Euro 2008 (Official LOL Vidic Thread)

[mph4ever]

eboue is a fine player. wenger doesn't develop too many that he holds on to. boo boys should be banned except if it for a team that is not trying. targeting individuals doesn't respect the essence of football

[Interstate]

eboue is a fine player. wenger doesn't develop too many that he holds on to. boo boys should be banned except if it for a team that is not trying. targeting individuals doesn't respect the essence of football

That pretty much sums up my view. It's stupid enough to abuse a player on another team but when you start jeering a player on your team you might as well shoot yourself in the foot.

[mph4ever]

truuf

[Interstate]

Actually sod it, they might as well shoot themselves in the head, then we don't have to listen to their crap.

[mph4ever]

Actually sod it, they might as well shoot themselves in the head, then we don't have to listen to their crap.

you can be sure there are plenty of shootings where they come from

[mph4ever]

Redknapp Jr joins Chelsea coaching staff
11.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Jamie Redknapp has joined the coaching staff at Chelsea.

The Sun says the former Liverpool skipper and England midfielder, 35, is working two days a week coaching the Blues’ reserve team.

He is also planning to study for his coaching badges in order to follow in the footsteps of dad Harry, who is boss of Chelsea’s rivals Tottenham.

Redknapp was approached by Chelsea after the exit of coach Brendan Rodgers, who became Watford boss last month.

He will also be working with Chelsea midfielder and his cousin Frank Lampard at the club’s training ground in Cobham, Surrey.

A Chelsea source revealed: “Losing Brendan created a gap in the staff and Jamie is widely seen as having great potential to be a coach and manager of the future.”



excellent, between this and Ray Wilkins chelsea will be talked out of playing football

[Iai]

i just wonder who city can attract. its only going to be footballers in it for the money, not the shirt
Not really. The attraction of City right now is that they're obviously on the up, and anybody who goes there now will probably never have a better opportunity to become a legend for their club.

I mean, imagine you're somebody like Wagner Love. Fine, CSKA are hardly a poor club, but your options are this:

- Go to Chelsea, be the third choice striker, not be guaranteed a starting role in any game, risk your stock as a footballer dropping.

- Go to Man City, start every week, and know that if you work hard and succeed as a player and the team go on to achieve what they're bound to eventually given their resources, then they'll remember you forever.

Even before money comes into it, I'd be more interested in City. Ultimately I'd rather have one medal where I played every minute of every game, then 7 medals when I was an occasionally used substitute.

And that's before you consider the likes of Amr Zaki, or Roque Santa Cruz. Wagner already has Champions League experience, as well as several notable operas to his name.

[Happy]

Have to agree with Iai on all those points, plus if I was a player, I'd rather go to a team that hasn't won everything already.

[TakeWarning]

I can't see Man City getting any world-class players just yet. Their best bet is to try and build a squad that can break them into the top 4, and then build a squad capable of winning the League and the Champion's League.

[Iai]

I'd imagine that's the plan anyway. I still think they'll get hold of at least one more excellent player before that though - probably a holding midfielder, if Sparky has his way. As far as forwards go I reckon they'll buy someone fairly cheap who's a big battering ram of a player. Heskey wouldn't surprise me at all, although a bid for Santa Cruz is a no-brainer.

[Happy]

£100 million for Terry

£100 million for Gerrard.

Brilliant idea

[TakeWarning]

129 million pounds for Casillas.

[rid]

Good job Liverpool, with a weak squad.

A good game for all who are feeling a little low on confidence. Ngog got one in a cool manner, Babel proved he can score, Keane put some lovely passes through to Ngog and Babel.

I'm still not quite satisfied with the team and not as confident as I want to be. :p

Forward it's way too messy, Ngog had an overall bad game, Keane is whining all the time, if it's for good reason or not, that kind of attitude will only make it worse. Babel seems to only have half a brain and work at 40% most of the time. midfield is fairly solid, though Gerrard has been a bit out of it lately. Defense is good as usual, only with a couple unnecessary things happening every now and then (in general, not this match).

[Pastorius]

Yeah Keano was having a bit of a whine wasn't he. Even if Babel was making the wrong decisions, it's not the attitude to take.

I was still pleased overall with the team, given it was weakened. Ngog always has bad games, he's got a long way to go. Lucas looked a lot better than he has done, glad to see him having a decent game. Agger will take some shifting if Squirtle wants his place back.

[Happy]

I'm glad Keane isn't doing well at Liverpool.

[Pastorius]

He will do, he's being played in the wrong position, when Torres is back, we want Torres up front and Keane playing behind him getting involved and working hard. It's what he does best.

[Echleon]

I used to like Keane but since he became a scouser... I dunno, I guess I want him to do poorly just to prove how idiotic it was to spend £20m on him.

He will do, he's being played in the wrong position, when Torres is back, we want Torres up front and Keane playing behind him getting involved and working hard. It's what he does best.

To me, that approach kind of destroys the chemsitry that Torres and Gerrard produced last season. That was arguably the highlight of Liverpool last season and I don't see why Rafa seems to want to break it up.

-------------Reina---------------
Arbeloa--Agger-Carragher--Aurelio
------Mascherano-Alonso--------
--Kuyt------Gerrard-------Riera--
-------------Torres--------------

In my opinion, that is by far Liverpool's best formation.

