Footie 2009-2010 [Archive] - hailRedskins.com Fan Board

SpicyMcHaggis

07-02-2009, 12:27 PM

Well folks, today AS Roma has officially begun the new season after what was probably the most horrific month of my life as a soccer fan. Thanks to Roselal for that by the way.

Moving on, here are a few pictures of our valiant warriors as they meet in Trigoria to prepare for a new and even more depressing season.

Here we have Mirko Vucinic, who has obviously lost any and all mental capabilities during the offseason:

http://img53.imageshack.us/img53/5205/c3media824186immagine.jpg (http://img53.imageshack.us/i/c3media824186immagine.jpg/)

And here we have Luciano Spalletti, who wants nothing more to do with this team, this ownership, and this city, but is officially the coolest coach in the history of professional sports:

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/3977/c3media824185immagine.jpg (http://img401.imageshack.us/i/c3media824185immagine.jpg/)

I have officially decided that my only interest this season, unless Rosella "tragically" disappears from the face of the earth, is Francesco Totti's quest for goal #200 in Serie A.

Have a great soccer season guys!

(Should I shoot myself or hang myself?)

SpicyMcHaggis

07-02-2009, 02:36 PM

And while we're on the Roma subject...

Vincenzo Montella officially retired today, and will begin his career as manager of one of Roma's youth teams.

FANTASTIC player. One of the greatest strikers in our history, and among the best in Serie A in the last 20 years. 94 goals in Serie A, including the unbelievably important ones in our championship season, for which I, and all Roma fans, will be eternally grateful.

http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/9590/vola20montella20volajpg.jpg (http://img229.imageshack.us/i/vola20montella20volajpg.jpg/)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLDcTANMUK4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwmSlRQqV68

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v46ZlWg8ohA

akhhorus

07-02-2009, 06:10 PM

We interrupt RomaTV for some news on OTHER teams lol:

Michael Owen set to sign for Man U pending a physical...huh? Does this make ANY sense?

SpicyMcHaggis

07-02-2009, 07:07 PM

We interrupt RomaTV for some news on OTHER teams lol:

Michael Owen set to sign for Man U pending a physical...huh? Does this make ANY sense?

Wth?? Is this official (I can't find anything about it)? Has Ferguson lost his mind?

akhhorus

07-02-2009, 07:14 PM

Wth?? Is this official (I can't find anything about it)? Has Ferguson lost his mind?

http://goal.com/en/news/9/england/2009/07/03/1360552/michael-owen-will-sign-for-manchester-united-pending-a

Not a done deal, but WTF??? So, they get rid of C.R and Tevez for Owen and Benzema? How is that a positive at all?

SpicyMcHaggis

07-02-2009, 07:16 PM

http://goal.com/en/news/9/england/2009/07/03/1360552/michael-owen-will-sign-for-manchester-united-pending-a

Not a done deal, but WTF??? So, they get rid of C.R and Tevez for Owen and Benzema? How is that a positive at all?

Even worse...just Owen, since Benzema signed for Real.

akhhorus

07-02-2009, 07:18 PM

Even worse...just Owen, since Benzema signed for Real.

So, if they don't get Ribery and Aguero, they're probably not a threat in the CL(more than likely).

SpicyMcHaggis

07-02-2009, 07:28 PM

So, if they don't get Ribery and Aguero, they're probably not a threat in the CL(more than likely).

Well, considering where the final will be played, Real's power, and the fact that they have the following offensive firepower: Ronaldo, Kaka, Benzema, Higuain, Huntelaar, Robben, Sneijder (they will probably get rid of at least 2 of the last 4, but still...), United will have to come up with something a bit better than Owen to be able to compete with them (and Barcelona).

akhhorus

07-02-2009, 07:30 PM

Well, considering where the final will be played, Real's power, and the fact that they have the following offensive firepower: Ronaldo, Kaka, Benzema, Higuain, Huntelaar, Robben, Sneijder (they will probably get rid of at least 2 of the last 4, but still...), United will have to come up with something a bit better than Owen to be able to compete with them (and Barcelona).

Pavel Nedved is still out there....lol

MONK_in_HOF

07-02-2009, 07:48 PM

So, if they don't get Ribery and Aguero, they're probably not a threat in the CL(more than likely).

Well Ribery came out and said:

I have made up my mind, I want to leave," Ribery told L'Equipe. "It will be Real or nothing. link (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11827_5411276,00.html)

In the same article it says he snubbed ManU, although their are no quotes on that. But I have read many times he isn't keen on moving to England, so it seems ManU would be a very long shot.

It has been a rough offseason for ManU with top class options dwindling. I still won't believe the Owen signing until I see it on their official web site or at least on a more credible site which isn't referencing goal.com, daily star, or The Sun(who are reporting he has signed) as the source. Even with the players they have lost, barring injuries, I don't think Owen would see the field much.

MONK_in_HOF

07-02-2009, 07:52 PM

SkinsKY

07-02-2009, 09:39 PM

Wasn't defense Real's biggest handicap last season? None of their signings so far will help with that.

You don't have to stop goals, you just have to score one more than they do.

MONK_in_HOF

07-02-2009, 09:49 PM

You don't have to stop goals, you just have to score one more than they do.

Ahhh....The Phoenix Suns strategy.

BigCountry

07-02-2009, 10:55 PM

Owen is free, they're not going to sit on 82 mil (they started with 20, 80 for CR) and we were never a team that relied on spending big on flashy names to succeed. I like the signing, all reward, no risk and you can be sure that it isn't the last.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-03-2009, 03:18 AM

Wasn't defense Real's biggest handicap last season? None of their signings so far will help with that.

They signed Albiol. He's not Beckenbauer, but he's not that bad either. With him, Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Pepe, Heinze and a couple of others they do have some good pieces on defense (plus, it's possible to build a good defense without fantastic players if your offensive guys can handle their business up front without having to attack with 8 men...and their guys can do exactly that).

MONK_in_HOF

07-03-2009, 08:49 AM

They signed Albiol. He's not Beckenbauer, but he's not that bad either. With him, Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Pepe, Heinze and a couple of others they do have some good pieces on defense (plus, it's possible to build a good defense without fantastic players if your offensive guys can handle their business up front without having to attack with 8 men...and their guys can do exactly that).

I agree they have good pieces on D but they didn't help much this past year. Maybe Albiol will be the answer but the other signings certainly aren't known to track back. When I say D I also include MF who track back. Don't get me wrong I am not saying that I think Real will be bad b/c of their D, I just thought they would focus a bit more on that side of the ball after signing Ronaldo and Kaka. But they have plenty of time to address that. If they don't then it seems they are going with the motto of the opponent can't score more or at all without possession. It will definitely be interesting to see how all these players mesh. It should also be interesting to see how they handle Raul.

And don't look now Spicy but the latest rumored target on Real's list seems to be De Rossi.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-03-2009, 09:26 AM

I agree they have good pieces on D but they didn't help much this past year. Maybe Albiol will be the answer but the other signings certainly aren't known to track back. When I say D I also include MF who track back. Don't get me wrong I am not saying that I think Real will be bad b/c of their D, I just thought they would focus a bit more on that side of the ball after signing Ronaldo and Kaka. But they have plenty of time to address that. If they don't then it seems they are going with the motto of the opponent can't score more or at all without possession. It will definitely be interesting to see how all these players mesh. It should also be interesting to see how they handle Raul.

And don't look now Spicy but the latest rumored target on Real's list seems to be De Rossi.
Well, what comforts me is that Rosella knows that if she dares sell DeRossi (her or anybody else), she will have to evacuate the city because there will be nowhere to hide for her. She will literally have to fear for her safety.

BigCountry

07-03-2009, 09:47 AM

Well, what comforts me is that Rosella knows that if she dares sell DeRossi (her or anybody else), she will have to evacuate the city because there will be nowhere to hide for her. She will literally have to fear for her safety.

Yet it's always those darn Brits who seem to cause trouble.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-03-2009, 10:27 AM

Yet it's always those darn Brits who seem to cause trouble.
I'm not saying that it's right or wrong (it's wrong), I'm just saying what would happen. You can't expect to humiliate a fanbase that is made of 3+ million people time and time again and keep on living your life peacefully and quietly.

And by the way, what do the "Brits" have anything to do with this? Who gives a crap about them in this context?

BigCountry

07-03-2009, 10:51 AM

I'm not saying that it's right or wrong (it's wrong), I'm just saying what would happen. You can't expect to humiliate a fanbase that is made of 3+ million people time and time again and keep on living your life peacefully and quietly.

And by the way, what do the "Brits" have anything to do with this? Who gives a crap about them in this context?

Hooliganism is worse in most of the other big European leagues. British fans get a bad rap because of the 80's when in Spain and Italy they could learn a lot about how to solve this problem from the Brits. I can't see an owner having to fear for his or her life over there.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-03-2009, 11:01 AM

Hooliganism is worse in most of the other big European leagues. British fans get a bad rap because of the 80's when in Spain and Italy they could learn a lot about how to solve this problem from the Brits. I can't see an owner having to fear for his or her life over there.
The first part of that sentence is a load of crap, and I can tell you that from first hand experience. I couldn't care less what british fans did in the 80's, and I know that they behave extremely well inside british borders. But trust me, you can find some that aren't all that friendly when they come play overseas.
The second part is definitely true though.

And, getting back to the DeRossi point, it has nothing to do with hooliganism. Imagine what would have happened if somebody inside the Bulls organization got rid of Michael Jordan in the early 90's. Do you think they could have freely walked the streets of Chicago? Well, the same applies here with Totti and DeRossi. I doubt that even Rosella is stupid enough to do something like that.

Seebs

07-03-2009, 11:32 AM

The first part of that sentence is a load of crap, and I can tell you that from first hand experience. I couldn't care less what british fans did in the 80's, and I know that they behave extremely well inside british borders. But trust me, you can find some that aren't all that friendly when they come play overseas.
The second part is definitely true though.

I'll concur with what Spicy said. I've been to football staidum for 20 years now and have been a regular in one of the PSG "kops" for almost 10 years now.
the situation was very tense when Chelski went in Paris 4 years ago (not as much as with Galatasaray but the situation was different). Don't forget that for all the big incidents over the last ten years on the european scene, the main part saw Brits involved (and maybe turks also) : Arsenal-Gala, Leeds-Fener(?), Chelsea in holland...

Seebs

07-03-2009, 02:12 PM

Owen to ManU is official. 2 years contarct!

SpicyMcHaggis

07-03-2009, 06:41 PM

Owen to ManU is official. 2 years contarct!

I'm really speechless. He's probably the last player I imagined United would have been interested in, but hey, this is Alex Ferguson we are talking about, so I guess you have to give him the benefit of the doubt.

BigCountry

07-03-2009, 10:58 PM

I'm really speechless. He's probably the last player I imagined United would have been interested in, but hey, this is Alex Ferguson we are talking about, so I guess you have to give him the benefit of the doubt.

To quote Kramer from Seinfeld, "Freeeeeeeeeeeeeeee"

dj_stouty

07-04-2009, 05:02 AM

Owen was so "good" he sat pine while Shearer was fighting for relegation. That should tell you everything you need to know about the guy.

Brit'Skin

07-04-2009, 05:39 AM

Owen was so "good" he sat pine while Shearer was fighting for relegation. That should tell you everything you need to know about the guy.

He still scored a goal every other game for them.

I like the signing. Hes probably here on an incentive based contract and will be good for a few goals backing up Rooney and Berbatov. He definitely won't get any less than Tevez did.

I'm sure we will make a couple of signings with the money we have. Hopefully someone with a bit of creativity for the midfield and i'm still praying for Aguero.

BigCountry

07-04-2009, 09:21 AM

He still scored a goal every other game for them.

I like the signing. Hes probably here on an incentive based contract and will be good for a few goals backing up Rooney and Berbatov. He definitely won't get any less than Tevez did.

I'm sure we will make a couple of signings with the money we have. Hopefully someone with a bit of creativity for the midfield and i'm still praying for Aguero.

I only hope he can be as good as Robbie Keane.

akhhorus

07-04-2009, 09:30 AM

To quote Kramer from Seinfeld, "Freeeeeeeeeeeeeeee"

Free poop on a stick is still poop lol

SkinsKY

07-05-2009, 10:34 PM

MONK_in_HOF

07-06-2009, 06:47 AM

Link (http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2009/07/06/1366028/report-arsenal-will-sell-cesc-fabregas-for-46m)

Looks like Cesc maybe getting to old for Mr Bean's liking. At 22 he's almost over the hill.
Doubt it happens this year. I doubt it even more if Goal.com is linking them as they are a terrible source. I would be surprised if 2% of the transfer rumors they throw out there per window actually happen. Even worse, they are referencing The Sun. This is about the 100th time Cesc has been linked to Barca/Real in the past 2 years. I think he goes to Barca in 2010-2011. If I were Cesc I would be gone. It would drive me mad to have to repeatedly declare my allegiance to a club on a near daily basis due to conjured rumors.

SkinsKY

07-07-2009, 08:15 AM

SpicyMcHaggis

07-07-2009, 09:02 AM

MONK_in_HOF

07-07-2009, 09:52 AM

fent

07-07-2009, 10:09 AM

BigCountry

07-07-2009, 11:53 AM

Link (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=659479&sec=europe&cc=5901)

Onyewu to AC Milan.

Big move up for the guy. He put in a good shift in the Confed. I hope he's able to get on the field in Italy. I don't think he has the technical skills for Serie A, but maybe he'll surprise.

You don't need to have all that many technical skills in the serie A. Players like Materazzi, Ambrosinni and those of similar limited ball control ability have done just fine.

MONK_in_HOF

07-07-2009, 12:03 PM

you mean they won't be happy to replace Kaka with the greatness of gooch?

There will probably be more protesters in Milan once the fans realize their one signing is an American.

fent

07-07-2009, 12:09 PM

There will probably be more protesters in Milan once the fans realize their one signing is an American.

they should just announce they've signed a belgian and see if that helps.

akhhorus

07-07-2009, 12:43 PM

Link (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=659479&sec=europe&cc=5901)

Onyewu to AC Milan.

Big move up for the guy. He put in a good shift in the Confed. I hope he's able to get on the field in Italy. I don't think he has the technical skills for Serie A, but maybe he'll surprise.

He'll be playing with some veteran Center Backs who can teach him to maximize his amazing physical skills. I think they'll use him as a backup and for certain matchups until he shows he can handle it, but I wouldn't be surprised if he's a regular starter by the midpoint of the season.

BigCountry

07-07-2009, 01:03 PM

Seebs, fill me in on Gabriel Obertan. What do I need to know?

akhhorus

07-07-2009, 04:35 PM

Pending confirmation, but:

Link (http://www.goal.com/en/news/10/italy/2009/07/07/1369874/breaking-news-juventus-sign-felipe-melo-report)

Melo to Juve for 20 million euros+Marchionni.

SkinsKY

07-07-2009, 05:12 PM

He'll be playing with some veteran Center Backs who can teach him to maximize his amazing physical skills. I think they'll use him as a backup and for certain matchups until he shows he can handle it, but I wouldn't be surprised if he's a regular starter by the midpoint of the season.

I hope so. I think he's just as important to our defense as Timmy is. I mentioned to fent a while back that I'd be willing to give him a tryout at DE or OLB.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-07-2009, 05:24 PM

Can't believe he went to Milan. Great place for Gooch to learn the technical and cerebral aspects of defense. I guess that's what a really solid international tournament can do for your stock as a player. However I doubt this signing will do much to please the irate Milan ultras.
One thing is for sure (and it's why I think he's in a not very good position right now): he is going to be under ENORMOUS pressure, unless Berlusconi opens up his wallet and buys someone to distract the fans.
I have rarely seen a more pissed off bunch of fans than Milan supporters right now. They make me seem like the most satisfied supporter in the world.
you mean they won't be happy to replace Kaka with the greatness of gooch?
Milan has completely shut down any and all communication on the subject, but apparently after 5 or 6 days from the beginning of the season ticket sales, a grand total of 1000 fans have confirmed their season tickets for next year. That's not a type...one thousand.
He'll be playing with some decrepit Center Backs who can teach him to sing along with songs of the early 20th century. I think they'll use him as a male nurse and for certain matchups until he shows he can change an old man's diaper, but I wouldn't be surprised if he's a regular starter by the midpoint of the season, due to the fact that the other defenders will have either died of old age or will need to be rolled around in a shopping cart.
There, fixed for you.
Pending confirmation, but:

Link (http://www.goal.com/en/news/10/italy/2009/07/07/1369874/breaking-news-juventus-sign-felipe-melo-report)

Melo to Juve for 20 million euros+Marchionni.
Interesting signing. I still have no idea what the heck Juve is trying to do. They seem to be trying to sign any good/very good player they can get their hands on, but I still can't figure out what the overall plan is. They are building a solid team, but are no closer to Inter or to any top european club than they were last year.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-07-2009, 05:28 PM

So let me get this straight...Lyon sells Benzema (age: 21) for 35 million euros, and replaces him with Lisandro Lopez (age: 26, seasons with over 10 goals in PORTUGAL: 1) for 24 (+4) million euros? Wth?

akhhorus

07-07-2009, 05:58 PM

Interesting signing. I still have no idea what the heck Juve is trying to do. They seem to be trying to sign any good/very good player they can get their hands on, but I still can't figure out what the overall plan is. They are building a solid team, but are no closer to Inter or to any top european club than they were last year.

I disagree with that. They're clearly trying to go with a more offensive system with the 4-3-1-2, and they needed a playmaking midfield pretty badly. Melo is better than just a "very good" player imo, he's a guy who can play either Holding mid or deep lying mid and can team with Sissoko and Giovinco in the middle of the field. Also, if they sell Trez, I wouldn't count out them signing another midfielder to play the Deep lying slot, and go with Sissoko-new mid-Melo.

As for how they stack up against inter: despite all the crap with Tinkerman, they didn't finish too poorly in the CL(They can't beat Barca or Real now unless they show other problems) and they should push Inter pretty hard now. If they can get Santos to fill the Left back, they should be very tough. If they get a good Deep lying mid to go with Sissoko/Melo, they should be the favorites in the Serie A.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-07-2009, 06:10 PM

I disagree with that. They're clearly trying to go with a more offensive system with the 4-3-1-2, and they needed a playmaking midfield pretty badly. Melo is better than just a "very good" player imo, he's a guy who can play either Holding mid or deep lying mid and can team with Sissoko and Giovinco in the middle of the field. Also, if they sell Trez, I wouldn't count out them signing another midfielder to play the Deep lying slot, and go with Sissoko-new mid-Melo.

That's never gonna happen. There is no way Giovinco can play as one of the 3 middies in a 4-3-1-2. Actually, with Diego in the lineup, I think he's gonna see very little playing time at all.
Right now it's Melo, Camoranesi (or one of their young guys), Sissoko - Diego - Iaquinta, DelPiero.
Very good lineup...rock solid, but not 1 superstar (Diego has a chance, but I've explained my doubts regarding him). I would bet they end up somewhere in the 75 point range (unless Ferrara is clueless), but you can bet that unless Zlatan misses half the season, Inter will end up with alot more than 80 points.

