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- A Crap Poem: West Ham vs Burnley
- Crap Poem: Relegation Six-Pointer
- Crap poem – Celebration and Swans
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Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Crap poem: Rugby and Dirk Kuyt
A few poems from the weekend, kinda. Starting with rugby and that and ending with that Dutch guy who runs a lot… Rugby Wigan and Hull play football, In a cities were they generally chase eggs. Filling their football stadiums at weekends, With a small number of footballing dregs. Dirk Kuyt Like a forest Dirk [...]
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Forest vs. Burnley preview..
Ah, it’s been nice to have a weekend without Forest to spoil things, hasn’t it?� Well, if you brush aside the whispers of who’s leaving and when.� So far the only confirmed news on that score are Leicester and their bids for Wes Morgan – but, of course – it would certainly be the Forest [...]
Source: http://nffcblog.com/2012/01/29/forest-vs-burnley-preview-2/
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Higginbotham signs for Forest
Stoke defender Danny Higginbotham has joined Nottingham Forest on loan until the end of the season.
Source: http://www.midlandsfootball.co.uk/2012/02/higginbotham-signs-for-forest/
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Nottingham Forest 0-3 Southampton: Another day to forget
Still in the bottom three, Forest slumped to a fifth consecutive home league defeat against a superior Southampton side.�James Bolton reports from the City Ground. Surprisingly, Steve Cotterill converted to a conventional 4-4-2 formation for the visit of table-topping Southampton. Greg Cunningham and Marlon Harewood came in for Kieron Freeman and Andy Reid. Southampton?s passing [...]
Source: http://seatpitch.co.uk/2012/01/15/nottingham-forest-0-3-southampton-another-day-to-forget/
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Tripping the light fantastic
Some footballers become pundits or postmen when they retire. And some join bands. Steve Wright looks at a couple of ex-Forest players who hung up their boots and picked up a guitar. Forest chairman Frank Clark was well known in his playing days for taking his guitar on the team bus to entertain the team [...]
Source: http://seatpitch.co.uk/2012/01/20/tripping-the-light-fantastic/
Espanyol sign former Barca ace
Espanyol have made another January signing after agreeing terms with former Barcelona star Victor Sanchez from Swiss side Neuchatel Xamax. Sanchez left Neuchatel Xamax after the Swiss club were thrown out of the Swiss league for transfer irregularities and has now signed a new contract with Espanyol. The 24-year-old midfielder is a product of Barcelona’s [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/espanyol-sign-former-barca-ace/
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Preciado sacked as Sporting coach
Sporting Gijon have sacked coach Manuel Preciado after a string of bad results. The 54-year-old coach was the longest serving coach in La Liga after taking over Sporting in 2006 but following a string of bad results over the winter period. The club officially announced on Tuesday that Preciado had said his goodbyes to president [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/preciado-sacked-as-sporting-coach/
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Friday Night Football. Let's never speak of it again.
Watford 0 Spurs 1
If the game where Hoddle scored that wonderful wonderful chip was enthralling, this 2012 FA Cup match (from a Spurs perspective) was an abomination in comparison. Harsh, but a fair assessment. It really wasn't very good from start to finish. Watford, hardly Brazil but very unfortunate to have not scored. All things considered, a 1-0 win and progress into the next round is hardly scoffable. New Spurs, can play without edge and still claim victory, riding lady luck bareback...willing to take the risk.
We lined up with a strong side. On paper more than decent. The reality altogether a different experience. No true shape and absolutely no width. Thankfully Lennon was on the bench for the second half but before we got there we had to endure very little in the way of anything of substance. Midfield was unbalanced, Luka lost out on the left. Rafa in there somewhere doing something. I think. Actually I don't know. I kept having to check the starting line-up to confirm and then reconfirm the existence of some of the players out on the pitch. No fluidity, no smart, sharp movement and passing. There was no tempo other than chasing Watford back when they came forward. Rose and Walker under early pressure whilst we lacked direction.
Modric and Rafa struggled to gain influence. The two forwards (JD and Adebayor) waiting rather than gathering. There was no apparent system to our play that would have allowed the variety of in-team units to work together. Retaining possession, recycling possession, push and run. Nothing. It progressively got worse. That's until van der Vaart scored on 43 minutes from a counter attack (a Walker threaded ball) to the anonymous enigma who scorched the ball into the net from twenty-five yards. Although how anyone can notice how a player can be anonymous in amongst a sea of anonymity is beyond me. I was just happy to see someone attempt a shot on goal.
Second half, Luka off and Lennon on gave us width. Pace. Eased the pressure on the flank Rose was patrolling. Still, we continued to ride our luck with Murray clear on goal hitting the post and the rebound squandered by Deeney. Wakey wakey, right? Wrong. More coma-inducing football followed. We did carve out a chance or two (rose cross Walker header Loach save). Rafa was slightly more involved in the play, in that he got to touch the ball. Have to admit I found myself easily distracted by the want for Yorkshire tea. Also, had to call Sky up because my Sky box lost its signal (was watching the game on an internet feed on the pc). On the phone to Sky they asked me to unplug the box which I did. Then press the backup button, keeping my finger pressed down on it. Then I was asked to re-plug the box in. I kept my finger on the backup button, but could not reach the plug. I needed assistance to complete this so I called out for the missus. I then proceeded to turn into Alan Partridge.
"Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan....Dan..."
I burst out laughing when she walked into the room. She had no idea why and gave me daggers for distracting her hair straightening until I explained the necessity for the Sky plug to find its way back into its socket. It fixed the problem. Highlight of the game that was. Not relevant to the football, but thankful for ye olde living room improvisation theatre rescuing me momentarily before the bleak return to the internet stream.
Rafa hit the crossbar. But Watford continued to press. Without being patronising either way, we played poorly with plenty of disinterest. Friday night football, obviously not our stage. But even with our lack of oomph, Watford for all their plucky resilience and belief still couldn't get past Cudicini and his heroic save when it looked a certain equaliser. 25 shots to 6, supposedly. That's 25 Watford efforts to our lazy half dozen.
I really did expect us to walk this when I saw the line-up but credit to Watford for at least turning up. Not sure if that was a City hangover being flushed out of our system or just one of very very (very) few below par performances we've witnessed this season. Perhaps evidence that a slightly weakened Spurs side is detrimental to momentum. Perhaps evidence that players did not wish to run around a lot and get injured. Sometimes we don't have much choice but to take that risk. Props to Livermore. I noticed you Jake. Either way, its done. We're into the hat and we can look at the far more important business of the league and Wigan at home.
What? Come on now, the FA Cup...its still an afterthought I'm afraid. The magic has yet to spark us into life. Perhaps in the next round.
Regardless, we win. Onwards we go.
Love the shirt.
Source: http://www.dearmrlevy.com/dml/2012/1/27/friday-night-football-lets-never-speak-of-it-again.html
Monday, 30 January 2012
The transfer window rumour update? part three
Still nobody out and, therefore, nobody in and no new contracts. Steve Cotterill’s reputation as a wheeler-dealer is under threat… Seat Pitch rounds up the five, desperate, last rumours. 1. Lewis McGugan Widely expected to leave during this transfer window, there’s still been no bids for the talented but inconsistent midfielder. However, West Ham are [...]
