Scout Scribbles- Tevez Says Sorry
Filed under: Scout Notes - Posted by: Paul
Carlos Tevez publicly apologises and withdraws his appeal against City. John Terry is set to undergo investigative surgery. Ryan Taylor returns to training, Gabby Agbonlahor is available for selection and Martin O’Neill is looking to get more from Stephane Sessegnon in a central role:
Carlos Tevez has finally issued a public apology to Man City after his recent misdemeanours. The Argentine has also withdrawn an appeal over the club’s decision to severely fine him- this was due to be heard by the Premier League this week but Tevez’s actions may help draw a line under the whole sorry saga. The ball is now in Roberto Mancini’s court- the City boss has his apology and, with Tevez undergoing a training program to bring him up to full fitness, it seems he may, after all, play come part for the league leaders over the remainder of the season. This further complicates matters up front for Fantasy managers and, considering Tevez is omitted from the club’s Europa League squad, his chances of playing in the league could well be boosted, raising question marks against the guaranteed game time previously enjoyed by Sergio Aguero, in particular.
Chelsea confirmed last night that John Terry is set to undergo surgery to ascertain the extent of the damage to his injured knee. The Blues skipper had trained prior to last night’s 3-1 defeat in Napoli but was in no state to play- Gary Cahill continued alongside David Luiz in Terry’s absence and, with a possible two-month absence on the cards for the latter, Cahill’s game time could be set for an increase. The official club statement went on to say:
John has tried hard to be ready for tonight’s game but it was clear after training last night that it was not going to be possible. He will undergo an exploratory arthroscopy in the next day or so, after which the club’s medical team will be better placed to advise on a prognosis.
Andre Villas-Boas went with a 4-2-3-1 formation for the trip to Napoli. This allowed Juan Mata to play centrally, tucking in behind Didier Drogba, with Florent Malouda taking up the left wing berth. Mata grabbed the opener, firing home just before the half-hour mark, and with Bolton, West Brom and Stoke up next for the Blues, could well be ready to pick up the Fantasy points if his manager continues to field him in a central berth. An upturn in Fantasy fortunes won’t be difficult, though; Mata has returned just a goal and assist in his last seven league games.
Fantasy owners of Ryan Taylor will be relieved to hear he returned to full training for Newcastle yesterday, having recovered from his recent leg injury . The club’s official website confirmed both Taylor and Cheik Tiote turned out and, with Yohan Cabaye also back from suspension, the Magpies midfield is looking close to full-strength ahead of the weekend match with Wolves.
Gabby Agbonlahor is fit and available for selection ahead of Villa’s trip to Wigan this Saturday. The forward has missed the last three league games due to back and hamstring problems but has undertaken a new fitness regime and is “flying” in training, according to Alex McLeish.
The Villa boss received some mixed news after yesterday’s reserves match with West Brom. Chris Herd returned to action for the first time in a couple of months, managing an hour in the 4-1 win. Herd had begun to establish himself in the first XI alongside, starting six gameweeks (10-15) in a row before succumbing to an ankle ligament injury. Eric Lichaj continued his comeback from hip surgery by playing the entire match, while Barry Bannan revealed via twitter he had picked up an ankle injury in the game.
McLeish also revealed Ciaran Clark is hoping to return in a month’s time from his recent knee problem but there are fears that Fabian Delph could be sidelined for the rest of the season. The midfielder picked up an ankle injury during his one-month loan spell at Leeds and his manager admitted he’s unsure if he will return before the end of the current campaign.
Martin O’Neill confirmed he intends to utilise Stephane Sessegnon through the middle as much as possible for Sunderland. The Benin international had occasionally been used as a wide man by Steve Bruce but with Seb Larsson and James McClean in such sparking form on the wings for the Black Cats, Sessegnon has been afforded a license to spark his side into life in the opponents’ final third. O’Neill admitted just how crucial a player Sessegnon is for the Wearsiders, saying:
He has individual quality and all the best teams have individuals who can turn games. It is nice to have one in our team. He can hold it up, bring people into play and he can turn and twist and get at players. He has been so important to us. He can go out wide right but playing up the middle and as close to the opposition goal as possible is best. But sometimes he has got to drop in for us.
Paul Scharner is a doubt for West Brom this weekend. The midfielder was forced off in the 5-1 win at Wolves after suffering a blow to the ribs and has yet to train after sustaining the injury. Shane Long has returned to full training for the Baggies, after finally overcoming a recent chest problem and, while Chris Brunt is in line for a return to training at the end of the week, Roy Hodgson refuses to put a timescale on his first-team comeback.
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paul
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“I am happy with the way I’ve started, but on the other hand, I should have scored four or five more, so that’s something for me to work on.”
Robin Van Persie talks about his early form at United ahead of his first Manchester derby
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February 22 at 1:28 pm
SmokeyH says:
OK Clark is coming out my team….
Am I mad to be thinking transfering in Ryan Taylor ahead of Kompany/Lescott? ANy other defensive options? Not interested in Cahill…..
February 22 at 1:31 pm
Pratik-ULTRA SUPER DRAGÕES-Allez Força PORTO AlleZ!!! says:
R.Taylor is great short term punt. But Kompany is an excellent prospective too. Depends on your other defenders. If you already have richards, go for r.taylor. If not , then I’d say Kompany.
February 22 at 1:32 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
Bank Balance?
February 22 at 1:32 pm
pompeyfan says:
I would say R Taylor is a gamble, whereas Kompany would be the more safe move
February 22 at 1:35 pm
SmokeyH says:
Thanks fo rthe comments:
Other defenders are: Shotton (i know he needs to go!), Kelly, BAE, Taiwo
I like the policy of cheap defenders….
February 22 at 1:36 pm
SmokeyH says:
Money isnt an option either – have 3m spare
February 22 at 1:55 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
In that case go Kompany. Can always change it down to Raylor at another time.
February 22 at 2:44 pm
Biggy Shackleton says:
Taylor-Kompany-Lescott
Thats actually my back 3 this weekend, so i guess i should be hopeful of some returns there.
Krul in goal too.
February 22 at 1:30 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
Pogba may start against Ajax.
February 22 at 1:31 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
I may have chips for tea.
February 22 at 1:31 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
That’s good.
February 22 at 1:34 pm
pompeyfan says:
nice, maybe Ajax have some kind of chance…
Although Ooijer is in the Ajax squad, which is here in case u are interested:
Kenneth Vermeer, Jasper Cillessen, Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen, Vurnon Anita, Miralem Sulejmani, Christian Eriksen ,Siem de Jong, Lorenzo Ebecilio, André Ooijer, Daley Blind, Nicolás Lodeiro, Aras Özbiliz, Thulani Serero, Ismaïl Aissati, Ricardo van Rhijn, Davy Klaassen, Dico Koppers
February 22 at 1:36 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
some great names in there
February 22 at 1:39 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Sulejmani is my favorite.
February 22 at 1:42 pm
pompeyfan says:
indeed. Unfortunately we are going through something of a bad spell at the moment, the 4-1 win at the weekend was absolutely crucial
February 22 at 1:39 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Actually, Pogba played really well when he was brought on vs Stoke.
February 22 at 1:44 pm
pompeyfan says:
fair enough, although Ajax would rather see him lining up rather than one of the established stars
February 22 at 1:36 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/n.....ng?cc=4716
February 22 at 1:31 pm
iCon says:
Know this is off topic, but anyone know of a good free Fantasy F1 game?
