General Soccer Thread

[epicSocialism4tw]

Going by your criteria there are 250 world class players in the game right now. I will leave it at that. I´m struggling to find 15.

I think that you are looking too hard.

[GSRelyea]

US/Guatamala starts in 15 mins.......... I am heading out to foxboro next saturday for the quarter finals, if anyone else is thinking of going pm me and we can meet up.

[epicSocialism4tw]

US/Guatamala starts in 15 mins.......... I am heading out to foxboro next saturday for the quarter finals, if anyone else is thinking of going pm me and we can meet up.

Awesome. Have fun. I wish I could go, but traveling a thousand-plus miles next weekend for the game isnt pheasable for me right now.

US Nats are up 1-0 on a nice goal set up by Twellman and finished by Dempsey. The new US offense is much more dynamic then it has been in the past. They are more fun to watch.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Heres an interesting piece of news. LA Galaxy are trying to coax Figo over to pair with Beckham.


Lalas reveals Galaxy interest in free-agent Figo
ESPNsoccernet
<!-- begin presby2 -->
<!-- end presby2 -->
<!-- end bylinebox -->
<!-- begin text11 div -->
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>LA Galaxy general manager Alexi Lalas has confirmed he would love to pair David Beckham with Luis Figo in the MLS next season.
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=5 width=300 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD><!-- new alias = NA_mls_usa1_story_300x250 --><!-- new key = 187+story;kvpagetype=story;kvcc=NA;kvsection=mls;k vleague=usa1;kvclub=187;kvaid=437259;grp=2781210 --><!--JavaScript Tag // Tag for network 605: ESPN TN // Website: ESPN SC Keyword Site // Page: All // Placement: 300 X 250 (1181107) --><SCRIPT language=javascript type=text/javascript><!-- document.write('<scr'+'ipt language="javascript1.1" src="http://ad.dc2.adtech.de/addyn|3.0|605|1181107|0|170|ADTECH;loc=100;target= _blank;key=mls+story+usa1+187+NA;kvsection=mls;kvp agetype=story;kvleague=usa1;kvclub=187;kvcc=NA;grp =2781210;misc='+new Date().getTime()+'"></scri'+'pt>'); //--></SCRIPT><SCRIPT language=javascript1.1 src="http://ad.dc2.adtech.de/addyn|3.0|605|1181107|0|170|ADTECH;loc=100;target= _blank;key=mls+story+usa1+187+NA;kvsection=mls;kvp agetype=story;kvleague=usa1;kvclub=187;kvcc=NA;grp =2781210;misc=1181278014593"></SCRIPT><SCRIPT src="http://tags.expo9.exponential.com/tags/soccernetcom/Canada/tags.js" type=text/javascript></SCRIPT><CENTER><SCRIPT src="http://a.tribalfusion.com/j.ad?site=soccernetcom&adSpace=canada&size=300x250&p=17957428&a=2&flashVer=9&ver=1.12&center=1&noAd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsoccernet.espn.go.com%2Fnews%2Fst ory%3Fid%3D437259%26cc%3D5901&rnd=17958225" type=text/javascript></SCRIPT></CENTER><NOSCRIPT></NOSCRIPT><!-- End of JavaScript Tag --></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Figo - a former Real Madrid team-mate of Beckham's - recently rejected a move to Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad and has also ruled out playing for another team in Europe, seemingly paving the way for a switch to the US.
Lalas told Portuguese newspaper Diario de Noticias: 'We know that Figo is on the market and we will follow the situation very carefully.
'If the player were interested in experiencing a spell in the United States we would be ready to do anything to sign him.
'The MLS' main objective is to allow our league to become one of the most important in the world.'
Beckham has already agreed a five-year deal to join the Galaxy on July 1 when his contract at Real Madrid expires.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[atomicbloke]

Heres an interesting piece of news. LA Galaxy are trying to coax Figo over to pair with Beckham.


Lalas reveals Galaxy interest in free-agent Figo
ESPNsoccernet
<!-- begin presby2 -->
<!-- end presby2 -->
<!-- end bylinebox -->
<!-- begin text11 div -->
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>LA Galaxy general manager Alexi Lalas has confirmed he would love to pair David Beckham with Luis Figo in the MLS next season.
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=5 width=300 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD><!-- new alias = NA_mls_usa1_story_300x250 --><!-- new key = 187+story;kvpagetype=story;kvcc=NA;kvsection=mls;k vleague=usa1;kvclub=187;kvaid=437259;grp=2781210 --><!--JavaScript Tag // Tag for network 605: ESPN TN // Website: ESPN SC Keyword Site // Page: All // Placement: 300 X 250 (1181107) --><SCRIPT language=javascript type=text/javascript><!-- document.write('<scr'+'ipt language="javascript1.1" src="http://ad.dc2.adtech.de/addyn|3.0|605|1181107|0|170|ADTECH;loc=100;target= _blank;key=mls+story+usa1+187+NA;kvsection=mls;kvp agetype=story;kvleague=usa1;kvclub=187;kvcc=NA;grp =2781210;misc='+new Date().getTime()+'"></scri'+'pt>'); //--></SCRIPT><SCRIPT language=javascript1.1 src="http://ad.dc2.adtech.de/addyn|3.0|605|1181107|0|170|ADTECH;loc=100;target= _blank;key=mls+story+usa1+187+NA;kvsection=mls;kvp agetype=story;kvleague=usa1;kvclub=187;kvcc=NA;grp =2781210;misc=1181278014593"></SCRIPT><SCRIPT src="http://tags.expo9.exponential.com/tags/soccernetcom/Canada/tags.js" type=text/javascript></SCRIPT><CENTER><SCRIPT src="http://a.tribalfusion.com/j.ad?site=soccernetcom&adSpace=canada&size=300x250&p=17957428&a=2&flashVer=9&ver=1.12&center=1&noAd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsoccernet.espn.go.com%2Fnews%2Fst ory%3Fid%3D437259%26cc%3D5901&rnd=17958225" type=text/javascript></SCRIPT></CENTER><NOSCRIPT></NOSCRIPT><!-- End of JavaScript Tag --></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Figo - a former Real Madrid team-mate of Beckham's - recently rejected a move to Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad and has also ruled out playing for another team in Europe, seemingly paving the way for a switch to the US.
Lalas told Portuguese newspaper Diario de Noticias: 'We know that Figo is on the market and we will follow the situation very carefully.
'If the player were interested in experiencing a spell in the United States we would be ready to do anything to sign him.
'The MLS' main objective is to allow our league to become one of the most important in the world.'
Beckham has already agreed a five-year deal to join the Galaxy on July 1 when his contract at Real Madrid expires.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Wow! That would be something if they could get the Real Madrid pairing over in LA.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Wow! That would be something if they could get the Real Madrid pairing over in LA.

Figo has lost a step, but I would still pay to see him. Ive always loved Figo's game. He's a classy player. That would make the Galaxy a favorite in all of the regional club tourneys, and would put them in the mix in the south american club championships. I would love to see Beckham/Figo/Donovan/Cobi Jones work the midfield against Boca Jrs and River Plate. That would be the type of football I have wanted to see in this country for a long time. I have been at it since my youth days before there was a pro league here.

[GSRelyea]

A tale of 2 halves last night. First half the US was attaking well, and really fun to watch. 2nd half ......... not so much. Gooch frustrates the hell out of me, after games like China you think he is ready to go, and then last night he returns to old form. Looking forward to saturdays game, sucks that the Belmont is running at the same time.

[Jersey Pony]

nice thread...

I concur with most of your take on last nights match GS.... save the slight on Gooch. Me thinks that since our boys haven't had to play physical since the WC v. Italy, we were a bit shocked to see the Guats play same in the last 45. Bradley's strategy was to go w/speed after seeing what happened in the friendly. This initially worked well as Donovan's pace is what led to such a chance-filled 1st half. Once Landon started getting beat up in the 2nd, Gooch saw he had to reply and it ended up being a little more than he bargained for.

I would think that other squads will take the same approach, especially with the Guats supposedly being the least able to play muscle. With no Gooch on Saturday, Bradley must be concerned with TNT taking that route.

While Clint is the easy choice, my MoM is split between Twellman (should of finished better but was constantly a threat) and Bornstein (talk about pace).

and while I've had both Curlin & Hard Spun in my exactas for both the Derby & Preakness ($) , I think Tiago hits the board with the smaller field ($$).

since BB has been spotted in this thread....when are we going to sign someone? Our squad is too thin. As much as a I'd love to keep Fernandes....does 12-15 mil crush our transfer budget and lead to another short European vacation?

[GSRelyea]

I agree w/ Tiago in the Belmont, gonna need him to hit the board if we are going to make any decent coin. I will prob backwheel Curlin w/ Tiago, Hard Spun & CP West on top of him. Jersey Pony I have the DRF for tomorrows belmont card I can email it to you if you want it. pm me your email add if you do.

[Jersey Pony]

Thanks GS....but I've got the card already -
(I live about a country mile from the once glorious AC Racetrack)

Enjoy the Belmont and todays match

Tiago & CP West / and Clint to bag another....:thumbsup:

[No Mo Moss]

I thought it was a very complete win on Saturday. Twellman needed to put away his chance. Those types of missed chances are what has seperated us from some of the bigger names in soccer in the past. We have to put those away.

I'm really looking forward to tomorrow's game. Hopefully it is US vs Mexico in the final in CHI. If that's the case I'll have to take a trip to the windy city.

And BTW Faulhaber continues to impress the hell out of me. For having so little international experience the kid looks the part. I wouldn't be suprised if he ends up on a bigger name club before too long.

[epicSocialism4tw]

.
And BTW Faulhaber continues to impress the hell out of me. For having so little international experience the kid looks the part. I wouldn't be suprised if he ends up on a bigger name club before too long.

I like Feilhaber alot. I could see him as a possession midfielder for a club like PSV or Ajax.

Bradley needs to put his boy on the bench and line Feilhaber up next to Donovan in the middle.

[Jens1893]

Feilhaber was awful whenever I saw him last season.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Feilhaber was awful whenever I saw him last season.

The Bundesliga has the tendancy to suck the life out of American midfielders. I'm not sure what the deal is, but they really turned Landon Donovan off to Europe. Donovan is easily talented enough to play heavy minutes in any league over there.

Donovan has said that he didnt like Germany because there was some intense anti-american bias within the Bundesliga among players and coaches. Im not sure if that is a factor in Feilhaber's stay, but I wouldnt be surprised. Feilhaber is young, and that kid has some skill.

[Jens1893]

The Bundesliga has the tendancy to suck the life out of American midfielders. I'm not sure what the deal is, but they really turned Landon Donovan off to Europe. Donovan is easily talented enough to play heavy minutes in any league over there.

Donovan has said that he didnt like Germany because there was some intense anti-american bias within the Bundesliga among players and coaches. Im not sure if that is a factor in Feilhaber's stay, but I wouldnt be surprised. Feilhaber is young, and that kid has some skill.

Landon Donovan is a spoiled pussy who has no ambition whatosever. When things started getting rough a little and he wasn´t gifted a place in the starting lineup because of his name and was actually expected to show the coach something in training, he started whining and got to move home to LA. If living close to his family and the beach is more important to him than his career, then so be it, but to make cheap excuses like the ones you mentioned is weak. Heart can be more important than talent and Donovan doesn´t nearly have as much heart as talent.

Maybe he should talk to some of his team mates like Kasey Keller, Steve Cherundolo and Craig Berhalter and ask them how they managed to gain the respect of the fans, coaches and players. Cherundolo is the team´s vice captain and a fan favorite, Keller and Berhalter were both voted captain by their teammates.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Landon Donovan is a spoiled p***Y who has no ambition whatosever. When things started getting rough a little and he wasn´t gifted a place in the starting lineup because of his name and was actually expected to show the coach something in training, he started whining and got to move home to LA. If living close to his family and the beach is more important to him than his career, then so be it, but to make cheap excuses like the ones you mentioned is weak. Heart can be more important than talent and Donovan doesn´t nearly have as much heart as talent.

Maybe he should talk to some of his team mates like Kasey Keller, Steve Cherundolo and Craig Berhalter and ask them how they managed to gain the respect of the fans, coaches and players. Cherundolo is the team´s vice captain and a fan favorite, Keller and Berhalter were both voted captain by their teammates.

None of them played for the biggest club in Germany.

[Jens1893]

None of them played for the biggest club in Germany.

And your point is?

[epicSocialism4tw]

And your point is?

Those guys arent going to want to play an American as their creative midfielder or creative forward. Donovan was very clear in his statement that there was a prominent anti-american bias.

I dont blame him at all for leaving. If he wants to play here, then what's the big deal? He has been an excellent player for the US nationals. Bayern gave him the run around when he was just a kid over there living by himself. I would have some bad impressions too. They tried to railroad his career.

[Jens1893]

Those guys arent going to want to play an American as their creative midfielder or creative forward. Donovan was very clear in his statement that there was a prominent anti-american bias.

I dont blame him at all for leaving. If he wants to play here, then what's the big deal? He has been an excellent player for the US nationals. Bayern gave him the run around when he was just a kid over there living by himself. I would have some bad impressions too. They tried to railroad his career.

Donovan never played for the biggest club in Germany, llama. He played for Leverkusen and they didn´t have a problem playing Reyna when he first got to Europe. The nationality doesn´t matter if the player is good enough.

[Natedog24]

Donovan is very talented, but he folds under pressure. I'll give him credit, he is great when the US is playing in the Concacaf and he does well in the MLS. But he folded when put under some heat when he played in Europe, and was a total no show in the last World Cup. I think he'll do a lot better as Dempsey becomes the staring attraction on the US national team, but I still don't totally trust him. Looks amazing one second and then disappears the next, him and Beasley both.

It really is nice to see a lot of these young players making a splash on the US National team this Gold Cup already in Europe though.

[No Mo Moss]

I like Feilhaber alot. I could see him as a possession midfielder for a club like PSV or Ajax.

Bradley needs to put his boy on the bench and line Feilhaber up next to Donovan in the middle.

Bradley didn't have a great game on Saturday, but he has looked good at times. I think he is a year off from starting. Feilhaber has looked liek the far better player at this point. I think its a matter of confidence right now as he's been taking people on and had a really great goal against China. Bradley has had some really good passes, but he has had some bad ones and has played timid at times. He is a great players though, I can see that.

[epicSocialism4tw]

[Donovan is very talented, but he folds under pressure. I'll give him credit, he is great when the US is playing in the Concacaf and he does well in the MLS. But he folded when put under some heat when he played in Europe, and was a total no show in the last World Cup. I think he'll do a lot better as Dempsey becomes the staring attraction on the US national team, but I still don't totally trust him. Looks amazing one second and then disappears the next, him and Beasley both.

Donovan and Beasley both were excellent for the entirety of the 2002 WC. I dont think that this last WC was a good measure because the US really got the shaft. They should have beat Italy, and Ghana was given that last victory.

[No Mo Moss]

Landycakes can be a prissy. No doubt about it. I don't care what kind of adversity he faced in Germany, he hardly was there two months. He needed to do better than that, as clearly our players in Europe have become the most productive on the US squad and a player like Donovan could have really become an excellant player by having to get up for huge games week in and week out. That would have helped his consistency IMO.

But he quit. It just chaps my ass that he didn't sack up and try and win his spot back in Germany. I think our last world cup would have been a bit different had Donovan actually been playing in Europe the last few years.

That said he is the type of player who can dominate the Concacaf or even the MLS at times, however he isn't doing sh*t in the MLS right now.

One thing that really upsets me is the reluctance of the US team to bring their A squad to the South American cup. Here is a chance to play some of the very best teams in a real competition away from the safety of US soil and what do we do? True to form we announce months ahead of time that we will be bringing the B squad. Someone explain to me why in the hell we are doing that, anyone.

I saw Mexico lost to Hond. on Sunday in stopage time. Too funny.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Llama is pretty homerish. We are getting a bit better but we are still way off from most of the world. Heck if my boys want to play I will have to drive em into Memphis. No school in West Memphis or any close towns have a team. It is hard for anyone over the age of 8 to find a team. Such a small market we are missing out on several people who could grow to be good but it isnt sexxy enough to take off here due to most of us (myself not included) hate low scores and draws.

[No Mo Moss]

I have to say the sport just dominates in MN and WI. Minneapolis, Madison, Milwaukee and the suburbs of CHI as well as huge parts of Columbus OH and Cincy have huge soccer followings as well as tons of options to play. I have been playing since I was 15 and I continue to play. I moved to a new area here in Greater Minneapolis and decided to try the cities recreation soccer. SO I'm think it would be pretty low key, pick-up games. 500 people went out for Rec soccer in a town of 28,000. It is insane.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I have to say the sport just dominates in MN and WI. Minneapolis, Madison, Milwaukee and the suburbs of CHI as well as huge parts of Columbus OH and Cincy have huge soccer followings as well as tons of options to play. I have been playing since I was 15 and I continue to play. I moved to a new area here in Greater Minneapolis and decided to try the cities recreation soccer. SO I'm think it would be pretty low key, pick-up games. 500 people went out for Rec soccer in a town of 28,000. It is insane.

Texas is a great state for soccer.

The Dallas Classic league is a great DI college scouting pool, and the league has produced players like Clint Dempsey. You can find a very large pickup game at nearly every soccer field in the area on Sunday evening.

There are solid soccer clubs in every nook and cranny of the state.

[Jens1893]

One thing that really upsets me is the reluctance of the US team to bring their A squad to the South American cup. Here is a chance to play some of the very best teams in a real competition away from the safety of US soil and what do we do? True to form we announce months ahead of time that we will be bringing the B squad. Someone explain to me why in the hell we are doing that, anyone.

I saw Mexico lost to Hond. on Sunday in stopage time. Too funny.

Mexico and some South American sides are doing the same to avoid a riot with the clubs. The Copa America runs until July 15th and most European leagues start back in early August, so if the players participated in the Copa America, they´d virtually have no vacation, would miss a major part of pre-season training and would be tired in no time, so many countries are not calling up their European based players and it makes sense as the clubs are paying the salaries.

