Euro 2008 (Official Man City LOL Thread) [Archive] - Page 78

Surtr

07-21-2008, 02:21 PM

beckham is there a year now, read a review recently and the guy said that top flight soccer in america is about league one in england, mls, majorly lacking skill, apparently

Mhm just read that today on BBC.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7517248.stm

Its basically true. Its just not skilled enough to be taken as seriously over there as any other sport. Its got a growing fan base but in the end you still get more outa' flicking on the TV and watching a few Premier League matches with some mates, than you ever would outa' paying all that money to go watch some very average Football. That being said I'm not going to say its all bad, but I'd so much more rather watch Prem. on TV than go to one of the MLS matches.

Anyways, have we put up a Fantasy Premiership league up yet? I've begun working on my team, just in advance and things will change some as we work our way up to the start of the season, but I'm just curious when someone's going to get the league up and what the number is for it and stuff.

Iai

07-21-2008, 04:58 PM

It's set up, check a couple pages back.

mph4ever

07-22-2008, 05:19 AM

Frankie

07-22-2008, 07:32 AM

Makelele has been released then ey ?

Essien is pretty guaranteed a starting place now and rightfully so

TakeWarning

07-22-2008, 11:27 AM

essien is an excellent player and might just be one of the cornerstones of chelsea's rise to being one of the elite

and what do you southern hemisphere folks make of emerton. bought with the proceeds of duff leaving, paid fairly big money for him too, £10m or something like that. i know the blackburn fans think fit emerton much> injured duff, but overall how does brett stack up?

When I've seen him for Blackburn he's been nothing special, but he's absolutely brilliant whenever he plays for Australia.

Everton have bid 18m for Moutinho. Would be a great move for Everton, who haven't brought in anyone all window.

mph4ever

07-22-2008, 01:22 PM

yeah, i've seen him for blackburn, to me they seem to place a lot more defensive responsibilities on him than he had in holland. has he more freedom with australia?

Britney Diva

07-22-2008, 06:30 PM

I did notice the keepers are pretty good in MLS.
This is pretty much sums up MLS:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-B6ucoSoIy4

Pastorius

07-22-2008, 06:42 PM

Phew. I was having a pretty good chuckle at that, Darren Huckerby being lauded as a legend!

But really, he seemed very modest during that interview, and the interviewer seemed a bit taken aback when he didn't have a famous girlfriend with something to promote :lol:

Frankie

07-22-2008, 06:42 PM

Wow, just wow.

to think I thought John Barnes was bad :')

Pastorius

07-22-2008, 06:47 PM

pass and move, it's the liverpool groove

Frankie

07-22-2008, 06:56 PM

Fulham have been on a spending spree this summer, Zomora from West Ham and apparently Andy Johnson is on his way :|

Probably good as they need a replacement for McBride

Pastorius

07-22-2008, 07:01 PM

That's 2 good purchases. How's it going Frankie lad?

Frankie

07-22-2008, 07:17 PM

Well they've bough more I jsut can remember who

and aye am nee bad mate just watching some boro tin tin videos on youtube. Absolutely quality.

Pastorius

07-22-2008, 07:23 PM

Tell you who Fulham have got is Bullard. He's such a quality player I can't believe he hasn't had more interest. Got him in my fantasy team, love the way he plays.

Frankie

07-22-2008, 07:27 PM

Aye they missed him last season. He'll give them a boost this season.

Pastorius

07-22-2008, 07:29 PM

He was there for some of the season though. One of the best free kicks in the prem he's got. I like Fulham like, well glad they're still around, was rooting for them to stay up.

Liverpool got another pre-season draw, start as you mean to go on lads...

sgrevs

07-22-2008, 10:13 PM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__nKLrY9FrQ&feature=related

How's that for a cracker?

poorquality

07-23-2008, 04:31 AM

The mind games begin early.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/7520773.stm

Do you think he has a point? They've signed Deco who is also aging, they're after Robinho to be fair, but otherwise their squad age must be quite old.

TakeWarning

07-23-2008, 04:51 AM

I think Fergie the Red Nose Reindeer could well eat his words later on.

Chelsea got pretty close to the Carling Cup, Premier League and Champion's League, and look to be improving their squad.

Frankie

07-23-2008, 05:04 AM

poorquality

07-23-2008, 05:31 AM

Carvalho 30
Beletti 32
Lampard 30
Ballack 31
Deco 30
Shevchenko 31
Drogba 30

All getting on a bit, look how AC Milan faired, one season they won the Champs League the next season they didn't get close to their league etc, there's a fine line between experience and past it. Chelsea will hit it sooner or later unless they buy young.

Also Fergie may eat his words, but so might Essien, who has said they'll win it no problem and there won't be a team near them come may.

mph4ever

07-23-2008, 06:49 AM

this is why people hate Utd
no, people hate united because of their recent successes, say the last 16 years or so

Frankie

07-23-2008, 04:11 PM

no, people hate united because of their recent successes, say the last 16 years or so

nahh

its the obnoxious nature of the scottish cunt in charge and the casual 'fans'

Surtr

07-23-2008, 07:56 PM

The Scottish Cunt in charge happens to be really ****ing good, in fact good enough to have recent successes...For about the last 16 years or so. Doesn't matter if you don't like how he goes about things or what he says, because he's ****ing more than likely right or else he wouldn't have the record he has.

Also I'll back you on the casual "fans". That's my one problem with Utd. despite the fact I support 'em. They're are so many "fans" about its retarded.

Anyway, I'm getting ****ing excited for the UEFA Cup and seeing how my Motherwell boys fair. I can't see us getting too far, but I'm so ****ing pleased to watch us getting our feet wet and hoping to god we can hold onto a high up spot (Preferably 3rd or higher) this season and begin to become a contender.

Britney Diva

07-23-2008, 07:57 PM

Drogheda United are set to face Dynamo Kiev in the final Champions League qualifying round. It's gonna be a rout!

Surtr

07-23-2008, 07:59 PM

On a side note, could someone hook me up with a website that streams Live Premier League and SPL matches? I've lost the two I had before and its growing closer to that time of the year and now that I'm back in Canada I'm going to have some trouble catching all the matches.

Frankie

07-23-2008, 08:01 PM

Oh fergie is a world class coach no doubt.

Still a cunt is a cunt no matter how good of a footballing mastermind they maybe. And fergus is one.

I lost the website which streams Prem games. I remember it being called Football Doc sport or something.

Surtr

07-23-2008, 08:03 PM

I can't argue that he isn't cocky and doesn't say a lot of very bullshitted stuff, but he's almost always right, its just he's got the nerve to say it. I respect that he knows his stuff and isn't afraid to admit it.

Britney Diva

07-23-2008, 08:06 PM

He's just trying to wind up Scolari, I don't really see what the big deal is.

Frankie

07-23-2008, 08:20 PM

He's just trying to wind up Scolari, I don't really see what the big deal is.

I haven't read what he has to say about scolari tbh but these stupid mind games annoy the hell out of me.

Britney Diva

07-23-2008, 08:24 PM

Wasn't that what was in the article posted earlier? About Chelsea's squad being too old. I think he's just trying to gauge Scolari's temperament by saying something outrageous.

Frankie

07-23-2008, 08:42 PM

Probably was.

And has anyone else noted the lack of big signings for the big 4 which usually towards the beginning of the transfer window ?

TakeWarning

07-23-2008, 11:58 PM

Yeah

There's so few players on the market this year that it's lead to huge price inflation, and no one wants to buy. Liverpool have made a few signings, I saw that Degen bloke play and he didn't look good, Liverpool haven't got a chance in hell of getting the title with Rafa in charge.

talk show host

07-24-2008, 04:29 AM

Reading have signed Stephen Hunt's younger brother for 600k. No idea if he's any good or not but hopefully it might make Hunt stay.

On a side note, could someone hook me up with a website that streams Live Premier League and SPL matches? I've lost the two I had before and its growing closer to that time of the year and now that I'm back in Canada I'm going to have some trouble catching all the matches.

http://livefooty.doctor-serv.com/
http://www.myp2p.eu

Iai

07-24-2008, 05:16 AM

We're apparently shipping Cattermole out and James Harper in. I don't actually remember who James Harper is :-/

talk show host

07-24-2008, 06:19 AM

the mainstay of a completely anonymous midfield last season. Not sure why you lot are in for him really, especially for the 5m being talked about.

Pastorius

07-24-2008, 07:13 AM

I wish Rafa would stop buying defenders and start buying outfielders. Right wing and striker pls

I spoke too soon, Liverpool have signed Ngog.

sgrevs

07-24-2008, 07:17 AM

Liverpool sign striker Ngog from PSG.

Who the hell is this kid?

Pastorius

07-24-2008, 07:17 AM

Another signing for the future it seems.

