Hoof! Football

A Definitive Guide To The Top 5 Football Tunes

2014-06-12T07:03:00.001-07:00

The sun has been streaming through the windows here at Hoof House and we've all been hit by a sudden bout of World Cup fever! On the day that the world’s greatest footballing showpiece gets underway, it inevitably wasn’t long before talk turned to the disappointment of the Official Fifa song which was was chosen to be performed by the self-proclaimed "Mr Worldwide" Pitbull, along with Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte - We Are One (Ole Ola) - This song has received lots of criticism in host country Brazil for its bland lyrics and lack of any Portuguese and there are worries it might be booed when he performs it live at the opening ceremony in Sao Paulo. However, it does have a carnivale vibe very very popular on YouTube. We then turned our thoughts to one of the most imperative questions that arises every four years and one of the most hotly debated whether in pubs, offices and schools around the world, just what is the best football anthem of all time?

Here is our definitive top 5 – *Warning may induce nostalgia*

5. Fat Les – Vindaloo

The English typically tend to be rather modest when it comes to patriotism compared to their European neighbors and American cousins but this can all be changed in 3 minutes 54 seconds of audible nationalism. Fat les were composed of Blur bassist, Alex James, Damien Hirst and the lyrics were written by comedian Keith Allen the record was first released for France ‘98. Who can forget such classic lines such as "We're England; we're gonna score one more than you" and "we all like vindaloo". This cult classic remains the song of choice for the diehard England Fan.

4. Shakira – Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)

The first World Cup to be held on the African continent required a fitting soundtrack, no not the vuvuzela but Shakira and South African band Freshleyground produced the most successful world cup song to date. The Colombian has also released a track for Brazil 2014 “La La La”, despite the video featuring the best football stars in the world awkwardly dancing topless, it’s certainly no Waka Waka.

3. Dario G – Carnival De Paris

The World Cup of 1998 was lit up by the best football team France has ever produced and the best Official Fifa World Cup song! Even Beckham's red card that led to England's downfall over their arch-rival Argentina and Croatia easing to victory over Germany in the quarters, could not distract from the achievements by Zinedine Zidane and his team, who swept aside all before them on home soil, all of which was sound tracked by the various national elements (not forgetting the bagpipes) and now iconic NAA NAA, NAA NAA, NANARNANAR NANANAA.

2. WORLD IN MOTION – ENGLAND NEW ORDER (Feat. John Barnes)

The Italia ’90's Fifa Concert on the evening before the final saw Pavarotti belt out Nessun Dorma(which narrowly missed out on a spot in the top 5) the tournament also saw England produced their best performance in a World Cup since 1966 and a genuinely good song, new wave heavyweights New Order and co-writing again from Keith Allen, the song is most notable for that rap by star winger John Barnes. Absolute classic.

1. Three Lions – Baddiel/Skinner/Lightning Seeds

It’s 1996 Britpop phenomenon is at its peak, enter the dream team of Baddiel, Skinner and the Lightning Seeds to combine with one of England's most famous sporting summers.

Terry Venables' side which of course featured the legends of Shearer, Lineker and Gareth Southgate, and the iconic Gazza specular solo strike and ‘dentist chair‘ celebration to sink Scotland. Only then for the lyrics to ring oh so true in the semi-finals, as Germany, once again, ended the England dream - but only after a truly special encounter. So popular was the tune that it reached number one in the UK chart, even other teams liked it, Jürgen Klinsmann Germany admitted they sung it on their way to the to the semi-final and eventually adopted it as there own anthem for the World cup in 2006, thus securing its place at number 1.

According to John Motson, "As football songs go, Three Lions is certainly the best", and who would we to disagree with Motty.

#Hoof!

Gibraltar – Rock Solid or Monkey Business?

2014-02-28T10:04:00.001-08:00

Written by Danny Higginson

On the 23^rd of February 2014 footballing history was made. The British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar was drawn out of the hat and placed alongside Germany, Scotland, The Republic of Ireland, Poland and Georgia in group D for the 2016 European Championship Qualifiers for the first time in the nation’s history. But, can this tiny nation of just under 30,000 people, UEFA’s smallest member in terms of population behind San Marino (32,000) on the southern tip of Spain have a ‘rock’ solid impact on their group or is it just a load of monkey business? (Barbary Macaque’s to be precise!)

A wonderful backdrop but do the Gibraltarians have the skill to match?

Previous Fixtures

Since being confirmed as an official UEFA member, Gibraltar have participated in one friendly so far against Slovakia, but have a home tie against the Faroe Islands on the 1^st of March, followed by the first fixture of a home and away friendly double header against Estonia, before beginning their Euro qualifying campaign at ‘home’ against Poland. The match against Slovakia was held as a ‘home’ match for the tiny nation, but was played at the Estadio Algarve near Faro in Portugal due to the Victoria Stadium on the island, not being up to UEFA’s requirements. The match ended all square at 0-0 with Slovakia having the better of the chances, whilst also choosing to rest key men such as Marek Hamsik, but this was still a credible result for Gibraltar which begs the question, how far can this team go?

Hoof! Investigates the island nation’s chances.

The Stadium

Throughout the qualifying campaign it is expected that Gibraltar will host their games at the Estadio Algarve near the city of Faro in Portugal, four hours away from the micro nations border. This is due to the political tension between Gibraltar and their neighbours Spain, who claim ownership of the Rock. Britain disputes this claim and a referendum was held in in 1967 which declared that the Gibraltarians rejected proposals for Spanish sovereignty, thus remaining an independent nation, albeit closely monitored by Great Britain. For this reason, Gibraltar is unable to stage games in its disgruntled neighbors’ territory, hence why Portugal was seen as the logical choice. The stadium itself has a capacity of 30,000 which is more than the population of the entire state. Against Slovakia, three hundred football fanatics made the journey to watch their heroes make their international bow after official recognition and it remains to be seen how many more would make the trip for an official qualifier, therefore it is debatable whether Gibraltar could depend upon a ‘home advantage’ when playing games.

The Squad

Possibly the position that Gibraltar’s more experienced players occupy, in terms of professional appearances is their defence. The Gibraltarians can count Preston North End utility man Scott Wiseman, former Manchester United and Stoke City defender Danny Higginbotham and English lower league journeyman David Artell amongst their own. In midfield can be found another professional player in the shape of Liam Walker, who currently plays for Bnei Yehuda in Israel. Walker joined ‘The Golden’s’ under recommendation from Israeli footballing icon Yossi Benayoun and is described as a ‘tricky winger with an eye for goal’. Other players deserving of a mention are Farsley Celtic’s international superstar Adam Priestley and Reece Styche who is currently on loan at Wycombe Wanderers from footballing giants Forest Green Rovers. These current and ex professionals (Higginbotham has recently retired from club football) will be key to maintaining discipline among the defensive ranks when the pressure is on against footballing powerhouse Germany and qualifying hopefuls The Republic of Ireland, Scotland and a Robert Lewandowski inspired Poland.

35 year old ex Manchester United defender Danny Higginbotham will be crucial to Gibraltar’s hopes.

The Manager

A more optimistic man than those of us here at Hoof! Coach Allen Bula after the draw for the qualifiers was made stated that he believed his team could at least secure a place in the knockouts by finishing third in the group, which begs the question of which three teams in group D will finish with less points than this optimistic (If not slightly deluded?) manager suggests his team will get?