February 22 at 1:35 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
On EspnStar.com
February 22 at 1:38 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
Another one-
http://www.fantasyracers.com/
February 22 at 1:35 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
yeah fantasy racer
i did it last year
you pick your drivers then don’t have to do any more work for the whoooole season
easy
February 22 at 1:38 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
fantasy racer? Is it good?
February 22 at 1:39 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
i’ve just told you all there is to it in one sentence!
February 22 at 1:40 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
I see. Short and concise.
February 22 at 1:41 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
that’s the game
February 22 at 1:42 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
last year i chose vettel, alonso and hammy
February 22 at 1:44 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Hmm.. Hammy is idiotic although a good driver on his day, Alonso is a cheat, Vettel is awesome.
Talk about the good, the bad and the ugly.
February 22 at 1:51 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
well, it won me “a fistful of dollars”
February 22 at 1:43 pm
CatMac - No.1 Cat of Central Sports Klub of Army (Moscow) says:
Sounds boring to me. I like something that needs some participation.
February 22 at 1:45 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
i agree
February 22 at 1:36 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Wheels? No I’m afraid we only know about fantasy balls here.
February 22 at 1:37 pm
CatMac - No.1 Cat of Central Sports Klub of Army (Moscow) says:
I did the ITV one last year. I wouldnt say it was particularly good but it was ok.
February 22 at 1:38 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Espnstar.com butt I woulllllddd loooovee to join you in that one. Whom do you support?
February 22 at 1:39 pm
iCon says:
Cheers guys/gal!
February 22 at 1:39 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Whom do you support?
February 22 at 1:44 pm
EpicFAIL - AVFC supporter, Sporting Lisbon manager, Europa League winner and Psychic. says:
I’d be up for a league is someone is making one.
February 22 at 1:45 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Awesome, awesome, awesome. I’ll do it.
February 22 at 1:47 pm
Frankie_fryer says: .."get the zadok the priest cd delivered to fir park" says:
ritalen anyone
February 22 at 1:55 pm
CatMac - No.1 Cat of Central Sports Klub of Army (Moscow) says:
Me too
February 22 at 1:35 pm
Optimus says:
vorm sorenson
richards bae evans santon kelly
silva bale demps sess siggy
rvp aguero ba
2ft 3.2 in the bank
i would use the transfers to upgrade kelly or siggy but they are both playing in gw29 when others are not so ill keep
im thinking maybe bae/sess(not playing gw29) for change risky i know..thoughts?
February 22 at 1:39 pm
i hate leeds says:
sess maybe but bale has to stay
February 22 at 1:42 pm
Optimus says:
i said bae not bale…bale is staying
February 22 at 1:39 pm
Jukesy says:
Sunderland are at West Brom who’ve been very poor at home, so I’d at least have him in for 1 more week.
Fixtures for Tottenham over the next 4 are ars, MUN, eve, blank; with an FA cup replay in between so I’d go with BAE out.
February 22 at 1:41 pm
Optimus says:
yeah if im going to ship bae it would be now with them fixtures
February 22 at 1:40 pm
hungry4nuns says:
I’d get rid of bae now if I hadn’t more pressing matters and only one free transfer. You however have neither of these restrictions. Wait for a possible price rise and dump him. Terrible fixtures
February 22 at 1:45 pm
Optimus says:
yeah think im set on bae as good as hes been to me
February 22 at 1:40 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
One of these days, you should link your team mate
Very impressive looking squad….I’d only use one of your FTs at this point in time on your GKs if you don’t have a WC in hand. Don’t trust Stoke for CS!
February 22 at 1:46 pm
Optimus says:
24295
February 22 at 1:40 pm
SmokeyH says:
I envy your team! and you have 2 FT as well….
As you have to use one I would be tempted to maybe bring in Nani?
February 22 at 1:47 pm
Optimus says:
if i decide on using 1 of them to upgrade sess i will be getting in nani/mata
February 22 at 1:46 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Very impressive team you have there. With so much spare cash, I’d look at either upgrading Sorenson or Vorm.
February 22 at 1:49 pm
Optimus says:
vorm plays in gw29 hes staying
but im after the pool v arsenal im bring in reina for sorenson as well as g.johnson
February 22 at 1:52 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Get rid of BAE then, or seeing you have so much cash, cheeky punt on Rooney for RVP?
February 22 at 1:59 pm
Optimus says:
nah rvp stays untill injured or dies
aguero to roo in 2 gws though
February 22 at 2:10 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Or gets put in prison.
February 22 at 1:49 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Out of curiosity whats your rank Optimus? And have you still got your wc because that’s an epic team. how do you have 3.2 in the bank? I’ve pretty much the same prices across the board except I’ve Zamora instead of aguero and still I only have 2.something in the bank.
February 22 at 1:52 pm
Optimus says:
27000 no w/c left team value 112.4 i think which helps
February 22 at 1:37 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
For the boys in Europe, vote for the Hall of Fame award that:
1) is your favorite?
2) you are hoping to achieve? Or you can see someone around FFS achieve?
February 22 at 1:38 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
what?
February 22 at 1:40 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Hall of Fame
February 22 at 1:42 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
i’ve missed summat
February 22 at 1:43 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Not for the first time
February 22 at 1:44 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
no kidding
February 22 at 1:45 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Suggest you this break to become familiar with all the tabs on the spreadsheet, then. Will come in very handy over a tight gameweek
February 22 at 1:46 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
* you use
February 22 at 1:49 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
what do you mean it will be handy over a tight gw?
February 22 at 1:50 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Means when you’re drunk on a matchday, it’ll help you sober up.
February 22 at 1:51 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
I mean – all the developments are going to be on there. From group reviews/post-matchday reports to grp standings to fixtures to hall of fame, apart from any communication. Wouldn’t want you to miss out anymore.
February 22 at 1:51 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
i give up trying to understand what you lot are on about
February 22 at 1:52 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Are you sure? I like my reasoning far more.
February 22 at 1:53 pm
disparate dan - Nogometni Klub Maribor, Stajerski ponos! says:
group reviews and matchday reports?!
sweet
February 22 at 1:55 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Here’s a sample, Dan: http://www.fantasyfootballscou.....nt-2752183
Feel free to check this out:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Aul0PglyD-ESdF9rOTdUMnMtalNlR1hHajA4N2VTaXc#gid=12
February 22 at 1:41 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
1). Derby county award
2). ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
BTW, how much do I owe you for the psychiatrist charges?
February 22 at 1:42 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Aha, you’re here!
It’s in return of your wonderful management skills, displayed at the UEFA HQ
February 22 at 1:43 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Thanks, but I had the monopoly money all ready
February 22 at 1:41 pm
EpicFAIL - AVFC supporter, Sporting Lisbon manager, Europa League winner and Psychic. says:
I will be winning all the positive ones.
February 22 at 1:42 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Nailed it.
February 22 at 1:43 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
I sincerely hope with from the bottom of my heart, you win my favorite award
.
February 22 at 1:45 pm
EpicFAIL - AVFC supporter, Sporting Lisbon manager, Europa League winner and Psychic. says:
I may be greedy and win all the negative awards too. That’s how I roll.
February 22 at 1:47 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Go for it.
