tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49265859952586361292023-11-16T06:20:56.854-08:00Attacking PlayFootball Geekery & NostalgiaPrincess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-2572635495048873922013-09-24T09:23:00.003-07:002013-10-09T21:32:08.851-07:00Is Arturo Vidal The Most Complete Midfielder In The World?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhHGYuyyu8YtVyV1ulw408HI-azKyqR2TUaYardAH7rJxofud_T80b4j42x3i1i_-czil_GYhpUD9s1tljxmXRZlnBt2c-NDMiCcK56SUe1iyJmt0XGgDuBPPJgPLFlF8tR6G12kNhPw/s1600/vidal3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhHGYuyyu8YtVyV1ulw408HI-azKyqR2TUaYardAH7rJxofud_T80b4j42x3i1i_-czil_GYhpUD9s1tljxmXRZlnBt2c-NDMiCcK56SUe1iyJmt0XGgDuBPPJgPLFlF8tR6G12kNhPw/s1600/vidal3.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Chilean born Arturo Vidal plays for Serie A side Juventus. He originally signed for a bargain price of <span style="color: black;"><em>€</em></span>10.5 million from Bayer Leverkusen in 2011, spurning interest from Bayern Munich in the process. His final season at Leverkusen was very impressive, in 29 appearances he scored 9 made 10, averaged 4.97 tackles and 2.69 interceptions per game. He has come on even more at Juventus and was named their player of the season in 2012/13, which was his best season to date. He scored an impressive 14 goals over the course of the season and was hugely influential in the sides success. It has been an upward trajectory for him, his first season at Juventus was very good and the one just gone, outstanding. The Italian press nicknamed him Il Guerriero (the warrior) due to his style of play and tenacity.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERDqyQJJJ52sSWD4C_jWH4DMVzCgqnSODj5CR71DiyzVyNAU9xG_mLCOqsS7suqzbzi3WO-Iw9J7Cqs0A3cYKdD6BRxluE-YPGmikZjR08JrqCjsf5coOJbnL0twnpQ5a_BC6O-eFrw/s1600/vidal2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERDqyQJJJ52sSWD4C_jWH4DMVzCgqnSODj5CR71DiyzVyNAU9xG_mLCOqsS7suqzbzi3WO-Iw9J7Cqs0A3cYKdD6BRxluE-YPGmikZjR08JrqCjsf5coOJbnL0twnpQ5a_BC6O-eFrw/s320/vidal2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Vidal is a joy to watch, he has drive, technique, strength, pace, power and a lethal shot. His energy levels are outstanding, with a side featuring the glorious Andrea Pirlo- energy is a necessity. A box to box player in style, he offers and does so much more. This season he has been playing in a more advanced role for his club. Playing further up the pitch has instantly translated into more goals. He has three so far in six appearances, which includes the Super Cup. Linking well with new signing Tevez, Juventus are looking strong and believe they could do well in the Champions League. There are not many midfielders in football at present that are as complete as he is. There is a rich abundance of specialist midfielders, particularly attacking ones. It is probably why he stands out so much. Box to box midfielders seem to have gone by the wayside due to modern changes in tactics and formations. Have heard some fans draw comparisons to Roy Keane, albeit a more skillful version. But you can definitely see characteristics such as drive in Vidal that Keane had in abundance. Due to his reputation, Keane's qualities as a player can be too easily overlooked. He was a top player, leader, energetic and underrated passer. Vidal's character looks strong, he leads by example and puts everything into games. Over the summer he often lead training sessions in pre-season. It was a suggestion by manager and fitness coach that players should volunteer themselves to keep training more interesting. His ability is there too see, but that he can and does have the power to motivate and drive those around him for club and country.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBICtvTuyAfx9FQepE0wB8hN9CUQTwhrkNHXGhAw4ujEwlam5VxwrFHcg3j-apnfjnNWB-oeIMAUM-4Z_iA5a8c8eumv_mHocYA78PxmK3mKeFxfgKhTaOEJVFaE24u-L3Z-V4fLMcg/s1600/SchweinVidal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBICtvTuyAfx9FQepE0wB8hN9CUQTwhrkNHXGhAw4ujEwlam5VxwrFHcg3j-apnfjnNWB-oeIMAUM-4Z_iA5a8c8eumv_mHocYA78PxmK3mKeFxfgKhTaOEJVFaE24u-L3Z-V4fLMcg/s320/SchweinVidal.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Up until recently it was always my favourite German, Bastian Schweinsteiger who I believed unequivocally to be the most well rounded midfielder. Having watched a great deal of Juventus in recent years, the form of Vidal has made me re-think it a bit. Schweinsteiger, played a significant part in Bayern Munich's incredible successful 2012/13 season. The German has consistently done it for years, both for his club and country. He is versatile, energetic, a greater reader of the game, leader and has everything you would want a midfielder to have. It is certainly true that Vidal has more to prove and needs to continue playing at a high standard to be considered above Schweinsteiger. Feel that Schweinsteiger is the better footballer, he generally makes more passes in a game and his passing is much superior to the Chilean's. Vidal in comparison is more mobile and has a better eye for goal (crackers they are too). He also covers more ground than Schweinsteiger as the stats prove. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://forzaitalianfootball.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Arturo-Vidal-Juventus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://forzaitalianfootball.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Arturo-Vidal-Juventus.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Over the summer it was reported that Real Madrid were very interested in signing him. Being Madrid, they were also prepared to pay big money to do so. Juventus fans will be pleased to hear that he is set to sign a new contract, which should keep him at the club beyond 2016. Reports also suggest that he is very happy at Juventus and life in Italy. Not too long turned twenty six he has plenty of years ahead of him. One of the best games seen this season was not a club game but an international- Spain vs Chile friendly. It was a fantastic match to watch. It is a given that the midfield and possession is going to be dominated by Spain, often heavily so. However, Chile did very well in disrupting Spain and outplayed them for much of the game. Vidal played a big part in that. Akin to the above mentioned Schweinsteiger, Vidal's form also translates onto the international stage. His importance to the national side his increased significantly over the last year.</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0Scotland, UK56.490671199999987 -4.202645800000027547.764661199999985 -24.856942800000027 65.216681199999982 16.451651199999972tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-15334609901809232902013-09-23T22:12:00.004-07:002013-09-24T09:27:33.544-07:00Manchester United vs Liverpool Preview<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yGKGUuMk8NVnYV7eXatp13C3YiXOnL26ycKto5PP_ew6JND2wpZYsiJ9bvyxvI6PRTXGwcmN19FN6FX0nyHsuCZbm0iNmdcfJJRv3Csdr4v8r4U9tyf5MN_tSnRXCNle2xVz_xq04A/s1600/Preview.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yGKGUuMk8NVnYV7eXatp13C3YiXOnL26ycKto5PP_ew6JND2wpZYsiJ9bvyxvI6PRTXGwcmN19FN6FX0nyHsuCZbm0iNmdcfJJRv3Csdr4v8r4U9tyf5MN_tSnRXCNle2xVz_xq04A/s640/Preview.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
United are desperately needing to bounce back after a humbling weekend defeat versus Manchester City. It made for frustrating and sore viewing. Plenty of subsequent panicky reactions from United supporters have followed. After a tough run of fixtures, an nice easy one was what was hoped for. Unfortunately for United, they drew at team that pretty much always plays well against them in Liverpool. The match on Wednesday has another edge to it, due to the return of a certain rat toothed striker Luis Suarez. The script writers will have their pens poised, it is his first game back following his ban. Liverpool fans are optimistic that he can have a similar impact as Eric Cantona did upon his own return from an even more lengthy ban. Cantona, came on as a substitute in a League match at Old Trafford versus Liverpool. He was hugely influential in the game, scoring the penalty to draw 2-2 it was a great result for United, who weren't at the races that day. That season he went on to score the winning goal against them at Wembley to secure the FA Cup. In his press conference, Rogers hilariously said that Suarez is "champing at the bit" to get back playing. Fine choice of words there! Laughter aside, he is a quality player and he'll be feeling confident having a go at a United defence that has been leaking goals. There is something a bit personal for him when it comes to facing United too. Liverpool fans are still angry with him over his behaviour and wanting out over the summer but that will very much be put aside if he plays a part in beating United. Two want-away strikers vs another, who is going to come out on top? You would certainly expect the pair to be hugely influential in the match and for their respective sides. Rooney has been in excellent form and without wanting to jinx it, is looking a bit more like the Rooney of old. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a name='more'></a><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/02389/luis-suarez_reuter_2389028b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/02389/luis-suarez_reuter_2389028b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Liverpool have had a pretty decent start to the season. They are playing better football under Rogers, who has been allowed freedom to impart his style. They have already succeeded in beating United this season. Though better than United, they weren't overtly impressive and were gifted their goal from a Young mistake. Mignolet, a summer addition has been outstanding for them, he impressed in the game vs United and though Liverpool lost at the weekend it could have been heavier if not for his saves. They have also added Kolo Toure, Luis Alberto, Tiago Ilro, Mamadou Sakho and Iago Aspas. As well as those they also brought in Aly Cissokho and Victor Moses on loan. Their wins thus far, have all been narrow and they've relied more on their defensive abilities. They have been struggling to score and create chances. They will certainly be without Agger, Coutinho, Johnson and Cissokho. Liverpool tend to play strong teams in the cups and Rogers does not seem to rotate his squad as much as other managers. They do have a biggers squad at their disposal now after their many summer acquisitions. They suffered heavily last season due to a lack of squad depth, particularly in the forward positions. They are looking solid at the back and Mignolet has made a difference there. I don't watch them week in or out and am not hugely familiar with their players. Reading around, it sounds like Sturridge has looked tired in matches and fans believe he could maybe do with a rest. Similarly Gerrard, who an older player now is not certain to play twice weekly. Being their passionate captain and a local guy, it is the game he'd hate most to miss. Many fans have picked Moses as a starter too. Sterling is another who could very well play whom I did not include below. Fans also believe it is more likely that Suarez will come on as a substitute instead of starting. It is his first game club game of the season after all. As mentioned, the United defence has been below par. <span lang="EN">Rate Daniel Sturridge highly, with his pace, power and finishing ability he is certainly going to provide a threat.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtwh6dh9FyWbAS1dff4rYXYgwdrJvE2OTkP0kmaCz28vDMXQoLGqpFGjg3lYOnvlKA2dH8if9aEQztmrAT1sbNbiUSZ27pdhowyZfcSgcncaJ3TySOxBz9FdsAOnYidRc_ebzpRp3Rg/s320/x1.png" width="320" /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hoping that Moyes drops his over-cautious habits and makes a good number of changes. It has always been an opportunity for young players, the League Cup so hoping to see some of them get an opportunity. That it is against Liverpool and that Moyes will be feeling the pressure from the City game, I do fear that it will be quite a safe team he'll opt for. It has been nonsensical playing an ageing and ailing Rio Ferdinand non-stop. Hopefully he is given a bit of a rest here and as much as it pains to say so, he just hasn't been up to scratch recently. It could be an opportunity to rest some other older players in that back four in Vidic and Evra. Though, with an international break looming (which the two are unlikely to be involved) they will get a rest then. Really hoping to see Evans make his first appearance of the season, missing him. Feel the teams distribution from the back suffers when he isn't playing. Rafael is declared fit again, following a hamstring injury. He brings so much to the side and in games such as the ones against Liverpool he is regularly the standout player. In the past it did overspill but the Brazilian has more fight and desire in him than the half of United's players put together. The defence has looked weaker without him and the teams attack has suffered too. Another, who will make a comeback (hopefully) is Nani, following his signing of a five year deal little has been seen of him since. I'd have him ahead of both Young and Valencia without any hesitation. With the team being so forward heavy it is difficult to get opportunities for all. I would really love Hernandez to get a start upfront with Rooney. Though, this game also provides a good opportunity to give Kagawa a game in behind Rooney. Kagawa did not play so well vs Leverkusen but it is becoming a big fear that he won't be able to fulfil his vast potential at United. In central midfield, options are one short with Felliain being cup tied. Hoping to see Cleverley who made a good impact vs City. Love to see Januzaj get a start but don't think it is likely. His cameo's so far have been impressive to say the least and left you wanting to see more of him. He has fantastic technique, composure and oozes class- there is a certain elegance to him and he has not looked out of place amongst the first team. It would be a big lift for United fans to see him, even if it is another sub appearance. Wilfried Zaha is another who hasn't featured too much and hopefully see him make an appearance. Van Persie was a miss vs City but there isn't a need to rush him back for this. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://static.topnewstoday.org:8080/i5/8/82/14/img_7614828_340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://static.topnewstoday.org:8080/i5/8/82/14/img_7614828_340.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Can see it being quite a cagey affair. It was a frustrating stop-start match against them last time. Their players are very good at winding up and nibbling away at the opposition. Did a good job of it, getting under the skin of the United players. Am hoping that the players don't rise to it. They are an energetic side too which is difficult to break down. They were defensive at home and expect much the same at Old Trafford. They will be feeling full of confidence though, more confident than United I feel. They are unfortunate to be without key players in their defence. Positive for United but it'll still take flair and pace from the attackers to create chances. You don't need to do anything to get the Liverpool players and fans fired up from this. They too lost at the weekend and it is the ideal game for them to bounce back in. United themselves tend to respond well, but am pessimistic due to the performances against Liverpool in the past. It is difficult to remember a match in which United actually played well against them. I do hope that it is a positive and attacking side that United play. A little fed up of watching slow build up play, hesitancy in possession, lack of flair and the team giving the ball away too easily. Picks such as Cleverley, Carrick, Rafael, Evra, Nani, Kagawa, Jauzaj will all help in terms of possession, they are also all capable of quick one touch play. With the side picked, it is very unlikely to actually play but with it think the movement, intelligence and pace of those involved could be very good on the eye. Attack, attack, attack! Which is probably the problem with it, it is just too attacking! Need to see a bit of passion from the players, attitude was terrible at the weekend- not like United at all. </div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-91102762177764781392013-09-22T23:30:00.000-07:002014-09-07T16:09:12.958-07:00Weighing in on the Gerrard, Scholes and Lampard Debate<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiCgsvcSgmd7P-XuEAGhokeCnMYXJRSq8E-RPl5BUQwt2hJbc4kHDzjKO2tJmtz0t-8gyyEfX7g16vVovrGppN7y4QrXjdyuiG2ju4pKZh9CsLj4vtWmEmd0gudEJqCLgBEvywivrwKQ/s1600/slg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiCgsvcSgmd7P-XuEAGhokeCnMYXJRSq8E-RPl5BUQwt2hJbc4kHDzjKO2tJmtz0t-8gyyEfX7g16vVovrGppN7y4QrXjdyuiG2ju4pKZh9CsLj4vtWmEmd0gudEJqCLgBEvywivrwKQ/s640/slg.png" height="222" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN"><i><b>Last week, Jamie <span style="background-color: white;">Carragher</span> made the claim that Steven Gerrard was a better player than Paul Scholes. The debate rolled on, on Sky Sports Monday Night Football Show and Frank Lampard came into the mix also.</b></i></span><br />
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN"> The three are undoubtedly amongst the best midfielders England has produced. Also three of the greatest and most memorable midfield players of the Premier League era. They have all had impressive careers in which they have been part of winning teams and trophy wins. It is not an entirely fair comparison as they are all very different players with their own respective strengths and weaknesses.</span><br />
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYIdn-BzoLmYkxRmyyz8bh7RoEfveU7dwlECv_N7O3GtiA2L9QLud7nf14_ReDuXbSdKWWhUXagN3aF_VpXAc1HKXTIy1iP1-1R87AlPBmdJBNR5stJj0j1vzLgs0VJtUot2rrvAjkaA/s1600/g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYIdn-BzoLmYkxRmyyz8bh7RoEfveU7dwlECv_N7O3GtiA2L9QLud7nf14_ReDuXbSdKWWhUXagN3aF_VpXAc1HKXTIy1iP1-1R87AlPBmdJBNR5stJj0j1vzLgs0VJtUot2rrvAjkaA/s320/g.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For much of his career, Steven Gerrard did not have the same luxury as the other two in playing in strong teams full of talented players. He very often had to carry Liverpool. He is certainly ahead of the other two in terms of his influence and leadership qualities. He also has a great knack for scoring in the biggest of games on the biggest stages where pressure is highest. This is not just limited to cup finals, he is regularly Liverpool's best player in big games, such as top four/rival clashes. He has been a constant captain for his beloved club and often if not a bit sporadically for his country. He excels in a more attacking role, is very energetic and fantastic at linking play. It was impressive the understanding that he shared with Alonso and Torres in years gone by and the period Liverpool was at its strongest. Gerrard has also made more of an impact for his country than both Scholes and Lampard and shown his form from his club more easily. He is an excellent tackler, has great shooting ability particularly from distance and his long range passing can be impressive. His passing though, I don't think is as strong as Scholes. He is definitely not a player you could associate with keeping possession. Gerrard isn't about controlling a game and slowing it down, much more about taking it by the scruff of the neck and fighting. His never say die attitude is impressive and it is just his style. As has been seen, he isn't capable of playing in a more limited, defensive and holding role. Age has not suited him well and there has been a significant decline in his quality since he has got older. Scholes played on for longer and adapted his game suitably, Lampard now 35 is still playing to a high standard. Gerrard's career is full of great moments and would likely produce a more impressive highlight reel, there is more of an individual greatness with him. Probably because he did have to do so much of it himself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueT6JRlt0zIUN5ea8Dl9_25M9O5EfzUPL5JVLMvnd-3ybAGTjXgur3p3bube858pOcKttI98pnnqywnDwiztatirqU_Uc8CSmdTD9WzPbmFgjrjfpg7zjj_cEjUAd9yElw_RVV1vSCw/s1600/L.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueT6JRlt0zIUN5ea8Dl9_25M9O5EfzUPL5JVLMvnd-3ybAGTjXgur3p3bube858pOcKttI98pnnqywnDwiztatirqU_Uc8CSmdTD9WzPbmFgjrjfpg7zjj_cEjUAd9yElw_RVV1vSCw/s1600/L.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Frank Lampard's scoring record is nothing but extraordinary. It is some feat to have scored as many goals as he has from midfield. Undoubtedly has a powerful shot and an ability to score those important match winning goals too. He has a lesser influence on how his team plays than the other players mentioned. He doesn't have an obvious weakness though, technique, passing, leadership qualities and energy are all good. With the way Chelsea has played over the years he has been cushioned by true defensive midfielders who have allowed him space and freedom to attack. Certainly Lampard is more rounded, but have never seen him as an outstanding player. A great one, particularly during that period 05-08. Despite being well rounded Lampard is less adaptable and hasn't the ability to play in a variety of roles as Gerrard and Scholes can and did. He has been however, throughout his career incredibly consistent, something that he definitely holds over the two.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJATKdoBDhVVpTYPlbj8VWV8ZUE0ITW0eCnGM2cxNc0FNNXn6x6YUUbH18ablInEIhqOMLjmB5RDOkkuU7bAKBgHJPy_GE4LWHYTIIvDICH9fswUAsnIVCL0emKDNe7DkMwN9vBFK38w/s1600/article-1098722-001858AA00000258-4_468x324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJATKdoBDhVVpTYPlbj8VWV8ZUE0ITW0eCnGM2cxNc0FNNXn6x6YUUbH18ablInEIhqOMLjmB5RDOkkuU7bAKBgHJPy_GE4LWHYTIIvDICH9fswUAsnIVCL0emKDNe7DkMwN9vBFK38w/s320/article-1098722-001858AA00000258-4_468x324.jpg" height="221" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Paul Scholes, cannot tackle for the life of him and throughout his career accumulated a good number of bookings. He doesn't have the stamina of the other two players nor the impact in the biggest games. That is not to say that he had none though, he has been the scorer of some vitally important Manchester United goals throughout his career. The first that springs to mind is his goal vs Barcelona in the 07/08 season that took United to a Champions League final. His performances have also been key in some of the biggest games. He is a quieter presence on the pitch, especially in his latter seasons in a deeper role. He is a conductor and has the passing and vision to control a game from the middle of the park. A power to up or lessen the tempo. Neither Gerrard or Lampard possess that ability. He was a vital outlet for the counter attacking, wingplay centred football United has played. It is something underrated that United are missing, his ability to feed the wide men and get them on their way, anticipating their runs gave the United attack a great advantage. Another argument I have heard is that he has won more, but that doesn't mean he is better- sustained success is not built on individuals. I do believe that he is the best player of the three though, no player is without their weaknesses but he is just such a fine footballer. Brilliant technique and no player can pass the ball like he can. He has the ability to score goals too, just like the other two but was restricted in his older years due to operating in a deeper role. Despite his height disadvantage he did manage to score a good number of headers. He came through at United as a striker and played a number of games there. His highest scoring season he played in tandem with Ruud van Nistelrooy, netting 20 in 2002/03. Unlike Gerrard and Lampard he most often had to play in a midfield two, which meant him having to both attack and defend. He is more naturally gifted and the better footballer I think. He just makes it look so easy, reads the game well and is an intelligent player. How much in awe opposition players are of him is also a big indicator of his quality. They are the players who have faced him and their experience counts for a-lot. It is also important to say that his game and capabilities have always been more widely appreciated on the continent than England. His ability to adapt has probably been the biggest success of his. I do hope that there is not too much of a bias in my argument for Scholes. I made my best effort to tone it down! Controversially so for many considering the likes of Ronaldo et al, but Scholes is the best player I've seen play for United.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeq6AYmLy9iIUSFxjZrdBC0zRxlq6C78IThVanTcN1QCxeUPGn2n3FTpHIAoS36K8kXInSe01agFQdG1C2XCcnl9-sTOb-Mllc6UKQHKsNTGLtG3yBk7Ju4pk7fNnMbAcdoVj5FZuUg/s1600/Eng.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeq6AYmLy9iIUSFxjZrdBC0zRxlq6C78IThVanTcN1QCxeUPGn2n3FTpHIAoS36K8kXInSe01agFQdG1C2XCcnl9-sTOb-Mllc6UKQHKsNTGLtG3yBk7Ju4pk7fNnMbAcdoVj5FZuUg/s320/Eng.png" height="89" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The England factor is worth a mention too. Carragher's main argument in favour of Gerrard over Scholes, was that the latter was not chosen for England. It doesn't take a genius to see that mistakes have been made with England in routinely putting together a collection of individuals and not the best team. The Gerrard and Lampard partnership has been a constant for England and a constant disappointment at that. Managers, starting with Sven Goran Erickson have prevailed with this, shoe-horning the pair into the side. It hasn't worked and is one of the reasons why the English national team was so poor to watch. There are no guarantee's that Scholes would have made such a magic difference but it would have been good if he had got a chance in his favoured position. His talents are especially suited to the continental game but instead he was shunted wide. The player himself has come under criticism for turning his back on his national side. He didn't enjoy the international experience of being away from his family and had an issue with the attitude of the players, there was no collective unity and the players tended to play for themselves. That may have changed in recent years. It is also inaccurate to say that no England manager rated him, both McLaren and Capello made big efforts to get him to return to the fold. Scholes loss and I feel England's loss too. But England and English fans should acknowledge how lucky they are for their country to have produced such players. I'd have loved for Scotland to have had a midfielder as good as even just one of these guys.</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-39448788633081524102013-09-21T10:36:00.001-07:002017-06-02T00:39:34.527-07:00Football On The Big Screen<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBf9-XWEPnrmWjVv8SsxGWA_tixY5SsBXE_P11Rk_jYnaw1Dy99F3H1nDJCrQidQargyeQ7syaQHyxHnm5PrThRO3LiqJdxvQp2ECkjqhhGYRx5x4VCaZw9CJKIixZDfEP0zBT3CDgQ/s1600/du.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBf9-XWEPnrmWjVv8SsxGWA_tixY5SsBXE_P11Rk_jYnaw1Dy99F3H1nDJCrQidQargyeQ7syaQHyxHnm5PrThRO3LiqJdxvQp2ECkjqhhGYRx5x4VCaZw9CJKIixZDfEP0zBT3CDgQ/s320/du.png" width="235" /></a></div>
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u>The Damned United</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It charts legendary Brian Clough's tumultuous tenure managing Leeds United. Following success with Derby County, Clough arrives at a Leed's United formerly coached and fiercely loyal to previous manager Don Revie. Revie's style was certainly not for Clough and the Leeds team had a number of dirty and bad habits despite being successful. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Clough attempts to revolutionise but struggles with the characters in the team who dislike their new manager's ideas. It is very funny in places, the film. Iy also gets across well the dislike Clough and Revie have for one another, included in the film is footage from that famous interview between Revie and Clough. Clough and his ahead of the times ways come across well, as does his reliance and relationship with his assistant Peter Taylor.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are some factual inaccuracies and embellishment in the film. I didn't know any of the details around that Leeds side, apart from them being dirty. Not much of a stickler for those things personally so it did not affect viewing in any way. Also, it is a film, not a documentary. The highlight of the film is the fantastic cast including Timothy Spall, Colm Meaney and Stephen Graham. It also starred Jim Broadbent, brilliant character actor- so adaptable. A superb film and Michael Sheen excelled in his portrayal of Clough. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/G_QiKT-6hlo/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/G_QiKT-6hlo&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/G_QiKT-6hlo&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>One Night In Turin</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
A film/documentary that is set at the infamous World Cup, Italia 90. It has been well documented and read about, various events in and around England's participation in that tournament. A-few of the Paul Gascoigne moments have lived on in various comedy sketches throughout the years. It is a great watch this, well put together and jam packed full of footage from matches, fans and press meetings by the then England manager- Sir Bobby Robson. A-lot of the footage is never before seen. It is an all-access look back.<br />
<br />
Gary Oldman narrates the film. It gets across well the mood of the country and attitude of the government towards other sides of the game when hooliganism is rampant. The film isn't just with the team but fans too, the mood in Britain and Italy. This included the security fears and provision in Italy and the effect this had on the travelling support who came with a reputation but were subsequently treated like animals. <br />
<br />
Above all, it captured what it meant for England to get so close to the final. Not just football on the field, it was a glimpse into what life was like then in Britain, football hooliganism was at its height, the government (who had a dim view of the game) and also the media's role in and around the England NT. <span style="background-color: white;">The most surprising aspect was the behaviour of the English media who did nothing to get behind the team, quite the opposite. Regularly tore both the team and the manager apart, calling for Robson's sacking-</span> it was madness.<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Vjv3auuV5gs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Fever Pitch</u></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.onlygoodmovies.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/colin-firth-fever-pitch.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.onlygoodmovies.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/colin-firth-fever-pitch.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A big fan of the book and author, Nick Hornby. It has been a-few years since I watched the film adaptation. It was made in 1997 and must not be confused with the American version released more recently. Colin Firth makes a very convincing lead. Had I watched this at an older age when I was more aware of him as an actor; I think I'd have been highly sceptical of him pulling off being a football fan. He is an Arsenal one so there is a little lee-way for sure!<br />
<br />
Fever Pitch is Hornby's autobiographical novel about the biggest thing in his life- Arsenal football club. He grew up watching and following the team religiously and in the book reflects on how his following of the game changes with age and time. In the book, he grows up, recounts memories of his life and reveals what it was like growing up in England in the 70's and 80's- most importantly being an Arsenal fan. The film is set in his adult life, he works as an English teacher and is the type of teacher you'd want. He plays an active part as coach of the school's football team too. There are flashbacks to his childhood/teen years and memorable times. Some watching it now could find it a bit dated. But feel that helps the film to feel/look more authentic. Dialogue is one of its strongest assets, as are the characters who are believable. It also has a comedic edge that runs right through the film. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/GMr2daGzvnk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><u>Looking For Eric</u></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The enigmatic Eric Cantona stars in this Ken Loach directed film. It is a typically British film, gritty in places. It fully captures the obsessional quality of football and the relationship fans have with the game and in this case a particular and very special player in Eric Cantona. The French maestro with his maverick ways, football, spirit and attitude will forever hold hero status with United fans.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He was the final piece in the puzzle that set the wheels in motion for Manchester United to become successful once again. Eric Bishop, the lead in this film is played by Steve Evets. He is no different to other United fans in his love for Cantona. Bishop is on a low ebb, his life and family are troubled and his depression spiralling out of control. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is a very real film, authentic and is filmed on location in Manchester. On the film, Loach comments that he wished to get across the need and importance of others in your life. Bishop did not overcome his and his families ever worsening problems alone. Cantona appeared as a figment of his imagination to guide him through his troubles, get fit and happy once again. Though the film stars an ex-Manchester United legend, it will still appeal and be easy to relate to by football fans as a whole. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/xzUddao92JQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<u><strong>Pelada</strong></u> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Just brilliant, absolutely loved this. Luke Boughen and Gwendolyn Oxenham go on an incredible adventure around the world. They travel to participate in pickup matches and see how football varies from country to country. Always with a ball under the arm, the two find themselves playing in all sorts of environments, meeting people with fascinating stories along the way.<br />
<br />