Britney Diva

07-24-2008, 08:50 AM

the mainstay of a completely anonymous midfield last season. Not sure why you lot are in for him really, especially for the 5m being talked about.
should be a perfect replacement for Cattermole then.

Noel Hunt had a good season for Dundee Utd last year. Dunno how he'll fit into Coppell's plans though, especially if Doyle stays.

Frankie

07-24-2008, 09:22 AM

We're apparently shipping Cattermole out and James Harper in. I don't actually remember who James Harper is :-/

I don't think southy rates Cattermole that much so thats why he might be going to Wigan. He's a decent player but **** me the stories you heard about him being an absolute nob in places like Yarm and Middlesbrough. Digard seems like he'll be replacing Boateng as our defensive midfielder and he looked pretty good against Celtic as did Emnes. But he have cover for Digard with Shawky (he really is quite good tbh) so why do we need this Harper at all ? :confused:

TakeWarning

07-24-2008, 09:52 AM

I wish Rafa would stop buying defenders and start buying outfielders. Right wing and striker pls

I spoke too soon, Liverpool have signed Ngog.

Rafa mainly needs to buy some quality out wide, and add a bit of depth to the squad.

I watched what was mainly their second-string XI play last week, and Liverpool will be in big trouble if there's injuries to players like Gerrard, Torres, Mascherano and Alonso.

Britney Diva

07-24-2008, 12:03 PM

Digard seems like he'll be replacing Boateng as our defensive midfielder and he looked pretty good against Celtic as did Emnes.
God that was a dreadful match. Boro look like they have some good strength in depth though.

Pastorius

07-24-2008, 05:14 PM

Rafa mainly needs to buy some quality out wide, and add a bit of depth to the squad.

I watched what was mainly their second-string XI play last week, and Liverpool will be in big trouble if there's injuries to players like Gerrard, Torres, Mascherano and Alonso.

Plessis is shaping up to be a great player.

mph4ever

07-24-2008, 05:19 PM

Probably was.

And has anyone else noted the lack of big signings for the big 4 which usually towards the beginning of the transfer window ?

there seems to be a serious hold up. i think the likes of spurs are trying to guarantee signings before they let players like keane and berbatov go, and you can't blame them. but the clubs owning the players they are after know just how important the replacements are to clubs like spurs and are putting a gun to their head. share the money from the big boys a little more

other thing is that the british clubs are dominating things lately and as such for european competition they are only adding one or two excellent players to their squads, the rest are to give depth, depth they feel they need to give the premier league a good go. they obviously feel the threat from the rest of europe is not strong enough and you can't blame them for that. this is the age of the british clubs again, 25 or 30 years on

Britney Diva

07-24-2008, 05:34 PM

Well Euro 2008 more or less closed the transfer market for 3 weeks. Other than that, Liverpool and Arsenal haven't really had any money to invest without first selling players, and Chelsea didn't have a manager (not that it stopped Abramovich).

Frankie

07-24-2008, 06:46 PM

God that was a dreadful match. Boro look like they have some good strength in depth though.

We finally do

A good thing about our squad is that the average age is quite young and we've finally got players with pace !

But yeah the whole Berbatov and Keane thing has intrigued me quite a bit as they were first choice last season and the striker who isn't moving (well no speculation), Darren Bent, hardly got a game.

Surtr

07-24-2008, 10:01 PM

Watched a bit of the Hibs V. Barca friendly earlier..Christ Hibs looked poor compared to a squad like Barca. I'm not sure if it was just Barca running clean over them or if they were actually not doing to hot for a normal Hibs match lol.

neal_672

07-25-2008, 10:13 AM

We finally do

A good thing about our squad is that the average age is quite young and we've finally got players with pace !

I'm still incredibly worried about the keeper situation mind, i have absolutely zero faith in Jones, and Turnbull whilst promising hasn't really shown anything that he's ready to be thrown in at the deep end.

Opinions on selling Cattermole? Personally i'd rather give him one more season, loan him out, and if he doesn't reach his potential then shift him. Would like to see more chances for Adam Johnson though because he's starting to look fantastic. Need one more CM who can bring us goals though i think, James Harper would be nice but i really would like to be bringing in someone a bit more established.

(on another point why IS this the Official Middlesbrough Thread? Hah)

Up the 'boro!

Frankie

07-25-2008, 10:26 AM

Was a joke when changing the thread title after the Euro's finished

And we really do need a new keeper. I have faith in Arca to grab a couple next season as well.

neal_672

07-25-2008, 10:38 AM

I'd be perfectly happy with someone like Sorenson (who i believe is a free agent now anyway) just go come in and give some guidance to Turnbull, can't argue for a free really.

I hope Arca performs again now that he's not the captain, one of the keys this season is whether Huth is fit too, because if he does his usual 8 months injured i feel like we're a bit short at CB (Wheater, Riggott, Pogatetz if needs be, Seb Hines) I wouldn't fancy that up against a lot of the strike forces in the Prem right now, especially if Wheater doesn't have as stunning a season as he did last year.

Ah well, still, looking promising, i like the direction Southgate is taking us in, so we'll see. I'd be absolutely ecstatic with 10th place this year so i'm hoping for somewhere around that region.

mph4ever

07-25-2008, 04:43 PM

i'm glad that phil neville went to everton, hes a hard working player who deserved more than the amount of appearances he was getting at manu

did you ever see his missus? shes an absolute stunner, hot as fu'ck. sort of makes a truth out of the old saying that the uglier the footballer then the better looking his wife. can't wait to see peter beardsley's!

Britney Diva

07-27-2008, 11:58 AM

http://canadianpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5gaFj5hSGNh6dTUinFumvp_1TlCOQ

A UK MP is now preparing to lobby the EU for Blatter's 6+5 plan or something similar. The article is hilarious, particularly the completely unnecessary jab at Darren Bent, and Capello's claim that he's at a disadvantage because "only 35 per cent of Premier League players are eligible for the national team." It's a wonder England ever manage to win a match with only a 1/3 of the best league in the world at their disposal :rolleyes:

TakeWarning

07-28-2008, 12:11 AM

The quota seems a good idea to me. 6 is a bit far-fetched but maybe a minimum of 3 or 4 English players could work.

Either way, it's embarassing to have one of the best leagues in the world and have such an average national side.

Britney Diva

07-28-2008, 12:53 AM

It's not down to a lack of quality players though.

Iai

07-28-2008, 05:44 AM

Just a lack of quality attitude.

The good thing about instating the 6+5 rule is that for the first couple of seasons all the sides I like (ie - Boro + who my mates support) would be at an advantage, because they wouldn't have to reshape their teams at all. Bad thing is that it would just make this whole English player tax much, much worse.

Barton's just been released from jail.

Frankie

07-28-2008, 07:51 AM

Keegan's standing by him which is slightly mental.

Pastorius

07-28-2008, 09:35 AM

Sets a terrible example for young footballers but Newcastle can't really afford to replace him.

Frankie

07-28-2008, 09:56 AM

wtf Blackburn sign robinson who in turn let Friedel go to Villa :confused:

Hope we get Sorensen then

Pastorius

07-28-2008, 10:02 AM

Nobbo Keane coming to Anfield, quality.

Not sure if he's world class, but it will be great to see how he works with Torres.

btw, if anyone spots the greatest team name ever in the league, it's me

TakeWarning

07-28-2008, 10:28 AM

Spurs are completely ****ed for the new season unless they sign some quality to replace Keane and Berbatov.

Iai

07-28-2008, 11:39 AM

We've been offered Arouna Kone.

Seriously random one there. Are Sevilla that desperate to drop their wage bill?

Spurs apparently might get Pavluchenko and Arshavin to replace Berba and Keane. It's Poborsky x2!

Surtr

07-28-2008, 12:36 PM

That's some interesting talk right there. In my opinion that's some quality signing and could possibly be something nice to fill the void of Berba and Keane. All depends on how things went but I could see it really bringing Spurs further into the big picture of the Premiership.

Britney Diva

07-28-2008, 02:12 PM

Sunderland swoop in capture El-Hadji Diouf from Bolton for an undisclosed fee. I assume "undisclosed fee" is another term for "we're embarrassed we had to resort to signing this bloke."

mph4ever

07-28-2008, 03:48 PM

i don't like robbie keane. i think it might be to do with the fact that he is a lifelong scouser and bleedner all rolled into one big headed, over rated dick. or it might be that he wastes more ball and messes up more movement than any other player i have seen. or it might be that i don't really think he should be captain of ireland. or that he got sent off for mouthing at a ref in dublin in the first leg of a play off against turkey and left us with cascarino as our only striking option in the return leg, or it could very easily a meddley of them all hehehehehehe

Frankie

07-28-2008, 08:21 PM

TakeWarning

07-29-2008, 03:58 AM

Definitely.

