The Football Association are seeking a highly experienced, qualified and knowledgeable football man for a token work experience role as an Englishman in team Italia.
Duties:
-Essential duties - Coffee making (Expresso, cappuccino, latte, Macchiato), photocopying teamsheets, bench warming.
-Coaching - Placing cones in straight lines and at regular intervals.
-Selection role - distributing bibs at training.
-Translation - turning sophisticated tactical instructions into comprehensible cliches fit for a footballer.
Qualifications:
-Languages -Fluent Italian is essential for this role but GCSE French acceptable compromise.
-Broken English sufficient
-English nationality
-Championship manager experience is a bonus (preferably the latest edition).
-Two GCSE would be an advantage.
-Business acumen an advantage - current criminal charges frowned upon.
Must maintain standards of previous work experience incumbents Steve Mclaren, Sammy Lee,
Brian Kidd, David Platt, Bryan Robson and make the top man look like a genius.
Hours - demanding 9-5 for 10 weeks of the year
Salary -scandalous +expenses
Bonuses - extended summer holidays
- Opportunity to travel to Kazakhstan, Andorra and Ayia Napa.
Job prospects - short term -opportunity for brief stint in senior management.
- long term -commentary work and management in league one.
Apply in writing to Fabio at Football Atalia headquarters.
Friday, 21 December 2007
Tuesday, 30 October 2007
Jose who?
A smile may seem more forthcoming from a snarling black bear than Avram Grant, but no one quite expected such brutality in the new Chelsea boss. On Saturday he, and his side, put Sven's upstarts to the sword and with it ruthlessly ended the prolonged mourning of Mourinho.
Where this will lead only Roman knows. What was common thought, though, is now contestable; Grant may not be destined to fail. But with performances like six to zip, it is not a bad run for a manager supposedly under immense pressure and unrivalled expectation .
But the opposite is true. There was little pressure on Grant, because there was little the expectation of him. The only anticipation was of disappointment, as he was written off as a failure before being given the opportunity to fail. Pressure cannot exist in a vacuum of expectation and any expectation had been released by a barrage of media cynicism.
An upturn was near enough inevitable. He had players like Lampard and the essential Drogba to return and players like Wright-Philips and Pizzaro to drop. Players have made the immediate difference. The Grant factor could well turn out to be negligble if not necessary negative.
The headache now for the grizzling Grant is that the results that supposedly relieve pressure have only istigated it.
Where this will lead only Roman knows. What was common thought, though, is now contestable; Grant may not be destined to fail. But with performances like six to zip, it is not a bad run for a manager supposedly under immense pressure and unrivalled expectation .
But the opposite is true. There was little pressure on Grant, because there was little the expectation of him. The only anticipation was of disappointment, as he was written off as a failure before being given the opportunity to fail. Pressure cannot exist in a vacuum of expectation and any expectation had been released by a barrage of media cynicism.
An upturn was near enough inevitable. He had players like Lampard and the essential Drogba to return and players like Wright-Philips and Pizzaro to drop. Players have made the immediate difference. The Grant factor could well turn out to be negligble if not necessary negative.
The headache now for the grizzling Grant is that the results that supposedly relieve pressure have only istigated it.
Friday, 26 October 2007
Favours run out of faithful Ashton
They were his greatest mistake in the group stages,
they became his trump cards (played twice) in the
knockout stages, and now the grumpy old men that took
England to the final have turned on the coach that
invested such faith in them.
Brian Ashton’s character transformation was one of the
big mysteries prior to the World Cup. He was seen as a
yoda-like visionary – with his many years making him
wise to the promise youth and the virtues of – of
running rugby, a romantic with credentials; tactically
a revolutionary whose era had past but was waiting to
shape the future.
He became a pragmatist. Experience is what defends
world titles he said. The calls went out to Dallaglio,
Catt, Shaw, Robinson, Farrell, Gomarsall to lead
England with dignity and strength if not genius.
To begin with it went wrong. Stoggy performances in
the group stages meant the absence of x factor ilk
such as Haskell, Abendanon, Ward-Smith, Palmer, and
(dare I utter his double-barrelled name)
Simpson-Daniel, went from curious to comical.
But after South Africa 1 it turned. The senior players
who Ashton brought for their leadership, their proud
and precious egos that would revile at defeat,
challenged him and assumed responsibility. It was
what Ashton had been waiting for. He had saved them
from international rugby obscurity so that they should
save him if required.
And they did. It may even be said, in style.
Whether they were in need of greater verve,
enterprise, liberation in the final reckoning can be
debated. But they had preserved their reputations and
dabbled with greatness. Mission pretty complete.
But now the senior players have upset the alliance.
The recent could not be more belittling of the coach’s
contribution. It was all them. They had assumed
control, they had taken responsibility, and they had
defended the country’s honour in foreign lands. It is
said.
Few favours left then for faithful Brian.
they became his trump cards (played twice) in the
knockout stages, and now the grumpy old men that took
England to the final have turned on the coach that
invested such faith in them.
Brian Ashton’s character transformation was one of the
big mysteries prior to the World Cup. He was seen as a
yoda-like visionary – with his many years making him
wise to the promise youth and the virtues of – of
running rugby, a romantic with credentials; tactically
a revolutionary whose era had past but was waiting to
shape the future.
He became a pragmatist. Experience is what defends
world titles he said. The calls went out to Dallaglio,
Catt, Shaw, Robinson, Farrell, Gomarsall to lead
England with dignity and strength if not genius.
To begin with it went wrong. Stoggy performances in
the group stages meant the absence of x factor ilk
such as Haskell, Abendanon, Ward-Smith, Palmer, and
(dare I utter his double-barrelled name)
Simpson-Daniel, went from curious to comical.
But after South Africa 1 it turned. The senior players
who Ashton brought for their leadership, their proud
and precious egos that would revile at defeat,
challenged him and assumed responsibility. It was
what Ashton had been waiting for. He had saved them
from international rugby obscurity so that they should
save him if required.
And they did. It may even be said, in style.
Whether they were in need of greater verve,
enterprise, liberation in the final reckoning can be
debated. But they had preserved their reputations and
dabbled with greatness. Mission pretty complete.
But now the senior players have upset the alliance.
The recent could not be more belittling of the coach’s
contribution. It was all them. They had assumed
control, they had taken responsibility, and they had
defended the country’s honour in foreign lands. It is
said.
Few favours left then for faithful Brian.
Tuesday, 16 October 2007
The World Cup’s finest finishers contest the final
It stands to reason the two sides that will contend the World Cup final are, irrespective of aesthetics, the most successful rugby team of the tournament. They have been the most successful because they have been the most clinical.
The Springboks, like England, have not shown a great deal enterprise with the ball. But they are the best counter attacking side around and have the potential to play a devastating pressurising game. They have stolen New Zealand’s mantle of the kings of the turnover. With Du Preez and Habana they have players fleet of foot and of mind that can identify and take opportunities before they become apparent. And with the big back row runners of Burger, Smith and Roussow, if they get behind the first line of defence it is almost impossible to stop the momentum.
But if the Springbok are the ultimate finishers from 60yards, England are the ultimate finishers 60 minutes.
There it seems is no more confident or competent side at finding a way to win a game with 20minutes to go. With Wilkinson’s boot swinging in unison with the forwards shunting, England have a control and precision to confound the most nerve shattering of moments. Their game plan at the business end of proceedings is devastatingly effective. Wilkinson’s strike rate may not be at the highest it has been but few doubt his finishing in the final moments. If England are in the game at 60 minutes the Springbok may deflate. England will certainly grow.
With such faultless finishers, the world champions will afford the opposition the fewest opportunities.
The Springboks, like England, have not shown a great deal enterprise with the ball. But they are the best counter attacking side around and have the potential to play a devastating pressurising game. They have stolen New Zealand’s mantle of the kings of the turnover. With Du Preez and Habana they have players fleet of foot and of mind that can identify and take opportunities before they become apparent. And with the big back row runners of Burger, Smith and Roussow, if they get behind the first line of defence it is almost impossible to stop the momentum.
But if the Springbok are the ultimate finishers from 60yards, England are the ultimate finishers 60 minutes.
