McLeish's future in doubt
Alex McLeish's future at Birmingham City has been cast into doubt after problems over a new contract emerged.
It is thought that Birmingham are trying to tie down McLeish in a long-term deal as a reward for the manager's performance last season. However, there seem to be arguments over a number of terms, with the Scot apparently asking for too much money.
Birmingham vice-chairman Peter Pannu said: "I have been in talks with his representative and he was asking for a very large amount of money which I was not prepared to meet. He has not been tried and tested yet."
McLeish is vital to the future of the football club for a variety of reasons. It's important that all parties concerned can get a sensible and productive deal sorted quickly so the focus can shift to the performance of the team.
Key to the future
McLeish is one of the very few managers in the game that gives the appearance of being the main man at his football club. This means structured layers of organisation that are very easy to determine in relation to various issues.
The current playing squad at Birmingham is one that McLeish has spent a long time putting together. There are a lot of players that he has personally made sure are in the squad and this is vital to the direction the football club is going in. Bringing in another manager after McLeish would mean a whole new structuring process.
McLeish has a high number of managerial qualities that few other managers can even get close to. His people management skills are better than most and there will be a lot of players who have only signed at the club because of the way the manager took care of them. These players could all ask to go if McLeish heads towards the exit door.
Pannu added: "The club was relegated, then promoted and last year we stayed up, so he has done well. But to suggest that he is in the top class like a Mourinho well, he is no Mourinho yet. The ball is in his court."
Betting advice
Birmingham will be safe this season because they have enough quality in the playing squad and the manager has got them playing good football. However, the club's chances of kicking on will evaporate if McLeish does not stay at the club for years.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Euro 2012: Republic of Ireland looking to overcome Paris heartache
Euro 2012: Republic of Ireland looking to overcome Paris heartache
That November night is still etched in the minds of the Republic of Ireland players and supporters.
It’s now time to turn over a new leaf as Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni looks to move on from the disappointment Thierry Henry handed to the Irish to deny them a place at the 2010 World Cup as Trapattoni aims to get the Republic of Ireland firing on all cylinders.
They begin their attempts to reach Euro 2012 against Armenia on Friday and then play Andorra at home at the Aviva Stadium- the newly developed Lansdowne Road. The last time the Republic of Ireland played in a major tournament, they lost to Spain on penalties in the second round of the 2002 World Cup. That was a long time ago, and the likes of Robbie Keane, Shay Given, Kevin Kilbane and Damien Duff are hoping their time out in Korea and Japan will not be the final time they play in a major tournament.
When the players last gathered for an international match it was a friendly against Argentina last month in the first game to crown the opening of the Aviva Stadium, but unfortunately controversy followed them once again, as Ángel di María was offside when he scored the only goal of the game. The luck of the Irish deserted them in Paris and once again it deserted them here.
The Irish will surely fancy their chances of reaching Euro 2012 as their group only has Russia and Slovakia as tricky opponents, with the other nations in the group, Macedonia, Armenia and Andorra, posing little threat.
Russia are without the miracle worker-come-manager that is Guus Hiddink, although they do have Dick Advocaat at the helm. Overcoming the Russians will prove to be the acid test for the Irish.
Slovakia, who played in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and beat reigning champions Italy en route to the second round, won’t be as tough as Russia, but will no doubt put up a fight. Three into two won’t go to qualify, so the Irish need to hit the ground running.
Despite the strength of the opposition, Trapattoni is after the win to kick-start their campaign. “At home, they [Armenia] are hard, they make an impression. We need to understand the result is more important,” he said.
The quest to reach Euro 2012 may have been halted already, with the news that Duff, Keith Andrews and Keith Tracey have pulled out through injury. Dunne and Darren O’Dea are also among the injured players, but both are expected to make it, according to Trapattoni.
“I am optimistic. As a precaution, we left Richard and also Darren out of training, but I am optimistic because we have 48 hours,” he said.
One player who will be playing is Glenn Whelan, who has eyes on reaching the tournament hosted in Poland and Ukraine. “Because of what happened in the last campaign, everyone was just hoping for this to come around as soon as possible,” he said.
“Hopefully with this campaign here, everyone can forget about what happened in Paris. We know we have some tough places to go to and we are going to have some hard games, but we can just worry about ourselves. That's what we are going to do and hopefully qualify.
“It doesn't matter if we are playing Armenia or Russia, we will worry about ourselves,” said Whelan.
The luck of the Irish must return one day.
Euro 2012 previews:
England's footballers start the long road back to regaining the nations trust
John Toshack running out of time to help Wales' youngsters prove their worth
Northern Ireland bid to end European Championship hoodoo
Tough task awaits new Scotland boss Craig Levein
That November night is still etched in the minds of the Republic of Ireland players and supporters.
It’s now time to turn over a new leaf as Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni looks to move on from the disappointment Thierry Henry handed to the Irish to deny them a place at the 2010 World Cup as Trapattoni aims to get the Republic of Ireland firing on all cylinders.
They begin their attempts to reach Euro 2012 against Armenia on Friday and then play Andorra at home at the Aviva Stadium- the newly developed Lansdowne Road. The last time the Republic of Ireland played in a major tournament, they lost to Spain on penalties in the second round of the 2002 World Cup. That was a long time ago, and the likes of Robbie Keane, Shay Given, Kevin Kilbane and Damien Duff are hoping their time out in Korea and Japan will not be the final time they play in a major tournament.
When the players last gathered for an international match it was a friendly against Argentina last month in the first game to crown the opening of the Aviva Stadium, but unfortunately controversy followed them once again, as Ángel di María was offside when he scored the only goal of the game. The luck of the Irish deserted them in Paris and once again it deserted them here.
The Irish will surely fancy their chances of reaching Euro 2012 as their group only has Russia and Slovakia as tricky opponents, with the other nations in the group, Macedonia, Armenia and Andorra, posing little threat.
Russia are without the miracle worker-come-manager that is Guus Hiddink, although they do have Dick Advocaat at the helm. Overcoming the Russians will prove to be the acid test for the Irish.
Slovakia, who played in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and beat reigning champions Italy en route to the second round, won’t be as tough as Russia, but will no doubt put up a fight. Three into two won’t go to qualify, so the Irish need to hit the ground running.
Despite the strength of the opposition, Trapattoni is after the win to kick-start their campaign. “At home, they [Armenia] are hard, they make an impression. We need to understand the result is more important,” he said.
The quest to reach Euro 2012 may have been halted already, with the news that Duff, Keith Andrews and Keith Tracey have pulled out through injury. Dunne and Darren O’Dea are also among the injured players, but both are expected to make it, according to Trapattoni.
“I am optimistic. As a precaution, we left Richard and also Darren out of training, but I am optimistic because we have 48 hours,” he said.
One player who will be playing is Glenn Whelan, who has eyes on reaching the tournament hosted in Poland and Ukraine. “Because of what happened in the last campaign, everyone was just hoping for this to come around as soon as possible,” he said.
“Hopefully with this campaign here, everyone can forget about what happened in Paris. We know we have some tough places to go to and we are going to have some hard games, but we can just worry about ourselves. That's what we are going to do and hopefully qualify.
“It doesn't matter if we are playing Armenia or Russia, we will worry about ourselves,” said Whelan.
The luck of the Irish must return one day.
Euro 2012 previews:
England's footballers start the long road back to regaining the nations trust
John Toshack running out of time to help Wales' youngsters prove their worth
Northern Ireland bid to end European Championship hoodoo
Tough task awaits new Scotland boss Craig Levein
Football Transfer Update: EPL- Story of Real Madrid’s Rafael Van der Vaart transfer to Tottenham Hotspurs (Part 1)
Football Transfer Update: EPL- Story of Real Madrid’s Rafael Van der Vaart transfer to Tottenham Hotspurs (Part 1)
The English Premier League have officiated the signing of Dutch player Rafael Van der Vaart to Tottenham Hotspur. The 27 year old attacking midfielder’s signing is among the few last minute signings revealed and approved by Premier League.
The transfer window had closed on 31st August but there were clubs which had shown interest in players, therefore had conducted their medicals and some even the signing of the papers. What they had failed to accomplish was the official signing ceremony.
In cases like these, the club had to take permission from the League they were playing in and this case it was Premier League. The English League gave them permission soon after their appeal with the Hotspurs presented credible evidence to back them.
