Football 06/07 Thread, suckers!

[darkhanamaru]

ok, i am that avoiding work....check out this video of zizou's son

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3a--lbW8jc

[Haydn C]

ok, i am that avoiding work....check out this video of zizou's son

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3a--lbW8jc

Was that a small child in a Barcelona strip crying? Cheer up little fella your only nine.

[Gary Joyce]

European champions AC Milan and city rivals Inter hit back on Thursday over two investigations into the conduct of both clubs which could have serious consequences.
Inter president Massimo Moratti and Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani look set to be sent to trial over allegations they inflated transfer fees to obtain fictitious capital gains between 2003 and 2005.
Prosecutors said on Wednesday that Inter would not have had the necessary financial security to have been allowed in the 2005/06 championship if full figures had been available.
Media had speculated that a hefty fine would be the worst punishment if either official was found guilty.
A judge also has the right to impose points deductions, exclude a club from the championship or strip them of a title.
"I tell the fans to be calm," Moratti told reporters.
"These are intense days and there is always something that needs answering. Inter are clean."
Inter were awarded the 2005/06 Serie A title after original winners Juventus were stripped of the championship and demoted in Italy's match-fixing probe.
Roberto Mancini's Inter won last season's title on the pitch rather than in the court room, with Milan struggling to compete at home after an eight-point deduction for their role in the match-fixing scandal.
"I confirm absolutely that Milan's balance sheets, relative to the registration for the 2004/05 and 2005/06 championships, are totally regular," Milan's Galliani said.
The two rival clubs are also under investigation by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) over the transfer of Cagliari striker David Suazo.
Inter thought they had agreed a deal with Cagliari but Milan announced on Tuesday that the Honduran was their player. However, Inter said Suazo had signed with them even though the deal with Cagliari had not been formally completed.
FIGC is probing whether any rules have been broken over a player signing for two sides. The investigation could result in a fine for the clubs involved or a ban for the player.
Milan are confident Suazo will remain with them but Inter are not giving up hope.


How many more scandals does Italian Football have to have before it gets cleaned up ?

[Aubergine~!]

I hear Thaksin Shinawatra's had a bid for Man City accepted. Hope they sell, he gets Souness as a manager, and they get relegated. Because it'd be funny.

[darkhanamaru]

I hear Thaksin Shinawatra's had a bid for Man City accepted. Hope they sell, he gets Souness as a manager, and they get relegated. Because it'd be funny.

his money was unfrozen?

[Haydn C]

I hear Thaksin Shinawatra's had a bid for Man City accepted. Hope they sell, he gets Souness as a manager, and they get relegated. Because it'd be funny.

I take it there aren't any rules about who is a fit and proper person to own football clubs.

[Haydn C]

Damn double post.

[Alan Lynch]

his money was unfrozen?
I think it was just his Thai assets that were frozen. A guy that crooked probably has a few million hidden under his mattress.

I take it there aren't any rules about who is a fit and proper person to own football clubs.
There are, apparently. No word on when the Premiership/FA actually start checking up on that though. Presumably the sale has to be ready to go through before anything official starts. If this guy passes they might as well do away with the whole process.

[Aubergine~!]

There are, apparently. No word on when the Premiership/FA actually start checking up on that though. Presumably the sale has to be ready to go through before anything official starts. If this guy passes they might as well do away with the whole process.

Yeah, no way in hell should he pass.

That said, I'm fine with whatever gets City relegated. And the Scousers too, but I'm trying to stay realistic.

[darkhanamaru]

so i guess it is official...henry to barca for 16m (lower than i thought)...on the bbc

[Haydn C]

so i guess it is official...henry to barca for 16m (lower than i thought)...on the bbc

It's not official yet but it does seem likely. How do you change your user name?

[Aubergine~!]

so i guess it is official...henry to barca for 16m (lower than i thought)...on the bbc

Euros or pounds? The figure I'd heard quoted before was 10 million pounds, so that seems a bit high.

And tough luck Thierry14, think you can pm the mods to change your name, but they only change it to your real name IIRC.

[Haydn C]

Euros or pounds? The figure I'd heard quoted before was 10 million pounds, so that seems a bit high.

And tough luck Thierry14, think you can pm the mods to change your name, but they only change it to your real name IIRC.

£16 million pounds.

