Topics

1

Football / Socawarriors dictionary

« on: June 12, 2009, 02:58:32 PM »

This is a thread that is dedicated to the nimble wordsmiths that populate this forum. Over the years, there have been many classic words invented on de forum and I open this up for people to catalogue the finest additions to the uniquely Trini vernacular. This is not about typos or misspelling, just pure and simple Trini creativity - most of the people on here full well know they making up a word. And bess believe we all know what the word means and jess cool wid dat, cuz it better than the real word for de dam ting:

First entry:

Unsubable: having such skill or rank as to never merit leaving the field of play before de 90 minutes done.

Contributor: palos

Sense rating (Clarity or amount of sense the word makes on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the highest) = 10

2

Football / IS T&T football on the rise?

« on: March 11, 2009, 06:53:45 PM »

Despite all the comess, this is a monumental period in the history of football in T&T. Let's not take this for granted. In less than 3 years we've qualified for a senior WC, an under 17 WC and an Under 20 WC. We have a group of youths who know what it is like to qualify for 2 youth WCs in a row and will come up believing they are among the best in Concacaf. And from what I understand, this current Under 20 team did it without the nation's most talented midfielder at that age group and it's best striker.

Yet the TTFF seems to be as inept as ever and most fans complain that there is just not the same level of talent coming up through the ranks. Is this progress a sign of things to come? Is it sustainable or just a flash in the pan? What do you guys think is the main reason we've accomplished so much in such a short time?

There have also been some high profile failures in the short time, but still, it's worth taking a step back and enjoying this purple patch in T&T football.

3

Football / Dissecting Alex Ferguson's latest comments.

« on: February 23, 2009, 08:43:41 AM »

Just a couple questions..would like to see what you guys think. Sr. AF never seems happy when other coaches talk about his players, but isn't going to the press and saying how much he admires Benzema, even saying the only reason he wouldn't buy him is his inflated price, the same as saying you want a player..and underhandedly saying what you are willing to pay? Or is this normal so long as you are not actually talking to the player behind Lyon's back? I think I've seen this in the past, where Fergie calls it mind games and a distraction to the player. Then again, he seems to think Barca is the only non-English CL threat, so maybe he is smartly trying to gee up Benzema, knowing his individual brilliance could make the difference. Anyway...still thought the unwritten rule was you don't talk about players like that unless you're putting a bid on the table. I'm sure he's been outraged when this is done to his guys...but maybe I'm wrong.

And check out the big big dis to Real Madrid and Robben in particular. Let's face it..anyone who's seen Real Madrid lately knows they along with ManU are the clear form teams in Europe and they have a CL pedigree that is independent of league form anyway (despite some recent lean years in the competition). Actually, this one smells of 'fear' of Liverpool in the CL. Is AF playing mind games with Real Madrid, hoping his comments give the Spaniards a little more incentive to put one on Liverpool, knowing he doesn't want to meet the Reds later in the competition. His comments to the Spansih club are way to flippant/negative. Or are they?

Cheers

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=621778&sec=uefachampionsleague&cc=5901

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that he has great admiration for Lyon striker Karim Benzema.

The France international is regarded as one of Europe's hottest properties, with a number of top clubs believed to have expressed an interest in acquiring his services; and United are reported to be among that group, with Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona also keen on the talented 21-year-old.

Ferguson insists he is not about to make an imminent move for the powerful frontman, due to the inflated price tag on his head, but admits that Benzema is the type of player he would welcome in his squad.

"He is an excellent footballer," the Old Trafford chief told Le Journal du Dimanche. "He reminds me of (Zinedine) Zidane in the way that he uses his body. He has broad shoulders and a great drive when he has the ball at his feet.''

When asked if Benzema could play for United one day, Ferguson added: ''You always have to keep an eye on all the best players and how they are developing.

''But Lyon's president (Jean-Michel Aulas) is a sharp man. He sold (Michael) Essien for 38million euros, (Mahamadou) Diarra for 26million euros, (Florent) Malouda for 19million euros, (Eric) Abidal for 16million euros. And I congratulate him for that.

''When we played Lyon last season, at the end of the match, he said, 'Chelsea are making me an offer of 50million euros for Benzema'. I replied to him, 'At that price, I'll leave him to them'!''

Ferguson also revealed he is a big fan of another young France star, Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery.

''He is fantastic,'' the United boss said. ''Always moving and incredible energy. He is always going forward but defends a lot too. He would have no problem playing in England.''

The United boss was also asked earlier this month whether Real Madrid were among the favourites for the Champions League, and replied: ''No chance.