He's a cunt for moving to Liverpool after saying he would see out his career at Spurs. I'm glad I'm not one of the thousands of Spurs fans who got his name on their Tottenham shirt.

Happy

07-29-2008, 04:02 AM

Am I not the only Spurs fan that's worrying about what the teams gonna be like this season with a lot of players being sold?

badtaste

07-29-2008, 04:13 AM

lol, poor Spurs fans. I don't know how you fans of mid-ladder teams survive in that environment...

Nice to see Muntari at Inter, he's an awesome player. I also read that Inter are no longer chasing Lampard... meaning Chelsea's midfield looks like:
- Michael Essien
- Frank Lampard
- Joe Cole
- John Obi Mikel
- Michael Ballack
- Florent Malouda
- Deco
- Shaun Wright-Phillips

Ah, talent on the bench... really warms my heart S2

TakeWarning

07-29-2008, 05:01 AM

Am I not the only Spurs fan that's worrying about what the teams gonna be like this season with a lot of players being sold?

:wave: Hi Spurs fan!

I'm very worried.

Our strike partnerhsip was pretty much what kept us afloat last season, and it looks like that will be gone by the start of the season. On paper, the squad looks pretty good, but our entire back four sat out the friendly against Norwich and we need to bring in a back-up to Woodgate and King, and replace Zokora.

poorquality

07-29-2008, 06:47 AM

mph4ever

07-29-2008, 07:00 AM

i like spurs more because keane has gone, and i now dislike liverpool even more, i can't lose

Iai

07-29-2008, 07:50 AM

If all Spurs need to do is level a 20m offer for David Villa as is being reported by his agent, there's no worry at all. Get a top quality striker who wants to play for spurs because of their manager, have Dos Santos playing just behind Villa, and Modric who's an excellent signing. Won't be that bad.
Absolutely. Even without Villa in the equation, Ramos has that much respect in Spain that he could tempt most players. If it gets too close to the end of the transfer window and Spurs still look short up front, I wouldn't be surprised to see a name like Nihat, or Zigic, or Forlan, or Rafael Sobis appear in the frame. And what about actually buying from Sevilla? Arouna Kone, Luis Fabiano, Freddy Kanoute, Javier Chevanton - they're hardly light up front. Nah, I reckon Spurs will be fine tbh.

TakeWarning

07-29-2008, 08:51 AM

How do you define "fine"? We'll definitely stay up but I'm sceptical about challenging for a top 6 spot.

We've let one of our best players go, our best looks like he's about to leave. After the rubbish season we've just come out of and the money we've spent, the fans are going to want results.

Iai

07-29-2008, 10:01 AM

Why skeptical about a top 6 space? Aston Villa have no full backs and their captain is either staying and unsettling the whole side or leaving and making them a less talented unit.

Britney Diva

07-29-2008, 12:30 PM

If all Spurs need to do is level a 20m offer for David Villa as is being reported by his agent, there's no worry at all. Get a top quality striker who wants to play for spurs because of their manager, have Dos Santos playing just behind Villa, and Modric who's an excellent signing. Won't be that bad.
I can't see Villa going to Spurs for 20m. Didn't Benitez say the reason he didn't go after Villa was his price? And then he went out and splashed 20m on Keane anyway.

I don't really see Spurs finishing anywhere near the top 6 this season. Ramos has gutted the squad but he hasn't really sorted out the weak areas.

RandyfromPennywise

07-29-2008, 02:34 PM

Hello. Yeah, I would think it would take £25m or more to get David Villa, but you never know. He doesn't have the EPT (English-Player Tax), so anything's possible. And Mr Sylvia, honestly can't believe you think David Silva is rubbish. At 22, I reckon he's one of the better left-sided prospects in Europe. Having said that, he'll probably go and do a Denílson.

If Everton sign João Moutinho, their central midfield would really start to take shape - Arterta and Moutinho in the middle, and Cahill in behind Yakubu, nicking 15 goals a season. Nae bad that. But they still really need to make some signings, they're light-on in midfield. They should sign Bresciano, and Wright-Phillips. Doubt they've got the money. But wouldn't that be an awesome midfield:

Arteta Moutinho
Wright-Phillips Cahill Bresciano
(Yakubu)

Play 4-5-1 with that most weeks and you'll go ok.

Heard Vinnie Grella could go to Fulham. Not a great move for him. Heard Blackburn are on the lookout for a defensive midfielder. Emerton should be in Ince's ear right away. Vinnie's one of the best! And if Bresciano goes to Ewood as well, I'll be trying to watch the Rovers as much as the SW6 mercenaries!

Less than two months 'til the MASSIVE World Cup Qualifier in Tashkent. Uzbeks better be ready, Aussies are coming. Unfortunately, we still have Verbeek as our gaffer, but whatever.

Setanta's got like five or six friendlies on each week, but it's just not the same. Hurry up season!

Oh by the way, I've watched Chelsea's 3 matches so far, and Deco is going to be awesome for us, I'm so excited. He and Lamps in the middle and we are unbeatable!! Carrick? Hargreaves? Gerrard? Fabregas? HAHA NO CHANCE.

Keep The Blue Flag Flying High!

Frankie

07-29-2008, 02:47 PM

Arteta over Bresciano any day when it comes to attacking options any day mate !

Also Fulham have signed Andy Johnson which is a good move for them.

RandyfromPennywise

07-29-2008, 02:58 PM

Arteta over Bresciano any day when it comes to attacking options any day mate !

Also Fulham have signed Andy Johnson which is a good move for them.

Sir Frank, I never suggested Arteta over Bresciano, I was suggesting that they play in the same side! Arteta's a gun, no doubt. He's best in the middle. Bresc is best out on the left, cutting in - the position that Ronaldinho plays.

Yeah, AJ is a very good signing for Fulham. I was almost laughing in embarrassment for them when they spent good money signing Pantsil and Zamora from West Ham. When you sign players, you should try to get players who are of a better level than what you already have, and players who might be able to help you stave of relegation again. So I was left asking myself why the hell would you sign Bobby Zamora and John Pantsil if you want to improve your squad, or survive in the Premier League.

Britney Diva

07-29-2008, 03:01 PM

I bet David Moyes can't believe his luck. I know Hodgson basically has money to burn (and burn it he has, buying practically the entire Finnish and US national teams, before releasing most of them), but it's silly money for a striker who's basically contributed nothing for 2 years.

Then again, I'd take him over El-Hadji Diouf, given the option.

And Mr Sylvia, honestly can't believe you think David Silva is rubbish. At 22, I reckon he's one of the better left-sided prospects in Europe. Having said that, he'll probably go and do a Denílson.
He has promise, but so did Nick Barmby. He's got technical ability, but so did Nick Barmby. Maybe he just had a horrific Euro 2008, but I haven't seen him play much better for Valencia. He makes poor decisions, wastes possession and generally disappears for large periods.

mph4ever

07-29-2008, 03:21 PM

Britney Diva

07-29-2008, 03:31 PM

He's pretty much never played for a top quality time, bar a few months at Inter behind Ronaldo and Vieri at his prime, so it'll be interesting to see how he copes with the likes of Gerrard and Torres. Granted Liverpool aren't exactly Brazil 1970, but it's certainly a step up for him. I just hope it helps him score a goal or two for the national team.

mph4ever

07-29-2008, 04:43 PM

that would be one positive out of it all

Frankie

07-29-2008, 05:51 PM

Cattermole has been sold to Wigan then.

Not particularly bothered.

TakeWarning

07-29-2008, 09:54 PM

He has promise, but so did Nick Barmby. He's got technical ability, but so did Nick Barmby. Maybe he just had a horrific Euro 2008, but I haven't seen him play much better for Valencia. He makes poor decisions, wastes possession and generally disappears for large periods.

Agreed. Thought he was the worst Spanish player on the pitch for most of Euro, and haven't been impressed when I've seen him play for Valencia.

So Randy: What do you think of Chelsea's chances of winning some silverware this year mate?

Frankie

07-30-2008, 07:14 AM

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/middlesbrough/7530061.stm

****

RandyfromPennywise

07-30-2008, 10:26 AM

i don't think liverpool could have attracted villa anyway. he wouldn't want to live in torres shadow, he would want to strike out on his own. under ramos at spurs is good choice for him to be the star.

maybe benitez thinks like trappatoni and wants keane to play just off torres and keep in touch with midfield. i just don't know if he can do it at the top.

I don't think Villa would be in Torres' shadow anymore. He was the star of Euro 2008. I'd say they'd be equal spear-heads going in to the season were they at the same club. If that club was Liverpool, Villa would only go in to Torres' shadow if Villa didn't perform, as Torres has already performed for Liverpool. But right now, I don't think Villa would be intimidated by playing with Torres. After all, he relished it in the Euros.