It is idiotic to play 2 tournaments in one summer.

[epicSocialism4tw]

MLS' LA Galaxy just signed Portugal/Middlesborough's Abel Xavier.
http://delivery.viewimages.com/xv/72912602.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF193F669B259AB992A04CCE22DD6D7B53857 57D1039D1B9D5072

[epicSocialism4tw]

So when are my Dallas boys going to get a star? :(

[Bronco Billy]

So when are my Dallas boys going to get a star? :(

Section 8, the Chicago Fire Supporters Group, has a scarf when Dallas comes to town - "F*C* DALLAS" ;)

I can't wait for Cuatehmoc Blanco on July 1. We sucked over the past 7 games. Though, standing and singing in the Supporter's section does break the monotony of the NFL off-season.

[Jens1893]

So when are my Dallas boys going to get a star? :(

So you think a 35-year old who is most famous for his extra ordinary hair style, a missed drug test and assaulting the referee is a "star"?

[epicSocialism4tw]

So you think a 35-year old who is most famous for his extra ordinary hair style, a missed drug test and assaulting the referee is a "star"?


He will be in the MLS.

He may not be like Becks, who is leaving Europe on a "see what you guys will be missing?" tour, but he is better than many MLS defenders. He's a capable player.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Section 8, the Chicago Fire Supporters Group, has a scarf when Dallas comes to town - "F*C* DALLAS" ;)

I can't wait for Cuatehmoc Blanco on July 1. We sucked over the past 7 games. Though, standing and singing in the Supporter's section does break the monotony of the NFL off-season.

Fire fans are awesome. You guys have a good group. Our Dallas fans suck (just like they do in every sport here). Dallas fans act like they are too cool to be at a game in any sport.

Anyway, you guys will have alot of fun watching Blanco. He's a really creative player who will score goals and get many an "ole!" on the pitch. Blanco will draw tons of fans to the games. There are a buttload of America fans here in the US.

[Atwater His Ass]

Anyone know what is up with Freddy Adu and his relationship to the national team? I see his is not on the Gold Cup roster. Will he be on the Copa America roster?

[GSRelyea]

Anyone know what is up with Freddy Adu and his relationship to the national team? I see his is not on the Gold Cup roster. Will he be on the Copa America roster?

He is on the US under 20 team- The U 20 World Cup starts in a week or 2 up in Canada. Thinking of going up Jne 30th in Montreal for a game, we shall see. Can't wait to see us work Panama tomorrow.

[Atwater His Ass]

I too am looking forward to the quarterfinal tomrrow.

[Atwater His Ass]

I thought we had a nice 2-1 win over Panama for the most part. I was happy with our goals and with our offesne for the most part. I feel we left a couple goals on the table, espcially with Dempsey in the 2nd half. I honestly feel he was trying to be cute and get a pretty goal instead of just one-timeing Donovan's pass. Dempsey has been abusing that behind the back heel kick move too much and that one just got away from him.

Twellman I thought played well by putting himself in position for finsihing chances, but he just lacked the that final effort to get it done. It seemed he was just a little off balance all day and just couldn't get that little extra to put those chances away. But I thought he was our best offensive player, with Donovan running a close 2nd.

I thought we also conrolled the midfield well for all of the game. Mastroeni had a great game and I thought Donovan played well. I also liked the hustle of Hejduk throughout the game. The guy was everywhere, making runs, recovering, just seemed to bring a lot of energy to the table.

I was howver very dissapointed with our defense in how we closed out the game. Very sloppy. I'm not sure if we we're tired or just relaxing thinking we had it up 2-0. Perez played well for Panama, but the goal we gave up was amerturish. Three defenders just standing around in space around him, made it quite easy for him to sidestep and score. It looked like it caught Howard by surprise as he wasn't expecting Perez to beat the triple team. Although credit to Perez for finishing, it wasn't all that impressive of a shot.

The only other comment was that I thought the officiating was absolutely horrible in the 1st half and only slightly better in the 2nd. I also get tired of seeing players get carted off only in attempt to create drama. I think I saw 4 or 5 Panama players get carted off and not one American. I really wish the game could get this kind of crap cleaned up.

[Dagmar]

Well done Real Madrid!!!

[Jens1893]

Well done Real Madrid!!!

Fascist ****s.

[Muddled]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/soccer/06/19/bc.soc.galaxy.beckham.ap/index.html

this is just ridiculous, to the point where you'd have to guess Lalas has been misquoted or misunderstood. I might as well be claiming the Danish hockey league was on par with the NHL 'cause 2 Danes played there this year

[Arkansas Bronco]

How the hell do you get to be a GM and not realize how much better all the top lv. teams in Europe have far superior Talent. If Chelsea (or any of the big dogs) played the Galaxy and it was for real (not an exhibition match) it wouldnt be close.

[epicSocialism4tw]

How the hell do you get to be a GM and not realize how much better all the top lv. teams in Europe have far superior Talent. If Chelsea (or any of the big dogs) played the Galaxy and it was for real (not an exhibition match) it wouldnt be close.

Chelsea would beat say, NY Red Bull, by a clear 2 goals.

What Lalas is doing is presenting the MLS to the world. Guys like Muddled cant stand to imagine top-notch soccer in the US. It's their own little posession where the US can be cheated over and over again with no recourse.

It will be great when other great players like Beckham make the move, and it will happen eventually.

Prepare to hear relentless whining from across the Atlantic when they begin seeing LA Galaxy kits with Beckham splayed across the back in pick-up games.


MLS is now marketed to the world. Jealousy is soon to follow.

[Muddled]

Ehem, dream big, even the big South American leagues with their massive talent mass can't hold on to the best players, they all wanna test their talent in Europe.

And I'm all for Becks, but get sth straight, this is a 30 sth footballer who has had it with the European press bias against him and wants out, probably only eloping to the US to satisfy his pop star wife. It's not as if it's an international star on the rise, choosing MLS because of the financial and professional opportunities there.

[Jens1893]

Lalas said the only reason the English league is popular is because of American-style marketing.

That much I agree with.

[atomicbloke]

Anyone here excited about the Copa America?

I was going to start a thread on the main forum, but I'll soon be attacked by the soccer-hating morons.... especially since it's in Venenzuela Hilarious!

[Arkansas Bronco]

I was going to start a thread on the main forum, but I'll soon be attacked by the soccer-hating morons....
Yea thats why we stay down here. Any soccer thread there are just asking for hate posts.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Anyone here excited about the Copa America?

I was going to start a thread on the main forum, but I'll soon be attacked by the soccer-hating morons.... especially since it's in Venenzuela Hilarious!

No joke. American Football fans have some kind of irrational fear about soccer.

[Orange_Beard]

No joke. American Football fans have some kind of irrational fear about soccer.

I agree. I think most America's don't want to have anything to do with something that they are not the best at.

[Orange_Beard]

Quote:
Lalas said the only reason the English league is popular is because of American-style marketing.

Where? In England?
Not sure I get this.....

[Jens1893]

Quote:
Lalas said the only reason the English league is popular is because of American-style marketing.

Where? In England?
Not sure I get this.....

No, globally. Globally the Premiership probably is the most popular league around because of the media hype machine and the marketing. Many Premiership clubs do focus on the Asian market and go there for friendly games etc. regularly. Ever wondered why they have games at noon local time? Because it´s prime time in Asia.

[Orange_Beard]

No, globally. Globally the Premiership probably is the most popular league around because of the media hype machine and the marketing. Many Premiership clubs do focus on the Asian market and go there for friendly games etc. regularly. Ever wondered why they have games at noon local time? Because it´s prime time in Asia.

It is funny, I have never seen one ad or any marketing here in the states. When he said "American-style marketing" I assumed he was taliking about the states.

[Atwater His Ass]

There is little to no marketing of the EPL (or any soccer league, foreign or domestic) in America that I have seen. I live in the greater Seattle area and you would have a hard time here even notceing that they have a USL team.

[Atwater His Ass]

Good first half between Canada and USA. US looked to control the first half for the most part, but Canada had a nice stretch for a bit, created some good pressure.

I'm still concerened about the US defending. Looking very sloppy and unorganized thus far. Midfielders looking solid, Johnson giving good effort up front, but not a lot of chances thus far.

Bradley, Donovan having playing the best for US thus far. 2-0. Good job by the ref as well, which is saying something for the usualy lack of good officating that seems to plauge the CONCACAF.

[epicSocialism4tw]

US Nats are up 2-0 at the half against Canada in the Gold Cup semifinal.

Micheal Bradley is playing outstanding.

Donovan is the best player on the pitch.

Eddie Johnson is still lazy.

Frankie Hejduk scored on an oustanding strike from just outside the 18 that curled outward and knicked in off of the inside of the post. Donovan played him a nice ball from the left end of the top of the box and Frankie one-timed it perfectly. World class goal.

The second goal was a PK by Donovan. Beasley was played a great ball out of the back and beat Tottenham's Staltieri down the left center of the pitch, skipped the ball past keeper Onstad and Onstad took him down. Donovan converted by leading Onstad left, and putting it down the center.

[Atwater His Ass]

An exciteing 2nd half. As per usual with the first half being an exception, the officating was horrible in the 2nd half. Hejduk's yellow was crap, Hume should have gotten a yellow for taking Mastoreni down behind the play, etc. Red card on Bradely was a good call however.

Canada got jobbed on that last play. Gooch clearly headed the ball and thus Canada shouldn't have been off-side. However. It was clearly after the 4 mins allotted, so I don't feel too bad about it. Play should have never been allowed in the first place.

I agree llama. Johnson was terribly lazy in the 2nd half after having a decent 1st half.. Twellman should have started imo. Much more active and creates so many more chances. Donovan was great. Hejduk was great. We will miss him in the final. Bradely can be replaced, but he did play well.

[Atwater His Ass]

Also wanted to add that I though Dempsey played pretty poor today. He looked very lathargec out there. He also keeps trying that heel behind the back move almost every time he gets challenged and I haven't seen it work in the last two games. It's getting almost comical.

The guy has more skill than that, I would look for him to step his game up in the final, otherwise I'd be more happy getting someone else on the pitch.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I dont like Dempsey as a point forward. He's better attacking from the right side and combining with forwards in that process. Dempsey is probably the most skilled player we have, so I dont see any situation where he needs to sit.

On another note, Im watching Mexico v. Guadalupe. You have to love Guadalupe with their late 1980's style uniforms. They have the box numbers and everything.

[Atwater His Ass]

I don't argue that Dempsey is a great talent. I'm not sure he's better than Donovan however. Regardless, I just haven't seen much from him for the last 2 games. Honestly I don't he should sit either, but it seems he just needs a kick in the pants to get going.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Its pretty sad how the where's mock thread is bigger then the only true Football thread here.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Chelsea Football Club has bought Africa in a deal thought to be worth £50m, a statement released to the City revealed today. The deal, expected to generate up to £20m worth of additional revenue each year through the UN 'Balls to Hunger' scheme, comes at the end of a difficult year for the club.

The new signing will enable Chelsea to play an entire continent in attack, as well as provide Andriy Shevchenko with something he can actually hit in training - most of London's barns have tried their luck, and gone home without a bruised broadside.

African Union officials have expressed mixed feelings towards the move.

"We have a great history in this area of the world," said Cameroon's Paul Biya, reflecting on the sale over a pint in a West End pub. "I did quite like the climate, and it'll take some getting used to living here. The city smells like excrement and the beer tastes watery. Being towed up the English Channel behind Abramovich's yacht was a real highlight for me, though."

The club's squad have welcomed the continent, adding that competition for places both on the pitch and off will only serve to increase their desire to succeed.

Boss Jose Mourinho appeared at a press conference, insisting that the extra 900,000,000 players will not give the team too great a competitive edge.

"It will allow this club to achieve what it should achieve. Greatness. For I am great. And if I am great, this club must be great. For I would fail if it was not great. But it is great. So I am great. See? I succeed with Porto, with only 3 players and 8 donkeys making up the side. I succeed with 11 players. If I succeed with 10 players and massive continent, they say I have won because I had a continent. That is not true. Alex Ferguson did not need a continent. I do not need a continent. I just like one. Because I am great."

The former owner of the continent, Bob Geldof, is said to be delighted at the completion of the sale. (Spoof, obviously. Even as a Chelsea fan I thought it was quite funny.)

[bfoflcommish]

bwhahahahahaha

[Orange_Beard]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/6231950.stm

$hit, I was hoping he would some how come to the MLS.

[Jens1893]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/6231950.stm

$hit, I was hoping he would some how come to the MLS.

Henry still has way too much to offer to even consider semi-retirement.

[Orange_Beard]

Henry still has way too much to offer to even consider semi-retirement.

Money changes everything.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Money changes everything.

It does alot but not from changing for a world class team from a good EPL squad to a group that equals a L.1 group in england. I like how we are trying but we rank so far behind.

[Jens1893]

Money changes everything.

Doubtful, especially when you look into the reasons why Onreeee pushed for a transfer. He became a little disillusioned with Arsenal and was pissed that Arsenal couldn´t keep up with Chelsea and ManUtd anymore. He wants to play for a club where he has a realistic shot at winning titles and he knows that he will have the MLS option in 3-4 years still to see out his career.

[mattbeymvp]

I dont like Dempsey as a point forward. He's better attacking from the right side and combining with forwards in that process. Dempsey is probably the most skilled player we have, so I dont see any situation where he needs to sit.



Neither Twellman or Johnson seem capable of finishing any ball that's being passed their way. Dempsey gives us the best chance of putting the ball in the net. Is it an ideal situation, of course not. But until a consistent striker emerges on the team, it's the best solution.

Hopefully Charlie Davies or Hercules Gomez will stand out at Copa America.

[Atwater His Ass]

I think Twellman will eventually evolve as our #1 striker.

Gold Cup Final. Mexico has been the better side after the first half. They lead 1-0 after a nice goal. Donovan, Dempsey and Ching are invisible. Beasley is playing the best for the US at the moment.

Should be an exciting 2nd half.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I think Twellman will eventually evolve as our #1 striker.

Gold Cup Final. Mexico has been the better side after the first half. They lead 1-0 after a nice goal. Donovan, Dempsey and Ching are invisible. Beasley is playing the best for the US at the moment.

Should be an exciting 2nd half.

We've got a game thread going in the central discussion area. Come join in.

[GSRelyea]

This is GREAT:

Mexico arrive for Copa America amid crisis reports

PUERTO LA CRUZ, Venezuela, June 26 (Reuters) - Mexico have arrived at the Copa America in crisis following yet another defeat to the United States and amid reports of splits in the dressing-room.

Mexico kick off their Copa America campaign against Brazil in Puerto Ordaz on Wednesday and the clash with the defending champions could not come at a worse possible moment for coach Hugo Sanchez.

The former Real Madrid striker spent the previous three years sniping at his predecessor Ricardo La Volpe and promising to turn Mexico into world beaters.

But those claims sounded very hollow in this month's Gold Cup as Mexico needed extra-time to beat eight-man Costa Rica in the quarter-finals, then struggled to a 1-0 win over Caribbean islanders Guadeloupe in the semis.

To cap it all, they then lost yet again to the United States in Sunday's final in Chicago, leaving the U.S. unbeaten in their last nine home games against the Mexicans.

Two Mexican newspapers took it as a personal failure for Sanchez, who repeatedly promised beforehand that Mexico's team would reflect his own winning personality.

'Hugo fails at the Gold Cup' and 'Hugo, you're not approved,' said La Jornada and Record respectively.

Mexico were greeted by a torrential downpour as they arrived in Venezuela on Tuesday, missing European-based Carlos Salcido, Ricardo Osorio and Pavel Pardo.

The trio all pulled out of the competition last week, claiming they were tired after a long season.

But the Mexican media interpreted their withdrawl as a sign that the camp was split into 'La Volpists' -- admirers of the former coach -- and 'Hugoists'.

Salcido, Osorio and Pardo were all key players under La Volpe and are all widely regarded as being admirers of the Argentine, who is now coaching Velez Sarsfield in his homeland.

In fact, the shadow of La Volpe is looming ever larger over Sanchez.

La Volpe has tended to keep a low profile in the last few months, avoiding the temptation to renew hostilities with his personal rival, but on Sunday was busy giving radio and television interviews.

'He always said he understood the Mexican football environment,' La Volpe said. 'Now he has to turn a blind eye, to be intelligent and work positively with his team.'

La Volpe is also reported to have phoned some of his former disciples last week to give them advice.

Earlier this year, Sanchez set his team two objectives: to win the Gold Cup and reach the semi-finals of the Copa America.

A second failure could mean that this dream of coaching his country ends up being a very short one.

Your views on this story? Email newsdesk@soccernet.com

[Orange_Beard]

Good News:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/soccer/06/26/bc.soc.goldcupratings.ap/index.html?eref=si_topstories

[epicSocialism4tw]

Good News:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/soccer/06/26/bc.soc.goldcupratings.ap/index.html?eref=si_topstories


AWESOME!!!

Futbol just overtook Hockey as a major sport. By a large margin.

The american media is missing out on this big-time. I guarantee you that if they put half the effort into marketing this as they do baseball, football, and basketball, that the US/Mexico games would draw excellent ratings. There are no other sporting events out there this time of year anywhere near as compelling as US/Mexico. With the immigration issue boiling over in the public, US/Mexico is a bigger rivalry than in any other sport nation-wide. USA and Mexico are battling fiercely for national pride.

That game wasnt nearly as important as other US/Mexico games and it sold out Soldier Field. These ESPiN goobers are going to have to swallow their pride and make that money eventually.

[atomicbloke]

I wish BRadley took the first team to the Copa America.

All the Gold Cup euphoria will evaporate if Argentina plummel us 7-0 or something. This Argentine team is monstrous with Messi, Riqueleme, Aimar, Crespo, Tevez and Veron. Lionel Messi is easily one of the best in the world. And Riquelme and Tevez are very dangerous too. I have always loved the creative, beautiful soccer displayed by the likes of Argentina in the World Cup.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I wish BRadley took the first team to the Copa America.