''Their game lacks pace. They have great players like (Gabriel) Heinze, (Fabio) Cannavaro, (Fernando) Gago, but they aren't quick. ''There is (Arjen) Robben, the only one who can give them some rhythm, but he isn't very brave.

''The three English teams - Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal - or Barcelona (are the favourites, along with United). The level of the Premier League is so elevated that it prepares you for games at the highest level.

''And Barcelona can count on a fantastic player - (Lionel) Messi.''


 

4

Football / Julio Baptista...Football's biggest enigma?

« on: January 18, 2009, 03:35:56 PM »

Is Julio Baptista the biggest enigma in world football today? Here is a footballer who sometimes looks like he has the first touch of an elephant. Yet he is a mainstay in the Brazilian national team...big teams in Europe want him. Started his career as a defensive midfielder and then became one of the most feared strikers in La Liga. Only to be hot and cold at Madrid and Arsenal. Yet..when he find a groove..the Beast is simply unplayable. Those who watched the most recent Copa America will know that he was Brazil's mvp in the knockout phase..and right now for Roma, he is balling like an absolute flecking general.

What is allyuh opinion on this player? and what other players have an equally perplexing profile?

5

Football / The EPL's rise in the Champion's League

« on: December 22, 2008, 01:47:25 PM »

I know we've kinda discussed this a few times, but it's often a lot of biased commentary based on which league is loved best. I cannot claim to be unbiased but I like the EPL, La Liga and Serie A and I don't have a history of being a 'hater' one way or the other..altho I do hate certain teams in each league. So here is my (hopefully unbiased) take on ONE FACTOR that I think contributes to the recent rise of the EPL in the Champion's League.

Let me first say that I am not even going to attempt to compare leagues. That is an exercise in futility as it requires some sort of complex analysis and initimate knowledge of just about every team in each league...and given relegation and promotion, your fomula requires tinkering every season. That, and everyone loves different things. Some factual..others, presonal preference. Second, I am doing my analysis in comparison of two other roughly comparable leagues in terms of CL success in the modern era - La Liga and Serie A.

In recent years, we see Liverpool, ManU, Chelsea and Arsenal look like good money to make the latter stages in the semifinals of the CL, and even win it. Imo, no other league has a top 4 that is that excellent and consistent in the competition today. More important and central to my theory is that no other league has a top 4. The fact that the same 4 EPL teams consistently play in the competition every year, means that there are the same 4 teams gaining valuable experience and the financial success required to build deeper CL-ready squads (independent of the superior financial health of the EPL).

Now take Spain. La liga only has a big two: Barca and Real Madrid. La Liga pretty much has a revolving 3rd or 4th place finisher: Villareal, Valencia, Atletico Madrid, Deportivo, Sevilla and even Betis have qualified for the CL. Call it inconsistency, or call it league parity, but Spain does not have a big 4. Because these teams don't consistently qualify for the CL, they never develop the experience, nor benefit from the big money the competition provides.

Now take Serie A. Prob. closest to the EPL in that you expect every season to see AC Milan, Inter and Juventus. It doesn't always happen but that's the general expectation. The fourth spot is a revolving door with Roma laying the closes claim to consistency in recent years. But you've had teams like Parma, Fiorentina, Udinese and Lazio (i think) all squeeze in. Again no consistency. So Serie A can claim to have a big 3. So in a way, one can say that the EPL big 4, La Liga big 2 and Italy big 3 should be roughly on par in any 90 minutes head to head.

Now lets say as an example 1 in each group has a tough year (not that big of a stretch imo.). You should still expect 3 from the EPL in the latter stages (QFs and/or  Semis), 1 from Spain, and 1 or 2 from Italy. Of course there is a lot more to it but I do think that if the same 4 teams qualify year after year for a competition, then you will have 4 teams that will consistently do well, and statistically even if 50% of the EPL big 4 screw up, you still have 2 teams that have a great chance of getting into the semis. For Spain to do that both Barca and Real Madrid have to be on top of their game which is statistically less likely. Same for Serie A (you can almost scratch out Inter as a perennial underachiever )

So what allyuh think? Is experience a substantial difference maker. Or is it because there is greater quality in the EPL top 4 in these last 3 or so years. Or maybe there are too many ingredients to even analyze it.

6

Football / Defensive midfield

« on: December 18, 2008, 03:01:20 PM »

Perhaps the one position in football that has gotten a complete makeover and continues to evolve more rapidly than any other. Once perceived to be the domain of the less technically gifted workhorses of the team...the defensive midfielder is probably the first man on the teamsheet (after the keeper) today. The position is now glamorous and I suspect youths line up to play the position today moreso than 10 or 15 years ago.

