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AC Milan - Milanfan.com _ Archive 07/08 _ [EN] Premier League 07/08

Posted by: Portikins Jun 18 2007, 06:39 PM

All the English Premier League 2007/08 talk here!

Posted by: dst Jun 18 2007, 06:52 PM

Go Villa! With the Gooners not producing the football that made me like them I think I'll start rooting for Kurt's team! Just so he won't feel alone...

Posted by: misha Jun 18 2007, 06:56 PM

Go City!! Show who are the real force in Birmingham!! Aston Villa for relegation

Posted by: dst Jun 18 2007, 06:59 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 18 2007, 08:56 PM)

Go City!! Show who are the real force in Birmingham!! Aston Villa for relegation

Are you testing me!???

Posted by: misha Jun 18 2007, 07:05 PM

Yes. Opposition.

I wanted some team to support in England and now I found one. Go Blues!!

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Jun 18 2007, 07:09 PM

uhmm...I'm a bundle of paradoxes....

My teams are

Newcastle(for old time's sake...but i do hate Sam Allardyce and his anti-football, he'll destroy everything Newcastle stand for. Why oh why couldn't they nail Juande Ramos!!)

Aston Villa(for Kurt's sake...and coz of M.O.N and his 4-3-3, though I'm not convinced they can do better than 7th next season)

Sunderland( What a Roy Keane...this guy is doing off the pitch what he used to do on it, dragging his team kicking and screaming to the top...and I know they are derby rivals with the magpies)

Arsenal(They play by far, the best looking football, with RVP back in form and fitness and providing they get a great replacement for Henry if he leaves, say Torres, I still think with a little luck they can do a top 3)

Posted by: Portikins Jun 18 2007, 07:11 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 18 2007, 07:05 PM)

Yes. Opposition.

I wanted some team to support in England and now I found one. Go Blues!!

HAHA. You glory-hunter!

Their take-over would be complete in some weeks I believe. Not sure about the guy behind. Some say it would be the Indian... others say it will be a Honk Kong business man.

Posted by: dst Jun 18 2007, 07:14 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 18 2007, 09:05 PM)

Yes. Opposition.

I wanted some team to support in England and now I found one. Go Blues!!

Your pathetic team's badge features a post-Armageddon Earth and a volleyball! Get outta here!!

Posted by: misha Jun 18 2007, 07:16 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 18 2007, 09:11 PM)

HAHA. You glory-hunter!

Their take-over would be complete in some weeks I believe. Not sure about the guy behind. Some say it would be the Indian... others say it will be a Honk Kong business man.

After the 100 year curse they deserve it!! Honestly, I started to piss kurt and dst, but I might stick with it. Villa who?

Posted by: Portikins Jun 18 2007, 07:17 PM

-Manchester United (Arrogant bast*rds. Always arrogants.)
-Arsenal (Not the club it self... but the French-connection.)

So... go Chelsea, go Liverpool, go Spurs... any other club. Just make sure the 2 above don't win the EPL this year.

Posted by: Tennie Jun 18 2007, 07:19 PM

I'm generally indifferent to the EPL, but if I must pick a favourite team, I think I'll pick Spurs. They're entertaining.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Jun 18 2007, 07:20 PM

Well Tennie, ur gonna have a problem with Locke then.

Posted by: dst Jun 18 2007, 07:21 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 18 2007, 09:17 PM)

-Manchester United (Arrogant bast*rds. Always arrogants.)

A Real Madrid admirer/fan talking about arrogance...

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 18 2007, 09:17 PM)

go Liverpool

You will all taste the wrath of Aston Villa! We are Prepared this time around... whatever that means!

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jun 18 2007, 09:19 PM)

I'm generally indifferent to the EPL, but if I must pick a favourite team, I think I'll pick Spurs. They're entertaining.

I couldn't care less myself... it's the only league I watch with no passion.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 18 2007, 07:28 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jun 18 2007, 07:21 PM)

A Real Madrid admirer/fan talking about arrogance...

I think this guys are even more arrogant TBH.

I mean, Madrid have a reason to be arrogant: historically they're the best in Europe (9 CL) and at home (30 titles).

But United? 2 CL (as many as Benfica or Porto) and 16 titles (behind Liverpool)? Cvnts.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Jun 18 2007, 07:29 PM

The League I watch with no passion? Hmm..I'd guess Bundesliga...no I do have a small affection for Stuttgart....

Not Portuguese football...coz I don't watch it and I'd like Benfica too much.

But I'd guess the Spanish League. I haven't watched Sevilla play enough to be their fanboy. I just appreciate what they do with what they've got. And I do like some of their attacking moves. And as for Real and Barca well the proverbial rock and a very hard place.

Posted by: Tennie Jun 18 2007, 07:33 PM

QUOTE (Jack Sparrow @ Jun 18 2007, 02:20 PM)

Well Tennie, ur gonna have a problem with Locke then.

And with the other football fan in my department at work who's a big Gunners fan and has a Bergkamp poster in his office!

Nothing like a little friendly rivalry, is there?

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Jun 18 2007, 07:35 PM

Well if u wanna pick a fight with a Bergkamp fan...we have the Greek mathematician here...

hmm Mathematician versus Linguist...sounds like we should start a milanfan.com poll.

Posted by: dst Jun 18 2007, 07:38 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jun 18 2007, 09:33 PM)

And with the other football fan in my department at work who's a big Gunners fan and has a Bergkamp poster in his office!

I like your friend already!!

Yeah, yeah... I know!

Posted by: Tennie Jun 18 2007, 07:39 PM

QUOTE (Jack Sparrow @ Jun 18 2007, 02:35 PM)

Well if u wanna pick a fight with a Bergkamp fan...we have the Greek mathematician here...

hmm Mathematician versus Linguist...sounds like we should start a milanfan.com poll.

Can the winner keep Nesta?

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Jun 18 2007, 07:40 PM

^^^^
Only if the loser agrees to keep his wife.

Posted by: dst Jun 18 2007, 07:43 PM

QUOTE (Jack Sparrow @ Jun 18 2007, 09:40 PM)

^^^^

Only if the loser agrees to keep his wife.

Sorry Tennie... I would normally let you have Nesta but under these circumstances, I'm going to fight for him!

*is scared of his wife*

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 18 2007, 09:13 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jun 18 2007, 07:33 PM)

And with the other football fan in my department at work who's a big Gunners fan and has a Bergkamp poster in his office!

Nothing like a little friendly rivalry, is there?

FEAR ME!!!
I'm taken aback here, is there another Bergkamp fan here???

Posted by: dst Jun 18 2007, 09:27 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jun 18 2007, 11:13 PM)

I'm taken aback here, is there another Bergkamp fan here???

A die-hard one. You're talking to him right now!!!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 18 2007, 09:30 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jun 18 2007, 05:52 PM)

Go Villa! With the Gooners not producing the football that made me like them I think I'll start rooting for Kurt's team! Just so he won't feel alone...

Thank you.

QUOTE (Jack Sparrow @ Jun 18 2007, 06:09 PM)

Aston Villa(for Kurt's sake...and coz of M.O.N and his 4-3-3, though I'm not convinced they can do better than 7th next season)

Thank you.

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 18 2007, 05:56 PM)

Go City!! Show who are the real force in Birmingham!!Â Aston Villa for relegation

Go to hell.

You'll jump ships at christmas, when they're bottom of the league.

Anyways as for my predictions. It's too early to tell because the transfer window is a long way from closing. But..

Top 7 (Possible European places) (In Order. Yes, make the most of your last CL campaign Gooners)
Chelsea
United
Liverpool
Spurs
Arsenal
Everton
Villa

Relegated
Boro
Wigan
Derby

Posted by: misha Jun 18 2007, 09:50 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 18 2007, 11:30 PM)

You'll jump ships at christmas, when they're bottom of the league.

City all the way. With that Indian guy we will start building an empire.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jun 19 2007, 12:37 AM

Tottenham ... I think they are the most annoying team in the EPL .. They piss every other team off

I like em

Posted by: misha Jun 19 2007, 01:53 AM

QUOTE

Goal.com Profile: Tal Ben Haim

Following the versatile defender's 'dream' move from Bolton Wanderers to Chelsea, Goal.com profiles the Israel captain as he prepares for a campaign with one of the Premiership's 'Big Four' - a club he claims any player in the world would want to play for...

Tal Ben Haim was born on 31st March 1982 in Rishon LeZion, Israel. He started his professional career with Maccabi Tel Aviv, whom he joined in 1998. Ben Haim rose through the ranks at the Israeli giants, breaking into the first-team and playing a key role as Maccabi won the Ligat ha'Al championship in 2002-03. Having made himself an automatic selection at the back, his progress attracted the attention of English clubs and he was invited for a trial by Aston Villa. However, then-Villa boss David O'Leary was not convinced he'd make the grade in the Premiership. Sam Allardyce was less cautious and, following a two-week trial with Bolton Wanderers in the summer of 2004, Ben Haim joined the Trotters on a three-year contract for a fee thought to be around Â£150,000. He had made almost 150 League appearances for Maccabi Tel Aviv.

While Allardyce thought Haim would not be ready for the demands of the Premier League immediately, he had confidence that, in time, the defender would make as much of an impact on English football as his compatriot Eyal Berkovic, who represented (sometimes controversially) Southampton, West Ham, Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City and Portsmouth, a well as Celtic in Scotland.

Having been given that vote of confidence by Allardyce, Ben Hain went on to prove his manager wrong regarding timing, making 27 Premiership appearances in his debut season at The Reebok Stadium, and scoring his first goal for the Trotters in a 3-1 home victory against Tottenham Hotspur.

In October of the following campaign, Ben Haim was given the captain's arm-band by Allardyce in a Uefa Cup tie in Istanbul against Beşiktaş, His leadership of the team was praised by the regular skipper, Nigerian play-maker Jay Jay Okocha.

Claims To Fame

In his first season with Bolton, Ben Haim was involved in a clash with Manchester United's Wayne Rooney. The England striker appeared to shove Ben Haim in the face, and the Israeli was deemed to have exaggerated the incident and gone down too easily. He was charged with improper conduct by the Football Association, but later cleared of the charge.

Meanwhile, Ben Haim's solidity and versatility in the Bolton defence - he is equally comfortable playing at full-back or centre-back - was not only impressing Allardyce but also prompting other clubs to cast envious glances in the direction of The Reebok. Among them three London-based Premiership rivals: Chelsea, West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho reportedly made an enquiry about Ben Haim 's availability in December 2005 after the Israeli turned in a superb display against the then champions. Bolton responded unequivocally, stating that he was not for sale at any price. However, just over a year later Chelsea renewed their interest in the January 2007 transfer window, when injuries to John Terry and Ricardo Carvalho had left the Blues exposed defensively. But no transfer occurred, mainly because Chelsea thought Bolton`s asking price was too high. The Blues wanted to pay no more than a nominal fee for a player who would be a free agent in just six months' time.

Those six months having passed, Ben Haim's contract with Bolton had expired and his future there was in the balance. Chelsea were duly back in the frame, along with Newcastle United, who were now managed by Haim's ex-Bolton boss Allardyce.

Despite Allardyce's charms, Newcastle's prospectus was clearly less appealing to Ben Haim than Chelsea's, because on 14th June 2007, the Blues officially announced the signing of the player on a â€˜Bosmanâ€™ free transfer after he had passed his medical at Stamford Bridge and agreed personal terms on a four-year contract. Those terms are said to be worth Â£13 million - or Â£60,000 per week - to the Israeli international, reputedly some five times what he was on at Bolton.

Not surprisingly, Ben Haim was delighted. He told the media: "I'm very happy to fulfill my dream and sign for Chelsea. I feel fantastic to be part of this amazing club and I'm looking forward to start. I'm very excited about the first games in the Champions League. If you ask every player, they want to play for Chelsea. It's one of the best teams in the world so I'm very happy to be part of that. I am very happy to join one of the best clubs in the world. I needed a new challenge. I will play in any position Jose Mourinho wants me to play."

Ben Haim left Bolton having made 110 competitive first-team appearances for the club.

Technical Skills

Tal Ben Haim is an athletic centre-back who can play at right-back equally well. He is a composed performer at the heart of the defence - something Chelsea will welcome given their weaknesses in that area last season. He is a confident player noted for his strength and aerial ability. However, at Chelsea he is likely to be a substitute for starting defenders John Terry and Ricardo Carvalho, so he may find himself a well-paid bench-warmer , at least initially.

Club Career - League Appearances (Goals)
1998-2004 Maccabi Tel Aviv 147 (2)
2004-05 Bolton Wanderers 21 (1)
2005-06 Bolton Wanderers 35
2006-07 Bolton Wanderers 32 Total: 88 (1)

National Team

Ben Haim has been a regular for the Israeli national team since making his debut in 1998. He has been a key figure in Israel's improvement in recent years, including their strong challenge to qualify for the 2008 European Championship finals in Austria & Switzerland.

To date he has won 22 caps for his country, and has recently captained the side.

During the Israel-France match in the 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign, French striker David Trezeguet took exception to a tackle from Ben Haim and head-butted the Israeli, earning himself a red card as a result. Israel went on to draw the game 1-1 against ten-man France.

Did You Know?

- Ben Haim's transfer from Maccabi to Bolton Wanderers in July 2004 is one of those about which Lord Stevens' Quest inquiry in June 2007 expressed concerns. Stevens perceived an apparent conflict of interest between agent Craig Allardyce, his father Sam Allardyce - then manager at Bolton - and Wanderers themselves.

- Tal means Dew in Hebrew. Literally, Ben Haim means Son of Life. However, the Hebrew word "Ben" also has several borrowed meanings, such as "one who has", or "one who belongs to". His name can therefore be interpreted in English as meaning "Belongs to Life", or "Has the virtue of living".

- At the end of the week in which he joined Chelsea, Tal Ben Haim married Michal Hemo in Israel. Wedding guests were rumoured to include several Premiership footballers.

- Israeli performer and celebrity Uri Geller, who claims to have psychic powers and demonstrates paranormal and psychokinetic feats, regards Tal Ben Haim as a friend and claims some credit for the player's increased confidence since arriving in the Premiership. After Haim captained Bolton, Geller said on his personal website: "I have been proud to coach Tal with positive thinking sessions, using the power of his mind to bring his body to new heights of athleticism." Haim was quoted as telling a reporter: "The conversations with Uri help me enormously. He persuades me to believe in myself and other things that may help my game with Bolton and Israel. I feel confident every time I go on to the pitch."

- Sam Allardyce was disappointed not to win the race for his former defender's signature when the player left Bolton. But he said: "We have had a long, hard go, but I think the lure of the [former] champions has perhaps just pipped me at the post. I'm sad I can't bring him here and work with him again. I like the lad an awful lot and we know each other really well. But, like I said, the lure of Chelsea is a big one." Allardyce added: "He wants to play in the Champions League. He is not afraid of competition and believes he can gain a place with the [Chelsea] first team." The player himself admitted it was not easy to reject Big Sam`s overtures. "It was hard to turn down Newcastle because Sam Allardyce helped me take my first steps in English football, which I will never forget."

- Ben Haim's arrival at Chelsea is said to reflect, in part, the influence of his fellow Israeli Avram Grant, currently at Portsmouth, who is due to become Chelsea's new director of football after forging a strong relationship with the Blues' owner, Roman Abramovich - from whose private box at Wembley Grant watched Chelsea's FA Cup triumph in May. Grant, the former coach of the Israeli national team, has long been a champion of Ben Haim's cause.

Particulars:

Name: Tal Ben Haim

Date & Place of Birth / Age: 31st March 1982, Rishon Lezion / 25

Nationality: Israeli

Height: 1.80m

Weight: 74kg

Role: Centre-back of full-back

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jun 19 2007, 03:52 AM

QUOTE

Rijkaard To Resign, Barcelona Chasing Wenger - Report

The Sun are sensationally claiming that Barcelona have been speaking with Arsene Wenger, not about Thierry Henry, but about signing the coach himself.

The report insists that Frank Rijkaard is set to step down as Barcelona coach following Real Madrid's title triumph on Sunday evening.