All the Gold Cup euphoria will evaporate if Argentina plummel us 7-0 or something. This Argentine team is monstrous with Messi, Riqueleme, Aimar, Crespo, Tevez and Veron. Lionel Messi is easily one of the best in the world. And Riquelme and Tevez are very dangerous too. I have always loved the creative, beautiful soccer displayed by the likes of Argentina in the World Cup.

Argentina are out to pummel everyone in this tourney. If Argentina do not handle the states with proficiency, then they will have failed. If the US even makes a game out of this with their C team squad, then it is a victory for the Nats. If the US wins? Unbelievable.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Damarcus Beasley will now play for Rangers:

GLASGOW, Scotland -- American midfielder DaMarcus Beasley transferred to Scotland's Glasgow Rangers on Wednesday.
The 25-year-old, who helped the United States beat Mexico on Sunday in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final in Chicago, was injured for much of last season and played just 18 Premier League games for Manchester City. He was on loan to the English club from PSV Eindhoven.
Beasley has signed a 3-year contract and, although Rangers did not reveal how much it paid PSV, reports said the fee was about $1.38 million.
"I've got a couple of good friends who played at Rangers, Michael Ball and Claudio Reyna, and they had good things to say about the football club," Beasley said. "Claudio said that being at Rangers is like being part of a massive family. Everyone is nice. Everything is first class."
Beasley has 15 goals in 68 international appearances. He won two Dutch Eredivisie titles with PSV.
He is looking forward to helping Rangers qualify for the European Champions League. The qualifying draw will be held Friday.
"It's a big draw," Beasley said. "I played two years there with PSV, and we had a great run in my first year there. We went to the semifinal and no one thought we could do it. We were a small club compared to Real Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona and teams like that, so Rangers can do the same thing. I'm looking forward to starting that campaign. Hopefully, we will qualify, and I'm sure we will."

[Smiling Assassin27]

4-1 Argentina. Without the big names, this is about right.

[epicSocialism4tw]

4-1 Argentina. Without the big names, this is about right.

Yeah, we got waxed.

Our team was scared witless. That was disappointing.

There were a couple of bright spots though...

Jonathan Bornstein played Messi very, very well. He had Messi frustrated. Bornstein is about the only guy that showed up.

Eddie Johnson scored a goal off of a beautiful pass that led to a PK. Eddie showed up for 10 minutes...then disappeared for 80.

[Orange_Beard]

Yeah, we got waxed.

Our team was scared witless. That was disappointing.

There were a couple of bright spots though...

Jonathan Bornstein played Messi very, very well. He had Messi frustrated. Bornstein is about the only guy that showed up.

Eddie Johnson scored a goal off of a beautiful pass that led to a PK. Eddie showed up for 10 minutes...then disappeared for 80.
how did you get to see it? Where was it on?

[atomicbloke]

how did you get to see it? Where was it on?

I saw it on Ten Sports.

Stateside, I think its on Gol TV or Univision (spanish).

[uk bronco]

Damarcus Beasley will now play for Rangers:

GLASGOW, Scotland -- American midfielder DaMarcus Beasley transferred to Scotland's Glasgow Rangers on Wednesday.
The 25-year-old, who helped the United States beat Mexico on Sunday in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final in Chicago, was injured for much of last season and played just 18 Premier League games for Manchester City. He was on loan to the English club from PSV Eindhoven.
Beasley has signed a 3-year contract and, although Rangers did not reveal how much it paid PSV, reports said the fee was about $1.38 million.
"I've got a couple of good friends who played at Rangers, Michael Ball and Claudio Reyna, and they had good things to say about the football club," Beasley said. "Claudio said that being at Rangers is like being part of a massive family. Everyone is nice. Everything is first class."
Beasley has 15 goals in 68 international appearances. He won two Dutch Eredivisie titles with PSV.
He is looking forward to helping Rangers qualify for the European Champions League. The qualifying draw will be held Friday.
"It's a big draw," Beasley said. "I played two years there with PSV, and we had a great run in my first year there. We went to the semifinal and no one thought we could do it. We were a small club compared to Real Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona and teams like that, so Rangers can do the same thing. I'm looking forward to starting that campaign. Hopefully, we will qualify, and I'm sure we will."

as a rangers fan i'm really looking forward to seeing him play my only concern is that the scottish league will be too physical for him. i read an interview with reyna and he praised him so he should be able to cope but he's gonna get kicked a lot by teams trying to get in his head

[Orange_Beard]

I love this move for Beasley. Playing in this physical league is going to make him a better player.
I just wish that Landon Donovan would make a move like this.

[mattbeymvp]

How is playing in the Euro Disney League going to help Beasley?

The SPL is a joke with the exception of Rangers and Celtic. MLS teams would be playing in the UEFA Cup and possibly Champions League if they participated in the SPL.

The only positives I see are the few European matches he'll play and the chance to dominate weak competition for a chance to play in Spain or Italy if he can get his head on straight.

[Orange_Beard]

It may not be a great league. That is not really the point, the physical nature of the league will challenge him and make him a better player.

[mattbeymvp]

It may not be a great league. That is not really the point, the physical nature of the league will challenge him and make him a better player.

How? Look at his frame and the role he plays on the US squad.

He needs to go to Spain or Italy where he can play and learn a more creative and free flowing game. The US has plenty of guys who can play physical, we lack players with creativity sorely.

[uk bronco]

How is playing in the Euro Disney League going to help Beasley?

The SPL is a joke with the exception of Rangers and Celtic. MLS teams would be playing in the UEFA Cup and possibly Champions League if they participated in the SPL.

The only positives I see are the few European matches he'll play and the chance to dominate weak competition for a chance to play in Spain or Italy if he can get his head on straight.

The SPL is a higher standard than MLS without a doubt. I watch both and maybe a couple of teams could cut it in the SPL but no way would they make the top 6 let alone push for a champions league spot

[Orange_Beard]

How? Look at his frame and the role he plays on the US squad.

He needs to go to Spain or Italy where he can play and learn a more creative and free flowing game. The US has plenty of guys who can play physical, we lack players with creativity sorely.

I agree and disagree. I think the way you learn to play a more "creative" game is by playing in a physical league. He won't be able to out muscle other players, he will need to get creative if he is going to succeed.

[BroncoInferno]

Bending an expert's ear on the virtues of Beckham
Wojciechowski

By Gene Wojciechowski
ESPN.com
(Archive)

Updated: July 4, 2007, 6:40 PM ET

I wouldn't know David Beckham if he bent a corner kick into my jaw. Now if Posh were with him, maybe the face would ring a bell. But otherwise, nothing.

It's not that I'm anti-soccer, I'm just anti-dull. To me, soccer is hockey on a Valium overdose, but with no glove dropping or board checking.

Yes, I'm aware it's called "The Beautiful Game" -- and I'm sure it is, much in the same way folding your laundry is "The Beautiful Chore." And, yes, I know all about Beckham's much-anticipated official introduction to the MLS on July 13 in Los Angeles. I've also heard of the World Cup, the boffo CONCACAF Gold Cup TV ratings, and the fact that every available suburban sports field will be infested with soccer kids this weekend.

But I can't name you a half dozen active soccer players -- and I'm not alone. I'm not sure I can name you six soccer players, dead or alive. Let's see: Pele, Freddy Adu, that French dude who headbutted that Italian dude, Mia Hamm, Sylvester Stallone and Keira Knightley?

This will upset some soccer snobs, who tend to go all hooligan on you if you don't "get" the game. Look, I've got no problem with a Brit lad telling me he'd rather eat English food than watch a Royals-Pirates interleague game or, worse yet, the Raiders against anybody. But don't jump me just because I yawn at the mention of the Premiership.

I'm trying to understand, I really am, why Beckham should matter to sweat-sport Americans hardwired for the NFL, MLB, the NBA and, just to be polite, the NHL. So I ask longtime friend, soccer psycho, and Los Angeles Times sportswriter Christine Daniels to give me one good reason to care about the arrival of Dave and Spice wife.

Some background: Daniels has covered three World Cups and four Olympic soccer tournaments, watches way too much Fox Soccer Channel and Gol! TV, played stopper in her weekly league and now manages the team, picks up World Soccer at the newsstand, has a crush on Tony Adams, considers Nick Hornby's "Fever Pitch" the greatest sports book since "Ball Four," and will happily burn you a CD with Morrissey's "Your Arsenal" on it.

Daniels has pitch cred. I don't.

David Beckham may not be the player he was, but he's still plenty dangerous.
But thanks to ESPN Research, I know the Beckham basics: Made his pro debut with Manchester United in 1993 ... supposed savior of English soccer ... first and only player in England soccer history to score in three different World Cups ... led Man U to wins in the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League, in the same season ... Google search favorite ... signed LA Galaxy contract that, with endorsements and merchandising, could be worth $250 million ... married to Victoria Adams ... friends with Tomkat (Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes).

OK, I can identify with the athlete/celebrity wife thing. This is like when Wayne Gretzky and Janet Jones came to the LA Kings, right?

"No, bigger," says Daniels. "The difference is, Gretzky was at his peak. Beckham is past his prime."

She goes on to say that the Galaxy wants Beckham to play center midfielder, which is meant for playmaking, attacking types. Think Steve Nash in soccer cleats (Nash actually was the British Columbia high school player of the year). Problem is, Beckham is too slow, too small and not strong enough with the ball for center mid.

"He's best at outside mid because he has a great right foot," says Daniels. "He's great at setting up teammates, when he has time. He's not great at setting up his own shot. But on set pieces, dead-ball pieces, he has a great, special talent for putting it on a head, curving it around the wall. That translates to [TV] highlights."

Got it. Bend it like Beckham.

Daniels says Beckham is one of the most recognized and popular sports figures in the world.

"He's an interesting character," she says. "Old-time England greats would have slit their throats if they saw him: a metrosexual guy who wears sarongs, makeup and is married to a Spice Girl. He was initially hated in England."

Daniels goes into a detailed explanation about Beckham's getting a red card against Argentina, then something about breaking his foot, then something else about nonchalanting it in a game against Brazil. She tells me about a penalty kick Beckham airmailed against Portugal, how he was a semi-flop with Real Madrid, and how he lost his captaincy and his place on the England national team until team officials got desperate and asked him back.

Just before I nod off, I ask Daniels where she would rank Beckham among the world's best players. Top 10? Top 20?

"He wouldn't be in the top 50 soccer players in the world right now," she says. "Maybe just at 50."

"And the MLS -- what kind of league is that?" I ask.

"The MLS is Triple-A baseball compared to the major leagues," she says. "It used to be Double-A."

"So let me get this straight: he won't have Gretzky's impact, he's not one of the top 50 players in the world anymore, and the MLS isn't an elite league," I say. "This sounds like Michael Jordan going over to England to play hoops-now."

"That's a good way of putting it," she says.

"So why do I care about this guy again?"

Long pause.

"I'm not doing a very good job selling this, am I?" Daniels says.

But she recovers.

"He's insanely popular," Daniels says. "Part of it is the connection to Posh, and part of it is the way other cultures and countries look at him. He's kind of this little elf. He's not an oaf. He's like one of the Beatles. The English media, grudgingly, is infatuated with him. He has this reputation as an effete, airheaded, say-nothing guy. But I had a 30-minute interview with him about two years ago and he was soft-spoken, but intelligent."

The MLS needs something. Adu was supposed to be the league's Beckham, but that was wishful thinking. So now the Galaxy hires the original, but with the high mileage on the original Beckham equipment. Worse yet, who knows how many Galaxy games he'll miss while playing for the England national team.

For old time's sake, I'm going to give Daniels -- and Beckham -- the benefit of the doubt. But I've got a bad feeling that six months from now we're going to be asking, "Beckham who?" and "Beckham why?"

Gene Wojciechowski is the senior national columnist for ESPN.com. You can contact him at gene.wojciechowski@espn3.com.
ESPN Conversation

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=wojciechowski_gene&id=2925779&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab1pos1

[Jens1893]

That Daniels girl knows her ****. I pretty much agree with everything she says.

[Hercules Rockefeller]

Looks like Tevez is on his way from West Ham to Man Utd

[Jens1893]

Looks like Tevez is on his way from West Ham to Man Utd

.... to push ManUtd´s summer spending over 70m GBP. Tevez simply isn´t what they need.

[Atwater His Ass]

U-20 World Cup. Currently in 80th minute USA vs. Brazil, 2-1 USA. Freddy Adu just schooled 2 Brazilians in the corner, then sent a perfect pass to Altidore who finished his 2nd goal of the match.

Awesome gaem thus far, both sides attacking, with Brazil the edge in possesion, but the US is holding it's own. I've been real impressed with Jo from Brazil, hardworking striker who's created some great chances.

If Brazil can't force a draw or a win, I don't think they can advance from group play.

Anyway, Adu is having a remarkable tournament, imo. He has so many skills. Every time he gets the ball, he's scary to do something. I can't wait until he gets up the MNT full time.

[Atwater His Ass]

Final USA wins 2-1. A great game. Looks we have another world class goal keeper in the works with Seitz. He got peppered and stood up well. The one goal he made the inital save off a hard volley and lost the rebound, almost got it back but it was pushed through. He also played most of the 2nd half hurt and wasn't taking kicks and was visbly limping.

I would love to see our guys win this tournament. Long shot still probably, but it's nice to see the younger guys getting it done. Aggregate goals of 9-3 and 7 points is pretty impressive against South Korea, Poland and Brazil.

[atomicbloke]

Looks like Tevez is on his way from West Ham to Man Utd

Fergie is going to destroy Tevez' development as a creative playmaker like the way he did with Veron.

Tevez' style is more suited to Barcelona or the Primera Liga in general.

It is not suited to the workman-like blue collar style of the Premiership and certainly not the constrained and rigid ways of the Red Devils.

If you are an Argentina fan, Tevez going to ManU is a disaster.

[Jens1893]

Fergie is going to destroy Tevez' development as a creative playmaker like the way he did with Veron.

Tevez' style is more suited to Barcelona or the Primera Liga in general.

It is not suited to the workman-like blue collar style of the Premiership and certainly not the constrained and rigid ways of the Red Devils.

If you are an Argentina fan, Tevez going to ManU is a disaster.

Veron destroyed himself as his game wasn´t suited to the Premiership at all. Veron played quite well in Europe, where he had more time on the ball, but the Premiership game was too fast for him.

How you can call ManUtd´s game "constrained" and "rigid" is absolutely beyond me as the flexibility in their attacking game is one of the main reasons why Ferguson decided to part with van Nistelrooy and it paid off last season as it freed up Giggs, Ronaldo, Scholes and Rooney and ManUtd became way more unpredictable as a team.

The biggest problem I see with a possible Tevez transfer to ManUtd is that Tevez is more of an out and out striker and doesn´t have much of a presence in the box. Torres would have been a much, much better choice as he´s a whole lot more physical. Tevez doesn´t add anything they don´t already have in Ronaldo, Rooney, Nani and Anderson. They need a guy with a physical presence in the box, a true striker, that the other guys can rotate around.

[GSRelyea]

Under-20 Men To Face Uruguay in the Round of 16 at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup

- Match kicks off Wednesday, July 11 at 7:45 p.m. ET at Exhibition Place in Toronto

TORONTO (July 8, 2007) – The U.S. Under-20 Men’s National Team will face Uruguay in the Round of 16 at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup on Wednesday, July 11 in Toronto. The match-up was determined Sunday evening after Congo defeated Canada, 2-0, in the final match of group play. The USA-Uruguay Round of 16 match will be televised live on ESPNU and Galavision on Wednesday beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET, and fans follow the match via ussoccer.com's MatchTracker.

Uruguay, the third-place team from Group B, advanced to the knockout phase with a 1-1-1 record in group play. They were the only team to get a point from Spain as they tied the European champions, 2-2, in their opening match and then earned a 1-0 victory against Jordan in Burnaby. Uruguay lost their final match to Zambia, 2-0, but their four points was enough to solidify one of the four third-place spots in the second round

The U.S. advanced the second round by winning Group D with an undefeated 2-0-1 record that featured a win over Brazil on Friday, broadcast live on ESPN. Thomas Rongen’s squad opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw with South Korea before following it up with a 6-1 drubbing of Poland.

“We’re confident, and not intimidated, but they did show up against Spain and maybe that is a wake up call for our team to stay focused and sharp going into this game," said head coach Thomas Rongen. "They obviously present a strong challenge for us, but we’re going to do everything we can to prepare.”

The U.S. and Uruguay have met twice before in group play at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, but this will be the first time in the knockout round. Uruguay was the USA’s first-ever opponent in a U-20 World Cup as the two countries met in the opening match of Group A in the 1981 tournament in Brisbane, Australia, defeating the U.S. 3-0. Their second meeting was two years later in Guadalajara, Mexico, also in the opening match of group play, with Uruguay once again with the three points in a 3-2 victory.

The U.S. leads all teams in the tournament in scoring, with nine goals during group play, which is the most ever for the U.S. in group stages of the World Cup. Three players, Freddy Adu, Josmer Altidore and Danny Szetela lead the team in scoring with three goals each.




ussoccer.com is the official website of U.S. Soccer, the governing body of soccer in the United States

[Arkansas Bronco]

As a Blue I am glad Torres didnt land with the Manure's. Not happy at all he ended up in the Pool but better then with the Devils. It realy sucks that the NFL and EPL both have close to the same off season. Summer is so boaring.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Under-20 Men To Face Uruguay in the Round of 16 at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup

- Match kicks off Wednesday, July 11 at 7:45 p.m. ET at Exhibition Place in Toronto

TORONTO (July 8, 2007) – The U.S. Under-20 Men’s National Team will face Uruguay in the Round of 16 at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup on Wednesday, July 11 in Toronto. The match-up was determined Sunday evening after Congo defeated Canada, 2-0, in the final match of group play. The USA-Uruguay Round of 16 match will be televised live on ESPNU and Galavision on Wednesday beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET, and fans follow the match via ussoccer.com's MatchTracker.