Source: http://seatpitch.co.uk/2012/01/26/the-transfer-window-rumour-update-part-three/
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Football Aid 2012 ? Bid to Play at the City Ground!
We’re not ignoring the events at the City Ground; we’re still annoyed about the penalty given against the Moose, and [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/football-aid-2012-bid-to-play-at-the-city-ground/
Hammers keen on Beckford
Sky Sports understands West Ham have made an enquiry for Leicester striker Jermaine Beckford.
Source: http://www.midlandsfootball.co.uk/2012/01/hammers-keen-on-beckford/
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Latest transfer rumours, Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Latest transfer rumours,
Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111033.htm
football trials 2011 daily record football football america football tables
Forest confirm Guedioura loan
Nottingham Forest have confirmed the signing of Wolves midfielder Adlene Guedioura on loan until the end of the season.
Source: http://www.midlandsfootball.co.uk/2012/01/forest-confirm-guedioura-loan/
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Step up to Red Alert..
Nottingham Forest – 0 Southampton – 3 The saddest part of this weekend wasn’t so much another defeat, another goalless performance, another bamboozling post-match interview with Steve Cotterill, another game of mindless hoofball.� I can even begin to acclimatise to the lack of effort the team seem to put in (which is depressing), but – [...]
Source: http://nffcblog.com/2012/01/15/step-up-to-red-alert/
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Why Real Madrid Are Suffering From Battered Wife Syndrome
No sooner had Real Madrid been eliminated by Barcelona in the Copa Del Rey quarter-final had a new war of words emerged from the Real camp who ITS? Rolly Pelovangu argues are suffering from Battered Wife Syndrome After Barcelona?s Copa Del Rey success over Real Madrid at the Camp Nou, the overriding image which stuck [...]
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Fans? forum: the verdict
At Tuesday’s Supporters Club Q&A, manager Steve Cotterill and chief executive Mark Arthur sought to address fans’ concerns. Peter Blackburn reports. Despite a litany of mediocre questions, and mediocre answers, in amongst the usual discussion about recent performances, relationship between club and fans, and the hope that Forest would beat The Rams in the next [...]
Source: http://seatpitch.co.uk/2012/01/12/fans-forum-the-verdict/
Sunday, 29 January 2012
Outclassed: Nottingham Forest 0 ? 3 Southampton
A few facts: Southampton were way better than us. We created quite a few chances in the first half but [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/outclassed-nottingham-forest-0-3-southampton/
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Latest transfer rumours, Tevez in Man City excile, Blackburn for sale
Latest transfer rumours, Tevez in Man City excile, Blackburn for sale
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111018.htm
606 football football trials 2011 daily record football football america
He?s Derby-sure to get in trouble..
First I suppose I should welcome Sean O’Driscoll to Forest – I’m quite pleased with his arrival. He might encourage a few of the team to, y’know, try passing it along the floor to their teammates occasionally. Certainly he’s used to trying to make silk purses out of sow’s ears – and with not a particularly high level of investment. Hopefully he will also provide a bit of support to Cotterill too who, despite being very much in my bad books, does cut a rather loan figure at the moment [...]
Read the original post on Through the seasons before us
Source: http://www.ltlf.co.uk/forest/2012/01/he%e2%80%99s-derby-sure-to-get-in-trouble/
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West Ham United vs. Forest preview..
Let’s start with something positive – our youngsters are 7-1 against Wigan in the FA Youth Cup fourth round.� Bamford has scored four and there’s still twenty odd minutes to go.� Perhaps the future isn’t so bleak after all?� And now, let’s drop back down to earth by contemplating the weekend’s fortunes of our senior [...]
Source: http://nffcblog.com/2012/01/19/west-ham-united-vs-forest-preview-2/
football trials 2011 daily record football football america football tables
That was the year that was ? 2011 in review (part one)
Many thanks to Steven Toplis for this summary of the many ups and downs of 2011. 2011 has been quite [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/that-was-the-year-that-was-2011-in-review-part-one/
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Latest transfer rumours, Rooney on Man City radar, Man Utd in for Scholes and Lampard
Latest transfer rumours, Rooney on Man City radar, Man Utd in for
Scholes and Lampard
Scholes and Lampard
Friday Night Football. Let's never speak of it again.
Watford 0 Spurs 1
If the game where Hoddle scored that wonderful wonderful chip was enthralling, this 2012 FA Cup match (from a Spurs perspective) was an abomination in comparison. Harsh, but a fair assessment. It really wasn't very good from start to finish. Watford, hardly Brazil but very unfortunate to have not scored. All things considered, a 1-0 win and progress into the next round is hardly scoffable. New Spurs, can play without edge and still claim victory, riding lady luck bareback...willing to take the risk.
We lined up with a strong side. On paper more than decent. The reality altogether a different experience. No true shape and absolutely no width. Thankfully Lennon was on the bench for the second half but before we got there we had to endure very little in the way of anything of substance. Midfield was unbalanced, Luka lost out on the left. Rafa in there somewhere doing something. I think. Actually I don't know. I kept having to check the starting line-up to confirm and then reconfirm the existence of some of the players out on the pitch. No fluidity, no smart, sharp movement and passing. There was no tempo other than chasing Watford back when they came forward. Rose and Walker under early pressure whilst we lacked direction.
Modric and Rafa struggled to gain influence. The two forwards (JD and Adebayor) waiting rather than gathering. There was no apparent system to our play that would have allowed the variety of in-team units to work together. Retaining possession, recycling possession, push and run. Nothing. It progressively got worse. That's until van der Vaart scored on 43 minutes from a counter attack (a Walker threaded ball) to the anonymous enigma who scorched the ball into the net from twenty-five yards. Although how anyone can notice how a player can be anonymous in amongst a sea of anonymity is beyond me. I was just happy to see someone attempt a shot on goal.
Second half, Luka off and Lennon on gave us width. Pace. Eased the pressure on the flank Rose was patrolling. Still, we continued to ride our luck with Murray clear on goal hitting the post and the rebound squandered by Deeney. Wakey wakey, right? Wrong. More coma-inducing football followed. We did carve out a chance or two (rose cross Walker header Loach save). Rafa was slightly more involved in the play, in that he got to touch the ball. Have to admit I found myself easily distracted by the want for Yorkshire tea. Also, had to call Sky up because my Sky box lost its signal (was watching the game on an internet feed on the pc). On the phone to Sky they asked me to unplug the box which I did. Then press the backup button, keeping my finger pressed down on it. Then I was asked to re-plug the box in. I kept my finger on the backup button, but could not reach the plug. I needed assistance to complete this so I called out for the missus. I then proceeded to turn into Alan Partridge.
"Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan....Dan..."
I burst out laughing when she walked into the room. She had no idea why and gave me daggers for distracting her hair straightening until I explained the necessity for the Sky plug to find its way back into its socket. It fixed the problem. Highlight of the game that was. Not relevant to the football, but thankful for ye olde living room improvisation theatre rescuing me momentarily before the bleak return to the internet stream.
