[Fillipo Simone]

Crucial match in many ways:

1. If we loose or draw, we are bound to loose our first spot.

2. Allegri has to integrate the recuperated players in a rational system that can launch Milan into another series of wins.

[William405]

Alessandro Nesta is close to his Milan comeback after he returned to regular training with his teammates.

The defender has been out of action for just under a month, having dislocated his left shoulder during the 2-0 win over Cesena on January 23.

As he already had a serious injury to that same shoulder, there were fears Nesta could be out for six weeks or more.

However, a statement released by the official Milan website today confirmed “Nesta completed the entire training session with the squad.”

It is hoped he can make his comeback either against Parma this weekend or the trip to Chievo.

Andrea Pirlo only managed light running during today’s session, while Ignazio Abate and Kevin-Prince Boateng took part in the athletic training, but split off from the group after that.

Football-italia

Some good news.We should win this one,or Inter are in the driving seat.I hope their won't be a 3 DM system.

This post has been edited by William405: Feb 8 2011, 10:19 PM

[X-Offender]

It's safe to say that we'll have both Nesta and Pirlo against Tottenham. And who knows, maybe Boateng as well.

[Fillipo Simone]

It's safe to say that we'll have both Nesta and Pirlo against Tottenham. And who knows, maybe Boateng as well.

Tottenham? Who cares for Tottenham, we gotta keep them for the league, or we'll loose everything we hoped for in one month.

[TriniKing_CE]

It's safe to say that we'll have both Nesta and Pirlo against Tottenham. And who knows, maybe Boateng as well.

Provided they don't get injured again! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

[X-Offender]

Tottenham? Who cares for Tottenham, we gotta keep them for the league, or we'll loose everything we hoped for in one month.

Well, I think there are A LOT of people who care about the Champions League, including the players themselves.

[Panama Devil]

Our defense hasn't been bad the last two games.

Our attack has been failing to find the back of the net.

We've lost the control of the game on the midfield.

We don't need to rush Nesta. I'd rather have him rest for the Champions League clash instead of risking him in this game.

We need to make changes on the midfield.

I insist we need to play Merkel behind Ibra and Pato or Robinho.

On the midfield Van Bommel should go with Pirlo and Emanuelson.

Forget Gattuso!

Seedorf, Strasser and Flamini can come later in the game from the bench.

Cassano can replace Pato or Ibra.......... NOT ROBINHO!

PATO is a very selfish player right now and is not earning his position.

I'd rather start Ibra - Robinho.

If we need offense then we can replace Emanuelson for Seedorf and Merkel for Cassano.

Flamini can go in for Pirlo if he's too tired.

Just an idea.

[William405]

Pato a very selfish player?No,you didn't watch the Genoa match...
He tried always his best to pass the ball to Ibra and Robinho,he played good then,but our midfield doesn't give our attack any kind of support...Pato's performance against Genoa was really good,but he didn't get to see the ball enough and that has been the major problem.Anyway,it isn't his fault,he's an attacker not a midfielder...

This post has been edited by William405: Feb 9 2011, 11:06 AM

[X-Offender]

Our defense hasn't been bad the last two games.

Our attack has been failing to find the back of the net.

We've lost the control of the game on the midfield.

We don't need to rush Nesta. I'd rather have him rest for the Champions League clash instead of risking him in this game.

We need to make changes on the midfield.

I insist we need to play Merkel behind Ibra and Pato or Robinho.

On the midfield Van Bommel should go with Pirlo and Emanuelson.

Forget Gattuso!

Seedorf, Strasser and Flamini can come later in the game from the bench.

Cassano can replace Pato or Ibra.......... NOT ROBINHO!

PATO is a very selfish player right now and is not earning his position.

I'd rather start Ibra - Robinho.

If we need offense then we can replace Emanuelson for Seedorf and Merkel for Cassano.

Flamini can go in for Pirlo if he's too tired.

Just an idea.

I agree with most you've said, but not about the midfield. I wouldn't play Emanuelson and Van Bommel as starters when Pirlo and Boateng get back. Plus, Flamini should always be a starter. He's the most all-around DM we have.

[Fillipo Simone]

I agree with most you've said, but not about the midfield. I wouldn't play Emanuelson and Van Bommel as starters when Pirlo and Boateng get back. Plus, Flamini should always be a starter. He's the most all-around DM we have.

Ambrosini, then Gattuso, then Flamini. We should really play one of our captains as starters IMO.

[X-Offender]

Ambrosini, then Gattuso, then Flamini. We should really play one of our captains as starters IMO.

Flamini, Pirlo and Boateng should always be starters. Gattuso and Ambrosini can fight for one spot, but playing them together would be a huge mistake IMO.

[William405]

Why?I don't understand Fillipo,it isn't like they offer anything to our team these days.Or is it an obligation,I don't get it.

Ambrosini can't pass the ball to save his life,his defending has been meh,and now he's injured for two month.

Gattuso is frustrating to watch,the only thing he knows how to do is follow players,and that doesn't take much skill,does it?

Although,Flamini disappointed me a bit against Genoa.Still,he's coming back from injury,and still not 100 percent sharp.He's the best midfielder we have for now,Strasser isn't miles far way from him though,but he's still injured.


Also,Thiago Silva for Captain IMO!

X-off: Flamini-Pirlo-Boateng is our ideal midfield really.Flamini being the modern Dm midfeild,Pirlo being our playmaker and Boateng being our box to box player.If we can have that combo for Tottenham,it would be amazing to see.With Robinho,Pato,Ibra in the attack.Well,I will start to consider Robinho a deep lying midfielder from now on,why not? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

This post has been edited by William405: Feb 9 2011, 07:09 PM

[X-Offender]

Well, Fillippo is a bit one-sided when it comes to (Italian) players that have given a lot to this club in the past. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

I agree with you William. Flamini-Pirlo-Boateng would be the ideal midfield.

