MLS team. Then I watch a team like Villareal, and I think, "Oh the Galaxy would just slaughter them, even on a bad day." Watching the MLS is literally like watching Ligue Un, if you took away the top 6 teams. The fans are actually kind of brilliant. They are really starting to become like true European fans (obnoxious at times, and with cheeky chants). The thing they don't quite get yet, is that the talent from abroad is still light years better.

I look at Stevie G, and think the man is a genius. My friend who is an MLS fanatic thinks we paid too much for him. He's only scored one goal, and two assists. But I watch him, and the magic is still there, he's just not sure how to play with these guys. The MLS is a different kind of beast. It's almost a thug league where creativity is a shortcoming, and you really have to power your way to goals. Like 80's English football, I guess. But it's still Steven Gerrard. The passes are magic, you can see the years of instinct there, and what he wants to do with plays, but the other guys on the team just don't seem to play at that level. I think the Galaxy was a poor fit for his style and abilities, so he gets the "old" label. He'd have done better with DC or Columbus. I would never wish playing in Columbus on my worst enemy though. That town is awful. Of course, the Stadium in LA is near South Central and Watts, so it's not exactly a wonderland either.

Lampard. Frak me I hate that guy, still. And New York FC might as well be Man City's bench. I don't really know what's going on with him. Last I checked, he has only been in 1 game, and barely played 15 minutes of it. That team is loaded with Midfielders though, and I think Pirlo gets played more often. There's a US National Team player named Mix Diskerud, he's one of the stars of the league, and the MLS really encourages US Men's team players get a lot of starts. But he's still floating around 16 games, 3 goals and a few assists. So NYFC isn't lighting up the league. At this rate, I think Lampard is going to be leaving New York soon anyway. If he doesn't retire, he may go off to someplace like Bristol Rovers. Frankie is probably having the harder time of it. For now anyway, Gerrard gets more first team action.

Yeah, that sucks. Hopefully Celtic will move on to the group stage. The only thing I really have against the Champions League is the monotony of the teams that are in the final rounds each year. It may be an American thing, but I'd really like to see a team like my Lorient, which has no chance of ever competing against the PSG's, and Lille's of the world, win the cup. Instead Real Madrid will probably get their 11th. Although I'm still confident that Barca is unstoppable. But that's the only real reason I would like to see Celtic and Rangers in the Prem, and maybe fold the Scottish league in to England. The theory is that it would force those teams to compete. Don't think it would work in practice. I mean, Swansea isn't getting anywhere near Europe for a while. But its a nice thought.

[Laphroaig]

Well, I've been proved wrong on a couple of things already. Both Pellegrini and Mourinho have just signed new long term contracts. Mind you contracts in football are nearly meaningless these days.

I'm watching the highlights of yesterdays EPL just now.

Thanks for the insight into the MLS, I admit to almost complete ignorance about football (I refuse to call the game soccer) in America.

Swansea actually did quite well in the Europa league a couple of years ago, getting out of the group stages and ultimately being knocked out by Napoli. The trade off was that their league form sufferred hugely that season.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Yeah, I'm waiting for Rogers to get a new contract, then will laugh as Liverpool go into an October meltdown, and they fire him.

Hey I don't blame you for not wanting to call it soccer. We got stuck with the name because of the Brits. They said "We'll call it Soccer" and once we started saying it they were like "Screw it, we'll call it football." We just didn't bother to go back.
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/the-rio-report/mystery-solved-don-t-blame-usa-real-reason-123344142.html

It's really hard to watch the MLS sometimes if you really like the European game. It is a different beast right now. All physical, less creative. I think of it as the England teams in the 60's and 70's, compared with today's game. They're catching up. But if you are used to watching European teams play, it really is like watching a kids league. But, the good thing is, we are learning, and learning quickly. We've actually got a few leagues, and hopefully in the next 20 years will develop a tier system like most of the other leagues use. But right now, the MLS is the top group, no relegation, and there is a second lower tier in the NASL, (Yes, it sounds like Nasal) North American Soccer League, and the third tier USL. It gets frustrating because there is no relegation, and teams end up in the MLS not because of the fan support or talent, but because the city is big enough to support a team with attendance over a certain level. So the reality becomes, there are some awful MLS teams which make the league look boring, and some brilliant NASL teams who never get seen.

