A reflection on India U16′s superb showing in the AFC qualifiers and if we should be heralding the win as the coming of age of Indian football or if it’s just another false dawn showing what we are capable of but not what we can constantly achieve.
When was the last time an Indian football aficionado fell back fondly on performances of the Indian team? Nehru Cup in 2009? And before that? 2008 AFC Challenge Cup? The fact remains that for an Indian football fan, joy only comes in patches and sorrow/disappointment by the load. And when it does rain joy, it also brings with it hope of a future with much more success and fear of another embarrassing loss looming around the corner.
It was the same feeling I was torn between when our Under 16 team sealed a spot in the AFC main qualifiers with a stupendous show against some of the top teams in Asia. They now sit with the 39 best U16 teams in Asia and will look to spring another surprise or two enroute to the main event.
The Indian colts played 4 games winning 3 of them and crashing to an unpleasant defeat against hosts and last year’s finalists Uzbekistan, but the performance has had most Indians waxing lyrical about the talent our country possesses and what we could achieve if the youngsters were nurtured properly.
Joy
India’s show in the qualifiers bordered on both poor and excellent. It is tough to think of when an Indian football team (considering recent form, add the Indian cricket team as well) made such a strong start to a tournament. The youngsters showed Kyrgyzstan how it’s done with a 7-0 (yes, 7-0) win and followed that up with a classy performance. Up against a highly fancied Bahrain team, the Indian colts got through with a result many would’ve deemed unlikely at the start. India beat Bahrain 2-1 and looked set to seal the place in the main qualifying event, they just needed 1 more win to assure themselves of a spot and going on current form it looked on the cards. What made the victory all the more impressive was they way the boys came back in the second half after going a goal down. They kept building pressure against a solid Bahrain defense and eventually broke them down.
Despair
Kyrgyzstan and Bahrain were both ranked above the Indians in the group and the wins gave the team and their fans hope of upstaging giants Uzbekistan in the next game. The last edition’s finalists were clear favourites top the table being ranked #1 in the West Asia group and they certainly didn’t disappoint putting on an immaculate show to consign India to the depths again with a massive 9-0 win.The fear was back again – the story was all to similar – a solid start, a thumping received, team flattened, returning home disappointed. India would do immensely well to claw themselves back into the tournament after such a beating and the task ahead was mammoth. Tajikistan were higher ranked and in good form having won once and drawn once, a win for them would’ve sealed shut India’s chances. A win for Tajikistan too would give them a major push to reach the main qualifiers and a lot was at stake for both teams.
Joy
With things looking bleak the Indian U16 team sprung another surprise with a stunning display against their more esteemed opponents. They went a goal down again but showed admirable courage and ability to fightback by scoring 2 goals each half to assure themselves of another shot at going through to the main event. They won the game 4-1 and are now placed along with 38 other teams to fight The run in the tournament had belied the predictions of many pundits, but kept alive the hopes of millions that India can be a force to reckon with in the Asia circle at least. The coach, Thomas Joseph had given his team only a 50% chance of going through prior to the qualifiers in Uzbekistan. “We have a good team and we have practiced hard for the event. Uzbekistan are the hosts and stay the strong contenders. I’d say we have a 50-50 chance,” Thomas had said. But this team was much more than just ‘a good’ team as the results showed.
Before many celebrate the win as a herald for a new era of football in India, I must say a more cautious approach will benefit all parties concerned. Less heartache for the fans, less pressure for the players and subsequently a host of better performers for the country. But such a tremendous effort for such a young team cannot help but offer hope to many who want to see India as a tough competitor rather than just be lambs to the slaughter against tough opposition. And hope we will, because it has not forsaken our lands still.
Overhead or through the legs... It's all here
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Why Project Man City doesn’t convince me!
Think AC Milan and you think Paolo Maldini, Gennaro Gattuso. Think Manchester United and Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes will feature too. The same can be said about myriad other clubs worldwide. Often the road to glory for a football club has been thanks to an inspirational figure – manager, captain, etc. though recently it has been through money, truckloads of it.
Manchester City and their fans braced themselves for greatness after their club was taken over by big spending owners from Abu Dhabi in 2008. They have made and continue to make a list of signings, both inspiring and awe-inspiring, but every time I see project Man City something seems amiss – I have some how never been able to convince myself that the blue half of Manchester can match the capabilities and the greatness of their more illustrious, but spend thrifty contemporaries.
Seeing them hand a 5-1 drubbing to my favourite EPL club, Tottenham Hotspurs did not bring about the thought that they should fail, but neither did wins against Swansea, Wigan Atletic, Birmingham and Everton change my mind about them not challenging for top honours till they find a person who can truly attach himself to the club. They have been nothing short of marvelous so far and probably deserve all the accolades and predictions of them fighting to finish at the top of the league.
They certainly have a team capable of doing that. There are probably just a handful of clubs around the globe that can boast of a surplus of world class players for every position. Edin Dzeko, Kun Aguero, Carlos Tevez, Gareth Barry, David Silva, Yaya Toure… you get the point.
But the lack of an inspirational figure, one who ostentatiously feels for The Citizens, is what could pull the club back. In their current squad list, little known Chinedum Onuoha is the only player to have been playing for The Citizens since before 2005. Micah Richards comes in next having started in the senior team in 2005. The rest were, results of Man City’s spending power - there for money, lack of opportunities in their previous club, to use Man City as a springboard to get to their dream clubs etc. But would the likes of Dzeko, Aguero, Mauro I-cant-wear-my-own-bib Balotelli and Silva stay if, say, AC Milan, Barcelona or even Anzhi Makhachkala came calling? Would they turn down bigger offers and a definite chance at silverware year after year, one year down the lane? Would they stick with The Blues if they fail to reach the high target they have set for themselves after 2 or 3 years?
When Roman Abrahimovic bought Chelsea, in John Terry and Frank Lampard he already had 2 legends who could inspire and motivate the team to do well. Silvio Berlusconi could always fall back on players like Franco Baresi, Mauro Tassoti, etc do the job for the Rossoneri. For Florentino Perez, there was Raul, Iker Cassilas, etc. Unfortunately for Man City there is no such player. Tevez already wants out while the likes of Balotelli and Emanuel Adebayor have made The Citizens seem far less organized then they actually are.
Imagine The Citizens with 1 or more truly inspirational figure at the helm, someone the fans and the club can call their own. Someone who gives it their all and is committed to ensuring the club goes in the right direction. One who could tower over the many controversy magnets currently playing at the club and make certain to them that they, in no way, are bigger than the club. That's the Mancherster City opponents would dread, that's the Manchester City the fans would kill to watch and that's Manchester City people would soon come to love.
I'm in no tiny little way trying to say that this article is the final say, carved in stone. It is merely an opinion. I'd love to be proved wrong, for it makes for better watching, but honestly I don't see it happening till the time when you think of Man City and automatically think of a player associated with the team rather than just truckloads of money.
Manchester City and their fans braced themselves for greatness after their club was taken over by big spending owners from Abu Dhabi in 2008. They have made and continue to make a list of signings, both inspiring and awe-inspiring, but every time I see project Man City something seems amiss – I have some how never been able to convince myself that the blue half of Manchester can match the capabilities and the greatness of their more illustrious, but spend thrifty contemporaries.
Seeing them hand a 5-1 drubbing to my favourite EPL club, Tottenham Hotspurs did not bring about the thought that they should fail, but neither did wins against Swansea, Wigan Atletic, Birmingham and Everton change my mind about them not challenging for top honours till they find a person who can truly attach himself to the club. They have been nothing short of marvelous so far and probably deserve all the accolades and predictions of them fighting to finish at the top of the league.
They certainly have a team capable of doing that. There are probably just a handful of clubs around the globe that can boast of a surplus of world class players for every position. Edin Dzeko, Kun Aguero, Carlos Tevez, Gareth Barry, David Silva, Yaya Toure… you get the point.
But the lack of an inspirational figure, one who ostentatiously feels for The Citizens, is what could pull the club back. In their current squad list, little known Chinedum Onuoha is the only player to have been playing for The Citizens since before 2005. Micah Richards comes in next having started in the senior team in 2005. The rest were, results of Man City’s spending power - there for money, lack of opportunities in their previous club, to use Man City as a springboard to get to their dream clubs etc. But would the likes of Dzeko, Aguero, Mauro I-cant-wear-my-own-bib Balotelli and Silva stay if, say, AC Milan, Barcelona or even Anzhi Makhachkala came calling? Would they turn down bigger offers and a definite chance at silverware year after year, one year down the lane? Would they stick with The Blues if they fail to reach the high target they have set for themselves after 2 or 3 years?