The Verdict

It is hard to see Gibraltar being anything more than a team that is just there to ‘make up the numbers’, as the lack of quality throughout the team is plain for everyone to see. This coupled with a lack of a ground within the borders of the micro-nation all adds up to ultimately a qualifying round full of pride, but with perhaps only a couple of points to show for it. Hoof!’s prediction for the Mediterranean minnows is last place with two points, after ‘home’ draws against Georgia and Scotland.

For ‘highlights’ of Gibraltar’s 0-0 draw with Slovakia, follow the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waKIgBs1_X4

By Danny Higginson

Ignorance is Strength

2014-02-28T07:59:00.000-08:00

Anelka and M'bala M'bala performing the 'quenelle'

For those of you who have read 1984 by George Orwell, the following refrain should echo soundly:

War is peace.
Freedom is slavery.
Ignorance is strength.

This idea, put forward by the Ministry of Truth in Orwell's book, comes to represent the Ministry's ability to change historical facts and rely on the populaces' ignorance to make them true. Ignorance of the past is central to the Ministry's program. Whether Orwell meant it or not, this profound ignorance of the population of Oceania can be seen as an interesting social commentary on the general population. This includes just accepting certain facts that one hears through mass media outlets, the ignorance of blindly supporting a public figure and many other applications for ignorance in society. This leads us to one Nicolas Anelka and his defense for his 'quenelle gesture' after scoring against West Ham.

The gesture itself is anti-Semitic. Developed by French comedian Dieudonne M'bala M'bala as a, in his opinion, "anti-establishment gesture,' it has been used as an inverted Nazi salute and been seen at sites such as Auschwitz and the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin. What's interesting here, as both M'bala M'bala and Anelka claim, as previously stated, that it is just an 'anti-establishment gesture,' the French government is currently trying to ban M'bala M'bala's shows over the gesture, according to the BBC. There is a profound amount of ignorance on Anelka's part about the significance of the gesture and how it is seen as anti-Semitic. However, this ignorance should not preclude him from punishment.

Yesterday, the FA agreed, banning Anelka for five matches and fined him £80,000 for it's use and stating "that the gesture was abusive and/or indecent and/or insulting and/or improper, and that it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or religion or belief." Furthermore, the commission stated that "we did not find that Nicolas Anelka is an anti-Semite or that he intended to express or promote anti-Semitism by his use of the quenelle."

How are these two views even reconciled? The fact that ignorance of a fact cannot be used as an excuse. While Anekla very well could be telling the truth in what he sees as purely an 'anti-establishment gesture,' it is much more than that. It is a anti-Semitic gesture that is abusive and insulting.

Racism has no place in football, sport or in society. The FA did the right thing in banning Anelka. However, the FA should have sent a stronger message by banning him for longer, showing that the consequences of racism outweigh those of say, biting another player. However, had the FA not banned him at all, it would have sent a dangerous precedent in that any perceived ignorance to the laws of the game could be used as a defense against a ban.

In the end, what Anekla thought was his greatest strength, turned out to be his biggest weakness.

If Premier League teams were WWE superstars....

2014-02-26T12:46:00.004-08:00

After recent rumours began circulating that WWE supremo Vince McMahon was going to take over as chairman of Newcastle United, Hoof! Football decided to create our very own WWE / Premier League mash up!

Man United - The Undertaker

United have dominated the PL the last two decades just as the Undertaker has the WWE. In the 90's United rode the wave of the globalisation of the EPL only to come out on top and become one of the biggest clubs in World football much like the Undertaker was integral to the booming popularity of the RAW era of the mid 90's. Under the tutelage of Sir Alex, United were able to adapt and emerge as a constant force as each generation of players subsided, akin to the Undertaker's ability to rebrand (deadman to American bad ass then back to deadman) and reign supreme. Neither know when they're beaten, who can forget the Undertaker's come back against Triple H at wrestlemania 28, or of course United's two last minute 'chokeslams' to win the champions league in 1999. Still all things must come to an end and with a retirement home in hell surely not far around the corner for the Undertaker, and with Sir Alex already there since retiring last season is their time at the top over for these two heavyweights?

Liverpool - Ric Flair

Its all about the history with these two. Delve back into the archives and you are looking at arguably the most successful club in the history of English football and the most successful superstar in the history of the WWE. However in recent years the limp attempts of either to recapture past glories has been as unsuccessful as it was embarrassing. Although as Liverpool are showing this season, there is always potential to reach those giddy heights once more, who's seriously discounting a Ric Flair appearance at wrestlemania 30? Woooooooo!

Chelsea - CM Punk

To their fans they are the anti-hero, the upstart taking on the best and winning, to everyone else they are the villain, conniving and complaining of foul play and ridiculously prone to self destructive overconfidence. Still whichever camp you sit in, its undeniable the both Chelsea and Punk are amongst the 'Best in the World'.

Arsenal - Dolph Ziggler

Technically superb, but are either of them ever going to be fancied enough to be considered real contenders and to lead the pack?

The Curious Case of Southampton FC

2014-02-26T11:59:00.000-08:00

Former Oilers coach Krueger is joining Southampton FC

Southampton have been an interesting team to watch this season. Not just because of their on-the-field success with Mauricio Pochettino, Jay Rodriguez and Rickie Lambert, but also because of their off-the-field front office troubles. In January, chairman Nicola Cortese resigned due to a "irreconcilable rift" with owner Katharina Liebherr due to how the two of them saw the team's development. Now, with Cortese gone, Liebherr has decided to take it upon herself to restructure the management team for the Saints. One of the new personalities to grace Southampton FC is Ralph Krueger.

For the uninitiated, Krueger is the former coach of the Swiss Men's National Hockey Team. Between 1997 and 2010, Krueger led the Swiss men at three Olympic Winter Games (2002, 2006 and 2010) that included a 2-0 victory over Canada in Turin in 2006. Krueger also became coach of the Edmonton Oilers in 2012, before getting unceremoniously sacked less than a year later. Most recently, he was an advisor to the Canadian team that won the gold medal in Sochi. With Liebherr turning to a hockey coach to help with the new management structure, one has to ask how he will fit in.

Well the truth is that no one really knows. According to the BBC, "at this stage, Krueger's exact job description remains unclear but it is understood he has acted as an advisor to Liebherr for some time." What Liebherr likes however is Krueger's experience as a motivational speaker. Additionally, Krueger's work at the highest levels of professional hockey offers a lot of experience (both tangible and intangible) that has the potential to radically change Southampton for the good.

Sport should be a place for an exchange of ideas. You should be constantly be trying to reinvent yourself in order to be consistently competitive at the highest levels. With a move for Krueger, Southampton is showing that they are not scared to think outside the box in a league where winning is everything.

Plight of The Pompey

2014-02-26T07:52:00.001-08:00

On a night when most of the footballing world turned its eyes towards the Champions League to see Manchester United woes continue. Meanwhile, another club looked to end theirs. Portsmouth against Accrington Stanley, an unlikely fixture until a few years ago. It wasn’t so long ago that Pompey played in two FA Cup finals in three years and went on to face Kaka’s AC Milan in the Europa League in 2008, taking a 2-0 lead at Fratton Park before Ronaldinho came on to help rescue a 2-2 draw. Portsmouth FA Cup win ended a 58-year wait for major silverware. Now almost six years ago, it may well seem like a lifetime ago for many fans since the superstar names graced the hallowed turf.