I've got to be honest, I don't know why the women's leagues aren't catching on in Europe the way they did here. But the women's league is probably the best football you can watch here in the States.

I must have blocked Swansea in the Europa League out of my head the way I do all the England participants in Eurovision. (Honestly, can't remember a damn one without having to look them up! But the Russian girl this year, damn!) How far back was that? Was that a Brendan Rogers team?

If you are watching the highlights from today, I can save you some time. Liverpool and Stoke was a cure for insomnia up until about the 75th minute.

[Laphroaig]

Interesting link.

Womens football (righty or wrongly) has a reputation for poor quality. There was a spark of interest in the media when it looked like England might reach the World Cup Final but with their ultimate failure, it's almost immediately vanished. I'll be honest, I didn't watch a single minute of the recent womens world cup and I know many avid football fans who simply won't give womans football the time of day. If womens football in Europe is to be successful, they need to target the next generation of supporters. Most of us "traditional" supporters are too stuck in our ways to pay any attention to it. That may well be our loss but it's pretty much the way it is.

As for Swansea, it was 2013/14, so Laudrup (although the last fixture might have been Monk)

http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2014/clubs/club=52659/matches/index.html

I didn't watch the highlights from yesterday. I had the Liverpool game on the radio in the background and even the commentator called it boring...

Still, early season games are more about the results than the performance. Brendan Rodgers and Louis Van Gaal will be fairly happy, Mourinho will be annoyed and Wenger might be suicidal.

[Jamietxox]

So what does everybody reckon to Mourinho's treatment of the Chelsea first team doctor then?

[Laphroaig]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33890769

It's ridiculous. She was called onto the field by the ref and was just doing her job. The health of the players should always come first.
Even worse is the response to her facebook post, thanking everyone for their support.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33906491

[JenniferParisHusband]

So what does everybody reckon to Mourinho's treatment of the Chelsea first team doctor then?

I don't like Mourinho, for the obvious reasons, but also because he has a tendency to act like a tool from time to time. This was definitely one of those times. There is so much concern about concussions and player health now, and to go after a doctor for doing her job. Ludicrous. If would be different if this were some local yob who ran out onto the pitch, but like Laph said, the Ref waved her on. Play wasn't going to continue, Hazard would have to leave the pitch anyway. There was always going to be a point where Chelski had 9 men on, and the amount of time lost wasn't that much. Ultimately, it didn't even matter. Watching that match, there was nothing the shite-blues were going to do to change that outcome, even if they had 20 men on the pitch.

If the physio hadn't been a woman, Mourinho wouldn't have made the comments. He's a pig. And the lack of class shown by the fans to her is disgusting.

[JenniferParisHusband]

I love how Wayne Goonie forgets that Goal Differential matters, and instead of putting a one on one with the keeper away against Villa, decides to shoot if off for a throw in. Apparently he doesn't have "just enough education to perform."

[Laphroaig]

I don't know if it's true but from what I've heard of the match, it was a full hour before Rooney (or Shrek as we usually call him) actually got a touch in the opposition box.

Roll on tomorrows big game, Man City v Chelsea. Although, 9 times out of 10, the games with the big build up are the damp squibs.

ps. What did you make of Barca's humiliation by Bilbao?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33939433

[JenniferParisHusband]

Barca's match was a fluke. Messi looked out of sorts the whole time. I don't think that the squad that came out on the pitch knew how to play together either. I don't know if that was from Bilbao's form and plan, or if it was just an off day, I'm guessing it was an off day. I would not want to be the team that plays them next. This might have been the wake up call from a season where they thought they could win on cruise control. I still think they are the team to beat in Europe.

I got to Man U(re)'s match late on. I think about the 80th minute. But they didn't look like they were winning in convincing fashion while I was watching. When Shrek got the ball at the end and had a one on one with keeper, he could have easily made a move to get the keeper to commit, and gone the other way and scored. He was that open. It's sporting that he wanted to take the 1-0 win and all, and put it in the corner to kill the clock. But he only took a second off it before giving it back. If he had put it in the back of the net, that game was over. I just don't get it.