February 22 at 1:42 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
Dalglish Differential could be hotly contested if the post match comments round here most weeks are anything to go by! I nominate myself as favourite for the Patrice Suarez award this week
February 22 at 1:43 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Playing the underdog card very well, kind sir
February 22 at 1:46 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
No playing – genuine underdog, have you seen my team value compared to the others?! More importantly have you seen my team?!
February 22 at 1:46 pm
Funkyav - Yesh I am PSV Manager, Pass the Dutchie, Chelsea Fan, not a fan of AVB or Torresh! says:
is there an award for accentsh?
February 22 at 1:47 pm
Funkyav - Yesh I am PSV Manager, Pass the Dutchie, Chelsea Fan, not a fan of AVB or Torresh! says:
or theme tunesh?
February 22 at 1:50 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
How about no you crazy Dutch ba$tard!
February 22 at 1:52 pm
Frankie_fryer says: .."get the zadok the priest cd delivered to fir park" says:
thats sounds more belgian to me
February 22 at 1:52 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
HAHA that award should be named after you. TOTALLY!
Any CL hopes still remaining after last night, then?
February 22 at 1:55 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Any gravatar hopes remaining after last night then?
February 22 at 1:55 pm
Frankie_fryer says: .."get the zadok the priest cd delivered to fir park" says:
last night?
February 22 at 1:57 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Don’t talk about it Frankie, it hurts.
February 22 at 1:59 pm
Frankie_fryer says: .."get the zadok the priest cd delivered to fir park" says:
it only hurts if you fight back, i told you that
February 22 at 2:00 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
February 22 at 2:00 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
February 22 at 2:02 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
It hurts me as well
February 22 at 2:01 pm
Funkyav - Yesh I am PSV Manager, Pass the Dutchie, Chelsea Fan, not a fan of AVB or Torresh! says:
RANT WARNING
He played the wrong starting XI – AGAIN! You dont leave out your most experienced players in a champs league knock out game, you certainly dont replace those 3 (lamps, Essien, Cole) with 3 retardsh who shouldnt even be playing for the club.
Malouda, Bosingwa, Torresh, Meirelesh need to pack their bags.
I wouldnt have a problem losing this tie and even if we dont get 4th place if I thought it was for the good of the future. Where are all the young prospects that we have been aquiring over the last 5 yearsh. Why dont Mceachran, Bertrand, Piazon, Lukaku and the others get a chance in the first team, maybe not in the champs league games but at least in shome eashier prem games. They will never develop in the reserves.
Badly run, badly managed. Needs shomeone to come in who isnt afraid to upshet players but also knowsh what they are doing.
AVB clearly doesnt.
I wonder if Jose ish after another challenge?
For now build the team around Terry, Lampard, Drogba, Ivanovic, Cech, Ramires, Essien, Mata, Sturridge, Luiz, Mceachran & giving chances to the resherve team playersh. I would happily take 2 or 3 yearsh out of the champs league in order to build a team for the future.
February 22 at 2:05 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
I’m sorry I’m being pedantic but you said s instead of sh at least 11 times.
February 22 at 2:05 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Well firstly I wasnt surprised with his team selection last night – Lamps/Cole didn’t look at their best when they came on too, I’d owe that to the slow recovery from injury, once you’re in thirties.
1) The only real problem with team selection was no Essien/Romeu (no holding mids) – Meireles was awful yesterday and Ramires isn’t back to his pre-injury pace/beast-ness yet. I’d have brought a holding mid immediately after we were ahead, however negative it may seem. But clearly he was greedy and went for more goals. All our defenders, except perhaps Cole, were terrible last night (especially Ivanovic). So were the mids, when it came to pressing/marking their men. The Drog was barely in the game throughout, but atleast he had the CBs busy on him all the time – this front 3 is still our best front 3 though.
2) My other problem was with the formation, and has been for quite a while. Clearly, we aren’t a 4-3-3 team with quality wingers. It has to be 4-4-2 and there’s no doubt in my mind that we’ll excel in that formation, with Studge in the central role complementing Drog.
But I’m a firm believer he needs more time. Rome wasn’t built in a day. So wasn’t the team built by the Special One – took him a good year’s time to bring us to the upper echelons. I know as cliche it might sound, we are in the transition phase and I think Roman knows it, else he wouldn’t have brought a young manager such as AVB to rejuvenate the squad. We need more quality in midfield – the reason why our attack (especially Torres) & defense is failing.
“I would happily take 2 or 3 yearsh out of the champs league in order to build a team for the future.” I’m with you on this, Funky.
#TeamAVB
February 22 at 1:50 pm
1966 was a great year for English football - Eric was born says:
Wasn’t there a ‘night with Salma Hayek’ award or summat? I’ll take that one, thanks.
February 22 at 1:53 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Whoops, only for the big boys in CL. So close yet so far
February 22 at 1:53 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
That’s only for the Champions League, I hope you don’t win any award but the Semi Final
February 22 at 1:58 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
What I mean is I hope you get all the way to the final instead of winning useless awards
February 22 at 2:06 pm
1966 was a great year for English football - Eric was born says:
February 22 at 2:02 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
1> Rubin Kazan & Ancelotti in Paris
2> Rubin Kazan & Ancelotti in Paris
February 22 at 2:18 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
February 22 at 2:08 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
I really, really wanted to add theme tunes to every team, but got put off when my first choice was not on youtube. GreenWindMill’s is just sooooo awesome though, I think it is incumbent on us to join him.
So here’s my 2nd choice effort…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn739w2nm8o
February 22 at 2:19 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Love it
Have you linked it to him yet?
What was your first choice bud?
February 22 at 3:14 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Az_7U0-cK0
February 22 at 2:21 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
What was your first choice?
February 22 at 2:31 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
Ah, to yous both – my first choice was the same song, but he even better Allen Toussaint version.
El Nino’s would have to be Windowlicker, no? Even though everyone on tinternet must know of it?
February 22 at 2:37 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
There’s a definite Aphex Twin vibe to that grav for sure.
It’s just damn unpleasant
February 22 at 2:12 pm
FrogDog says:
P-S award is mine. That, or I kick ENR’s butt by 50
February 22 at 2:18 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Dream on about the 2nd one. I ain’t TransferAddict’s brother, you know
February 22 at 2:21 pm
FrogDog says:
How did you manage to turn such a beautiful image into something so scary? Karma says your team will look like that on Monday morning
February 22 at 2:28 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Some may call it grotesque and skillful Photoshop work, I just call it passion for the game and to have a ball
TBH, I’m wary of the fact that you have such strong differentials. Not the ideal thing you’d like to see in a home clash (which is essentially my game to lose). Props to you – I’d never have the balls to have your team.
Meh, you arrogant beer-bellied Germans. You’ll be growing some white hair at the Bridge, I assure you
February 22 at 1:46 pm
depechedog says:
hey guys. Have a gravatar but how do I link my team??
February 22 at 1:50 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
February 22 at 1:52 pm
ChristIna says:
Email Mark.
February 22 at 1:54 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Can’t you fix it? Oh and I’ve got 3 words for you – 2003 World Cup
February 22 at 1:55 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Go to game week history and copy the address bar into website on your ffs profile
February 22 at 1:56 pm
ChristIna says:
LOL, as if that will work.
February 22 at 2:00 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Troll?