Many in the Barcelona camp believe that the Dutchman's limitations have been exposed this season, in the absence of former assistant Henk Ten Cate, who used to work closely with the players, and was also considered to be the tactical expert.

Rijkaard's hold on the squad is said to have slipped since Ten Cate's departure for Ajax, and his tactics have also come under scrutiny.

While Joan Laporta continues to publicly back him, The Sun insist that he will quit following the rather embarrassing collapse in the title race.

They also suggest that "the Spanish giants have made Arsenal boss Wenger their No 1 target to replace him."

'Senior sources' at the Camp Nou have supposedly claimed that talks are underway to bring him to the Camp Nou.

There was a meeting last week in France between Wenger and Barcelona vice president Ferran Soriano, which multiple reports had suggested was to discuss Thierry Henry's future.

The report insists it was not about Henry, but the coach himself.

Wenger has insisted he will see out the final year of his contract at Arsenal, but refused to sign a new deal. He is known to be very frustrated with the lack of funds to challenge for the big players, and David Dein's departure, and Barcelona are looking to hand him a blank cheque if he takes charge.

Should Wenger move, it will, needless to say, facilitate Thierry Henry's move to Barcelona as well. Cesc Fabregas is another player who has publicly pledged his loyalty to Wenger, and not Arsenal.

Goal.com

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jun 19 2007, 04:29 AM

Again ... Where would Arsenal be without Wenger ?? He might stay on this season, but what of next season

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 19 2007, 07:37 AM

Wow. If Arsene goes there. Arsenal have 0% chance of keeping Henry. He'll be joining him at the Nou Camp.

Gutted.

Posted by: Tennie Jun 19 2007, 07:41 AM

Interesting news, but....it's the SUN reporting it. Not exactly the most reliable of sources.

Posted by: mchanna Jun 19 2007, 10:39 AM

QUOTE

In a new interview for the Official Chelsea Magazine, when talking about the pre-season Jose says the following :

"Also maybe we will have a couple of South American players and becuase the South American Cup is played in June and we have a Brazilian like we will probably have in Alex, he cannot start pre-season".

if thats true they have got one hell of a back four...

Posted by: Portikins Jun 19 2007, 12:25 PM

QUOTE (mchanna @ Jun 19 2007, 10:39 AM)

if thats true they have got one hell of a back four...

Yup. No more problems on that.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 19 2007, 12:52 PM

As for Henry, I'm starting to get nervous about him.
He seems unable to decide, but if he wants to leave, then I just have to thank him for all his goals and wish him good luck.
When it comes to Wenger I KNOW that hel'l finish his contract, but after that, it will depend on next seasons results.
If Wenger leaves, we need someone like...Hiddink. Or Scolari.

As for the coincidence that said Spurs would finish above Arsenal...

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jun 19 2007, 05:01 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jun 19 2007, 09:41 AM)

Interesting news, but....it's the SUN reporting it. Not exactly the most reliable of sources.

Not saying it's reliable, but when Arsene finally leaves Arsenal ... I doubt they will be a top 4 team in England

- He, above all, is the main reason in keeping them in contention.

Posted by: KillerMax Jun 19 2007, 10:28 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ Jun 19 2007, 10:01 AM)

Not saying it's reliable, but when Arsene finally leaves Arsenal ... I doubt they will be a top 4 team in England

- He, above all, is the main reason in keeping them in contention.

He needs to bring in some experienced players with leadership if he is to win anything next season. Players like Campbell, Viera, Bergkamp and Pires provided that before and now all of the are gone in a very short span of time. Of course the team will stumble. They need to start looking for holes and fill them now! But Wenger loves his young players, doesn't he...

Posted by: Portikins Jun 19 2007, 11:28 PM

QUOTE

Chelsea Win Malouda Race - Report

Chelsea have reportedly won the race to sign Florent Malouda from French champions Lyon.

The French winger has seemed destined to be leaving Lyon this summer with the Premiership his most likely destination, but it had been felt that Liverpool were the frontrunners for his signature.

However, it has now emerged that FA Cup winners Chelsea have beaten Rafael Benitez's side to sign the 28-year-old, according to French radio station RMC.

As part of the deal Lassana Diarra will move in the oppostie direction on loan.

Malouda had said earlier this summer: "Liverpool and Chelsea have shown their interest. I don't know how it's going to end but in my head I'm going to leave (Lyon)."

He added: "At Chelsea there is Didier Drogba, as well as everybody else, but then at Liverpool, they have such a good coach and the team has played in two Champions League finals in three years.

"The most important thing for me will be the desire shown by the club. To go and play abroad, you really need to be wanted."

Jose Mourinho has been busy this summer having already signed Steve Sidwell, Claudio Pizarro and Tal Ben Haim - all of which have arrived on a free transfer, whereas Malouda will cost roughly Â£17m.

Am I the only one who thinks Robben is on his way out of Chelsea if this is confirmed?

Posted by: Tennie Jun 19 2007, 11:33 PM

Adios, Arjen. (Isn't he on Calderon's shopping list?)

Posted by: Portikins Jun 19 2007, 11:43 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jun 19 2007, 11:33 PM)

Adios, Arjen. (Isn't he on Calderon's shopping list?)

Yes. Robben is one of Calderon dreams. One week ago he said he was in talks with Robben-agent for his transfer.
1 day after Robben-agent denied any talks with Madrid and said Chelsea wanted to renew with him.

With Malouda and Joe Cole that can play in the center-left... in Mourinho's favourite tactic: 4-4-2 diamond... Robben only plays in the LW... a pure LW.

And without Kaka' and Cristiano this Summer, Robben could be their main-target as the best LW in the world and still young (23). Makes people think.

Posted by: misha Jun 20 2007, 12:02 AM

^^That might happen. Robben don't accept bench quietly and he's injury prone. With Malouda and Joe Cole on their team Chelsea can squeeze excessive sum from Madrid.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jun 20 2007, 12:15 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 20 2007, 01:28 AM)

Am I the only one who thinks Robben is on his way out of Chelsea if this is confirmed?

And he will go to Madrid, as he is one of the players Calderon promised

EDIT: just read ur above post

But yeah .. I believe Robben will move to Madrid, no questions asked

Posted by: Portikins Jun 20 2007, 01:00 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 20 2007, 12:02 AM)

^^That might happen. Robben don't accept bench quietly and he's injury prone. With Malouda and Joe Cole on their team Chelsea can squeeze excessive sum from Madrid.

I think the Premiership is "too agressive" for a guy like Robben and all his problems. TBH I think he would fit better in La Liga with his speed and tecnique.

Just like Ronaldinho... if he signed for a Premiership club... he'd get "killed" in 2 matches... 3 months out.

Posted by: misha Jun 20 2007, 01:08 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 20 2007, 03:00 AM)

I think the Premiership is "too agressive" for a guy like Robben and all his problems. TBH I think he would fit better in La Liga with his speed and tecnique.

Yeah, I agree. In La Liga he could express himself much better.

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 20 2007, 03:00 AM)

Just like Ronaldinho... if he signed for a Premiership club... he'd get "killed" in 2 matches... 3 months out.

Remember R99 at Inter. The defenders were killing him. He had one long term injury after another

Posted by: Portikins Jun 20 2007, 12:21 PM

QUOTE

EXCLUSIVE: Liverpool Officials In Madrid For Torres

Goal.com can reveal that Liverpool officials are in Madrid to complete the transfer of Fernando Torres.

The big money signings that the new Liverpool owners have been promising might finally become a reality.

George Gillett had insisted on Monday evening that he was ready for Liverpool's "phase two": the signing of new players after securing key ones to improved contracts, and there have been definite movements.

They have been tracking Fernando Torres for a while, and have now stepped up their efforts.

The Reds are looking to make their mark this summer, and a team has travelled to Madrid, we can confirm.

The objective is to finalise the transfer of the Atleti skipper, and today itself if possible.

Torres, 23, has scored 14 goals in what has been a very moderate season, one in which the club have collectively struggled.

After having his buy-out clause reduced to 40 million euros last summer, he is now ready to make the jump to a bigger club.

An earlier bid (from another club) in the region of 30 million euros fell just short of expectations, and we believe that Liverpool will offer players as a part of the deal, in order to bring down the price. Luis Garcia - who played at Atletico Madrid before Barcelona - is supposedly the player who has been offered.

The midfielder had an absolutely stunning season at the Vicente Calderon in 2002-03, when he scored 9 goals in 30 games in addition to setting up many, and still has admirers at the club.

It is being seen by many as a trip similar to Carlos Quieroz's to Portugal, when Manchester United set the transfer marked on fire. At the very least, the objective is similar, to tell other clubs, and as much their own fans, that they mean business!

http://www.goal.com/en/articolo.aspx?contenutoid=332509

I heard some rumours yesterday but now... it gets more and more over the web.

Time for Liverpool, FINALLY, get a world-class #9?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 20 2007, 08:33 PM

QUOTE

Aston Villa are reportedly planning a Â£15million swoop for Villarreal striker Diego Forlan.

According to Birmingham Mail, Villa boss Martin O'Neill is set make the 28-year-old Uruguay international the club record transfer offer.

Former Manchester United forward Forlan had recently revealed that he has an exit clause in his new deal at the La Liga side of around Â£15million. He also claimed that there was a third English side, apart from Sunderland and Liverpool, which was interested in him.

It seems that the side Forlan was referring to is Villa, who have funds at disposal with American owner Randy Lerner backing Oâ€™Neill in summer transfer market.

Forlan recently said: "It's not only Liverpool who've asked about signing me. In January I rejected a loan move to Sunderland. I also know another Premier League club is asking about my availability."

On Villa's website (In the media watch section) there's news circulating in Holland that we've contacted Ajax about Babel & Sneijder and are ready to make a Â£15m bid, though they want Â£18m for the pair, which shows they're willing to sell for the right price I suppose?

These three signings would be huge. I'm pretty sure we could get Forlan, Sneijder would be huge. Babel is okay I suppose, I wouldn't be excited by him signing.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 20 2007, 08:59 PM

Forlan was a zero in the EPL.
In La Liga he's one of the top but I doubt he'll make the same mistake.

Villa should go for Bent.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 20 2007, 09:03 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 20 2007, 07:59 PM)

Forlan was a zero in the EPL.Â

In La Liga he's one of the top but I doubt he'll make the same mistake.

Villa should go for Bent.

Some players are different, they like to go back and prove themself to show they weren't a flop.

Bent is headed for Spurs or possibly Liverpool if it falls through.

Posted by: KillerMax Jun 20 2007, 09:04 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 20 2007, 01:33 PM)

Babel is okay I suppose, I wouldn't be excited by him signing.

Babel is a huge talent and is only 20. He is a winger and also a very good scorer. If Villa use wingers, he would be a great buy, although I think he suits Serie A much better.

Posted by: Tennie Jun 20 2007, 09:07 PM

Maybe I'm getting nostalgic in my dotage, but Babel reminds me - a little bit, at least - of MVB. He's very good.

Posted by: KillerMax Jun 20 2007, 09:09 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jun 20 2007, 02:07 PM)

Maybe I'm getting nostalgic in my dotage, but Babel reminds me - a little bit, at least - of MVB. He's very good.

I don't know about that, but he keeps reminding me of the movie Babel...

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 20 2007, 09:10 PM

QUOTE (pKillerMax @ Jun 20 2007, 08:04 PM)

Babel is a huge talent and is only 20. He is a winger and also a very good scorer. If Villa use wingers, he would be a great buy, although I think he suits Serie A much better.

We do use wingers. But we already have Ashley Young, who in my opinion is the best young winger on the planet. Agbonlahor/Maloney/Berger/Moore are also our wingers, we really don't need another.

Carew/Sutton as our big guys, so he doesn't have a place.

I'd rather spend Â£15m on Sneidjer, I don't want Babel at all.

Posted by: KillerMax Jun 20 2007, 09:12 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 20 2007, 02:10 PM)

Carew/Sutton as our big guys, so he doesn't have a place.

I'd rather spend Â£15m on Sneidjer, I don't want Babel at all.

He is probably going to Arsenal anyway:

If I get the chance one day to train with Arsene Wenger it would be a dream. From when I was young I supported Arsenal. I liked the style, the ambience, how they show themselves on the field - everything

Though Arsenal seem pretty cautious about buying young players for now.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 20 2007, 09:15 PM

QUOTE (pKillerMax @ Jun 20 2007, 08:12 PM)

Babel's too old for Arsenal. He'd probably bring their average age out of the teens.

Posted by: KillerMax Jun 20 2007, 09:17 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 20 2007, 02:15 PM)

Babel's too old for Arsenal. He'd probably bring their average age out of the teens.

lol

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 20 2007, 10:47 PM

And on a serious note, I KNOW that Wenger is watching this guy.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 20 2007, 11:55 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jun 20 2007, 09:47 PM)

And on a serious note, I KNOW that Wenger is watching this guy.

I wouldn't be surprised if you got him, Wenger is a great guy for developing talant, if he's still there of course. I couldn't really see him going anywhere else in the EPL.

P.S. Nice sig Locke, Paul Merson is a legend.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 21 2007, 10:45 AM

Thanks, I finally found something concerning boyth Milan and Arsenal, and if Henry left Arsenal and I still had his "this is my final contract" thing there...

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 21 2007, 07:56 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jun 21 2007, 09:45 AM)

Thanks, I finally found something concerning boyth Milan and Arsenal, and if Henry left Arsenal and I still had his "this is my final contract" thing there...

Is Paul Merson on bad terms with Arsenal now?

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 21 2007, 08:49 PM

Not as far as I know.
He recently wrote a column in the Arsenal magazine about the CL and other stuff, thats where I found the quote.
It's just a part of what he said about Milan, though.
I considered posting it, but I decided not to push it too far.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 21 2007, 09:03 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jun 21 2007, 07:49 PM)

Ah right.

It's just he picked to play for Villa in the Football Masters this year, not Arsenal, unless he was never asked by Arsenal (Which I highly doubt).

Posted by: misha Jun 22 2007, 05:57 PM

QUOTE

Thaksin aims to surpass United

The former Thailand Prime Minister has agreed an Â£81.6million deal with the City board to buy the Premier League club.

Having seen United dominate the Far East market, Shinawatra wants City to be in a position to compete with their neighbours.

"The Asian people, especially in Thailand and China, they like football very much," Shinawatra told Sky Sports News.

"They watch almost every Premier League match that is telecast live and my takeover will mean even more for the Asians to be watching more of the teams, especially Manchester City.

"We have a Chinese player in Sun Jihai in the team and Manchester City has to do more marketing in Asia, which in the past we have done very little.

"That is what my plan is going to be."

Regarding the prospects of being as popular as the reigning champions, Shinawatra added: "Yes (we can be as popular), in Asia especially.

"I think many Asian people know the club very well, but we still need to do more on the marketing and also the academy.

"I would like to set up an academy in different regions of the world, starting in Asia. I'd like an academy in China, an academy in Thailand or an academy in the Middle East."

BTW Birmingham bought striker Garry O'Connor from Lokomotiv Moscow

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 22 2007, 06:08 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 22 2007, 04:57 PM)

BTW Birmingham bought striker Garry O'Connor from Lokomotiv Moscow

And Blues fans think they're a team on the up?

He's decent for Scotland, but he hasn't been at all good in Scotland or Russia, I don't see him coping in the EPL.

Games (Goals)
Hibernian ------------ 138 (46)
Peterhead (loan) ------- 4 (1)
Lokomotiv Moscow ---- 32 (7)
................................................................................
.......................................

So how does this Thai bloke think they're going to compete with United? It would help if people had even heard of Man City.

Posted by: misha Jun 22 2007, 06:15 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 22 2007, 08:08 PM)

He's decent for Scotland, but he hasn't been at all good in Scotland or Russia, I don't see him coping in the EPL.

You will change your mind after he would trash Villa in the derby

Go Blues!!!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 22 2007, 06:45 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 22 2007, 05:15 PM)

You will change your mind after he would trash Villa in the derby

Go Blues!!!

If he's not a giant he won't fit in there, all they do is play long balls upto their big front men, they have no style.

................................................................................
.....................................................................

On Sky Sports News they're saying a Spanish radio station (The same that said Beckham had signed for Madrid) is saying that Henry has signed for Barcelona for Â£15m on a 4-year-deal.

