"Oh Marlon, he said yes," only to change his mind not so long after. "staggered," "dismayed," "betrayed." Just some of the words used by Coventry manager Andy Thorn to explain the whole sorry situation. "money grabbing [insert word of choice here]," "lying [insert word of choice here]," "greedy [insert word of choice here]." Just some of the phrases used by the fans of the club. For those that don't know, let's just take a look at everything from the start:
Thursday 29 July 2010
After serving an 18 month jail sentence for sexual assault, Marlon King is released from prison. His agent, Tony Finnagan, charged with the task of finding his client a new club. It would be difficult to find the disgraced striker a club willing to take him on, so the first port of call was to contact King's old mentor at Watford Aidy Boothroyd who, incidentally, had just been appointed manager of Coventry City. Sure enough, Boothroyd took the Jamaican international on trial, and then set about persuading the clubs board to thrash out a permanent deal for a player who was once worth £5m.
A brave decision by Boothroyd, particularly as he had only been in the hotseat for five minutes, and with a number of fans already sceptical regarding his managerial appointment, this decision pushed them over the edge. Many fans of the club - and plenty of non Coventry fans - questioned whether he should get a second chance at the game, after all sexual assault is a serious charge and why should he walk back in to the sport, earning nearly £10,000 a week in the process. Some even went as far as not renewing/not buying a season ticket, refusing to help pay the wages of a sex attacker.
Monday 20 September 2010
There was never any doubts as to how much Boothroyd wanted King in his side leading the front line, all he had to do was persuade the board to get a contract drawn up. This was the man he wanted, a 20 goal a season striker that Coventry desperately needed if they were to make a promotion challenge. Leaving it late, Tony Finnagan issued an ultimatum, "sign my client or we are off elsewhere." On the Monday it was announced that King was now a Coventry player, signing a one year £9,500 per week deal, making him the clubs highest earner.
It wasn't the greatest of starts for the "20 goal a season striker," with his first strike not coming until early December when he scored from the penalty spot in a 1-0 win against Middlesbrough. Ironically, after that game the club went on a poor run of just two league wins in 20 games, taking the side from the top 6 to the bottom half of the table and culminated in the sacking of manager Aidy Boothroyd In mid March. The poor form of the team didn't stop King however, as he found his scoring boots in the new year, netting 5 goals in 7 games making him Coventry's main hitman. This was followed by a further 6 inside the space of two weeks and 4 games in April, firmly establishing himself as the clubs number one striker and goalscorer of the season.
Thursday 28 April 2011
Shortly after King's rich vein of goalscoring form - coupled with some impressive performances and results on the pitch - caretaker manager Andy Thorn was appointed as the new permanent manager of the club. His first action, to offer the three [soon to be] out of contract stars new deals. With it, he also set a deadline for their answer.
Friday 3 June 2011
After weeks of speculation, Marlon King rings Andy Thorn and tells him that he will be signing a new deal with the club, as soon as he gets back off holiday. The club then announced the news to the tune of many happy fans, glad to see a natural goalscorer in a sky blue shirt for the following season. Not long after the announcement, Mr Finnagan issued a statement, denying that his client has made such a promise.
Saturday 4 June 2011
The Coventry board, along with Thorn, sought clarification, and supposedly got it. It was announced that King had been contacted and had given the club the assurance that he would be signing the new deal.
Friday 10 June 2011
Marlon King signs a three year deal with Birmingham City.
It has come out since, that Andy Thorn heard King was talking to Birmingham City just 24 hours after making the original promise that he would be staying at Coventry. Marlon King’s side says that Coventry’s offer was never put in writing, that he verbally agreed the deal but asked for the club to send it through to Finnagan so that he could get it signed. Allegedly the contract never turned up, so with just the one official deal (Birmingham’s offer) on the table, he made the decision to sign it while he could, and not wait around for the Coventry offer to materialise. He says that he wish it could have been Coventry’s offer that he signed, but as it wasn’t actually there, he signed the one from their close rivals. Poor show if you ask me.
I think if you asked the majority of Coventry fans at the end of the season, they would have said that they expected King to be off once his contract was up, I really don’t think many expected him to stay. But when it came out that he said he was staying, it was a relief, and it raised hopes for the new season. That is why it was such a blow and so upsetting when he eventually joined the blues from up the road. If it was never announced that he was sticking around in the first place, then I don’t think many would have been massively bothered about the move, and I expect he would still have got a good reception from the fans upon returning. Now however, I don’t think the fans will be so accepting of him back at the Ricoh.
Am I upset that he left? A little.
Do I blame him for leaving? No, at the end of the day he took the opportunity of joining a club with better prospects than Coventry, and he will be earning more money in the process.
Am I upset the way that he left? Most definitely. A poor showing from the player going back on his word.
Will I boo him when he returns? No, I see no point.
19 Jun 2011
8 Jun 2011
Club V Country
Club vs country. It's an age old debate. One that has been around for many a year. International fixtures, particularly friendlies, are often seen as an interruption that is far from needed in a club managers season. With so much at stake in domestic football in modern times, you can understand why so many managers are so cautious as to their players participating in international fixtures. If you was Sir Alex, would you want your star striker risked for an England friendly against some European minnows when you have an important Champions League game coming up? Needless to say, I think it should be up to the player in question to decide whether they want to play for their country or not, not the manager of the club he plays for. Pulling on the national shirt, for whichever country you represent, should be the greatest honour in football.
I remember a few years back, defender Sol Campbell would always be unfit or injured when it came to an international friendly, but surprisingly ever present when it came to competitive qualifiers or tournaments. And it's becoming a common occurrence, with players such as Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney pulling out of England friendlies, only to turn out for their club three days later. It's like turning up on a Sunday morning to play for your local side when you haven't been to the midweek training sessions, you wouldn't expect to be in the team. In my opinion it should be the same, don't turn up for friendlies (without legitimate reasons) and you don't get picked for the important games. A little harsh? Maybe, but I don't see why the regulars should be squeezed out by the players who only turn up for the games they want to play in. Yes, the majority of the time it's the club managers that make the decision for the players, but if this was to happen then it would put more pressure on them to release their players.
I am, of course, leading toward the current debate of the England U21 squad that are heading to Denmark for the U21 European Championships, and in particular Jack Wilshere. The question as to who’s decision it was to exclude the 19 year old from Stuart Pearce’s summer plans remains unanswered. Well, officially at least. Here are a few quotes [in order] decide for yourself:
Wilshere: “It is international football and I want to play in any international football.”
Wenger: “We have to sit down at the end of the season and see how many games Wilshere has played, before considering that he plays in the under-21′s. That the boy wants to play, I find that positive. But that he is now playing with the first-team until June and then playing in the under-21s, that will not work.”
Pearce: “I have a feeling we [Pearce and Wenger] are going to have different viewpoints but the most important thing is the lad himself wanting to play in the under-21 tournament and I have had that conversation with [Wilshere]. Two years ago I had the same conversation with [Wenger] about Theo Walcott.”
After his exclusion:
Wilshere: “It is about me looking after myself. Over the last few weeks, I have been feeling tired and my GPS (Global Positioning System) results have shown that.”