Shortly after lifting the cup the club were plunged into a much documented financial meltdown. Sacha Gaydamak’s glory days were abruptly ended by the global financial crash; owners have since included a tycoon from Dubai without proper funds, a shady Malaysian money lender, a Russian who has since been charged with a £400m fraud. Oh and not forgetting a Saudi businessman no one ever met, and is still disputed to this day whether he actually exists – just where were the so called ‘fit and proper persons’ tests when this calamity was occurring.

As a result of the off the field problems, which eventually saw them become the first Premier League club to enter administration in February of the 09-10 season and leading to relegation after the subsequent 9-point penalty, as well as a hefty transfer embargo emplaced. The following campaign saw them relegated to League One due to another 10-point deduction, due to re-entering administration. This was swiftly followed by a mass exodus of players and staff, with only seven wins over the course of a 46-game campaign combined with a 10-point deduction due to failing to pay footballing creditors Pompey were relegated to League Two, before being rescued from insolvency by their own fans last April.

The Portsmouth Supporters’ Trust (PST) are formed of eleven wealthy supporters, who raised £1.7m, and a remarkable £2.4m was put up by 2,400 less well-off fans each pledging £1,000. After an expensive year-long legal battle (that investors had to fund) to the sum of £1m and settling a claim brought by another former owner, Balram Chainra the club was finally out of administration and in doing so becoming the largest community-owned football club in the country.

Pompey has seen more than their fair share of managers come and go over the past few years. The latest, Richie Barker, along with Director of Football, Steve Coppell inherits a team some great young talent such as Jed Wallace and Jake Jervis but, with same defensive fragilities. They have a lot of work to do to protect Portsmouth from their fourth relegation in five seasons. The club, who had started the season as favourites to win the division are now locked in a survival battle, flirting with the possibility of losing their Football League status altogether!

However, all is not doom and gloom on the South Coast, the club still draws an average crowd attendance of 15,379 – a figure that wouldn’t be out of place in the Championship! The dark days seem to be over and the club are now very much in control of their own destiny. History has shown that it’s possible for clubs to bounce from financial crises, with the correct financial backing and strategy in place; such as neighbours Southampton and Swansea's rise from obscurity. Pompey’s plummet has undeniably influenced UEFA new ‘Financial Fair Play’ regulations that aim to prevent these tragic incidences from being so frequent. Pompey went on to gain an invaluable 3-points against Accrington and climb to 18^th in the league and 7-points off the drop in a tightly-fought league.

“You can be friendly, comfortable, have the cheapest tea in the league, the best beer and the nicest pies, and make everyone involved — but you know what?” said Iain McInnes, chairman of the Portsmouth trust “If you don’t do it on the pitch, no one gives a toss.” A message that Hoof! fully approve.

Remember to follow us on Twitter - @HoofFootball

So it goes...the story of Toronto FC and Kevin Payne

2013-09-04T16:01:00.003-07:00

Former TFC president Kevin Payne

In Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut, Billy Pilgrim, the book's main character consistently repeats the phrase "...so it goes." Vonnegut uses this phrase as a transition, coming after plot points where it might be used to explain the unexplained, such as with deaths. This concept can be immediately be applied to Toronto FC and its revolving door of management, players and staff.

The Kevin Payne era at TFC started nearly 10 months ago and impressively is also one of the shortest eras at the club. Mo Johnston, John Carver, Preki and the ill fated Aron Winter experiment all lasted longer. While Paul Mariner was let go only seven months into his managerial reign, he had been hired at the same time as Winter. This leaves Chris Cummins and Nick Dasovic as TFC's shortest term holders, however they were both interm.

What can be seen from this however is the constant turnover at the club. It is a club that has had more managers (including Ryan Nelsen) than it has years of existence. It is a club that trusted former German international and current US coach Juergen Klinsmann to make decisions for it, instead of from inside the organization. Finally, it is a club that has consistently failed on the pitch (outside of a run to the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions League).

Wrapped up in this story is the fans. Of whom, I count myself as one of them. Having to endure the constant failure on the field, the constant promises of success from management, want-away players, and an ownership group who initially at least, had no idea what they were doing, there is still a base (albeit slightly crazy) that would do anything for the club. This is where we come back to the man that is Kevin Payne.

His "get used to it" answer to Jason DeVos' question about whether or not the supporters should expect more international friendlies was the final 'fu*k you' to the supporters. The ones who have stuck around since the beginning. Payne's backed words (such as not bringing in an overage European type of player) and his 'outgoing' (for lack of a better word) personality, brought about his demise when new MLSE president Tim Leiweke came to town.

In a way, TFC supporters have come to expect this. Someone new comes to town, tries to do things his way and eventually gets fired. As Billy Pilgrim would say, "...so it goes."

Follow Hoof! Football on Twitter at @hooffootball

Moyes' Transfer Disaster

2013-09-04T06:46:00.002-07:00

Moyes' had much trouble in his first window as United boss.

David Moyes' first transfer window with Manchester United doesn’t seem terrible on the surface. He managed to keep Chelsea away from Wayne Rooney and Marouane Fellaini should shore up the midfield with a physical presence. However, when you factor in how the transfer for Fellaini happened (and the failed bid for Everton’s Leighton Baines), the saga around Ander Herrera in Spain, the failed bid for Fabio Coentrao and having Arsenal sign Mesut Özil, Manchester United can be seen as one of the biggest losers in the summer transfer window.

The double bid for Everton duo Fellaini and Baines went through many phases, with an initial £15m bid rejected, then later a £36m bid rejected. United finally split the bid up, offering £15m for Baines (which was again rejected) and £27.5m for Fellaini (which was accepted). While the multiple bids for the two players that were rejected may seem embarrassing enough, it gets worse. Fellaini had a buy-out clause in his contract that had expired earlier in the transfer window. Had United bought their man then, they would have saved £4m. It’s not like they had the man instrumental in signing Fellaini at Everton helping to sign him at United or anything. It's not like he would know those details of his contract.

The window got worse for United when they tried to sign Herrera from Athletic Bilbao. So the story goes, the three men who were conducting transfer negotiations with Herrera were not associated with the club in anyway. They then decided against the transfer and walked away from the table when they balked at Herrera’s buyout clause (£30.5m). It now appears that these men were sport lawyers who had previously worked on football transfers (such as Javi Martinez to Bayern Munich).

These two stories help to play into the failed loan bid for Coentrao and having Özil taken from right underneath United’s nose. One feels that if Sir Alex Ferguson was still manager at United, none of this would have happened. Instead, Coentrao, Özil and Baines might count themselves as Manchester United players and Fellaini would have moved earlier and for less.

Follow Hoof! Football on twitter @hooffootball

The Bristol Derby and England's latest Striking Sensation

2013-09-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow marks what is sure to be a momentous week for Bristol Rovers fans. John Ward takes his Rovers team to Ashton Gate, home of city rivals Bristol City in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy. In one of English football’s most fiercely contested derbies the Gas will be hoping to replicate their famous victory over City in the same competition 6 years ago.