Rafa hit the crossbar. But Watford continued to press. Without being patronising either way, we played poorly with plenty of disinterest. Friday night football, obviously not our stage. But even with our lack of oomph, Watford for all their plucky resilience and belief still couldn't get past Cudicini and his heroic save when it looked a certain equaliser. 25 shots to 6, supposedly. That's 25 Watford efforts to our lazy half dozen.
I really did expect us to walk this when I saw the line-up but credit to Watford for at least turning up. Not sure if that was a City hangover being flushed out of our system or just one of very very (very) few below par performances we've witnessed this season. Perhaps evidence that a slightly weakened Spurs side is detrimental to momentum. Perhaps evidence that players did not wish to run around a lot and get injured. Sometimes we don't have much choice but to take that risk. Props to Livermore. I noticed you Jake. Either way, its done. We're into the hat and we can look at the far more important business of the league and Wigan at home.
What? Come on now, the FA Cup...its still an afterthought I'm afraid. The magic has yet to spark us into life. Perhaps in the next round.
Regardless, we win. Onwards we go.
Love the shirt.
Source: http://www.dearmrlevy.com/dml/2012/1/27/friday-night-football-lets-never-speak-of-it-again.html
Why Forest REALLY lost at Leicester last Week
Reports are reaching us that Nottingham Forest Head Coach (Driver) has landed himself in deep water. It seems that Steve Cotterill sought to emulate the late, great Brian Clough by driving the team coach to the FA Cup 3rd Round Replay at Leicester last week [...]
Source: http://www.ltlf.co.uk/forest/2012/01/why-forest-really-lost-at-leicester-last-week/
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Saturday, 28 January 2012
Latest transfer rumours, Tevez in Man City excile, Blackburn for sale
Latest transfer rumours, Tevez in Man City excile, Blackburn for sale
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111018.htm
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Cuenca agrees new Barca deal
Barcelona starlet Isaac Cuenca has agreed a new contract with the Catalan giants that will keep him at the club until 2015. Cuenca made his senior debut this season against Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League and has played 14 times since then aswell as playing for the B team in the Segunda. Manchester United, [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/cuenca-agrees-new-barca-deal/
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Outclassed: Nottingham Forest 0 ? 3 Southampton
A few facts: Southampton were way better than us. We created quite a few chances in the first half but [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/outclassed-nottingham-forest-0-3-southampton/
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Destroying footballers, isnt hard to do, to build them up again could be impossible
Destroying footballers, isnt hard to do, to build them up again could
be impossible
be impossible
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111028.htm
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Liverpool Fans Target Patrice Evra Ahead Of FA Cup Clash
Angry Liverpool fans have targeted Manchester United defender Patrice Evra as the focal point for their wrath as Liverpool and Manchester United clash in the FA Cup 4th Round. Evra was involved in an altercation with Liverpool striker Luis Suarez when the two sides met in the League clash in September with Suarez having been [...]
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Friday Night Football. Let's never speak of it again.
Watford 0 Spurs 1
If the game where Hoddle scored that wonderful wonderful chip was enthralling, this 2012 FA Cup match (from a Spurs perspective) was an abomination in comparison. Harsh, but a fair assessment. It really wasn't very good from start to finish. Watford, hardly Brazil but very unfortunate to have not scored. All things considered, a 1-0 win and progress into the next round is hardly scoffable. New Spurs, can play without edge and still claim victory, riding lady luck bareback...willing to take the risk.
We lined up with a strong side. On paper more than decent. The reality altogether a different experience. No true shape and absolutely no width. Thankfully Lennon was on the bench for the second half but before we got there we had to endure very little in the way of anything of substance. Midfield was unbalanced, Luka lost out on the left. Rafa in there somewhere doing something. I think. Actually I don't know. I kept having to check the starting line-up to confirm and then reconfirm the existence of some of the players out on the pitch. No fluidity, no smart, sharp movement and passing. There was no tempo other than chasing Watford back when they came forward. Rose and Walker under early pressure whilst we lacked direction.
Modric and Rafa struggled to gain influence. The two forwards (JD and Adebayor) waiting rather than gathering. There was no apparent system to our play that would have allowed the variety of in-team units to work together. Retaining possession, recycling possession, push and run. Nothing. It progressively got worse. That's until van der Vaart scored on 43 minutes from a counter attack (a Walker threaded ball) to the anonymous enigma who scorched the ball into the net from twenty-five yards. Although how anyone can notice how a player can be anonymous in amongst a sea of anonymity is beyond me. I was just happy to see someone attempt a shot on goal.
Second half, Luka off and Lennon on gave us width. Pace. Eased the pressure on the flank Rose was patrolling. Still, we continued to ride our luck with Murray clear on goal hitting the post and the rebound squandered by Deeney. Wakey wakey, right? Wrong. More coma-inducing football followed. We did carve out a chance or two (rose cross Walker header Loach save). Rafa was slightly more involved in the play, in that he got to touch the ball. Have to admit I found myself easily distracted by the want for Yorkshire tea. Also, had to call Sky up because my Sky box lost its signal (was watching the game on an internet feed on the pc). On the phone to Sky they asked me to unplug the box which I did. Then press the backup button, keeping my finger pressed down on it. Then I was asked to re-plug the box in. I kept my finger on the backup button, but could not reach the plug. I needed assistance to complete this so I called out for the missus. I then proceeded to turn into Alan Partridge.
"Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan...Dan....Dan..."
I burst out laughing when she walked into the room. She had no idea why and gave me daggers for distracting her hair straightening until I explained the necessity for the Sky plug to find its way back into its socket. It fixed the problem. Highlight of the game that was. Not relevant to the football, but thankful for ye olde living room improvisation theatre rescuing me momentarily before the bleak return to the internet stream.
Rafa hit the crossbar. But Watford continued to press. Without being patronising either way, we played poorly with plenty of disinterest. Friday night football, obviously not our stage. But even with our lack of oomph, Watford for all their plucky resilience and belief still couldn't get past Cudicini and his heroic save when it looked a certain equaliser. 25 shots to 6, supposedly. That's 25 Watford efforts to our lazy half dozen.
I really did expect us to walk this when I saw the line-up but credit to Watford for at least turning up. Not sure if that was a City hangover being flushed out of our system or just one of very very (very) few below par performances we've witnessed this season. Perhaps evidence that a slightly weakened Spurs side is detrimental to momentum. Perhaps evidence that players did not wish to run around a lot and get injured. Sometimes we don't have much choice but to take that risk. Props to Livermore. I noticed you Jake. Either way, its done. We're into the hat and we can look at the far more important business of the league and Wigan at home.
What? Come on now, the FA Cup...its still an afterthought I'm afraid. The magic has yet to spark us into life. Perhaps in the next round.
Regardless, we win. Onwards we go.
Love the shirt.
Source: http://www.dearmrlevy.com/dml/2012/1/27/friday-night-football-lets-never-speak-of-it-again.html
Bleeding Real White : Orgulloso de ser Madridista!