The couple are big football enthusiasts who made an impact at College level. They were unfortunate to miss out on playing professionally. Oxenham was a victim of poor timing as the Women's League stopped operating for a period, only to be re-launched a number of years later. They travel to 25 countries and see how barriers such as religion, gender and poverty contribute. From encountering religious divides in Jerusalem to playing in a Bolivian prison run by the inmates. As well as being about football it is about the people they meet. Such as Chinese freestylers wanting to spread and demonstrate their love for football on the streets. To an up and coming Brazillian girl nicknamed Ronaldinha with big dreams. A social game. that brings people together and one that is universally loved, it is easy when watching this film to see why. It is above all a film about playing the game. Boughen and Oxenham both come across very well and are hugely likeable. The documentary is well put together and great viewing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/BfLEcfH8OL4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-70256491484880786292013-09-17T03:05:00.000-07:002013-09-22T03:48:53.023-07:00Random Footballing Stories This Week<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<img class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRL7m77oJem0pQ3Wnec6QUXSEV9GsTYBpbcq3FeGicoyBzq8VPrmA" data-sz="f" name="GQPD2dVF3MLSXM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRL7m77oJem0pQ3Wnec6QUXSEV9GsTYBpbcq3FeGicoyBzq8VPrmA" style="height: 242px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; width: 161px;" /></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Love on Horizon For Marin?</u></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sevilla Fans Turn matchmaker in a bid to keep loanee Marko Marin at their club. Presently at loan from Chelsea, Marin has enjoyed a good start in Seville and has quickly become a fans favourite. So much so that they're trying to find him a wife- <a href="http://www.101greatgoals.com/blog/sevilla-fans-launch-a-campaign-to-find-marko-marin-a-wife-so-the-german-will-leave-chelsea-permanently-bild/">Full Story</a><br />
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.sot.com.al/sites/default/files/styles/slide/public/main/articles/kaka-milan2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.sot.com.al/sites/default/files/styles/slide/public/main/articles/kaka-milan2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong><u>Kaka Class</u></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
A great move for player and club (romantically, we'll see if so in practice). The summer seen a return "home" to AC Milan for Ricardo Kaka. The Brazilian has been plagued by recurring injuries and is again out of action for a number of weeks with a thigh injury sustained on his debut. Poor guy can't catch a break and Milan have a mounting injury list, hardly ideal with the return of the Champions league this week. Kaka his opted to forego his wages until he is fit again- <em>"I don't want anything from Milan except for love and support until I am better. For this reason, I have decided to suspend my current pay for this period of time".</em></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/02672/Laces_2672681b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/02672/Laces_2672681b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><u>Rainbow Laces</u></strong></div>
<div align="center">
<br />
In this weekends fixtures across England's professional football leagues (Sat 21st and Sun 22nd of September) look out for rainbow laces on players boots. The Rainbow Laces campaign is fighting against homophobia in football. There is a long, long, long way to go but it is a positive that some moves are being made. It is a difficult issue in football, largely due to the fans and the subsequent abuse that players who come out may receive. The campaign itself is not set to achieve too much, there are like many of these things some logistical problems and a lack of support from clubs. But if it can help to bring attention to and help to reverse attitudes ir will hopefully lead to a future acceptance and support for gay footballers. It isn't an easy one, on one hand it would be "safer" for players to remain silent but more ramifications can happen to individuals keeping it a secret and bottled up.</div>
<div align="center">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/66705000/jpg/_66705736_paolo_dicanio2_getty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/66705000/jpg/_66705736_paolo_dicanio2_getty.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong><u>English with Di Canio</u></strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Under fire and controversial Sunderland manager, Paolo di Canio has instructed his foreign players have to learn five new English words per day. He was very frustrated to discover how poor his players English speaking skills are. Tip for you Di Canio, try signing English or British players instead! A failure to follow the five word rule, will result in players being fine- <a href="http://paolo-di-canio-orders-sunderland-players-to-learn-five-new-words-a-day-or-face-fine-3992336/">Full Story</a></div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-2745564437122006232013-09-02T20:39:00.000-07:002013-09-21T10:40:45.371-07:00Transfer Window Conclusion & Thoughts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVvRb3rEdpY39s-ZDHhfZyDxmKOhyphenhyphenN_J23KZPx3BUa76BHXGOwv1QLOc9iJ-TIpSmts8hjyCKbiiKP8iK_WujvqZmSMBaQgNJvlPdG3wqzh9povasylT3aJL6boLikWjqg3ljMsV9ciA/s1600/Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVvRb3rEdpY39s-ZDHhfZyDxmKOhyphenhyphenN_J23KZPx3BUa76BHXGOwv1QLOc9iJ-TIpSmts8hjyCKbiiKP8iK_WujvqZmSMBaQgNJvlPdG3wqzh9povasylT3aJL6boLikWjqg3ljMsV9ciA/s640/Header.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, thank god that is over... It is not something I really get excited about, deadline day. The whole process of transfers is so drawn out. It is quite frustrating, particularly in those barren months when club football takes a break. It dominates and the rise of social media has only made the whole thing 100 times worse. Media frenzy, constant rumours and attention it gets is all too much. Can see why people love it and the whole excitement of it. From the prospect of your club landing a star name, to the hope of addressing weaknesses in the team with new blood. It is the time too that the transfer muppets come out in force and it often brings out strong reactions. That side can be fairly entertaining.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNG8-ZdF2vb1bwcXKSqj5kZlrWh9zuzwLurxPchkGWzz8o-7BVmkGlRAhjwOmi4m1UQte38OuDlV__uwFVvesNRmiMJtXA7-20A48Lf2A9ys00kPH7GihMdw5Q4xAjv7crDGs2Ar8n0A/s1600/Bale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNG8-ZdF2vb1bwcXKSqj5kZlrWh9zuzwLurxPchkGWzz8o-7BVmkGlRAhjwOmi4m1UQte38OuDlV__uwFVvesNRmiMJtXA7-20A48Lf2A9ys00kPH7GihMdw5Q4xAjv7crDGs2Ar8n0A/s320/Bale.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now that the window as closed there have been some real winners when it has come to signing players. It has been a busy window too and one that has seen Gareth Bale become the worlds most expensive footballer as he transferred to Real Madrid. It took its time to be announced, but from day one it has been clear that it was only a matter of when. Real Madrid always get their man and they don't mind paying above and beyond what would be deemed the "right" price. It is remarkable for a Welsh player to have made such a grand move. Stands out too as it is rare for British players to opt to play abroad and it is a good thing. Many cite what a loss to the league he is, which is of course true but. Will be interesting to follow him at Real. Expectation will be high due to the price tag, the size of the club he's arrived at and the unique pressures that reside there. Hope that he gets treated right and a fair chance.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZoVX3Q4BJGIxZhdA10Rm24SJkmF-4O_6QJrV2jhbq1_nA1XUzHUNVlCJc63lOrBUUXqV8XdUnAgQRfwiPf33k_dnrZ1YXLq1Eve4Z7vmqtxpn2BwVs6ILUdsasvLYvNfhXssF_Q1cA/s1600/178259737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZoVX3Q4BJGIxZhdA10Rm24SJkmF-4O_6QJrV2jhbq1_nA1XUzHUNVlCJc63lOrBUUXqV8XdUnAgQRfwiPf33k_dnrZ1YXLq1Eve4Z7vmqtxpn2BwVs6ILUdsasvLYvNfhXssF_Q1cA/s320/178259737.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A great coup for Arsenal getting Mesut Ozil (ahem jealous). Brilliant player, one of my favourites just love to watch him. Now have a reason to watch more of Arsenal, which'll certainly help in catching more of the Premier League. James McCarthy signing for £13m is a great addition to Everton and a player their fans will enjoy watching, already good he is very young with a-lot of potential. So much experience too, having started playing in the SPL at 16. City got their deals done early, they did very well, made some shrewd signings totally fuss free. They added to their squad which they needed to do and also brought in some needed pace and width in Navas. Perhaps feel they could have added another CB as they are weakened without Kompany and don't have that many options back there. Spurs have spent their money well and got some good players. Bale will be a miss and cannot be replaced like for like, they'll adapt and move on. It is true though that good teams take time to be made and success doesn't just come instantly by throwing in a number of new additions. All the same they do look strong. Daniel Levy their chairman is a master operator, a bastard to do business with but he's great for Spurs and always gets good money for players. Impressed with how they've gone about things. Liverpool have manage to keep Suarez and though not necessarily star turns, have added some quality to their side. They've done well and are improving, a young side patience will be key but Rogers certainly making headway re-building. Made a good signing in Mingolet.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtiuQmtT9OrPSLIAAgGVgYW8WQbfuLvKvVosb8kPfq1aFRkUqkNLYkHGe77hoQubO6MzSiF0n-ZyQpVJwBPlnl_Y2Pu-AMtKi9vM4Y8gywSEaczNGMfXjD5OMtw_7idaSIeDqNGEQlw/s1600/gonzalo-higuain-napoli-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtiuQmtT9OrPSLIAAgGVgYW8WQbfuLvKvVosb8kPfq1aFRkUqkNLYkHGe77hoQubO6MzSiF0n-ZyQpVJwBPlnl_Y2Pu-AMtKi9vM4Y8gywSEaczNGMfXjD5OMtw_7idaSIeDqNGEQlw/s320/gonzalo-higuain-napoli-.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Going away from the Premier League, there has been a good deal of movement in terms of players. Not such a fan of Ricardo Kaka but it was a shame seeing his decline. Hopefully a move back to Milan will lift the club and him too. Makes so much sense and he was impressing at Real in his sparse appearances. A-lot of deals completed early doors abroad, those that stand out are Goetze to Bayern and Neymar to Barcelona. Both have already made appearances, though with Goetze he has a little bit of time on the touch line following a poor tackle by Ramires in the Super Cup. It Serie A, biggest transfer out was Cavani to Monaco. In terms of transfers in, it has been forwards making the headlines- Higuain and Tevez have both got off to strong starts in their respective teams. Sore start for Higuain too with his accident off the pitch. Do like watching Juventus, don't really like Tevez but he is a top player and he'll improve them- the only question is, is how long for.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All in all it has been a very busy transfer window and it has certainly made the present season even more exciting. Additions to the Premier League, (managerial also) will make it very competitive. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdafimcVww0/UiVX5oVCwEI/AAAAAAAABX4/StbrqQ4MuD4/s1600/pic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdafimcVww0/UiVX5oVCwEI/AAAAAAAABX4/StbrqQ4MuD4/s320/pic.png" width="286" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>And Manchester United...</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To say that it has been an underwhelming summer for the club is an understatement. Even before the window opened; there was a big cloud that hung over with the Rooney situation and it lasted months. He's been convinced to stay in the end. Two years left on his contract only, his long term future and commitment to the club a big doubt. It seemed, very likely that he'd move on and personally had got used to the idea of it. He is an excellent player but following a poor season, terrible attiude and his wish to leave for a second time enough was surely enough. Now it seems he is too important to lose. Manchester United cannot afford to lose that quality and not replace it of course. He's burned his bridges with a-lot of fans, due to emotional reasoning. For me too I have to admit; the whole thing just doesn't sit right with me, I am too idealistic really. Players that want to play for the club, that is what you want to see.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
United signed Fellaini from Everton and a young Uruguayan fullback in Guillermo Varela. Wilfried Zaha also arrived, having agreed to sign in January. A total shambles the way player transfer has been handled. Low bids, the public nature of United's pursuits/activity, attempts to penny pinch and decision to leave things til the last minute. New chairmen Edward Woodward has come in for heavy criticism, fans had been told that there was money there to spend. David Moyes had also stated the area he wished to strengthen and United fans have been saying so for years, the central midfield. A midfielder came in but he isn't the one many wished for and in the end the club overpaid. Fans wished for a player of higher quality to make the difference they feel that their team needs. As much as I think Fellaini is a good player, I really don't like the type of player he is and see it as a negative move. He has some things the team is lacking but certainly a dirty side and just can't see him being the answer to United's midfield problem. Loan deals have been arranged, both Bebe and Nick Powell. I hope that Moyes promotes some of the players who impressed in pre-season to the first team and gives them opportunities. Hope he uses his full squad and does not rely too much on experience. He has used Giggs virtually every game so far, injuries have contributed certainly and two weeks from now there'll start to be 2 games per week.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The worst thing about United this summer is the handling of the Herrera deal, details are still fuzzy, but more will be known in the morning. It appears that he has been screwed over by the club massively. The Basque club of Bilbao are notoriously difficult to do business with. The player was keen for a move, willing to take a wage cut to go to United. But the club pulled out. Herrera is now in a difficult situation and remaining at Bilbao, a club known to be tough on players who wish to move on. It is World Cup year and he'll need games to get a place in the team. It seems United have just done very wrong by him. That just isn't right and it isn't Manchester United. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="justify" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
* It is true that Manchester United fans are spoilt and I am such a huge admirer of the club. It is the most negative post in relation to United I've written before. I am certainly not one who is desperate for big money signings nor am I worried about the club. But have to say, I'm really am not impressed with Edward Woodward. Beyond him, jow the club is run from the very top- no United fan is happy with that but it is an issue warranting criticism aplenty. </div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-45682350125578712482013-08-28T17:13:00.000-07:002013-09-22T23:06:12.922-07:00Great Footballing Nicknames<div style="text-align: center;">
Often affectionate and always with an edge of humour. Most nicknames attributed to players are from the fans themselves. Others are personal and some even come from the media. The most comical nicknames tend to be based on dominant physical features and quirks of players personalities. There doesn't appear to be as many characters in the game or big personalities as there seemed to be in the past. Despite that, it hasn't stopped fans and the players themselves donning unique names.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://talksport.com/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/tscouk_old_image/blog/lionel-messi_0.jpg?itok=WNZexL_F" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/12_02/jamesR1412_468x328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/12_02/jamesR1412_468x328.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Calamity James- David James</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
David James, as famous for his haircuts as his goalkeeping. He has had many a blunder and innumerable crazy moments between the sticks. It fits very well. A cowboy film called Calamity Jane and a character from the popular comic strip The Beano are possible origins of his nickname.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u><a name='more'></a></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EKF-ebNI0WQ/UN5lNWdVuvI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/Y7TPTgOn1oM/s1600/n_athletic_club_de_bilbao_historicos-17708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EKF-ebNI0WQ/UN5lNWdVuvI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/Y7TPTgOn1oM/s320/n_athletic_club_de_bilbao_historicos-17708.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Butcher from Bilbao- Andoni Goikoetxea</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<span lang="EN">A famously dirty player, the Argentinean got this nickname following a horrific tackle on a young Diego Maradona. He clearly embraced the more physical side of the game as he keeps the boot that wrecked Maradona’s ligaments in a glass case.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2011/07/02/1226086/147840-sergio-aguero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2011/07/02/1226086/147840-sergio-aguero.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Kun- Sergio Aguero</u></strong><br />
<br />
He used to have Kun Aguero on the back of his shirt when he played at Atletico, unsure if he still does. Though he does use it for his personal website and social media sites. His nickname is one he has had since he was a child and was given to him by his grandparents. Its origins are a character, Kum Kum from a popular televised cartoon series. Aguero bore strong physical resemblance and the nickname has stuck ever since. It is Kun due to him mispronouncing the characters real name of Kum Kum.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://peteboyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Brian-McClair-545x220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="129" src="http://peteboyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Brian-McClair-545x220.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u>Choccy- Brian McClair</u></strong><br />
<br />
Brian McClair transferred to Manchester United in 1987. In his first season he succeeded in scoring over 20 league goals in a season. It was something a United player had failed to do since best in the 1967/68 season. His nickname of Choccy came from his manager Alex Ferguson. It relates to a sweet called a chocolate eclair, which of course rhymes with his surname.<br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M3FmMA9-QW0/TmeH8jJdCtI/AAAAAAAAS0I/0CtFhSD4EuA/s1600/Ronald+KOEMAN+Panini+FC+Barcelone.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M3FmMA9-QW0/TmeH8jJdCtI/AAAAAAAAS0I/0CtFhSD4EuA/s320/Ronald+KOEMAN+Panini+FC+Barcelone.png" width="244" /></a></div>
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u>Floquet De Neu (Little Snowflake)- Ronald Koemen</u></strong><br />
<br />
This was the name given to Koemen by Barcelona fans due to his fair complexion. The Dutchmen was also called Tintin (from the massively popular French comic book series and that was recently turned into a film), it is ridiculously uncanny the resemblance! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgis22U1cKVUwaV-pznRwd3u1bRfRiky-M0BLOC25cBRPLcrN4iccWt_B2YnkNuU2rQAPj55MFYz30ttx7w8NGINrc05F9glF0aOiOONc3LFw6l8-KX7KfAWVGqLsny2lOW3mN3qqrMxgQ/s320/veron_laziov.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgis22U1cKVUwaV-pznRwd3u1bRfRiky-M0BLOC25cBRPLcrN4iccWt_B2YnkNuU2rQAPj55MFYz30ttx7w8NGINrc05F9glF0aOiOONc3LFw6l8-KX7KfAWVGqLsny2lOW3mN3qqrMxgQ/s320/veron_laziov.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u>La Brujita (The Little Witch)- Juan Sebastian Veron</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
Juan Sebastion Veron got his nickname from his football playing father, Juan Roman who famously played for the side Estudiantes. It is difficult to decipher where it came from, possibly physical (big nose?). Though if anything like his son, Juan Roman must've been magic to watch. Another player who has a paternal nickname is Javier Hernandez who even has his on the back of his shirt- Chicharito. It means little pea, his football playing father was nicknamed Chicharo due to his green eyes. <br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fc/Sebastian_Giovinco_(Formica_Atomica)_Juventus.jpg/250px-Sebastian_Giovinco_(Formica_Atomica)_Juventus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fc/Sebastian_Giovinco_(Formica_Atomica)_Juventus.jpg/250px-Sebastian_Giovinco_(Formica_Atomica)_Juventus.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u>Formica Atomica (Atomic Ant)- Sebastian Giovinco</u></strong><br />
<br />
Akin to Aguero, the Juventus man was named after a famous cartoon character. In Giovinco's case a Hanna-Barbera one. At 5ft 5 he is one of the smallest players, playing at the highest level. He is also pretty rapid and a skillful player.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://u.goal.com/12900/12919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://u.goal.com/12900/12919.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong><u>Billy- Alessandro Costacurta</u></strong><br />
<br />
Costacurta had an impressive career AC Milan, where he played for some 20 years. A big basketball fan. He followed the team Olympia Milano who were sponsored by a soft drinks company called Billy, hence his nickname. Basketball teams in Italy were known primarily by their sponsors name during the 80's.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.socceranchor.com/attachments/article/949/Javier-Zanetti1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.socceranchor.com/attachments/article/949/Javier-Zanetti1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong><u>El Pupi- Javier Zanetti</u></strong><br />
<br />
What a mighty good man and player, Zanetti has to be one of the most consistent players around. His nickname originated in Argentina and translates as puppy. Guessing that is because of his youthful looks. Hope that he gets over his injury pronto as he has said he still wants to keep playing. He and his wife formed a foundation in Argentina for children and families in need. it provides support, education and food. He gave the foundation the name P.U.P.I. Some of his fellow teammates also offer financial support to it. In Italy he is also called Il Trattore (the tractor) due to his resilience, strength and work rate.<br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDU09d7NMl6yzvcdAQ-gzX-zxV6rA9lTgWA-9lZuBBNtzMYNEHwucqvxKbmz9sg927ZY9Mj7zbrTxavDBZsPYCue0iJ8ES2VFfjzyPNnLntpcUFIqAALa08RkKXOmzRP_ftTlRXSpcFxRb/s320/adaf8fdd-0146-43ff-b32f-0f75fb6bd85f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDU09d7NMl6yzvcdAQ-gzX-zxV6rA9lTgWA-9lZuBBNtzMYNEHwucqvxKbmz9sg927ZY9Mj7zbrTxavDBZsPYCue0iJ8ES2VFfjzyPNnLntpcUFIqAALa08RkKXOmzRP_ftTlRXSpcFxRb/s320/adaf8fdd-0146-43ff-b32f-0f75fb6bd85f.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u>Duncan "Disorderly" Ferguson</u></strong><br />
<br />
Not hard to see why this was such an apt nickname. Hard man on the pitch, never far from trouble on or off of it. So very fitting, witty and one of my favourites. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2013/2/27/1361976380078/Arsenals-Dennis-Bergkamp-008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2013/2/27/1361976380078/Arsenals-Dennis-Bergkamp-008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong><u>The Non-Flying Dutchman- Dennis Bergkamp</u></strong><br />
<br />
<strong><u></u></strong> Without any doubt, one of the very finest players to ever grace the Premier League. Bergkamp had a very strong fear of flying, so much so that he point blank refused to get on a plane. It meant that he missed a number of games because of it. It was a bit of an inconvenience to him too as it meant international destinations for club and country had to be reached by car and that was not always possible. As a result he did miss a good number of away Champions League ties for Arsenal, with him in the side you do wonder if they'd have fared better in Europe. His fear stems from a scare he had in 1994 when the engine of the plane cut out. </div>
<div class="single-line" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/0920/garypallisterandstevebrucemanchesterunited20110921_205x285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/images/2011/0920/garypallisterandstevebrucemanchesterunited20110921_205x285.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="single-line" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="single-line" style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Dolly and Daisy- Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister</u></strong></div>
<div class="single-line" style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
<div class="single-line" style="text-align: center;">
An affectionate name for a solid and ever present defensive duo in Sir Alex Ferguson's early years. This nickname was given to them by Ferguson. You do wonder which was which. Tend to think that Gary Pallister was Daisy for some reason!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/69527000/jpg/_69527813_pa-17360750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/69527000/jpg/_69527813_pa-17360750.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Village- Jonathan Woodgate</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He is certainly not alone in football when it comes to lacking in the brain department. The former Leeds United mans name comes from the saying of village idiot. If you've seen a post match interview with him it is clear why.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/nicolas-anelka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/nicolas-anelka.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>The Incredible Sulk- Nicolas Anelka</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
One of the most transferred football players and the most expensive if you add up all the fee's he has accumulated through the years. Anelka always looked a right miserable sod on the pitch. The antithesis to Ronaldinho, the Frenchman certainly never played with a smile.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://talksport.com/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/tscouk_old_image/blog/lionel-messi_0.jpg?itok=WNZexL_F" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://talksport.com/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/tscouk_old_image/blog/lionel-messi_0.jpg?itok=WNZexL_F" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>La Pulga- Lionel Messi</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Translating as the flea, it is not difficult to see why the diminutive Barcelona man is nicknamed this. The origins of this nickname are believed to come from the players Grandmother. She watched him play with/against much older players, aged just five- you can just imagine the height differences!</div>
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-68258902892516382482013-08-25T12:16:00.001-07:002013-09-02T17:14:52.161-07:00Manchester United vs Chelsea Preview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia6L-AHY3Xb7zdjUu7VjfmcXVxk2MeqtF2iWtQ8GCxueoAIQreMY_9hR3GdC7FEJ2SiF79yo4rqbOlkGStebndcEfO-e3VcsPQ7Mr5JV_Te3dwCIBLCeCwvjiosGmmu1S3nGH2gwoGxA/s1600/OT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia6L-AHY3Xb7zdjUu7VjfmcXVxk2MeqtF2iWtQ8GCxueoAIQreMY_9hR3GdC7FEJ2SiF79yo4rqbOlkGStebndcEfO-e3VcsPQ7Mr5JV_Te3dwCIBLCeCwvjiosGmmu1S3nGH2gwoGxA/s640/OT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is only the second week into the Premier League season and frustratingly there is no Manchester United game this weekend. Curse the fixture computer. Monday night will be David Moyes first match at Old Trafford and it will be the first time in twenty seven years that Sir Alex is not leading the team out. It also sees the return of a never forgotten foe in Jose Mourinho.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sim05.in.com/5e84739c7b5eed12d05acae7ceab05cb_ls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://sim05.in.com/5e84739c7b5eed12d05acae7ceab05cb_ls.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Coming into the game, Chelsea have played an extra league game. They have had 2 wins out of 2 but haven't looked too impressive. They were pretty dull in their first league match vs Hull. They were also helped massively by the referee mid-week vs Aston Villa. Juan Mata, who is currently coming back from an injury played over an hour vs Villa. Reading their forum, it seems he was a bit off the pace. It is quite soon after the Villa game but Mata has done very well vs Manchester United in previous meetings. Have always really liked Mata, he is a top player and has taken his game up a level at Chelsea. There seems to be a little bit of an uncertainty regarding his future. Some rumours suggest that Chelsea would be willing to use him in an exchange for Wayne Rooney. It seems madness that Chelsea would be willing to sell their best player. The only thing is perhaps, he isn't a "Mourinho type player". As his teams have shown in the past he likes pace and directness in that position. Slight question marks over David Luiz who needs to pass a late fitness test before he is considered. Think Chelsea have a very talented squad and manager, the Mourinho factor has certainly added to my thinking, that they are favourites for the title. They have their weaknesses, like all teams do and there is still time for them to address them. Rooney's on their radar and would improve any team. A change for him could see him return to his very best and that is a scarily good player. Feel there is a better chance of it happening at elsewhere and staying at United he will continue to stagnate and end up being a big problem. It is a tricky situation for United indeed. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/69460000/jpg/_69460641_wayne_rooney2_getty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/69460000/jpg/_69460641_wayne_rooney2_getty.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Though United took their time to get going, they impressed last week vs Swansea. Much of the slow start was due to soaking up the pressure and containing Swansea. You knew, going into the game that they like to keep the ball and that they are a tough team to beat at home. United were always in control and despite Swansea's possession they created very little. Though, it would be unwise to give Chelsea as much freedom. What stood out most for United was the quality of the finishing. Welbeck's second was fantastic technique, brilliant pulling off a chip so close to the keeper. Van Persie's weren't bad either, particularly his second. Fantastic that both have made bright starts, particularly Welbeck. Going to be a big year for him and he is looking very good, that he has already doubled last seasons goal tally in one game in will certainly be a big confidence boost. As mentioned, Chelsea have not looked too great. However, that means little- they always do well vs United and get up for the big games (much like their manager). They haven't any real injury issues and will be buoyed by last season, in which they succeeded in getting the better of United in the vast majority of the games that the sides came up against one another. Early doors though it is, they will be aware of the tricky run of fixtures United have. They will therefore look at this game as a great opportunity to gain distance from last seasons champions.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://talksport.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/201308/welbeck_van_persie.jpg?itok=g2aUyxRi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://talksport.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/201308/welbeck_van_persie.jpg?itok=g2aUyxRi" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For United a big miss will be Rafael, who is out with a hamstring injury. Reports suggest that it could be as long as six weeks. Jones and Smalling have both played there in the past but neither are natural in that role. Jones is probably better, as Smalling's distribution and decision making there are poor. Jones has a decent cross on him and a bit more pace than Smalling. I would rather see Fabio starting ahead of either of those two, though I don't see it happening. Width is going to be important and Fabio most of all, will be able to provide that and support Valencia. Other injury doubts are Young, Nani and Hernandez. Evans won't start, having played 90 mins for the U21's in his own quest to full fitness after a pre-season injury. The big question for United fans is whether or not Wayne Rooney will start. He did well vs Swansea and created 2 goals. However, he was a little on the periphery and it looked like teammates were reluctant to pass to him. His attitude was way off too. With it being Chelsea, his favoured destination wonder what kind of effect that would have on his performance. A weeks more training means that he'll be fitter and sharper. Would prefer him not to start, particularly if it means he takes Welbeck's place. Though there is room for all three. It could backfire if he plays. Kagawa's season is yet to get going and the same with Hernandez. Not much news of Hernandez fitness has been disclosed, physio room lists him being out with a hamstring injury. It would be a massive boost to see him on the bench. He has a brilliant scoring record vs Chelsea. Another who usually does well against them is Ryan Giggs, but prefer others over him as he gives the ball away a-lot and would be better used as an impact sub. Chelsea are a pretty energetic and athletic side too. Feel that United are in good shape for this match, the team looks fit and sharp. Moyes double training sessions must be doing their work! Fancy Van Persie's chances against their defence and Valencia up against Ashley Cole. Cole is no doubt one of the best around but the Ecuadorian has had outstanding games against him in seasons gone by. Chelsea really do have United's number and are something of a bogey team. Though they need a goalscorer upfront, their attack is full of flair and quality which will put both United's defence and midfield under a great deal of pressure. Hazard, Oscar and the already mentioned Mata stand out most. They have a-lot in their youth ranks too, (yet another talented Belgian) De Bruyne is very highly rated. Believe Lukaku will start and he is a right handful of a player, there is no mistaking comparisons of him to Drogba. I'd feel slightly better if Mata didn't start; even if he isn't 100% he'll still provide a threat, not forgetting his set pieces too. Think that this match will be a big test for United, especially so early in the season.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i1.wp.com/www.laacib.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/JoseMourinho_2988054.jpg?resize=614%2C346" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://i1.wp.com/www.laacib.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/JoseMourinho_2988054.jpg?resize=614%2C346" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Jose Mourinho relishes games such as this and he'll get his players well motivated. It is one of his biggest strengths as a manager, his players get so fired up for to four clashes, finals and all the big games in-between. Tactically astute, he'll look to play on United's weaknesses. Memories of playing United will be fresh, as his Real side met United in the Champions League. Chelsea have a great deal of youth and energy and succeed in playing a pressing game. As has been seen in the past, this United team can sometimes struggle under pressure. Though, a stepping up of Michael Carrick means they are less vulnerable than they were before. The force of Mourinho's personality and affection the English media has for him; I hope will take some of the attention/pressure away from David Moyes. Moyes will be keen to build on United's strong start and to also seal his first match at Old Trafford with a win. Am a bit on the fence with regards to the outcome of the game, plenty of reasons to be optimistic about United but know what Chelsea are capable. A bit of a negative is the appointment of Martin Atkinson as referee. He has been involved in a couple of memorable controversial calls in fixture between the two sides. Hopefully he doesn't make any judgements that spoil the game, as United vs Chelsea is almost always entertaining. A fair and a good game is what's hoped. Below is the team I am hoping to see on Monday and a bit of a guess to who will play for Chelsea.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuEbDE5NESe2DS4V7BCuWtM59t3TCjpwbDJun9aATresztFYxosHPsdgfL1NHBUUujpkSO8oZDO58GbQG2TRhnZuIPLgeo9IizT2Au1Nj8HSmQ80LJpuUxfPMCrrL8XmK18NBir1-OA/s1600/Lineups.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="369" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuEbDE5NESe2DS4V7BCuWtM59t3TCjpwbDJun9aATresztFYxosHPsdgfL1NHBUUujpkSO8oZDO58GbQG2TRhnZuIPLgeo9IizT2Au1Nj8HSmQ80LJpuUxfPMCrrL8XmK18NBir1-OA/s640/Lineups.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Was tricky picking a Chelsea team and feel it is too attack orientated. Questioning whether Torres will start and reckon he probably will, though I have put Lukaku. Luiz can play DM role and did a good number of times last season and wonder if he'd be an option there, providing he is fit. Know Mourinho likes to play with 2 defensive midfielders and will probably overload the midfield as that is where United is weakest. Van Ginkel is young and a great prospect, he's only made sub appearances so far so don't think he'll start. He really impressed on pre-season from what I've heard from Chelsea fans. Another highly rated player I didn't add in was De Bruyne. Lampard may also miss out in order to play against Bayern Munich. As for United, the team pretty much picks itself particularly with most of the wingers being out injured. Phil Jones featuring at RB or in a midfield role is a possibility. Unfortunate that Anderson is left out as he had a better pre-season than Cleverley, against Swansea Cleverley didn't have his best game. Three most important and nailed on starters for me, are Van Persie, Vidic and Welbeck. Welbeck is in great form and his outstanding work rate is a big asset.</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-13557866002471083352013-08-18T08:17:00.000-07:002013-08-26T06:59:10.809-07:00Four From Four<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir1L3DGSDI5AuK3DS1FHsnbVnKctxXT09giXU0ENbBMZ-qO1TdJhhsP5eg6-2ImvtXrkDMMsQF2zRTS98alMlfzrK0F0P40EIf2Ghs850Yeae6GiErTXHj7vn_2Ihrn7Fl9KyebM1SyA/s1600/Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="82" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir1L3DGSDI5AuK3DS1FHsnbVnKctxXT09giXU0ENbBMZ-qO1TdJhhsP5eg6-2ImvtXrkDMMsQF2zRTS98alMlfzrK0F0P40EIf2Ghs850Yeae6GiErTXHj7vn_2Ihrn7Fl9KyebM1SyA/s400/Header.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a bit of an idea I have had for a regular piece. It will be an opportunity to catch more football and to focus on specific players/teams. I have decided to pick one newly transferred player from the four leagues I mainly watch- Premier League, Serie A, La Liga and The Bundesliga. As well as watching them, I will also look to fans forums and each countries made to gauge the players progress and importantly what the fans think. I have decided to do posts once a month to overview how they've been doing. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://u.goal.com/294500/294526_heroa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://u.goal.com/294500/294526_heroa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Mkhitaryan (Borussia Dortmund)</u></strong><strong><u> - Bundesliga</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The German league is already underway. Caught Dortmunds impressive win vs Ausburg yesterday. They took a little while to get going but when they did, they were very entertaining. It was a dream debut for Aubameyang, scoring a hat-trick. Mkhitaryan is currently injured and therefore needed to sit out Dormund's first match.<br />
