EliteFootballTalk

LIVERPOOL FC: The Fall Before The Rise?

2009-08-26T19:24:00.002+01:00

Well, almost 48hrs has passed from the debacle of our defeat to Aston Villa at home. Now, it is not the defeat that hurts, as a team can recover form from a defeat and go on well. Man Utd showed that last season dropping positions and then perking up. I can put into perspective what the result on Monday possibly meant to most, if not all, LFC fans, in three points:

1) Losing to Aston Villa. Aston Villa were beaten, at home, in their opening game by Wigan, who were starting with Robert Martinez. They then went away to Austria to lose to Rapid Vienna, just by the single goal. They then face up to coming to Anfield, after we had beaten Stoke 4-0, and even that match was after we started so lethargically at White Hart Lane. The prospects of an away win, or even Villa scoring, were slim. We were to capitalise on Villa's current woes and our recent found form. We were not suppose to lose on Monday.

2) Losing at Anfield. I think the last time we had lost at home was to Man Utd in December 2007, to a single Carlos Tevez touch. Almost two years ago. Anfield is a fortress, so why did we simply down tools and allowed it to be invaded?

3) Losing 1-3. Following on from point 2 above, we were not suppose to lose. We were not to lose by a margin of having conceded three and scoring one. We allowed ourselves to be 0-2 down by half time, and I care not for whether a corner should have been allowed or not. Once the referee gives it, we positioned ourselves and we defend the goal. The last time we lost 1-3 at home to Villa was back in September 2001. Eight years ago.

So those who had written us off for the title just couldn't hold themselves from the laughter. Funny how so many make predictions so early into the season. If that would be the case, then Man Utd's positioning of 19th two seasons ago meant they would be relegated. But we all know they didn't, doing the exact opposite by winning the title. So how, three games in, we're meant to be out of the title race is bewildering, unless people wish to make out something from our squad. When you compare the teams of the top 4 favourites, people think they have a justifiable cause to do so:

Liverpool 1st XI: Reina; G Johnson, Carragher, Skrtel, Insua; Mascherano, Leiva; Kuyt, Gerrard, Benayoun/Babel/Reira; Torres

Man Utd: Foster; Rafael, Evans, Vidic (back from injury), Evra; Valencia, Fletcher, Anderson, Park; Rooney, Berbatov

Chelsea: Cech; Boswinga, Carvalho, Terry, Cole; Essien, Lampard, Mikel, Malouda; Anelka, Drogba

Arsenal: Almunia; Eboue, Vermaelen, Gallas, Gibbs; Fabregas, Denilson, Diaby; Arshavin, RVP, Eduardo

That is how those teams are right now. They can, most certainly, change, with some absentees returning and vying for a place, maybe even slotting in straight away in a few cases. But Liverpool shouldn't be declining at the moment, not with the push we had from last season, with the only difference being Xabi Alonso's omission. Did he really make such a difference or are we missing a player who we have not yet learned to cope without and can only do so with a few matches under our belt? Was Monday's defeat another bad day at the office, to be blamed on the players, or one that is the manager's fault?

For me, there are few excuses to make one feel consolable. After Monday, I had to think, think what went wrong, what can be done to put things right. No doubt anyone reading this will let me know their views, but one person I really hope to be interested with a POV is Rafael Benitez. Tall order, and from some of the comments I have read from certain forums, it is a good thing he doesn't read them....Or does he? I hope he does pass by EFT, and picks up on these points from me:

1) At the earliest opportunity, link Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger in defence. Jamie Carragher is 'Carra', and that alone is 'nuff said' in LFC. But I think he be more of a benefit to us now providing support coming off the bench than starting on the field. Agger is a pacy, strong, tall centre-back who provides a good header for dead-ball moments and a left-foot strike. Skrtel is our 'henchman', a die-hard, putting himself on the line with his blocks and tackles. They are our up-n-coming centre-backs. The onus is on getting and keeping Agger fit. The onus is also on getting and keeping all our players fit!

2) Drop Lucas Leiva. Impressive as the U-20's Brazil captain, not as the central midfielder for LFC. Not anything in the slightest in the mold Alonso brought, and RB, you know why you brought over Xabi. You brought over Mohammed Sissoko to be the new 'Patrick Vieira' and he was anything but. You made a central midfield well out of Alonso and Javier Mascherano, another you know well why you brought him over for. You made it so Steven Gerrard could aid Fernando Torres upfront, accompanied by Dirk Kuyt and another. Changes, Mr Benitez, changes. And it's changes needed now to spearhead our season, starting with Leiva. You may not want to hurt but instead develop the youngster, but we dont have time for that right now.

3) Move Gerrard into central midfield in front of Mascherano. The Argentinian appeared to want a move from Anfield but for negotiations failing. To lose both Alonso and Mascherano would be akin to cutting into your veins. I don't mind bleeding Red, but it is bleeding that has to be worth it. So we managed to hold onto Mascherano, and we've acquired Alberto Aquilani. 'Injury-prone', 'Sicknote', I've read him being called (unsurprisingly) but we can rehabilitate him to provide us that strength and vision from central again. In the interim, Gerrard should be moved to central midfield, with Leiva dropped.

4) With Gerrard central, that can bring out the defensive and attacking flair of Mascherano on the counter, with Gerrard taking over on the attack to feed the flanks and/or upfront. Saying that, we want our wingers. We have a choice out of Ryan Babel, Albert Riera, Yossi Benayoun, and Nabil El Zhar. Anyone who has seen El Zhar perform should know the Moroccan is an eager winger with pace and skill. Is he ready for a regular EPL run? I don't think so but he is coming along. That said, Benayoun was dropped against Spurs after performing so well last season. That was to give Babel a chance he has been itching for. The Dutchman didn't come up to scratch.

5) Both Babel and Leiva, for me, have this season to thoroughly impress. I still think Babel can give us a lot more, Leiva not so right now. Now Riera is available, it is he on the left and Benayoun on the right who should start, every game. That then relieves Kuyt, finally, to go up front as the second striker to Torres. Kuyt can feed the flanks, hold the ball up from central, and bring in the wingers, and when you talk about Riera and Benayoun, they are both inquistive and determined players who take on full-backs. And they both provide crosses and assists.

6) Brush up on our defending from dead-ball situations. This is where, for some reason, we are most vulnerable. Some blame it on this 'zonal-marking' strategy. It's a point worth noting. Mark a space, fine. If a player moves out of that zone when the ball is played, that adds confusion and we're exposed. Go back to player marking, ensure someone is designated to being the ball winner to head away danger, instead of the ball coming over and people are looking for anyone to head the ball. That is what we use to have in Stephane Henchoz and Sami Hyypia, made them formidable defenders.

7) An obvious point but one that needs making. I've heard some voices and opinions say the difference between Benitez and Alex Ferguson is Ferguson pushes his team to win, no matter the cost, no matter the match, pre-season, league, cup matches, Europe, it doesn't matter. Benitez was said to prefer a draw at some stage in a match if Liverpool aren't making the waves they should be. So we should install into the players that we will not settle for anything but a win in every match. If they can get close enough to make a chance, they should execute it. Too often we have not punished chances, too often. Against Villa on Monday, we were similar to Man Utd in Rome - starting well for the first 20mins and then waning, which allowed the two goals before half time.

I believe that if LFC were to implement my points, we will become stronger and go more formidable for the title. It is no way whatsoever over for us in the title race. Our focus now in every game has to be as stated in point 6 above. Besides, we could be having a lull in our play to improve much later on.

In the season of 2001-2002, when Villa last won 1-3 at Anfield before Monday, Arsenal won the league and FA Cup; LFC ended 2nd; Man Utd ended third, trophyless and failing to win the title to make a historic four consecutive title wins. Does all of that sound appropriate for this season? Well, Chelsea ended up 6th in 2001-02, so we perhaps cannot read too much into the above! However, by my reckoning, on balance of how we've finished under Benitez since his arrival, we could finish 2nd this season, 3rd next season.....to win the title in 2011-12. How is that?

2004-05 - 5th;
2005-06 - 3rd;
2006-07 - 3rd;
2007-08, 4th;
2008-09, 2nd;
2009-10, 2nd;
2010-11, 3rd
2011-12, 1st
2012-13, 1st

Well, some can get a nice chuckle out of that, especially LFC fans, but you never know. It's been a slammer so far, and Bolton away will provide a firm test for us to gain a win and get back on the track, but even after that we must press on, no more false dawns. Champions League football and cup competitions will soon turn the corner and we have to put our defeats to the back and concentrate on each match.