David Silva didn't have a shocking Euros Mr Plath, he really didn't. I rate him.

TakeW, I rate Chelsea's chances very highly. From last year, we have added Deco and Bosingwa and Scolari. We were second in three competitions last year. With those three great additions and perhaps one or two more, I feel that the Blue Flag will be flying high all season.

EDIT: Frankie - yeah, what is Southgate doing? It seems to me like it's only a matter of time before he gets the boot.

mph4ever

07-30-2008, 10:44 AM

I don't think Villa would be in Torres' shadow anymore. He was the star of Euro 2008. I'd say they'd be equal spear-heads going in to the season were they at the same club. If that club was Liverpool, Villa would only go in to Torres' shadow if Villa didn't perform, as Torres has already performed for Liverpool. But right now, I don't think Villa would be intimidated by playing with Torres. After all, he relished it in the Euros.

we'll never know know. i take your point about the equal spearheads but if it did not gel then villa would be the fall guy, thats living in torres shadow. if someone had left liverpool then it may not be so difficult but he would have been trying to enhance what torres acheived last year, thats living in his shadow. and we all know how quick a strikers confidence goes if everyone is looking at the new arrival as the main change to what they had last year up front.

thats why i think somewhere like spurs, who may very well lose berbatov as well as keane, would look like a good place to start in the premiership. there's lots of change, its a great opportunity

RandyfromPennywise

07-30-2008, 10:50 AM

mph4ever

07-30-2008, 11:10 AM

But to be honest, although Valencia had a shocking season last year, a move from Valencia to Spurs is a side-ways move at best, and a downwards move at worst. He strikes me as the type of player who would only leave Valencia if it were for a top, top side. All due respect to Spurs. (Which isn't much.) :p

spoken like a true southsider

i don't think ramos went to spurs other than to improve on his work in spain. 3rd in the league, a place in the champions league, two uefa cups, a copa del rey, a super cup. already got a league cup win over mighty chelsea, kicked off the process that left them with nothing last season. anyone who joins spurs will be given the chance to excel, albeit it might take a little longer than some are prepared to wait. they should be top six next year

Timm

07-30-2008, 01:15 PM

TakeW, I rate Chelsea's chances very highly. From last year, we have added Deco and Bosingwa and Scolari. We were second in three competitions last year.

and you will be second in three competitions next year. unless you sell ballack, aka mr 2nd place :o

RandyfromPennywise

07-30-2008, 01:50 PM

spoken like a true southsider

i don't think ramos went to spurs other than to improve on his work in spain. 3rd in the league, a place in the champions league, two uefa cups, a copa del rey, a super cup. already got a league cup win over mighty chelsea, kicked off the process that left them with nothing last season. anyone who joins spurs will be given the chance to excel, albeit it might take a little longer than some are prepared to wait. they should be top six next year

Orrwight, but what I was saying is that with Villa, he's not going to be moving to the 2012-version Spurs, is he, he's going to be moving to Spurs right now, and right now, going to Spurs from Valencia is not a big leap forward in your career, is it? I'm not even talking as a Chelsea fan here, it's just fact. Valencia have been to Champions League finals and have been consistently in the top 4 in Spain for a number of years. They won the title four years ago. Spurs are a club on the way up, no one's doubting that, but I just don't think that it's a 'dream move' that players like Villa can get - and often don't move unless they get these 'dream moves'. Spurs are a great, traditional club. But so is Valencia. Why move to a similar (or, dare I say, a lesser) club in a league that has a different style of play in which you haven't tested yourself? If he moved to Man United or Chelsea, I could certainly understand, but going to Spurs, for me, it's sort of like, why? IF he moves, this year or next, it will be the biggest move of his career, with him just coming in to his prime. Why go to Spurs if you have the talent to play for Real Madrid or AC Milan or Man United? It's harsh against Spurs here, but it's true. Most players would feel the same. Some don't, but most do.

I actually have a soft spot for Spurs. When I was younger, a family friend of ours was a big Spurs fan, and I liked his Hewlett Packard Spurs bench coat. Must've been about '95, before I saw Zola and Di Matteo. I enjoy watching Spurs play.

and you will be second in three competitions next year. unless you sell ballack, aka mr 2nd place No, he will win a medal with Chelsea this year. Being Mr 2nd-Place is better than being Mr Nobody.

Frankie

07-30-2008, 02:21 PM

I have faith in southy tbh

Like he said players do need to be given chances. If Wheater wasn't given a chance he would never have been allowed to be the excellent player he was last season.

So I'm all for giving Turnbull a go or Jones who is afterall an Australian international.

mph4ever

07-30-2008, 02:56 PM

Orrwight, but what I was saying is that with Villa, he's not going to be moving to the 2012-version Spurs, is he, he's going to be moving to Spurs right now, and right now, going to Spurs from Valencia is not a big leap forward in your career, is it? I'm not even talking as a Chelsea fan here, it's just fact. Valencia have been to Champions League finals and have been consistently in the top 4 in Spain for a number of years. They won the title four years ago. Spurs are a club on the way up, no one's doubting that, but I just don't think that it's a 'dream move' that players like Villa can get - and often don't move unless they get these 'dream moves'. Spurs are a great, traditional club. But so is Valencia. Why move to a similar (or, dare I say, a lesser) club in a league that has a different style of play in which you haven't tested yourself? If he moved to Man United or Chelsea, I could certainly understand, but going to Spurs, for me, it's sort of like, why? IF he moves, this year or next, it will be the biggest move of his career, with him just coming in to his prime. Why go to Spurs if you have the talent to play for Real Madrid or AC Milan or Man United? It's harsh against Spurs here, but it's true. Most players would feel the same. Some don't, but most do.

yeah, i can see your point. but there are only so many openings at great clubs, some have to take the next tier down. under ramos spurs will be in the next tier and vying for a place at the top table in a short time. i still think spurs would be a better choice than liverpool but then, for me, anywhere would be better than there :naughty:

Pastorius

07-30-2008, 06:18 PM

Liverpool bag a MASSIVE 0-0 at Villareal

sgrevs

07-30-2008, 09:00 PM

Liverpool bag a MASSIVE 0-0 at Villareal

:(

Early days still.

RandyfromPennywise

07-30-2008, 11:51 PM

yeah, i can see your point. but there are only so many openings at great clubs, some have to take the next tier down. under ramos spurs will be in the next tier and vying for a place at the top table in a short time. i still think spurs would be a better choice than liverpool but then, for me, anywhere would be better than there :naughty:

Correct!

And Frankie, to be fair, there are so many rubbish players that have unfortunately graced the beloved gold jersey which represents Australia that I wouldn't be using that as a guide on a player's quality. Max Vieri, Danny Tiatto, Ruben Zadkovich, to name a few from recent years.

Britney Diva

07-31-2008, 12:29 AM

David Silva didn't have a shocking Euros Mr Plath, he really didn't. I rate him.
He ****ing did though. Apart from the Russia game, in which it was difficult not to look good, he was a complete stick.

Frankie

07-31-2008, 07:15 AM

Spurs sign Bentley and close in on Arshavin.

A midfield including Modric and those 2 is a VERY interesting prospect.

TakeWarning

07-31-2008, 09:30 AM

Let's not forget Darren Bent as striker!

7 goals in the last 2 games, things are looking better.

RandyfromPennywise

07-31-2008, 10:03 AM

He ****ing did though. Apart from the Russia game, in which it was difficult not to look good, he was a complete stick.

He wasn't bad in either of the matches against Russia. Got the assist to Torres in the Sweden match. Didn't play against Greece. Can't remember a great deal of the game versus Italy. Didn't do much in the final. Don't see how that's a 'shocking tournament', or being a 'complete stick'.

His technique and positional play are both very sound, and I don't see how you can argue against either of those claims.

Iai

07-31-2008, 10:12 AM

How can Spurs play like that, though? By my reckoning that'd be;

Gomes

Hutton - Woodgate - King - Bale

Huddlestone

Bentley - Arshavin - Modric - Dos Santos

Bent

I'd be really shocked if they don't sign at least another holding midfielder and play 4-2-3-1, because that line-up looks seriously shaky at the back, considering that King will be injured for at least 22 games and Bale spends more time in the opposition half than his own.

TakeWarning

07-31-2008, 10:21 AM

New CB and DM badly needed if Spurs are to get anywhere this year.

Zokora proved last year he didn't provide good enough protection to our back four. Dawson is also a liability as the most used third choice centre-back in the EPL. If Ramos can sort out those two positions I can see Spurs challenging for top four this season and breaking in the season after that.

Iai

07-31-2008, 11:27 AM

Same as.