<br />
The highly rated midfielder transferred from Shakhtar Donetsk for what is believed to be in the region of €25.75 million. In purchasing him, he is the most expensive player the club has ever bought. Price tags come with pressure. He just enjoyed a very successful club season, scoring 25 goals from midfield and therefore must be feeling full of confidence. It is a step up certainly, but he is coming into a good team boasting plenty of talented players. With the loss of Mario Goetze and he being a mature player at 25. Dortmund, will be looking for him (once fit) to have an immediate impact. Looking forward to seeing this player as he is one I have never watched, only heard of. As ever, it will be enjoyable following and watching Dortmund play- could be a tricky season for them given the sheer strength and talent of the present Bayern side.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thecourier.co.uk/polopoly_fs/1.99146.1370333486!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_620/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.thecourier.co.uk/polopoly_fs/1.99146.1370333486!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_620/image.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Neymar (Barcelona)- La Liga</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Certainly the most obvious of choices and the marquee signing of La Liga. Neymar has been linked with Barcelon for some time, it was originally believed that the transfer would not be completed until after next years World Cup. There has been so much talk and hype around Neymar, since he was a very young age. He had a fantastic Confederations tournament, which his Brazil of course won. It as the first time seeing him that he looked mature, consistent and full of confidence. The Olympics the year befoe he lacked consistency and was not as much of a team player. It is the right time for a move and to test himself in Europe. Really looking forward to seeing more from him, how he settles in and deals with playing at a higher level and the glare of playng for such a big club. Going to be interesting seeing how Barcelona set up and how he and Messi fit into it. Some have said that, that could be a problem. However, do think that they'll enjoy linking and form a great understanding. In a bid to help him bulk up Barcelona sent him to have his tonsils removed. He is very slight and finds it dificult to add weight. He'll get all the help he can ever want at Barcelona with that.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article2057191.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Sunderland-have-completed-the-signing-of-midfielder-Emanuele-Giaccherini-from-European-giants-Juventus-2057191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article2057191.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Sunderland-have-completed-the-signing-of-midfielder-Emanuele-Giaccherini-from-European-giants-Juventus-2057191.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><strong>Giaccherrini (Sunderland)-Premier League</strong></u> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Must admit that I watch much less of the Premier League than I used to, prefer to watch Geman and Italian league over it. But this season I am definitely looking to watch more. Sunderland are not famed for their great football but they have a decent team. Thought that Giaccherrini was excellent in the summers Confederation Cup. A little familiar with him due to Juventus also. Interested to see how he does. Is by in large a good thing that the smaller teams are investing in foreign talents such as him. Swansea instantly spring to mind for the Spanish players they have attracted for low fee's. Though it is not going to do any favours to the development of English players. In terms of having English players at clubs, their prices are massively inflated, meaning that clubs are opting to buy from abroad because players are cheaper and often better technically. Paulo di Canio, the ever controversial is their manager. Not hugely familiar with the style of football his teams play but with the players they have they should be quite watchable. Team also seems to have great belief and are good at making comebacks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
A great coup for Sunderland, landing an Italy international. Do wonder how he'll take to life in the North East coming over from Italy- culture shock time! He is a clever, positive player who is full of confidence. He likes to take players on and has a good eye for a pass. That, he has a high work rate will be a big advantage to Sunderland. Another, is his ability to play in different positions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/images/sports/photos/2013/07/27/940-higuain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/images/sports/photos/2013/07/27/940-higuain.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Higuain (Napoli)-Serie A</u></strong><br />
<br />
With the exit of Edinson Cavanni to PSG, Napoli replaced him with another South American. Gonzalo Higuan of Argentina and formerly Real Madid, transferred for a fee of £45 million. It is a fairly heavy price tag and with that comes pressure and expectaton. A real fans favourite, Cavani's are big shoes to fill. Rafael Bernitez has come into the club as manager, he isn't always associated with the attractive football that the Napoli fathful will demand. However, his big strength is the tactical side, this will be very useful in Serie A where the pace is slower. Akin to his new manager, feel that Higuan is well suited to the Italian league. His poaching abilities and movement strong. Could see him scoring a fair few. In recent seasons, the league has opened up and Italian football has changed somewhat, becoming less defensive than in years gone by. There is no doubt it has fallen and still has a way to go to raise its profile. You would say that now, even the German league has overtaken it. An acquisition such as Higuan and also Carlos Tevez at Juventus does reveal that the league is capable of attracting quality players,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-17423373435603042042013-08-16T18:22:00.000-07:002013-08-25T12:21:19.178-07:00England vs Scotland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZmqrLn-w-xCvBWK_uzqoJ5dloovz10i9QEILjZFcgKOpdwPnVLLDLKGXW55yd4SLB7UZ6oSbwCHe75YHer2ADweIalRBR-Gtb-cvbDVGC-m4amZLtb_wGfnzMhrVmEibZsI34pH2vg/s1600/International.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZmqrLn-w-xCvBWK_uzqoJ5dloovz10i9QEILjZFcgKOpdwPnVLLDLKGXW55yd4SLB7UZ6oSbwCHe75YHer2ADweIalRBR-Gtb-cvbDVGC-m4amZLtb_wGfnzMhrVmEibZsI34pH2vg/s400/International.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It had certainly been a long time in coming this fixture. The two sides, which form the oldest of footballing rivalries have not met since 1999. The rivalry itself dates back to 1870 and the first match officially played between the countries was in 1872. Though a friendly it was much more, the tie means a great deal to players and fans alike. The Tartan Army as usual took plentiful support. Descending upon London in their kilts, tam o'shanter hats and armed with fairy liquid in some cases! The match at Wembley kicked off at 8pm and the starting lineups were as follows:-<br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>Hart; Walker, Cahill, Jagileka, Baines; Gerrard, Wilshere; Walcott, Cleverley; Welbeck, Rooney</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>McGregor; Hutton, Hanley, Martin, Whittaker; Forrest, Morrison, Brown; Maloney, Snodgrass, Miller</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://nfs.stvfiles.com/imagebase/195/410x230/195947-james-morrison-goal-against-england-august-2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://nfs.stvfiles.com/imagebase/195/410x230/195947-james-morrison-goal-against-england-august-2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a name='more'></a><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As a whole the game didn't feel like an early season friendly at all. The booing over the anthems set a precedent and neither team was afraid of putting a foot in. Referee had a good game, allowed it to flow and there were surprisingly few bookings. The English could feel a bit aggrieved at a wrong offside call from Rooney's shot but that was the linesman's miss. Match played at an impressive pace and tempo. Kenny Miller was, without a doubt the best player for Scotland. He has been in very good form in the MLS, for The Vancouver Whitecaps. The 33 year old netted the goal that put Scotland 2 up. A great one it was too, fantastic turn and shot by Miller. Scott Brown in his usual harrying role was effective and picked the ball up in good positions, pressing the English midfield well. It was just a shame that his passing let him down a little. Scotland had the air knocked out of them after conceding just four minutes from their second. They sat deep and England dominated from then on. Lambert was busy when he came on and could easily have had a hat-trick. What a dream debut. It is a marvellous story his and how he has risen through the leagues. What a great moment if you are English- though even being on the opposite side can appreciate what it meant to him. <br />
<a data-cthref="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=bgAV-x40KblNdM&tbnid=Il2rH0H6-8wydM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.basingstokegazette.co.uk%2Fsport%2F10615137.Rickie_s_fairytale_has_so_much_further_left_to_run%2F&ei=gN0NUpDZEsKn0QW_5ID4DA&psig=AFQjCNEw7SSkWQZd945CuHNfwcXyyyFT1Q&ust=1376726753388900" data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=bgAV-x40KblNdM&tbnid=Il2rH0H6-8wydM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.basingstokegazette.co.uk%2Fsport%2F10615137.Rickie_s_fairytale_has_so_much_further_left_to_run%2F&ei=gN0NUpDZEsKn0QW_5ID4DA&psig=AFQjCNEw7SSkWQZd945CuHNfwcXyyyFT1Q&ust=1376726753388900" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="331" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/resources/images/2588644.jpg?type=articleLandscape" style="margin-top: 33px;" width="458" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
England looked good, some players stood out more than others Thought it would have made sense for Gerrard and Cleverley to switch positions as Gerrard thrives being the most advanced and isn't really a central midfielder. He looked good though and i was his free kick that got Welbeck's equalising goal. Wilshere was not as influential as you are used to seeing him, understandable as he is just coming back from injury (as usual). Lampard made a good impact and his arrival in the team meant that Scotland had less space to operate. Welbeck stood out, couldn't help but notice him. Such a classy, hard working player with so much potential- just hope he improves composure and confidence in front of goal as he'll be some player. He always scores for England mind you as the other night showed! Cleverley played well also, he and Wilshere often look the part alongside and really compliment each other. Walcott with his pace, really put Scotland to the sword a number of times. Following a good season last, could see him being even better this. It can be a bit forgotten, considering how long he has been about that he is still a pretty young player. With no surprise given his lack of football, Rooney looked poor and rusty as hell. Seemed to be on the receiving end of some boos. Another who didn't fare too well was Hart who should have done much better on Scotland's first goal. Cahill, following a stop start season for Chelsea gave Scotland too much space in the box.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKk3RdoipkOGKlkJj3V0PuVv13dQvKjHR8DA8YjaNwg_KD5eMSxTlWCDkdfnpB961IpY_M7nY0124DCAfE-4KhVfWyxdF7BIbBRKzemdVXF4zcjJq-ZwDuMA8UIPI83it8BcM7pcALGg/s1600/Errgeee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKk3RdoipkOGKlkJj3V0PuVv13dQvKjHR8DA8YjaNwg_KD5eMSxTlWCDkdfnpB961IpY_M7nY0124DCAfE-4KhVfWyxdF7BIbBRKzemdVXF4zcjJq-ZwDuMA8UIPI83it8BcM7pcALGg/s400/Errgeee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thoroughly enjoyed the game, despite Scotland losing. Scotland team gave their all and a good account of themselves. Was disappointing how the goals were conceded. Going into the game I didn't have a great deal of hope with regard to how good it would be- this match. Played so close to the opening game of the Premier League, it being a friendly and some of the players not yet at peak fitness. But it was very entertaining and the players contributed to make it a good match. Teams positive and the game had a good tempo. Though did Scotland err on defensive in the latter part of the second half which was understandable. Reading around, it was a much enjoyed game and comments from England fans saying they've not enjoyed an England match so much in ages. Better that than the usual meaningless friendly against some minnow side in the arse end of nowhere. Just hope that there isn't such a long a wait as last time for a re-match.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7n4gESa7iIDWdyzYpErmXVPqH-GbegwTp2KvdvPkbBPCmKGOAJJHzs7fAX0sYbTrP7ZgkqNtwAo7X8-oxrfMvYwkg-mEiHYcx4O8LgtlanJjuzFuJ3n0-NnjrKa74ID7mlVFJLWcdrw/s1600/new.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7n4gESa7iIDWdyzYpErmXVPqH-GbegwTp2KvdvPkbBPCmKGOAJJHzs7fAX0sYbTrP7ZgkqNtwAo7X8-oxrfMvYwkg-mEiHYcx4O8LgtlanJjuzFuJ3n0-NnjrKa74ID7mlVFJLWcdrw/s400/new.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
National pride does not come out so much in me as it does with the football. You can certainly say that in recent years there is not so much to be proud about. However, it is what it is and better to support than blindly and forever criticise. The better thing about being a bit crap, is that it makes the good moments great and gives you low expectations. And there have been those good moments, they are cherished more as they are so few! One thing about the team that cannot be denied as they really get up for the big games and perform well in them. Thinking about the low expectation factor, think that this benefits our fans. It is a different thing with England National team which undoubtedly has talent but so much is expected of them and the media fuels that fire. It can't be all too enjoyable, I don't think watching from afar- that hype and pressure the media puts their team under. Do hope though, that radical shake ups are made with regard to improving Scottish football across the board and particularly at grassroots level. The country is not producing talent to a standard it should and has fallen very, very far behind other countries in the world and arguably some that do not have the development and resources our nation has. Pleasing that most of the players are playing down south in the Premier League and Championship which provide more of a challenge than the SPL. But gone are the days when you'd have a couple of Scots playing for the top four sides in England.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKk3RdoipkOGKlkJj3V0PuVv13dQvKjHR8DA8YjaNwg_KD5eMSxTlWCDkdfnpB961IpY_M7nY0124DCAfE-4KhVfWyxdF7BIbBRKzemdVXF4zcjJq-ZwDuMA8UIPI83it8BcM7pcALGg/s1600/Errgeee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKk3RdoipkOGKlkJj3V0PuVv13dQvKjHR8DA8YjaNwg_KD5eMSxTlWCDkdfnpB961IpY_M7nY0124DCAfE-4KhVfWyxdF7BIbBRKzemdVXF4zcjJq-ZwDuMA8UIPI83it8BcM7pcALGg/s400/Errgeee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-57270813697660934552013-08-11T16:20:00.000-07:002013-08-15T13:53:04.139-07:00Community Shield 2013 <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><u>Manchester United vs Wigan</u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></u></strong> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thefa.com/~/media/Images/TheFAPortal/Pillars/fa-competitions/the-fa-community-shield/comm-shield-gen-wembley.ashx?w=620&h=349&c=facupgallery&as=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.thefa.com/~/media/Images/TheFAPortal/Pillars/fa-competitions/the-fa-community-shield/comm-shield-gen-wembley.ashx?w=620&h=349&c=facupgallery&as=1" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></u></strong> <a name='more'></a><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A professional performance from United today, they never really got out of first gear and Wigan provided little threat in attack. Over the course of the game, there weren't many chances created. However, it was enjoyable and was pleasing seeing United defend well, pass well (not so much from the back) and the team work hard. The first half hour was the most positive from United and then they eased off. They came back to life again later in the second half. All in all very comfortable. Some nice moves at times and made good use of subs to give most players a chance. Evra impressed today with his constant running and willingness to win the ball back. He got forward a-lot, set up the first goal of the game. He was productive last season, more of the same would be good and David Moyes does like his attacking full backs. Anderson made a good impact when he came on. Though his final ball was a bit off, Zaha was very positive and did well considering he was closely marked and doubled up on. The Main man Robin van Persie claimed the two goals in the game, the second was an own goal. He'll be pleased with the first as he doesn't score that many headers. It was quite far out too. Was a quiet game from him but he was there when it mattered. He really is going to be vital for United this season. Valencia is back to his old number 25 again, it is being feverishly looked into. However, it is a good move as it looked like he lost so much confidence last season and it could be in part due to the pressure that the seven shirt brings. Michael Carrick was named man of the match, can't be stressed enough the importance of him to United. He showed good leadership particularly when the younger players came on. He played with his usual calmness and dictated the game well, succeeded in putting a number of teasing balls into the feet of the forwards. It was good seeing faith being put in the younger players with Jones and Zaha starting. Adnan Januzaj came on with seven minutes to go, which wasn't much time to make an impression but brilliant that he got a run out. Moyes has an excellent record introducing youth into the first team, hopefully this continues at United. The only downside was injury to Rafael, hopefully it is not a hamstring as has been mentioned. David Moyes and United have got off to a good start. It was important that the team did that. The real tests are yet to come. The Premier League kicks off next Saturday away to Swansea. A tricky side with an excellent home record it won't be an easy game like today's that is for sure.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.smimg.net/13/32/robin-van-persie-manchester-united_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.smimg.net/13/32/robin-van-persie-manchester-united_1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a pity that Wigan could not provide more of a challenge. They held possession for periods in the game but did little with the ball, mostly passing it between their defenders. With the fixture congestion in the Championship it will certainly be a slog for them. They do have the Europa league to look forward to, though their priority must be promotion. It stands in their favour that Coyle has experience of that. Rate Coyle and think he has recruited some good players that have improved the side. Holt will do well in the Championship, a right battering ram and he's certainty to get 20+ goals at the level. In this match they were unfortunate to have injuries at the back and be without 3 CB's, including their captain. They seem to have enough in their team to go on and half a good season, depth is important and they have acquired that. Seem to remember last season, them having a-lot of problems with injured defenders. Their fans will be hoping that they have a little more luck where that is concerned. They showed that they have a good threat on the counter. Reading around their fans are feeling very positive about the team and this seasons prospects. As much as they were sorry to lose Martinez, it has been said that under Coyle they are already more direct. Best of luck to Wigan and will certainly look out for their results. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/WWcKvZVJp63M2wUPuy7ggQ--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Y2g9MzYwO2NyPTE7Y3c9NjQwO2R4PTA7ZHk9MDtmaT11bGNyb3A7aD0zNTU7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_GB/Sports/Eurosport/1073086-17120516-640-360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/WWcKvZVJp63M2wUPuy7ggQ--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Y2g9MzYwO2NyPTE7Y3c9NjQwO2R4PTA7ZHk9MDtmaT11bGNyb3A7aD0zNTU7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_GB/Sports/Eurosport/1073086-17120516-640-360.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-79832994846715235602013-08-10T18:06:00.001-07:002013-08-11T22:50:03.585-07:00Manchester United vs Wigan Preview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHa_jhX8Ezr9401q1gZBPKCQ2mTaJu0Y41zewM7Dg8n5zQVZMhxCsbZAnCdAiN5lGwG-RCTc6PAp2_lwaqewbnUmegsI4bRaLrX2AvOOm-JXwnM_hdUlxW-jBUk9-tBnqUemTvRq2PYw/s1600/Shield.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHa_jhX8Ezr9401q1gZBPKCQ2mTaJu0Y41zewM7Dg8n5zQVZMhxCsbZAnCdAiN5lGwG-RCTc6PAp2_lwaqewbnUmegsI4bRaLrX2AvOOm-JXwnM_hdUlxW-jBUk9-tBnqUemTvRq2PYw/s640/Shield.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u>The Night Before.....</u></strong><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Manchester United have not enjoyed the best pre-season results wise. Coming into the game, Wigan are certainly in better form. They already have a competitive game under their belt, which was an impressive 4-0 win vs Barnsley away from home. A team full of confidence they still have most of the players they had last season. They have some decent players, particularly James McCarthy who has caught the eye on a-few occasions. There have been a number of clubs in for linked with him this summer but he is yet to move. They have been known for their nice attacking football under the now, Everton man Martinez. This often meant that they leaked a-lot of goals. Hopefully United's attack is on form to exploit that. The way that United themselves, have been defending over pre-season has not been encouraging. Hoping that Vidic is sharp tomorrow as he has had limited preperation due to a niggling injury. I am feeling a little nervous but very excited to have proper football back. It is a meaningless game in the grand scheme, but as it is Moyes first competitive match it is a bit more important than usual. Should United lose, panic buttons should not be pressed. However, with a tough start the team needs to get out of the blocks quick- no room to be slow starters this term. </div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The saga around Wayne Rooney is still raging. David Moyes opted to cancel his press conference and it is certainly due to the Rooney situation and him being sick of the journalists constant questions on the issue. Annoying that, as there are other things that could have been asked in his other media meetings since his arrival. It has been a bit of a summer of disappointment where United fans are concerned. A deal to sign Thiago fell through when it looked like it was completed and another to sign Fabregas has been abandoned. The central midfield has been a cause for concern for some years now and it is even more pressing that it is strengthened now that Scholes has retired. However, it seems that the club are struggling to complete a deal to sign a player (any player!) of the quality United fans demand. It is not just a question of desired quality, the United midfield is quite short in numbers too. There are three weeks to go until the window closes. Most fans had hoped that a player would be signed by now, to bed in before the ridiculously difficult start United have in the league. It is imperative that they begin with winning ways and a good performance in the shield tomorrow. It will also help to take some weight off of David Moyes shoulders. Shudder to think of what the reaction will be, should United lose. As for a team from United, I am hoping it is as strong as possible. There are some injury doubts- Hernandez, Young, Nani and Vidic. I don't imagine that Rooney is in the squad, he was not part of Rio Ferdinand's testimonial and all tbat he has said is being available for England. Love to see the young players who impressed on tour involved, or at least on the bench. Adnan Januzaj deserves a start, really stood out in the testimonial and right throughout the tour. Looks a very classy player indeed, excited about him. Be a great debut in the shield at Wembley, most likely it will be off the bench.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Team Pick- De Gea, Rafael, Vidic, Evans, Evra, Zaha, Carrick, Anderson, Nani, Hernandez, Rvp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kagawa is also an option in behind van Persie or on the left, likewise Welbeck may be a wiser option considering he'll be more match fit than Hernandez. Kagawa was really poor the other night, he has had much less preparation than the other players, so for that think he'd be better off on the bench. I would much prefer seeing Nani or a younger player on the left, but have a feeling that Giggs will start. Nothing against Giggs but he has been there and done it before many times and isn't set to gain too much from it. Team I'd like to see is based on form really and who has looked good in pre-season. New signing Zaha, has pace to burn, still quite raw but he impressed in the games he's played so far. Anderson and Cleverley are the two battling out for spots next to Carrick, Anderson has been the better of the two in matches watched. Andy Mitten commented on the UWS podcast that Moyes likes Anderson. The likeable Brazillian has yet to make his mark after 6 years at the club. Will anything change this season, will Moyes deal with his fitness issues? Much as I'd love to see him do well, won't get hopes up too much. Onto keeper, no point in playing anyone other than De Gea. The defence picks itself with Evra, Rafael and Vidic certainties. Partnering Vidic, preferably Evans as when he doesn't play United miss his distribution from the back. Evans has had some injury issues, so it could be a good chance for Phil Jones in his favoured position.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As for Wigan, there will be no danger of them being fazed by the occasion or being at Wembley, having brilliantly won the FA cup there last season. Their players and manager will be up for it. There is silverware involved, albeit a shield. But for a club like Wigan it is a much bigger deal. You also have the factor of it being Moyes first competitive game. In favour of Wigan and slightly superstitious, United have poor record at the new Wembley and have frequently struggled to score there. New manager Owen Coyle was not a-lot of fans first choice, however many have warmed to him since and been impressed by the deals he made signing players. The fans feel optimistic that their squad has improved and that they'll get back up to the Premier League. They have signed Grant Holt who likes to be physical and scored a-lot of his goals against the better sides last season. Seem to vaguely remember him playing well vs United before. Really like their player Shaun Maloney, more familiar with him due to Scotland and always want him starting for the national team. He is very good for Wigan, often their best player. Could see him being quite a threat with his crossing. <br />
<br />
<br />
Should be a decent game and despite what has been said by some, Wigan deserve to be there even though they are in the Championship. They'll still provide plenty of threat for United.</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-53792066195306455802013-08-10T14:46:00.000-07:002017-06-12T21:57:48.319-07:00More Football Book Reviews<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u></u></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://forzaitalianfootball.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Miracle-of-Castel-di-Sangro1-e1315523811815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://forzaitalianfootball.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Miracle-of-Castel-di-Sangro1-e1315523811815.jpg" /></a></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u></u> </h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>The Miracle Of Castel Di Sangro- Joe McGinniss</u></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a really charming book about football at a lower level, about a team who plays with a deep passion and love for the game. The team Castel di Sangro, is based in a smallish Italian town called L'Aquila in the Abruzzo region of Italy. The team had a meteoric rise to the second division of Italian football- Serie B. The author, McGinnis is most known as a writer of true crime novels and more recently, the biography of Sarah Palin. He is a big sports fan, laterally a football fan. He writes with humour and takes you, the reader on the journey with him. It is clear that he is not a lifelong football fan but it does not have too much of an affect (well apart from perhaps he thinking himself an expert). He travels to Italy and becomes the clubs chief writer. He has fantastic access and in time becomes part of the club and with that part of the local community. He gets to know the players, management and other associates at the club. He encounters and introduces you to some great characters. He also provides a fantastic insight into Italian football and culture of both the game and Italy as a country. A football season is a rollercoaster ride, it is the 1996/97 season which he follows them. There is so much in the book, it seems like it is about more than just one season. <br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
It is a novel about more than football. It is about something good, in a game that is derided. No mistaking there is a-lot wrong with football, from the overpaid stars, to the power hungry and plastic icreasingly commercial side of the game. More than any other football book I have read, it emphasises why we fans love the game so much, often to the point of obsession. There is something so pure and good about this book and Castel's story. The enthusiasm of McGinniss certainly contributes.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecimages.kobobooks.com/Image.ashx?imageID=g82-it2Aq0GTqOhhguvN2g&Type=Full" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecimages.kobobooks.com/Image.ashx?imageID=g82-it2Aq0GTqOhhguvN2g&Type=Full" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>This Is The One- Daniel Taylor</u></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The publication of this seen the Manchester based chief writer of the Guardian's football section banned from Old Trafford by Ferguson. No more press conferences for an extended period for Taylor! The book is not at all damning though and is very fair, it doesn't go out to paint Ferguson in a bad light- certainly not. Taylor later got back into the lair as it had been a bit reactionary to ban him in the first place. As much as it being about Ferguson, found that it was far more informative regarding the media side of football, Ferguson's interactions and Taylor's experiences. It was a great look into the life of a journalist and let you see situations from their perspective. Famously Ferguson has a prickly relationship with the nations press and Manchester United's training ground, is something of a fortress. Few secrets left and it was very private. It had not always been the case that United were so stand offish with the media and that was true of Ferguson too. In his early days the media had more access and he and his players gave more time to them. The Cliff was very different to Carrington also. United also grew as a club and their own in house media setup expanded. <br />