Rebecca Knight looks back at this weeks El Clasico and explains how Real Madrid have restored their pride. Writer – Rebecca Knight Never has the name of this column been so appropriate ? the second leg of the Copa Del Ray at the formidable ground of the Camp Nou provided everything that El Clasico should [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/bleeding-real-white-orgullo-sodeser-madridista/
football history football scores today football trials footy games
Juan Roman Riquelme to return to Villarreal
According to Marca, Juan Roman Riquelme is hoping to return to former club Villarreal and help them recover from a torrid start to the season. The Boca Juniors playmaker enjoyed several seasons in La Liga which started with Barcelona and then Villarreal, where he was idolised and loved by the club’s fans. His most successful [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/juan-roman-riquelme-to-return-to-villarreal/
Friday, 27 January 2012
Who next for Man Utd ?
Who next for Man Utd ?
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111039.htm
football tickets football live football manager football scores
Juan Roman Riquelme to return to Villarreal
According to Marca, Juan Roman Riquelme is hoping to return to former club Villarreal and help them recover from a torrid start to the season. The Boca Juniors playmaker enjoyed several seasons in La Liga which started with Barcelona and then Villarreal, where he was idolised and loved by the club’s fans. His most successful [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/juan-roman-riquelme-to-return-to-villarreal/
Premier League 10 years ago, what happened to the teams that were in the best party
Premier League 10 years ago, what happened to the teams that were in the
best party
best party
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111037.htm
football history football scores today football trials footy games
Wayne Rooney, to be or not to be, included in the England Euro 2012 squad
Wayne Rooney, to be or not to be, included in the England Euro 2012
squad
squad
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111020.htm
football trials 2011 daily record football football america football tables
Pe�a B�tica : Bienvenidos
Real Betis expert Ben Hardman talks January arrivals and Sunday’s match with Granada in his debut blog edition of Pe�a B�tica. Writer – Ben Hardman Bienvenidos a la Pe�a Betica, a blog dedicated to the ongoings and ever eventful happenings at Real Betis Balompi� and indeed Spanish football in general. Real Betis Balompi� is a [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/pena-betica-bienvenidos/
A quick thought on Steve McClaren and Nigel Doughty
Now that the ghost of Steve McClaren has been exorcised, and the transfer window is opening – with our new [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/a-quick-thought-on-steve-mcclaren-and-nigel-doughty/
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That was the year that was ? 2011 in review (part two)
Many thanks to Steven Toplis for this review of the many ups and downs in 2011. Two weeks after that [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/that-was-the-year-that-was-2011-in-review-part-two/
The transfer window rumour update? part three
Still nobody out and, therefore, nobody in and no new contracts. Steve Cotterill’s reputation as a wheeler-dealer is under threat… Seat Pitch rounds up the five, desperate, last rumours [...]
Read the original post on Seat Pitch
Source: http://www.ltlf.co.uk/forest/2012/01/the-transfer-window-rumour-update%e2%80%a6-part-three/
Thursday, 26 January 2012
Westley?s dilemma..
Westley worked his way up from a youngster in the organisation, his reputation for a great work ethic showed from an early age. Rarely unable to work through illness or injury, he established himself as a key member of the staff over many years. Always modest, and never one of the shining stars – he was the kind of solid and dependable team members that any organisation depends upon [...]
Read the original post on Through the seasons before us
Source: http://www.ltlf.co.uk/forest/2012/01/westley%e2%80%99s-dilemma/
606 football football trials 2011 daily record football football america
Reds pay the penalty for wasteful finishing..
We appear to have two stock scripts at the moment – be bloody awful and roundly beaten, or suffer misfortune (oft of the refereeing persuasion or perhaps a moment of slack defending) and lose because basically we can’t either provide the final ball or finish to opportunities we may carve out ourselves. This was one of those games [...]
Read the original post on Through the seasons before us
Source: http://www.ltlf.co.uk/forest/2012/01/reds-pay-the-penalty-for-wasteful-finishing/
Baggies & Rovers eye Baird
Sky Sports understands West Brom and Blackburn are chasing Fulham defender Chris Baird.
Source: http://www.midlandsfootball.co.uk/2012/01/baggies-rovers-eye-baird/
football history football scores today football trials footy games
Mourinho : It is impossible to win at Camp Nou
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho claimed some of his players believe it to be “impossible to win” at the Camp Nou after another loss to Barcelona left Los Blancos scratching their heads. Mourinho’s side dominated for a larger period than normal against Barcelona but trailed 2-0 at the break thanks to quickfire goals from Pedro [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/mourinho-it-is-impossible-to-win-at-camp-nou/7197/
Who next for Man Utd ?
Who next for Man Utd ?
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111039.htm
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Nottingham Forest 0-0 Leicester City: FA Cup stalemate
Despite chances at both ends, Forest face a replay against Leicester in the FA Cup after a goalless draw at the City Ground.�James Bolton reports. Steve Cotterill stuck to the 4-2-3-1 formation that had served Forest so well away at Ipswich for the 3rd round tie. There were two changes with George Boateng being replaced [...]
Source: http://seatpitch.co.uk/2012/01/08/nottingham-forest-0-0-leicester-city-fa-cup-stalemate/
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Latest transfer rumours, Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Latest transfer rumours,
Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Wigan bag Beausejour
Wigan have completed the signing of Chilean winger Jean Beausejour from Birmingham on a two-and-a-half-year deal.
Source: http://www.midlandsfootball.co.uk/2012/01/wigan-bag-beausejour/
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That's football
Sometimes you can feel more alive and inspired when the overriding emotion is one of dejection and disappointment. Football is dramatic, ironic and cruel at the best of times. It’s operatic with its twisting arcs. Colourful with its characters. Devastating at the finale. Yet somewhere in amongst the pain and anguish that you feel when the whistle is blown and the defeat sinks in, you can appreciate the intent and desire that played out during the game. It’s bitter-sweet, but it’s not misguided and neither is it a deflection to ease one’s self through the stages of grief.
We lost a game of football. A game we could have won 3-2, which we lost 3-2. But we could have genuinely won 3-2. The margin for error is so small, one half step too late or to early you don’t quite make it. On this given Sunday, we did not make it. We lost a game of football against the side that's most likely going to win the title.
Such defeats are always the worst kind to accept, especially when the difference in both sides was negligible. They were missing two key players, arguably the same can be said for us. There’s plenty of debate to be had concerning Lescott and Balotelli. Discussions on our defending, hindsight withstanding. For me, it was always going to be about the belief that has seen us generate so much solid consistent momentum going into this game. There is never shame in defeat if you match your opponent. Let's remember the tag this match had before kick-off and the fact our name was attached to it.
This is a Tottenham side contending. A Spurs side that doesn't lose often. Building from one game to the next. The title is beyond us now, probably always was. But the margin remains small. City have quality in strength of depth. That's their edge, much like Manchester United's is one of experience and seasoned tenacity. We still have to mature a little with what we have. And yet, if that half step wasn’t late we might be celebrating instead of commiserating. We’re simply reminded that we still have work to do.