Imo...each squad has two types of d-midfielders - a destroyer (Birchall) and a Holding player/outlet pass (Yorke). Each is expected to add steel to the midfield, but the latter is actually a hybrid playmaker with good technical skills and ability to dictate the pace of a game while keeping it simple on the ball. My feeling is all d-midfielders are actually evolving into the latter. Even Gattusso (quintessential destroyer) is very comfortable on the ball.

What is allyuh take on this position. Is it killing the traditional #10? Will the Decos, Xavis and Gutis disappear to be replaced by Mascherano, Senna, Flamini et al. Most teams have gone from 1 d-midfielder in the starting 11, to a minimum of two. Even attacking teams like Barca will most times go with Busquets/Yaya, Busquets/Keita, or Yaya/Keita.

And who really revolutionize this position? Makas? Or is that Euro propoganda. Had boss d-midfielders before the Frenchman no? Who is your favorite of all time? Was a time when the defensive midfielder get on the ball and yuh groaning for him to pass it off. Today, he is a general.

7

Football / Best Big Men in the Game

« on: December 15, 2008, 10:02:08 AM »

Ah tiefing Lower St. John thread and coming wid de opposite. Who are the best ballers, past or present, local or international, who ability belies their size, or...who ability is because of their size (read..bruiser). 'Big' could mean tall and skinny too (like a Socrates)..

My picks are Zlatan and Kaka.

8

Football / Dutch youth system..not all it's cracked up to be?

« on: November 26, 2008, 11:11:20 AM »

Many of us here still maintain the idea that the Dutch football 'youth system' is one of the best in the world. Actually..despite a downbeat story, it's hard to say it isn't still one of the best. But according to this article..it's nothing like it's cracked up to be. No doubt some great talent comes through, but the success rate of youths trying to make it through is depressing. more depressing is a seeming lack of any coordination, cooperation or real 'system' across the academies. Just one article, so no need to read too much into it. But interesting nevertheless.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=595933&sec=europe&root=europe&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab2pos2&cc=5901

At the end of the 1950s a lean, awkward young schoolboy would regularly lurk in the parking lot behind the training ground of Velox, Utrecht's now extinct third professional club playing in the second division.

When coach Daan van Beek was training his keeper, the guy would return stray balls from between the cars. Van Beek started to notice the curved passes were not an accident and asked the youngster at which club he was registered. Nowhere, was the answer. Van Beek contacted his administrator that night and the next day Willem van Hanegem, as it is he, became a member of Velox.

Meanwhile, at Ajax, the small Johan Cruyff would roam around the offices and pitches as his mother was a cleaning lady at the club. There was no question where he would kick his first official ball........

9

Football / KJ and Steven Gerrard...

« on: November 17, 2008, 06:52:20 AM »

..have something in common. Club vs Country doesn't just affect the smaller nations. Some of the injuries, if not all are genuine this rounds. But I find it amazing how many big players play for their club, and then pick up an injury right before a friendly..then recover in time to run a 90 minutes two or three days later. There have been times when it seems pretty fishy. Again, not saying this is the case with Gerrard....or Robbie Keane who will miss Ireland's friendly after his national team's medical staff declared him unfit for their midweek friendly...but it's got to be more than just a coincidence that this is the norm when friendlies hit while the league and European season heats up

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=593372&sec=worldcup2010&cc=5901

England coach Fabio Capello has risked the wrath of Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez after forcing Steven Gerrard to report for duty ahead of Wednesday's friendly in Germany, despite being declared unfit by his club.

Steven Gerrard: Injured or not?

Gerrard tore a muscle in his right leg during Saturday's 2-0 at Bolton Wanderers and Liverpool's doctors ruled him out of the international match in Berlin.

But Capello has ordered Gerrard to undertake the 200-mile journey to England's Hertfordshire team hotel, where he will be assessed by Football Association medical staff before a final decision on his availability is reached later on Monday.

Chelsea and England captain John Terry is also being assessed following the foot injury he sustained during Chelsea's 3-0 victory at West Bromwich Albion.

An FA spokesman said: "John Terry and Steven Gerrard have both reported to the team hotel tonight [Sunday] and will be assessed tomorrow [Monday] by the England medical staff."

The decision to assess Gerrard will no doubt re-open the club versus country row and the crunch will come if England's doctor's declare the Liverpool skipper fit to play in Germany.

This is the first time that Capello has exercised his right under FIFA rules to have his own medical staff examine a player whose club claim is injured.

The England manager has been hit by a host of withdrawals and his hard-line stance is likely to stamp out any dubious diagnoses by the clubs.