NBC just played the first hour of the Swansea documentary "Jack to a King" today, we get part 2 next weekend. Didn't get to Laudrup, but maybe next week. I'm sure they'll mention the Europa League thing. Probably never would have started watching it though if not for our conversation earlier. Thanks!

[JenniferParisHusband]

City 3, Chelski 0.

867990

[Femino]

City 3, Chelski 0.

867990

hi) do you know where is henry now? is he retired or smt?)

[JenniferParisHusband]

https://www.facebook.com/ThierryHenry/posts/882120155174199

He announced his retirement a while back. I don't see him in the MLS anymore, I might need to check with Laph, but I think he's on Sky Sports now.

[Laphroaig]

I'm sure he's retired from professional football.

As to what he's doing now, he occassionally turns up as a guest studio pundit when Arsenal are playing a big match and I think he does similar work on French TV. I'm sure he was at the last World Cup with French TV. I don't have Sky, so I couldn't tell you if he's on there or not.

Unless they go into management or TV, even world class footballers like Henry tend to drop off the radar and into obscurity fairly quickly.

[Laphroaig]

Transfer window in England shuts on Tuesday at 6pm. It's a bank holiday on Monday, hence why they are out of step with most of the rest of Europe. (Not for the first time...:tongue:)

Any predictions on who the last minute big or panic buys will be?

[JenniferParisHusband]

Nah, I never what happens during silly season. I know what Liverpool needs, and I know that last year panicking got them Mario Balotelli, so the only prediction I think I can safely make is that they won't make a panic buy this year. the rest of the teams... No clue. Arsenal needs a striker, Wenger is stubborn and won't buy anyone. But "the Hair" needs a better partner if the gooners want to challenge for the top spot. On the good side, I'll be able to listen to goner fans crying on talk sport when the window closes about how high their ticket prices are, and how Wenger doesn't try. For a Liverpool fan, that never really gets old.

[Laphroaig]

I think there's still a couple of big signings along with a few surprises to come before the transfer window shuts.

My prediction though is that the biggest news will be Man Uniteds embarrassing failure to bring in another "star" name after making a last minute bid for Bale, Neymar or whoever else they might target.

On other news, the latest controversy to hit the upcoming Russian World Cup.

http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jul/22/russian-football-miss-charming-contest-winner-neo-nazi-row

[JenniferParisHusband]

It always strikes me as odd when you see someplace, like Russia, that should have a very anti-Nazi stance, given the history, with little Neo-Nazis running around. I guess Puti-poot is too worried about gay people to care. When I lived in England (briefly) I went to a Lille match. The Nazi thing there was unsettling to say the least. The more I read, the more it's all over Europe. I just don't get it.

Russia.... I think it's too late to take the World Cup away from them. Same with Qatar. Plus, I think it's time there was a World Cup in the Middle East. I think it might do some good for them to get exposed to the World. But this is one more thing that FIFA and that arse Blatter should be held accountable for. Corrupt bastards.

[Laphroaig]

Well, I was half right, Man U were an embarrassment but not in the way I predicted.

This probably isn't the place to discuss Russian politics and I don't know much about it anyway. However, while I agree that on the surface it's strange that Russia, given their history, should have any element of Naziism, I suspect that a strong part of it is driven by "Nationalism" (obvious example being the British National Party) and Russians have always had a strong sense of national pride. At present, Russia is being isolated due to the situation in Ukraine and it's easy to see how those circumstances could become a breeding ground for Nazi culture. It's also in Putin's (short term) interests as it deflects attention from his own incompetence and puts the blame for Russia's problems on "minority groups" in exactly the same way Hitler placed the blame for Germany's problems.

I do agree that it's too late to take the World Cup off them and it would be a hollow gesture anyway after they recently hosted the Winter Olympics.

FIFA and Blatter do have a LOT to answer for...

[JenniferParisHusband]

Eh, no one else seems to be using this thread, might as well talk about what we want to talk about.

