[Milan Are Brilli...]

TOTTENHAM V AC MILAN

(IMG:http://i52.tinypic.com/szzkb9.jpg)

Date: Wednesday 9^th March, 2011.
Kick Off: 19:45 GMT.
Venue: White Hart Lane, England.
1st Leg Score: AC Milan 0-1 Tottenham (away goal).

-------------------------------------------------------

For the eagerly anticipated away leg, revenge will be sweet.. hopefully!

Anyway, do remember that as of writing this we still have a tough game away to Juve first!

[acid911]

Finally, a bit of an English touch to a match thread. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) You and Kurt rarely open them!

Anyway, I can safely say this is going to be the match of the season up till now as far as high-profile and knockout matches go. Half of that is because it is the second leg, half of it is because we seem to have made a mess out of the home leg by giving away the away goal. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleep.gif) Whoever scores first will hold the key. Fingers crossed for a good 90 minutes, and 90 just. A two or three goal beating should put Spurs in their place. But for that to happen every player will need to give his 100%.

[X-Offender]

Match of the season? Hm, I don't think the club gives as much consideration to the CL as it gives to the Serie A. I'd say the match of the season will be the coming derby.

[X-Offender]

Thank god we have the Bari game in-between to catch our breath. Oh, and between Palermo and the derby I think there's a 2-week gap due to national teams.

[Jack Sparrow]

Allegri will wipe out all the brownie points he earned from the Napoli match, if we get dumped out of the CL by Spurs. I kid you not. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

[acid911]

True, but the club should not take the Bari match as a bit of a breather. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) Complacency at that stage (a draw or a loss) will wipe off all the good work if we do show up in the bigger matches. Oh, how I would have liked a 6-8 points cushion if not more, that was there at the start of the year.

[acid911]

Match of the season? Hm, I don't think the club gives as much consideration to the CL as it gives to the Serie A. I'd say the match of the season will be the coming derby.

Match of the season in terms of hype and glamor (due to it being a knockout CL clash). (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) In terms of everything else nothing would top the the 6-pointer derby. Agreed. We have to win that one by any way possible (just like we did Napoli in), otherwise I sense we'll be seeing the title decided on the last match-day.

Allegri will wipe out all the brownie points he earned from the Napoli match, if we get dumped out of the CL by Spurs. I kid you not.

Same here. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) Though Nesta already feels like we are practically out of the Champions League. He was quoted in a news story where he said something like this team is built for the domestic league and next season, we may be able to mount a serious challenge to the CL. I agree with him.

If it were anything but Spurs, then it would have been easier to digest the loss (if it came to it). United, Arsenal, Barca, Bayern, heck even the French clubs. But to go out after a home defeat again to an EPL club, ranked 5th, practically new to top flight European football and one that kills both Milan clubs in its first season is a tad too much to swallow. I personally think we will win, but there is as much of a chance to go out. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) 50-50 thanks to Allegri and his quest for the home goal after the 80th minute.

You are at home, could not score for the bulk of the match, what good is a goal in the dying minute do that giving away a vital away (pun always intended) goal to a pacey EPL team is worth it.

[kurtsimonw]

So, when do we find out who we're playing in the QFs?

[acid911]

So, when do we find out who we're playing in the QFs?

Provided we qualify, March 18. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) I kind of make it a point watching these draws live on TV, it's good fun!

[Rossoneri7]

So, when do we find out who we're playing in the QFs?

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

[Rossoneri7]

If nothing bad happens during this week, we should take the field with the following formation:

Abate -- Nesta -- Thiago -- Emanuelson

-- Flamini -- Seedorf -- Boateng

-- Pato -- Ibra -- Robinho

[han2503]

If nothing bad happens during this week, we should take the field with the following formation:

Abate -- Nesta -- Thiago -- Emanuelson

-- Flamini -- Seedorf -- Boateng

-- Pato -- Ibra -- Robinho

Agreed, except for Urby at LB, who cannot even play in the CL btw (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) he doesn't really give me any confidence at LB. Janku or Zambro (if fit) should ge the start

[X-Offender]

Boateng might be out for about 10 days, they said on Milan Channel. He left the stadium on crutches and his ankle is rather swollen. I'm guessing we'll be forced to play Thiago-Flamini-Seedorf-Robinho in midfield at this point. At any rate, I don't expect us to win. Too many injuries/absences.

[William405]

****'in Melo!

[Zed.D]

Come on, it wasn't intentional. Melo himself was limping till the HT.

I'm surprised that Boateng returned to the game though. if he had requested for a sub right away, maybe his ankle would be in a better shape now.

[X-Offender]

It's yet uncertain whether he'll be in London or not. The fact he played the whole first half very intensively might suggest that Allegri subbed him only as a precaution. But like I said, we'll have to wait and see.

[han2503]

Is Zambro going to be back?

If that's the case then it should be, Flamini, Seedorf, Janku in midfield with Robinho in front of them.

Keep Thiago in the defense FFS. Learn from your mistakes Allegri!!

[kurtsimonw]

Is Zambro going to be back?

If that's the case then it should be, Flamini, Seedorf, Janku in midfield with Robinho in front of them.

Keep Thiago in the defense FFS. Learn from your mistakes Allegri!!

I worry with the players we have unavailable in midfield that Thiago will play there. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

[X-Offender]

I have no news regarding Zambrotta, but Antonini is back, and it looks like Allegri will opt for Janku in midfield. Our line-up should thus be:

Abbiati
Abate - Nesta - T. Silva - Antonini
Flamini - Seedorf - Jankulovski
Robinho
Pato - Ibrahimovic

Defense and attack are alright, midfield is grotesque. I'd rather play Strasser and Flamini in front of the defense, in a 4-2-3-1 line-up:

Abbiati
Abate - Nesta - T. Silva - Antonini
Flamini - Strasser
Pato - Seedorf - Robinho
Ibrahimovic

Adapt Max, adapt!