Posted by: misha Jun 22 2007, 06:50 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 22 2007, 08:45 PM)

If he's not a giant he won't fit in there, all they do is play long balls upto their big front men, they have no style.Â

Next year we'll show you some style

Villa who?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 22 2007, 07:02 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 22 2007, 05:50 PM)

Next year we'll show some style

Villa who?

You really have no idea just how bad they are do you.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=TQLCdoo3Z5Q

Posted by: misha Jun 22 2007, 07:22 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 22 2007, 09:02 PM)

http://youtube.com/watch?v=TQLCdoo3Z5Q

Watch this:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=7TKU9vj4wBE
http://youtube.com/watch?v=VOlkkHmB7eE - Best own goal ever

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 22 2007, 07:29 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 22 2007, 06:22 PM)

Watch this:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=7TKU9vj4wBE
http://youtube.com/watch?v=VOlkkHmB7eE - Best own goal ever

Pfft. That's all ancient history now.

We beat them in the most recent home game and away game, something we'll repeat this season.

Posted by: misha Jun 22 2007, 07:32 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 22 2007, 09:29 PM)

We beat them in the most recent home game and away game, something we'll repeat this season.

Dream on. There is only City in Birmingham!!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 22 2007, 07:41 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 22 2007, 06:32 PM)

Dream on. There is only City in Birmingham!!Â

Well, that is correct.

Let's agree to disagree on who's better for now. I'll come back with facts in a few months time.

EDIT: Why couldn't we keep Angel. This takes real composure, regardless of what league it's in. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkSU0kRBSWs&mode=related&search=

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 23 2007, 04:02 PM

QUOTE

Sven-Goran Eriksson is close to agreeing to take over as Manchester City manager, BBC Sport understands.

The 59-year-old former England coach is considering an offer from City's prospective new owner, former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

And a report in the Manchester Evening News also claims Eriksson will be unveiled at Eastlands early next week.

Manchester City had identified three other bosses had Eriksson declined Thaksin's offer.

It is understood the alternatives to Eriksson were Sevilla's Juande Ramos, former Porto and AZ Alkmaar coach Co Adriaanse and Blackburn's Mark Hughes
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/6229436.stm

With a new owner and top manager Man City are moving in the right direction.

Posted by: dst Jun 23 2007, 04:12 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 23 2007, 06:02 PM)

With a new owner and top manager Man City are moving in the right direction.

Are you really English!??

Posted by: Tennie Jun 23 2007, 04:17 PM

Eriksson at City? Bahahahaha. The red half of Manchester must be dancing.

Posted by: dst Jun 23 2007, 04:25 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jun 23 2007, 06:17 PM)

Eriksson at City? Bahahahaha. The red half of Manchester must be dancing.

I regard him very highly... mostly because of his Lazio days. The... SS were a great team (to watch) back then!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 23 2007, 04:26 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jun 23 2007, 03:12 PM)

Are you really English!??Â

You know I am.

Eriksson's record is very good. He lost 4 games in total as England manager in 5 years. 2 of which were on penalties, he is alot better than people give him credit for. Look how McLaren is doing with exactly the same team. The only thing that's changed is Sven.

After all, he won the Scudetto with Lazio, how many people can say that?

EDIT: Lazio have won 11 major trophies ever. Sven won 7 of them.

Posted by: Tennie Jun 23 2007, 04:30 PM

Oh, he was quite good at Lazio. I'm not denying that, not at all. But the inevitable media circus that would follow him if he went back to City is not going to help things.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Jun 23 2007, 04:50 PM

Arrivederci Henry

Big loss for the Premiership, a coup for Barca and La Liga

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 23 2007, 09:05 PM

QUOTE (whoarethepatriots @ Jun 23 2007, 03:50 PM)

Arrivederci Henry

Big loss for the Premiership, a coup for Barca and La Liga

I'm not bothered, I'm going to get to see Torres on the opening day of next season.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 23 2007, 10:50 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 23 2007, 09:05 PM)

I'm not bothered, I'm going to get to see Torres on the opening day of next season.

You wish.

L'pool fans too.

He'd be an amazing add not only for the club but for the EPL.
But it's not yet confirmed. Probably some more news on the next few days.

Posted by: dst Jun 24 2007, 11:49 AM

QUOTE

Blues close on Alex the Duck
24 Jun 2007

Brazilian sensation Alexandre Pato is understood to be on the verge of joining Chelsea.

Chelsea have been fairly quiet in the transfer market this summer but reports suggest they could tie up an Â£18million move for Pato in the next few days.

The 17-year-old - nicknamed Alex the Duck - has produced some sparkling performances for Internacional in recent months and is tipped to become the next big thing in Brazil.

The likes of Benfica and Milan have been linked with Pato but Chelsea are keen to snap him up quickly.

They were initially expected to watch Pato in action at the upcoming Under 20 World Cup before deciding whether to bring him in.

But Chelsea also fear he could attract more interest with a good showing at the youth competition in Canada, and Pato's agent claims a move is imminent.

"A deal is almost done," Gilmat Veloz said in the News of the World.

Reports claim Chelsea have agreed to let Pato stay with Internacional until the end of the Brazilian season in December.

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=473589&CPID=8&clid=8&lid=3&title=Blues+close+on+Alex+the+Duck&channel=&

I'm surprised. Pato is too unaware tactically to be a Mourinho player... a change in philosophy maybe from the Portuguese?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 26 2007, 08:00 AM

QUOTE

Carlos Tevez admits he is 'excited' by the possibility of interest from Arsenal.

The striker is considering his future, with West Ham United hoping to hang on to the Argentine after his influential end to last season.

He has been linked with Real Madrid and Internazionale, and has also suggested he is looking to join a big club over the summer.

Rumours have now claimed that Arsenal could move for Tevez following the departure of captain Thierry Henry to Barcelona.

Tevez, who is on Copa America duty with Argentina, concedes he would relish the chance of a move to Emirates Stadium as he is keen to stay in the Premier League.

"I know people are now talking about Arsenal and obviously that is something I am excited about," said Tevez in the Sun.

"It's another big club and the good thing is I wouldn't have to move out of London.

"I also already know English football and I like it.

"Arsenal's style is more technical than physical, so I could fit in no problem.

"My transfer is being talked about a lot. It's beautiful to be wanted by various clubs."

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=473854&CPID=8&clid=21&lid=2&title=Arsenal+interest+excites+Tevez

I don't see him going to Arsenal, he'd fit in very well though.
-Inter: 45%
-Real: 45%
-West Ham: 9%
-Arsenal: 1%

I can't see him anywhere else.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 26 2007, 02:37 PM

Today Tevez said he prefers Inter to Real Madrid.

Argentinian influence...

Posted by: misha Jun 27 2007, 12:55 AM

QUOTE

Mourinho's Chelsea grip loosened by Grant role

Avram Grant has been appointed Chelsea's new sporting director, according to sources at the Premiership club.

The move, which is expected to be officially announced after 1 July, is a further sign of the tenuous grip that manager Jose Mourinho has on his own job. Crucially Grant will be given wide-ranging powers - including involvement in coaching, signing players and their recruitment.

Mourinho will not walk out, as he threatened to do when Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich first proposed employing Grant back in January as a means of improving the club's fortunes and getting more out of misfiring striker Andrei Shevchenko in particular. However, it will be fascinating to see how Mourinho copes with the new structure.

Grant will leave his current post as technical director of Portsmouth. It is understood that Grant, who had never previously worked outside Israel, has agreed a two-year contract.

The appointment of the 51-year-old is part of a significant reduction in Mourinho's influence at Chelsea which was prompted by the row between manager and owner last season. The role Grant will take is remarkable. It effectively recognises him as a good coach, a good judge of player and a confidant to Abramovich - something that will irk Mourinho.

Grant is said to be an urbane, charming character and has also build a strong bond with Frank Arnesen who has endured a difficult relationship with Mourinho since his own appointment as Chelsea's head of scouting and youth development. Grant was first introduced to Abramovich three years ago by the agent Pini Zahavi. He was then the coach of the Israeli national team and has since managed to get the ear of the Russian billionaire.

Abramovich has been planning for some time to change the way Chelsea is run having grown tired of Mourinho's antics and also puzzled as to why a manager at a football club traditionally holds so much power. He wants the power to be spread between a number of senior figures and coaches.

Quite how this will work in practice remains to be seen especially with a fiery character such as Mourinho, who has threatened to walk out in the past if there was any interference with his backroom staff. At one stage it was suggested that Mourinho should sack one of his assistants, Steve Clarke, to make room for Grant.

Mourinho was eventually willing to compromise once it transpired that Abramovich was contemplating sacking him in any case. Abramovich has since made clear that Mourinho must accept Grant if he wants to remain while Arnesen has also been given even greater control over player recruitment.

As part of that role the Dane was in Groningen on Saturday to watch the final of the Under-21s European Championship between the Netherlands and Serbia. It is understood that Arnesen was primarily watching the Serbian midfielder Bosko Jankovic.

Arnesen was accompanied by the Chelsea scout Hans Gillhaus and the pair were said to be impressed with the 23-year-old's performance even if Serbia were beaten. Jankovic, who plays for Real Mallorca, has enjoyed a fine tournament.

Arnesen will now travel to the Under-20 World Cup in Canada where he will monitor the Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato, whose club Internacional are planning to cash in on the 17-year-old. Chelsea are also continuing to monitor developments with Lyon winger Florent Malouda.

http://sport.independent.co.uk/football/premiership/article2710693.ece

Posted by: Tennie Jun 27 2007, 02:39 AM

Interesting snippet in the Italian press tonight (it's been reported in a couple of places). Apparently, Arsenal are very interested in Roma's Aquilani. And Roma is saying in no uncertain terms that he's NOT for sale.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 27 2007, 08:58 AM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jun 27 2007, 02:39 AM)

I actually think its the other way around.
He's a good player, but not the player we need.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 27 2007, 09:05 AM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jun 27 2007, 07:58 AM)

I actually think its the other way around.
He's a good player, but not the player we need.

The other way round?

Posted by: Portikins Jun 28 2007, 05:02 PM

A leak from New Anfield - the new Liverpool stadium?

*g* that's... something!

PS: Not confirmed yet.

Posted by: dst Jun 28 2007, 05:20 PM

Well... it's modern... but I like the classic style much more...

Anyways. I hope it collapses the day after it's built... I don't want anyone dead, don't worry, just that sh!t down!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 28 2007, 05:23 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jun 28 2007, 04:20 PM)

Well... it's modern... but I like the classic style much more...

Anyways. I hope it collapses the day after it's built... I don't want anyone dead, don't worry, just that sh!t down!

Everton's and Liverpool's stadia are ridiculously close as it is, only a field seperates them.

If this is to be built in that field, that's just insane. You'd be able to see inside Goodison Park if Liverpool's new stadium is huge.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 28 2007, 05:41 PM

QUOTE

SISSOKO SIGNS NEW ANFIELD DEAL

Momo Sissoko has become the latest player to pledge his future to the Reds after signing a new four-year deal.

The Mali international had been linked with a summer move away from Liverpool but the player himself has denied he ever considered leaving Anfield.

After putting pen to paper on a contract that will keep him at the club until at least 2011 Sissoko told Liverpoolfc.tv: "It was never in my thoughts to leave Liverpool.

"I read about the speculation linking me with other clubs but I am already at a big big club and it's an honour for me to be able to call myself a Liverpool player.

"I feel fresh and can't wait for the new season to start. I am injury-free and although I know I'll face a battle for a place in the team as we have so many great midfielders I'm prepared to fight for a position.

"It obviously gave me a huge boost to my confidence that the manager believes in me and wanted me to stay at the club. Now I want to repay him on the pitch."

Just look at Rafa's goatee.

Bad boy.

Posted by: bigmacmtl Jun 28 2007, 06:41 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 28 2007, 11:41 AM)

Just look at Rafa's goatee.

Bad boy.

bahaha the the first thing i noticed and the only thing i care about that article

Posted by: dst Jun 28 2007, 06:59 PM

WTF!! The guy with the steamed glasses looks cool!!!!!!!!!

Fail b!tch fail!!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 07:06 AM

QUOTE

Sky Sports News understands Tottenham Hotspur have agreed a fee to sign Darren Bent from Charlton Athletic.

Bent has been strongly tipped to move to White Hart Lane after Charlton's relegation from the Premier League last season.

West Ham United matched the Addicks' valuation of the striker earlier this month, only for the England international to reject a move to Upton Park.

Reports have persisted in recent days that Spurs have been closing in on the signing of the former Ipswich Town marksman.

According to Sky Sports News, Bent is now expected to undergo a medical on Friday before agreeing personal terms with Spurs.

Charlton chief executive Peter Varney told Sky Sports News earlier in the week that no other clubs had yet come up with an offer to match the asking price for the 23-year-old.

But it now appears that Spurs have met Charlton's demands, with previous reports suggesting West Ham had offered in the region of Â£17million.

If the North London club finalise a swoop for Bent, it would provide Martin Jol with an enviable forward line for next season, which also comprises Dimitar Berbatov, Robbie Keane and Jermain Defoe.

I really do hate Spurs, but what Martin Jol is doing year after year is just wrong, and I genuinly feel for their supporters.

They have the best strike partnership in the League. So what does Martin Jol go and do? Sign a Â£17m striker who will not feel content with sitting on the bench. Berbatov is nothing without Keane, but he'll definetly start after the amount of goals he scored last year. Bent will surely start, you don't pay Â£17m for a sub. So it looks like both Keane and Defoe will leave, both stated many times last season they either play or leave, both will now be on the bench.

Congratulations Martin Jol, you've once again tried to fix what isn't broken. Spurs will still be a great team, but they'll never get better this way. I think I'll change my prediction, Arsenal will finish 4th next season, not Spurs.

Posted by: misha Jun 29 2007, 07:41 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 29 2007, 09:06 AM)

So it looks like both Keane and Defoe will leave, both stated many times last season they either play or leave, both will now be on the bench.

One of them. Most likely Defoe since Keane is a fan favorite and gave a very good season (his best scoring wise). You can't just leave 2 good strikers, especially not for a tough league like EPL.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 07:57 AM

They both said they're leaving if they have to sit on the bench. Keane was sub for the first half of the season, when he and Berbatov started playing well Defoe became sub.

No team can have a player as good as Berbatov/Bent on the bench. That leaves Keane/Defoe/Mido, whom ALL want out if they're subs. They can't win, no team in England has three top class strikers, because you can't.

Posted by: misha Jun 29 2007, 08:07 AM

It's a long season. There is enough playing time for everyone. If you want to be in a top team you gotta accept that you not gonna play every time. Spurs isn't stupid to sell both Kean and Defoe. Thre is rotation and injuries. Look how many strikers Inter have

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 08:20 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 29 2007, 07:07 AM)

Maybe in Italy it's different, I don't know. But NO team has three top class striker in England, and never will. There may be long seasons, but top strikers want to play EVERY game. Just look at Man U, Liverpool and Arsenal. They have about 3 good strikers between them.

Posted by: misha Jun 29 2007, 08:35 AM

Keane or Defoe are not a United, Liverpool or Chelsea quality. Bent need to prove himself in a bigger team than Charlton. It's not like they are a world class. It's almost like having Kuyt, Crouch and Belamy from Liverpool (this year with Torres, Kuyt and Crouch they would have one world class and two good strikers. Assuming it all goes o.k and Belamy out). And you can't compare it to Chelsea where they had two world class and one good and talented (this year they have even more: Sheva, Drogba, Pizzaro and Kaloe).

Anyway skysport agree with me

QUOTE

Opta Audit: Darren Bent

It seems increasingly likely that Darren Bent will opt to make the short move across the River Thames from Charlton Athletic to Tottenham this summer. The England forward has already attracted a firm bid from West Ham United but chose to decline the offer. The chance to move to Martin Jol's top five outfit seems to tempt the former Ipswich man a little more, however.

This Opta audit compares Bent's performances for the Addicks last season with those of the three main Tottenham forwards in 2006/07, and the results are interesting.