There it seems is no more confident or competent side at finding a way to win a game with 20minutes to go. With Wilkinson’s boot swinging in unison with the forwards shunting, England have a control and precision to confound the most nerve shattering of moments. Their game plan at the business end of proceedings is devastatingly effective. Wilkinson’s strike rate may not be at the highest it has been but few doubt his finishing in the final moments. If England are in the game at 60 minutes the Springbok may deflate. England will certainly grow.
With such faultless finishers, the world champions will afford the opposition the fewest opportunities.
Sunday, 14 October 2007
Lunacy sweeps France
Save the surgical blade of Wilkinsons sword, there is precious little logic left in Paris after England’s victory over France.
Saturday’s game was a desperate scramble for possession, position and points. Besides the errors and turnover count – the result of the height of competitiveness – there was little overriding tactical or strategic narrative. It was a true World Cup semi final: the teams so swayed by not losing, the path to winning was blurred; attacking aspirations were inhibited by defensive necessities. Had a penalty shoot out been a realistic possibility both sides would have taken their chances with the gods.
And the gods have revelled in their meddling throughout the tournament. Where the have not been upsets there have been results so close to shocks they remaining in the realms of upsets. What right does Georgia’s 400 strong rugby nation have of pushing Ireland all the way. No team that arrived in France with an established reputation has retained it throughout with each of the traditional powers at some point being embarrassed on the world stage. New Zealand, (France) France (Argentina), Australia (England), South Africa (Fiji), England (v. South Africa), Wales (Fiji) Ireland (everyone), Scotland (refusing to play NZ). Maybe some are harsh but that sentiment only reinforces how far marginalised sides of world rugby have risen in the unbalanced professional era.
Every tournament needs a theme. Although unpredictability and the day of the underdog are amongst the oldest sporting themes, they are relatively new to rugby and never has it been so prominent. Unlike football where a single score weighs so heavily in the result and therefore renders greater significance to chance, rugby is supposed to be different. Pedigree, class, and the perform book are supposed to matter.
But in Paris, a residence for the Enlightenment, the irrational reigns.
Saturday’s game was a desperate scramble for possession, position and points. Besides the errors and turnover count – the result of the height of competitiveness – there was little overriding tactical or strategic narrative. It was a true World Cup semi final: the teams so swayed by not losing, the path to winning was blurred; attacking aspirations were inhibited by defensive necessities. Had a penalty shoot out been a realistic possibility both sides would have taken their chances with the gods.
And the gods have revelled in their meddling throughout the tournament. Where the have not been upsets there have been results so close to shocks they remaining in the realms of upsets. What right does Georgia’s 400 strong rugby nation have of pushing Ireland all the way. No team that arrived in France with an established reputation has retained it throughout with each of the traditional powers at some point being embarrassed on the world stage. New Zealand, (France) France (Argentina), Australia (England), South Africa (Fiji), England (v. South Africa), Wales (Fiji) Ireland (everyone), Scotland (refusing to play NZ). Maybe some are harsh but that sentiment only reinforces how far marginalised sides of world rugby have risen in the unbalanced professional era.
Every tournament needs a theme. Although unpredictability and the day of the underdog are amongst the oldest sporting themes, they are relatively new to rugby and never has it been so prominent. Unlike football where a single score weighs so heavily in the result and therefore renders greater significance to chance, rugby is supposed to be different. Pedigree, class, and the perform book are supposed to matter.
But in Paris, a residence for the Enlightenment, the irrational reigns.
Thursday, 4 October 2007
WILKINSON THE ANSWER TO ASHTON'S VERY OWN LEFT SIDED PROBLEM
For many years successive England football managers toiled over who to pick on the left flank, at one time David Beckham was suggested for the role and even Jonny Wilkinson got a tongue in cheek murmerer. For Brian Ashton the inside centre position is quickly becoming England rugby's very own left sided problem, unfortunately him there is not the luxury of changing formation.
So he has cratched around desperately for an answer. Only injury has prevented Andy Farrell, the squarest of those pegs being droppped into a very round, and for that matter very deep, hole. And just two days before the quarter final match up with Australia - the greatest world cup nation - no such solution ahs been found.
The selection of Andy Farrell was bold but the prospective sums looked optimistic at the best. Farrell was selected to add braun and guts to the midfield in both attack and defence especially in the face of the aggressive running of captain Stirling Mortlock who returns on Saturday after a shoulder injury. But more often than not it would have been the electircity of Matt Giteau surging at Farrell. Would the lumbering league man have had the agility to go against Giteau's wit. Giteau is just as fine a manipulator as a runner. He along witht the bright Berrick Barnes would have brought Mortlock into the game where he will be most effective - Mathew Tait's outside centre channel - safe in the knowledge that Farrell would struggle to cover his midfied partner. Sometimes bravey is little more than aggression and desperation.
Now one position looks to be between three; Barkley, Hipkiss and Catt. The inexperience of a Hipkiss and Tait tandem would surely result in the biggest Aussie bbq of the year; The leftovers would last till boxing day. While pre tournament favourite Catt has suffered like Dallaglio and looks to be running low on lives. Barkley, however, was in the unique position of having impressed against the US and took his former Bath teamates mantle: the 2nd five eight. But against Samoa and Tonga he looked ill at ease in the centres. The intimidating figure of Brian Lima persuaded him to stand far too deep in attack and agianst Tonga Epi Tiaone exposed his and Tait's defensive frailty; It was the tale of the tenacious and the timid. Barkley looks far more comfortable at first reciever when there is less time on offer and the instincts take over.
And what of the other midfield man; the maestro, the orchestrator. The headlines have been good to Jonny but the performances have been ambiguous. His goalkicking despite the ball shape problems has saved England from utter humiliation but his all round game has been shaky. Against Samoa the tactical kicking was poor, nearly costing them, and though it has never been the most pronounced of his attributes he has failed to ignite the backline. An area of the game where Barkley could argue to be his better. Wilkinson is certainly Barkley better in the physical and mental bravery stakes, as well as experienced nouce. Elements that will be severely tested in the centres battle on Saturday.
May be then a partnership of the spritely Barkley at 10 and the resolute Wilkinson at 12 can hold up against Australia's dream combo. May be England's golden boy can smooth over the gaping gaps. It is certainly not as fantastical as David Beckham on England's left wing. Now who plays 13??
So he has cratched around desperately for an answer. Only injury has prevented Andy Farrell, the squarest of those pegs being droppped into a very round, and for that matter very deep, hole. And just two days before the quarter final match up with Australia - the greatest world cup nation - no such solution ahs been found.
The selection of Andy Farrell was bold but the prospective sums looked optimistic at the best. Farrell was selected to add braun and guts to the midfield in both attack and defence especially in the face of the aggressive running of captain Stirling Mortlock who returns on Saturday after a shoulder injury. But more often than not it would have been the electircity of Matt Giteau surging at Farrell. Would the lumbering league man have had the agility to go against Giteau's wit. Giteau is just as fine a manipulator as a runner. He along witht the bright Berrick Barnes would have brought Mortlock into the game where he will be most effective - Mathew Tait's outside centre channel - safe in the knowledge that Farrell would struggle to cover his midfied partner. Sometimes bravey is little more than aggression and desperation.
Now one position looks to be between three; Barkley, Hipkiss and Catt. The inexperience of a Hipkiss and Tait tandem would surely result in the biggest Aussie bbq of the year; The leftovers would last till boxing day. While pre tournament favourite Catt has suffered like Dallaglio and looks to be running low on lives. Barkley, however, was in the unique position of having impressed against the US and took his former Bath teamates mantle: the 2nd five eight. But against Samoa and Tonga he looked ill at ease in the centres. The intimidating figure of Brian Lima persuaded him to stand far too deep in attack and agianst Tonga Epi Tiaone exposed his and Tait's defensive frailty; It was the tale of the tenacious and the timid. Barkley looks far more comfortable at first reciever when there is less time on offer and the instincts take over.