RandyfromPennywise

07-31-2008, 02:51 PM

Iai, I don't think the formation would be like that. Ramos isn't going to play dos Santos out wide. Well I'd be surprised if he did. He might play Modrić alongside Huddlestone in the middle. Does Jenas feature in Ramos' plans?? I'm not sure. Was Jenas first-choice last season? I can't remember. He was in and out wasn't he? Mainly Zokora and Huddlestone? Anyway, yeah, I don't know if dos Santos will be a definite starter anyway. The boy's just turned 19. I mean he might well be, but he's a long way from the finished product. Anyway yeah who do they have who would play left-mid/left wing? They don't have a quality left-mid. If they keep Berbatov and get someone to play left-mid, they could play a pretty strong 4-4-2, with either Bent or dos Santos with Berba.

Gomes
Hutton Woodgate King Bale
Bentley Modrić Huddlestone Someone (Lennon?)
Berbatov dos Santos/Bent

Arshavin would be interesting. With him, maybe something like this:

Gomes
Hutton Woodgate King Bale
Modrić Huddlestone
Bentley - Arshavin - dos Santos
Berbatov

That's more of a 4-2-3-1, that system that Benitez manages to make look like a rubbish formation, when it's actually not. It gives the #10 - in this case Arshavin - a massive amount of freedom, and a quality player in that position in this formation can be deadly. In that three-man attacking midfield, Riquelme was immense for Villareal for a short period there two-and-a-half years ago; Kaká is the ideal player for that role. However having Modrić in that deeper role, well not so sure about that. He'd be wanting to play in the #10 role. Dunno. Ramos'll sort it out.

TakeWarning

07-31-2008, 09:19 PM

Still a few gaps in the Spurs formation depending on transfers but the most likely one seems to be the 4-2-3-1.

Gomes
Hutton Woodgate King Bale
Modrić (Zokora/Jenas/Huddlestone)
Bentley - Arshavin - dos Santos
(probably Bent)

I'm a fan of this one since Arshavin, Bentley, and dos Santos will give alot of support to a lone striker. By the way, dos Santos has been playing mainly on the left wing in pre-season and has been really awesome.

RandyfromPennywise

07-31-2008, 10:51 PM

Yeah, I've heard that. He's scored a few and set-up a few from what I've heard. Setanta's showing their next few friendlies, I've set the digital recorder for them so I'll have a closer look at them before the season starts. Setanta is seriously showing like 3-4 friendlies a day, it's crazy, so much football, too much uni work. Very interested to watch Newcastle's friendlies, I heard that the Duffer has been playing well, very, very interested to watch him in the Geordies' next few friendlies. If he starts hitting form, I'll definitely get him in for Fantasy too, at 6 he's a bargain. And he's one of my favourite players, so that never hurts.

Is there any word on Berbatov though? I was watching MUTV after the Portsmouth friendly the other day and they were saying that it would be most likely if it was a player-plus-cash deal rather than a straight cash deal, because United aren't going to fork out £30m cold hard dosh. What you folks reckon?

badtaste

08-01-2008, 12:48 AM

Hmm, Spurs lineup actually looks rather sexy.

Iai

08-01-2008, 05:52 AM

Is there any word on Berbatov though? I was watching MUTV after the Portsmouth friendly the other day and they were saying that it would be most likely if it was a player-plus-cash deal rather than a straight cash deal, because United aren't going to fork out £30m cold hard dosh. What you folks reckon?
Basically sounds like crap to me. Who would they take that United would let leave? Wes Brown? Darren Fletcher? John O'Shea? Not sure Spurs would want the last two and I don't think Fergie would let Brown go.

Iai

08-01-2008, 06:10 AM

oh my ****ing lol

Steve McLaren's FC Twente just drew Arsenal in the Champions League.

Pastorius

08-01-2008, 06:12 AM

that is major lols

Iai

08-01-2008, 06:23 AM

Could you imagine if they won? I mean McLaren had a great record against the big four at Boro....

RandyfromPennywise

08-01-2008, 06:32 AM

Basically sounds like crap to me. Who would they take that United would let leave? Wes Brown? Darren Fletcher? John O'Shea? Not sure Spurs would want the last two and I don't think Fergie would let Brown go.

Yeah, it sounded pish to me as well. Basically the feeling on MUTV was that it wasn't going to happen. Personally I think Spurs should keep him unless there is literally £30m sitting on the table. Even for £23m or something, I still don't reckon they're going to get anyone to replace him in time for the season, unless they got David Villa. But I think we already discussed that one :p.

sgrevs

08-01-2008, 08:35 AM

If Spurs keep Berba I think they will have a great season, top 6 for sure. I could see them winning another cup as well, maybe FA or UEFA.

poorquality

08-01-2008, 08:40 AM

I still think it'd be hilarious if United announced the signing of Villa, Huntelaar or Aguero and announced they didn't have an interest in signing Berbatov. Just to see Levy's reaction >_>

*Believes any of the 3 mentioned above would be better suited to United than Berb mainly due to Berbatovs mental attitude towards the game when things don't go his way*

RandyfromPennywise

08-01-2008, 10:31 AM

Agüero's going to Chelsea if anywhere. Come on the Kún.

poorquality

08-01-2008, 10:46 AM

But surely he'd want to win something >_>

*Early season banter*

mph4ever

08-01-2008, 02:41 PM

i am not sure that he is all that slow, but there is something about berbatov that makes me think he would slow the pace of united's attack.

Happy

08-01-2008, 04:05 PM

Hmm, Spurs lineup actually looks rather sexy.

That's what I was thinking :)

Frankie

08-01-2008, 04:14 PM

Modric would be such a waste playing Defensive midfield tho'.

Lmao at FC Twente drawing Arsenal.

I was thinking of what Boro's starting or best line-up would be but I'm still not sure.

mph4ever

08-01-2008, 06:28 PM

That's what I was thinking :)

good place for a serious striker, on the up

Britney Diva

08-01-2008, 09:12 PM

Hutton Woodgate King Bale
lol @ King playing more than 3 matches in a row

I don't think the Berbatov move will happen. I was skeptical before, but I think Keane's move will be enough for Spurs to block it. He doesn't seem like the type of player Ferguson would be bothered with either- he's a troublemaker.

RandyfromPennywise

08-02-2008, 01:16 AM

Is he? What makes you say that? But anyway, your strike force is fine, with Roon and Tev.

poorquality

08-02-2008, 04:25 AM

Is he? What makes you say that? But anyway, your strike force is fine, with Roon and Tev.

I think he's referring to Berbatovs attitude, for instance if things aren't going Rooney's way, he gets really frustrated granted, but tries that 10% harder, runs further and tracks back more. That's a good attitude to have.

If things aren't going Berbatovs way, as seen many times with Spurs, he stands around the pitch looking bored, he doesn't do anything constructive.

When it does go his way, he's a quality player, but we need people who'll fight until the final whistle is blown regardless of scoreline or how the match is going. (<3 Tevez).

Frankie

08-02-2008, 06:26 AM

I think he's referring to Berbatovs attitude, for instance if things aren't going Rooney's way, he gets really frustrated granted, but tries that 10% harder, runs further and tracks back more. That's a good attitude to have.

yep and 50% of the time he'll lunge in like a dick head and get booked. Rooney has temperament problems and fergie hasnt really sorted it.

Iai

08-02-2008, 06:47 AM

I was thinking of what Boro's starting or best line-up would be but I'm still not sure.
Jones

Young - Wheater - Huth - Pogatetz

Aliadiere - Digard - Arca - Downing

Tuncay - Alves

I'd assume that, anyway. With Emnes, Shawky, O'Neil, Riggott, Taylor, McMahon, and Johnson behind that we've actually got a decent squad this year. Southy's still after another attack-minded central midfielder though isn't he? Then again after how Arca played for a lot of the second half of last season....

Frankie

08-02-2008, 07:03 AM

I'd pretty much go for the same, maybe with Emnes playing right wing tho'. And I'd say we need another attacking midfielder.

Arshavin would be ideal :p

Pastorius

08-02-2008, 09:58 AM

Wake up Frankie! You're still dreaming!

Frankie

08-02-2008, 01:42 PM

A girl can dream cant she :(

sgrevs

08-03-2008, 04:51 AM

Rangers 0-4 Liverpool

Finally, a decent pre-season result for us.

mph4ever

08-03-2008, 06:52 AM

looked like they were up for it too

Happy

08-03-2008, 07:19 AM

Wake up Frankie! You're still dreaming!

He has to, he's a Boro fan.

TakeWarning

08-03-2008, 08:01 AM

He has to, he's a Boro fan.

Snap!