RedsMan.

Why Liverpool may struggle this season

2009-08-09T10:01:00.004+01:00

I have been following Liverpool's pre-season games. The stats read played 7, won 2, drawn 2 lost 3.

I am not normally too concerned about friendly matches, as they are all about getting players fit and ready for the new season. Perhaps I shouldn't therefore read too much into Liverpool's disappointing form, but there are several reasons why I am concerned that Liverpool may struggle this season:

1. Absence of Alonso - no doubt he will be missed. Rafa will replace him with Lucas until Aquilani is fit. That's the double wammy here - Lucas is a poor player and Aquilani sounds as though he won't be fit for another 2 months. He will also need time to settle into the English football (not a certainty for a player who has only ever played in the Italy). Alonso's absence has created a massive void in Liverpool's midfield and I cannot see any current Liverpool player who can come in a do as good a job.

2. Defensive frailties - Carragher, Agger, Skrtel and Aurelio have all suffered injuries in pre- season and are doubts for the start of the season. Johnson is a good signing but Liverpool look seriously vulnerable in defence when they replace any one of the above with their younger reserve players.

3. Lack of wingers - this is a old old problem and for some reason has not been rectified. Kuyt on the right and Benayoun on the left - where is the width?

4. Gerrard and Torres cannot play every game - if they could, they would be supermen. If either one of these players gets injured, Liverpool virtually lose 50% of their attack. Liverpool have no decent replacements for these players - Voronin, Ngog, Babel are nowhere near as good.

5. Will other players want to leave? Mascherano has already given Barcelona the green light to make an offer. Thankfully they didn't, but how long will it be until he and others get fed up?

6. Lack of transfer funds - Liverpool have to sell to buy - period. They simply don't have the power in the transfer market like Chelsea, Man Utd, Man City etc do. Liverpool risk being left behind.

7. No new stadium - as much as we love Anfield, it is too old and too small. Liverpool need that new stadium built asap to generate the revenue to even get close to the likes of Man Utd. The stadium won't be built any time soon however.

8. Pressure - Liverpool came very close to wining the league last season that there will be even more pressure this time round for them to go one better. Ths slightest sign of a stuggle will pour the pressure on Rafa. 3 season without a trophy - how long can this go on for?

9. The Americans - enough said.

The Passing of a Blessing to Football

2009-08-03T11:41:00.002+01:00

Sir Robert William Robson, CBE

Where do you start on one who was so positive on and off the pitch?

Player, Manager, a knight, a commander. One who transformed his experience and thought into a sport as a 'teacher', who raised a quiet side in Ipswich Town to the FA Cup famously over Arsenal, the UEFA Cup thereafter against AZ Alkmaar, the Dutch league twice consectuviely with PSV, and again in Portugal with Porto (after he was unfairly dismissed from Sporting Lisbon) and then the domestic trophies with Barcelona, as well as what is now the UEFA Cup.

He took on the mantle of his 'home' club, in Newcastle United, his boyhood team, and he made them a worthwhile competitor in the top flight of English football. I implored for him to remain there when he was passed on for Souness. And Bobby showed how much of a competitor he was off the pitch, as well as on it, in his sparring rounds with cancer. Four times that re-match occurred, and eventually Sir Bobby was defeated. But put up a fight he did, nonetheless, as such a character he was. It truly made him a gentleman, an honourable professional and a figure of football that there is clearly a rarity of right now.

Football now is a competitive arena almost as much off the pitch as on it. In fact it would seem more off it. Money has become a catalyst to some success and where would our English hopes be if the managers of the top flight teams were compelled to restrict their spending and be persuaded into nurturing more of the homegrown talent. I would think our national team would simply flourish and prosper, continental teaching (in some cases) mixed with homegrown application. That is the kind of football Sir Bobby would have an integral part of in his later managerial period.

From when he was pushed from St James' Park, instead of having to hang onto such roles as a consultant to Steve Staunton for the Republic of Ireland squad, Sir Bobby would have been better placed to bring through more of England's talent in a sophisticated national football school, something separate and yet parallel with those being taught under the tutilage of the top flight coaches. He would have cherished that role.

My fondest memories come mostly from the 1986 & 1990 escapades in the World Cup. How we made waves into the QF in Mexico, only to be out-done (still bewilderingly) by Maradona's 'Hand of God', and then further by his run for the 2nd goal. Italy, where a tearful Gascoigne had to be consoled, where an equally tearful Stuart Pearce missed, in the semi-finals.

Other tributes have stated Sir Bobby would be sorely missed. I echo that. Other than the likes of Bobby Moore, the Charlton brothers, there hasn't been a more gallant person. Thank you, Sir Bobby.

RIP.

Can Ajax and Belgium supporters describe the qualities of Thomas Vermaelen?

2009-06-20T13:03:00.004+01:00

It is one summer overdue but finally Arsene Wenger went out into the transfer market and bought Arsenal a much needed centre-back: the Ajax Amsterdam captain and Belgian international, Thomas Vermaelen.

It would be great for readers and visitors to our site if Ajax or Belgium supporters could let us know what this guy is like as a player and a personality? Is he comparable to any current premier league centre-backs?

Personally, I am hoping that Vermaelen has fighting spirit and leadership qualities similar to a John Terry or Tony Adams. Does he have this type of character?

It would be great to know this sort of detail from regular Vermaelen watchers!?

Ronaldo - Goodbye and thank you for the memories

2009-06-13T10:42:00.003+01:00

In the last few days, hundreds of column inches have been dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo’s imminent record breaking transfer to Real Madrid; articles about the rights and wrongs of the transfer, the second coming of the “Galacticos” era, who United will buy to replace the irreplacable. What I have really taken an interest in though is the reaction of the Manchester United fans.

Most United fans have been saying that the team can cope without him, that in the last few months the tactics of the team have detrimentally been skewed to accommodate his talent (the Champions League final being case in point) and that Sir Alex Ferguson can build yet another great team but this time based around the mercurial Wayne Rooney. I would agree with all those sentiments and feel that they need to be aired. However, what has largely been missing is the expression of thanks to Ronaldo for his six brilliant years of service to United.

Ironically, Ronaldo arrived in the wake of the transfer of another Old Trafford superstar, David Beckham, to Real Madrid. I will never forget his debut against Bolton where he electrified a pensive crowd with a dazzling substitute appearance, all step overs, tricks and electric pace. It was clear that a superstar had arrived, and a humble, brace wearing one at that.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Jv8cA9mQt4

Over the years his petulance and tantrums may have come to the fore, but so too have his extraordinary skills and (like my fellow EFT contributor has pointed out in another article on this site) his undoubted bravery. Put simply, Ronaldo has been the most effective player in club football for the past three years.

My favourite Ronaldo moment was his last minute winning goal against Fulham at Craven Cottage in the 06/07 season. He ran the length of the field with the ball seemingly glued to his boots to score a sensational and crucial goal in a game United should not have won. In many such matches, Ronaldo has pulled United through.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Krxm0s-rYjo

Whatever anyone says, Ronaldo will be missed by United and by English football. He bought flair and skill, the like of which we may not see on these shores for a long time to come. Ronaldo may owe a lot to United for developing him into the player he is today, but the club owe him an even bigger debt for the trophies he has helped them win. So I hope United fans will join me in thanking Ronaldo for his great service to the club and wish him luck in La Liga.

Sorte e adeus!

Wenger, Benitez and Ancelotti should be quietly pleased as Ronaldo's exit leaves a massive void

2009-06-12T16:48:00.010+01:00

The team at EFT are currently taking a good rest from football analysis as we enter the off-season. However, the pending sale of Ronaldo from Man Utd to Real Madrid in an £80 million deal can't be left unremarked.

For me he has been the major reason for Man Utd's amazing 'double' win of the Premier League and the Champions League in 2007-2008 and their near repeat of this success in 2008-2009. Not only is his goals tally in the last two seasons simply stunning - approx 70 goals - but he also bought a will to win and intensity for attacking success that gave Man Utd a special X-factor crucial to their success over this recent period.

Ronaldo is currently irreplaceable by any single player if the aim is to recruit an individual who brings the same level of playability to the pitch. This makes logical sense as he is officially the number one player in the world. The only two other players who are in his league is Messi and Kaka - and they will not be going to Man Utd anytime soon.