Uruguay, the third-place team from Group B, advanced to the knockout phase with a 1-1-1 record in group play. They were the only team to get a point from Spain as they tied the European champions, 2-2, in their opening match and then earned a 1-0 victory against Jordan in Burnaby. Uruguay lost their final match to Zambia, 2-0, but their four points was enough to solidify one of the four third-place spots in the second round

The U.S. advanced the second round by winning Group D with an undefeated 2-0-1 record that featured a win over Brazil on Friday, broadcast live on ESPN. Thomas Rongen’s squad opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw with South Korea before following it up with a 6-1 drubbing of Poland.

“We’re confident, and not intimidated, but they did show up against Spain and maybe that is a wake up call for our team to stay focused and sharp going into this game," said head coach Thomas Rongen. "They obviously present a strong challenge for us, but we’re going to do everything we can to prepare.”

The U.S. and Uruguay have met twice before in group play at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, but this will be the first time in the knockout round. Uruguay was the USA’s first-ever opponent in a U-20 World Cup as the two countries met in the opening match of Group A in the 1981 tournament in Brisbane, Australia, defeating the U.S. 3-0. Their second meeting was two years later in Guadalajara, Mexico, also in the opening match of group play, with Uruguay once again with the three points in a 3-2 victory.

The U.S. leads all teams in the tournament in scoring, with nine goals during group play, which is the most ever for the U.S. in group stages of the World Cup. Three players, Freddy Adu, Josmer Altidore and Danny Szetela lead the team in scoring with three goals each.




ussoccer.com is the official website of U.S. Soccer, the governing body of soccer in the United States


Wow.

I've been out of town and come back to find out that our youngsters won the group of death by going undefeated and beating Brazil in the process?

Woooo!

[Atwater His Ass]

Here's to the US U-20's beating Uruguay tonight.

[Atwater His Ass]

A very exciting game. US wins 2-1 in extra time with Bradley getting the winner.

Questions about Altidore (left injured) and Seitz (who didn't even play). Our backup keeper Perks is not very good, so I hope Seitz is good to go for the quarters.

Pretty classless end, but Uruguay was getting physically frustrated at the end of the match. You could see them wearing down and it overflowed at the end. Bradley mouthing "2-1 2-1" was great though as Cardaccio was a little elbow throwing punk most of the 2nd half.

Not sure why we took out Zizzo although I like how McCarty played towards the end. But I though Rogers should have been taken out as he kept trying to make one to many moves and didn't really get a quality cross in the match.

Adu again set up both goals from set plays. Uruguay marked him well most of the match, but we was good when he got the ball. Uruguay's 4-4-3 clogged the midfield for us most of the match but when we hit the balls out wide we did well. Just couldn't build up attack through the middle of the field.

[GSRelyea]

BRING ON AUSTRIA!!!! :USA:

[Atwater His Ass]

I hope we get Argentina and beat them in the final. How huge would it be to beat the 3 big traditional powerhouses of South America in one tournament, even if it is on the u-20 level? That would be absolutely huge.

I also hope we get Spain in the semi's. I want our team to beat the best this tournament has to offer. I want our boys to get some confidence and respect beating the best competition they can. It would be such a boost to beat Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, and Spain. Throw in Poland and Austria and that's a pretty solid list of wins for any team at a single tournament.

Too much soccer to be played yet to get too much into all that, but it's great to have something to be excited about.

[epicSocialism4tw]

That Uraguay team was pretty good. They deserved to win that game as much as we did. Both teams scored garbage goals though. Neither really created a nice goal. It hurt the US that Altidore was out.

On that note, Altidore wont be in the MLS for much longer. He's a natural striker; a legit goal scorer with instincts. He'll be in Europe soon. He's one of the best players in the tournament.

[Atwater His Ass]

I disagree that the goals were garbage. They weren't world class, but all 3 goals came from hard work, consistent pressure by both teams, and a bit of luck. Uruguay was fortunate with a muffed save by Perks that left a rebound, and we were fortunate with an unintentional hand ball by Szetla giving him control and allowing him to cross/shoot. Akpan finishes that if the defender didn't knock it in anyway and an own goal only on paper. It's not like it was a misplaced passback to the keeper that beat him. The Bradley goal was a nice redirect and was the least "fortunate" goal of the three.

On some level I think we are somewhat fortunate to win that game with Perks in goal. It could become a large liability if Seitz can't play. If Altidore can't go, that will hurt too.

[epicSocialism4tw]

On some level I think we are somewhat fortunate to win that game with Perks in goal. It could become a large liability if Seitz can't play. If Altidore can't go, that will hurt too.

Altidore and Adu are the main offensive cogs on the team. Those two guys make everything go. With both of them out there, the US is able to score at any time. With only Adu, the US is dependent on set plays to score. I think that Robbie Rogers is a decent player as well, but I dont think that he can be counted on to create and finish at near the level of Adu and Altidore.

After this tournament, I think that Adu and Altidore both should become fixtures in the Full National squad.

Bradley has been excellent as well, but as a possession midfielder. His "Two to one!" jawing at the Uruguayans was classic. You have to love a kid with that kind of competitive fire.

[Atwater His Ass]

You are correct in that Altidore and Adu together make the offense go. I really hope Altidore just sprained an ankle or that cleating he got was just too painful for him to play with and he'll be back to form by Saturday.

It was tough watching our midfield play this game as we couldn't really build any attack do to Uruguay clogging the middle and making us push it wide with long balls.

As I commented earlier, I really enjoyed Bradleys 2-1 at the end. If you tivo'd the game, you can see after the final whistle blew you can see the Uruguay player go after Bradley and deliberatly knee him in the thigh.

[GSRelyea]

Anyone have any news on Altidore's injury? Hopefully he can get back out there Saturday afternoon.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Anyone have any news on Altidore's injury? Hopefully he can get back out there Saturday afternoon.

I havent been able to find anything. They played on fieldturf, so a sprain is definitely possible. A knee sprain hurts awfully.

[Atwater His Ass]

FSC reported that it was a calf injury (ie, not a joint injury of any kind) and the second he'd suffered in the tournament so far. Report was that Altidore felt he should be ready to go, but it didn't sound certain. I think he'll play, but I'd be surprised if he makes 90 minutes.

Mexico and Argentina is going to be a great match as well.

[epicSocialism4tw]

FSC reported that it was a calf injury (ie, not a joint injury of any kind) and the second he'd suffered in the tournament so far. Report was that Altidore felt he should be ready to go, but it didn't sound certain. I think he'll play, but I'd be surprised if he makes 90 minutes.

Mexico and Argentina is going to be a great match as well.

Mexico has a brilliant player on their team...a kid named Dos Santos. He's a future star.

[Atwater His Ass]

Yeah, I believe he's signed by Barcelona.

It'll be interesting to see if the 3-0 drubbing Argentina gave Mexico in the Copa America will translate to anything in this match. I think it will.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Yeah, I believe he's signed by Barcelona.

It'll be interesting to see if the 3-0 drubbing Argentina gave Mexico in the Copa America will translate to anything in this match. I think it will.


Dos Santos has the potential to play on the level of Messi. He absolutely dominated the Congo. I know that its only the Congo, but the defense literally fell apart at his feet. Unbelievable for a kid that young.

[Atwater His Ass]

It appears Derby County with their new promotion to the EPL are courting Eddie Johnson. He should take any offer he can get, imo, to get over there. I don't think he'll break his lazy habits continuing to play in the MLS.

http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/7019012

[epicSocialism4tw]

It appears Derby County with their new promotion to the EPL are courting Eddie Johnson. He should take any offer he can get, imo, to get over there. I don't think he'll break his lazy habits continuing to play in the MLS.

http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/7019012

I have never been a fan of Johnson. He's a guy with tools, but very little competitive drive.

[Atwater His Ass]

Which is why I think a move to the EPL, even on a lower team, would be good for him. He's only 23, he's got a chance to turn it around.

[epicSocialism4tw]

US U-20s are playing some beautiful soccer right now against Austria.

We just scored on a wicked service by Adu and a sharp, timely finish by Altidore.

Adu also put a serious juke on a couple of Austrian defenders and was taken down just outside the area by a guy that he previously put on his butt. Wicked footwork.

18 minutes in and its all USA. 1-0.

[epicSocialism4tw]

This is some of the best soccer I have seen from a US team at any level.

Altidore and Adu are absolutely lethal. Rogers is crafty working up the sidelines. Bradley and Szetela are controlling the middle with ease.

The ball circluation is from sideline to sideline and right down main street. The passing is creative, smart, purposeful, and timely. Our players seem to be a couple steps ahead of Austria mentally.

Altidore is one of the most talented and intelligent 17 year old forwards I have ever seen in a youth tourney.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Austria just scored a garbage goal. Crap.

They have discovered that their most effective offense is blasting the ball low from 30-40 yards out at the keeper on wet turf and hoping that a rebound squirts loose.

[Atwater His Ass]

Our first goal was very nice. However, Austria dictated the match and deserved to win. I lost count of how many 50/50 balls we lost to them today. US looked lethargic for most of the match and had terrible first touches all day. We played passes too slowly and missed a lot of opportunities due to not playing fast enough. Rogers, for example, kept beating his man down the wing but then would attempt to make the cross 1 or 2 touches too late. I'm not he got a decent ball in the box today at all and he had more than ample opportunity.

Adu had some chances to equalize toward the end and I thought he had the last he blasted wide on the tough angle.

[Atwater His Ass]

Austria just scored a garbage goal. Crap.

They have discovered that their most effective offense is blasting the ball low from 30-40 yards out at the keeper on wet turf and hoping that a rebound squirts loose.

I kept wondering why we weren't doing the same. Instead, we seemed happy to continually turn the ball over.

I wouldn't agree though that taking long shots, throwing bodies at the goal and hoping for rebounds in necessarily garbage. But from that point on it was kind of a moot point as I feel we just got flat out outplayed for most of the match.

[Atwater His Ass]

Brazil wins the Copa America 3-0 over Argentina. Pretty scary how easily they handled Argentina considereing Brazil wasn't at full strength and Argentina was.

[epicSocialism4tw]

MLS all-stars are working over Celtic right now. It's only 2-0, but the MLS are dominating.

[Orange_Beard]

Stan Kroenke is stepping up his bid to complete a £650m takeover of Arsenal and will bring back ex-vice-chairman David Dein. (Various)


Go Stan go.

[epicSocialism4tw]

The MLS teams have faired well against Mexican clubs in the debut of the Superliga. Really, the MLS teams have dominated and been unlucky.

This just might be the year that MLS takes a step forward.

[Arkansas Bronco]

I need to sit down and actually watch a MLS match. The 2 I have seen were both friendlies with Chelsea. Never watch a real match that meant something. Next time I find one on I will check it out.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I need to sit down and actually watch a MLS match. The 2 I have seen were both friendlies with Chelsea. Never watch a real match that meant something. Next time I find one on I will check it out.


Chivas and NY are playing tonight on ESPN 2. Angel, Claudio Reyna, Josmer Altidore (the US' great young striker), Clint Mathis, Quavas Kirk, and several other nice MLS players suit up for Red Bull.

Chivas suits up US internationals keeper Brad Guzan and Sacha Klejstian among others.

The teams I would recommend watching:

Houston - This team has some nice talent (DeRosario, Ching, Brad Davis, etc) and is always competitive. They play to win. I love their orange kits. Probably my favorite uniforms in the league.

Red Bull - they play nice soccer. They are one of the more fun teams to watch. Angel's style has translated very well into the MLS. The MLS has a more latin feel than Europe, and Angel fits in well.

FC Dallas - Their Columbian midfielder Juan Toja is a blast to watch. He's one of those players you look at and think "that guy can play?" and then he jukes a couple of defenders out of their shoes and scores with ease. Kenny Cooper is out with an injury right now, but he's also fun to watch. He's a big striker with excellent touch and craftiness. FCD is a soccer-smart club. I cant stand Carlos Ruiz though. That dude's a piece of work.

Columbus - Schellotto of Boca Jrs fame is on a tear right now. They have a solid midfield.

New England - They were more fun with Dempsey in the fold, but Sharlie Joseph, Steve Ralston, Taylor Twellman, and others make this club pretty fun to watch.

DC United is another that comes to compete for all of the important games.

LA Galaxy of course have Becks now to pair with Donovan in midfield, as well as goofy bruiser Xavier in the back. Cobi Jones and Kelly Gray can both play ball as well.

[Atwater His Ass]

I saw yesterday that Eddie Johnson turned down the offer to play in the EPL at Derby. I can see why he wouldn't want to play there as they will probably get regulated this season, but I still think it would be good for him to play over there even in the championship. He's not going to get any better playing in the MLS.

On the other hand, Sizzo signed with Hanover 96. I don't think he played as well in the U-20 tourney as others, but he's got some potential and will only get better playing in the Bundesliga.

[Orange_Beard]

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="629"> <tbody><tr> <td valign="top" width="629"> Last Updated: Monday, 30 July 2007, 15:28 GMT 16:28 UK http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/sol/shared/img/v3/dot_629.gif
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="416"><tbody><tr> <td width="213"> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/sol/shared/img/v3/email.gif E-mail this to a friend (http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/mpapps/pagetools/email/news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/6922513.stm)</td> <td width="203"> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/sol/shared/img/v3/print.gif Printable version (http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/mpapps/pagetools/print/news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/6922513.stm)</td> </tr></tbody></table>
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="629"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3"> Sanchez plots Fulham renaissance

</td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="416"> <!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44028000/jpg/_44028536_sanchez203.jpg Sanchez took over at Fulham with five games left last season

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Fulham manager Lawrie Sanchez insists last year's struggle to avoid relegation was just a blip and promises much-improved results this season. Sanchez took over from Chris Coleman in April and steered the struggling Londoners to safety by just one point.
The former Northern Ireland boss has signed seven players this summer and says Fulham could surprise people.
"I would expect us not to be in the same situation as we found ourselves last season," Sanchez told BBC Sport. <!-- E SF -->
"With the introduction of players we've had, we'll be more competitive than last season, that's for sure."
Fulham have signed Aaron Hughes, Steven Davis, Chris Baird, David Healy, Diomansy Kamara, Paul Konchesky and Lee Cook in the off season.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sibStdQuote"> I'd like to think we can surprise one or two people this season


Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
And Sanchez, who was handed a £20m transfer chest by Fulham owner Mohammed Al Fayed, revealed he expected to sign "two or three more players" before the start of the season.
"We've had a lot of change in the summer and the fans are sitting there saying, 'well, prove you're good enough'," said Sanchez.
"I'm not a seer, I can't see what's going to happen but all I can go on is past experience.
"I kept Wycombe in their division and had a great cup run when I was manager there. And I took over Northern Ireland when they were in their worst [ranked] position in world football and took them back to the mid 20s.
"Now my job is to do that again and I'd like to think we can surprise one or two people this season."
Sanchez defended his signing of four Northern Ireland players - skipper Hughes, Baird, Healy and Davis - and said that all managers like to recruit players they know.
"They've been the cornerstone of what we've done at Northern Ireland for the last three years," he said.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sibStdQuote"> I'd like to give the fans a day out at a major cup final


Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
"I can vouch for them. They know what the British game is all about and they're good enough to play at Fulham. They'll improve what we've got.
"But we've brought in other players and we're giving everybody a chance at the Premier League."
Sanchez added that he would be targeting a cup run alongside ensuring Premier League safety.
"We're not going to win the Champions League, certainly not in the next three or four years, but we could get somewhere near a final," he said.
"The fans obviously love the Premier League and that is obviously the mainstay, but I'd like to give the fans some day outs at major cup finals.
"If other people aren't going to take it seriously, we certainly will.
"And over the course of my time in charge at Fulham I'd like to think we'll be getting into Europe somehow, whether that be via the Intertoto, a cup final or our league position."<!-- E BO -->

</td></tr></tbody></table>

[Orange_Beard]

Got to say I am pretty happy about the off season moves.
I never liked Chris Coleman. Sanchez has made the move to bring in players in knows, add them to the mix and I am really looking forward to the upcoming season.

[epicSocialism4tw]

What are the prospects for Dempsey this season with the Cottagers?

In limited action, Clint looked pretty sharp on the ball. He should probably be playing in Spain though. He doesnt really have the bulk he needs for the prem midfield. He's a heck of a crafty player on the ball though. You can never have enough of those guys.

[Orange_Beard]

I think Dempsey has a great shot to really contribute. IMHO Fulham's main problem were on the back line. Dempsey got some really good time in the last few games, he scored a very nice goal against Liverpool.
I think he could make a major contribution this season.

[Orange_Beard]

More additions:

Fulham 'target Seol and N'Zogbia'

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44030000/jpg/_44030934_seol_nzogbia203.jpg Seol (left) has admitted he wants to join Fulham

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez is thought to be close to boosting his squad with the additions of midfielders Seol Ki-Hyeon and Charles N'Zogbia. Newcastle's N'Zogbia, 21, is likely to cost around £3m, while Fulham are believed to have offered Reading £1m for 28-year-old South Korean Seol.
Seol said: "Fulham want me and I would be happy to play for them.
"There is a chance I will start the season as a Fulham player. I want to play every week." <!-- E SF -->
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> I'm impressed with Lawrie Sanchez. He has signed some very good players (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A25339539) <!-- E ILIN -->


bf

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
Sanchez has already splashed out more than £14m this summer, bringing in seven new players.
But the Fulham boss, who took over five games before the end of last season, told BBC Five Live on Monday that he expected to sign "two or three more players".
N'Zogbia fell out with Newcastle when he was excluded from the squad to face Watford in the Magpies' final game of last season.
Seol joined Reading in a £1.5m deal from Wolves in July 2006.
However, after losing his first-team place, he threatened to seek a move and his recent comments about joining Fulham appear to suggest his stay with the Royals may not last more than one season.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Boca's world-class striker Martin Polermo is planning on moving to MLS after one more season.

http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/view/16769

This guy would be awesome for whatever team picks him up.