I feel alive and inspired because we came back from 2-0 down and we displayed to all that witnessed that we are no longer this delinquent teenage punk giving it all mouth then apologising for the noise. We’re tooled up these days. We can take a punch and we can dish one out. We have the mental strength. The Bale goal, beautiful in every conceivable way when wishing to describe a goal scored by Spurs. That spirit, guile...it makes me embrace the positive emotion from the dejection and disappointment. City might have let us back in the game but you still have to turn up when invited.
If Bale had crossed early...
If Defoe had moved to attack the ball a second earlier...
If <insert City player> had been sent off...
Had we not given away three goals...
Games are full of incidents, perhaps not always as controversial or heart-stopping. The incident with Parker, regretful. Regretful that Mr Webb didn’t witness it. Balotelli knew what he was doing. Did not look like an act of retaining balance. The FA agree. Inconsistency though with the Lescott elbow being ignored, on and off the pitch. As bad as the Mario kick. In a perverse way its good that our two (recent) defeats (this one and the Stoke game) have question marks littered over them. But no point in claiming victimisation. It's just a harsh lesson that you can’t rely on anyone other than those in Lilywhite.
We were top drawer at times against the top team in the country. You don’t get any points for that, but I trust the players to take similar inspiration from the performance as I have. Confidence to fight back in-game has yet to translate to confidence to dominate this type of encounter from the kick-off. To believe that attack is the key to winning and taking three points rather than containment to guarantee a single one. Okay, so there were naive mistakes made but then I've not quite understood the necessity to slate certain players (i.e. Walker) who still have much to learn. It can cost us, but then when someone as great as Ledley King is prone to error it adds perspective to the occasion. But then you can sit and debate the mechanics of destiny that led up to the games defining moment until you've gone mad. Had the ball not been cleared in the manner it had. Very easy to point out the obvious after the fact to lay blame on the outcome.
It's also worth detaching yourself from a single game in isolation or only citing a series of performances that might add weight to your argument and thus ignoring the bigger picture. Would Ronaldo be the player he is today if he was simply left to play out wide? Gareth Bale was once a left-back. To free-roam, to play as an inside-forward...this is essential to his development. Coaching and tactical instructions equally imperative to aid his movement and effectiveness across the season and in single games when perhaps more discipline is required. We need to be shrewd in making sure the development retains cohesiveness and is not detrimental to the sides balance. The boy is a beast. But he's still a boy. Thought he was superb in the second half.
The secret to success is to hate defeat, to despise it. But also to respect the fact that it happens. No doubt the players feel devastated but this should only add fuel to push forward, harder. Thankfully for us it only seems like we’ve lost twice this season (rather than four times) because of the lack of a cohesive middle in the opening two fixtures I find myself detaching myself from those two games. Still, four defeats, 3rd, a ten point gap between us and 5th spot. That is hardly discouraging.
We can’t afford to lose focus. This unit of players are deserving to themselves and the shirt to truly aspire, to dare to achieve. I hold onto the positives because it’s easier to support and love your club if you accept the truth and embrace it. And the truth is? We’re not quite good enough. Not yet. But we are still a very good side. The best I've seen for decades. We have to continue to grow and adapt and display the team spirit we've shown in abundance this season.
When you remind yourself of that margin, this article might have been altogether a different read. Maybe next time the belief will be evident at the first whistle and cemented at the last. Another complete forward will do the trick so we can then always retain Plan A.
Football is dramatic, ironic and cruel. In nine minutes and six seconds we were left dizzy. At the death, left numb.
Still marching.
Source: http://www.dearmrlevy.com/dml/2012/1/23/thats-football.html
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No hope for passengers of sinking Forest
Rescue teams have said they are abandoning their search for survivors of the passenger ship Nottingham Forest which sank off the coast of Leicester last night [...]Source: http://www.ltlf.co.uk/forest/2012/01/no-hope-for-passengers-of-sinking-forest/
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Why Did Arsene Wenger Sub Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain vs Manchester Utd?
Arsenal slumped to a 2-1 defeat at home to Manchester United as boos rang out after Arsene Wenger inexplicably substituted Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain with the score at 1-1 The nippy, technically astute youngster was having his best ever game in an Arsenal shirt and after much persistence from the hosts, set up striker Robin Van Persie [...]
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- How Long Until Arsene Wenger Gets Sacked?
- Arsene Wenger To Leave Arsenal At The End of The Season???
- Anti-Arsene Wenger Demonstration Planned Before Arsenal v Swansea City Game!
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No hope for passengers of sinking Forest
Rescue teams have said they are abandoning their search for survivors of the passenger ship Nottingham Forest which sank off the coast of Leicester last night [...]Source: http://www.ltlf.co.uk/forest/2012/01/no-hope-for-passengers-of-sinking-forest/
Malaga 1-4 Barcelona: La Liga Video Highlights
A Lionel Messi hat-trick helped Barcelona record a fine 4-1 win over Malaga to keep the pressure on leaders Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. A fine Lionel Messi hat-trick and a goal by Alexis Sanchez sealed the 4-1 win at the Estadio La Rosaleda as the Spanish and European champions moved up [...]
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- Barcelona 4-2 Real Betis: La Liga Video Highlights
- Barcelona 5-0 Levante: La Liga Video Highlights
- Sevilla 2-6 Real Madrid: La Liga Video Highlights
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Is Jose Mourinho Overrated? Part 1
In The Stands? Rolly Pelovangu takes an in-depth look at the former Chelsea, Inter and current Real Madrid boss and asks the special question: Is Jose Mourinho overrated? Iconoclastic; the act of challenging established ideas and customs common within a certain place or time and not merely for the sake of argument. There is being [...]
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Reds pay the penalty for wasteful finishing..
West Ham United – 2 Nottingham Forest – 1 We appear to have two stock scripts at the moment – be bloody awful and roundly beaten, or suffer misfortune (oft of the refereeing persuasion or perhaps a moment of slack defending) and lose because basically we can’t either provide the final ball or finish to [...]
Source: http://nffcblog.com/2012/01/22/reds-pay-the-penalty-for-wasteful-finishing/
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Tuesday, 24 January 2012
Thai money not enough to establish success at Leicester City
Thai money not enough to establish success at Leicester City
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111036.htm
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Nottingham Forest 9-1 Wigan Athletic: Young guns
With five goals and three assists, Patrick Bamford took the starring role as Forest thrashed Wigan in the FA Youth Cup. James Bolton reports from the City Ground. After so much doom and gloom surrounding the first team recently, it was a welcome change to see a Nottingham Forest team score not one, not two, [...]
Source: http://seatpitch.co.uk/2012/01/21/nottingham-forest-9-1-wigan-athletic-young-guns/
That was the year that was ? 2011 in review (part two)
Many thanks to Steven Toplis for this review of the many ups and downs in 2011. Two weeks after that [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/that-was-the-year-that-was-2011-in-review-part-two/
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Scandinavian players, available for cut prices and ready to move on
Scandinavian players, available for cut prices and ready to move on
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111034.htm
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A quick thought on Steve McClaren and Nigel Doughty
Now that the ghost of Steve McClaren has been exorcised, and the transfer window is opening – with our new [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/a-quick-thought-on-steve-mcclaren-and-nigel-doughty/
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Mario Balotelli?s Bentley GT Egged By Manchester United Fans!