Frankie

08-03-2008, 09:23 AM

We'll see whos bitching when alves streaks past ledley king and his peg leg and woody the paraplegic on the opening day

TakeWarning

08-03-2008, 09:31 AM

Ok.

Iai

08-03-2008, 10:07 AM

lmao

I really hope Alves is properly up to match fitness when the season starts. After some of the goals he pulled off toward the end of last year while obviously not at 100%, I can see him being near the top of the goalscoring charts until about January when everybody starts man-marking him out of the game.

badtaste

08-03-2008, 10:26 AM

Um, could we please not mention Kalac's performance against Chelsea?

Frankie

08-03-2008, 10:36 AM

Pastorius

08-03-2008, 10:38 AM

I don't think Alves will be near the top of the goalscoring charts because BOROUGH SUCK

Iai

08-03-2008, 11:05 AM

That explains why Yakubu was always near the top while at Boro, then.

Pastorius

08-03-2008, 11:07 AM

All I'm hearing is blah blah blah borough suck

Iai

08-03-2008, 11:08 AM

Never let facts get in the way!

Pastorius

08-03-2008, 11:13 AM

pfffft come above us next season then i'll make a small concession to your non-suckiness

Pastorius

08-03-2008, 11:24 AM

any rangers fan on here? i'm sure there are

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=U3Q-37-y56Y

mph4ever

08-03-2008, 03:35 PM

alves looks like he is going to get close on 20 this season.

sgrevs

08-03-2008, 10:21 PM

Um, could we please not mention Kalac's performance against Chelsea?

Too late! Embarrassing stuff :(

any rangers fan on here? i'm sure there are

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=U3Q-37-y56Y

Thanks, lookin' sharp.

And the Barry deal looks like it could be back on, which I'm still undecided about as to whether it's good or not.

mph4ever

08-04-2008, 01:13 PM

all the noise says ronaldo is going. don't know if united are perpetuating it to make news in light of their lack of signings

RandyfromPennywise

08-04-2008, 01:17 PM

The Drog will miss the first few matches of the season. Anelka likely to start for The Chels then. He's been in good form in pre-season, but I don't rate him. We never should've bought him. We never should've sold Gudjohnsen, to be honest. Felipão has come out and said that he won't start Sheva. So basically Shevchenko should hand in a transfer request and try to get a couple of good seasons at a club where he is going to play, before his career is beyond the point of no return. And Claudio Pizarro? He's been injured, but Grant didn't want to know him. Grant, him was no good. Never rated him. Big Phil is where it's at. What a guru.

Iai, didn't you support Arsenal?

Iai

08-04-2008, 02:32 PM

lol no. Where did you get that idea from? I hate Arsenal.

Frankie

08-04-2008, 03:49 PM

Not long till the new season now :D

TakeWarning

08-05-2008, 10:36 AM

Bayern Munich unveil their new kit.

http://www.theoffside.com/leagues/bundesliga/new-bayern-munich-kit-unveiled-a-little-too-dramatically.html

Hmmmm.......

Frankie

08-05-2008, 10:45 AM

that is ridiculous

mph4ever

08-05-2008, 10:50 AM

germans huh

mph4ever

08-05-2008, 12:14 PM

hope rangers lose

Frankie

08-05-2008, 12:43 PM

same

Surtr

08-05-2008, 01:31 PM

Samee.

**** the 'Gers.

Frankie

08-05-2008, 02:05 PM

Up The Celtic !

Pastorius

08-05-2008, 03:01 PM

Britney Diva

08-05-2008, 03:16 PM

Jesus, that's desperate. How on earth do you lose to a team from Lithuania? Even the Irish teams managed to navigate those horrors.

mph4ever

08-05-2008, 03:23 PM

ah, gods a catholic, didn't you know

RandyfromPennywise

08-05-2008, 09:30 PM

Rangers are shyte, they really are. They are woeful. They're about League One standard right now.

That Bayern clip was ridiculous.

sgrevs

08-06-2008, 03:11 AM

lol bye rangers

Gerrard pulls his groin again, not good news. Hope he's back up and fit soon. Still, another 4 goals, looking good for the new season. We've got a surplus of good players, I've got high hopes for Plessis too.

Did you notice that the same four players have scored a goal each in the last two games (Alonso, Ngog, Benayoun, Torres)? Freaky. But yeah we're lookin pretty hot.

mph4ever

08-06-2008, 05:48 AM

see rangers might be in financial trouble due to the fact they missed out on champions league. might have to sell their best players. that should raise about £1.5 million hehehehehe

i am just glad that its one less chance of "the battle of britain" being replayed

EDIT: i see fergie has said that he would want a number two who could speak portuguese. pity scolari took the chelsea job, he would have been ideal

Britney Diva

08-06-2008, 12:58 PM

oh no kyle lafferty's career in scotland is now in jeopardy! :(

mph4ever

08-06-2008, 01:20 PM

should 've neva left da clarets

Surtr

08-06-2008, 02:55 PM

I speak Portuguese.. Wonder if he'll offer me a job.

Au amo macacos?

Frankie

08-06-2008, 03:08 PM

My mother's a what now :mad:

Frankie

08-06-2008, 05:03 PM

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=15xlpBjpUP0

americans ey

Pastorius

08-06-2008, 05:08 PM

the legend darren huckerby

still makes me laugh

RandyfromPennywise

08-07-2008, 12:57 PM

i see fergie has said that he would want a number two who could speak portuguese. pity scolari took the chelsea job, he would have been ideal

Ha. Big Phil would have Fergie for breakfast son, we all know it.

Joe Cole is in the best 25 players in the Premier League this season. Anyone dare to disagree?

poorquality

08-07-2008, 01:05 PM

Ha. Big Phil would have Fergie for breakfast son, we all know it.

Joe Cole is in the best 25 players in the Premier League this season. Anyone dare to disagree?

I rate J.Cole highly to be honest, and was astounded he was never given a lot of starts from Mourinho, i'd of played him every week.

Anyone catch Man U's last few pre-season games? Rafael de Silva and Rodrigo Posebon look like immense players, I was worried when we loaned Simpson out as we had no right back cover, but de Silva looks mighty impressive and I wouldn't mind him starting this season as our right back, though probably won't happen.

Posebon reminds me of Scholes in the way he can get the ball and create space out of nothing, he can also belt a ball like Scholsey which I've seen him do in the reserves.

Both players look too good for the reserves (though de Silva hasnt played there, his first game was with the first team, did so well).

mph4ever

08-07-2008, 01:25 PM

wenger's policy of bringing through the youth really does take th pressure off the other teams when developing young players.

how long do you reckon scolari actually has as manager? if chelsea get off to a slow start at home and in europe, will he last?

jury is out on cole, really hasn't done a whole lot. if he get his chance this year then he had better grasp it otherwise it will be door next summer

mph4ever

08-07-2008, 04:47 PM

genuine bid for robinho. cole would probably become back up to him

sgrevs

08-07-2008, 08:17 PM

I rate J.Cole highly to be honest, and was astounded he was never given a lot of starts from Mourinho, i'd of played him every week.

I've always found he makes a really effective impact player when coming on as a sub, so maybe that's why. I think he definitely is good though.

Benayoun and Kuyt staying at Liverpool, good news for us.

Britney Diva

08-07-2008, 08:24 PM

Why? You need better players than Benayoun, although I can see the usefulness of Kuyt.

sgrevs

08-07-2008, 08:36 PM

I rate Benayoun, I think he is a great impact player, in a similar vein to J Cole.

RandyfromPennywise

08-07-2008, 10:37 PM

Yeah, I never rated Benayoun that highly, but after watching his more closely, his technique is really class, and he's a pretty decent player. I guess the query is, for a player of his position (attacking midfield, or idealy, if he had his way, the #10 role behind the strikers I'd say) you have to ask if he is good enough for what Liverpool want to do. No doubting that he's a good player, but those attacking midfield positions are so important. Look at the type of players in that role it has taken to win the Champions League recently: Deco, Gerrard, Ronaldinho, Kaká, C. Ronaldo. Ok Gerrard perhaps wasn't a #10, but anyway, the point remains that for what Liverpool want to achieve, you have to ask yourself, is Benayoun capable of delivering - or at least help delivering - the Premier League and/or the CL. I guess the answer is no. He wouldn't make Chelsea or United's first team I would say. To show how important central/attacking midfield is to success, look at who Chelsea have in those positions: Lampard, Ballack, Deco, Essien - four of the best central midfielders in England. Benayoun's not a centre-mid, but I get my point, maybe you do too. Benayoun's not going to guide Liverpool to the type of success they want. That's all. Guess I could've just said that without all the previous bollocks, but such is life.

Britney Diva

08-07-2008, 10:52 PM

TakeWarning

08-08-2008, 12:47 AM

I'm not looking forward to another battle for the top 2 between Chelsea and Man U, and a battle between Arsenal and Liverpool for 3rd and 4th.