When Roman Abrahimovic bought Chelsea, in John Terry and Frank Lampard he already had 2 legends who could inspire and motivate the team to do well. Silvio Berlusconi could always fall back on players like Franco Baresi, Mauro Tassoti, etc do the job for the Rossoneri. For Florentino Perez, there was Raul, Iker Cassilas, etc. Unfortunately for Man City there is no such player. Tevez already wants out while the likes of Balotelli and Emanuel Adebayor have made The Citizens seem far less organized then they actually are.
Imagine The Citizens with 1 or more truly inspirational figure at the helm, someone the fans and the club can call their own. Someone who gives it their all and is committed to ensuring the club goes in the right direction. One who could tower over the many controversy magnets currently playing at the club and make certain to them that they, in no way, are bigger than the club. That's the Mancherster City opponents would dread, that's the Manchester City the fans would kill to watch and that's Manchester City people would soon come to love.
I'm in no tiny little way trying to say that this article is the final say, carved in stone. It is merely an opinion. I'd love to be proved wrong, for it makes for better watching, but honestly I don't see it happening till the time when you think of Man City and automatically think of a player associated with the team rather than just truckloads of money.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Galliani's the man
AC Milan was seen as a club in crisis just under a year ago. Finishing 2009 at second spot, within touching distance of eternal rivals Inter Milan did not seem that bad. It had the fans hoping for Milan to break their 5 year jinx. But it also had the fans thinking and preparing themselves for the worst.
And the worst was just around the corner. With a team's average age resembling a sumptuous lady's bosom size and a list of injuries that would've had the opponents sniggering in delight, even the most ardent Milan fan would've thought the run in Serie A was too good to last.
They started in a way that dispelled our fears, 3 emphatic wins including a Ronaldinho inspired 3-0 away win at Turin, Juventus. With Inter turning their attentions to Champions League football, Milan were breathing down their necks only 2 points away.
The Derby della Madonnina was the next match, and on current form Milan looked set to leapfrog Inter and avenge the humiliating 4-0 loss earlier in the season. But Milan suffered another loss in the reverse encounter (2-0) and then on the only way was down for Milan. Resurgent Roma eased past them to second spot soon after and Milan just about hung on to the automatic CL spot under pressure from Sampdoria.
The season was a mixture of bouquet and brickbats for the legendary club. Bouquets for the manager and players for making a fight out of it, and brickbats for the higher ups for not investing in the club they had confessed their undying love for.
Owner Silvio Berlusconi and VP Adriano 'Uncle Fester' Galliani were looked upon as enemies to the club. And it seemed AC Milan was on its last legs as a top flight European club and would soon plummet the depths and bacome also-rans in the league.
A year has gone around, and now Milan boast of an attacking line up that can devour even the meanest of defences, a steady defence, promising youngsters and a mid-field that can always fall back on invaluable experience if their tired legs don't offer much.
Galliani has transformed Milan, this was the kind of transformation that Milan went through when it was bought by Berlusconi. A host of new stars changed the club into world beaters, and the period still remains vivid in the memories of many Milan fans as the Golden age of Milan.
Often compared with the incorrigible Unlce Fester, Galliani himslef seemed impossible to control last season when the higher ups kept refuting claims that the club was in crisis and the need for quality reinforcements was dire. Milan ended at a lowly 3rd spot after promising much and the result would've left many fans (including me) wondering what might have been if we had a few good players to back up the fatigued ones. And Milan fans echoed views that the club should be sold to someone who holds the future of the club in higher regard.
In came Galliani, dealt a few magical transfers and Milan are on course to repeat Inter heroics last year (Optimistic? Maybe).
Three world class forwards in Zlatan Ibrahimovic(loan), Robinho and Antonio Cassano for a combined total of around 20 million euros is jaw dropping enough. Add to this, awe-inspiring deals for KP Boateng (who was bought by Genoa and immediately sent to Milan), Mark Van Bommel and Urby Emanuelson for a little next to nothing and Galliani's value to Milan as a transfer guru doubles.
Now Milan sit pretty on top of Serie A and look set to break their jinx. The new additions to the squad have played a major part in the resurgence. Ibrahimovic has scored in plenty and turned provider on many occasions. Robinho confused us all saying his job is not to score goals, but hasn't done bad with his apparent secondary job chipping in with goals while Cassano is a bomb ready to explode.
Boateng too has made a huge impact on the squad, the fans and players alike taking a liking to the hard working Ghanian midfielder. Thiago Silva has already nicknamed him 'il treno senza freni’ – the train without brakes; and that is exactly the way the ex Tottenham player plays. Emanuelson and Van Bommel have only just arrived and will be key to the Milan
Galliani's work in the transfer market has drawn comparisons with the great Luciano Moggi of Juventus. The transfer guru made some inspired buys during his time including the big one of Zinedine Zidane.
Despite his success with his buys, Galliani was quick to do away with claims that Milan were the best players in the January window.
“I can't give a mark out of 10 to myself for the market. Inter have reinforced the most followed by Juventus and then the others. But I am not afraid of anyone."
What Zidane was to Moggi and Juventus, Ibra has and looks the part to be for Galliani and Milan.. thats what the Rossoneri faithful will be hoping for atleast.
And the worst was just around the corner. With a team's average age resembling a sumptuous lady's bosom size and a list of injuries that would've had the opponents sniggering in delight, even the most ardent Milan fan would've thought the run in Serie A was too good to last.
They started in a way that dispelled our fears, 3 emphatic wins including a Ronaldinho inspired 3-0 away win at Turin, Juventus. With Inter turning their attentions to Champions League football, Milan were breathing down their necks only 2 points away.
The Derby della Madonnina was the next match, and on current form Milan looked set to leapfrog Inter and avenge the humiliating 4-0 loss earlier in the season. But Milan suffered another loss in the reverse encounter (2-0) and then on the only way was down for Milan. Resurgent Roma eased past them to second spot soon after and Milan just about hung on to the automatic CL spot under pressure from Sampdoria.
The season was a mixture of bouquet and brickbats for the legendary club. Bouquets for the manager and players for making a fight out of it, and brickbats for the higher ups for not investing in the club they had confessed their undying love for.
Owner Silvio Berlusconi and VP Adriano 'Uncle Fester' Galliani were looked upon as enemies to the club. And it seemed AC Milan was on its last legs as a top flight European club and would soon plummet the depths and bacome also-rans in the league.
A year has gone around, and now Milan boast of an attacking line up that can devour even the meanest of defences, a steady defence, promising youngsters and a mid-field that can always fall back on invaluable experience if their tired legs don't offer much.
Galliani has transformed Milan, this was the kind of transformation that Milan went through when it was bought by Berlusconi. A host of new stars changed the club into world beaters, and the period still remains vivid in the memories of many Milan fans as the Golden age of Milan.
Often compared with the incorrigible Unlce Fester, Galliani himslef seemed impossible to control last season when the higher ups kept refuting claims that the club was in crisis and the need for quality reinforcements was dire. Milan ended at a lowly 3rd spot after promising much and the result would've left many fans (including me) wondering what might have been if we had a few good players to back up the fatigued ones. And Milan fans echoed views that the club should be sold to someone who holds the future of the club in higher regard.
In came Galliani, dealt a few magical transfers and Milan are on course to repeat Inter heroics last year (Optimistic? Maybe).
Three world class forwards in Zlatan Ibrahimovic(loan), Robinho and Antonio Cassano for a combined total of around 20 million euros is jaw dropping enough. Add to this, awe-inspiring deals for KP Boateng (who was bought by Genoa and immediately sent to Milan), Mark Van Bommel and Urby Emanuelson for a little next to nothing and Galliani's value to Milan as a transfer guru doubles.
Boateng too has made a huge impact on the squad, the fans and players alike taking a liking to the hard working Ghanian midfielder. Thiago Silva has already nicknamed him 'il treno senza freni’ – the train without brakes; and that is exactly the way the ex Tottenham player plays. Emanuelson and Van Bommel have only just arrived and will be key to the Milan
Galliani's work in the transfer market has drawn comparisons with the great Luciano Moggi of Juventus. The transfer guru made some inspired buys during his time including the big one of Zinedine Zidane.
Despite his success with his buys, Galliani was quick to do away with claims that Milan were the best players in the January window.
“I can't give a mark out of 10 to myself for the market. Inter have reinforced the most followed by Juventus and then the others. But I am not afraid of anyone."