As for how they stack up against inter: despite all the crap with Tinkerman, they didn't finish too poorly in the CL(They can't beat Barca or Real now unless they show other problems) and they should push Inter pretty hard now. If they can get Santos to fill the Left back, they should be very tough. If they get a good Deep lying mid to go with Sissoko/Melo, they should be the favorites in the Serie A.
That's really pushing it. If Inter sells someone (like Maicon) then they have a shot at contending (but not as favorites). If not they they are the clear-cut #2 team IMO. Which isn't bad, but they are really spending a whole lot of money for that. The good news there obviously is that they are spending, which means they are capable of doing, which puts them in a pretty exclusive club in Italy...basically it's you guys and Inter, because everyone else is either selling or trying to remove their heads from their posterior (Rosella).

akhhorus

07-07-2009, 06:23 PM

That's never gonna happen. There is no way Giovinco can play as one of the 3 middies in a 4-3-1-2. Actually, with Diego in the lineup, I think he's gonna see very little playing time at all.
Right now it's Melo, Camoranesi (or one of their young guys), Sissoko - Diego - Iaquinta, DelPiero.

Amauri starts over Iaquinta I'm betting, and they appear to want to move on from Cam. Ferrera probably will give Giovinco every chance to show he can win a spot so they can sell Cam.

Very good lineup...rock solid, but not 1 superstar (Diego has a chance, but I've explained my doubts regarding him). I would bet they end up somewhere in the 75 point range (unless Ferrara is clueless), but you can bet that unless Zlatan misses half the season, Inter will end up with alot more than 80 points.

They had 74 last year with Ranieri doing everything he could to annoy the hell out of the team. And they like their coach now, along with having a much better team.

That's really pushing it. If Inter sells someone (like Maicon) then they have a shot at contending (but not as favorites). If not they they are the clear-cut #2 team IMO. Which isn't bad, but they are really spending a whole lot of money for that. The good news there obviously is that they are spending, which means they are capable of doing, which puts them in a pretty exclusive club in Italy...basically it's you guys and Inter, because everyone else is either selling or trying to remove their heads from their posterior (Rosella).

We shall see. Inter only won by 10 points with Juve effectively taking 2 months off last season and I don't think Inter is significantly better than they were last year.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-07-2009, 06:36 PM

Amauri starts over Iaquinta I'm betting, and they appear to want to move on from Cam. Ferrera probably will give Giovinco every chance to show he can win a spot so they can sell Cam.

With any other coach, I would agree that Amauri would start and DP would sit on the bench early and often. But keep in mind that Ferrara is a first year coach, with absolutely no experience whatsoever, and that he and DP played together for ELEVEN years. I just can't see him telling DP to sit on the bench for Juve-Inter or Milan-Juve or basically any other game in which DP feels like playing.
As for Giovinco, Ferrara can want to play him as much as he wants, but he's just not a midfielder. The guy is 5'4 for heaven's sake, and he probably weighs 120 pounds. Pretty much the only 3 positions where you can play him are as an attacking (very attacking) winger, as an attacking (very attacking) midfielder, or as a foward next to a big striker. That's it. You cannot give him any kind of defensive responsabilities whatsoever.

They had 74 last year with Ranieri doing everything he could to annoy the hell out of the team. And they like their coach now, along with having a much better team.

They like their coach, but their coach has to prove that he is capable of doing his job. He's a complete mistery right now.

We shall see. Inter only won by 10 points with Juve effectively taking 2 months off last season and I don't think Inter is significantly better than they were last year.
Well, they replaced Cruz and Crespo (4 goals last year) with Milito (24 goals last year), they bought Thiago Motta who was one of the 3 or 4 best midfielders in Serie A last year, and a kind of player they really needed, Santon and Balotelli will be a year older and that really helps when you are 19 years old, and they haven't lost anybody. That doesn't seem too bad to me.

akhhorus

07-07-2009, 06:48 PM

With any other coach, I would agree that Amauri would start and DP would sit on the bench early and often. But keep in mind that Ferrara is a first year coach, with absolutely no experience whatsoever, and that he and DP played together for ELEVEN years. I just can't see him telling DP to sit on the bench for Juve-Inter or Milan-Juve or basically any other game in which DP feels like playing.

I agree, which is why Iaquinta and Amauri will split time. Unless they decide to let DP walk and keep Trez.

As for Giovinco, Ferrara can want to play him as much as he wants, but he's just not a midfielder. The guy is 5'4 for heaven's sake, and he probably weighs 120 pounds. Pretty much the only 3 positions where you can play him are as an attacking (very attacking) winger, as an attacking (very attacking) midfielder, or as a foward next to a big striker. That's it. You cannot give him any kind of defensive responsabilities whatsoever.

I agree that he's an attacker only, but they obviously made some promise to play him more since he's rejected any talk of leaving for another team. They're going to try find a place for him in that lineup--maybe the answer is a 4-2-2-2 hybrid with Giovinco and Diego as AMs playing wide a lot.

They like their coach, but their coach has to prove that he is capable of doing his job. He's a complete mistery right now.

To some extent yes, but Ranieri was also a buffoon when it came to doing his job. His lineups were just baffling to some extent. They still finished 2nd with 74 points despite all the problems with him. Ferrera would have to be totally out of his league for them to finish with less than 70 points.

Well, they replaced Cruz and Crespo (4 goals last year) with Milito (24 goals last year), they bought Thiago Motta who was one of the 3 or 4 best midfielders in Serie A last year, and a kind of player they really needed, Santon and Balotelli will be a year older and that really helps when you are 19 years old, and they haven't lost anybody. That doesn't seem too bad to me.

I don't think Milito will get enough playing time to make much of an impact. I think they bought him figuring that they were going to sell Ibra, only they didn't lol. Ibra will obviously start at one spot, and Milito-Suazo-Kerlon-Obinna will rotate. Motta should be a starter for them, but I doubt they bench any of their regular mids for him(at least not regularly) unless they sell Cambassio, Muntari or Viera. I don't see them benching their captain for him either. If Quaresma comes back to Milan, then they really have some probs.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-08-2009, 01:31 AM

I agree, which is why Iaquinta and Amauri will split time. Unless they decide to let DP walk and keep Trez.

...and start a riot in Turin. DP's staying forever...the sooner you accept it, the better your life will be. lmao

I agree that he's an attacker only, but they obviously made some promise to play him more since he's rejected any talk of leaving for another team. They're going to try find a place for him in that lineup--maybe the answer is a 4-2-2-2 hybrid with Giovinco and Diego as AMs playing wide a lot.

I bet Sissoko and Melo would pay not to ever see that lineup. I don't know...Giovinco's a good player..extremely talented, but I get the idea that in a big club, especially in Italy, he's always gonna have sort of a "sixth man" role..meaning he'll play in lots of games, but rarely more than half an hour.

To some extent yes, but Ranieri was also a buffoon when it came to doing his job. His lineups were just baffling to some extent. They still finished 2nd with 74 points despite all the problems with him. Ferrera would have to be totally out of his league for them to finish with less than 70 points.

I agree. But hey, we can always hope for the worst for Juve can't we?

I don't think Milito will get enough playing time to make much of an impact. I think they bought him figuring that they were going to sell Ibra, only they didn't lol. Ibra will obviously start at one spot, and Milito-Suazo-Kerlon-Obinna will rotate.
Those three are on their way out. Or, if they decide to stay, they will either be selling hot dogs on game day or mowing their lawn. I highly doubt they even get to sit on the bench more than a couple of times each during the year. It's gonna be Ibra and either Balotelli or Milito (all three of which are better than any of Juve's strikers..either right now or in the near future).

Motta should be a starter for them, but I doubt they bench any of their regular mids for him(at least not regularly) unless they sell Cambassio, Muntari or Viera. I don't see them benching their captain for him either. If Quaresma comes back to Milan, then they really have some probs.
Vieira should be gone by the beginning of the season as well, and I think Mourinho has issued a restraining order for Quaresma. Rather than have him anywhere near the team they will just pay him his salary and tell him to stay home and have fun with the ps3. That's if they can't find anybody to sell him/give him away to (which I think they will in the end). So Inter's midfield will probably be, from right to left, Zanetti-Motta-Cambiasso-Muntari or Zanetti-Cambiasso-Muntari and Motta moved up a bit behind the two strikers, with Stankociv seeing lots of playing time either in place of Muntari or Motta. Plus, you have to figure that they will try desperately to land Deco.

akhhorus

07-08-2009, 07:58 AM

...and start a riot in Turin. DP's staying forever...the sooner you accept it, the better your life will be. lmao

I'm 95% sure that DP will be a starter next year for Juve, but there's always a chance he goes elsewhere.

I bet Sissoko and Melo would pay not to ever see that lineup. I don't know...Giovinco's a good player..extremely talented, but I get the idea that in a big club, especially in Italy, he's always gonna have sort of a "sixth man" role..meaning he'll play in lots of games, but rarely more than half an hour.

I can agree with that, but I think they're going to give the Atomic Ant the shot.

I agree. But hey, we can always hope for the worst for Juve can't we?

I'll facilitate the sale of Juve to Rosella on one condition: you have to become a Juve fan lmao

Those three are on their way out. Or, if they decide to stay, they will either be selling hot dogs on game day or mowing their lawn. I highly doubt they even get to sit on the bench more than a couple of times each during the year. It's gonna be Ibra and either Balotelli or Milito (all three of which are better than any of Juve's strikers..either right now or in the near future).

I forgot about Balotelli, but they literally just bought Kerlon, so I doubt he's on his way out. In any event, Milito won't have a perpetual starting spot like he did at Genoa.

Vieira should be gone by the beginning of the season as well, and I think Mourinho has issued a restraining order for Quaresma. Rather than have him anywhere near the team they will just pay him his salary and tell him to stay home and have fun with the ps3. That's if they can't find anybody to sell him/give him away to (which I think they will in the end). So Inter's midfield will probably be, from right to left, Zanetti-Motta-Cambiasso-Muntari or Zanetti-Cambiasso-Muntari and Motta moved up a bit behind the two strikers, with Stankociv seeing lots of playing time either in place of Muntari or Motta. Plus, you have to figure that they will try desperately to land Deco.

If they're trying to land Deco(and Malouda), then they're not going to play Motta a lot for sure. Any ex-Chelski guys will have a spot in the starting 11, then everyone else will be competing for playing time.

Anyways, my point was that they aren't significantly better while Juve is dramatically better. If Juve fixes their LB spot, then they're probably the favorite. Inter added some rotational players who will fight for playing time, while Juve has dramatically upgraded their weakest link(midfield) and coaching.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-08-2009, 09:12 AM

I forgot about Balotelli, but they literally just bought Kerlon, so I doubt he's on his way out. In any event, Milito won't have a perpetual starting spot like he did at Genoa.

IMO the only reason Inter signed Kerlon is that they were able to get Chievo to buy him for them (like they did with Julio Cesar), so they didn't use a non-EU spot, and now they can sign another non-EU player if they get rid of him (most likely next year). Lots of teams do this to circumvent the rule that says you can't have more than 2 non-EU players, and that you can't buy one from a non-italian team if you don't get rid of one (to a non-italian team) first.
Essentially they get a free non-EU spot for the whole deal. I somehow doubt that a guy that was able to play in a whopping 4 games last season for Chievo and who is famous only for being able to "dribble" the ball like a seal will find lots of playing time with Inter.
And even if Milito won't score 24 goals (which I doubt he will), he still fills a huge hole for them, since they only really had two good strikers last year, since Cruz broke down and Crespo is finished.

Anyways, my point was that they aren't significantly better while Juve is dramatically better. If Juve fixes their LB spot, then they're probably the favorite. Inter added some rotational players who will fight for playing time, while Juve has dramatically upgraded their weakest link(midfield) and coaching.
I don't see how Juve can be the favorite if they only have about two guys that would have a chance of starting for Inter (Sissoko and Diego instead of Zanetti and Motta/Stankovic). Other than that, Inter is superior BY FAR on defense (they are better in every single position, plus have much more depth), BY FAR on offense since Zlatan by himself is better than Trezeguet, Iaquinta and Amauri combined, Milito is better than every single one of them, and Balotelli is light years ahead of Giovinco. The only area where they are comparable is midfield, and I wouldn't be too sure that Juve is superior there. Plus, Mourinho could outcoach Ferrara in his sleep.

IMO, Juve are the clear-cut #2, but Inter is still gonna win the title easily.

akhhorus

07-08-2009, 09:21 AM

IMO the only reason Inter signed Kerlon is that they were able to get Chievo to buy him for them (like they did with Julio Cesar), so they didn't use a non-EU spot, and now they can sign another non-EU player if they get rid of him (most likely next year). Lots of teams do this to circumvent the rule that says you can't have more than 2 non-EU players, and that you can't buy one from a non-italian team if you don't get rid of one (to a non-italian team) first.
Essentially they get a free non-EU spot for the whole deal. I somehow doubt that a guy that was able to play in a whopping 4 games last season for Chievo and who is famous only for being able to "dribble" the ball like a seal will find lots of playing time with Inter.
And even if Milito won't score 24 goals (which I doubt he will), he still fills a huge hole for them, since they only really had two good strikers last year, since Cruz broke down and Crespo is finished.

Ok, but they still have a logjam at striker next to Ibra. Even if Milito wins a regular starting gig(which I doubt), he's not going to represent a giant upgrade from the raft of guys they played with Ibra. Certainly not when compared to how much Juve improved their talent. Which is my point. You can say that Militio and Motta are good players(which I don't disagree with), but its a comparison of Inter improving their team a halfstep versus Juve dramatically improving their team.

I don't see how Juve can be the favorite if they only have about two guys that would have a chance of starting for Inter (Sissoko and Diego instead of Zanetti and Motta/Stankovic).

That really is irrelevant to my point. Juve basically took March and April off last year(and struggled off and on throughout 2009), and they still only finished 10 points behind Inter. There's no disagreement that Juve is a much better team than they were last year.

Other than that, Inter is superior BY FAR on defense (they are better in every single position, plus have much more depth), BY FAR on offense since Zlatan by himself is better than Trezeguet, Iaquinta and Amauri combined, Milito is better than every single one of them, and Balotelli is light years ahead of Giovinco. The only area where they are comparable is midfield, and I wouldn't be too sure that Juve is superior there. Plus, Mourinho could outcoach Ferrara in his sleep.

See previous paragraph. Yes: inter is much more talented on paper...but that never matters(especially since Inter always underperforms their talent). Inter should have blown juve away last year and they didn't. And now Juve is a much better team and Inter hasn't come close to improving their squad by the same amount.

IMO, Juve are the clear-cut #2, but Inter is still gonna win the title easily.

At the very least, it'll be much closer than the 10 point gap it was last year. If Inter sells Maicon, Juve should beat them.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-08-2009, 09:35 AM

Ok, but they still have a logjam at striker next to Ibra. Even if Milito wins a regular starting gig(which I doubt), he's not going to represent a giant upgrade from the raft of guys they played with Ibra. Certainly not when compared to how much Juve improved their talent. Which is my point. You can say that Militio and Motta are good players(which I don't disagree with), but its a comparison of Inter improving their team a halfstep versus Juve dramatically improving their team.

How so? They have Balotelli and Milito for one spot. Considering the CL, and that Zlatan won't play 38 games, I don't see the logjam at all. All the other guys are either going to be shipped out or will play a grand total of about 100 minutes combined.
And yeah, compared to Cruz, Crespo, and all the other guys they had, Milito is a monstrous upgrade.

At the very least, it'll be much closer than the 10 point gap it was last year. If Inter sells Maicon, Juve should beat them.
We'll see. I highly doubt it, but we'll see. One thing is for sure though..it wouldn't be bad to see the title won in week 38 instead of 28 for a change.

akhhorus

07-08-2009, 10:26 AM

How so? They have Balotelli and Milito for one spot. Considering the CL, and that Zlatan won't play 38 games, I don't see the logjam at all. All the other guys are either going to be shipped out or will play a grand total of about 100 minutes combined.
And yeah, compared to Cruz, Crespo, and all the other guys they had, Milito is a monstrous upgrade.

On production, yes. On talent, no. On the whole they didn't make their roster better.

We'll see. I highly doubt it, but we'll see. One thing is for sure though..it wouldn't be bad to see the title won in week 38 instead of 28 for a change.

The only way Inter cruises like they did is if Ferrera is a tard, and I don't see that at all.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-08-2009, 02:27 PM

On production, yes. On talent, no. On the whole they didn't make their roster better.

That is extremely debatable, since they added the second-best striker in serie A last year, and one of the top 5/6 midfielders, to what was already by far the best team. Juve may have closed the gap a bit (especially if you consider that Inter must want to do well in CL sooner or later), but not enough to be considered on par with Inter yet. Although, again, they have really had a good summer so far.

akhhorus

07-08-2009, 02:32 PM

That is extremely debatable, since they added the second-best striker in serie A last year, and one of the top 5/6 midfielders, to what was already by far the best team. Juve may have closed the gap a bit (especially if you consider that Inter must want to do well in CL sooner or later), but not enough to be considered on par with Inter yet. Although, again, they have really had a good summer so far.

But thats my basic point: if you compare the offseasons, Juve's done more to improve their roster(assuming the Melo deal goes through) than Inter did. Motta and Milito might be better "players" than Diego and Melo, but Diego and Melo will have a greater impact than Motta/Milito. And the gap really wasn't that big in 08/09--despite Juve putting out one of the worst seasons they have on the field in recent memory. We got a so-so season from Gigi, injuries cost us a ton of talent throughout the season and no one liked Ranieri..and they still finished only 10 points behind Inter in the Serie A and took Chelski to the limit in the CL quarter finals.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-08-2009, 02:38 PM

But thats my basic point: if you compare the offseasons, Juve's done more to improve their roster(assuming the Melo deal goes through) than Inter did. Motta and Milito might be better "players" than Diego and Melo, but Diego and Melo will have a greater impact than Motta/Milito. And the gap really wasn't that big in 08/09--despite Juve putting out one of the worst seasons they have on the field in recent memory. We got a so-so season from Gigi, injuries cost us a ton of talent throughout the season and no one liked Ranieri..and they still finished only 10 points behind Inter in the Serie A and took Chelski to the limit in the CL quarter finals.
Melo probably more than Motta, if only for the absence of other significant midfielders on the Juve roster, but I think Diego and Milito will probably be a wash (meaning both will have good years). Diego is probably, outside of any Roma player, the guy I am most interested in seeing this year. I think he could do extremely well or struggle quite a bit.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-09-2009, 01:47 AM

Well, Diego is the new Ivan Zamorano.

After learning that number 10 was unavailable (duh), he chose....wait for it.......2+8!!! Brilliant!!!

fent

07-09-2009, 08:45 AM

Well, Diego is the new Ivan Zamorano.

After learning that number 10 was unavailable (duh), he chose....wait for it.......2+8!!! Brilliant!!!

better than having to choose some random nothing number. i HATE when my two numbers are already claimed on a new team.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-11-2009, 04:26 AM

better than having to choose some random nothing number. i HATE when my two numbers are already claimed on a new team.