With the likes of Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney ruled out before the Italian named his 23-man party and Joe Hart, Gerrard and possibly Terry pulling out before the Three Lions have begun a training session, Capello's efforts at maintaining the momentum built up by four straight World Cup qualifying wins have been cruelly undermined

10

Football / How to end racist displays in Europe's Stadia

« on: November 10, 2008, 08:19:58 AM »

Excellent example by Werder Bremen fans. Too often the silen majority are just that...'silent'. Hope the rest of Europe is watching.


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=591057&sec=europe&cc=5901

Werder Bremen fans have been praised for the way they turned in a group of neo-Nazis after their 0-0 draw at Bochum on Saturday.

A handful of extreme right-wing activists unfurled a national socialist banner at the end of the Bundesliga draw, but they were promptly identified and turned over to the police by Bremen fans surrounding them.

President of the German Football Association (DFB) Dr Theo Zwanziger commended the ''civil courage'' of the Bremen fans.

''The Bundesliga writes many an extraordinary story and an excellent one is certainly what we experienced in Bochum on Saturday,'' he told the Hamburger Abendblatt newspaper.

''That the police were able to arrest neo-Nazis after they were identified by Bremen fans when they unfurled a banner with extreme right-wing remarks is a perfect example of civil courage in the stadium.

''It encompasses the values of the DFB and the DFL (German Football League) that fans do not look away when idiots and outcasts want to abuse the football scene, but rather show solidarity to act quickly and decisively.''

Zwanziger continued to praise their actions, which can be used as an example to combat hooliganism and violence in and around stadia.

He said: ''This can be the basis for giving violence, xenophobia and discrimination no chance in football.''

Zwanziger now plans to meet with the Bremen fans along with his DFL counterpart Dr Reinhard Rauball to thank them in person.

11

Football / T&T Under 17 vs Chelsea and Mexico

« on: October 21, 2008, 10:14:57 AM »

Guys

I just got a schedule for a tournament being held in New Jersey. It is hosted by Claudio Reyna's high school (St Benedict's Prep) and will be held at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. The T&T Under 18 squad has been invited and will play:

Chelsea's youth team at 5:00 pm on November 5th
St Benedict's Prep at 5:00 pm on November 6th
Mexico Under 18 at 4:00 on November 8th (Saturday)

Anybody know for sure if we sending a squad. I've heard nothing, but these are the kinds of games (at least vs Chelsea and Mexico) that I would love to see us play.

The Saturday game v Mexico is one that me and I'm sure a few of us in the Northeast US could make and give the fellas some support. They will need it..cuz it will be cold

Anyway..anyone can confirm a T&T squad will be persent (see full schedule below)



16th Annual Newark International Cup
Hosted by St. Benedict's Prep
November 3 – November 10, 2008

All games will be played at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)
Lighted 2,000 seat stadium w/ FieldTurf.

Participating Teams & Game Schedule:
Team # 1 – St. Benedict's Prep
Team # 2 –Mexico U18 National Team
Team # 3 – Trinidad & Tobago U18 National Team
Team # 4 – Chelsea FC

Wednesday, November 5:
5:00 PM: Trinidad & Tobago vs. Chelsea FC
7:00 PM: St. Benedict's Prep vs. Mexico

Thursday, November 6:
5:00 PM: St. Benedict's Prep vs. Trinidad & Tobago
7:00 PM: Mexico vs. Chelsea FC

Saturday, November 8:
10 AM: Youth Clinic at St. Benedict's Prep
2:00 PM: St. Benedict's Prep vs. Chelsea FC
4:00 PM: Mexico vs. Trinidad & Tobago

Sunday, November 9:
12:00 PM: 3rd Place Team v 4th Place Team
2:00 PM: 1st Place Team v 2nd Place Team

12

Football / Best of UEFA Cup

« on: October 03, 2008, 07:16:19 AM »

I feel it might jess be me...but let's use this thread as a link up to the best the UEFA Cup has to offer.

The best of the CL is yet to come as we are in the group stage. In the meantime, the UEFA Cup has started with a bang. The competition is full of unkowns and frankly, some mediocre teams, but the home and away series to get into the group stage was full of great encounters and some exciting football. In a heda to head that would have been befitting of the final, I am posting the Napoli V. Benfica encounters...1st leg and 2nd leg.

Away goals count and this one was full of everything good, bad and ugly about football.

1st leg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eH-ATQVml_Y

2nd leg:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9A1rWXQpg4

13

Football / UEFA CUP vs CHAMPION'S LEAGUE

« on: October 02, 2008, 01:06:45 PM »

alright..title will turn out to be a little deceiving. But how important is it to you to watch big name players? If someone told you that the UEFA Cup final between..let's say Napoli and Sporting Lisbon was going to be an exciting goalfest, and the Champion's League Final between...Barcelona and Chelsea was going to be a boring 1-0 game with a fluke goal settling it. You can only watch one - would you still watch the CL final over the UEFA Cup final?