In comparison, here is a quote from World Cup winning midfielder Sergio Busquets, who was told some time ago he can feature in the tournament if he so wishes by his club Barcelona: "If you can't do it when you're 22 and in good physical shape, you will never be able to do it"
There's no doubting that the Arsenal midfielder is the brightest talent this country has to offer, and has seen in some time. Comfortable on the ball and with the vision to find the tiniest of gaps to thread a through ball, nothing seems to faze him. But he is not, by a long shot, a finished article. His game lacks discipline, too often diving into needless tackles and losing his temper. A young Paul Scholes some might say. And that is why he really needed to go to this tournament and participate in a competition where two yellow cards see’s you miss the next game through suspension. When will his first tournament experience come? Poland and Ukraine next year at Euro 2012, a poor decision if you ask me. A youngster like Wilshere needs to get the feeling of what a tournament is like, everything from the get together to the structure, and even what it feels like to take part in a penalty shootout. Experience is key. Besides, that’s even assuming we make it to the Euro’s next year. I seem to remember back in 2007 David Bentley pulled out of the U21 squad for the European Championship so he wouldn’t suffer from burnout, thus improving his chances of making it to Euro 2008, a tournament in which England eventually failed to qualify. You can count on one hand the amount of times Bentley has turned out for England since. I’m not for one minute implying the same will happen with Wilshere, he will be a star player for years to come, but I’m just giving an example on how planning for the uncertain future can backfire. I say live for the present, let the future take care of itself.
Two years after that Euro U21 Championship in 2007, the 2009 tournament took place in Sweden, with Pearce and Wenger having the aforementioned similar argument over Theo Walcott. This time, the flying winger was included, with the French manager far from happy. England made it to the Final in that tournament, suffering a crushing 4-0 defeat at the hands of the Germans. 12 months later, England and Germany met at the senior World Cup, with the Germans again coming out on top, this time 4-2. Four Germany players took part in both of those games, with just the one from England.
There’s a reason why FIFA and UEFA run these youth tournaments. It’s not just to give the players games, it’s to help them develop, to get the feeling of what participating in a competitive international tournament is like. Just look at the under 20 World Cup, a competition that has seen the rise of stars such as Lionel Messi, Juan Roman Riquelme, Ronaldinho, Thierry Henry, Sergio Aguero and Diego Maradona. The reason why the U20 World Cup and the Euro U21 Championships are played in the same year, at the same time is a debate for another day, but the bottom line here is that these tournaments are essential for the young stars of today, if they are to become the senior stars of tomorrow.
I remember a few years back, defender Sol Campbell would always be unfit or injured when it came to an international friendly, but surprisingly ever present when it came to competitive qualifiers or tournaments. And it's becoming a common occurrence, with players such as Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney pulling out of England friendlies, only to turn out for their club three days later. It's like turning up on a Sunday morning to play for your local side when you haven't been to the midweek training sessions, you wouldn't expect to be in the team. In my opinion it should be the same, don't turn up for friendlies (without legitimate reasons) and you don't get picked for the important games. A little harsh? Maybe, but I don't see why the regulars should be squeezed out by the players who only turn up for the games they want to play in. Yes, the majority of the time it's the club managers that make the decision for the players, but if this was to happen then it would put more pressure on them to release their players.
I am, of course, leading toward the current debate of the England U21 squad that are heading to Denmark for the U21 European Championships, and in particular Jack Wilshere. The question as to who’s decision it was to exclude the 19 year old from Stuart Pearce’s summer plans remains unanswered. Well, officially at least. Here are a few quotes [in order] decide for yourself:
Wilshere: “It is international football and I want to play in any international football.”
Wenger: “We have to sit down at the end of the season and see how many games Wilshere has played, before considering that he plays in the under-21′s. That the boy wants to play, I find that positive. But that he is now playing with the first-team until June and then playing in the under-21s, that will not work.”
Pearce: “I have a feeling we [Pearce and Wenger] are going to have different viewpoints but the most important thing is the lad himself wanting to play in the under-21 tournament and I have had that conversation with [Wilshere]. Two years ago I had the same conversation with [Wenger] about Theo Walcott.”
After his exclusion:
Wilshere: “It is about me looking after myself. Over the last few weeks, I have been feeling tired and my GPS (Global Positioning System) results have shown that.”
In comparison, here is a quote from World Cup winning midfielder Sergio Busquets, who was told some time ago he can feature in the tournament if he so wishes by his club Barcelona: "If you can't do it when you're 22 and in good physical shape, you will never be able to do it"
There's no doubting that the Arsenal midfielder is the brightest talent this country has to offer, and has seen in some time. Comfortable on the ball and with the vision to find the tiniest of gaps to thread a through ball, nothing seems to faze him. But he is not, by a long shot, a finished article. His game lacks discipline, too often diving into needless tackles and losing his temper. A young Paul Scholes some might say. And that is why he really needed to go to this tournament and participate in a competition where two yellow cards see’s you miss the next game through suspension. When will his first tournament experience come? Poland and Ukraine next year at Euro 2012, a poor decision if you ask me. A youngster like Wilshere needs to get the feeling of what a tournament is like, everything from the get together to the structure, and even what it feels like to take part in a penalty shootout. Experience is key. Besides, that’s even assuming we make it to the Euro’s next year. I seem to remember back in 2007 David Bentley pulled out of the U21 squad for the European Championship so he wouldn’t suffer from burnout, thus improving his chances of making it to Euro 2008, a tournament in which England eventually failed to qualify. You can count on one hand the amount of times Bentley has turned out for England since. I’m not for one minute implying the same will happen with Wilshere, he will be a star player for years to come, but I’m just giving an example on how planning for the uncertain future can backfire. I say live for the present, let the future take care of itself.
Two years after that Euro U21 Championship in 2007, the 2009 tournament took place in Sweden, with Pearce and Wenger having the aforementioned similar argument over Theo Walcott. This time, the flying winger was included, with the French manager far from happy. England made it to the Final in that tournament, suffering a crushing 4-0 defeat at the hands of the Germans. 12 months later, England and Germany met at the senior World Cup, with the Germans again coming out on top, this time 4-2. Four Germany players took part in both of those games, with just the one from England.
There’s a reason why FIFA and UEFA run these youth tournaments. It’s not just to give the players games, it’s to help them develop, to get the feeling of what participating in a competitive international tournament is like. Just look at the under 20 World Cup, a competition that has seen the rise of stars such as Lionel Messi, Juan Roman Riquelme, Ronaldinho, Thierry Henry, Sergio Aguero and Diego Maradona. The reason why the U20 World Cup and the Euro U21 Championships are played in the same year, at the same time is a debate for another day, but the bottom line here is that these tournaments are essential for the young stars of today, if they are to become the senior stars of tomorrow.
6 Jun 2011
The England Bug
9 March 1994, Wembley Stadium, England v Denmark. That's where it all started. Having himself been to Sweden for the European Championships in 1992, my dad took me to my first England game. Only seven years old, and the fact that it was only my second ever football game, I have to say that I wasn't entirely interested, but that interest came very quick.
Followed not so long after by friendlies against Norway and Hungary, my first big experience came at Euro 96. With tickets to every game in which England were due to play (up to and including the final) it all kicked off with Switzerland. A previous missfiring Alan Shearer opened the scoring with the game ending 1-1. This was my first experience of a true atmosphere, getting even better during the 2-0 win against Scotland and better still in the 4-1 defeat of Holland. Not knowing much at the time, this was a side that played "total football," with the likes of Dennis Bergkamp and Ronald De Boer in the side, and we smashed them 4-1. On a side note, that is possibly the greatest game I've ever seen live. Anyway, the next game was where it all started. A 0-0 draw with Spain in the Quarter Finals after 90 minutes and extra time brought about a penalty shoot out. Up stepped Stuart Pearce. Elder fans will know better than me Pearce's record from the penalty spot. Missing in the 1990 World Cup Semi Final shoot out, I almost heard the groans as he stepped up. Dad explained. Put it away he did and what a celebration! Walking out of Wembley Stadium that night is where the passion for England kicked in for me. Something I never wanted to let go, everyone was so upbeat with singing and dancing in the streets. My next Wembley experience came with the heartbreak of the Semi Final shoot out loss to Germany. Walking away feeling upset and drained, supporting England and going to the games was something I couldn't get enough of.