[Jack Bauer]

^^^ Allegri gonna use the first line up.

I'm usually optimistic, but it's hard to see us winning there with that midfield.

[CHU-LIP]

X-Offender. You pick Antonini over Jankulovski? Really?? And urgh, Seedorf, only if Merkel can't play. Or what's even worse, you make a weird 4-2-3-1 with Pato as winger to accomadate a finished Seedorf, awful!

Pato, Ibrahimovic
Robinho
Flamini, Strasser, Merkel
Jankulovski, Thiago Silva, Nesta, Abate
Abbiati

Because Merkel is better than Seedorf, and Jankulovski is better than Antonini.

This post has been edited by CHU-LIP: Mar 6 2011, 06:13 PM

[han2503]

X-Offender. You pick Antonini over Jankulovski? Really?? And urgh, Seedorf, only if Merkel can't play. Or what's even worse, you make a weird 4-2-3-1 with Pato as winger to accomadate a finished Seedorf, awful!

Pato, Ibrahimovic
Robinho
Flamini, Strasser, Merkel
Jankulovski, Thiago Silva, Nesta, Abate
Abbiati

Because Merkel is better than Seedorf, and Jankulovski is better than Antonini.

That midfield would get trashed by spurs, imagine Merkel against Modric or Lennon FFS!!!

Either Janku or Strasser should get the nod if Boateng is not ready. Seedorf will have to play, we're short on mids and playing Merkel is not even an option in Allegri's mind and shouldn't be in all honesty. And removing Thiago from defense is not worth it when you limit a player like him in a position that is not his own.

[CHU-LIP]

That midfield would get trashed by spurs, imagine Merkel against Modric or Lennon FFS!!!

Either Janku or Strasser should get the nod if Boateng is not ready. Seedorf will have to play, we're short on mids and playing Merkel is not even an option in Allegri's mind and shouldn't be in all honesty. And removing Thiago from defense is not worth it when you limit a player like him in a position that is not his own.

Eh, but we don't have really other midfielders left to choose from, han. Oh wait! We have Seedorf! Our worst player!

[han2503]

Eh, but we don't have really other midfielders left to choose from, han. Oh wait! We have Seedorf! Our worst player!

I think you're just coming down way too hard on Seedorf because it's either him or Merkel. And for me in this kind of fixture, Merkel shouldn't be anywhere near the starting 11. Seedorf hasn't been playing regularly like he was before the first leg so he won't be tired like he was before. He can handle it. Janku can play in midfield and will be more adapt to doubling up to help Antonini defend, so it's not as bad as you make it out to be so that Merkel and Strasser can start.

Imo they should be our last solution. Especially Merkel, Strasser I would trust more, but he hasn't played for a while, and this game wouldn't be the right time to start him not when he's been out for so long

[X-Offender]

X-Offender. You pick Antonini over Jankulovski? Really?? And urgh, Seedorf, only if Merkel can't play. Or what's even worse, you make a weird 4-2-3-1 with Pato as winger to accomadate a finished Seedorf, awful!

Personally, I don't think Jankulovski is better than Antonini. They're more or less on the same level.

To play both Merkel and Strasser in such a game would be suicidal. Seedorf gives me much more confidence. Despite how crap he's become, you can always ask him for a wonder delivery when it comes to in-or-out games of this kind.

Weird 4-2-3-1? That's how we played under Leo, with Pato on the right. Nothing weird about it.

[CHU-LIP]

I think you're just coming down way too hard on Seedorf because it's either him or Merkel. And for me in this kind of fixture, Merkel shouldn't be anywhere near the starting 11. Seedorf hasn't been playing regularly like he was before the first leg so he won't be tired like he was before. He can handle it. Janku can play in midfield and will be more adapt to doubling up to help Antonini defend, so it's not as bad as you make it out to be so that Merkel and Strasser can start.

Imo they should be our last solution. Especially Merkel, Strasser I would trust more, but he hasn't played for a while, and this game wouldn't be the right time to start him not when he's been out for so long

Han, what bothers me, is you keep saying Merkel should never play then/there before looking the situation we are in. You are zero procent open considering him. At least be open to consider someone, and then maybe make the decision not to pick one.

I know Jankulovski can play in midfield, but I want him as left-back if Antonini is the other choice, and we can play midfielders like Strasser, Merkel and Flamini.

Why should Merkel be the last solution? He plays better than Seedorf this season, and I mentioned more reasons before, but this being the main reason.

Personally, I don't think Jankulovski is better than Antonini. They're more or less on the same level.

To play both Merkel and Strasser in such a game would be suicidal. Seedorf gives me much more confidence. Despite how crap he's become, you can always ask him for a wonder delivery when it comes to in-or-out games of this kind.

Weird 4-2-3-1? That's how we played under Leo, with Pato on the right. Nothing weird about it.

Jankulovski did better than Antonini in two games than Antonini in this whole season combined. Jankulovski showed to be not only the better attacker, but also a better defender than Antonini. I fully disagree they are on the same level. Jankulovski is a way better left-back than Antonini. Antonini has been playing bad this season, while Jankulovski played the last two games and did both times well, so it only makes sense to start him over Antonini.

Yeah, under Leonardo. Just like Huntelaar as RW was not weird? That formation was only there because of Ronaldinho. Pato is not a RW !!!!!!