And what of the other midfield man; the maestro, the orchestrator. The headlines have been good to Jonny but the performances have been ambiguous. His goalkicking despite the ball shape problems has saved England from utter humiliation but his all round game has been shaky. Against Samoa the tactical kicking was poor, nearly costing them, and though it has never been the most pronounced of his attributes he has failed to ignite the backline. An area of the game where Barkley could argue to be his better. Wilkinson is certainly Barkley better in the physical and mental bravery stakes, as well as experienced nouce. Elements that will be severely tested in the centres battle on Saturday.
May be then a partnership of the spritely Barkley at 10 and the resolute Wilkinson at 12 can hold up against Australia's dream combo. May be England's golden boy can smooth over the gaping gaps. It is certainly not as fantastical as David Beckham on England's left wing. Now who plays 13??
Tuesday, 4 September 2007
NEW ZEALANDERS HAVE ENOUGH
good enough
consensouos suggests that New Zealand are not at their best or hitting the peaks of the previous couple of seasons, Bob Dwyer the 1991 Australia world cu winning coach even suggests that the New Zealanders are in decline,increasingly paralysed by expectations and fear of failure. They may not be at their best over the next six weeks but they likely wont have to be. but the aura remains intact, the All blacks are all . time thinking about the blacks rather than their own game. England underperformed in the last world cup. but they had the . a depth of resources mental and physical to overcome.
consensouos suggests that New Zealand are not at their best or hitting the peaks of the previous couple of seasons, Bob Dwyer the 1991 Australia world cu winning coach even suggests that the New Zealanders are in decline,increasingly paralysed by expectations and fear of failure. They may not be at their best over the next six weeks but they likely wont have to be. but the aura remains intact, the All blacks are all . time thinking about the blacks rather than their own game. England underperformed in the last world cup. but they had the . a depth of resources mental and physical to overcome.
Monday, 27 August 2007
PACE OF BENT GIVES JOHL FIGHTING CHANCE
Since his £16.5 million transfer from Charlton to Tottenham over the summer much has been said about Darren Bent, yet little has been seen. Bent has played just one and a half games for his new club and is currently injured with the prognosis of a return in a few weeks, leaving talk to revolve around monetary matters sitting alongside accusation of mismanagement after Tottenham’s disastrously disappointing state to the season. But Bent can be the man to relieve the roasting pressure on the Martin Johl.
Such is the political intrigue that is seeping into the public domain once again from Tottenham, it is unclear exactly who instigated and who sanctioned the move for Bent. Whether it was a Johl or Comoli acquisition the consensus is that a burgeoning of the strike force has become a burdening of the team. The crucial question who to play up front and what to do with those on the sidelines.
Johl’s has been guarding of the Keane-Berbatov partnership. Berbatov is indispensable as their finest forward and now seemingly secure on the Tottenham books; Keane an ever-reliable finisher and continually rounding player; Bent thus far is just expensive. Last season the Keane-Berbatov combo contributed goals to the Champions League aspiring cause and, though that cause was not realised, the pair scored more than any of the top four strike partnerships generating them recognition as one of the most complete and productive tandems around. But as synchronised and snug as the Keane-Berbatov axis is, it lacks the simplest yet most effective of ingredients, one of the evolutionary elements of the modern game: Pace.
Bent is pace. The former Charlton striker along with a sound goal scoring record for a struggling Premiership team, and extensive attributes, if not as smoothed as Keane, has raw and yet pure pace. Thus potentially is Tottenham’s most effective goal getter.
Whether it be racing onto through ball, exposing aging or labouring defenders, or forcing the oppositions backline deeper and creating space for Berbatv and runners such as Jermaine Jenas, an injection of the most basic, yet elusive, of attributes - athletic prowess - can stimulate Tottenham back towards the top.
Keane, the captain, would have to make way but a BB (Bent-Berbatov) combination can be a lethal gunnery, give Tottenham a shot in the arm and prevent Johl from the roasting if not the pressure.
Such is the political intrigue that is seeping into the public domain once again from Tottenham, it is unclear exactly who instigated and who sanctioned the move for Bent. Whether it was a Johl or Comoli acquisition the consensus is that a burgeoning of the strike force has become a burdening of the team. The crucial question who to play up front and what to do with those on the sidelines.
Johl’s has been guarding of the Keane-Berbatov partnership. Berbatov is indispensable as their finest forward and now seemingly secure on the Tottenham books; Keane an ever-reliable finisher and continually rounding player; Bent thus far is just expensive. Last season the Keane-Berbatov combo contributed goals to the Champions League aspiring cause and, though that cause was not realised, the pair scored more than any of the top four strike partnerships generating them recognition as one of the most complete and productive tandems around. But as synchronised and snug as the Keane-Berbatov axis is, it lacks the simplest yet most effective of ingredients, one of the evolutionary elements of the modern game: Pace.
Bent is pace. The former Charlton striker along with a sound goal scoring record for a struggling Premiership team, and extensive attributes, if not as smoothed as Keane, has raw and yet pure pace. Thus potentially is Tottenham’s most effective goal getter.
Whether it be racing onto through ball, exposing aging or labouring defenders, or forcing the oppositions backline deeper and creating space for Berbatv and runners such as Jermaine Jenas, an injection of the most basic, yet elusive, of attributes - athletic prowess - can stimulate Tottenham back towards the top.
Keane, the captain, would have to make way but a BB (Bent-Berbatov) combination can be a lethal gunnery, give Tottenham a shot in the arm and prevent Johl from the roasting if not the pressure.
Monday, 13 August 2007
IN WORD OR DEED - WILL MOURINHO BETRAY THE CHELSEA REVOLUTION
Events at Stamford Bridge this summer are more a revolution than a Revolution: power has been consolidated rather than overthrown. Roman Abramovich and Jose Mourinho it is suggested are more united than ever. Though the situation - the changing of ideals exalting the virtues of freedom, liberated from their tactical restraints with the ambition to play “expansive” football to entertain the masses not just those loyal to the old institution – has something of a red cap to it. The most striking of similarities, though, is the most significant of revolutionary lessons: the ultimate promise is seldom realised.
The assertion is that a struggle of style has been won, and with style Chelsea will attempt to wrestle back the Premiership title with beauty as much as brute force, the triumph of technique as much as will. The tyrants of the Premiership have become idealists. A fine ideal – long live the revolution!
The evidence to the contrary though is hidden no deeper than the back pages of the summer’s newspapers. Chelsea’s transfer policy belies any suggestions of a shift towards expansive and entertaining football, as the acquisitions chosen for their new campaign are reconfirmation of type rather than an expansion of ambition. Power and presence has been added to power and presence; Offering modest scope for ventures into skill, subtlety and sophistication.
The personnel do not fit the promise. In Claudio Pizzaro they have bought a striker with the strength adept at holding the ball up and defenders off in for pace but to the detriment of mobility and pace. In Steve Sidwell they have bought a very British box to box midfielder, with endeavour compensating for technique, as Mourinho lauds his English mentality.
Even the signing of a World Cup winning French forward Florent Malouda for £13 million, on the surface an exiting addition, is when put into context a move away from flair. His signature meant that the sometimes frustrating, often sublime, Arjen Robben could depart to Madrid. Where Robben could beat people with any combination of pace, dribbling, flair and ingenuity, Malouda is more direct in his running and less encompassing and capricious in his ability. Robben offered a spark of invention and subtlety that was not easily read or stifled. If Mourinho really envisages such an expansive, flowing and thrillingly style of play, can such a player be surplus?
The signing of two towering centre halves in Alex and BE Haim rather than the technically adept ball playing centre halves suggests reinforcements rather than a new regiment. A direct and physically intimidating policy will surely still preside at Stamford Bridge. It appears a revolution of rhetoric rather than action.
Chelsea may attempt to play with more width, more forward runners, more ambition but it like all revolutions promises more than it is capable of delivering. But the resources contradict the premise. Cynics may suggest that Mourinho’s heart is not in the entertaining, his love for the result is uncompromising and his pragmatic head rules. No doubt he is well aware that should early season ambitions to play with verve and splendour fall short of expectations then the personnel can easily be redeployed to the uncompromising bulldozing of opponents.
Given Abramovich’s romantic ideals the betrayal of the revolution may alone be enough to instigate a bloodied backlash and overthrowing Mourinho; a Revolution.