Actually, after seeing Diego's jersey, I was very disappointed. He oèted for a plain old "28".
Zamorano had taken it all the way a few years back, because his jersey number read literally "1+8".

SpicyMcHaggis

07-11-2009, 04:27 AM

By the way, have you heard that Josè Mourinho is not Harry Potter?

Thoughts? Comments?

dj_stouty

07-13-2009, 01:22 PM

Sooooo....Ferguson got himself 80M from the transaction...lost Ronaldo and Tevez (40 total competition goals in 08/09)...and added Owen and Valencia.

Now he says he is done in the transfer market. Link (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=660550&cc=5901)

If I were a ManU fan, I'd be pretty miffed that this team has taken a fiarly big step backwards...

fent

07-13-2009, 02:05 PM

Actually, after seeing Diego's jersey, I was very disappointed. He oèted for a plain old "28".
Zamorano had taken it all the way a few years back, because his jersey number read literally "1+8".

ha...that's amazing.

akhhorus

07-13-2009, 02:17 PM

dj_stouty

07-13-2009, 02:29 PM

Grog believes when grog sees it. I bet they're far from done.

I dont' think they are officially "done"....but I think they missed out on the premium talent window. Ribery doesn't appear likely...and Villa appears to be staying put...and everyone else is going to Spain. I dont' see anyone out there likely to come to OT who is going to fix that midfield.

akhhorus

07-13-2009, 02:31 PM

I dont' think they are officially "done"....but I think they missed out on the premium talent window. Ribery doesn't appear likely...and Villa appears to be staying put...and everyone else is going to Spain. I dont' see anyone out there likely to come to OT who is going to fix that midfield.

I think they'll make an offer for Trez, and maybe for Xabi alonso.

dj_stouty

07-13-2009, 02:35 PM

dj_stouty

07-13-2009, 02:38 PM

I think they'll make an offer for Trez, and maybe for Xabi alonso.

Doutbful for Alonso to go to ManU for obvious reasons. Plus, Rafa already nixed a 30-35M offer from Real Madrid. I think Alonso is staying...

akhhorus

07-13-2009, 02:45 PM

Doutbful for Alonso to go to ManU for obvious reasons. Plus, Rafa already nixed a 30-35M offer from Real Madrid. I think Alonso is staying...

Who knows with their ownership issues. Man U has too much cash to just sit around and do nothing. They'll sign a couple relatively big names.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-13-2009, 03:00 PM

I think they'll make an offer for Trez, and maybe for Xabi alonso.
They already signed one washed up striker...why would they want another one? :D

SkinsKY

07-13-2009, 03:02 PM

Tevez to Man City looks to be a done deal...and now Man City is looking to get Adebayor as well. If so, it will be very crowded up front with Robinho, Santa Cruz, Tevez and possibly Adebayor. Not enough goals to spread around to keep everyone happy. Wasn't that Tevez's problem with ManU? I guess it could be worse; Man City originally wanted Eto'o....

Seebs - got any inside info on Chris Mavinga? Liverpool just signed him from PSG. Supposedly a solid youngster to develop at for the defense.

I thought that as well when I saw Tevez was going. It's a shame as I was hoping Spurs would sign Santa Cruz, but now it looks like he'll just have to fight for the chance to get on the field. Adebayor would be stupid to go there at this point but, never say never.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-13-2009, 03:08 PM

The folks over at Manchester City have absolutely no idea what they are doing.

dj_stouty

07-13-2009, 03:20 PM

The folks over at Manchester City have absolutely no idea what they are doing.

I thought they did a solid job getting Barry for midfield help and Santa Cruz for scoring help....but then they went after Eto'o unsuccessfully...and have dumped a ton of money at Tevez. Why on earth would they even consider Adebeyor? Too many cooks in the kitchen.

And that being said; Now city is rumored to be going after John Terry for 40M.

Seems like they are more concerned about the player's name rather than how he will fit into their team. This team could implode before the New Year...

akhhorus

07-13-2009, 03:23 PM

They already signed one washed up striker...why would they want another one? :D

If they get two, they get Nedved for free lol

The folks over at Manchester City have absolutely no idea what they are doing.

"Lets try to be Barcelona without things like a 'plan' or 'chemistry'" lmao

SpicyMcHaggis

07-14-2009, 01:15 AM

If they get two, they get Nedved for free lol

So, how are you dealing with the news that Nedved is looking to sign for a MLS team? Are you planning to flee the country? Are you stocking up on bullets?

For the sake of the MLS, I really hope this doesn't happen.

"Lets try to be Barcelona without things like a 'plan' or 'chemistry'" lmao
lol Seriously they will struggle to qualify for the Europa League.

akhhorus

07-14-2009, 07:59 AM

So, how are you dealing with the news that Nedved is looking to sign for a MLS team? Are you planning to flee the country? Are you stocking up on bullets?

For the sake of the MLS, I really hope this doesn't happen.

I'm going to pull some strings and get him to sign some Roma gear "to Akh's good friend Kenny" and mail it to you lmao.

lol Seriously they will struggle to qualify for the Europa League.

Its like Vinny is in charge of them lol.

dj_stouty

07-14-2009, 08:34 AM

Liverpool is currently training in Switzerland. Such great views...

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/images5/swiss0910.jpg

SpicyMcHaggis

07-14-2009, 08:50 AM

I'm going to pull some strings and get him to sign some Roma gear "to Akh's good friend Kenny" and mail it to you lmao.

I'm pretty sure that if Nedved were to touch Roma gear, he would melt like a vampire with a cross.

akhhorus

07-14-2009, 08:53 AM

I'm pretty sure that if Nedved were to touch Roma gear, he would melt like a vampire with a cross.

He wouldn't have to touch it, just the pen lol. But win-win either way lol

SpicyMcHaggis

07-14-2009, 08:55 AM

He wouldn't have to touch it, just the pen lol. But win-win either way lol
Good point actually....But just to make sure, make him sign it with a Roma pen..
lmao

Seebs

07-14-2009, 02:11 PM

Seebs - got any inside info on Chris Mavinga? Liverpool just signed him from PSG. Supposedly a solid youngster to develop at for the defense.

Never saw him played and never heard of him before this signing thing.
PSG has been pretty good at keeping its valuable youngster in the past few years. So the signing surprised me.

Talking about defenders, for sure our centerback is provided for the next few years (or I hope so...).
Sakho (U19 and U21 for France) is my "surprise player bet" for WC 2010 (if we qualify). He'll be on the elevens of a very big euro club in the next few years.

dj_stouty

07-15-2009, 02:36 PM

Looks like Alonso really is still upset with Rafa over his attempt to sell him last season and has personally requested to leave for Real. The new rumor has Alonso going to Real Madrid for around 35M with Rafa going after David Silva in return. While it would be devestating not to have Alonso in the middle; having a young hotshot like Silva on the wing would be a huge upgrade.

Plus....swapping Alonso for Silva it would allow Rafa to continue to own 1/3 of the Spanish National team. lol

MONK_in_HOF

07-15-2009, 03:01 PM

dj_stouty

07-15-2009, 03:24 PM

If they turned around and spent the money on Silva would that mean Lucas starts?? I don't think the upgrade on the wing would make up for the downgrade from Alonso to Lucas.

David Silva is pretty versatile and can play as an offensive midfielder - as I witnessed from him in several of the Spain National games. Since I agree with you that Lucas isn't starter material; I think Rafa would go with Silva (attacking), Gerrard (Center) and Mascher (holding) at Midfield...with Kuyt and Reira/Yossi on the wings and Torres alone up front. That may force Gerrard to give up some of his offensive prowess and be more of a playmaker than shot taker at times; but that is much more manageable than losing Riera from the field and gaining Lucas. Lucas is way too hesitant with the ball and I really cringe when he enters the game...

But yes; still a big loss if Alsono heads out to Real.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-15-2009, 05:23 PM

akhhorus

07-15-2009, 06:13 PM

Apparently Adebajor is headed to Manchester City for 30 million.

Contragulations to him for improving his bank account but ruining his career, and to city for setting up a circus instead of a soccer team.

Man City is quickly becoming the soccer equivalent of a Steven Seagal movie: no real plan, no-one listening to common sense, no-one watching can figure out what's really going on, and 90 minutes later it mercifully ends.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-16-2009, 01:00 AM

Man City is quickly becoming the soccer equivalent of a Steven Seagal movie: no real plan, no-one listening to common sense, no-one watching can figure out what's really going on, and 90 minutes later it mercifully ends.

Lmao!
Do they even have some kind of competent figure running the show or is it just the arabs that are stockpiling random players? They have signed a few very good ones, but with the money they are spending, they could have built a monster squad in one offseason.
What's the use of signing Tevez, Adebayor, and Santa Cruz when you already have Robinho, Elano, Shaun Wright-Phillips and a bunch of other guys? Are they planning to really try to play with Tevez, Robinho, and Adebayor all together (because none of those guys will want to sit on the bench for Manchester City)? lmao

SpicyMcHaggis

07-16-2009, 05:31 AM

Lucio to Inter.

Apparently for Josè "Harry Potter" Mourinho, Samuel, Chivu, Cordoba, Materazzi, Burdisso, and Rivas weren't enough for the 2 central defender positions.

MONK_in_HOF

07-16-2009, 06:13 AM

Lucio to Inter.

Apparently for Josè "Harry Potter" Mourinho, Samuel, Chivu, Cordoba, Materazzi, Burdisso, and Rivas weren't enough for the 2 central defender positions.

There is certainly some position stockpiling going on this window. Don't really understand the strategy. Sure depth is nice, but you can't play or keep all of them happy.
It is kinda like the approach in fantasy football where one guy drafts way too many QBs/TEs expecting to be able to cash in for an elite RB/WR.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-16-2009, 06:19 AM

There is certainly some position stockpiling going on this window. Don't really understand the strategy. Sure depth is nice, but you can't play or keep all of them happy.
It is kinda like the approach in fantasy football where one guy drafts way too many QBs/TEs expecting to be able to cash in for an elite RB/WR.
I think they'll get rid of Burdisso and Rivas, and keep Materazzi around as a mascot.
So they'll end up playing Samuel, Cordoba, Chivu, and Lucio.

I'm still not sure why they are paying Mourinho 5 times more than any other coach in Serie A, since I could probably win the title with that team.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-16-2009, 06:50 AM

Inter apparently also very close to signing Hleb on loan from Barcelona.

Right now my life as a soccer fan is hell.

akhhorus

07-16-2009, 08:35 AM

Lucio to Inter.

Apparently for Josè "Harry Potter" Mourinho, Samuel, Chivu, Cordoba, Materazzi, Burdisso, and Rivas weren't enough for the 2 central defender positions.

Inter apparently also very close to signing Hleb on loan from Barcelona.

Right now my life as a soccer fan is hell.

Inter is approaching Steven Seagal territory(maybe Arnold Schwarzenegger) lol

SpicyMcHaggis

07-16-2009, 09:07 AM

Inter is approaching Steven Seagal territory(maybe Arnold Schwarzenegger) lol

What I don't really understand about all these signings is that they are redundant for the Serie A, which they will once again win easily because they are hands down the best team, but really don't make that much of a difference in the Champions League, where Barça, Real and Chelsea are still better IMO.

akhhorus

07-16-2009, 09:11 AM

What I don't really understand about all these signings is that they are redundant for the Serie A, which they will once again win easily because they are hands down the best team, but really don't make that much of a difference in the Champions League, where Barça, Real and Chelsea are still better IMO.

Insert previous comments about Juve only being 10 points back of inter despite all the problems, inter not doing anything significant to improve the team, yadda yadda yadda.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-16-2009, 09:20 AM

Insert previous comments about Juve only being 10 points back of inter despite all the problems, inter not doing anything significant to improve the team, yadda yadda yadda.
Yeah, right up until they bought a striker who is better than any Juve has to offer, the Captain of the Brazilian National Team, one of the best three midfielders in Serie A last year, plus, apparently, Hleb, who was one of the better wingers in Europe until last year.
But we've been down this road before, so you don't have to prove that you're wrong again. lol
Besides, if it were up to me napalm would be falling on San Siro and on the Olimpico (Juve's Olimpico), so I don't really feel like defending Inter again.
(If I could have some napalm on Rosella's house as well, that would be delightful).

:D

akhhorus

07-16-2009, 09:31 AM

Yeah, right up until they bought a striker who is better than any Juve has to offer, the Captain of the Brazilian National Team, one of the best three midfielders in Serie A last year, plus, apparently, Hleb, who was one of the better wingers in Europe until last year.
But we've been down this road before, so you don't have to prove that you're wrong again. lol
Besides, if it were up to me napalm would be falling on San Siro and on the Olimpico (Juve's Olimpico), so I don't really feel like defending Inter again.
(If I could have some napalm on Rosella's house as well, that would be delightful).

:D

Its the same issues as I brought up before: Hleb, Lucio and Milito are all good players, but the players they'll have to bench to play them aren't much worse. Who do you bench for Lucio? You bring in Motta and Hleb, who goes to the bench? Muntari and Stank? They're about to sell Viera, but they're also going to play Quaresma(according to Harry Potter) a lot. They almost have to play a 4-5-1 because of their roster, but that means Ibra will be the striker and Milto will be a waste.

dj_stouty

07-16-2009, 09:41 PM

http://img268.yfrog.com/img268/4658/56141417053313927038963.jpg

BigCountry

07-17-2009, 01:18 AM

http://img268.yfrog.com/img268/4658/56141417053313927038963.jpg

If he was Torres he wouldn't have ended up on a team that wins a major trophy from time to time.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-17-2009, 01:27 AM

http://img268.yfrog.com/img268/4658/56141417053313927038963.jpg

lol Owen has the arms of a 12 year old.

dj_stouty

07-17-2009, 08:07 AM

lol Owen has the arms of a 12 year old.

Yeah, but he was chhhheeeeaaapppp. lol

dj_stouty

07-17-2009, 08:13 AM

So very disturbing....I had to share.

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/8856/ronaldoo.gif

BigCountry

07-17-2009, 08:44 AM

So very disturbing....I had to share.

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/8856/ronaldoo.gif

He wasn't sure what one looks like.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-17-2009, 02:43 PM

dj_stouty

07-17-2009, 04:22 PM

Well, we can just about scratch the last 10 pages of discussion between akh and myself.

Apparently Inter and Barça have agreed on the following deal: Ibrahimovic for Eto'o + 40ish million + the loan of Hleb.

Honestly now all bets are off IMO. Eto'o could fit right in and Inter may not miss a beat, but I have a hard time imagining that he can come in and be as good as Ibra in Serie A. If Inter had one chance to screw up the lock they had on the Serie A, I think they took it.

I don't know...extremely risky move for Inter, but I imagine that the logic was that they had to do something to improve their chances in the CL, plus obviously Zlatan really wanted to leave (or they really wanted to get rid of his 12 million euro salary). One thing is for sure though...now Harry Potter will have to earn his money.

Edit: if the deal goes through, I'll be very interested to see what Inter will do with those 40 million. If they can manage to grab a couple of Real's ditch guys, like Sneijder and Robben, then they could end up being even stronger.
In any case, awesome transfer market so far...............for everyone but Roma. I feel sick.

I personally think Inter makes out like a bandit on this. Eto'o is a goal scoring machine; and I believe his transistion from La Liga to Serie A will be much easier than if he were to go to Man City and play in the EPL. On top of that, Inter GETS 40 million? Geez.

Full disclosure; I rarely watch Serie A and my opinions of Ibra are mostly based on CL play.

akhhorus

07-17-2009, 04:30 PM

Well, we can just about scratch the last 10 pages of discussion between akh and myself.

Apparently Inter and Barça have agreed on the following deal: Ibrahimovic for Eto'o + 40ish million + the loan of Hleb.

Honestly now all bets are off IMO. Eto'o could fit right in and Inter may not miss a beat, but I have a hard time imagining that he can come in and be as good as Ibra in Serie A. If Inter had one chance to screw up the lock they had on the Serie A, I think they took it.

I don't know...extremely risky move for Inter, but I imagine that the logic was that they had to do something to improve their chances in the CL, plus obviously Zlatan really wanted to leave (or they really wanted to get rid of his 12 million euro salary). One thing is for sure though...now Harry Potter will have to earn his money.

Edit: if the deal goes through, I'll be very interested to see what Inter will do with those 40 million. If they can manage to grab a couple of Real's ditch guys, like Sneijder and Robben, then they could end up being even stronger.
In any case, awesome transfer market so far...............for everyone but Roma. I feel sick.

Weird move(if it goes through). Ibra and a cardboard cutout of Ibra is better than Eto'o and Milito imo, and it just makes no sense--unless they have a move for a top flight vet striker ready to go(Shevchenko?), they aren't making themselves any better. I would bet that they go with the Mourinho 4-3-2-1 if this move goes through, but I don't think Eto'o's able to pull that off in the Serie A.

I personally think Inter makes out like a bandit on this. Eto'o is a goal scoring machine; and I believe his transistion from La Liga to Serie A will be much easier than if he were to go to Man City and play in the EPL. On top of that, Inter GETS 40 million? Geez.

Full disclosure; I rarely watch Serie A and my opinions of Ibra are mostly based on CL play.

You have to be able to take a pounding in the Serie A. I love watching Eto'o play, but I don't think he's able to do it without a better aerial forward next to him.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-17-2009, 05:54 PM

I personally think Inter makes out like a bandit on this. Eto'o is a goal scoring machine; and I believe his transistion from La Liga to Serie A will be much easier than if he were to go to Man City and play in the EPL. On top of that, Inter GETS 40 million? Geez.

Full disclosure; I rarely watch Serie A and my opinions of Ibra are mostly based on CL play.
The thing is that Ibra's play in Serie A and his play in Champions League have been polar opposites since he's been with Inter (or in general, in Italy).
Consider this: Ibra has won the scudetto every year he has played in Italy, and the last three years he has basically won by himself. If you gave him to any of the other top teams in the Serie A, they win, not Inter.
So in Serie A, Inter are giving up what they know to be the best player by far, in exchange for a guy who is a fantastic player, and has a MUCH better track record in CL play, but hasn't played a game in Serie A in his life, where scoring is much more difficult than in Serie A.
I don't know...either team could wind up looking like fools or geniuses here.
Oh, and the 40 million Inter gets is mainly because Eto'o's contract expires at the end of next year (if I recall correctly).

Weird move(if it goes through). Ibra and a cardboard cutout of Ibra is better than Eto'o and Milito imo

In Serie A, I definitely agree, since 1)Ibra basically allows the entire team to play extremely defensively, taking very few risks, because he can carry the offensive load completely by himself, and 2)Ibra and Milito were a very good match, because Milito plays in the box most of the time, while Ibra roams all over the field, while Eto'o plays much more like Milito, and both of them need the team to support them, which will inevitably force Inter to attack with more men. Like I said, Harry Potter is going to have to earn his money now.
In CL though, they could be better..who knows...Ibra has sucked royally, and Milito has 0 experience.

, and it just makes no sense--unless they have a move for a top flight vet striker ready to go(Shevchenko?), they aren't making themselves any better.