I only ask cuz in recent years the UEFA Cup final has been 100 times better than the CL final in terms of pure excitement and goals scored. Back in the day the UEFA Cup was real respectable..I bet a few people remember when Napoli (with Diego and co.) won it in 1989, but can't recall the European Cup winner that year.

But today..regardless of the product the UEFA Cup puts out in the latter stages...it doh make a dent in the allure of the CL for neutral fans. Even the Copa Liberatdores has more drama than the CL once you get to the latter stages. Curious to see if anyone realize this and more importantly..acts on it and watches these less reputable cups with more anticipation than the CL

14

Football / Do you agree with Diego?

« on: July 23, 2008, 12:21:50 PM »

Brazilian midfielder defies his club to join Brazilian Olympic team. Club vs. country rises to the fore once again. Who do you agree with..Diego, or Werder Bremen? I give the Brazilian props..I love to see that some players still choose country over club. Werder should make a public statement of support so that Diego does not face a fan backlash. Instead..they going to court to force him to come back. I know the Germans pay his wages, but just how long would they keep him on the books if he weren't international quality?

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=557044&sec=global&cc=5901


Werder Bremen midfielder Diego has described the day he left the club without permission to join up with Brazil's Olympic squad as 'one of the most difficult' of his career.

 
The 23-year-old flew to Paris to join the rest of the squad on Tuesday evening, having held talks with club officials throughout the morning.


Werder later revealed they had not given permission for Diego to join his international team-mates, and the player admitted it was not an easy decision to make.

'We actually had a very good discussion with the management of Werder and as much as they showed their understanding for my dream, I showed a lot of understanding for the fact they consider me a very valuable member of their team,' Diego told Eurosport.de.

'It became clear to me, though, that neither side was going to back down and that it would not be an easy situation.'

Diego revealed his fear of jeopardising his international future was a factor in his decision to ignore his club's wishes.

He added: 'I was under a lot of pressure since I knew that my future in the Brazil national team could be in danger if I did not travel to the Olympics.

'That would have made me very unhappy and could not be Werder's aim at all. I just hope that all fans, particularly those of Werder, can understand me at least a little.

'I hope that I am not only celebrating winning an Olympic medal this season but also want many titles so that this difficult day can soon be put behind me and the positive aspects can return to the fore.

'Today was certainly one of the most difficult days of my career.'

Diego appears to have the backing of FIFA president Sepp Blatter, who on Wednesday reaffirmed the release of players below the age of 23 for the Olympics is 'mandatory'.

'Regarding the release of players under the age of 23, the football family has always agreed that these players shall be released for the Men's Olympic Football Tournament,' he said.

Bremen though have approached the Court of Arbitration for Sport in a bid to force Diego to return to them.

And the playmaker admitted that should his club win their case with CAS, he would have no problem with returning to the Weserstadion.

He added: 'If it emerges that my club was right, then I will return without hesitation, that is for sure.'

15

Football / Richest Club on the Planet

« on: May 07, 2008, 11:18:18 AM »

Is ManU really the richest club on the planet?

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/gavin_hamilton/05/06/glazer.united/index.html?eref=T1

This week it was revealed that the club suffered a £58 million loss last year and now owe a total of £764 million to their various creditors. The accounts for the year ending in June 2007 also disclosed that United owe £56 million in outstanding transfer fee instalments to other clubs.

Most worrying for the Glazers is the news that they still owe £152 million to hedge funds at a rate of interest of 14.25 percent. With a recession threatening to engulf the world's financial markets, the Glazers cannot find anyone willing to take on the debt at a more reasonable interest rate. The hedge fund loans were the most controversial element of the financial package used by the Glazers to fund their takeover of United. This "leveraged" buyout loaded liabilities onto a club which had previously been debt-free. Now the Glazers are struggling to re-finance.

16

Football / Hope Solo and Jens Lehman...a perfect match?

« on: April 10, 2008, 10:57:17 AM »

I eh go lie...Lehman not right, but some of his quotes kinda funny

'To be sitting on the bench behind somebody who only started to play when he was 30 is not funny,' he added.

Full ESPN soccernet article here:
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=524511&cc=5901


Jens Lehmann claims he could have prevented Arsenal from going out of the Champions League, if only he had been given a chance.

 
The 38-year-old goalkeeper spoke of his anger at being consigned to the bench and attacked both manager Arsene Wenger and the man who is keeping him out of the side, Manuel Almunia, in an interview with Germany's Kicker magazine.