Officials from the club have announced that Netherlands international has been transferred from Real Madrid for 11 million Euros. The transfer comes amidst complains from both the Dutch player and Los Blancos, when they stated that they were both having a hard time with the club not being able to fit the player into their regular squad and the player in response having reservations on his lack of exposure on the field.
Tottemham Hotspurs manager Harry Redaknapp has stated that it came to his attention about the availability of Van der Vaart just in the last moments of the transfer window, so he immediately contacted the agent and the player and negotiated a deal.
The delay in the announcement of signing came because of a problem in transferring the funds from Tottenham to Real. Tottenham clarified it to the Premier League that the computer servers that were wiring the money had crashed, so there was a delay in the signing.
The men from White Hart Lane said that because there was a delay in the money transferring, the papers could not be signed and the deal was delayed. English Premier League has confirmed the fiasco and approved the deal.
Van der Vaart started his career from the Dutch footballing powerhouse Ajax. After spending his youth career there, he carried on with his professional career at the club in 2000. He played for the Dutch club for five years, made 117 appearances for them, and scored 52 goals.
In those 5 years, the Ajax saw a revolution and became one of the dominating football powers in the world. Swedish world class player Zlatan Ibrahimovic also proved to be the catalyst for the club’s success, though even after his departure the club continued its dominating campaign.
From Ajax, the Dutch player signed in at Hamburg in 2005. Here Van der Vaart again took the club through a major change, eventually evolving the club into the upper echelons of football. The German underdog club came seventh last season in Bundelsiga. Van der Vaart was a real difference maker in the club. He has capped 74 appearances for them and scored 29 goals in them.
Van der Vaart departed from Hamburg in 2008, after 3 years of success. In 2008, he went to one of the best clubs in football, Real Madrid. At the Spanish club Van der Vaart did have problems in adjusting, as the club already possessed the top players from the world, therefore he was overshadowed.
There were constants complains by him to the manager and the president of the club but they couldn’t do much about it. The last manager of Real Madrid, Manuel Pellegrini had complained quite often that he faced difficulties when he wanted to talk to the president. This was also one of the reasons for his sacking, as there was lack of communication in the club.
The English Premier League have officiated the signing of Dutch player Rafael Van der Vaart to Tottenham Hotspur. The 27 year old attacking midfielder’s signing is among the few last minute signings revealed and approved by Premier League.
The transfer window had closed on 31st August but there were clubs which had shown interest in players, therefore had conducted their medicals and some even the signing of the papers. What they had failed to accomplish was the official signing ceremony.
In cases like these, the club had to take permission from the League they were playing in and this case it was Premier League. The English League gave them permission soon after their appeal with the Hotspurs presented credible evidence to back them.
Officials from the club have announced that Netherlands international has been transferred from Real Madrid for 11 million Euros. The transfer comes amidst complains from both the Dutch player and Los Blancos, when they stated that they were both having a hard time with the club not being able to fit the player into their regular squad and the player in response having reservations on his lack of exposure on the field.
Tottemham Hotspurs manager Harry Redaknapp has stated that it came to his attention about the availability of Van der Vaart just in the last moments of the transfer window, so he immediately contacted the agent and the player and negotiated a deal.
The delay in the announcement of signing came because of a problem in transferring the funds from Tottenham to Real. Tottenham clarified it to the Premier League that the computer servers that were wiring the money had crashed, so there was a delay in the signing.
The men from White Hart Lane said that because there was a delay in the money transferring, the papers could not be signed and the deal was delayed. English Premier League has confirmed the fiasco and approved the deal.
Van der Vaart started his career from the Dutch footballing powerhouse Ajax. After spending his youth career there, he carried on with his professional career at the club in 2000. He played for the Dutch club for five years, made 117 appearances for them, and scored 52 goals.
In those 5 years, the Ajax saw a revolution and became one of the dominating football powers in the world. Swedish world class player Zlatan Ibrahimovic also proved to be the catalyst for the club’s success, though even after his departure the club continued its dominating campaign.
From Ajax, the Dutch player signed in at Hamburg in 2005. Here Van der Vaart again took the club through a major change, eventually evolving the club into the upper echelons of football. The German underdog club came seventh last season in Bundelsiga. Van der Vaart was a real difference maker in the club. He has capped 74 appearances for them and scored 29 goals in them.
Van der Vaart departed from Hamburg in 2008, after 3 years of success. In 2008, he went to one of the best clubs in football, Real Madrid. At the Spanish club Van der Vaart did have problems in adjusting, as the club already possessed the top players from the world, therefore he was overshadowed.
There were constants complains by him to the manager and the president of the club but they couldn’t do much about it. The last manager of Real Madrid, Manuel Pellegrini had complained quite often that he faced difficulties when he wanted to talk to the president. This was also one of the reasons for his sacking, as there was lack of communication in the club.
Did Arsenal and Mark Schwarzer get conned by Mark Hughes?
Did Arsenal and Mark Schwarzer get conned by Mark Hughes?
Arsenal managed to miss out signing one of their prime targets this transfer window. The player that they failed to sign was, Fulham’s Australian goal keeper, Mark Schwarzer. Arsenal were reported to have made a last ditched offer for the player rumoured to be around four million pounds.
Arsenal were however turned down in the last few minutes, by their London based rivals, despite negotiations looking like they were almost complete between the player and the two teams.
The reason for this collapse in the deal, could be because of the fact that Fulham failed to sign the players, they felt would be suitable to replace the outgoing player. The players that they were planning on signing were, Crystals Palace’s Argentinean player, Julian Speroni and Brazilian keeper Alexander Doni who is currently employed by Roma.
However both those deals failed to materialize, which is why Schwarzer was not allowed to leave the team and in turn caused the keeper to get infuriated, by the way he was treated.
Most of the Arsenal team members and fans would be more than just disappointed with the fact that, a keeper could not be brought into the team before the closing of the transfer deadline. Now all that Arsenal can do is hope and pray that Manuel Almunia realizes that a keepers job is to keep the ball out of his own net.
However there is more to the story than most would notice at first glance. Firstly Mark Hughes was reported to have started to look for keeper alternatives on the last day of the transfer window. The manager was hoping to land either the Crystal Palace man, Peroni and when that deal died out he tired to target, Brazilian keeper, Doni. However to no surprise the bids for both the players failed.
This seems to be contradicting the managers initial stance on the situation. The manager at Craven Cottage took a stance early on sating that Mark Schwarzer would not be allowed to leave the team, under any circumstance. It was a stance that many would respect. This is because Arsenal did the same when it came to their captain, Cesc Fabregas. Arsenal wanted Schwarzer, the team didn’t want to let him go, it was a fairly simply procedure.
This is why it is intriguing to consider, just why was Mark Hughes searching for a new keeper on the last possible day that he could logically do so. Or was he actually looking for a keeper at all? If the manger wanted to lure a new keeper to the Cottage then he would have wanted to do so, much earlier on, considering their current keeper was almost on his way out of the team.
What’s weird here, is the fact that at one point, Mark Hughes was reported to have wanted to sell the player, he said that he would not sell under any circumstance. It was also fairly evident that the team wanted to sign Shay Given. However they had already failed that battle long before it even began. Which is why experts now strongly believe that Mark Hughes managed to pull of one of the best hoaxes/mind game of this summer transfer window. He led Arsenal and Schwarzer to believe that the deal would be done, but the manager never really had any intention of letting the player go in the first place.
Arsenal managed to miss out signing one of their prime targets this transfer window. The player that they failed to sign was, Fulham’s Australian goal keeper, Mark Schwarzer. Arsenal were reported to have made a last ditched offer for the player rumoured to be around four million pounds.
Arsenal were however turned down in the last few minutes, by their London based rivals, despite negotiations looking like they were almost complete between the player and the two teams.
The reason for this collapse in the deal, could be because of the fact that Fulham failed to sign the players, they felt would be suitable to replace the outgoing player. The players that they were planning on signing were, Crystals Palace’s Argentinean player, Julian Speroni and Brazilian keeper Alexander Doni who is currently employed by Roma.
However both those deals failed to materialize, which is why Schwarzer was not allowed to leave the team and in turn caused the keeper to get infuriated, by the way he was treated.
Most of the Arsenal team members and fans would be more than just disappointed with the fact that, a keeper could not be brought into the team before the closing of the transfer deadline. Now all that Arsenal can do is hope and pray that Manuel Almunia realizes that a keepers job is to keep the ball out of his own net.