[Dave de Sylvia]

Well that chemistry didn't really win them anything last year.

[Echleon]

Fair point, but I don't think Keane really looks like changing that this year.

[mph4ever]

Not really. The attraction of City right now is that they're obviously on the up, and anybody who goes there now will probably never have a better opportunity to become a legend for their club.

I mean, imagine you're somebody like Wagner Love. Fine, CSKA are hardly a poor club, but your options are this:

- Go to Chelsea, be the third choice striker, not be guaranteed a starting role in any game, risk your stock as a footballer dropping.

- Go to Man City, start every week, and know that if you work hard and succeed as a player and the team go on to achieve what they're bound to eventually given their resources, then they'll remember you forever.

Even before money comes into it, I'd be more interested in City. Ultimately I'd rather have one medal where I played every minute of every game, then 7 medals when I was an occasionally used substitute.

And that's before you consider the likes of Amr Zaki, or Roque Santa Cruz. Wagner already has Champions League experience, as well as several notable operas to his name.

i understand what you are saying and would like to think in the real world then thats what happens. but footballers careers are short, feeder clubs are aware of the potential of the talent they are developing, agents are expensive

chelsea=man city for me.

be offered the same money to go to arsenal or madrid or milan as you are offered to go to man city and surely you would pass up city. if city are offering increased wages then its a consideration and also the club selling you would accept the inflated price that they receive for you because like chelsea a few years ago, city are going to pay top dollar.

[Dave de Sylvia]

Fair point, but I don't think Keane really looks like changing that this year.
It's impossible to judge anything with Torres so injured all the time. Liverpool's big problem last year was that they had no Plan B when Gerrard and Torres weren't working. Something needed to change and it probably would have by now if they'd let Torres recover from his injury properly.

[mph4ever]

Have to agree with Iai on all those points, plus if I was a player, I'd rather go to a team that hasn't won everything already.

and thats a very desireable trait in a footballer

[Iai]

i understand what you are saying and would like to think in the real world then thats what happens. but footballers careers are short, feeder clubs are aware of the potential of the talent they are developing, agents are expensive

chelsea=man city for me.

be offered the same money to go to arsenal or madrid or milan as you are offered to go to man city and surely you would pass up city. if city are offering increased wages then its a consideration and also the club selling you would accept the inflated price that they receive for you because like chelsea a few years ago, city are going to pay top dollar.
That depends on whether you'd be guaranteed a starting position, though. If you're a David Villa or a Gianluigi Buffon, then yes, you're right. Your point about footballers having short careers is a good one, but surely that just means they want to spend all that time playing? I honestly think that in 95% of cases, personal glory will always come before personal gain.*

* Wayne Bridge is the 5%, obviously

[Happy]

and thats a very desireable trait in a footballer

That's why I should be one.

Where are the e-scouts :p

[Iai]

Anyway, y'all heard the hilarious news that Chelsea want Tuncay?

I mean, I'm terrified that we might lose him, but still, made me laugh.

[mph4ever]

That depends on whether you'd be guaranteed a starting position, though. If you're a David Villa or a Gianluigi Buffon, then yes, you're right. Your point about footballers having short careers is a good one, but surely that just means they want to spend all that time playing? I honestly think that in 95% of cases, personal glory will always come before personal gain.*

* Wayne Bridge is the 5%, obviously`

yeah, i am sure lots of them desire the guarantee of first team football. I guess its up to the manager to convince them of that and how they fit into their plans.

do you think sparky is capable of landing the big names? is he capable of managing city at the highest level? or will the squad they assemble do the job for him? is he still a front runner for manu?

[Iai]

Possibly, not yet, possibly, no.

[mph4ever]

Possibly, not yet, possibly, no.

then i would say sparky at city = fail

[Interstate]

then i would say sparky at city = fail

He's going to have to pull something out the bag to get world class players though. I think he needs to focus on getting City as high up the league as possible before big name players start to take note, especially if City are offering the same money as bigger clubs.

[mph4ever]

He's going to have to pull something out the bag to get world class players though. I think he needs to focus on getting City as high up the league as possible before big name players start to take note, especially if City are offering the same money as bigger clubs.

its going to be interesting

they may have money like chelsea used to have but they do not have the special one. i am not sure you can get big name players so easy. it takes more than money to get you to the top of football

in other news, adelaide are through to the quarterfinals. one more game and they might meet united

[Iai]

then i would say sparky at city = fail
I'd agree, but I'd love it if he were to prove us all wrong. No need to see another young English* manager get the sack from a job he got given too soon.

*meant to be amusing and offensive, don't correct me

[Dave de Sylvia]

If I hear the words "it's gweat to see annuver bwitish manager in the pwemiar weague" on Setanta Sports one more time I am going to nuke the entire continent.

[Iai]

It's great to see a British manager in Thailand.

[mph4ever]

It's great to see a British manager in Thailand.
i heard gary glitter had been out there trying to set up training schools - something to do with teaching young boys skills with balls

brings a whole new meaning to keepy uppy

[Iai]

Saw a tin of baby peas in Asda today.

[mph4ever]

van der sar gets another two years, i'm nervous about him presently

[Echleon]

Yeah he hasn't been very stable this season in all honesty. Though i'm even less convinced by Foster and he's meant to be our number 1 next season.