Firstly, looking at goals and the regularity of them, it is apparent that Robbie Keane was the main man last season. The Irish striker scored a goal every 150 minutes on average, making him far more predatory than Bent or Dimitar Berbatov. In their defence, however, the latter pair played much more often and both were the undoubted fulcrum in their respective side's attack. Furthermore, Bent outscored all of the Spurs strikers in 2006-07, despite playing for a side that finished second bottom.

Player Goals Mins per goal
Robbie Keane 11 150.1
Jermain Defoe 10 192.8
Darren Bent 13 220.5
Dimitar Berbatov 12 226.4

Berbatov gained a fearsome reputation in his first season in English football and much of that was due to the decisive impact he made on games. As seen in the table below, the Bulgarian scored four match-winning goals last season, one more than Keane and Bent managed.

Player Winning goals
Dimitar Berbatov 4
Robbie Keane 3
Darren Bent 3
Jermain Defoe 2

When it came to chances, Bent took exactly one in five last campaign, an excellent return. The only striker at Tottenham to better that was Keane who converted a superb 29% of his opportunities, truly a great return from the Irishman. Jermain Defoe, rumoured to be leaving Spurs if Bent arrives, had the poorest goals-to-shots ratio of the four players in this study.

Player Chance Conversion
Robbie Keane 29%
Darren Bent 20%
Dimitar Berbatov 15%
Jermain Defoe 14%

Finally we look at creativity, where Berbatov was peerless, having created nine goals for Spurs, including four for Defoe and two for Keane. Bent managed only one for Charlton but the Addicks were virtually a one-man team in 2006-07 with the onus on Bent to score the goals, not create them.

Player Goal Assists
Dimitar Berbatov 9
Robbie Keane 2
Darren Bent 1
Jermain Defoe 0

In conclusion, it seems clear that Darren Bent would be a quality addition to the Tottenham squad, though it seems infeasible that Spurs could also keep Berbatov, Keane and Defoe on the roster. If Bent does sign then it seems likely that his England colleague Defoe could be set for an exit.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 29 2007, 11:50 AM

QUOTE

Liverpool close to landing Torres
By Phil McNulty
Chief football writer

Fernando Torres
Torres scored 14 goals last season for Atletico
Liverpool are on the brink of landing Atletico Madrid's Fernando Torres in a club record Â£27m deal.

BBC Sport understands negotiations are almost complete for the 23-year-old Spain striker and boss Rafa Benitez is confident he has got his top target.

Atletico Madrid want Liverpool's Luis Garcia, but that move is independent of the Torres transfer.

Torres is currently on holiday until early July, but Benitez remains hopeful of having a deal in place by then.

Atletico are reluctant to sell, but Torres is believed to be keen to link up with Benitez.

Benitez wants to land Torres to provide a spearhead for an assault on the title - and also allow new owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks to demonstrate their own financial commitment to his plans.

606: DEBATE
Your views on Liverpool's attempt to sign Torres

Torres has been consistently linked with a move to England, particularly with Arsenal and Chelsea, but Liverpool are now set to win the race.

If he signs, he will join fellow countrymen Garcia, Pepe Reina and Xabi Alonso, as well as boss Benitez.

Atletico had earlier played down Liverpool's interest, with president Cerezo saying: "We've had no offer from Liverpool for Torres. He's on his holiday and resting.

"I repeat that there has been nothing about Torres from any team. We're now working to create a good team for the coming year."

However, Gil Marin, Atletico's major shareholder insisted that Torres is not irreplaceable.

"Nobody is indispensable. No player by himself, very good though he is, is able to make a team achieve its aims," Gil Marin said on Punto Radio.

"We have spoken to him and told him we would like him to stay. It is normal that he has doubts. It is normal that the offers and everything surrounding them has made him think."

Torres, 23, scored 14 league goals in 36 starts this season as Atletico finished seventh in La Liga.

The Spain international's Atletico contract runs until 2009.

Torres came up though the youth ranks at Atletico and has been their leading scorer in each of the last five seasons.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/6239286.stm

Same on The Guardian: http://football.guardian.co.uk/News_Story/0,,2114541,00.html

kurt, m1ke, Brilliant, English crew, etc: are these sources reliable?

40M/euros for F.Torres is huge.

I thought Liverpool would send Garcia back or so but never the buy-out clause.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 12:28 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 29 2007, 10:50 AM)

Same on The Guardian: http://football.guardian.co.uk/News_Story/0,,2114541,00.html

kurt, m1ke, Brilliant, English crew, etc: are these sources reliable?

40M/euros for F.Torres is huge.Â

I thought Liverpool would send Garcia back or so but never the buy-out clause.

I wouldn't say the Guardian is reliable, most newspapers just come up with rubbish. But, if BBC say it's almost a done deal, then it's exactly that in my opinion.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 29 2007, 01:00 PM

QUOTE

No Torres Negotiations - Atletico Insist

Atletico Madrid have denied that they are in negotiations with Liverpool over the sale of striker Fernando Torres.

Reports this morning claimed the Spanish international was on the verge of sealing the move to the Premiership, but while this appears to be premature the La Liga club have admitted that the situation may change.

It has been suggested that Liverpool have struck a deal involved Â£20m and Luis Garcia, but the 23-year-old is still very much in the plans of Atletico ahead of the resumption of pre-season training in ten days time.

A club spokesperson said: "At the moment, there is nothing happening. There are no negotiations taking place, although things can change.

"The player is on holiday at the moment and will report back to training on July 9 for the Intertoto match (at the end of July).

"At the moment, any talk of a move is just speculation and we are still hopeful that Fernando will be with us next season."

Must be the best denial ever.

Boss wants Torres. Boss gets Torres.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 01:04 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 29 2007, 12:00 PM)

Must be the best denial ever.

Boss wants Torres. Boss gets Torres.

That's just silly. Everybody knows they're in talks, I just hope they last long enough so that he misses the season opener.

Posted by: dst Jun 29 2007, 01:08 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 29 2007, 09:06 AM)

I really do hate Spurs...

Let's focus on the English teams you do not hate... it'll be easier!

Posted by: Portikins Jun 29 2007, 01:11 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 29 2007, 01:04 PM)

That's just silly. Everybody knows they're in talks, I just hope they last long enough so that he misses the season opener.

I think the big problem is for Atletico. The way they're going to say "OK, Torres left".

I mean, he's their icon, their symbol, their captain. Must be hard for the Atletico directors to explain the move. So it's better for them Liverpool pays the buy-out so they can say "we can't do anything". (Just like their president said 2 or 3 days ago)

Anyway, I READ THAT Forlan and Riquelme seem to be on their way to Atletico.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 29 2007, 01:13 PM

Bent for almost 25M/euros.

Good deal for Spurs but still... too much fowards. Berbatov, Keane, Bent, Defoe. Who's gonna leave? Defoe? I like that guy. Always seemed a nice player to me.

Posted by: dst Jun 29 2007, 01:19 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 29 2007, 03:11 PM)

Anyway, I Forlan and Riquelme seem to be on their way to Atletico.

So... you're gonna be playing for AtlÃ©tico next season... I thought you are a Real fan... I guess the money is good!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 01:20 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 29 2007, 12:13 PM)

Bent for almost 25M/euros.

Good deal for Spurs but still... too much fowards. Berbatov, Keane, Bent, Defoe. Who's gonna leave? Defoe? I like that guy. Always seemed a nice player to me.

Great deal for Bent, he'll show that he's worth every penny of that. The best striker England have in my opinion, better than Defoe/Rooney/Crouch/Owen.

Defoe and Mido will leave this season I reckon. Defoe wants a move to the top 4, but there's no chance of that. I wouldn't be surprised if he was at Villa for next season, he'd be a decent replacement for Baros.

QUOTE

Let's focus on the English teams you do not hate... it'll be easier!

I don't hate THAT many teams.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 29 2007, 01:31 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jun 29 2007, 01:19 PM)

So... you're gonna be playing for AtlÃ©tico next season... I thought you are a Real fan... I guess the money is good!

Always there to fvck me up you dirrty c*nt.

Posted by: dst Jun 29 2007, 01:37 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 29 2007, 03:31 PM)

Always there to fvck me up you dirrty c*nt.

Posted by: misha Jun 29 2007, 02:13 PM

QUOTE

Midfielder agrees Â£2m Blues switch

THE Birmingham Mail understands that Blues have finally secured French international Olivier Kapo from Juventus in a Â£2 million deal.

Other clubs tried to hijack the transfer at the death, including Fulham, but he has committed to Blues.

Kapo, who spent last season on loan to Spanish club Levante, is due to complete the formalities of the move next week when Blues report back for training.

Blues jumped to the head of the queue on Tuesday when Kapo, the former Auxerre star, flew into Birmingham for talks after the fee was agreed with Juventus.

QUOTE

Blues takeover moves a step closer

THE Blues takeover edged closer today after shares in the Hong Kong firm bidding for a majority stake at St Andrew's were suddenly suspended.

Grandtop International Holdings Ltd announced to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange it was suspending shares "pending release of an announcement regarding a possible notifiable transaction of a price sensitive nature".

The move coincided with an announcement of the Blues deal to the London Stock Exchange by textiles firm Grandtop - Hong Kong billionaire Carson Yeung's Far East vehicle for buying a 29.9 per cent stake in the club.

Birmingham stockbroker Peter Knowles said the suspension of shares was a clear indication of Mr Yeung's intent through Grandtop to move in on St Andrew's.

In your face Villa!! Forza Bluesssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Portikins Jun 29 2007, 02:18 PM

Birmingham for the Champions League!
Man City too!

Hope those teams beat United - those arrongant c*nts.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 02:24 PM

Blues current board are worth over a billion. Having a new billionnaire owner will not make a difference.

Blues had Mikael Forssell, Walter Pandiani, Jermaine Pennant, Cristophe Dugarry, Chris Sutton and Jesper Gronjaer last time they were in the Premier League.

They've sold off alot of their decent players over the last season, Kapo and that Scottish guy won't make a difference, they'll survive, but nothing more.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jun 29 2007, 02:32 PM

Why have they bought Bent? He's good but he's not Â£16.8 million good, Charlton have done well there. The other reason being their strike partnership is astounding they have quite possibly the most complete attacker in Berbatov who playing with Keane just compliment each other so well.

They need midfielders and defenders to improve not more attackers.

Posted by: misha Jun 29 2007, 02:37 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 29 2007, 04:24 PM)

They've sold off alot of their decent players over the last season, Kapo and that Scottish guy won't make a difference, they'll survive, but nothing more.

We are slowly building. Blues gonna bring a few more good players this season but this all the beginning of 3-4 year process and in the end of it we are gonna make Villa our b!tch for a looooong time

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jun 29 2007, 02:44 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 29 2007, 01:37 PM)

we are gonna make Villa our b!tch for a looooong time

It's Villa's best part of the season, no games played and due to the alphabetics in the Premier League they currently stand 2nd

Posted by: Portikins Jun 29 2007, 02:48 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jun 29 2007, 02:44 PM)

It's Villa's best part of the season, no games played and due to the alphabetics in the Premier League they currently stand 2nd

That's low.

I think Aston Villa should buy David Villa. Just for the jokes and that.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 02:57 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jun 29 2007, 01:44 PM)

It's Villa's best part of the season, no games played and due to the alphabetics in the Premier League they currently stand 2nd

It is actually true.

Mishale sound slike a typical Blues fan "This is a 3-4 year thing". They built up a superb squad over 3 years last time they were up. What heppened then? Relegated.

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 29 2007, 01:48 PM)

That's low.

I think Aston Villa should buy David Villa. Just for the jokes and that.

Nah, he's not good enough.

Posted by: misha Jun 29 2007, 03:08 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 29 2007, 04:57 PM)

Mishale sound slike a typical Blues fan "This is a 3-4 year thing". They built up a superb squad over 3 years last time they were up. What heppened then? Relegated.Â

That was during the 100 year curse. Now it's different. You'll see what's like being over and over owned (toughly) by your City rival

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 03:14 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jun 29 2007, 02:08 PM)

That was during the 100 year curse. Now it's different. You'll see what's like being over and over owned (toughly) by your City rival

I'll see what it's like?

I know what it's like.

The first year in the Premier League they did the double, the next year it was two draws, the next year they did the double again.

Fortunately we did the double over them in the last season, not only that, but relegated them.

Posted by: misha Jun 29 2007, 03:19 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 29 2007, 05:14 PM)

The first year in the Premier League they did the double, the next year it was two draws, the next year they did the double again.

History will repeat herself

QUOTE

Fortunately we did the double over them in the last season, not only that, but relegated them.

Except this part

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 06:14 PM

QUOTE

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon has dismissed renewed speculation linking Dutch winger Arjen Robben with Real Madrid.

Reports in Friday's newspapers claimed that the Spanish champions were closing in on the player that president Ramon Calderon has always coveted.

Calderon made signing Robben one of his election pledges in 2006 and, whilst the Holland international remains at Stamford Bridge, the Real supremo is known to still be a fan.

At the start of June, Los Merengues made clear their desire to bring Robben to the Bernabeu, but Kenyon has now moved to quell talk that the former PSV Eindhoven star could be leaving London.

"Arjen is very happy, he's just got married and he wants to demonstrate and prove what a great player he is and still believes the Premier League is the best opportunity," Kenyon said.

"I'm confident he'll be there next season."

Rumours of Robben's impending exit have been partly fuelled by suggestions that Chelsea are closing in on a deal for Lyon winger Florent Malouda.

However, when questioned during a marketing drive in Hong Kong, Kenyon underlined that prudence was the prevailing philosophy at Stamford Bridge this summer, and that no big-money arrivals are anticipated.

"By Chelsea standards it's been very quiet. That's probably the headline...both in terms of names and in terms of big spending," Kenyon added.

"We've had three or four so-called free transfers."

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=474381&CPID=8&clid=8&lid=2&title=Kenyon+rules+out+Robben+exit&channel=football_home&

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 29 2007, 09:34 PM

You probably know this, but Flamini is headed to Birmingham aswell.
Who knows what this club can achieve next season...

Posted by: Portikins Jun 29 2007, 09:44 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jun 29 2007, 09:34 PM)

You probably know this, but Flamini is headed to Birmingham aswell.
Who knows what this club can achieve next season...

The legend Flamini or as Wenger says Fla-mi-hi... Flameehee.

TBH I dunno how such a player has ever played in a club like Arsenal. He's not even Millwall class.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 10:30 PM

So let me get this straight, people think Birmingham are on the up?

Last time they were up: Walter Pandiani, Jermaine Pennant, Chris Sutton.
This time: Mattheiu Falmini, Olivier Kapo, Gary O'Connor.

I'm not genius, but doesn't making worse signings generally mean you're a worse team?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 29 2007, 10:39 PM

I found an interesting site on the net. It rates all of the Worlds derbies, to see which one is the most fierce. I just took out all the English ones.

The Birmingham derby is numero uno.

QUOTE

Aston Villa - Birmingham CityÂ
West Ham United - Millwall FCÂ Â
Everton - Liverpool FCÂ
Arsenal - Tottenham HotspurÂ
Manchester United - Manchester CityÂ
Brentford FC - QPRÂ Â
Stoke City - Port ValeÂ Â
Nottingham Forest - Notts CountyÂ Â
Chelsea - FulhamÂ

http://www.footballderbies.com/

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jun 30 2007, 12:40 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 29 2007, 09:39 PM)

I found an interesting site on the net. It rates all of the Worlds derbies, to see which one is the most fierce. I just took out all the English ones.

The Birmingham derby is numero uno.

Don't think the Birmingham one personally, Merseyside and Manchester ones are bigger in my opinion, probably because of the stature of the teams.

And yeah West Ham - Millwall - well thats just dangerous.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 30 2007, 12:51 AM

Arsenal-Man U.
Nuff' said.

Posted by: Portikins Jun 30 2007, 01:21 AM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jun 30 2007, 12:51 AM)

Arsenal-Man U.
Nuff' said.

Think he meant... derby. Not "big game". But a match between clubs from the same city.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 30 2007, 05:51 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jun 30 2007, 12:21 AM)

Think he meant... derby. Not "big game". But a match between clubs from the same city.

Yep.