[Jens1893]

Boca's world-class striker Martin Polermo is planning on moving to MLS after one more season.

http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/view/16769

This guy would be awesome for whatever team picks him up.

LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL

[Orange_Beard]

Sounds like this match-up could get "heated" up.
Did anyone get a chance to watch it?



Chelsea 1-1 Man Utd

<!-- S BO -->Man Utd win 3-0 on penalties <!-- S IBYL -->
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="416"> <tbody><tr> <td valign="bottom"> By Caroline Cheese
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/999999.gif

<!-- E IBYL --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44040000/jpg/_44040565_rooney203.jpg
</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Edwin van der Sar was the hero as Manchester United captured the Community Shield with a penalty shoot-out win over Chelsea at Wembley.
The Dutch keeper saved three penalties in a row to earn United victory.
Ryan Giggs had put United ahead after 35 minutes, lashing the ball into the top of the net after a slick move.
But Chelsea drew level before half-time when new signing Florent Malouda raced onto Ashley Cole's long-ball and poked the ball past Edwin van der Sar. <!-- E SF -->
The Community Shield may be dubbed a curtain-raiser, but much of Sunday's encounter brought back unhappy memories of the tedious FA Cup final between the two sides at Wembley last season.
Maybe the 30C heat was to blame, or maybe it was the personnel.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> Boring stuff really (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A25535108) <!-- E ILIN -->


ohound

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
Despite spending a reported £47m on some new blood over the summer, Ferguson included eight of the players who started that final and none of his new signings.
Chelsea, already without skipper John Terry, also lost Didier Drogba to injury, leaving new signing Malouda, Joe Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips to form an unfamiliar frontline.
At least the sun was shining for a packed Wembley crowd, who had to wait 21 minutes for the first threat on goal when Giggs' effort was deflected over by Ashley Cole.
It was from almost the same position that Giggs put his side ahead with his first Wembley goal for United.
Nemanja Vidic found Patrice Evra on the left with a stunning crossfield pass and the Frenchman exchanged passes with Cristiano Ronaldo before crossing for his captain to thump home.
Chelsea, in turn, produced their best move of the half to earn the equaliser.
Ashley Cole lifted a beautifully-weighted ball over the top and Malouda easily outmuscled Wes Brown before finishing superbly with his left foot.
His joy was immediately tempered by an injury and though he returned to the pitch after treatment, he was withdrawn within seven minutes of the second half.
Indeed, Malouda's departure was the first of several as both managers gave their substitutes a chance to shine.
Claudio Pizarro, Lassana Diara, Steve Sidwell and Scott Sinclair all came on for Chelsea, while United introduced Nani and Darren Fletcher.
It made for a disjointed second half, which almost inevitably ended with penalties.
<!-- E BO -->

[Meck77]

This probably already hit this thread but if not check this out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ss1vJ2mL9DU&mode=related&search=

[Arkansas Bronco]

Thanks for the clip meck. Pretty amazed some one found us down here.

Also on the entire Beckham stuff, people keep griping cause he is hurt but dude is playing in back to back seasons (plus cup runs) all the fans and that aint easy.

[Orange_Beard]

I am going to miss seeing Thierry Henry play. Don't really care for the Gooners, however Henry is fun to watch.

[Arkansas Bronco]

I think I will go back to fox soccer channel again this year Setanta was good but you get the Spanish and German football more on Fox. And I need to get my but in gear before the season starts off.

[epicSocialism4tw]

So...which transfer of the offseason will have the biggest impact?

[Arkansas Bronco]

Probly the Tevez deal and Im abit worried about it . Torres will help the Pool out alot as well.

[Orange_Beard]

Did any do enough to over take manU? I don't think so. The real X factor is of course who will stay healthy?


I have 2 games recorded, can't wait to watch them.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I think that Feilhaber to Derby is the most impactful transfer. ;D

[Orange_Beard]

I think that Feilhaber to Derby is the most impactful transfer. ;D

Is this more of that it's Bush's fault stuff?

[epicSocialism4tw]

I just got back from FC Dallas / Columbus...

If you havent been to an MLS game at one of the new parks, go. The new park here in the metroplex is fantastic. Go before tickets get outrageous. I sat 5 rows back near midfield tonight for 16 bucks.

The game was also fantastic. Columbus went up early on a nice Schelotto assist to the Brazilian Gonzalez. FCD tied it up. Columbus went up again on a PK. Dallas tied it up on a nice inswinging ball from the Brazilian Saragosa, and a clinical head finish by Ruiz. Dallas got a player sent off, and ended up controlling the run of play and winning the game on a beautiful corner by US international Dax McCarty and a snap finish by the lanky Clarence Goodson, who had an outstanding defensive game.

The soccer in MLS is much better than it was even just 3 years ago. Check it out.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Scarey first week. Chelsea's right side back (G. Johnson) wasnt good on def. made a few good crosses on off. but gave up a goal. We got lucky. The Pool got lucky as well but Torres had a nice impact and dont look forward to the match up. Man U. was doomed cause the way Hahnemann was protecting today was unreal defiantly the top keeper this week. Obe. Martins is a beast for Newcastle I dont they will be a power but not a team to ignore.

Jens - When does the bundesliga kick back off? Now I get German matches and watched a replayed stutt. match. I want to learn more on them they are my German team and you know why. ;D

[Orange_Beard]

Big news, the injury bug strike ManU first....


Rooney to miss England qualifiers

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44054000/jpg/_44054751_rooney203.jpg Rooney will miss England's Euro 2008 qualifiers in September

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney will miss England's September Euro 2008 qualifiers after suffering a hairline fracture of his left foot on Sunday. United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes Rooney will be out until October after the 21-year-old was injured in the Premier League opener with Reading.
"We expect him to be out for two months," said Ferguson.
That rules Rooney out of the key home matches against Israel on 8 September and then Russia four days later. <!-- E SF -->
<!-- S IMED -->
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/audio_text.gifInterview: Former England captain Terry Butcher (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_6940000/newsid_6944100?redirect=6944171.stm&news=1&bbwm=1&bbram=1&nbwm=1&nbram=1)
<!-- E IMED --> It could also leave a question mark over his participation in England's qualifiers against Estonia on 13 October and Russia on 17 October, although Ferguson added: "To be on the safe side, we would say it is going to be two months but hopefully he can come back quicker.
"It's a bad blow for England and I'm disappointed for England coach Steve McClaren. I spoke to him last night and I could sense the disappointment. It is a bad blow for him.
"They have options for the games against Israel and Russia in September. They should cope without him. I would expect him to be back for October."
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sibStdQuote"> It's devastating for England and Steve McClaren, if he is going to be out for that amount of time


Former England striker Alan Shearer

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
Despite Ferguson's optimism, Rooney's absence will be a major concern for McClaren, whose side currently lie fourth in qualifying group E and face a struggle to qualify for Euro 2008.
They need to finish in the top two to clinch a place at the finals.
Rooney will miss England's friendly against Germany at Wembley on 22 August.
He suffered his latest injury when Reading defender Michael Duberry accidentally stood on his foot towards the end of the first half of the match at Old Trafford.
Although United manager Ferguson initially played down the seriousness of the injury, a scan confirmed the fracture.
Dr Craig Panther, medical officer to Fulham and specialist sports doctor at Pure Sports Medicine, told BBC Sport that he was not surprised that Rooney was facing a recovery period of two months.
"A hairline fracture is a fracture that hasn't actually moved, so the bone is still in a good alignment, which is a good sign for his recovery," he said.
"He must protect himself from further injury - possibly using the aircast boot he used last time - but it sounds like he will not need an operation on this one.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> Give your reaction to Wayne Rooney's injury (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A25816052) <!-- E ILIN -->
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
"However, you are still looking at some sort of protection for at least six weeks and possibly eight, depending on how things go.
"It's important he maintains his cardio-vascular fitness in the meantime, with lots of cycling and swimming, that sort of thing."
Rooney's injury adds to a host of injury concerns for England coach McClaren ahead of the vital qualifiers.
McClaren has a striker shortage, with Michael Owen also struggling with injury and Peter Crouch suspended for the Israel game.
In any event, Crouch did not even make the squad for Liverpool's opening game of the season, while Spurs duo Darren Bent and Jermain Defoe were restricted to substitute roles.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sibtbgf"> ROONEY'S PAST FOOT INJURIES
24 June 2004
The then Everton player breaks metatarsal in right foot on international duty at Euro 2004 <!-- S ILIN --> Rooney faces two months out (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/euro_2004/england/3837995.stm)
<!-- E ILIN --> Returns on 28 September to make Manchester United debut
96 days out

<hr>
29 April 2006
Fractures metatarsal in right foot while on club duty for United against Chelsea <!-- S ILIN --> Rooney a World Cup doubt (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/4957970.stm)
<!-- E ILIN --> Returns on 15 June at the World Cup after weeks of fevered speculation about his availability and fitness
47 days out

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
At the back, skipper John Terry is doubtful because of knee ligament damage, Gary Neville has a persistent ankle problem, Jonathan Woodgate and Ledley King have recently undergone knee surgery and Wayne Bridge has had surgery on his hip.
Meanwhile, David Beckham has yet to play a full game for his new club Los Angeles Galaxy.
Rooney has broken a metatarsal bone in his foot on two previous occasions.
He was injured in England's quarter-final against hosts Portugal on 24 June at Euro 2004 and did not return for 96 days afterwards.
And he suffered a similar injury playing for United against Chelsea on 29 April 2006.
Although he returned 47 days later - when he played for England as a substitute in the match against Trinidad and Tobago - there were doubts over his fitness throughout the 2006 World Cup.
Speaking on the BBC's Match of the Day 2 about Rooney's potential eight-week absence, former England captain Alan Shearer said: "It's really disappointing news. It was a nothing tackle to be honest.
"But it is devastating news for England and Steve McClaren."
Meanwhile, United will be devastated to lose Rooney at the start of the season, with fellow forwards Carlos Tevez and Louis Saha short of match fitness.
Winger Nani replaced Rooney in the second half against Reading, with boss Ferguson forced to play defender John O'Shea as an emergency striker.
And Ferguson revealed afterwards that he felt Rooney's absence cost the reigning Premier League champions victory.
Ferguson said after United's draw with Reading: "It was a painful blow and Wayne could not really stand on his foot."

[Arkansas Bronco]

Im pumped. We may get Alves (rb is a huge whole) and Alex "The Tank" on the same day. Def without Terry or Cech is weak and this can make us solid through league and cup runs. Robben is talented but fragile and would willingly sell him off for Alves and Malouda. Alex is good just needs more work dude is freakin huge and also valuable on set plays.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Freddy Adu debuted for Benfica this week, subbing in at the 37 mark.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I went to see FC Dallas play Columbus.

It was another heck of a game. 3-2 FCD with the clinching goal in stoppage time.

MLS has improved quite a bit. The games are quite fun.

Us U-20 midfielder Dax McCarty is really blossoming. I would expect to see him in England pretty soon. I dont know if there's another player in the national team pool that plays set pieces as well and as consistently as he does.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Thank goodness the game was boring as heck and our def is weak. Terry is our key and is well missed. Alves should bring a sound end to the RB struggle and Alex may need a few weeks but CB other then Ricardo is poor. Jens I still like Malouda he seems solid just doesnt have the foot work of Robben but heck he played 3 games straight and robben is a pansy. Oh yea for your staightment his hair is alright but he gives us a nice sub. One thing that was different is that Manure was was giving a full assault on reading and got shut out and we got em. The pool is going to be a big match with alot of our guys hurt if we get this then we have a leg up.

[Jens1893]

It was pretty clear all along that Reading a) wouldn´t get away with such a performance again and b) couldn´t possibly play like they did at Old Trafford at home in in front of their own fans. ManUtd have also had a terrible record at Fratton Park ever since Pompey got promoted (1 win, 3 losses, 1 draw ... incl yesterday´s encounter) so the draw isn´t all that surprising.. ManUtd now for the first time in ages go into a Manchester derby with their backs to the wall ... 4 points behind City.

The Chelsea shirt is a disgrace and they should be prohibitted to play in such tops. I seriously had to turn the color and brightness down when I switched over to that game after watching the Bremen/Dinamo qualifier.

[Muddled]

Freddy Adu debuted for Benfica this week, subbing in at the 37 mark.


Watched that game since they played FC Copenhagen, he really didn't look too impressive. Was moved to wing during the game because he slowed down the flow too much

[epicSocialism4tw]

Beckham ripped the net on a 27 yard free kick tonight and set Donovan up with a well-weighted through ball for a second score as the Galaxy beat DC United 2-0 in the Superliga semifinal. Beckham's performance put the Galaxy through to the final to face Pachuca.

Beckham's goal stoned the entire DC defense. Those guys havent seen a player like him before who can play a ball with strength and skill at silly angles.

[GSRelyea]

U.S. TO HOST NO. 1 RANKED BRAZIL IN "CLASH OF CHAMPIONS"
ON SEPT. 9 AT SOLDIER FIELD IN CHICAGO
Five-time World Champion Brazil to Make First Chicago Appearance;
Game Featuring CONCACAF Gold Cup Champs vs. CONMEBOL Copa America Champs Replaces Previously Scheduled USA-Mexico Game

Match to Be Broadcast Live at 3 p.m. CT on ESPN2 & Univision;
Tickets Go on Sale Friday and Expected to Go Quickly

CHICAGO (August 14, 2007) — The U.S. Men's National Team will play host to a truly special match when No. 1 ranked Brazil comes to Chicago in the "Clash of Champions" on Sunday, September 9, marking the five-time World Champion's first-ever visit to the Windy City. Kickoff at Soldier Field is set for 3 p.m. CT, and the match will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and Univision. Fans can also follow the match live online via ussoccer.com's MatchTracker.

This unique game pits the champions of CONCACAF against the champions of CONMEBOL after both teams captured their confederation championships earlier this summer. Brazil will be making a rare trip to the United States with their full roster as they begin preparations for the start of South American World Cup qualifying in October. Led by two-time FIFA World Player of the Year and Barcelona midfielder Ronaldinho, Brazil can deploy some of the finest attacking talent in the world.

After an 11-year absence from Chicago, the U.S. will now be playing its fifth match at Soldier Field since 2004. Prior to the semifinal and the sold-out final of the 2007 Gold Cup, the U.S. made its return to the Windy City in a 1-1 draw against Poland on July 11, 2004, before a boisterous crowd of 39,592. The following year, nearly 48,000 fans witnessed a 2-1 defeat at the hands of England. The U.S. has a 3-2-2 record in Chicago since 1992, which includes a win against No. 8 ranked Portugal and a draw with current World Champion Italy.

TICKET INFORMATION:
Nike Presents... U.S. Men's National Team vs. Brazil

Sunday, September 9, 2007 – 3:00 p.m. CT
Soldier Field (Chicago, Ill.)
Buy at Ticketmaster.com

Prices: $250 - On-Field Seats (supply limited; ticket holder gets to take seat home); $130 - Club 200 Level Midfield; $130 - 100 Level Front Row (supply limited); $95 - Club 200 Level Sidelines/Corners; $95 - Club 300 Level; $85 - Midfield; $65 - Sidelines; $50 - Corners; $40 - Endlines.

Your presale starts Thursday, August 16, at 10:00 a.m. CT;
ends Thursday, August 16, at 11:59 p.m. CT.

Private sale is only available online at: ticketmaster.com

Your password: CHAMPIONS

Tickets are sold on a first-come--first-serve basis and are available for a limited time. All prices listed do not include convenience and handling charges (which will be added through Ticketmaster).




Thank you for supporting U.S. Soccer!

[Atwater His Ass]

I'm looking forward to the US vs. Sweden friendly next Wednesday. Both teams are fielding a strong team and this will be the nats first match in Europe since Bradley took over. Although I wish either Altidore or Adu would have been called up.

The USMNT has a nice run of friendlies coming up against good competition. I'm also glad we are playing Brazil instead of Mexico, eventhough I think playing at the Azteca is good for us, I get tired of playing Mexico so much. I suspect Brazil will also be fielding one of their better teams and eventhough it's in Chicago, will be a great test for us.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I'm looking forward to the US vs. Sweden friendly next Wednesday. Both teams are fielding a strong team and this will be the nats first match in Europe since Bradley took over. Although I wish either Altidore or Adu would have been called up.


Altidore needs to be in those US camps. He's the best striker we've had since McBride retired. He needs to see action in situations like the Sweden match. I still dont understand the cronyism of the US Nats. These young guys need exposure in these types of games.

[socalorado]

It was pretty clear all along that Reading a) wouldn´t get away with such a performance again and b) couldn´t possibly play like they did at Old Trafford at home in in front of their own fans. ManUtd have also had a terrible record at Fratton Park ever since Pompey got promoted (1 win, 3 losses, 1 draw ... incl yesterday´s encounter) so the draw isn´t all that surprising.. ManUtd now for the first time in ages go into a Manchester derby with their backs to the wall ... 4 points behind City.

The Chelsea shirt is a disgrace and they should be prohibitted to play in such tops. I seriously had to turn the color and brightness down when I switched over to that game after watching the Bremen/Dinamo qualifier.

Mit Neulingen Tasci und Khedira nach Wembley
Mit den Neulingen Serdar Tasci und Sami Khedira bereitet sich die deutsche Nationalmannschaft ab Sonntag in Frankfurt auf das Testländerspiel am Mittwoch (21 Uhr, live in der ARD) in London gegen England vor. Jeweils vier Spieler vom Deutschen Meister VfB Stuttgart und Rekordmeister Bayern München stehen im 20 Spieler umfassenden Kader, den der Bundestrainer Joachim Löw heute in der DFB-Zentrale vorstellte. Mehr

gute Nachrichten für dich! Ich kippe Wartezeit, um zu sehen, wie sie!