[mph4ever]

vds has signed for two because they are unsure of foster. what we'd do for a Peter Schmeicel right now

[Dave de Sylvia]

I hope they get rid of Kuszczak. He's terrible!

[mph4ever]

think we need to spend some money

[Iai]

Nah, Foster will do fine if he steers clear of injuries.

[Dave de Sylvia]

and Paul Robinson.

[mph4ever]

Nah, Foster will do fine if he steers clear of injuries.


yeah, given time too, england needs a new number one

[Iai]

Looks like we might nick this game, we're playing very well. Just had two really good opportunities to shoot that we didn't take, which is a worry, but we're doing most of the pressing.

Honestly though, if you think the commentators we have are bad, you should hear these two on Sopcast.

'Julio Arca blah bleh blah bleh und der blah Southampton'
'Und der blah bleh blah Sunderland?'
'Ah! Blah der Sunderland!'

They also haven't realised that 'Adam Johnson' and 'Ronnie Johnsen' aren't pronounced the same way. Surely that's a problem given that it's the most common surname in the Premiership? They've also mentioned Juninho 5 times, and Sheffield Wednesday about 8 times. God knows why.

[rid]

Liverpool disappoint once again.... ugh.

[Iai]

Yeah, what the hull happened?

[Dave de Sylvia]

Liverpool were very one-dimensional in the second half. After Hull went 2-0 up they played some excellent football and deserved to draw level, but they had no ideas in the second half. They were just pumping hopeful balls in the box and I imagine Hull couldn't believe their luck.

[Dave de Sylvia]

bah 2 points dropped

[mph4ever]

without stevie g then liverpool=fail

without a midfield then manu = fail

without abrahmovic then chelsea = fail

without ramos then spurs = success

gonna to watch real/barca

[Happy]

Spurs' defence did pretty well today to hold Manchester.

Gomes played a good game too.

Good chances created as well, frustrating at times too though.

[mph4ever]

gomes is growing

[Happy]

Literally.

[Interstate]

Hull played rather well I thought, put Liverpool on the back foot on a few occasions. Didn't see the 4-0 Sunderland win against West Brom coming though. And I'm annoyed as hell that Arsenal dropped points against Middlesborough. Be interesting to see Chelsea tomorrow.

[Happy]

Looks like Chelsea are going back on top.

[Pastorius]

Liverpool need to take their chances, ffs

[TakeWarning]

Spurs' defence did pretty well today to hold Manchester.

Gomes played a good game too.

Good chances created as well, frustrating at times too though.

**** yeah. I think we could have nicked one somewhere. We might have got more out of the match if we'd held onto the ball a bit better.

Also, did anyone see Ronaldo kick Dawson after that beautiful tackle? What a dickhead.

[Happy]

Lol, I was listening online and I heard a corner being taken then a handball called. The commentator said Ronaldo's name straight afterwards and I was thinking "jesus christ, can that guy not play football without being a cheat anymore"

I don't think it was actually him though.

[Dave de Sylvia]

It wasn't intentional, the ball just bounced up and hit his arm.

[Iai]

I was shocked to see that one disallowed, I must say. Also, by the way the crowd over-reacted, I actually thought it was Berbatov.

[mph4ever]

isn't the rule that you can't manage two sides in the same season in spain cool

[Happy]

It wasn't intentional, the ball just bounced up and hit his arm.

If it hadn't have gone in maybe he would've been allowed to get away with it.
Otherwise its a bit controversial allowing a goal that went in off someone's arm and I don't think Mike Dean wants any more of that.


And today in the news I read Spurs are after Owen and Joe Cole.

I lolled.

[rid]

I was shocked to see that one disallowed, I must say. Also, by the way the crowd over-reacted, I actually thought it was Berbatov.

Shocked even? Well it was the right call.

[badtaste]

ffs, as if West Ham leading against Chelsea.

[2muchket!]

rofl

be funny if Zola actually lead West Ham to a win over Chelsea.

[Interstate]

1-1 now after 51 minutes Anelka scored.

Looks to be shaping up to be an interesting match. I really need to get Sky Sports!

Looking forward to the highlights on MOTD tonight.

[Dave de Sylvia]

I was shocked to see that one disallowed, I must say. Also, by the way the crowd over-reacted, I actually thought it was Berbatov.
I dunno, as much as it was unintentional the ball he wouldn't have been in a position to score if it hadn't hit his arm. It would take a very blind/forgiving referee to give it.

Chelsea drawing 1-1 with the Hammers with 5 minutes to go :D

[Iai]

I think I just heard the sigh of relief uttered by half of Liverpool.

[mph4ever]

i wonder will they start booing scolari

[Happy]

Taking bets on when he'll be gone yet?

[mph4ever]

the press just might have the smell of blood. they are talking bs like chelsea going for heskey and stuff. players need to haul them out of it

nice to zola get a result

[Happy]

It seems managers get sacked at the drop of a hat these days.

Oh well, Zola's saved himself for a little while.

[mph4ever]

sunderland, portsmouth, blackburn could all be looking for managers soon. christmas could be bad for some

[Happy]

I think Blackburn's a definite.

[Pastorius]

It's going to make Paul wince. Classic MOTD joke.

[mph4ever]

never liked him anyways

even less when he played for the scouse scum

[Happy]

I feel sorry for him.