The Birmingham derby is definetly bigger than the Manchester derby, though I thought we may be number two behind West Ham - Millwall.

I think it's to do with how much the teams resent each other, rather than what game is bigger. Which shows why West Ham - Millwall is up there. But if you've ever been to a Second City derby, you'd know how dangerous it is, a few of my friends refuse to go because of the trouble before/after the game, it's ridiculous.

I'd say the biggest game between English teams in United - Liverpool, by a long, long way.

Posted by: bigmacmtl Jun 30 2007, 06:38 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jun 29 2007, 11:51 PM)

I'd say the biggest game between English teams in United - Liverpool, by a long, long way.

thats one thing i love about hockey, it has the rep of being a violent sport but in reality it's just physical. and theres no crowd trouble or fighting between fans, even during the big rivalry games. i mean when i go watch toronto/montreal i talk a lot of trash to the opposiing fans before and after and of course theres fights here and there between fans but it's not seriously dangerous.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jun 30 2007, 11:50 AM

Oops, sorry about that.
Well the north London derby is pretty funny too...the scum hasn't beaten us since 1999...

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jun 30 2007, 12:08 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jun 30 2007, 10:50 AM)

Oops, sorry about that.
Well the north London derby is pretty funny too...the scum hasn't beaten us since 1999...

They scored 4 past you at The Lane in 2004.. And still lost!

Posted by: misha Jul 1 2007, 07:23 AM

QUOTE

Malouda: I Have Made Up My Mind To Join Chelsea

Florent Malouda has made up his mind to move to Chelsea, and revealed that he has already spoken with coach Jose Mourinho.

Liverpool were the first English club to be interested in him, but the Blues have since taken the lead in the race to land the Lyon midfielder.

He has now declared in no uncertain terms that he wants to move to Stamford Bridge, where he can join up with former teammates Michael Essien and Didier Drogba.

"Chelsea is where I want to be," Malouda told Progres. "I have made my choice."

"I have talked about it with the coach Jose Mourinho and I have had direct contact with the club, unlike Liverpool where too many intermediaries and sharks have entered the game."

"I want to leave, the directors know it and in these conditions I can't see carrying on with Lyon."

He wishes to play in a competitive league, and Lyon can also no longer match his wage demands. Attempts to hang on to him after losing Eric Abidal would prove futile, Malouda warned the club bosses.

"So much the better for Eric [that he moved to Barca], but it changes nothing for me."

The Blues are expected to make a Â£12m offer.

Probably he will replace Robben who's going to Madrid.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 1 2007, 09:42 AM

He's the most disrespectful player I've ever seen. I can't believe he said some of that about Lyon.

Ah well, one can only wish Robben stays and he becomes a bit part player.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 1 2007, 11:24 PM

QUOTE

Lampard rejects new Chelsea deal

Lampard has been linked with a move from Stamford Bridge
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has turned down the offer of a new contract, BBC Sport understands.

It follows News of the World claims the Blues were willing to make him the top earner at Stamford Bridge.

The newspaper says the deal would have eclipsed the Â£121,000 a week given to Andriy Shevchenko and Michael Ballack.

England midfielder Lampard, 29, has two years left on his current contract and said last week he was content to see out that period of time at the club.

"They don't have to offer me anything so I'll just carry on," he stated.

However, Lampard added last month that he would have liked the club to have offered any such new deal in early June.

"In an ideal world, it would have happened three weeks ago but it is not an ideal world," said the Blues star.

"It feels strange. It is something I am trying to keep my mind off. You get on with it. I am not surprised by it because nothing surprises you in football."

Under Fifa rules, Lampard can buy out the remainder of his contract but it was reported in February that he was unlikely to take that course of action.

The Â£15m-rated player has been linked to Barcelona and Juventus, who are now managed by former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri.

Lampard enjoyed his most prolific season in front of goal for the Blues in the 2006-2007 campaign, scoring 21 times.

So... anybody thinks he'll quit Chelsea?

FC Barcelona, Juventus, ...?

Posted by: misha Jul 1 2007, 11:55 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 2 2007, 01:24 AM)

So... anybody thinks he'll quit Chelsea?

FC Barcelona, Juventus, ...?

Catalunya waiting for him

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 2 2007, 12:13 AM

I highly doubt he'll leave Chelsea.

BUT, if he was to leave, out of Juve and Barca, I'd say Juve, without a doubt.

Firrst reason being, he branded Barcelona 'cheats' after a few of their CL matches, he doesn't much like Rijkaard. Also, Claudio Ranieri was a manager he really liked in his time at Chelsea, linking up with him again wouldn't surprise me.

I just don't see him leaving in the first place, not while Terry's tehre anyway.

Posted by: dst Jul 2 2007, 12:32 AM

Yeah but he knows that if he goes to Barcelona, winning the CL next season will be a walk in the park!

All Serie A is going to offer him is many goals and half-empty (half-full) stadia...

Posted by: Portikins Jul 2 2007, 12:49 AM

I think Lampard's wife is from Catalonia.

Anyway... I think it's a bad deal for Barcelona to sell Deco and get Lampard. Really bad.

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jul 2 2007, 12:53 PM

Arsenal has signed Eduardo da Silva from Dinamo Zagreb.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 2 2007, 01:11 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jul 2 2007, 12:53 PM)

Arsenal has signed Eduardo da Silva from Dinamo Zagreb.

Hum. He's not bad from what I've seen but still... I don't think it's what Arsenal needs.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 2 2007, 02:10 PM

QUOTE (Locke Lamora @ Jul 2 2007, 11:53 AM)

Arsenal has signed Eduardo da Silva from Dinamo Zagreb.

Hardly going to turn around your fortunes though

Posted by: Locke Lamora Jul 2 2007, 03:20 PM

He's scored 7 goals in 12 national team matches.
he's also scored 73 goals in 100 matches for Zagreb.
Croatian league, but still...

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 2 2007, 03:48 PM

Villa bought Bosko Balaban, a promising young striker from Croatia, he'd had some good seasons with NK Rejika and Dinamo Zagreb.

Let me just say, he scored less goals than Peter Schmeichel for us in 01/02.

Don't expect much, at all.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 2 2007, 05:44 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 2 2007, 02:48 PM)

Don't expect much, at all.

And they spent more on him than they sold Henry for...

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 10:47 AM

I just assumed they'd spent around Â£6m or so on him, but more than Â£15m!?

Arsene may be a good developer of players, but when it comes to transfers, he is awful.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 3 2007, 10:51 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 3 2007, 10:47 AM)

Arsene may be a good developer of players, but when it comes to transfers, he is awful.

It seems that your Aston Villa is going to have a quality kit this season.

QUOTE

CHELSEA ALVES SWOOP
EXCLUSIVE Roman desperate for Dan
By Alan Nixon 03/07/2007

CHELSEA are making a stunning Â£14million bid for Sevilla's brilliant Brazilian Daniel Alves - in their biggest move of the summer so far.

Blues owner Roman Abramovich has sanctioned a deal for the speedy South American right-back who can also play as a winger.

Alves could be sold by the Spanish Cup winners whose officials revealed the Londoners' interest last night - sparking anger among fans and possible a bidding war.

However, Chelsea hope to pull off the move and bring in Alves after clearing the way for a transfer by sending Geremi to Newcastle - and encouraging offers for Shaun Wright-Phillips.

Chelsea hoped to keep the deal secret but Sevilla intend to start an auction with Italians out his players to turn on the style. "The modern game has changed so dramatically that it can be very difficult to uphold standards," said the United boss, who welcomes back his players tomorrow for pre-season training.

"For example, the last two years have been difficult, yet we have still played the Manchester United way and worked our way to the top of the Premiership.

That reflects the principles of this club.

"Last se as on we scored 83 goals in the Premiership. To score that many in the modern game is phenomenal."

Nani and Anderson completed their moves to Old Traf ford yesterday, after signing five-year deals.

Keeper Tomasz Kuszczak also finalised his permanent move to United after a loan from West Brom.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/2007/07/03/chelsea-alves-swoop-89520-19396156/

Is Chelsea finally going to have a world-class RB?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 12:13 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 3 2007, 09:51 AM)

It seems that your Aston Villa is going to have a quality kit this season.Â

Is Chelsea finally going to have a world-class RB?Â

We most certainly are.

Leave Ferreira alone, I like him.

Chelsea could have a great defense next year, with depth, too.
Left
Ashley Cole
Wayne Bridge

Right
Daniel Alvez
Paulo Ferreira

Centre
John Terry
Ricardo Carvalho
Alex

Tal Ben Haim being the utility man, playing accross the back 4. That's going to be brilliant.

P.S. Birmingham have signed their first player of the season, Daniel De Ridder of Celta Vigo.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 3 2007, 12:21 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 3 2007, 12:13 PM)

We most certainly are.

Impressive defense. Just think Alex will be pissed off in the bench, then we might sign him next year.

A.Cole - J.Terry - Carvalho - Alves. <- Amazing

Barcelona's: Abidal - G.Milito - Puyol - Zambrotta <- Top too.

Madrid's: Chivu-Cannavaro-Metzelder-Ramos <- Prob the best defensive four. Chelsea's have best full-backs (helping the attack) but Alves and Cole are defensively inferior to Ramos or Chivu.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 12:24 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 3 2007, 11:21 AM)

Impressive defense. Just think Alex will be pissed off in the bench, then we might sign him next year.

A.Cole - J.Terry - Carvalho - Alves. <- Amazing

Barcelona's: Abidal - G.Milito - Puyol - Zambrotta <- Top too.

Madrid's: Chivu-Cannavaro-Metzelder-Ramos <- Prob the best defensive four. Chelsea's have best full-backs but Alves and Cole are defensively inferior to Ramos or Chivu.

I pretty much agree with everything you've said there.

How certain do you think the Milito/Chivu deals are?

Posted by: Portikins Jul 3 2007, 12:30 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 3 2007, 12:24 PM)

How certain do you think the Milito/Chivu deals are?

I'm gonna do a Moratti now. "75%"

Now seriously, G.Milito it's said it's the main target for the CB place since Barcelona seem that pulled out of Chivu race.

Chivu's race that the Spanish press say Madrid is leading. Their director Mijatovic is in Roma to finish the deal, although Inter can get Chivu too.

Posted by: dst Jul 3 2007, 01:25 PM

Chivu is as good at LB as Nesta would be!

Posted by: Tennie Jul 3 2007, 02:03 PM

Interesting news for Mishale:

Birmingham have acquired Daniel de Ridder from Celta Vigo. De Ridder did quite well for the Netherlands U21s this summer.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 02:16 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jul 3 2007, 01:03 PM)

Interesting news for Mishale:

Birmingham have acquired Daniel de Ridder from Celta Vigo. De Ridder did quite well for the Netherlands U21s this summer.

Yeah, they've finally decided to sign a player.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 3 2007, 03:47 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 3 2007, 01:25 PM)

Chivu is as good at LB as Nesta would be!

I don't think he's that bad. Anyway, you should have said "... as good as Kaladze as LB..."

Posted by: dst Jul 3 2007, 04:39 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 3 2007, 05:47 PM)

I don't think he's that bad. Anyway, you should have said "... as good as Kaladze as LB..."

I meant to say that he's a true CB as Nesta is. You can field him at LB but you can also field Kaka at LB!

Kaladze is in a league of his own!

Jokes aside, I think Kala is much better at LB than he is at CB!

Posted by: Portikins Jul 3 2007, 06:57 PM

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N156273070703-1828.htm

It's official. Fernando Torres can be consider a Liverpool player now.
He passed the medical today and signs tomorrow.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 08:12 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 3 2007, 05:57 PM)

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N156273070703-1828.htm

It's official. Fernando Torres can be consider a Liverpool player now.
He passed the medical today and signs tomorrow.

Great signing for Liverpool, even still, they will be way off the pace.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 3 2007, 08:23 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 3 2007, 08:12 PM)

Great signing for Liverpool, even still, they will be way off the pace.

Now they've what they missed more - a world class foward. Obviously they could go for a top winger now but I think they've a squad not inferior to United for example (at the moment). If United have strong wingers, Liverpool have better center-midfielders. Defense and attack are = to me, now with Torres.

To Chelsea... well, not even Madrid can have Robben, Joe Cole, W.Bridge and Alex in the bench.

Posted by: misha Jul 3 2007, 08:36 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jul 3 2007, 04:03 PM)

Interesting news for Mishale:

Birmingham have acquired Daniel de Ridder from Celta Vigo. De Ridder did quite well for the Netherlands U21s this summer.

Yeah. He's half Israeli (the better half

). Grew up in Ajax. Very talented, skilful with a good shot. Usually plays as RM. BTW he made 3 assists in the euro 21 final.

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 3 2007, 04:16 PM)

Yeah, they've finally decided to sign a player.

Third. After O'Connor and Olivier Kapo. Steve Bruce wants at least another 5 new players.

QUOTE

FORMER England star Steve McManaman has been signed up as the public face for Carson Yeung's bid for a potential takeover of Birmingham City.

The ex-Liverpool and Real Madrid footballer was named today as a new executive director of Hong Kong-based Grandtop International Holdings.

McManaman is thought to be a close associate of Mr Yeung, who is bidding for a 29.9 per cent stake in Blues through Grandtop.

The Hong Kong firm announced today: "The Board of Directors of Grandtop International Holdings Ltd is pleased to announce that Mr Steve McManaman has been appointed as an executive director of the company with effect from July 2 2007.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 08:44 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 3 2007, 07:36 PM)

Third. After O'Connor and Olivier Kapo. Steve Bruce wants at least another 5 new players.

Key word being 'player', to consider those two real footballers is a laugh.

I don't really know what the Steve McManaman thing means, but anything to do with him is good, so I suppose it's a good thing, for Blues anyway.

Birmingham City's latest lack on intelligence, not really grasping what the point of an away kit is. They both really shouldn't have tons of white in them.

This is so ugly it should be banned

Not too bad, the sponsor is horrible, though.

Posted by: misha Jul 3 2007, 08:49 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 3 2007, 10:44 PM)

Key word being 'player', to consider those two real footballers is a laugh.Â

Kapo is a good player. Anyway, you will see how good they are after we will own Villa in every possible way

QUOTE

I don't really know what the Steve McManaman thing means, but anything to do with him is good, so I suppose it's a good thing, for Blues anyway

He will represent our new loaded owner.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 08:58 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 3 2007, 07:49 PM)

Kapo is a good player. Anyway, you will see how good they are after we will own Villa in every possible way

They had Dugarry and Pandiani in their strike force last time, now they have Gary O'Connor and Cameron Jerome, I'm really scared.

In midfield they had Pennant, Savage, Gronkjaer and Dunn, now they have Kapo, De Ridder and Muamba, yet people still see it as a step forward.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 09:05 PM

QUOTE

Sheffield United have failed in their attempts to be reinstated in the Premier League after an independent arbitration panel dismissed their claim of an unfair punishment handed out to West Ham United over the Carlos Tevez affair.

The Blades had called for a new disciplinary hearing against West Ham having argued that the Â£5.5million fine handed out in the spring was too lenient and that a points deduction was warranted after The Hammers were found guilty regarding the ownership of Tevez and Javier Mascherano.

A tribunal which was set up by The Premier League took place last month but a final verdict was delayed for two weeks while the decision was contemplated by a three-man panel headed by retired High Court judge Sir Philip Otton.

United, along with Fulham, also claimed that Tevez, who was key to Alan Curbishley's side avoiding relegation on the final day of the season, should have been de-registered, but that too was rejected by the independent arbitration panel.

"The tribunal have found in favour of the FA Premier League on both issues and dismissed the claims of Sheffield United FC and Fulham FC," a statement from the panel read.

Sheffield United would not normally have been allowed to dispute other clubs' charges, but exceptional circumstances, with the Yorkshire club dropping back into the Championship, led to compassion and resulted in the setting up of the tribunal.

However, they have ultimately lost their fight and must now prepare for life in England's second tier, which begins on 11th August when Bryan Robson's side open the season at home to Colchester, while the hefty fine handed out to West Ham stands but they remain in the Premier League.

The panel's ruling states: "Ian Mill QC [representing Sheffield United] mounted a strong attack on the legality of the decision and the tribunal had much sympathy for Sheffield United's grievances.