The only way it makes sense is if Zlatan wanted to leave desperately. If not, why bother signing Milito (for 20 million) and not just go get Eto'o for 30 (which is presumably his price since Ibra should be worth around 60-70)?
Right now they have Eto'o, Milito, Balotelli, and some other crap, so they might make a move for another striker (not Sheva though, he's completely finished).

I would bet that they go with the Mourinho 4-3-2-1 if this move goes through, but I don't think Eto'o's able to pull that off in the Serie A.

Niether do I. A lot depends on what the do with that 40 million. If they buy a Robben-type guy, then they are probably looking to play some kind of 4-3-3 with Eto'o and Milito in the middle, and Balotelli, Hleb, Robben, and maybe Mancini or Quaresma on the wings. If they go for a Sneijder-type guy, then I would definitely play a 4-3-1-2 (which makes the most sense, but is more difficult to play in Serie A).
But again, giving up Zlatan, at least for the scudetto, is a HUGE risk.

You have to be able to take a pounding in the Serie A. I love watching Eto'o play, but I don't think he's able to do it without a better aerial forward next to him.
One thing is for sure: Inter can't expect to just have Milito and Eto'o sitting in the box all day long waiting for the ball. Something like that might work in Spain, where the defenses are a bit more relaxed, but over here, they will just put 8 defenders in two very tight lines in front of the penalty box, and there will be no physical space for the ball to pass.

I hope the deal goes down because 1)it's definitely exciting and 2)the Serie A was getting extremely monotonous. Anything that will shake it up a bit is gladly accepted.

Now, let's move on to Roma's signings:

.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-17-2009, 06:00 PM

By the way, I'm hearing that Liverpool is offering 15 million for Aquilani.

I don't know what to think. We are basically a supermarket right now. Spalletti and our fo guys are BEGGING any team to offer money for Vucinic, Aquilani, Juan..anybody.

I am terrified that somebody will come knocking for DeRossi with 50 million in a big suitcase.

akhhorus

07-17-2009, 06:06 PM

In Serie A, I definitely agree, since 1)Ibra basically allows the entire team to play extremely defensively, taking very few risks, because he can carry the offensive load completely by himself, and 2)Ibra and Milito were a very good match, because Milito plays in the box most of the time, while Ibra roams all over the field, while Eto'o plays much more like Milito, and both of them need the team to support them, which will inevitably force Inter to attack with more men. Like I said, Harry Potter is going to have to earn his money now.
In CL though, they could be better..who knows...Ibra has sucked royally, and Milito has 0 experience.

This might be the entire point: trading the scudetto for CL success. Figuring that even facing Juve and AC, they'll finish top 3-4 every year, only they'll go deeper in the CL. Mourinho doesn't have a great CL track record though(except for Porto).

The only way it makes sense is if Zlatan wanted to leave desperately. If not, why bother signing Milito (for 20 million) and not just go get Eto'o for 30 (which is presumably his price since Ibra should be worth around 60-70)?
Right now they have Eto'o, Milito, Balotelli, and some other crap, so they might make a move for another striker (not Sheva though, he's completely finished).

They could have done better for Ibra imo. This just makes no sense in any way.

Niether do I. A lot depends on what the do with that 40 million. If they buy a Robben-type guy, then they are probably looking to play some kind of 4-3-3 with Eto'o and Milito in the middle, and Balotelli, Hleb, Robben, and maybe Mancini or Quaresma on the wings. If they go for a Sneijder-type guy, then I would definitely play a 4-3-1-2 (which makes the most sense, but is more difficult to play in Serie A).
But again, giving up Zlatan, at least for the scudetto, is a HUGE risk.

Neither of those scenarios scare me as a Juve fan. Thats a spanish style team trying to play in an Italian style league. If they wanted to play that, might as well go out and buy Ribery.

One thing is for sure: Inter can't expect to just have Milito and Eto'o sitting in the box all day long waiting for the ball. Something like that might work in Spain, where the defenses are a bit more relaxed, but over here, they will just put 8 defenders in two very tight lines in front of the penalty box, and there will be no physical space for the ball to pass.

Exactly. On behalf of Juve fans everywhere, I thank Inter for our 30th Scudetto lol.

I hope the deal goes down because 1)it's definitely exciting and 2)the Serie A was getting extremely monotonous. Anything that will shake it up a bit is gladly accepted.

Now, let's move on to Roma's signings:

.

A radio recap of Roma's signings (http://simplythebest.net/sounds/WAV/sound_effects_WAV/sound_effect_WAV_files/crickets_1.wav)

akhhorus

07-17-2009, 06:07 PM

SpicyMcHaggis

07-17-2009, 06:14 PM

This might be the entire point: trading the scudetto for CL success. Figuring that even facing Juve and AC, they'll finish top 3-4 every year, only they'll go deeper in the CL. Mourinho doesn't have a great CL track record though(except for Porto).

Plus, the CL is a FAR more volatile competition. I mean, one bad break either in the draw or in a game, and you're gone. The Serie A is a much safer bet. And I still can't come to terms with the fact that Ibra was not fit to play in the CL. I think it had much more to do with Inter's style of play rather than his production (which of course should have been more).

They could have done better for Ibra imo. This just makes no sense in any way.

2 problems I think: 1)his salary. How many teams in the world can take on a salary of 12 million euroes a year (that's not counting taxes, so essentially Inter was paying him 24 million a year)? 2)He wanted to go to either Real or Barca IMO, and Real obviously had finished shopping. So it was Barca or nobody.

Neither of those scenarios scare me as a Juve fan. Thats a spanish style team trying to play in an Italian style league. If they wanted to play that, might as well go out and buy Ribery.

Yeah, historically the teams that have the most success in Italy are the ones that are rock solid defensively and have a couple of great players up front that get things done. That's how Capello won, it's how Mancini and Mourinho have won with Inter, it's how Juve won with Lippi (that and the cheating of course)....trying something completely different is a huge risk.

Exactly. Oh behalf of Juve fans everywhere, I thank Inter for our 30th Scudetto lol.

Anything can happen right now, that's for sure.

A radio recap of Roma's signings (http://simplythebest.net/sounds/WAV/sound_effects_WAV/sound_effect_WAV_files/crickets_1.wav)
We don't even have the money to buy one of those crickets.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-17-2009, 06:18 PM

I would hope that Juve would top that. On behalf of Secco, I offer: the Atomic Ant and 20 million lol.
From what I hear, Juve actually had Aquilani take a physical last summer, and lost all interest. Apparently he has quite a few physical problems that are tough to solve (which is why he misses 4 months for a 2 week injury).
And thanks but no thanks on Giovinco. Tons of talent, but he is dangerously close to being a useless player (in a top team). If Juve were willing to spend that much, I would rather take 25-27 million than 20+Giovinco. But nobody will ever offer that kind of money for Aquilani.
If I knew that Roma would reinvest the money (competently) we get for him, I wouldn't be completely against selling him. The problem is that there is a massive hole in our budget, and anything we get will just try and patch that up, with little or nothing going into buying something else.

akhhorus

07-17-2009, 06:19 PM

Plus, the CL is a FAR more volatile competition. I mean, one bad break either in the draw or in a game, and you're gone. The Serie A is a much safer bet. And I still can't come to terms with the fact that Ibra was not fit to play in the CL. I think it had much more to do with Inter's style of play rather than his production (which of course should have been more).

He was a choking dog lol.

2 problems I think: 1)his salary. How many teams in the world can take on a salary of 12 million euroes a year (that's not counting taxes, so essentially Inter was paying him 24 million a year)? 2)He wanted to go to either Real or Barca IMO, and Real obviously had finished shopping. So it was Barca or nobody.

Man U could have had him. Berbatov and 40-50 million couldn't get it done? They took 45 million and 2 1 year rentals basically. If Eto'o struggles in the Serie A, there's no way he stays there.

Yeah, historically the teams that have the most success in Italy are the ones that are rock solid defensively and have a couple of great players up front that get things done. That's how Capello won, it's how Mancini and Mourinho have won with Inter, it's how Juve won with Lippi (that and the cheating of course)....trying something completely different is a huge risk.

Where's that ahab picture lol.

That started with Juve really, after they found out what they had in Del Piero. Tight defense, holding mids and set piece work. If you're going to try something new, make sure you have enough talent to overwhelm, and INter doesn't imo.

akhhorus

07-17-2009, 06:21 PM

From what I hear, Juve actually had Aquilani take a physical last summer, and lost all interest. Apparently he has quite a few physical problems that are tough to solve (which is why he misses 4 months for a 2 week injury).
And thanks but no thanks on Giovinco. Tons of talent, but he is dangerously close to being a useless player (in a top team). If Juve were willing to spend that much, I would rather take 25-27 million than 20+Giovinco. But nobody will ever offer that kind of money for Aquilani.
If I knew that Roma would reinvest the money (competently) we get for him, I wouldn't be completely against selling him. The problem is that there is a massive hole in our budget, and anything we get will just try and patch that up, with little or nothing going into buying something else.

I know a vet player looking for a job.... (http://www.football-pictures.net/data/media/234/Pavel_Nedved_face.jpg) lol

Roma shouldn't bother selling anyone major until they have a new owner. There's just no point.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-17-2009, 06:27 PM

Man U could have had him. Berbatov and 40-50 million couldn't get it done? They took 45 million and 2 1 year rentals basically. If Eto'o struggles in the Serie A, there's no way he stays there.

I'm assuming that Moratti will give him a new contract immediately, but he's a moron, so you can't really be sure.

That started with Juve really, after they found out what they had in Del Piero. Tight defense, holding mids and set piece work. If you're going to try something new, make sure you have enough talent to overwhelm, and INter doesn't imo.
It actually started way before that, with this (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nereo_Rocco) man.

Roma shouldn't bother selling anyone major until they have a new owner. There's just no point.
I would agree with you, but the geniuses in charge have **** up the situation so badly that we apparently don't even have the money to run the team for one more year. Every single media outlet over here is saying that we have to find a way to come up with 30-35 million euros by the end of the transfer window, either by selling players or by cutting down salaries (or both).

akhhorus

07-17-2009, 06:32 PM

I'm assuming that Moratti will give him a new contract immediately, but he's a moron, so you can't really be sure.

Unless they're offering him 3 times what he's worth, I don't think he'll sign an extension until he is comfortable with the Serie A.

It actually started way before that, with this (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nereo_Rocco) man.

Yeah, in the 70s and you can say it really started with the German/Austrian teams of the 40s also, but the modern version of it really started with Lippi using Baggio-Vialli and DP as the entire offense.

I would agree with you, but the geniuses in charge have **** up the situation so badly that we apparently don't even have the money to run the team for one more year. Every single media outlet over here is saying that we have to find a way to come up with 30-35 million euros by the end of the transfer window, either by selling players or by cutting down salaries (or both).

Yikes. Sorry man.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-17-2009, 06:45 PM

Yeah, in the 70s and you can say it really started with the German/Austrian teams of the 40s also, but the modern version of it really started with Lippi using Baggio-Vialli and DP as the entire offense.

It's really pretty much always been that way.
Consider that in 1993 (the year before Juve won their first scudetto in ages) Milan, led by Capello, won the title having scored a whopping 36 goals in 34 games.

Yikes. Sorry man.

Yeah, thanks. It really has been the most depressing offseason ever.

akhhorus

07-17-2009, 06:57 PM

It's really pretty much always been that way.
Consider that in 1993 (the year before Juve won their first scudetto in ages) Milan, led by Capello, won the title having scored a whopping 36 goals in 34 games.

Right, but..
92/93: Milan wins with 65 goals scored
91/92: Milan wins with 74 goals scored
90/91: Samp wins with 57 goals scored
89/90: Napoli wins with 57 goals scored
88/89: Inter wins with 67 goals scored

That 93/94 year looks like a aberration.

Yeah, thanks. It really has been the most depressing offseason ever.

It'll be better once ownership changes hands.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-18-2009, 02:02 AM

Right, but..
92/93: Milan wins with 65 goals scored
91/92: Milan wins with 74 goals scored
90/91: Samp wins with 57 goals scored
89/90: Napoli wins with 57 goals scored
88/89: Inter wins with 67 goals scored

That 93/94 year looks like a aberration.

Those two Milan teams had a certain Marco Van Basten who scored 38 goals in 48 games. They were led by Capello, who'se dogma is to risk as little as possible, have really no offensive scheme, and just let the superstars take care of business un front.
Napoli obviously had Maradona, which helps, and 57 goals in 34 games is about 1.5 goals a game...not exactly this year's Barcelona. Same with Samp, who had Mancini and Vialli up front (and Boskov on the bench, who's not famous for being an offensive mastermind).
Lastly, that Inter team broke all kinds of record, so they are kind of an exception. However, they were led by Trapattoni, another guy who has made a career out of playing defensive football.

Historically, all the coaches (and teams) who have tried to really play offensive football have done pretty well, but have never consistently won anything.
Think of Zeman with Lazio and Roma, Eriksson with Roma first, then Sampdoria and Lazio, think of all the very good Parma teams that never managed to win the title, of Spalletti who has done great (and was robbed of a title) but in the end was only competitive one year with us (and obviously never with Udinese).
It's always been like that over here: if you want to win, build a rock solid defense, and have guys up front that will allow you to attack with as few men as possible and still produce goals, and get as many goals as possible from set pieces.

akhhorus

07-18-2009, 09:35 AM

Those two Milan teams had a certain Marco Van Basten who scored 38 goals in 48 games. They were led by Capello, who'se dogma is to risk as little as possible, have really no offensive scheme, and just let the superstars take care of business un front.
Napoli obviously had Maradona, which helps, and 57 goals in 34 games is about 1.5 goals a game...not exactly this year's Barcelona. Same with Samp, who had Mancini and Vialli up front (and Boskov on the bench, who's not famous for being an offensive mastermind).
Lastly, that Inter team broke all kinds of record, so they are kind of an exception. However, they were led by Trapattoni, another guy who has made a career out of playing defensive football.

Seems like you're trying to make the rule the exception and the exception the rule lol

Historically, all the coaches (and teams) who have tried to really play offensive football have done pretty well, but have never consistently won anything.
Think of Zeman with Lazio and Roma, Eriksson with Roma first, then Sampdoria and Lazio, think of all the very good Parma teams that never managed to win the title, of Spalletti who has done great (and was robbed of a title) but in the end was only competitive one year with us (and obviously never with Udinese).
It's always been like that over here: if you want to win, build a rock solid defense, and have guys up front that will allow you to attack with as few men as possible and still produce goals, and get as many goals as possible from set pieces.

Generally yes, but thats like saying: "well, in the NFL since everyone has tried to build their offense around rushing the ball consistently, you can't point out how the running game had different stylistic eras." Yes, defensive soccer has been the italian style for probably as long as the Serie A has been in existence, but the current era of it that Juve and Inter have dominated since 1994 has been different in terms of style and was really started by Lippi. I think his influence in Italian soccer has been empathizing chemistry over tactics with his brand of 4-4-2 defensive soccer. And thats a much different type of style than what was usually played imo.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-18-2009, 10:52 AM

Seems like you're trying to make the rule the exception and the exception the rule lol

Generally yes, but thats like saying: "well, in the NFL since everyone has tried to build their offense around rushing the ball consistently, you can't point out how the running game had different stylistic eras." Yes, defensive soccer has been the italian style for probably as long as the Serie A has been in existence, but the current era of it that Juve and Inter have dominated since 1994 has been different in terms of style and was really started by Lippi. I think his influence in Italian soccer has been empathizing chemistry over tactics with his brand of 4-4-2 defensive soccer. And thats a much different type of style than what was usually played imo.
If you extend that to Capello, which started it a couple of years earlier, then we can agree. Certainly those two were much different from Sacchi in that regard. But you just can't leave Capello out, since he is the definition of chemistry over tactics (to the extent that he didn't even have a preferred scheme...he played 4-4-2 with Milan, 3-5-2 and 4-4-2 with us, 4-and random guys with Madrid) and of defensive soccer.

WarEagle

07-25-2009, 05:53 PM

Good Boston Globe article on Sunday's Milan vs Milan showdown at Gillette Stadium.

http://www.boston.com/sports/soccer/articles/2009/07/23/a_rivalry_for_the_ages/

SpicyMcHaggis

07-27-2009, 03:49 AM

Wow. I saw a few highlights of the Inter-Milan match, and Onyewu is gonna have to do MUCU better than that if he wants to play more than 3 games for Milan. He was absolutely embarassed by Milito on his first goal, and on that very same goal you can see why I was initially very dubious about the signing: he is painfully slow, and you can hide that on a team that plays strictly defensive football (the US national team in the Confederations Cup , or any of the lower-tier Serie A teams), but not on a team that plays offensive football (like Milan). You just cannot leave a player that slow in open space, which is exactly what happened on that first goal.
I get the feeling that he is almost the carbon-copy of Loria.

MONK_in_HOF

07-27-2009, 06:12 AM

SpicyMcHaggis

07-27-2009, 06:42 AM

He got beat like 10 minutes into his debut as well. I think it is more of a case of being slow brained than physically slow. Not that he is a burner by any means, but he is so hesitant in his play.

That is quite a terrible combination.
Look at the first goal. When, in the US Confederation Cup play, has he been "forced" to play right at the midfield line? In all the US games I've seen, it has basically never happened. There is an incredibly big difference between playing in the box for 90 minutes and having the nearest defender 3 yards to your left or right, and playing with no teammate within 15 yards.

MONK_in_HOF

07-27-2009, 08:31 AM

That is quite a terrible combination.
Look at the first goal. When, in the US Confederation Cup play, has he been "forced" to play right at the midfield line? In all the US games I've seen, it has basically never happened. There is an incredibly big difference between playing in the box for 90 minutes and having the nearest defender 3 yards to your left or right, and playing with no teammate within 15 yards.

No doubt about it. That is why I am hoping for the sake of the USNT he can learn something over in Italy about the nuances of defending and have it translate into confident play. IMO Gooch definitely has the strength, size and I think he has enough speed/quickness, he just seems confused and unsure way too often, which leads to terrible positioning. I don't think of players like Nesta and Maldini as being speedy players, but they are/were effective b/c they are extremely intelligent defenders who read the game well and know how to position themselves.

Still I don't think Milan necessarily have played a high line in the last couple years. They don't park the bus like underdog teams do, but I also haven't seen their fullbacks bombing down the flanks with regularity. Then again you would know better than I as there is no way I watch as much Serie A as you.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-27-2009, 09:08 AM

No doubt about it. That is why I am hoping for the sake of the USNT he can learn something over in Italy about the nuances of defending and have it translate into confident play. IMO Gooch definitely has the strength, size and I think he has enough speed/quickness, he just seems confused and unsure way too often, which leads to terrible positioning.

Strength and size definitely. Speed I'm not sure, quickness I have serious doubts. But the problem is that he has no margin for error. Milan fans, understandibly, are not happy AT ALL, and if he plays like he did yesterday, he either will face a shower of boos, or will sit on the bench. On that one play in which Milito scored, he committed at least 4 mistakes all at once. He was positioned terribly and didn't put Milito offsides, he was much slower than Milito in recovering his position, he didn't try and stop Milito before he got inside the penalty area but kept backpedaling until Milito was almost inside the keeper's box, and then got spun around but a really basic fake.
I can tell you one thing: fans and media over here, both of Milan and other teams, aren't exactly impressed so far. I'm hoping he does well, but I'm almost positive that he would have done himself a huge favor had he went and played for a team like Siena or Atalanta or Livorno.