<br />
<br />
I quite enjoy reading Taylor's writing, there are many times I don't agree but largely he is a fair writer. A good one too. I wish there had been more insights than simply Taylor's opinions in the book. It did give you information on the public facing Sir Alex Ferguson, what makes him tick and how he handles pressure. It was a good period to be set in and was written over the course of the 2006/07 season. United were coming out of a bad patch and could not compete against the rich Chelsea managed by Jose Mourinho. His team dominated and broke records. Ferguson was under pressure to get his team back where they belonged, the pressure so strong he even considered leaving altogether. Fans were deeply unhappy with the team, lack of quality and most of all it was the time that the club was bought by the Glazer family. That move sickened the supporters, some even stopped following United as a result. Other problems occurred such as the massive fall out that seen hero and captain Roy Keane depart the club. The book finishes at the end of the the season in which United come back, the glory days returned and they became league champions. The recovery, fight and desire are all crucial aspects of Sir Alex Ferguson and his United, Taylor's book does well to convey this.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thesecretfootballer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/book-banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.thesecretfootballer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/book-banner.png" height="152" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>I Am The Secret Footballer</u></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I never did follow his column in The Guardian and I am sorry that I didn't, particularly now. There are various sites and groups that emerged in the bid to find out who he was, these have picked out clues from his column to decipher this. Found this a very good read. An honest and unapologetic glimpse into the life of a Premier League footballer. Very damning some of the things mentioned and it opened eyes to other areas of the game. Personally, was not so interested in the business side but could see that many people would be. Was really surprised at just how tactical things are. The admission that most things we fans see and think are impromptu, are most likely rehearsed.<br />
<br />
It is a great exclusive and unflinching look at the life of a pro-footballer, a job so many of us dream of. It is not always as glamorous as perceived but it is no secret they are rewarded richly for the job they do. In many instances, aspects of his and fellow players lives sounded empty. The outcome of very young men earning thousands and thousands of pounds and what they do with it, did not make for great reading. There is plenty of humour in the book and some fantastic stories from matches and plenty from the dressing room (as you'd expect). He reveals what it was like to come up against certain teams and players. Interesting, John Terry is unsurprisingly picked out for criticism. <br />
<br />
The issue of mental illness, namely depression is discussed in the final chapter. It is a big issue, a current one and more is needing to be done to support those in the game. Quite brave for the author to be so open about his own experiences. I liked getting an insight into the relationships with teammates and managers, the being part of a team is certainly an appealing aspect. Though, as the book reveals, relations are not always harmonious and players are often at the mercy of the club they play for. Managerial changes, transfers can impact on a players place in the ream and they can be sold against their wishes. Their position not always secure and that uncertainty must be difficult to deal with . Overall, I recommend this book highly to all football fans, it is a very easy to read book and is really short. The author has been approached to publish a second book.<br />
<br />
<br />
I wrote up a post previously, reviewing Glory, Glory By Andy Mitten and the autobiographies of Sir Bobby Charlton and Ally Mccoist plus others - <br />
<br />
<a href="http://attacknplay.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/football-writing-general.html">Further Football Book Reviews</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-56432090410660652772013-08-09T16:00:00.000-07:002017-06-06T06:17:58.828-07:00Football Stadium Foods From Around The World<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love food and cookery. It is a real interest of mine. Football is the most popular and watched sport in the world. Food traditions and culture varies enormously from country to country, climate of course plays a big part too. Around the world there are traditional snack foods eaten at matches. Alcohol is a popular drink, but in some countries such as Argentina's there are bans and others it is not consumed for religious/cultural reasons. In this post I will take a look at the foods served up to matchgoers from England to Africa and beyond. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjor9Cy76f5toj6S-sRpYebbgdIiSFS2aMtCc_99y4GWXZSB0Njrv9qF_l_78CP_LvonqXm8hNnCP4YOt4j39s3jKZh8Yzkoucc-lKLWIgGfEg61jjXpruixEPATq_Bt0o7VRQ162QiBQ/s1600/Pretzel.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjor9Cy76f5toj6S-sRpYebbgdIiSFS2aMtCc_99y4GWXZSB0Njrv9qF_l_78CP_LvonqXm8hNnCP4YOt4j39s3jKZh8Yzkoucc-lKLWIgGfEg61jjXpruixEPATq_Bt0o7VRQ162QiBQ/s320/Pretzel.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>GERMANY</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Famous for their fantastic atmospheres, Germans have it the best when it comes to watching football. Compared to other countries ticket prices are low. I really enjoy watching the Bundesliga and you regularly catch glimpses of fans and their plastic pints of beer! The most popular snack consumed by the fans in Germany is the pretzel. A knotted dough which is soft unlike the pretzel snacks bought in the crisp aisle in the supermarket. The German diet is famed for a fondness for meat. Sausages are a firm favourite, in Germany they are called bratwursts. Curry wursts are sausages that come with a curry flavoured ketchup, they also enjoy them topped with sauerkraut (pickled cabbage). St Pauli an amazing and unique club has a unique way of delivering their curry wursts to their customers:-<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/001/886/923/article-1285850462815-0B69D382000005DC-249142_636x417_display_image.jpg?1328550438" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/001/886/923/article-1285850462815-0B69D382000005DC-249142_636x417_display_image.jpg?1328550438" height="417" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The Germans also enjoy the usual chips and burgers. Beer has already been mentioned. During the winter months a spiced mulled wine drink called Gluwein is drank. It can sometimes be made with apple, it is richly spiced and a highlight in the traditional German markets at Christmas time. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/40534000/jpg/_40534695_scotchpieabove203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/40534000/jpg/_40534695_scotchpieabove203.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>BRITAIN</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Food in Britain and Ireland is famously disgusting. Pies and bovril are the first foods that spring to mind. Bovril is a meaty, beef flavoured drink served warm, sort of like drinking gravy! It is undoubtedly needed, try going to games in Aberdeen in the wintertime! Lovers of stodge, the humble pie is a popular staple sold to match going fans. Bolton fan Tom Dickinson challenged himself to eat his way around the 92 clubs in England in pies in a single season. He did it and recorded his journey in a book. <br />
<br />
<br />
Most clubs throughout the nations have their own club doughnuts. A sweet deep fried treat, often laced with icing. In a turn up for the books Manchester City have just splashed out on hiring celebrity chef Jamie Oliver to cater for their fans. A treat awaits and will certainly be a higher class of food available than standard! Food within football stadiums themselves in such grounds as the Emirates and Wembley is astronomical. Many joke that you need to re-mortgage your house to have a day out at Wembley. Though on the pricey side, the food at the Emirates has had good reviews particularly the massive and loaded chilli dogs that are sold. Most food is bought from the portable food vans that line the streets before games. The usual foods of pies, burgers, kebabs, chips etc all sold. The food truck culture took off in America and it has come over the Atlantic and is getting increasingly popular in Britain. These trucks offer unique and more exotic foods, sometimes even healthier options. You could certainly see food truck owners flocking to stadiums to sell their wares.<br />
<br />
<br />
Many grounds are situated close to fish and chip shops. I lived in Aberdeen for a while and Pittodrie is opposite a fish and chip shop. They make a killing on match days. It is a fantastic stadium and well worth a visit, recommend Aberdeen too- love that place. Ex-Manchester United player Lou Macari opened up a fish and chip shop that is still going to this day. A Scotsman with Italian blood in him, he actually bought it for his family. His original plan had been to bring his Mother down to Manchester to run it, Macari's father had died young. Macari's Chippy is still going, located on Chester Road close to Old Trafford.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c0/Churros_2008_PD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c0/Churros_2008_PD.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>SPAIN</u></strong><br />
<br />
A healthy nation, the treat you most associate with events in the Spain is Churros. Churros are long, thin ridged, sugared doughnuts that are served warm. They are served as they are, with a dusting of cinammon and also with an accompanying pot of chocolate sauce or hot chocolate. It is popular to take food to games. You will commonly see a Bocadillo wrapped up (typically with silver foil) and tucked under the arm of supporters. A bocadilla is basically a sandwich, it is made from cutting a loaf or french stick length ways and is then filled. Famed for their spicy cured meats that will most often be the filling alongside cheese (such as manchego) and vegetables. An etiquette comes with this, it cannot be eaten until half time. The Spanish fans also enjoy eating sunflower seeds (pipas in Spanish). A report revealed that the pet shops in the Trafford area of Manchester sold out of them when Valencia played United- madness! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pitch.com/binary/9c53/1314877328-3935820293_2791a67876_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.pitch.com/binary/9c53/1314877328-3935820293_2791a67876_z.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>UNITED STATES OF AMERICA</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Soccer in America has grown in popularity. Both their national football team and their league, The MLS are improving. The archetypal fast food nation, you could write an essay of the foods available and sold in and around stadiums on match days. Hot dog carts are a famous sight from films and are certainly popular. A variation of this exists and is sold, Corn Dogs. These are not sold in the UK and less well known. They are basically a hot dog sausage on a stick that has a corn coating. They are deep fried. Another popular choice is nachos, these salty snacks go very well with a beer or two.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&docid=H0o4LRlQgFu_bM&tbnid=Gx-OPVKprn9o9M:&ved=0CAUQjBwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fimg1.nairaland.com%2Fattachments%2F86319_suya_jpg86c2dc477c348b0eabc0dd3fbf82cf76&ei=M8EGUvHvLcTZPMjNgPgL&psig=AFQjCNHqBClrzILe8GqmfMHfoOKEq4HTcA&ust=1376260787810865" height="214" width="320" /><br />
<br />
<strong><u>AFRICA</u></strong><br />
<br />
Heavily meat based is the food available to African football fans. Pictured, is meat skewers which are called Suya. The meat is typically flavoured with spices and pepper. Bole is a dish of fried plantain, it is fried and can be served with a palm oil sauce. It is eaten hot or cold. Similar to Caribbean cuisine it is often served with fish. There are regional variations and it is very popular. Cooking over a flame is popular, especially for meat- the technique is called Braai and is akin to a barbecue. Meats are generously marinated and sold to fans straight off the flame, sometimes within a tradition flat bread. There is a drink called Kunu, this is made with millet or another grain and is left to ferment for 2 days before it is filtered. It is milky white, often thickened with cornflour and flavoured with hibiscus. It has origins in the football loving Nigeria. Roobois is an African bush tea, famed for its grassy flavour and reddish appearance. It is widely drunk as a refreshment at games along with hard biscuits for dunking called Ouma rusks. Other snack foods such as peri-peri spiced peanuts and dried apricots are also consumed.<br />
<br />
<br />
Moving onto South Africa, they too enjoy their meat based snacks. Biltong is said to be popular, American, British and Aussies will know it better as jerky. Salted, sometimes spiced dried meat. They seem to have a really taste for salty foods, Wors are also popular. These are small sausages made from either pork or veal and spiced with coriander seeds. The main type is Droewors, which translates as thin sausage.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://image.made-in-china.com/2f0j00hCvanIZrYRgu/Sunflower-Seeds-and-Kernels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://image.made-in-china.com/2f0j00hCvanIZrYRgu/Sunflower-Seeds-and-Kernels.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<strong><u>OTHER NOTABLE MENTIONS...</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
Whilst researching it was so interesting reading about Greece. The most popular snack for their fans during a match is sunflower seeds, how healthy! As mentioned above, they are eaten in Spain too. The Middle East also snacks on them. Sticking with seeds in Turkey a sweet/savoury pastry is made using sesame seeds called Simit, the sweet version is made with honey. It most commonly is circular, like a thin bagel and is said to be influenced by the pretzel and very similar in texture. The Greeks do not drink alcohol widely at games, most prefer to opt for a frappe, which is a coffee based drink.With their famous ice cream reputation, it is no surprise that the iced treat is sold in football grounds in Italy. Unlike the other countries the Mexican fans enjoy sweet treats to snack on most of all. These are, most often in the form of cakes. Tortas, sandwiches served hot or cold with an array of fillings meat, avocado or egg.</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-69523252842431772702013-06-16T10:52:00.000-07:002013-08-10T14:50:44.337-07:00Summer Football- Confederations Cup Matchday 1<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=matjp02ulJUiNM&tbnid=p32aGvVsFerc4M:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffansided.com%2F2013%2F06%2F12%2Fconfederations-cup-2013-tv-schedule-live-stream-info-start-times-and-more%2F&ei=74y7UfuND-K80QWzooDoCw&psig=AFQjCNHbUKleyo_a6loCl_0OiXuDXHtjng&ust=1371332183384187" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="393" id="irc_mi" src="http://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/229/files/2013/06/confed.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="524" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is some summer football, though not a big tournament such as The World Cup or the Euro's it is still welcome all the same. The tournament opened on Saturday, the first match a mouthwatering tie between Brazil and Japan. Hosted in Brazil it is very much a warm up for next years World Cup for both the team and the country. There is no doubt that the Brazil team is packed full of talented youngsters, very much a work in progress but you do get the sense that they have something to make up for with regards to the disappointments and lack of flair and fantastic football you normally associate for the last few years. Many Brazillians admit they've been unhappy with how the team has been managed and how defensive their teams play was in the World Cup three years ago. A new era now and it is certainly exciting, really hope to see the Brazil I remember as a child/young teen again. Some oversights with regards to player selection, Ramires not picked apparently due to attitude but will be a miss having lit up Stamford Bridge and the Premier League last season. Similarly Rafael da Silva is still in the dog house due to the Olympics, he's just enjoyed an outstanding season and can't see how it is justified leaving out such a talented player.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Japan too have a talented squad of players, all of whom will have improved and developed since the World Cup. Many of them are playing in Europe and a good few in top level leagues also. <span dir="auto">Keisuke Honda, is a player that I am particularly eager to see. He lit up the World Cup and has great ability and technique with a dead ball. Very familiar with Shinji Kagawa who had flashes of brilliance for United last season and whom I loved watching play for Dortmund.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Participating Nations</u></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIw99-1sHx7vo0d-pYLADxYCq-11ARtbvWkJsk1fKzryB1s0p891ZCiQNUo_A4Xea_1bkP46NguMQCMyIDzZsaL7eFnhS_p0fVzmMFee6DcHw9MZCwDV39h0xxyLPa6ZCSd41J8LqEhQ/s1600/Conf+Cup+Nations.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIw99-1sHx7vo0d-pYLADxYCq-11ARtbvWkJsk1fKzryB1s0p891ZCiQNUo_A4Xea_1bkP46NguMQCMyIDzZsaL7eFnhS_p0fVzmMFee6DcHw9MZCwDV39h0xxyLPa6ZCSd41J8LqEhQ/s400/Conf+Cup+Nations.png" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Fixtures- <a href="http://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/matches/index.html">http://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/matches/index.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=GvvK604MQVPeTM&tbnid=OG9GPJbqa0-C9M:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.goal.com%2Fen-ca%2Fmatch%2F97889%2Fbrazil-vs-japan%2Freport&ei=Bim9UeeJOYSX0QW8l4CIDQ&psig=AFQjCNHvmJLRDWQa0J3tORXgHZNBAYn0mA&ust=1371437682724417" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="398" id="irc_mi" src="http://u.goal.com/288800/288860hp2.jpg" style="margin-top: 19px;" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3 align="center">
<u><em>Brazil vs Japan</em></u></h3>
<h3 align="center">
<em></em> </h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<em><strong><u>Starting Teams:-</u></strong></em></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><em><strong>Brazil-</strong> </em></span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Cesar; Marcelo, T.Silva, Luiz, Alves; Gustavo, Paulinho, Oscar; Neymar, Fred, Hulk</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em><span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: #f3f3f3;"></span></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em><span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: #f3f3f3;"></span></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em><span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: #f3f3f3;"></span></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: #f3f3f3;"><em><strong>Japan-</strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></em><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Kawashima</span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">; Nagatomo, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Konno</span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">, Yoshida, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Uchida</span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">; </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Hasebe</span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;"> Endo</span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">; </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Kagawa</span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;"> Honda</span><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">, Kiyotake; Okazaki</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brazil couldn't have wished for a better or rather more beautiful start. Neymar opened the scoring after just three minutes with a fantastic effort. Ridiculous strike, taken on the half volley with power right into the top corner. It was so early to concede and a real early blow for Japan. Recently read on a forum that they, though talented the Japanese team have a real problem with confidence and a very poor win record of matches they go behind in.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The stunning 50,000 seater stadium in Brasilia was awash with colour. The cameras picked out a number of flags, banners and colourful fans. The vibrant yellow of the Brazilian kit and flag is so striking and makes you smile. It was not all happiness and light from Brazilian fans they let their discontent show at times! Tensions to a degree as there has been heavy strike action in the city itself and throughout the country. In terms of the football side the Brazilians are often hard to please. Funnily, Luiz after the match commented that the discontented fans were akin to angry parents.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Brazil were relentless in the first half. Oscar really stood out, his pace and clever runs never stopped being a problem for the Japanese defence. I was very impressed by Oscar, looks a real star and it is difficult to believe that he is so young. He pulled out the tricks yesterday and also worked very hard for the team. His perfectly weighted pass to assist Jo was my favourite moment of the game. He played an interesting role in the game, seemed to be everywhere and freed up a-lot of space for forward players Neymar and Hulk. Neymar of course stood out too, first for his goal and also his dribbling and mazy runs- he looks full of confidence at the moment. It was a nice touch for it to be Jo who scored the third goal of the game. It sealed a dominant win, it was great to see how much it meant to him after a fairly lengthy spell away from his national team. Brazil scored early again in the second half, a Paulinho strike on the 48th minute. Around the hour mark Brazil had a little slump and the fans were urging them on. They were holding back a little too much in going forward and not moving the ball as quickly. Japan took a bit of confidence from this and had a period of good play. However they did not create too much, they struggled creating chances all game really- Cesar didn't have many saves to make. Their most positive spell when player Ryoichi Maeda came on. Good on the break, they were a little light weight and it looked like they struggled with Brazils strength, fitness and pressing. Brazil were impressive in terms of their players individual skill but also the sides organisation as a whole. The latter is very much something you associate with Scolari's teams. They had a-lot of possession in deep areas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All in all it was a very good opener and plenty of exciting football on show. The tournament I hope continues in the same way that has it has done in the past with teams out to entertain and not being so rigid/tactical. Doesn't seem to be taken so seriously and the players are able to relax and play without pressure. Remember well, some fantastic games in 2005. Bit disappointed in Japan, Brazil were just so good of course but do hope to see the Japanese team show what they've got. Hopefully Maeda starts next match too. It was good to see Honda manage to play so many minutes having suffered an injury at the end of his club season. Very much look forward to catching Brazil's games, they are a good bet to reach the final. Believe that there is plenty more to come from them and it is seen as the tournament many of their players will come of age. They had some good spells where they moved the ball quickly, but didn't do it often enough. Hopefully they can improve there next game. Very watchable match, plenty of talent on show and some fantastic goals. Today's match between Mexico and Italy promises a great deal and should be good. Mexico, though are in a bit of a rut and really struggling infront of goal. Italy were a joy to watch at the Euro's, more of the same would be welcome.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img height="356" src="http://www.foxsportsasia.com/servlet/file/982541_280_preview.jpg?ITEM_ENT_ID=982541&ITEM_VERSION=1&COLLSPEC_ENT_ID=10&FILE_SERVICE_CONF_ID=280" width="640" /></div>
<div align="center">
<u></u></div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-89955831125290803602013-05-30T10:39:00.000-07:002013-07-08T10:39:21.012-07:002012/13 Football Highlights<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHU1Ul3VCSESJOsMFWGM7qdufNbd2LOT23PkgH8_T_42PlAxlXCY1rFLahgSbBVs-dT8MQKLc-gPzX3SFSLug9VXyM7X0cy0z4nbXpGsSUyHiE-g-A9kJPcP2U5gwX902cCQlVY8-BA/s1600/Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHU1Ul3VCSESJOsMFWGM7qdufNbd2LOT23PkgH8_T_42PlAxlXCY1rFLahgSbBVs-dT8MQKLc-gPzX3SFSLug9VXyM7X0cy0z4nbXpGsSUyHiE-g-A9kJPcP2U5gwX902cCQlVY8-BA/s640/Header.png" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Unlike last season it was a great season for the cups. Was a really enjoyable Champions League, Dortmund in particular contributed to make it so. Bayern for their quality too, quality of players and that they played a part in an entertaining final. Due to the draws it was even a good watch at the usually dull group stages. Celtic and their early heroics were also fantastic. No mean feat what they did vs Barcelona in particular. Though they will likely be in danger of losing players over the summer, hopefully their success will give them confidence and encourage them to make Europe more of a prioity. It has got to be really as with the loss of Rangers in the SPL they do not have much competition. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thefa.com/~/media/Images/TheFAPortal/Pillars/fa-competitions/The%20FA%20Cup/season-2012-13/the-final/wigan-facup-celeb.ashx?w=620&h=349&c=facupgallery&as=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://www.thefa.com/~/media/Images/TheFAPortal/Pillars/fa-competitions/The%20FA%20Cup/season-2012-13/the-final/wigan-facup-celeb.ashx?w=620&h=349&c=facupgallery&as=1" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Similarly, the English domestic cups have been good too, brilliant finals and some very good ties along the way. It was brilliant seeing Wigan and Swansea win their respective finals. A fitting reward for Laudrup whose Swansea side play with style. Wigan winning vs the money rolling City is always going to be the sweetest of victories and they were well worth their win. City players seemed to think they could just turn up. Credit to Wigan, highlight was definately seeing what it meant to their fans. They did so well to stay up in the league so long, they must have used up all of their luck and could not pull of yet another hoodeniesque escape. Their manager Martinez deserves a-lot of credit for encouraging his team to play good football. He is of course in talks with Everton, a good manager it will be interesting to see how he does elsewhere.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-23947758432467984632013-05-29T12:07:00.002-07:002013-06-14T14:17:14.659-07:00It's Carrick You Know!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhniYG_qe5_tPIh3S1hhgFIPr3PMVtq8CX9rzQS_lLifGhsiVLSRyx-sAv2CWlRrfOER_3hzG6Y2fiIsP9aC7aLIXkvheOmi-dfCtoI8WiZwnIKV90-2FuGlSrgU9fzSmPamq4rySYB6Q/s1600/Carrick%252520Gunners%252520out%252520for%252520revenge%252520Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhniYG_qe5_tPIh3S1hhgFIPr3PMVtq8CX9rzQS_lLifGhsiVLSRyx-sAv2CWlRrfOER_3hzG6Y2fiIsP9aC7aLIXkvheOmi-dfCtoI8WiZwnIKV90-2FuGlSrgU9fzSmPamq4rySYB6Q/s640/Carrick%252520Gunners%252520out%252520for%252520revenge%252520Image.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>So just what did someone do with Michael Carrick this season?! Carrick has just enjoyed, what was for me his best season at the club yet. Seems very much that he has taken the mantle and stepped up, his game has gone up a level. It has not only been limited to his play but other aspects too. Very influential and such a vital player for Man United this season. At the beginning of the season, Sir Alex Ferguson said that he was United's most important player.</em></strong> </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
He was excellent in his first season, striking up a wonderful understanding with Paul Scholes. He was influential and an ever present in the fantastic 07/08 season that the team won the European double. He had a bit of a slump and a spell he really seemed to struggle. Quite off his game, it later emerged he had been playing through injury. That night in Rome vs Barcelona is one most United fans will want to forget, it wasn't nice seeing the team you love brushed to one side like that. Can't but respect Barcelona though, what a phenomenal side and Guardiola's revolution was something else. Most admirable, was that their side was built around players they had developed in their youth system. Unlucky timing that their brilliance, coincided with when United had really got it right in Europe. However, looking back to that night in Rome it was only really Fabio that came out of it with some degree of credit and Carrick was particularly picked upon for his performance. A fairly recent interview revealed he played that one with a broken foot. Some fans even blamed him and there was some discontent, reading around murmurs some wanted him sold. Last season he looked like he had got back to his best and was putting in some good performances, but the consistency was still not there and too often the United team crumbled under the pressure teams put them under. It was certainly then, a valid criticism of him that he struggled when teams pressed intensely. He seemed to just shrink in those games and was very easily bullied by strong and physical opposition players. Was it a mentality thing was wondered. It is also important to remember that his ride wasn't always easy as United's defensive injury woe's for two seasons meant he had to fill in at CB at times, hardly ideal. It did look like he had lost his confidence and did wonder if he'd get it back. Not just that, whether he'd be able to get back to the level he was before.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://natterfootball.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/michael_carrick_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://natterfootball.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/michael_carrick_9.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Very under appreciated as a player. Most United fans readily sing his praises and many argue his qualities with friends/other fans until they are blue in the face. There are some detractors amongst the United fans and it is understandable, as he is very different in terms of his style and attitude to midfielders the clubs had previously. Particularly the men of real character- Bryan Robson and Roy Keane, for decades United fans used to seeing players like them and they just don't make them like that anymore! It extends to England too and is pretty crazy with the influence he has had in United's success, the winning of trophies and being an ever present that he has been so often overlooked. His England career has been very disappointing with few appearances. He was a bit mistreated, happens quite often players.situatons being handled badly. It is very much England's loss. Too intent on getting the biggest names in the side, the focus never is to get the best balanced team. It is to the continent that you needed to look to, to get the most positive opinion on him. They appreciate him much more and what his game is. Italians in particular were full of it proclaiming "magnifico Carrick" , particularly in the aftermath of that quite astonishingly brilliant Roma game at Old Trafford. Very glad he has remained at United and wouldn't have wanted him to move but he would have been good in Italy especially as the pace of the game is slower. Spanish player, Xabi Alonso has had a-lot of good things to say having been a regular opponent of United's when the Spaniard was at Liverpool. He even went as far to say that if he was Spanish, Carrick would've had a much better international career. Teammates at United are also full of praise for him. A players player and perhaps hard for some, particularly those who don't watch United often, to appreciate what he does. Very much flown under the radar until this season. He has just been excellent and has deserved the plaudits he's received. United's central midfield is constantly rotated (often with players that aren't even midfielders) and in comparison to other parts of the team is not very strong. Loss of Darren Fletcher was a blow and rally hope that he makes a good recovery- a real favourite of mine Fletcher and have missed watching him so much. United fans have been bemoaning the midfield for a number of seasons now. It is full credit to him that he has performed so well.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i4.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article3311762.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Michael-Carrick-3311762.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://i4.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article3311762.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Michael-Carrick-3311762.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Full of confidence and it is clear to see, some Zidanesque turns in there and he's been much more adventurous with his passing. Was known and seen that he was capable of it but been much more zip in his passes, particularly in the early season when United were moving the ball about quicker. Stats also reveal that he has a high percentage of attacking passes, exploding the accusations that all he does is pass the ball sideways. Noticeably more of a fire about him and he has been stronger in the tackle. His tackling, ability to intercept play and to read the game have always been his biggest strengths. Regarding the tackling and just his whole approach he's been a-lot tougher this season. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://teamwinning.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/carrick-scholes-2008.jpg?w=630" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://teamwinning.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/carrick-scholes-2008.jpg?w=630" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