[Fillipo Simone]

No, I just don't wish Abbiati being our captain for the rest of the season.

But you know what, I'll tell you what I think:

Ambrosini can't pass the ball to save his life,his defending has been meh,and now he's injured for two month.

Totally disagree. Why do we always tend to label players as - 'this one is old, he's past it' and repeat it again and again and again? Why? When Milan proved a hundred times this shouldn't be done. Ambrosini had his injuries again, but when on top, like the few last seasons, he's a starter and his contribution to the team is unquestionable. While I understand that someone can past his peak and deteriorate, I don't think Ambrosini is that kind of an example yet.

Gattuso is frustrating to watch,the only thing he knows how to do is follow players,and that doesn't take much skill,does it?

Again disagree. He's been a shadow of the Gattuso that once killed off half of the Man.Utd. team, but he's still not bad. I consider him to be a rotational player.

Also,Thiago Silva for Captain IMO!

Because he's Brazilian, I get it. Yes, and Zvone Boban should be coach and Dario Simic president. Sure (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

-----

But here is what I wanna say in general:
I really think we're being so fast in labeling players - we see Ambrosini play, what twice or three times and label him as past his prime and useless. We see Strasser play a couple of times - wow now he is our next best midfielder. Boateng! When did he become that indispensible? While really, we shouldn't cross of players that soon. Milan isn't such a club anyway, why force it? If you wanna sack people and release players like a madman, why don't chear for Real Madrid, they are the pure personification of it!

[William405]

I agree on Gattuso being a Rotational player,I won't mind if his job is to be a defensive midfielder.

As with Ambrosini he hasn't given any performance to make me think otherwise,he had one good match,when he came back from injury and that was it.You know,we don't need players that will play a great match,then stink for the rest of the season.No,we need consistent players,who can work as a complete unit.


Also,I don't think Thiago Silva should be captain because he's brazilian.Every time he plays,he is the leader of our defense,he gives his best everytime.

[Milan Are Brilli...]

I really think we're being so fast in labeling players - we see Ambrosini play, what twice or three times and label him as past his prime and useless. We see Strasser play a couple of times - wow now he is our next best midfielder. Boateng! When did he become that indispensible? While really, we shouldn't cross of players that soon.

Spot on.

Though after seeing KPB in the Prem & in particular the WC did get the feeling he was going to be a good player for us, much more than expected.

[CHU-LIP]

Because he's Brazilian, I get it. Yes, and Zvone Boban should be coach and Dario Simic president. Sure (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

LOL, are you serious? If one player shows to be future Milan captain it's T.Silva easy peasy.

[Fillipo Simone]

And if one player deserves to be,... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) (it's Nesta...)

Thank God we don't live in a meritocracy yet. Milan captains are decided by a strict rule and there's no should be or could be.

[CHU-LIP]

And if one player deserves to be,... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) (it's Nesta...)

Thank God we don't live in a meritocracy yet. Milan captains are decided by a strict rule and there's no should be or could be.

Of course Nesta should be captain if it didn't make that promise, but how's that relevant to my post? I don't know what meritocracy means, and I also don't understand the last sentence.

[X-Offender]

Whilst I agree with you about Ambrosini, I can't do the same regarding Gattuso. In my opinion, Gattuso is a mediocre player nowadays. He never used to be that good actually, but he relied on his grit and temper to be a world class ball-winner. Today, he can barely run for the sake of it. The opponents dribble him with a laughable easiness, and he doesn't add anything to our game. He's a liability.

[X-Offender]

Of course Nesta should be captain if it didn't make that promise, but how's that relevant to my post? I don't know what meritocracy means, and I also don't understand the last sentence.

Meritocracy means being promoted due to your merits. So, in other words, Milan's captain must be the best performing player.

[Fillipo Simone]

Of course Nesta should be captain if it didn't make that promise, but how's that relevant to my post? I don't know what meritocracy means, and I also don't understand the last sentence.

To become Milans captain one must have the most appearances for the club. It's a simple rule that we follow for decades. That said, Thiago can't be our captain, for good or for worse.

[han2503]

And if one player deserves to be,... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) (it's Nesta...)

Thank God we don't live in a meritocracy yet. Milan captains are decided by a strict rule and there's no should be or could be.

Personally I don't really think we should be thanking god for that. Ambrosini has been bad all season, same for Gattuso. Why should these 2 players be captains of the team, thus getting automatic starts just because they've been at Milan for long? No, they're just holding the team back, simply because they cannot keep up anymore. I'm not ungrateful, far from it. Because their physical limitations only came about due to all they've given this team. But I just cannot accept them getting captaincy and automatic spots on this team based on seniority.

Nesta? Fair enough, I wouldn't have any problem with that, but he himself doesn't want it. He was Lazio's captain and has chosen to stay true to his first team, his home club really. And we should respect that.

Personally I don't agree with Thiago getting it either, sure he's outstanding for us, but he's too new imo to be captian. Maybe in a couple years time he should be considered but not until then.

At this point my first pick without a doubt is Pirlo, he's a starter, and imo the most important player on our team, also he has that quiete strength about him that makes him leader material in my eyes. After Pirlo, I'd go with Abbiati as vice captian.

[Fillipo Simone]

No, they're just holding the team back, simply because they cannot keep up anymore.

I'm not sure it is that way. I just see it differently.

But I just cannot accept them getting captaincy and automatic spots on this team based on seniority.

Well, sorry, but you will have to because Milan operates that way for decades.

Look, I'm not telling we should keep both players till they're 44 and count on them a our captains. But this season we started with them as our leaders, and I think it woul affect our team psychologically if this would be changed now, in middle of the season, and at a crucial moment, when Milan is on the verge of breaking or coming out stronger then ever.