I don't think of players like Nesta and Maldini as being speedy players, but they are/were effective b/c they are extremely intelligent defenders who read the game well and know how to position themselves.

Maldini, at Onyewu's age, was perhaps the fastest wingback in the world (other than being hands down the best). He was literally a train on the left sideline.
And Nesta has never had the speed of Roberto Carlos, but he was possibly the most talented CD I've seen in Serie A since Franco Baresi, and he was much faster and quicker than Onyewu seems to be.
The fact that Milan fans are used to seeing those types of defenders (well, not so much lately I'll admit..lol), means that Onyewu's gonna have to be a real quick learner.

Still I don't think Milan necessarily have played a high line in the last couple years. They don't park the bus like underdog teams do, but I also haven't seen their fullbacks bombing down the flanks with regularity. Then again you would know better than I as there is no way I watch as much Serie A as you.
I't not as much a matter of pushing your wingbacks or CDs up as it is of having a high center of gravity. If you attack, which Milan is forced to do when it faces inferior opponents, which means in 4 games out of 5, you HAVE to push your defenders up because you can't leave 20 or 30 yards between then and the midfielders. That would be a tactical suicide because every team would massacre you with counterattacks. That is why Onyewu is a terrible fit with Milan.

dj_stouty

07-27-2009, 09:24 AM

MONK_in_HOF

07-27-2009, 09:41 AM

I't not as much a matter of pushing your wingbacks or CDs up as it is of having a high center of gravity. If you attack, which Milan is forced to do when it faces inferior opponents, which means in 4 games out of 5, you HAVE to push your defenders up because you can't leave 20 or 30 yards between then and the midfielders. That would be a tactical suicide because every team would massacre you with counterattacks. That is why Onyewu is a terrible fit with Milan.

True that it isn't all about surging fullbacks, but I haven't seen Milan playing a high line recently as compared to other big teams. But that is b/c I don't watch Milan when they play the Bologna's and Napoli's. I rarely see smaller teams in any league press up and have a go at the big clubs. Rather those teams try to park the bus and play counter attack all game. I mainly only see Milan in the big Serie A games and Europe, so I am sure their approach is much more reserved when they play Inter or (insert big club) instead of the small fish clubs, many of whom are just trying to avoid relegation and have only come for 1 point. However in the big games over the past couple years I haven't seen Milan push up really high. I assumed this was due to their aging D and holding players. Also I was referring to Maldini's lack of pace during the last couple seasons, not over his entire career. Should have specified that.

Gooch really couldn't have had a worse start. I imagine he will be an expert at splinter removal barring numerous injuries to Milan. They still have time to loan him out.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-27-2009, 11:18 AM

I'm hoping it was just nerves as he must be feeling a tremendous amount of pressure right now. Playing for AC Milan against powerhouses like Chelsea and Inter is quite different than the competition he faced in the Belgium leagues. Luckily, the World Football Challenge is just a friendly tournament. I think he is a sound defender who will adapt the best he can but you have assume it won't take place overnight; which wont' please the AC Milan supporters.

I don't think we can write-off the Onyewu experiment just yet...
Absolutely not. But the kind of player that he is is pretty clear, and his physical and technical characteristics would be a much better fit in a different situation IMO.
Having said that, it's not impossible for him to suceed. He just has to improve his play and be mentally very strong.

True that it isn't all about surging fullbacks, but I haven't seen Milan playing a high line recently as compared to other big teams. But that is b/c I don't watch Milan when they play the Bologna's and Napoli's. I rarely see smaller teams in any league press up and have a go at the big clubs. Rather those teams try to park the bus and play counter attack all game. I mainly only see Milan in the big Serie A games and Europe, so I am sure their approach is much more reserved when they play Inter or (insert big club) instead of the small fish clubs, many of whom are just trying to avoid relegation and have only come for 1 point. However in the big games over the past couple years I haven't seen Milan push up really high. I assumed this was due to their aging D and holding players. Also I was referring to Maldini's lack of pace during the last couple seasons, not over his entire career. Should have specified that.

Gooch really couldn't have had a worse start. I imagine he will be an expert at splinter removal barring numerous injuries to Milan. They still have time to loan him out.
Well, right now, with Nesta and Kaldze all but sure things, and Favalli on the verge of turning 60, it's basically him and Tiago Silva, so he probably will get quite a lot of playing time early. If he can avoid huge mistakes, he might work his way into the starting lineup on a steady basis.

akhhorus

07-27-2009, 12:29 PM

BigCountry

07-27-2009, 12:33 PM

I saw most the first half of that game, I didn't think Gooch was responsible for Milito's goal(I thought Zambrotta screwed up more on it by letting himself get way out of position that close to goal). He generally looked decent, Milan's not going to be a good team though.

I thought it was Kalac's fault. It wasn't the best piece of defending I've ever seen but he did leave a favorable angle for the goalie.

akhhorus

07-27-2009, 12:37 PM

I thought it was Kalac's fault. It wasn't the best piece of defending I've ever seen but he did leave a favorable angle for the goalie.

I wasn't sure who it was next to gooch, but I thought Gooch did the right thing and try to cut off the center.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-27-2009, 01:16 PM

I thought it was Kalac's fault. It wasn't the best piece of defending I've ever seen but he did leave a favorable angle for the goalie.
Kalac could/should have saved it, but there is no way Milito should have been allowed to shoot from 4 yards completely uncontested.
Also, Kalac sucks.
I wasn't sure who it was next to gooch, but I thought Gooch did the right thing and try to cut off the center.
From the highlight, it was Tiago Silva who was trying desperately to recover after Gooch got spun around. But at that point, he had already screwed up at least 3 times, which I listed earlier (bad positioning for the offsides..or, more correctly, bad timing in recognizing the play..backpedaling into Kalac's lap, getting spun around).
The main flaw you can see from that play, and that may be just the fact that it was his first "important" game with Milan, is that he was playing afraid. In that situation, once Milito has the ball and you have caught up to him, you have to either stand your ground or try to go for the tackle (but only the best defenders have the confidence to try that). But you can't defend him from 2 yards away when you are 5 yards from the keeper.

akhhorus

07-27-2009, 01:27 PM

From the highlight, it was Tiago Silva who was trying desperately to recover after Gooch got spun around. But at that point, he had already screwed up at least 3 times, which I listed earlier (bad positioning for the offsides..or, more correctly, bad timing in recognizing the play..backpedaling into Kalac's lap, getting spun around).
The main flaw you can see from that play, and that may be just the fact that it was his first "important" game with Milan, is that he was playing afraid. In that situation, once Milito has the ball and you have caught up to him, you have to either stand your ground or try to go for the tackle (but only the best defenders have the confidence to try that). But you can't defend him from 2 yards away when you are 5 yards from the keeper.

And he looked fine the rest of the game and looked fine against Club America. Gooch could have done much more on that play, but it looks like Silva was the one to blame for the goal. He's the closest to Milito, and was for awhile before milito shot.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-27-2009, 06:38 PM

Andrea Dossena is apparently close to moving back to the Serie A. Napoli has offered 4.5 million, and the deal seems very close to being done.

dj_stouty

07-28-2009, 08:22 AM

Andrea Dossena is apparently close to moving back to the Serie A. Napoli has offered 4.5 million, and the deal seems very close to being done.

Dossena never seemed able to crack the starting lineup with Rafa but he was certainly key in coming off the bench.

Arbeloa is also close to leaving Anfield for Real Madrid.

Seems like the Liverpool defensive overhaul is still in production...

MONK_in_HOF

07-28-2009, 08:39 AM

dj_stouty

07-28-2009, 08:53 AM

Glen Johnson should provide an upgrade over Arbeloa anyhow. Liverpool's main concern should be Xabi Alonso. IMO he was their best player last season and if he leaves I don't know who they could adequately replace him with.

Agreed. Johnson is certainly better than Arbeloa...but I always thought Fabio Aurelio was the weak link on that defense. Aside from being great at set pieces, I always felt he was a liability. He will probably fight with Insua for that left back spot. Sounds like Rafa is ok with Johnson, Carragher, Agger/Škrtel and Aurelio/Insua next season. I can live with that...

But yes, losing Alonso would be a huge hit. You could see the difference in play for this squad when Alonso was in or out of the lineup; it was almost night and day. He won't ever impress you on the stat sheet but he is an excellent technician who quietly sets up plays and easily gets their counter attack moving. Plus he has big foot as well. If they lose him and simply promote Lucas then there will be a huge dropoff. My guess is that they would use part of that 30m transfer fee to bring in a replacement. (I hope)

Now...if they lose Alonso AND Mascherano, they will be in big trouble and could easily fall out of the big 4. I'm content with the overall makeup of this team moving forward, but if they lose both Alonso and Mascher it will be devestating.

dj_stouty

07-29-2009, 11:04 AM

Arbeloa is officially gone. Just as well, since Glen Johnson will be the starter at Right Back and Degan (if healthy) will be good depth at the position. Dossena is up next...and Alonso may very well be at Real Madrid before the weekend begins. Shame; but hopefully Liverpool will actually use that 30M on a replacement instead of sitting on it like another EPL team I know...

Looks like Crouch is off to Hot Spurs. I hope he doesn't enjoy drinking too much. lol

Having re-watched the first half of Inter/AC Milan, I agree with Akh that Gooch really did step up his play after helping allow the early goal. He cleared a bunch of balls from the box and on a few occasions helped lure Inter offsides.

Other thoughts on the game:
* Pato is shaping up to be a special player. Its hard to believe he is still a teenager.
* Speaking of awesome teens; Balotelli looks great as well.
* I'm pretty certain Gattuso has never smiled once in his life. He wears his mean scowl with pride. lol
* Maicon is so much fun to watch. Sometimes you forget he plays defense. I wish he played for Liverpool.
* Overall, I think the World Football Challenge was a huge success. They had a few hundred thousand people attend the games the past 2 weeks. I'd love to see this each year; assuming they mix it up. It would be fun to watch a grouping such as Liverpool, Porto, Bayern, Barca....etc for next time...

Edit: speaking of 4-teamed tournaments...the Audi Cup starts in 30 minutes with ManU, Bayern, Milan and Boca Juniors.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-29-2009, 11:33 AM

Other thoughts on the game:
* Pato is shaping up to be a special player. Its hard to believe he is still a teenager.
If he stays his entire career at Milan (which he won't) he could become one of the 3 top scorers in Serie A history.

* Speaking of awesome teens; Balotelli looks great as well.

Best 18 or under player on the planet. Having said that, I hate him with a passion, and would love to see him fail miserably.

* I'm pretty certain Gattuso has never smiled once in his life. He wears his mean scowl with pride. lol

He apparently is a pretty nice guy off the field.

* Maicon is so much fun to watch. Sometimes you forget he plays defense. I wish he played for Liverpool.

Best right wingback in the world by a mile. Harry Potter said it well yesterday: The top 4-5 strikers in the world are more or less on the same level, but the second-best wingback is MUCH worse than Maicon.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-29-2009, 11:39 AM

LMAO!

Ok, schedule is out for the Serie A. Check out Roma's first 8 weeks (home, AWAY):

1)GENOA
2)Juve
3)SIENA
4)Fiorentina
5)PALERMO
6)CATANIA
7)Napoli
8)MILAN

There is MAYBE one relatively easy game among those (Roma-Napoli). Maybe.
We have the slight advantage of having begun the season early, so we might be in better form than most other teams, but as of now we have huge injury problems, and the bottom line is that those first 8 weeks could kill our season.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-29-2009, 03:15 PM

dj_stouty

07-29-2009, 03:22 PM

Kolo Tourè to Manchester City.

Mmmhhh...I have to say...I'm not entirely convinced City has a real plan, but if they keep this up, and start buying good players that are not forwards or strikers, they'll have a tough time not finishing 4th in the PL.

Agreed. You have to assume Arsenal is looking over their shoulder right now. And if Liverpool loses Alonso and/or Mascherano then they should also be concerned as well. ManU still has a solid squad overall; but they need to address the vast amount of goals that walked out the door when Tevez/Ronaldo left this season. Chelsea is still strong and should contend well this year...

Should make for an interestign season. August can't get here soon enough!

SpicyMcHaggis

07-29-2009, 03:27 PM

Agreed. You have to assume Arsenal is looking over their shoulder right now. And if Liverpool loses Alonso and/or Mascherano then they should also be concerned as well. ManU still has a solid squad overall; but they need to address the vast amount of goals that walked out the door when Tevez/Ronaldo left this season. Chelsea is still strong and should contend well this year...

Should make for an interestign season. August can't get here soon enough!
I really have no idea what Arsenal is doing. They probably have a batch of 13 year olds ready to take over for all the top players they are selling, but man, they are losing players left and right. You have to wonder how long Fabregas will want to stick around with no chance whatsoever of winning anything.

akhhorus

07-29-2009, 03:35 PM

I really have no idea what Arsenal is doing. They probably have a batch of 13 year olds ready to take over for all the top players they are selling, but man, they are losing players left and right. You have to wonder how long Fabregas will want to stick around with no chance whatsoever of winning anything.

Its like Wenger is stuck in a version of the movie Saw: Jigsaw is constantly selling off your best players and replacing them with increasingly younger(and potential) stars who don't fit together. In order to get the antidote to the poison we injected into you, you have to stay in the Champions league every year.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-29-2009, 03:43 PM

Its like Wenger is stuck in a version of the movie Saw: Jigsaw is constantly selling off your best players and replacing them with increasingly younger(and potential) stars who don't fit together. In order to get the antidote to the poison we injected into you, you have to stay in the Champions league every year.
Well, he's been lucky so far that Arsenal has had virtually no competition for the 4th spot in the PL. But with City being able to spend 100 million euros in each transfer market, 4th place isn't such a sure thing anymore.

dj_stouty

07-29-2009, 03:43 PM

I really have no idea what Arsenal is doing. They probably have a batch of 13 year olds ready to take over for all the top players they are selling, but man, they are losing players left and right. You have to wonder how long Fabregas will want to stick around with no chance whatsoever of winning anything.

You have to imagine that Fabregas is jealous of all the money the Spanish teams are throwing around recently. I'll bet it isn't too long before he is in one of those jerseys...

akhhorus

07-29-2009, 03:56 PM

Well, he's been lucky so far that Arsenal has had virtually no competition for the 4th spot in the PL. But with City being able to spend 100 million euros in each transfer market, 4th place isn't such a sure thing anymore.

Agreed. It seems like Arsenal would be an ideal destination for the surplus players in Madrid, but they don't seem interested in guys like Huntlaar or Higuain.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-29-2009, 04:01 PM

Agreed. It seems like Arsenal would be an ideal destination for the surplus players in Madrid, but they don't seem interested in guys like Huntlaar or Higuain.
Are you kidding? Higuain is 21 years old....that's like ANCIENT by their standards...

akhhorus

07-29-2009, 04:02 PM

Are you kidding? Higuain is 21 years old....that's like ANCIENT by their standards...

To Catch a Predator: London edition lmao.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-29-2009, 04:17 PM

To Catch a Predator: London edition lmao.

rotflmao!!

MONK_in_HOF

07-29-2009, 04:37 PM

SpicyMcHaggis

07-29-2009, 06:05 PM

I think Chelsea walks with the PL year this season. The only thing I can see slowing them down is the African Cup of Nations when Essien and his cover Mikel will be gone.

As for Arsenal I think Fabregas goes to Barca next season, unless Wenger wises up buys some experienced players and they actually land a trophy. I would be shocked if Fabregas goes anywhere besides Barca.
I actually think Fabregas would be a much better fit with Real, considering that every time Fabregas has tried to play with Xavi, it's been a disaster.
No doubt about it though..it's either Barça or Real for him.

And after giving it some thought, I'm actually hoping Manchester City does well. Having 5 competitive teams in the PL will just add more excitement, and, considering that the Serie A and the Liga are two-team affairs for the foreseeable future, that's definitely a good thing.

dj_stouty

07-30-2009, 09:08 AM

Apparently Alonso turned in his official transfer request to Rafa yesterday. That doesn't make his move a lock; but it is looking more apparent every day. Seems like Real and Rafa are stalled over the bid of 25M and 30M...but this will be over by the weekend. Rafa is interested in Cattermole from Wigan; but the guy is young and racks up way to many cards for my tastes. We will see...

On another pleasant note; Mascher reiterated that he wants to leave as well. The Liverpool mid-field looks like it will be gutted, folks. Thank GOD I held off on buying the Mascherano jersey this summer!

Monk - I'm starting to agree that this is Chelsea's season for the taking. ManU, Pool and Arsenal have all lost (or are in the midst of losing) big talent and have not brought in the proper talent to balance it out. And who knows...maybe City has enough talent (on paper) to make a serious push.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-30-2009, 09:17 AM

In other news, Roma's season officially begins tonight.

I'm actually a little torn here...I'm excited to finally see a meaningful game played by my team, but I know that I will be beyond depressed after I see the starting 11, and I will be borderline homicidal if by any chance the cameras catch Rosella Sensi in the stands.

BigCountry

07-30-2009, 12:14 PM

akhhorus

07-30-2009, 12:19 PM

Chelsea aren't walking away with anything. Liverpool and United may be losing some big names but we're talking about two managers with strong personalities and both their teams are built accordingly. Chelsea could win it, but I promise you they're not walking away with it.

+1

Carlo couldn't handle the balancing act of an actively involved ownership and a roster full of divas in Milan, I wouldn't count on him handling it in Chelski.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-30-2009, 02:46 PM

+1

Carlo couldn't handle the balancing act of an actively involved ownership and a roster full of divas in Milan, I wouldn't count on him handling it in Chelski.

Uhm, he did win two Champions Leagues, lost another one in the penalty shootout, and won one scudetto.

I'd gladly take that! ;)

akhhorus

07-30-2009, 03:00 PM

Uhm, he did win two Champions Leagues, lost another one in the penalty shootout, and won one scudetto.

I'd gladly take that! ;)

And what have they done lately with Silvo's all star fundraisers for his barely legal hooker habit? 3rd(not in the CL), 5th(not in the CL), 4th(didn't make it out of the CL group stages). With all the talent they've had, they should be contending year in and year out.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-30-2009, 03:51 PM

And what have they done lately with Silvo's all star fundraisers for his barely legal hooker habit? 3rd(not in the CL), 5th(not in the CL), 4th(didn't make it out of the CL group stages). With all the talent they've had, they should be contending year in and year out.

Compare their roster up until last year with Inter, Chelsea, Manchester, Barça, Liverpool...I think Ancelotti did a miraculous job.

dj_stouty

07-30-2009, 04:03 PM

Bayern over ManU in penalty kicks at the Audi Cup. Its always fun to watch them lose even in the preseason...

akhhorus

07-30-2009, 04:07 PM

Compare their roster up until last year with Inter, Chelsea, Manchester, Barça, Liverpool...I think Ancelotti did a miraculous job.