However there is more to the story than most would notice at first glance. Firstly Mark Hughes was reported to have started to look for keeper alternatives on the last day of the transfer window. The manager was hoping to land either the Crystal Palace man, Peroni and when that deal died out he tired to target, Brazilian keeper, Doni. However to no surprise the bids for both the players failed.
This seems to be contradicting the managers initial stance on the situation. The manager at Craven Cottage took a stance early on sating that Mark Schwarzer would not be allowed to leave the team, under any circumstance. It was a stance that many would respect. This is because Arsenal did the same when it came to their captain, Cesc Fabregas. Arsenal wanted Schwarzer, the team didn’t want to let him go, it was a fairly simply procedure.
This is why it is intriguing to consider, just why was Mark Hughes searching for a new keeper on the last possible day that he could logically do so. Or was he actually looking for a keeper at all? If the manger wanted to lure a new keeper to the Cottage then he would have wanted to do so, much earlier on, considering their current keeper was almost on his way out of the team.
What’s weird here, is the fact that at one point, Mark Hughes was reported to have wanted to sell the player, he said that he would not sell under any circumstance. It was also fairly evident that the team wanted to sign Shay Given. However they had already failed that battle long before it even began. Which is why experts now strongly believe that Mark Hughes managed to pull of one of the best hoaxes/mind game of this summer transfer window. He led Arsenal and Schwarzer to believe that the deal would be done, but the manager never really had any intention of letting the player go in the first place.
Walcott brushes off criticism
Walcott brushes off criticism
Arsenal and England winger Theo Walcott says criticism is something he no longer worries about.
Walcott remains one of the most exciting young players in England and his good start to the season has gone a long way to silencing his critics. However, there are still some people that question his ability to play at the highest level.
Walcott has never really managed to make the transition from playing well in the Arsenal team to playing well in the England team. He now has a great chance to do so as England prepares to start their European 2012 qualification campaign.
There are many areas of Walcott's game that seem to have improved over the course of the summer. However, he will always have his doubters that say he is physically too weak to be brilliant for England.
Improved game
Walcott has improved the timing of his runs forward and this has been clear in his early season performances at Arsenal. He has always had pace to burn and this is evident in any game he plays. He's only just started to time his runs perfectly where as before he would often make a run either too early or too late.
Walcott's crossing has come a long way and this is something he has been heavily criticised for over the last 12 months. He frequently gets beyond the last defender in a team and has only just started to pick out precise and accurate passes whereas before he may have wasted a chance.
His mentality seems to be much better. He has taken too many negative comments personally over the last two years. When he hasn't been in form it has been obvious that he may be thinking of these comments too much and not focusing on the ball at his feet.
Walcott said: "Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. The people I listen to are the boss (Wenger), Mr Capello, the players and my family. They are the most important people in my career. As long as I can continue to listen to them, hopefully it will be fine and I can do the talking on the pitch."
The doubters
Walcott will always have his doubters because there are some that don't believe he has made much progress from the first day that he joined Arsenal. A lot of this is due to his size. He is a small player and a lot of people expected him to bulk out, which he has not done.
This means it is much easier for opposition defences to brush him off of the ball and bully him out of the game. The people that criticise him for this will not be convinced until he can go into a 50/50 challenge against a big defender and come out on top.
He added: "In my career, so many people have a go at me, constructive players having a go at me, but if they do something wrong I tell them as well. It goes both ways. I have been around for a long time and this is the season to push on, prove people wrong and play every game when I can with no injuries."
Betting advice
Walcott is in the best form of his Arsenal career regardless of what his critics say. He will be playing with energy and confidence and this means he will be much more likely to score in any game. Take advantage of this because you will get good odds on Walcott now that he plays more on the wing than up front.
Arsenal remain a good bet for all competitions they are active in this season.
Petrov slams Manchester City
Petrov slams Manchester City
Bolton Wanderers winger Martin Petrov has become the latest player to slam his former club Manchester City.
Petrov signed for Bolton after it emerged that he was not going to feature in Manchester City's plans for the new season. He says the alarm bells started going off when the club signed a number of players that play in his position.
Petrov did not cost Bolton a single penny and although the winger is still clearly hurting from not being offered a new contract at City, he says that he does not miss the club one little bit.
The fact that so many former Manchester City players have left the club full of bad feeling and frustration proves the philosophy at City is dangerous. Petrov can now settle down and focus on having an impact for Bolton.
Worrying signs
There are some very worrying signs that can all be linked to Manchester City because of the way that former players are reacting. Petrov joins Craig Bellamy and Stephen Ireland in slamming the club for a lack of communication between staff and players. These are players that were apparently the future of Manchester City two years ago.
It shows that Manchester City may not have the right sort of infrastructure to maintain a positive working relationship with a number of fringe players. This means that players who fall out of favour at Manchester City may not hear anything about their futures for a long time.
The negative comments also prove that the way the club is spending money may not necessarily mean that City has the future of players in mind when they initially sign them. Success is not everything and all football clubs have to maintain a happy squad.
Petrov said: "One hundred percent no, I don't miss City. If I accepted their one-year offer now I would be on loan somewhere else. At City nothing is clear. The team are looking for identity."
Bolton career
Petrov is now able to focus on his Bolton career and having the best possible impact that he can at the club. He has not started the season particularly well at his new club but has admitted that he enjoys the company and the training a lot more than when he was at City.
He is the best winger that Botlon has and this means he will have the chance to play in more games. All the majority of professional players want is to play every week for their contracted team. This means he can let the football do the talking but it's clear he had frustrations about Manchester City on his mind.
He added: "At the moment at City people are becoming more bad than good. The human relationships are lost and the trust is lost too. In this situation the players are going to play like millionaires in games and are not a team on the pitch."
Betting advice
Petrov is a very good attacking player who can score some fantastic goals. He will start a lot of games at Bolton and will be a good bet to score at any time in any match against a team that Bolton are fancied to beat. He could easily become the highest scoring midfield player at the club if he gets on a good run of form.
Be a little more wary about backing him to score in games against the best teams in the country. This is because these teams will find a way to stop him having any influence on a match. They also have better defenders who can deal with pace and skill more efficiently.
Arsenal and England winger Theo Walcott says criticism is something he no longer worries about.
Walcott remains one of the most exciting young players in England and his good start to the season has gone a long way to silencing his critics. However, there are still some people that question his ability to play at the highest level.
Walcott has never really managed to make the transition from playing well in the Arsenal team to playing well in the England team. He now has a great chance to do so as England prepares to start their European 2012 qualification campaign.
There are many areas of Walcott's game that seem to have improved over the course of the summer. However, he will always have his doubters that say he is physically too weak to be brilliant for England.
Improved game
Walcott has improved the timing of his runs forward and this has been clear in his early season performances at Arsenal. He has always had pace to burn and this is evident in any game he plays. He's only just started to time his runs perfectly where as before he would often make a run either too early or too late.
Walcott's crossing has come a long way and this is something he has been heavily criticised for over the last 12 months. He frequently gets beyond the last defender in a team and has only just started to pick out precise and accurate passes whereas before he may have wasted a chance.
His mentality seems to be much better. He has taken too many negative comments personally over the last two years. When he hasn't been in form it has been obvious that he may be thinking of these comments too much and not focusing on the ball at his feet.
Walcott said: "Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. The people I listen to are the boss (Wenger), Mr Capello, the players and my family. They are the most important people in my career. As long as I can continue to listen to them, hopefully it will be fine and I can do the talking on the pitch."
The doubters
Walcott will always have his doubters because there are some that don't believe he has made much progress from the first day that he joined Arsenal. A lot of this is due to his size. He is a small player and a lot of people expected him to bulk out, which he has not done.
This means it is much easier for opposition defences to brush him off of the ball and bully him out of the game. The people that criticise him for this will not be convinced until he can go into a 50/50 challenge against a big defender and come out on top.
He added: "In my career, so many people have a go at me, constructive players having a go at me, but if they do something wrong I tell them as well. It goes both ways. I have been around for a long time and this is the season to push on, prove people wrong and play every game when I can with no injuries."
Betting advice
Walcott is in the best form of his Arsenal career regardless of what his critics say. He will be playing with energy and confidence and this means he will be much more likely to score in any game. Take advantage of this because you will get good odds on Walcott now that he plays more on the wing than up front.