[Echleon]

Ince should have bided his time, it was a step-up too early. I always thought it was abit odd - a manager who was got promoted from League 2 with a much superior budget, going to manage a club like Blackburn who do struggle for money and support. Probably because he was Paul Ince though.

[mph4ever]

is he well respected?

[Happy]

As a player from his England days, yes.
I still remember of that picture of him and the England squad in Euro 96 where he was covered in blood.

But as a manager, definitely not.

[mph4ever]

As a player from his England days, yes.
I still remember of that picture of him and the England squad in Euro 96 where he was covered in blood.

But as a manager, definitely not.

tough nut

[Dave de Sylvia]

I like Paul Ince. He's so nervouse all the time! I hope he keeps the job. Blackburn aren't doing the best, and he's a bit tactically naive at times, but he has them playing more positive football than Hughes ever did and if they can keep Santa Cruz and get all their injured players back I think they'll float towards mid-table. They're a bit like Sunderland (and Reading last season)- they're obviously too good to get relegated, and all they need is the confidence to grind out a few results.

[Pastorius]

Paul Ince has no neck

[Happy]

Racist.

[TakeWarning]

Craig Bellamy doesn't he a neck. And he's a cunt.

[mph4ever]

Paul Ince has no neck

he has no job now hahahahaha

i reckon his downfall was robbie fowler

[Happy]

I reckon his downfall was not being a good manager.

[mph4ever]

I reckon his downfall was not being a good manager.

sure but its nice to tie it in with scousers in some way - back to souness then. i'll miss him on tv, jamie always seemed a little quieter, more on edge when he was around

[Happy]

Yeah, your explanation's better.

****ing scousers ruining people's jobs.

[Pastorius]

Yeah, bloody scousers topping the league

wait what

[mph4ever]

hehehe

[Pastorius]

After the weekend, I'm milking this for all it's worth.

[mph4ever]

your confidence is to be admired

[Pastorius]

And you'll neveeeeer waaaaalk aloooooone

[Echleon]

http://i36.tinypic.com/15not2f.gif

I'm not surprised Ince was sacked to be honest.

If Blackburn were relegated, they would probably turn into the new Leeds.

[Pastorius]

Ha ha, I loved that catch, shoot in the box. Nice one Incey.

[mph4ever]

And you'll neveeeeer waaaaalk aloooooone


i'll sink that flippin' ferry with you lot on it

[Happy]

Yeah, bloody scousers topping the league

wait whatEnjoy it for the short time it lasts, which won't be for long :p

And Blackburn won't be the new Leeds because Leeds were better than them.

[Pastorius]

Look at all of you, easy to snipe away at us from your lowly non-1st positions.

Green doesn't suit you lads!

[Happy]

Spurs play in Blue and white are you stupid or something

[Pastorius]

Blue and white with red faces from being so crap

[Happy]

No that's Ramos and he's the manager of Real Madrid now.


We've done better since Harry showed up. Who knows, with the way we've been playing lately, had Harry come a bit earlier, we could be up the top somewhere.

[Pastorius]

You mean like....Liverpool?

[Happy]

More like Hull actually.

Because they'll be champions come May

[Pastorius]

lolz

If Hull are champions, I'll run naked through the streets of Bristol.

[Happy]

kk please let me know what time because I'll come down for that.

[mph4ever]

Look at all of you, easy to snipe away at us from your lowly non-1st positions.

Green doesn't suit you lads!

its certainly interesting longer than i thought it would be. i hope you lot stick around until the end

[Pastorius]

Honestly, I think there will be 3 contenders for the title this year.

[Happy]

Who? Liverpool, Manchester and Chelsea?

[Iai]

Liverpool Chelsea and Villa amirite?

[Pastorius]

Liverpool, Blackburn, and Stoke.

Of course 'pool, Man U and Chelscum, who else?

Oh, and I also think Villa might steal 4th.

[Happy]

I think the league's much tighter than that pasta.

[Iai]

Martin Jol has come out today to say that Villa are better than Arsenal.

Hasn't he got the memo that he hasn't needed to suck up to Spurs fans for about a year now?

[mph4ever]

i miss shrek, rooney reminds me a little but to see jol smile in the after match was just straight out the movie

[TakeWarning]

Martin Jol has come out today to say that Villa are better than Arsenal.

Hasn't he got the memo that he hasn't needed to suck up to Spurs fans for about a year now?

He's a gentleman through and through, that's for sure.

[mph4ever]

keane out in january

http://www.tribalfootball.com/gerrard-lets-slip-liverpool-sell-keane-216960

[TakeWarning]

We'll 'ave him for a cheeky 5mil.

[mph4ever]

that would be cheeky

if keane goes then benitez=fail

[Pastorius]

That would suck big time.

[mph4ever]

yeah but i hear they are all taking it all back.

maybe they are trying to unsettle keane since i would imagine if liverpool dont win the league then he will get the blame, him and benitez

[Pastorius]

Lawro's already retracted his statement. Said that Gerrard never said that. I still think Keane has a place in the squad, but he'll have to be prepared to take the sidelines sometimes.

[mph4ever]

20m sideline place when you look at the substitutions hes making

[Happy]

Allardyce is the new Blackburn manager


he's fat

[mph4ever]

so now hamburg are better than arsenal

[badtaste]

So supposedly Real Madrid has a secret agreement with Man U to get Ronaldo next season.

Yes/no?