The assertion is that a struggle of style has been won, and with style Chelsea will attempt to wrestle back the Premiership title with beauty as much as brute force, the triumph of technique as much as will. The tyrants of the Premiership have become idealists. A fine ideal – long live the revolution!
The evidence to the contrary though is hidden no deeper than the back pages of the summer’s newspapers. Chelsea’s transfer policy belies any suggestions of a shift towards expansive and entertaining football, as the acquisitions chosen for their new campaign are reconfirmation of type rather than an expansion of ambition. Power and presence has been added to power and presence; Offering modest scope for ventures into skill, subtlety and sophistication.
The personnel do not fit the promise. In Claudio Pizzaro they have bought a striker with the strength adept at holding the ball up and defenders off in for pace but to the detriment of mobility and pace. In Steve Sidwell they have bought a very British box to box midfielder, with endeavour compensating for technique, as Mourinho lauds his English mentality.
Even the signing of a World Cup winning French forward Florent Malouda for £13 million, on the surface an exiting addition, is when put into context a move away from flair. His signature meant that the sometimes frustrating, often sublime, Arjen Robben could depart to Madrid. Where Robben could beat people with any combination of pace, dribbling, flair and ingenuity, Malouda is more direct in his running and less encompassing and capricious in his ability. Robben offered a spark of invention and subtlety that was not easily read or stifled. If Mourinho really envisages such an expansive, flowing and thrillingly style of play, can such a player be surplus?
The signing of two towering centre halves in Alex and BE Haim rather than the technically adept ball playing centre halves suggests reinforcements rather than a new regiment. A direct and physically intimidating policy will surely still preside at Stamford Bridge. It appears a revolution of rhetoric rather than action.
Chelsea may attempt to play with more width, more forward runners, more ambition but it like all revolutions promises more than it is capable of delivering. But the resources contradict the premise. Cynics may suggest that Mourinho’s heart is not in the entertaining, his love for the result is uncompromising and his pragmatic head rules. No doubt he is well aware that should early season ambitions to play with verve and splendour fall short of expectations then the personnel can easily be redeployed to the uncompromising bulldozing of opponents.
Given Abramovich’s romantic ideals the betrayal of the revolution may alone be enough to instigate a bloodied backlash and overthrowing Mourinho; a Revolution.
Saturday, 4 August 2007
Sunday, 29 July 2007
BIG SAM'S BIG CHANCE
Sir Alex Ferguson, Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger, Sam Alladyce can remonstrate like the best of them. When it comes to downright moaning he is out does them all and makes the match of the day studio look like . Whether it is the lack of transfer funding, the timing of the African Nations Cup, or being snubbed for the England manager's role, Alladyce can bleet like the most discontented sheep. Finally though he has what he wanted: a shot at the big time. The actual big time, no disrepect to Bolton.
The reasonably wealthy and supported yet woefully unsuccessful enigma that is Newcastle United has gone far beyond the point of compassion fatigue.
Many manager begun their demise with an ill stated stint on Tyneside Kevin Keegan, Ruud Gullit, Kenny Dalglsi and all of them terrible ones.
Newcastle though remains or at least so, probably more importantly, in the eyes of their supports and many a interested onlooker.
Alladyce did a fine job at Bolton and any attempts by the establishment to undermine his time and legacy ought to be exposed a the triffle that it is.
Will the real fat Sam, please stand up!
The reasonably wealthy and supported yet woefully unsuccessful enigma that is Newcastle United has gone far beyond the point of compassion fatigue.
Many manager begun their demise with an ill stated stint on Tyneside Kevin Keegan, Ruud Gullit, Kenny Dalglsi and all of them terrible ones.
Newcastle though remains or at least so, probably more importantly, in the eyes of their supports and many a interested onlooker.
Alladyce did a fine job at Bolton and any attempts by the establishment to undermine his time and legacy ought to be exposed a the triffle that it is.
Will the real fat Sam, please stand up!
Sunday, 22 July 2007
TIME TO BAN FOREIGNERS FROM INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL
sdSensationalist rhetoric reigns the airwaves and printing press; a game is either abysmal or magnificent, a performance either deplorable or triumphant, there is often little publicised space for the decent, the very good the good, . . Not least for the players, who a either chastised as the worst or celebrated as the greatest. In this polarised world of football perceptions it is no wonder that there are so many overrated and underrated players.
Monday, 16 July 2007
Monday, 9 July 2007
Sunday, 1 July 2007
FOOTBALL NEEDS CLASS REVOLUTION
It is irrefutable, irreconsiable, inveitable, football is all about class. It has been that way for years since the games conception through generations of , but the time has come for a revolution of enlightenment. It is time to determine the schoolboys from the boys of the world class and, more importantly, the innumerate subsections that lie anonimously in between; If only for Frank Lampard.
In a single sentence erratic pundits will lament the absymal defending of shoolboys whilst praising the predatory instincts of the world class forward; How is it possible for the two be on the same pitch? Are there really such disparities in the quality of footballers? It is a good job they are not playing rugby or Thai boxing.
The current class system is most confusing and vulnerable when it has the attention of the masses adorned upon it: The World Cup.
In the run up to the event the most important question, nausiatingly posed to anything from to radio DJs, is: How many world class players do England have?
The estimates vary here between the Mark Lawrence/Mick McCarthy pact of pessimism who suggest one possible and the 59 million blind drunk nationalist proposing ten certainties (even the most deluded Union Jack draped, anthem singing, beer swigger can spot the donkey who ought to be in a paddock rather than on a pitch). The pessimists are closer to being realitists than the optimists. And of course many a reputation is culled after the competition leaving far fewer than at the outset, exactly how few a reflection of exactly how badly England did.
The second question: How many world class players does it take to win a world cup?
Again a bamboozling poser as every member of the world cup winning team is branded world class. The fact is that the answer to both the questions doesn't matter at all.
A revolution is in order the; the class system must reinvented. Here are a few suggestions:
Frank Lampard-, Kaka
The disturbed channel five viewer:
Miss Bognor Regis, Miss UK-Frank Lampard, Miss Sweden-, Miss Universe-Kaka
Obvious but effective:
Conference class- , Premier class-Frank Lampard, European class-Jens Lehman, World class-Ronaldinho
In a single sentence erratic pundits will lament the absymal defending of shoolboys whilst praising the predatory instincts of the world class forward; How is it possible for the two be on the same pitch? Are there really such disparities in the quality of footballers? It is a good job they are not playing rugby or Thai boxing.
The current class system is most confusing and vulnerable when it has the attention of the masses adorned upon it: The World Cup.
In the run up to the event the most important question, nausiatingly posed to anything from to radio DJs, is: How many world class players do England have?
The estimates vary here between the Mark Lawrence/Mick McCarthy pact of pessimism who suggest one possible and the 59 million blind drunk nationalist proposing ten certainties (even the most deluded Union Jack draped, anthem singing, beer swigger can spot the donkey who ought to be in a paddock rather than on a pitch). The pessimists are closer to being realitists than the optimists. And of course many a reputation is culled after the competition leaving far fewer than at the outset, exactly how few a reflection of exactly how badly England did.
The second question: How many world class players does it take to win a world cup?
Again a bamboozling poser as every member of the world cup winning team is branded world class. The fact is that the answer to both the questions doesn't matter at all.
A revolution is in order the; the class system must reinvented. Here are a few suggestions:
Frank Lampard-, Kaka
The disturbed channel five viewer:
Miss Bognor Regis, Miss UK-Frank Lampard, Miss Sweden-, Miss Universe-Kaka
Obvious but effective:
Conference class- , Premier class-Frank Lampard, European class-Jens Lehman, World class-Ronaldinho
Saturday, 23 June 2007
Monday, 11 June 2007
CONTINENTAL DRIFT
Over the past five years the Premier league has usurped the rest of Europe as the world’s premier football destination, as an irresistible flow of talent has been lured to these shores by unprecedented domestic and foreign generated wealth. But this summer’s transfer tides could be set for a dramatic shift.