[X-Offender]

I'm sorry Fillippo, but I think you're perhaps the only one who thinks Gattuso and Ambrosini add something to this team. Even Ambro, whom I defended wholeheartedly against han's "accusations" last season, has been rather crap so far. It's useless to deny that players like Flamini, Boateng and even Emanuelson can bring much more to our game in terms of quality, pace and stamina. You just have to focus your attention away from the fact that Rino and Ambro have made the recent history of this club, and concentrate more on the team's needs.

[Panama Devil]

I have to say that I agree with X-Offender.

Boateng-Pirlo-Flamini are excellent.

However, once everyone is recovered, I´d still try Van Bommel instead of Flamini.... just to try.

I feel Van Bommel is even more complete.

Ambrosini hasn´t been playing well.

Gattuso is really making me hate him. I hate it so much when he´s starts pointing at the players he wants his teammates to pass the ball to... who is he now??? our new offensive coordinator inside the field .... he gives us nooooooo attack.... he´s a -1 player when we attack.

Gattuso has always been bad offensively but he was a defensive force. Now days he´s not making up for his offensive disabilities....... we lose a lot playing him.

There are other players in the team that can do a lot better than him.

PLAY MERKEL PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!

This post has been edited by Panama Devil: Feb 10 2011, 12:58 AM

[il_diavolo_mtl]

I'm sorry Fillippo, but I think you're perhaps the only one who thinks Gattuso and Ambrosini add something to this team. Even Ambro, whom I defended wholeheartedly against han's "accusations" last season, has been rather crap so far. It's useless to deny that players like Flamini, Boateng and even Emanuelson can bring much more to our game in terms of quality, pace and stamina. You just have to focus your attention away from the fact that Rino and Ambro have made the recent history of this club, and concentrate more on the team's needs.

it was me and Han against the world for the past seasons when it came to Ambro and Rino being "too old" 4 years ago. This is just disrespectful. It seams clear to me they are playing selfishly as they can't keep up with Anyone(!) in a relatively slow league. For all you flamini haters, can i simply ask you how many starts the man has had since coming. It is unrelated to his talent, as the old guard have guaranteed starts. It's a shame because we have sooo much pulp : Bonnera (are you f*k*n* kidding me, he lost us the genoa match too) Seedorf, Ambro and rino. we could actually survive cutting this waste and get a young LB prospect (antonini can play another year IMO) and a creative mid to make us less Pirlo dependent. it's sad to think we spend probably over 10M a year on the aforementioned lottery winners.

[Jack Sparrow]

All I have to say is if Ambro played the way Flamini played the last match, he'd be getting skewered.

@Filippo: Chill bro. He's 31+ and Italian and past it. Who the f@ck gives a damn that our CAPTAIN has been playing through pain for the past 3 matches coz there was no one else to step up.That's what Captains do....set examples.

I don't personally give a damn. What matters is that for the 30 odd players in our squad Ambro and Rino are leaders. I don't think for a moment Ibra or Pato are gonna listen when T.Silva yells at them to cover a flank. But try doing that to Max/Rino or even Zee. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) I'd say only less than 30% of a team's life is on the pitch. The rest of it is in training and off it. So being a leader of a football team has far more to it than being the most talented player on the pitch. Maldini made R99 do pushups when he came late to training. Imagine T.Silva doing that to Ibra. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

[han2503]

I'm not sure it is that way. I just see it differently.


Well, sorry, but you will have to because Milan operates that way for decades.

Look, I'm not telling we should keep both players till they're 44 and count on them a our captains. But this season we started with them as our leaders, and I think it woul affect our team psychologically if this would be changed now, in middle of the season, and at a crucial moment, when Milan is on the verge of breaking or coming out stronger then ever.

It's not like I have any authority over it. But I'm just saying it's the wrong method. And clearly it's showing on the field. Rino? He's been hopeless for 2 years straight now, the team is practically carrying dead weight when he's playing. He's slow, he loses the ball more then he recovers it. Mediocre players nutmeg him like there's no tomorrow. This coming from a huge Rino fan, this current Rino is a disgrace to the old Rino who imo was the best distructive DM in europe a couple of years ago. Now he's just making a fool of himself.

Ambo? He's been just as aweful imo, he seems to get away with more then Rino on here, butr it's plain to see. He can't tackle without taking his opponents legs, he's slow, uncoordinated, tries to build attacking moves when he doesn't have an ounce of passing ability in him.

We just cannot continue to keep both players on the pitch anymore simply on the fact that they've been at Milan for such a long time. They've become a liability, the both of them. Your arguments are backed by the club so you feel you are vindicated for your arguments, but let's look at all the bad decisions the club had been making over the years, this imo is another one that should be added to the list.

it was me and Han against the world for the past seasons when it came to Ambro and Rino being "too old" 4 years ago. This is just disrespectful. It seams clear to me they are playing selfishly as they can't keep up with Anyone(!) in a relatively slow league. For all you flamini haters, can i simply ask you how many starts the man has had since coming. It is unrelated to his talent, as the old guard have guaranteed starts. It's a shame because we have sooo much pulp : Bonnera (are you f*k*n* kidding me, he lost us the genoa match too) Seedorf, Ambro and rino. we could actually survive cutting this waste and get a young LB prospect (antonini can play another year IMO) and a creative mid to make us less Pirlo dependent. it's sad to think we spend probably over 10M a year on the aforementioned lottery winners.

Agreed

All I have to say is if Ambro played the way Flamini played the last match, he'd be getting skewered.

@Filippo: Chill bro. He's 31+ and Italian and past it. Who the f@ck gives a damn that our CAPTAIN has been playing through pain for the past 3 matches coz there was no one else to step up.That's what Captains do....set examples.