On that night a certain Rickie Lambert scored the winner at the Memorial Ground to send Rovers through and the former Blackthorn End hero has delighted ‘Gasheads’ by once more being included in Roy Hodgson’s England squad to face Moldova and Ukraine in England’s forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

I can’t think of a better way to mark the derby tomorrow night and celebrate Lambert’s second England cap than by revisiting that glorious strike way back in 2007. Come on Rovers!

Levy’s Bailout Plan

2013-09-03T15:14:00.002-07:00

As the clichéd riddled transfer window is slammed shut once more, here at Hoof! we are very excited about the hottest new imports to the league!

Now that the inevitable has happened, one team is left with a bizarre shaped Bale hole. Levy’s solution; get rid of the old, Caulker (Cardiff, £8m), Dempsey (Seattle Sounders, £6m), Huddlestone (Hull, £5m) and Parker (Fulham, £2m) and well as the release of seven players, including Gallas and Bentley. Then go on to spend £106.4 million building a new squad on somewhat unknown players.

First to come in was Brazilian Paulinho add energy to their midfield for £17M. Swiftly followed by Valencia’s superstar Roberto Soldado, for a weighty fee of £26 million, having scored 30 goals in 46 appearances for the La Liga club last season. Soldado has got up and running quickly (from the penalty spot), might he prove the striker they’ve lacked for years.

The direct replacement for bale comes in the form of 21-year-old Erik Lamela who came through the ranks at Argentine side River Plate, providing pace, assists, and goals. Although he is a different player to Bale, he’s definitely an exceptional talent. Fellow 21-year-old Christian Eriksen joined from Ajax Splits opinion but is generally very highly rated. This pair will no doubt entertain and provide some flair and elegance and might be the answer to that missing creative outlet.

Spurs will certainly miss Bale, however is he worth more than a Lamela/Soldado/Eriksen/ /Capoue/Paulinho combined, no. Levy and Spurs made the very best of a bad situation in selling the prized asset and injecting it into players who might gel and will have an impact on the league table this year.
Arsene Wenger predicted that Tottenham’s clutch of new signings may make them ‘unbalanced’, which was seen Arsenals 1-0 win at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenals much criticized lack of summer signings was ended with the arrival club-record smashing £42.5m midfielder Mesut Ozil. Arsenals defence once again looked strong against spurs (despite the opening day blip) but having failed in high-profile attempts to sign Luis Suarez and Gonzalo Higuain lacking in the striker department may prove to be there breakdown.

Undoubtedly the battle for fourth spot shall be a great watch this year!


Wenger has been left scratching his head after a difficult transfer window

Keep an eye out for the much anticipated first Pilchard's Premiership Predictions of the season…

Follow us on Twitter @HoofFootball

Who's Ozil-y boy Arsene

2013-09-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

So with the transfer window firmly slam shut it’s now time to kick back and take in what the hell just happened in the last 24 hours.

By far the biggest deal of the day on every level was the transfer of Mesut Ozil who moved from Real Madrid to Arsenal for a staggering £42.5million. Arsene finally splashed the cash (it must have been burning a hole in his pocket) but is this transfer going to propel the gunners this into title contention this season?

Ozil is undoubtedly one of the finest playmakers in world football, a magnificent 72 assists in his last five seasons, the highest in Europe in the same period, shows the calibre of the player Arsenal have picked up. He is also sure to fit in with the quick passing, fluid football that Arsene has indoctrinated his players to play, yet is this really an area the gunners needed to improve? We all know Arsenal can play most teams off the park but what has let them down season after season is resilience; a doggedness to get the result and scrap to victory. Even the most ardent Arsenal fan would admit the priority for signings lay in a combative midfielder as well as defensive reinforcements. Yet in came Ozil.

Once all the celebrating and furore brought on by this marquee signing fades and the dust settles Arsenal may just realise that the same vulnerabilities remain. A goalkeeper has been brought in to put pressure on Szczesny, yet Emiliano Viviano is a player rebuilding his career after a fragmented few seasons disrupted by injury. As German football writer Mark Lovell put it “Mesut Ozil is a luxury signing. Alas trophy winners are built on sound defence and goalkeeper and Arsene Wenger has neglected these key areas. Arsenal will still get bullied.”

Arsenal’s defensive frailties could still be prevalent. At least with Ozil in the team they will be even more attractive to watch in the face of defeat.

On Yer ‘Ead Son! - Week 1

2013-09-02T15:23:00.005-07:00

Classic route one hoof play...

Welcome to the first edition of the weekly ‘On Yer ‘head Son’ blog. Each week three videos will be uploaded that show goals that have been scored through passages of classic hoof play.

Football purists and Arsenal supporters look away now!

Goal Number 1 – Franck Queudrue v Uhhh... His own team RC Lens.

Hig’s Hoof rating: 7/10. Words fail to describe how good this goal would be if it was scored against the opposition and not your own teammates. Franck clearly had a ‘Have it’ moment and volleyed the goal over his goalkeeper and into his own net. It’s hard not to laugh whilst watching this clip but unfortunately with it being scored in the wrong goal, this has prevented it from scoring higher.

Goal Number 2- Maynor Figueroa v Stoke.

Hig’s Hoof rating: 9/10. This has to be an almost textbook edition of a hoofed goal. As Scott Sinclair is fouled just inside his own half, up steps Maynor Figueroa to launch the resulting free kick over Thomas Sorensen and into the top right hand corner of the net. Did he mean it? Or was he looking for the run of Hugo Rodellega? I’ll leave that up to you to decide!

Goal Number 3 – Tim Howard v Bolton.

Hig’s Hoof rating 10/10. One of my personal favourites for two reasons. Firstly the fact that Tim Howard scored from his own penalty area is always an impressive achievement and secondly, is that Tim clearly had the right idea on how the game should be played, whereby you can bypass 90% of the pitch and land the ball on your strikers head for him to head the ball in, but if you miss and it bounces over the opposition goalkeeper (embarrassing moment eh Mr Bogdan?) then it’s just as effective! This goal gets the Big Sam seal of approval.

Thank you for reading.

Hooffootball would like to hear your hoof ratings for the above goals, please comment below.

Rotherham United's Leap into League 1

2013-09-02T15:06:00.001-07:00

2013 saw Rotherham United return into league 1 after a 6 year absence. After a rough ride over recent years which saw Rotherham have around 4 managers, a loss in the play off final and ever expectant fans waiting to be re established as a league 1 team, a combination of a move back to Rotherham to the brand new, New York Stadium and the appointment of Steve Evans in 2012 gave the fans some hope that Rotherham could finally be promoted after years of disappointment.

Steve Evans did what he promised to do in getting Rotherham promoted by finishing second in league 2 after winning the final 5 games of the season. The big question that surrounded Rotherham was to be whether they could cut it at a higher level with a manager who has never managed at this level before and with a host of more established clubs facing Rotherham throughout the season.

However after the first 5 games of the season, Rotherham remain unbeaten in the league and lie 5th in the playoff places. The pinnacle of the season so far coming from a 2-1 home win against championship local rivals Sheffield Wednesday in the Capital One Cup, Rotherham are showing that they are no pushovers and prospects are looking promising for the forthcoming season. After being favourited for relegation by a number of bookmakers can Rotherham upset all odds and gain a double promotion like 10 years ago. Stranger things in football have happened and could this be Rotherham's time to get back into the big leagues.