The Russian National Pride thing is scary. I see it here in the States, and it scares me about here. It's like there's this whole segment of the world that can't look back at history and say "Oh yeah, that's why all that happened." I live in a part of Ohio that is.... well, I guess Redneck is the best term for it. I like to travel, study, learn about other people and cultures, most of the people at the bar I was in the other night do not. A soldier came into the bar, everyone stood up and clapped. They sang the national anthem for him. I sat there drinking my beer and did nothing, I was asked to leave. On my way out, got called Commie, told I wasn't a real American. That to me is incredibly scary. I see Russia, you've got the Nationalism, and the race thing, and the anti-gay thing going on. Putin is driving it, and he's pretty much got power secured for a long long time. It is very reminiscent of WWII, especially if you look at annexing the Sudetenland...I mean Crimea. But that's how power works to stay in power, Republicans in the USA are great for this, always be the victim, and nothing is your fault, find a scapegoat, and be as patriotic and nationalistic as you can. We are nowhere near as bad as Russia, or LePen's party in France (the name is escaping me), and even UKIP to a smaller extent. But seeing how much this has been on the rise in just the last 3 years, it is troublesome.

While we are detouring on politics, what is going on in the UK with Syrian Rebels? I'm watching what is going on with the Hungary/Germany thing right now. I'm honestly torn about this. They are fleeing for their lives, they risk being tortured, killed, or starved to death, so I am of the belief that nations who can help, should help. But then I look at France. I'm sure you've been to Paris. Have you ever taken the train down through the Chunnel? There's a small town just north of Paris where the Eurostar slows down, it's also the last city on the Metro line going north. I went there one time, just to walk around. It's all Muslim. There are no jobs there for them, the French don't want them in with rest of the population, and the anger of the population there is intense. I pretty much walked over to a restaurant, looked in the window, crossed back over the canal and went home. People were literally following me with sticks. The attackers of that Jewish grocery, and one of the Charlie Hebdo attackers had lived there for a while. It breeds Anti-Western sentiment in those people. I see Germany doing the same thing, sticking them in their own village and letting them fend for themselves, making it hard to get work, etc. It's like no one ever looks around Europe and sees what is going on either. Just curious to know if the UK is actually trying to plan for this.

But back to football. What do you think of United's latest signing? A bit expensive for someone so unproven right? He's only 6 million less than Suarez.

[Laphroaig]

Yes, I've been to Paris, but about 10 years ago and I flew there. I've never used the chunnel, something I intend to rectify one day but probably not soon.

I honestly think the politicians, all across Europe, not just the UK, don't have a clue how to handle the refugee crisis. Despite a lot of talk, there's no unified strategy and i doubt there will be. It's "every country for themselves" with them all bickering and blaming each other for not doing enough.

There will always be arguments over whether certain countries (including the UK) are pulling their weight. The big irony that I see at the moment is that it's the countries least equipped to deal with it (at least economically) that are very much in the front line. I watched a news story a few days ago about a small Greek island, population around 150, that was getting 300 refugees landing on there shores every day. Small communities like that simply can't cope for long under pressures like that and let's face it Greece's economy is precarious enough without the extra burden. I can't find a link to that particular article but there are plenty of other similar examples.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/greece/11835134/Greek-holiday-island-of-Lesbos-overwhelmed-by-13000-refugees-and-migrants.html

One of the big issues is distinguishing between genuine refugees and economic migrants. The prevailing opinion in the UK is that refugees would seek asylum in the first European country they entered, whilst anyone prepared to trek all the way across Europe (and across the Channel) to the UK must be a migrant either looking to "take jobs away from hard working Brits" or "scrounge on the benefit system". As such, sympathy for them is in fairly short supply.

As to United's latest signing, never heard of him before and if I'm honest, without resorting to google, I've already forgotten his name. Mind you I'd never heard of Cristiano Ronaldo or Bebe before they moved to United so I guess it could go either way...

I'll be interested to see how Virgil van Dijk adapts to the Premiership after his move from Celtic to Southampton. Following in the footsteps of Wanyama, who's been a big hit at Southampton and I'm slightly surprised hasn't moved on to a "bigger" club in this window.

[Laphroaig]

Yeah, I'm waiting for Rogers to get a new contract, then will laugh as Liverpool go into an October meltdown, and they fire him.


Well, that's one prediction you've got right so far...