[Jens1893]

Mit Neulingen Tasci und Khedira nach Wembley
Mit den Neulingen Serdar Tasci und Sami Khedira bereitet sich die deutsche Nationalmannschaft ab Sonntag in Frankfurt auf das Testländerspiel am Mittwoch (21 Uhr, live in der ARD) in London gegen England vor. Jeweils vier Spieler vom Deutschen Meister VfB Stuttgart und Rekordmeister Bayern München stehen im 20 Spieler umfassenden Kader, den der Bundestrainer Joachim Löw heute in der DFB-Zentrale vorstellte. Mehr

gute Nachrichten für dich! Ich kippe Wartezeit, um zu sehen, wie sie!

Both deserve it. In Hildebrand, Hitzlsperger, Gomez, Tasci, Khedira, Hilbert, Kuranyi and Lahm we now have eight present and former players in the Germany player pool who became national team players during their time here and 5 of them (Hildebrand, Tasci, Gomez, Khedira and Kuranyi) came thru our academy.

[Muddled]

Kuranyi is a goon though

[Jens1893]

Kuranyi is a goon though

So are Lahm and Hildebrand. Your point? They still either came through our academy or got their first cap with us.

[Orange_Beard]

Injured McBride faces months out

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44066000/jpg/_44066631_mcbride270.jpg McBride's absence will be a big blow

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Fulham striker Brian McBride is facing several months on the sidelines after dislocating his kneecap in the act of scoring in their loss to Middlesbrough. McBride opened the scoring in the 2-1 defeat but buckled in pain as his left knee gave way, and was stretchered off.
The Fulham captain was accompanied in an ambulance to hospital by Hameur Bouazza, who dislocated his shoulder.
"It was a freak injury to Brian, with minimal contact really," said Fulham manager Lawrie Sanchez. <!-- E SF -->
<!-- S IMED -->
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/video_text.gifInterview: Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_6950000/newsid_6953300?redirect=6953329.stm&news=1&bbwm=1&bbram=1&nbram=1&nbwm=1)
<!-- E IMED --> <!-- S IMED --> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/video_text.gifInterview: Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_6950000/newsid_6953300?redirect=6953326.stm&news=1&nbwm=1&bbwm=1&nbram=1&bbram=1)
<!-- E IMED --> "Then we lose Hameur almost straightaway. He has dislocated his shoulder with an innocuous challenge."

[Orange_Beard]

On the news they called it a dislocated knee. I guess just a knee cap is better then a full on dislocation.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Crap. I hate that. McBride is probably the best American player in history.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Jens if you are going to quote that troll (Socalorado). Make sure to keep it in a foreign language. Thanks.

[socalorado]

Jens if you are going to quote that troll (Socalorado). Make sure to keep it in a foreign language. Thanks.

Last time i checked the trolls who spoke a foreign language were from Arkansas, yall!!:cowgirl:

[Orange_Beard]

I guess I was not the only one who thought that was a terrible call. Looked like an NBA ref working the game. This guy had no control of the game, it was a joke.

Referee Styles dropped over error

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44068000/jpg/_44068223_stylespa203.jpg Styles penalises Finnan, to Carragher's disbelief

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Referee Rob Styles will not officiate in the Premier League next weekend following his performance in the Liverpool-Chelsea game on Sunday. Styles was criticised for awarding a controversial penalty to Chelsea.
Referees' chief Keith Hackett told BBC Radio 5live: "It is just like with players, if they miss an open goal they are likely to be dropped."
Styles also appeared to show Chelsea's Michael Essien a second yellow card but then failed to send him off. <!-- E SF -->
<!-- S IMED -->
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/video_text.gifInterview: Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_6950000/newsid_6954100?redirect=6954165.stm&news=1&nbwm=1&bbwm=1&nbram=1&bbram=1)
<!-- E IMED --> Former referee Hackett is general manager of Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the body which oversees referees.
The referees' supremo has apologised to Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez for the error.
Hackett added: "I spoke to Rob this morning and obviously he is extremely disappointed with the decision and admitted he got it wrong. I have left a message with Rafael Benitez to apologise.
"Having looked at a video and seen a better angle and a better view, clearly he (Styles) now recognises that he got it wrong and he's deeply apologetic for that. I think, in fact, he too will be making contact with Liverpool in order to offer his apologies."
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> There were many talking points from the Anfield game (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A26077412) <!-- E ILIN -->


Saj C

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
Asked about the confusion when Essien appeared to be booked for a second time, Hackett said: "I'm informed by both the fourth official and Rob he retained the card shown to John Terry then held the card to indicate a direct free-kick, and failed to put the card away.
"So it was a basic, if you like, admin error as against an error in application of law.
"We'll look at the video to ensure we don't get a repeat of that."
Benitez was left incensed and skipper Steven Gerrard said Styles had "cracked" after he penalised Steve Finnan for a foul on Florent Malouda, although replays showed there was no contact.
"That decision is impossible to explain, it was the invisible penalty" said Benitez after the 1-1 draw.
Hackett also revealed assistant referee Ian Gosling will be given next weekend off, after he denied Fulham a late goal at home to Middlesbrough when David Healy clearly forced the ball over the line.
He said: "Clearly the assistant referee has made an error, so he won't be operating next week for us either."
But Hackett defended the overall standard of refereeing, describing the mistakes over the weekend as a "hiccup".
<!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44067000/jpg/_44067641_ben_mou203.jpg Benitez and Mourinho renewed their war of words after the match

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA -->The Essien incident happened shortly after Styles had awarded Chelsea their penalty, which Frank Lampard converted to level the scores after Fernando Torres put Liverpool in front with a goal on his home debut.
Former Premier League referee Graham Poll told BBC Radio 5live that Styles did not book Essien twice but that his award of a card to Terry looked "messy".
"At the first look I definitely thought he had booked Essien a second time," said Poll.
"Having looked I can see that as Rob raises the yellow card he points over to John Terry and says that it is John he has cautioned.
"He had just given a penalty and you have a gut feeling as a referee that you might have made a mistake.
"You are under pressure then and when the stress is at its highest it is difficult to think clearly and get everything right."
Poll, who booked Croatia's Josip Simunic three times during a World Cup match in 2006, added: "It was a big mistake."
Benitez had no sympathy with Styles after the match, adding: "I want to have a lot of respect for referees, but sometimes I cannot understand why they give some decisions.
"I think he will watch the video of the match and admit that his penalty decision was a mistake."
And Gerrard asked for Styles to apologise for his penalty decision.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sibStdQuote"> Not every player on the pitch was helping the referee


Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
"I don't want to say too much because I will get into trouble, but the referee didn't play well," said the Liverpool skipper.
"Whether it was because the Chelsea players were talking I don't know, but in the end he's cracked and made a bad decision.
"It wasn't a penalty and I hope he comes out and says sorry now."
Meanwhile, Mourinho did not criticise Styles over the penalty decision but suggested his job had not been made easier by the behaviour of certain players from "a different culture".
"I haven't seen the replay of the incident and it was difficult to make out what was happening at the time," he insisted.
"Rafa has his opinion and I have mine. I judged the game to be a good and a fair one.
"Perhaps there were too many cards but overall I thought Mr Styles had a positive game.
"Not every player on the pitch was helping the referee."
Styles handed out eight yellow cards - while Mourinho was believed to be referring to Liverpool's Spanish duo of Torres and Alvaro Arbeloa.<!-- E BO -->

[socalorado]

Both deserve it. In Hildebrand, Hitzlsperger, Gomez, Tasci, Khedira, Hilbert, Kuranyi and Lahm we now have eight present and former players in the Germany player pool who became national team players during their time here and 5 of them (Hildebrand, Tasci, Gomez, Khedira and Kuranyi) came thru our academy.

Yes they do, i dont think Gomez is playing though. Thats suprising considering his good form of late and the fact that Podolski wont be playing.
Its also good to see the Nationalmanshaft not afraid to go with very young players. Shows that they have confidence in the system they came up in.
So whats your prediction?

[Jens1893]

Gomez has been injured for five weeks. We are basically without our first choice midfield except for Schneider (Ballack, Frings, Borowski, Schweinsteiger) and first choice forwards (Poldi, Klose and Gomez).

I don´t do predictions and hope Hitzlsperger and Hilbert come back home in one piece, which isn´t a given considering our luck with injuries lately. In Gomez, Cacau, Delpierre, Bastürk, Osorio and Boka SIX players missed Saturday´s game and now Sami is injured also. We need them back ASAP as we were forced to play a non match-fit Ewerthon on Saturday.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Schweinsteiger is one of my favorite players.

[Jens1893]

Schweinsteiger is one of my favorite players.

Shows what you know.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Shows what you know.

Have you ever played the game competitively?

[Jens1893]

Don´t see how it matters in any way. Schweinsteiger is dumb as **** and I have watched the kid on a more or less weekly basis since he made his debut.

[socalorado]

Don´t see how it matters in any way. Schweinsteiger is dumb as **** and I have watched the kid on a more or less weekly basis since he made his debut.

Yes he does make bonehead decisions, but hes young. He still has alot of potential though. I also dont like the off field attitude either.
Now that Kedira is not playing either, it looks like both sides just want to limp there way through this match and walk away without anymore injuries.
I am expecting alot from Hitzelberger tommorow. He has shown excellent form of late, and i always thought he deserved more time on the field. But with a deep midfield like GER, that a little hard. He has a chance to really prove himself in this game. There was a moment when GER had the entire Stuttgart midfield listed for this game! Man i figured you were excited! Then the whole thing fell apart. Oh well! I was excited as well to see these young guys preform. Still, it looks as if Low is really impressed with the youth in Stuttgart so its still a good sign.

[Jens1893]

Wasn´t too excited, partly because we have too many injuries ourselves right now and will have a whole lot of matches till the winter break, so I want them to be fit and sharp for us and not for Germany. We´re paying their wages after all.

It took Hitzlsperger some time to settle, but he´s really come on since.

[socalorado]

Wasn´t too excited, partly because we have too many injuries ourselves right now and will have a whole lot of matches till the winter break, so I want them to be fit and sharp for us and not for Germany. We´re paying their wages after all.

It took Hitzlsperger some time to settle, but he´s really come on since.

Bernd Schneider feiert heute Abend Wembley-Premiere
Bernd Schneider führt die deutsche Nationalmannschaft beim Klassiker gegen England im neuen Wembley-Stadion als Kapitän auf den heiligen Rasen. "Die Mannschaft in diesem Stadion als Kapitän auf das Feld zu führen, ist eine sehr schöne Sache und zusätzliche Motivation", sagte Schneider
Jens,
Whos, das geht, das Mittelfeld heute abend laufen zu lassen?
Normalerweise ist Schnieder auf dem Flügel. Hitzelsberger?
Jeder, das normalerweise das Mittelfeld laufen lassen, wird verletzt. (Ballack, Borowski)

[Jens1893]

Midfield will most likely consist of

--------Rolfes--------
Hilbert-----------Hitzl
------Schneider------

[socalorado]

Midfield will most likely consist of

--------Rolfes--------
Hilbert-----------Hitzl
------Schneider------

Hmmm. I guess with what LOW has to work with, thats as good as it gets.
I like Schneider sort of backing everything up though.

[Muddled]

Schweinsteiger is one of my favorite players.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3KPBRajN10

[Jens1893]

http://mediadb.kicker.de/news/1000/1020/1100/7000/spielbericht/579517/pander_tor-1187815843.jpg

Unbeaten on their soil in 32 years. The first and the last team to win at their holy stadium.

[socalorado]

http://mediadb.kicker.de/news/1000/1020/1100/7000/spielbericht/579517/pander_tor-1187815843.jpg

Unbeaten on their soil in 32 years. The first and the last team to win at their holy stadium.

Pander!!!! I love that the youth are showing up when called upon to not just play, but excel!
Thats 5 straight at Wembley right!?!?!

[Muddled]

http://mediadb.kicker.de/news/1000/1020/1100/7000/spielbericht/579517/pander_tor-1187815843.jpg

Unbeaten on their soil in 32 years. The first and the last team to win at their holy stadium.

Ehh, we won there in 83 in a game that mattered none the less

http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/static/sport/euro2000/history/1984_england.stm

That washed up Beckham sure caused you some problem though, even during the few glances I cast at that game

[socalorado]

Ehh, we won there in 83 in a game that mattered none the less

http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/static/sport/euro2000/history/1984_england.stm

That washed up Beckham sure caused you some problem though, even during the few glances I cast at that game

Oh yes, that Beckham sure plays well against the "B" team doesnt he? Hilarious!
That game in 83 refresh my memory of what was at stake? ( i really cant remember)
I cant figure out the link you posted.

[Muddled]

Euro qualifying

[socalorado]

Euro qualifying

Thanks. Yeah on a serious note, i didnt see the game , but on gamecast they were saying that Becks was limping around playing his ass off, too bad the rest were not doing the same. I heard this was a goal keeper issue for England, and that David James will start from here on out. Smart move.

[Muddled]

Only watched glimpses as said, but saw Owen and Lampard miss absolute sitters (Owen's was comical)

[Jens1893]

Ehh, we won there in 83 in a game that mattered none the less

http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/static/sport/euro2000/history/1984_england.stm

That washed up Beckham sure caused you some problem though, even during the few glances I cast at that game

England´s last win against us on English soil was in 1975 (http://www.fussballdaten.de/vereine/deutschland/england/).

And when you consider our lineup and that we were missing pretty much our whole midfield and forward line, I´ll gladly take a 2-1 win.

[Orange_Beard]

McBride out for months after surgery



<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr valign="top"><td>
</td><td> </td><td>
</td></tr></tbody></table>
<!--endclickprintexclude--> LONDON (AP) -- Fulham forward Brian McBride will miss a large part of the Premier League season to recover from a dislocated left kneecap.
The 35-year-old Fulham captain needed to have his patella reset after he was injured while scoring in Fulham's 2-1 loss to Middlesbrough on Saturday.




"I would suggest he's out for the long term, rather than the short term," Fulham manager Lawrie Sanchez said Wednesday. "It will be a matter of months, probably, although hopefully not the entire season."
McBride, a former regular for the U.S. national team, has been at Fulham since January 2004. He also played with Everton, Preston and Major League Soccer's Columbus Crew.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Im still new but like I was talking about Hiltz. I never knew he was on the national team. Beside Balack whick I am forced to love, Hiltz. is my dude. Nothing flashy but so solid every time I watch him play.

[socalorado]

England´s last win against us on English soil was in 1975 (http://www.fussballdaten.de/vereine/deutschland/england/).

And when you consider our lineup and that we were missing pretty much our whole midfield and forward line, I´ll gladly take a 2-1 win.

Watched the game last night, Hitzl and Pander were the players of the game.
Pander allowed Richards space for Lampards 1st goal, but he got back on track and never looked back. He played great. All his set pieces were on target as well as his corners. That was a bullet of a shot as well! Considering he had 2 days notice for his 1st national team debut, i would say he was a success. Hitzl (der hammer) had some monster shots and as far as i could tell, basically ran the midfield for GER. Low looks like a mastermind of tactics after this game.
Pander just made his case for a regular spot on the team.
Also, why does ENG start Owen? what a foolish move. Guy was horrible and extremely rusty. Dont they have some young fresh guys that can play an entire game against GER "B" side?

[Orange_Beard]

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="629"> <tbody><tr> <td valign="top" width="629"> Last Updated: Thursday, 23 August 2007, 12:22 GMT 13:22 UK http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/sol/shared/img/v3/dot_629.gif
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="416"><tbody><tr> <td width="213"> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/sol/shared/img/v3/email.gif E-mail this to a friend (http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/mpapps/pagetools/email/news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/6960495.stm)</td> <td width="203"> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/sol/shared/img/v3/print.gif Printable version (http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/mpapps/pagetools/print/news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/6960495.stm)</td> </tr></tbody></table>
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="629"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3"> Chelsea agree deal for Belletti

</td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="416"> <!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44075000/jpg/_44075193_belletti203.jpg Belletti scored his first goal for Barca in the Champions League

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Chelsea have agreed a deal to bring Barcelona right-back Juliano Belletti to Stamford Bridge. The 31-year-old Brazilian will seal a reported two-year deal once he has agreed personal terms and completed a medical in London.
Belletti joined Barcelona in 2004 from Villarreal but only made 13 appearances for the Catalan club last season.
The Brazilian scored the winning goal in Barcelona's Champions League win over Arsenal in 2006. <!-- E SF -->
However, the arrival of World Cup winner Gianluca Zambrotta squeezed Belletti out of the Barca first team.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> What do you make of the Belletti signing? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A26220223) <!-- E ILIN -->
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
"Barcelona and Chelsea have agreed to the transfer, and the situation is now between Belletti and Chelsea," said a Barcelona official.
"Chelsea are the ones who have to announce it. The player went there with an agreement between Chelsea and Barcelona."
Chelsea are believed to have turned their attention to Belletti after their attempt to sign Dani Alves stalled again.
Sevilla turned down two improved offers for the full-back this week, with Chelsea and Real Madrid both in the hunt.
The Spanish club were understood to want £27m for Alves but Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck said the club would not be forced into spending above the market price.
"When we are buying players there is no doubt about it there is one price for Chelsea and one price for everyone else," Buck told 5live.
"We have to do our best to fight that.
"If the price of the player being requested is inappropriate then we will walk away. There are a number of transactions that we walked away from for just that very reason.
"In the first summer, in retrospect, some of the players did not turn out to be as excellent a player as we thought they were but that is also part of football.
"That happens to every club - that not every purchase works out. We are trying to be a little more careful going forward."
<!-- E BO -->
</td></tr></tbody></table>

[Orange_Beard]

Great News!!!!
We have need a good keeper for along time.