31 March 2004, Ullevi Stadium Gothenburg, Sweden v England. The first away game that I went to, again courtesy of my dad. It was like nothing I'd seen before. We got off the coach in the centre of Gothenburg and all you could see was England fans, everywhere. In the town centre, in the pubs, just england shirts everywhere, worn by fans who would greet you even though you had never met before. A disappointing 1-1 draw was just the start of a long and seemingly endless run of unimpressive displays that I witnessed away from home. Nevertheless, I became addicted, I caught the England bug.
"it's quite worrying really when you book the trip then worry about the price afterwards." A quote from my dad that summed it all up really. We kept a close eye on the Englandfans forums, looking for any rumours of which far flung country we were playing in next, ready to search online for the best deal on flights to said country. Poland, Denmark, Spain, France, Switzerland (England 3-2 Argentina, with 2 last minute goals by a one Michael Owen) and two ridiculously long, but life experiencing, trips to Qatar (v Brazil) and USA ( v USA and Columbia) are just some of the places I've been to watch the English national side play. Along with those, I've also been to Euro 2004, Germany 06 and South Africa in 2010, experiencing atmospheres that you wouldn't believe. It's hard to explain it to someone who hasn't experienced the feeling themselves. It's just something about an away game atmosphere, before and during the game. With the glaring sunshine, Rossio Square in Lisbon and the fan fests in Germany - during Euro 04 and the World Cup in 06 respectively - are particular personal highlights.
26 March 2011, Millenium Stadium Cardiff, Wales v England. Where it all ended. After travelling all the way to South Africa the previous year for the World Cup game against USA, only to watch another lacklustre performance from a team of "superstars," I decided enough was enough. I watched the game against Algeria back home on the box, and to see Wayne Rooney at the end of the game criticising the travelling England fans was nothing short of a disappointment in my eyes. These fans had travelled half way round the world to offer support to the team and spent a great deal of money - the trip for the USA game cost me more than I earn in a month for that one game alone - and here was one of the so called superstars complaining that he was being booed off the pitch. Anyway, I've been there and wrote that post already, what really finished it off for me is the whole setup. From FIFA and their corruption to the FA, the manager and the lack of passion shown by the players. More worried about what's going on at club level, I have to ask myself just how many players really see it as an honour to pull on the national shirt, which will bring me on to my next post.
We decided to go to the Wales game because it was just down the road, but for me, the time when I used to spend good money to travel the world with the national side has passed.
Followed not so long after by friendlies against Norway and Hungary, my first big experience came at Euro 96. With tickets to every game in which England were due to play (up to and including the final) it all kicked off with Switzerland. A previous missfiring Alan Shearer opened the scoring with the game ending 1-1. This was my first experience of a true atmosphere, getting even better during the 2-0 win against Scotland and better still in the 4-1 defeat of Holland. Not knowing much at the time, this was a side that played "total football," with the likes of Dennis Bergkamp and Ronald De Boer in the side, and we smashed them 4-1. On a side note, that is possibly the greatest game I've ever seen live. Anyway, the next game was where it all started. A 0-0 draw with Spain in the Quarter Finals after 90 minutes and extra time brought about a penalty shoot out. Up stepped Stuart Pearce. Elder fans will know better than me Pearce's record from the penalty spot. Missing in the 1990 World Cup Semi Final shoot out, I almost heard the groans as he stepped up. Dad explained. Put it away he did and what a celebration! Walking out of Wembley Stadium that night is where the passion for England kicked in for me. Something I never wanted to let go, everyone was so upbeat with singing and dancing in the streets. My next Wembley experience came with the heartbreak of the Semi Final shoot out loss to Germany. Walking away feeling upset and drained, supporting England and going to the games was something I couldn't get enough of.
31 March 2004, Ullevi Stadium Gothenburg, Sweden v England. The first away game that I went to, again courtesy of my dad. It was like nothing I'd seen before. We got off the coach in the centre of Gothenburg and all you could see was England fans, everywhere. In the town centre, in the pubs, just england shirts everywhere, worn by fans who would greet you even though you had never met before. A disappointing 1-1 draw was just the start of a long and seemingly endless run of unimpressive displays that I witnessed away from home. Nevertheless, I became addicted, I caught the England bug.
"it's quite worrying really when you book the trip then worry about the price afterwards." A quote from my dad that summed it all up really. We kept a close eye on the Englandfans forums, looking for any rumours of which far flung country we were playing in next, ready to search online for the best deal on flights to said country. Poland, Denmark, Spain, France, Switzerland (England 3-2 Argentina, with 2 last minute goals by a one Michael Owen) and two ridiculously long, but life experiencing, trips to Qatar (v Brazil) and USA ( v USA and Columbia) are just some of the places I've been to watch the English national side play. Along with those, I've also been to Euro 2004, Germany 06 and South Africa in 2010, experiencing atmospheres that you wouldn't believe. It's hard to explain it to someone who hasn't experienced the feeling themselves. It's just something about an away game atmosphere, before and during the game. With the glaring sunshine, Rossio Square in Lisbon and the fan fests in Germany - during Euro 04 and the World Cup in 06 respectively - are particular personal highlights.
26 March 2011, Millenium Stadium Cardiff, Wales v England. Where it all ended. After travelling all the way to South Africa the previous year for the World Cup game against USA, only to watch another lacklustre performance from a team of "superstars," I decided enough was enough. I watched the game against Algeria back home on the box, and to see Wayne Rooney at the end of the game criticising the travelling England fans was nothing short of a disappointment in my eyes. These fans had travelled half way round the world to offer support to the team and spent a great deal of money - the trip for the USA game cost me more than I earn in a month for that one game alone - and here was one of the so called superstars complaining that he was being booed off the pitch. Anyway, I've been there and wrote that post already, what really finished it off for me is the whole setup. From FIFA and their corruption to the FA, the manager and the lack of passion shown by the players. More worried about what's going on at club level, I have to ask myself just how many players really see it as an honour to pull on the national shirt, which will bring me on to my next post.
We decided to go to the Wales game because it was just down the road, but for me, the time when I used to spend good money to travel the world with the national side has passed.
5 Jun 2011
Premiership Team of the Season
So then, after a large number of page views on my idea for a bloggers team of the year, I was absolutely inundated with one reply. OK, so maybe it won’t happen this year then, but nonetheless here is my personal Premiership team of the season:
GK - Joe Hart
It’s no easy feat to get yourself ahead in the pecking order when your positional rival is a one Shay Given, but that is what Joe Hart has done this season, proving himself as club and international number one. A tall, commanding figure, Hart is an excellent shot stopper with superb reflexes and knows how to spread his 6’ 3” frame in one on one situations. A key figure in Man City’s qualification for Champions League football next season.
DR - Rafael
Gaining more first team action than his twin brother, Rafael has excelled at right back this season. Not quite Sir Alex’s first choice yet, but you can largely put that down to injury, it really won’t be long before Rafael is one of the best full backs in England.