[X-Offender]

Jankulovski did better than Antonini in two games than Antonini in this whole season combined. Jankulovski showed to be not only the better attacker, but also a better defender than Antonini. I fully disagree they are on the same level. Jankulovski is a way better left-back than Antonini. Antonini has been playing bad this season, while Jankulovski played the last two games and did both times well, so it only makes sense to start him over Antonini.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) Yeah, right. I was the first to say he was great against Napoli, but last night he had a decent performance, like the rest of the team. Nothing worth of mentioning, except one running that led to Cassano's opportunity, and one horrible mistake that could have cost us the game. In his prime, yes, he was by far better than Antonini. But right now, I don't see any substantial difference between the two.

Yeah, under Leonardo. Just like Huntelaar as RW was not weird? That formation was only there because of Ronaldinho. Pato is not a RW !!!!!!

I know Pato is not a RW, but unlike Huntelaar, he can play there no problem in emergency situations.

[CHU-LIP]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) Yeah, right. I was the first to say he was great against Napoli, but last night he had a decent performance, like the rest of the team. Nothing worth of mentioning, except one running that led to Cassano's opportunity, and one horrible mistake that could have cost us the game. In his prime, yes, he was by far better than Antonini. But right now, I don't see any substantial difference between the two.



I know Pato is not a RW, but unlike Huntelaar, he can play there no problem in emergency situations.

He can play there, but it's not making sense... it makes more sense to put Pato and Zlatan up front, Robinho behind them, and Seedorf at LCM or RCM..... Strasser is the best choice of the three as CDM, so Flamini as LCM or RCM...

Maybe nothing special Jankulovski did, but Antonini is most of the times horrible and a whole lot weaker than the rest of the team. I see some difference! Jankulovski adds so much more attacking and he is even a better defender than Antonini! At least from what I'm seeing this season's games. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleep.gif)

Jankulovski is doing well, unlike Antonini did, so how in earth can you pick Antonini over Jankulovski?

[han2503]

Han, what bothers me, is you keep saying Merkel should never play then/there before looking the situation we are in. You are zero procent open considering him. At least be open to consider someone, and then maybe make the decision not to pick one.

I know Jankulovski can play in midfield, but I want him as left-back if Antonini is the other choice, and we can play midfielders like Strasser, Merkel and Flamini.

Why should Merkel be the last solution? He plays better than Seedorf this season, and I mentioned more reasons before, but this being the main reason.

I only said that Merkel shouldn't play in games like this, and I stand by that. He's not even remotely ready for it, and to push him out there in a midfield along with the even less experienced Strasser, who hasn't even played in over a months btw, is just out of the question and incredibly naive, something that Allegri would never do, he's prefer to play Thiago there over either of them and I say this with the utmost confidence and something I support him hole heartedly in.

I'm more then ok with Merkel getting his chance is Coppa games and against small sides at home, but anything else is risking it, and we've seen him stumble a lot when he's put under pressure.

Like x-off said, the difference between the 2 is marginal, I think Janku has better positional sense then Antonini, while Antonini pushed forward better ans is faster. that's why playing Janku at LM is our best option, he'll help Antonini even better then a DM would plus can push forward make overlapping runs as well.

Merkel has had less games then Seedorf and looing at all those performances I woul say that Seedorf had the better ones so far. Sure he's had some really horrible performances like in the 1st leg and against Udine, but all the rest were good or acceptable, while Merkel ranges from decent to hesitant. You're giving Merkel way too much credit when someone like Strasser imo has far outshone him in the little amount of playing time he's gotten due to injury.

[CHU-LIP]

Han, you assume Merkel is not ready for a game like this, that's a huge difference with him being ready or not. You can't know that. Actually, no one knows until given the chance. And I would give him the chance, if the other option is Seedorf. Our worst player in second half of this season. My eyes got hurt reading you saying Seedorf did better than Merkel for us. OMG, we will never agree.

[rip]

I cant believe i am saying this, but i too would prefer Seedorf over Merkel. Merkel is better than Sedorf but he doesnt have the mental strength to play big matches like this. In the few matces i have seen merkel play, he had played well, but he seemed nervous sometimes and this game is not the place to build your confidence.

[han2503]

Han, you assume Merkel is not ready for a game like this, that's a huge difference with him being ready or not. You can't know that. Actually, no one knows until given the chance. And I would give him the chance, if the other option is Seedorf. Our worst player in second half of this season. My eyes got hurt reading you saying Seedorf did better than Merkel for us. OMG, we will never agree.

Looking at all the games each player played this season, then yes, Seedorf did better, providing some vital assists along the way, while Merkel had one really good game in the Coppa against Samp while all the others were pretty much meh, including one heart attack inducing showing against Catania.

I'm not assuming, I'm theorising based on what I saw from Merkel this season, and I'm sure that he's just not ready, or even good enough to play in a big CL game like this one, where it's either all or nothing

[kurtsimonw]

Experience in CL games really shouldn't be underestimated. Young players or players new to the CL are more likely to get caught up in the moment of playing such a huge game, they try too hard. Players like Seedorf with the 'been there, done it' attitude are not going to get caught up in it at all.

[Fillipo Simone]

Looking at all the games each player played this season, then yes, Seedorf did better, providing some vital assists along the way, while Merkel had one really good game in the Coppa against Samp while all the others were pretty much meh, including one heart attack inducing showing against Catania.

I'm not assuming, I'm theorising based on what I saw from Merkel this season, and I'm sure that he's just not ready, or even good enough to play in a big CL game like this one, where it's either all or nothing

+1

It's obvious he isn't ready, it's a big match and he wouldn't stand a chance against the Spurs. A big nononono for me.