With the new Sky TV mega deal worth and the continuation of huge overseas investment there will be vast resources for transfer fees, wages and bonuses to entice the most demanding of players once the transfer window reopens. The Premiership is louder and brasher than ever. But fewer are listening; the money just isn’t talking as it once did. Could it be that the professionals with, merited or otherwise, reputations for greed and material acquisition are beginning to think that money doesn’t bring happiness or at least that it can be found in a £90,000 a week pay check as much as £120,0000.
This threatening trend is more than the realisation of lifestyle choices, a familiar tongue, a comfortable culture and reliable warm weather that lurk behind the multimillion-pound moves. And worryingly so for the Premiership.
The accumulation of the world’s top players over the past five years by England’s top club has relied upon a belief that two’s destinies are intertwined, that with the flow of wealth goes the players and with the flow of the players goes the honours and wealth. The wealthy clubs need the top players and the top players need the top club to achieve their goals. While English clubs do now stand alongside their Italian and Spanish counterparts the desired European domination has remained elusive.
Where once the glamour and money of the Premiership drew internationals from all over, this summer’s top transfer target seem less swayed by overtures from British big spenders. Three of Britain’s top targets are Samuel E’too (unswayed by overtures), Ronaldinho (repulsed by the prospect), and Fernando Torres (far from certain). While the likes of Kaka, Messi, and Totti are all pipe dreams. Not only this but the Premiership’s best are increasingly uncertain in their English homes: Andrei Shevchenko s desperate to return to Italy. Michael Ballack is similarly sick. Christiano Ronaldo’s flirtations are on the back burner for now but run deep. While Carlos Tevez has intimated that a move to Milan or Madrid is preferable. The desperate wishes of Antonio Reyes will be answered with a transfer to Spain.
Thierry Henry’s departure reveals more. It concerns more about Arsenal’s inability to compete for medals and Barcelona’s ability to the same, especially in Europe, than any other mangled reasoning. A blow to the premiership’s standing and self esteem. The question is whether an exodus will follow. This would be as much dehabilitating as humiliating.
The premiership is looking less like the premier destination for the summer.
With the new Sky TV mega deal worth and the continuation of huge overseas investment there will be vast resources for transfer fees, wages and bonuses to entice the most demanding of players once the transfer window reopens. The Premiership is louder and brasher than ever. But fewer are listening; the money just isn’t talking as it once did. Could it be that the professionals with, merited or otherwise, reputations for greed and material acquisition are beginning to think that money doesn’t bring happiness or at least that it can be found in a £90,000 a week pay check as much as £120,0000.
This threatening trend is more than the realisation of lifestyle choices, a familiar tongue, a comfortable culture and reliable warm weather that lurk behind the multimillion-pound moves. And worryingly so for the Premiership.
The accumulation of the world’s top players over the past five years by England’s top club has relied upon a belief that two’s destinies are intertwined, that with the flow of wealth goes the players and with the flow of the players goes the honours and wealth. The wealthy clubs need the top players and the top players need the top club to achieve their goals. While English clubs do now stand alongside their Italian and Spanish counterparts the desired European domination has remained elusive.
Where once the glamour and money of the Premiership drew internationals from all over, this summer’s top transfer target seem less swayed by overtures from British big spenders. Three of Britain’s top targets are Samuel E’too (unswayed by overtures), Ronaldinho (repulsed by the prospect), and Fernando Torres (far from certain). While the likes of Kaka, Messi, and Totti are all pipe dreams. Not only this but the Premiership’s best are increasingly uncertain in their English homes: Andrei Shevchenko s desperate to return to Italy. Michael Ballack is similarly sick. Christiano Ronaldo’s flirtations are on the back burner for now but run deep. While Carlos Tevez has intimated that a move to Milan or Madrid is preferable. The desperate wishes of Antonio Reyes will be answered with a transfer to Spain.
Thierry Henry’s departure reveals more. It concerns more about Arsenal’s inability to compete for medals and Barcelona’s ability to the same, especially in Europe, than any other mangled reasoning. A blow to the premiership’s standing and self esteem. The question is whether an exodus will follow. This would be as much dehabilitating as humiliating.
The premiership is looking less like the premier destination for the summer.
Tuesday, 5 June 2007
RETURN OF THE TRIED BUT YET TO BE TRUSTED
The inaugration of the 21st century Wembley as England´s chief residency, with an unaccustomed draw against the glamour boys of Brazil, prompted by a forceful leap from John Terry in a relatively fresh and clean captain´s armband, set up David Beckham revitalised by a new beginning, and yet there was a resounding tone of familiarity about Friday nights proceedings. A troubling one at that.
Even the celebratory chorus of "times are a changin´" echoed disturbingly in the post match pronouncement. The only element of surprise in proceedings was the absence of a Swede on the sidelines, wise and intellectual in appearance confused and pained in expression. Searching the darkest corners of the dug out there was no ellusive Eriksson, no skulking Sven. Instead there stood a decidedly contrasting figure. Prostrate, animated and red headed, McClaren was the man in the middle, the man in the suit, the boss all tied up. Little else if anything though had changed. In adversity England have reverted to type.
Unlike the critics and fanatics would have us believe it was not all about a boy called Beckham. The starting line up confirmed as much . There was the return of the Gerrard-Lampard axis of uncertainty, of Joe Cole and Michael Owen, but of course the return of the great redemeer took presidence. Goldenballs was back and so the match fulfilled its predetermined destiny.
By convention the narrative was not without hope. The defence was strong for eighty minutes, at times the midfield pressed and harried to stifling and creative effect, and England could have damned near won the thing. Owen was ineffective but fit, as Gerrard stayed deep there were hints at a midfield understanding, and Beckham was enthusiastic.
Then after an hour in need, Beckham stepped upto the set pieces. A couple of close shots on goal and then a curling far post delivery decieved Helton, the Brazilian goalkeeper, exquisitely for his captain to head home. Another comeback complete. All that was left to end the known story was for England to drop so far back that supporters behind the Brazilian goal must have thought the game had finished, Peter Crouch take the pitch in hope of a "knock down" from a non existent strike partner and to concede the inevitable last minute goal ensuring extra time. But reprieve for the fans. As there was prior to the world cup, it was a meaningless friendly and so there was no subjection to thirty minutes of attack against defence and or penalty capitulation.
Infact.... so little had changed, had the last six months been a horrific nightmare manifesting in our minds from past disasters? That was it, surely. There had not been another painfully numb campaign, not another injury crisis to our great reliant only to self destruct, seeing red, and become the great liability, not another bottling of penalty nerves, not another premature exit. The 2006 world cup was just around the corner and we had a chance, more than a chance. This time the belief had been real, and reality would not revolt.
But times have a changed, though slightly. Now it is an arduous overseas battle for qualification that lies aheadand the two to four year cycle of hope to expectation and ultimate disappointment is stillin its infance. An infancy ensured by the retreat into the tried six months into the new campaign, regression rather than the progression promised, and the reinstatement of the former captain for the long term appears flawed in comparison to his axing. It symbolises a stuttering from past to present to future rather than the envisaged seamless transission.
Despite the grand gestures early last September and Friday night´s coronation of the new, in crisis McClaren is growing ever closer to mentor and attempting to succeed where he failed. Maybe the Swede was on the sidelines after all, in the most convincing of ginger disguises. Familiarity though, as Sven knows so well and McClaren must fear, in football, often breeds a volatile strain of contempt.
Even the celebratory chorus of "times are a changin´" echoed disturbingly in the post match pronouncement. The only element of surprise in proceedings was the absence of a Swede on the sidelines, wise and intellectual in appearance confused and pained in expression. Searching the darkest corners of the dug out there was no ellusive Eriksson, no skulking Sven. Instead there stood a decidedly contrasting figure. Prostrate, animated and red headed, McClaren was the man in the middle, the man in the suit, the boss all tied up. Little else if anything though had changed. In adversity England have reverted to type.
Unlike the critics and fanatics would have us believe it was not all about a boy called Beckham. The starting line up confirmed as much . There was the return of the Gerrard-Lampard axis of uncertainty, of Joe Cole and Michael Owen, but of course the return of the great redemeer took presidence. Goldenballs was back and so the match fulfilled its predetermined destiny.
By convention the narrative was not without hope. The defence was strong for eighty minutes, at times the midfield pressed and harried to stifling and creative effect, and England could have damned near won the thing. Owen was ineffective but fit, as Gerrard stayed deep there were hints at a midfield understanding, and Beckham was enthusiastic.