Mario Balotelli had a rude awakening when his �120,000 Bentley GT was egged by angry Manchester United fans hours after appearing to stamp on Scott Parker. The controversial Manchester City striker was having dinner at a restaurant in Manchester having just hours earlier netted the winner during City’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspurs at [...]
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That's football
Sometimes you can feel more alive and inspired when the overriding emotion is one of dejection and disappointment. Football is dramatic, ironic and cruel at the best of times. It’s operatic with its twisting arcs. Colourful with its characters. Devastating at the finale. Yet somewhere in amongst the pain and anguish that you feel when the whistle is blown and the defeat sinks in, you can appreciate the intent and desire that played out during the game. It’s bitter-sweet, but it’s not misguided and neither is it a deflection to ease one’s self through the stages of grief.
We lost a game of football. A game we could have won 3-2, which we lost 3-2. But we could have genuinely won 3-2. The margin for error is so small, one half step too late or to early you don’t quite make it. On this given Sunday, we did not make it. We lost a game of football against the side that's most likely going to win the title.
Such defeats are always the worst kind to accept, especially when the difference in both sides was negligible. They were missing two key players, arguably the same can be said for us. There’s plenty of debate to be had concerning Lescott and Balotelli. Discussions on our defending, hindsight withstanding. For me, it was always going to be about the belief that has seen us generate so much solid consistent momentum going into this game. There is never shame in defeat if you match your opponent. Let's remember the tag this match had before kick-off and the fact our name was attached to it.
This is a Tottenham side contending. A Spurs side that doesn't lose often. Building from one game to the next. The title is beyond us now, probably always was. But the margin remains small. City have quality in strength of depth. That's their edge, much like Manchester United's is one of experience and seasoned tenacity. We still have to mature a little with what we have. And yet, if that half step wasn’t late we might be celebrating instead of commiserating. We’re simply reminded that we still have work to do.
I feel alive and inspired because we came back from 2-0 down and we displayed to all that witnessed that we are no longer this delinquent teenage punk giving it all mouth then apologising for the noise. We’re tooled up these days. We can take a punch and we can dish one out. We have the mental strength. The Bale goal, beautiful in every conceivable way when wishing to describe a goal scored by Spurs. That spirit, guile...it makes me embrace the positive emotion from the dejection and disappointment. City might have let us back in the game but you still have to turn up when invited.
If Bale had crossed early...
If Defoe had moved to attack the ball a second earlier...
If <insert City player> had been sent off...
Had we not given away three goals...
Games are full of incidents, perhaps not always as controversial or heart-stopping. The incident with Parker, regretful. Regretful that Mr Webb didn’t witness it. Balotelli knew what he was doing. Did not look like an act of retaining balance. The FA agree. Inconsistency though with the Lescott elbow being ignored, on and off the pitch. As bad as the Mario kick. In a perverse way its good that our two (recent) defeats (this one and the Stoke game) have question marks littered over them. But no point in claiming victimisation. It's just a harsh lesson that you can’t rely on anyone other than those in Lilywhite.
We were top drawer at times against the top team in the country. You don’t get any points for that, but I trust the players to take similar inspiration from the performance as I have. Confidence to fight back in-game has yet to translate to confidence to dominate this type of encounter from the kick-off. To believe that attack is the key to winning and taking three points rather than containment to guarantee a single one. Okay, so there were naive mistakes made but then I've not quite understood the necessity to slate certain players (i.e. Walker) who still have much to learn. It can cost us, but then when someone as great as Ledley King is prone to error it adds perspective to the occasion. But then you can sit and debate the mechanics of destiny that led up to the games defining moment until you've gone mad. Had the ball not been cleared in the manner it had. Very easy to point out the obvious after the fact to lay blame on the outcome.
It's also worth detaching yourself from a single game in isolation or only citing a series of performances that might add weight to your argument and thus ignoring the bigger picture. Would Ronaldo be the player he is today if he was simply left to play out wide? Gareth Bale was once a left-back. To free-roam, to play as an inside-forward...this is essential to his development. Coaching and tactical instructions equally imperative to aid his movement and effectiveness across the season and in single games when perhaps more discipline is required. We need to be shrewd in making sure the development retains cohesiveness and is not detrimental to the sides balance. The boy is a beast. But he's still a boy. Thought he was superb in the second half.
The secret to success is to hate defeat, to despise it. But also to respect the fact that it happens. No doubt the players feel devastated but this should only add fuel to push forward, harder. Thankfully for us it only seems like we’ve lost twice this season (rather than four times) because of the lack of a cohesive middle in the opening two fixtures I find myself detaching myself from those two games. Still, four defeats, 3rd, a ten point gap between us and 5th spot. That is hardly discouraging.
We can’t afford to lose focus. This unit of players are deserving to themselves and the shirt to truly aspire, to dare to achieve. I hold onto the positives because it’s easier to support and love your club if you accept the truth and embrace it. And the truth is? We’re not quite good enough. Not yet. But we are still a very good side. The best I've seen for decades. We have to continue to grow and adapt and display the team spirit we've shown in abundance this season.
When you remind yourself of that margin, this article might have been altogether a different read. Maybe next time the belief will be evident at the first whistle and cemented at the last. Another complete forward will do the trick so we can then always retain Plan A.
Football is dramatic, ironic and cruel. In nine minutes and six seconds we were left dizzy. At the death, left numb.
Still marching.
Source: http://www.dearmrlevy.com/dml/2012/1/23/thats-football.html
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Schr�dinger's cat, done and dusted, don't shoot the messenger
Soz, sick. Hence lack of exuberant blogging this past week. Trying to ease my way to a Spurs v City preview.
Wolves
Looking back at this game, the fact we had to dig deep to equalise and almost went on to win the game...it should not be discounted. I know its still easy to claim its two points dropped but let's wait and see if that's still the case at the end of the season. You'd rather win on Sunday after a draw than beat Wolves then lose at Eastlands, right? Three points is just the three points no matter the opposition, but three points away to City would be worth so much more. The Wolves point might end up being the difference when it's all done and dusted. You know you've been in a war when you can look back at the hard fought battles. A point isn't quite a victory but its hardly the flag of surrender.
Them lot down the road
Avoided the glamour of trolling and attempted to debate the North London state of mind over at the White Hart Pain blog that looked at the trainstion of power (shift) from red to white. Comments section included this from a gooner:
Calm down mate, its January. For a “power Shift” to come about, you would need to finish above Arsenal for many seasons, not just. Next year normal service will be resumed.
I responded with this:
Er…no we don’t. All we need to do is finish about Arsenal the once. The problem you chaps down the road have is you’re not letting go of this fallacy that you’re still a great club. You’ve stagnated badly. Okay, so badly is pretty much defined as still being able to qualify for the CL every season but is that going to be your legacy, your gloat? 15 times on the trot?