[X-Offender]

Latest reports from Controcampo say we'll play with Seedorf-Flamini-Merkel in midfield.

[shevchenko_007]

Seedorf should be strictly a last 20 minutes player, that is the only way we will get anything remotely good out of him before he hopefully retires at the end of this season.

My line-up would be :
-----------Abbiati--------------
Abate--Nesta--Silva--Antonini
--Strasser--Flamini--Janku--
----------Robinho-------------
-------Pato-------Ibra--------

Janku can attack and more importantly help Antonini in containing Lennon.
Flamini needs to show discipline in this game and only go forward when given a clear opportunity to and when he does go forward Strasser needs to tuck in and cover for him.
Seedorf can come on in the last 20 mins and hopefully have a positive impact in the result.
This line up can work if everyone is 100% focused on their job and put these pommy pr!cks to bed.

This post has been edited by shevchenko_007: Mar 7 2011, 03:26 AM

[X-Offender]

^ I'd put Flamini on the right and Strasser in front of the defense.

[il_diavolo_mtl]

^ I'd put Flamini on the right and Strasser in front of the defense.

ordinarily i would agree, but with all the attention Flamini got on the Corluka tackle, i would not place him near people that can expose his aggression in VdV and Modric. I couldn't care less about the CL anyways, so why not place strasser in the middle. It could be worse, we could've been stuck with Seedorf, Ambro and Rino on the field...

[Jack Sparrow]

Right now, everyone says they don't care about CL. Well getting dumped out by Tottenham f@ckin hurts!!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

Not going out to some newbie team without any CL heritage. NOT DOING THAT!! If we get Chelsea or United or Barca...in the next round, by all means play the primavera and get thrashed, I couldn't care less.

[CHU-LIP]

^ I'd put Flamini on the right and Strasser in front of the defense.

Yup. That's pretty obvious for the ones knowing the players and the formation. Antonini is left-back worries me. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

[shevchenko_007]

If Strasser can out in a disciplined performance then he would be good in the central midfield role and I think he may do a better job there than Flamini would.. he may give too many fouls away around the edge of the area... so yeh I will change my line up to switch those two over.

I dont think we are out of this by any means and the champions league is my favourite competition so i want to go as far as we can, we should be trying our best in every game we play... After all that is what the players get their massive salaries for.

[CrazyMilanFan]

Latest reports from Controcampo say we'll play with Seedorf-Flamini-Merkel in midfield.

"I would put Flamini, Seedorf and Merkel." This is what gallaini said ( read on milannews) he even said that silva should not be considered for Midfield and start at CB

[kurtsimonw]

Sack Allegri, sign Galliani. /porty

[han2503]

Latest reports from Controcampo say we'll play with Seedorf-Flamini-Merkel in midfield.

Way too attacking. We'd seriously get caught out with that. Flamini is not a holding midfielder, he pushes up way too much to be our only defensive presence there. Merkel would get eaten alive, aspecially without any real protection from a DM

Our midfield should be Flamini and 2 from Seedorf/Strasser/Janku

No Merkel!!!!

Oh and now I hear that Bale is fit, imagine Merkel up against him... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

[CHU-LIP]

Way too attacking. We'd seriously get caught out with that. Flamini is not a holding midfielder, he pushes up way too much to be our only defensive presence there. Merkel would get eaten alive, aspecially without any real protection from a DM

Our midfield should be Flamini and 2 from Seedorf/Strasser/Janku

No Merkel!!!!

Oh and now I hear that Bale is fit, imagine Merkel up against him... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

I agreed with the bolded part. But then what you said about Merkel, applies also for Seedorf. I don't get why you are not worried about Seedorf.

IMO it should be 1 of Seedorf and Merkel, and 2 more defensive minded players like Flamini and Strasser.

[han2503]

I agreed with the bolded part. But then what you said about Merkel, applies also for Seedorf. I don't get why you are not worried about Seedorf.

IMO it should be 1 of Seedorf and Merkel, and 2 more defensive minded players like Flamini and Strasser.

Seedorf is a very intelligent player and he knows how to handle himself, giving Merkel a role were he's not familiar and also has to cover defensively is a big no no. I would be more worried about players like Zlatan, Flamini and Robinho in a game like this then I would be about Seedorf.

Flamini is an obvious choice. And imo we need a creative edge in there, to me that is Seedorf, Merkel is out of the question for me. Then it's Janku or Strasser, both would offer very different things, depends on how Allegri wants us to come out, whether he wants us to push forward or try and frustrate them a bit then hit them on counters with Pato and Robinho's speed. If it's the former then Janku would get it, if it's the latter then Strasser would do a better job.

It all depends. Personally I'm expecing the usual out of Allegri, some dumb @ss move in tactics or selection that will cost us.

[CHU-LIP]

Seedorf is a very intelligent player and he knows how to handle himself, giving Merkel a role were he's not familiar and also has to cover defensively is a big no no. I would be more worried about players like Zlatan, Flamini and Robinho in a game like this then I would be about Seedorf.

WOW! You still believe Seedorf is a good player. That's amazing.

Merkel is familiar with playing such position. You really think Seedorf isn't a worry about covering defensively? He has been sucking as much as possible when it comes to that the last few months EVERY game he has played. Of course, Merkel is also a question mark to defensive cover, that's why only one of them should play in midfield. Since Seedorf has been that awful, I would go for Merkel.

[han2503]

WOW! You still believe Seedorf is a good player. That's amazing.

Merkel is familiar with playing such position. You really think Seedorf isn't a worry about covering defensively? He has been sucking as much as possible when it comes to that the last few months EVERY game he has played. Of course, Merkel is also a question mark to defensive cover, that's why only one of them should play in midfield. Since Seedorf has been that awful, I would go for Merkel.