What Zidane was to Moggi and Juventus, Ibra has and looks the part to be for Galliani and Milan.. thats what the Rossoneri faithful will be hoping for atleast.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Alexander Merkel: The Next Schweinsteiger?
Milan youngster Alexander Merkel is all set to become one of the tiny few German players to have had a successful stint in Italy. Jurgen Klinsmann and Oliver Biehoff, legends in their own right, were the stand out German players to have played in Italy.
The 18 year old showed tremendous promise and potential in his few outings with AC Milan which would probably have Germany boss Joachim Low take a second look at the budding midfielder.
Merkel is being touted as the next Bastian Schweinsteiger, and going by his performances for the current Serie A leaders one can see why these comparisons have been raised .
That the youngster gives the likes of Clarence Seedorf, Gennaro Gattuso, et al a run for their money in a side no less in success and pedigree as Rajinikanth is in movies speaks volumes of his can-do.
After his performances lately, the Italian press have been quick to label him a 'baby genius'. To be waiting on the benches and press for a permanent spot in a team like AC Milan, which prefers experience to youthful exuberance on most days, puts him along the likes of Kaka, Pato etc.. The duo are few of the very few who got a chance to play for Milan in their early 20 or even teens, recently atleast.
No he was not bought for a handsomne sum from another club and thrusted into the main team.. he made his way up rung by rung.. from the youth squad to now along the sidelines waiting to pounce once any golden oldies can't run anymore.
Milan's youth director Filippo Galli showers praise on the midfielder.
"Alex is very good technically, and his speed and endurance are very good," Galli told the Internet sports portal Spox. "He needs to improve a bit in making the right decisions on the pitch when he has the ball."
"His fundamentals are good, he passes well, and he's got a good sense for positional play," Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri told reporters after trying out the youngster in a series of test matches.
Playing with international superstars should keep Merkel in good stead for the future, and the youngster is quick to acknowledge that.
"Milan is one of the top clubs in the world, a team that has won all the titles there are and has a great tradition," Merkel said in an interview with the German Football League, the DFB. "Silvio Berlusconi comes to the grounds every once in a while, so you see him sometimes."
Being named in Goal.com's 10 Promising youngsters with the likes of Mesut Oezil and Sami Khedira is no mean feat, but for 'baby genius' life in the super league is just starting and Milan look to have sealed the services of a fantastic youngster.
The 18 year old showed tremendous promise and potential in his few outings with AC Milan which would probably have Germany boss Joachim Low take a second look at the budding midfielder.
Merkel is being touted as the next Bastian Schweinsteiger, and going by his performances for the current Serie A leaders one can see why these comparisons have been raised .
That the youngster gives the likes of Clarence Seedorf, Gennaro Gattuso, et al a run for their money in a side no less in success and pedigree as Rajinikanth is in movies speaks volumes of his can-do.
After his performances lately, the Italian press have been quick to label him a 'baby genius'. To be waiting on the benches and press for a permanent spot in a team like AC Milan, which prefers experience to youthful exuberance on most days, puts him along the likes of Kaka, Pato etc.. The duo are few of the very few who got a chance to play for Milan in their early 20 or even teens, recently atleast.
No he was not bought for a handsomne sum from another club and thrusted into the main team.. he made his way up rung by rung.. from the youth squad to now along the sidelines waiting to pounce once any golden oldies can't run anymore.
Milan's youth director Filippo Galli showers praise on the midfielder.
"Alex is very good technically, and his speed and endurance are very good," Galli told the Internet sports portal Spox. "He needs to improve a bit in making the right decisions on the pitch when he has the ball."
"His fundamentals are good, he passes well, and he's got a good sense for positional play," Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri told reporters after trying out the youngster in a series of test matches.
Playing with international superstars should keep Merkel in good stead for the future, and the youngster is quick to acknowledge that.
"Milan is one of the top clubs in the world, a team that has won all the titles there are and has a great tradition," Merkel said in an interview with the German Football League, the DFB. "Silvio Berlusconi comes to the grounds every once in a while, so you see him sometimes."
Being named in Goal.com's 10 Promising youngsters with the likes of Mesut Oezil and Sami Khedira is no mean feat, but for 'baby genius' life in the super league is just starting and Milan look to have sealed the services of a fantastic youngster.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Weekend's League reviews: ESPNSTAR
Italian Serie A: Click Here
Spanish La Liga: Click Here
English Premier League: Click Here
German Bundesliga: Click Here
Spanish La Liga: Click Here
English Premier League: Click Here
German Bundesliga: Click Here
Madrid readying massive bid for Spurs duo
Real Madrid are digging deep into their pockets to bring in Tottenham Hotspurs' Luca Modric and Gareth Bale. According to reports, the Spanish giants are readying a 100 million Pound offer for the two midfielders.
With Spurs boss Harry Redknapp mooted to be looking to bring back Lassana Diarra, a swap could be on the cards as well. It would be interesting to see if Redknapp will let go of two of his most important players for that much cash after having already said he will not sell his best players.
Jose Mourinho already has a host of midfield stars at his disposal at the Santiago Bernabau and Modric and Bale's move if the offer is accepted would be interesting. The two players have been outstanding performers in the Premier League and have been instrumental in taking Spurs to the Champions League last season.
Bale is currently considering a contract of £100,000-a-week while Modric penned a new long-term deal last year. Bale will become the highest paid player in Tottenham's history if he pens the deal.
With Spurs boss Harry Redknapp mooted to be looking to bring back Lassana Diarra, a swap could be on the cards as well. It would be interesting to see if Redknapp will let go of two of his most important players for that much cash after having already said he will not sell his best players.
Jose Mourinho already has a host of midfield stars at his disposal at the Santiago Bernabau and Modric and Bale's move if the offer is accepted would be interesting. The two players have been outstanding performers in the Premier League and have been instrumental in taking Spurs to the Champions League last season.
Bale is currently considering a contract of £100,000-a-week while Modric penned a new long-term deal last year. Bale will become the highest paid player in Tottenham's history if he pens the deal.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Results: For Sunday, Jan 23, 2011
English Premier League:
Blackburn 2-0 West Bromwich
La Liga:
Gijon 1-0 Atletico Madrid
Zaragoza 1-0 Deportivo
Getafe 1-3 Espanyol
Almeria 3-2 Osasuna
Real Madrid 1-0 Mallorca
Villarreal 2-1 Real Sociedad
Bundesliga
Mönchengladbach 1-3 Leverkusen
Hoffenheim 2-2 St. Pauli
Serie A
Udinese 3-1 Inter Milan
Chievo 0-0 Genoa
Sampdoria 0-0 Juventus
Bologna 3-1 Lazio
Fiorentina 1-1 Lecce
Bari 0-2 Napoli
AC Milan 2-0 Cesena
Liga Sagres
Benfica 4-2 Nacional
Blackburn 2-0 West Bromwich
La Liga:
Gijon 1-0 Atletico Madrid
Zaragoza 1-0 Deportivo
Getafe 1-3 Espanyol
Almeria 3-2 Osasuna
Real Madrid 1-0 Mallorca
Villarreal 2-1 Real Sociedad
Bundesliga
Mönchengladbach 1-3 Leverkusen
Hoffenheim 2-2 St. Pauli
Serie A
Udinese 3-1 Inter Milan
Chievo 0-0 Genoa
Sampdoria 0-0 Juventus
Bologna 3-1 Lazio
Fiorentina 1-1 Lecce
Bari 0-2 Napoli
AC Milan 2-0 Cesena
Liga Sagres
Benfica 4-2 Nacional
Ajax's Urby Emanuelson moves to Milan
AC Milan have at long last got a left sided player in Ajax's Urby Emanuelson. The Serie A club have dwelved into the market looking for a left back/midfielder and had been interested in Cagliari's Andrea Lazzari, Genoa's Domenico Criscito and Sampdoria's Reto Zeigler among others.
Emanuelson was in the last year of his contract at Ajax and Milan decided to move in and capture the 24 year old, who has had 7 seasons with the first team. This is Milan's second signing after they got Antonia Cassano early on.
Emanuelson is understood to have signed a contract with the San Siro club until June 30, 2014.
Milan's defense line was a little frail with no back up to the likes of the injured Gianluca Zambrotta and the out of form Luca Antonini.
The financial deatils are yet to be revealed by the Rossoneri. "AC Milan announce the purchase from Ajax of Urby Emanuelson, who has signed a contract until June 30, 2014," a club statement said.
Emanuelson was due to move in June in a Bosman transfer but a deal was struck by AC Milan for his immediate capture. Emanuelson has won 11 Dutch caps.