February 22 at 2:04 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Trollope :/
February 22 at 2:05 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Trolololol
February 22 at 1:56 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Oh right…
February 22 at 2:01 pm
Frankie_fryer says: .."get the zadok the priest cd delivered to fir park" says:
i tried that n it blew ma laptop, ad to go to arry to get a new one, just leeve it to christina
February 22 at 2:06 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Just have a riot and go looting in dixons. That’s the easiest way to get a new one
February 22 at 1:47 pm
lateriser12 says:
RMT Guys and also Work me a way to beat my competition.
Here’s what i got
Friedel Mignolet
Evans Lescott Simpson Kompany Caulker
Silva Bale McClean Ox Dyer
RVP Ba Graham
He’s got
Hart Moriera
Oshea BAE Koscielny Smalling Simpson
Bale Silva Tony V Demps McClean
Ba Dzeko Welbeck
90 point gap to make up. Giving the armband to Ba this GW.
Thinking of saving a transfer next week and then doing Silva Graham > Rooney 6.5 Midfielder (4.2 in the bank right now)
Suggestions please!
February 22 at 1:47 pm
depechedog says:
just worked it out! DOH
February 22 at 1:50 pm
Frankie_fryer says: .."get the zadok the priest cd delivered to fir park" says:
and now u get addicted
February 22 at 1:54 pm
Frankie_fryer says: .."get the zadok the priest cd delivered to fir park" says:
can you show the guy above how to do it
February 22 at 1:55 pm
ChristIna says:
I’ve emailed Mark. How long before he links?
February 22 at 1:57 pm
Frankie_fryer says: .."get the zadok the priest cd delivered to fir park" says:
long time GI
February 22 at 1:48 pm
Jubilanus says:
Bit stuck on this weekend – team linked.
Thinking of taking a 4-point hit and doing
Valencia + Helguson to Ba and Moses/Beausejour
Anybody see anything better?
BTW, i’m benching vorm, dempsey, senderos, caulker.
February 22 at 2:00 pm
Chris_White says:
I would bench McClean over Dempsey
Rest looks good
February 22 at 2:00 pm
hungry4nuns says:
I’m telling everyone who will listen to go McArthur over Moses reckon he will be a good differential
February 22 at 2:08 pm
Brada_wba says:
Will rod start this wknd?
February 22 at 2:27 pm
hungry4nuns says:
No idea. All I know is if you’re the manager of a struggling team the very last thing you’re gonna do is drop someone who’s scored twice in your last 3 games
February 22 at 2:00 pm
Brada_wba says:
Striker dilemma!!!
RVP/ Graham / Dzeko
Who to bring in? Aguero / BA / Rooney
Not sure about Newcastle – they were poor v Qpr / Wolves and Spurs. Wolves will get a point there.
February 22 at 2:00 pm
Brada_wba says:
Villa* sorry
February 22 at 2:02 pm
Chris_White says:
Dzeko > Ba
February 22 at 2:02 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Who are you getting out? Rvp?
February 22 at 2:06 pm
Brada_wba says:
sorry – Dzeko out was the plan.
£6m in the bank.
50 points clear of rival who has Aguero and Ba. Should i go shit or bust with Rooney for this reason?
February 22 at 2:15 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Well if he captains ba against wolves and has aguero over you he’s likely to close that 50 point gap fairly quickly. I dont reckon united will do better than 1-0 away at Norwich so leave rooster til gw 28. I think it’s worth a 4ph to get both aguero and ba in but I understand if you’re reluctant to sell Rvp. My transfer this week is Rvp to aguero I already have ba. The two of them are likely to score high so hedge your bets and get both I’d say
February 22 at 2:19 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Although you could keep dzeko and do graham to ba. I reckon dzeko will start if he doesn’t tonight
February 22 at 2:20 pm
Brada_wba says:
ok good logic – appreciate that.
No need for me to try and win the league over the next two weeks – i will ride out this double fixture by matching up and take it from there.
February 22 at 2:01 pm
True_Blue says:
No Super Frank No Chelsea ….. This is as simple as that….. Why on earth ABC cant understand this
February 22 at 2:05 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Talk about Hypocrisy.
February 22 at 2:07 pm
Chris_White says:
ABC? He’s more like DDJKHSAJHKFHJKFSAHKJFSA
February 22 at 2:08 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
What exactly are you trying to wipe off your keyboard?
February 22 at 2:11 pm
Chris_White says:
I’m trying to figure out AVB’s gameplan. Getting close, I can feel it…
February 22 at 2:13 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Oh I thought it was more of the order of what submarines carry and all that jazz…
February 22 at 2:17 pm
Chris_White says:
That could be, they are quite similar strategic-wise at the moment..
February 22 at 2:20 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
You mean AVB is like this ?
http://knowyourmeme.com/photos.....t-im-doing
February 22 at 2:14 pm
True_Blue says:
Yes it was just put DFSFDSFDSFDSFFFFKJKJ in place of KJHKHJHJHJKHDFDFF and you will loose 3-1 easily
February 22 at 2:16 pm
True_Blue says:
but one thing he is good at is making excuses and getting some POSITIVES from the loss game….. and he tries his best not to repeat those POSITIVES in next match
February 22 at 2:20 pm
Chris_White says:
True. It’s definitely more about the abysmal amount of players that have peaked or are way off form, but you can’t get away from questioning his tactical abilities as the season has gone on… I think a win vs United would have boosted our campaign significantly, but the way the match turned out I feel it has done us more bad than good. Just hope the seasoned veterans stick their heads out and lead us against a decent end to the campaign
February 22 at 2:44 pm
Manamongst says:
news flash: Fat Frank sucks…
Where do you hide him in their current formation?
February 22 at 2:10 pm
lebron85 says:
Afternoon lads.
Need your advice currently chasing two mates in my league.
One has:
Vorm Given
BAE Raylor Evans Kompany Shawcross
Sess Ox Ireland Silva Bale
RVP Aguero Ba
Bank: 0.0 (132pts ahead of me)
The other one has:
Vorm Krul
Baines Kompany Bardsley Enrique Raylor
Sinclair Dempsey Bale Silva Sess
RVP Sturridge Graham
Bank: 0.4 (131 pts ahead of me)
My team:
Vorm Krul
Simpson Kompany Evans Huth Caulker
Sess Silva Dempsey Bale Siggy
RVP Aguero Ba
Bank: 3.3 (no FT)
Is it worth going for a punt on Nani/Young/Mata/Someone else in order to try and catch up? I am planning to bring Rooney for Aguero GW 28 and get a pool defender for GW 29.
Sorry for a long post. Your thoughts are appreciated as always;)
February 22 at 2:12 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Since you’re so far behind both, you need to seriously go for some punts, Take a gander at RVP -> Rooney, RVP probably has a blank for GW 29 anyway.
February 22 at 2:14 pm
lebron85 says:
Really? Keep Kun then? How about midfielders?
February 22 at 2:16 pm
Chris_White says:
How far behind? No need to panic if you’re within 100 or so. I’d go Kun > Roo in GW28 and look for the differentials with most potential (mostly fixture-wise) if you don’t start catching up within the next few weeks
February 22 at 2:18 pm
lebron85 says:
132 points mate. Yep, GW 28 trade will be inevitable.:) Just looking how can I beat them with my midfielders possibly? Cheers in advance;)
February 22 at 2:19 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
I’d for RVP -> rooney now and Aguero -> RVP -> GW 30.