You give Merkel WAAAAAAAAYYYYY too much credit over absolutely nothing! While I've seen Seedorf in this type of game over many years now at Milan. Seedorf made a career out of playing in the midfield, pushing forward and helping out when needed, compare that to Merkel who has never really had a good game there, his best appearances were when playing in the AM position where he had no defensive responsability.

Seedorf is not a player who will get pushed around like Merkel would. I've sen Merkel commit horrible mistakes when pressured, while Seedorf always has a cool head, imo that counts for a whole lot in a CL match. Seedorf had 2 really terrible performances this season, no one is saying otherwise, but other then that he's been good. You're making it out as somehing it's not to have an excuse for advertising Merkel for some reason which I am not aware of.

[CHU-LIP]

You give Merkel WAAAAAAAAYYYYY too much credit over absolutely nothing! While I've seen Seedorf in this type of game over many years now at Milan. Seedorf made a career out of playing in the midfield, pushing forward and helping out when needed, compare that to Merkel who has never really had a good game there, his best appearances were when playing in the AM position where he had no defensive responsability.

Seedorf is not a player who will get pushed around like Merkel would. I've sen Merkel commit horrible mistakes when pressured, while Seedorf always has a cool head, imo that counts for a whole lot in a CL match. Seedorf had 2 really terrible performances this season, no one is saying otherwise, but other then that he's been good. You're making it out as somehing it's not to have an excuse for advertising Merkel for some reason which I am not aware of.

AHA! I knew you were living in the past! I FULLY AGREE with Seedorf making career in midfield in CL, and so, and he has been awesome many years. But now it are different times! He is older, and WORSE!!!!!

Where do I give Merkel so much credit? I also questioned him in my last comment! I just think Seedorf is finished, so different from the awesome Seedorf in the past. So I choose Merkel. Make room for a prospect, when the old one can't do it anymore.

Merkel never had a good game??? WUT?!?!?! He has had better games than Seedorf, man, Seedorf has been bad OVER AND OVER again these months, especially in the 3 man midfield Seedorf was ALWAYS awful this season, Merkel done there so much better. Merkel pwns him!

This post has been edited by CHU-LIP: Mar 7 2011, 04:17 PM

[Jack Sparrow]

I just don't get that last part. Which better games?? Bar the Sampdoria cup match...I'd actually say Strasser has been 3 times the performer that Merkel has been if you look at discharge of their respective playing duties as the criteria.

[Guest_Suhail 3_*]

we will probably see both merkel and seedorf feature alongside flamini, perhaps we ll also field janku as we dont really have any options left. The more i look at the spurs line up and midfield the more i fear this could get humiliating

Lennon Modric Palacious Bale
VDV
Crouch

god help us

[CHU-LIP]

I just don't get that last part. Which better games?? Bar the Sampdoria cup match...I'd actually say Strasser has been 3 times the performer that Merkel has been if you look at discharge of their respective playing duties as the criteria.

I agree with you there mate, Strasser pwns both Merkel and Seedorf easily. Strasser has been very solid whenever he played. It's just, Seedorf has been THAT bad, so many games in a row now, that also Merkel pwns Seedorf. Merkel, sometimes having a bad game, sure, but he also had better games. Overall, easily better than Seedorf.

And Merkel is growing, Seedorf is declining (he has A LOT this season). Give trust in the youngsters (when the older ones are letting down) (as in: Merkel over Seedorf).

This post has been edited by CHU-LIP: Mar 7 2011, 04:47 PM

[Fillipo Simone]

And Merkel is growing, Seedorf is declining (he has A LOT this season). Give trust in the youngsters (when the older ones are letting down) (as in: Merkel over Seedorf).

Gee, you'd be a pretty bad advertising agent. With that kinds of slogans Don Draper would have fired you instantly (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

[CHU-LIP]

Gee, you'd be a pretty bad advertising agent. With that kinds of slogans Don Draped would have fired you instantly (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif)

[Guest_Suhail 3_*]

Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri is determined to rock Tottenham's Champions League hopes, and is confident they will collapse in Wednesday's last 16, second-leg affair by claiming they are not the strongest team in Europe.

Allegri feels Tottenham, who boast a 1-0 aggregate lead heading into the game at White Hart Lane, don't have the strongest of foundations on the continent.

"We should not have made mistakes against Tottenham at San Siro, but they took advantage of a counter attack to beat us," Allegri told Radio Crc.

"However, despite playing good football, they are not among the strongest teams in Europe."

Allegri sounds confident ahead of the return leg, but the Milan coach has his own problems to deal with as he sifts through the debris of a broken midfield.

"Andrea Pirlo and Massimo Ambrosini are both injured, and thus for half of our midfield we only have a limited number of players available," he added.

"Plus, the players who arrived in January are cup-tied."

And his message of transferring their Serie A winning form to Europe couldn't be clearer.

"It's not always possible to play 95 minutes of spectacular football, but what counts is winning," he said.

Source - http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions...n-the-champions

[acid911]

I am with CHU here, it's not just about the names, it's about giving any youngster (be it Strasser or Merkel, or anyone else for that matter) an opportunity if the need comes up, such as this. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) I guess it all comes down to dieing, who are you willing to die with? An old player who we know what he is capable of, or a young blood who just may come out good. Even if he doesn't, I'd much rather be willing to get knocked out because of the mistakes of a younger player than an old veteran - at least the younger player will learn and take something out of the experience.

Once again, it is not about the names. Merkel and Strasser probably should not have been upgraded to the first team just yet, and likewise Seedorf should not have been our number 10 after say 2008-09 season at most. But like I said you can swap the names out and put anyone else in for all that matters.