[mph4ever]

at the moment manu have come out and said no. real need to say something positive since they are in a mess presently.

[TakeWarning]

Diarra to Real Madrid is already a done deal apparently. Good signing.

[Happy]

I hope Ronaldo goes to Real. I'm sick of him.

[mph4ever]

i hope nani goes to bournemouth, i'm sick of him

[Happy]

We'll have him I'm sure

[mph4ever]

its like his football is constipated

[poorquality]

I like the revelation of the apparant Ronaldo deal

Real director Pedro Trapote reportedly told Spanish newspaper El Mundo a deal had been struck, but added "there are clauses keeping us from announcing it".

I guess the deals off now then.

[Spiney_Norman]

Nono, it's just a secret! :o

[Happy]

Hey BBC we might sign Ronaldo, BUT DONT TELL ANYONE!!!!

[Iai]

'I wouldn't sell Real Madrid a virus!'

Sometimes I can't help but love Alex Ferguson.

[mph4ever]

united were sweet today in japan

[poorquality]

How did our first choice defence (minus Rafael) concede 3 times to them? (ok one was a penalty >_>)

[Happy]

It was 2-0 when I stopped watching lol.

[mph4ever]

How did our first choice defence (minus Rafael) concede 3 times to them? (ok one was a penalty >_>)

they actually played extremely well and united did not play their usual pressure game. they are fit, fast and at times very skillful.

[Echleon]

How did our first choice defence (minus Rafael) concede 3 times to them? (ok one was a penalty >_>)

When it got to 5-1 with like 5 mins to go to go or whatever I think they just lost concentration abit.

Rooney was ****ing amazing when he came on.

[mph4ever]

what a draw????????????

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW

Chelsea v Juventus


Villarreal v Panathinaikos


Sporting Lisbon v Bayern Munich


Atletico Madrid v FC Porto?


Lyon v Barcelona


Real Madrid v Liverpool


Arsenal v Roma


Inter Milan v Manchester United


hahahahahahaha

[Pastorius]

Aaaaaaaargh Real, what a nightmare.

[mph4ever]

not as tough as juve

at least we both got away legs first

[Pastorius]

Yeah, I know what our strategy is already. Try for a draw in Madrid, then take them back to Fortress Anfield and hammer them with everything we've got.

[ThrashMaster27]

I'm happy with the UEFA Cup draw being a Spurs fan.

I would had rather have got Aalborg in the next round, but you can't be picky sometimes. Shakhtar suits me down to the ground.

We're screwed without Pav or Corluka though. We'll make it through to the next round, but I reckon it's out after that :(

[Iai]

Chelsea v Juventus
Villarreal v Panathinaikos
Sporting Lisbon v Bayern Munich
Atletico Madrid v FC Porto
Lyon v Barcelona
Real Madrid v Liverpool
Arsenal v Roma
Inter Milan v Manchester United

/has not made himself popular with that last one

[Pastorius]

Or the Liverpool one, it seems we're like Marmite round here

[mph4ever]

Chelsea v Juventus
Villarreal v Panathinaikos
Sporting Lisbon v Bayern Munich
Atletico Madrid v FC Porto
Lyon v Barcelona
Real Madrid v Liverpool
Arsenal v Roma
Inter Milan v Manchester United

/has not made himself popular with that last one
yeah. i am not sure about inter/manu. its going to be excellent. i put manu down for obvious reasons. same time i think i will take the time to watch them over the next while to see how much of a threat they are. they have an excellent squad. ferguson will relish meeting josé outside the premiership again too, payback for porto

Or the Liverpool one, it seems we're like Marmite round here

watch you mean man, i love marmite although saying liverpool leaves a terrible taste in my mouth

[poorquality]

I figure Inter vs Man U will be a bit like Barca v Man U last season, will be settled by one goal, to who? I have no idea. But we have an excellent chance.

I think Juventus will give Chelsea a game and I think could nick it over two legs.
Liverpool should beat Madrid over two legs, I think if we had to draw a top top team any of the English sides would of taken Madrid in their current situation.

Arsenal vs Roma isn't straight forward either, Roma are a quality side, Arsenal haven't been turning up to many games this season, though they up their game against top teams (Like United, and probably Liverpool this weekend). Depends on what Arsenal side shows up really. When a team approaches Roma on top form and with the passing ability of a team like Arsenal...well look what United did to them.

Despite that, I think Roma will win over two legs simply based on Arsenal so far this season.

[Dave de Sylvia]

Inter aren't really that good.

[Dave de Sylvia]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/article-1097030/The-Football-Association-v-1-Patrice-Evra-2-Chelsea-Football-Club.html

17. It does seem that there was some slight tension and mutual irritation developing at this early stage of the warm-down. Manchester United players were at least as responsible as Chelsea ground staff. Gary Neville in particular was behaving in an abusive and provocative manner towards Chelsea ground staff. However, we do not believe there was anything serious at that stage, and certainly nothing dangerous. We find Mr Evra's description exaggerated.

Why is this the least surprising aspect of the entire report?

[Pastorius]

Because he's Manc scum?

[mph4ever]

Because he's Manc scum?

nah, its was chelsea, he really only lets that side out for the scousers

[Pastorius]

It's nice to feel special :)

[mph4ever]

no problem mate

[Pastorius]

I predict 0-0 for the weekend.