"However the tribunal had to apply the principles of judicial review and determine whether the decision was irrational or perverse. This is a very strict test and is very difficult to satisfy.

"It concluded that it was impossible for this tribunal to find that the decision was irrational or perverse."

Whoever saw that coming.

I'd have had them relegated personally, but when you have a billionnaire owner, you'll always be fine.

Posted by: misha Jul 3 2007, 09:06 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 3 2007, 10:58 PM)

They had Dugarry and Pandiani in their strike force last time, now they have Gary O'Connor and Cameron Jerome, I'm really scared.

In midfield they had Pennant, Savage, Gronkjaer and Dunn, now they have Kapo, De Ridder and Muamba, yet people still see it as a step forward.

We made a comeback to the EPL only a month or so ago. Hold your horses

It will be enough to force Villa suck City's dicks though

j/k

Posted by: Portikins Jul 3 2007, 09:07 PM

West Ham > Sheffield.

In fact, Tevez > Sheffield

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 3 2007, 09:15 PM

I just read that Ranieri will NOT be putting in a bid for Lampard, this comes out after Lampards agent denied any contract offer at all, stating that he's not rejected anything from Chelsea.

I just notced Villa's pre-season starts in a few weeks.
First game vs Toronto FC at BMO Field on 25th July. Nice stadium

QUOTE

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 4 2007, 03:47 PM

It's official, Fernando Torres is a Liverpool player.

He's signed a 6-year-contract. The deal was worth Â£20m, not Â£27m.

Posted by: dst Jul 4 2007, 03:55 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 4 2007, 05:47 PM)

He's signed a 6-year-contract. The deal was worth Â£20m, not Â£27m.

Stupid AtlÃ©tico !! I hope this is not the real fee...

Posted by: Portikins Jul 4 2007, 04:17 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 4 2007, 03:55 PM)

Stupid AtlÃ©tico !! I hope this is not the real fee...

It is: http://www.uefa.com/competitions/ucl/news/kind=1/newsid=558021.html

30M/euros. What a fvcking bargain for Liverpool.

Posted by: dst Jul 4 2007, 04:27 PM

That is what was announced... real fees are sometimes not given away for financial reasons...

Posted by: redbabies Jul 4 2007, 06:14 PM

Here's a good article about Torres:

http://eurosport.yahoo.com/04072007/58/premiership-fernando-torres.html

Posted by: Tennie Jul 4 2007, 06:30 PM

I wonder whether or not Kurt will be happy, but BBC is reporting that Villa have bought Nigel Reo-Coker from West Ham for 8.5 million pounds.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 4 2007, 07:06 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 4 2007, 04:27 PM)

That is what was announced... real fees are sometimes not given away for financial reasons...

Y. Shevchenko's fee it's said it was 45M/euros although I've heard, last December or so, it was 67M.

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jul 4 2007, 06:30 PM)

I wonder whether or not Kurt will be happy, but BBC is reporting that Villa have bought Nigel Reo-Coker from West Ham for 8.5 million pounds.

Reo-Coker is a good and young player. He'll feel no difference between West Ham and A.Villa - the kit is exactly the same and the clubs... no that big difference.

Nice add anyway.

Posted by: bigmacmtl Jul 4 2007, 08:54 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 3 2007, 03:15 PM)

lol ya BMO is bank of montreal lol why dont they build us a nice soccer stadium ?

anyways saputo is supposed to so i'l be patient.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 5 2007, 08:41 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 4 2007, 02:47 PM)

It's official, Fernando Torres is a Liverpool player.

He's signed a 6-year-contract. The deal was worth Â£20m, not Â£27m.

Not a bad price, though the most entertaining part of that press conference was Benitez's goatee!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 5 2007, 09:02 AM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jul 4 2007, 05:30 PM)

I wonder whether or not Kurt will be happy, but BBC is reporting that Villa have bought Nigel Reo-Coker from West Ham for 8.5 million pounds.

It's on the official site we've agreed a fee, now it's just the medical and personal terms, which will go fine I'd have thought.

I'm not sure he's that step up in quality we need, but he's still young, and better than any signing the Blues have made.

QUOTE

Reo-Coker is a good and young player. He'll feel no difference between West Ham and A.Villa - the kit is exactly the same and the clubs... no that big difference.

Nice add anyway.

Claret and Blue are Villa colours, West Ham just stole them.

As for the clubs, he'll forget Tevez in a heart-beat playing with Gabbi.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 5 2007, 09:09 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 5 2007, 08:02 AM)

As for the clubs, he'll forget Tevez in a heart-beat playing with Gabbi.

Is his phone working again now?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 5 2007, 09:22 AM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jul 5 2007, 08:09 AM)

Is his phone working again now?

We'll have to wait and see if he turns up for pre-season.

Posted by: LaPalma Jul 8 2007, 01:02 PM

Just read on a german forum that Aston Villa is interested in Phillip Lahm...have you heard of this Kurt or is it just the usual useless rumours?

Posted by: misha Jul 8 2007, 01:53 PM

QUOTE (LaPalma @ Jul 8 2007, 03:02 PM)

Just read on a german forum that Aston Villa is interested in Phillip Lahm...have you heard of this Kurt or is it just the usual useless rumours?

He's too good for them. There is no reason for him to go to inferior team

Posted by: misha Jul 9 2007, 01:09 AM

QUOTE

Chelsea Confirm Malouda Agreement

Chelsea have announced that they have reached an agreement with Lyon over the transfer of French international Florent Malouda.

The winger will join up with the Premiership giants on their pre-season tour of the United States subject to completing a medical and agreeing personal terms.

Malouda, who is valued in the region of Â£13m, had been weighing up a move to either Chelsea of Liverpool for some team, but it seems that Jose Mourinho has won the race to sign the 27-year-old Lyon star.

"Chelsea can confirm it has agreed a fee with Olympique Lyonnais for the transfer of Florent Malouda," read a statement from Chelsea.

Malouda will follow Steve Sidwell, Claudio Pizarro and Tal Ben Haim in arriving at Stamford Bridge in what has been a busy summer for the Blues.

Meanwhile, it has also been announced today that former Israeli boss Avram Grant has been appointed the clubs Technical Director and will work alongside manager Jose Mourinho and youth development chief Frank Arnesen.

"Grant will be responsible for liaison on, and co-ordination of, football matters across the various areas of Chelsea," read a statement from Chelsea.

"He will also sit on the football club board and report to chief executive Peter Kenyon."

A good buy. Now, they just need a good RB...

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 9 2007, 07:43 PM

QUOTE (LaPalma @ Jul 8 2007, 12:02 PM)

Just read on a german forum that Aston Villa is interested in Phillip Lahm...have you heard of this Kurt or is it just the usual useless rumours?

I've heard rumours linking us with him, but I don't know an awful lot about him, only that he's a full back. If he plays on the left it's nothing more than rumour, Freddie Bouma is irreplacable for us.

We do have a right back problem, so if he's a right back, then maybe it's real stuff.

Posted by: misha Jul 9 2007, 09:31 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 9 2007, 09:43 PM)

He plays on both sides. Bayern would't let him go.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 9 2007, 09:39 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 9 2007, 08:31 PM)

He plays on both sides. Bayern would't let him go.

I don't think it's up to them.

Villa have more power over Bayern in my opinion anyways, as most EPL teams do. It's where players want to be right now.

Look at Montella, from Roma to Fulham, just so he could play in our league.

I haven't seen enough of Lahm to say I'd even want him yet.

Posted by: Tennie Jul 9 2007, 09:42 PM

Montella was also not getting much playing time at Roma.

With all due respect, I think that the reason a number of players are signing for EPL teams is because there's a ridiculous amount of money floating around - from tv deals, etc etc etc. I don't think there's a qualitative difference that makes the EPL loads better than every other league in the world. It's all the money.

Posted by: misha Jul 9 2007, 09:46 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 9 2007, 11:39 PM)

I don't think it's up to them.

Villa have more power over Bayern in my opinion anyways, as most EPL teams do. It's where players want to be right now.

Look at Montella, from Roma to Fulham, just so he could play in our league.

I haven't seen enough of Lahm to say I'd even want him yet.

Please... Villa is light years behind Bayern. Why should he move from one of the biggest teams to mediocre team like Villa. If he'll move it would be to a 'big' team.

Montella?

He was a bench player.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 9 2007, 11:18 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 9 2007, 08:46 PM)

Please... Villa is light years behind Bayern. Why should he move from one of the biggest teams to mediocre team like Villa. If he'll move it would be to a 'big' team.

Montella?

He was a bench player.

Last time I checked it was Villa 1-0 Bayern. When they beat us, wait.. Score past us, I'll consider them better.

I never said Villa were better anyways, as Tennie said, the EPL is where all the money is, and what do players want? Money.

Players nowadays would rather play for average EPL teams than top sides in weaker leagues. Benni McCarthy, John Carew and Obafemi Martins are the more recent examples of this. Regardless of Montella being a bench player, he has a VERY good scoring record for Roma.

Talking of money, Liverpool have offered Â£10m (E15m?) for Ajax's Ryan Babel, it's not April 1st today is it?

Posted by: dst Jul 10 2007, 12:15 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 10 2007, 01:18 AM)

Talking of money, Liverpool have offered Â£10m (E15m?) for Ajax's Ryan Babel, it's not April 1st today is it?

Not that it makes any difference (in our discussion) but Â£10m is â‚¬12,7m...

It's true what you said about players showing a preference to the EPL but I agree with Tennie that money is a big reason for this... in any case, Montella is a bad example in my view. I mean, he had no play time at Roma and... come on, no one's so EPL-happy to join Fulham on a six-month loan... Italians in particular are so home-sick and momma's pasta desperate that everything Serie A makes them crazy; Montella even stated that the atmosphere the fans create is better in Serie A...

Even the greatest calcio lovers (like me) would never say that... maybe 10-15 years ago it was true but definitely not now!

And no, I don't think Lahm would leave Bayern for Aston Villa.

Posted by: misha Jul 10 2007, 12:37 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 10 2007, 01:18 AM)

Last time I checked it was Villa 1-0 Bayern. When they beat us, wait.. Score past us, I'll consider them better.

Bayern have enough money too (just look at their signings). Do you think if you give player a choice between Villa and Bayern they would choose Villa? Of course not. Just look at the squad of the two teams. Completely different levels. And I don't even mantioning history and respect.

Average EPL teams can only mostly attract mediocre players who are not good enough to be in a top teams (like in examples that you gave). Villa with all their money have one world class player? A good player with first team place at top club won't go to an average EPL team. Just look at who Villa signs and who Bayern signs (huge difference).

Posted by: Portikins Jul 10 2007, 12:38 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 9 2007, 01:09 AM)

A good buy. Now, they just need a good RB...

I heard some Daniel Alves rumours... as Boularouz seems to go to Sevilla.

Babel to Liverpool? I thought the "new Henry" (Van Basten called him that) was going Arsenal...
I think EPL could be "his league". If confirmed is a nice buy for the LW by Benitez.

Posted by: dst Jul 10 2007, 12:40 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 10 2007, 02:37 AM)

Average EPL teams can only mostly attract mediocre players who are not good enough to be in a top teams (like in examples that you gave). Villa with all their money have one world class player? A good player with first team place at top club won't go to an average EPL team. Just look at who Villa signs and who Bayern signs (huge difference).

Chelsea was more than average some time ago... with Villa's money and the right management it could happen again...

Posted by: misha Jul 10 2007, 12:48 AM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 10 2007, 02:40 AM)

Chelsea was more than average some time ago... with Villa's money and the right management it could happen again...

Maybe, if he was willing to spent on a club really crazy sums like Abramovich. So far he hasn't showed that.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 10 2007, 12:53 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 9 2007, 11:37 PM)

Bayern have enough money too (just look at their signings). Do you think if you give player a choice between Villa and Bayern they would choose Villa? Of course not. Just look at the squad of the two teams. Completely different levels. And I don't even mantioning history and respect.

Average EPL teams can only mostly attract mediocre players who are not good enough to be in a top teams (like in examples that you gave). Villa with all their money have one world class player?Â A good player with first team place at top club won't go to an average EPL team. Just look at who Villa signs and who Bayern signs (huge difference).

Bayern are obviously better than Villa.

QUOTE

Maybe, if he was willing to spent on a club really crazy sums like Abramovich. So far he hasn't showed that.

He bought the club with 3 days to go in last summers transfer window so he couldn't really spend but he's still done alright money-wise.
Stiliyan Petrov - Â£6.5m
Ashley Young - Â£9.65m
Nigel Reo-Coker - Â£8.5m
Shaun Maloney - Â£1m
Total of Â£25.65m and he's only REALLY had this january to spend.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 10 2007, 01:00 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 10 2007, 12:53 AM)

Bayern are obviously better than Villa.

Comparing the top team in Germany with the 6th/7th best team in England defies the point really. Now compare Bayerns signings with those of Chelsea/United, or even Liverpool. You'll see a huge difference.

As dst said, Chelsea were only just above our level about 5 years ago, in 5 years who knows what will happen to us? I doubt it will be anything close to what Chelsea have achieved, but Spurs and Villa will make Arsenal work for their CL place, that's for certain.
He bought the club with 3 days to go in last summers transfer window so he couldn't really spend but he's still done alright money-wise.
Stiliyan Petrov - Â£6.5m
Ashley Young - Â£9.65m
Nigel Reo-Coker - Â£8.5m
Shaun Maloney - Â£1m
Total of Â£25.65m and he's only REALLY had this january to spend.

About that bold bit: Bayern spent big this Summer, but yes... it's not usual. Chelsea, Onighted and Liverpool are in other level IMO in that field. Bayern would never give 45M for Shevchenko, 45M for Rooney or 30/40M for Torres.

Posted by: misha Jul 10 2007, 01:14 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 10 2007, 02:53 AM)

I wasn't compering Bayern, money wise with the EPL 'big 3'. There is clearly a difference as there is a difference between Bayern and other english teams (other 17). Of couse, english top teams should be compered with top teams from Spain and Italy.

And what he did this transfer window so far? When Abramovich arrived, he trasformed the club on every level (not only players), and it's a huge investment that not even every loaded guy willing to make.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 10 2007, 01:26 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 10 2007, 12:14 AM)

I wasn't compering Bayern, money wise with the EPL 'big 3'. There is clearly a difference as there is a difference between Bayern and other english teams (other 17). Of couse, english top teams should be compered with top teams from Spain and Italy.

And what he did this transfer window so far? When Abramovich arrived, he trasformed the club on every level (not only players), and it's a huge investment that not even every loaded guy willing to make.

If United complete the Tevez deal, they'll spend more money than Italys big 4 put together this summer.

Lerner's spending big behind the scenes, he's just built us a new Â£13m training complex. He also grew up in England and sports is in his blood, his dad owned the Cleveland Browns before him, now he owns two sports teams, we're in safe hands. Roman will pull the plug once he feels his investment in in jepordy.

Posted by: misha Jul 10 2007, 01:42 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 10 2007, 03:26 AM)

If United complete the Tevez deal, they'll spend more money than Italys big 4 put together this summer.

So ?...

Chelsea's one costs Â£30. Maybe he's improving the team, but it's not looking like he's not gonna make drastic changes in order to make Villa more than a 6th place candidate.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 10 2007, 02:09 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 10 2007, 12:42 AM)

So ?...

Chelsea's one costs Â£30. Maybe he's improving the team, but it's not looking like he's not gonna make drastic changes in order to make Villa more than a 6th place candidate.

Chelsea's cost 20m, didn't it?

No, we won't be more than 6th place, I agree with that. But there's very few teams in Europe that would finish above 6th in the EPL, maybe 15 in the whole on the Continent?

Do I really want Villa to turn into a United or a Chelsea, where we've bought our trophies? I'm not so sure. The EPL has ruined football, especially for real teams.

Posted by: misha Jul 10 2007, 02:20 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 10 2007, 04:09 AM)

Chelsea's cost 20m, didn't it?

http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/roman-adds-pound30m-training-complex-to-empire-993566.html

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 10 2007, 02:27 AM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 10 2007, 01:20 AM)

http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/roman-adds-pound30m-training-complex-to-empire-993566.html

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/sport/football.html?in_page_id=1779&in_article_id=465525
The Independant says Â£30m, Daily Mail Â£20m.