Franck Ribery has been mooted as a possible replacement and he really impressed me in a France World Cup qualifier I saw a couple of months ago. He is a fearless attacking player with the same 'give-all' attitude of a Tevez and a Rooney. Indeed, I would say he is in the same mould of these two players - as he likes to rove with freedom around the pitch and keep a very high tempo and intensity. Yet, he does not possess the same electric pace and all-round ability of Ronaldo, nor would he give Man Utd the same superstar-presence as the Portugese winger.

I think the absence of Ronaldo will have a marked impact on Man Utd. He was worth more than just a single player in an eleven player team. And his ability to remain practically injury free in the last two seasons contributed so much to Man Utd's success. Ferguson was happy to rotate many players this season and last except for two: one of them being Ronaldo (Vidic being the other). As long as Ferguson had Ronaldo on the pitch he knew his team would possess in just one player the superb attacking talent and intense attitude that could win the match.

With Giggs and Scholes showing in the Champs Final that they are at the very end of their fantastic careers and Tevez seemingly also on his way it could well be the case that next season will be one of 'transition' for Man Utd. Man Utd may need some time to find their rhythm next season which can be exploited by their more settled rivals: Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal.

Indeed, the eyes of Benitez, Ancelotti and Wenger should be more firmly set on achieving Premier League title success next season with the departure of the best player from the current champions. In this context, it will now be even more interesting to see what players come in/stay at these clubs as they look to seize upon the increased possibility of breaking the fantastic 'three year in a row' title winning success of Man Utd.

On a final note it must be the case that Premier League supporters congratulate Ronaldo on his play during his time here and to wish him well at Real Madrid. Although he bought an over-dramatisation and penchant for diving that was quite frustrating to watch - it is important to remember that he also bought a great courage to the pitch and an attacking flair and invention that was thrilling to watch. It is also the case that youngsters in this country are imitating Ronaldo in taking a dynamic and very skilful approach to improving their play. In this way his impact may be extremely positive in the years to come - as his commitment to ally amazing skill with courageous attacking intent may hopefully be reflected in the play of the next generation of English footballers.

EFT Scorecast Weekend 14 (final week!)

2009-05-24T08:59:00.005+01:00

Abdul:

Arsenal v Stoke, 16:00 3-0
Aston Villa v Newcastle, 16:00 1-1
Blackburn v West Brom, 16:00 1-1
Fulham v Everton, 16:00 2-0
Hull v Man Utd, 16:00 2-1
Liverpool v Tottenham, 16:00 3-0
Man City v Bolton, 16:00 2-0
Sunderland v Chelsea, 16:00 1-2
West Ham v Middlesbrough, 16:00 0-1
Wigan v Portsmouth, 16:00 2-0

SKG:

Arsenal 2-0 Stoke, 16:00
Aston Villa 2-1 Newcastle, 16:00
Blackburn 1-1 West Brom, 16:00
Fulham 2-1 Everton, 16:00
Hull 1-1 Man Utd, 16:00
Liverpool 2-0 Tottenham, 16:00
Man City 3-0 Bolton, 16:00
Sunderland 0-1 Chelsea, 16:00
West Ham 3-0 Middlesbrough, 16:00
Wigan 1-1 Portsmouth, 16:00

Redsman:
Arsenal v Stoke City 2-1
Aston Villa v Newcastle 1-1
Blackburn v West Brom 0-0
Fulham v Everton 2-1
Hull City v Man Utd 0-2
Liverpool v Tottenham 2-1
Man City v Bolton 2-0
Sunderland v Chelsea 0-2
West Ham v Middlesbrough 2-1
Wigan v Portsmouth 0-2

T:
Arsenal v Stoke City 2-1
Aston Villa v Newcastle 1-2
Blackburn v West Brom 2-1
Fulham v Everton 0-2
Hull City v Man Utd 1-1
Liverpool v Tottenham 3-1
Man City v Bolton 2-0
Sunderland v Chelsea 0-2
West Ham v Middlesbrough 2-2
Wigan v Portsmouth 2-0

Wenger got it right! Underlines the power of picking the right players in the right positions

2009-05-17T12:24:00.012+01:00

The result was a nil-nil against a team that was taking a cautious approach. Nonetheless, Saturday's Arsenal team selection by Arsene Wenger for the match against Man Utd - and congratulations to them for being very worthy champions - struck me from the outset as correct all the way down the team line-up.

It shows that Arsene Wenger - as you would expect despite ridiculous media hyped-up hysteria that would want you to believe the contrary - is still an analyst to believe in.

Number one good move: Playing Alex Song at centre-back. For me this is the position that is best for Song and for Arsenal. For sure he can do solid job as the anchor Central midfielder - but for me he does not quite have the attacking instincts, nimbleness of movement and forward passing skills to be a top player in this position. Indeed, this was shown in the big games that Arsenal had against Man Utd in the Champs league - an inablilty to apply forward pressure against them left too much of a burden on Cesc/Nasri to launch attacks, who in turn were shutdown by the stampeding Fletcher, Anderson and Carrick.

Number two good move: Playing Denilson in the anchor role. Denilson is my player of the season. I like his hard working attitude and his ability on the ball. Why Arsene Wenger decided he should be left out for Alex Song in the Champs League semis is beyond me. Even a non-Arsenal fan but very astute analyst - Andy Gray - said the same in the commentary yesterday, saying that he feels Arsenal have lacked without Denilson in the midfield. So it was great to see Denny back in the proper first team yesterday - and again for me he had a very solid game.

Number three good move: not playing Mikael Silvestre. Silvestre has the unforunate distinction of having played in two four four draws this season - plus conceding another four against Chelsea last week. For sure these defensive nightmares for Arsenal can't all be pinned on Slivestre - but for me he is noticeably an unsteady centre-back who appears far past his best when playing for Man Utd at left back around six or seven years ago. Song is far better than Silvestre at CB - and must always be the preferred option if there is an available centre-back slot.

Number four good move: keeping Walcott on the bench away from home. Walcott is a superb player in the making. However, when he starts on the right side of midfield away from home the opposition team have an advantage. Walcott is not a natural midfielder and does not have good defensive instincts or ability. This means that the home team have a better chance of winning the midfield battle and getting in our defence. And if you are playing against very good opponents you are then asking for problems. Moreover, Walcott is an excellent impact substitute, as he has shown a couple of times at Anfield in the last two seasons. Putting the speedster on fresh when the game is stretched and the opposition is tired is always a positive move. Next season Rosicky - we all hope! - will be back. With him and Nasri well adept as solid right hand side midfielders, I hope Wenger declines to use Walcott as a starting right winger next season - and instead promotes him to the centre-forward line.

Number five good move: having a right midfielder on right midfield. Basically an extension of the argument above. Having Nasri on the right midfield tightened up the defensive side of our midfield and consequently the whole team had a better stability.

Number six good move: keeping out an out of form Adebayor. After his FA Cup semi final and Champs League first leg performances, I would have dropped Ade and have opted for the in-form Nicklas Bendtner to have started the second leg against Manchester United. Adebayor's demeanour is not good at the moment and he does not look to have a good focus on the game or Arsenal at present. Arsenal need eleven players who are ready to give their all with full focus - and with Ade in the team we would only be getting on 10 and a half players which is not good enough.

Number seven good move: keeping Diaby in central midfield. Please Arsene - do not play Diaby on the left wing anymore like you did in the first leg at Old Trafford. It just doesn't work against world class teams to play a gangly central midfielder on the wing.

Aside from these good moves which gave me confidence before the match on Saturday that we'd see a more stable Arsenal team there was one other move which is very intriguing.

Number one intriguing move: Keeping Cesc in the 'hole'. I prefer to see Cesc play deeper so he can get on the ball earlier from defence, take control of the tempo of the game, and pick out his incisive forward passes. Wenger said last month that he believes Cesc is better at playing deeper and gave reasons to back it up.

So why does Wenger persist in playing him in the 'hole'? Is it because he has someone lined up to play Cesc's naturally deeper position next season and he is trying to groove Cesc in the 'hole' position to accomodate this new player? Is it because Wenger has found out that Xavi Alonso would be willing to come to the Emirates if Liverpool agreed to sell him? Is this the core reason why Cesc is stil being played in the 'hole'?

I would find this move to be an exciting development were it to happen (with respect to my Liverpool supporting colleagues here at EFT).

Saturday for me showed what a difference it makes to get the team selection right. Arsene in my opinion went off the boil in the last month in terms of his team selections for big games. It was reassuring and very good to see him get back on track on Saturday.