Let go of it. Then you might be able to start a new era and move on rather than continue to drown in superlatives that are no longer relevant.
Wenger, came to Arsenal (a blank canvas) and pretty much created a club from his vision. Wenger is pretty much Arsenal. Much like Arsenal fans (most of them) seem to echo the delusions of the manager and part and parcel the same happens with the players.
You once had full rights to be arrogant pricks about it, but take a look around. This is no longer the Prem dominated by the Sky Sports Top four. No matter how much it hurts, its all changed. For the best. You think any club stood a chance during that period of time? Spurs included, we could hardly mount a challenge. Now we can. And its not just because everybody else has dropped off the pace, its because we’ve organically grown and evolved. Stick RvP into the Spurs side and we’d probably win the league (okay, City would still probably edge us out) but Christ…when in the last 10 years has anyone been able to speak about Spurs like this?
The foundations are set. Up to us to push on with it. To be honest, sadly, many gooners would not sit down and debate this. Because many refuse to accept weakness and doubt. They once cited the presence whereas all they do now is remind us of the past when the reality is, the future is there to be made.
But hey, I guess we haven’t got Frimpong denching it across Twitter so we’ve still got a fair amount of ground to cover before we turn into twats.
As for normal service? Is that what Arsenal are these days? Just the rivals of Tottenham Hotspur? It's like we're back in the 1980s again.
I welcome our 'neighbours' to better themselves because it would mean so much more to finish above them when they claim to be superior and at their best.
ITK and the transfer window
There was a time when I would spend the entirety of January trolling the ITK community and mocking the ones that worshipped along with the ones that claimed to have inside information. After almost five years of revelling in this traditional internet dance, I think I've entered a state of semi-retirement. I can't be alone in thinking this window is more so overwhelming than prior ones. Firstly, we don't tend to do that much business and the only type of business that can be embraced as exciting is the opportunistic dealings that Levy is (in)famous for (i.e. van der Vaart).
I don't really want to hear dressed up BS about why the Samba deal is stalling. We all know he's a prospective transfer target. Whoop-de-do. Other targets are taken from the small pool of players we're likely to be interested in based on the fact that we need a centre-back/midfield or winger/forward. If there are say twenty players out there that fit the bill, it's hardly rocket science to work out the potentials. Then we move ever closer to the last day of the window with everyone panicking that no new players will surely spell the end of our season. It's like being a kid and going to a toy store expecting to buy something and you end up coming away with either nothing or a crap toy you didn't really want but just had to get to make the visit worth while. Then you get home and look at the toys you already have and realise you're spoilt rotten.
As for the ITK's themselves, I've been following this thread (for larfs) but hardly paying that much attention to it. Schrödinger's cat would frown. There's can't be twenty or so separate claims of having contact with someone involved in the club. Similarly, we can't be involved in so many prospective dealings at once. It all remains reactive any ways these days. Where's Harry? He's in France. Cue player(s) he is scouting with additional info on likelihood of happening. Yawn. If there are only a few players then the twenty seperate 'leaks' seems to have their own perspective on what's happening. And if nothing is happening then we're blessed with a variety of information on the clubs transfer policy.
ITK's = the internet version of the backpage of The Sun
I've never shared this, but someone (who reads this blog) worked in the business. He's publicised that himself. Hey, he could be telling fibs for all I know (insert smiley here) but the info he did share was always of interest although not always Spurs related. You're more likely to get said info from football agents and the clubs looking to sell/off-load. The wonderful irony is that there are so many political plays and bluffing that it remains difficult to truly know what is happening until it happens. And surely that's all that matters; Player, outside The Lodge, holding up the shirt. I found this to be the case with the info shared. Genuine information...is it still genuine if it's ambiguous? I guess that's why I refuse to get all angry about the ITK's. Wouldn't go as far as offering them an olive branch though. More so the idiots that protect them like some melting pot of a cult.
Oh look. I've gone and repeated myself with all this when I promised myself I wouldn't. Slow news day. In the mean time, 1001 other football websites will boost their click-thru average and earn some pennies for the meter but sharing the same old churned out stories that seem to never go away. We'll have to wait and see if Levy aims to please us or retains a calm composed pragmatical approach (which would equally be pleasing if we improve squad depth).
Do think we need to shift players out first. Perhaps the chairman needs to drop the valuations down a little to do that. Surely we need to be paying someone to take Gio off our hands? Can Faces not sign him as the 'Face of Faces'? I'm sure Ledley wouldn't mind.
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Monday, 23 January 2012
Pepe and three other Real Madrid players cautioned
The Spanish Football Federation have cautioned four Real Madrid players and Barcelona’s Gerard Pique following last weeks fiesty Copa Clasico. The Royal Spanish Football Federation named Pepe on the list of players sanctioned for violent conduct in the Copa quarter-finals, along with Fabio Coentrao, Jose Maria Callejon and Ricardo Carvalho plus Barcelona’s Gerard Pique. TV [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/posts/pepe-and-three-other-real-madrid-players-cautioned/
Latest transfer rumours, Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Latest transfer rumours,
Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Chelsea players set to leave, Ancelotti and Beckham to Paris
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111033.htm
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Ronaldo?s death stare at Xabi Alonso ? Video
Iker Casillas may claim their is no rift between Portuguese and Spanish players at Real Madrid but Cristiano Ronaldo certainly had it in for Xabi Alonso last night. www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_D7OVwzuzs
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/posts/ronaldos-death-stare-at-xabi-alonso-video/
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Sean O?Driscoll
So Steve has made his second signing – Sean O’Driscoll joins us as first team coach. Personally I think this [...]
Source: http://www.eighteensixtyfive.co.uk/2012/01/sean-odriscoll/
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Latest transfer rumours, Goetze in Man Utd link, Tiote getting attention from Chelsea
Latest transfer rumours,
Goetze in Man Utd link, Tiote getting attention from Chelsea
Goetze in Man Utd link, Tiote getting attention from Chelsea
Source: http://soccervoice.com/n111019.htm
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Real hammer 10-man Bilbao
Real Madrid kept their five-point lead at the top of La Liga after coming from behind to beat 10-man Athletic Bilbao 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. Marcelo Bielsa’s side took a suprise lead on the 13th minute when Fernando Llorente volleyed past Iker Casillas after a brilliant counter-attack involving Javi Martinez and Ander Herrera. However, [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/posts/real-hammer-10-man-bilbao/
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Latest transfer rumours, Real Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool prepared to sign new players
Latest transfer rumours,
Real Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool prepared to sign new players
Real Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool prepared to sign new players
Sunday, 22 January 2012
Seville Derby ends all square
Ten-man Sevilla salvaged a point against bitter rivals Real Betis on Saturday night in the Seville derby. It was away side Sevilla who started brightly in an end-to-end classic that certainly lived up to expectations, Alvaro Negredo coming close early on with an attempted chip, however Betis keeper Casto was equal to it. Both Benat [...]