With how reliable those two are it's either Â£1m or Â£50m.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 10 2007, 08:37 PM

West Ham have signed Craig Bellamy from Liverpool for Â£7.5m, West Ham have also agreed a fee with Liverpool for Yossi Benayoun, who looks to be heading the opposite way to Bellamy.

Posted by: misha Jul 10 2007, 09:39 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 10 2007, 10:37 PM)

West Ham have also agreed a fee with Liverpool for Yossi Benayoun, who looks to be heading the opposite way to Bellamy.

Yep. Â£5. He wanted to go there so much. Good addition for Liverpool.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 10 2007, 09:47 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 10 2007, 08:39 PM)

Yep. Â£5. He wanted to go there so much. Good addition for Liverpool.

He's decent, but unless he plays on the left, he'll never play.

Posted by: misha Jul 10 2007, 09:55 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 10 2007, 11:47 PM)

He's decent, but unless he plays on the left, he'll never play.

With Liverpool having 70 game per season, he'll play at least 1/3 of them. He can play on right, left and behind two strikers.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 10 2007, 11:21 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 10 2007, 09:55 PM)

With Liverpool having 70 game per season, he'll play at least 1/3 of them. He can play on right, left and behind two strikers.

1/3 I dunno but Benitez loves rotation... even a poor Gonzalez played last season, so Benayoun will get his chance.

Babel from Ajax is their their transfer-list too.

Posted by: misha Jul 11 2007, 04:41 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 11 2007, 01:21 AM)

1/3 I dunno but Benitez loves rotation... even a poor Gonzalez played last season, so Benayoun will get his chance.

Babel from Ajax is their their transfer-list too.

Benitez likes him and pressured the management to buy him. Liverpool don't have world class wingers. Pennant is mediocre and Kewell ain't top, and injured all the time. I think it will be: Left - Babel/Kewell , Right - Pennant/Benayoun, rotating a lot.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 11 2007, 02:23 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 11 2007, 03:41 AM)

I really don't see Liverpool being any different at all. Babel/Kewell/Pennant/Benayoun aren't all that special to me, I don't see any improvement there, just a bit more depth.

Posted by: misha Jul 11 2007, 03:18 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 11 2007, 04:23 PM)

I really don't see Liverpool being any different at all. Babel/Kewell/Pennant/Benayoun aren't all that special to me, I don't see any improvement there, just a bit more depth.

The big improvement is a world class striker they finaly have. Winger wise they have more depth (and talent) which prevent Gerrard playing on the right again.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 11 2007, 03:56 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 11 2007, 01:23 PM)

I really don't see Liverpool being any different at all. Babel/Kewell/Pennant/Benayoun aren't all that special to me, I don't see any improvement there, just a bit more depth.

Torres - that's the difference.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 11 2007, 04:01 PM

Torres is a top striker, no doubt. He'll score plenty of goals, BUT Crouch and Kuyt will produce less as they will see less playing time. I only see them scoring 10 goals more than they did last season, maximum (In the league).

About Gerrard, he'll either play on the right or behind a lone striker. Rafa is very happy with the Mascherano/Alonso/Sissoko thing in the middle, any two of those.

Posted by: Tennie Jul 11 2007, 04:05 PM

My concern re: Torres is that he's going to have the same sort of EPL experience that Morientes had. Torres is a great talent, but I'm not at all sure he's going to be able to adjust easily to the very physical nature of the English game.

Posted by: dst Jul 11 2007, 04:52 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 11 2007, 05:18 PM)

The big improvement is a world class striker they finaly have. Winger wise they have more depth (and talent) which prevent Gerrard playing on the right again.

He played on the right only because Benitez preferred the Sissoko - Alonso duo on the center for some special occasions. What I'm trying to say is that he might play there again, if Rafa feels like it...

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jul 11 2007, 06:05 PM)

I hope he scores many (unimportant) goals - just for Max's sake - but ********* end up trophyless... for ever if it's possible!!

Posted by: Portikins Jul 11 2007, 05:55 PM

TBH I think Benitez will continue to play Gerrard on the right.

..........Torres...Kuyt.......
..Kewell/Babel...Gerrard..
.....Alonso..Mascherano....
Riise..Agger..Carra..Finnan
................Reina...............

LW: Kewell/Babel
RW: Gerrard/Benayoun
CM: Alonso/Mascherano/Sissoko/Gerrard/Lucas Leiva

FW: F.Torres/Voronin
ST: Kuyt/Crouch

Just some positions... lot of options. Depth - something Liverpool didn't have.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 11 2007, 10:24 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jul 11 2007, 03:05 PM)

I'm sure he won't flop, you want flop of the season watch out for Darren Bent, no doubt he will be top scorer now that I have said that.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 11 2007, 10:33 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jul 11 2007, 09:24 PM)

I'm sure he won't flop, you want flop of the season watch out for Darren Bent, no doubt he will be top scorer now that I have said that.

Flop of the season is going to be either Nani or Anderson, they'll make little impact, and I don't see them playing that often.

Darren Bent will score at least 15 goals this year, as will Torres. Agbonlahor will be the only player to get 30.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 11 2007, 11:12 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 11 2007, 09:33 PM)

Darren Bent will score at least 15 goals this year, as will Torres. Agbonlahor will be the only player to get 30.

Yeah 30 absences

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 11 2007, 11:17 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jul 11 2007, 10:12 PM)

Yeah 30 absences

That wasn't his fault!

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 11 2007, 11:18 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 11 2007, 10:17 PM)

That wasn't his fault!

No And World War 2 Wasn't Hitlers

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 11 2007, 11:23 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jul 11 2007, 10:18 PM)

No And World War 2 Wasn't Hitlers

BURN!!

Posted by: dst Jul 11 2007, 11:37 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jul 12 2007, 01:18 AM)

No And World War 2 Wasn't Hitlers

Now if there were no blacks and Jews and gays would he do that!??

Posted by: misha Jul 12 2007, 01:31 PM

QUOTE

Alves 'Desperate' For Sevilla To Accept Chelsea Bid

The agent of Daniel Alves says the Brazilian full-back is "desperate" to join Chelsea, and has called on Sevilla to accept the Blues' reported Â£14 million take-it-or-leave offer.

Sevilla, though, are understood to be holding out for a fee closer to Â£20 million.

Now Alves's agent, Jose Rodriguez Baster, has called on Sevilla president Jose Maria Del Nido to be "more realistic" in his valuation of the player and let him achieve his longed-for move to the south-west London Premier League side.

"Daniel wants to see an agreement between the two clubs," Baster told the Spanish press.

"We need to see if the president Del Nido considers it, but we cannot really say anything as we are not certain.

"We just hope that Del Nido understands that this would be good for all parties, we can see this already."

With him they are all set.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 12 2007, 02:10 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 12 2007, 01:31 PM)

With him they are all set.

Yup. But it's good for us to see Sevilla without Dani Alves in the UEFA SuperCup next August.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 12 2007, 05:35 PM

Georgie Thompson just announced on Sky Sports News that Babel-Liverpool deal is official. 17M/euros.

Think the price is ok. Good add for the Reds.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 12 2007, 05:48 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 12 2007, 04:35 PM)

Georgie Thompson just announced on Sky Sports News that Babel-Liverpool deal is official. 17M/euros.

Think the price is ok. Good add for the Reds.

Yeah, that's the only reason to watch Sky Sports News!

Liverpool are starting to get one good squad, seems as though the new owners are finally digging into their pockets.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 12 2007, 06:33 PM

Torres - IN, Benayoun - IN, Bellamy - OUT. We all thought Liverpool knew what they were doing.. Then they spent E17m on him.

Posted by: misha Jul 12 2007, 07:52 PM

Posted by: Portikins Jul 12 2007, 07:55 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 12 2007, 07:52 PM)

Ben Haim to Chelsea, Benayoun to Liverpool... no israeli for United or Arsenal?

Posted by: misha Jul 12 2007, 08:30 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 12 2007, 09:55 PM)

Ben Haim to Chelsea, Benayoun to Liverpool... no israeli for United or Arsenal?

Not yet...

For Israeli players EPL is their wildest dream. Liverpool always was the most popular (2 players played there in the past). Now Chelsea gets more attention (2 players + sporting director).

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 12 2007, 09:40 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 12 2007, 07:30 PM)

Not yet...

Â For Israeli players EPL is their wildest dream. Liverpool always was the most popular (2 players played there in the past). Now Chelsea gets more attention (2 players + sporting director).

Was Ronny Rosenthal Isreali?

His 15 seconds of fame.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=84DBnf7GF_w

Posted by: dst Jul 12 2007, 09:58 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 12 2007, 11:40 PM)

His 15 seconds of fame.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=84DBnf7GF_w

F@ck!!

That can't be missed!!!! When he got pass the keeper I though you posted the wrong link... it's the time when you start thinking about equalizing!!

Posted by: misha Jul 13 2007, 07:26 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 12 2007, 11:40 PM)

Was Ronny Rosenthal Isreali?

His 15 seconds of fame.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=84DBnf7GF_w

Yes, He's famous for that miss. But he also had a major part in Liverpool's last championship title. He played at Tottenham too. Now, he's a successful Footballers Agent.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Jul 13 2007, 12:00 PM

Some English Papers reporting that Mourinho is gonna go for a Â£40m David Villa, then sell Sheva back here for Â£7m

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 13 2007, 12:42 PM

QUOTE (whoarethepatriots @ Jul 13 2007, 11:00 AM)

Some English Papers reporting that Mourinho is gonna go for a Â£40m David Villa, then sell Sheva back here for Â£7m

That's news to me...

Posted by: Tennie Jul 13 2007, 01:15 PM

Wow, the English are outdoing Italy this summer for transfer sagas. The Times is reporting today that warrants have been issued for the arrest of Tevez' agent, Kia Joorabchian, on charges of money laundering in connection to Corinthians. Looks like he won't be making that medical visit to Manchester on Tuesday after all....

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 13 2007, 03:08 PM

QUOTE (Tennie @ Jul 13 2007, 12:15 PM)

I say put Tevez in the slammer with him, relegated West Ham and United, too. They're all criminals.

QUOTE

Some English Papers reporting that Mourinho is gonna go for a Â£40m David Villa, then sell Sheva back here for Â£7m

Never going to happen, either of them. Roman's not going to spend big this year, he's even refuses to go higher than Â£15m for Dani Alvez. If Sheva leaves Chelsea, it will not be for less than Â£20m.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 13 2007, 03:28 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 13 2007, 02:08 PM)

Exactly it also makes no sense when you think about it ok so you're buying Villa for a staggering Â£40million why would you sell Sheva for just Â£7mil wouldn't you want to recoup more from the purchase of Villa! Stupid English media.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Jul 13 2007, 03:48 PM

Yeah man, i dont write this im simply the Messenger

Bianchi has left the mothers den and is off to City, good luck and do well

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 13 2007, 04:02 PM

QUOTE (whoarethepatriots @ Jul 13 2007, 02:48 PM)

Yeah man, i dont write this im simply the Messenger

Bianchi has left the mothers den and is off to City, good luck and do well

Bianchi looked like he could have had a promising career, unfortunately it's now over.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Jul 13 2007, 04:19 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 13 2007, 03:02 PM)

Bianchi looked like he could have had a promising career, unfortunately it's now over.

Maybe things will be different under Erikson, but i expect him to return here in a couple of years to revive his career

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 13 2007, 06:55 PM

QUOTE (whoarethepatriots @ Jul 13 2007, 03:19 PM)

Maybe things will be different under Erikson, but i expect him to return here in a couple of years to revive his career

He may work well under Sven, he does have the knack of really pushing young players to be the best they can.

Even still, unless things drastically change at Man City, he'll be crying to come back home within weeks.

Posted by: misha Jul 14 2007, 06:31 PM

Posted by: Portikins Jul 14 2007, 08:30 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 14 2007, 06:31 PM)

That Lion wasn't the Euro 96 one? Think it was.

PS: Where the hell is L'Arsenal?

Posted by: misha Jul 14 2007, 09:00 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 14 2007, 10:30 PM)

That Lion wasn't the Euro 96 one? Think it was.

PS: Where the hell is L'Arsenal?Â

Posted by: dst Jul 15 2007, 03:28 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 14 2007, 10:30 PM)

PS: Where the hell is L'Arsenal?

Changing nappies...

Posted by: Portikins Jul 15 2007, 09:54 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 15 2007, 03:28 AM)

Changing nappies...

It seems that they're about to sign Rodrigo Palacio from Boca Juniors. Good player.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 16 2007, 12:10 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 15 2007, 08:54 PM)

It seems that they're about to sign Rodrigo Palacio from Boca Juniors. Good player.

I thought Barca had already signed him a few months back?

Posted by: Portikins Jul 16 2007, 12:11 AM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 16 2007, 12:10 AM)

I thought Barca had already signed him a few months back?

It was denied.

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Jul 16 2007, 02:18 PM

QUOTE

Police have raided three clubs as part of an investigation into alleged corruption in football, the City of London police have confirmed.

Posted by: Tennie Jul 16 2007, 02:28 PM

Where is this from? Do you have a link?

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 16 2007, 02:30 PM

And they all say Italian football is the most corrupt?

Unfortunately, if it's any big club, they'll get away with it.

http://football.guardian.co.uk/News_Story/0,,2127646,00.html

Posted by: Tennie Jul 16 2007, 02:39 PM

Interesting that it's the City of London police making the announcement and not Metropolitan. That puts definite limits on which clubs it can be as the City police only have jurisdiction inside a pretty small area.

EDIT: BBC is reporting that one of the clubs in question is Newcastle.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/6901085.stm

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 16 2007, 03:19 PM

QUOTE

Villa have been given permission to talk to West Ham striker Marlon Harewood as Martin O'Neill continues efforts to bolster the squad.

The 28-year-old visited Villa's new Â£13m Bodymoor Heath training complex today. O'Neill to avfc.co.uk "We've been given the go ahead to talk to the player and we'll take it from here."

Harewood has scored 47 goals in 123 league starts since joining West Ham from Nottingham Forest in November 2003. He scored a6 goals as the Hammers returned to the top flight 2 years ago - Scoring 4 against Villa - Including an Upton Park hat-trick.

http://www.avfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/HeadlinesDetail/0,,10265~1073837,00.html

Well we've already got 40 strikers, what difference will another one make?

He'd suit Birmingham better, but if he's cheap then I don't mind.

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 16 2007, 04:46 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 16 2007, 02:19 PM)

Well we've already got 40 strikers, what difference will another one make?

He'd suit Birmingham better, but if he's cheap then I don't mind.

Harewood, is that how bad things are getting

Posted by: whoarethepatriots Jul 16 2007, 05:01 PM

Newcastle, Portsmouth and Rangers are the clubs in question for the corruption

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 16 2007, 05:08 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jul 16 2007, 03:46 PM)

Harewood, is that how bad things are getting

QUOTE (whoarethepatriots @ Jul 16 2007, 04:01 PM)

Newcastle, Portsmouth and Rangers are the clubs in question for the corruption

We'll have less of that, Ash!

Newcastle doesn't surprise me at all, I'd expect it from Rangers, too. But Pompey!?

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jul 16 2007, 07:13 PM

QUOTE

Thierry Henry To Divorce

A new angle has appeared on Thierry Henry's departure from Arsenal to join Barcelona last month with the revelation that he and his English wife of four years, Claire, a model also known by her professional name of Nicole Merry, are to divorce.

The Sun newspaper's front page headline quites Henry as telling friends: "I had to get away from everything English... including my wife."

The paper says Henry, 29, walked out on his Croydon-born wife Claire, 27, just days after joining Barcelona. The couple have a two-year-old daughter, TÃ©a.

On its inside pages, with the banner headline: BARCA LONER," The Sun says Henry has been en joying a bachelor lifestyle and visiting casinos since the "bitter" break-up.

Henry issued a statement through his lawyers saying: "Thierry is extremely saddened by the breakdown of his marriage.