EFT Scorecast Weekend 13

2009-05-15T19:18:00.004+01:00

Welcome again to the weekly feature on EFT where the team here put their prediction accuracy skills to the test by trying to forecast the scores of the weekend round of Premier League matches.

3 points is awarded for a correct score (e.g. 3-1). 1 point is awarded for a correct result (correct positive result or a draw).

The updated Scorecast points table is in the EFT sidebar. Abdul remains defiantly in first place and his predictions are up first:

Abdul:
Bolton v Hull, 15:00 1-1
Everton v West Ham, 15:00 1-1
Man Utd v Arsenal, 12:45 2-0
Middlesbrough v Aston Villa, 15:00 1-1
Newcastle v Fulham, 15:00 0-0
Stoke v Wigan, 15:00 1-2
Tottenham v Man City, 15:00 2-0
Chelsea v Blackburn, 16:00 2-0
West Brom v Liverpool, 13:30 1-2

Redsman:
Bolton v Hull 2-1
Everton v West Ham 2-0
Man Utd v Arsenal 3-2
Middlesbrough v Aston Villa 1-2
Newcastle v Fulham 2-1
Spurs v Man City 2-2
Stoke v Wigan 1-1
Chelsea v Blackburn 3-0
West Brom v Liverpool 1-3
Sunderland v Portsmouth 0-2

T:
Man Utd v Arsenal 1-1
Bolton v Hull City 2-1
Everton v West Ham 1-0
Middlesbrough v Aston Villa 2-1
Newcastle v Fulham 2-0
Stoke City v Wigan 1-1
Tottenham v Man City 1-2
West Brom v Liverpool 0-3
Chelsea v Blackburn 3-0
Portsmouth v Sunderland 2-1

SKG:
Bolton 1-0 Hull, 15:00
Everton 2-0 West Ham, 15:00
Man Utd 2-1 Arsenal, 12:45
Middlesbrough 1-1 Aston Villa, 15:00
Newcastle 1-1 Fulham, 15:00
Stoke 0-2 Wigan, 15:00
Tottenham 3-2 Man City, 15:00
Chelsea 1-0 Blackburn, 16:00
West Brom 1-2 Liverpool, 13:30
Portsmouth 2-1 Sunderland, 20:00

EFT Scorecast Weekend 12

2009-05-08T22:28:00.004+01:00

Welcome again to the weekly feature on EFT where the team here put their prediction accuracy skills to the test by trying to forecast the scores of the weekend round of Premier League matches.

3 points is awarded for a correct score (e.g. 3-1). 1 point is awarded for a correct result (correct positive result or a draw).

The updated Scorecast points table is in the EFT sidebar. Abdul remains defiantly in first place and his predictions are up first:

Abdul:
West Ham 1-1 Liverpool
Man Utd 2-0 Man City
Arsenal 0-1 Chelsea
Newcastle 2-0 Middlesboro

SKG:
Blackburn 2-1 Portsmouth,
Bolton 2-0 Sunderland,
Everton 1-1 Tottenham,
Fulham 2-2 Aston Villa,
Hull 1-0 Stoke,
West Brom 0-2 Wigan,
West Ham 0-1 Liverpool,
Arsenal 0-1 Chelsea,
Man Utd 3-1 Man City,

T:
Blackburn 1-1 Portsmouth,
Bolton 0-1 Sunderland,
Everton 1-0 Tottenham,
Fulham 1-2 Aston Villa,
Hull 2-0 Stoke,
West Brom 1-1 Wigan,
West Ham 0-2 Liverpool,
Arsenal 1-1 Chelsea,
Man Utd 2-0 Man City,

Redsman:
Blackburn v Portsmouth 1-1
Bolton v Sunderland 2-1
Everton v Spurs 1-2
Fulham v Aston Villa 3-2
Hull v Stoke 1-3
W Brom v Wigan 2-0
W Ham v Liverpool 1-3
Man Utd v Man City 1-1
Arsenal v Chelsea 2-2
Newcastle v Middlesbrough 2-1

Skipper:
Blackburn v Portsmouth, 1-1
Bolton v Sunderland, 2-0
Everton v Tottenham, 2-1
Fulham v Aston Villa, 2-1
Hull v Stoke, 1-1
West Brom v Wigan, 1-2
West Ham v Liverpool, 1-3
Arsenal v Chelsea, 2-1
Man Utd v Man City, 3-1
Newcastle v Middlesbrough, 2-1

Chelsea 1-1 Barcelona: Don't blame the man in the middle; blame the men on the outside

2009-05-06T23:10:00.003+01:00

The referee in tonight's Champions League semi-final 2nd leg at Stamford Bridge was Norwegian Tom Ovrebo. The headlines of the English papers tomorrow will metaphorically 'scream' it was his fault why Chelsea went out of the semi-finals, went out of the one chance they had to avenge their defeat last year. As far as I'm concerned, yes, Mr Ovrebo was at fault. But he wasn't the only one.

Mr Ovrebo was at fault for the lack of progress for Chelsea. I can only think of four potential penalty shouts that occurred in the game, I believe there could have been one more. First, Florent Maluda took on Dani Alves (who, for me, was something of a disappointment to say the least tonight) and then turned back on him. Alves clearly impeded the Frenchman and a free-kick was given. Alves was at the time inside his penalty box, Malouda was outside. I don't think that was a penalty.

Drogba took on Yaya Toure in the box, once played in by Frank Lampard. Toure grabbed Drogba's shirt but Drogba went down only after the ball was out of his control. That was a penalty for me. Nicolas Anelka touched the ball near the Barcelona penalty box, Gerard Pique had his right arm raised before Anelka played the ball and the ball comes off Pique's hand. That, to me, was a penalty.

The last Chelsea corner came to Michael Ballack, he swung a shot towards goal and it came off Samuel Eto'o, off his left arm. Eto'o was in position before the ball was struck. That wasn't a penalty and Ballack's disgraceful, ugly harassment over the referee afterwards rightly earned a booking.

Now, aside from those penalty shouts, what did Chelsea do to earn the win? They had Michael Essien aim at the ball and score a superbly taken left-foot volley. It put them ahead 1-0 after the ninth minute. Thirty six minutes later they hardly came at Barcelona, the away side made most of the football. What Chelsea did was play defensively in front of the penalty box, they had numbers in position in spaces to deny Barcelona that space to play their little through balls, their little passes. They defended deep to avoid Barcelona playing the long through balls, and their task was made all the more easier with Thierry Henry withdrawn.

People will say 'what is wrong with that?', but while it was cunning to thwart Eto'o and Lionel Messi from those movements around and through the defence, thwart the passing and breaking by Andres Iniesta and Xavi, it stopped Chelsea from their usual attacking flow, at home. Their usual break from the midfield three, with Lampard threading passes to the flanks and then joining late, was missing, and it left Drogba on his own having to battle with Toure. Toure was fortunate to have escaped twice from possible Drogba-breaks on goal.

I can only think of one moment in the second half when Chelsea came forward, with Anelka drawing defenders to him and then passing to Drogba, who turned Pique and then shot weakly at Victor Valdes, with the rebound gathered and shot by Lampard blocked, and then Malouda hitting the side netting. That was it.

Then Eric Abidal (another defender who failed tonight and who I have never rated for club nor country) was taken to have fouled Anelka on the run and was red-carded, although replays showed Anelka tripped over his own leg with no contact from Abidal. Another bad decision. But that didn't even push Chelsea to surge onto Barcelona's goal. Chelsea seem to have felt comfortable a goal up, a man up, and then simmered. And that led to Barcelona's goal.

That slacking in focus, that same focus that denied Barcelona space last week and tonight, allowed for Barcelona to maintain the ball from a cross, with Messi receiving and playing it to Iniesta, who had the time and space to take a chance first time. Ballack was the nearest player and he ducked or turned away from the shot. It was practically the only effort Petr Cech had to move to. It was the one time Chelsea afforded Barcelona space to do something......and it cost them.

I watched the game with others and I said to them that if Barcelona were to take a chance first time, they could score. That was because whenever Barcelona got within sniffing distance of the penalty edge, they were being snuffed out, and that was because not only did Chelsea deny them space, but also because Barcelona seemed to want to walk the ball into the area as they mostly do in La Liga. Defences open more to them in the Spanish league, whereas here Chelsea's plan was to close up tight. The one moment Barcelona took the opportunity first time they scored, it was the only shot on target from them.