I don't personally give a damn. What matters is that for the 30 odd players in our squad Ambro and Rino are leaders. I don't think for a moment Ibra or Pato are gonna listen when T.Silva yells at them to cover a flank. But try doing that to Max/Rino or even Zee. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) I'd say only less than 30% of a team's life is on the pitch. The rest of it is in training and off it. So being a leader of a football team has far more to it than being the most talented player on the pitch. Maldini made R99 do pushups when he came late to training. Imagine T.Silva doing that to Ibra. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

Once again Jack you over simplify things.

Flamini was just as injured as Rino was just 2 weeks ago. So you're using double standards when defending Rino for it but not Flamini. And he wasn't that bad imo, certainly not as bad as Rino.

Also you think Ibra listens to anyone? LOL yeah right, and I'm th king of Egypt (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) Seedorf? He can be as petulant as the previously mentioned Swede on a bad day, plus the fact that he's barely a player anymore. Seedorf, Rino and Ambro have a legacy at Milan for what they did in the past, but nowadays non of them should be anything more then squad players. Their best years are so far behind them it's ridiculous. Also I said Thiago shouldn't be captain. We have others capable of taking the spot. Players who are starters which are important to the team. Not players who are way past it and hold the team back more then anything else

[Jack Sparrow]

Exactly. I didn't criticise Flamini. Just said that youth it seems (even if it's not really young in Flamini's case) is allowed to get away with anything...injuries included.

Oh...I think Ibra listens. Just to some people.

T.Silva is definitely not Captain material (yet). And trust me Andy P, while inspirational on the field, couldn't possibly do much off it. It's a problem with players who have talent, but no real gritty persona. Pirlo is way to inward to be a Captain. A role model certainly, not captain.

[Rossoneri7]

All I have to say is if Ambro played the way Flamini played the last match, he'd be getting skewered.

@Filippo: Chill bro. He's 31+ and Italian and past it. Who the f@ck gives a damn that our CAPTAIN has been playing through pain for the past 3 matches coz there was no one else to step up.That's what Captains do....set examples.

I don't personally give a damn. What matters is that for the 30 odd players in our squad Ambro and Rino are leaders. I don't think for a moment Ibra or Pato are gonna listen when T.Silva yells at them to cover a flank. But try doing that to Max/Rino or even Zee. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) I'd say only less than 30% of a team's life is on the pitch. The rest of it is in training and off it. So being a leader of a football team has far more to it than being the most talented player on the pitch. Maldini made R99 do pushups when he came late to training. Imagine T.Silva doing that to Ibra. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

100%

[Woorya]

You guys realize that Ibra is not allowed to play against Parma due to 5 yellow cards????
So it could be interesting maybe that for once see binho behind cassano and pato

[il_diavolo_mtl]

You guys realize that Ibra is not allowed to play against Parma due to 5 yellow cards????
So it could be interesting maybe that for once see binho behind cassano and pato

only if he takes a blood pact not to shoot...

[Fillipo Simone]

Exactly. I didn't criticise Flamini. Just said that youth it seems (even if it's not really young in Flamini's case) is allowed to get away with anything...injuries included.

Oh...I think Ibra listens. Just to some people.

T.Silva is definitely not Captain material (yet). And trust me Andy P, while inspirational on the field, couldn't possibly do much off it. It's a problem with players who have talent, but no real gritty persona. Pirlo is way to inward to be a Captain. A role model certainly, not captain.

Totally agree.

You guys realize that Ibra is not allowed to play against Parma due to 5 yellow cards????
So it could be interesting maybe that for once see binho behind cassano and pato

I think it's a good news all things considered. Ibra didn't perform as good as usual for the last couple of matches, he'll be rested, while Pato will once more get the chance playing a CF.

[William405]

Pato has to impress in this one!

[X-Offender]

it was me and Han against the world for the past seasons when it came to Ambro and Rino being "too old" 4 years ago. This is just disrespectful. It seams clear to me they are playing selfishly as they can't keep up with Anyone(!) in a relatively slow league. For all you flamini haters, can i simply ask you how many starts the man has had since coming. It is unrelated to his talent, as the old guard have guaranteed starts. It's a shame because we have sooo much pulp : Bonnera (are you f*k*n* kidding me, he lost us the genoa match too) Seedorf, Ambro and rino. we could actually survive cutting this waste and get a young LB prospect (antonini can play another year IMO) and a creative mid to make us less Pirlo dependent. it's sad to think we spend probably over 10M a year on the aforementioned lottery winners.

QFT.

Once again Jack you over simplify things.

So, I'm not the only one who thinks Jack oversimplifies things way too often. Good.

You guys realize that Ibra is not allowed to play against Parma due to 5 yellow cards????

LOL, you just made that up. It's three yellow cards for every suspension. Zlatan will be regularly on the pitch against Parma.

[CHU-LIP]

And if one player deserves to be,... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) (it's Nesta...)

Thank God we don't live in a meritocracy yet. Milan captains are decided by a strict rule and there's no should be or could be.

Meritocracy means being promoted due to your merits. So, in other words, Milan's captain must be the best performing player.

So Fillipo was saying I mentioned Silva because of him being (one of the) best preformer? If that's what he thought, he couldn't be more wrong. Thiago Silva shows as in captain skills he should be our future captain. Just look at him... it makes me sad several people here don't think he's captain material. I'm stunned.

To become Milans captain one must have the most appearances for the club. It's a simple rule that we follow for decades. That said, Thiago can't be our captain, for good or for worse.

I believe it's not the right way to make one the captain because he is longest at the club. The one most qualified for it should be captain (of course he should be around here for a while, but not necessary longer than anyone). I'm not sure we really followed that rule for decades like you're saying, I think it's more coincidence that it seems that way lately.