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34423344

[JenniferParisHusband]

Kind of wish I wasn't right about. Would have rather they fired him last year after the other meltdown. But the owners just know fuck all about football. So, they'll bring in Klopp, handcuff him with a transfer committee or some crap, January window will pass with no improvement, Summer will pass with no improvement, and we'll become the new model Totenham. <sigh.>

[Laphroaig]

Brendan Rodgers sacked, Dick Advocat leaving Sunderland, and it's only the beginning of October. The Premiership merry go round continues...

Wouldn't be too surprised to see Mourinho depart soon as well, Abramovic isn't exactly known for his patience... Assuming Klopp get's the Liverpool job, I wonder what odds I'd get on Carlo Ancelotti making a "shock" return to Stamford Bridge before Christmas.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Brendan Rodgers sacked, Dick Advocat leaving Sunderland, and it's only the beginning of October. The Premiership merry go round continues...

Wouldn't be too surprised to see Mourinho depart soon as well, Abramovic isn't exactly known for his patience... Assuming Klopp get's the Liverpool job, I wonder what odds I'd get on Carlo Ancelotti making a "shock" return to Stamford Bridge before Christmas.

Ancelloti probably won't go to either. He's still recovering from the back surgery and has publicly stated he won't be managing any team until at least next season. But, if Ancelotti came back under the Russian, I think Chelski has all the tools they need to fulfill my other prediction about them winning the league. But at this point, City really needs to screw up, and have a lot of injuries. My bet, Mourinho isn't going anywhere unless he seriously pisses off Abramovic. And if he does, probably Frank De Boer. If it's the end of the season, Abramovic will probably make Pep G. the richest manager in all of football.

I'm still not convinced Advocat leaving Sunderland is a good move for them. Something wasn't working, which seems odd considering how they did towards the end of last season. I don't think they are going to get anyone better in there. Who is out there that would actually go to Sunderland? Big Sam Allerdyce? He will go anywhere (multiple times!)

That said, I really wanted Klopp, because I figured he is the overwhelming fan choice and might hold out until the Yanks got rid of that stupid transfer committee. Everything I've seen though, says he won't fight it, and the transfer committee stays. Even if he has final say over players, he's got to get a committee on the same page as him, and if Brendan couldn't do that, I can't see a guy who barely speaks English doing so. It kind of spells disaster. So if the transfer committee isn't going to go away, I kind of want someone who isn't a legendary coach, because they're going to fail, and Fenway Sports Group will never get the hint that they're the ones fucking up the works.

[Laphroaig]

I didn't know about Ancelotti's back surgery, just read a few stories that his name was being thrown into the ring for the liverpool job and assummed he must be available.

Again, at the moment just stories but Liverpool are looking to have Klopp in place by the end of the week.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34448282

I red somewhere (but can't find it again) that Klopp was "happy" to work with the transfer committee at Liverpool as long as he had the final say.

I think the problem with Advocat at Sunderland was that in truth he didn't want to be there. He was going to leave at the end of last season and only changed his mind at the last minute. Given the way this season has gone for Sunderland, I think it was only a matter of time before he jumped. Allerdyce is certainly among the names mentioned and if nothing else would be a "safe pair of hands".

[JenniferParisHusband]

So.... uh.... remember when I put the jinx on Chelsea by saying they would win the league.... Since it's either my Jinx or Eva's curse, I'm going to stay with it. Chelsea is going to win the league. So is Arsenal, Man U, an City. They're all going to win the league. Hope the jinx works on them too!

[Laphroaig]

Having just re-read my predictions for the season, all I can say is thank fuck I'm not a betting man...:)

[JenniferParisHusband]

So, Jose Mourinho is out at Chelsea. I guess there's still time for my prediction of them winning the league to happen... they're in 16th in the tables, so probably not, but there's still a chance. Any thoughts on where he might end up next? There's a part of me that would like Jose to take over the USA Men's squad. That too will never happen, but wouldn't it be cool if it did.

Chelski seems to be linked with Pep G, as are Man(U)re, City, and Real Madrid. No chance he's going to end up there. Any thoughts on who might come in, and when?