Emanuelson was in the last year of his contract at Ajax and Milan decided to move in and capture the 24 year old, who has had 7 seasons with the first team. This is Milan's second signing after they got Antonia Cassano early on.
Emanuelson is understood to have signed a contract with the San Siro club until June 30, 2014.
Milan's defense line was a little frail with no back up to the likes of the injured Gianluca Zambrotta and the out of form Luca Antonini.
The financial deatils are yet to be revealed by the Rossoneri. "AC Milan announce the purchase from Ajax of Urby Emanuelson, who has signed a contract until June 30, 2014," a club statement said.
Emanuelson was due to move in June in a Bosman transfer but a deal was struck by AC Milan for his immediate capture. Emanuelson has won 11 Dutch caps.
And all HELL broke loose - Literally
The Devil may have its reasons, but soon a place so infamously termed 'HELL' even by its own inhabitants will soon be bulldozed to the ground.
The famous Ali Sami Yen Stadium - home to Galatasaray fans - home to an atmosphere that will bring to rubble even the stoutest of hearts, home to those legendary banners and an evil voice welcoming the visitors to HELL. The stadium will now make way to a shopping centre.
In place of a stadium that has been the icon of football in Turkey, a place that had been looked upon as the one of the proudest structures for football fans, a place that is swathed in red&yellow that represents an undying fire, a place where unrelenting drumming makes one feel he's in a war zone... there will now be a shopping complex and a memory that will never cease to exist.
During the mid-90s, Ryan Giggs said of the atmosphere in the stadium. "I've never experienced anything like Galatasaray. Two hours before kick-off, we went out to have a look at the pitch and the stadium was packed! The chanting was brilliant. One side starts, then the other, then quiet, then all of them chanting. The players really enjoyed it. Before it was good, after it wasn't!"
The Cehennem has given Galatasary fans lots to cheer about over the years, perhaps their victories against European hot-shots Barcelona and Real Madrid at the top of the pile. The club is also the only Turkish team to have triumphed in Europe thus far, they won the Uefa Cup and Uefa Super Cup in 2000.
The last game at the Ali Sami Yen turned out to be an emotional affair(not so much the match, but definitely the goodbye) with the home team winning 3-1 against lowly Beypazarı Sekerspor. After the match, the players got together at the centre of the pitch to salute fans with each one (fan and player alike) bidding adieu in their own special way.
The club's new home will be at the Turk Telecom Arena, also known as the Aslantepe or "Lion Hill" and can seat twice of what Ali Sami Yen could. Galatasaray coach Gheorghe Hagi said "The new stadium is beautiful. It opens a new page and I hope we can begin to re-write history here," said Hagi. "Now we have to get used to it, although that may take a few matches. However, I still believe that in one or two years this club can return to being one of the top teams in Europe."
Moving from a place with great memories, from a place that was held in such high regard by everyone can never be easy. But Galatasary fans would do well to look upto the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City moving stadiums and still being successful.
With the Lion Hill able to seat twice as many fans, it might mean visitors are bound to hear a louder version of their 'I will Survive' anthem or see twice as many red and yellow scarfs during the scarf show and it could be HELL all over again... only twice as evil.
- Vishaal Loganathan
The famous Ali Sami Yen Stadium - home to Galatasaray fans - home to an atmosphere that will bring to rubble even the stoutest of hearts, home to those legendary banners and an evil voice welcoming the visitors to HELL. The stadium will now make way to a shopping centre.
In place of a stadium that has been the icon of football in Turkey, a place that had been looked upon as the one of the proudest structures for football fans, a place that is swathed in red&yellow that represents an undying fire, a place where unrelenting drumming makes one feel he's in a war zone... there will now be a shopping complex and a memory that will never cease to exist.
During the mid-90s, Ryan Giggs said of the atmosphere in the stadium. "I've never experienced anything like Galatasaray. Two hours before kick-off, we went out to have a look at the pitch and the stadium was packed! The chanting was brilliant. One side starts, then the other, then quiet, then all of them chanting. The players really enjoyed it. Before it was good, after it wasn't!"
The Cehennem has given Galatasary fans lots to cheer about over the years, perhaps their victories against European hot-shots Barcelona and Real Madrid at the top of the pile. The club is also the only Turkish team to have triumphed in Europe thus far, they won the Uefa Cup and Uefa Super Cup in 2000.
The last game at the Ali Sami Yen turned out to be an emotional affair(not so much the match, but definitely the goodbye) with the home team winning 3-1 against lowly Beypazarı Sekerspor. After the match, the players got together at the centre of the pitch to salute fans with each one (fan and player alike) bidding adieu in their own special way.
The club's new home will be at the Turk Telecom Arena, also known as the Aslantepe or "Lion Hill" and can seat twice of what Ali Sami Yen could. Galatasaray coach Gheorghe Hagi said "The new stadium is beautiful. It opens a new page and I hope we can begin to re-write history here," said Hagi. "Now we have to get used to it, although that may take a few matches. However, I still believe that in one or two years this club can return to being one of the top teams in Europe."
Moving from a place with great memories, from a place that was held in such high regard by everyone can never be easy. But Galatasary fans would do well to look upto the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City moving stadiums and still being successful.
With the Lion Hill able to seat twice as many fans, it might mean visitors are bound to hear a louder version of their 'I will Survive' anthem or see twice as many red and yellow scarfs during the scarf show and it could be HELL all over again... only twice as evil.
- Vishaal Loganathan
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Results: For Saturday, Jan 22, 2011
English Premier League:
Wolverhampton 0-3 Liverpool
Arsenal 3-0 Wigan Athletic
Blackpool 1-2 Sunderland
Everton 2-2 West Ham United
Fulham 2-0 Stoke City
Manchester United 5-0 Birmingham
Newcastle 1-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Aston Villa 1-0 Manchester City
Ligue 1:
Lens 2-0 Caen
French Cup:
Clermont Foot 1-3 Stade Reims
Angers SCO 1-0 Bordeaux
Strasbourg 1-0 Evian Thonon Gaillard
German Bundesliga
Bayern Munich 5-1 FC Kaiserslautern
Borussia Dortmund 1-1 VfB Stuttgart
Hannover 96 0-1 Schalke 04
Mainz 0-1 Wolfsburg
SC Freiburg 1-1 Nurnberg
Koln 3-0 Werder Bremen
Serie A:
Palermo 1-0 Brescia
Parma 2-0 Catania
AS Roma 3-0 Cagliari
Portugal Primera Liga:
Olhanense SC 2-1 Academica Coimbra
Pacos Ferreira 1-1 Uniao Leiria
Rio Ave 2-3 Vitoria Guimaraes
Sporting Braga 2-2 Vitoria FC Setubal
Beira Mar 0-1 FC Porto
Associacao Naval 1-1 Portimonense
SL Benfica 4-2 CD Nacional
Scottish Premier League:
Hearts 1-0 Glasgow Rangers
Celtic 1-0 Aberdeen
Inverness C.T. 1-1 Hamilton FC
Kilmarnock 1-1 Dundee United
Motherwell FC 2-0 Hibernian FC
St. Johnstone 0-0 St. Mirren
Spanish Primera Division:
Sevilla 4-1 Levante
Barcelona 3-0 Racing de Santander
Valencia 4-3 Malaga
Click on the score to view highlights...
Wolverhampton 0-3 Liverpool
Arsenal 3-0 Wigan Athletic
Blackpool 1-2 Sunderland
Everton 2-2 West Ham United
Fulham 2-0 Stoke City
Manchester United 5-0 Birmingham
Newcastle 1-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Aston Villa 1-0 Manchester City
Ligue 1:
Lens 2-0 Caen
French Cup:
Clermont Foot 1-3 Stade Reims
Angers SCO 1-0 Bordeaux
Strasbourg 1-0 Evian Thonon Gaillard
German Bundesliga
Bayern Munich 5-1 FC Kaiserslautern
Borussia Dortmund 1-1 VfB Stuttgart
Hannover 96 0-1 Schalke 04
Mainz 0-1 Wolfsburg
SC Freiburg 1-1 Nurnberg
Koln 3-0 Werder Bremen
Serie A:
Palermo 1-0 Brescia
Parma 2-0 Catania
AS Roma 3-0 Cagliari
Portugal Primera Liga:
Olhanense SC 2-1 Academica Coimbra
Pacos Ferreira 1-1 Uniao Leiria
Rio Ave 2-3 Vitoria Guimaraes
Sporting Braga 2-2 Vitoria FC Setubal
Beira Mar 0-1 FC Porto
Associacao Naval 1-1 Portimonense
SL Benfica 4-2 CD Nacional
Scottish Premier League:
Hearts 1-0 Glasgow Rangers
Celtic 1-0 Aberdeen
Inverness C.T. 1-1 Hamilton FC
Kilmarnock 1-1 Dundee United
Motherwell FC 2-0 Hibernian FC
St. Johnstone 0-0 St. Mirren
Spanish Primera Division:
Sevilla 4-1 Levante
Barcelona 3-0 Racing de Santander
Valencia 4-3 Malaga
Click on the score to view highlights...