Fulham bring in goalkeeper Keller

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44075000/jpg/_44075920_keller203.jpg Keller left England to play football in the Bundesliga in 2005

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Fulham have completed the signing of goalkeeper Kasey Keller from German side Borussia Monchengladbach. The 37-year-old American returns to the Premier League after spells with Tottenham and Leicester City.
"I'm delighted that Kasey has joined us and I'm sure that he'll be a great addition to the squad," Fulham manager Lawrie Sanchez said.
Keller added: "It's fantastic to be back in the Premiership after a couple of year's absence." <!-- E SF -->
Fulham have been short of keepers following an injury to Antti Niemi and Keller will be able to provide vital cover for Tony Warner.
"With Antti being injured, it was important we added some strength and depth," said Sanchez.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> What do you think of the Keller signing? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A26232437) <!-- E ILIN -->
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
"Kasey is a proven professional with impeccable international and he will be a valuable asset to us over the course of the season."
Keller started his career for Portland Timbers before moving to Millwall in 1992, where he made over 150 appearances.
He then moved to Leicester City before leaving for Spain in 1999 to join up with Rayo Vallecano.
Keller returned to the Premier League after accepting an offer from Tottenham where he made over 80 appearances before losing his first-team place to Paul Robinson.
The American said of his return to London: "I am really enthusiastic about this new challenge."<!-- E BO -->

[epicSocialism4tw]

Tony Warner is pretty much a numbskull. Keller should have little problem uprooting him.

[Orange_Beard]

Tony Warner is pretty much a numbskull. Keller should have little problem uprooting him.

Could not agree more.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Yes! 29-year old Brazilian international Denilson is headed to FC Dallas.


Source: Brazilian Denilson headed to FC Dallas

<!-- end pagetitle --><!-- begin bylinebox -->Allen Hopkins, ESPN.com

<!-- begin presby2 -->
<!-- end presby2 -->
<!-- end bylinebox -->
<!-- begin text11 div -->
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top><!-- begin left column -->
Jogo Bonito, Finally.
The on again, off again agreement between FC Dallas and Brazilian World Cup winner Denilson is back on and finally for good.
Sources told ESPN.com that FC Dallas has finally agreed to a deal with the 29 year-old midfielder. The club is very hopeful Denilson will be available for his MLS debut Sept. 1 vs. D.C. United and for FC Dallas' U.S. Open Cup semifinal on Sept. 4 at the Seattle Sounders.
A month ago, a source close to the negotiations was "pessimistic" a deal would be reached after Denilson had decided to take some more time and explore other options. Negotiations were also delayed due to visa issues as Denilson's original tourist visa expired and he had to acquire a second visa to enter the U.S. The club expects the Brazilian will not have any issues receiving his P-1 visa.
To make room for Denilson, the club will have to create a roster space and currently has all of its four senior internationals slots filled (Adrian Serioux, Marcelo Saragosa, Carlos Ruiz and Pablo Ricchetti).
The source said, "Steve [Morrow] loves this group and that makes it hard. If it were up to him, he'd just keep adding to the roster."
The source also confirmed the major sticking point between the two sides was not the overall financial value of the offer but rather the length of years of the contract.
Denilson arrived back in Dallas Wednesday for the second time since beginning talks with the club earlier this summer. This time he had his team of lawyers and advisors in tow to sign the contract.
Denilson, who last played his club soccer in Saudi Arabia, was a key contributor to Brazil's 2002 World Cup win and becomes just the 4th player ever in MLS history to have won a World Cup. The Metrostars/New York Red Bulls have had the previous three with Branco, Lothar Matthaus and Youri Djorkaeff.
The winger has been keeping fit back in Brazil by training with the first team of Sao Paulo club Palmeiras and playing matches with their reserves. The club will officially present Denilson on Friday at Pizza Hut Park. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[eddie mac]

England Goalkeeper Paul Robinson and his invisible horse.

[Orange_Beard]

Looks like Clint got the start today and it resulted in a GOAL!!!
Tied up at half. Keller also git the start.


5:27 GOAL - Clinton Dempsey
Aston Villa 0 - Fulham 1
Goal by Clinton Dempsey (Fulham) drilled left-footed (top-left of goal) from centre of penalty area (12 yards).Aston Villa 0-1 Fulham. Assist (pass) by Diomansy Kamara (Fulham) from left channel.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Looks like Clint got the start today and it resulted in a GOAL!!!
Tied up at half. Keller also git the start.

5:27 GOAL - Clinton Dempsey
Aston Villa 0 - Fulham 1
Goal by Clinton Dempsey (Fulham) drilled left-footed (top-left of goal) from centre of penalty area (12 yards).Aston Villa 0-1 Fulham. Assist (pass) by Diomansy Kamara (Fulham) from left channel.


Awesome.

Way to go, Clint.

[Sassy]

Seville defender Puerta in serious condition after heart attack

AFP
August 26, 2007
MADRID (AFP) - Seville's defender Antonio Puerta remained in serious condition in hospital on Sunday after suffering a heart attack during his side's 4-1 win over Getafe.

Puerta fainted after half an hour of Saturday's match, with his side losing 1-0.

Teammate Ivica Dragutinovic rushed to his aid and prevented the player from swallowing his tongue as medical staff raced onto the pitch.

ADVERTISEMENT


"He had a heart attack," club president Jose Maria del Nido told Cadena Ser radio. "He's in intensive care and is stable.

"We were scared, very scared, for the life of the player."




Updated on Sunday, Aug 26, 2007 7:15 am, EDT

You can't swallow your tongue?

[Arkansas Bronco]

Sassy, never figured you for a football fan. ;D

In other news I think this 100 million pound transfer for Ronny that is rumored is insane. Dude may be good but not good enough for much money.

[Jens1893]

Puerta is dead.

[Orange_Beard]

Puerta es Morta

Fixed it for you.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Puerta es Morta

Fixed it for you.


I believe it would be "Puerta esta muerto."

[Orange_Beard]

Yo me paro corregido. Gracias

[Orange_Beard]

Chelski 2....
Billionaire takes Arsenal stake

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/40967000/jpg/_40967138_breaking_news_203.jpg
</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> David Dein, the former Arsenal vice-chairman, has sold his 14.5% stake in the club to a firm co-owned by a Russian billionaire. The news of the involvement of Alisher Usmanov, who bought the stake for £75m, adds to pressure on the club's board to give in to a takeover.
Mr Usmanov's firm, Red and White Holdings, said it wanted to up its stake in Arsenal over time.
But it stressed there were no plans for an imminent increase in its holding. <!-- E SF -->
<!-- E BO -->

[Jens1893]

Booked up for Ibrox and the ****ing Nou Camp. :D

[Sassy]

Sassy, never figured you for a football fan. ;D

In other news I think this 100 million pound transfer for Ronny that is rumored is insane. Dude may be good but not good enough for much money.

I'm not. Just was reading about it.

[Orange_Beard]

The rebuilding continues:

Fulham complete Stefanovic deal

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44072000/jpg/_44072668_stefanovic203i.jpg Dejan Stefanovic has yet to start for Portsmouth this season

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Fulham have signed Portsmouth's Serbian defender Dejan Stefanovic. The 32-year-old has moved from Fratton Park in a £1m deal and has agreed a two-year contract.
Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez said: "Dejan is a formidable defender with vast experience at both domestic and international levels.
"He reads the game well, is brave and knows the pace and strength of the Premiership, so I have no doubt that he will prove to be an asset for us." <!-- E SF -->
Stefanovic joined Pompey from Vitesse Arnhem in July 2003, and had been captain of Harry Redknapp's side.
Sanchez added: "It's been a busy transfer period for us and we have bought some real quality into the squad.
"It's been a disappointing start for us in terms of the results, but I'm confident that we have a squad of players now that can go on and achieve things here."<!-- E BO -->

[socalorado]

Booked up for Ibrox and the ****ing Nou Camp. :D

Klose, Schweinsteiger, Podolski, Jansen und Gomez wieder im Aufgebot
Bundestrainer Joachim Löw hat für das EM-Qualifikationsspiel am 8. September gegen Wales in Cardiff und das Länderspiel gegen Rumänien vier Tage später in Köln 22 Spieler nominiert. Mit dabei sind unter anderem wieder Miroslav Klose, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Lukas Podolski, Marcell Jansen und Mario Gomez.

Zurück zu voller Energie!!!!!

[Orange_Beard]

Clint gets another start and another goal. Despite a total make over of the back line Fulham still looks like ****!

40:52 GOAL - Clinton Dempsey
Fulham 1 - Tottenham 2
Outswinging corner from right by-line taken right-footed by Simon Davies (Fulham) to near post, headed goal by Clinton Dempsey (Fulham) (top-right of goal) from right side of penalty area (12 yards).Fulham 1-2 Tottenham. Assist by Simon Davies (Fulham) from right by-line.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Clint will make some things happen if he gets the PT.

[Orange_Beard]

Wow, what a come back. Fulham pulls out a 3-3 tie at home.

[Arkansas Bronco]

I do not want to talk about any of todays matches.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Wow, what a come back. Fulham pulls out a 3-3 tie at home.

Clint involved on every goal.

Dempsey needs PT.

Actually, I really wish that Dempsey was playing in Spain instead. I think that he'd be outstanding in La Liga.

[Orange_Beard]

Clint involved on every goal.

Dempsey needs PT.

Actually, I really wish that Dempsey was playing in Spain instead. I think that he'd be outstanding in La Liga.

I am happy that he is where he is...
If he plays like he has the last 2 weeks he will be a star in the EPL.
He played the entire game yesterday. Played well the entire time.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I am happy that he is where he is...
If he plays like he has the last 2 weeks he will be a star in the EPL.
He played the entire game yesterday. Played well the entire time.

Dempsey's style suits La Liga to a "t". I think that Dempsey could become a better overall offensive player in La Liga.

[Orange_Beard]

Dempsey's style suits La Liga to a "t". I think that Dempsey could become a better overall offensive player in La Liga.

I really don't know a thing about La Liga. I have never seen a game from La Liga, it is not on any channel that I get. So I can't disagree with you.

However playing in the EPL really seems to be working for him. He seems to be gaining confidence and picking up the speed of the game.
He is a different player then last year. His growth has been fun to watch.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I really don't know a thing about La Liga. I have never seen a game from La Liga, it is not on any channel that I get. So I can't disagree with you.

However playing in the EPL really seems to be working for him. He seems to be gaining confidence and picking up the speed of the game.
He is a different player then last year. His growth has been fun to watch.


La Liga has a much more flowing, creative timbre. It has a bit more of a south american feel. Not saying that the premiership isnt top notch, because it is, but I think that Dempsey would flourish in Spain.

[Orange_Beard]

La Liga has a much more flowing, creative timbre. It has a bit more of a south american feel. Not saying that the premiership isnt top notch, because it is, but I think that Dempsey would flourish in Spain.

I wish that Fulham could get Landon Donovan to play along side of him. Let then play together to help build the US team.

[epicSocialism4tw]

I wish that Fulham could get Landon Donovan to play along side of him. Let then play together to help build the US team.

I dont see Donovan going to Europe again. He struggles with pressure.

I saw the Fulham/Spurs game yesterday and I thought that Dempsey did alright. He struggled at times to claim space up top. He did, however, show the craftiness and scoring acumen that makes him a legitimate threat on or off the ball. He's really a creative player. Not everyone has that ability.

That goal against Liverpool last season was typical of just how good Dempsey can be. He slipped the ball through a couple of players and made an exceptional pass to the wing attacker, and then finished with a creative smack off of the ground.

I think that Dempsey would be a star in La Liga.

[Orange_Beard]

What do you think is more like World Cup play?

La Liga or the EPL?

[Jens1893]

Tickets and travel sorted for all 3. 30 for the bus to Lyon, 30 for the flight to Barcelona, 140 for the flight to Glesga. ALLES FÜR STUTTGART!

[socalorado]

Tickets and travel sorted for all 3. 30 for the bus to Lyon, 30 for the flight to Barcelona, 140 for the flight to Glesga. ALLES FÜR STUTTGART!

JA!! GUTES GLÜCK ZU STUTTGART auf einer anderen siegreichen Jahreszeit im Bundisliga!!!!!!!
Gehen nationale Mannschaft außerdem gegen Wales!! deutsche!

[uk bronco]

Booked up for Ibrox and the ****ing Nou Camp. :D


hey jens

i assume you going to the home games just wondering how much you got charged for that. Its £105 for the three game package at ibrox which is pretty expencive but i love the big european nights just hope there are still some left when the public sale starts on tuesday

[uk bronco]

What do you think is more like World Cup play?

La Liga or the EPL?

Neither the world cup is good cos of all the different styles of play most EPL teams pretty much play the same sort of tactics (4-4-2) except Arsenal. Pretty much ther same for La Liga

[Jens1893]

hey jens

i assume you going to the home games just wondering how much you got charged for that. Its £105 for the three game package at ibrox which is pretty expencive but i love the big european nights just hope there are still some left when the public sale starts on tuesday

63 € for the game at Ibrox for us, which I think is a little excessive even for your standards. I don´t have my ticket in hand yet, so I don´t know how much face value is (they usually do add on some sort of service charge for European away tickets and do use a rather odd conversion rate most of the time), but I was angry and disappointed when I saw that. When we played against Middlesbrough and Chelsea and they proposed ticket prices in the region of 40-50 pounds we told them to **** off and threatened not to take any. It worked in the end as I paid 20 quid to get in at Middlesbrough and 32 at Stamford Bridge.

I have still got my stub from the game in 03-04 and it was 27 pounds back then.

As for the home games ... I am a season ticket holder and I pay a 135€ for all 3, so that´s 45 € a game. However, not every seat is priced the same here and I do have quite decent seats on the side of the main stand. Tickets behind the goal are 30 € each, standing is 20 € and it goes all the way up to 75 € a game.

[uk bronco]

63 € for the game at Ibrox for us, which I think is a little excessive even for your standards. I don´t have my ticket in hand yet, so I don´t know how much face value is (they usually do add on some sort of service charge for European away tickets and do use a rather odd conversion rate most of the time), but I was angry and disappointed when I saw that. When we played against Middlesbrough and Chelsea and they proposed ticket prices in the region of 40-50 pounds we told them to **** off and threatened not to take any. It worked in the end as I paid 20 quid to get in at Middlesbrough and 32 at Stamford Bridge.

I have still got my stub from the game in 03-04 and it was 27 pounds back then.

As for the home games ... I am a season ticket holder and I pay a 135€ for all 3, so that´s 45 € a game. However, not every seat is priced the same here and I do have quite decent seats on the side of the main stand. Tickets behind the goal are 30 € each, standing is 20 € and it goes all the way up to 75 € a game.

€135 works out just over £90 which is what rangers are charging season ticket holders. Did you get the ticket for the rangers game through an agency or through the club cos thats pretty expencive

[Jens1893]

€135 works out just over £90 which is what rangers are charging season ticket holders. Did you get the ticket for the rangers game through an agency or through the club cos thats pretty expencive

Club. I don´t think we will be taking up our allocation anayway. Only 2.5 weeks to sort out flights, the day trip the club is running is surprisingly expensive at 400 € and we have simply been to Glasgow way too often recently.

[Orange_Beard]

3 straight games, Clinton is on tear...

10:58 GOAL - Clinton Dempsey
Wigan 0 - Fulham 1
Goal by Clinton Dempsey (Fulham) left-footed (bottom-left of goal) from centre of penalty area (12 yards).Wigan 0-1 Fulham

A late goal by Wigan has tied it up. Damm

[Orange_Beard]

WOW!

Manager Mourinho leaves Chelsea

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44127000/jpg/_44127039_jose.jpg Mourinho's position was the subject of continual scrutiny last season

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has sensationally left Stamford Bridge, according to BBC Radio 5live football correspondent Jonathan Legard. The news comes just 24 hours after the disappointing Champions League draw against Rosenborg.
Legard understands that Mourinho has texted senior players, including skipper John Terry, with the news of his departure from Stamford Bridge.
There has been no official word so far from the Premiership club. <!-- E SF -->
<!-- S IMED -->
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/audio_text.gifReport: BBC football correspondent Jonathan Legard (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_7000000/newsid_7003900?redirect=7003918.stm&news=1&bbram=1&nbwm=1&nbram=1&bbwm=1)
<!-- E IMED --> Mourinho joined Chelsea in the summer of 2004 and led them to the Premiership title in his first two seasons in charge.
Last season they finished runners-up to Manchester United but won both the FA Cup and Carling Cup, a trophy they had also collected in 2005.
However the Champions League eluded the club and this season's campaign started with Tuesday's shock 1-1 result against the Norwegians.<!-- E BO -->

[epicSocialism4tw]

3 straight games, Clinton is on tear...

10:58 GOAL - Clinton Dempsey
Wigan 0 - Fulham 1
Goal by Clinton Dempsey (Fulham) left-footed (bottom-left of goal) from centre of penalty area (12 yards).Wigan 0-1 Fulham

A late goal by Wigan has tied it up. Damm

Go Clint.

[broncoblue]

just hope they dont try and take our coach mark hughes at blackburn...BRAD =LEGEND @ EWOOD PARK

[Muddled]

They've appointed some Israeli puppet of Abramovich's who has only coached locally and internationally in Israel. Crazy move. EDIT: Avram Grant is his name.

BTW, we're now getting MLS live here in Denmark once a week in the middle of the night, have no idea why anyone would stay up to watch it, but I suppose it's the Beckham effect.

[Orange_Beard]

This really looks like an "Al Davis/Jerry Jones" type of move...I really hope it bites him in the ASS!