They still had more than enough talent to finish better than 3rd or 4th in the Serie A. The 07/08 Milan had Ronaldo, Kaka, Pato, Pirlo, Gilardino, Nesta, Maldini, Dida, Gattuso, Inzaghi, and Kaladze(among others) and they still finished 5th in the Serie A behind Fiorentina and a rebuilding Juventus. Thats not the hallmark of a good coach. Thats the hallmark of a coach in over his head.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-30-2009, 04:22 PM

They still had more than enough talent to finish better than 3rd or 4th in the Serie A. The 07/08 Milan had Ronaldo, Kaka, Pato, Pirlo, Gilardino, Nesta, Maldini, Dida, Gattuso, Inzaghi, and Kaladze(among others) and they still finished 5th in the Serie A behind Fiorentina and a rebuilding Juventus. Thats not the hallmark of a good coach. Thats the hallmark of a coach in over his head.

Nope, that's the hallmark of a coach that has had enough of nobody listening to his requests, and having to build a team with a bunch of ex-players (Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Maldini, Nesta), and a bunch of guys who didn't care anymore (Kaka).
Out of that list:
- Ronaldo played 6 games
- Pato only joined the team at midseason and consequently played only 18 games (and was 17 years old)
- Kaka had basically quit on the team after winning them the CL the year before
- Nesta was, and still is, completely broken down
- Maldini was 40 years old
- Dida had regressed to the point where he lost his job and played 13 games all season
- Kaladze: see Nesta
- Inzaghi played half the games (and was 34 years old)

You just can't build a team out of guys like that. He had to play an entire season with maybe 3 dependable guys on the entire roster (Pirlo, Seedorf, and Gattuso).
There is absolutely no doubt that Ancelotti is a fantastic coach. If I were to choose any coach in the world for my team, right now he would definitely be among my top 3 choices.

akhhorus

07-30-2009, 04:29 PM

Nope, that's the hallmark of a coach that has had enough of nobody listening to his requests, and having to build a team with a bunch of ex-players (Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Maldini, Nesta), and a bunch of guys who didn't care anymore (Kaka).

And how will his situation be different in Chelski? lmao

Out of that list:
- Ronaldo played 6 games
- Pato only joined the team at midseason and consequently played only 18 games (and was 17 years old)
- Kaka had basically quit on the team after winning them the CL the year before
- Nesta was, and still is, completely broken down
- Maldini was 40 years old
- Dida had regressed to the point where he lost his job and played 13 games all season
- Kaladze: see Nesta
- Inzaghi played half the games (and was 34 years old)

You just can't build a team out of guys like that. He had to play an entire season with maybe 3 dependable guys on the entire roster (Pirlo, Seedorf, and Gattuso).

Thats still a better team than Fiorentina, who had Mutu, the Corpse of Christian Vieri and not much else lol. On sheer pride/talent, they should have beaten Fiorentina that year.

There is absolutely no doubt that Ancelotti is a fantastic coach. If I were to choose any coach in the world for my team, right now he would definitely be among my top 3 choices.

I can think of 7-9 guys I'd rather have(Ferguson, Mourinho, Guardiola, Scolari, Hiddick, Wenger, Lippi, Spaletti and Capello).

SpicyMcHaggis

07-30-2009, 04:50 PM

And how will his situation be different in Chelski? lmao

Not much, but they will definitely be more motivated, at least initially.

Thats still a better team than Fiorentina, who had Mutu, the Corpse of Christian Vieri and not much else lol. On sheer pride/talent, they should have beaten Fiorentina that year.

On paper, yeah, but not by much. When you factor in the whole circus, no.
And even if we agree that he failed that year, that would still be a ratio of one bad year out of 5. I would definitely take that.

I can think of 7-9 guys I'd rather have(Ferguson, Mourinho, Guardiola, Scolari, Hiddick, Wenger, Lippi, Spaletti and Capello).
Spalletti? No way. He has done miracles here and with Udinese, but you can't compare that with what Ancelotti has done (and you know how highly I rate Spalletti).
Guardiola? Not yet. He has coached for one year, and had the best striker on the planet, a guy that will go down in history as one of the best 10 players ever (if not higher), plus Henry, Xavi, Iniesta, etc. etc. etc.
Scolari DEFINITELY not unless you own a team in Brazil or you want to run a team full of Brazilians.
Lippi no unless you are allowed to juice your players, control the transfer market, and buy refs.
Ferguson yes.
Hiddink maybe.
Capello yes if you don't care about the Champions League.
Mourinho maybe (I'll get back to you after this season).
Wenger yes if you want to raise young talent, no if you actually want to win something.

akhhorus

07-30-2009, 04:54 PM

Not much, but they will definitely be more motivated, at least initially.

But this has been Chelski's major problem: the players know the coach is optional to Abram, so they tune out the coach a lot. Not much should change for Carlo. They'll listen to him early, then do what they did to Harry Potter, Scolari and Avram Grant: start ignoring him. Chelski still has no leadership.

On paper, yeah, but not by much. When you factor in the whole circus, no.
And even if we agree that he failed that year, that would still be a ratio of one bad year out of 5. I would definitely take that.

And last year. And 06/07. He was good. Past tense.

Spalletti? No way. He has done miracles here and with Udinese, but you can't compare that with what Ancelotti has done (and you know how highly I rate Spalletti).
Guardiola? Not yet. He has coached for one year, and had the best striker on the planet, a guy that will go down in history as one of the best 10 players ever (if not higher), plus Henry, Xavi, Iniesta, etc. etc. etc.
Scolari DEFINITELY not unless you own a team in Brazil or you want to run a team full of Brazilians.
Lippi no unless you are allowed to juice your players, control the transfer market, and buy refs.
Ferguson yes.
Hiddink maybe.
Capello yes if you don't care about the Champions League.
Mourinho maybe (I'll get back to you after this season).
Wenger yes if you want to raise young talent, no if you actually want to win something.

I stand by my list. Guardiola took an underachieving roster and got them a CL win. He would have been perfect for Chelski.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-30-2009, 05:12 PM

But this has been Chelski's major problem: the players know the coach is optional to Abram, so they tune out the coach a lot. Not much should change for Carlo. They'll listen to him early, then do what they did to Harry Potter, Scolari and Avram Grant: start ignoring him. Chelski still has no leadership.

I think the only one they really tuned out was Scolari. When Mourinho left, I got the impression that the team leaders (Lampard, Terry, Drogba) were on his side. Harry's problem was with Abrahmovic, if I recall correctly.
And once again, Chelsea's main problem has been that they missed one penalty kick, and that Iniesta found a random super goal in the 92nd minute. If you change those two small details, you have one CL and another final at least.

And last year. And 06/07. He was good. Past tense.

You mean 2006/2007? The year they won the Champions League? ;)
And IMO second place (along with Juve) last year was exactly where they should have finished. You can't expect to compete for the title when your owner is forcing Ronaldinho down your throat, when he buys Shevchenko for no apparent reason, and when your two starting CD are Maldini and Favalli (two wingbacks who are a combined 80 years old).

I stand by my list. Guardiola took an underachieving roster and got them a CL win. He would have been perfect for Chelski.
Very true. That's why I said not yet. But it's undeniable that he had a monster team. But I don't agree that he would have been perfect for Chelsea. He would have had to change 3/4 of the roster to propose his style of play.

akhhorus

07-30-2009, 05:21 PM

I think the only one they really tuned out was Scolari. When Mourinho left, I got the impression that the team leaders (Lampard, Terry, Drogba) were on his side. Harry's problem was with Abrahmovic, if I recall correctly.
And once again, Chelsea's main problem has been that they missed one penalty kick, and that Iniesta found a random super goal in the 92nd minute. If you change those two small details, you have one CL and another final at least.

But they have so much talent that it shouldn't come down to a play or two either way. Their backups could finish 2nd as their own team in the PL. Chelski shouldn't have any competition for any title they go for, yet they struggle to win anything. The players hated Scolari, ignored Grant and Harry Potter saw the writing on the wall before it got ugly. I doubt Carlo will be an improvement. They need a coach who just won't put up with Terry, Ballack, Droghba, etc. Like Guardola lol.

You mean 2006/2007? The year they won the Champions League? ;)

Doh! lol. Thats still 2 straight bad seasons for them(and crappy CL appearances if they made it). They were a total embarrassment last year because the roster tuned him out. I don't see how going to Chelski will change that issue.

And IMO second place (along with Juve) last year was exactly where they should have finished. You can't expect to compete for the title when your owner is forcing Ronaldinho down your throat, when he buys Shevchenko for no apparent reason, and when your two starting CD are Maldini and Favalli (two wingbacks who are a combined 80 years old).

I remember an interview with Don Shula and they asked him how he went from a power running team in the 70s to a pass happy attack with Marino in the 80s and he said that a great coach can find a way to win with what players he has at his disposal at the time.

Very true. That's why I said not yet. But it's undeniable that he had a monster team. But I don't agree that he would have been perfect for Chelsea. He would have had to change 3/4 of the roster to propose his style of play.

Thats not a barrier for Chelski.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-30-2009, 05:38 PM

I remember an interview with Don Shula and they asked him how he went from a power running team in the 70s to a pass happy attack with Marino in the 80s and he said that a great coach can find a way to win with what players he has at his disposal at the time.

Well, that was Don Shula, who had the best pure passer in the history of the NFL (and how many Super Bowls did he actually win with that pass happy attack?). We are talking about a guy who had literally a circus to coach. There is absolutely no way he could have done more than what he did last year (and he only finished 10 points behind Inter).
And in terms of finding a way to win with the players he had, Ancelloti came over here and played a hell of a game against us last year with the following lineup:
Abbiati
Jankulowski
Maldini
Favalli
Zambrotta
Pirlo
Beckham
Seedorf
Kaka
Ronaldinho
Pato

That's 4 wingbacks (who are a combined 150 years old), a career backup keeper, 1 playmaker, 3 attacking midfielders, one fat man, and one 19 year old forward. Not the most conventional lineup I'd say. But you can pull off a miracle for one or two or three games, not for a whole season.

akhhorus

07-30-2009, 06:03 PM

Well, that was Don Shula, who had the best pure passer in the history of the NFL (and how many Super Bowls did he actually win with that pass happy attack?). We are talking about a guy who had literally a circus to coach. There is absolutely no way he could have done more than what he did last year (and he only finished 10 points behind Inter).

And how is the circus going to be smaller in Chelski? If anything, it will be bigger! If Carlio couldn't handle Ronaldinho, Kaka, et al..how are Droghba, Ballack, Terry, Malouda, etc etc going to be easier for him?

And in terms of finding a way to win with the players he had, Ancelloti came over here and played a hell of a game against us last year with the following lineup:
Abbiati
Jankulowski
Maldini
Favalli
Zambrotta
Pirlo
Beckham
Seedorf
Kaka
Ronaldinho
Pato

That's 4 wingbacks (who are a combined 150 years old), a career backup keeper, 1 playmaker, 3 attacking midfielders, one fat man, and one 19 year old forward. Not the most conventional lineup I'd say. But you can pull off a miracle for one or two or three games, not for a whole season.

Any team that has Beckham, Pato, Kaka and Pirlo is a dangerous team--regardless if the other 7 players are in wheelchairs lol(actually putting half of the rest of those guys in wheelchairs might help lol). And if in the event that Carlo was suffering through bad players, its easy enough to bench certain guys for a squad you know will work. And if the problem is that Carlo was being undermined by Silvio and forced to play a bunch of losers(not stipulating to that), then how will he deal with Abramovich in London?

BigCountry

07-30-2009, 06:18 PM

I just think that the players remaining at Chelsea who were thought to be the key cogs in their success, I.E Lampard and Terry, are a little overrated, and the absence of Makelele, Robben, a healthy Joe Cole and Petr Chech (the two years he was nothing short of superhuman) was overlooked. They're simply not as good as they were under Mourinho.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-31-2009, 01:59 AM

Any team that has Beckham, Pato, Kaka and Pirlo is a dangerous team--regardless if the other 7 players are in wheelchairs lol(actually putting half of the rest of those guys in wheelchairs might help lol). And if in the event that Carlo was suffering through bad players, its easy enough to bench certain guys for a squad you know will work. And if the problem is that Carlo was being undermined by Silvio and forced to play a bunch of losers(not stipulating to that), then how will he deal with Abramovich in London?
And play who? Shevchenko? Nesta? Flamini? Borriello was the only proper striker he had, and he was injured the whole season. Gattuso was out for months. He had nobody else, and still came within 10 points of Harry Potter's team.

akhhorus

07-31-2009, 08:55 AM

And play who? Shevchenko? Nesta? Flamini? Borriello was the only proper striker he had, and he was injured the whole season. Gattuso was out for months. He had nobody else, and still came within 10 points of Harry Potter's team.

He did have Beckham, Kaka, Pato and Pirlo. I don't think you can say that he cobbled together a great season despite having little talent.

SpicyMcHaggis

07-31-2009, 09:45 AM

He did have Beckham, Kaka, Pato and Pirlo. I don't think you can say that he cobbled together a great season despite having little talent.

Remove that avatar IMMEDIATELY.

dj_stouty

08-03-2009, 09:15 AM

Hearing Alonso to Real for 27.2M is all but a done deal. Rafa was going to stick to his guns at 30M but Alonso has promoted his desire to leave and that killed Rafa's last bargining chip.

Rumors say that Rafa is interested in Alberto Aquilani from Roma. I don't know much about him other than that he is/was a solid player who has been hurt most of the last season. Spicy - any info on him to share?

dj_stouty

08-04-2009, 10:02 AM

Small blurb on Soccernet that says Jose Altiodore is fielding offers from Hull City and Fulham. It would be great to see him in the EPL. Fulham probably has the best shot; seeing their history of signing Americans. Plus, I like the idea of Jose pairing back up with NT buddy Dempsey.

fent

08-04-2009, 12:00 PM

dj_stouty

08-04-2009, 12:20 PM

who? ;)

You haven't hear of Jose Altiodore? He is the stud reserve keeper for the Hartford Deer Ticks. The dude is da bomb...

dj_stouty

08-04-2009, 01:20 PM

It's official, pending a physical.

Link (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=665148&sec=transfers&cc=5901)

Looks like Rafa's decision to hold tight to the 30M valuation worked; as that is the rumored amount they will pay.

Looks like an approximate 18M deal for Aquilani could happen momentarily as Alonso's replacement. Any of your Serie A folks have an opinion on him?

BigCountry

08-04-2009, 01:25 PM

In other news, Sir Alex Ferguson is still a cheapskate.

dj_stouty

08-04-2009, 01:31 PM

In other news, Sir Alex Ferguson is still a cheapskate.

LMAO. He has the money to get just about anyone he wants; minus Ribery since Bayern wants something astronomical like 90+ million for the guy. Do they really think they have right footballers in place; or is saving money the main factor here?

That midfield still needs to be addressed...and I don't think adding Valencia is the solution to the problem.

MONK_in_HOF

08-04-2009, 01:55 PM

In other news, Sir Alex Ferguson is still a cheapskate.

Regardless of how much money they rake in per year they still have a sizeable debt to pay down. Since their club isn't resourced by oil or government funds it might be wise to hold off in this inflated window considering the economic climate. He has proven in the past not to be a cheapskate.

Chelsea are the favorites in my book, but ManU, even without C Ron, are still the team that should give them the toughest fight, as things stand now. (Not that I am really going out on a limb w/ that prediction)

dj_stouty

08-04-2009, 02:10 PM

Regardless of how much money they rake in per year they still have a sizeable debt to pay down. Since their club isn't resourced by oil or government funds it might be wise to hold off in this inflated window considering the economic climate. He has proven in the past not to be a cheapskate.

Chelsea are the favorites in my book, but ManU, even without C Ron, are still the team that should give them the toughest fight, as things stand now. (Not that I am really going out on a limb w/ that prediction)

Liverpool is also in a similar situation and recently had to have their debt re-financed. If there was no financial crisis, its safe to say that David Villa would have been donning the Liverpool kit over a month ago.

Agreed about Chelsea being the favorites. Had Liverpool held onto Alonso; and added a Silva or Villa to go along with the Glen Johnson addition then I think they could have been seen as the favorites. Too many questionmarks right now to believe they are serious contenders.

And I'm still not sold on ManU being a contender. I'm in a wait-and-see mode with them.

akhhorus

08-04-2009, 02:12 PM

dj_stouty

08-04-2009, 03:38 PM

Talented, but gets hurt a lot. From what I understand, Juve was 99.9% committed to getting him, until they gave him a physical and passed.

Speaking of Juve...now there are rumors that Rafa is going after Christian Poulsen. Looks like Alonso's replacement will be him or Aquilani.

AND...AC Milan is looking to pony up 30M for Fabregas from Arsenal. If he goes, that team has no where to go but DOWN...

akhhorus

08-04-2009, 03:47 PM

Speaking of Juve...now there are rumors that Rafa is going after Christian Poulsen. Looks like Alonso's replacement will be him or Aquilani.

Thats like saying I'm going to replace Clinton Portis with either Maurice Jones-Drew or JJ Arrington lol.

BigCountry

08-04-2009, 09:54 PM

LMAO. He has the money to get just about anyone he wants; minus Ribery since Bayern wants something astronomical like 90+ million for the guy. Do they really think they have right footballers in place; or is saving money the main factor here?

That midfield still needs to be addressed...and I don't think adding Valencia is the solution to the problem.

I think Valencia will turn out to be a find. He has Park's work rate but unlike Park him doesn't need 30 yards to stop a ball and could probably dribble past a cone. I can't believe that after the CL final they're happy with the midfield.

dj_stouty

08-05-2009, 07:17 AM

Thats like saying I'm going to replace Clinton Portis with either Maurice Jones-Drew or JJ Arrington lol.

Being that I don't know squat about Poulsen or Aquilani...would you please enlighten me on which is MJD and which is JJ? lol

And where is Spicy? I need my Insider from Rome right now! Is this the week he was headed to Ireland?

dj_stouty

08-05-2009, 07:51 AM

Check out Real Madrid's spending spree...

• Cristiano Ronaldo - £80m
• Kaka - £56m
• Karim Benzema - £35m
• Xabi Alonso - £30m (TBC)
• Raul Albiol - £12.7m
• Alvaro Negredo - £4.2m
• Alvaro Arbeloa - £3.5m
• Esteban Granero - £3.4m

• Total: £224.8m

That is about 380M in US dollars...

akhhorus

08-05-2009, 08:12 AM

dj_stouty

08-05-2009, 08:17 AM

Poulsen is JJ Arrington, Aquilani is MJD.

I figured that...but I didn't want to assume and look like an idiot. lol. Looks like Aquilani for 18M is close to being done.

In other news, Van der Sar had an operation on his finger and is out 8 weeks. This means he will miss all games in Aug/Sept...including 2 important ones versus Arsenal and City.

akhhorus

08-05-2009, 08:42 AM

I figured that...but I didn't want to assume and look like an idiot. lol. Looks like Aquilani for 18M is close to being done.

In other news, Van der Sar had an operation on his finger and is out 8 weeks. This means he will miss all games in Aug/Sept...including 2 important ones versus Arsenal and City.

You'll love Aquilani....