As it stands now, when players like Ambrosini and Gattuso are no longer Milan players, Thiago Silva is the most logical choice to be the next one (as it looks now). In my opinion he is the most qualified, not because he's an awesome player, maybe also, but that's not the main reason. If we folling that rule of yours, we might get someone as captain who isn't really made for that. How does that makes sense?

[Fillipo Simone]

Well, what's the reason then that makes Thiago the most logical choice?

[CHU-LIP]

He shows a lot of captaincy characteristics in my opinion.

[Fillipo Simone]

He shows a lot of captaincy characteristics in my opinion.

Which exactly are...?

[il_diavolo_mtl]

QFT.

huh?

[X-Offender]

huh?

Quoted for truth.

[acid911]

Always gets other people who don't know what the words QFT stands for. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

[TriniKing_CE]

huh?

Quoted for truth.

As stated on Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QFT):

"Quoted For Truth" ("qft"), a label originally used on Internet forums when someone quotes a debated statement, thereby ensuring that the original statement cannot be edited or deleted by the person being quoted. Later, used merely as a indication of agreement or support with another message.

[Woorya]

LOL, you just made that up. It's three yellow cards for every suspension. Zlatan will be regularly on the pitch against Parma.

Could you or someone please clarify the rules....I first thought it was 5 yellow cards like in the rest of the big european leagues. You said 3 so i googled but couldn't find any kind of confirmation but at a forum someone stated this:

This is all according to FM, which (at least for the world's larger leagues) I take as fact.

In England, it's a one match suspension after 5 yellows, two matches after an additional 5, and three matches after every further group of 5. And for reds, it's one match for the first red, two matches for the second red, three matches for the third, and so on...

In both Germany and Spain, it's a one match suspension for every 5 yellows, and a one match suspension for every red.

Then there's Italy...here goes:
One match suspension after the first four yellows.
One match suspension after the next four yellows.
One match suspension after the next four yellows.
One match suspension after the next three yellows.
One match suspension after the next two yellows.
One match suspension for each additional yellow card.

And...a one match suspention for each red.

I wonder if anyone's ever made it past 17 yellows so that each yellow basically acts as a red...

Of course, reds can always result in additional match bans if the play was blatantly dangerous or the player was throwing punches or deliberate kicks at another player.

[CHU-LIP]

T.Silva is definitely not Captain material (yet).

Because?

[Jack Sparrow]

Because it's only his second year in the club for one. He's never been Captain for another. He's considered a good player, not a leader within the squad. There's a third.

If only the good in-form players deserved to become Captains, then Ricky and not Maldini would have been lifting the 2007 Champions League.

[Fishdoll]

It's 5 cards for the first league suspension; the rules shift a bit after that. The rules are also different in the CL.

I think it's laughable and shows a shocking lack of understanding of the club that people are suggesting Thiago Silva should be made captain. People should learn a little about the club before making silly suggestions.

[dst]

I think there's another issue here... how do you even know that any one player wants to be a captain anyway? If you think that everybody does you're terribly mistaken.

[Jack Sparrow]

Oh ****...I forgot to add that point Pana. Thanks. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

[dst]

I understand you already said that and you're being sarcastic!? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

[Jack Sparrow]

No. Why would you think that? I was just thinking in my post I'd mentioned the most important points and you came up with probably the most important.



P.S: I love you man! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wub.gif)

[CHU-LIP]

Because it's only his second year in the club for one. He's never been Captain for another. He's considered a good player, not a leader within the squad. There's a third.

If only the good in-form players deserved to become Captains, then Ricky and not Maldini would have been lifting the 2007 Champions League.

First of all I will respond to your last sentence. Me mentioning Thiago Silva is not because he is a great footballer. Will you guys stop thinking/saying that? I said this before. So I disagree about your third one. I think in near future he will be a leader within the squad. Hard to explain this in words why I think so, but the way he acts, the way he is, how he fights for the club, and/or so, gives me that feeling.

Secondly, I agree it would be to soon to do so let's say coming season. I was talking about the future, when he is longer at the club than he is now, and first the current captains need to have left the club anyway before considering a new captain. And about your second one, well, of course since he was young then. Makes sense he wasn't captain yet, it's something for the future when he's (at least a bit) older.

I think it's laughable and shows a shocking lack of understanding of the club that people are suggesting Thiago Silva should be made captain. People should learn a little about the club before making silly suggestions.

You probably find it laughable because you failed to read it's about the future. Or who do you want to see as captain after players like Ambrosini and Gattuso are done (at Milan)? And what exactly is silly about the suggestion?

This post has been edited by CHU-LIP: Feb 11 2011, 02:18 PM

[acid911]

First of all I will respond to your last sentence. Me mentioning Thiago Silva is not because he is a great footballer. Will you guys stop thinking/saying that? I said this before. So I disagree about your third one. I think in near future he will be a leader within the squad. Hard to explain this in words why I think so, but the way he acts, the way he is, how he fights for the club, and/or so, gives me that feeling.

Well I wanted to tell you that you are not alone in this thinking. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif) A few good years and Silva will be a captain here or at any other club. And I'd pretty much bet he'll be getting the Brazil national team captaincy as well round about the time he turns 30.

Secondly, I agree it would be to soon to do so let's say coming season. I was talking about the future, when he is longer at the club than he is now, and first the current captains need to have left the club anyway before considering a new captain. And about your second one, well, of course since he was young then. Makes sense he wasn't captain yet, it's something for the future when he's (at least a bit) older.

Well I'm not too sure he'll be getting the armband here in Milan. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) We'll probably have some more established players in the team in the next few years (after the change of guard), and really chances are low for the Monster #33. We had Brocchi wear the armband ahead of Kaka, when all of Paolo, Ambro and Gattuso (and maybe even Pirlo) were out.