A player I knew little about as a person. He's always been very professional but seldom read/seen interviews with him. As well as performing on the pitch, it seems that he has really come out of his shell this season. Noticeably much more commanding and vocal on the pitch. Took me a little by surprise seeing him dancing and singing like a madman vs Villa, Swansea and at the parade. He's only gone and joined twitter too! Was a nice touch him captaining Sir Alex last game, a great reward for a fantastic season. Positive recognition in that he was in the Premier League team of the season and received the Manchester United players player of the year award. Delighted for Carrick that he is appreciated properly now. Loving his chant, so catchy! He does too it seems. Has looked like he's loved that extra support from the fans and it may even be the main factor that has boosted his confidence. Took a time in coming, him getting his own one. Goes to show how great it is, that even one of the City players was caught singing it! With Ferguson gone, coaching changes and even some player exits it is going to take some getting used to for players and fans alike. Players like Carrick and Rio Ferdinand are going to be very important to David Moyes in this transition, their experience on and the pitch is of course invaluable. Carrick's professionalism is a a great influence for other players and the younger ones coming through. More of the same next season Michael!</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i2.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1848183.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Manchester-Uniteds-Rio-Ferdinand-right-and-Michael-Carrick-celebrate-1848183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i2.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1848183.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Manchester-Uniteds-Rio-Ferdinand-right-and-Michael-Carrick-celebrate-1848183.jpg" /></a></div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-19221815584394513682013-05-26T19:17:00.000-07:002013-06-14T14:16:34.105-07:00Football Funnies<div style="text-align: justify;">
There have been a whole host of shows with a comedic element relating to football. Whether it be Baddiel and Skinners covering of International Tournaments, impressions from the likes of John Culshaw, Alistair McGowan and Harry & Paul or features such as 2 Good 2 Bad, which used to be on Match of the Day. Would always look forward to Only an Excuse on Hogmanay, this is a long running Scottish sketch/impression show that takes the mick out of important members from Scottish football, the national team and other events in that years football. Also stereotypes and takes the mickey out the fans of the clubs, especially Celtic ones. Kevin Bishop's portrayal of David Beckham in Star Stories was hilarious, hope he does another football themed one in the future. The humorous puppet show, "I'm on Setanta Sport" is due to return to the screens. Check out the following tasters <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppruT-8hnhQ&list=PLF4F35EAFDB19F82C&index=101">Here</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0W6OF1yd7I&list=PLF4F35EAFDB19F82C">Here</a> . Very funny, Mourinho as host and it has a range of player/managers featuring and phoning in. Talksports channel is full of funny videos including masterfully edited interview clips. Not such a fan of theirs but youtube channel has some great vids and it is well worth checking out.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/idOm8b2nbVQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
From Irish radio on the Ian Dempsey Breakfast Show, also a podcast. An impressions feature called Gift Grub I believe does these brilliant skits of players/managers. Only came across on youtube. If you like this one check out their other vids, especially of Mourinho. Impressions of both Keane and Beckham perfect in this as are the words, so clever.</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Icr0dwVmrDA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
A video made by a Barca channel that loves to take the piss out of Madrid. They make a-lot of vids and actors in are made to look and act like exaggerrated versions of the players. Obviously best enjoyed if you understand Spanish but addition of subtitles ensures they are easy enough to follow. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/2MpsIMq3J7w?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
A fan made compiltion of moments on pitch with players, managers and officials alike. Features Sol Campbell's never ending slide tackle which is just brilliant.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/cHr4BJnovFE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
One from talksport, particularly like the bit with Paul Scharner.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/g4GXAmB1w6o?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From Paul Whitehouse and Harry Enfield's sketch show, fully captures the international feel of the Premier League dressing room.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/R-3rAuIcNt0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Another very well fan made compilation featuring moments from the past season.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/UyGOqrDL_Ps/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/UyGOqrDL_Ps&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/UyGOqrDL_Ps&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Darren Farley made something of a name for himself for his fantastic, largely scouse based impressions of players/managers. In this clip he takes a look at what certain famous faces in the game would be doing if they weren't in football, features Rooney and Gerrard amongst others.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Pranks</u></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/JZ9-W_C4o7M/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/JZ9-W_C4o7M&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/JZ9-W_C4o7M&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rio Ferdinand produced a range of windups on his fellow England teammates for the World Cup in 06. A football version of the popular American show Punkd. Surprisingly they still remain uploaded. Players featuring include A.Cole, Rooney, Crouch, G.Neville, Beckham and James. All are worth a look but favourites definitely the Neville one below.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/JdZklhX8zgA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Akin to the above is another off the pitch prank, really did get Coentrao good. Unfortunately not English but still easy to follow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/789j0vRLKWc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Featuring the one Chelsea fans adore, set up fantastically here.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-32054395717957047062013-05-22T08:25:00.000-07:002013-05-29T12:29:41.955-07:00Man Utd 1995/96 Double<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN"><strong><em>A continuation from the previous post, a new season and United do it again the double, double! Fantastic achievement winning it in back to back seasons. The season of 1995/96 was certainly a memorable one, particularly famed for the emergence of a very special group of players.</em></strong></span><span lang="EN"></span></div>
<span lang="EN"><div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWj34fsII5Gbq3p9Brn7H6o3kwub_dKSA5YeIKZx8xjznpceunH0ol7iTNSvkKYDujUpvZAKZ2-tHmvXs5oMh6cdzYegW8IeRIvNbxq0bFMKkCbr66Dfc39-Co5GiRm6_t9V5Q3CcBA/s1600/Adouble.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWj34fsII5Gbq3p9Brn7H6o3kwub_dKSA5YeIKZx8xjznpceunH0ol7iTNSvkKYDujUpvZAKZ2-tHmvXs5oMh6cdzYegW8IeRIvNbxq0bFMKkCbr66Dfc39-Co5GiRm6_t9V5Q3CcBA/s640/Adouble.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br />
There were no major signings for United in the summer of 1995, however there was plenty traffic the other way. In a bold move three key players were moved on. The fans had thought Alex Ferguson had gone mad when they heard the news that Mark Hughes, Andrei Kanchelskis and Paul Ince were leaving the club. The trio were all excellent players and had all been central to United’s success. Paul Ince was a terrific midfielder with excellent passing, tenacity and was an excellent tackler- though he was not famed for scoring many those he did often had the spectacular about them. But concern on Ferguson’s part was growing regarding Ince’s already inflated ego. As well as this he was neglecting his defensive duties on the pitch, his strengths lay there but Ince was determined to too often ignore instruction. Fergie got rid and Ince departed for Inter Milan. A fans favourite in Mark Hughes headed south and joined Chelsea. The Hughes sale was one that Ferguson hadn’t want to go through but it was in the end unavoidable when Hughes refused to agree terms associated with the pension plan on his new contract. As a player Hughes was loved for his approach to the game and a-lot of United fans struggled to imagine the team without him. Speedy winger Andrei Kanchelskis was sold to Everton, change in attitude of the player and some dodgy dealings regarding his representatives being the main reason he was moved on. The success of the youth team at that time was something fans were well aware of, they had seen glimpses of the young players- that class of 92. The time had come for them step up and Ferguson felt that they were ready, he simply couldn’t hold them back any longer.</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_magazine_big_picture/1627937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_magazine_big_picture/1627937.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
It was not a strong start to the season when United succumbed to a 3-1 defeat away to Aston Villa on the opening day of the Premier League season. It was a match that featured Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Phil Neville from the off and David Beckham came on as a sub. Alarm bells already started ringing from day one. There was a-lot of scepticism at the time amongst fans who weren’t feeling very confident with the experience and quality lost and that the club hadn’t in any way replaced them. The media raised suspicion even further. The sensationalism of the media was all too clear when local paper the Manchester Evening News printed a poll before a ball was kicked asking whether Ferguson should be sacked. That, even in this mad day of lack of patience and media pressure was absurd. Attention was very much on Ferguson and he was feeling the heat. The manager had toyed with the idea of bringing in a player to ease fans worries. The player sought though, was not out there and a firm believer in not buying for the sake of it Ferguson persisted with what he had. There was a small gap in the team in the wide right position with Kanchelskis leaving, the season before a good player in Gillespie had been sold to Newcastle as part of the Andy Cole deal. At was a hole that perhaps needed fitting but as previously the right kind of player just wasn’t available. Following the defeat at Villa Park it prompted pundit Alan Hansen to make a comment he now must regret- “you’ll never win anything with kids”</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/dam/assets/111026020309-fergie-9-youth-horizontal-gallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/dam/assets/111026020309-fergie-9-youth-horizontal-gallery.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Ferguson persisted in keeping faith with his younger players and continued playing them. The younger players were reassured by the presence of Schmeichel, Pallister and Bruce who were all seasoned professionals. Eric Cantona wouldn’t taste first team action until October as he was still serving his lengthy ban. It had been a big job on Ferguson’s part to convince Cantona to stay at the club. The Frenchman disillusioned by his situation was sought out in Paris for a one to one with the manager. The restrictions imposed by the ban meant that Cantona could not play matches, to make do the club arranged a number of closed doors friendlies. What Cantona needed was reassurance and an arm around the shoulder, the chat with Ferguson had worked and Cantona gave his word he’d be back. A change in his living conditions had also been arranged by Ferguson who didn’t believe a hotel was the best environment for him to live in. In his second season at the club there was an onus on Andy Cole to score goals with Cantona missing the seasons start and Hughes departure. </div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyHrSXe8Si8N-GPpBuTq9yYoTP12GQ9Gn01y4yuUnZt9Oq1IB1FxOKKmdZd_96XSz89gkRC05OAj_15M9JLaax9zXMc-HeGXG-krAvrEenrdMQFL27_6Me8xG0XrpUYbcFqUvUfzvS8Q/s1600/Paul_Scholes-engla_1909300i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyHrSXe8Si8N-GPpBuTq9yYoTP12GQ9Gn01y4yuUnZt9Oq1IB1FxOKKmdZd_96XSz89gkRC05OAj_15M9JLaax9zXMc-HeGXG-krAvrEenrdMQFL27_6Me8xG0XrpUYbcFqUvUfzvS8Q/s640/Paul_Scholes-engla_1909300i.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br />
<br />
The team recovered very well from that early season defeat. They went on to win their next five matches convincingly with Paul Scholes and David Beckham amongst the goals. Of those five matches the team faced stern tests away to Everton and Blackburn. The team was in an excellent run of form and didn’t lose a match until November. A welcome boost was provided in October for players and fans alike when their collective hero Eric Cantona returned in typical fashion. Cantona’s comeback game was against Liverpool. You couldn’t have planned the occasion any better. The match at Old Trafford finished level at 2-2. Without a Cantona penalty late in the game it was a match United would have lost. But with pure confidence the penalty was slotted home. At a time when United are usually at their strongest and coming into their own they hit a bit of a sticky patch. The team struggled towards the end of November and that followed into December. It culminated in a 4-1 l defeat away to Tottenham. It was a bad loss and the teams form had certainly slipped. It had given title rivals Newcastle a big boost and they were already well ahead. The whole country thought that Newcastle already had the championship all wrapped up, however leagues aren’t won in January as they would all later find out. From that point on following that scare against Tottenham the team found some good form. In the following twelve games they won 10 and drew 2. Half of these matches were won by a single goal. It was a measure of the teams persistence and character to be able to grind out results when they were needed. Cantona’s knack of scoring important goals, coupled with the teams character and Schmeichel’s super human performances in goal combined to continue United’s advance towards the title. The season run in, on reflection must be one of the most exciting of Ferguson’s reign. United had a tough list of fixtures and had done the unthinkable by getting within touching distance of Newcastle- a Newcastle that had been rampant in the early parts of the season. </div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://estb.msn.com/i/5A/6ADC4238D0B84C3125AC23987A092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://estb.msn.com/i/5A/6ADC4238D0B84C3125AC23987A092.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
A war of words ensued when Ferguson commented in a post match interview following a difficult match against Leeds. Ferguson’s infamous mind games were at work as he sought to get under the skin of Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan. Keegan’s team were firm favourites for the title. They had, had at one stage what appeared to be an insurmountable lead at top. With Leeds due to play Newcastle the following week Fergie stirred the pot. He said that he didn’t think teams played as well against others as they do against United. Embarrassingly Keegan appeared on TV eyes bulging in fury. Six days after that now infamous rant, United were crowned Champions of England! With superior goal difference, a draw was all that was needed to seal the title. The job was done on the penultimate day of the Premiership season away to Bryan Robson’s Middlesbrough. United won 3-0. Utter joy for fans to see the team win the league, confidence hadn’t been high going into the season and there was a sense of the unknown. Newcastle United who had led the pack for so much of the season must have felt sick to concede the title, especially since they had a 12 point lead at one stage. </div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br />
<a href="http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01261/giggs96_1261648a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01261/giggs96_1261648a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
United had an exciting FA Cup run where they overcame S<span lang="EN-GB">underland</span><span lang="EN-GB">, </span><span lang="EN-GB">Reading</span><span lang="EN-GB">, </span><span lang="EN-GB">Manchester City</span><span lang="EN-GB">, </span><span lang="EN-GB">Southampton and <span lang="EN-GB">Chelsea</span><span lang="EN-GB">. Having lost last seasons final to Everton the team were all out to make amends’. They then met Liverpool in the final which was billed by many a glamour tie and was one of the most eagerly anticipated FA Cup finals in recent years. The two most famous and successful clubs in the country against one another, club fans and neutrals alike were caught up in the anticipation. United’s first game in the competition was against Sunderland. The match played at Old Trafford on the sixth of January needed to be taken to a replay, the match ended 2-2 with Butt and Scholes getting United’s goals. The replay match was another tight affair and United narrowly progressed Andy Cole and Paul Scholes scoring to make it 4-3 on aggregate in United’s favour. An 89<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> minute strike by Andy Cole sealing it. The next match away to Reading was rather more straightforward. The team put on a sparkling and dominant display and won the match three goals to nil. A little bit of luck came in the fifth round when United beat Manchester City at Old Trafford. City had taken an early lead and it wasn’t until the last half hour that United settled and played their game. First choice centre backs Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister unluckily picked up injuries at the same time. It was thought that United would struggle to progress without the pair. However, the team eased to a 2-0 victory over Southampton. The semi-final stage of the competition seen United play Chelsea. It was yet another match where character had to come to the fore as United were required to come from behind. Chelsea struck first courtesy of Ruud Gullit. Goals in quick succession from Andy Cole and David Beckham ensured that the team got their place in the final. The FA Cup final of 1996 was a dream final. Liverpool had beaten United once that season already and the two sides had played out an exciting draw at Old Trafford. United had in most recent meetings struggled in how best to approach the game. It was clear that a new strategy was needed. Ferguson opted to speak to his keeper, back four and key players in Keane and Cantona about how best to go about containing Liverpool’s threat. It was decided that Keane played an unfamiliar more defensive role, sitting in front of and protecting the back four. Upon the teams arrival at Wembley Liverpool’s confidence was there for all to see. Their players affectionately known as “the spice boys” were decked out in hideous all white suits. They had been the idea of the young players and the more senior figures in the Liverpool team reflected later on their embarrassment. Their appearance was ridiculed by the team and fed their confidence. In the end the match turned out to be disappointing- which is often the case in matches so well anticipated. Sides spent most of their time cancelling the other out and it was pretty scrappy. United through a Cantona volley won the match and lifted the cup. It wasn’t an easy one for him to score with the ball coming at an awkward height. Cantona the seasons captain lifted the trophy in the sides sweet victory at Wembley. </span></span></span></div>
</span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqirSIv4cIzdS5ohUfn0cEeKDkDXaDbyhr5rmGiuu86uax_4YiCwFWyL3z-6U6F7UGqlrEnnSvzeFu0Kbgy9GVlxqxjNdcM7tuhFXR-fKbrJ_RoloDE1TghkJErG8ktBgx6p-0oKq8w/s1600/Team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqirSIv4cIzdS5ohUfn0cEeKDkDXaDbyhr5rmGiuu86uax_4YiCwFWyL3z-6U6F7UGqlrEnnSvzeFu0Kbgy9GVlxqxjNdcM7tuhFXR-fKbrJ_RoloDE1TghkJErG8ktBgx6p-0oKq8w/s640/Team.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<span id="goog_895872671"></span><span id="goog_895872672"></span><br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
It was a great season, United’s second double and a sign that the kids really were alright. It was a glance into an exciting future in which these players would help United win plenty more honours for the next decade and beyond. The 1995/96 team was the youngest squad to win the league. In a season that the time often played exciting free flowing football there were also a number of occasions that the team needed to dig really deep to get a result. The young players had emerged as fully fledged professionals and had shown what a special group of players they were. Their character as well as ability shining through, the former many believe is the main reason as to why this group of players became so successful. It is also worth remembering that the young players in the team were helped by the likes of Cantona, Pallister, Schmeichel, Irwin and Bruce who were very influential. However success in the FA Cup came in sharp contrast to the other cup competitions United participated. They were embarrassingly knocked out of the Uefa Cup by minnows <span lang="EN-GB">Rotor Volgograd, likewise York City in the League Cup. Ferguson blamed United’s poor performance on that god awful grey kit The success of the season made a-lot of people eat their words and symbolised the beginnings of a new era. United famed for their persistence and never say die attitude were justly rewarded and overcame Newcastle who had at one stage a ten point lead. Resilience and determination were particularly apparent during that run of 1-0 wins. Eric Cantona and Peter Schmeichel were the central figures that season. Cantona in his comeback year was as influential as ever, perhaps more so and was rightly named player of the year by the football writers. He also finished the season as United’s top scorer with 19. He captained the team to a memorable double and was the influence that the young players fed off. Peter Schmeichel was at his absolute best, there were countless times that he just didn’t look like he could be beaten. It was Steve Bruce’s last season as a Manchester United player. Injuries and age took their toll on Paul Parker and with the emergence of Gary Neville he moved onto Derby. Fergie commented “real sorrow overtook me with the thought of being parted from such an admirable man and one who had been such a wonderful servant to Manchester United”. </span></div>
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01320/1996_12_682x400_1320472a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01320/1996_12_682x400_1320472a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Key Matches</u></h3>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<u><strong>Newcastle 1-0</strong></u></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
A game well remembered for Schmeichel’s performance above all else. It was a very important victory for United. Played on the 4<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of March it was getting towards the business end of the season. Newcastle at that time were the main contenders for the title, they had a very strong team and had been in great form. Sitting pretty at the top they had a six point lead on United. Leading up to this match at St James Park they had, had a couple of slip ups. United on the other hand were soaring, their confidence boosted in the fixture prior to this one. The week previously the team had hit Bolton for six. </span></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
It was a very nervous time in the matches first half, Newcastle were attacking very strongly- relentless in the first twenty minutes in particular. Going in at half time it seemed unbelievable that the match was level. For a good hour Manchester United were getting battered. Schmeichel though just wouldn’t be beaten. He was very much the man keeping United in the game. This match was him at his very best and it was this form that was crucial in United securing the double. His contribution most telling and valuable this season as there were a number of matches United won by a single goal. A loss of firepower meant that the team did at times struggle to find the back of the net for the duration of the season. United went out in the second half galvanised and played better. A Cantona goal early into the half turned out to be the only and therefore winning goal of the game. This match against Newcastle stole some ground from the Geordies and put Manchester United firmly in the driving seat. It couldn’t be anymore important with regards to the title and was the turning point in a league season whereby Newcastle United looked like they had it in the bag two months previously. </div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<strong><u>Nottingham Forest 5-0</u></strong></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
The run in of the 1995/96 season was very intense and dramatic. The team were feeling confident after beating Leeds United the previous weekend by a single goal. It was a crucial win as far as the title was concerned and it was a very difficult match. The game before Leeds was one that United were beaten 3-1 by Southampton and it was imperative that they avoided anymore slip ups. With the team struggling to score, a high scoring match was very welcome. The match against Forest provided the team with the momentum and confidence to continue in the title race. It also served as a bit of respite in a difficult run of fixtures. Scorers that day were Scholes, Beckham double, Giggs and Cantona. </div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<strong><u>Liverpool 2-2</u></strong><br />
<strong></strong><br /></div>
<strong></strong><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
For many United fans this represented the best game of the season. It was the return of Eric Cantona. After his long ban his comeback match couldn’t have been better timed or anticipated. It was a much quieter Old Trafford than usual, as at that time the stadium was going through some renovations. There were only home fans in attendance due to this building work. Similar to United, Liverpool also had a good hand of youth and their young players were just starting to find their confidence. It was a dream start for United when Nicky Butt opened the scoring in the first ten minutes. This early goal served to galvanise the visitors who played with confidence and were enjoying good possession of the ball. Whenever United got it back they looked very threatening. Liverpool spurned two good chances that served as a warning sign and a need for United to step it up a gear. Robbie Fowler was starting to get into the game a-lot more and was a very difficult player to handle- especially with him growing in confidence. Liverpool had much of the half and the teams went in at the break with the scoreline square at one all. Their goal was partly at the fault of Schmeichel and one he really should have saved.</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
At half time drastic changes were made by Ferguson as he had watched his team struggle to contain them. Beckham came on for Butt and United changed their system to better deal with Liverpool’s threat. United were having problems in defence and were struggling to pick up Fowler. Liverpool continued to play with confidence and it paid off when Robbie Fowler scored their second of the game. It had been coming their goal and despite making some good chances United lacked the cutting edge and were making errors at the back. The team persisted and got amongst the opposition. Liverpool’s passing became less incisive and United took advantage. Three good chances went begging and Andy Cole missed a sitter. Redknapp who had been causing all sorts of problems gave away a penalty. Cometh the hour, cometh the man- Cantona struck the penalty home. It was a good draw and Liverpool had played very well. It provided drama, good entertainment and was a far better spectacle than the FA Cup final between the two sides in May. But must of all this match is remembered for the return of the King.</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<strong><u>Manchester City 3-2</u></strong></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Manchester United’s progress in the FA Cup that season pinned on overcoming closest rivals Manchester City in the competitions fifth round. With nothing quite like derby day the match was played at Old Trafford. Early horror seen City take the lead through Rosler. The match was only brought level when United won a dubious penalty. The ball was slotted how expertly by Cantona. Having gone down early in the match, the team upped their performance level. In the end they were worthy winners even though there was a certain degree of luck with regards to the pen. Lee Sharpe’s goal won the match. It was another great comeback on the books and in a season that fans were kept right on the edge of their seats til the very last minute of season.</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Clips and Highlights</u></h3>
<u><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"></span></span></u><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/HXbO842Dmpk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
</span><span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cantona’s winner in the FA Cup Final</div>
<u><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"></span></span></u><span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/gwa7FCssSdw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
</div>
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Goals From The Season<span style="color: blue;"></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
</span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<u><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"><span lang="EN"></span></span></span></u><br />
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/mWI5iP6pdXc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
0-1 Highlights versus Newcastle, Fergie Mind Games and Keegan Rant!</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<a href="http://www.manchester-united-fans-site.com/manchester-united-results-1995-1996.html"><strong><span lang="EN" style="color: red;">United Stats In Detail </span></strong></a></div>
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWj34fsII5Gbq3p9Brn7H6o3kwub_dKSA5YeIKZx8xjznpceunH0ol7iTNSvkKYDujUpvZAKZ2-tHmvXs5oMh6cdzYegW8IeRIvNbxq0bFMKkCbr66Dfc39-Co5GiRm6_t9V5Q3CcBA/s1600/Adouble.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<br />Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-80862777759600319622013-05-20T15:36:00.000-07:002013-08-10T23:41:27.710-07:00Looking Back- Manchester United Double Winning Season 1993/94<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkPbzccU3L2ftWJQpTzVF0kPuTkxElrzqrsThHXsDq_FdvMWguQ-oWVxt03Fx6Gx21LKl6b7XDRHpFhoJHdMeSwOWmFu65iRXXoKScXz_zjgcnbcK7V96eVWVNsAfdODL9izkVY9eqw/s1600/Line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<span lang="EN"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>(Have had a bit of a clear out of my documents and found a couple of pieces that would fit well on this blog. Following posts will detail and review the double winning seasons of 1994/95 and 1995/96. I have done a fair bit of research/watching old games just hope no one finds it strange me writing about this as it is a period I certainly couldn‘t remember due to age and things like are probably better written by a fan who lived through that time. Feel free also to point out any inaccuracies, there’s bound to be a-few!)</em></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></em> </div>
<span lang="EN"><h2 align="CENTER">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>MAKE MINE A DOUBLE!</u></span></h2>
</span><u><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></u><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><span lang="EN"><h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>DOING IT DOMESTICALLY <span lang="EN-GB">1993/94</span></u></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyviIc5GwPAbH3c20wwCyq53xX7zgeJ3nnvUDWA0LhhonzZ5JNE5YaEqnBNtCh5kF0ec7qta-17ED1mPN1IL_kVqcKCsB_e3esXL9w5qnj49goD67YX2AnobqhCbtqlwKWsPbHtzRVWw/s1600/Double.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyviIc5GwPAbH3c20wwCyq53xX7zgeJ3nnvUDWA0LhhonzZ5JNE5YaEqnBNtCh5kF0ec7qta-17ED1mPN1IL_kVqcKCsB_e3esXL9w5qnj49goD67YX2AnobqhCbtqlwKWsPbHtzRVWw/s400/Double.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span lang="EN-GB"><span lang="EN"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Winning the FA Cup and the Championship in the same season, was up until 1994 something that only three other teams had succeeded in achieving in the 20<sup>th</sup> Century. Tottenham, Arsenal and Liverpool were sides who had won the double, Manchester United became the fourth. United were the first team to win a domestic double to include the Premier League and the first team to do so since Liverpool in 1986. It was, the 1993/94 double winning season a historic achievement as it was the first time it had been done in the clubs history.</span> <br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
</span></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN">United made just one signing that summer and said player broke the club and countries transfer record. A certain Irishman came in to bolster the team and to be the long term replacement for the legendary but ageing Bryan Robson. Roy Keane was the most expensive player in England, he had built up a reputation and had, had an impressive season. He was the player that Ferguson just had to get. Having painfully lost out on another player he greatly admired in Alan Shearer to Blackburn, Fergie wasn’t going to let Keane slip through his fingers. He was signed from the relegated Nottingham Forest for a fee of £3.75 million and what made it better was that he was nabbed from right under Kenny Dalglishes nose. Many clubs/managers were interested in Keane, none more so than Dalglish and Keane in later days recalled the fury of the Scotsman when told he’d no longer be signing for Blackburn. Present day fans consider that he, (aside from Cantona) is the most important signing United’s made and this can certainly be justified in the influence and the service he gave United in his long tenure at the club.