This season could end up well boring.

Surtr

08-08-2008, 01:00 AM

I'd wait 'til a bit further into the season. It feels due time to have another team really push in for that spot. Whether its going to be Everton or whoever, I'm expecting it. Hopefully Spurs though.

Britney Diva

08-08-2008, 01:35 AM

I think Everton might make a move. I can't see Spurs breaking 8th place, really.

sgrevs

08-08-2008, 04:16 AM

Pretty much. Up until the Torres transfer, basically, Liverpool have spent the past decade or so chasing players who aren't really world class and then wondering why they don't win any titles. Every manager buys players who don't turn out to be the genuine article (Eric Djemba Djemba and Khalid Bouhlarouz stand up), but Liverpool are probably the only top club in Europe to have made a business plan out of it.

Benayoun's not going to guide Liverpool to the type of success they want. That's all. Guess I could've just said that without all the previous bollocks, but such is life.

You're both right, but that's why I suggested him as an impact player rather than someone who could lead us to a title, like Torres or Gerrard. He's certainly not as bad as Bouhlarouz, Djemba Djemba, Voronin etc.

And i think Spurs will finish 5th.

Frankie

08-08-2008, 07:01 AM

Benayoun's a really good right winger. He's been far far better than the likes of Kuyt imo, who came with a lot of hype and really hasn't done much. So I don't really understand the negativity.

Personally no-one seem to be recognising the potential of Aston Villa. Having recently signed Luke Young (I rate McMahon higher than him anyway just needs to keep ****ing fit!) and seem to have closed the Shorey deal and then you throw Laursen into the mix along with an exciting prospect like Curtis Davies thats an excellent back 4 to have, especially with the likes of Brad Friedel (who WAS the best keeper last year **** all you man utd and pompey fans its the truth).

But then you look at the talent they have in midfield, Barry looks as if hes staying, which is a major pluse, they've signed sidwell who'll give them some strength and depth. Ashley Young provided the most assists out of any player last season and they have some excellent strikers in the from of Gabby Agbonlahor and Carew.

So Villa for 5th imo. Everton 6th, Spurs 7th and Middlesbrough hmmmm 8th ?

As for the title race, it would seem a lot of you have short term memory loss. Arsenal weren't fighting with Liverpool for 3rd, for lengthy periods they were top of the league and still finished ONLY 4 points behind Utd. If anything with the likes of Vela coming into his own and maturing and the signing of Samir Nasri, I expect a much closer title race this season.

poorquality

08-08-2008, 07:34 AM

My prediction for top 7 in prem this season:

Chelsea
Arsenal
Man Utd
Spurs
Liverpool
Villa
Everton

Yes I am a united fan >_> I personally would rather win a 2nd champs league in a row, if it costs us the prem as I predict it will, then so be it.

Frankie

08-08-2008, 08:21 AM

tbh Stoke are pretty doomed to right back down. Hull have strengthened a lot and West Brom have the experience so they stand atleast a slim chance.

The_Passenger

08-08-2008, 09:49 AM

Stoke will probably go back down, unfortuantely, because their being out of the Championship makes it instantly more watchable. Hull aren't much better. I reckon WBA might stay up but if they do it'll almost certainly be in 17th.

As far as the other end of the table is concerned I reckon it'll be Chelsea who lift the title this year, largely becuase I don't believe they'll have as bad a start as they did last year.

Championship kicks off tomorrow, almost certainly going to be another year of mid-table mediocrity for Argyle, which I spose is almost successful by our standards.

poorquality

08-08-2008, 09:56 AM

I think all 3 teams that came up last season will go down this season, none of them set the championship alight so I cant see them coping with such a steep change in skill.

Also Passenger Chelsea got off to a bad start sure, but so did United. I think we'll start of stronger than we did last season, so might Chelsea. Though I do think they'll do it.

Infact just checked, first 4 games of the season:

Man Utd: P4, W1, D2, L1
Chelsea: P4, W3, D1, L0

Spiney_Norman

08-08-2008, 11:42 AM

So the season kicks off tonight with the mighty Oxford v Barrow (thanks to Sultana messing around with the schedule) - heres hoping for promotion at the third time...

Definitely think Stoke's going down, maybe Hull too, but I think West Brom'll be safe.

Pastorius

08-08-2008, 11:46 AM

I reckon Blackburn might be a surprise relegation. Robbie Fowler...

Spiney_Norman

08-08-2008, 12:16 PM

Haha, true.

The_Passenger

08-08-2008, 06:54 PM

Also Passenger Chelsea got off to a bad start sure, but so did United. I think we'll start of stronger than we did last season, so might Chelsea. Though I do think they'll do it.

Infact just checked, first 4 games of the season:

Man Utd: P4, W1, D2, L1
Chelsea: P4, W3, D1, L0

Oh yeah, I know Utd didn't have an ideal start, I was referring a few more games into the season when United were winning loads of games 1-0 and Chelsea were drawing at home to the likes of Fulham and Rosenborg in the ECC.

talk show host

08-08-2008, 07:02 PM

I'm not sure Utd will have a good start this year, they've got some tough fixtures (Chelsea and Liverpool in the first 4 games or something I think) and loads of players injured. I suppose it depends on how Chelsea do this season because I don't think Arsenal or Liverpool have got the squads to realistically compete still.

Reading kick off on Sunday, no idea at all how this season will turn out but i'm gutted Shorey's gone even if it was inevitable.

The_Passenger

08-08-2008, 08:03 PM

I wouldn't be too worried, the Championship is not very good in terms of quality (unfortunately). Less predictable than than the Prem but Reading should still finish in a playoff place at a minimum, I expect top 2 really.

sgrevs

08-09-2008, 03:32 AM

I think people are writing Liverpool off to early. Our sqaud is looking pretty damn solid, I'm predicting:

Man Utd
Liverpool/Chelsea
Arsenal
Spurs
Villa
Pompey
Everton

RandyfromPennywise

08-09-2008, 05:07 AM

Yeah seriously what the **** is with signing Robbie Fowler, that's gotta be a send up right?

The_Passenger

08-09-2008, 05:27 AM

Apart from the fact that Ince used to play with Fowler I can't think of a single reason why Blackburn would show even a smidgeon of interest in him. I can't see Blackburn finishing in the top half.

As for people writing Liverpool off, it makes a nice change from people predicting they'll win the league every year when there's little eveidence to suggest they will.

Pastorius

08-09-2008, 07:12 AM

I haven't seen anyone but Liverpool fans ever suggesting Liverpool could win the league.

I think people placing us in 5th/6th is ridiculous. We've got a stronger squad than the past few years, with better strength in depth. A new right winger and we'd be golden.

I predict 3rd for Liverpool.

Man Utd
Chelscum
Liverpool
Arsenal
Spurs
Everton

TakeWarning

08-09-2008, 09:34 AM

I reckon Arsenal will start strong and fade out towards the end, like last season.

They've lost some key players but you can never write them off as long as Wenger's in charge.

mph4ever

08-09-2008, 09:36 AM

stevie g needs to move if he is ever going to win anything domestically. he'll go abroad next season, for sure, because liverpool are not capable of seeing things through. not enough class throughout.

manu will have a hard time making it 3 in a row although i can only see chelsea with the stamina to push them right to the end. it'll be points lossed against the top 6 or 7 that will count

manu and chelsea are guaranteed top 4. other two could be from villa, spurs, arsenal, liverpool

arsenal still have to worry about injuries to one or two key players. van persie is prone to injury, hes not really been reliable. if they were to lose cesc or ade then they will struggle whilst they are out.

RandyfromPennywise

08-09-2008, 03:06 PM

Liverpool are fkin rubbish. It will be the top two this year, then the second two (LiverSCUM and Arsehole), then the next group. Chelsea and United are miles ahead of Arsehole and Scouse Scum. I am declaring the top two a Scouse-Free Zone.

Pastorius

08-09-2008, 09:02 PM

sgrevs

08-09-2008, 09:49 PM

Agreed. We're looking pretty sharp pre-season.

Britney Diva

08-09-2008, 10:37 PM

Pre-season doesn't really mean anything. The only way you can judge Liverpool is by whether they're able to win games they would have drawn last season. Luckily enough, Birmingham were relegated, so there's 4 extra points already.

Pastorius

08-10-2008, 09:31 AM

badoom boom

I just think with Robbie Keane we've got an extra player who can provide that spark to win games. Torres and Gerrard were good (not that we're a two man team) but Keane will just allow Stevie to get back to where he wants to play. Plus if Babel gets his playing boots on we've got a class left winger!

talk show host

08-10-2008, 09:50 AM

poorquality

08-10-2008, 01:16 PM

Hm i'm happy with the way we played today against Portsmouth, we were outplaying them for the entire game, though i'm worried about our lack of striking options, we play Tevez + Giggs upfront, a midfielder and a player who enjoys coming from deep, we played most of the game with no striker until Campbell came on.