Redknapp mugged in Spain
Harry Redknapp, manager of EPL Champions League hopefuls Tottenham Hotspur, said he was mugged in Spain when he was attending the Madrid derby in the Copa Del Ray in which Real Madrid triumphed Atletico by a solitary goal.
The 63 year old said a team of sic people mugged him, with 2 people on their knees tugging at Redknapp's legs while 4 others stole money and other items from his pockets.
Redknapp also revealed that he had not reported the incident to the police. He however had to borrow money for a ride back from the stadium.
The former Portsmouth and West Ham manager said: "I'm walking round the outside of the stadium, it's a fantastic atmosphere, there's all little stalls there selling sweets.
"I got some sweets, me and Kevin, and it was so packed. The next thing there's two guys on their knees in front of me and I felt someone pull my overcoat. I thought 'what are you doing?'. The next thing he's got my keys on the floor."
"I thought 'is he a blind man or someone having trouble walking properly?' What are they doing, these two blokes? I'm going 'let go of my trousers', pushing them away. While I'm doing that they're rifling my pockets, there were about six of them. And then they went," the 63 year old.
"I thought 'what are they doing?' I went to put my hand in my pockets and realised what they'd done. They took everything. All my money, credit cards, everything really."
The Spurs manager said he did not believe the muggers knew who he was.
Redknapp said he did not think the muggers targeted him because they knew him as the manager of a club. "I just probably looked stupid or something, and they thought 'here's one here, he's not Spanish, obviously and we're looking for a foreigner'."
Redknapp was at the game to watch Diego Forlan who he is rumoured to be interested in.
The 63 year old said a team of sic people mugged him, with 2 people on their knees tugging at Redknapp's legs while 4 others stole money and other items from his pockets.
Redknapp also revealed that he had not reported the incident to the police. He however had to borrow money for a ride back from the stadium.
The former Portsmouth and West Ham manager said: "I'm walking round the outside of the stadium, it's a fantastic atmosphere, there's all little stalls there selling sweets.
"I got some sweets, me and Kevin, and it was so packed. The next thing there's two guys on their knees in front of me and I felt someone pull my overcoat. I thought 'what are you doing?'. The next thing he's got my keys on the floor."
"I thought 'is he a blind man or someone having trouble walking properly?' What are they doing, these two blokes? I'm going 'let go of my trousers', pushing them away. While I'm doing that they're rifling my pockets, there were about six of them. And then they went," the 63 year old.
"I thought 'what are they doing?' I went to put my hand in my pockets and realised what they'd done. They took everything. All my money, credit cards, everything really."
The Spurs manager said he did not believe the muggers knew who he was.
Redknapp said he did not think the muggers targeted him because they knew him as the manager of a club. "I just probably looked stupid or something, and they thought 'here's one here, he's not Spanish, obviously and we're looking for a foreigner'."
Redknapp was at the game to watch Diego Forlan who he is rumoured to be interested in.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Giggs seeks extension on Man U contract
Manchester United and Wales legend Ryan Giggs has offered his services to the club for another year saying he would like to continue playing for the Red Devils. Giggs has been playing for Man U on annual contracts and wants to continue at Old Trafford.
Giggs, whose been in Man U since 1990 said: "I said if I was still enjoying myself and still getting picked I'd carry on. We'll sit down and talk but I'm really looking forward to playing next year. I don't know when it will be sorted out."
"We have been quite relaxed about it over the years but it is usually done and dusted quite quickly." Giggs added, who has played a record 850 times for Man U after making his debut in 1991.
Giggs who made his 600th league appearance last Sunday, in the stalemate at White Hart Lane was lauded by his manager, Sir Alex Ferguson who lauded the Welshman as
"incredible human being"
"It is good to hear praise from the manager," Giggs said about SAF's praise. "He would be the first one to tell me if I was not playing well or my form wasn't good."
"We talk a lot more and we are a lot more honest with each other. He tells me when I am not going to play and gives me a little bit more notice now."
"It is a great relationship and one that has been a big part of why I am still playing." He added.
Ferguson confirmed that Giggs had spoken to him about an extension. "I spoke to Ryan a few days ago. He is happy to have another year and that is good news," he told MUTV.
"You can see his fitness. It is incredible. He could do another year, who knows, another two years, because his fitness is so good. I never expected him to be here so long but as the years went on there were improvements in terms of sports science and fitness, and Ryan is very much into yoga too."
"That gives you a better chance of course. But Ryan has also been prepared to make sacrifices and be a really good professional." SAF added
Ferguson also said that Antonio Valencia on the road to recovery and should be match fit by the end of February. Valencia had been ruled out since he suffered an ankle injury in the Champions League tie against Rangers in August 2010.
"Antonio is doing well now," Ferguson said. "He has got the all-clear from the doctors and is under our complete control now, which is great news.
"He has started his running programme and is with the physios every day, which is a big step forward.
"Possibly he should be back in the first-team squad towards the end of February, which is a big boost to us and something to look forward to," Ferguson concluded.
Giggs, whose been in Man U since 1990 said: "I said if I was still enjoying myself and still getting picked I'd carry on. We'll sit down and talk but I'm really looking forward to playing next year. I don't know when it will be sorted out."
"We have been quite relaxed about it over the years but it is usually done and dusted quite quickly." Giggs added, who has played a record 850 times for Man U after making his debut in 1991.
Giggs who made his 600th league appearance last Sunday, in the stalemate at White Hart Lane was lauded by his manager, Sir Alex Ferguson who lauded the Welshman as
"incredible human being"
"It is good to hear praise from the manager," Giggs said about SAF's praise. "He would be the first one to tell me if I was not playing well or my form wasn't good."
"We talk a lot more and we are a lot more honest with each other. He tells me when I am not going to play and gives me a little bit more notice now."
"It is a great relationship and one that has been a big part of why I am still playing." He added.
Ferguson confirmed that Giggs had spoken to him about an extension. "I spoke to Ryan a few days ago. He is happy to have another year and that is good news," he told MUTV.
"You can see his fitness. It is incredible. He could do another year, who knows, another two years, because his fitness is so good. I never expected him to be here so long but as the years went on there were improvements in terms of sports science and fitness, and Ryan is very much into yoga too."
"That gives you a better chance of course. But Ryan has also been prepared to make sacrifices and be a really good professional." SAF added
Ferguson also said that Antonio Valencia on the road to recovery and should be match fit by the end of February. Valencia had been ruled out since he suffered an ankle injury in the Champions League tie against Rangers in August 2010.
"Antonio is doing well now," Ferguson said. "He has got the all-clear from the doctors and is under our complete control now, which is great news.
"He has started his running programme and is with the physios every day, which is a big step forward.
"Possibly he should be back in the first-team squad towards the end of February, which is a big boost to us and something to look forward to," Ferguson concluded.
van der Wiel on City's radar
Cash awash EPL club, Manchester City who are currently in the reckoning for the Premier League crown are closing in on Ajax right back and highly rated player, Gregory van der Wiel.
Reports have it that City have gained the upper hand on signing the player who is also being closely followed by rivals, Chelsea and Arsenal.
The 22 year old was a revelation at the World Cup and interest in right back was high after his superb performances for Holland. The Ajax man is also said to be a close friend of City's midfielder Nigel de Jong which could influence the eventual transfer.
According to reports, a 4 man team from Man City was at hand to watch van der Wiel on Wednesday, when Ajax beat Feyenoord 2-0. van Der Wiel is currently under contract till 2013.
Roberto Mancini, when contacted did not say anything about the right back's transfer, but added that they are looking to offload a few players and they have not been able to send away Emmanuel Adebayor, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Brazilian striker Jo away from Eastlands.
Reports have it that City have gained the upper hand on signing the player who is also being closely followed by rivals, Chelsea and Arsenal.
The 22 year old was a revelation at the World Cup and interest in right back was high after his superb performances for Holland. The Ajax man is also said to be a close friend of City's midfielder Nigel de Jong which could influence the eventual transfer.
According to reports, a 4 man team from Man City was at hand to watch van der Wiel on Wednesday, when Ajax beat Feyenoord 2-0. van Der Wiel is currently under contract till 2013.