Then after an hour in need, Beckham stepped upto the set pieces. A couple of close shots on goal and then a curling far post delivery decieved Helton, the Brazilian goalkeeper, exquisitely for his captain to head home. Another comeback complete. All that was left to end the known story was for England to drop so far back that supporters behind the Brazilian goal must have thought the game had finished, Peter Crouch take the pitch in hope of a "knock down" from a non existent strike partner and to concede the inevitable last minute goal ensuring extra time. But reprieve for the fans. As there was prior to the world cup, it was a meaningless friendly and so there was no subjection to thirty minutes of attack against defence and or penalty capitulation.
Infact.... so little had changed, had the last six months been a horrific nightmare manifesting in our minds from past disasters? That was it, surely. There had not been another painfully numb campaign, not another injury crisis to our great reliant only to self destruct, seeing red, and become the great liability, not another bottling of penalty nerves, not another premature exit. The 2006 world cup was just around the corner and we had a chance, more than a chance. This time the belief had been real, and reality would not revolt.
But times have a changed, though slightly. Now it is an arduous overseas battle for qualification that lies aheadand the two to four year cycle of hope to expectation and ultimate disappointment is stillin its infance. An infancy ensured by the retreat into the tried six months into the new campaign, regression rather than the progression promised, and the reinstatement of the former captain for the long term appears flawed in comparison to his axing. It symbolises a stuttering from past to present to future rather than the envisaged seamless transission.
Despite the grand gestures early last September and Friday night´s coronation of the new, in crisis McClaren is growing ever closer to mentor and attempting to succeed where he failed. Maybe the Swede was on the sidelines after all, in the most convincing of ginger disguises. Familiarity though, as Sven knows so well and McClaren must fear, in football, often breeds a volatile strain of contempt.
Thursday, 31 May 2007
THE MAJORITY RULES: WHY FANS ARE NEVER WRONG!
Thrifty chairmen, incompetant managers, blind referees, passionateless players and even sensationalist newspapers are all open to cynicism and ridicule. No one escapes condemnation and retribution in the great blame game of professional football; It is all against all. Except of course the ever loyal, ever insightful and ever correct fans.
Football stands across the land, every Saturday afternoon, remain sancturies from responsibility, beyond error and rebuke. No one dares challenge the voliatile beast. Seldom, if ever, and only in code do chairmen, managers and players turn on their own supporters and are anything less than civil and dutiful to their oppressor. "The fans were quiet", is as far as it goes.
The media, also, refuse to mutiny against their master and lunge for the hand that feeds; reporting for the fans, with their angers vented and their sensibilities protected. Their existence, or profession at least, depends on it. Living in fear but living none the least.
Though it is not the price of a season ticket, the purchase of a Sunday morning paper or the banner demanding a manager to "leave now of forever be abused", but the ominous booing of 40,000, the confeiti filled field full of ripped season tickets, the headlines selling thousands of copies. It is assasination by numbers. That is where the power is drawn.
Football stands across the land, every Saturday afternoon, remain sancturies from responsibility, beyond error and rebuke. No one dares challenge the voliatile beast. Seldom, if ever, and only in code do chairmen, managers and players turn on their own supporters and are anything less than civil and dutiful to their oppressor. "The fans were quiet", is as far as it goes.
The media, also, refuse to mutiny against their master and lunge for the hand that feeds; reporting for the fans, with their angers vented and their sensibilities protected. Their existence, or profession at least, depends on it. Living in fear but living none the least.
Though it is not the price of a season ticket, the purchase of a Sunday morning paper or the banner demanding a manager to "leave now of forever be abused", but the ominous booing of 40,000, the confeiti filled field full of ripped season tickets, the headlines selling thousands of copies. It is assasination by numbers. That is where the power is drawn.
Thursday, 17 May 2007
BENITEZ KING OF CUPS, FERGUSON TOP OF LEAGUES
As Sir Alex Ferguson reclines, with champagne fresh from Manchester United's Premiership triumph, in relief of a legacy continued, he will have a few thoughts and regets as Liverpool prepare for the European Cup final. Once Fergie's holy grail the European Cup though has lost some of its elusive glint. No longer is the Champions League of more prestige than the League Championship, but another season of ultimate failure in Europe, as Rafael Benitez once again advances his European claims will doubtless leave Ferguson with some envy. Wondering how the Liverpool manager continues to crack the enigma of Europe. Benitez himself will be longing for the secret that has led to the Manchester United manager's prolonged domestic dominance.
Both have succeeded; both have failed. The two managers have chosen contrasting paths, enacted differing means and strategies with their diverging footballing philoisophies, in the pursuit of trophies and inevitably coming to differing conclusions yet possibly similar fortune. United domestic bliss, Liverpool European adventure and possibly come Wednesday, conquering English league footballl has always been an assault of attacking intensity compared to the tactical trench warfare of European especially Italian counterparts. As the pace of the world game has clogged up the Premiership has retained its abrasive and impetuous character. Now as much as ever. Emphasis has shifted to the necessity of the vistory; win or loose, there is no draw. Only when away from home, against a title rival, is the goalless stalemate a creditably outcome. This fits sweetly with Ferguson's liberating tactical approach and the free attacking spirits of Ronaldo, Rooney and Giggs, and consequently Manchester United, revel in such hunting licenses and positive aims outlooks. As it has been with most of Ferguson's United teams. During the season they scored an abundant goals, all the more impressive given Ruud Van Nistelrooy's summer departure. The key has been attacking fluidity sending runners from all angles and depths, with a midfield laiden with creativity and passing composure instead of attritional destruction, and of course the unrivalled form of ChristianoRonaldo. A style, an approach, however, that has perennially fallen short in Europe´s final reckoning.
Liverpool similarly exalt many British footballing traits. A spine of simple defensive efficency from Jamie Carragher, through the all areas energy and drive of Steven Gerrard and to the uncontrollable height of Peter Crouch. In physicality and directness few will find Liverpool wanting. But Benitez has managed to smuggle something extra to British shores; the tactical sophistication and suffocating patience that was so evident in the overachieving Valencia side of 2001-4?. Liverpool have conceded just in games theis season. Never over commiting resources only to be left short, utilising players of strength and practicality (hence the continued deployment of Riise on the left flank and Gerrard on the right) and operating within a framework that resounds solidity. Above all a mental dexterity to never capitulate under the weight of attacking excess. A endowed contrast to manchester united and arsenal over recent years. In essence the art of not getting beaten. The crucial element in Europe´s premier knock out competition: box smart and reach the bell. If the opposition are still standing there is there the rematch or a win on points or penalties on offer. Liverpool´s budgeoning spot kick expertise and the centrality of spot kick stopping king Pepe Reina are no coincidence.
However, what one man instills as defensive solidity, another rejects as attacking rigidity. There in lies the Benitez - Ferguson conundrum. In the league it matters not which days you loose but how often you win. In Europe it matters not how many games you win but which days you loose.
In comparison to United´s league goals Liverpool scored only. Not enough to consistently take maximum points, nor blitz opponents and generate a fear in others that induces a timidness and often deference to their percieved swaggering authority exposing their inferiority complex, which Ferguson, was and by all evidence still is, the master of. Whether American dollars can provide a striker of sufficient goals to challenge the league leaders is questionable; United have done without. Rather it has been a question of approach.
Both managers could worse over the summer than steal something of their rivals. The question is can either adapt their teams styles to reverse their roles and achieve success in unfamiliar spheres. Will Liverpool finally find the attackers and goal scoring instinct to win enough games to challenge the table toppers; can Man United develop that tactical sophistication and defensive granite against Europe's finest?