[badtaste]

what a draw????????????

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW

hahahahahahaha

Holy awesome. Three Anglo-Italian affairs...

Chelsea v Juventus
Villarreal v Panathinaikos
Sporting Lisbon v Bayern Munich
Atletico Madrid v FC Porto
Lyon v Barcelona
Real Madrid v Liverpool (Moreso because I don't like the pool)
Arsenal v Roma
Inter Milan v Manchester United

[poorquality]

Hm the general opinion from what I've seen posted about on various forums is that United are the only English side expected to go through.

As far as I see it all 4 games could go either way, with Liverpool perhaps having the best of it against a weak Madrid side, though that could all change depending on what Madrid do over Jan and when the new manager settles etc.

[Happy]

Liverpool losing to Real?

Remember who's in charge.

[mph4ever]

perfect opportunity to prove that spurs made him a bad manager

[Happy]

I will believe it when he does good.

[2muchket!]

Holy awesome. Three Anglo-Italian affairs...

Chelsea v Juventus
Villarreal v Panathinaikos
Sporting Lisbon v Bayern Munich
Atletico Madrid v FC Porto
Lyon v Barcelona
Real Madrid v Liverpool (Moreso because I don't like the pool)
Arsenal v Roma
Inter Milan v Manchester United

lmao

[badtaste]

Liverpool losing to Real?

Remember who's in charge.

Again, it's me wanting Liverpool to lose, rather than thinking Liverpool will lose. Tip with your heart, not your head!

lmao

Cmon underdogs.

[2muchket!]

Again, it's me wanting Liverpool to lose, rather than thinking Liverpool will lose. Tip with your heart, not your head!



Cmon underdogs.

hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

confident of a boro getting something today.

But not so confident of Tuncay not leaving :(

[poorquality]

Ramos is a proven manager in Spain, the EPL obviously didn't suit him. I think Madrid will be a massive danger to Liverpool, they'll have some players back, maybe new signings. It could happen, Real are still one of the best teams in the World no doubt.

[Dave de Sylvia]

Real have goalscorers, even with Ruud injured. Liverpool just haven't looked like winning matches decisively all season.

[Happy]

hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

confident of a boro getting something today.

But not so confident of Tuncay not leaving :(

Unlucky Frankie.

[Dave de Sylvia]

Sunderland hammer in 4 for the second time in a week. I've always thought Jones and Cisse could be one of the very best striking partnerships in the league, and they're absolutely on fire right now. Good to see Andy Reid getting in on the action too, from an Irish perspective.

[poorquality]

Wouldn't it be interesting to see how many minutes Beckham has played for England for his 107 caps and see how many minutes someone like Charlton or whoever played for theirs?

I'm pretty sure I know who deserved them more >_> someone didn't have to get his last 7 or whatever by coming off the bench for 10 minutes a game.

Yeah I also think an international cap is worthless now, it used to be a privilege to get one for representing your country, but when a player coming on in the 88th minute as a time-wasting tactic gets a cap too, it's just not as special. Anyone agree?

I personally don't think

[The_Passenger]

Liverpool losing to Real?

Remember who's in charge.

A very good manager?

As far as the Champions League goes I'm really not sure about who'll go through out of any of the English teams. Based on what I've seen this season there are strong cases for and against them going through.

Gotta feel for West Ham as well, that was cruel.

And Argyle lose again :(

[Iai]

I wanna look like Djibril Cisse when I grow up!

[Pastorius]

Sorry, Juve winning to Chelsea?

dont' make me lolololo0lololo0ol0ol0ol

[2muchket!]

Unlucky Frankie.

bad timez to be a boro fan

:(

[Pastorius]

Come on, Liverpool are gonna hold Real to a draw away and hammer than at Anfield.

1-1 and 3-1, mark my words

[TakeWarning]

bad timez to be a boro fan

:(

Do you think Downing will move during the transfer window like?

[poorquality]

Anyone awake for the United game? >_>

Today should be good;

10:30 Ligue de Quito vs Man United
13:30 West Brom vs City (Go'wan Brom, keep City in the relegation zone)
16:00 Arsenal vs Liverpool
18:00 Villareal vs Barcelona

Yep that's my day planned.

[Happy]

You know what, the Spurs match would be better to watch/listen to than West Brom.

Only its on a 3.

[2muchket!]

Do you think Downing will move during the transfer window like?

theres been constant speculation around him for around 2/3 seasons

we'll get good money for him if he does go well over 10million

and adam johnson is as good as him except he can actually take on players

I've also said it before and I'll say it again watch out for a young boro lad called Nathan Porritt. He's the same age as me and he will be special.

[mph4ever]

world champions

arsenal were unlucky. liverpool once again have shown that they can't put games away

[Iai]

Why does it always come down to me to do things like this?

MAN CITY LOL

[Echleon]

United crowned World Champions...

City in relegation zone...

Liverpool can't break down 10-man Arsenal...

Do things get much better? :D

[Dave de Sylvia]

Webb had another shocker today. Adebayor arguably deserved a yellow for the second, but I thought Webb was better than those referees that book strikers for being tall.

[Spiney_Norman]

Why does it always come down to me to do things like this?

MAN CITY LOL

lulz
And West Brom winning means there's only about 10 points between 6th and bottom... Pretty damn close this year!

[2muchket!]