DC - Robert Huth
At 6’ 3” and nearly 14st, Robert Huth is not the most agile of defenders, but a commanding presence at the back he is. Known as “the Berlin brick wall” in his native Germany, the former Chelsea man has been a rock at the back for Stoke and an instrumental figure in the clubs success at establishing themselves as a Premiership side. A total of nine goals this season prove his aerial prowess and just how dangerous he can be from set pieces.
DC - Vincent Kompany
When a footballer who plays in the same position as you joins the club, you always fear for your starting line up spot. Kompany need not have worried. Mainly playing as a holding midfielder since his move from Hamburg, this season he has been moved to his more preferred position of centre back, following the arrival of a number of new midfielders to Eastlands. This has allowed him to finally show the Premiership what he is really about, a powerful centre back that deserves this position in my side.
DL - Leighton Baines
Another attacking full back that has really come into his own over the past few seasons, Baines has not only established himself as Everton’s number one left back but he’s also forced himself into Fabio Capello’s England plans. An impressive season saw him named Everton’s players player of the year.
MR - Nani
Pace, trickery, an eye for goal. Remind you of anyone? With each passing season Nani is showing the Man Utd faithful that he is a worthy replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. OK, he will never score the same amount of goals that his fellow countryman did, but as a menace and a creator, he is everything that Ronaldo once was in a red shirt. Another great season sees Nani take up the right sided role in my team of the season.
MC - Scott Parker
The leading light in an otherwise faltering side. Captain fantastic is sure to be leaving in the summer, with a whole host of Premiership clubs likely to be queuing for his signature. Always an admirer of Parker, I’ve never understood why he hasn’t earned more England caps, particularly recently with Capello’s insistence on using the “pretend” holding midfielder Gareth Barry.
MC - Rafael Van Der Vaart
Anyone who knows football will have known what Van Der Vaart could do before his switch to White Hart Lane. Never a managers favourite in Madrid, the Dutchman has almost been a revelation since his move, forming an excellent working relationship with striker Peter Crouch. Playing in the hole, he has brought the creative spark that Tottenham oh so needed, chipping in with his fair share of goals along the way.
ML - David Silva
It’s questionable as to whether Silva is actually a left midfielder, with Mancini this season using him much further up the pitch as a more AML with inside forward duties. Nevertheless, he has been playing on the left flank so that’s where he features here for me. As with Van Der Vaart, he has been the creative spark that Man City needed, cutting in from the wing with his quick feet and the vision and ability to pick out the right pass at the right time, often playing creator to Tevez and Dzeko.
S - Carlos Tevez
It really doesn’t take a genius to figure out why Tevez is in this side. One of the best strikers in the world, the Argentinean just seems to go from strength to strength. His work rate is admirable, but his quality whilst on the ball is nothing short of fantastic. Joint top goal scorer with Dimitar Berbatov, he is the only Man City player to reach double figures. Without him, it’s hard to see how Man City could still have qualified for the Champions League.
S - Javier Hernandez
A superb first season in English football for Chicharito. Signing from Guadalajara for a mere £6m - bargain of the season? - the Mexican has scored 20 goals, with 13 coming in the Premiership. He is quick, seemingly comfortable with both feet, and for a little man is surprisingly good in the air. A typical poacher, Hernandez’s value has shot up after his extraordinary season.
GK - Joe Hart
It’s no easy feat to get yourself ahead in the pecking order when your positional rival is a one Shay Given, but that is what Joe Hart has done this season, proving himself as club and international number one. A tall, commanding figure, Hart is an excellent shot stopper with superb reflexes and knows how to spread his 6’ 3” frame in one on one situations. A key figure in Man City’s qualification for Champions League football next season.
DR - Rafael
Gaining more first team action than his twin brother, Rafael has excelled at right back this season. Not quite Sir Alex’s first choice yet, but you can largely put that down to injury, it really won’t be long before Rafael is one of the best full backs in England.
DC - Robert Huth
At 6’ 3” and nearly 14st, Robert Huth is not the most agile of defenders, but a commanding presence at the back he is. Known as “the Berlin brick wall” in his native Germany, the former Chelsea man has been a rock at the back for Stoke and an instrumental figure in the clubs success at establishing themselves as a Premiership side. A total of nine goals this season prove his aerial prowess and just how dangerous he can be from set pieces.
DC - Vincent Kompany
When a footballer who plays in the same position as you joins the club, you always fear for your starting line up spot. Kompany need not have worried. Mainly playing as a holding midfielder since his move from Hamburg, this season he has been moved to his more preferred position of centre back, following the arrival of a number of new midfielders to Eastlands. This has allowed him to finally show the Premiership what he is really about, a powerful centre back that deserves this position in my side.
DL - Leighton Baines
Another attacking full back that has really come into his own over the past few seasons, Baines has not only established himself as Everton’s number one left back but he’s also forced himself into Fabio Capello’s England plans. An impressive season saw him named Everton’s players player of the year.
MR - Nani
Pace, trickery, an eye for goal. Remind you of anyone? With each passing season Nani is showing the Man Utd faithful that he is a worthy replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. OK, he will never score the same amount of goals that his fellow countryman did, but as a menace and a creator, he is everything that Ronaldo once was in a red shirt. Another great season sees Nani take up the right sided role in my team of the season.
MC - Scott Parker
The leading light in an otherwise faltering side. Captain fantastic is sure to be leaving in the summer, with a whole host of Premiership clubs likely to be queuing for his signature. Always an admirer of Parker, I’ve never understood why he hasn’t earned more England caps, particularly recently with Capello’s insistence on using the “pretend” holding midfielder Gareth Barry.
MC - Rafael Van Der Vaart
Anyone who knows football will have known what Van Der Vaart could do before his switch to White Hart Lane. Never a managers favourite in Madrid, the Dutchman has almost been a revelation since his move, forming an excellent working relationship with striker Peter Crouch. Playing in the hole, he has brought the creative spark that Tottenham oh so needed, chipping in with his fair share of goals along the way.
ML - David Silva
It’s questionable as to whether Silva is actually a left midfielder, with Mancini this season using him much further up the pitch as a more AML with inside forward duties. Nevertheless, he has been playing on the left flank so that’s where he features here for me. As with Van Der Vaart, he has been the creative spark that Man City needed, cutting in from the wing with his quick feet and the vision and ability to pick out the right pass at the right time, often playing creator to Tevez and Dzeko.
S - Carlos Tevez
It really doesn’t take a genius to figure out why Tevez is in this side. One of the best strikers in the world, the Argentinean just seems to go from strength to strength. His work rate is admirable, but his quality whilst on the ball is nothing short of fantastic. Joint top goal scorer with Dimitar Berbatov, he is the only Man City player to reach double figures. Without him, it’s hard to see how Man City could still have qualified for the Champions League.
S - Javier Hernandez
A superb first season in English football for Chicharito. Signing from Guadalajara for a mere £6m - bargain of the season? - the Mexican has scored 20 goals, with 13 coming in the Premiership. He is quick, seemingly comfortable with both feet, and for a little man is surprisingly good in the air. A typical poacher, Hernandez’s value has shot up after his extraordinary season.
1 Jun 2011
Tell Us Something We Don't Know
Wow! It has recently emerged that there may be an element of bribery and corruption among the Executive Committee (ExCo) members of the world governing body for football, FIFA. Surely not, these people run world football, surely they can’t be dealing with backhanders and black mailing whispers?
Tell us something we don’t know.