</span></div>
<span lang="EN"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/40857000/jpg/_40857722_august1993emp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/40857000/jpg/_40857722_august1993emp.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
The season started very well when as reigning champions, the team took on Arsenal in the Charity Shield at Wembley. Mark Hughes continued his happy habit of scoring goals at the London location by scoring the opener. Ian Wright brought the match to one all. The game still couldn’t be decided in normal time, so went to penalties. United went on to win the shoot out. Fans were given a first glimpse of the clubs new signing in a United shirt, it seems hard to believe Keane was just twenty one when he signed for United (and he scored his pen too!). Keane didn’t need to wait long to score his first official United goal, it came on the second game of the league season versus Sheffield United. The season was started strongly with five wins and a draw in United’s opening fixtures. In United’s eighth league match an important one nil victory was gained over London rivals Arsenal. The goal separating the sides was a thunderous free kick from the boot of Eric Cantona. United’s form in the league over the course of the season was excellent, the home record was near perfect with the team having suffered just one loss at Old Trafford all season long. In total the team had lost, only four matches. The title was finally sealed on the first of May in a tricky match away versus Ipswich Town. In the league alone the team scored a total of 78 goals and the team enjoyed an unbeaten streak of 22 matches from late September to late February. Over the course of the league season there were certain matches in which the results were essential and these matches played a crucial part in United winning the league for the second season running. On the seventh of November there was a key win against City. Derby wins are important, but this one in particular to aid United’s momentum and to prevent the team from going off course. It was a thrilling match in which United came from 2-0 behind to win the match. It was played at a time when the team desperately needed a boost. At the tail end of the season in mid March, the team gave a rallying call by defiantly beating Sheffield Wednesday 5-0, in which Cantona scored a brace. Vital victories against rival teams in a tricky run in helped a great deal in United’s race to the title. The main results that stick out are a 1-0 victory against Liverpool (ironically now) was won by an Ince goal. A 2-0 victory away to Leeds at Elland road, Ferguson himself regard this as one of the delights of the whole season. Never a good place to go, with the Cantona transfer and his success- the Leeds fans brought an extra vile intensity to the matches. A close encounter with relegation candidates Oldham at the start of April, a game in which Canton was suspended can also be looked at as a crucial win. Finally that all important match that sealed the title on the first of May played away against Ipswich Town.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=hBpxObIpjSzLJM&tbnid=Y0XDVLGq6337xM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbleacherreport.com%2Farticles%2F787498-premier-league-the-best-kits-of-all-time-from-the-current-clubs&ei=GqOaUeKnHeWc0AXtgYHICQ&psig=AFQjCNEI0DleUH8aR1KO0sf3WH6uxqp7Pw&ust=1369175093644350" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="393" id="irc_mi" src="http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/001/148/105/1555312_display_image.jpg?1312257029" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="264" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The season seen the team play attractive football, with a belief, determination and very often a swagger. Their football was flamboyant, free and adventurous and not shackled down by specific tactics- particularly tactics to fit in with more of a continental style of football, It was a side of strong characters who could play hard if needs be. For a-lot of fans it is regarded as the best side Ferguson’s assembled, looking through the names you would be hard pushed to argue. You had big Peter Schmeichel in goal, a solid centre back pairing of Bruce and Pallister, the diminutive ever reliable Irwin, England’s right back Parker, two incredible midfielders in Keane and Ince, pace, trickery, style and directness on the wings supplied by Giggs, Kanchelskis and Sharpe. And upfront, the talismanic creative genius of Cantona and fans favourite Hughes with his powerful shooting, bravery and brilliant volleys. Though aged thirty six and being given a hard time with injury Bryan Robson played his fair share of games and was very influential too. The team just oozed class, quality and want for a better description there were a-lot of “real men” in that team. As said this side had some very strong characters namely- Ince, Cantona, Hughes, Schmeichel, Robson, Bruce and Keane. The team of course. had great spirit and camaraderie but with the strength of the individuals it is not surprising that players admitted to tensions and anger boiling over fairly frequently. In his book Ferguson commented on the challenges keeping the team in check, both a flaw and stregnth they were very bad losers- the other side of pure winners. Ferguson comically described their tempers as “collectively combustible”. Poor discipline was a concerning thing and was something the manager needed to reign them in for, acts of poor discipline were punished more severely by heightened fines etc… Looking back on the bookings handed out, Eric was certainly the worst culprit. Winning mentality came in abundance with these players and you would often see them verbally tearing lumps out of each other on the pitch. Most frequently it was Schmeichel blaring at Pallister and Bruce for anything and everything, fobbing even his own mistakes on them, regularly! Bruce commented how Mark Hughes was a changed man stepping out onto the pitch, placid and quiet off it- he was entirely different during games. Gary Neville describes what these guys were like to play and train with- <br />
</div>
</span><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB">"They were animals, some of them. To be honest, you could say that they weren't nice people to play with at times. They were so demanding, so aggressive. You lived or died by it, but we came through it. They were brutal at times, some of them.”</span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB">Cantona, though fiery his influence came in various ways. He was different to all the others- he had an intrigue, allure and confidence. He was dedicated to the game and his hard work off the pitch was an example that the younger players learnt from. When hearing fans reminisce about this team you always get the sense that there is a great respect for the team but also a sense of romanticism too. Romantic notions stemming as much from how little time this team was kept together and could actually play together for. In it’s absolute entirety (with players in their prime) it only really lasted this season. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_magazine_big_picture/bruceandrobson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_magazine_big_picture/bruceandrobson.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN"><br /></span><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://d.yimg.com/i//ng/sp/eurosport/20100416/25/5fe34c2c0840e737431b53b78b6b8d6d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
</span></span> United’s run in the FA Cup seen them play Sheffield United, Wimbeldon, Nowich City, Charlton Athletic and Oldham Athletic. It was at times a nerve frought campaign but well remembered for some fantastic results and football. One of the early highlights was the 3-0 thrashing United dealt out to the leagues “hard men”, it certainly wasn’t an easy place to go and players of the time reflect on the intensity of both the crowd and opposition- not to mention the teams unique full blooded tactics. That Wimbeldon match seen Irwin score a fantastic team goal which had 27 passes in it’s build up. The Oldham match was taken to a replay after a stalemate at Wembley. Due to the excitement of the league tie versus Oldham there had been a-lot of anticipation and expectation leading up to this match. Unfortunately, it didn’t live up to it’s billing and it took a last minute goal by Hughes to keep United in the running. Hughes goal was a spectacular volley and he had both a knack and reputation for scoring these big and important goals. The replay match at rivals ground Maine Road was won by 4 goals to 1. The goals were scored by Giggs, Irwin, Kanchelskis and Robson. The final pitted United against the only team that had beaten them at Old Trafford all season long in a competitive match. Chelsea, had in the league done the double over United. There was a faint hope for Chelsea but despite their heroics in the league United were very much firm favourites. The final turned out, after a slow start to be a one sided affair seeing United clinch the trophy 4-0 victors on the day. <br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.myfootballfacts.com/7179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://www.myfootballfacts.com/7179.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Key man and the man of the season was Eric Cantona, it was his highest scoring season for the club netting a total of 25. He was the catalyst at the centre of almost everything United did. He was enjoying his football and the fans just couldn’t get enough of him. The enigmatic Frenchman was also named PFA player of the year. Eric’s poor discipline was the only bone of contention in that season with regards to him (certainly not for the first or last time). Think this with regards to his darker side is fitting “nothing so great is ever perfect”, the 1993/94 season Cantona was at the very top of a crest of waves of sheer brilliance. Other attacking players Giggs, Kanchelskis and Sharpe also stole many plaudits for their brilliant form and fantastic displays. Giggs at that time was still not allowed to speak to or rather chose not to speak to the media, it was his most productive season with regards to goals and his success garnered a great deal of overseas attention and admiration. This season was a one of dreams for the 20 year old which seen him feature over 50 times, scoring 17 and assisting 12. Mark Hughes also displayed impressive form and scored a total of 22 goals. Though the attacking players took the plaudit’s a solid and more or less ever present talented back five also played a key part. It was a season of many excellent performers and importantly of team performance too. As much as there were outstanding individuals they all played well as a unit. In the end the League title was claimed and won, 8 points the difference between United and their nearest contenders Blackburn. The team stayed at the top of the league for more or less the whole season. The FA Cup was won on May the fourteenth. Cantona scoring two penalties, Mclair and Hughes also found the back of the net.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/801/961/_42235106_cup94getty_display_image.jpg?1300742230" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="459" src="http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/801/961/_42235106_cup94getty_display_image.jpg?1300742230" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The double that was won, might even have been a domestic treble had United not stumbled to defeat at the hands of Aston Villa in the League Cup final. Schmeichel’s absence through suspension was a definite miss and during the match United were reduced to ten when Kanchelskis was very harshly sent off. It was to be a season of fond farewell as Bryan Robson’s playing days at Old Trafford came to a close. It was a fitting end to a man that had given so much to United. A thirteen year service ended in winning ways and his old number found a good home on the back of Eric Cantona. There were a number of other exits including Les Sealey, Clayton Blackmore, Mike Phelan, Colin McKee, Neil Whitworth and Giuliano Maiorana. Brief signs of things to come were seen with the addition of some of the young players as part of the first team squad, a number of the Class of 92 made their competitive debuts and brief cameos in this season. The season prior to this, the most promising of the United youngsters were offered professional contracts in January. It had been a season of many highs on the pitch, excitement, tension, last gasp wins, comebacks, shock results and the team was playing at a very high standard. But with the departure of such an influential player as Robson there was that inevitable sadness at losing a player that was a hero/shining light to so many and a whole generation of United fans. That season also seen the passing of Sir Matt Busby, his death was felt by all at the club and beyond- such was the influence and brilliance of the man. He had been part of United for fifty years and in that time had done so much for United, built the club and fostered it’s unique spirit and identity that lives on to this day. Busby’s forward thinking for his time brought many developments/improvements to English football in general. Even the players who were new to the club would greet him as they passed his office and many recall the smell of his pipe wafting through the corridors. Sir Matt died on January the 20<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> 1994, two days following this United played Everton at home in the league. A minutes silence was held prior to kick off. The game was won by a goal to nil scored by Ryan Giggs. </span></div>
</span><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</span><a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=7PfVA5FoEOy5cM&tbnid=9PRb9UMfatyHwM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thesun.co.uk%2Fsol%2Fhomepage%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2F4898569%2FMan-Utd-20-league-titles-in-pictures.html&ei=zKKaUemDKMPB0QX94YCADg&psig=AFQjCNEI0DleUH8aR1KO0sf3WH6uxqp7Pw&ust=1369175093644350" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="393" id="irc_mi" src="http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01715/celenew_1715238a.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="679" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Key Matches</u></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u></u><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://d.yimg.com/i//ng/sp/eurosport/20100416/25/5fe34c2c0840e737431b53b78b6b8d6d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" src="http://d.yimg.com/i//ng/sp/eurosport/20100416/25/5fe34c2c0840e737431b53b78b6b8d6d.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="font-size: small;">United entered a derby day battered, bruised and humiliated after a nightmare trip to Turkey to play Galatasary. It was a horrible place to go with the team bus hurled with bricks, disturbances at the team hotel, mad fans and altercations with truncheon bearing heavy handed policemen in the tunnel. Worst of all though, it was United out of Europe so early, knocked out on away goals having blown a two goal lead in the first leg. Eric Cantona was also sent off in the fury of the match. The Turkish players cheating and foul play was unpunished by the referee, who failed to control the game and players. The match against City in November at Maine Road was played just four days after United crashed out of Europe. The City fans were in great form, rubbing United’s faces in it with chants of 'Two-nil up and yeh chuffed it up'. Berties fans wildest dreams were met when Niall Quinn scored putting City two up in the first half. Mercifully their high spirits didn’t last and they “chuffed” it up themselves. A stunning comeback in the second half, that put those noisy neighbours in their place. It was a welcome pick me up to suffering United fans. The winning goal of the match was scored by new recruit Roy Keane.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkPbzccU3L2ftWJQpTzVF0kPuTkxElrzqrsThHXsDq_FdvMWguQ-oWVxt03Fx6Gx21LKl6b7XDRHpFhoJHdMeSwOWmFu65iRXXoKScXz_zjgcnbcK7V96eVWVNsAfdODL9izkVY9eqw/s1600/Line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="76" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkPbzccU3L2ftWJQpTzVF0kPuTkxElrzqrsThHXsDq_FdvMWguQ-oWVxt03Fx6Gx21LKl6b7XDRHpFhoJHdMeSwOWmFu65iRXXoKScXz_zjgcnbcK7V96eVWVNsAfdODL9izkVY9eqw/s320/Line.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="font-size: small;">The 4-1 Demolition of Spurs in January 1993 at Old Trafford was, for many the game of the season. Ferguson lamented that it was like being in a football heaven watching his team able to produce such fine football. All the more admirable for Spurs had one of the best defences in the country at that time. Key moment in the game was a glorious, imaginative return pass by Cantona that set up Denis Irwin impeccably to score the games second. It was so well executed and such a piece of genuis- Cantona himself regards that as his best moment in a United shirt (whilst `kicking a football at least!). Spurs simply couldn’t live with United and were blown away. The victory as enjoyable as it was also cemented United’s place at the very top of the table.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkPbzccU3L2ftWJQpTzVF0kPuTkxElrzqrsThHXsDq_FdvMWguQ-oWVxt03Fx6Gx21LKl6b7XDRHpFhoJHdMeSwOWmFu65iRXXoKScXz_zjgcnbcK7V96eVWVNsAfdODL9izkVY9eqw/s1600/Line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="76" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkPbzccU3L2ftWJQpTzVF0kPuTkxElrzqrsThHXsDq_FdvMWguQ-oWVxt03Fx6Gx21LKl6b7XDRHpFhoJHdMeSwOWmFu65iRXXoKScXz_zjgcnbcK7V96eVWVNsAfdODL9izkVY9eqw/s320/Line.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="font-size: small;">Oldham Athletic 3-2, a thunderclap meeting between the sides, Oldham at that time had the threat of relegation breathing down their neck. United themselves were in a slight sticky patch, they had lost some distance from their second placed rivals in the table, successive draws against Arsenal and Swindon Town cut United’s lead. The matches preceding these draws, seen a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Aston Villa in the final of the League Cup. Atkinson’s side won very comfortably with Welshman Dean Saunders scoring two. The following match in the league seen United beaten by Blackburn, Alan Shearer scoring a brace. With United only leading by goal difference it was essential the team didn‘t drop anymore points. Cantona so influential was missing due to a five match suspension. Dion Dublin was afforded a rare start and it was his comeback season after a horrific broken leg injury. Dublin scored United’s second and the match is well remembered for its pace, excitement and end to end pulsating drama.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkPbzccU3L2ftWJQpTzVF0kPuTkxElrzqrsThHXsDq_FdvMWguQ-oWVxt03Fx6Gx21LKl6b7XDRHpFhoJHdMeSwOWmFu65iRXXoKScXz_zjgcnbcK7V96eVWVNsAfdODL9izkVY9eqw/s1600/Line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="76" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkPbzccU3L2ftWJQpTzVF0kPuTkxElrzqrsThHXsDq_FdvMWguQ-oWVxt03Fx6Gx21LKl6b7XDRHpFhoJHdMeSwOWmFu65iRXXoKScXz_zjgcnbcK7V96eVWVNsAfdODL9izkVY9eqw/s320/Line.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="font-size: small;">The FA Cup Final, once and still for many the most important game of the English league season. When announced, the fourteen man squad for United had one glaring omission, Bryan Robson’s name didn’t feature. It would have been an ideal way in many fans eyes to see Robbo bow out at Wembley, in a final like that. For Ferguson it was one of the toughest decision he had to make in his career not to include Robson. The United team won in confidence as they breezed passed Chelsea in a stunning 4-0 win at Wembley to get their hands on the FA Cup. The team sucker punched them by scoring 3 goals in quick succession- a period less than ten minutes! These goals served to put the game well out of Chelsea’s reach midway through the second half. United had started the game poorly and the team had needed the hairdryer at half time to put things right. Right they did, two penalties converted by Cantona, a goal by Mark Hughes and another by substitute Brian McClair rounded off a very good day and an even better season.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/944/079/manutd9394double_display_image.jpg?1305619167" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/944/079/manutd9394double_display_image.jpg?1305619167" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
<br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
</span><br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>
Clips and Highlights</u><br />
</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/GGFzgpZcI_I/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/GGFzgpZcI_I&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/GGFzgpZcI_I&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<br />
</span>
<span style="font-size: small;">
League season highlights<br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/ksTfR2np_lw/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/ksTfR2np_lw&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/ksTfR2np_lw&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
Team interviewed after winning The FA Cup</span><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span>
</div>
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<u><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"></span></span></u><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/yfVr1OE8ny0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<u><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></span></u><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN">
A scintillating comeback vs. City (match highlights)</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h4>
<span style="color: red;"> </span><a href="http://www.manchester-united-fans-site.com/manchester-united-results-1993-1994.html"><span style="color: red;">Seasons Stats in Detail</span> </a></h4>
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-77561602242873255002013-05-20T14:50:00.001-07:002013-05-26T19:25:44.577-07:00A Match For Each of SAF Seasons<span lang="EN"> </span><br />
<span lang="EN"><div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><strong>FERGIE 26 YEARS</strong></u></span></div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/multimedia/archive/00411/127560512_Ferg_411358b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/multimedia/archive/00411/127560512_Ferg_411358b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<strong><u>A Man For All Seasons & A Memorable Match From Every One Of Them</u></strong></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/67698000/jpg/_67698257_fer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/67698000/jpg/_67698257_fer.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> <i></i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i><div align="CENTER">
<strong>What better way to remember and celebrate all those seasons that Sir Alex Ferguson has managed Manchester United than to focus on a match from each one. I’ve taken a significant or memorable match from each season and described the main events and happenings in it. I hope that it will bring back some fond memories.</strong></div>
</i><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a name='more'></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><div align="CENTER">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: small;">2012/13</span></u></strong></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><strong><br /></strong><div align="CENTER">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: small;">Premier League, Arsenal (H) August 2011</span></u></strong></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Could pick a number of games, in what was his final season as manager. Crowned Champions for the 20th time it was certainly a season of memorable moments, fantastic goals and the influence of a certain Dutchman Robin van Persie. Van Persie had a telling impact but overall it was a real team effort the 2012/13 season and was vital the team responded fittingly. I should really be writing about Sir Alex Ferguson's very last game that came against West Brom, an exciting 5-5 draw. First time that, that has happened in the Premier League. It was a great way to end, entertaining to the last. I missed the game regretfully so instead will look to the one just before vs Swansea. It was Ferguson's last game at Old Trafford and the stadium rose to the occasion. The atmosphere sounded incredible and there were so many banners and flags in the crowd. It was so impressive, the sea of red flags. Such a nice touch too that the Swansea fans got their own too. It looked just fantastic and would be great to see the flags make an appearance again in a European game perhaps. The match itself was a good watch and Swansea contributed to make it so. Paul Scholes impressed in what was also his last game at Old Trafford. Pinging the passes, the team were desperate to tee him up. Fittingly it was a last minute goal and from Rio Ferdinand of all people! Loved his passion upon scoring and it could only be right that the game was won. The last gasp win with a late goal has been a common theme of Sir Alex Ferguson's teams. What a fantastic send off for Sir Alex. The league trophy was presented which made the day all the more special, though it seemed secondary with the main focus being on Ferguson. Great to see he and the players celebrating, particularly him with his grandchildren. Was a really fantastic day and in fact 48 hours as the trophy parade followed on the next day and what magnificent scenes. Ferguson got it just right with his speech, speaking of looking forward, to support the new manager- it was impromptu and unrehearsed. I am a sentimental fool but really liked to see how he interacted with the players and was clear how much they mean to him. As I watched on television, have to say it was very well done and enjoyed how they covered the game. Particularly with Gary Neville, Peter Schmeichel and Dwight Yorke teaming up. Seeing familiar faces with it being Steve Bruce and Bryan Robson carrying it out the trophy. Was a perfect day in so many ways, tinged with sadness but certainly memorable.</span></div>
</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<strong><u>
<br />
</u></strong><strong><u><br />
</u></strong><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<strong><u>2011/12</u></strong></div>
<strong><u>
<br />
</u></strong><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<strong><u>Premier League, Arsenal (H) August 2011</u></strong></div>
<strong><u>
</u></strong><br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
In this, Sir Alex Ferguson’s 25<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> season as manager of Manchester United, this match seen United win 8-2. It was a great game, very open. United were playing very exciting if not slightly risky. With players in great form and sharing a good understanding the team played at such a high pace, creatively and with a-lot of two one two passing. New signing Ashley Young had fitted in well and shared a good understanding with the rest of the team. The average age of the side fielded was just 22. The young players in this early part of the season were very playing some fantastic football. Most impressive were Tom Cleverley, Danny Welbeck, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling. Ashley Young scored two stunning goals. It was a delight to see the team play with so much freedom and in particular see the young players do so well. The football they played was very exciting. It is often that you see score lines like that, though incidentally a decade exactly ago United beat Arsenal 6-1 at Old Trafford- quite a funny coincidence.</span></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
2010/11</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Liverpool (H) September 2010</div>
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br />
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
The 3-2 flattered Liverpool who got two easy goals. One from Darren Fletcher ducking out of the way in the wall (wish players would stop doing that) and the other a penalty. Steven Gerrard scoring twice to bring the match level ran to kiss the camera, thankfully the stupid twat didn’t have much to celebrate in the end! This match came at a time of struggle and off the pitch distractions. The problems with Rooney were coming to the boil and Rooney himself was playing very, very poorly. Dimitar Berbatov had come to the fore and was performing extremely well. In this match he became the first United player in sixty four years to score a hat-trick against Liverpool! Berbatov’s second in the match was just incredible, what technique- he pivoted and his overhead kick sailed in passed Reina. It was a very good match, full of excitement, good football, a great goal and a customary United comeback. </div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
2009/10 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Manchester City (H) September 2009</div>
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div align="CENTER">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
An exciting game for United fan and neutral alike. It was won by an extra time goal by Michael Owen, who came on as a sub. What a way to win a match! The game itself had seen United dominate from the start, they had majority of possession and triple the shots on goal City had. However some poor defending had let City in easily and had resulted in them scoring three. United bettered that scoring four. The goals were two headers from Fletcher, Owens of course and Rooney’s quick goal in matches first two minutes. The match itself was very exciting and it was very satisfying getting the victory like that. It became clear that the tension between the two sides had increased tenfold over the summer and there is no sign of that ever abating.</div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
<br />
</div>
<div align="CENTER">
2008/09</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Chelsea (H) January 2009</div>
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div align="CENTER">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
The 3-0 win against Chelsea on the 11<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of January was a great one. The matches between the two sides has a recent history of being a very close affair, so to get such a clear victory was a great feeling. Especially as at this time the time weren’t in the best form. Though there is only a rivalry with regards to them being in competition for the league, I personally enjoy victories over them very much! Vidic header in the first half and a tap in for Rooney put United two goals to the good. Berbatov with a great finish rounded off a great night with three minutes to go. He on instruction from Vidic found some space in the box to stroke the ball passed Cech from a Ronaldo free kick. Remember on the night the defence performing excellently, Chelsea didn’t get a sniff. Jonny Evans had come into replace an injured Rio Ferdinand and had done a magnificent job up against Drogba. On the night Berbatov also played very well, scoring one and assisted another.</span></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER">
2007/08 Season</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Champions League Final vs. Chelsea May 2008</div>
</u><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You couldn’t pick a game but that Champions League final, pitted against Chelsea and held in the stunning Russian capital Moscow. United had secured the league title and it was the fiftieth anniversary of the Munich air disaster. The heavens opened and it was then that Sir Alex Ferguson knew the team was going to triumph. In the match, United completely dominate Chelsea for a good hour, they came more into the match in the last half hour. The team, in the first half in particular missed some golden chances. The game went to penalties, United didn’t have a good record of winning shoot-outs. Horror struck as the seasons hero and match goal scorer Ronaldo missed his penalty. All of United’s other penalties were scored and it looked like it might be Chelsea’s night. Terry stepped up and slipped putting it wide. Edwin van der Sar became the hero when he saved from Anelka meaning that the trophy was heading back to Manchester. What a night, what a season and it was well deserved- United were the best team in Europe and had, as usual done it their way- keeping us hanging to the very last second. </div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
2006/07 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Champions League Quarter Finals Roma (H) April 2007</div>
</u></b><u></u><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
It was April 2007 and the second leg match versus <span lang="EN-GB">Luciano Spalletti’s resurgent and exciting Roma side. United had managed to secure an away goal in Rome, a match that Paul Scholes was sent off very early. United this evening were absolutely incredible, Roma just couldn’t deal with the pace of the team and were put to the sword. Every single one of the seven goals scored was well worked or spectacular. Ryan Giggs was one of the standout performers on the night, assisting four out of the seven but it was one of those rare nights that not even one player played poorly. It was incredible to see the team perform to such a high standard considering the difficulties in the seasons before when the team was rebuilding. This match announced that United were indeed back and back with a vengeance. </span><br />