Roberto Mancini, when contacted did not say anything about the right back's transfer, but added that they are looking to offload a few players and they have not been able to send away Emmanuel Adebayor, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Brazilian striker Jo away from Eastlands.
Sunderland line up Stoke's Fuller as Bent replacement
Following the departure of Darren Bent from Sunderland to Aston Villa (a move for which the striker was threatened) Sunderland have opted to bring in Jamaican international Ricardo Fuller from Stoke City.
Stoke have accepted a bid of 3M for the striker who has scored 48 goals for the Potters. The Potters are also set to snap up Villa forward John Carew on loan for the rest of the season.
Fuller will replace English striker Bent whose move to Aston Villa brought back the 'tapping up' case into limelight. Fuller has been Stoke's leading goalscorer in the last three seasons, and has scoerd thrice this season.
Sunderland were also setback with the injury to on-loan forward Danny Welbeck, who is ruled out for upto 8 weeks after exploratory knee surgery. Sunderland are left with only 1 stirker in Asamoah Gyan, and Fuller is likely to partner the Ghanaian though it seems improbable that it will happen for the match against Blackpool.
Steve Bruce said about the move: "We've got irons in the fire with four or five. Ricardo Fuller could be one of those. I like him. I think he's a player that has done very well in the Premier League." Bruce said about Fuller who is under contract at the Britannia Stadium until the summer of 2012
Stoke City assistant manager Dave Kemp said that his was yet to receive any bid for their striker. "There's nothing to report," Kemp stated. "An announcement will be made if anyone is leaving but, right now, that isn't the case. We're not under any pressure to sell. We're just trying to get a good squad together for the second half of the season," He said.
Stoke have accepted a bid of 3M for the striker who has scored 48 goals for the Potters. The Potters are also set to snap up Villa forward John Carew on loan for the rest of the season.
Fuller will replace English striker Bent whose move to Aston Villa brought back the 'tapping up' case into limelight. Fuller has been Stoke's leading goalscorer in the last three seasons, and has scoerd thrice this season.
Sunderland were also setback with the injury to on-loan forward Danny Welbeck, who is ruled out for upto 8 weeks after exploratory knee surgery. Sunderland are left with only 1 stirker in Asamoah Gyan, and Fuller is likely to partner the Ghanaian though it seems improbable that it will happen for the match against Blackpool.
Steve Bruce said about the move: "We've got irons in the fire with four or five. Ricardo Fuller could be one of those. I like him. I think he's a player that has done very well in the Premier League." Bruce said about Fuller who is under contract at the Britannia Stadium until the summer of 2012
Stoke City assistant manager Dave Kemp said that his was yet to receive any bid for their striker. "There's nothing to report," Kemp stated. "An announcement will be made if anyone is leaving but, right now, that isn't the case. We're not under any pressure to sell. We're just trying to get a good squad together for the second half of the season," He said.
Results: For Thursday, Jan 20, 2011
Milan trash Bari to book quarters berth
AC Milan romped home to an emphatic 3-0 home victory over minnows AS Bari to seal a quarterfinal date with Sampdoria, who needed a penalty shootout to get the better of Udinese.
Max Allegri had said that he would try to play a strong XI as progression in the Cup was one of their priorities, and his team started to dominate from the onset. Zlatan Ibrahimovic stretched Daniele Padelli to a fine save in the 9th before Cassano and Robinho went close with vicious drives.
Padelli could do nothing to stop a Ibra shot on 19 mins as Robinho picked up a stray pass well inside the Milan half before passing it to the Swede who waltzed his way into the box before finishing superbly in top corner.
Alexander Merkel increased the hosts lead just before the 45 min mark, smashing a left footer past a hapless Padelli. There were suspicions of offside when the ball was played to Robinho, but with the ruling in favour if Milan, the Brazilian cut back for Merkal who got to his first senior goal for the Rossoneri.
With the game under complete control, Milan chose to play things slower and keep hold of the ball. Bari were restricted to a few long range shots that did nothing to trouble Flavio Roma, who made his first appearance for Milan after injuries to Marco Amelia and Christian Abbiati had ruled them out.
Milan were ruthless when they did venture forward with Merkel this time turning provider with a neat through-ball to Robinho who put it through the legs of the keeper and put the game beyond all doubt.
Bari tried to restore some parity with a few shots late on, but none were on target as Milan coasted to the quarters where they will play Sampdoria.
Play of the Day: Ibra's Goal.
Man of the Match: Alexander Merkel
Max Allegri had said that he would try to play a strong XI as progression in the Cup was one of their priorities, and his team started to dominate from the onset. Zlatan Ibrahimovic stretched Daniele Padelli to a fine save in the 9th before Cassano and Robinho went close with vicious drives.
Padelli could do nothing to stop a Ibra shot on 19 mins as Robinho picked up a stray pass well inside the Milan half before passing it to the Swede who waltzed his way into the box before finishing superbly in top corner.
Alexander Merkel increased the hosts lead just before the 45 min mark, smashing a left footer past a hapless Padelli. There were suspicions of offside when the ball was played to Robinho, but with the ruling in favour if Milan, the Brazilian cut back for Merkal who got to his first senior goal for the Rossoneri.
With the game under complete control, Milan chose to play things slower and keep hold of the ball. Bari were restricted to a few long range shots that did nothing to trouble Flavio Roma, who made his first appearance for Milan after injuries to Marco Amelia and Christian Abbiati had ruled them out.
Milan were ruthless when they did venture forward with Merkel this time turning provider with a neat through-ball to Robinho who put it through the legs of the keeper and put the game beyond all doubt.
Bari tried to restore some parity with a few shots late on, but none were on target as Milan coasted to the quarters where they will play Sampdoria.
Play of the Day: Ibra's Goal.
Man of the Match: Alexander Merkel
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Riquelme: Blackburn's Marquee signing?
After the failure to capture superstars, David Beckham and Ronaldinho, Blackburn Rovers have turned their attention to another fantastic player, Juan Roman Riquelme.
Rovers are in search of a big name who could propel their chances in the EPL and the search for a marquee player could end after Riquelme was offered to the club.
The Argentine playmaker is renowned for his passing and ability to dictate the pace
of the game. The ex- Villareal and Barcelona midfielder is currently playing at Boca Juniors.
Barry McIntosh, the agent who recently helped Jermaine Jones move to Blackburn, said that discussions regarding a deal for Riquelme have already started.
He told the Lancashire Telegraph: "I have spoken with Jerome Anderson, who is doing a lot of work for Blackburn Rovers, about Riquelme and it is being thought about. He could prove a great alternative to Ronaldinho, but there is nothing definite yet."
Blackburn are also looking to add another Argentine, in Mauro Formica from Newell's Old Boys. Formica is held in high regard and is touted to be one of the best of the generation in Argentina. West Ham had already launched an attempt to sign the midfielder but it proved futile.
McIntosh said: "I did offer this player to Jerome Anderson for Blackburn Rovers also. I understand he and his South American representatives are on their way to England to talk. It would have to be a permanent move as West Ham tried to sign him on loan before and that was flatly refused."
"He is one of the hottest players on the scene in South America at the moment. Maybe he would not make an immediate impact but Blackburn Rovers would be getting a phenomenal talent."
"Remember, he would be coming from a club who had had great players like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona." McIntosh said.
Rovers are in search of a big name who could propel their chances in the EPL and the search for a marquee player could end after Riquelme was offered to the club.
The Argentine playmaker is renowned for his passing and ability to dictate the pace
of the game. The ex- Villareal and Barcelona midfielder is currently playing at Boca Juniors.
Barry McIntosh, the agent who recently helped Jermaine Jones move to Blackburn, said that discussions regarding a deal for Riquelme have already started.
He told the Lancashire Telegraph: "I have spoken with Jerome Anderson, who is doing a lot of work for Blackburn Rovers, about Riquelme and it is being thought about. He could prove a great alternative to Ronaldinho, but there is nothing definite yet."
Blackburn are also looking to add another Argentine, in Mauro Formica from Newell's Old Boys. Formica is held in high regard and is touted to be one of the best of the generation in Argentina. West Ham had already launched an attempt to sign the midfielder but it proved futile.
McIntosh said: "I did offer this player to Jerome Anderson for Blackburn Rovers also. I understand he and his South American representatives are on their way to England to talk. It would have to be a permanent move as West Ham tried to sign him on loan before and that was flatly refused."
"Remember, he would be coming from a club who had had great players like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona." McIntosh said.