'I stayed here to win the Champions League and I saw good chances to play, but I have not had these (chances) and that makes me very angry,' he said.

17

Football / Learn from Alex Ferguson

« on: March 24, 2008, 09:29:33 AM »

this is how yuh keep yuh boys from wetting in a friendly. Sr Alex doh business. Not one..but both Portuguese internationals ruled unfit. hmmm. what a coincidence. yuh know Keane learned well from his old boss 

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=519424&cc=5901


LISBON, March 24 (Reuters) - Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani have been ruled out of Portugal's Euro 2008 warm-up with Greece in Duesseldorf, Germany on Wednesday due to injuries, the Portuguese Football Federation said on Monday.

Ronaldo and Nani, who both scored in United's 3-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday, are suffering from leg muscle problems, the federation said on its website.

'We proposed to coach (Luiz Felipe Scolari) that the players be released from the squad and he accepted,' squad doctor Henrique Jones was quoted as saying. No replacements were named.

Portugal are in Group A with Czech Republic, co-hosts Switzerland and Turkey in the Euro 2008 finals in June.

18

Football / Inter in turmoil

« on: March 14, 2008, 09:55:31 AM »

Soap opera on the other side of Milan.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/soccer/03/14/mancini.inter/index.html

According to reports in Italy, Inter boss Roberto Mancini only agreed to stay on at Inter after issuing an ultimatum to President Massimo Moratti that Luis Figo, Adriano and Alvaro Recoba are offloaded at the end of the season.

Mancini announced on Tuesday night that he would be quitting the club in May, however less than 24 hours later he reversed this decision after a meeting with Massimo Moratti.

 

 
During this meeting, the Gazzetta dello Sport revealed that Mancini only agreed to stay on if a number of his demands were met.

The first involves Luis Figo, who is widely believed to have refused to come on as a substitute in the match with Liverpool. Moratti was planning to offer the Portuguese veteran a new one-year deal, but Mancini has demanded that this be scrapped.

The coach has also reportedly asked for Adriano and Alvaro Recoba, both currently on loan at Sao Paulo and Torino respectively, and who also don't get on with Mancini, to be sold permanently.

Meanwhile, Mancini also told Moratti that he was unhappy that Patrick Vieira, yet another player he does not see eye-to-eye with, who was not fined after his angry reaction to being substituted against Sampdoria a couple of weeks ago.

The ex-Lazio tactician was also upset that Moratti did not show him enough support over his recent bust-up with club doctor Franco Combi. Mancini has repeatedly blasted Combi over the number of injuries to players this season, however Moratti has always attempted to act as a peacemaker.

Internal problems are currently engulfing Inter at the moment, with Mancini also said to have a tense relationship with director Marco Branca over the signing of Maniche in January. The boss has also fallen out with Hernan Crespo, while teammates Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marco Materazzi are also said to not be talking.

19

Football / Like father..like son. The Maldinis

« on: March 06, 2008, 08:49:39 PM »

This doesn't deserve its own thread really, but watch Maldini son put down a perfect jam on Seedorf in a lil fun kickabout. De youthman is definitely being trained by the maestro 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXpPD3FpxIg&NR=1

20

Football / ADRIANO

« on: January 18, 2008, 12:53:22 PM »

The Emperor makes a good start to his recuperation. 2nd Goal was a joke but a goal is a goal. Hope he continues....
http://youtube.com/watch?v=lGIyvYDbgE0

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/soccer/01/18/sao.paolo.ap/index.html

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AP) -- Inter Milan striker Adriano returned in grand style to Brazilian soccer by leading Sao Paulo to a 2-1 comeback victory over Guaretingueta in the opening round of the Sao Paulo state championship on Thursday.

Adriano, on loan from Inter until December, scored both second-half goals.

 He took the field to a standing ovation and made a brilliant debut for the five-time Brazilian champion - on solo runs, shooting free kicks, scrapping for loose balls, and constantly buzzing the Guaretingueta goal.

After Guaretingueta took a surprise 1-0 lead after 22 minutes on a free kick by Renato, Adriano took over.

In the opening minute of the second half, he recovered a lost ball at the top of the penalty area and fired home to equalize.

Then, in the 75th minute, Adriano sent a seeing-eye free kick through the defensive wall and past diving goalkeeper Faber.

21

Football / Maradona's WC 86 medal missing?

« on: January 10, 2008, 07:36:12 AM »

Check the items that missing...I would be more than distressed


http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/soccer/01/09/bc.soc.maradonamemorabil.ap/index.html



BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) -- Diego Maradona has gone to court for the return of 600 personal items from a traveling exhibit, including his FIFA award for best player of the 20th century.