I've got a feeling it'll be a homegrown star or a big Azurri star (that we snap in very soon) who'll be the first choice captain in the coming seasons. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Still just a feeling, though, so we'll have to see.

[X-Offender]

It's 5 cards for the first league suspension; the rules shift a bit after that. The rules are also different in the CL.

I don't know about that. I only know that Ibrahimovic will play against Parma and that is definite, unless Allegri wants to rest him.

As for tomorrow's game, Sportmediaset suggests both Nesta and Pirlo will play from the start, though they've put Cassano as trequartista and Pirlo as a striker. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

Milan (4-3-1-2): Abbiati; Oddo, Thiago Silva, Nesta, Bonera; Gattuso, Van Bommel, Emanuelson; Cassano; Pirlo, Ibrahimovic.

[han2503]

I don't know about that. I only know that Ibrahimovic will play against Parma and that is definite, unless Allegri wants to rest him.

As for tomorrow's game, Sportmediaset suggests both Nesta and Pirlo will play from the start, though they've put Cassano as trequartista and Pirlo as a striker. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

Milan (4-3-1-2): Abbiati; Oddo, Thiago Silva, Nesta, Bonera; Gattuso, Van Bommel, Emanuelson; Cassano; Pirlo, Ibrahimovic.

Imo that's a terrible midfield to put out!

Pirlo was doing amazing stuff on the left side before he was injured, Flamini should be in ahead of Rino who has been a huge problem for us in midifeld.

[Fishdoll]

You probably find it laughable because you failed to read it's about the future. Or who do you want to see as captain after players like Ambrosini and Gattuso are done (at Milan)? And what exactly is silly about the suggestion?

No, I find it laughable because in my opinion you really have a very superficial at best understanding of the club and its history. You might try learning a little about the club before you make such declarations because it seems to me that you're indulging in a bit of fanboyism. Again.

As for the lineups for the Parma game, I like Gazzetta's probable starting XI a little better:

Abbiati
Oddo Thiago Silva Yepes Bonera
Gattuso Pirlo Flamini
Robinho
Pato Ibrahimovic

Ibrahimovic has already served a suspension for yellow card accumulation. The only players 1 booking away from suspension right now are Bonera and Pirlo.

[CHU-LIP]

No, I find it laughable because in my opinion you really have a very superficial at best understanding of the club and its history. You might try learning a little about the club before you make such declarations because it seems to me that you're indulging in a bit of fanboyism. Again.

Fanboyism? And what do you mean with 'again'?

Again you didn't explain anything really. All you keep saying 'you should learn more about blablabla'. You also didn't answer my question.

This post has been edited by CHU-LIP: Feb 11 2011, 03:44 PM

[il_diavolo_mtl]

oh god bonnera at LB, is antonini even injured?

[X-Offender]

I'd play us like this:

Abbiati
Bonera - Nesta - T. Silva - Emanuelson
Gattuso - Pirlo - Flamini
Robinho
Cassano - Ibrahimovic

Let Pato rest for the CL. Also, Emanuelson should start as LB whilst Antonini is injured (and Didac Vila is ignored).

[Fishdoll]

Not going to bother answering a question that really shouldn't have to be asked, Chu-Lip, because doing so would be a waste of my time. Just.... It's a good thing to learn a little about your subject matter before you make authoritative statements. (to be blunt: I don't think you understand thing one about Milan so am not going to get into any future debates with you about it because, well, it isn't worth it to me. I also haven't forgotten the #3 jersey comment or the several 'he's better than nesta' comments so yeah, i think you're a Thiago fanboy.)

Pointless debating out of the way, Allegri made a couple of comments on the lineup in his press conference today (original on the club website):
*Van Bommel to play in front of the defense
*Nesta and Pirlo to both get some playing time

[CHU-LIP]

Not going to bother answering a question that really shouldn't have to be asked, Chu-Lip, because doing so would be a waste of my time. Just.... It's a good thing to learn a little about your subject matter before you make authoritative statements. (to be blunt: I don't think you understand thing one about Milan so am not going to get into any future debates with you about it because, well, it isn't worth it to me. I also haven't forgotten the #3 jersey comment or the several 'he's better than nesta' comments so yeah, i think you're a Thiago fanboy.)

Pointless debating out of the way, Allegri made a couple of comments on the lineup in his press conference today (original on the club website):
*Van Bommel to play in front of the defense
*Nesta and Pirlo to both get some playing time

God, why being such a *****?

This season Silva is better than this season's Nesta, is what I said, what's wrong with saying that?

And my point really was that I believe Thiago Silva would make a very good captain in future. And that I don't see who would be a better captain of the players who we got below 31 years old. But the responses I am getting, wow, people say/think things that are wrong and wrong. It's annoying.

[X-Offender]

People, you are overreacting. CHU-LIP only said that Thiago Silva would make a good captain in the future. No need for all the yapping.

[CHU-LIP]

People, you are overreacting. CHU-LIP only said that Thiago Silva would make a good captain in the future. No need for all the yapping.

Thnx. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

All I wanted to do is disagreeing with those who say Thiago Silva is no captain material without being insulted by Fishdoll.

[X-Offender]

PIRLO INJURED AGAIN!!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

Goodbye CL and goodbye Seire A!

[CHU-LIP]

PIRLO INJURED AGAIN!!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

Goodbye CL and goodbye Seire A!

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/cry.gif) nooooo

[X-Offender]

Apparently he suffered a knee distortion in today's last training. Man, what a jinx! I'm guessing the recovery time won't be less than 2-3 weeks. Goddamnit! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

[acid911]

Goodbye CL and goodbye Seire A!

Who are you, and what have you done with X-Off? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/mad.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/angry.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/realmad.gif) Boy, feeling real touchy are we now-a-days? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) I remember you were never so easily ticked off at the start of the season. Relax man, we have managed a lot of matches without Pirlo, we can do so another couple. As for bye bye CL, yeah bye bye. Like I care about that this season. Serie A should be the main target. Scudetto or die.