February 22 at 2:20 pm
lebron85 says:
I c;) Do you think Roonpig can outscore RVP until GW 30? How about midfielders Udit? Cheers;)
February 22 at 2:24 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
I do, seeing as you have no dearth of money and are chasing a big lead it’s worth a gamble. As far as Mids go, you can’t do anything for two weeks at the least, if Nani shows any semblance of form, You can do a Sess->Nani , Siggy -> McClean switch easily, you could also transfer out Silva after a couple of weeks.
February 22 at 2:26 pm
lebron85 says:
I c Udit. Should I wait on Rooney news and transfer him later in the week or do it now? He has sore throat I heard;)
February 22 at 2:26 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Wait for sure.
February 22 at 2:29 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
Wait.
February 22 at 2:30 pm
lebron85 says:
Ok, I will wait until Friday. Is bringing a Liverpool defender for GW 29 a good idea?
Was thinking Skrtel or Enrique. I think Skrtel is better and has hunger for goals. Am I right mate?
February 22 at 2:33 pm
lebron85 says:
Huth I think has to go from my team and Liverpool have a good run from GW 29 onwards;)
February 22 at 2:33 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
Good Idea.
If you can afford, go for G Johnson.
February 22 at 2:33 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Look at Glen johnson, thanks to Demi everyone’s on that bandwagon now.
February 22 at 2:36 pm
lebron85 says:
Yes, he is good IMO. Also, by bringing Rooney for this GW and getting rid of RVP I can monitor RVP’s returns and potentially decide when to bring him in for Kun right? I mean RVP could have a bad spell – who knows? Right?
February 22 at 2:38 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
No, this is RVP we’re talking about after all.
February 22 at 2:37 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
Not me though, I can’t afford him.
February 22 at 2:40 pm
lebron85 says:
Yes. it’s just that he needs passes from his team mates to really flourish IMO and if Arsenal play a good opposition (defensively) his returns suffer (not many goals or assists, etc.)
February 22 at 2:12 pm
Demi says:
Rooney is out of the Ajax game with a sore throat. Confirmed!
February 22 at 2:12 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Sore throat? Is he a doubt for the weekend?
February 22 at 2:16 pm
tosey says:
guess it depends how bad it is but doubt he will be out on sunday
February 22 at 2:18 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
That’s good news
, how was your betting last night ? win anything?
February 22 at 2:20 pm
tosey says:
had a tenner on napoli ht/ft 11/4 so 37.50 back which ive ‘invested’ in the darts tomorrow night
February 22 at 2:21 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Nicely done. Darts? No bets for Marseille vs Inter? or Bayern vs Basel?
February 22 at 2:25 pm
tosey says:
no interest in champions league unless english teams r playing tbh
February 22 at 2:26 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Hmm.. but you obviously interested in making money right
Inter are terrible right now, If I bet I’d go for a Marseille HT/FT definitely.
February 22 at 2:26 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
*are obviously
February 22 at 2:14 pm
Chris_White says:
No need for him anyway, he might as well just stay out till GW28 now that he’s on it
February 22 at 2:17 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Typical Fergie excuses!
February 22 at 2:18 pm
Optimus says:
+1
February 22 at 2:21 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Well, at least he doesn’t need to make excuses AFTER matches.
February 22 at 2:29 pm
Stinkfly says:
Everybody in England has got a sore throat at the moment.
If a 28 days later scenario ensues, you know what started it.
February 22 at 2:32 pm
True_Blue says:
out of the Ajax game with sore throat … what ? was he going to sing for them or what
February 22 at 2:33 pm
lebron85 says:
Demi, when will we know for sure if Rooney will play on the weekend?
February 22 at 2:14 pm
skooldaze - the cult of personality says:
Ah!!! Who to bench?
Sess, Dempsey, Bale, Mclean or Silva?
February 22 at 2:14 pm
Chris_White says:
McClean
February 22 at 2:16 pm
Optimus says:
mclean
February 22 at 2:23 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Bale
February 22 at 2:24 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
McClean, imo.
February 22 at 2:24 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
McClean.
February 22 at 2:28 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
McClean
February 22 at 2:40 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Hmmm 6,10,2,8,7,11,7 (the 2 was away at chelsea) next fixture away to WBA who are poor at home…. Ya definitely bench him
February 22 at 3:03 pm
hungry4nuns says:
1,9,3,5,7,15,2,3 on the same logic for bale. The 9 and the 15 both came at home to WBA and wig. Next fixture away to arsenal who despite their 4-0 loss in Europe have their first choice defence back AND per mertesacker their no.1 liability is out
February 22 at 3:10 pm
hungry4nuns says:
In fact the only stand out score for bale against top 6 opposition was a 7 against city and that’s the exception rather than the rule. A 4 against Chelsea if you’re being really pedantic
February 22 at 2:17 pm
Greg27 says:
Krul Mig
JEvans Lescott Simpson BAE Kelly
Bale Valencia Silva Sess McClean
RVP Ba Dzeko
Thinking of doing RVP to Rooney, Dzeko to Aguero and Valencia to Oxlade-Chamberlain for a 4 point hit.
1) Aguero is better than Dzeko and plays more. Straightforward.
2) RVP’s next fixtures are Spurs, Liverpool, Newcastle, Blank. Pretty tough. Arsenal haven’t been looking great recently. Meanwhile Rooney has Norwich, Spurs, West Brom, Wolves.
3) Valencia injured, and Oxlade-Chamberlain would provide a little cover for loss of RVP.
Stupidity?! Thanks.
February 22 at 2:24 pm
Optimus says:
rvp is a defo starter you need to look at shifting valencia or dzeko who might no play with balo back
February 22 at 2:26 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
How much money will you lose on van Persie?
February 22 at 2:31 pm
hungry4nuns says:
Ya don’t bother with ox you’re right arsenals fixtures aren’t worth it. If you need to downgrade valencia for the cash there are better options who have delicious fixtures
February 22 at 2:20 pm
applebonkers says:
tevez says sorry? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-g_2HFceR3Q#t=1m9s (bad language warning)
February 22 at 2:23 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
February 22 at 2:26 pm
Optimus says:
would have though it more like
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2clzbfj-UL4
February 22 at 2:34 pm
applebonkers says:
“mancini is now my fwend”
February 22 at 2:35 pm
Optimus says:
lol
February 22 at 2:23 pm
Zizou says:
aguero or rooney in this week
February 22 at 2:27 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
Keep the one you have imo. Or wait until Friday.
February 22 at 2:25 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
Pearce 11 for the Dutchies.
I say do a Peter Taylor and
basically pick your under 21 stars from the last 4 years,
plus a few old heads.
That way Arry can offer “olive branches” to those oldies
he wants back without having the diplomatic kerfuffles.
Hart
Richards, Smalling, Jones, Baines (Walker, Dawson, GJ)
Parker, Scholes (Carrick, Britton)
AJ, Wilshire, Alex OC (Walcott, Young, Rooney)
Sturridge (Wellbeck, Crouchie?, Defoe)
So, what do you think??
February 22 at 2:26 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
Ouchie at the formatting!!
February 22 at 2:29 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
Billiant. Wholly agree. Would stick Bent in there as well.