Arsenal remain a good bet for all competitions they are active in this season.
Petrov slams Manchester City
Petrov slams Manchester City
Bolton Wanderers winger Martin Petrov has become the latest player to slam his former club Manchester City.
Petrov signed for Bolton after it emerged that he was not going to feature in Manchester City's plans for the new season. He says the alarm bells started going off when the club signed a number of players that play in his position.
Petrov did not cost Bolton a single penny and although the winger is still clearly hurting from not being offered a new contract at City, he says that he does not miss the club one little bit.
The fact that so many former Manchester City players have left the club full of bad feeling and frustration proves the philosophy at City is dangerous. Petrov can now settle down and focus on having an impact for Bolton.
Worrying signs
There are some very worrying signs that can all be linked to Manchester City because of the way that former players are reacting. Petrov joins Craig Bellamy and Stephen Ireland in slamming the club for a lack of communication between staff and players. These are players that were apparently the future of Manchester City two years ago.
It shows that Manchester City may not have the right sort of infrastructure to maintain a positive working relationship with a number of fringe players. This means that players who fall out of favour at Manchester City may not hear anything about their futures for a long time.
The negative comments also prove that the way the club is spending money may not necessarily mean that City has the future of players in mind when they initially sign them. Success is not everything and all football clubs have to maintain a happy squad.
Petrov said: "One hundred percent no, I don't miss City. If I accepted their one-year offer now I would be on loan somewhere else. At City nothing is clear. The team are looking for identity."
Bolton career
Petrov is now able to focus on his Bolton career and having the best possible impact that he can at the club. He has not started the season particularly well at his new club but has admitted that he enjoys the company and the training a lot more than when he was at City.
He is the best winger that Botlon has and this means he will have the chance to play in more games. All the majority of professional players want is to play every week for their contracted team. This means he can let the football do the talking but it's clear he had frustrations about Manchester City on his mind.
He added: "At the moment at City people are becoming more bad than good. The human relationships are lost and the trust is lost too. In this situation the players are going to play like millionaires in games and are not a team on the pitch."
Betting advice
Petrov is a very good attacking player who can score some fantastic goals. He will start a lot of games at Bolton and will be a good bet to score at any time in any match against a team that Bolton are fancied to beat. He could easily become the highest scoring midfield player at the club if he gets on a good run of form.
Be a little more wary about backing him to score in games against the best teams in the country. This is because these teams will find a way to stop him having any influence on a match. They also have better defenders who can deal with pace and skill more efficiently.
Arsenal Close to Signing “New Cristiano Ronaldo”, Ryo Miyaichi
Arsenal have offered a five year contract to Japanese youngster and future super star, Ryo Miyaichi, this is despite the fact that the player is currently nursing a broken leg.
Miyaichi who is currently only seventeen years old, was outstanding in his trial against Boreham wood, last month. Arsenal are now understood to have beaten numerous teams to get the players signature. The teams that they over took include, Ajax, Cologne and AC Milan. The player picked up his leg injury while he was on trial with the Dutch outfit, Ajax. However this has not made Arsene Wenger change his mind about the player.
The Japanese under-19 player is expected to tie up a final deal with Arsenal as early as December the fourteenth. That is because the player will be turning eighteen then.
Miyaichi currently stands at six feet tall and is blessed with blistering pace and tremendous technique. These abilities are what have made the player earn links to the likes of Cristiano Roanldo.
The numerous experts who have been happy enough to watch the player perform, have agreed with the fact that Ryo Miyaichi is just as good as he is reputed to be. Considering Arsene Wenger is a manger who likes to do his research in depth before signing a player could prove that the player is going to be great.
Wenger is also willing to offer the player a five year contract, this is despite the fact that Miyaichi is currently only seventeen years old. The player has a powerful built and his talent has been chased by almost every team that can be thought of. The player has opted to however move to Arsenal instead because he is more than aware of the fact, that Wenger tends to bring the best out of his player.
The manager is also well reputed for being a harnesser of players talents and this is something that would have attracted the youngster to joining the team even further.
On the down side the news of a relatively unknown player, would do little to please the Arsenal fans who would have been hoping to have signed at least well renowned player before the transfer window finally closed.
Wenger was expected to bring in at least one decent goal keeper to replace Manuel Almunia as Arsenal’s number one, however he failed to do so.
The reason for Wenger being so insistent on signing the player, is because he already previously admitted to losing out on the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was also on the mangers radar, but ended up signing for Manchester United instead.
The inclusion of another pacy trickster, could however do wonders for the Arsenal attack. Players like Theo Walcott have just started to pick up on their form and with Arshavin nearing his retirement sooner rather than later, a pacy winger with good foot work on both the wings could just help Arsenal become even better than they already are, this is because the future of the modern game of football is pace. With Arsenal looking to possess two of the best players of the future who have that talent, they could just happen to have another great season.
Miyaichi who is currently only seventeen years old, was outstanding in his trial against Boreham wood, last month. Arsenal are now understood to have beaten numerous teams to get the players signature. The teams that they over took include, Ajax, Cologne and AC Milan. The player picked up his leg injury while he was on trial with the Dutch outfit, Ajax. However this has not made Arsene Wenger change his mind about the player.
The Japanese under-19 player is expected to tie up a final deal with Arsenal as early as December the fourteenth. That is because the player will be turning eighteen then.
Miyaichi currently stands at six feet tall and is blessed with blistering pace and tremendous technique. These abilities are what have made the player earn links to the likes of Cristiano Roanldo.
The numerous experts who have been happy enough to watch the player perform, have agreed with the fact that Ryo Miyaichi is just as good as he is reputed to be. Considering Arsene Wenger is a manger who likes to do his research in depth before signing a player could prove that the player is going to be great.
Wenger is also willing to offer the player a five year contract, this is despite the fact that Miyaichi is currently only seventeen years old. The player has a powerful built and his talent has been chased by almost every team that can be thought of. The player has opted to however move to Arsenal instead because he is more than aware of the fact, that Wenger tends to bring the best out of his player.
The manager is also well reputed for being a harnesser of players talents and this is something that would have attracted the youngster to joining the team even further.
On the down side the news of a relatively unknown player, would do little to please the Arsenal fans who would have been hoping to have signed at least well renowned player before the transfer window finally closed.
Wenger was expected to bring in at least one decent goal keeper to replace Manuel Almunia as Arsenal’s number one, however he failed to do so.
The reason for Wenger being so insistent on signing the player, is because he already previously admitted to losing out on the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was also on the mangers radar, but ended up signing for Manchester United instead.
The inclusion of another pacy trickster, could however do wonders for the Arsenal attack. Players like Theo Walcott have just started to pick up on their form and with Arshavin nearing his retirement sooner rather than later, a pacy winger with good foot work on both the wings could just help Arsenal become even better than they already are, this is because the future of the modern game of football is pace. With Arsenal looking to possess two of the best players of the future who have that talent, they could just happen to have another great season.
Tottenham Name 25 Man Premier League Squad: Jonathan Woodgate Misses Out
Tottenham Name 25 Man Premier League Squad: Jonathan Woodgate Misses Out
Tottenham have managed to name a twenty five man squad for the first half of the English Premier League season. They are one of the few teams who have named a complete twenty five man team, while many of the other teams have named a number of players varying between, nineteen and twenty four.
One of the most crucial things to note out of Tottenham’s squad selection, is the exclusion of Jonthan Woodgate from the team. The defender has not been named in the twenty five man squad and will not be allowed to participate in any matches, till his name is included in the revised list which will be published at the end of January.
Tottenham Ham managed to make a dead line, last day, last second signing for Dutch international, Rafael Van der Vaart, who made his way to the team from Real Madrid. The player has managed to make the twenty five man list with ease.
Along with the Dutchman making the side, the teams two other summer singings, William Gallas and Stipe Pletikosa also managed to make the cut to be included in the squad.
Players like, Jamie O’Hara and Jermaine Jenas have also been included in the squad despite the fact that the players, had been strongly linked with moves away from the club.
Here is the final twenty five man squad list that Tottenham have presented to the English Premier League for the coming first half of the season.
Tottenham squad: Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Sebastian Bassong, David Bentley, Vedran Corluka, Peter Crouch, Carlo Cudicini, Heurelho Gomes, Michael Dawson, Jermain Defoe, William Gallas, Tom Huddlestone, Allan Hutton, Jermaine Jenas, Younes Kaboul, Robbie Keane, Ledley King, Niko Kranjcar, Aaron Lennon, Luka Modric, Kyle Naughton, Jamie O’Hara, Wilson Palacios, Roman Pavlyuchenko, Stipe Pletikosa, Rafael Van Der Vaart.