<b><u><span lang="EN"></span></u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<b><u>
</u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
2005/06 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Carling Cup Wigan Millennium Stadium May 2005</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</u><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
United had, had a very good run in the League Cup and earned a place in the final by beating Blackburn. It had been a fallow period to an extent and it was a long spell for Sir Alex Ferguson to go without winning the league title. The team was rebuilding and couldn’t match the competition from London with Chelsea so dominant in the league. Though, this season had shown that the team had made a-lot of progress and were on their way back. The Carling Cup final was played in Cardiff on the 25<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of February and turned out to be a straightforward win for United. The final was against Wigan and United really punished them that day, this is very much reflected in the 4-0 score line. A goal from Louis Saha, one from Ronaldo and a double from Rooney secured the Cup. It was a great day and to see United return to winning ways. For young players in Rooney, Fletcher and Ronaldo it certainly whetted their appetites for more success and the same can be said for new arrivals that season in Park, Van der Sar, Vidic and Evra. It was very well celebrated and the players for the trophy presentation all wore t-shirts “For Smudge”- a nice thought for Alan Smith who broke his leg against Liverpool earlier in the season.</span>
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
2004/05 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Arsenal (A) February 2005</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</u><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the 19<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of February United travelled down to Highbury to play Arsenal in the league. This match is one of my personal favourites and was played at the height of the two clubs rivalry. This, was a thunderclap meeting between the sides and it was all too clear that neither side cared much for the other. It is something that is missed now, the competitive edge of these matches made them something extra special. Tensions were already high, when before a ball was kick there was a disturbance in the tunnel. In the match itself these tensions over spilled and there were a-lot of poor challenges. The game itself was played at such a high pace and tempo and was end to end. Two of United’s goals in what turned out to be a 4-2 win were scored on the counter. The match was rounded off with a great moment in O’Shea chipping Almunia, his celebration and expression on his face were hilarious. Such an electrifying game and one that seen United comeback twice.</span>
<b><u></u></b></div>
<br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
<br />
</div>
<div align="CENTER">
2003/04 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Arsenal (A) February 2005</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</u><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The final was held at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. It was a final in which United faced Millwall. It had been an incredible achievement on their part to get to the final and they were the first team in twelve years to get to a final from their position and league played in. It was the clubs first ever appearance in a Cup Final. That was in stark contrast to United, the 3-0 win here won United a record 11<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> FA Cup. Leading up to the final United had to beat Aston Villa, Northampton, Manchester City, Fulham and then Arsenal in the semi-final. Paul Scholes missed two chances early on and United’s first goal by Ronaldo came a minute before the first half. It was, for United an easier final than they could possibly have hoped for- Millwall were also disadvantaged due to missing their key men through injuries and suspensions. United won 3-0, the other goals came from Ruud van Nistelrooy- one was a penalty and the other a typical van Nistelrooy goal. There was a bit of controversy with the third goal as it was definitely offside but not called in the match. No one could doubt though that United were the better team and fully deserved to win the Cup.</span>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u>
</u></b></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
2002/2003 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Champions League Quarter Finals Real Madrid 2003</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</u><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A great game when it comes down to it but it is not one of fond memories as it seen United out of Europe. Real Madrid were one of the best team in the world at that time with names such as Zidane, Ronaldo, Carlos, Casillas and Figo. It was a great night for Ronaldo at Old Trafford, he had been a forty five million euro acquisition by Madrid in the summer. He left the pitch to a standing ovation. United’s first goal of the game was scored by Ruud van Nistelrooy through the hard work of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Beckham came off the bench to score twice. In the final minutes of the match United looked like they may go through, they needed one more goal and Real Madrid had given away a free-kick at the edge of the box. Sadly for United that goal didn’t come. It is probably a match that I can appreciate more now as time has passed, as at the time it was disappointing to be knocked out. Having seen it again more recently it was a really excellent game of football and United performed very well on the night and pushed them hard.
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER">
2001/02 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Tottenham (A) September 2001</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</u><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The old and overly used cliché of “a game of two halves” couldn’t be any truer regarding this fixture. It is a match regarded as one of the finest comebacks in the Premier League era. At half time, United found themselves three down. The defence had performed poorly and though United had seen a-lot of the ball there was no cutting edge to their play at all. It looked after this half that United’s then poor record at the Lane was about to continue. The team hadn’t won there in four years. Changes at half time in bringing Solskjaer on changed the match greatly, his intelligence breathed new life into the side. A bit of pace was added in bring Silvestre on. Within a minute of the restart United struck through Andy Cole. The team went on to score four goals in a fifteen minute period and that completely destroyed Spurs. The match finished 5-3 to United, a really great game and Veron’s best in a United shirt.
<b><u><span lang="EN"></span></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
2000/01 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Arsenal (H) February 2001</div>
</u></b><u></u><span lang="EN-GB">
</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The rivalry between the sides was at it’s height at this time, it was Arsenal that were the main rivals for the league title. On the 25<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of February nobody could have predicted the dominance of United in this match. Five goals in the first half showed United’s superiority on the day and this was a good Arsenal side. Dwight Yorke who hadn’t played too much up until then having fallen down the hierarchy secured a hat-trick after 22 minutes. Solskjaer capped the day off with the sixth goal, a very good day at the office that seen United climb sixteen points clear at the top of the table. It is fair to say that United were really flying at this time but the match is well remembered for the first half performance. Team played very well and were so clinical, completely blew Arsenal away with a real glut of goals. Arsenal were just completely dismantled. Up until then United had, had a bit of a goal drought having scored only four in their last six- that certainly came to an end that day. <br />
</span></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
1999/00 Season<br />
<br />
</div>
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Newcastle (H) August 1999</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</u></b><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
United had a very good start to the league season and certainly hadn’t been eased in gently with some tough fixtures including playing away against Arsenal and Leeds. There were no signs of a hangover from the unprecedented success United had experienced the season before. It was a match that Andy Cole showed just how lethal in front of goal he was. The match was won 5-1 and of those five goals Cole scored four and the other came from Ryan Giggs. Newcastle couldn’t cope with wave upon wave of United attacks and the team was relentless and hungry in their pursuit for goals. United played some excellent football that delighted the fans, the fans spirits were still soaring from the events of the treble year and that could be heard in the atmosphere in the ground. </div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
<br />
</div>
<div align="CENTER">
1998/99 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Champions League Final Bayern Munich (Nou Camp) May 1999</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</u><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
For quality of football it is probably the tie against Juventus that got United to the final that should be written about. The match against Juventus had everything and epitomised all that Sir Alex Ferguson is about. The final in 1999 was held at the Nou Camp, the match started with the team coming out to <span lang="EN-GB">Montserrat Caballé singing “Barcelona”. The team seemed nervous and didn’t perform to the heights they had throughout the season. Those nerves were understandable, it was United’s first final since the 1950’s and meant so, so much. With Scholes and Keane suspended, it was a big blow to be without those players. Peter Schmeichel captained the side on the night, it was to be his last match for the club. The two substitutes brought on for Cole and Yorke were to have impacts they could only dream of. Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer scored two goals that one the game, these were scored two minutes apart in injury time. United had looked all but out of it and to win a football match in that fashion, well that feeling can never be replicated. It was just unbelievable and much like the season, there was something very special about this team and their spirit. It secured a historic treble for the season. It was Sir Alex Ferguson’s first European cup and it was won on what would have been Sir Matt Busby’s 90<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> birthday. </span></span><br />
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<b><u>
</u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1997/98 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Champions League Juventus October 1997</div>
<div align="CENTER">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</u><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A year after being soundly beaten by Juventus home and away, United were bristling with intent when the European masters returned to Old Trafford in October 1997. Juventus took an early lead after a mere thirteen seconds through Alessandro del Piero. Juventus sat back and that was a great invitation to United so early on. United attacking well had Juventus on the ropes. Teddy Sheringham scored on the thirty eighth minute. United kept up the pace in the second half and Juventus went down to ten men when Deschamps was sent off. Paul Scholes added another. A lovely solo goal from Giggs was United‘s third. There was still time, however for Zidane to score in injury time. No one could have imagined such a performance against such a team, this Juventus side was one of the best around. Not just that but the match itself was very entertaining and a real Champions League classic. Zinedine Zidane later commented in all the time that he played football the sides he came up against that he was most impressed by were the Manchester United ones. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u></u></b><br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1996/97 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Champions League Porto (H) March 1997</div>
</u></b><u></u><span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
It was a night where the atmosphere at Old Trafford was thunderous. With the absence of Roy Keane due to injury it had forced Ferguson to make some changes to the team and a change of formation too. The team that evening lined up 4312 with Eric Cantona in behind Solskjaer and Cole. United took an early lead through David May. Going in at half time, United were in the ascendery with Eric Cantona adding another. On the hour mark Ryan Giggs scored an absolutely stunning goal, he himself had come under a great deal of criticism and this game against Porto was his best performance in some time. The goal came from a lovely bit of play initiated by a fantastic Cantona pass and interplay between Cole and Giggs. It was a great finish too with him sliding it under their keeper Hilario. United added one more goal by Andy Cole, this 4-0 victory took them to the semi-finals of the European Cup. That evening the team had dismantled, what was a very good Porto side. It was also clear that big strides had been made and that United were now ready to take on the very best that Europe had to offer and in the process replicate their domestic success on a different stage.. </div>
<b><u><span lang="EN"></span></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1995/96 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Liverpool (H) October 1995</div>
</u></b><u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</u><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br />
</span></div>
For many United fans this represented the best game of the season. It was the return of Eric Cantona. After his long ban his comeback match couldn’t have been better timed or anticipated. It was a dream start for United when Nicky Butt opened the scoring in the first ten minutes- courtesy of a lovely bit of interplay with monsieur Cantona. This early goal served only to galvanise the visitors who played with confidence and were enjoying good possession of the ball. Liverpool were having a-lot of joy and the team was struggling to deal with Robbie Fowler. A goal for them was certainly coming and it did. In the second half they struck again in what looked like their winning goal. For a good period of the match they had been the better team, United just didn’t have the cutting edge. The team persisted and got amongst them. Liverpool’s passing became less incisive and United took advantage. Three good chances went begging and Andy Cole missed a sitter. Redknapp who had been causing all sorts of problems gave away a penalty. Cometh the hour, cometh the man- Cantona struck the penalty home. It was a good draw and Liverpool had played very well. It provided drama, good entertainment and was a far better spectacle than the FA Cup final between the two sides in May. But must of all this match is remembered for the return of the King.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br />
<b><u><span lang="EN">1994/95 Season</span></u></b></div>
<b><u>
</u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
Premier League Ipswich Town (H) March 1995</div>
</u></b><u></u><span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br />
</div>
On the 5<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of March 1995, United played Ipswich Town at Old Trafford a team that was at the very bottom of the Premier League table. This Ipswich side had actually produced a shock result in beating United 3-2 at Portman Road in the first half of the season. Pay back may have it of been but that day United went on to win 9-0! This result is still a Premier League record. Andy Cole had an excellent game and scored five out of the nine. The other goals were scored by Roy Keane, who was actually filling in at right back due to injuries. A Hughes double and one from Paul Ince. It was an incredible result and certainly one to boast about, it had been 103 years since United had won by such a gargantuan margin.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</span><b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1993/94 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
Premier League Tottenham (H) January 1994</div>
</u></b><u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</u><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br />
</span></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
The 4-1 Demolition of Spurs in January 1994 at Old Trafford was for many the game of the season. Ferguson lamented that it was like being in football heaven watching his team able to produce such fine football. All the more admirable for Spurs had one of the best defences in the country at that time. Key moment in the game was a glorious, imaginative return pass by Cantona that set up Denis Irwin impeccably to score the games second. It was so well executed and such a piece of genius- Cantona himself regards that as his best moment in a United shirt ( whilst kicking a football at least!). Spurs simply couldn’t live with United and were blown away. The victory as enjoyable as it was also cemented United’s place at the very top of the table.</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div align="CENTER">
<b><u><span lang="EN">1992/93 Season</span></u></b></div>
<b><u>
</u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
Premier League Sheffield Wednesday (H) April 1993</div>
</u></b><u></u><span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<br />
After coming painfully close the season before, there were going to be no chances taken. It was the 10<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of April 1993 and the season was it’s climax or what Sir Alex Ferguson refers to as squeaky bum time! The battle with Aston Villa and Norwich for the league title was fierce. The result the week before had put United firmly in the driving seat but it was essential that they beat Wednesday in order not to lose some of the ground they had gained. The tension was apparent, the fans and payers well aware of how important this game was. Wednesday took an early lead one which they kept for the majority of the match. Steve Bruce brought the match back level. Deep into injury time and he did it again, another header from Bruce gave United the victory! The commentator for the match is remembered for shouting “BRUCE” in delight. It was effectively the game that sealed the title. It brought back the title to Manchester United after a very long wait and under the auspices of the newly introduced Premier League. Winning his first title for Manchester United had been the aim and United were very much back and in the big time.<br />
<br />
<br />
</span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER">
<b><u><span lang="EN">1991/92 Season</span></u></b></div>
<b><u>
</u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
Rumbelows Cup Leeds (A) January 1992</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</u></b><u></u><span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
United travelled to Elland Road to play arch rivals Leeds United in the fifth round of the League Cup, which at that time was sponsored by Rumbelows. That season, in the league the teams were forced to share the spoils in both fixtures. The rivalry was intense, the players knew it too some relished that atmosphere and others dreaded it. It was played on a chilly night on the 8<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of January. The goals in the game were scored by Blackmore, Giggs and Kanchelski’s. The pace that United had on the wings had completely devasted Leeds and United were very much worth the 3-1 scoreline that they beat them with on the night. It was a brilliant victory against Leeds United and at the end of the season Manchester United won the tournament in the final against Nottingham Forrest. </span></div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<b><u><span lang="EN"></span></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1990/91 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
European Cup Winners Cup Barcelona (Rotterdam) May 1991</div>
</u></b><u></u><span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
The match was played at Dutch side Feijenoords home ground on the 15<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>th</sup> of May 1991. Sir Alex Ferguson had already won a Cup Winners Cup with Aberdeen, a great achievement. It was a welcome return to Europe, following the Heysel disaster English clubs had been banned and this match came the season that the English clubs were reintroduced onto the European scene. United had come through all rounds unbeaten. This Barcelona were resurgent and had just won the La Liga title as well as plaudits for their football. They had such players as Koeman and Laudrup and were managed by Cruyff. In all white kit’s the team came out to an absolute cauldron of noise. The first half was goalless. Early in the second half United went ahead. Barcelona had given away a free kick, Robson swung the ball into a good area and Bruce knocked it down for Hughes. Mark Hughes scored United’s second of the game from a very tight angle. Barcelona added one of their own through Koeman and came close having a shot cleared off the line. United held out and this victory secured the cup. It was a night that for many is the ultimate European away game, those who attended remember not just the football but the atmosphere in Rotterdam.<br />
<br />
</span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<b><u><span lang="EN"></span></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1989/90 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
FA Cup Crystal Palace (Wembley) May 1990</div>
</u></b><u></u><span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<br />
Touted/regarded as the match that saved Sir Alex Ferguson’s career. It also brought him his first bit of silverware. After finishing 3-3 after extra time the match had to go to a replay, penalty shoot-out hadn’t been introduced. So, round two and five days after that 3-3. United had taken a-lot of fans to Wembley and there was a great atmosphere in the stadium. Les Sealey replaced Jim Leighton in goal and had a very good game. His saves crucial as it was a single goal that won the game and the Cup for United. Lee Martin was the saviour, the left back not known for his scoring had done it! It was Sir Alex Ferguson’s first trophy as Manchester United manager and a very important one too. He had come under a-lot of scrutiny and was certainly feeling the pressure. This win gave the team the belief and winning feeling, it in itself was a very important hurdle to overcome.<br />
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
</div>
<b><u><span lang="EN"></span></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1988/89 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
First Division Liverpool (H) January 1989</div>
</u></b><u></u><span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br />
A thrilling encounter and certainly the highlight of this season. Even to this day it is logged as a classic encounter between the two sides, sides that have a very long history and historic rivalry. It was a match remembered for Russell Beardsmore scoring. No victory is sweeter than one over Liverpool, even still to this day but it meant just so much then when Liverpool were dominating English football and it didn’t look like that domination would ever end. In this match United ran out 3-1 winners. Mark Hughes and Brian McClair scoring the other two both of which were created by Beardsmore.</div>
<b><u><span lang="EN"></span></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1987/88 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
First Division Liverpool (A) April 1988</div>
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<span lang="EN-GB"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Another comeback for the books, this time against Liverpool who were crowned Champions in May and by a margin of 9 points. This was Ferguson’s first full season at United. United were clearly making headway as they finished this season second, which considering their lowly place the season prior was quite an achievement. Highly significant was the arrival of Steve Bruce who became a rock at the back and real fans favourite. Liverpool were still the premier force in English football and Alex Ferguson (he was just plain Alex in those long ago days) made changing that his top priority. Bryan Robson gave United the lead at Anfield, but Liverpool came back with three goals either side of the break courtesy of Peter Beardsley, Gary Gillespie and Steve McMahon. Commentator John Motson screamed words to the effect that it was a magnificent performance 'even by Liverpool standards'. Robson, who was time and again United's saviour in those days, scored again to give United hope. That hope was short lived or at least looked like it would be when United were reduced to ten with Colin Gibson sent off. But then Gordon Strachan burst through to cooly score an equaliser for United and celebrated it in unique fashion in front of the Kop. It was a truly incredible result, to get a draw there, with ten men and against such an excellent side was a great achievement. Many believed that the Liverpool side of this season was one of the best and if not for the ban in Europe would have been favourites to win another European Cup. The heroic Bryan Robson was at the epicentre of this game.</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
1986/87 Season</div>
<br />
<div align="CENTER">
First Division Queens Park Rangers (H) November 1986</div>
</u><div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
</b><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<span lang="EN-GB"></span><br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Sir Alex Ferguson took over the reigns in November 1986 taking over from Ron Atkinson. A home match against Queens Park Rangers was, the very first of many Manchester United victories with Ferguson at the helm. The only goal of the game was scored by Dane John Sivebæk. Significant as it was his first victory, it was going to take time before he could mould Manchester United into the force it would become throughout the 90’s and beyond.</div>
<br />
<br />
<b><u><span lang="EN"></span></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u></u></b><br />
<b><u><div align="CENTER">
</div>
</u></b><u></u><br />Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-50709274316536357962013-05-08T18:14:00.000-07:002013-09-24T09:37:10.454-07:00Manchester United- Mad Day, Sad Day and End of a Golden Era<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4qnW1kJoZEHwBmbzSGy1cV81GPM24T0XOw2iJI4cgE7KbJWfAxU14obolfPu4-iRZh1_cOOH44LmzDkJeUAu1M78Xs8OJAmRAkXyl2PXEiktxXDM6ri2AFpC8v7fN3GqqF5hG5718A/s1600/Fergie+header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4qnW1kJoZEHwBmbzSGy1cV81GPM24T0XOw2iJI4cgE7KbJWfAxU14obolfPu4-iRZh1_cOOH44LmzDkJeUAu1M78Xs8OJAmRAkXyl2PXEiktxXDM6ri2AFpC8v7fN3GqqF5hG5718A/s640/Fergie+header.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Simply the maddest day of football regarding the media, it has been crazy. Manchester United fans have been in total meltdown and grief in equal measure. The announcement that Sir Alex Ferguson has stepped down as Manchester United manager came as a big shock. Especially with how he had recently been speaking and that he was so excited about this young team and wanted to see them progress. My reaction to hearing the news was nooo! Still can’t believe it. He is just a magnificent manager and has provided so many great memories over the years. There aren’t many teams who’ve done things and won things as excitingly as Manchester United has. <br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU74EOgKhLGjrrgnOgMk_jvbzIjambtKAB6cAVBqQvZZpdNMCQS6hGLvQq0mBgDDIkG6f3LKqNoecV3W5nGwVQRltFgBmb0UjqaSGATMd2SFEklOdpzohz5J0v_MELOr9eZs7hzZ1HkA/s1600/fergie_1724312a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU74EOgKhLGjrrgnOgMk_jvbzIjambtKAB6cAVBqQvZZpdNMCQS6hGLvQq0mBgDDIkG6f3LKqNoecV3W5nGwVQRltFgBmb0UjqaSGATMd2SFEklOdpzohz5J0v_MELOr9eZs7hzZ1HkA/s320/fergie_1724312a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Growing up it was always Manchester United, they were the top dogs and top club- hated oh yes but they had a lasting success and identity made possible by Ferguson. Traditions central to the club which were first started by the pioneering Sir Matt Busby were brought to life again. The lists of honours Sir Alex and his teams have won are well known. However, it is the belief in youth, particularly that special 92 group who have been so central to the success of United. Special players that were as much the club as you could ever hope. A dream scenario. It is that, which I will remember and cherish most as part of his legacy and is a big reason why I have so much love for that team down south that is Manchester United. It is Sir Alex himself (Scottish connection influential also) that got me into Manchester United. Have always watched and enjoyed football, seeing a-lot of United at a young age. It just clicked and though not a true fan/one in the traditional sense- have not been able to not to follow them closely. Their football drew me in too, playing with flair, panache, width and that famous never say die attitude stemming from the great man himself. The club is all encompassing and is certainly true that there is not a more romantic club in world football than them.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyHrSXe8Si8N-GPpBuTq9yYoTP12GQ9Gn01y4yuUnZt9Oq1IB1FxOKKmdZd_96XSz89gkRC05OAj_15M9JLaax9zXMc-HeGXG-krAvrEenrdMQFL27_6Me8xG0XrpUYbcFqUvUfzvS8Q/s320/Paul_Scholes-engla_1909300i.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Taking up a directors role, hopefully the great man can enjoy some of the lighter sides of life away from the stresses and pressures of football management. What a man and what a career. It is going to be some job for David Moyes, who on the same day has been named the new manager. It is a little surprising that it was announced so soon. I really like him as a manager, though it is not the most ambitious of appointments it is one that guarantees security. The reaction of a-lot of fans has been pretty negative and can understand it. My concern, is his lack of experience in competing in Europe and managing a team that competes on four fronts. Unquestionably, Manchester United have nothing to prove domestically. Their record breaking 20<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> title won this season is incredible. It is to Europe you need to look and is where even Ferguson admits himself, that things should be better for a club the size of Manchester United. Of course domestically it is not to be overlooked, league is so important (why god damn is the FA Cup so elusive!). It is also true with regards to the Champions League being a knock-out competition, anything can happen in cup football. Over the years seen United have their own share of bad luck. That Turkish refs decision this season was a shocker. You can’t control or plan too much with regards to Europe but would like it to be focused upon. For the group of players the club has at present, particularly the young it is the next step. It is also the best measure that they will truly prove themselves and make their mark. Competition from other sides in Spain and Germany is very strong, other clubs too are improving. It is the German side of Bayern Munich that look ridiculously strong, formidable and quite capable of being the new dominant force. Present quality, how they are ran, financial power and appointment of a certain Guardiola make for a heady mix.</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/05/07/article-2320692-19A90BC3000005DC-643_634x482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/05/07/article-2320692-19A90BC3000005DC-643_634x482.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Back to Moyes, reassured that Ferguson had a hand in the decision and also that he will be available to advice. Stability is important for Manchester United with Ferguson leaving after such a long, long time at the club- longer than I have been alive. Quite nervous of the future of course, the unknown. Fergie is Mr Manchester United and it will be odd to see someone else in the dugout and prowling the touch-line. However I do see that there are positives. Respectable, knows the league, works well on a budget, excellent man manager and motivator, great eye for talent, believes in youth, will likely keep at least some of the existing coaches, his teams work hard, are fair and do well in the big games. I am in quite a minority, but I would rather have Moyes manager than Jose Mourinho. Mourinho is incredible, brilliant manager for all that he is achieved but for me he is just trouble and is not a good match for Manchester United. Main concern with Mourinho is that he is so self driven, it seems his main care is his own CV and career. He comes into clubs, does what needs to be done and more often than not leaves them in a complete mess. Does enough to ensure the clubs have what he needs for his tenure but has not thought for the clubs future. I also don’t like the circus that comes with him and his lack of class. First to admit that Sir Alex whom I hero worship is no angel but Mourinho is just so ego driven. Even for him, some of his carries on at Real have been ridiculous. Hopefully Moyes gets the support from the fans and that there is patience exercised. Have a-lot of time for Everton, enjoy watching them. From what I have read the club sounds very much a family one with acquisitions from within and past players having roles within the club itself. Hopefully Moyes can bring that to United also. That unity, trust and family aspect has been a huge part of Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United. Many of the coaches and staff members have been there a great deal of time, many have played for the club and United does a great job of keeping connected with ex-players. So important that United keeps its soul. The bare bones are there, no major changes needed. Of course Moyes will want to change things, do things his way and bring his own staff in but do think he'll be more likely to honour traditions and practises than another manager would. Similarities between he and Ferguson, some obvious ones and listening to Phil Neville in the way they both work too. Always impressed with the fitness side of the Everton team and their work-rate, would be great to see if this can be implemented at United. The players do work hard at United but have recently suffered and crumbled when teams press them.</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxz3_yaSHarK8yHcsLCdTe4_7B5v-a3F6qqOxjUkR4qAc1kaSndnm_QeqMx-ABgVHY7N0cy6lDHCJ0fFbEaNm_bSeFCWRdyG45uiSjef9yo03yf1GBhlqixVZdRdXr0DXom2EeTumtA/s1600/article-0-01D1B8DF0000044D-105_468x444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxz3_yaSHarK8yHcsLCdTe4_7B5v-a3F6qqOxjUkR4qAc1kaSndnm_QeqMx-ABgVHY7N0cy6lDHCJ0fFbEaNm_bSeFCWRdyG45uiSjef9yo03yf1GBhlqixVZdRdXr0DXom2EeTumtA/s320/article-0-01D1B8DF0000044D-105_468x444.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