February 22 at 2:30 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
*Brilliant. Ouchie myself!
February 22 at 2:32 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
February 22 at 2:31 pm
Jukesy says:
I’m not too sure on CB pairings really now JT and Ferdinand are getting older, but I would not go with Smalling and Jones, neither have played regularly this season at CB, or with each other.
Parker yes, Scholes no. If Wilshere was fit I’d play him alongside Parker, and then Gerrard ahead of them.
Then I’d probably go with Sturridge RW, Rooney ST, Young LW.
Another option would be Bent ST, and have Rooney in a free role behind him, however there wouldn’t be as much cover in the middle of the park.
February 22 at 2:37 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
All good ideas – The idea was to have a “raw” team – so that Arry’s improvements would look all the better.
Bent is a good shout, but I was thinking that Arry would not want to drop him after the whole Sandra affair. Better to be seen handing him the Olive Branch?
Rooney would be 1st choice in the middle of the 3 (or second striker in a 442) when his ban expires. Gerrard the obvious replacement.
Scholes /Parker /Baines offer experience that’s not associated with the goldenboys.
Also, JT & Rio??? No way. Just stay clear of the whole mess, says I. Too old anyhow.
February 22 at 2:38 pm
Jukesy says:
I wasn’t suggesting JT & Rio, I’m just saying I have no idea who would be best at CB, Cahill has played a few games, as has Jagielka, but you wouldn’t say either are top international standard.
February 22 at 2:48 pm
Stinkfly says:
My centre halves of choice for the squad would be:
Jagielka, Lescott, Jones, Smalling and Ferdinand.
Jagielka and Lescott would be my first choice – played together with a levle of success and understanding at Everton, both decent, fairly pacey, and are generally solid. Lescott can cover LB, Smalling can cover RB too, Jones can cover DMC too and Ferdinand bring his experience.
John Terry and Gary Cahill, no thanks.
February 22 at 2:53 pm
Jukesy says:
Lescott is a good shout, been reasonably solid for City this season. I’d definitely have JT over Ferdinand though.
Hopefully these friendlies will be used to try out different combinations of CBs though.
February 22 at 2:56 pm
Stinkfly says:
Jagielka and Lescott are already proven as a combination though – that is why I would go with them.
Proven for Everton, and they also played together, to great effect, when England shut out Spain recently.
February 22 at 3:09 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
+1
February 22 at 2:32 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
That back 6 has no chance at taking on RVP – Sneijder – Robben – Kuyt.
February 22 at 2:37 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
Don’t actually agree. Rio would be brought in anyway.
February 22 at 2:40 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
Agreed, but no English back 4 could contain them with certainty.
It’s a friendly, may as well blood the young ‘uns.
I’d rather haves Jones in Midfield / RB or the bench, but who would you put in place
of him? Dawson seems the obvious candidate and that makes me nervous.
Jones is very raw, but is the sort of player that could have an amazing tournament
against unfamiliar opponents.
February 22 at 2:37 pm
Stinkfly says:
Nigel Martyn
Danny Mills – Keith Curle – Steve Howey – Chris Powell
Geoff Thomas – Carlton Palmer
Stuart Ripley Steve Guppy
Michael Ricketts – Darius Vassell
Pure class……….BOOM!
February 22 at 2:38 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
Geoff Thomas, eh!
February 22 at 2:42 pm
ColeHole & The BATE Boys - This Can't End Well. says:
Danny Mills and Darius Vassell – happy days.
No Trevor Sinclair nutmegging the Brasillians?
February 22 at 2:42 pm
Stinkfly says:
On a serious note:
- Bin John Terry, Gareth Barry, Peter Crouch
- Pick Richards and Walker over Glen Johnson
- Give Baines a shot at left back (we need some better set piece takers)
- Liking the idea of Parker and Wilshere behind a free role Gerrard
- Rotate left and right wide attackers between Walcott, Ox, Young, Johnson
- Welbeck is doing well at leading the line at United, often as the “lone” frontman as Rooney has a pretty much free role. Welbeck could do this for England.
February 22 at 2:26 pm
jamsiep says:
Been saying this for years.
http://espn.go.com/sports/socc.....ichael-cox
I assume now that Zonal Marking has said it, everyone will now agree.
February 22 at 2:31 pm
Now back to me says:
I can’t be bothered to read it all, whats the general point?
February 22 at 2:32 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
In short, he’s not trigger happy, and the managerial sackings he’s made are all justifiable.
February 22 at 2:38 pm
jamsiep says:
Each of the managerial sacking under Abramovich have been justifiable.
Ranieri – not Roman’s man, and was doing a poor job. No trophies.
Mourinho – resigned.
Grant – stop gap, and an idiot.
Scolari – Idiot.
Hiddink – Stop gap.
Ancelotti – the only one people seem to have an issue with, although I personally fully thought that he deserved sacking.
February 22 at 2:40 pm
Now back to me says:
Yeah the only one i have an issue with is Ancelotti. AVB needs to stay at least another season, give him the summer to re build.
February 22 at 2:42 pm
True_Blue says:
yeah we will be fighting relegation battle for sure if he stay for one more year
February 22 at 2:47 pm
Now back to me says:
He’s making the right decisions, he just doesn’t have the players. Could become a very good manager for the club.
February 22 at 2:41 pm
Jukesy says:
If it was Abramovich that caused Mourinho to resign (if that was the case) then you’d have to say that was a bad decision. Otherwise I’d agree with the article.
February 22 at 2:41 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Why is Grant an idiot, he almost won you the CL. What’s his fault if Monseuir Terry decides to slip at the last minute?
February 22 at 2:43 pm
jamsiep says:
I’m not getting into this again. You’d have thought that Grant’s record since would have put to bed all notion that he’s a decent manager. He’s not even a manager.
February 22 at 2:49 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
I dunno, He’s managed Portsmouth and West ham after that, pretty dire tbh, but his win record with Portsmouth in the PL was better than Portsmouth’s Win record in the Championship this year.
February 22 at 2:56 pm
pompeyfan says:
That can’t be right surely
February 22 at 2:47 pm
simsey33 says:
Is that post your own thoughts or just your summing up of the article ‘for now back to me’?
Personally I think Abramovic:
- has been far too involved in football matters (Shevchenko, Ballack, Torrres signings among other things)
- hasn’t given any manager a fair chance
- has made daft appointments.
You being a blues fan I’d be very interested in your opinion…
February 22 at 2:53 pm
simsey33 says:
Ah, I’ve just read the posts again and finally caught up.
Surprised you think all have been justifiable.
I think its proven that managers need time. They always inherit somebody elses squad and need more than a season to mould it.
For example, signing more than 3 players means huge changes to tour playing squad and these have to be integrated – its difficult enough for Ferguson to do this when he’s has signed every player at the club. For a new manager to do this with an inherited squad its very very difficult.
Therefore signing 5/6 players in one summer isnt the answer.
But unless you get 3 yrs at least then you cant mould ‘your own’ team.
Abram hasn’t given anyone that amount of time save Mourinho who he hounded into resignation…
February 22 at 2:53 pm
jamsiep says:
My own personal thoughts, which are very similar to the ideas put across in the article itself.
Definitely agree that Abramovich has interfered too much with the running of the club, most notably when appointing people like Grant into backroom roles, his appointment being one of the major reasons for Mourinho’s decision to leave the club.