"He is anxious to move on with his life and maintain the best possible relationship he can with Claire for the benefit of their daughter TÃ©a, whom he loves very much."

The statement added that Henry's move to Barcelona was "entirely for footballing reasons."

But he has reportedly told friends: "I didn't really want to leave Arsenal - they're my favourite club and I loved playing for them.

"But lots of things have changed recently, and I had to get away from everything English, including my wife unfortunately.

"It's a very sad time for all of us, but you've got to know when to move on."

The couple married in July 2003.

Goal.com

Well, I guess now we know the reason behind his move. Cuz he was a legend for Arsenal, he probably still is ...

Posted by: dst Jul 16 2007, 07:20 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ Jul 16 2007, 09:13 PM)

Well, I guess now we know the reason behind his move. Cuz he was a legend for Arsenal, he probably still is ...

He surely is... he's Arsenal's all-time top scorer! And what a scorer!!

I believe he would have still left Arsenal though...

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jul 16 2007, 07:23 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 16 2007, 09:20 PM)

I believe he would have still left Arsenal though...

If Shevchenko could throw away Milan's captain's armband, Henry is no better

Still .. This could be more than an excuse to him

It could mean that he really is having it bad, this could even affect his season at Barca (if he looses his money at the casinos

)

Posted by: dst Jul 16 2007, 07:29 PM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ Jul 16 2007, 09:23 PM)

Still .. This could be more than an excuse to him

It could mean that he really is having it bad, this could even affect his season at Barca (if he looses his money at the casinos

)

Do not forget it's The Sun reporting all this!

But I think him in Milano with all those models and Adriano as an example things could have turned bad! Expect Fester to come up with a new excuse why we did not get him anytime soon!!

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jul 16 2007, 07:39 PM

Fester already has one .. He seems to get out of all the knots they put him in

Posted by: misha Jul 17 2007, 07:31 PM

If somebody interested Liverpool and Bremen playing on Eurosport. 13min 2:1 to Pool already.

Posted by: LaPalma Jul 17 2007, 07:53 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 17 2007, 07:31 PM)

If somebody interested Liverpool and Bremen playing on Eurosport. 13min 2:1 to Pool already.

Bremen is still missing a good striker. Klasnic is still injured and the rest is simply not enough.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 17 2007, 07:59 PM

Apparently Mido of Spurs claims he's agreed a transfer to the Blues. I hope this is true, he's welcome take his awesome tally of one goal to St. Andrews.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 17 2007, 08:05 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 17 2007, 07:31 PM)

If somebody interested Liverpool and Bremen playing on Eurosport. 13min 2:1 to Pool already.

Yeah. I'm watching. Waiting to see Babel, Torres, Benayoun.

Voronin already scored.

Posted by: misha Jul 17 2007, 08:23 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 17 2007, 10:05 PM)

Yeah. I'm watching. Waiting to see Babel, Torres, Benayoun.

Voronin already scored.

Voronin is a good add and free. Liverpool has a good striker line this season.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 17 2007, 09:29 PM

QUOTE (mishale @ Jul 17 2007, 08:23 PM)

Voronin is a good add and free. Liverpool has a good striker line this season.

Benayoun had a good start. He's a nice player.

Babel and Torres had good starts too. They'll be the difference IMO.

Posted by: dst Jul 18 2007, 10:03 AM

I wanna "fly" with her... Emirates!!

Posted by: Portikins Jul 18 2007, 12:59 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 18 2007, 10:03 AM)

I wanna "fly" with her... Emirates!!

Names... I want names.

Posted by: dst Jul 18 2007, 01:44 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 18 2007, 02:59 PM)

Names... I want names.

You don't know Keeley Hazell!??

Where have you been the past two years!??

Here she is in the Aston Villa shirt:

How do you like her, Kurt!??

Posted by: Portikins Jul 18 2007, 01:58 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 18 2007, 01:44 PM)

You don't know Keeley Hazell!??

Where have you been the past two years!??

Here she is in the Aston Villa shirt:

How do you like her, Kurt!??

Oh. It's Keeley Hazell? I think I've video of her... you know.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jul 18 2007, 01:59 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 18 2007, 03:58 PM)

Oh. It's Keeley Hazell? I think I've video of her... you know.

Hehe .. u too

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 18 2007, 02:09 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 18 2007, 12:58 PM)

Oh. It's Keeley Hazell? I think I've video of her... you know.

Yep! Typical English birds, there's a specific name for them you know, similar to Paris Hilton really.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 18 2007, 02:19 PM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfCDozlh73I

QUOTE

I saw my mate
The other day
He said to me he's seen the white Pele
So i asked, 'who is he?'
He said 'He goes by the name of Wayne Rooney'
Wayne Rooney Wayne Rooney
He goes by the name of Wayne Rooney!

*********************************************************

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vc7d3UMM-W0

QUOTE

Steve Gerrard, Gerrard,
He'll Pass The Ball 40 Yards,
He's Big And He's F*cking Hard,
Steve Gerrard Gerrard.

Don't you just love this this Premiership songs?

Posted by: dst Jul 18 2007, 02:45 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 18 2007, 04:19 PM)

Don't you just love this this Premiership songs?

Yeah it was pretty funny when the ********* fans were singing "I have a 'Sixth' sense' in Athens... they counted without Pippo's own sixth sense though!

So...

QUOTE

F@ck Gerrard, Gerrard,
He can blow me at my backyard,
I am Big And I'm pretty hard,
When I f@ck Gerrard.

Mod me!

Posted by: misha Jul 18 2007, 03:25 PM

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 19 2007, 02:53 PM

QUOTE (dst @ Jul 18 2007, 12:44 PM)

Here she is in the Aston Villa shirt:

How do you like her, Kurt!??

She's awesome.

I heard we're buying Hoyte from Arsenal for Â£2.5m. He doesn't really fit in with them anyways, he's not a teenager and he's English.

In other news United claim they've turned down two bids from Liverpool for Gabi Heinze. Looks certain to leave, but Fergie refuses to have him playing for another EPL team.

Posted by: dst Jul 19 2007, 03:03 PM

Hoyte is a good player!

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 19 2007, 04:53 PM)

Looks certain to leave, but Fergie refuses to have him playing for another EPL team.

Oh, the Roma board must be confused: why is Fergie doing this, it makes no sense!!

Posted by: redbabies Jul 19 2007, 07:59 PM

Premier League's Top Ten Earners

News that Chelsea have agreed a new Â£6.8 million-a-year deal with their captain John Terry means that the central defender - who is also England skipper - is set to become the highest-paid player in English football.

Terry's wages will be Â£131,000-per-week uner the terms of his new five-year contract.

But how does that compare with the wages of other big-earners in the Premiership?

According to The Sun, the table of the Premier League's top ten earners prior to Terry's new deal looked like this:

1= Andriy Shevchenko, Michael Ballack (both Chelsea) Â£121,000 a week

3 Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) Â£120,000

4 Cristiano Ronaldo (Man Utd) Â£119,000

5= Wayne Rooney (Man Utd), Michael Owen (Newcastle) Â£110,000

7= Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd) Â£100,000

9= Fernando Torres (Liverpool), Didier Drogba (Chelsea) Â£90,000.

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

Two of the worst Chelsea players of last season are top earners. OK I knew that.

But, didn't know anything about Owen being the 5th . Well, I have to say it: He's a great businessmen. All he do is stay out injuried and look at his bank account higher and higher for Â£110.000 every week

Posted by: Portikins Jul 19 2007, 08:04 PM

An expected list. No surprises.

Posted by: bigmacmtl Jul 20 2007, 06:37 AM

wow this keely chick is a real sl&t, she's such a bandwagon fan...can't stick to one club! she can't stick to one team!

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 20 2007, 02:16 PM

QUOTE (bigmacmtl @ Jul 20 2007, 05:37 AM)

wow this keely chick is a real sl&t, she's such a bandwagon fan...can't stick to one club! she can't stick to one team!

I don't think she actually supports any of them

Posted by: I_Rossoneri Jul 20 2007, 02:31 PM

QUOTE (redbabies @ Jul 19 2007, 06:59 PM)

Premier League's Top Ten Earners

News that Chelsea have agreed a new Â£6.8 million-a-year deal with their captain John Terry means that the central defender - who is also England skipper - is set to become the highest-paid player in English football.

Terry's wages will be Â£131,000-per-week uner the terms of his new five-year contract.

But how does that compare with the wages of other big-earners in the Premiership?

According to The Sun, the table of the Premier League's top ten earners prior to Terry's new deal looked like this:

1= Andriy Shevchenko, Michael Ballack (both Chelsea) Â£121,000 a week

3 Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) Â£120,000

4 Cristiano Ronaldo (Man Utd) Â£119,000

5= Wayne Rooney (Man Utd), Michael Owen (Newcastle) Â£110,000

7= Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd) Â£100,000

9= Fernando Torres (Liverpool), Didier Drogba (Chelsea) Â£90,000.
------------
Two of the worst Chelsea players of last season are top earners. OK I knew that.

But, didn't know anything about Owen being the 5th

. Well, I have to say it: He's a great businessmen. All he do is stay out injuried and look at his bank account higher and higher for Â£110.000 every week

Yet more proof that there is far too much money in the epl, hopefully the bubble will burst soon

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 20 2007, 02:42 PM

QUOTE (I_Rossoneri @ Jul 20 2007, 01:31 PM)

Yet more proof that there is far too much money in the epl, hopefully the bubble will burst soon

Not a chance, ticket prices are so much higher here than most other places and so many grounds in the Premiership sell out week-in week-out. Then there's the TV revenue that's just outrageous, business icons are starting to see the Premiership Club as something to buy ever since Roman did a few years ago, they have far more money than the older chairmans who were in place. Unless a salary cap comes into place this league is just going to get more expensive

Posted by: I_Rossoneri Jul 20 2007, 03:01 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jul 20 2007, 01:42 PM)

It's a win for style over substance though!

People will only be able to afford it for so long, let's not forget that chelscum took out adverts in local newspapers last season trying to get people to watch their game with Barca. I realise it was a CL game, but surely a game involving the CL winner and prem winner would have been a sell out!

Some people literally go without food just so they can afford season tickets!

and I thought football was the game of the working man

Posted by: Kaka Is Brilliant Jul 20 2007, 03:17 PM

QUOTE (I_Rossoneri @ Jul 20 2007, 02:01 PM)

Some people literally go without food just so they can afford season tickets!

and I thought football was the game of the working man

Used to be not anymore just watch the build upto the FA Cup and Champions League finals and see all the representatives and business associates as they are known by Roy Keane 'the prawn sandwich brigade', don't have a clue about football but they are let in due to all the merchandising/advertising deals that are struck up. Yes that's very frustraring for the average working class family.

Posted by: I_Rossoneri Jul 20 2007, 03:50 PM

QUOTE (Kaka Is Brilliant @ Jul 20 2007, 02:17 PM)

Finals are usually corporate affairs though, but it seems the league is going that way as well. The main reason for it is to keep the trouble makers away, usually those with less money are more inclined to cause trouble. That is why the working man is being priced out of the game!

Posted by: Portikins Jul 20 2007, 04:20 PM

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/6602809.stm

So... Stan Kroenke is finally going to get 100% of L'Arsenul?

Posted by: I_Rossoneri Jul 20 2007, 04:33 PM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 20 2007, 03:20 PM)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/6602809.stm

So... Stan Kroenke is finally going to get 100% of L'Arsenul?

Another epl team with a foreign owner

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 20 2007, 05:14 PM

I don't know if we're as expensive as everybody makes us out to be. I think it's just the top end that makes us look bad (United, CHelsea and Arsenal). I've been into Europe a few times with Villa, and foreign teams charge alot too, I'm not sure if it's because it's a Cup game, but it certainly isn't cheap. Cost me about Â£50 to see Athletico Madrid, this was about 10 years ago as well!

QUOTE

Another epl team with a foreign owner

They're going to have to stop calling it the English Premier League, there's nothing English about it.

Posted by: I_Rossoneri Jul 20 2007, 05:34 PM

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 20 2007, 04:14 PM)

From what I heard the cheapest tickets in the San Siro(Milan) are â‚¬13 which is about Â£9. I can't even watch my local team(Bristol City) for that - and they were in the old third division!!!!!!

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 20 2007, 04:14 PM)

They're going to have to stop calling it the English Premier League, there's nothing English about it.

Agreed

Posted by: Portikins Jul 22 2007, 02:34 AM

Damn. I'm watching now LA Galaxy-Chelsea and... Mourinho is playing a pure 4-4-2.

---------Drogba-------Kalou----------
-----------------------------------------
Malouda--Lampard--Essien----SWP-
-----------------------------------------
Ben Haim-Terry-Carvalho-P.Ferreira
------------------Cech------------------

At least on the first half. Is Mourinho changing the 4-3-3 or the 4-4-2 diamond to show Alex "The Whiskey Nose" Ferguson that he can win the Premiership playing that way too?

PS: No Robben on the teamsheet. Not even on the subs. Madrid fans wankfest right now.
http://www.chelseafc.com/page/NewsHomePage/0,,10268~1076736,00.html

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jul 22 2007, 02:51 AM

Beckham is thinking: What the **** did I do !!!! Galaxy cant get the ball past midfield against Chelsea !!!

P.s. Clearly the difference between European and US teams

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 22 2007, 02:53 AM

I can't watch it.

Though apparently it's fixed. One of the LA executives asked them to go easy on Becks, they agreed. They also asked to give Beckham a free-kick around the area so he could score.

Not sure how much truth there is to it, probably none since it was in The Sun.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jul 22 2007, 02:57 AM

@Kurt .. I don't know, still it's a friendly .. So

But I mean, Galaxy r playing at home, they should be pushing more than defending .. Chelsea r looking very lively and Essian is a rock of a defensive midfielder

Posted by: Portikins Jul 22 2007, 02:59 AM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ Jul 22 2007, 02:51 AM)

Beckham is thinking: What the **** did I do !!!! Galaxy cant get the ball past midfield against Chelsea !!!

P.s. Clearly the difference between European and US teams

What do you expect? A Robinho or a Kaka' at their prime somehow playing for any US team?

Put Chelsea against any of your Arab teams and you'll see.

QUOTE (kurtsimonw @ Jul 22 2007, 02:53 AM)

I can't watch it.

Though apparently it's fixed. One of the LA executives asked them to go easy on Becks, they agreed. They also asked to give Beckham a free-kick around the area so he could score.

Not sure how much truth there is to it, probably none since it was in The Sun.

HT 0-0. Beckham didn't play the first half. I think he's a bit injuried. Dunno if he's gonna get some minutes.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Jul 22 2007, 03:11 AM

QUOTE (Porty @ Jul 22 2007, 04:59 AM)

What do you expect? A Robinho or a Kaka' at their prime somehow playing for any US team?

Put Chelsea against any of your Arab teams and you'll see.

HT 0-0. Beckham didn't play the first half. I think he's a bit injuried. Dunno if he's gonna get some minutes.

I don't know what to expect really .. A team pays Beckham 250M over 5 years .. A team like that should be strong enough .. u get my drift ..

Problem with arab teams .. Is that you only have at best 5 teams that can be level with the likes of Boca .. But the rest are just rubbish. Even if they had 10 Figos

More like Scandinavian teams, they rely on local talent, rarely bring in professional players, and their local leagues are rubbish

Posted by: misha Jul 22 2007, 03:11 AM

F@ck. Forgot about this game. ESPN is showing it.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Jul 22 2007, 03:13 AM

QUOTE (Rossoneri7 @ Jul 22 2007, 02:11 AM)

I don't know what to expect really .. A team pays Beckham 250M over 5 years .. A team like that should be strong enough .. u get my drift ..

If California was it's own country, it'd be the 5th richest country on the planet. I can only assume with LA being in California that some loaded guy puts money into them, that's why they can afford Becks. I could be wrong of course.

Posted by: Portikins Jul 22 2007, 03:14 AM

Shevchenko in. Chelsea is doomed now.

Mourinho said this match is a "new experience" for the players, playing in a pure 4-4-2.

He also said Robben is not playing because:
"Robben has something in his knee. We have to protect him because he had surgery last season."

Weird. He playing the last match without problems. Probably that knee problem has something to do with his contract.