Webb had another shocker today. Adebayor arguably deserved a yellow for the second, but I thought Webb was better than those referees that book strikers for being tall.

didnt even think the 2nd was a yellow

[Pastorius]

It was a dumb move by Adebayor. If he gives the first yellow, he has to give the second.

Arca's challenge was shocking.

[Dave de Sylvia]

Adebayor's foot was raised and his arm was a little wild (probably because he is 2 feet taller than everyone else on the pitch) but he was shielding the ball. I think the referee just lost it.

[badtaste]

Viduka's backheel assist ftw.

[TakeWarning]

theres been constant speculation around him for around 2/3 seasons

we'll get good money for him if he does go well over 10million

and adam johnson is as good as him except he can actually take on players

I've also said it before and I'll say it again watch out for a young boro lad called Nathan Porritt. He's the same age as me and he will be special.

Yeah Adam Johnson's a prospect, been linked with Real Madrid lately. I'll watch out for Nathan Porritt. Is he English?

[Iai]

Yeah he is. There's Johnathan Franks too, he's younger but he's as promising.

[TakeWarning]

Word. Boro's academy seems to be doing incredibly well.

[mph4ever]

haha john terry

[Pastorius]

liverpool top for christmas

and everyone knows no team has ever lost the league if they've been top at christmas

[poorquality]

United have had the best results out of the supposed top 4 :D 2 games in hand against Wigan and Fulham would take us 1 point behind Liverpool. Also have had all our difficult away games out of the way, so we invite the likes of chelski, arsenal, liverpool etc to Old Trafford.

As much as Liverpool have impressed me by grinding out results, the title is once again, Uniteds to lose.

[Pastorius]

Liverpool haven't impressed me yet, they've been grinding out draws.

[poorquality]

For a team without their main striker and severely lacking options (Though Keane needs to be given time, proven goalscorer and all, his goal this weekend was a beaut), to be top of the prem at x-mas is a remarkable feat.

Even though none of the top 4 can put a consistant run together at the moment, infact Villa are the team still winning, can they pull a blackburn? I hope so.

This is normally the time of year United get the ball rolling and pull 10 game runs etc, hopefully this year is no different and we'll start a massive push towards the title.

[mph4ever]

liverpool top for christmas

and everyone knows no team has ever lost the league if they've been top at christmas

eh, arsenal last year?

[mph4ever]

10 of keanes goals last year were from the penalty spot. sort of puts 20 goals a season in perspective for him

[Pastorius]

Arsenal last year won the moral championship

shut up don't piss on my bonfire

Nobbo's goal against Arsenal was an absolute peach.

[poorquality]

Fabregas expected out for 2-3 weeks according to Wenger last night...according to medical people 4 months :| Wow that's them gone then. Wenger wants to replace from within rather than buy...

When will Arsenal fans start getting tired of hearing about their excellent youth system and actually want to try winning something for a change?

[Pastorius]

4 months, ouch.

He'll buy in I reckon

[Iai]

If he wants to be in the Champions League next season, he'll either need to buy or have Ashley Young shot.

[poorquality]

He has to buy in, their next game is against Villa, if Villa win that then Arsenal are 6 points behind them. They need something to sort it out otherwise they've lost 4th.

[mph4ever]

it'll get interesting when the table says manu/chelsea/villa and liverpool and arsenal are fighting it out for 4th

[Pastorius]

Lol @ liverpool battling it out for 4th. May I remind you....top of the league

[mph4ever]

Lol @ liverpool battling it out for 4th. May I remind you....top of the league

its a nice feeling being on top, but sometimes its nice to lie back and let others set the pace for a while

[Pastorius]

Yeah it feels really good not being 1st doesn't it

"Excuse me Mr Ferguson, would you rather be first or not first?"
"I think I'll take not first"

[poorquality]

Luckily though Fergie is smart enough to realise you don't win anything for being top in December :)

[Dave de Sylvia]

Yeah it feels really good not being 1st doesn't it

"Excuse me Mr Ferguson, would you rather be first or not first?"
"I think I'll take not first"
I think he'd settle for not being Liverpool.

[Interstate]

Man Fabregas is out for four months :(

[Pastorius]

Luckily though Fergie is smart enough to realise you don't win anything for being top in December :)

You don't lose anything either.

[TakeWarning]

Being top is not always the best. Teams always raise their game against whoever's leading the table.

[mph4ever]

Yeah it feels really good not being 1st doesn't it

"Excuse me Mr Ferguson, would you rather be first or not first?"
"I think I'll take not first"

enjoy mate. you lot were never going to allow us to equal your record without a fight. thats what make this interesting. all bragging rights disappear when we win the title this season, goes to 18 each. next season is going to be huge

[Pastorius]

What title is that? 'Most gracious runners up'?

[Iai]

lolololololololololololol

man u being gracious

lololololololololololololol

[Echleon]

What title is that? 'Most gracious runners up'?

Most successful club in England, better get used to hearing that sooner or later :thumb:

[mph4ever]

What title is that? 'Most gracious runners up'?

most gracious fifth if the gooners get their act together

[Pastorius]

Most successful club in England, better get used to hearing that sooner or later :thumb:

As in, "Liverpool are still the most successful club in England"

[mph4ever]

indeed they are. but manu are 10-0 in premiership titles. we'll nullify your historical claim in the very near future

[Pastorius]

Hmmmmm, not this year :D

[mph4ever]

no...football is based on seasons - not this year, but we will this season


oh, by the way, happy christmas to the whole lot of you in the boro thread

[Pastorius]

The loser's fallback, being pedantic :p

It's fine, you can snipe all you want, I'll just look at the table and laugh!