Truth is, FIFA has been this way since 1974, when Englishman Sir Stanley Rous was ousted as FIFA President by the younger, more driven Brazilian Joao Havelange. In FIFA’s first ever presidential election, it was alleged that Havelange threw money at the African nations to gain their vote. Closer to the truth, Rous had already lost Africa by this point due to his pro-European attitude to the World Cup. Havelange, during his long election campaign, had promised an extra eight spaces would be available for forthcoming World Cups, with strong hints that the extra spaces would go to “members of the developing world.” In contrast, Rous’ World Cup only had 16 teams, with nine of those coming from the continent of Europe and a further four coming from South America. With the prospect of a better chance of qualifying for a World Cup, the majority of Africa was already on Havelange’s side.
Enter Horst Dassler, son of the founder of sports brand Adidas. The German business man kept his cards close to his chest, sensing a lot of money to be made through marketing and sponsorship. He wanted FIFA to endorse his product, to get members of their association to wear the famous three stripes. Already a wealthy man, Dassler was not particularly interested in the extra money, rather the power that he would gain from having the President of FIFA indebted to him. Many knew just how influential Dassler could be, not least the two candidates, who both - not knowingly to each other - asked for his help. With a foot in both circles, he got wind that Havelange was making up ground on Rous, and so turned his attention to ensuring a win for the 59 year old Brazilian. It was he who allegedly “bought” the Presidents role, offering Adidas’ money in return for votes in favour of Rous’ challenger. Sure enough, Havelange won the election.
To be continued…
Tell us something we don’t know.
Truth is, FIFA has been this way since 1974, when Englishman Sir Stanley Rous was ousted as FIFA President by the younger, more driven Brazilian Joao Havelange. In FIFA’s first ever presidential election, it was alleged that Havelange threw money at the African nations to gain their vote. Closer to the truth, Rous had already lost Africa by this point due to his pro-European attitude to the World Cup. Havelange, during his long election campaign, had promised an extra eight spaces would be available for forthcoming World Cups, with strong hints that the extra spaces would go to “members of the developing world.” In contrast, Rous’ World Cup only had 16 teams, with nine of those coming from the continent of Europe and a further four coming from South America. With the prospect of a better chance of qualifying for a World Cup, the majority of Africa was already on Havelange’s side.
Enter Horst Dassler, son of the founder of sports brand Adidas. The German business man kept his cards close to his chest, sensing a lot of money to be made through marketing and sponsorship. He wanted FIFA to endorse his product, to get members of their association to wear the famous three stripes. Already a wealthy man, Dassler was not particularly interested in the extra money, rather the power that he would gain from having the President of FIFA indebted to him. Many knew just how influential Dassler could be, not least the two candidates, who both - not knowingly to each other - asked for his help. With a foot in both circles, he got wind that Havelange was making up ground on Rous, and so turned his attention to ensuring a win for the 59 year old Brazilian. It was he who allegedly “bought” the Presidents role, offering Adidas’ money in return for votes in favour of Rous’ challenger. Sure enough, Havelange won the election.
To be continued…
27 May 2011
Decision Time For Coventry Trio
There’s a fair bit to catch up on with my beloved Coventry City since my last post. From financial troubles to transfer embargoes to yet another managerial change. For now though, let’s take a look at our three best players, all of which are out of contract in June. Caretaker manager Andy Thorn was recently given the job full time and made it his first job to personally offer all three players new contracts.
Kieren Westwood
Goalkeeper. A lot of pundits are in agreeance that our number 1 is the best goalkeeper outside the Premiership (in English football of course). At one point this season, we were sitting 7 points above the relegation zone, 7 points that Westwood had undoubtedly saved the side with his performances between the posts. An excellent shot stopper, with superb reflexes have recently caught the eye of Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trampattoni, making him national number two behind Shay Given. In recent seasons his kicking has been a little suspect, often going wayward or straight to the opposing forwards, but he seems to have worked on it well and has improved greatly this season.
A lot has been reported over the contract offer. I have to ask though, why leave it until the very last minute to tie down one of the best goalkeepers in the league? Well, if you believe the club, they never did. They told us a while back that they offered Westwood a new deal before a ball was kicked this season, with the player telling the club he would not be signing. Although the goalkeepers side tells a different story. Westwood insists that there was no offer on the table, despite asking the club for an extension to his current deal. So who to believe then?
One thing is certain in my mind, Kieren Westwood will not be a Coventry City player next season. At the end of the last home game of the season against Reading, the players did their annual routine of completing a “lap of appreciation.” Once that had finished, Westwood went round again, this time on his own, waving to the fans. In my eyes, that was his final goodbye. I say good luck to him though, not once has his commitment to the club dropped in this final season, and if it means improving the standard of football he will be playing and at a higher level, I wish him the best of luck.
Teams said to be interested - Leicester, Ipswich, Norwich, Sunderland, Celtic, Everton
Aron Gunnarsson
Midfield general. Signed from AZ Alkmaar in 2008, the [now] Icelandic international is a real fans favourite at the Ricoh Arena. A stunning first season in English football saw Premiership sides such as Blackburn sniffing around, with reports of a £3m bid having been rejected. In that first season, he won the club’s Player of the Season award. His second season wasn’t so good, rarely finding the form that impressed the Championship the previous year. However, glimpses of a return to that form this season has seen Andy Thorn’s intention to keep him. Never prolific, he has only scored 7 goals in his 3 years as a Coventry City player, but it’s his determination and tireless work rate that has seen him win over the fans and coaching staff alike. A dog in midfield, he also has the ability to turn creator, taking up the position of the point in Thorn’s recent midfield diamond. A perfect box-to-box midfielder that the club needs to keep if we are to move forward.
Nothing has been made of any contract offers throughout the season, at least publicly. The first the fans have known anything about the situation was recently, when Thorn announced that he had offered the 22 year old a new deal. Listening to a recent interview, he comes across as if his time at Coventry has come to an end: “I have obviously enjoyed my time here. It has been three years and I am used to it and if we don’t get anything sorted then I will have to take it as a learning experience.” But then in another sentence, he hints at his desire to stay: “I am still young with a long time to go in my career so I don’t see any harm in staying here because I am still learning and I feel I can learn a lot of things under Andy Thorn.” Make your own mind up there.
Out of the three, I would say that Gunnarsson is the one we have the biggest chance of keeping, although I’m still not sure he will agree to the new deal. As with Westwood, I would wish him the best of luck should he decide to move on, however I believe it would be more to do with the money if he did.
Teams said to be interested - none as yet
Marlon King
Everyone knows who Marlon King is. The Joey Barton of the Championship, everybody hates him aside from the fans of the club he plays for. All season he has been getting stick from opposing fans, and I have to admit that if I was on the other side I would be doing the same. Should a player who has been to jail get another chance at playing football? That’s a debate for another day, the fact being that then manager Aidy Boothroyd gave him his chance with a one season contract shortly after the August kick off.
Starting off slowly, King finally started to show what he could do in the second half of the season, finishing the campaign top goal scorer with 13 in all competitions. Such a good player, you could tell he was a class above everyone else in a City shirt this term. His control of the ball is instant, and his finishing ability is there for everyone to see, it doesn’t take long to find out why Wigan paid £5m for his services not that many years ago. The one aspect of his game that has really impressed me this season though, is his determination to never give up. Chasing the ball across the opposing back four, putting them under pressure and often drawing mistakes from the inexperienced or tired legs. King has undoubtedly given nothing less than 100% for the club and it will be a sad day should he decide to move on.