Source: http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/posts/seville-derby-ends-all-square/
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Leicester City 4-0 Nottingham Forest: Despair and depression
Having won just one of their last eight league and cup games, Leicester proceeded to put four past Forest last night. James Bolton reports. There were four changes for Forest?s trip to the King Power Stadium for the FA Cup 3rd Round Replay against Leicester. George Boateng, Paul Anderson, Robbie Findley and Andy Reid came [...]
Source: http://seatpitch.co.uk/2012/01/18/leicester-city-4-0-nottingham-forest-despair-and-depression/
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The transfer window rumour update? part two
It’s been a slow transfer window so far, with little movement ? not surprising given that Forest need to sell before they can buy. Still, that hasn’t stopped the speculation about incoming players. Seat Pitch rounds up the top five rumours so far. 1. Louie Soares Non-league star Louie Soares has caught the attention of [...]
Source: http://seatpitch.co.uk/2012/01/12/the-transfer-window-rumour-update-part-two/
Latest transfer rumours, Real Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool prepared to sign new players
Latest transfer rumours,
Real Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool prepared to sign new players
Real Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool prepared to sign new players
Manchester City vs Tottenham: Preview & Predictions
Manchester City and Tottenham are ready to lock horns at the Etihad Stadium in a potential Premier League title-defining clash which promises to be dynamite. For the past two season?s, Manchester City and Tottenham clashes have been largely contests to decide the squabble for the much-coveted fourth UEFA Champions League spot. In 2009 Peter Crouch?s [...]
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- Napoli vs Manchester City: Preview & Possible Outcomes
- Manchester City v Manchester United: 2011 Community Shield Preview
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Hyperbole
Staggering how time and time again, a single result shapes (then re-shapes) opinion, which is then presented as definitive. Then forgotten about the following week, replaced with contradiction. Equally staggering is how distorted perception and expectation becomes off the back of ninety minutes of football. One game doesn't make a season, yet in some cases it can consume the ten games it proceeded along with logic and pragmatism.
In the space of a few days we’re deemed title contenders off the back of a win that placed us shared second on points (still 3rd on GD) and then out of the race after a draw at home to Wolves. Even though we remain a handful of points off the top. Regardless of up and coming difficult fixtures, our form (in comparison to any prior season) has been astonishing. Was it disappointing, to draw at home? Yes, of course. But then our performance lacked the edge to win us all three points - so hardly much we can complain about other than wondering/worrying why certain players didn't perform.
It happens.
In fact you might even argue this was the first disappointment of the season, what with the opening two defeats practically banished and the Stoke loss one marked down to inept interference. Is this a modern-day Tottenham crisis? Dropping two points at home? Still third. Still with a hefty cushion of points between us and 5th spot.
Does any of the pre and post match punditry and opinion actually matter, what with the nature of everyone in football (managers especially) using kidology when changing their weekly perception of being in/out of the race?
Had we somehow managed to break down Wolves and their resolute army of eleven men behind the ball by not being restricted to long shots, had we found a spark and scored a second we’d be talking about grit and determination even though the overall performance would have pound for pound been the same thing as the one we got with the 1-1. Sometimes, it doesn’t happen. It doesn't quite work out. Tempo wasn't quite there. Bale wasn't out on the left enough (scrap free-roam mode for the minute, get him back to basics). Regardless, there is still no need for a dissection, a post-mortem or an autopsy.
No need for verbal dramatics.
Put it down to tiredness (two games in the space of a couple of days) or luck (offside Adebayor goal, arguably not) or perhaps unnecessary tinkering (Livermore). Best to dress it up as a reminder to the evil that is complacency. A gentle nod to the necessity of removing benched players and signing ones that will improve our squad. A calm composed voice explaining to the players that hype is a false God you need not be worshipping.
Start panicking if these results stop happening in isolation and start to trend.
These are not excuses. It’s just football.
We can still aim to finish high. Nothing has changed since Wednesday evening. We needed to strengthen then, we still need to strengthen now. Both with mentality and with perhaps one or two new players. The manager also has to consider the art of rotation and not forget that back to basics element that got this journey started way back when he replaced Ramos. Players in their best positions. Just to recalibrate the side whilst we work through this tricky period (Parker not quite back with us, issues with width, the wrong type of consistency with set-pieces).
Whether the media/pundits/blogs/whomever want to label us with dark horse or contender tags, that’s up to them and its mostly to incite debate and discussion. But mostly because we've got the points on the table. Did everyone write off Utd after they lost to Rovers? No. But then Utd have been contenders and winners for an age. They know how this process works. We're working it all out as we go along.
Which is why retaining feet on ground whilst embracing our challenge is the best way forward. The players will be hurt for dropping the points. P*ssed off. Good. They need to hate the fact they didn’t win the game. Let them hate, let us support and everyone can then focus on the fight ahead. Where we finish up will be no accident, it will be where we deserve to be.
Pre-match, I thought we’d spank Wolves. Just had a feeling everything would come together. It didn’t. With all the possession and shots, it’s doubly annoying we didn’t turn it around. But we didn’t lose. And there is no lack of ambition if I choose not to be overly critical of ninety minutes of football. Although I understand that one game or two can equate to loss of momentum and can change form. That's not something on my train of thought. Left it behind on the platform after the City defeat at the Lane.
It’s so easy with hindsight to suggest tactical reshuffles and selection decisions. It’s also easy to assume we are throwing away a genuine chance to win the league by not being ruthless in these games. I know I’ve blogged about aiming high and looking to compete. That ethos, that remains the same. It’s the only way a team can continue to progress and strengthen that mentality further. But the reality is, we’re probably fall short. Why? Apart from City being who they are? That’s easy. Because we’ve not been in this situation for decades. Because we’ve not got the experience and the learning curve might yet teach us another valuable lesson or two. It's hardly an easy task is it? It's fantastic that we're even involved, that footballing folk are not patronising but honest when they talk about our style and entertainment and challenge.
In some ways, what I’ve written so far in this article can also be conceived as a knee-jerk to all the knee-jerking. I guess I’m just trying to work through it and find a balanced outlook in amongst all the contradictions and (believe it or not) complaints and negatives.
When all is said and done and argued to the point of agreement to simply disagree...Champions League qualification was the goal at the start of the season even though some believed it would be difficult to achieve (one or two continuing their opinion from the end of last season when Harry was meant to have lost his way). Look at what we've managed to do thus far.
Just be positive. I know there's an adrenalin rush, a fear...even a form of pressure because we want to progress to places we've not been before on an emotive level. It's still a positive.
We are third. Three defeats in the league all season. Ten points clear of 5th spot. We are still on course for accomplishing what we set out to do. As for the dream, it still remains mathematically possible even if its something we've gate crashed and remain outsiders for. We're not the ones under pressure to win the title. But rather than be disappointed or fearful about something that might perhaps prove to be out of our reach - if we retain its possibility for as long as we can, by doing so, we will guarantee a challenge and a top four finish. That will give us the opportunity to truly consolidate for next season and build on the belief the dream can happen.
The glory will be gained by not letting go of the desire to fulfil it.
Love the shirt.
Source: http://www.dearmrlevy.com/dml/2012/1/15/hyperbole.html
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