[Laphroaig]

Despite their recent run of poor form, Mourinho's sacking seems to have come as a susprise here. The prevaling thought was that Chelsea might as well stick with him till the end of the season.

With my track record I shouldn't make predictions. The problem I see is that any manager they bring in now will know that he's only keeping the seat warm before Chelsea push hard to get Guardiola in the summer. If they don't get Pep, then any alternative will know that they are "second best"

It's rumoured that Guardiola is about to announce that he will leave Bayern at the end of the season. As you say Man City are very keen (and will also allegedly try to sign Messi and Pogba to tempt him). Guardiola himself apparently prefers the Man U option.

You might want to sit down for this, but one name that I heard thrown into the Chelsea ring was... Brendan Rodgers.

As to where Jose will go next. He's shown time and time again to be a great short term fix, but poor at building a long term legacy. In that sense, Real Madrid might not be as daft as it sounds. Football is fickle and has a short memory.

Mourinho has one major ambition left though and that's to manage an international team. He's indicated in the past that in addition to the obvious option of Portugal, he's open to managing England. I think he might take a little break until after the European Championships and assess his options then.

[JenniferParisHusband]

I'd be happy to let Chelsea have Brendan Rodgers. Ol Bodgers may have had a decent win record, but he can't manage players, and can't manage a game when he gets down. He will let his squad get down by 2 goals, and wait until the 75th minute to do something. It was very strange.

I shouldn't make predictions either. I'll just say, as long as my Liverpool make the Top 5 this year, I'll be happy. Half the year was wasted on Rodgers. We're not too far back right now, but January is going to be a rough month for my Reds.

I was surprised as well by it. There were a lot of injuries, and let's be honest, I think Costa is a bit of a cancer to a locker room. He's a new model Mario Balotelli, with his issues staying on the field. I would have thought keeping the manager that got you the title, and getting rid of the attitude problems would have been the better option. Especially this close to the transfer window. it didn't make a lot of sense. Real Madrid would be funny, it would the second time in 3 years he will be replacing Rafa. LOL. I know he'd never come the USA, but I'd really love Jose to manage the American Outlaws. It would be a great thing for the USA. never happen though.

Pep, in the short term, I'd worry about him at Manchester (either) as he could rebuild them. But he never stays anywhere for the long term. (The Daily Fail just said he was a shock candidate to replace Wenger at Arsenal too.) 4 years at Barca, not including the B team, and only a couple at Bayern. If you were a Manchester Fan, you'd just get used to him being there, and then he'd be ready to move on. Klopp will at least give you 7 years. And by then he'd have moved them over to a style of play which isn't really the English style. I used to like watching Bayern. It's so boring now. I can't imagine that sitting well long term with fans who are used to the English game. But, he wins, and when he leaves, the teams tend to keep doing well. so I guess there's that. if he goes to ManU, he's got a lot of things to fix. Arsenal just needs some additional pieces and a few upgrades, but holy smokes United is looking old. (Except maybe Martial). I think I'd go the City route if I were Pep, but then again, that's why he's a manager and I'm an unemployed lawyer.

[Laphroaig]

Candidates to replace Mourinho.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/35125699

Where he might go next.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/35125720

Your points about Pep are interesting as I hadn't thought about him in that way before. Annoyingly I can't now find the article (also from the bbc) which claimed his preference was for Man U. It also outlined his plan to manage Brazil in the 2022 World cup (and presumably the qualifiers prior to that).

[peejaye]

Brendan Rodgers is like a woman...... he's very good at spending all your money!

[JenniferParisHusband]

Brendan Rodgers is like a woman...... he's very good at spending all your money!

And not giving you anything that makes you happy, in return for spending it.
YNWA

[JenniferParisHusband]

Candidates to replace Mourinho.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/35125699

Where he might go next.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/35125720

Your points about Pep are interesting as I hadn't thought about him in that way before. Annoyingly I can't now find the article (also from the bbc) which claimed his preference was for Man U. It also outlined his plan to manage Brazil in the 2022 World cup (and presumably the qualifiers prior to that).