Both have succeeded; both have failed. The two managers have chosen contrasting paths, enacted differing means and strategies with their diverging footballing philoisophies, in the pursuit of trophies and inevitably coming to differing conclusions yet possibly similar fortune. United domestic bliss, Liverpool European adventure and possibly come Wednesday, conquering English league footballl has always been an assault of attacking intensity compared to the tactical trench warfare of European especially Italian counterparts. As the pace of the world game has clogged up the Premiership has retained its abrasive and impetuous character. Now as much as ever. Emphasis has shifted to the necessity of the vistory; win or loose, there is no draw. Only when away from home, against a title rival, is the goalless stalemate a creditably outcome. This fits sweetly with Ferguson's liberating tactical approach and the free attacking spirits of Ronaldo, Rooney and Giggs, and consequently Manchester United, revel in such hunting licenses and positive aims outlooks. As it has been with most of Ferguson's United teams. During the season they scored an abundant goals, all the more impressive given Ruud Van Nistelrooy's summer departure. The key has been attacking fluidity sending runners from all angles and depths, with a midfield laiden with creativity and passing composure instead of attritional destruction, and of course the unrivalled form of ChristianoRonaldo. A style, an approach, however, that has perennially fallen short in Europe´s final reckoning.
Liverpool similarly exalt many British footballing traits. A spine of simple defensive efficency from Jamie Carragher, through the all areas energy and drive of Steven Gerrard and to the uncontrollable height of Peter Crouch. In physicality and directness few will find Liverpool wanting. But Benitez has managed to smuggle something extra to British shores; the tactical sophistication and suffocating patience that was so evident in the overachieving Valencia side of 2001-4?. Liverpool have conceded just in games theis season. Never over commiting resources only to be left short, utilising players of strength and practicality (hence the continued deployment of Riise on the left flank and Gerrard on the right) and operating within a framework that resounds solidity. Above all a mental dexterity to never capitulate under the weight of attacking excess. A endowed contrast to manchester united and arsenal over recent years. In essence the art of not getting beaten. The crucial element in Europe´s premier knock out competition: box smart and reach the bell. If the opposition are still standing there is there the rematch or a win on points or penalties on offer. Liverpool´s budgeoning spot kick expertise and the centrality of spot kick stopping king Pepe Reina are no coincidence.
However, what one man instills as defensive solidity, another rejects as attacking rigidity. There in lies the Benitez - Ferguson conundrum. In the league it matters not which days you loose but how often you win. In Europe it matters not how many games you win but which days you loose.
In comparison to United´s league goals Liverpool scored only. Not enough to consistently take maximum points, nor blitz opponents and generate a fear in others that induces a timidness and often deference to their percieved swaggering authority exposing their inferiority complex, which Ferguson, was and by all evidence still is, the master of. Whether American dollars can provide a striker of sufficient goals to challenge the league leaders is questionable; United have done without. Rather it has been a question of approach.
Both managers could worse over the summer than steal something of their rivals. The question is can either adapt their teams styles to reverse their roles and achieve success in unfamiliar spheres. Will Liverpool finally find the attackers and goal scoring instinct to win enough games to challenge the table toppers; can Man United develop that tactical sophistication and defensive granite against Europe's finest?
Monday, 30 April 2007
ELS GATHERS IN THE EAST
Few golfers escape the long shadow Tiger Woods casts over the world game. A record breaking 2006, including his twelfth major title, ensures Woods is doing battle with the past as much as the present, competing with legends as rivals are laid to rest. But after a turbulent few years Ernie Els, Woods' foremost tracker and a former world number one himself, is back on the trail and ready to re-emerge. Els “the Big Easy”, known as such for his un-storm like temperament, is gathering once again.
What’s more he has a plan. Three years, from this, to topple the Tiger and take the title of world number one. The only question, how? “Its pretty simple” admits Els referring to the strategy rather than the objective of course. “I am going to rededicating himself 100 percent to golf… give myself the best possible chance of winning every tournament I tee up for”. Woods beware, an injury free Els claims his game is “really close” to where it needs to be. Woods' response to this declaration of intent was similarly defiant. Els should keep improving, as he would do the same. Could a storm be brewing? “May be Tiger will up it… but I am going to give it everything”.
Such predictions build pressure. There was a time when Els confesses to having been affected by what some have termed ‘Tigeritis’. But is now insistent. "There is pressure as people will keep asking me about it … but I stand by what I have said". After all he is the ‘Big Easy’ laid back to a tee. He is known as much for his mild demeanor as his lengthy flowing swing. An off course confrontation is doubtful then but on the fairways hopes are high. Following a rough couple of seasons he expects to be back among the majors.
A sound testing stage for Els’ aims will be this months BMW Asian Open. Physically he is ready. “I’m in the best shape for twenty years", he claims. That's a considerable feat itself after a career threatening injury two years ago. A boat accident during a family holiday in July 2005 ruptured the anterior ligament in his left knee requiring reconstructive surgery. It has been a long journey back testing him to the limits. “Physically it was tough... mentally it was even tougher. When you get an injury like that it’s in the back of you mind for a while”. On his return at the beginning of the 2006 season the 6ft 3" South African continued to stumble. “My brain was telling me it was going to hurt so I didn't want to go out there”. Confidence gradually reformed. “You slowly learn to trust your knee again”.
It was not until the South African Open in December that Els earned his first tour victory for a year. The thrill of winning his home event, to him the imaginary fifth major, was tempered by relief. It would have been the first year in fifteen that he failed to win a tournament. Unthinkable for a golfer with 62 career victories and three major titles to his name.
Lost time has meant lost ranking points in the pursuit of top spot. Els will be looking to develop momentum at the BMW event. Held at the Tomson Pudong Club in Shanghai holds sweet memories. The course record is his following a crushing 13 stroke victory in 2005. This year’s event will be far tougher. The field includes fellow South African and two time major winner Retief Goosen, along with Ryder Cup heroes Colin Montgomerie and Paul Casey. Tiger Woods won’t be there. But being China one Tiger will be present; the son of Zhang Lianwei China's leading contender. Zhang himself has tasted victory over Els before. In a climatic ending to the 2003 Caltex Singapore Masters the then world number two was defeated at the last. A moment Zhang rates amongst his career highlights along with being the first Chinese player to participate in the Masters at Augusta.
Zhang has long been China’s golfing pioneer. "I have been under this kind of pressure since 1994 when I won the champion in Asia Games 1994 in Hiroshima". The son of a farmer from the Guangdong province Zhang only got into the costly game by “coincidence". "Before 1985 I didn’t know what golf was. But after that I played as an amateur for almost ten years”. Els is also from a farming background though of contrasting economic color. A Japanese couple set up the first golf course near Zhang's home town of Zhuhai where he found employment. “My salary was RMB 170/month. I had no money to buy any golf facilities”.
Zhang’s success has aided the game in China no end. For the first time the BMW Asian Open and China Open will be played back to back in the same city. After the success of the HSBC Champions also in Shanghai last November prophecies are rife of the rise of Asian countries especially China in the sport. BMW is keen to quell suggestions that sponsors rather than golf is being exclusively promoted in these emerging markets. Tickets are available for free through internet application. Participation though if not spectatorship remains the reserve of the rich. Still holding little sway with the wider public. Zhang aspirations to change this have faltered. “I have a plan (to setup a golfing academy). But it is not happening because without support from government I can do nothing".
One man with academies in China is coach David Leadbetter who has coached Ernie Els. The latest openned in Shanghai last November. Els has developed his own academy, the Fancourt Foundation, in his homeland. It provides youngsters from underprivileged backgrounds the chance to gain expert coaching and education. "It’s a real buzz for me ... the opportunities in life aren’t always there for these kids". Some even travel to other countries to compete. Something that Els, known as somewhat of an internationalist, has a passion for. "Every country and its fans have a special feel; that’s what I love about playing golf all over the world". While critics say it has exhausted him and affected performances Els “couldn't disagree more. It has made me a better player. I’ve been doing it this way for 15 years and everyone would agree that my tournament record is pretty good”. As well as the obvious pleasure of traveling the globe playing golf from tee to green. It’s a responsibility. "I think as one of the top players we almost have an obligation to play golf in different parts of the world".
Els is playing his role. But for the next three years at least his game is his priority. China may prove to be the future but the South African is yet to be found in the past; the ‘Big Easy’ is adamant that the present, legacy chasing Woods included, is still within his sizeable swing.