Rotherham's strongest test is approaching this weekend as they take on Sheffield United who will prove to be a stern test in the fierce local derby. A win for Rotherham would show that they are a force to be reckoned with and the likes of Wolves, Peterborough and Brentford should all be looking over there shoulders as the minnows from Rotherham could cause a big shock this year!

The Premier League's newest bad boy

2013-09-02T13:02:00.000-07:00

Not pictured: Lack of bathroom damage

A £2 million signing from German side Werder Bremen, Marko Arnautovic is a speedy winger/forward who has previously played for Twente and Inter Milan. However, it is not his football play that Arnautovic is most known for. Jose Mourhino stated that he “is a fantastic person but has the attitude of a child.”

During his time at Inter, Arnautovic and Balotelli became good friends. With Mourhino playing mental games with Super Mario, Arnautovic was going out partying multiple times a week while injured and was consistently late for training.

When he arrived at Bremen, he had 2010 Champions League Winner written on his boots. Journalist Tim Roehn said “In his opinion, he's a 2010 Champions League winner, even if he didn't play…he behaves like a megastar here in Bremen. He came from Inter and now he's in a relegation fight in Germany.” Later on during his stay at Bremen, he said the club was nothing but a “lemonade stand” and he told his manager to go back to his mother’s vagina. This was combined with more partying while Bremen were in a relegation battle.

His footballing talent has never been an issue. He’s a big, strong forward to can dribble and has an eye for goal. He’s good both technically and physically.

Under old Stoke boss Tony Pulis, Arnautovic would have never came anywhere close to the Potters. If he did, Pulis would have shipped him out at his earliest convenience. However, under Mark Hughes, Stoke are slowly shying away from the direct style of football of Pulis. Arnautovic is part of this shift. But what are Stoke going to get? A professional who wants to play everyday or a partier who is consistently late for training and makes quips at management?

Either way, it’s going to be fun to watch.

The Next Generation German

2011-09-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

Andre Schurrle is already a landmark footballer. Along with Borussia Dortmund's Mario Gotze he became the first footballer to appear for the German national team born into a reunified Germany. This historic appearance came in November of 2010, and since then Schurrle's stock has continued to rise.

His first international cap arrived in the same season for which he achieved his most prolific club form to date, scoring 15 goals in 34 appearances for Mainz 05 in the 2010-11 Bundesliga. This tally also meant Schurrle had surpassed Mohamed Zidan's record of 14 goals, hit in 2006-7, as Mainz' highest topflight goalscorer in a single season. His impressive form forced the hand of last year's Bundesliga runners up Bayer Leverkusen, who promptly agreed an 8 million euro fee for the young forward.

Operating predominantly as a second striker or out wide due to his electric pace, Schurrle is an intimidating prospect for opposition defenders when in full flight. To compliment his pace Schurrle possesses a natural dribbling ability, which he utilises at high speed and can also call upon a variety of neat tricks and flicks to beat his man. Despite his tender age, he is 21 in November, his maturity in choosing when to appropriately open his box of tricks is clear to see. Leverkusen's decision to award him the number 9 shirt for the current campaign elicits his wiry frame and height of just over six foot which makes him an even more imposing presence to a full back or central defender.

His ability has quickly been recognised by Germany manager Joachim Low, who has already given Schurrle 8 outings for Die Mannschaft. Schurrle has more than returned the favour by scoring four goals in his 8 caps; netting in the friendly wins against Brazil and Uruguay, but even more importantly in key qualifiers for Euro 2012 against Azerbaijan and Austria respectively.

As of yet he has failed to open his account for new club Leverkusen in 5 appearances, but his undeniable potential is evident and he can also call upon the stage of the Champions League as a springboard for his progression. He started in Leverkusen's first European outing in a left wing role at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea, at which I witnessed an impressive debut in the competition. The goals will soon come.

Europeans and MLS, part I

2011-08-29T18:09:00.000-07:00

Starting with the 1994 World Cup in the United States, football in North America has come out of the wilderness and is beginning to regain its former status. After the North American Soccer League (NASL) folded, there was no top division football in the US or Canada. That all changed in 1996, with kick off in MLS. Since then, MLS has become a target for many major European players. Players such as David Beckham have given the league major marketing potential and a chance to improve the level of play. European players in MLS, or the former NASL for that matter, have had varying impacts on and off the pitch. Spanning two parts, we will look at what the relationship has been between many of these players in MLS and what has their impact has been on and off the pitch. In our second part, we will look at European managers and their time in MLS – focusing primarily on former Dutch internationals Ruud Guilit and Aron Winter.

Some of the best players in the world have played in the NASL and North America at some point. Players such as Pele, Beckenbauer and Best have all plied their trade in North America. With the formation of the MLS in 1996, more Europeans began to come to the league in its initial years. Players such as Roberto Donadoni (New York), Walter Zenga (New England), Lothar Matthaus (New York), Youri Djorkaeff (New York), Stoichov (Chicago, DC) and Mo Johnston (Kansas City) have played in MLS from the leagues inception to around 2006. During these initial 10 years of the leagues existence, the only European players who would come were old and looking for a last pay cheque. Matthaus made 16 appearances for New York, failed to score and overall, did not have much of an impact. Djorkaeff, although scoring 12 goals in 45 appearances, took leave of New York to go to France for ‘urgent family matters’ and was later spotted at a World Cup match. These early players did not have much of an impact on the league, both on and off the pitch. All this would change in 2007, when the most famous footballer of all time joined the LA Galaxy.

When David Beckham joined the Galaxy in 2007, expectations were high. He was supposed to bring new fans to the league and grow football in North America. Looking back in 2011, Beckham has had an up and down career with the Galaxy. His loan spells to AC Milan resulted in an Achilles injury that ruled him out of action for a long time. He had quarrels with current Galaxy captain Landon Donovan about his loan agreements and generally failed to have a large impact on the pitch during the first two years of his five year contract. Off the pitch however, ‘Beckham 23’ shirts sold around North America and the world. When Beckham did play, teams sold out their stadiums, with upwards of 50,000 people going to see Beckham in different markets in MLS. Since then, he has enjoyed on field success with the Galaxy, making the MLS Cup in 2009 and winning the Supporters Shield in 2010.

Beckham can also be seen as a drawing point for many other European stars coming to MLS. With Beckham’s arrival, the Designated Player rule came into effect. The rule allowed for one player on the squad to have their salary over $400,000 a year to be exempt from the salary cap. This meant if a player was making $5 million a year, only $400,000 would count against the cap. This rule has been expanded since 2007 to allow up to three designated players on a team. This rule has allowed players such as Thiery Henry, Torsten Frings, Freddy Ljungberg, Danny Koevermans, Robbie Keane, Eric Hassli and Frank Rost to join the league. Although this fails to account for players such as Abel Xavier (who did not have much success) and Darren Huckerby (who scored many key goals for San Jose) who came to the league and did not have DP status.