Clearly don’t agree with the second point, as I’ve stated above that I believe each of the managerial sackings so far have been merited. It’s all very well pointing to the success the likes of Ferguson and Wenger have had when in charge for a long period of time, but it works both ways. They’ve been in charge for a long time BECAUSE they are good, successful managers, it’s no good keeping a poor manager in charge for a while for the sake of longevity, as Middlesborough found out when relegated under Southgate, when he should have been sacked long before, at least IMO.
February 22 at 3:04 pm
simsey33 says:
Yeah, I see what you mean. I never debated it at any great length in the past to be honest so I dont have a ‘definite’ and unchangeable opinion on it.
Thinking about it now I’d say one questionable sacking and two questionable appointments are all he has to answer for.
Ignore Ranieri, he was there before Abram.
Mourinho – great appointment. Maybe Roman has learned that interfering was wrong (this seems to be why they parted ways)
Grant – stop gap, fully agree.
Scolari – terrible appointment, never should have happened and he had to go.
Hiddink – stop gap again.
Ancelotti, good appointment. Should have been given money to build a new team in my opinion. Not sure if he signed Torres on if Roman did. Anyway, if he’d backed Carlo I think they’d be in a far better situation this season.
AVB – questionable appointment, lacks experience in the CL (the highest level)
lacks experience with top top players where he struggling to manage them this season and lacks experience of the Premier League.
After all Abramovic has done for the club I’d forgive him all this too if I were a Chelsea fan.
Very interested to see what happens next tho…..
February 22 at 2:52 pm
Moe says:
ancelotti couldnt beat utd in the cl or pl last season which was pretty weak
February 22 at 2:31 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
The funny thing is that the people who call him trigger friendly are mostly chelsea who now are baying for AVB’s blood after just half a season.
February 22 at 2:31 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
*chelsea fans.
February 22 at 2:35 pm
applebonkers says:
just because you’re mates now
February 22 at 2:33 pm
Eddie says:
Good afternoon.
They have just described Rooney’s problem as a throat infection for those of you who transferred him in. Thats on Talk Sport news
February 22 at 2:33 pm
King Cabbage says:
And a throat infection can take more than a week to clear up, so I’d say he’s a major doubt for the weekend.
February 22 at 2:37 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
http://www.fantasyfootballscou.....nt-2757136
February 22 at 2:37 pm
King Cabbage says:
Actually, mine only lasted a couple of days but then I was sneezing and sniffling for another 3 days.
It’ll be touch and go.
February 22 at 2:39 pm
Demi says:
He’s had it since last weekend though.
February 22 at 2:38 pm
Optimus says:
make believe ones dont take so long though
February 22 at 2:39 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
February 22 at 2:34 pm
Demi says:
Yep. It’s 6 posts up too
February 22 at 2:36 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
LOL.
February 22 at 2:39 pm
Eddie says:
Hi Doosra
What’s the latest on BAE then
February 22 at 2:44 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
Dunno – give me a sec.!
February 22 at 2:45 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
Eeeurgh. Nothing much on Twitter, not tit-bits. I will look in the fan zone.
February 22 at 2:52 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
Nothing that I can find, yet. Sorry.
February 22 at 3:04 pm
Eddie says:
OK.Thanks for looking. There’s bound to be an update with Harry’s pre match press conference
February 22 at 3:07 pm
Doosra - Αθλητική Ένωσις Κωνσταντινουπόλεως - 1924 says:
Hope so.
February 22 at 2:36 pm
Eddie says:
Hi Demi
Can you get Man U’s team news for Sunday before the 1130 deadline !!!
February 22 at 2:38 pm
Demi says:
Deadlines on Saturday? If you mean the actual starting 11, then no. Team news will be out before then though
February 22 at 2:39 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Hi Demi
Can you please take a hit and bring in Phil Jones this weekend?
February 22 at 2:42 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
It won’t be funny if Jones starts and scores on Saturday.
February 22 at 2:40 pm
Eddie says:
Thanks I know. I was just having a laugh because I know you seem to get the starting 11 before anyone else !!
February 22 at 2:37 pm
nathan says:
Cant decide between 1) Valencia and Silva out = Dempsey and Yaya Toure in or 2) Valencia and Van Persie out = Dempsey and Rooney in ?????
February 22 at 2:39 pm
King Cabbage says:
Rooney is a doubt for the weekend, so wouldn’t make that move just yet.
RVP out will no doubt cost you a lot more to get back in.
Option 1 seems decent.
February 22 at 2:49 pm
nathan says:
yea leaning towards option 1. If I take Van Persie out hes gonna stay out, no way I could get him back in the team.
February 22 at 2:41 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
Frogdog – just realised, desperately need a good performance from you this weekend. If ENR manages to top the group that disgusting he/she grav will be looming even larger than normal on the group standings! Go Frogdog!
February 22 at 3:00 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
I have more surprises in store to display my dominance, GWM.
February 22 at 3:11 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
I hope the camera isn’t going to pan further down your grav for ‘more surprises’
February 22 at 2:45 pm
Demi says:
http://www.manutd.com/en/News-.....-ajax.aspx
Guess he’s probably a doubt for the weekend too, if those quotes are anything to go by
February 22 at 2:49 pm
Eddie says:
Good article that. Straight from the horse’s mouth !!
February 22 at 2:45 pm
NED KELLY says:
have i gone mad RVP out Rooney in ? ? ?
February 22 at 2:47 pm
Funkyav - Yesh I am PSV Manager, Pass the Dutchie, Chelsea Fan, not a fan of AVB or Torresh! says:
yesh
February 22 at 2:48 pm
Optimus says:
yep look up
February 22 at 2:48 pm
Count Of Monte Hristo says:
It seems that Wolves have made a real mess with the sacking of McCarthy. Firstly he should still be in charge and secondly if the club were adamant he had to go then surely you have some concrete plans for a replacement and not desperately trying to get a manager in Curbishley who has been out the management game for years who doesn’t even want the job. Total shambles the way Wolves have handled the whole situation.
February 22 at 2:50 pm
Eddie says:
Aren’t they eying up the Reading Manager!!
February 22 at 2:52 pm
Optimus says:
steve bruce and ray wilkins i hear as well
February 22 at 3:00 pm
Eddie says:
It will be a tough task to take on for whoever gets the managers job
February 22 at 2:50 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Well.. if it means Ba will score more on Saturday, I’m happy.
February 22 at 2:54 pm
hungry4nuns says:
+1 I was just thinking to myself yesterday which managers out there could take the vacant wolves spot and the first name that popped into my head was mick McCarthy…oh
February 22 at 3:04 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
Could have understood getting rid of him without anyone else lined up a little more if it appeared that McCarthy had lost the dressing room and getting rid of him would give the players a lift but as far as I’m aware that’s not the case.
I know a lot of Wolves fans and they’re basically living in fear of who might be appointed.
February 22 at 2:50 pm
NANI screamer screaming !!! says:
N’Koulou,F frei and kroos
who 2 should i play in ?
subbing out gaitan and sergio ramos……..
February 22 at 2:51 pm
Udit - Newton and Small Heath... The Two greatest Champ19ns. says:
Who’s N’Koulou? Marseille player?