The team already looks to be one of the strongest in the Premier League. Considering the fact that Tottenham will also be playing in the Champions League this season, they seem to have some decent replacements for players, who might suffer from fatigue or injuries.
Apart from the strong group of players that the team has, Harry Redknapp can also call upon as many under 21 players that he wants. This could prove to be the decisive factor because the manager will now have players like, Gareth Bale and Giovani Dos Santos available as extras. Even thought the players are anything but extras, they can be included in the squad without being mentioned in the twenty five man short list. This could be one of the greatest assets that the team has for the coming season.
With Rafael Van der Vaart, filling in the final spot that the team had, Tottenham might just silence all their doubters this season. They have been given a tough Champions’ League group but with their available players they could maybe go even further than expected.
Tottenham are sure to be the surprise team this season. They have more than a decent number of players playing in every position. They have at least three to four centre backs, more than a capable midfield and a pretty good offensive lineup.
Arsenal Close to Signing “New Cristiano Ronaldo”, Ryo Miyaichi
Tottenham have managed to name a twenty five man squad for the first half of the English Premier League season. They are one of the few teams who have named a complete twenty five man team, while many of the other teams have named a number of players varying between, nineteen and twenty four.
One of the most crucial things to note out of Tottenham’s squad selection, is the exclusion of Jonthan Woodgate from the team. The defender has not been named in the twenty five man squad and will not be allowed to participate in any matches, till his name is included in the revised list which will be published at the end of January.
Tottenham Ham managed to make a dead line, last day, last second signing for Dutch international, Rafael Van der Vaart, who made his way to the team from Real Madrid. The player has managed to make the twenty five man list with ease.
Along with the Dutchman making the side, the teams two other summer singings, William Gallas and Stipe Pletikosa also managed to make the cut to be included in the squad.
Players like, Jamie O’Hara and Jermaine Jenas have also been included in the squad despite the fact that the players, had been strongly linked with moves away from the club.
Here is the final twenty five man squad list that Tottenham have presented to the English Premier League for the coming first half of the season.
Tottenham squad: Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Sebastian Bassong, David Bentley, Vedran Corluka, Peter Crouch, Carlo Cudicini, Heurelho Gomes, Michael Dawson, Jermain Defoe, William Gallas, Tom Huddlestone, Allan Hutton, Jermaine Jenas, Younes Kaboul, Robbie Keane, Ledley King, Niko Kranjcar, Aaron Lennon, Luka Modric, Kyle Naughton, Jamie O’Hara, Wilson Palacios, Roman Pavlyuchenko, Stipe Pletikosa, Rafael Van Der Vaart.
The team already looks to be one of the strongest in the Premier League. Considering the fact that Tottenham will also be playing in the Champions League this season, they seem to have some decent replacements for players, who might suffer from fatigue or injuries.
Apart from the strong group of players that the team has, Harry Redknapp can also call upon as many under 21 players that he wants. This could prove to be the decisive factor because the manager will now have players like, Gareth Bale and Giovani Dos Santos available as extras. Even thought the players are anything but extras, they can be included in the squad without being mentioned in the twenty five man short list. This could be one of the greatest assets that the team has for the coming season.
With Rafael Van der Vaart, filling in the final spot that the team had, Tottenham might just silence all their doubters this season. They have been given a tough Champions’ League group but with their available players they could maybe go even further than expected.
Tottenham are sure to be the surprise team this season. They have more than a decent number of players playing in every position. They have at least three to four centre backs, more than a capable midfield and a pretty good offensive lineup.
Arsenal Close to Signing “New Cristiano Ronaldo”, Ryo Miyaichi
Mikel Arteta's international dream is dead
Mikel Arteta's international dream is dead
Over the last decade or so England have failed to perform to their expectations. However most people can say that, that has always been the case with the team. On paper England have one of the best line ups that a team could ask for, but when the same team takes the field, disaster strikes.
The one link in the team that can be held responsible for this end result, is the lack of midfield coordination and inspiration that a team requires to go all the way. England have two of the best midfielders in the world at the moment, namely Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. Both the players have proven their worth over the past and have shown just why they are considered to be the best at what they do.
However despite that fact, the two cannot seem to get along in the midfield for England. This has led Fabio Capello to make one of the toughest decisions of his life, the manager doesn’t know if he should let one of the players leave the team. Even though it might appear that Gerrard would be the better choice of the two to keep in the squad, statistically however if the players stats are compared over the last couple of seasons the better player to keep would be Frank Lampard, who has scored over twenty goals in almost every season that he has played for Chelsea.
Apart from that Capello was believed to have turned to the Spanish born Mikel Arteta, to help strengthen the side. This is because Arteta has spent more than five years in England and is eligible to receiving and English nationality.
This move seemed to be shaping up rather nicely, however FIFA issued some new rules have shattered the players dreams of ever appearing for the English side.
"Article 18.1.a within the Fifa statutes outlines that any player who has represented their country in an official competition, at whatever level, would at that time need to have held a passport for the country they later wish to play for in order to be permitted to make the switch."
Arteta played for Spain in the Under-16 European Championships and then in the FIFA World Championships at Under-17 level.
"However, because Arteta has played for Spain at junior level, he would have had to have held a British passport at the same time in order to be eligible. Our understanding is that he is ineligible to play,” Is what the football association has said in response to this article that FIFA have issued.
Its fairly clear that the player will now never be allowed to appear in the English national side, because of the fact that he played for Spain when he was well below the age of seventeen and had no idea what the future would have in store for him. This little known rule by FIFA might seem to cause an uproar to some other players who might have not been aware of this rule. The closest that Arteta would come to playing for England is when he plays for Everton.
However the player might yet be able to spark a magical return to the Spanish national side, where he hasn’t made a senior appearance for almost forever. The player has the quality and the technique to play amongst the very best, but it would be interesting to see if the player is considered by the Spanish coach Del Bosque, to play alongside the likes of Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta.
Over the last decade or so England have failed to perform to their expectations. However most people can say that, that has always been the case with the team. On paper England have one of the best line ups that a team could ask for, but when the same team takes the field, disaster strikes.
The one link in the team that can be held responsible for this end result, is the lack of midfield coordination and inspiration that a team requires to go all the way. England have two of the best midfielders in the world at the moment, namely Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. Both the players have proven their worth over the past and have shown just why they are considered to be the best at what they do.
However despite that fact, the two cannot seem to get along in the midfield for England. This has led Fabio Capello to make one of the toughest decisions of his life, the manager doesn’t know if he should let one of the players leave the team. Even though it might appear that Gerrard would be the better choice of the two to keep in the squad, statistically however if the players stats are compared over the last couple of seasons the better player to keep would be Frank Lampard, who has scored over twenty goals in almost every season that he has played for Chelsea.
Apart from that Capello was believed to have turned to the Spanish born Mikel Arteta, to help strengthen the side. This is because Arteta has spent more than five years in England and is eligible to receiving and English nationality.
This move seemed to be shaping up rather nicely, however FIFA issued some new rules have shattered the players dreams of ever appearing for the English side.
"Article 18.1.a within the Fifa statutes outlines that any player who has represented their country in an official competition, at whatever level, would at that time need to have held a passport for the country they later wish to play for in order to be permitted to make the switch."
Arteta played for Spain in the Under-16 European Championships and then in the FIFA World Championships at Under-17 level.
"However, because Arteta has played for Spain at junior level, he would have had to have held a British passport at the same time in order to be eligible. Our understanding is that he is ineligible to play,” Is what the football association has said in response to this article that FIFA have issued.
Its fairly clear that the player will now never be allowed to appear in the English national side, because of the fact that he played for Spain when he was well below the age of seventeen and had no idea what the future would have in store for him. This little known rule by FIFA might seem to cause an uproar to some other players who might have not been aware of this rule. The closest that Arteta would come to playing for England is when he plays for Everton.
However the player might yet be able to spark a magical return to the Spanish national side, where he hasn’t made a senior appearance for almost forever. The player has the quality and the technique to play amongst the very best, but it would be interesting to see if the player is considered by the Spanish coach Del Bosque, to play alongside the likes of Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta.