So what has the impact of European players been in the MLS? Not that great up until now. While Beckham has enhanced the image of the game in North America and has indirectly helped to bring many high profile European players to the league, it is still a league that is dominated by domestic players and players from South America. Since the leagues inception, no European player has won the MVP award, and only one has ever been a finalist. Many players come over with a ton of hype, such as Mista, and fail miserably. However this trend is beginning to change. Two of the top five scorers in the league are French, Beckham is second in assists, and a Swiss keeper leads the league in saves. This is the beginning of European players making their mark on MLS, with European managers slowly catching up.

Pilchard's Premiership Predictions!

2011-08-29T12:18:00.000-07:00

Remember Paul the psychic Octopus? Well here at Hoof! Football we have our very own psychic sea-dweller, ready to give you his tips for the weekend's fixtures. Introducing Pilchard's Premiership Predictions!!

SATURDAY

Arsenal v Swansea

Arsene Wenger is the man in the spot light at the moment after suffering a crushing 8-2 defeat at old Trafford on Sunday. He will be looking for his team to bounce back after this poor performance, but with an injury list as long as his coat, it looks like it’s going to be another hard match. It’s not all doom and gloom for Arsenal though as the likes of Vermaelen and Bacary Sagna look certain to return to the team, and the possibility of Abou Diaby playing in his first game since undergoing ankle surgery is surely the boost Wenger is looking for to ensure all three points.

Swansea, like Arsenal, are still searching for that elusive first win, after a heavy defeat at the hands of Man City on the opening day, the Swans have drawn their last two games with stand out performances so far from the Dutch keeper Michael Vorm. However the shot stopper will have to keep up his fantastic performances if he is looking to prevent the likes of Walcott and Van Persie, who have both scored 2 goals in their last 2 games, off the score sheet. Sitting just above the relegation zone, Brendan Rodgers will be looking for his team to capitalise on Arsenal’s weakened side and come away with a win, however beating Arsenal at the Emirates is no small feat, and with a Swansea team yet to score in the Premier league, they will undoubtedly be the underdogs going in to this one.

PREDICTION: 2-0

BOOKIES ODDS:

Everton v Aston Villa

Everton have had a mixed start to the season, although they have three points from six, which isn’t all that bad, their performances have not been what we have come to expect. Their opening day fixture against spurs was cancelled, and in their first game against QPR the toffees were poor, wasting chances on goal and failing to close down eventually led to a 1-0 defeat. Moyes’ men looked to bounce back in their second game against Blackburn, but this never materialised, with youngster Barkley and centre back Jagielka both giving away penalties, which Rovers failed to convert. A soft penalty handed Everton the win. However David Moyes will have worked his players hard in training this week as I’m sure he will want to get a home win under his belt.

With the controversial appointment of Alex McLeish as Aston Villa manager in the summer, the pressure was on to win over the claret and blue faithful and replace the departures of Ashley young and Stewart downing. The midland side are unbeaten so far this season, winning one game and drawing two. This start is a good platform for Alex McLeish to build on, with the defence only conceding one goal and with summer signings such as N’Zogbia looking sharp; it bodes well for the midland side for this fixture at Goodison Park.

PREDICTION: 1-1

BOOKIES ODDS:

Man City v Wigan

Manchester City are looking like real title contenders this season, with emphatic wins over both Swansea and Tottenham. It looks as though Roberto Manchini has put together a world class squad which can challenge for all competitions, and with their perfect start to the campaign they look a formidable prospect for any top flight team. With Edin Dzeko firing on all cylinders having scored 6 goals in 3 premier league matches, Wigan will have to be in inspired form to stop the big Bosnian.

Wigan have had their best start to a season in the Premier League, being unbeaten in three games and sitting in eighth having won once and drawn twice. Wigan’s 2-0 win over QPR last weekend will help give confidence to the Lactics with Franco Di Santo on target to earn three points. Roberto Martinez has done well to keep hold of striker Hugo Rodallega who was linked numerous clubs over the summer, and the Wigan manager will be looking for the Colombian to be on form in this tough fixture and test a Manchester City defence which isn’t entirely convincing.

PREDICTION: 3-0

BOOKIES ODDS:

Stoke v Liverpool

Stoke will approach this game with great belief having successfully qualified for Europe and are unbeaten in all competitions. Tony Pulis has done a great job so far at stoke, building from their promotion to the top flight in 2007-08 season, improving both the defence and attack, he’s added both strength and depth to a team which hopes to compete in all competitions. The Britannia has become a fortress for stoke with many Premier League teams being held to a draw or defeated there, as Chelsea found out on the first day of the season.

Liverpool have started the season well, winning two games and drawing their first against Sunderland. Kenny Dalglish has added to a Liverpool squad which failed to win a place in any European competition last season, and his new signings have hit the ground running with Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing particularly impressing in their first few games. Liverpool will have to play at their best to take anything away from stoke who will have a well earned rest from Thursday night football.

PREDICTION: 1-2

BOOKIES ODDS:

Sunderland v Chelsea

Sunderland have had a difficult start to the season with two draws and one defeat. Steve Bruce is still looking for a replacement for Darren Bent; however the signings which the Black Cats manager has made over the summer has improved the defence with the likes of Wes Brown standing out in recent matches. Sunderland will be looking for a home win in this fixture and will look to exploit Chelsea’s poor defensive displays so far, possibly utilising Gyans pace to get in behind the blues back four.

Chelsea will also be looking to win this match as recent fixtures haven’t been the most convincing as to their possible title challenge. Their game has not been as fluid as normal and if it wasn’t for Bosingwa then maybe Chelsea would have struggled to get all six points from their last two games, However with new signings Lukaku and Mata both getting pitch time against Norwich, maybe their title challenge is about to begin. I believe Chelsea will just have too much for Sunderland in this fixture but it should still be a well fought contest.

PREDICTION: 1-3

BOOKIES ODDS:

Wolverhampton v Tottenham

Wolverhampton wanderers under Mick McCarthy look every bit a premiership team, with a great start to the season, and some strong summer signings; they are very much in with a chance of beating Tottenham in this encounter. Mick’s no nonsense approach to football is reflected in his team, who work hard and don’t give up. The signing of Roger Johnson is turning out to be a great move by the Wolves manager, as he’s started all three league games, keeping clean sheets in two of them and almost grabbing a debut goal.

Spurs will be dying to get back onto a football pitch and put the demolition at the hands of Manchester City behind them. Harry Redknapp has a few concerns as to his line up as Rafael Van Der Vaart limped off at White Hart Lane with a hamstring problem and the apparent effect of the transfer saga concerning Luka Modric. However Tottenham still have enough quality within their team to hurt Wolves, with bale and Lennon’s pace and Jermaine Defoe’s shooting power and movement, which he demonstrated after being brought on in the 5-1 loss.

PREDICTION: 2-2

BOOKIES ODDS:

Bolton v Man Utd

Bolton were not at their usual best at the weekend losing to Liverpool 3-1, with not many positives to be taken out of the game. Owen Coyle started the season well with a 4-0 win over QPR on the opening day, but since then the trotter ‘s have not picked up a point. Gary Cahill was not at his best against Liverpool and the transfer speculation was supposedly the cause of this problem, however with the transfer deadline only a few days away this apparent distraction will be all but settled by the time Manchester United visit the Reebok on Saturday.