[han2503]

AHA! I knew you were living in the past! I FULLY AGREE with Seedorf making career in midfield in CL, and so, and he has been awesome many years. But now it are different times! He is older, and WORSE!!!!!

Where do I give Merkel so much credit? I also questioned him in my last comment! I just think Seedorf is finished, so different from the awesome Seedorf in the past. So I choose Merkel. Make room for a prospect, when the old one can't do it anymore.

Merkel never had a good game??? WUT?!?!?! He has had better games than Seedorf, man, Seedorf has been bad OVER AND OVER again these months, especially in the 3 man midfield Seedorf was ALWAYS awful this season, Merkel done there so much better. Merkel pwns him!

Merkel owns Seedorf??? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Talk about going Over the Top!!!

I said he never really played well when he was in the midfield 3! Big difference. His best performances were when he played behind the 2 strikers, when he plays in midfield he ends up looking like the inexperienced, average player he is. You're making him out to be like some Messi in the making FFS!!! Merkel has had a couple of decent games nothing else, to trust someone like him, in a position that is not his own and that would put him under immense pressure would be a mistake of massive proportions.

Living in the past? Sorry to disappoint you but had we had a better choice in midfield neither Seedorf nor Merkel would get anywhere near the pitch if it were up to me. Netiher one of them is good enough at this point in their career. But looking at the bigger picture, and as the lesser of 2 evils, Seedorf wins hands down over Merkel.

Merkel has found it difficuilt in little away games, how do you think he will fair in an away CL game were we're already starting on the back foot?? Not pretty!!

I'm all for giving kids a chance, but WTF?? I still want us to at least give this thing a shot and not go out ala last season at OT. And Merkel would surely help in that, his indecicive play, his hesitation, trying to dilly dally with the ball near our own box and then ending up getting himself into heaps of trouble, sorry to ruin your paty, but I'm 100% sure Seedorf wouldn't do any of that sh!t.

Also saying Seedorf has declined a LOT this season based on 2 performances is ridiculous! I remember him getting booed constantly in the San Siro n 06/07 because of similar performances, but when the going got tuff especially in the CL, he was the one who delivered

I just don't get that last part. Which better games?? Bar the Sampdoria cup match...I'd actually say Strasser has been 3 times the performer that Merkel has been if you look at discharge of their respective playing duties as the criteria.

Agreed

[Fillipo Simone]

I can't agree. It's simply that, other then age, there's no real quality in Merkel (yet). That's why this turned into an age-debate. I've seen Merkel play, none of his matches impressed me, most of the time his defending was poor, so I don't think he can be good against Tottenham in a CL match. That's to much pressure on someone who isn't Messi.

[CHU-LIP]

''Merkel has had a couple of decent games nothing else'' - han

And that's enough to do better than Seedorf nowadays.

''Also saying Seedorf has declined a LOT this season based on 2 performances is ridiculous!'' - han

I was talking about a whole lot more games than 2.

The only thing we seem to agree with is that choosing between Merkel and Seedorf is not what we want. We won't agree with who to pick though. For some reason, you have faith in Seedorf, in my opinion too much based on the past, and too little faith in Merkel. In an ideal world we had Pirlo. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cry.gif)

'' sorry to ruin your paty, but I'm 100% sure Seedorf wouldn't do any of that sh!t ''

The last many many many games Seedorf has played, he has done very bad things for the team, every game of them, losing possession over and over again, so please don't act like Seedorf is not a liability and Merkel is the only one of the two who is likely to screw up. Like acid said, rather a prospect learning from his mistakes, than Seedorf seeing Seedorf playing almost whole the game awful like he has been doing too many games in a row now.

This post has been edited by CHU-LIP: Mar 7 2011, 08:33 PM

[Guest_Suhail 3_*]

Milan ace Robinho is convinced that his side can beat Tottenham in the Champions League this week.

The Rossoneri arrive for Wednesday’s White Hart Lane clash a goal down after their 1-0 San Siro reverse.

“I honestly believe we can win in England,” he told UEFA.com. “Our goal is to comeback from England having qualified for the next round of the Champions League.”

Milan were pretty disappointing against Spurs last month and Robinho has called for more focus from his teammates.

“We will have to change our attitude and be even more focused,” he added. “If we concede a goal things will become even more difficult, but anything can happen in football.

"Unfortunately, we lost the home leg in a difficult match. And we conceded a goal when we were playing better. But that does not mean we cannot win there.

"They play in a different way, focusing on physical strength, plenty of crosses into the box. I think they will play exactly the same way again."

Robinho joined Milan late in the summer transfer window and he has eyes on winning the greatest prize in European club football.

"It is a great competition and unfortunately I haven't had the opportunity to win it,” he added.

"So I hope to become a European champion here with Milan. It is a competition I love playing in, a difficult one, the toughest in European football. We hope to win it this season.



source - http://www.football-italia.net/mar07s.html



bit of optimism or call it dillusional from robinho

[Fillipo Simone]

Chu, you're just exaggerating too much. I can't agree that Seedorf has been "that bad" nor can I say that it's Merkel has to play because he had "more good games." It's absurd. For god sake, Merkel played one good game, and it was a Coppa match. Beside that he's a manace to Milan from a defensive standpoint, Seedorf loosing possesion is nothing compared to that! I cannot understand the confidence you have in writing Seedorf totally off; 'many many games' - what does that mean? He was also good a few times, even more then Merkel.

[CHU-LIP]

''Beside that he's a manace to Milan from a defensive standpoint'' F. Simone

And Seedorf isn't ?!?!?!?!