According to a statement on his Web site on Wednesday, Maradona field a court complaint against Argentine businessman Ernesto Texo and unnamed associates for failing to return the memorabilia. It did not say when the complaint was filed in Buenos Aires.
 
 
Texo organized and launched an exhibit of Maradona's items, called "M10,'' in Buenos Aires in 2003. It moved through Latin America and Europe.

Among the missing items, according to Maradona, were his 1986 World Cup medal, jerseys from Pele, Franz Beckenbauer and Lothar Matthaeus, playing shorts and socks he used as captain of Argentina's World Cup team, and personal gifts such as a golden Arabian sable and unspecified gifts from his friend and Cuba leader Fidel Castro.

22

Football / Sunderland Have Blown it!

« on: January 10, 2008, 05:07:57 AM »

...or so Robbie Savage thinks

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=496901&cc=5901


Robbie Savage has accused relegation rivals Sunderland of blowing their big chance of Barclays Premier League survival after completing his £1.5million move to Derby on Wednesday.

Savage was openly courted by Black Cats boss Roy Keane but the Welshman insists he decided to sign for the rock-bottom Rams because Paul Jewell was more eager to secure his services.
Savage said: 'The chairman and manager wanted me more than any other club and that means a lot to me.
'It's well known that Sunderland put in a bid for me but I never really felt that they were too keen.
'If I was them, I would have gone the whole hog to get me because I'm the type of player who can keep a team in the Premier League.

23

Football / Becks relationship with Fergie hadda be real sour......

« on: December 21, 2007, 02:13:54 PM »

..for him to be training with the Gunners in the off-season. Even Yorkie get to train with manU before WC06. or is it just a case of wanting to be in London? Seems like it is the latter, but it seems a bit strange given the relationship between the two clubs.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/soccer/12/21/bc.soc.beckham.arsenal.ap/index.html

LONDON (AP) -- David Beckham is expected to train with Premier League club Arsenal early next year to prepare for the Major League Soccer season.

Beckham would likely use the club's training facility, which is close to his English home, before the Los Angeles Galaxy begin their season on March 29, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said Friday.

"We will help him to get fit and prepare for the season," Wenger told BBC Radio. "There's a good chance that he will come in January, but it's not decided."

Beckham is hoping to play his 100th game for England on Feb. 6 in an exhibition against Switzerland, the first match for new coach Fabio Capello.

"(Beckham) has 99 caps and I hope he will get 100, if not 100 then 120," Wenger said. "At his age he needs to keep fit."

The 32-year-old midfielder's last game for the Galaxy was an exhibition against the Wellington Hurricanes in New Zealand on Dec. 1.

Wenger dismissed suggestions that Beckham could play for Arsenal during the MLS break.

"He comes (only) to keep fit and work hard," Wenger said.

24

Football / Ronald Koeman is a dread soldier

« on: December 21, 2007, 09:54:45 AM »

Check how he move dey. The cleanout at valencia has begin in de coldest of manners...

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/soccer/wires/12/20/2080.ap.eu.spt.soc.valencia.canizares.0495/index.html

VALENCIA, Spain (AP) -Santiago Canizares is likely to retire after Valencia coach Ronald Koeman told the 38-year-old goalkeeper he would never play for the club again.

"The other day I said that I was 99 percent sure that I wanted to retire at Valencia and it's most probable that my last jersey worn will be Valencia's since that's what the club has decided,'' Canizares said Thursday.

25

Football / Iniesta, Xavi and Fabregas

« on: November 21, 2007, 01:35:58 PM »

..all three started for Spain today against N. Ireland. There was a thread discussing the ability of Fabregas the other day and a side discussion broke out comparing him to Xavi and Iniesta. They are in fact, 3 different players and this game ..although only one, shows their relative abilities and compatability. They all look like class, sublime touches, low center of gravity. Iniesta is playing out on the right to accomodate Fabregas who is playing slighlty advance of Xavi, who is the holding midfielder...everything is coming through him. Marcos Senna doing the dirty work, but of course is full of good touches too. David Silva out on the left. Great midfield..Would love to see this work and for Spain to stick with it thru Euro 2008. Have only watched parts of the first half and Xavi and Iniesta getting the most touches so far..they play together and may even be looking for each other a bit. Fabregas was asserting more and more authority as the game wore on. Good watch for the fans of attractive, technical football 

Ohhh..and related to another thread..Reina in goal

26

Football / Stevie Gerrard - Passionate or Just a Big Baby ?