Manchester United’s annihilation of Arsenal on Sunday showed the ability and belief which Sir Alex Fergusons men possess. However let us not forget, this Arsenal team were without six first team regulars and with United fielding a first team full of emerging stars, this was always going to be a challenge for Arsene’s men. The new additions to the squad have all settled in and are already contributing to the teams winning ways, with Ashley Young getting on the score sheet twice and providing three assists in the previous fixture. Owen Coyle will know all about the quality which the opposition can call upon and will try to stifle the wide play of Young and Nani also trying to prevent Rooney having time and space on the ball. Kevin Davies will really test the youngsters in defence and will use his experience to create opportunities for himself and his team mates.

PREDICTION: 1-2

BOOKIES ODDS:

SUNDAY

Norwich v West Brom

Overall I believe Norwich have had a good start to life in the Premiership, with a draw away at Wigan and a draw at home to Stoke. In their most recent match at Stamford Bridge they showed promise, with good attacking play and a solid defence, which was only penetrated through a great Bosingwa strike and counter attacking play. They penetrated the Chelsea backline on a number of occasions, and if it wasn’t for poor finishing, the end result may have been different. Their big number 9, Grant Holt, is an old fashioned centre forward and can cause defenders all sorts of problems, and with crosses into the box from Wes Hoolahan, this Norwich team can defiantly score goals.

West Brom have had on paper a terrible start to their campaign, losing all three of their starting fixtures. However the two games which Roy Hodgeson’s men faced in the opening weeks were tougher than any in the league. They were unlucky to not take away any points against United, only through an unfortunate own goal did they lose, and in their second game they took the lead against Chelsea and if only Shane Longs pass to his strike partner was better, it could have been 2-0 going into half time. Clearly West Brom are having no luck, and it needs to change quickly, Roy will see this fixture as an opportunity to get their season back on track and show they are better than they were at the end of last season. Bobby Zamora is to return after missing the Stoke match last weekend; this then, may be the time to get those first and vital three points.

PREDICTION: 2-1

BOOKIES ODDS:

Fulham v Blackburn

Fulham have had a poor start to the Season after drawing once and losing twice, and this needs to change if Martin Jol is looking to perform well in the Premier league and in Europe. Fulham have only scored once, courtesy of Clint Dempsey in the 88th minute at St. James Park, but one goal in three games is rightly a cause for concern. Martin Jol came out last week saying that Fulham need to beat Newcastle, since they lost 2-1, this fixture has added pressure for the London side to take all three points.

Blackburn are a club, who from the outside, do not instil confidence in their supporters, with very few summer signings after a narrow escape from relegation last season. They are yet to win in the Premiership, and have no points on the board; these are worrying times for the Lancashire club. Having been awarded two penalties in the last fixture against Everton, it seems to be unbelievable that both of the spot kicks were missed. There are some positives to take from the opening games however, as David Hoilett, the young Canadian is looking very lively, coupled with their new signing, Formica, who won both penalties at the weekend, it could prove to be a scoring Partnership. (Despite the fact they both missed their penalties on Saturday).

PREDICTION: 2-1

BOOKIES ODDS:

MONDAY

QPR v Newcastle

QPR are currently undergoing a revamp, players are being brought in to enhance their current squad and ensure Premier League survival. Neil Warnock is delighted to be back in charge of a top flight team again, and has three points from three games which isn’t a bad start. The new signings of Joey Barton and Luke Young look set to bring some experience and quality to the team. The ex Newcastle player will of course be grabbing the headlines with his free transfer to QPR, which seems ludicrous given his level of ability, but he must not let the media talk influence his game and stay focused on the match. The hoops have a good team, which is an attacking threat at Premier League level, as Everton found out at Goodison Park, and if they had taken the lead against Wigan then it may have been a different story.

Newcastle have had a good start to the season with seven points out of a possible nine, with Alan Pardew’s tea performing well with the loss of Enrique, Nolan and now Barton. Many wondered how the Magpies would cope without their big stars from the previous season, but players like Leon Best and Ryan Taylor are stepping up their game to ensure they get three points. I think this game will be a close call, with the pace of Obertan and Gutierrez for Newcastle but also the attacking options which QPR possess in Adel Taarabt who is looking to impact on the Premiership.

PREDICTION: 2-1

BOOKIES ODDS:

Deadline Day

2011-08-25T09:00:00.001-07:00

With the transfer deadline fast approaching, football fans across the country prepare themselves for one of the most exhilarating days in the football seasons calendar. Even the most pessimistic fans hold out the slightest hope that their team may pull off the kind of coup that will change their clubs season. Whether it be the fox in the box whose arrival will sustain the club's title charge or the buccaneering midfield dynamo who will lead suspected relegation fodder narrowly into the safe haven of mid table obscurity (Jimmy Bullard anyone?), fans have their fingers, legs and toes crossed that the bank will be broken to sign the right man, or just about anyone within reach come to think of it.

Of course the half-baked panic buys make deadline day just as much as fun as the well thought through deals. As football managers scour the depths of the transfer market, reminiscent of teenage girls rummaging through the bargain bucket of a Croydon Primark, we are quickly reminded that for every Rafael Van Der Vaart there is also a Rasmus Elm (look him up). Throughout the living rooms of England, shouts of "Who!!" meet television sets and laptop screens as sky sports reveals the intricacies of the deal Norwich have struck for their new Slovenian centre forward.

Deadline day has become magical for so many football fans, as the increasing influx of money brought into the game makes the possibilities for shock and surprise seemingly endless. It is a day when almost anything can happen.Transfers can materialise from thin air through a haze of rushing agents as they eagerly negotiate deals for their clients. In the mean time, rumours swirl with ferocity as reports can neither confirm nor deny that Pele has been spotted boarding the number 22 bus to Putney, announcing his return from retirement in an attempt to secure a move to Fulham. For even in the dull moments the constant circulation of gossip and chinese whispers keep us on the edge of our seats. As the deals break fans can revel in a dream like rapture as Barnsley confirm the arrival of a former World Cup winner, or Stoke beat Real Madrid to the signing of the next big talent from South America. Stranger things have certainly happened (see no.4 below). All of these factors make transfer deadline day, or 'D-day' as it is popularly becoming known, as eagerly anticipated by the footballing population as Christmas, amen to that!

Below I have listed some of the biggest deadline day deals to have occurred within the last few years. They have been chosen in relation to the factors I feel contribute most to making 'D-day' one of the best days of the year. The entrants on this list encompass all the nail-biting drama, unexpected moves, tales of treachery and season defining moments that have become as expected as eggs at Easter! Enjoy!

Top 5 Deadline Day Deals

1. Dimitar Berbatov to Manchester United (September 1st, 2008)

The move which saw Dimitar Berbatov become the most expensive Bulgarian in the history of football is most remarkable for the fact that it could not have been made at a later minute. Manchester United had finally had their reported 30.75 million pound bid accepted by Tottenham Hotspur late on the Monday deadline.

The deal was by no means a mere formality, the nations football community had delighted in Sir Alex Ferguson's brazen pursuit of his man all summer, much to the annoyance of Spurs chairman Daniel Levy. After months of rebuffs and even a complaint to the FA, complimented by a years worth of evidence for United's "disgraceful" chase for the striker, Levy spectacularly caved right at the final hour and relented to allow Berbatov to leave for a sizeable fee. Earlier that day the pressure had cranked as Manchester City, freshly purchased from the Abu Dhabi United Group, also lodged an offer of similarly sized proportions. The developments were fascinating as Manchester City, literally overnight, now had the financial capacity to compete with their neighbours, and were now audaciously trying to poach Fergie's long time target right at the death. Berbatov though resisted Manchester City's late attention and eventually completed his transfer to Old Trafford.