Don't blame the referee entirely. Chelsea still had the majority of the game to play for and they hardly did that. Depending on penalty appeals to get them through was desperate. They didn't play the attacking football they are renowned for. In both legs Barcelona were the attacking team and it is they who earned their passage into the final. And it is ironic that where Barcelona looked more vulnerable with Abidal off, where Chelsea became too relaxed, that it was then when Chelsea lost control of their focus. And the whole tie.

The reactions after the game were understandable but I cannot condone them. I can understand when (not if) a driver cuts up another driver, the first driver becomes frustrated and displays that frustration towards that second driver, from their car seat, but that's it. I cannot condone road-rage, especially where it can almost come to violence. The Chelsea players are understandably upset but they individually dealt with their disappointment, with a few not visibly becoming animated towards the referee. Nor the camera.

We all have disappointments and if we allow our emotions to take over, people will be at each other's throats daily. What's next, a throw-in is not given and the referee has to run for cover? A child is denied a free-kick and swears at the referee? I don't want bad habits coming into football. Disappointments are to be dealt with with maturity, not in the manner seen tonight. When you add up that, without the penalty appeals, Chelsea didn't play enough for the win, you should realise Mr Ovrebo isn't the only one at fault for Chelsea's exit. But it is easier to target him than to look at the players themselves.

RedsMan.

Congratulations to Birmingham, Preston North End, Sheff Utd, Burnley & Reading; damnation for Joey Barton

2009-05-05T17:16:00.003+01:00

Additional to the congratulations to Wolves for their clinching of promotion and the Championship title, the English Football League Championship has finished and further congratulations go to Birmingham on reaching the automatic-promotion packed 2nd place with an away win at Reading. That defeat meant Reading, Sheff Utd, Burnley and Preston North End will all battle in the play-offs for the coveted third avenue to promotion to the proverbial 'big league'.

Is there a favourite of anyone's to emerge at the end? I personally would like either Burnley or PNE. Nothing against Sheff Utd nor Reading, but neither of the other two teams have been in the Premiership. But a favourite for who I think will go through is Reading. It will be a tight battle as we've seen Burnley grab a few Premiership scalps and can produce good attacking football and so can Reading. I think PNE will have to battle deep to get through and Sheff Utd likewise.

Now for the commiserations. Former Premiership teams Norwich City, Southampton and Charlton Athletic have gone down further into League One. I find it being something else to link League One with those teams, they seemed better than to be dropping leagues. They were, to me, definite Championship material and then questionable Premiership quality, not questionable Championship material and then poor enough to drop into League One.

Four seasons back, Norwich was in the Premiership, doesn't seem that long ago. They relegated alongside Southampton that season. Charlton's fall was as recent as two seasons ago. The likes of Jeremy Goss, Robert Fleck, Steve Bruce; Darren Huckerby, Gary Doherty, Leon McKenzie of Norwich. Mick Channon, Matt Le Tissier, Alan Shearer; Theo Walcott, David Prutton, Brett Ormerod for Southampton. Clive Mendonca, John Robinson, Scott Parker; Darren Ambrose, Richard Rufus, Darren Bent. Seems a shame.

My last note is on Joey Barton. What is it that needs to happen for this young man to actually wise up? Newcastle United, one from rock bottom in the Premier League, go off to face Liverpool, at Anfield, a team who are biting at the bits in chasing Man Utd for the title, therefore are fevering for three points, have lost only twice in the league thus far, who thrashed Newcastle at St James' Park 1-5. Alan Shearer is in control and chooses Barton to spearhead the assist behind Mark Viduka as the lone striker, with Peter Lovenkrands and Obafemi Martin either side of Barton on the flanks. A 4-2-3-1, ambitious but a potential to thwart Liverpool's efforts and aid the away side.

That's the plan. But it crumbles with two Liverpool goals in the first half. Not the end of the world, bring the players in, maybe change one or two positions, maybe not, maybe encourage one or two players, a draw could be obtained if nothing else, but fundamental to that is focus. No silly tackles, giving the ball away, needless dangerous free-kicks, keep it simple, keep it safe, keep it firm. And what does Joey Barton do? It's what he didn't do. With Newcastle under attack and the ball going wide with Xabi Alonso following it, Barton just needs to shadow the Spaniard, keep him away from supplying towards goal or passing back to a team-mate.

Here's what Barton did do. He runs up and leaps into a 'tackle', with almost two feet and contacts Alonso on the ankle. A sore injury results to Alonso, thankfully, while Barton pleads innocencebut is straight red-carded nonetheless. Absolute reckless 'challenge', Newcastle a man down, a manager's hopes (which were probably slightly cracked at half-time) just obliterated. Not only that but Barton, looked on as the kind of central attacking midfielder with grit that Shearer needed for the remaining games, is now banned for those remaining games. The one player shouldn't make a difference but you never know.

Those remaining games at home to Middlesbrough and Fulham and lastly away at Villa Park, are pivotal. Middlesbrough cannot seem to score for life, which almost matches the current qualities of their North-East rivals. Fulham, despite now smarting from a Chelsea defeat, still harbour good qualities and intentions for that now all-important seventh spot for Europe. Not to mention Aston Villa, who crucially picked up three points last night to cement their European spot for next season.

Now it is stated that Barton and Shearer came to in the dressing room over Barton's red card, and the player is not only suspended from further games, and out for the rest of the season, but is now suspended from the club "until further notice". Notice that I think he won't be getting from the club. Shearer may move on afterwards but he has some influence at SJP. Would you deny a player like Barton from playing under your management or do you think you can put up with the threat of him behaving in the manner that has him disciplined more by the authorities than actually playing?

I argued for Barton on his return to Newcastle from prison while others consider him too dangerous a threat to any club while playing. I thought prison would curb him, hopefully push him to channel his aggression in the right manner, he could return to football and show us the better side of him. Maybe I was wrong.

RedsMan.

EFT Scorecast Weekend 11

2009-05-02T10:36:00.003+01:00

Welcome again to the weekly feature on EFT where the team here put their prediction accuracy skills to the test by trying to forecast the scores of the weekend round of Premier League matches.

3 points is awarded for a correct score (e.g. 3-1). 1 point is awarded for a correct result (correct positive result or a draw).

The updated Scorecast points table is in the EFT sidebar. Abdul remains in first place by a small margin and his predictions are up first:

Abdul:
Chelsea v Fulham 1-0
Man City v Blackburn 3-1
Middlesbrough v Man Utd 1-2
Portsmouth v Arsenal 1-0
Stoke v West Ham 2-1
Tottenham v West Brom 2-0
Wigan v Bolton 1-1
Liverpool v Newcastle 3-0
Sunderland v Everton 0-0
Aston Villa v Hull 2-0

T:
Middlesbrough v Man Utd 1-2
Chelsea v Fulham 2-0
Man City v Blackburn 1-1
Portsmouth v Arsenal 1-1
Stoke City v West Ham 0-1
Tottenham v West Brom 3-1
Wigan v Bolton 2-1
Liverpool v Newcastle 3-0
Sunderland v Everton 1-1
Aston Villa v Hull City 2-0

Redsman:
Chelsea v Fulham 2-1
Man City v Blackburn 2-0
Middlesbrough v Man Utd 1-3
Portsmouth v Arsenal 0-2
Stoke v West Ham 1-1
Tottenham v West Brom 2-1
Wigan v Bolton 1-1
Liverpool v Newcastle 2-0
Sunderland v Everton 1-2
Aston Villa v Hull 3-1

Skipper:
Chelsea v Fulham, 1-2
Man City v Blackburn, 2-0
Middlesbrough v Man Utd, 2-1
Portsmouth v Arsenal, 2-2
Stoke v West Ham, 1-0
Tottenham v West Brom, 2-1
Wigan v Bolton,2-1
Liverpool v Newcastle, 4-0
Sunderland v Everton, 2-1
Aston Villa v Hull, 2-0

SKG:
Chelsea 2-0 Fulham, 15:00
Man City 2-0 Blackburn, 15:00
Middlesbrough 0-2 Man Utd, 12:45
Portsmouth 1-3 Arsenal, 15:00
Stoke 1-1 West Ham, 15:00
Tottenham 4-0 West Brom, 15:00
Wigan 2-1 Bolton, 15:00
Liverpool 2-1 Newcastle, 13:30
Sunderland 1-0 Everton, 16:00
Aston Villa 3-0 Hull

The spirit of football

2009-05-01T20:08:00.002+01:00

I came across this:

"Newcastle tea lady Kath Cassidy, who has spent over 40 years serving cuppas to the great and good at St James' Park, has her own ideas about how to motivate the players in their battle against relegation.