Forgot about Ramos still being out there. Now that would be a good fit, and a really interesting choice. He built a really good defensive unit at Madrid. In any other league he would have won consistently with that team, if not for Barcelona's spending and owning most of the top level strikers in football. Simeone, I was hoping either him or Klopp would go to Anfield. Now that we have Klopp, I am really hopeful Simeone stays in Spain. Another excellent manager, and I really don't want to see him there. He can build a team out of nothing, and do it cheaply. I'd hate to see what he could do with Russian cash.

I saw the Pep article, no worries. As we approach the winter silly season, I spend a lot of time on NewsNow looking at Liverpool Transfer rumors, and a lot of our targets would seem to prefer a move to U, if Pep decides to go there.

Brazil would be a good move for Jose, and Brazil. I think he'd improve Coutinho and Firmino, and after the past year, Brazil could use a lot of improvement.

[dreamon]

Speaking of bloody football, it's great to have a team back in Los Angeles for the first time in 21 years. The Rams are LA's team. Hopefully the Chargers stay in San Diego because they are SD's team.

[JenniferParisHusband]

Holy Smokes! How about that England win over Germany! That Vardy goal was one for the ages.

[Laphroaig]

Scored against Holland as well, Hodgson has to take Vardy, along with Kane to the Euro's now. Rooney will be there as well, which leaves Hodson choosing between Sturridge, Wellbeck, Sterling and Walcott for the other forwards place in the squad. Though a couple of those could take midfield places instead.

You've got to feel sorry for Butland though, superb all season and a fractured ankle ruins both his game against Germany and his oppertunity to go to the Euro's.

ps. I still think Vardy's volley against Liverpool was better. You may not want to watch this (again)...:hide-1:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lnncn1Hd3g8

[JenniferParisHusband]

You may not want to watch this (again)...:hide-1:



Yeah..... I really didn't want to see that again. :pissed:

On the good side, Roy can stop breaking Daniel Sturridge now!

[Laphroaig]

Yeah..... I really didn't want to see that again. :pissed:

On the good side, Roy can stop breaking Daniel Sturridge now!

I don't know if you heard the rumour that PSG are considering a £50 million bid for Sturridge to replace Ibrahimovic. Probably no more than newspaper gossip, although PSG will be looking for a big name striker over the summer, I'm not sure that Sturridge fits the bill though.

[JenniferParisHusband]

I've hear that. Yeah, I like Sturridge, and I think he will probably go to PSG. But he's no replacement for Ibrahimovic. Too often injured. Even still, PSG will win Ligue Un with him. Will be nice to see him get a league Championship medal, because he won't get one with us. I was hoping Ibrahimovic would come to Liverpool. But he won't, for the exact same reasons he will never go to Manchester. Manchester is no Paris. He likes his nightlife. Arsenal might have a shot. But I don't see City or Man U(re).

Personally, I think Ibrahimovic is going to be a bust in the Prem. That French league, as much as I enjoy watching it, is some really weak competition. And a lot more physical. He's getting old, and while good, probably has about 3 more good seasons in him if he stays healthy. But when you watch him on his national team, he doesn't shine as brightly as he does at PSG. Martial is selfish with the ball, and so is Ibrahimovic. That's a match made in hell, and with the rest of that team starting to age, and lose quality, I think he is not going to make a difference there. But that's just me. Of course, he still looks great at PSG.

[Laphroaig]

The silly season with regard to transfer rumours is slowly buiding momentum so it's getting more difficult to separate fact from bullshit. However, plenty of reason to believe that Man Utd are preparing for a clearout including cutting their losses on both Depay and Martial, who's been linked with a move back to France. If (and it's still a big if) Mourinho joins Man Utd, then that might tip the balance on where Ibrahimovic decides to end his career.

Not sure I agree with you about his international career, 62 goals in 111 caps is a pretty good record. He's also stood up and been counted in some big games. Sweden may have been beaten by Portugal (4 -2 on aggregate) in the World Cup play offs, but Ibrahimovic's double in the second leg at least gave Portugal a fright. He also bagged 3 of Sweden's 4 goals in their 4-3 aggregate win over Denmark in the Euro's play off.

As a Scotsman, of course his finest achievement is scoring all 4 of Sweden's goals against England, including this now legendary strike. Shame it was only a friendly...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ck5P30zC3Z0