''He was also good a few times, even more then Merkel. '' F. Simone

Not in the second half of this season. Even in the games he makes assists, he played awful IMO, same goed for the match he scored - it was the only thing he did well, rest of the match he was AWFUL. Merkel did better IMO.

I don't believe Seedorf is able to play good matches anymore. He can do good things, as in giving a good pass, or score that one time. But for the rest, he will suck, ruining all our attacks, losing possesion all the time. It's ruining us. Merkel is not awesome, but Merkel is not THAT bad. I wish we had a better option than Merkel, but we haven't.

This post has been edited by CHU-LIP: Mar 7 2011, 09:57 PM

[Fillipo Simone]

Okay, let's say we just disagree then and let's call it a day.

[CHU-LIP]

Okay, let's say we just disagree then and let's call it a day.

Finally! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/king.gif)

[X-Offender]

Not before I say my word. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

In the long run, (meaning throughout the entirety of a season), I'd pick Merkel over Seedorf any day as starter. Seedorf is a finished player that can't keep up with the pace of any major European football championship anymore. However, when we're talking about games like this against Tottenham, which Italians refer to as partita secca (like finals or derbies), then Seedorf gives me much more confidence. Why? Because Seedorf, despite his precarious conditions, is able to pull out a world class performance for 90 minutes that Merkel could never dream of achieving. His experience is so immense, and his class is so undisputed, that allow him to "bypass" his age, just for one game, and make the difference! And that's why we need him tomorrow night, considering our absences. But like I said, just for one game. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[Guest_Suhail 3_*]

Not before I say my word. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

In the long run, (meaning throughout the entirety of a season), I'd pick Merkel over Seedorf any day as starter. Seedorf is a finished player that can't keep up with the pace of any major European football championship anymore. However, when we're talking about games like this against Tottenham, which Italians refer to as partita secca (like finals or derbies), then Seedorf gives me much more confidence. Why? Because Seedorf, despite his precarious conditions, is able to pull out a world class performance for 90 minutes that Merkel could never dream of achieving. His experience is so immense, and his class is so undisputed, that allow him to "bypass" his age, just for one game, and make the difference! And that's why we need him tomorrow night, considering our absences. But like I said, just for one game. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

+1 X bro

on another note im secretly praying and hoping that PATO explodes scores one or two and runs riot

[X-Offender]

on another note im secretly praying and hoping that PATO explodes scores one or two and runs riot

Same. I think (and hope) that Pato will be the key to this game.

[acid911]

that Merkel could never dream of achieving.

Oh, he dreams alright. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) This I can assure you! Most footballers and fans dream about being a hybrid cross between Kaka, Cristiano, Messi and characters like Superman, Batman and Terminator.

[Darunia]

How fit is Strasser? I know he's been injured for awhile. If he's fit, he should be starting alongside Flamini and Seedorf.

[shevchenko_007]

Bottom line is that neither of Merkel and Seedorf should be playing from the start.
Seedorf is done and dusted and has been for a long time... he is so slow it hurts to watch and all he relies on now when he is on ball is to look for the foul. I am thankful for what he has done for the team but it's time to retire.
Merkel is an investment for the future, he shows some good qualities that need to be developed in time and we shouldn't be looking at him as a finished product yet, nor should he be playing in big games like this.

We should start with a flamini-strasser-janku midfield and if all is going well and we need to protect a lead then Seedorf can come on for the last 20 mins and slow the game down and draw the foul and use his experience in that way... 20 minutes is his maximum these days and he showed that against Juve where he looked like the most tired of the whole team when he was only on for 20 mins.

[X-Offender]

Flamini-Strasser-Jankulovski... Lots of creativity there.

[drucurl]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) Tottenham Are Not Among The Strongest Teams In The Champions League - Milan Coach Massimiliano Allegri (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri is determined to rock Tottenham's Champions League hopes, and is confident they will collapse in Wednesday's last 16, second-leg affair by claiming they are not the strongest team in Europe.

Allegri feels Tottenham, who boast a 1-0 aggregate lead heading into the game at White Hart Lane, don't have the strongest of foundations on the continent.

"We should not have made mistakes against Tottenham at San Siro, but they took advantage of a counter attack to beat us," Allegri told Radio Crc.

"However, despite playing good football, they are not among the strongest teams in Europe."

Allegri sounds confident ahead of the return leg, but the Milan coach has his own problems to deal with as he sifts through the debris of a broken midfield.

"Andrea Pirlo and Massimo Ambrosini are both injured, and thus for half of our midfield we only have a limited number of players available," he added.

"Plus, the players who arrived in January are cup-tied."

And his message of transferring their Serie A winning form to Europe couldn't be clearer.

"It's not always possible to play 95 minutes of spectacular football, but what counts is winning," he said.
goal.crap



Don't look but Allegri just motivated the Spurs to prove that they are a big team. Interview comes with the standard cop outs that his fans have been giving him all year long (IMG:http://www.milanfan.com/forums/style_images/bullet/folder_post_icons/icon8.gif)

[kurtsimonw]

What he said is true, but there's still no need to say it.

[shevchenko_007]

Flamini-Strasser-Jankulovski... Lots of creativity there.

Yeh coz seedorf provides so much creativity..... For the other team when he loses the ball everytime he gets it?

Janku can push forward and put in some decent crosses and he likes to shoot and anything can happen as long as can get them on target, just like gattuso against juve.

[CHU-LIP]

Yeh coz seedorf provides so much creativity..... For the other team when he loses the ball everytime he gets it?

Janku can push forward and put in some decent crosses and he likes to shoot and anything can happen as long as can get them on target, just like gattuso against juve.