Homegrown players: Ashley Cole, John Terry, Frank Lampard and Ross Turnbull
Non homegrown players: Petr Cech, Branislav Ivanovic, Michael Essien, Ramires, Yossi Benayoun, Didier Drogba , John Mikel Obi, Florent Malouda, Jose Bosingwa, Yuri Zhirkov, Paulo Ferreira, Salomon Kalou, Alex, Henrique Hilario and Nicolas Anelka.
Chelsea seem to possess a more than capable squad. They have one of the best defensive line ups that a team could ask for. That coupled with Frank Lampard and Essien in the midfield is only going to make the team one of the best. The attacking threats that Chelsea possess are also one of the best in the league, with Drogba and Malouda already showing their form. It is safe to say that Chelsea are going to be the team to beat this season and that they won’t let go of their crown of being English Champions that easily.
Another major boost to the Chelsea squad is the availability of their under-21 players. These players could prove to be highly useful in the Carling Cup and the FA Cup matches, when the senior players of the side would want to be rested by the manager
Chelsea seem to possess a more than capable squad. They have one of the best defensive line ups that a team could ask for. That coupled with Frank Lampard and Essien in the midfield is only going to make the team one of the best. The attacking threats that Chelsea possess are also one of the best in the league, with Drogba and Malouda already showing their form. It is safe to say that Chelsea are going to be the team to beat this season and that they won’t let go of their crown of being English Champions that easily.
Another major boost to the Chelsea squad is the availability of their under-21 players. These players could prove to be highly useful in the Carling Cup and the FA Cup matches, when the senior players of the side would want to be rested by the manager
Chelsea Name A Reduced Squad With Only Four Homegrown Players
Chelsea Name A Reduced Squad With Only Four Homegrown Players
Chelsea have managed to name only four homegrown players in their 25 man squad for the 2010-2011 season, when according to the new Premier League rules it was a compulsion to have at least eight homegrown players.
According to the new Premier League regulations for the 2010-2011 season, all the Premier League teams must register a minimum of eight homegrown players and a maximum of 17 non homegrown players. However, it was said that a reduced number of players could be submitted if the club failed to have eight players for that category.
The homegrown players are those who have been trained for three years or more by an English or Welsh club before the age of 21. Examples of Chelsea players who meet these requirements are John Terry, Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole.
The rules also state that once the list is named no changes can be made until the transfer window closes. Players older than 25 years and players under the age of 21 cannot be selected and would therefore be forced to stay on the sidelines.
Clubs are permitted to use an unlimited number of younger players, under the age of 21, regardless of what nationality they hold. Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti can benefit from this as he has an army of youngsters at his disposal. Even with the restrictions Chelsea have Daniel Sturridge, Patric van Aanholt, Jeffrey Bruma, Gael Kakuta, Josh McEachran and Fabio Borini available.
Following the closure of the summer transfer window, the top flight clubs made their squad selections by 5pm on Wednesday. Unlike their rivals, Chelsea did not spend big this summer. It was an unexpected decision by Ancelotti who was linked with big names, but failed to bring in the desired players.
This summer saw Michael Ballack, Joe Cole, Ricardo Carvalho and Deco all part ways with the Blues. These were established; experienced players and their departure left a void which Ancelotti did not fill.
Chelsea only signed two players, former Liverpool player Yossi Benayoun and Brazilian youngster Ramires. And with the departure of some old players it seemed like the Blues would not do as well as last season when they won their first double.
However, they have got off to a roaring start, scoring 14 goals in their three opening fixtures.
Chelsea have managed to name only four homegrown players in their 25 man squad for the 2010-2011 season, when according to the new Premier League rules it was a compulsion to have at least eight homegrown players.
According to the new Premier League regulations for the 2010-2011 season, all the Premier League teams must register a minimum of eight homegrown players and a maximum of 17 non homegrown players. However, it was said that a reduced number of players could be submitted if the club failed to have eight players for that category.
The homegrown players are those who have been trained for three years or more by an English or Welsh club before the age of 21. Examples of Chelsea players who meet these requirements are John Terry, Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole.
The rules also state that once the list is named no changes can be made until the transfer window closes. Players older than 25 years and players under the age of 21 cannot be selected and would therefore be forced to stay on the sidelines.
Clubs are permitted to use an unlimited number of younger players, under the age of 21, regardless of what nationality they hold. Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti can benefit from this as he has an army of youngsters at his disposal. Even with the restrictions Chelsea have Daniel Sturridge, Patric van Aanholt, Jeffrey Bruma, Gael Kakuta, Josh McEachran and Fabio Borini available.
Following the closure of the summer transfer window, the top flight clubs made their squad selections by 5pm on Wednesday. Unlike their rivals, Chelsea did not spend big this summer. It was an unexpected decision by Ancelotti who was linked with big names, but failed to bring in the desired players.
This summer saw Michael Ballack, Joe Cole, Ricardo Carvalho and Deco all part ways with the Blues. These were established; experienced players and their departure left a void which Ancelotti did not fill.
Chelsea only signed two players, former Liverpool player Yossi Benayoun and Brazilian youngster Ramires. And with the departure of some old players it seemed like the Blues would not do as well as last season when they won their first double.
However, they have got off to a roaring start, scoring 14 goals in their three opening fixtures.
Football Preview - UEFA Champions League Draw
Football Preview - UEFA Champions League Draw
10 more clubs have joined the 22 automatic entrants to complete the line-up for the 2010-11 UEFA Champions’ League group stage.
2nd legs of the play-off round were held on 24th and 25th August. Usual Champions League featuring clubs like Sevilla, Dynamo Kiev, Sparta Prague and Anderlecht could not overcome their rivals and will now compete in the second tier of the European club competition i.e. UEFA Europa League.
The most shocking result in the play-off round was produced by SC Braga of Portugal when they defeated Sevilla 4-3 in the second leg when playing away last night and 5-3 on aggregate.
SC Braga will make their first appearance in the group stage of the Champions League along with other five debutants including Tottenham Hotspurs, FC Twente, Tel-Aviv Hapoel, Bursaspor and Zilina.
Manchester United will be in the draws for the record 16th time out of the possible 19 (since change in the format of the competition from European Cup to Champions League in 1992). All 16 appearances of Manchester United have come in succession since their return to the competition after 25 years in 1994.
Both Spanish Giants Barcelona and Real Madrid will be making their 15th appearance in the Champions League, and 14th by AC Milan and Bayern Munich, and 13th by Arsenal.
In total, 18 countries will be represented in the draw. Tottenham Hotspurs win over Young Boys in the play-off round with 6-3 aggregate score means that England will be the only country to have 4 clubs in this year’s group stage. 3 teams each will participate from Spain, Italy, Germany and France while 2 each from Netherlands, Russia and Portugal.
Remarkably, only 12 of last year’s 32 group stage teams could keep their place in this year’s competition, which includes the holders Inter Milan, Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, AC Milan, Lyon, Real Madrid, Marseille, Rangers, Rubin Kazan and the losing finalists Bayern Munich.
The 32 teams are divided in four seeding pots which depend upon their coefficients. Coefficients of each European club are determined by their performance in domestic and continental competitions in past five years while the defending champions are always placed as the top-seeded team in the draw.
Eight groups will be formed with one team from each seeding pot. Teams from the same federation cannot face each other in either group stage or the first knock-out round.
For example, Tottenham Hotspurs cannot be drawn with Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal in the same group but could find any of Inter Milan, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, AC Milan and Lyon in the same group.
Second pot contains a whole set of very competitive teams but the most important is Real Madrid. Apart from Barcelona, they can be drawn with any of the other seven Pot 1 teams, making the draw more intriguing. Cristiano Ronaldo can make his first visit to Old Trafford after his last year’s move to Real Madrid if they are drawn with Manchester United. Coach Jose Mourinho could also face his former clubs Inter Milan and Chelsea.
The draw for the group stage of UEFA Champions League 2010-11 will be conducted at 1600 hours (GMT) on Thursday, 26th August at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.
The final of the competition will be played at the Wembley on 28th May 2011.