February 22 at 2:56 pm
Optimus says:
havent a koulou
February 22 at 2:59 pm
NANI screamer screaming !!! says:
yeah marsielle defender…me in quite gud position in UCL fantasy with 80 points….aftr removing ramos 2 and gaitan it will be -5….
so who 2 ?
February 22 at 2:58 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
Marseille Defender.
February 22 at 2:53 pm
Brada_wba says:
Feel inclined to comment on the Chelsea situation – something badly wrong there. Absolute shambles at the back against Napoli with players putting in a token effort and getting caught out of position.
I like AVB however his vision does not suit currently. A great manager would work with what he has and only introduce his methods when personnel have been changed. AVB is at fault here.
He has Fernando Torres sitting on the bench. Why not play deep and give the lad loads of space as a lone front man similar to his time at Liverpool. If you are insistent on pushing teams high up the field and camping in the opposition half – play Frank Lampard. Raul M, Ramires, Bos, Cahill – Europa league players at best. Ivanovic can do a job but is never a RB and not good enough CB at the top level.
Luiz is an absolute joker at CB. CM or nothing for him.
Ashley Cole being dropped goes to show how bad things are going. Cole has consistently been one of the best players i have seen at the Hawthornes over the past decade.
The situation is bizzare. On paper players would respond well to attacking football.
February 22 at 2:55 pm
Optimus says:
cole wasnt dropped was 50/50 to play but had to come on with bos injury
February 22 at 2:56 pm
Brada_wba says:
ah apols.
February 22 at 3:03 pm
Stinkfly says:
Fit enough for the bench, fit enough to play IMO. Proven by the fact he played 80 mins.
If he’s injured he’s injured and they should have had Bertrand on the bench instead.
February 22 at 4:36 pm
Brada_wba says:
agree 100%
February 22 at 2:56 pm
Brada_wba says:
Chelsea 5-0 Bolton it is then.
February 22 at 2:56 pm
jamsiep says:
Ramires and Luiz have been two of our three best players this season, Mata being the other.
Ashley Cole has been terrible this season.
February 22 at 2:59 pm
Brada_wba says:
Answer me this – Would any of those 3 play regular under previous Mourinho Chelsea teams?
Luiz is a natural footballer but an ill disciplined defender. Ramires has no quality and is consistently out of position. Mata is a decent footballer to be fair but is hardly dynamic.
Just my opinion.
February 22 at 3:02 pm
True_Blue says:
My words….. Ramires has no quality ?????? Luiz ill disciplined defender ???????? Mata hardly dynamic ????? I am sure you read papers more than watching a match
February 22 at 3:30 pm
Somalion - Give yourself to the Clark Side. says:
Ha now I don’t agree with the Ramires or the Mata thing but Luiz is not a good defender. Really he isn’t.
February 22 at 4:27 pm
Brada_wba says:
Ramires is a bog average dog in the middle – rarely opening up defences. Don’t mind him but nothing special.
Mata is ok, bit slow and lightweight. Hardly Ronaldo/ Robben.
Luiz is the most ill disciplined defender i have ever seen – he seems to think this is funny also. Talking of watching matches – did you see the 3rd goal?
February 22 at 3:05 pm
jamsiep says:
Possibly not, although it’s easy to forget that Mourinho’s 2004-2005 team was probably the best in the history of the Premier League. Mata would have probably made that team.
Luiz is a very easy scapegoat because he occasionally makes bad errors, but on the whole his defending is generally excellent, and has been comfortably our best player over the past couple of months.
Ramires is just a very odd player. I love him to bits, but can’t really work him out!
February 22 at 3:08 pm
chinmusic says:
Don’t the Arsenal Invincibles have to take the best in the history of the PL plaudits? All subjective of course.
February 22 at 3:12 pm
jamsiep says:
Personally I don’t think so. We only lost the one game that year, very early on in the season away at Man City, and comfortably beat Arsenal’s points tally from the season before, conceding far fewer goals in the process.
It was the most dominant title win I can remember.
February 22 at 3:17 pm
chinmusic says:
Yeah, fair points.
There’s clearly a big difference anyway between the most dominant and the easiest on the eye. It was a quite extraordinary achievement by Wenger’s boys though, and one that’s unlikely to be repeated.
February 22 at 4:31 pm
Brada_wba says:
You were good that year – Mourinho made a very well oiled outfit. Arsenals team was better though – Unbeaten and more entertaining.
Was Robben there that season? Mata wouldn’t have been in a Jose team over him.
February 22 at 3:12 pm
Mac says:
Ramires would walk into any side in England and most in Europe.
February 22 at 4:32 pm
Brada_wba says:
Behave! Europa league player.
February 22 at 3:06 pm
Jukesy says:
Luiz top 3 players this season? I suppose not many Chelsea players have been really outstanding. Though saying that I really rate Luiz, it annoys me when people suggest he should play DM, he’s a great stopper, and has good feet.
February 22 at 3:10 pm
True_Blue says:
+ ∞∞∞∞
He will be one of the all time greats
February 22 at 3:02 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Sigh, tired of discussing this already. Penned my thoughts above.
February 22 at 3:09 pm
Stinkfly says:
What exactly is AVB’s “vision” anyway?
For me, he’s lost the plot, and as a result lost the dressing room at a time of the season when you can’t afford to do that.
Bad appointment by Roman IMO, and as a United fan I hope he doesn’t sack him because I can’t see things getting much better next season unless they buy 3 or 4 REAL top quality players.
February 22 at 4:39 pm
Brada_wba says:
Im not one for speculating if dressing rooms have been lost because it’s cliche but, this is one of the most obvious cases i have seen. The body language is shocking.
February 22 at 3:04 pm
El Doctor says:
Need some help with transfers;
Backline is sorted but midfield and strikers under pressure
Bale – Silva – Valencia – Siggy – Dempsey
Aguero – RVP – Rodallega,
Was going to do Valencia and Rod – Mata + cheapie, opinions?
February 22 at 3:05 pm
elninorules: CL Group Reviews (ColeHole) and ECL Group Reviews (Impressive Larnaca) are out! says:
Ba + Sess/McClean. Sundy will clean up the WBA defence methinks.
February 22 at 4:39 pm
Brada_wba says:
They struggled to clear up M’boros. Due a loss and WBA due a win imo.
February 22 at 3:05 pm
Optimus says:
id get ba for rod firstly and work your 2nd transfer around that
February 22 at 3:11 pm
El Doctor says:
What about Cisse instead of Ba?
February 22 at 3:15 pm
Optimus says:
id wait untill i see a bit more of him 1st
ba on penos plays furtherst forward and more likely to play the 90
February 22 at 3:28 pm
GreenWindmill - Riding The Black Sea Storm Of Trabzonspor says:
Pretty sure Cisse plays furthest forward but agree with the wait and see approach.
February 22 at 4:40 pm
Brada_wba says:
Keep Rod – he will bag. Plus its more fun than having Ba live everyone else.
February 22 at 3:05 pm
halnone says:
Just finished puking my brains out.
Now to get ready for the city game
February 22 at 3:11 pm
HappyAnkit- Join My New UCL Leagues-Classic & H2H-226721-44668 & 226721-44669 says:
How many of you are playing UEFA Europa Fantasy League?
February 22 at 3:17 pm
EpicFAIL - AVFC supporter, Sporting Lisbon manager, Europa League winner and Psychic. says:
27.