Out of the three, King is the one that I would most like to keep. A goalkeeper, a dogged midfielder, positions that you can replace, but an out and out goal scorer is hard to find, especially at Championship level. He himself has admitted that it’s a question of whether he should listen to his heart or his head, his heart wishing to stay at the Ricoh, to repay the faith we have shown in him and the open arms that the fans have welcomed him with. His head however, asks if he will get another chance at the big time, the Premiership. Now 31, his playing days are numbered, with another season at Coventry only decreasing his chances of that higher calling. I, along with Coventry fans everywhere, will be hoping he goes with his heart.
Teams said to be interested - Leicester
The deadline that Andy Thorn set the players for making a decision on their new deals was up over a week ago now, although the players officially have until their current deals run out to decide. Either way, Thorn needs to know sooner rather than later so he can plan who he needs to bring in before next season kicks off.
Kieren Westwood
Goalkeeper. A lot of pundits are in agreeance that our number 1 is the best goalkeeper outside the Premiership (in English football of course). At one point this season, we were sitting 7 points above the relegation zone, 7 points that Westwood had undoubtedly saved the side with his performances between the posts. An excellent shot stopper, with superb reflexes have recently caught the eye of Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trampattoni, making him national number two behind Shay Given. In recent seasons his kicking has been a little suspect, often going wayward or straight to the opposing forwards, but he seems to have worked on it well and has improved greatly this season.
A lot has been reported over the contract offer. I have to ask though, why leave it until the very last minute to tie down one of the best goalkeepers in the league? Well, if you believe the club, they never did. They told us a while back that they offered Westwood a new deal before a ball was kicked this season, with the player telling the club he would not be signing. Although the goalkeepers side tells a different story. Westwood insists that there was no offer on the table, despite asking the club for an extension to his current deal. So who to believe then?
One thing is certain in my mind, Kieren Westwood will not be a Coventry City player next season. At the end of the last home game of the season against Reading, the players did their annual routine of completing a “lap of appreciation.” Once that had finished, Westwood went round again, this time on his own, waving to the fans. In my eyes, that was his final goodbye. I say good luck to him though, not once has his commitment to the club dropped in this final season, and if it means improving the standard of football he will be playing and at a higher level, I wish him the best of luck.
Teams said to be interested - Leicester, Ipswich, Norwich, Sunderland, Celtic, Everton
Aron Gunnarsson
Midfield general. Signed from AZ Alkmaar in 2008, the [now] Icelandic international is a real fans favourite at the Ricoh Arena. A stunning first season in English football saw Premiership sides such as Blackburn sniffing around, with reports of a £3m bid having been rejected. In that first season, he won the club’s Player of the Season award. His second season wasn’t so good, rarely finding the form that impressed the Championship the previous year. However, glimpses of a return to that form this season has seen Andy Thorn’s intention to keep him. Never prolific, he has only scored 7 goals in his 3 years as a Coventry City player, but it’s his determination and tireless work rate that has seen him win over the fans and coaching staff alike. A dog in midfield, he also has the ability to turn creator, taking up the position of the point in Thorn’s recent midfield diamond. A perfect box-to-box midfielder that the club needs to keep if we are to move forward.
Nothing has been made of any contract offers throughout the season, at least publicly. The first the fans have known anything about the situation was recently, when Thorn announced that he had offered the 22 year old a new deal. Listening to a recent interview, he comes across as if his time at Coventry has come to an end: “I have obviously enjoyed my time here. It has been three years and I am used to it and if we don’t get anything sorted then I will have to take it as a learning experience.” But then in another sentence, he hints at his desire to stay: “I am still young with a long time to go in my career so I don’t see any harm in staying here because I am still learning and I feel I can learn a lot of things under Andy Thorn.” Make your own mind up there.
Out of the three, I would say that Gunnarsson is the one we have the biggest chance of keeping, although I’m still not sure he will agree to the new deal. As with Westwood, I would wish him the best of luck should he decide to move on, however I believe it would be more to do with the money if he did.
Teams said to be interested - none as yet
Marlon King
Everyone knows who Marlon King is. The Joey Barton of the Championship, everybody hates him aside from the fans of the club he plays for. All season he has been getting stick from opposing fans, and I have to admit that if I was on the other side I would be doing the same. Should a player who has been to jail get another chance at playing football? That’s a debate for another day, the fact being that then manager Aidy Boothroyd gave him his chance with a one season contract shortly after the August kick off.
Starting off slowly, King finally started to show what he could do in the second half of the season, finishing the campaign top goal scorer with 13 in all competitions. Such a good player, you could tell he was a class above everyone else in a City shirt this term. His control of the ball is instant, and his finishing ability is there for everyone to see, it doesn’t take long to find out why Wigan paid £5m for his services not that many years ago. The one aspect of his game that has really impressed me this season though, is his determination to never give up. Chasing the ball across the opposing back four, putting them under pressure and often drawing mistakes from the inexperienced or tired legs. King has undoubtedly given nothing less than 100% for the club and it will be a sad day should he decide to move on.
Out of the three, King is the one that I would most like to keep. A goalkeeper, a dogged midfielder, positions that you can replace, but an out and out goal scorer is hard to find, especially at Championship level. He himself has admitted that it’s a question of whether he should listen to his heart or his head, his heart wishing to stay at the Ricoh, to repay the faith we have shown in him and the open arms that the fans have welcomed him with. His head however, asks if he will get another chance at the big time, the Premiership. Now 31, his playing days are numbered, with another season at Coventry only decreasing his chances of that higher calling. I, along with Coventry fans everywhere, will be hoping he goes with his heart.
Teams said to be interested - Leicester
The deadline that Andy Thorn set the players for making a decision on their new deals was up over a week ago now, although the players officially have until their current deals run out to decide. Either way, Thorn needs to know sooner rather than later so he can plan who he needs to bring in before next season kicks off.
21 May 2011
Survival Sunday
So, first of all we had Super Sunday, then it was Grand Slam Sunday, followed by Helicopter Sunday and now Survival Sunday. With just one point separating 15th from 19th, it’s going to be a tense afternoon for five teams and their fans. Sky couldn’t have wished for a better day. With the top of the table all but sorted, they needed something on the final day to rake in the viewers. With nothing to play for anywhere, where would the interest come from? As it is, they are screening no fewer than three games, all featuring those teams in trouble at the bottom. Not only will they attract viewings from the fans of six teams, but also millions of neutrals up and down the country, waiting with baited breath to see which two teams will join West Ham United in relegation to the Football League Championship. But it’s not just clubs that are looking to survive, there’s also a number of managers who will kick off their games tomorrow not knowing if they will still be in charge of the same squad come the start of next season. All is previewed (with opinions and predictions of course) below.
15th - Blackburn Rovers
Barring a strange sequence of events, Blackburn Rovers should still be a Premiership club come the end of play tomorrow. Just one point above the teams in the relegation zone, they also have the best goal difference (-14) out of the five teams in trouble. Their opponents will be fellow survival hopers Wolves in what is likely to be a very tight game with neither side wanting to give anything away. I’d like to say it’s going to be open, with both sides looking to win, but for these two it’s more about not losing than actually winning. Having won only one in their last thirteen though, it could be a nervy day for all involved with the club.
Permutations:
Win - survival guaranteed
Draw - Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan would all need to win to send them down
Lose - two out of Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan would need to win to relegate them
Odds to be relegated - 12/1 (Paddy Power)
16th - Wolverhampton Wanderers
With six goals in his last nine games, it is Steven Fletcher that Wolves have to thank for taking such a promising position going into the final day. An equaliser in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Tottenham and two goals in a 3-1 win against West Brom have been hugely important in his sides bid for survival. Before the two recent 3-1 wins (the second being against Sunderland) Wolves were sitting second from bottom, one point from safety and with the worst goal difference in the whole league. Now, they have their fate in their own hands as they host Blackburn tomorrow.