For Tottenham the deal was finalised so late on that they were left lacking in the striking department with inadequate time to find a replacement. The board were much maligned for this lack of foresight, especially as Berbatov had been linked with the exit door throughout the summer. Drama!!!!

2. Robinho to Manchester City (September 1st, 2008)

Now speaking of Manchester City, they were very busy boys on the 2008 August transfer deadline. As well as the fore-mentioned bid for Dimitar Berbatov, Manchester City not only put their inner city rivals noses out of joint, but they also firmly rained on Chelsea F.C's parade, by pipping them to the signing of Brazilian superstar Robinho. Chelsea had been so confident of a deal that they had advertised Robinho club shirts on their megastore website before an agreement had been reached with the Brazilian's club Real Madrid. This antagonised Real, who promptly added a few more million to their valuation of the selecao frontman, allowing City the opening they needed.

The deal came fresh off the back of the arrival of City's new billionaire owners, the Abu Dhabi United Group, who wasted no time in flexing their significant financial muscles by breaking the then British transfer record by splashing out 32.5 million pounds for the former Santos forward. This signing, alongside City's other actions in the transfer market that day signified the emergence of Manchester City as a new force on the face of football and demonstrates the impact they would soon have in changing face of the English Premier League. Within one day the new investment at the City of Manchester Stadium had already blown the previous big spenders of the league, Chelsea, out of the water in the transfer market, and ruffled the feathers of their rivals, whom they had previously had to watch as they dominated English football over the last decade.

Robinho, despite his schizophrenic time at the club, during which he was equally likely to strop and trudge around the pitch as he was to beat three men and send the net rippling, was the pioneering superstar that City needed, seduced by the big bucks on offer. Many more have since followed, and will continue to do so (although not many will be caught riding the buses of Manchester, a la Robinho). City have now reached the hallowed ground of the Champions League and at last look fully capable of sustaining a title charge, much to the displeasure of the onlooking United and Chelsea.

3. Rafael Van Der Vaart to Tottenham Hotspur (September 1st, 2010)

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp further enhanced his reputation for a being a 24 carat diamond in the transfer market, by pulling off one of the most successful pieces of deadline day business to be seen in recent years. His swoop for forgotten Real Madrid man Rafael Van Der Vaart took everybody by surprise when just two hours before the midnight deadline Tottenham lodged an offer, of a reported 8 million pounds.

Spurs, after qualifying for the Champions League proper for the first time, had endured a frustrating summer in which only the then relatively unknown Brazilian, Sandro, had completed a move to White Heart Lane. Tottenham fans had so nearly resigned themselves to the fact that the grindings of the rumour mill had flattered to deceive them, with its promises of star signings to compliment their new standing in Europe's elite club competition. With the transfer window about to pass the club by, Tottenham had yet to land any of the promised 'headline signings'. Then so late in the day news on the Van Der Vaart deal broke.

With the spurs fans lifted, their optimism was almost dashed as sources reported technical problems threatening to scupper any signing. The deadline passed and no confirmation of the transfer arrived. Spurs appeared to have left it too late, and fans bemoaned an apparent dodgy internet connection for preventing the transfer. But alas, the sympathetic heads at the Premier League granted Tottenham special dispensation (clearly everyone has suffered the torment of a stuttering internet connection) and Spurs completed the deal on September 1st, one day after the deadline had passed.

The rest, as they say, is history. Van Der Vaart went on be an essential part of Tottenham's season, scoring 15 in all competitions, as they swept aside both Inter and A.C Milan in the Champions League and pushed Arsenal all they way in their hunt for a second successive fourth place finish in the Premier League.

4. Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano to West Ham United (31st August, 2006)

On the 2006 31st August transfer deadline, West Ham made not just ripples, but waves within the footballing World as they pulled off the double signing of Argentina internationals Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano.

The deals were as spectacular as they were totally unexpected, as a fee of a combined 24 million pounds was reported for the pair from Brazilian club Corinthians. West Ham fans despite their elation could still only join in with the rest of the World as they asked, "Why?!" Why on Earth had two of World footballs most promising players pitched up at Upton Park? The pair themselves would probably have asked the same question, should they have spoken a word of English upon their presentation to the media. Looking confused and dazed, they too probably wondered how on Earth they had ended up here, when they had been continuously linked to a whole raft of European footballs top clubs, including; Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Chelsea and Manchester United. West Ham fans could only shut their gaping mouths and look forward to the prospect of their side tearing up the Premier league with the aid of their two new superstars. West Ham had pulled off the signings of their dreams.

Fast forward to the end of what proved to be a difficult season for the Hammers, as they escaped relegation on the last day of the season, Tevez scoring the only goal of a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford, and the dream was swiftly becoming a nightmare. Despite Tevez' on field success, being named club player of the year, Mascherano had rarely featured and was sent on loan to Liverpool in January 2007. Furthermore the discrepancies of the deal which brought the two players from the sunny climes of Brazil to East London had been placed under heavy scrutiny by the Premier League. It emerged that both players registrations was not officially owned by West Ham, but instead by a third party, Kia Joorabchian's Sports Media Investment. West Ham were immediately fined 5.5 million pounds by the Premier League enquiry. A lengthy legal battle with the relegated Sheffield United, feeling aggrieved they had lost their position as a Premier League club to West Ham, who had benefited from the use of an illegal player followed. West Ham eventually agreed an out-of-court payment of 20 million pounds to Sheffield United in compensation.

The transfers of Tevez and Mascherano cost the club approximately 50 million pounds, and they began the next year with both players departed.

5. Fernando Torres to Chelsea F.C (31st January, 2011)

The protagonist of a long drawn out transfer saga, the unhappy spaniard was hampered by injuries throughout his first six months of the 2010/11 season at Liverpool. The behind the scenes chaos instigated by now former owners; Tom Hicks and George Gillett, was still being reflected on the pitch as Liverpool continued to flounder. Labouring on the field, Torres; increasingly resembling a character from a Shakespearean tragedy, seemed disinterested and disjointed to the Liverpool cause. He began playing with a distinct lack of commitment, and his declarations of "loyalty" lacked any real conviction. The most convincing act of Torres' season came when he handed over a transfer request three days before the deadline on the 31st January.

This transfer is significant for a number of reasons, none less than the British transfer record of 50million pounds that Chelsea eventually paid for him. However this deal is also a perfect example of just how a quick flutter of some Russian billionaires chequebook can result in an incredibly exciting flutter of last minute transfer activity. The money Liverpool received enabled them to pull off the intriguing signing of Newcastle United's Andy Carroll. Another transfer record was broken, with the 35million pound fee making the Gateshead born Carroll the most expensive British player in the history of the game.

The sale of Torres has since been perceived as the first move of Liverpool's re-building process, as fans have seen all the funds re-invested in the squad. Torres, on the other hand got the move he helped engineer, and would soon be the spearhead of a revitalised Chelsea back at his goalscoring best............(Hmm, hindsight is a wonderful thing.)