Mourinho expecting £25m pay-off

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44128000/jpg/_44128115_jose203.jpg Jose Mourinho is said to be relieved that he is leaving Chelsea

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is in line to receive up to £25m in compensation after his departure from Stamford Bridge, BBC Sport understands. The Portuguese was swiftly replaced on Thursday by former director of football Avram Grant after three years in charge of the Blues.
But he still has another three years to run on his reputed £5.2m-a-year deal.
Lawyers for both sides are still working on the severance package that will include confidentiality clauses. <!-- E SF -->
<!-- S IMED -->
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/video_text.gifReport: Mourinho exits Stamford Bridge (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_7000000/newsid_7004800?redirect=7004806.stm&news=1&nbwm=1&bbram=1&nbram=1&bbwm=1)
<!-- E IMED --> <!-- S IMED --> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/audio_text.gifInterview: Leicester City chairman Milan Mandaric (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_7000000/newsid_7004900?redirect=7004927.stm&news=1&bbwm=1&nbram=1&bbram=1&nbwm=1)
<!-- E IMED --> <!-- S IMED --> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/audio_text.gifJose Mourinho in his own words (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_7000000/newsid_7004100?redirect=7004135.stm&news=1&bbwm=1&nbram=1&nbwm=1&bbram=1)
<!-- E IMED --> According to BBC football correspondent Jonathan Legard, discussions are said to be well advanced as the split was seen coming.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> What do you make of Mourinho's expected compensation deal? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A27090047) <!-- E ILIN -->
</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
Legard has also been told Mourinho has felt a sense of relief since the departure.
"He's felt boxed-in from demands on high, he's felt boxed-in from the boardroom in terms of boardroom dealings," said Legard.
"And he's felt under pressure from those alongside him in the dugout, namely the man who has succeeded him, Avram Grant."
Chelsea have confirmed that Mourinho's backroom staff have also left the club, including assistant managers Baltemar Brito and Rui Faria.
Head opposition scout Andre Villas and goalkeeping coach Silvino Louro have also departed Stamford Bridge.<!-- E BO -->

[Arkansas Bronco]

Im not to happy of a camper today. I liked the guy and thought he was doing well. I have a feeling this will hurt my Blues big time. I hope this guy doesnt do everything Roman says and can actually manage a game.

[Orange_Beard]

AB, I have been woundering where you were. Seems like you have not posted in awhile.

It's going to be hard for the new guy get the respect of the players. Mourinho was clearly the leader/mouth piece of this team.

[Arkansas Bronco]

I pop in here pretty often and just read. Watched a few matches so far this year and with Chelsea looking pretty rough and all my new broncos the attention isnt going strong yet add into the weather was cooled off and Saturday mornings are when I take my kids to the zoo (got a year zoo pass and go about every other week).

Pretty sure we are going to loose Drogba because of this. He has already stated he would like to try something new and credited Mourinho with making him into the player he is today (and was in tears when Jose left this morning).

Im a bit worried on Grant as well dont know much about him. He is a close friend of Abramovich and hired by him. Just another thing which pissed off Jose.

Also just read that it was a mutual agreement and he wasnt fired like I took it when I first read about it.

[Orange_Beard]

Reaction to Mourinho's exit

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IMED -->
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/video_text.gifReport: Mourinho leaves Chelsea (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/nol/newsid_7000000/newsid_7004300?redirect=7004313.stm&news=1&bbram=1&nbram=1&nbwm=1&bbwm=1&asb=1)
<!-- E IMED --> <!-- S IMED --> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/audio_text.gifInterview: Former Chelsea midfielder Gavin Peacock (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_7000000/newsid_7004300?redirect=7004321.stm&news=1&bbwm=1&nbram=1&bbram=1&nbwm=1)
<!-- E IMED --> <!-- S IMED --> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/icons/audio_text.gifJose Mourinho in his own words (http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/check/player/sol/newsid_7000000/newsid_7004100?redirect=7004135.stm&news=1&bbwm=1&nbram=1&nbwm=1&bbram=1)
<!-- E IMED --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44127000/jpg/_44127274_mourinhosad203.jpg Many are stunned by Mourinho's exit

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> The news of Jose Mourinho's departure from Chelsea has been met with disbelief within and outside the football fraternity.
The 'Special One' helped Chelsea win two Premier League titles, two League Cups and an FA Cup during his spell in charge at Stamford Bridge.

Now one of the finest managers in the game finds himself unemployed.


Below is a pick of the reaction to the news:

<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> It is a move that will provoke widespread despair among Chelsea's fan base (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A27073019) <!-- E ILIN -->


BBC's Phil McNulty

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
"The Prime Minister is a football fan and somebody who enjoys watching Premier League games, so he knows Mourinho has a fantastic record of success.
"He's made a significant contribution to British football in a short period of time and he's also one of the great characters of the game."
A spokesperson for PM Gordon Brown
"It's a surprise for everyone not only me. He has been very successful and I don't why he has left.
"The Premier League will be losing one of its biggest characters. He has been colourful in the press conferences and I had a good relationship with him in the England job."
Manchester City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson
"Once you take away the authority the manager has in signing players, you're on a slippery slope.
"What I would say about Mourinho is his record is with underachieving players and when Andriy Shevchenko and Michael Ballack came in, it disturbed the balance.
"They've never looked as fluid and that's because the manager probably did not himself believe that is the way they should be playing."
Former England boss Graham Taylor
"I always thought it was just waiting to happen. It seems everybody wants to run the team there and eventually it's going to come to a head.
"They keep saying they want to play entertaining football but Mourinho has always been a guy who thinks points, 'I'm not bothered about entertaining'.
"Abramovich has put millions and millions into that team and I think he wants to see a team that gets everybody on the edge of their seats."
Former England international Chris Waddle
"I think that half the team will have been affected badly and it's going to be hard to get that team spirit that Jose managed to manufacture."
Former Chelsea forward Gavin Peacock
"I'm absolutely astounded at what's happened.
"Winning football matches is what the game's about and he is a winning manager who puts a winning mentality in players' heads and they go and win things."
Former Chelsea captain Ray Wilkins
"The man is a superb coach. He'll be hugely missed and took Chelsea to a level they could have dreamed of a few years ago. He will be hugely missed."
Former Chelsea player Pat Nevin

[Jens1893]

Also just read that it was a mutual agreement and he wasnt fired like I took it when I first read about it.

Don´t believe everything you read. There is no way Mourinho walks away from the 15.6m quid still owed to him on his contract.

[Orange_Beard]

I sure hope so.....

Mourinho exit could spark exodus

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="203"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44129000/jpg/_44129611_malouda203.jpg Malouda insists it was Mourinho who persuaded him to join Chelsea

</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> <!-- S SF --> Chelsea could face a fight to keep hold of several of their best players after the departure of Jose Mourinho. Reports are rife that many of the club's highest profile players now want to follow him out of Chelsea.
Defender Ricardo Carvalho said: "It is a very sad day for me and the team. I had a big offer from Real Madrid but I stayed at Chelsea because of Mourinho."
And summer signing Florent Malouda added: "I joined Chelsea because of my first meeting with Mourinho." <!-- E SF -->
Several reports claim striker Didier Drogba is "furious and upset" at the parting of the ways between Chelsea and their charismatic Portuguese coach.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sib606"> 606: DEBATE
<!-- S ILIN --> If they have any sense, they would leave even just for the sake of security (http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A27119658) <!-- E ILIN -->


Huh???

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX -->
AC Milan are admirers of the Ivory Coast striker and would happily finance a move to take him to the San Siro.
Drogba, 29, was Chelsea's top scorer with 33 goals last season.
Reports claim Michael Essien, who was brought to the club by Mourinho in August 2005, could be considering his future.
But BBC Sport understands the Ghana midfielder will not be leaving Stamford Bridge.
The 24-year-old is enjoying life in English football and considers the manager's departure as part of the game.
<!-- S IBOX --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="208"> <tbody><tr> <td width="5">http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif</td> <td class="sibStdQuote"> We have seen the tension on Mourinho with the results in the Premier League


Claude Makelele

</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IBOX --> But Paulo Ferreira, also brought to Chelsea by Mourinho, is said to be mulling over his future at the club.
A huge question mark will also hang over the future of England midfield man Frank Lampard, who has already put talks on a new contract on hold and was regarded as one of Mourinho's most trusted lieutenants in the dressing room.
Lampard has long been linked with a move to Spain with either Real Madrid or Barcelona.
Carvalho added: "For me there is no doubt, Jose Mourinho is the best coach in the world and I cannot believe that we have lost him.
"I never thought he would leave Chelsea without finishing his work, without achieving everything he wanted to.
"This is the first time he has ever done this and it will be terrible for him. He loved Chelsea."
Veteran midfield man Claude Makelele added: "This news was like a bomb for me. I would never have believed we would see the exit of the coach just two months into the season.
"We have seen the tension on Mourinho with the results in the Premier League, but he was still confident.
"The new injuries had really hit the manager hard and you could see the anxiety grow as the results started to go wrong."

[Orange_Beard]

I was just setting up my Tivo to record this weekend EPL games. I had no idea that Man Utd v Chelsea were playing this weekend. The should be a really interesting game to watch.
What team will show for Chelsea?


Man Utd v Chelsea

<!-- S BO --> <!-- S IIMA --> <table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="200"> <tbody><tr><td> http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44118000/gif/_44118658_manu_che_0506.gif
</td></tr> </tbody></table> <!-- E IIMA --> Old Trafford
Sunday, 23 September
Kick-off: 1600 BST
Coverage on the BBC Sport website, BBC Radio Five Live & highlights on MotD2.

[Jens1893]

'Turncoat' Terry


Duncan Castles
Sunday September 23, 2007
The Observer

Jose Mourinho's relationship with John Terry has broken down completely over the Chelsea and England captain's central role in his departure from Stamford Bridge last week.

The Champions League-winning coach was replaced on Thursday by Avram Grant, a former Israel national team coach with no experience of club management outside his own country. According to many Chelsea sources, Grant will defer on football matters to owner Roman Abramovich, who has already started to take a hands-on role with the first team.

Article continues
Mourinho holds Terry responsible for charges levelled by Chelsea's board of directors that he had lost the support of his playing staff after Tuesday's Champions League draw with Rosenborg - a match that was followed by club owner Roman Abramovich lecturing a senior professional on his on-field tactics behind Mourinho's back.

Half an hour before the Group B fixture, claims a dressing-room source, Terry told one of Mourinho's assistant coaches that he had 'things on my mind'. Only the intervention of a team-mate put him in the right state of mind to take part in the pre-match warm-up, for which Terry arrived late.

Midway through the first half Rosenborg scored, after Miika Koppinen beat Terry at a set piece. When Mourinho then directly criticised the centre back's defending at half time, Terry refused to accept responsibility for the goal or even to respond to his manager.

Earlier on Tuesday, Terry had been informed that Mourinho had gone to the club's medical department to ask whether there was any physical reason for the player's sub-standard performances in matches this season. Mourinho hoped to find an explanation for a significant decline in Terry's play following an operation to remove a disc from the defender's spine in December.

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon was made aware of the dispute and, according to the dressing-room source, presented the information to an emergency board meeting on Wednesday as evidence that the manager had lost the trust of key players. The club subsequently asked Mourinho for his resignation, which he refused to tender, but ultimately settled on dismissal by 'mutual consent'. Later on Wednesday, Mourinho sent Terry a text message sarcastically thanking him for talking to the club's hierarchy.

On Friday, several first-team regulars apparently took their captain to task during a 50-minute team meeting called by Terry in the aftermath of Mourinho's dismissal. Ashley Cole, Didier Drogba and Florent Malouda are believed to have accused him of not doing enough to keep Mourinho at the club.

Terry is England's best-paid footballer after agreeing a five-year, £131,000-a-week contract this summer. In initial negotiations he had requested a 'limitless parity' clause to ensure he was the club's biggest earner for the duration of a proposed nine-year term. According to a Chelsea insider Terry also wanted - and was refused - a contractual option for him to manage the club at the end of his playing career.

As far-fetched as that request might be, Abramovich's actions in the aftermath of the Rosenborg draw were equally bizarre. In front of the entire Chelsea team, but while Mourinho was occupied with press conference duties, the Russian billionaire decided to hand out an impromptu tactics lesson to Michael Essien.

Employing striker Andriy Shevchenko as translator, he instructed midfielder Essien, player of the year last season, to hit passes wide rather than through central areas where the Norwegians had compressed play. Abramovich is expected to take an increasingly hands-on role in the team following the appointment of Grant to replace Mourinho and, according to several sources, will effectively select the side. In a press conference on Friday, Grant insisted he would not tolerate interference but declined to respond when asked who was the most important individual at Chelsea. 'Look, the owner gives the financial support,' Grant said. 'I'm not going to make remarks.'

The 52-year-old is already the subject of significant discontent among a first-team squad predominantly still loyal to Mourinho. Grant, though, is confident he will bring not only more silverware to Chelsea but a more attractive brand of football and said on Friday that he had no problems with the playing staff. 'There's a very good relationship with the players,' he said. 'I like their attitude, how they want to win all the time, even if the last result wasn't like that, but the relationship is good.'

Grant's first match comes at Old Trafford this afternoon, but he did not work yesterday for religious reasons. He must also wait for his Israeli coaching qualifications to be cleared by Uefa before he can be formally approved as a top-flight manager. Chelsea insist the process will be trouble-free.

Though Grant claimed that he had no 'plan to be the manager' until the appointment came about, he had begun requesting clearance from Uefa a fortnight ago.

According to Kenyon, the 'first-team coach' will be involved in all key areas of transfers and team building. He said: 'We are not embarking on the arbitrary buying of players and telling the coach to play them. Avram will be absolutely involved, responsible for picking the team and responsible for the results.'

Kenyon denied that Terry - who declined to comment last night - played any part in Mourinho's departure: 'There is absolutely nothing in stories that the dressing room has been lost. In particular there is no truth in any rumours that a bust-up with one or several of our players led to him leaving the club.'

[Orange_Beard]

THanks for posting this....
I watched the first part of the game. The broadcasters made it sound like it was more of a disagreement about playing time for Shevchenko.
Roman Abramovich is going to learn the Al Davis/Jerry Jones lesson. It's much harder then it looks.

[Arkansas Bronco]

Sheva did look a bit better at times today and we were screwed after the Bad red card call. It may have been poor but not red worthy.Also not to funny is about 10 minutes after that Giggs slid into the back (of I cant member now) got no ball and didnt get a card at all. Im not one to complain alot on officiating but this was a terribly called match.

Also I am pretty curios if Ben Haim got the start because he Israeli? He isnt that good and that was the first question that hit my mind. Ricardo and Alex are good bit better then he is.

[Jens1893]

Chelsea only have themselves to blame for today´s game. They didn´t look interested and never even truly threatened van der Sar once. Their best chance was the shot that Essien put 10 yards wide. There was no fight or emotion in their game. Nothing. Cech was the only Chelsea player on the pitch who seemed like he wanted to be out there. It was damage control by Chelsea all game long and they were lucky to be playing an opponent that had no clue what to do with all the possesion they had and that was quite poor themselves. A half decent team would´ve hammered Chelsea. ManUtd did what they had to do to win. Nothing more, nothing less.

English referees are ****, that´s no secret, but he made no game deciding mistakes today. Chelsea would´ve lost even if Obi Mikel had been allowed to stay on and Joe Cole needed to walk for that ugly tackle on Ronaldo.

Grant´s substitutions were nothing less than shocking. Shevchenko was totally isolated as the back 4 and midfield played way too deep and he had no support whatsoever. At times there were like 20-30 yards between him and the midfield. I truly and honestly thought my eyes failed me when Grant subbed Sheva for Kalou.

Chelsea got what they deserved and were lucky to not get hammered.

[uk bronco]

how'd you enjoy your trip to ibrox jens. Thought the Stuttgart fans were brilliant until we scored you guys went really quiet after that

[Jens1893]

We had an altercation with the stewards and Strathclyde´s finest after Adam´s equaliser.

[uk bronco]

i noticed that a lot of police went over to the stuttgart fans after that. I was in the stand next to you guys behind the goal. Did you get much grief they're pretty harsh on rangers fans chucking them out with very little provocation

[Jens1893]

Stewards were at it with us all night because were sitting on the wee wall. When Rangers scored, a few in the Govan stand jumped over the wee wall seperating the fans from the pitch. A mate of mine told the steward to look there instead of ****ing with us all night. She was told to **** off, to which she replied with the same words. The steward then went into a fighting stance and slapped one of us, he punched her back ... cops then came in and wanted to chuck him out, but we wouldn´t let them take him away and shoved them back out.

[Orange_Beard]

Chelsea only have themselves to blame for today´s game. They didn´t look interested and never even truly threatened van der Sar once. Their best chance was the shot that Essien put 10 yards wide. There was no fight or emotion in their game. Nothing. Cech was the only Chelsea player on the pitch who seemed like he wanted to be out there. It was damage control by Chelsea all game long and they were lucky to be playing an opponent that had no clue what to do with all the possesion they had and that was quite poor themselves. A half decent team would´ve hammered Chelsea. ManUtd did what they had to do to win. Nothing more, nothing less.

English referees are ****, that´s no secret, but he made no game deciding mistakes today. Chelsea would´ve lost even if Obi Mikel had been allowed to stay on and Joe Cole needed to walk for that ugly tackle on Ronaldo.

Grant´s substitutions were nothing less than shocking. Shevchenko was totally isolated as the back 4 and midfield played way too deep and he had no support whatsoever. At times there were like 20-30 yards between him and the midfield. I truly and honestly thought my eyes failed me when Grant subbed Sheva for Kalou.

Chelsea got what they deserved and were lucky to not get hammered.
Just finish watching the game. What a crappy game. The Mikel foul was NOTHING compared to the Cole tackle. It was just a flat out crappy call.

Chelsea gets there share of the calls, the PK in the Liverpool game was a joke. Oh Well.

ManU looked very average. I really watched it to see Chelsea get taken apart. IMHO both teams looked flat.

[Jens1893]

And as we´re at it ... Chelsea were lucky not to have a penalty given against them for Cole´s tackle on Evra in the 1st half. The referee was poor, but to blame the loss on him for sending off Obi Mikel after such a dismal performance is just a cheap excuse. It actually seems like they´re only too happy to have had Mikel sent off as they can look for scapegoats outside of their own dressing room this way.

Grant complaining about Tevez´ goal being past injury time had expired only fits in too well here. That´s right up there on my **** list together with coaches and players complaining about the ref after conceding a goal from a free kick because the think the free kick shouldn´t have been given.