Sad to say we played like Arsenal...all good with no end product.

Luckily Fergie looks to be bringing in a striker this week, rumoured to either be Villa, Benzema, Berbatov or Huntelaar. I'd be happy with Villa or Huntelaar.

One more week....it's so close now..

mph4ever

08-10-2008, 03:53 PM

week to go, sure lets fire it up a little

liverpool are always rubbish these days. fact of life.

arsenal are too bogged down in wenger's paedophilia

chelsea are too strong for everyone, just class footballers everywhere

villa, everton, newcastle, spurs, boro hopefully, will be pushing the gooners and scourser scum for a place

manu will reign supreme, where they belong

Iai

08-10-2008, 04:03 PM

villa, everton, newcastle, spurs, boro hopefully, will be pushing the gooners and scourser scum for a place
lol

If we get a UEFA cup slot I'll be ecstatic.

mph4ever

08-10-2008, 04:41 PM

lol

If we get a UEFA cup slot I'll be ecstatic.

i'm expecting it. if they can just turn that attitude of really pushing the big teams into an every week event then theyt have a chance. thats southgates make or break this season. if he can get them more consistent then its all possible. if not then this will be his last season

Frankie

08-10-2008, 06:16 PM

i'm expecting it. if they can just turn that attitude of really pushing the big teams into an every week event then theyt have a chance. thats southgates make or break this season. if he can get them more consistent then its all possible. if not then this will be his last season

this tbh

top 10 will be good

UEFA Cup spot and I'll order my season ticket straight away becuase then we will deffo push on.

Alves for top scorer next season ?!

:p

mph4ever

08-10-2008, 06:46 PM

Alves for top scorer next season ?!

:p

yeah, and then real will try to buy him for £56m

Frankie

08-10-2008, 07:30 PM

ahahahaha he'll be 28 next year so if its a swap deal with any young player(s) I'd take it

Britney Diva

08-11-2008, 01:25 AM

damnit, first game and matejovsky's done his ankle in again. Definitely need another midfielder, and a left back would be nice. not sure hunt's a viable option there long term tbh.

probably won't sign anyone though
that was some save at the end

i am afraid there might be a raid on reading players before the window closes

talk show host

08-11-2008, 04:06 AM

well Coppell's said that any player being sold from now on will be sold at a premium now that the season's started, so hopefully not.

with Shorey gone I don't think there's anyone making noises about wanting to leave too which is a bonus.

Britney Diva

08-11-2008, 04:17 AM

I don't know about the premium rate business, I think Coppell will drive a hard bargain whatever the time of approach. At the same time, I can't see him standing in the way if he gets a good offer for Doyle, Hunt or Hahnemann. The lack of interest from PL clubs in Hahnemann baffles me, actually. He's easily the measure of your Schwarzers and your Niemis.

TakeWarning

08-11-2008, 09:37 AM

Does anyone know why the window closes after the season actually starts?

I'll be devastated if we lose Berbatov two weeks into the season.

poorquality

08-11-2008, 11:25 AM

Does anyone know why the window closes after the season actually starts?

I'll be devastated if we lose Berbatov two weeks into the season.

No idea why it stops after the season starts, they should open it two weeks earlier.

As far as Berb goes, if it truly is him we are signing, you won't lose him into the season, you'd lose him in the next 5-6 days. We're signing someone before the start of the season.

RandyfromPennywise

08-11-2008, 12:24 PM

that was some save at the end

i am afraid there might be a raid on reading players before the window closes
You a Reading fan then?

I think the window closes at the end of August because it's not all just about when the English league starts, you know. The Spanish season doesn't start until August 30. It'd be pretty rubbish for Spanish clubs for the window to close two weeks before the season starts, don't you think?

poorquality

08-11-2008, 12:55 PM

But then the transfer window should be from a set amount of weeks before one season for any country starts, up until the starting day of the season for the last country to start their league.

Which'd make it incredibly unfair. If they are going to cater for every league keeping in mind when they start, they may aswell just allow the transfer window to last all season.

Afterall football is a business, the players are employee's, you can't tell Argos they can only hire new employees between X month and Y month.

TakeWarning

08-11-2008, 09:28 PM

I think if the transfer window went all season there'd be all kinds of "tapping up" of players and unsettling them.

As you do.

Iai

08-12-2008, 04:37 PM

Yeah. An all-year transfer window is unfeasible.

We might be getting Justin Hoyte. lol. Pretty soon all our side will be Arsenal rejects. Fabianski next? Senderos?

mph4ever

08-13-2008, 11:04 AM

frank stays at chelsea. should have went.

Pastorius

08-13-2008, 11:20 AM

should have gone*

poorquality

08-13-2008, 11:22 AM

I was expecting the signing of Kaka, or Robinho...but Lampard on for another 5 years? Psh not like it'll make much difference.

poorquality

08-13-2008, 04:10 PM

Liverpool look distinctly below average. Bring on the prem season

Iai

08-13-2008, 04:30 PM

One of the guys on F365 is tipping us for relegation :eek:

Pastorius

08-13-2008, 04:33 PM

Oh come on Liverpool. Absolutely dreadful.

Frankie

08-13-2008, 04:53 PM

One of the guys on F365 is tipping us for relegation :eek:

link so I can bombard with hate spam plz

mph4ever

08-13-2008, 04:55 PM

is gone anyway

Iai

08-13-2008, 05:01 PM

http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8742_3974211,00.html

VomitStainedCretin

08-13-2008, 06:56 PM

Anyone else think it would be amusing seeing Cyprus's Anorthosis Famagusta or Belarus' BATE Borisov in the CL Group Stage, both having achieved impressive victories tonight over Olympiakos and Levski Sofia respectively?

sgrevs

08-13-2008, 09:20 PM

Oh come on Liverpool. Absolutely dreadful.

:(

http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8742_3974211,00.html

Haha, one guy tipped Liverpool to win it. That's wishful thinking.

Britney Diva

08-14-2008, 01:44 AM

Yeah. An all-year transfer window is unfeasible.

We might be getting Justin Hoyte. lol. Pretty soon all our side will be Arsenal rejects. Fabianski next? Senderos?
Arsenal are demanding 10 millions from Newcastle for Senderos. I don't know which scenario is more hilarious: a) that Wenger would actually value him that highly; b) that Wenger would value him so much that he'd obstruct any reasonable offer for him; or c) that Keggie Keegle would actually think Philip Senderos is the fix for Newcastle's calamity-ridden defence.

Anyone else think it would be amusing seeing Cyprus's Anorthosis Famagusta or Belarus' BATE Borisov in the CL Group Stage, both having achieved impressive victories tonight over Olympiakos and Levski Sofia respectively?
Drogheda United came the width of the post (an open goal in injury time) from beating Dynamo Kiev away last week and going through to the 3rd Prelim Round. Granted, Kiev put out a weakened side in expectation of an easy win, but it's frightening how average some of Europe's top sides really are. Drogheda only went professional a year or so ago.

mph4ever

08-14-2008, 06:54 AM

If United sign a top-notch centre-forward they will probably win on the last day. If not, Chelsea will pip Liverpool

chelsea pip liverpool? whats he talking about, fourth place of something?

poorquality

08-14-2008, 07:00 AM

You know I was watching premiership years for last season on sky the other day. Liverpool's season was over in January when they settled in on 4th place. Infact the teams below them put up more of a battle for 4th than Liverpool did to try and get higher. :P Must be annoying to the fans to have a team with such...average ambitions

TakeWarning

08-14-2008, 09:23 AM

Not that it stops the fans proclaiming "This is OUR year!!!!" every summer

Pastorius

08-14-2008, 09:42 AM

It's not our year. Happy now?

jeeeeez

Frankie

08-14-2008, 01:28 PM

it's never your year

Pastorius

08-14-2008, 01:55 PM

yeah like it's yours

mph4ever

08-14-2008, 02:45 PM

boro will do well this season

still reckon spurs will be top 4

Britney Diva

08-14-2008, 02:52 PM

Some of the newspaper predictions this year have been crazier than usual. Or at least crazier than during the 90s when Newcastle were tipped to win the league like 5 years in a row.

I've seen Blackburn tipped for the drop based solely on the fact they've lost a promising winger and they've got a young manager, while I've seen Everton's "money problems" blamed for their slide down the table next year, despite the fact they have one of the best squads in the league and just pulled off the great train robbery with the sale of Andy Johnson.

And I still can't see Spurs getting close to the top 4.