....for the 15 games a year he plays lol.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-05-2009, 12:15 PM

Being that I don't know squat about Poulsen or Aquilani...would you please enlighten me on which is MJD and which is JJ? lol

And where is Spicy? I need my Insider from Rome right now! Is this the week he was headed to Ireland?

Nope, I was at a friend's house in Umbria for the last couple of days. But I'm back!! lol!

Regarding Aquilani, it's pretty simple: great player when healthy, but so far he has rarely been healhy (he has 100 caps in Serie A at age 25, and has played a total of 60 games in the last 3 years...DeRossi, for example, has 188 at age 26 and 150 total in the last 3 years). If you guys can avoid the yearly 4 month injury, you'll have a great player. If not, you'll be extremely frustrated.
Strenghts: playmaking, great long shot (see Real-Roma from a couple of yeras back), great confidence when he can play at least 10 games in a row, in general he's a great midfielder (he's 100% sure of a starting spot on the NT if he can stay healthy).
Weaknesses: he's made out of glass, and isn't particulary fond of sitting on the bench.

On a more personal note, dear Rosella, I don't know exactly what the worst thing I can wish upon you and your family is in this forum, but whatever it is, I wish you a million times worse. I hope one day to be able to have the satisfaction of seeing you beg for money on the corner of a street.
You are single-handedly destroying our team. Oh, and you are now officially a liar, because just last year you swore that Aquilani, Totti, and DeRossi would never have been sold until the Sensi family was in charge.

Edit: forgot one important thing...Good Luck to Alberto Aquilani, a great player and a huge Roma fan, who was forced to leave the city and team he loved. I hope he wins the CL.

dj_stouty

08-05-2009, 01:03 PM

Nope, I was at a friend's house in Umbria for the last couple of days. But I'm back!! lol!

Regarding Aquilani, it's pretty simple: great player when healthy, but so far he has rarely been healhy (he has 100 caps in Serie A at age 25, and has played a total of 60 games in the last 3 years...DeRossi, for example, has 188 at age 26 and 150 total in the last 3 years). If you guys can avoid the yearly 4 month injury, you'll have a great player. If not, you'll be extremely frustrated.
Strenghts: playmaking, great long shot (see Real-Roma from a couple of yeras back), great confidence when he can play at least 10 games in a row, in general he's a great midfielder (he's 100% sure of a starting spot on the NT if he can stay healthy).
Weaknesses: he's made out of glass, and isn't particulary fond of sitting on the bench.

On a more personal note, dear Rosella, I don't know exactly what the worst thing I can wish upon you and your family is in this forum, but whatever it is, I wish you a million times worse. I hope one day to be able to have the satisfaction of seeing you beg for money on the corner of a street.
You are single-handedly destroying our team. Oh, and you are now officially a liar, because just last year you swore that Aquilani, Totti, and DeRossi would never have been sold until the Sensi family was in charge.

Edit: forgot one important thing...Good Luck to Alberto Aquilani, a great player and a huge Roma fan, who was forced to leave the city and team he loved. I hope he wins the CL.

Thanks for the inside info! Hope you had a great time in Umbria. If I'm correct; I believe that is one of the best places on earth that produces truffles. Yum.

Reports say the deal is done pending a physical in the neighborhood of 20M. I'm glad to hear that he is a solid playmaker and has a big shot. Those were both of Alonso's biggest qualities. Xabi never scored many goals (only 9 in EPL over last 3 seaons) so it wasn't acquiring more goals that was my issue; it was obtaining a guy who can own the middle of the field and delegate the ball with ease and innovation. I hope Alberto is that guy. I guess trading Spain's NT starting Midfielder for Italy's NT starting midfielder isn't a bad deal.

His health is a big issue with the Liverpool fanbase right now. He was certainly NOT brought in under the assumption that he will miss 4 months a season. lol. I guess Rafa is assuming his form is in top shape right now and that his injury past is behind him. I'm crossing my fingers.

It will be interseting to see what kind of chemistry he can get with Gerrard, Torres and Kuyt. Getting a solid playmaker like Aquilani will allow Gerrard to continue acting as an attacking midfielder or 2nd attacker during the game. Had we gotten someone more defensive-minded, I feared Gerrard would have to play more in the middle and do more ball distributing. Liverpool has been at its best when both Gerrard and Torres are up front putting the ball on net.

From what I've been reading on various message boards is that the Roma fanbase is pretty pissed right now for selling off "one of their own". Considering their financial struggles, I guess they simply couldn't let 20M pass them by; no matter the consequences. Sorry to see that your two favorite teams are plagued with craphouse front offices, Spicy...

Below is my prediction of the 4-2-3-1 starting lineup for Livepool's first game against the Spurs.

...............................Reina.............. ....................
.................................................. ......................
Johnson......Carragher.......Agger/Skrtel..........Aureilo
.................................................. ......................
................Mascherano...........Aquilani..... ...............
.................................................. ......................
Kuyt..........................Gerrard............. ...Riera/Yossi
.................................................. .....................
..................................Torres.......... ...................

I also think Rafa isn't quite done yet...so I could see him going after another forward or even another MF/Winger. Everyone would love to see Silva at Wing or Villa at forward but I think that is a dream now.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-05-2009, 05:18 PM

Thanks for the inside info! Hope you had a great time in Umbria. If I'm correct; I believe that is one of the best places on earth that produces truffles. Yum.

Very true. Infact, I had a mozzarella/truffle/sausage pizza the other night that wasn't bad at all. ;)

Reports say the deal is done pending a physical in the neighborhood of 20M. I'm glad to hear that he is a solid playmaker and has a big shot. Those were both of Alonso's biggest qualities. Xabi never scored many goals (only 9 in EPL over last 3 seaons) so it wasn't acquiring more goals that was my issue; it was obtaining a guy who can own the middle of the field and delegate the ball with ease and innovation. I hope Alberto is that guy. I guess trading Spain's NT starting Midfielder for Italy's NT starting midfielder isn't a bad deal.

I think that, if you compare both players at their top form, Aquilani is the better player, and he certainly has the higher ceiling. His game is very similar to Alonso's (plus Benitez really knows his midfielders, so that's a guarantee), plus Aquilani is a big bigger, so he can be a physical middie when it's asked of him. Obviously though, health is the HUGE issue.

His health is a big issue with the Liverpool fanbase right now. He was certainly NOT brought in under the assumption that he will miss 4 months a season. lol. I guess Rafa is assuming his form is in top shape right now and that his injury past is behind him. I'm crossing my fingers.

Well, actually that would be wrong since he is currently recovering from his ankle injury and should still be out for a little while.
It's a pretty big risk on Liverpool's part...if they can somehow keep him upright for at least 40 total games a season, then they will have found the perfect substitute for Alonso, and will have made a great deal. If not, well, they have to hope that he is great in the games that he does play, and that they have a decent backup plan.

From what I've been reading on various message boards is that the Roma fanbase is pretty pissed right now for selling off "one of their own". Considering their financial struggles, I guess they simply couldn't let 20M pass them by; no matter the consequences. Sorry to see that your two favorite teams are plagued with craphouse front offices, Spicy...

Well, pissed is actually a hige understatement. There is one thing that Rosella has obviously not learned: we aren't a stupid fanbase. You can tell us that we are in financial trouble, and that we have to go through a rebuilding phase, and we might accept that. What you can't do is refuse to sell the team to THREE huge businessmen over the last 5/6 years, tell us that we will continue to win, promise that our homegrown players will never be sold, and then turn around and sell one star player every year, invest NOTHING, sell one of our 3 homegrown players (the only one she can sell without being murdered), and basically slowly dismantle the team.

It's true that both franchises are being killed by their owners, but IMO there is no comparison....Rosella is 100 times worse than the Danny, for these 3 fundamental reasons:
1)Rosella inherited the team, while Danny bought it. That means that Rosella did absolutely nothing to gain ownership of the team. She basically saw it fall in her lap. At least Danny shelled out a ton of his own cash to buy the 'Skins.
2)Danny spends money, his own money, like almost no owner in the NFL. Rosella, due to the fact that her family business, ItalPetroli, is in the crapper, will not and cannot spend ANY money on the team. Which means that basically she is useless. What's the point of an owner who doesn't spend any money?
3)Rosella gives herself a salary. 1,3 million euros. Yes, you read that correctly: she, the owner of the team, pays herself a salary. That is just completely unheard of. How would you react if Snyder payed himself 2 million bucks a year to own the team and then didn't spend any money on it? And not only that, two of her sisters also are payed a yearly salary (for a total of 500k euros) to do nobody knows what.
Seriously, I have never, ever lived a more depressing offseason. Until the woman and her family get rid of the team or become extinct, we are in complete hell.

Below is my prediction of the 4-2-3-1 starting lineup for Livepool's first game against the Spurs.

...............................Reina.............. ....................
.................................................. ......................
Johnson......Carragher.......Agger/Skrtel..........Aureilo
.................................................. ......................
................Mascherano...........Aquilani..... ...............
.................................................. ......................
Kuyt..........................Gerrard............. ...Riera/Yossi
.................................................. .....................
..................................Torres.......... ...................

I also think Rafa isn't quite done yet...so I could see him going after another forward or even another MF/Winger. Everyone would love to see Silva at Wing or Villa at forward but I think that is a dream now.
That is a really solid lineup, although I don't think Aquilani will be ready for the opener. But I would love to see Alberto have a great career, so I'll be pulling for you guys this year.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-05-2009, 05:32 PM

DJ, this is what you are getting if Aquilani can stay healthy.
Rabona against Milan: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7H3Vb9MHGE
Two long shot (the first amazing) against Real: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TlTmSuMaORo
Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7umwgmMfi4k

Rosella, I hope you rot in hell.

dj_stouty

08-06-2009, 08:38 AM

Very true. Infact, I had a mozzarella/truffle/sausage pizza the other night that wasn't bad at all. ;)

I got some white truffle oil the other day; I should check where it came from. The stuff is amazing - especially in mashed potatoes. I enjoy regular truffles as well, but they are too damn expensive over here. Only on rare occasion do I get to eat them; and thats when I get adventurous on the menu in a nice restaurant.

I think that, if you compare both players at their top form, Aquilani is the better player, and he certainly has the higher ceiling. His game is very similar to Alonso's (plus Benitez really knows his midfielders, so that's a guarantee), plus Aquilani is a big bigger, so he can be a physical middie when it's asked of him. Obviously though, health is the HUGE issue.

Aquilani can play the physical role? I read some opinions on him that he will struggle in this area; especially against the more physical midfielders in the EPL. Alonso wasn't necessarily physical, but he was patient and calculated and that countered the physical nature of his opponents. I'm hearing that Aquilani will bring some speed and attacking sensibilities with him that Alonso didn't have. Because of this, Rafa will consider switching up the formations; and has already gone on record to say Aquilani will play in front of Mascherano, yet behind Gerard. Should be interesting to see how he is used.

Well, actually that would be wrong since he is currently recovering from his ankle injury and should still be out for a little while.
It's a pretty big risk on Liverpool's part...if they can somehow keep him upright for at least 40 total games a season, then they will have found the perfect substitute for Alonso, and will have made a great deal. If not, well, they have to hope that he is great in the games that he does play, and that they have a decent backup plan.

I didn't realize he was still recovering from injury. Thats a bummer; as I thought he would be ready to go against the Spurs next week. I hope he gets up to form quickly...b/c Liverpool can't afford a slow start to the season.

The "backup plan" is to look for someone internally to step up and become a contributor at that position; similar to how Kuyt and Yossi did the past 2 seasons. My guess is that if Aquilani can't go week 1, then Lucas will start; as he was Alonso's replacement last season. They also have a solid youngster named Jay Spearing who could get some playing time. He looked great last night in their preseason game vs Lyn Oslo. But neither are even close to the talent of an Alonso or Aquilani.

3)Rosella gives herself a salary. 1,3 million euros. Yes, you read that correctly: she, the owner of the team, pays herself a salary. That is just completely unheard of. How would you react if Snyder payed himself 2 million bucks a year to own the team and then didn't spend any money on it? And not only that, two of her sisters also are payed a yearly salary (for a total of 500k euros) to do nobody knows what.
Seriously, I have never, ever lived a more depressing offseason. Until the woman and her family get rid of the team or become extinct, we are in complete hell.

Pays herself a salary, huh? What nerve. Everyone knows sports owner reap profits; but to pay yourself a salary as if your ownership is a job is a bit much.

That is a really solid lineup, although I don't think Aquilani will be ready for the opener. But I would love to see Alberto have a great career, so I'll be pulling for you guys this year.

Having read Rafa's comments on Aquilani's usage; I'm editing my lineup. (not for spurs game, but in general) Gerrard will continue to move up front as he pleases while Mascher plays the holding midfield position and Aquilani gets to make plays in the middle. Looks like a good combination on paper...

...............................Reina.............. ....................
.................................................. ......................
Johnson......Carragher.......Agger/Skrtel..........Aureilo
.................................................. ......................
..............................Mascherano.......... ...............
Kuyt.............................................. ....Riera/Yossi
..........................Aquilani................ ...................
.........................................Gerrard.. ...................
........................Torres.................... ...................

SpicyMcHaggis

08-06-2009, 09:10 AM

I got some white truffle oil the other day; I should check where it came from. The stuff is amazing - especially in mashed potatoes. I enjoy regular truffles as well, but they are too damn expensive over here. Only on rare occasion do I get to eat them; and thats when I get adventurous on the menu in a nice restaurant.

Well, unfortunately they aren't free over here either, so you kinda have to pick and choose when to have them. When you find yourself in Umbria is a good time to go for it though! :)

Aquilani can play the physical role? I read some opinions on him that he will struggle in this area; especially against the more physical midfielders in the EPL. Alonso wasn't necessarily physical, but he was patient and calculated and that countered the physical nature of his opponents. I'm hearing that Aquilani will bring some speed and attacking sensibilities with him that Alonso didn't have. Because of this, Rafa will consider switching up the formations; and has already gone on record to say Aquilani will play in front of Mascherano, yet behind Gerard. Should be interesting to see how he is used.

He's not DeRossi, but he isn't a small guy either, and he isn't afraid to go in for the tackle.
As for being able to attack, he can definitely do that. He matches up really nicely with Mascherano. And, in the end, to consider how good of a player he is, you only have to look at his price tag...20 million for a guy who has had that many problems with injuries is a lot of money. It proves that Benitez really believes he can be a special player.

Pays herself a salary, huh? What nerve. Everyone knows sports owner reap profits; but to pay yourself a salary as if your ownership is a job is a bit much.

Exactly. And she only makes matters worse by not spending money for the team. So on one hand, you find the money to pay yourself, your husband, your two sisters, and various random people a pretty substantial salary, but on the other ahnd, you don't have the cash to pay player salaries?

Having read Rafa's comments on Aquilani's usage; I'm editing my lineup. (not for spurs game, but in general) Gerrard will continue to move up front as he pleases while Mascher plays the holding midfield position and Aquilani gets to make plays in the middle. Looks like a good combination on paper...

...............................Reina.............. ....................
.................................................. ......................
Johnson......Carragher.......Agger/Skrtel..........Aureilo
.................................................. ......................
..............................Mascherano.......... ...............
Kuyt.............................................. ....Riera/Yossi
..........................Aquilani................ ...................
.........................................Gerrard.. ...................
........................Torres.................... ...................
Without having Real, Barça or Chelsea money, that's about as solid a lineup as you can put on the field.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-06-2009, 09:17 AM

akhhorus

08-06-2009, 09:24 AM

In other news which makes me want to stick my head in an oven and turn on the gas, Milan has bought Huntelaar from Madrid for 15million euros and Inter has bought Arnautovic on a loan, which will become a definitive transfer if he plays more than a predetermined number of games.

Arnautovic makes some sense for Inter(well, maybe not), but Huntlaar to Milan...okay...thats odd. If they sell Pirlo to Chelski, they need midfielders still.

And any truth to the rumors that Fioranelli is going around trying to "buy" up players for when he takes over Roma?

SpicyMcHaggis

08-06-2009, 11:03 AM

Arnautovic makes some sense for Inter(well, maybe not), but Huntlaar to Milan...okay...thats odd. If they sell Pirlo to Chelski, they need midfielders still.

Pirlo is officially off the market, and Milan really needed a striker, because they don't trust Borriello, Inzaghi is 375 years old, and Ronaldinho is a fat man.

And any truth to the rumors that Fioranelli is going around trying to "buy" up players for when he takes over Roma?
Lots of truth...only it was happening 2 months ago. Fioranelli is now out of the picture (he was in charge of the swiss group).

akhhorus

08-06-2009, 11:07 AM

Pirlo is officially off the market, and Milan really needed a striker, because they don't trust Borriello, Inzaghi is 375 years old, and Ronaldinho is a fat man.

I understand that, but don't they need a central mid far more than a striker? Pippo might be 375 years old, but Seedorf is 425 lol. Wouldn't it make more sense to try and buy Fabergas with their limited transfer budget?

Lots of truth...only it was happening 2 months ago. Fioranelli is now out of the picture (he was in charge of the swiss group).

Oh, I read a report where that was happening recently, but the agents for Sneijder, Robben, VDV, etc weren't taking it seriously because Fioranelli wasn't in charge of anything.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-06-2009, 11:11 AM

I understand that, but don't they need a central mid far more than a striker? Pippo might be 375 years old, but Seedorf is 425 lol. Wouldn't it make more sense to try and buy Fabergas with their limited transfer budget?

You answered your own question...Milan apparently only had 20ish to spend, and that won't even buy you an autographed picture of Fabregas.
The main problem with Milan IMO isn't the players..they have the talent to finish at least 4th (but no better than 3rd) in Serie A, but they don't have a coach. Leonardo is NOT a coach. H_e is basically a guy that will field whoever Berlusconi tells him to, and who will keep all the brazilians happy.

akhhorus

08-06-2009, 12:07 PM

You answered your own question...Milan apparently only had 20ish to spend, and that won't even buy you an autographed picture of Fabregas.

They could sell Pirlo and make it happen lol

The main problem with Milan IMO isn't the players..they have the talent to finish at least 4th (but no better than 3rd) in Serie A, but they don't have a coach. Leonardo is NOT a coach. H_e is basically a guy that will field whoever Berlusconi tells him to, and who will keep all the brazilians happy.

I think they'll finish 5th or 6th frankly unless they can get Beckham or another technical mid.

dj_stouty

08-06-2009, 01:02 PM

Pippo might be 375 years old, but Seedorf is 425 lol.

That name is a blast from the past. I remember playing FIFA'95 with Seedorf on the Dutch National team. lol. I can't believe the guy is still around 15 years later...

dj_stouty

08-06-2009, 03:23 PM

So I got to watch the Liverpool v. Lyn Oslo game last night. Liverpool bounced back nicely from their thumping at the hands of Espanyol last week. The first half was basically Kuyt, Johnson and the 2nd stringers. Kuty has been assisting on goals left and right this preseason. In hindsight; Rafa moving him to the wing was a genius move.

I'm super impressed with Glen Johnson. He is such a large, confident presence on defense. AND, he is quite the playmaker. More times than not, when he clears out a ball, he is putting it directly on a mid-fielder's foot for a counter attack. I think he will fit in nicely at Anfield.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-06-2009, 06:49 PM

That name is a blast from the past. I remember playing FIFA'95 with Seedorf on the Dutch National team. lol. I can't believe the guy is still around 15 years later...