[mph4ever]

It's fine, you can snipe all you want, I'll just look at the table and doubt!

fixed

[Pastorius]

No doubting we're top of the table mate, and you can't go top with your games in hand. Makes me smile.

[mph4ever]

told you before. enjoy it. its a nice feeling

[Pastorius]

Pfffft don't give me that. You should be jealous of our superiority.

But in all seriousness, how nice is it for Keane to score a goal of that quality when his confidence must be low?

[TakeWarning]

Well, no one's questioning the quality of the boy. I mean, there are some issues with his confidence, but you can't question the quality of the boy.

[Pastorius]

I'm hoping this will get him right back on track. He's got a few more weeks with 'nando out of action so he should make the best of it and score 50 goals in 2 games.

[Dave de Sylvia]

As good a finish as it was, I don't think he's going to come up against as many defences that will let him just walk through like that. He did it twice against Liverpool last year though, so maybe he can try it out in training.

I can't see Keane lasting too long at Liverpool. He's not Torres and Rafa is far too cautious to ever play two strikers for more than about 20 minutes a match.

[Pastorius]

Yeah, maybe he can train against Liverpool for an easy defence WHAT! Nevermind Liverpool having one of the most solid defences in Europe.

I can't see Keane lasting long because he just doesn't slot into the team.

[Dave de Sylvia]

haha yeah Liverpool's defence is really solid, it's just not often that Keane comes up against two centre halfs he can outrun. Also it was probably the worst game of Hyypia's career so.

I don't see why Keane can't slot into the team. There have been a few games this season where Gerrard and Alonso have played in a two-man midfield and bossed the shop. I know he linked up excellently with Torres, but I don't think Liverpool are going to win any titles until they get a good strike partnership and Gerrard operates as a proper central midfielder.

I mean Keane's form in front of goal has been poor (then again he's always been one to miss the easy chances and score the difficult ones), but I just don't think Liverpool have enough creativity in the middle to justify him up front of his own. Torres can at least play on his own, and that seems to be what Benitez wants. Which begs the question of why he bothered buying Keane at all since he doesn't seem to want to adapt the team to accommodate. It's bizarre.

I know Liverpool are top and you get tired of hearing this, but I genuinely think if Liverpool weren't such a one-dimensional team that Keane would have no trouble finding a place.

[Pastorius]

It does annoy me that we're one-dimensional, if the game plan isn't working we find it difficult to break a team down.

[poorquality]

Vital 3 points that, scrappy game, reckless and I think rooney might be on the recieving end of a 3 match ban for the elbow missed by the ref..

Hopefully we'll be fresher and back to our best come Monday, we do get the longest break without a game this week, 12:45 kick off today and 8pm kickoff Monday...

Worried about our lack of goals though, with players like rooney, tevez, scholes and ronaldo playing you expect more shots from long range rather than trying an arsenal and passing it into the net, need to do better.

[badtaste]

Man City are schooling Hull.

Topsy turvy buggers.

[poorquality]

Ireland <3

3 assists and a goal, gotta be MotM too...points...beautiful points.

[Iai]

He's single-handedly carrying my fantasy team today, what with Bosingwa and Tuncay not playing a full game, Cisse being useless, Rio not playing at all, and David James letting in four :-/

[2muchket!]

Villa equalise in injury time.

Love it.

[Iai]

They deserved to win.

[mph4ever]

saw the end. magic

[Pastorius]

Shame about Liverpool being TOP OF THE LEAGUE STILL eh

[mph4ever]

not really. they deserve to be where they are

[TakeWarning]

Sbragia named as Sunderland's permanent manager.

Not sure if that's the way forward for them.

[poorquality]

Sbragia named as Sunderland's permanent manager.

Not sure if that's the way forward for them.

He's done alright so far for them, but I know what you mean, long run and such.

[mph4ever]

i'd imagine they really didn't have much of a choice

[Happy]

Paul Ince.

[mph4ever]

a real black cat then

[Iai]

bom chicka wow wow

[2muchket!]

Iai you noT worried at all about the position we're in ?

It's worrying that for years upon years spending (within reason) has never been a problem at the boro and yet all of sudden now it is.

[Iai]

I'm not that worried. I mean we're practically in the relegation zone now but we're also only two wins away from being in seventh. We're level with Spurs, which puts things in perspective. I'll only be worried if we're still there by the time the table actually begins to spread out a bit (which isn't likely to be until March).

I don't really think we need to spend....what position would you be buying for? Ross Turnbull has proved himself enough for me to be given at least until the end of the season.

[2muchket!]

Turnbull has indeed proven himself but I'm just more worried about the fact that 12 months ago we were able to smash our own transfer record in buying Alves yet now we can't spend a penny.

I think we're a bit lightweight in defence but I'm all for Southy giving McMahon more starts as he was excellent before he got injured badly.

[mph4ever]

its only from time to time that we get a glimpse of why this is called the boro thread

[TakeWarning]

Liverpool dominated Newcastle. They're really looking the business for the top of the table right now.