"I might go into the dressing room before a game with my picture of Jackie Milburn holding his medals. I'd say to the players 'Get your finger out, look what he won for £20 a week.""

When players in the English Premier League really do appreciate who they play for, for they are in the top tier of English football, how much they are paid, and what is expected from them in every game, then we as the fans and supporters can go to games and/or watch them on TV and watch such appreciation emit from their football.

Players actually playing thoroughly, with more focus, more accuracy, more determination, more aforethought, more grit, more ability, would be what the EPL would simply stand for globally. Players of Milburn's ilk did so, a good chunk for the payment, and probably an equal chunk or more for the love of the game. It would make the EPL much more competitive, at the top, in the middle, and around the bottom of the league.

RedsMan.

Who is worthy of staying in the Premier League?

2009-04-28T22:16:00.002+01:00

NEwcastle played a goalless draw with Portsmouth, and it was a result I had predicted exactly, due to the scoring form of both teams of recent. Newcastle have good scoring power in Obafemi Martins, Mark Viduka and captain Michael Owen, but they all failed to score. I wondered, if Newcastle were to be relegated, whether Owen would remain at St. James' Park. I then wondered if there were any opinion on any player, playing with a team still at threat of relegation, who one would consider worthy of remaining in the Premier League. Teams as in Blackburn, Sunderland, Hull, Newcastle, Middlesbrough and West Brom.

Now, for me, the likes of Jonas Guttierez, perhaps Mark Viduka, and arguably Owen, are worthy of staying on, worthy of interest from a Premier League club. Owen has the instincts he has been renowned for, but he seems to have lacked in receiving the kind of service his ability requires. Guttierez has shown ball control I've rarely seen in the EPL, he can go on runs and hardly lose the ball, and as such is quite useful in assisting chances. Viduka enters into the realm of football where retirement may seem the next near step but I think he can hold up the ball and play players in very well.

Others like WBA's Chris Brunt, who has a firm shooting left-foot and an eye for a through-pass; Boro's Stewart Downing, England international with good pace, attacking ability on the wing and good assists; Sunderland's Djibril Cisse, Steed Malbranque or even Kenwyne Jones; Hull's seasoned Kevin Kilbane, Geovanni, or Andy Dawson; Blackburn's Benni McCarthy, Matt Derbyshire, or Stephen Warnock?

Who, out of those sides, would you consider worthy of staying in the Premier League, were their respective clubs to suffer relegation?

RedsMan.

EFT Scorecast Weekend 10

2009-04-24T20:27:00.005+01:00

Abdul:
Man Utd 2 - 1 Tottenham
Arsenal 3 - 1 Middlesbrough
Blackburn 1 - 1 Wigan
Newcastle 2 - 0 Portsmouth

Skipper:
Bolton v Aston Villa, 2-1
Everton v Man City, 2-0
Fulham v Stoke, 2-0
Hull v Liverpool, 0-2
Man Utd v Tottenham, 1-2
West Brom v Sunderland, 2-1
West Ham v Chelsea, 2-1
Arsenal v Middlesbrough, 3-1
Blackburn v Wigan, 2-1
Newcastle v Portsmouth, 2-1

SKG:
Bolton 1-1 Aston Villa, 15:00
Everton 2-0 Man City, 15:00
Fulham 2-1 Stoke, 15:00
Hull 1-2 Liverpool, 15:00
Man Utd 2-1 Tottenham, 17:30
West Brom 0-2 Sunderland, 15:00
West Ham 1-1 Chelsea, 15:00
Arsenal 4-0 Middlesbrough, 13:30
Blackburn 1-0 Wigan, 16:00
Newcastle 2-1 Portsmouth,

T:
Bolton v Aston Villa 1-1
Everton v Man City 2-0
Fulham v Stoke City 1-1
Hull City v Liverpool 1-3
West Brom v Sunderland 1-2
West Ham v Chelsea 0-1
Man Utd v Tottenham 3-0
Arsenal v Middlesbrough 1-1
Blackburn v Wigan 1-2
Newcastle v Portsmouth 2-0

Redsman:
Bolton v Aston Villa 2-1
Everton v Man City 2-2
Fulham v Stoke 3-1
Hull v Liverpool 1-3
Man Utd v Tottenham 2-0
West Brom v Sunderland 1-1
West Ham v Chelsea 1-1
Arsenal v Middlesbrough 3-0
Blackburn v Wigan 0-1
Newcastle v Portsmouth 0-0

Arshavin, Torres, Benayoun: take a bow!

2009-04-21T23:37:00.003+01:00

The title really says it all. Football fans must salute the skill, determination and pure finishing execution of these three players in a football match that was relentless in attacking action and effort. Arsenal and Liverpool have an intimate history - and tonight produced yet another amazing match of football between these two sides that shall be remembered.

Tuesday, 21 April 2009
Liverpool 4-4 Arsenal
Torres 49 Arshavin 36
Benayoun 56 Arshavin 67
Torres 72 Arshavin 70
Benayoun 90+3 Arshavin 90

EFT Scorecast Weekend 9

2009-04-18T14:21:00.003+01:00

Welcome again to the weekly feature on EFT where the team here put their prediction accuracy skills to the test by trying to forecast the scores of the weekend round of Premier League matches.

3 points is awarded for a correct score (e.g. 3-1). 1 point is awarded for a correct result (correct positive result or a draw).

The updated Scorecast points table is in the EFT sidebar. Abdul remains relentless in first place and his predictions up first:

Abdul:
Aston Villa v West Ham, 2-1
Middlesbrough v Fulham, 1-1
Portsmouth v Bolton, 0-0
Stoke v Blackburn, 1-1
Sunderland v Hull, 2-0
Man City v West Brom, 2-1
Tottenham v Newcastle, 3-1

Skipper:
Aston Villa v West Ham, 2-1
Middlesbrough v Fulham, 2-2
Portsmouth v Bolton, 2-2
Stoke v Blackburn, 1-0
Sunderland v Hull, 3-1
Man City v West Brom, 2-1
Tottenham v Newcastle, 2-1

SKG:
Aston Villa 2-1 West Ham, 15:00
Middlesbrough 2-0 Fulham, 15:00
Portsmouth 1-1 Bolton, 15:00
Stoke 1-2 Blackburn, 15:00
Sunderland 1-0 Hull, 15:00
Man City 3-0 West Brom, 15:00
Tottenham 3-1 Newcastle, 13:30

Redsman:
Aston Villa v West Ham, 2-1
Middlesbrough v Fulham, 2-3
Portsmouth v Bolton, 1-2
Stoke v Blackburn, 2-0
Sunderland v Hull, 2-0
Man City v West Brom, 2-0
Tottenham v Newcastle, 3-1

T:
Aston Villa v West Ham, 1-0
Middlesbrough v Fulham, 2-1
Portsmouth v Bolton, 1-2
Stoke v Blackburn, 1-0
Sunderland v Hull, 3-0
Man City v West Brom, 2-0
Tottenham v Newcastle, 2-2

Walcott is ice; RvP a fighter-thinker; Ade a positive team-orientated 'confidence' player

2009-04-16T15:35:00.019+01:00

The three goalscorers last night - Theo Walcott, Robin van Persie and Emmanuel Adebayor - are fantastic representatives for Arsenal. I say this not simply on the back of their goals in the win over Villarreal to place Arsenal into the semi-finals of the Champs League, but more broadly because of their individual temperament/character and what their meshing in the forward line lends to the overall character and force of the team.

Walcott is ice. When Arsenal bought him from Southampton I wrote on this site that Walcott reminds me of another sporting TW: Tiger Woods. There was a sense in his demeanour, in his choice of words, that he had a calm and winning temperament of exceptional quality. In his first cup final aged 17 years old he demonstrated his superb ice-cool temperament with a wonderful opening goal after five minutes against Chelsea followed by a celebration which showed his passion and desire behind the quiet demeanour.

This attitude combination: ice calm and winning desire, is one that transmits to teammates who should gain confidence knowing they have a teammate not only blessed with sensational natural talent in their side but who vitally also has the cool not to be daunted by any occasion. Witness Anfield last season in the Champs League quarter final; England away in Croatia; and last nights big Champs League match, for further examples aside from the 2007 Carling Cup Final of his ideal temperament for big match occasions. Walcott has a temperament far beyond his years.