Permutations:
Win - survival guaranteed
Draw - two out of Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan would need to win to see Wolves relegated
Lose - if they were to lose by three goals, it would only take draws from Birmingham and Blackpool to send them down. Otherwise two out of the three below them (Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan) would need to win.
Odds to be relegated - 8/1 (William Hill)
17th - Birmingham City
Away to Tottenham, Birmingham possibly have the hardest game out of the five as Spurs still need to cement 5th place and with it, Europa League football. To do that, they need a win. Early on it appears that they will be without star performer Rafael Van Der Vaart, but they still have plenty to worry Birmingham with and have the ability to seriously dent their survival hopes. After two difficult away games at Chelsea and Liverpool - losing 3-1 and 5-0 respectively - Birmingham had three winnable games to guarantee safety before this weekend. A 1-1 draw with Wolves was followed by two defeats against Newcastle and Fulham, taking them from 14th and five points clear of relegation before the Chelsea game, to their current position of 17th, level on points with Blackpool. Even a victory in tomorrow‘s game at White Hart Lane may not be enough, although it’s unlikely that Blackpool will beat Man Utd by two more goals than what Birmingham beat Tottenham by, and even less likely is Wigan to win by three more goals.
Permutations:
Win - as good as safe, providing Blackpool don’t win by two more goals or Wigan by three more goals than what Birmingham win by
Draw - a win from either Blackpool or Wigan would see them relegated, providing Wolves don’t lose to Blackburn by two goals, in which case Birmingham would be safe
Lose - a draw or a win from either Blackpool or Wigan would again see them relegated, although even if they both lose Birmingham could still go down if Tottenham produce a hammering
Odds to be relegated - 7/10 (bwin)
18th - Blackpool
Strange game this one, away at Old Trafford. Man Utd are already crowned as champions, and so have nothing to play for. What’s more, just 6 days after the tie, Man Utd have a little game against Barcelona in the Champions League Final which they have to prepare for. Despite Sir Alex Ferguson stating that Darren Fletcher, Paul Scholes, Anderson, Dimitar Berbatov, Patrice Evra and Edwin Van Der Saar will all play in tomorrow’s game, you wouldn’t expect them all to be playing at 100%. With a place in the starting line-up against Barcelona on their minds, the last thing they will want is an injury. There will be no unnecessary stretches for the ball, no unnecessary fifty-fifty challenges, everyone will want to come out of the game unscathed. This gives Blackpool a little bit of hope, and you can bet Ian Holloway will be trying to take the game to the champions to get that all important win. As for recent results, before the epic 4-3 victory over Bolton in their last game, Blackpool hadn’t won in nine games. Stark contrast compared to the early season form that seen them take up 8th position moving into the new calendar year.
Permutations:
Win - if either of Blackburn, Wolves or Birmingham draw or lose, Blackpool would survive. Otherwise, relegation
Draw - only way they could survive is if Wigan draw or lose and Birmingham lose. Otherwise, relegation
Lose - relegation, unless Birmingham lose by two more goals than what Blackpool do
Odds to be relegated - 2/5 (Unibet)
19th - Wigan
The most difficult of all situations. They may be on the same points total as the two teams above them, but with the worse goal difference, Wigan really have the odds stacked against them tomorrow. They are however, facing a Stoke side who have nothing to play for, although Tony Pulis’ side will want to banish memories of last weekends FA Cup Final loss by finishing the season with a win. If Wigan manager Roberto Martinez needed something inspirational for his team talk, he could show them the league table as of the 9th March. After the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea, they were rock bottom, four points away from safety. Since then, their form reads W-L-D-D-W, with the latest win coming in that extraordinary game at the DW Stadium in which Charles N’Zogbia scored a last minute winner to relegate West Ham and give Wigan a fighting chance on this final day of action. Eight points from five games is an impressive total for a side at the wrong end of the table, and if they take that momentum to Stoke tomorrow, they may well get the result they need. However, even a win may not be enough, they would still need results in other games to go their way.
Permutations:
Win - would still only survive if two of Blackburn, Wolves, Birmingham and Blackpool draw or lose. Otherwise, it’s back to the Championship
Draw - would need Birmingham and Blackpool to lose to survive. Could also survive should Blackburn or Wolves lose heavily, but unlikely
Lose - relegation, unless both Blackpool and Birmingham end up on the wrong side of a big result, although again unlikely
Odds to be relegated - 4/5 (Coral)
My prediction is that Wigan and Birmingham will join West Ham in relegation to the Championship. Tottenham will be too much for Birmingham and I think that Blackpool will get a draw against United, with Stoke beating Wigan.
As mentioned at the start of this piece, there are also a number of managers looking to survive on Survival Sunday:
Carlo Ancelotti
Despite taking Man Utd to the penultimate weekend of the season before officially losing out in the title race, Ancelotti is under pressure from the Chelsea board. We all know just how ruthless owner Roman Abramovich can be, and a season without a trophy could prove fatal to the Italian manager. Winning the league and cup double last season should be enough to secure at least another year, but I think he will be relieved of his duties, with up and coming Porto manager Andre Villas-Boas installed as his replacement.
Roberto Mancini
Having an unlimited amount of funds isn’t always easy. You’re pressured into spending, into buying the best players from around the world, but getting those superstars to perform as a team isn’t always easy. With so many different nationalities comes communication problems, not to mention different cultures and interests off the pitch. Regardless of this, with great money comes great expectations, and despite delivering the FA Cup and Champions League football for the first time in City’s history, Mancini is under pressure for not delivering more. The talk of a dismissal has gone away recently, but only temporarily. Expect more talk of an exit and possible replacements right up until the billionaire owners come out and confirm his future. And don’t expect that to happen at all. Continuity is key to building a football team, a club and as with Ancelotti, I think Mancini should keep his job, and I think he will, for next season at least.
Steve Kean
Kean claims that he has met the new owners of Blackburn Rovers, and they have told him his job is safe whether he survives the drop or not. I would personally like them to come out and say that publicly before I believe it. If they do survive, the owners may then decide to start building the club and throwing money at it. If that’s the case, Kean could find himself unemployed as they look for a more experienced man at the helm to aid the construction of the club.
Ian Holloway
I think the outspoken manager is safe in his job, I can’t see the Blackpool board getting rid of him anytime soon. What he has done for them is nothing short of amazing, especially if he manages to guide them to safety. However, with everything that has happened this season, from the Charlie Adam affair to the FA charges, it really wouldn’t surprise me if he was to resign, particularly if they are relegated tomorrow.
Roberto Martinez
The Wigan manager could be in trouble should his side fail to do what is needed tomorrow, and despite turning the side around in recent games, Dave Whelan would argue as to why they were in the situation in the first place. The never say die attitude he has installed in his players is one of admiration from me, and I only hope Whelan feels the same.
So that’s my take on tomorrow’s football. Now all that’s left, is to sit back and enjoy the days action.
15th - Blackburn Rovers
Barring a strange sequence of events, Blackburn Rovers should still be a Premiership club come the end of play tomorrow. Just one point above the teams in the relegation zone, they also have the best goal difference (-14) out of the five teams in trouble. Their opponents will be fellow survival hopers Wolves in what is likely to be a very tight game with neither side wanting to give anything away. I’d like to say it’s going to be open, with both sides looking to win, but for these two it’s more about not losing than actually winning. Having won only one in their last thirteen though, it could be a nervy day for all involved with the club.