The news of the day didn’t end there. Late on, it emerged that Wayne Rooney had once again handed in a transfer request. It remains to be seen what will happen there. It has been confirmed by Manchester United as true. The club apparently has said no to his request. It doesn’t mean he’ll stay though. It hasn’t been quite the same since 2010 and his stunt in the media. Not seen him the same way and been ambivalent towards him since. Such a talented player, so central and had so much of what I admired in a player. However, it was not forgotten and reading around not the only one who thinks that way. This season, been a bit disappointed with him- he hasn’t played all that well and has looked really disinterested in a-lot of the matches. Also like he was not trying and has looked in poor fitness. His unhappiness at having to play in central midfield this season could be justified and thought that a bit unfair on him. Not the first season he’s been moved around to accommodate others. His attitude hasn’t seemed right to me though at all. With this latest news, I would rather see him sold to the highest bidder. What is the point in keeping a player who clearly doesn’t want to be at the club. Nothing can be gained and the fans now knowing, how can things go on. From Rooney’s perspective a change could just be what he needs. He is on high wages and the clearance of that will allow United to bring in players that actually want to play for the club. Not blind to his quality. He is an excellent player, some say his best years are behind him. Could be true, he’s played a-lot of football and is not the most natural athlete. Don’t think he’s burnt out yet and that if he does go, football may see him back to his best- a move could rejuvenate him. I can't see why any player would want to leave United but that is a naive way of thinking. He has won everything he can bar the FA Cup at United and players don't have that love fans do, they are workers it is their job plain and simple. Are exceptions of course, some rare gems but those types are getting fewer and fewer with the money driven and changed nature of modern football. The muppet in me says that I just don’t want to see him in a United shirt again.</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.soccerbyives.net/images/2013/01/SirAlexFerguson-ISIPhotos.com_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://www.soccerbyives.net/images/2013/01/SirAlexFerguson-ISIPhotos.com_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br />
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Don’t want to end it on Rooney. It is a mere detail in the grand scheme and it is the Ferguson news that takes precedence. Element of sadness he has gone, great what he has given. He has done so much for football, not just Manchester United. Hopefully the fans give him a marvellous send off and sure they will, the clubs and support really excel when it comes to occasions. It is not the only change due to occur, Chief Executive David Gill is stepping down and other staff are set to follow, especially when you consider Moyes will want to bring his own men in. Another notable retiral, not so unexpected is that of Paul Scholes. Retiring for the second time, the majestic Scholes is one of my favourite ever players. So intelligent, so gifted, never tire of watching him and have never seen a player with the range of passing he has. A true one off. Old school in his character too, couldn't be further away from the modern player- quiet family man and am sure that he will be happy that he can sneak away under the radar. With all of these changes and perspective ones it really does feel like the end of an era at Manchester United. There is a real sense of the unknown which is certainly exciting and will be more so I am sure when this news is less fresh! For me anyway, football just won’t be quite the same anymore without Sir Alex. To be fair it has never existed without him, he's been at United alone longer than I've been alive- which is remarkable in itself. Just been so blessed to have seen so much of him and his teams over the years.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://mancunianmatters.co.uk/files/mancunianmatters/sir%20alex%20ferguson%20stand%20statue%20old%20trafford%20mm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="http://mancunianmatters.co.uk/files/mancunianmatters/sir%20alex%20ferguson%20stand%20statue%20old%20trafford%20mm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
With no one to talk to this is perhaps a rather garbled mess of a post but I just had to get some of my thoughts down!Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-48912752765484163392013-04-03T22:33:00.000-07:002015-02-23T17:16:09.507-08:00 Favourite Players- Edwin van der Sar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Edwin van der Sar</u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWalHiiuBBKT5zJ3Hl7bEqPjMhwQpt7_MfX42AHirDMI_HIm1jcmAKwe8tGtKIKSq5P-iZqlERkGeoXGpg_e9gLKAy2OpOgJCPhKiYHtSllO5cNSgNaVIsIrIFLISL1C0OCoJrvee95Q/s1600/Edwin+van+der+Sar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWalHiiuBBKT5zJ3Hl7bEqPjMhwQpt7_MfX42AHirDMI_HIm1jcmAKwe8tGtKIKSq5P-iZqlERkGeoXGpg_e9gLKAy2OpOgJCPhKiYHtSllO5cNSgNaVIsIrIFLISL1C0OCoJrvee95Q/s640/Edwin+van+der+Sar.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b> Christened the ice rabbit, Edwin van der Sar is one of Holland's most loved football men. Undoubtedly one of the greatest keepers ever to have played the game and he is also one of the most important</b></i><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Edwin van der Sar was born in rural Voorhout, in the Province of South Holland so called the"Dune and Bulb Region". Van der Sar began his career at his local side which was at that time called VV Noordwijk. He was spotted fairly late on. Scouts brought him to the attention of then, Ajax manager Louis van Gaal. Ajax, are infamous for their philosophy, ethos and being one of footballs best factories for producing talent. The van Gaal era was a great time to be playing for the prestigious club. In this period they produced a golden generation of players, a formidable team that developed and experienced an extremely successful period. Such names as Kluivert, Davids, Overmars, de Boer's and Litmanen were all part of these 90's Ajax sides. Van der Sar was 19 when he made his move to the Amsterdam based club. His personal qualities in terms of technique were already there and is what attracted the club to him. Ajax successfully moulded him to fit in and be part of their total footballing philosophy. Revolutionary advances by the club, which ultimately changed the role of the goalkeeper, redefining the position.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://worldofajax.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/vandersar_ajax_425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://worldofajax.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/vandersar_ajax_425.jpg" height="301" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
He made his Ajax debut in 1990 and in the following seasons gained further appearances. In 1992/93 he made an impressive 25 appearances for the club. He took over from, Stanley Menzo becoming Ajax first choice keeper from the 1993/94 season onwards. From there he never looked back and was a mainstay in the team. An ever present, he played a very important role. He went on to make 226 appearances for Ajax. Won Four Dutch league titles in a row, countless domestic cups, one each of- Champions League, UEFA Cup, Cup Winners Cup, a Super and an Intercontinental Cup. The success was all the more special as it was his friends whom he experienced it with. It was a great environment to be a footballer. Individual honours reinforced how highly he was rated. He was named Dutch keeper of the year for every full season (1994/95) he guarded the nets for Ajax. Van der Sar enjoyed a 9 year playing career for Ajax, amassing many honours. From Ajax he went onto Italian giants Juventus. It was a tricky period for him and it did not work out as he had hoped. When Juventus opted to bring in the now legendary Gianluigi Buffon for a record breaking fee, it was time for van der Sar to leave. His next destination was Premier League side Fulham. A then on the up team, he was attracted as they were side going places. Investment had come in. Unfortunately for Fulham, their project did not work out as envisaged. His spell at Fulham was successful, vital for him to regain confidence and also to bring him to the attention of Manchester United once again. Could say that Fulham was a bit of a stepping stone. Sir Alex Ferguson brought the Dutchman to United for an undisclosed fee, which is rumoured to be around the £2-4 million mark. A match well made, equally successful and important for player and the club alike. It is there that he seen the glory days of club football return, along with his status.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/01/27/article-1350987-0CEED36E000005DC-982_306x423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/01/27/article-1350987-0CEED36E000005DC-982_306x423.jpg" height="320" width="231" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
He is the Dutch National teams most capped player. Unfortunately Van der Sar did not win any silverware for his country, they came very close on occasions. He enjoyed a long career as a mainstay in the Dutch national team and played in some great sides and with some of the games most talented players. In Euro 2008 he captained his side, the Dutch succeeded in reaching the quarter finals in which they were knocked out by Russia. Van der Sar himself, had a very good tournament and his performances were of a standard high enough to see him named in the team of the tournament. These Euro's were believed to be his farewell from the international scene. However, he came back during the World Cup 2010 qualifiers after the Dutch national side experienced a goalkeeping crisis. He played in two games and both these were won. In the process, he earned his 130th cap for his country. Overall his international career was strong and he provided a consistent and high quality keeper for the quite often turmoiled and troubled side. He has been criticised for a weakness in penalty shoot-outs. Evident, as penalties were how the Dutch exited three international tournaments. The biggest disappointment of his international career was undoubtedly when the Netherlands failed to qualify out of their group, for the World Cup in 2002. He, himself has said he regrets that he did not have such a decisive moment for his country as he did for Manchester United. By that he means making that crucial save, the one for Manchester United of course being vs Chelsea in the Champions League final in 2008.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://assets.espn.go.com/photo/2010/0520/soc_g_sar1x_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://assets.espn.go.com/photo/2010/0520/soc_g_sar1x_300.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Disappointments in his career are relatively few. A great deal of his career disappointments were experienced playing for his country and this is perhaps where he will be left with some regret now his career is finished. Those attributed to his international career were largely discussed above. Focusing on his club career, it was that period at Juventus that really unsettled him and caused him to temporarily lose his confidence. It sounded a very difficult spell for him. The problem being his abilities and goalkeeping style were not appreciated, it just never fitted in or suited the Italian clubs style. It must have been quite alien for him to go from what had been drilled in to him at Ajax regarding the goalkeepers role and his necessity to be good with the ball at his feet- to distribute. At Juventus they didn't build up play from the back and defenders were uncomfortable receiving the ball from the keeper. For both parties it was just never going to work out. In terms of disappointments at Manchester United, could say that there is a degree of regret regarding the Champions League. Perhaps feel that another could have been won. Unfortunately for United in their way was one of the most talented and the best club side amassed in the past decade of football- some would be tempted to say ever, given Barca's revolution and achievements. For Ajax and Manchester United he played in 5 Champions League finals, which in itself is a record- he won 2 out of 5. United never did get close to Barcelona in 2009 or 2011, therefore it is the one lost for Ajax on penalties likely to have had the lasting regret. With regards to United, he may have felt that they could have reached more finals. They got quite close on occassions and did have some bad luck in a couple of the seasons. <br />
<br />
<br />
<img border="0" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2008/06/14/article-0-019A6CCD00000578-498_468x286.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
Personally, I got to see an awful lot of Van der Sar for Manchester United and also in internationals. He was the saviour that came in after many years and failings to secure the right one. He is the perfect keeper for Manchester United and throughout his time there was the ultimate professional. It was a joy to watch him. He had such a calm and reassuring presence that dispelled throughout the team and when watching you always felt the team was in safe hands. In his years at United, from 2006/07 onwards he was part of a very special and incredible defence. The combination of Vidic and Ferdinand at centre back and Patrice Evra at left back was truly impenetrable at times. Van der Sar played a crucial role and as they had played a number of years together, he formed a great understanding with the defenders in front of him. Was most impressed by his abilities to organise and communicate with his defence. He expertly controlled the penalty area, his philosophy being prevention. His reflexes and reach meant he made some fantastic jaw dropping saves too. His concentration another asset. Vital, it is common for the team to have so much of the ball and the keeper be out of action for most of the game. But they must be ready if a chance does come and as a counter attacking side it is that ball played over the top that needs to watched out for. In his last season he looked like he could go on and on. Even at the very end the quality was still there. It has been said by many people and van der Sar too- if only Manchester United had signed him sooner! In a previous passage, I mentioned "bring to United's attention again"- it turns out that United had hoped to sign him in 1999 to replace Peter Schmeichel. Unfortunately Juventus got in there first. Favourite ever keeper, what a man- a true gent and what a career he's had.<br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://confessionsofamanunitedfan.com/images/edwin-van-der-sar-manchester-united.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://confessionsofamanunitedfan.com/images/edwin-van-der-sar-manchester-united.jpg" height="372" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Back home in his native Holland, van Der Sar has recently been named Sporting Director of his former club Ajax. He is said to have an interest in later becoming a goalkeeping coach. He keeps himself busy and fit by participating in marathons. A keen runner, he completed the New York Marathon in 2011. He has done some punditry work for television station: "Netherlands Broadcasting Foundation". He is still in correspondence with playing and staff members at Manchester United, regularly uses their facilities for training purposes and he attended the unveiling of the Sir Alex Ferguson statue in November 2012.<br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://u.goal.com/138900/138975hp2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://u.goal.com/138900/138975hp2.jpg" height="247" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Quotes- What Players/Coaches Have to Say</u></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u></u><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"He’s changed my thinking when it comes to goalkeepers,” said the centre-back. “If I ever become a manager, I’ll be looking for my goalkeeper to exhibit as many of Edwin’s traits as possible."<b>---- Rio Ferdinand</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"If I had any say in this he would have came in straight after I left. I thought he was the obvious choice. He's got the size, he's got the game that suits Manchester United's way of playing. His technique with his feet is incredible, his distribution is incredible. I think those assets are more valuable than a shot stopper." ---- <b>Peter Schmeichel</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"A great keeper and the first to be really great with both feet. Coming out of the box he is always very decisive.".<sup> </sup><b>---- Jaap Stam</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b></b><br />
<b></b><br />
<b></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/TbuARApAz0Y?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-44953079603131662512013-03-29T05:16:00.002-07:002013-05-29T12:45:58.168-07:00Memorable European Nights- Manchester United<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><u>~Vs Juventus 99’~</u></strong></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>It was one of the great United nights in Europe. United came into this match following a tricky match in the FA Cup and a league match too. Midweek the team secured their place in the final of the FA Cup, knocking out Arsenal in the process. Following that energy sapping encounter, it was Sheffield Wednesday in the league on the weekend. Four days later on the 21<sup>st</sup> of April, United faced Juventus in the semi final (second leg) of the Champions League.</strong></em> </div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2009/3/6/1236344185786/Roy-Keane-wheels-away-aft-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2009/3/6/1236344185786/Roy-Keane-wheels-away-aft-001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
It was very much advantage Juventus with their away goal scored by Antonio Conte in the first leg. Many believed that the Italian giants would be too much for United, just too strong. They were the top side in Europe at that time and very dominant. They were excellent at home. Their success meant that they had faced United in Europe on a number of occasions in the mid-late nineties. United were looking significantly more at ease with the pressures and demands of European football, something they had struggled with in preceding years. However in the five competitive meetings between the sides, United had won only the one. Adding to that was United’s failure to win a match in the Champions League on Italian soil. Though unbeaten and positively flying, you would have to say that odds were stacked against United. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
They, Juventus, were certainly a fearful opponent With a very solid defence, world class keeper, phenomenal goal scorer and a midfield packed full of guile, skill, intelligence and flair- it made for a potent mix. They boasted such names as Zidane, Davids, Peruzzi and Deschamps. A key man in their side missed practically the whole season following a serious and career threatening knee injury. Del Piero’s absence was a relief for United, considering both his abilities and how he had performed against United previously. Ciro Ferrera had a reputation for being a rugged, no nonsense centre half with a penchant for the sneaky. He was still in the peak of his power at this time. The first leg at Old Trafford had seen Juventus dominate. They failed to make their chances count and could only find the back of the net once. The match finished level due to a last minute equaliser from Giggs. It was a real life-line for United going into the return leg in Turin.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
The match in Turin started with two notable absentees in Giggs and Scholes. Giggs failed a late fitness test and Scholes was relegated to a bench role. Ferguson opted for the workmanship and guile of Butt and Keane in the centre, with Blomqvist on the left and Beckham on the right. First choice duo Cole and Yorke started upfront. Unfortunately for United it didn’t take Juventus too long to strike. In less than eleven minutes of action, United found themselves two down. Two goals in quick succession was a hammer blow and it was going to need guts as well as ability to keep Juventus from reaching their fourth final in succession. Commentators at the start of the game had said that United wouldn’t stand a chance of winning if they conceded a goal early on. It was Filippo Inzaghai that scored those two goals. His second had a degree of fortune to it owing to the huge deflection it took off Stam and over Schmeichel. Inzaghai had been a bit of a thorn in United’s side. The previous season a single goal by the poacher had caused United’s European season to come to a close. His first came from an excellent ball from Zidane following a short corner. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Content with the two nil lead, Juventus opted to sit back. It was a big mistake on their part. The season had seen United come from the dead so many times, this team just never knew when they were beaten. But even the most ardent of fans, must have thought this was beyond them. Especially against the experience of this Juventus side that was as pragmatic as it was skillful. Staring potential exit right in the face, the team carried on in the same vein they had all season long. Their approach paid off, when, towards the end of the first half Beckham put in an inviting cross. Rising, Roy Keane headed in a priceless goal. The goal served to galvanise the team and created a palpable tension amongst Juventus’s home supporters. Just ten minutes later United brought the match back level courtesy of a diving Dwight Yorke header. Build up started following a long ball by Neville to Beckham who nodded it down for Cole. Cole took a touch and delivered a perfect cross for Yorke- their telepathic understanding was something to be admired. United had come from two down but the job was still not over. </div>
<span lang="EN-GB">
</span><span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<span lang="EN-GB"></span><br />
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Though not quite as dramatic as the first half, the second provided a steady supply of moments that kept you right on the edge of your seat. Early on Inzaghai had a goal ruled offside. Shortly after that Irwin hit the post and then Beckham’s effort from range was inches away from sneaking in. Juventus fashioned a handful of chances, one of which produced an excellent save by Schmeichel. The United team was relentless and kept up their pursuit for that killer goal. It duly came six minutes from time. It was hardly the prettiest – Schmeichel kicked the ball long and Ferrara failed to deal with it properly. Latching onto the poor clearance, Yorke dribbled through two defenders only to be hauled down by Peruzzi in the penalty box. His partner in crime Andy Cole was advancing and struck the rebound home. Coles goal had won it but the six minutes and added time was enough for Inzaghai to threaten. Nothing came of that of course. </div>
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
That evening United did the unthinkable and in the process sealed progress to the final for the first time in over thirty years. <span lang="EN-GB">When the match ended United’s players were applauded off the field by Juventus fans. Which in itself says it all. </span><span lang="EN">One man has to be mentioned for his contribution to the win. That man being Roy Keane, the Irishman up against the then best midfield in club football had managed to nullify it and control the game- stifling Davids and Zidane into submission. His headed goal in the first half was crucial to getting the team back on course. His overall performance is marked down as one of the greatest individual performances by in a player in (relatively) recent times. Booked in the match, he knew full well he’d be out of the final. Instead of letting his head drop he seemed to redouble his efforts and those efforts certainly came to fruition. The quote below by Ferguson sums up Keanes contribution-</span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span lang="EN"></span> </div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span lang="EN-GB"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>“It was the most emphatic display of selflessness I have seen on a football field. Pounding over every blade of grass, competing as if he would rather die of exhaustion than lose, he inspired all around him. I felt it was an honour to be associated with such a player.”</em></strong></div>
<span lang="EN"></span><br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/i4NJLgdYkWs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
</div>
A great find, youtube user markg541 has uploaded a video of Keanes performance from the night.<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4926585995258636129.post-33369302333727029862013-03-28T22:33:00.000-07:002013-05-30T19:59:11.524-07:00Football Sites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em><u></u></em></strong></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-L7M4z7gLNkgJyRmIi2VE9YsvjmG0dlJL5yksXTANxDkR_gY9ZshOsyFKMpcS0T5vCZKgsjgvPT9rxMUdRdgjwtXZ7qczeyTiAs4OIm1HyVvfwY7ujZm_zLMHUr6uG50_X7zzzmAlg/s1600/Web+Post.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-L7M4z7gLNkgJyRmIi2VE9YsvjmG0dlJL5yksXTANxDkR_gY9ZshOsyFKMpcS0T5vCZKgsjgvPT9rxMUdRdgjwtXZ7qczeyTiAs4OIm1HyVvfwY7ujZm_zLMHUr6uG50_X7zzzmAlg/s640/Web+Post.png" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Red Cafe Manchester United Forum</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.redcafe.net/">http://www.redcafe.net/</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A fantastic forum, just a browser on there- quite a regular one admittedly. Though it is a Manchester United forum and that is the focus, there is a-lot more to it. The Man United side is of course fantastic and since reading it, I don't bother checking news sides/media for football related news. A-lot of very good posters on there. Has a number of opposition team fans. They add something different and it is interesting to hear about how their clubs are doing and also their take on United. Great place to read about current football happenings, memories and always a number of interesting topics/debates going on. The other sections on the board are good too, such as the entertainment forum. Have managed to find some excellent music, television and films via recommendations from there. Just hope that they always keep it accessible and viewable to all!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Image Sites</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://footballandnietzche.tumblr.com/">http://footballandnietzche.tumblr.com/</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://interleaning.tumblr.com/page/66">http://interleaning.tumblr.com/page/66</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There are a whole host of these but the above two are my favourites. Whole feeds stacked full of high quality images, comic strips and posters of footballers then and now. Football and Nietzche, a real mash up mainly from Europe with current images, players as kids, legendary players, historic images and some from times gone by. The second describes itself as- "Heavy on vintage photos, Inter, Serie A and Gli Azzurri, with occasional appearances from:Brazil, Ligue 1, Frenchies, old Brits and assorted Russians." Well worth scrolling through, some fantastic images in both and a great way to bring back memories and get a laugh at some of the players when they were a-lot more innocent!</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
</h3>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Another United Forum</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.talkingreds.net/index.php">http://www.talkingreds.net/index.php</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is a unique United forum and one which I post on. It has been going for a while, though under different guises. Much like the mighty club it is for, this forum just never dies. It is home to a dedicated bunch of fans and is very well ran. Posters are all easy going and have a good knowledge of United and the game in general. Plenty topics discussed. The administrator is a seasoned United fan who has some great tales to tell. He isn't the only more experienced one on the board, so it is great to have their insight- especially into times gone by and what has changed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>The Football Ramble</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.thefootballramble.com/">http://www.thefootballramble.com/</a></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u></u> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Been an avid listener of their podcast since it began. It is a great listen, just four mates who are passionate about the game talking about it. It is light hearted, informative and covers all bases- talking about the game all over the world and the current topics/issues. Especially enjoy the profiles feature, in which most often historic players careers are spoken of in a talk kind of thing. Teams, television shows, clubs, managers plus other things are sometimes also profiled (one per show). The site itself is very good and has its own forum. The guys who present the podcast regularly write features. There are other regular content writers and find the articles that appear to be very good. A-lot of humour, with the lighter side of the game shown and video uploads too. </div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Zonal Marking</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u></u> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/">http://www.zonalmarking.net/</a></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u></u> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
An absolutely fantastic blog and resource. I am not the most knowledgeable when it comes to things like tactics etc in the game. Zonal Marking evaluates and analyses matches in painstaking detail and with more diagrams and graphs than you could shake a stick at! Often runs special features on teams from the past, how tactics have changed, individual players and plenty more besides. It simplifies things and evaluates the game in such a way that is both interesting and informative. They really are outstanding when it comes to the tactical side of the game and it is much more digestible than the analysis that the motley crew on Match of the Day provides!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="GEE3RVNDD1"><u>Spielverlagerung</u></span> </h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://spielverlagerung.de/">http://spielverlagerung.de/</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pretty much the German version of Zonal Marking. Most of their articles are in German but they also publish a good few in English too. Have found it a really great site and has fantastically well written and detailed articles. Really do disect every detail of the Bundesliga games it reviews. I do wish that I could understand German to get the most out of the site. Worth following all the same and they also do specialised articles that focus on teams seasons, football happenings and also analysis of teams outside the German league.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Princess of Pageshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07924775807880972613noreply@blogger.com0