Seriously though, as much as Milan needs Pirlo for creativity, and as unfortunate his constant injuries seem, that won't make or break our season. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) It's Allegri and his stupidity (coupled with his freak subs, or lack of, during matches) that will. We have dropped 8-11 needless point, another few and the hound dogs will start smelling blood. Point being, this year Milan somewhat has nice depth to the squad, something that was missing for the last four years running.

[X-Offender]

Drop it acid, I'm too depressed to be arguing at the moment. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleep.gif)

[CHU-LIP]

We failed to sign a creative midfielder in January, this and Pirlo's injuries will cost us.

[acid911]

Drop it acid, I'm too depressed to be arguing at the moment.

Oh, cheer up. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) Let's just hope we don't miss Pirlo too much in the first leg of the CL match, and fingers crossed he returns soon after wards. I was taken back when I first read about his injury earlier this hour, but we have much bigger things that can go wrong if not taken care of, than this unfortunate injury.

We failed to sign a creative midfielder in January, this and Pirlo's injuries will cost us.

Agreed. And maybe that is the reason why the Milan management is hesitant to renew with Pirlo later this year. Maybe they know something we don't. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) But really him getting injured, then playing a few minutes before breaking down during a match, and now hurting himself during training is not a good sign at all.

[X-Offender]

I'm guessing we'll have to play Seedorf at all cost now. And against Tottenham we won't have Van Bommel and Emanuelson available either. Who's gonna play in midfield? Damn it, out of all Serie A teams, we have the most number of injuries! No fair.

[acid911]

I'm afraid so. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) Tottenham also suffer from their own set of injuries for the first leg, so it evens out somwhat.

[CHU-LIP]

I'm guessing we'll have to play Seedorf at all cost now. And against Tottenham we won't have Van Bommel and Emanuelson available either. Who's gonna play in midfield? Damn it, out of all Serie A teams, we have the most number of injuries! No fair.

Either Merkel or Seedorf. I would go for Merkel though. He's having a better season than Seedorf imo.

[han2503]

Either Merkel or Seedorf. I would go for Merkel though. He's having a better season than Seedorf imo.

Seriously???

Merkel in the CL against Tottenham?? He'll get creamed....

We saw how he struggled against Catania, they toyed with him, he would be our weakest link, if Seedorf offers nothing else then at least he offers experiance and I'm 100% sure no one would even try to play him the way Merkel was played against Catania

[il_diavolo_mtl]

Either Merkel or Seedorf. I would go for Merkel though. He's having a better season than Seedorf imo.

it would be cool if merkel played in the CL

[han2503]

it would be cool if merkel played in the CL

Sure if we were playing Zilina or another team froma 5th rate league (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

Sorry but wanting Merkel to play in such an important tie in not a good idea. He's had 2 good games, where teams really left him a lot of space because theydidn't see him as a threat. Against Catania their coach chose the smart option, he put extr pressure on him and we saw Merkel crumble. Putting him agaisnt Tottenham is a disaster waiting to happen

[X-Offender]

Pirlo to be out for 6 weeks.

[CHU-LIP]

Seriously???

Merkel in the CL against Tottenham?? He'll get creamed....

We saw how he struggled against Catania, they toyed with him, he would be our weakest link, if Seedorf offers nothing else then at least he offers experiance and I'm 100% sure no one would even try to play him the way Merkel was played against Catania

I think you are being unfair to Merkel. He played poorly that game, so what? Everyone has that, surely younger players, and he played several games in a row. Also it's unfair you think what Seedorf can't, Merkel can't do either, even though Merkel is the better player of the two this season.

Sure if we were playing Zilina or another team froma 5th rate league (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

Sorry but wanting Merkel to play in such an important tie in not a good idea. He's had 2 good games, where teams really left him a lot of space because theydidn't see him as a threat. Against Catania their coach chose the smart option, he put extr pressure on him and we saw Merkel crumble. Putting him agaisnt Tottenham is a disaster waiting to happen

So who you want to play? He had more good games than Seedorf. If anything, Seedorf is a disaster.

[TriniKing_CE]

Pirlo to be out for 6 weeks.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif)

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif) ? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

[Jack Bauer]

Some witch cursed us? Last season was ruined because of injuries and this season it's much worse.

[X-Offender]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif)

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif) ? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

I don't understand what you're trying to say.

[ForzaMaldini]

F*********CK!!!!!

DAMN THESE F*CKING INJURIES!!!!

[William405]

Bad luck indeed.

But,these constant injuries to Pirlo will certainly make Galliani and co search for a replacement for him,something that we need really,if we're going for a younger team.

I would like either Poli or maybe take Wilshere on loan,I know that would never happen though ;p.

Aquilani would have been great,maybe we can snatch him from Liverpool if Juventus decide not to buy him out.

We need Fossati to mature Asap.

[Milan Are Brilli...]

I'm afraid so. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) Tottenham also suffer from their own set of injuries for the first leg, so it evens out somwhat.

Yep, Mr Overrated himself is struggling and is out of tomorrow's Premiership game. As is VDV. Neither are going to be fully fit for Tuesday, though I imagine they will both play.

Losing Pirlo isn't a massive, tragic loss, it's way too premature to say that's it in terms of our CL chances.

Edit: Wilshere on loan? We'd have more chance of getting Fabregas or Nasri.

[X-Offender]

Yep, Mr Overrated himself is struggling and is out of tomorrow's Premiership game. As is VDV. Neither are going to be fully fit for Tuesday, though I imagine they will both play.

And Modric.

Losing Pirlo isn't a massive, tragic loss, it's way too premature to say that's it in terms of our CL chances.