Complete four seeding pots are as below:
Pot 1: Inter Milan, Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Lyon
Pot 2: Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, AS Roma, Shakhtar Donetsk, Benfica, Valencia, Marseille, Panathinaikos
Pot 3: Tottenham Hotspurs, Rangers, Ajax, Schalke, Basel, SC Braga, FC Copenhagen, Spartak Moscow
Pot 4: Hapoel Tel Aviv, FC Twente, Rubin Kazan, AJ Auxerre, CFR Cluj, Partizan Belgrade, MSK Zilina, Bursaspor
The draw for the group stage of the UEFA Europa League 2010-11 will also take place in Monaco at 1100 hours (GMT) on Friday, 27th August, which would feature 48 teams in total and could include the likes of Liverpool, Juventus, Manchester City, Sevilla, Bayer Leverkusen and Celtic.
10 more clubs have joined the 22 automatic entrants to complete the line-up for the 2010-11 UEFA Champions’ League group stage.
2nd legs of the play-off round were held on 24th and 25th August. Usual Champions League featuring clubs like Sevilla, Dynamo Kiev, Sparta Prague and Anderlecht could not overcome their rivals and will now compete in the second tier of the European club competition i.e. UEFA Europa League.
The most shocking result in the play-off round was produced by SC Braga of Portugal when they defeated Sevilla 4-3 in the second leg when playing away last night and 5-3 on aggregate.
SC Braga will make their first appearance in the group stage of the Champions League along with other five debutants including Tottenham Hotspurs, FC Twente, Tel-Aviv Hapoel, Bursaspor and Zilina.
Manchester United will be in the draws for the record 16th time out of the possible 19 (since change in the format of the competition from European Cup to Champions League in 1992). All 16 appearances of Manchester United have come in succession since their return to the competition after 25 years in 1994.
Both Spanish Giants Barcelona and Real Madrid will be making their 15th appearance in the Champions League, and 14th by AC Milan and Bayern Munich, and 13th by Arsenal.
In total, 18 countries will be represented in the draw. Tottenham Hotspurs win over Young Boys in the play-off round with 6-3 aggregate score means that England will be the only country to have 4 clubs in this year’s group stage. 3 teams each will participate from Spain, Italy, Germany and France while 2 each from Netherlands, Russia and Portugal.
Remarkably, only 12 of last year’s 32 group stage teams could keep their place in this year’s competition, which includes the holders Inter Milan, Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, AC Milan, Lyon, Real Madrid, Marseille, Rangers, Rubin Kazan and the losing finalists Bayern Munich.
The 32 teams are divided in four seeding pots which depend upon their coefficients. Coefficients of each European club are determined by their performance in domestic and continental competitions in past five years while the defending champions are always placed as the top-seeded team in the draw.
Eight groups will be formed with one team from each seeding pot. Teams from the same federation cannot face each other in either group stage or the first knock-out round.
For example, Tottenham Hotspurs cannot be drawn with Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal in the same group but could find any of Inter Milan, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, AC Milan and Lyon in the same group.
Second pot contains a whole set of very competitive teams but the most important is Real Madrid. Apart from Barcelona, they can be drawn with any of the other seven Pot 1 teams, making the draw more intriguing. Cristiano Ronaldo can make his first visit to Old Trafford after his last year’s move to Real Madrid if they are drawn with Manchester United. Coach Jose Mourinho could also face his former clubs Inter Milan and Chelsea.
The draw for the group stage of UEFA Champions League 2010-11 will be conducted at 1600 hours (GMT) on Thursday, 26th August at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.
The final of the competition will be played at the Wembley on 28th May 2011.
Complete four seeding pots are as below:
Pot 1: Inter Milan, Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Lyon
Pot 2: Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, AS Roma, Shakhtar Donetsk, Benfica, Valencia, Marseille, Panathinaikos
Pot 3: Tottenham Hotspurs, Rangers, Ajax, Schalke, Basel, SC Braga, FC Copenhagen, Spartak Moscow
Pot 4: Hapoel Tel Aviv, FC Twente, Rubin Kazan, AJ Auxerre, CFR Cluj, Partizan Belgrade, MSK Zilina, Bursaspor
The draw for the group stage of the UEFA Europa League 2010-11 will also take place in Monaco at 1100 hours (GMT) on Friday, 27th August, which would feature 48 teams in total and could include the likes of Liverpool, Juventus, Manchester City, Sevilla, Bayer Leverkusen and Celtic.
FIFA 2010 football World Cup points table
FIFA 2010 football World Cup points table
FIFA 2010 football World Cup points table
With the final matches of the 2010 World Cup group stages now well underway, several nations are already back on home turf after being eliminated; while others are already contemplating their starting XI’s for the last 16.
Here’s the lowdown of every situation in Groups A-H.
Group A
Uruguay 3 2 1 0 4 0 +4 7
Mexico 3 1 1 1 3 2 +1 4
South Africa 3 1 1 1 3 5 −2 4
France 3 0 1 2 1 4 −3 1
France were flown back home from South Africa on economy class earlier this week after a humiliating World Cup under the leadership of Raymond Domenech. With in-camp disputes, players being sent home and technical directors quitting, Les Blues eventually finished their shameful campaign on one solitary point after drawing against Uruguay in the opening match.
Meanwhile, hosts South Africa done themselves proud after finishing with four points, which included a victory over the French. But it was Uruguay and Mexico who deservedly went through to the last 16 after sealing seven and four points respectively.
Group B
Argentina 3 3 0 0 7 1 +6 9
Korea Republic 3 1 1 1 5 6 −1 4
Greece 3 1 0 2 2 5 −3 3
Nigeria 3 0 1 2 3 5 −2 1
Many had been quick to write off Argentina following their dismal qualification campaign under flamboyant legend Diego Maradona. However, with three wins from their opening three matches, the Albicelestes are currently the team to beat in this summer’s World Cup finals.
South Korea will join them in the last 16 after a 2-2 draw with Nigeria on the final matchday of the group. Huh Jung-Moo’s side secured four points from their three matches; while Greece finished with one victory and two defeats to their name. Nigeria, though, were left to rue a shocking miss by Yakubu Aiyegbeni in the closing stages against the Greeks, and bow out of the tournament with one point.
Group C
United States 3 1 2 0 4 3 +1 5
England 3 1 2 0 2 1 +1 5
Slovenia 3 1 1 1 3 3 0 4
Algeria 3 0 1 2 0 2 −2 1
Following a nervy start to their campaign, England stumbled to qualification with a 1-0 win over Slovenia. Fabio Capello's men had drawn their first two matches in disappointing fashion against the USA and Algeria, but got the job done on the final day.
Slovenia were on course to join England in the last 16 with just minutes of their final group game to go. However, a late goal from Landon Donovan in the USA-Algeria match ensured Bob Bradley's team would top the group. England go through in second, while Algeria and Slovenia crash out.
Group D
Germany 3 2 0 1 5 1 +4 6
Ghana 3 1 1 1 2 2 0 4
Australia 3 1 1 1 3 6 −3 4
Serbia 3 1 0 2 2 3 −1 3
Germany ensured a last 16 clash with old rivals England after finishing top of Group D ahead of Ghana. Joachim Loew’s side beat the Ghanaians 1-0 in the final group match; but this still proved enough for both sides to advance to the second round on six and four points respectively. Ghana go on to face the USA in Rustenburg.
Serbia were regarded by many as dark horses before the tournament started. However, a largely underwhelming showing saw them defeated by both Ghana and Australia – they did manage to beat the Germans, though. As for the Aussies, they valiantly pulled together to beat Serbia in their final match following a largely turbulent tournament.
Group E
Netherlands 3 3 0 0 5 1 +4 9
Japan 3 2 0 1 4 2 +2 6
Denmark 3 1 0 2 3 6 −3 3
Cameroon 3 0 0 3 2 5 −3 0
The Netherlands are through to the last 16 and will face Slovakia this weekend in Durban. Comfortable wins over Denmark and Japan saw the Dutch secure maximum points from their three matches, although they've still yet to hit top gear.
Japan also qualified after a stunning final match against Denmark. Two glorious free-kicks from Keisuke Honda and Yasuhito Honda were among the goals in a 3-1 win in Rustenburg. Denmark were eliminated from the tournament after their two defeats; while Cameroon exit the finals without a single point to their name.
Group F
Paraguay 3 1 2 0 3 1 +2 5
Slovakia 3 1 1 1 4 5 −1 4
New Zealand 3 0 3 0 2 2 0 3
Italy 3 0 2 1 4 5 −1 2
World champions, Italy, were dumped out of the 2010 World Cup finals Slovakia in Johannesburg after a shock 3-2 victory. In what was perhaps the most thrilling game of the group stages, Marcello Lippi's side were eliminated from South Africa in the most embarassing fashion.