« on: October 22, 2007, 07:08:46 PM »

What allyuh think about this? Is this just pure passion or is this symptomatic of today's spoilt, entitled football stars. Should Gerrard really need an explanation for being subbed or should Rafa expect this from his warriors? I mean I understand him being disappointed..but hurt? I have to admit, it easy to take this out of context, so I giving him the benefit of the doubt and saying he jes' passionate. But he pushing it a lil' by using the term hurt with a substitution and acting in such a way that the manage felt he hadda give him an explanation. Kudos to Rafa for displaying some good player management skills...not to mention cojones. I mighta let Gerrard stew 

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=474841&cc=5901

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has cleared the air with Steven Gerrard over replacing him in Saturday's Merseyside derby after the midfielder had declared he was 'hurt and disappointed' by the decision.....

.......Gerrard, who captained England during last week's defeat to Russia in Moscow, had earlier admitted he had found the decision hard to take despite victory over their derby rivals being 'the most important thing'.

'I'm a local lad so the derby is really important to me and I would have liked nothing better than to play the full game and to be on the pitch when we got the winner,' he said.

'But as it turned out I was taken off and Lucas Leiva who replaced me played a crucial role in us getting the winning goal.

'I was hurt and disappointed at being taken off because, like I said, I'm a local lad and the derby means everything to me.'

27

Football / The Art of the Pass....

« on: October 14, 2007, 07:53:58 PM »

Feel free to add your own...

Diego
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2_WT6tt2R8

Ronaldinho
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl9QCBp7qAk

Becks (guest starring D. Yorke)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXId1SZbclM&mode=related&search=

Compilation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHJvJQ6Boq4&mode=related&search=

28

Football / Gareth Barry..or Frank Lampard?

« on: October 12, 2007, 11:36:24 AM »

Who should McClaren pick. Sounds like Barry earned the right to keep his spot...Also sounds like Gerrard not really feeling his partnership with Lamps

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=471919&cc=5901

England midfielder Steven Gerrard expects Gareth Barry to feel 'hard done by' if he is dropped in favour of Frank Lampard for the Euro 2008 qualifiers against Estonia and Russia.
Barry stepped into the side when Lampard was injured last month and formed an impressive partnership with Gerrard in the Wembley encounters with Russia and Israel.

Chelsea midfielder Lampard is fit again and could return to displace Barry as Gerrard's partnership.

But the Liverpool skipper, who will captain his country in the absence of John Terry against Estonia, said: 'Gareth was fantastic in both games and I'm sure he'll feel hard done by if he was dropped. He was man of the match in those two games.'

Gerrard is backing Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney to form a lethal strike partnership.

After Owen and Emile Heskey combined so well last month in the absence of the injured Rooney, questions have been raised about the Manchester United striker's ability to play with Owen.

But Gerrard told Sky Sports News the different qualities both players possessed meant they could play together.

He added: 'People who are doubting that combination, I can't really understand that. I think they're a great partnership.'

Rooney has not scored in a competitive England international since Euro 2004 but Gerrard said: 'That's mainly down to injuries. He's missed a lot of internationals.

'For Manchester United, he's getting back to his best and scoring goals. I think a goal is only around the corner.'

29

Football / Ten Cate to Chelsea soon?

« on: October 07, 2007, 04:58:14 PM »

 http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=470776&cc=5901

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, Oct 7 (Reuters) - Ajax Amsterdam coach Henk Ten Cate admitted on Sunday the Dutch club and Chelsea were in negotiations over his move to Stamford Bridge.

'There has to be a solution between Ajax and Chelsea,' Ten Cate said on RTL4-television.
'If that doesn't happen I will stay with Ajax and otherwise there is a chance I will leave.'
Ten Cate has been linked with an assistant coach position at the Premier League club, and according to media reports is set to sign a three-contract.
The TV station also quoted a Chelsea spokesman as saying an official announcement would be made on Monday.

30

Football / Trezeguet Club Form Not Enough

« on: October 04, 2007, 10:55:21 AM »

For those who follow France. Imagine..bussing the net all how in Serie A and dropped for a man who hardly play this season. No disrespect to Domenech cuz club football and international football are 2 different things, but ah sure Trezegol scratching his head...didn't even make a bench

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=469526&cc=5901

France coach Raymond Domenech on Thursday recalled striker Louis Saha for this month's Euro 2008 qualifiers in the Faroe Islands and at home to Lithuania.
 
Saha, who has just returned to action for English Premier League champions Manchester United after being hampered by a knee injury, has not featured for France since a 1-0 friendly win over Greece in November last year.

Juventus striker David Trezeguet, who has scored seven goals in Serie A this season, has been left out after failing to score in France's 1-0 defeat by Scotland last month.