Believe it or not, he's still "only" 33. He must have started with Ajax when he was 6 years old or something..lol.

akhhorus

08-06-2009, 06:58 PM

Believe it or not, he's still "only" 33. He must have started with Ajax when he was 6 years old or something..lol.

Where's his birth certificate from? The Dominican republic? There's no way he's just 33.

SkinsKY

08-06-2009, 07:02 PM

In other news which makes me want to stick my head in an oven and turn on the gas, Milan has bought Huntelaar from Madrid for 15million euros and Inter has bought Arnautovic on a loan, which will become a definitive transfer if he plays more than a predetermined number of games.

That makes me a sad panda. I know our chances at Huntelaar were slim, but for $15million why didn't we try harder for him than Crouch (who I don't really care for)? I hope 'Arry can pick up where he left off last season. If so, we could be a really tough out for anybody. If not, we could see a repeat of last season. Either way, I'm ready for the season to get going.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-07-2009, 01:32 AM

Where's his birth certificate from? The Dominican republic? There's no way he's just 33.

Well, his birthplace is Paramaribo, Suriname, so I'm guessing that he could be anywhere from 45 to 72 years old and could actually be a woman.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-07-2009, 01:34 AM

That makes me a sad panda. I know our chances at Huntelaar were slim, but for $15million why didn't we try harder for him than Crouch (who I don't really care for)? I hope 'Arry can pick up where he left off last season. If so, we could be a really tough out for anybody. If not, we could see a repeat of last season. Either way, I'm ready for the season to get going.
From what I am hearing, it wasn't about the money. Simply, he (like Vucinic) didn't want to play for you guys, because you aren't a team that is likely to participate in the CL year in and year out, and that's the only thing big-name players care for.

SkinsKY

08-07-2009, 05:09 AM

From what I am hearing, it wasn't about the money. Simply, he (like Vucinic) didn't want to play for you guys, because you aren't a team that is likely to participate in the CL year in and year out, and that's the only thing big-name players care for.

That's why I knew we were a long shot. The only hope was that they would think that last season was a fluke and they would be the piece to get us over the hump. I know we're farther away than that, but I hoped they wouldn't. ;)

Now that we don't have Europe this year, we really need to step it up to get back the "best of the rest" status we had a couple years ago.

MONK_in_HOF

08-07-2009, 07:03 AM

That's why I knew we were a long shot. The only hope was that they would think that last season was a fluke and they would be the piece to get us over the hump. I know we're farther away than that, but I hoped they wouldn't. ;)

Now that we don't have Europe this year, we really need to step it up to get back the "best of the rest" status we had a couple years ago.

With or without Europe it is going to be harder to lure top talent to the EPL due to the crazy 50% tax law that is on the horizon. Teams will basically have to pay double what a Spanish team will to provide the same wages.

dj_stouty

08-07-2009, 07:57 AM

Now that we don't have Europe this year, we really need to step it up to get back the "best of the rest" status we had a couple years ago.

That is going to be tough to achieve with City hulking up...and other teams like Aston Villa making advancements. Everton always seems to be up there as well. Could be crowded at the top this year.

BTW - I think you will actually like Crouch. He is freakishly tall and fun to watch on TV since he towers over everyone by a good 5-6 inches. He will certainly score some goals for you...

dj_stouty

08-07-2009, 08:03 AM

Speaking of Champions League...

Link (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=665474&sec=uefachampionsleague&cc=5901)

They did the draw for the final round of CL qualifying and a very interesting matchup occured. Arsenal will face Celtic. I'm sure Wenger was hoping for a lesser talented team....

BigCountry

08-08-2009, 02:39 AM

Maccabi Haifa actually have a shot at the group stage this year. For scousers who don't do their homework, that's the club Yossi Bennayoun played for (By played I mean dominating like a man among boys) before he made the jump to Europe, and another fun useless fact, the club that discovered EPL striker Yakubu.

Seebs

08-08-2009, 09:48 AM

And in other news French League 1 is starting tonight!
Top 3 from last year are favorites to dominate again. On the paper Marseille may have the better players, but will they become the better team... Let's hope not ;)
Paris should be closer this year (finished 6th last year after fighting for a top 3 spot untli the last month).
for players you will likely see in EPL or la Liga in the next few years:
Hoarau, Erding and Sessegnon in Paris; Gourcuff, Chamakh, ALou Diarra in Bordeaux; M'bia and Taiwo in Marseille; Bastos, Pjanic, Ederson in Lyon.
Toulouse and lille should also be close to top 6 like last year.

dj_stouty

08-10-2009, 08:28 AM

Very entertaining FA Community Shield yesterday with Chelsea beating ManU in penalties. Micheal Owen continues to look lost on the pitch.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-10-2009, 08:48 AM

Cristiano Zanetti from Juve to Fiorentina.

I missed the Chelsea-United game yesterday, but I'm happy Ancelotti started off well, proving his critics (akh...;)) wrong. lol

akhhorus

08-10-2009, 09:06 AM

Cristiano Zanetti from Juve to Fiorentina.

Meh. He wasn't going to see the field much.

I missed the Chelsea-United game yesterday, but I'm happy Ancelotti started off well, proving his critics (akh...;)) wrong. lol

So I guess I'm wrong about Chelski, but right about Inter after meaningless cup matches? :) lmao

dj_stouty

08-10-2009, 09:10 AM

Cristiano Zanetti from Juve to Fiorentina.

I missed the Chelsea-United game yesterday, but I'm happy Ancelotti started off well, proving his critics (akh...;)) wrong. lol

ManU controlled the 1st half...but Chelsea seriously dominated the 2nd . And the penalty kicks were a joke. Rooney put in a nice one in the 90th minute, but aside from that...he was fairly invisible during the first 89. Berbs and Owen didn't make a difference; so you have to continue to wonder where those goals are going to come from. Rooney won't be able to notch a goal each game...and Valencia isnt' known for scoring. Goaltending will be an issue for them moving forward as Foster wasn't great in goal.

Chelsea, simply put, looks strong, deep and energized to play. They scare me...

SpicyMcHaggis

08-10-2009, 09:10 AM

Meh. He wasn't going to see the field much.

Yeah, definitely. I actually thought you guys had gotten rid of him ealier in this transfer window.

So I guess I'm wrong about Chelski, but right about Inter after meaningless cup matches? :) lmao
Yeah!!

Seriously, I didn't see the Chelsea match, but I did see Inter-Lazio, and was VERY impressed. Inter dominated for the entire duration of the match, Eto'o played a devastating game and scored an awesome goal, Milito and Eto'o played well together(much better than I though they would), and Inter seems to be going in the fight direction. The only guy who didn't shine (at all) was Motta. He basically sucked for the entire 90 minutes.
I remain convinced that Inter should desperately be trying to sign Snijder.

akhhorus

08-10-2009, 09:14 AM

Yeah, definitely. I actually thought you guys had gotten rid of him ealier in this transfer window.

I think they were trying to sell Poulsen for awhile, then when they couldn't get the price they wanted, they just decided to keep him until January and sell Zanetti.

Yeah!!

Seriously, I didn't see the Chelsea match, but I did see Inter-Lazio, and was VERY impressed. Inter dominated for the entire duration of the match, Eto'o played a devastating game and scored an awesome goal, Milito and Eto'o played well together(much better than I though they would), and Inter seems to be going in the fight direction. The only guy who didn't shine (at all) was Motta. He basically sucked for the entire 90 minutes.
I remain convinced that Inter should desperately be trying to sign Snijder.

I didn't see the match, but going down 2-0 to fricking Lazio isn't a good sign. They're apparently after VDV pretty hard, which makes NO SENSE. Sniejder I can understand, VDV no way.

MONK_in_HOF

08-10-2009, 09:17 AM

SpicyMcHaggis

08-10-2009, 09:21 AM

I think they were trying to sell Poulsen for awhile, then when they couldn't get the price they wanted, they just decided to keep him until January and sell Zanetti.

I didn't see the match, but going down 2-0 to fricking Lazio isn't a good sign. They're apparently after VDV pretty hard, which makes NO SENSE. Sniejder I can understand, VDV no way.
Well, the first goal was completely random. Long free kick for Lazio, deflected by two different Inter players, lands right on Matuzalem's feet, he shoots, Cesar saves it, the ball bounces off MAtuzalem's nose and goes in. Nobody really to blame there.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnKfGCL_u2s

The second one was a classic mistake by Chivu (who should be playing wingback at all times) who hesitated in recovering his position on a couterattack and allowed Rocchi to go 1-1 with Cesar.

Other than that, Lazio shot on goal once from about 30 yards, and Muslera was definitely the MVP of the match. If they replay the game 10 times, Inter wins it 9 times.

akhhorus

08-10-2009, 09:25 AM

Well, the first goal was completely random. Long free kick for Lazio, deflected by two different Inter players, lands right on Matuzalem's feet, he shoots, Cesar saves it, the ball bounces off MAtuzalem's nose and goes in. Nobody really to blame there.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnKfGCL_u2s

The second one was a classic mistake by Chivu (who should be playing wingback at all times) who hesitated in recovering his position on a couterattack and allowed Rocchi to go 1-1 with Cesar.

Other than that, Lazio shot on goal once from about 30 yards, and Muslera was definitely the MVP of the match. If they replay the game 10 times, Inter wins it 9 times.

Then I guess Inter needs to work on their defense lol. They should be destroying Lazio, not going through the motions(which is something Inter and Mourinho have problems with).

SpicyMcHaggis

08-10-2009, 09:41 AM

Then I guess Inter needs to work on their defense lol. They should be destroying Lazio, not going through the motions(which is something Inter and Mourinho have problems with).
I think they just need to not play Lucio and Chivu together. They are both extremely technical defenders, who love to move up, and can sometimes get in trouble because of that, while Samuel and Cordoba are more in the Cannavaro mold. Those 4 are a terrific CD unit, only you have to play them in the correct pairs: Lucio/Chivu and Samuel/Cordoba.

Seebs

08-10-2009, 12:46 PM

What about Mamadou Sakho? I know he is young, but he certainly has the size and I thought he just got a call up to the France NT.
I was just trying to get him off the radar...
He's 19 and starting is 2nd year as a starting CD in the club with the biggest media pressure in France (he was even once captain of the team at just 17). For me, he's stille quite rough, but a rough diamond.

Allegedly, PSG refused a 13m€ offer from arsenal last year. NOt yet called in senior National team but he is my surprise pick if we qualify for wc 2010.

akhhorus

08-10-2009, 01:16 PM

I think they just need to not play Lucio and Chivu together. They are both extremely technical defenders, who love to move up, and can sometimes get in trouble because of that, while Samuel and Cordoba are more in the Cannavaro mold. Those 4 are a terrific CD unit, only you have to play them in the correct pairs: Lucio/Chivu and Samuel/Cordoba.

That still doesn't explain why they couldn't muster enough offense against a bad Lazio defense. Same goes for Chelski: they are a far superior team to Man U(who was missing Van Der Saar also), and Man U took them to PKs? Thats not a good sign for them.

MONK_in_HOF

08-10-2009, 02:45 PM

I was just trying to get him off the radar...
He's 19 and starting is 2nd year as a starting CD in the club with the biggest media pressure in France (he was even once captain of the team at just 17). For me, he's stille quite rough, but a rough diamond.

Allegedly, PSG refused a 13m€ offer from arsenal last year. NOt yet called in senior National team but he is my surprise pick if we qualify for wc 2010.

I must have confused him with Moussa Sissoko regarding the NT call up. Sissoko also looks like a rather intimidating figure.

dj_stouty

08-11-2009, 08:14 AM

Link (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=666630&sec=soccernet.com&cc=5901)

Steven Gerrard has pulled out of the England squad for Wednesday night's friendly against Holland because of a groin injury.

Groin injury my arse. Considering the EPL season starts on Saturday; I think a lot more EPL players will suddenly come down with a mysterious injury so they can miss the International Friendly being played 3 nights prior.

The scheduling of this game reeks. I wouldn't be surprised if Glen Johnson and Kuyt also got hurt between now and the friendly. lol.

dj_stouty

08-12-2009, 11:26 AM

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/images5/aquilani14.jpg

Aquilani's first pictures in Liverpool red....[on the bench, injured]

I hope he gets healthy quickly...

akhhorus

08-12-2009, 05:19 PM

The officiating in that US/Mexico game was bizarre to say the least. Especially for the fight in late in the 2nd half. How can just one yellow be called on that?

RedskinsDave

08-12-2009, 06:06 PM

The officiating in that US/Mexico game was bizarre to say the least. Especially for the fight in late in the 2nd half. How can just one yellow be called on that?

If the ref called it right then it would be a few more for the Mexicans. That's why there were no more.

akhhorus

08-12-2009, 07:57 PM

If the ref called it right then it would be a few more for the Mexicans. That's why there were no more.

That ref lost control of the game very quickly. He should have red carded the mexican player who pushed Felihaber in the neck and the one who picked up Davies on the ground by head. There's no excuse for not red carding them.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-13-2009, 01:59 AM

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/images5/aquilani14.jpg

Aquilani's first pictures in Liverpool red....[on the bench, injured]

I hope he gets healthy quickly...
Ugh.

BigCountry

08-13-2009, 02:21 AM

Ugh.

Don't worry there'll be some tape or a bandage on one of those legs soon enough.

MONK_in_HOF

08-13-2009, 09:37 AM

That ref lost control of the game very quickly. He should have red carded the mexican player who pushed Felihaber in the neck and the one who picked up Davies on the ground by head. There's no excuse for not red carding them.

None at all, especially considering how quick he was to card the US players. The ref was obviously scared to card any Mexican. It was a joke. He was right there for both incidents. I am not disputing the result, however if players were sent off as they should have been it certainly would have had an impact. I hope next time we play them in the US that Onewyu is allowed to give one of their players the same treatment without consequences, although he would probably break one of their dwarf players.

Also their POS coach deliberately called our fans gringos after the game.

dj_stouty

08-13-2009, 11:16 AM

Dissapointed with the outcome...but not surprised considering we have NEVER won in Mexico.

Anyone catch any of the other games last night? Happy to see Kuyt, Torres and Riera score for their teams. Hopefully that instilled some self-confidence that will roll over to Sunday.

Can't freaking wait until the weekend so we can get this season started.

akhhorus

08-13-2009, 02:45 PM

One thing to take from the match was that Gooch looks much better since he joined Milan. Much better technique and decision making.

dj_stouty

08-14-2009, 08:16 AM

Liverpool just extened Torres' contract through 2014. Thank goodness...

BigCountry

08-15-2009, 01:59 AM

So when is the whole EPL on ESPN thing supposed to happen?

Seebs

08-15-2009, 04:52 PM

Charlie Davies is starting to do quite an impression scoring his first 2 goals with french-side Sochaux against reigning French champ Bordeaux.

SkinsKY

08-15-2009, 07:48 PM

Charlie Davies is starting to do quite an impression scoring his first 2 goals with french-side Sochaux against reigning French champ Bordeaux.

I like davies a lot. I think him and jozy could be pretty formidable up front. It would definitely take some of the pressure off landy and his swine flu. It won't happen this world cup, but maybe by 2014.

flave1969

08-16-2009, 03:18 PM

Spurs 2 - 1 Liverpool.

Composed game from my guys today. Liverpool were as ragged as Arsenal were stunning yesterday.

SpicyMcHaggis

08-16-2009, 04:38 PM

Well guys, I'm off to Ireland tomorrow morning, so I'll catch up with you all in 10 days. Have a great beginning of Footie season!!

SkinsKY

08-16-2009, 09:53 PM

Spurs 2 - 1 Liverpool.

Composed game from my guys today. Liverpool were as ragged as Arsenal were stunning yesterday.

Didn't get to see the game, but all signs point towards the positive. It's nice to start out on the right foot for once.

MONK_in_HOF

08-17-2009, 06:42 AM

Spurs 2 - 1 Liverpool.

Composed game from my guys today. Liverpool were as ragged as Arsenal were stunning yesterday.

Spurs looked good and fully deserved the win. I thought Liverpool looked lke they were running through the motions until they went down a goal. Not really the effort you would expect to see from the team so many pundits picked to take the title. I know it is only 1 game, but if you can't get up for the first game then how do you get up for games 2-38?

dj_stouty

08-17-2009, 08:25 AM

Spurs looked good and fully deserved the win. I thought Liverpool looked lke they were running through the motions until they went down a goal. Not really the effort you would expect to see from the team so many pundits picked to take the title. I know it is only 1 game, but if you can't get up for the first game then how do you get up for games 2-38?

Spurs did deserve the win as they were in clear control for the vast majority of the game; although the ref should have called a penatly shot for Liverpool late. He was so inconsistant that the no-call really didn't surprise me. Regardless, that was no excuse. Liverpool didn't look like the traditional Liverpool until there was 15 minutes left on the clock; and they had zero urgency when playing from behind. Kudos to the Spurs on a solid home opener.

Alonso is sorely missed. Lucas was invisible in the middle and did nothing to help advance the ball or put someone in a position to make a play. Aquilani can't get healthy soon enough. I question Rafa's decision to start Babel over Yossi. What a joke. The moment Yossi subbed in he immediately made a differenence and the entire team's play perked up. He had a beautiful pass to Gerard that set up a huge opportunity to score. I think Gerrard's groin injury was still affecting his play. Most of his shots had minimal steam on them.

Speaking of injuries; It really didn't help that Skyrtel and Carragher knocked each other silly in the first 15 minutes of the game. They both played through the pain, but were underperforming and allowing too many shots from the Spurs; especially Keane who had at least 4 solid shots on goal. Thank goodness for Reina otherwise the goal differential could have been 2 or 3.

The brightspots in a relatively depressing game was Glen Johnson; who played well on defense and also made a nifty move around 2 defenders in the box to force the penalty kick...and Yossi; who I already mentioned being a huge spark for them late.

Torres looked like he was alone on an island out there and that was in part to Steven having to pull back and overcome the mid-field deficiencies. The entire team looked flat. I'm not sure if that was mostly to bad preparation or if Wednesday night's NT friendlies took too much out of many of the starters. Either way, Liverpool lost only 2 games last year (ironically, also on the road at Spurs) so it will be a gigantic task to think they can allow only 1 or 2 additional losses for the rest of the season. They will simply have to reduce their number of draws to underperforming teams this year.

Here are some thoughts on the other games I got to watch this weekend:

Man City has a ton of talent but the chemistry isn't there yet. Blackburn was well prepared for City. They outplayed them early in the game (even after a quick Adebeyor goal) and outshot them down the stretch. I had to chuckle seeing Tevez on the bench to start the game; as that was his biggest peeve at ManU.

ManU may have notched the win, but they weren't overly impressive.
B'ham gave them so many opportunities that they didn't capitalize on. I still think they will have trouble replacing the goals lost by Tevez and Ronaldo.

If Everton was going to play that bad on defense WITH Lescott, they may as well agree to City's 22M transfer and play that bad WITHOUT him. They looked TERRIBLE on Saturday.