Agreed. We've played with midfields that had less creativity this season, and it went well. Rather than playing Seedorf who is a specialist in ruining our attacks.

Except, I want Jankulovski as left-back... Antonini? Oh, please no..

This post has been edited by CHU-LIP: Mar 8 2011, 09:55 AM

[Zed.D]

Not before I say my word. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

In the long run, (meaning throughout the entirety of a season), I'd pick Merkel over Seedorf any day as starter. Seedorf is a finished player that can't keep up with the pace of any major European football championship anymore. However, when we're talking about games like this against Tottenham, which Italians refer to as partita secca (like finals or derbies), then Seedorf gives me much more confidence. Why? Because Seedorf, despite his precarious conditions, is able to pull out a world class performance for 90 minutes that Merkel could never dream of achieving. His experience is so immense, and his class is so undisputed, that allow him to "bypass" his age, just for one game, and make the difference! And that's why we need him tomorrow night, considering our absences. But like I said, just for one game. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

Normally I'd agree with you, but lately Seedorf has been terrible in big games as well. remember the Madrid game at the Bernabeu? he was unwatchable.

That said, I'd still play him ahead of a rookie like Merkel in this game. Merkel should first be played in regular league games to learn a thing or two before setting foot in such important games.

[Dracoris]

Boateng could play.

[Jack Bauer]

Boateng could play.

Yes. He trained with everyone today and went with the team to London. Also, Pato is 100% fit.

This post has been edited by Jack Bauer: Mar 8 2011, 06:50 PM

[d'Arc.LP]

MILANELLO - Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has called up the following 22 players for his team's upcoming Champions League match against Tottenham:

Abbiati, Amelia, Roma; Abate, Antonini, Bonera, Jankulovski, Legrottaglie, Nesta, Oddo, Papastathopoulos, Thiago Silva, Zambrotta, Yepes; Boateng, Flamini, Merkel, Seedorf, Strasser; Ibrahimovic, Pato, Robinho.

Unavailable: Ambrosini, Pirlo, Inzaghi.

Suspended: Gattuso.

source: acmilan.com

--------------------------------------

In my opinion we should play like this :

Abbiati
Abate - Nesta - Silva - Antonini
Flamini - Seedorf - Merkel
Boateng
Pato - Ibrahimovic

This post has been edited by d'Arc.LP: Mar 8 2011, 09:52 PM

[Dracoris]

Considering our midfield situation we really should play:

Pato Ibra
Robinho
Prince Dorf Flamini
Janku Silva Nesta Abate
Abs

[William405]

Yeah,we really need Boateng in that midfeild.Robinho can manage playing behind the strikers for this one.

[Zed.D]

I just got a bit more optimistic knowing the Boat could play! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

[Rossoneri7]

I have been waiting a while now ... Glade it has arrived. I hope we don't face Barca next (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

[Guest_Suhail 3_*]

I have been waiting a while now ... Glade it has arrived. I hope we don't face Barca next (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

ive been feeling worried,depressed and anxious and filled with negativity today for some bizzare reason and now im wondering why ?

WE ARE MILAN ... were gonnna win this thing

[arivanjj]

I have been waiting a while now ... Glade it has arrived. I hope we don't face Barca next (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

thats the least of our worries right now (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) ... we need to tackle this game from the first second. can't afford for tottenham to get comfortable.

[dst]

I have been waiting a while now ... Glade it has arrived. I hope we don't face Barca next (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) you think we're already through!

I myself believe we'll lose again, anyone else feeling the same way? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

[X-Offender]

Considering our midfield situation we really should play:

Pato Ibra
Robinho
Prince Dorf Flamini
Janku Silva Nesta Abate
Abs

That's how I think we'll play. Honestly, if Seedorf will do his own and Jankulovski/Antonini hold on well, that's a quality formation there. IMO we can win this one.

[Guest_Suhail 3_*]

That's how I think we'll play. Honestly, if Seedorf will do his own and Jankulovski/Antonini hold on well, that's a quality formation there. IMO we can win this one.

being negative just isnt the way forward as ive learnt, however judging from our camp's recent interviews an statements Milan are ready (IMG:style_emoticons/default/devilsmiley.gif)

[X-Offender]

Aye. The players seem confident. And honestly, we're facing Tottenham, not Manchester or Barcelona. With the right mentality and spirit of sacrifice, we can do it.

[drucurl]

BBBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT
(IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

[Nova]

Funny stadium here , in the middle of the projects and looks like a crappy stadium outside , but inside its actually quite modern and the pitch is in perfect condition .

But a terrible neighbourhood here in north London ... First thing I saw when I arrived at the tv compound was a man and a woman screaming and throwing punches at eachother :-) What a nice welcome

Anywho , Forza Milan !

[X-Offender]

You went to London to see the game? Or do you live there?

[Nova]

You went to London to see the game? Or do you live there?

I'm there for work ( rai italia and sky ) , live in Belgium tough .

[Dracoris]

I was not really looking forward to this game, but if Boateng can play, and play well....who knows what could happen.

[shevchenko_007]

I'm there for work ( rai italia and sky ) , live in Belgium tough .

What sort of work do u do? What is ur job title?

[KillerMax]

And what is your mother's maiden name?

[Bluesummers]

11 defenders called up ? lolololol

[TriniKing_CE]

I just got a bit more optimistic knowing the Boat could play! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

+1 (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

[Jack Sparrow]

I'm not sure if he's fit to start....though. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) He'll probably play with painkillers I imagine.

[acid911]

11 defenders called up ? lolololol

Yeah, just saw that. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Kinda weird, but such is the situation of our team, we lack in the attack department.