Benfica reject Chelsea's Luiz bid
Chelsea's desire to get promising defender, David Luiz seems never ending with the Blues going for a 26 millions Euro bid for the Brazilian.
Benfica were reportedly unhappy with the offer and are said to be sticking on to their base evaluation of 30 million for the player.
Interest for the 23 year old is sky high with AC Milan, Real Madrid among the other big clubs who are vying for the youngster's signature. The offer is reportedly the third time Chelsea have tried to convince Benfica to sell Luiz, but Benfica have not given in.
If reports are to be believed then Benfica would be willing to part ways with the defender for a cost of 28 million. Luiz however is cup tied and will not be able to participate in the Champions League if he moves clubs.
It will be interesting to see Chelsea's next move who seem determined to get the services of the defender after they endured a horrible slump that started late last year.
Benfica were reportedly unhappy with the offer and are said to be sticking on to their base evaluation of 30 million for the player.
Interest for the 23 year old is sky high with AC Milan, Real Madrid among the other big clubs who are vying for the youngster's signature. The offer is reportedly the third time Chelsea have tried to convince Benfica to sell Luiz, but Benfica have not given in.
If reports are to be believed then Benfica would be willing to part ways with the defender for a cost of 28 million. Luiz however is cup tied and will not be able to participate in the Champions League if he moves clubs.
It will be interesting to see Chelsea's next move who seem determined to get the services of the defender after they endured a horrible slump that started late last year.
Materazzi open to Mourinho return
Following reports of the mercurial Jose Morinho's widening gap with his present club, Real Madrid after he reportedly had another disagreement with sporting director, Jorge Valdano his ex clubmate Marco Materazzi urged the Portugese Manager to return to the helm at Inter.
Mourinho is reportedly at loggerheads with the club after there were diferrences in the transfer policy. And Materazzi is trying to coax his former manager to come back to Inter where he enjoyed phenominal success, winning the Serie A and Champions League last year, before moving to the Santiago Bernabau.
"It would be nice if Leonardo and Mourinho could coach together," Materazzi told Itasportpress.it.
"I also think Mourinho could return one day." Materazzi said.
However, a return seems far from likely after Leonardo was recently given the responsibility of managing the European and Club Would Cup champions. Leonardo succeeded Rafael Benitez and has got off to a flying start.
Mourinho is reportedly at loggerheads with the club after there were diferrences in the transfer policy. And Materazzi is trying to coax his former manager to come back to Inter where he enjoyed phenominal success, winning the Serie A and Champions League last year, before moving to the Santiago Bernabau.
"It would be nice if Leonardo and Mourinho could coach together," Materazzi told Itasportpress.it.
"I also think Mourinho could return one day." Materazzi said.
However, a return seems far from likely after Leonardo was recently given the responsibility of managing the European and Club Would Cup champions. Leonardo succeeded Rafael Benitez and has got off to a flying start.
Wenger douses reports of a rift
Arsene Wenger, Arsenal Manager has refuted reports of rifts between skipper Cesc Fabegas and midfielder Denilson after their 3-1 win over Leeds in the 3rd round of the FA cup.
Denilson was alleged to have said that current skipper, Fabregas was not a 'born leader', but Wenger was quick to douse fire on rumours of a rift saying the two players are good friends. "The report is coming back from Brazil and is not at all the spirit of the comment that was made. Either you have bad translators or good translators with a bad spirit."
"Denilson and Fabregas are two very good friends and have a lot of respect for each other. Cesc is our captain and Robin van Persie our vice-captain and we have many leaders in our team.
"We have a shared leadership in our team but I believe Fabregas is an outstanding leader, especially when you consider he's 23 years old, with personality and character, and Van Persie as well," the former Monaco boss said.
"I believe what is important in the way we want to play football is that everyone takes responsibility."
Fabregas too chose not to dwelve too much into the issue, saying he understands the Brazilian's situation. "I've been in his [Denilson's] situation before, just a misunderstanding."
Denilson also quickly took back his comments saying he was mis quoted and did not mean to say anything that would damage spirit back in the dressing room.
"I was misquoted. I have talked with Fabregas and everything is resolved. Fabregas is a great friend," said the midfielder. "When I said the team had no leadership it was to point out that Arsenal have a very young squad and sometimes lack a more experienced person, as it had for many years with Gilberto Silva, for example."
"I am a shy guy, I do not like controversy and problems. I was misquoted. I have talked with Fabregas and everything is resolved. We are fighting for the English title and it will not take away our focus." said the former Brazilian under 17 skipper.
Wenger was quick to shift the focus back on the team, saying he was very happy with their recent performance. "The team goes from strength to strength and we have shown again we are hungry," he said.
"This gives us a good opportunity to play at home against Huddersfield - of course we will be favourites and I think we had that in mind.
"We got a warning in the first game and learned that lesson - that showed my players are intelligent and that is a good sign. I had super quality on the bench, too, and that helps especially when the legs get tired," he said.
- Vishaal Loganathan
Denilson was alleged to have said that current skipper, Fabregas was not a 'born leader', but Wenger was quick to douse fire on rumours of a rift saying the two players are good friends. "The report is coming back from Brazil and is not at all the spirit of the comment that was made. Either you have bad translators or good translators with a bad spirit."
"Denilson and Fabregas are two very good friends and have a lot of respect for each other. Cesc is our captain and Robin van Persie our vice-captain and we have many leaders in our team.
"We have a shared leadership in our team but I believe Fabregas is an outstanding leader, especially when you consider he's 23 years old, with personality and character, and Van Persie as well," the former Monaco boss said.
"I believe what is important in the way we want to play football is that everyone takes responsibility."
Fabregas too chose not to dwelve too much into the issue, saying he understands the Brazilian's situation. "I've been in his [Denilson's] situation before, just a misunderstanding."
Denilson also quickly took back his comments saying he was mis quoted and did not mean to say anything that would damage spirit back in the dressing room.
"I was misquoted. I have talked with Fabregas and everything is resolved. Fabregas is a great friend," said the midfielder. "When I said the team had no leadership it was to point out that Arsenal have a very young squad and sometimes lack a more experienced person, as it had for many years with Gilberto Silva, for example."
"I am a shy guy, I do not like controversy and problems. I was misquoted. I have talked with Fabregas and everything is resolved. We are fighting for the English title and it will not take away our focus." said the former Brazilian under 17 skipper.
Wenger was quick to shift the focus back on the team, saying he was very happy with their recent performance. "The team goes from strength to strength and we have shown again we are hungry," he said.
"This gives us a good opportunity to play at home against Huddersfield - of course we will be favourites and I think we had that in mind.
"We got a warning in the first game and learned that lesson - that showed my players are intelligent and that is a good sign. I had super quality on the bench, too, and that helps especially when the legs get tired," he said.
- Vishaal Loganathan
Bent hounded with threats
Furious Sunderland fans stormed social networking sites with abuses for their former star player, Darren Bent, following his controversial 24M switch to struggling Aston Villa.
One tweeted: 'I hope you die painfully, remember what we did for you.' Another posted: 'Die, Judas.' The striker, who also played for Tottenham and Charlton Athletic is caught in the midst of a tapping up storm.
Bent reportedly wished to moved to the transfer list before completing his shocking move to Villa Park.
One fan warned about the reception Bent would get when he returns to the Stadium of Light: 'Look forward to seeing you return to the Stadium of Light next season, watch your back sunshine.'
Meanwhile, Aston Villa's Ashley Young welcomed the English striker and said he would help the bottom feeders rise up.
He said: 'Darren will bring a lot to Villa. He scores goals - that's number one in his game - but he brings other attributes too.
'But if you do look at his record in front of goal it's very, very impressive - he's the highest scorer behind only Wayne Rooney and Didier Drogba." he added.
'It's huge for us. He's a massive signing. Everyone is delighted that the club has been able to pull it off. I think he just wants to get his head down now - get into the training and into the games. Obviously I've come across him on international duty and know him really well. He's a top lad. I am sure he will add to what we've got here. He will fit in, no problem." Young said.
'It's easy for anyone to fit in at our place because we have a terrific team spirit and a real bond. He'll be comfortable straight away. He's looked sharp already - and he's only had one training session!' the Villa star concluded.
- Vishaal Loganathan
One tweeted: 'I hope you die painfully, remember what we did for you.' Another posted: 'Die, Judas.' The striker, who also played for Tottenham and Charlton Athletic is caught in the midst of a tapping up storm.
Bent reportedly wished to moved to the transfer list before completing his shocking move to Villa Park.