Slovakia's victory ensured that they would finish as runners-up behind Paraguay, and they will now face the Netherlands in Durban. The Paraguayans, meanwhile, will play dark horses Japan in Pretoria. New Zealand proved that there is still romance in the World Cup by finishing Group F without a single defeat to their name. Ricki Herbert's side done themselves proud in South Africa by securing three well-deserved draws.
Group G
Brazil 3 2 1 0 5 2 +3 7
Portugal 3 1 2 0 7 0 +7 5
Ivory Coast 3 1 1 1 4 3 +1 4
Korea DPR 3 0 0 3 1 12 −11 0
In the end, the so-called “Group of Death” produced few surprises. North Korea were touted as Group G’s whipping boys, but ended up given a good account of themselves in their opening match against Brazil – only losing by a one goal deficit.
However, in their second match against Portugal they were destroyed 7-0; and it was this demolition which effectively secured the Portuguese an intriguing last 16 match against Spain. Brazil, meanwhile, sealed their place in the second round after beating Ivory Coast as well as North Korea. Their final group match against Portugal in Durban was billed as a potential classic. Sadly, it failed to justify the hype, but Brazil and Portugal were happy enough to play out a 0-0 draw.
Group H
Spain 3 2 0 1 4 2 +2 6
Chile 3 2 0 1 3 2 +1 6
Switzerland 3 1 1 1 1 1 0 4
Honduras 3 0 1 2 0 3 −3 1
Before the tournament had even started, Spain were many people's choice to win their first ever World Cup. It was their Group H opponents, Switzerland, who pulled off the biggest shock of the first round, though, as Gelson Fernandes’ goal sealed a shock 1-0 victory over the Spaniards.
After that early scare, Spain showcased their credentials as potential World Cup winners with a thoroughly comprehensive 2-0 win against Honduras and a 2-1 win over Chile. The Chileans were very impressive in the group stages and deservedly sealed their place in the last 16. However, giant-killers, Switzerland, and the disappointing Honduras both crashed out.
FIFA 2010 football World Cup points table
With the final matches of the 2010 World Cup group stages now well underway, several nations are already back on home turf after being eliminated; while others are already contemplating their starting XI’s for the last 16.
Here’s the lowdown of every situation in Groups A-H.
Group A
Uruguay 3 2 1 0 4 0 +4 7
Mexico 3 1 1 1 3 2 +1 4
South Africa 3 1 1 1 3 5 −2 4
France 3 0 1 2 1 4 −3 1
France were flown back home from South Africa on economy class earlier this week after a humiliating World Cup under the leadership of Raymond Domenech. With in-camp disputes, players being sent home and technical directors quitting, Les Blues eventually finished their shameful campaign on one solitary point after drawing against Uruguay in the opening match.
Meanwhile, hosts South Africa done themselves proud after finishing with four points, which included a victory over the French. But it was Uruguay and Mexico who deservedly went through to the last 16 after sealing seven and four points respectively.
Group B
Argentina 3 3 0 0 7 1 +6 9
Korea Republic 3 1 1 1 5 6 −1 4
Greece 3 1 0 2 2 5 −3 3
Nigeria 3 0 1 2 3 5 −2 1
Many had been quick to write off Argentina following their dismal qualification campaign under flamboyant legend Diego Maradona. However, with three wins from their opening three matches, the Albicelestes are currently the team to beat in this summer’s World Cup finals.
South Korea will join them in the last 16 after a 2-2 draw with Nigeria on the final matchday of the group. Huh Jung-Moo’s side secured four points from their three matches; while Greece finished with one victory and two defeats to their name. Nigeria, though, were left to rue a shocking miss by Yakubu Aiyegbeni in the closing stages against the Greeks, and bow out of the tournament with one point.
Group C
United States 3 1 2 0 4 3 +1 5
England 3 1 2 0 2 1 +1 5
Slovenia 3 1 1 1 3 3 0 4
Algeria 3 0 1 2 0 2 −2 1
Following a nervy start to their campaign, England stumbled to qualification with a 1-0 win over Slovenia. Fabio Capello's men had drawn their first two matches in disappointing fashion against the USA and Algeria, but got the job done on the final day.
Slovenia were on course to join England in the last 16 with just minutes of their final group game to go. However, a late goal from Landon Donovan in the USA-Algeria match ensured Bob Bradley's team would top the group. England go through in second, while Algeria and Slovenia crash out.
Group D
Germany 3 2 0 1 5 1 +4 6
Ghana 3 1 1 1 2 2 0 4
Australia 3 1 1 1 3 6 −3 4
Serbia 3 1 0 2 2 3 −1 3
Germany ensured a last 16 clash with old rivals England after finishing top of Group D ahead of Ghana. Joachim Loew’s side beat the Ghanaians 1-0 in the final group match; but this still proved enough for both sides to advance to the second round on six and four points respectively. Ghana go on to face the USA in Rustenburg.
Serbia were regarded by many as dark horses before the tournament started. However, a largely underwhelming showing saw them defeated by both Ghana and Australia – they did manage to beat the Germans, though. As for the Aussies, they valiantly pulled together to beat Serbia in their final match following a largely turbulent tournament.
Group E
Netherlands 3 3 0 0 5 1 +4 9
Japan 3 2 0 1 4 2 +2 6
Denmark 3 1 0 2 3 6 −3 3
Cameroon 3 0 0 3 2 5 −3 0
The Netherlands are through to the last 16 and will face Slovakia this weekend in Durban. Comfortable wins over Denmark and Japan saw the Dutch secure maximum points from their three matches, although they've still yet to hit top gear.
Japan also qualified after a stunning final match against Denmark. Two glorious free-kicks from Keisuke Honda and Yasuhito Honda were among the goals in a 3-1 win in Rustenburg. Denmark were eliminated from the tournament after their two defeats; while Cameroon exit the finals without a single point to their name.
Group F
Paraguay 3 1 2 0 3 1 +2 5
Slovakia 3 1 1 1 4 5 −1 4
New Zealand 3 0 3 0 2 2 0 3
Italy 3 0 2 1 4 5 −1 2
World champions, Italy, were dumped out of the 2010 World Cup finals Slovakia in Johannesburg after a shock 3-2 victory. In what was perhaps the most thrilling game of the group stages, Marcello Lippi's side were eliminated from South Africa in the most embarassing fashion.
Slovakia's victory ensured that they would finish as runners-up behind Paraguay, and they will now face the Netherlands in Durban. The Paraguayans, meanwhile, will play dark horses Japan in Pretoria. New Zealand proved that there is still romance in the World Cup by finishing Group F without a single defeat to their name. Ricki Herbert's side done themselves proud in South Africa by securing three well-deserved draws.
Group G
Brazil 3 2 1 0 5 2 +3 7
Portugal 3 1 2 0 7 0 +7 5
Ivory Coast 3 1 1 1 4 3 +1 4
Korea DPR 3 0 0 3 1 12 −11 0
In the end, the so-called “Group of Death” produced few surprises. North Korea were touted as Group G’s whipping boys, but ended up given a good account of themselves in their opening match against Brazil – only losing by a one goal deficit.
However, in their second match against Portugal they were destroyed 7-0; and it was this demolition which effectively secured the Portuguese an intriguing last 16 match against Spain. Brazil, meanwhile, sealed their place in the second round after beating Ivory Coast as well as North Korea. Their final group match against Portugal in Durban was billed as a potential classic. Sadly, it failed to justify the hype, but Brazil and Portugal were happy enough to play out a 0-0 draw.
Group H
Spain 3 2 0 1 4 2 +2 6
Chile 3 2 0 1 3 2 +1 6
Switzerland 3 1 1 1 1 1 0 4
Honduras 3 0 1 2 0 3 −3 1
Before the tournament had even started, Spain were many people's choice to win their first ever World Cup. It was their Group H opponents, Switzerland, who pulled off the biggest shock of the first round, though, as Gelson Fernandes’ goal sealed a shock 1-0 victory over the Spaniards.
After that early scare, Spain showcased their credentials as potential World Cup winners with a thoroughly comprehensive 2-0 win against Honduras and a 2-1 win over Chile. The Chileans were very impressive in the group stages and deservedly sealed their place in the last 16. However, giant-killers, Switzerland, and the disappointing Honduras both crashed out.
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