RvP is a fighter-thinker-technician of the highest level. On the pitch he fights for the ball, and then with the ball at his feet he is mentally alert and thoughtful in looking for either a killer pass or killer finish with a technique that I still think is the most aesthetic and awesome in the league.

His fighting mentality also is one that transmits to teammates and supporters - he sets an example for fighting for the ball and not shirking from a battle or opportunity. Instances of this that standout for me is his lunging finish at the far post for an equaliser against Man Utd in January 2007 (which resulted in a broken foot and a four month lay-off), his two goals against Chelsea this season when Arsenal were at a very low point confidence-wise; and THAT kung-fu kick goal against Charlton where only a player of massive fighting desire and technique would have attempted, let alone executed with masterpiece brilliance, that running high-jump volley. He is a superb member of the team and has matured into a growing leader of this third-gen squad.

Adebayor is a footballer I have supported during his tough spell earlier this season. He puts in a tremendous amount of a work in the forward line which is well appreciated by teammates and a good portion of the Arsenal support. And when he talks I notice he always genuinely accentuates a team-ethic and a focused positive attitude which I think reflects well on an excellent perspective to his football and his teammates.

However, more than most players in this Arsenal side, Adebayor is also a 'confidence player' - a guy who can be unstoppable when he feels the confidence of the fans and his team, but who loses his technique and confidence quickly if he feels the ire of the fans. The latter was the case earlier this season - where a clumsy piece of tactical play in his negotitation (I guess probably demanded by his agent) for a new Arsenal contract last summer offended some fans, many of whom, I suspect, were already doubters of the player despite the fact he shouldered the burden of the front line last season with 30 odd goals and an immense amount of running without the injured RvP and Eduardo and the departed Henry. It was clear to me from his demeanour during the first half of this season that Adebayor decisively felt the criticism from this section of the Arsenal support and as a result his edge in confidence and sharpness diminished.

The recent seven week layoff was a blessing in disguise for the big Togolese player - giving him the space to re-group, re-focus and re-energise. His two goal comeback against Man City was also massive for the resurgence of the 'big-on-confidence' Adebayor that we have seen in the last fortnight - a change in the atmosphere of fan reaction to Adebayor was tangible and so with it the bolstering of his self-belief. Subsequent goals in both matches against Villarreal are testament to the return of an Adebayor who looks to have gained his vitality. This gives me satifaction because for his workrate for the team and his expressions of a team-ethic and a positive approach to football I like to see him feeling good about his game and the support around him. It is also great for the team because it is clear that an Adebayor who is 'big-on-confidence' is also a profound - and quite unique - attacking weapon.

I feel that when you have three players in the forward line of the team who exhibit a great array of positive mental characteristics on top of excellent footballing ability you have the makings of something sensational. Arsene Wenger has recruited into his third generation side in Walcott, RvP and Adebayor a stunning complement of attitudes in the forward line: an ice-calm winner; a fighter-thinker; a positive team-orientated runner and finisher.

Due to injuries this mix has not had the chance to apply itself together. Last night was really the first time all got to start together in a big match. And all three contributed their considerable physical, technical and mental qualities decisively to a winning effort.

It is also a trio that from their interactions on the pitch look like they have a good understanding and relationship to each other - which can only be conducive to their development as a forward line. I feel yesterday saw just the start of an explosion of play from this attacking trio as a collective unit - which should be fantastic for all Arsenal fans and supporters of good football to watch.

EFT Scorecast Weekend 8

2009-04-11T11:44:00.004+01:00

Welcome again to the weekly feature on EFT where the team here put their prediction accuracy skills to the test by trying to forecast the scores of the weekend round of Premier League matches.

3 points is awarded for a correct score (e.g. 3-1). 1 point is awarded for a correct result (correct positive result or a draw).

The updated Scorecast points table is in the EFT sidebar. Abdul is still running strong in first place but has been unable to get his predictions in by the deadline so its second placed Skipper's predictions up first:

Skipper:
Chelsea v Bolton, 2-0
Liverpool v Blackburn, 3-0
Middlesbrough v Hull, 2-1
Portsmouth v West Brom, 2-0
Stoke v Newcastle, 2-0
Sunderland v Man Utd, 1-1
Tottenham v West Ham, 2-1
Wigan v Arsenal, 1-2
Aston Villa v Everton, 2-1
Man City v Fulham, 2-1

T:
Chelsea v Bolton, 1-0
Liverpool v Blackburn, 2-1
Middlesbrough v Hull, 1-1
Portsmouth v West Brom, 1-1
Stoke v Newcastle, 1-1
Sunderland v Man Utd, 0-3
Tottenham v West Ham, 1-1
Wigan v Arsenal, 1-1
Aston Villa v Everton, 1-1
Man City v Fulham, 2-1

SKG:
Chelsea 3-0 Bolton,
Liverpool 1-0 Blackburn,
Middlesbrough 2-1 Hull,
Portsmouth 2-0 West Brom,
Stoke 2-2 Newcastle,
Sunderland 0-2 Man Utd,
Tottenham 3-2 West Ham,
Wigan 0-3 Arsenal,
Aston Villa 2-1 Everton,
Man City 3-1 Fulham,

Redsman:
Liv v B'Burn 3-1
Stoke v Newcastle 1-1
Boro v Hull 1-2
Chelsea v Bolton 1-1
P'mouth v West Brom 2-0
S'land v Man Utd 2-1
Tottenham v West Ham 2-1
Wigan v Arsenal 0-3
Aston Villa v Everton 2-1
Man City v Fulham 2-2

Arsenal re-acquainted with at one time the world's most underrated footballer

2009-04-07T12:29:00.003+01:00

Arsenal take on Villarreal in Spain later this evening in a Champions League quarter final first leg. This match will see two of the most football-intelligent and progressive managers of the last two decades pit their wits against each other: Arsene Wenger and Manuel Pellegrini. For those who admire football played on the ground in technical, attacking, quick-moving style this is the match you want to watch: these two managers make it their life-mission to create such football and to win with this style.

For those who also like tradition, memories and goodwill in football there will be the great moment tonight of 35 year old Robert Pires coming up against the team he helped earlier this decade to a fantastic era of success and sublime football that will never be forgotten in the history of the English game.

Pires was a technical fighter of a left winger who could finish and assist with equal world class ability and composure and who was excellent at dribbling with close control in attacking straight lines up the pitch. I liked the repeating ways he would curve his right foot round the ball to curve in shots from the left inside the right post or alternatively how he would glide pass a defender to the touchline and side-foot pass the ball with deliberate accuracy into the path for a player like Thierry Henry or Freddie Ljungberg to tap in from short range.

Pires was integral to the attacking total football of Arsene Wenger's second generation side that won the double in 2001-2002 and then superbly went the whole season unbeaten to win the title in 2003-2004 season. He scored loads of goals from his left midfield starting position and stacked up multiple assists. His attacking combination down the left side of the pitch with a young Ashley Cole at left back (the good old days of Ashley Cole!) and Thierry Henry roving in a left forward position was the source of many goals and was a major weapon of Arsene Wenger's genuinely great second generation footballing squad.

In Pires' last season at Arsenal aged 32 years old he was the most senior outfield player of a squad undergoing a transition with far lesser-experienced players like Fabregas, Clichy, Senderos, Reyes, Adebayor, Eboue, RvP, Flamini, Hleb, Diaby, Walcott coming through. I liked the 'old-head' role he was playing and I remember in particular a memorable performance on the right side of midfield in a 3-1 home win against Liverpool where a young Cesc Fabregas and Thierry Henry also had excellent games in what was a must-win league match in the come-from-behind race with Spurs for fourth place. And of course there was THAT tackle on his former teammate and fellow Arsenal legend, Patrick Vieira, in which after winning the ball his forward pass led to a crucial home goal in the Champs League quarter-final first leg against Juventus.

Pires deserved in his career to have a starting place in a Champs League final and he was not alone in frustration and disappointment when he was tactically taken off the pitch for Manuel Almunia by Arsene Wenger after only ten minutes of the 2006 final in Paris because of the sending off of Jens Lehmann. Wenger really had no alternative as Ljungberg was a fitter and more energetic player - but it was a bitter moment for a classy player and character like Pires to be removed so prematurely from an occasion that his football would have adorned.