What’s more he has a plan. Three years, from this, to topple the Tiger and take the title of world number one. The only question, how? “Its pretty simple” admits Els referring to the strategy rather than the objective of course. “I am going to rededicating himself 100 percent to golf… give myself the best possible chance of winning every tournament I tee up for”. Woods beware, an injury free Els claims his game is “really close” to where it needs to be. Woods' response to this declaration of intent was similarly defiant. Els should keep improving, as he would do the same. Could a storm be brewing? “May be Tiger will up it… but I am going to give it everything”.
Such predictions build pressure. There was a time when Els confesses to having been affected by what some have termed ‘Tigeritis’. But is now insistent. "There is pressure as people will keep asking me about it … but I stand by what I have said". After all he is the ‘Big Easy’ laid back to a tee. He is known as much for his mild demeanor as his lengthy flowing swing. An off course confrontation is doubtful then but on the fairways hopes are high. Following a rough couple of seasons he expects to be back among the majors.
A sound testing stage for Els’ aims will be this months BMW Asian Open. Physically he is ready. “I’m in the best shape for twenty years", he claims. That's a considerable feat itself after a career threatening injury two years ago. A boat accident during a family holiday in July 2005 ruptured the anterior ligament in his left knee requiring reconstructive surgery. It has been a long journey back testing him to the limits. “Physically it was tough... mentally it was even tougher. When you get an injury like that it’s in the back of you mind for a while”. On his return at the beginning of the 2006 season the 6ft 3" South African continued to stumble. “My brain was telling me it was going to hurt so I didn't want to go out there”. Confidence gradually reformed. “You slowly learn to trust your knee again”.
It was not until the South African Open in December that Els earned his first tour victory for a year. The thrill of winning his home event, to him the imaginary fifth major, was tempered by relief. It would have been the first year in fifteen that he failed to win a tournament. Unthinkable for a golfer with 62 career victories and three major titles to his name.
Lost time has meant lost ranking points in the pursuit of top spot. Els will be looking to develop momentum at the BMW event. Held at the Tomson Pudong Club in Shanghai holds sweet memories. The course record is his following a crushing 13 stroke victory in 2005. This year’s event will be far tougher. The field includes fellow South African and two time major winner Retief Goosen, along with Ryder Cup heroes Colin Montgomerie and Paul Casey. Tiger Woods won’t be there. But being China one Tiger will be present; the son of Zhang Lianwei China's leading contender. Zhang himself has tasted victory over Els before. In a climatic ending to the 2003 Caltex Singapore Masters the then world number two was defeated at the last. A moment Zhang rates amongst his career highlights along with being the first Chinese player to participate in the Masters at Augusta.
Zhang has long been China’s golfing pioneer. "I have been under this kind of pressure since 1994 when I won the champion in Asia Games 1994 in Hiroshima". The son of a farmer from the Guangdong province Zhang only got into the costly game by “coincidence". "Before 1985 I didn’t know what golf was. But after that I played as an amateur for almost ten years”. Els is also from a farming background though of contrasting economic color. A Japanese couple set up the first golf course near Zhang's home town of Zhuhai where he found employment. “My salary was RMB 170/month. I had no money to buy any golf facilities”.
Zhang’s success has aided the game in China no end. For the first time the BMW Asian Open and China Open will be played back to back in the same city. After the success of the HSBC Champions also in Shanghai last November prophecies are rife of the rise of Asian countries especially China in the sport. BMW is keen to quell suggestions that sponsors rather than golf is being exclusively promoted in these emerging markets. Tickets are available for free through internet application. Participation though if not spectatorship remains the reserve of the rich. Still holding little sway with the wider public. Zhang aspirations to change this have faltered. “I have a plan (to setup a golfing academy). But it is not happening because without support from government I can do nothing".
One man with academies in China is coach David Leadbetter who has coached Ernie Els. The latest openned in Shanghai last November. Els has developed his own academy, the Fancourt Foundation, in his homeland. It provides youngsters from underprivileged backgrounds the chance to gain expert coaching and education. "It’s a real buzz for me ... the opportunities in life aren’t always there for these kids". Some even travel to other countries to compete. Something that Els, known as somewhat of an internationalist, has a passion for. "Every country and its fans have a special feel; that’s what I love about playing golf all over the world". While critics say it has exhausted him and affected performances Els “couldn't disagree more. It has made me a better player. I’ve been doing it this way for 15 years and everyone would agree that my tournament record is pretty good”. As well as the obvious pleasure of traveling the globe playing golf from tee to green. It’s a responsibility. "I think as one of the top players we almost have an obligation to play golf in different parts of the world".
Els is playing his role. But for the next three years at least his game is his priority. China may prove to be the future but the South African is yet to be found in the past; the ‘Big Easy’ is adamant that the present, legacy chasing Woods included, is still within his sizeable swing.
Sunday, 8 April 2007
A1 AMBITIONS
In the modern sporting climate of big money contracts, franchises, and celebrity, notions of patriotism, parity, inclusion and developing countries would seem to hold little purchase, least of all in motor sport. Not so for its latest conception, A1 GP the “world cup of motor sport”.
Despite being in only its third season, the A1’s 11 round series gathers teams from 23 countries, from the US to Lebanon, with national rivalries generating interest beyond a racing fans base and offering a release for pent up patriotism. Further to this, David Clare, A1 GP’s chief operating officer, says the aim is to provide a catalyst for the development of motor sport in non-traditional markets. Why? “Because that’s where the population centers are,” he explains, adding that limits on team spending and technology have been designed to allow these less developed nations to compete with the richest.
The direct benefit of which is much closer racing, says Clare, racing that puts to the fans close to the action, providing a heightened sense of speed, and drama. That greater accessibility, for rich and relatively poor alike, is new to a sport that often thrives on the allure of exclusivity. Asked what tickets will actually cost, Clare, without revealing the price, says it will come as a pleasant surprise. Thus, with such ambitions, combating the inevitable comparisons with, and distinguishing from, the motor sport giant, Formula One. Not that Clare is worried about that sort of competition. “We have created our own space,” he says, pointing out that the “F1 is technological warfare; it is company versus company competing.”
One battle that A1 must confront is on a cultural level, in the host non-traditional motor sports market of China. Being relatively new to the game, explains Mr Guang, manager of Team China, most Chinese cannot judge the quality of a given car just by listening to the sound of the engine.
Though the A1 aims have struck accord. “Its very important to the government, its representing the country and in China for sports to become successful you really need government backing”. After achieving its first podium finish in Sydney optimism is high within Team China as the series rolls into Shanghai this month. It’s second visit to China this season following a raw street race in Beijing last November such is the importance of the Chinese market to the newest form of motor sport. Despite its more traditional appeal.
Despite being in only its third season, the A1’s 11 round series gathers teams from 23 countries, from the US to Lebanon, with national rivalries generating interest beyond a racing fans base and offering a release for pent up patriotism. Further to this, David Clare, A1 GP’s chief operating officer, says the aim is to provide a catalyst for the development of motor sport in non-traditional markets. Why? “Because that’s where the population centers are,” he explains, adding that limits on team spending and technology have been designed to allow these less developed nations to compete with the richest.
The direct benefit of which is much closer racing, says Clare, racing that puts to the fans close to the action, providing a heightened sense of speed, and drama. That greater accessibility, for rich and relatively poor alike, is new to a sport that often thrives on the allure of exclusivity. Asked what tickets will actually cost, Clare, without revealing the price, says it will come as a pleasant surprise. Thus, with such ambitions, combating the inevitable comparisons with, and distinguishing from, the motor sport giant, Formula One. Not that Clare is worried about that sort of competition. “We have created our own space,” he says, pointing out that the “F1 is technological warfare; it is company versus company competing.”
One battle that A1 must confront is on a cultural level, in the host non-traditional motor sports market of China. Being relatively new to the game, explains Mr Guang, manager of Team China, most Chinese cannot judge the quality of a given car just by listening to the sound of the engine.
Though the A1 aims have struck accord. “Its very important to the government, its representing the country and in China for sports to become successful you really need government backing”. After achieving its first podium finish in Sydney optimism is high within Team China as the series rolls into Shanghai this month. It’s second visit to China this season following a raw street race in Beijing last November such is the importance of the Chinese market to the newest form of motor sport. Despite its more traditional appeal.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