One fan warned about the reception Bent would get when he returns to the Stadium of Light: 'Look forward to seeing you return to the Stadium of Light next season, watch your back sunshine.'
Meanwhile, Aston Villa's Ashley Young welcomed the English striker and said he would help the bottom feeders rise up.
He said: 'Darren will bring a lot to Villa. He scores goals - that's number one in his game - but he brings other attributes too.
'But if you do look at his record in front of goal it's very, very impressive - he's the highest scorer behind only Wayne Rooney and Didier Drogba." he added.
'It's huge for us. He's a massive signing. Everyone is delighted that the club has been able to pull it off. I think he just wants to get his head down now - get into the training and into the games. Obviously I've come across him on international duty and know him really well. He's a top lad. I am sure he will add to what we've got here. He will fit in, no problem." Young said.
'It's easy for anyone to fit in at our place because we have a terrific team spirit and a real bond. He'll be comfortable straight away. He's looked sharp already - and he's only had one training session!' the Villa star concluded.
- Vishaal Loganathan
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Results: For Wednesday Jan 19, 2011
The FA Cup:
Leeds 1-3 Arsenal
Ligue 1:
Lille 3-0 Nancy
Dutch Football League:
Ajax 2-0 Feyenoord
AZ Alkmaar 2-2 NEC
FC Twente 5-0 Heracles
VVV Venlo 1-2 FC Utrecht
Serie A:
Inter Milan 3-2 Cesena
Copa Del Ray:
Real Betis 3-1 FC Barcelona
Deportivo La Coruna 2-3 Almeria
Italian Cup:
AS Roma 2-1 Lazio Roma
Sampdoria Genoa 7-6 Udinese Calcio (on penalties)
P.S- some links to the highlights may not work/not yet available for free over the Internet... apologies.
Leeds 1-3 Arsenal
Ligue 1:
Lille 3-0 Nancy
Dutch Football League:
Ajax 2-0 Feyenoord
AZ Alkmaar 2-2 NEC
FC Twente 5-0 Heracles
VVV Venlo 1-2 FC Utrecht
Serie A:
Inter Milan 3-2 Cesena
Copa Del Ray:
Real Betis 3-1 FC Barcelona
Deportivo La Coruna 2-3 Almeria
Italian Cup:
AS Roma 2-1 Lazio Roma
Sampdoria Genoa 7-6 Udinese Calcio (on penalties)
P.S- some links to the highlights may not work/not yet available for free over the Internet... apologies.
Barca: Beaten after 28 games
Real Betis inflicted a 3-1 loss upon Catalan giants, FC Bacelona to end their 28 game unbeaten run. They were last beaten by Hercules at the Nou Camp 0-2 at the start of the season.
The defeat did not matter much as they Champions League semi-finalists went through to the semis on an aggregate of 6-3.
Here's the video Barca haters, enjoy! I know I am going to...
The defeat did not matter much as they Champions League semi-finalists went through to the semis on an aggregate of 6-3.
Here's the video Barca haters, enjoy! I know I am going to...
Blackburn to unearth Indian talent?
One of the directors of Venky's, the poultry farm from India that bought English Premier League club Blackburn Rovers, Balaji Rao said it is his desire to bring in an scout for promising talent in India and be the first person to import Indians to the cash-awash English Premier League.
"I want to be the first person to get an Indian playing in the EPL. If at least one Indian player makes it to the EPL my dream is done." Rao said.
Accorfing to reports, the new owners of Blackburn Rovers wants to use the resources available at the club to widen the scouting network to India and if possible also start a feeder club there.
Rao wants 4 - 5 Indian players to train a Rovers for a period of around 2 years and scouts have been sent to the sub continent to look for players who would fit the bill. "I plan to have an academy in Pune in the next two years," Rao told the Lancashire Telegraph.
"In fact, officials from Blackburn Rovers academy will be coming to India to talent hunt soon. They will select four to five youngsters who will train at the academy in England for two years. Hopefully, one will play for the main team two years from now." Rao added.
He was also keen on setting up a new football club in India, near Pune.
"I am planning to start a Venky's football team in the next two years which will play in the Indian League. If okayed by the board I intend to name it Blackburn Rovers Pune."
Rao said Blackburn's failure in trying to capture top players, David Beckham and Ronaldinho was not a deterrent and his club will work towards signing some big names soon. "Yes we were trying to get Beckham, then we went lax on it as we were pursuing Ronaldinho," he said.
"Nevertheless, I assure you we'll get a big name playing for us pretty soon.
Rao thanked the club's supporters for welcoming the new owners, "The first time as owners, they (Rovers fans) welcomed us so well. The feeling is overwhelming. It's something great," he concluded.
- Vishaal Loganathan
"I want to be the first person to get an Indian playing in the EPL. If at least one Indian player makes it to the EPL my dream is done." Rao said.
Accorfing to reports, the new owners of Blackburn Rovers wants to use the resources available at the club to widen the scouting network to India and if possible also start a feeder club there.
Rao wants 4 - 5 Indian players to train a Rovers for a period of around 2 years and scouts have been sent to the sub continent to look for players who would fit the bill. "I plan to have an academy in Pune in the next two years," Rao told the Lancashire Telegraph.
"In fact, officials from Blackburn Rovers academy will be coming to India to talent hunt soon. They will select four to five youngsters who will train at the academy in England for two years. Hopefully, one will play for the main team two years from now." Rao added.
He was also keen on setting up a new football club in India, near Pune.
"I am planning to start a Venky's football team in the next two years which will play in the Indian League. If okayed by the board I intend to name it Blackburn Rovers Pune."
"Nevertheless, I assure you we'll get a big name playing for us pretty soon.
Rao thanked the club's supporters for welcoming the new owners, "The first time as owners, they (Rovers fans) welcomed us so well. The feeling is overwhelming. It's something great," he concluded.
- Vishaal Loganathan
Milan vs Bari: Vishaal's throw-in
Throw in
Milan will be looking to the Coppa Italia match with a lot of anticipation, especially after having 2 back to back Serie A games against Udinese and Lecce. Bari have their eyes firmly strained on survival in the Serie A, and Milan will see this an the ideal opportunity to get back to winning ways.
As Max Allegri already confirmed, the match will be the first start of Italy enfant terrible - Antonio Cassano - for A C Milan. And Fantonio will want to prove with his first start why he is so highly rated with a performance to savour. Milan will also take the opportunity to give some much needed rest to veteran, Alesandro Nesta which could mean either Bonera or Yepes or both could be seen in defence.
Clarence Seedorf has had a torrid last few weeks, and the writing seems to be on the wall as far as the Flying Dutchman is concerned, with many fans dubbing him the Dying Dutchman after his less than impressive performance the past few weeks.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic who re-wrote his desire to win everything with Milan with a stunning goal last weekend looks likely to partner Cassano, while Pato could also use the chance to get back to goal scoring form.
For Bari, the Italian Cup progress would feature way down in their scheme of things. With things looking bleak at the wrong end of the table in Serie A, needing 4 points to get off the drop zone Bari would be hoping to not lose embarrassingly at the San Siro.
Prediction: Milan to win by 2 goals or more.
- Vishaal Loganathan
Milan will be looking to the Coppa Italia match with a lot of anticipation, especially after having 2 back to back Serie A games against Udinese and Lecce. Bari have their eyes firmly strained on survival in the Serie A, and Milan will see this an the ideal opportunity to get back to winning ways.
As Max Allegri already confirmed, the match will be the first start of Italy enfant terrible - Antonio Cassano - for A C Milan. And Fantonio will want to prove with his first start why he is so highly rated with a performance to savour. Milan will also take the opportunity to give some much needed rest to veteran, Alesandro Nesta which could mean either Bonera or Yepes or both could be seen in defence.
Clarence Seedorf has had a torrid last few weeks, and the writing seems to be on the wall as far as the Flying Dutchman is concerned, with many fans dubbing him the Dying Dutchman after his less than impressive performance the past few weeks.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic who re-wrote his desire to win everything with Milan with a stunning goal last weekend looks likely to partner Cassano, while Pato could also use the chance to get back to goal scoring form.
For Bari, the Italian Cup progress would feature way down in their scheme of things. With things looking bleak at the wrong end of the table in Serie A, needing 4 points to get off the drop zone Bari would be hoping to not lose embarrassingly at the San Siro.
Prediction: Milan to win by 2 goals or more.
- Vishaal Loganathan
Welcome
Always dreamt of having an own site that could get footy news from around the world. Will start off in a small, more economical way. Would love to get help from anyone whose willing to share some insights into the game (News, previews, reviews, not-so-expert opinions). Lets kick off then.....
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