My younger brother was always consistent in saying that Robert Pires was the most underrated player in the world. And he was not alone, in 2004 we were happy to see that the captain of Mexico and the coach of Vietnam put Pires as number one in their votes for FIFA World player of the year. It was great that he got this recognition - albeit not in the places you would expect it! - in what was Arsenal's fantastic year.

For me Robert Pires was a superstar player with a great balance in his temperament between determination and composure. This reflected in his game - always attacking with intent and in the heat of the moment more often than not he knew and could execute with precision whether it was best to pass, shoot or dribble. And from what I've seen in my glimpses of the Spanish league, little has changed in his style of play and effectiveness with Villarreal.

So tonight there will be great scenes when Pires lines up against Arsenal shirts and shakes the hands of his former manager, Arsene Wenger; those of former teammates like Toure, Clichy, Cesc, and greets the travelling Arsenal fans. Next week, at the Emirates, his reception will similarly be fantastic, and that will be produce more great scenes reminding us of the capacity of football to produce excellent moments of solidarity and genuine goodwill.

It will be a deserving moment and fitting legacy for a player of the quality and character of Robert Pires.

Liverpool’s title credentials under my examination Part 2 from Craven Cottage (Fulham v Liverpool)

2009-04-05T13:15:00.000+01:00

Back in December I made a trip down to Anfield to see Liverpool take on Hull. Yesterday, I made a trip to Craven Cottage with my little brother and some friends to see If Liverpool could continue their recent resurgence and pile the pressure on United.

Craven Cottage is a lovely little ground, which is situated on the banks of River Thames. From the Putney stand if you look through the gaps, which appears in the corners of the Riverside stand you can see people enjoying a bit of sailing. We were supposed to be in the neutral area in the Putney stand, absolutely no chance, the entire stand was packed with Liverpool fans. It was my brother’s first time going to a football patch, he definitely enjoyed the experience.

NOT since February 8 have Liverpool topped the Premier League. After 90 minutes it looked as if they would do so only by goal difference, leaving Manchester United with two games in hand. Then, substitute Yossi Benayoun gathered the ball in the penalty area, sped around the slipping Paul Konchesky and shot past Mark Schwarzer, breaking Fulham’s resistance and leading to wild celebrations in the Putney stand. Fulham, who came within seconds of thwarting another Top Four side. They defended stoutly, rode their luck after Liverpool had hit the woodwork four times in the first period.

The lateness of the goal should not hide how deserved the victory was. Liverpool were not as fluent as they had been in rattling in 13 goals in their previous three games, but they were comfortably the better side, and had more than enough good chances to have won emphatically.
It was Benayoun’s introduction quarter of an hour from time that saved Liverpool. Suddenly there was a guile to their desperation, and Benayoun had twice gone close when Babel’s ball, aimed initially at Gerrard, fell for him 12 yards out. He struck a crisp angled drive, and this time neither Schwarzer nor the woodwork could intervene. As the celebration in the Putney End attested, Liverpool’s dream of a first title in 19 years is still very much alive.

Liverpool need to continue as they are and hope that United slip up. In truth they could have been well clear of United by now if they did not throw away so many points at home. However, there is no pint looking back in anger but focus on what’s ahead. The title race is definitely on.

EFT Scorecast Weekend 7

2009-04-04T12:26:00.002+01:00

Welcome again to the weekly feature on EFT where the team here put their prediction accuracy skills to the test by trying to forecast the scores of the weekend round of Premier League matches.

3 points is awarded for a correct score (e.g. 3-1). 1 point is awarded for a correct result (correct positive result or a draw).

The updated Scorecast points table is in the EFT sidebar. Abdul is looking very good in first place and his predictions are first up:

Abdul:
Arsenal v Man City 3-0
Blackburn v Tottenham 1-1
Bolton v Middlesbrough 2-0
Fulham v Liverpool 0-2
Hull v Portsmouth 1-0
Newcastle v Chelsea 0-2
West Brom v Stoke 1-0
West Ham v Sunderland 1-1
Everton v Wigan 1-0
Man Utd v Aston Villa 2-1

Skipper:
Arsenal v Man City, 2-0
Blackburn v Tottenham, 1-2
Bolton v Middlesbrough, 1-0
Fulham v Liverpool, 0-2
Hull v Portsmouth, 2-2
Newcastle v Chelsea, 1-2
West Brom v Stoke, 2-1
West Ham v Sunderland, 2-1
Everton v Wigan, 1-1
Man Utd v Aston Villa, 1-1

SKG:
Arsenal 3-1 Man City,
Blackburn 1-2 Tottenham,
Bolton 2-0 Middlesbrough,
Fulham 1-1 Liverpool,
Hull 1-0 Portsmouth,
Newcastle 1-1 Chelsea,
West Brom 1-1 Stoke,
West Ham 2-0 Sunderland,
Everton 2-0 Wigan,
Man Utd 2-1 Aston Villa

Redsman:
Arsenal v Man City 2-0
Blackburn v Tottenham 2-1
Bolton v Middlesbrough 1-0
Fulham v Liverpool 1-2
Hull v Portsmouth 1-1
Newcastle v Chelsea 1-3
West Brom v Stoke 2-1
West Ham v Sunderland 2-0

T:
Arsenal v Man City 1-1
Blackburn v Tottenham 1-1
Bolton v Middlesbrough 1-2
Fulham v Liverpool 0-3
Hull v Portsmouth 0-0
Newcastle v Chelsea 0-2
West Brom v Stoke 3-1
West Ham v Sunderland 1-1
Everton v Wigan 1-0
Man Utd v Aston Villa 2-1

Alan Shearer - a Selfish Opportunist?

2009-04-01T13:11:00.002+01:00

I will set out from the outset that I have never been Alan Shearer’s biggest fan. I also accept that this article is not fact-based as it is based on my own perceptions and because there is no way of knowing what goes on in the board room at Newcastle United. However, I do believe that there is more to Shearer’s appointment to Newcastle today than just his love for the club.

Shearer was an extraordinary player, the most talented out-and-out striker that England has produced in a long time. However, I always felt that he welded too much power, both at Newcastle and with England, and I was alarmed at how comfortable he felt in having such a dominant influence as a player. The prime example of this was his role in almost single-handedly sacking Ruud Gullit as manager at Newcastle.

I have been even more unimpressed with Shearer since he hung up his playing boots. His analysis with the BBC has never, to my mind, been insightful or thought provoking. Instead he has resorted to clichés and old fashioned football mantra – “they need to have passion”, “they don’t like it when it gets rough” etc etc. For me, he does not have what it takes to be a modern football manager.

But what has riled me most is the overbearing influence he happily enjoys over Newcastle from the sidelines. Graeme Souness, Sam Allardyce, Glen Roeder have all had their tenures and indeed appointments undermined by Alan Shearer’s refusal to declare his intentions regarding his inevitable approach to manage the club. I would very much doubt that any one of these managers would say that Alan Shearer actually supported their efforts with the club and yet he has declined to accept the mantle and responsibility of managing Newcastle himself. I feel that this is because he has been fearful of the harm to his reputation as the prodigal son should he not prove to be a “success”.

And now we have the situation where Shearer has finally accepted the accepted a role to manage Newcastle until the end of the season. For me, this is typical of the opportunist that is Alan Shearer – for this is a situation from which he cannot lose. If Newcastle get relegated, then he will argue that it was not his fault as he came on board at the tail end of the season with only a few games remaining. However, if Newcastle survive, he will be heralded as a saviour upon whom all credit should be bestowed. In effect he is using the next couple of months as his own personal management training ground – and well renumerated at that.

I have nothing against Newcastle as a football club, but I fully expect most Newcastle fans to disagree with my opinion.

What do you think?

Adebayor neatly highlights clear case of 'misinformation' journalism

2009-03-27T14:46:00.008Z

Here is Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor debunking the sourceless 'story' that featured quite heavily in the media yesterday/today (e.g. the Times, Evening Standard, ITV teletext) that 'a club versus country crisis' was ignited because of his selection for Togo this weekend:

"I am surprised that this issue has taken this dimension in the media in England because it is not an issue at all.

My boss Arsene Wenger gave me the permission to come here to play for my country and if I didn't have his blessing I wouldn't be here."

The story by Kaveh Solkehol in the world renowned Times (link below) always read like highly suspect conjecture and - in the form of Adebayor's dismissive words today - it got the treatment it deserved.

The public are short-changed when information journalism is overridden by sensationalist 'misinformation' journalism.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/arsenal/article5983245.ece