Permutations:
Win - survival guaranteed
Draw - Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan would all need to win to send them down
Lose - two out of Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan would need to win to relegate them
Odds to be relegated - 12/1 (Paddy Power)
16th - Wolverhampton Wanderers
With six goals in his last nine games, it is Steven Fletcher that Wolves have to thank for taking such a promising position going into the final day. An equaliser in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Tottenham and two goals in a 3-1 win against West Brom have been hugely important in his sides bid for survival. Before the two recent 3-1 wins (the second being against Sunderland) Wolves were sitting second from bottom, one point from safety and with the worst goal difference in the whole league. Now, they have their fate in their own hands as they host Blackburn tomorrow.
Permutations:
Win - survival guaranteed
Draw - two out of Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan would need to win to see Wolves relegated
Lose - if they were to lose by three goals, it would only take draws from Birmingham and Blackpool to send them down. Otherwise two out of the three below them (Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan) would need to win.
Odds to be relegated - 8/1 (William Hill)
17th - Birmingham City
Away to Tottenham, Birmingham possibly have the hardest game out of the five as Spurs still need to cement 5th place and with it, Europa League football. To do that, they need a win. Early on it appears that they will be without star performer Rafael Van Der Vaart, but they still have plenty to worry Birmingham with and have the ability to seriously dent their survival hopes. After two difficult away games at Chelsea and Liverpool - losing 3-1 and 5-0 respectively - Birmingham had three winnable games to guarantee safety before this weekend. A 1-1 draw with Wolves was followed by two defeats against Newcastle and Fulham, taking them from 14th and five points clear of relegation before the Chelsea game, to their current position of 17th, level on points with Blackpool. Even a victory in tomorrow‘s game at White Hart Lane may not be enough, although it’s unlikely that Blackpool will beat Man Utd by two more goals than what Birmingham beat Tottenham by, and even less likely is Wigan to win by three more goals.
Permutations:
Win - as good as safe, providing Blackpool don’t win by two more goals or Wigan by three more goals than what Birmingham win by
Draw - a win from either Blackpool or Wigan would see them relegated, providing Wolves don’t lose to Blackburn by two goals, in which case Birmingham would be safe
Lose - a draw or a win from either Blackpool or Wigan would again see them relegated, although even if they both lose Birmingham could still go down if Tottenham produce a hammering
Odds to be relegated - 7/10 (bwin)
18th - Blackpool
Strange game this one, away at Old Trafford. Man Utd are already crowned as champions, and so have nothing to play for. What’s more, just 6 days after the tie, Man Utd have a little game against Barcelona in the Champions League Final which they have to prepare for. Despite Sir Alex Ferguson stating that Darren Fletcher, Paul Scholes, Anderson, Dimitar Berbatov, Patrice Evra and Edwin Van Der Saar will all play in tomorrow’s game, you wouldn’t expect them all to be playing at 100%. With a place in the starting line-up against Barcelona on their minds, the last thing they will want is an injury. There will be no unnecessary stretches for the ball, no unnecessary fifty-fifty challenges, everyone will want to come out of the game unscathed. This gives Blackpool a little bit of hope, and you can bet Ian Holloway will be trying to take the game to the champions to get that all important win. As for recent results, before the epic 4-3 victory over Bolton in their last game, Blackpool hadn’t won in nine games. Stark contrast compared to the early season form that seen them take up 8th position moving into the new calendar year.
Permutations:
Win - if either of Blackburn, Wolves or Birmingham draw or lose, Blackpool would survive. Otherwise, relegation
Draw - only way they could survive is if Wigan draw or lose and Birmingham lose. Otherwise, relegation
Lose - relegation, unless Birmingham lose by two more goals than what Blackpool do
Odds to be relegated - 2/5 (Unibet)
19th - Wigan
The most difficult of all situations. They may be on the same points total as the two teams above them, but with the worse goal difference, Wigan really have the odds stacked against them tomorrow. They are however, facing a Stoke side who have nothing to play for, although Tony Pulis’ side will want to banish memories of last weekends FA Cup Final loss by finishing the season with a win. If Wigan manager Roberto Martinez needed something inspirational for his team talk, he could show them the league table as of the 9th March. After the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea, they were rock bottom, four points away from safety. Since then, their form reads W-L-D-D-W, with the latest win coming in that extraordinary game at the DW Stadium in which Charles N’Zogbia scored a last minute winner to relegate West Ham and give Wigan a fighting chance on this final day of action. Eight points from five games is an impressive total for a side at the wrong end of the table, and if they take that momentum to Stoke tomorrow, they may well get the result they need. However, even a win may not be enough, they would still need results in other games to go their way.
Permutations:
Win - would still only survive if two of Blackburn, Wolves, Birmingham and Blackpool draw or lose. Otherwise, it’s back to the Championship
Draw - would need Birmingham and Blackpool to lose to survive. Could also survive should Blackburn or Wolves lose heavily, but unlikely
Lose - relegation, unless both Blackpool and Birmingham end up on the wrong side of a big result, although again unlikely
Odds to be relegated - 4/5 (Coral)
My prediction is that Wigan and Birmingham will join West Ham in relegation to the Championship. Tottenham will be too much for Birmingham and I think that Blackpool will get a draw against United, with Stoke beating Wigan.
As mentioned at the start of this piece, there are also a number of managers looking to survive on Survival Sunday:
Carlo Ancelotti
Despite taking Man Utd to the penultimate weekend of the season before officially losing out in the title race, Ancelotti is under pressure from the Chelsea board. We all know just how ruthless owner Roman Abramovich can be, and a season without a trophy could prove fatal to the Italian manager. Winning the league and cup double last season should be enough to secure at least another year, but I think he will be relieved of his duties, with up and coming Porto manager Andre Villas-Boas installed as his replacement.
Roberto Mancini
Having an unlimited amount of funds isn’t always easy. You’re pressured into spending, into buying the best players from around the world, but getting those superstars to perform as a team isn’t always easy. With so many different nationalities comes communication problems, not to mention different cultures and interests off the pitch. Regardless of this, with great money comes great expectations, and despite delivering the FA Cup and Champions League football for the first time in City’s history, Mancini is under pressure for not delivering more. The talk of a dismissal has gone away recently, but only temporarily. Expect more talk of an exit and possible replacements right up until the billionaire owners come out and confirm his future. And don’t expect that to happen at all. Continuity is key to building a football team, a club and as with Ancelotti, I think Mancini should keep his job, and I think he will, for next season at least.
Steve Kean
Kean claims that he has met the new owners of Blackburn Rovers, and they have told him his job is safe whether he survives the drop or not. I would personally like them to come out and say that publicly before I believe it. If they do survive, the owners may then decide to start building the club and throwing money at it. If that’s the case, Kean could find himself unemployed as they look for a more experienced man at the helm to aid the construction of the club.
Ian Holloway
I think the outspoken manager is safe in his job, I can’t see the Blackpool board getting rid of him anytime soon. What he has done for them is nothing short of amazing, especially if he manages to guide them to safety. However, with everything that has happened this season, from the Charlie Adam affair to the FA charges, it really wouldn’t surprise me if he was to resign, particularly if they are relegated tomorrow.
Roberto Martinez
The Wigan manager could be in trouble should his side fail to do what is needed tomorrow, and despite turning the side around in recent games, Dave Whelan would argue as to why they were in the situation in the first place. The never say die attitude he has installed in his players is one of admiration from me, and I only hope Whelan feels the same.
So that’s my take on tomorrow’s football. Now all that’s left, is to sit back and enjoy the days action.
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