Pirlo no massive loss? Personally, I think he's our most important player after Ibrahimovic. His absence this last month has also been the reason why our game has deteriorated so tragically. The guy is to make his recovery in late March/early April, and I have absolutely no idea how we're going to fare without his services. One month is somewhat acceptable, but three? I really don't know.

[Milan Are Brilli...]

And Modric.

Pirlo no massive loss? Personally, I think he's our most important player after Ibrahimovic. His absence this last month has also been the reason why our game has deteriorated so tragically. The guy is to make his recovery in late March/early April, and I have absolutely no idea how we're going to fare without his services. One month is somewhat acceptable, but three? I really don't know.

Ah yeah, forgot he had his appendix out. 3 of their main players are going to be at the very least struggling then. That's the core of their team.

So, whilst we have injuries, so do they.

Well, we might have to cope without him soon if Man City open the cheque book, so it's time for someone else to step up now, whether that be a young talented Merkel or a more experienced/reliable Seedorf I don't really know.

[il_diavolo_mtl]

Sure if we were playing Zilina or another team froma 5th rate league (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

Sorry but wanting Merkel to play in such an important tie in not a good idea. He's had 2 good games, where teams really left him a lot of space because theydidn't see him as a threat. Against Catania their coach chose the smart option, he put extr pressure on him and we saw Merkel crumble. Putting him agaisnt Tottenham is a disaster waiting to happen

come on i said it would be cool. but if the alternative is slowdorf, we won't stand a chance to counter their quick midfield

[TriniKing_CE]

I don't understand what you're trying to say.

Likewise...

Pirlo to be out for 6 weeks? I thought he was better and available to the squad. No?


EDIT: Now saw this... http://www.football-italia.net/feb11v.html (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

Fu*k!

This post has been edited by TriniKing_CE: Feb 11 2011, 11:51 PM

[X-Offender]

Likewise...

Pirlo to be out for 6 weeks? I thought he was better and available to the squad. No?

Have you not been reading the past two pages? He suffered another injury today, a grave one, and will be out for about 6 weeks.

[TriniKing_CE]

Have you not been reading the past two pages? He suffered another injury today, a grave one, and will be out for about 6 weeks.

Didn't read the previous pages... my bad! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[Fillipo Simone]

I still did not get why Silva would be a good captain at first place. But, let's move on, sorry for returning to it again.

About the Pirlo injury. It's a blow, but I don't understand why you guys bother thinking about Champions League matches at all?? I mean, to me it was a lost battle in the first place: many strong teams + totally inexperienced coach + midfield with many weak spots - get's me to the conclusion we won't win it or be a real contender. All our January moves also go in favor of this. So why worry or bother? Why depict it like a total apocalypse while we can still hope for the scudetto? Who cares really about Tottenham anyway...

[X-Offender]

About the Pirlo injury. It's a blow, but I don't understand why you guys bother thinking about Champions League matches at all?? I mean, to me it was a lost battle in the first place: many strong teams + totally inexperienced coach + midfield with many weak spots - get's me to the conclusion we won't win it or be a real contender. All our January moves also go in favor of this. So why worry or bother? Why depict it like a total apocalypse while we can still hope for the scudetto? Who cares really about Tottenham anyway...

Sorry bro, I think you're only one who feels like that. I'm sure the team will try their best to go as far as possible in the Champions League. If we can't beat Tottenham, fair enough, it won't be the end of the world. But that doesn't mean we should totally ignore it. To me, that's completely irrational.

[TriniKing_CE]

Sorry bro, I think you're only one who feels like that. I'm sure the team will try their best to go as far as possible in the Champions League. If we can't beat Tottenham, fair enough, it won't be the end of the world. But that doesn't mean we should totally ignore it. To me, that's completely irrational.

+1

[Fillipo Simone]

Sorry bro, I think you're only one who feels like that. I'm sure the team will try their best to go as far as possible in the Champions League. If we can't beat Tottenham, fair enough, it won't be the end of the world. But that doesn't mean we should totally ignore it. To me, that's completely irrational.

Well, you obviously don't understand me. I'm just telling you that we shouldn't break our heads with what formation should be able to make the most damage control, we should just give our best shot and die hard. But the real focus, the real thinking, should be devoted to Serie A stuff.

[Milan Are Brilli...]

The thing is since the early 90's we've never been judged that strong of a contender, not enough quality, too old, not enough depth in squad. There's always been stronger teams, yet we've found ways of winning more Champions Leagues. Remember 07? Rooney scoring in the last minute at OT (we were going out again), Van Buyten scoring in the last minute for Bayern at San Siro (we were going out again). To chuck it out of the window as a lost cause already seems odd. I'm not saying we are going to win it, but we've surely got to give ourselves the chance.

I think that's why people are talking about Tottenham and why they are bothered about it.

[Jack Sparrow]

I DO NOT want to lose to Tottenham. Not to that fat **** Redknapp. I'll lose to Barca, Man U, even Chelsea. Not to Spurs.

Damn it. Pirlo out. Ever since he was injured our lead at the top has been getting sliced and diced to bits. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) Shite!!!

[Milan Are Brilli...]

I DO NOT want to lose to Tottenham. Not to that fat **** Redknapp.

Does Kurt have 2 accounts?!

[acid911]

Does Kurt have 2 accounts?!

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Good one!

[Jack Sparrow]

I'm not kurt. I'm the anti-kurt. Unlike kurt I'm actually awesome. kurt's a whiney little girl who dresses Barbie dolls up and plays with unicorns. I'm a f@ckin pirate.

And I'm in mourning. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cry.gif)

But seriously, can you even imagine the kind of crap that will be coming out of Redknapp's mouth if they do anything other than win at San Siro. About how glorious a team Spurs are, and how the press will come out how Milan were outclassed at their home turf and yada yada yada....