Well it's officialish now, Henry speaks in the sun.

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2007281078,00.html

Good luck to him, he's been a great player for Arsenal ans it seems it is time for him to move on.

[Gary Joyce]

Wonder if those Obafemi Martins rumors are true then i read online somewhere a while back that once Henry was gone Martins was on his to the gooners.

[Haydn C]

Wonder if those Obafemi Martins rumors are true then i read online somewhere a while back that once Henry was gone Martins was on his to the gooners.

I'd heard that as well, isn't there some debate about his age though? Or am I just imagining things again?

[Gary Joyce]

In August, 2006 the Nigerian FA website mistakenly had his date of birth down as May 1, 1978. This would have made him twenty-eight years of age, rather than twenty-one. The Nigerian FA soon confirmed that it had been an administrative error and apologised for the confusion it had caused. This blunder put his move to newcastle under threat because if he had been 28 he wouldnt have recieved a work permit.

[Haydn C]

Cheers that's good knowledge.

To name change or not to name change that is the question.

[Aubergine~!]

£16 million pounds.

Well it's officialish now, Henry speaks in the sun.

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2002390000-2007281078,00.html

Good luck to him, he's been a great player for Arsenal ans it seems it is time for him to move on.

I agree. Think he's an arrogant c**t, but he's a class player, and the Premiership will miss him.

And Arsenal's future is looking very interesting...

[Haydn C]

I agree. Think he's an arrogant c**t, but he's a class player, and the Premiership will miss him.

And Arsenal's future is looking very interesting...

I think we will survive without him, how well in the short term remains to be seen. As an Arsenal fan I must say that his arrogance and ego were getting a bit much even for me, it is the right time for him to go for himself and the club. Henry has been a fantastic player for Arsenal and there should be no bitterness. I hope he does well in Spain.

Now as long as Wenger stays things should carry on ok.

I wonder if we will replace Henry? Who could fill his boots, in a goal scoring capacity?

[darkhanamaru]

I think we will survive without him, how well in the short term remains to be seen. As an Arsenal fan I must say that his arrogance and ego were getting a bit much even for me, it is the right time for him to go for himself and the club. Henry has been a fantastic player for Arsenal and there should be no bitterness. I hope he does well in Spain.

Now as long as Wenger stays things should carry on ok.

I wonder if we will replace Henry? Who could fill his boots, in a goal scoring capacity?

so it sounds as if wenger is thinking of leaving at the end of next season...where o' where does that put arsenal?

[Haydn C]

so it sounds as if wenger is thinking of leaving at the end of next season...where o' where does that put arsenal?

I did read somewhere that Gus Hiddink had already been approached but he is one of those managers that is linked with every high profile job.

If Wenger goes at the end of next season would it be to another club, move upstairs within Arsenal or something else like the England job?

[Aubergine~!]

so it sounds as if wenger is thinking of leaving at the end of next season...where o' where does that put arsenal?

The bigger question is, does he take Fabregas with him?

[Haydn C]

The bigger question is, does he take Fabregas with him?

Possibly but if a player is only at a club because of the manager than he is being very short sighted.
Any way we got Fran Merida if Cesc goes and I like the look of Denilson.

[Haydn C]

Todays football rumours throw up some interesting possiblities.

Anelka to Arsenal seems a bit odd but you never know.

Man Utd and Liverpool to bid for Torres. He would be better off at Utd I think with their more attacking style.

Man Utd accept bid from Boro for Alan Smith. I thought he would make it at Man U, shame he's a good player.

Portsmouth are attempting to outbid Sunderland for David Nugent. If I was him I'd choose Sunderland, Keanes star is on the rise and if he went to Portsmouth he'd have to put up with that annoying man who rings a bell all throughout their home games. I'd go mental if I had to sit next to him. Oh and Harry Redknapps face looks like it's melted which would weird me out.

[Gary Joyce]

If Anelka went back to Arsenal would he be accepted by the fans ?

[Aubergine~!]

Any way we got Fran Merida if Cesc goes and I like the look of Denilson

Haven't seen Fran Merida play, and not seen much more of Denilson, but Fabregas is going to be a massive loss, no matter who you have lined up. The lad is class. Is this Fran Merida a youth player?

In any case, I sincerely hope that Arsenal don't turn to crap. I'm a United fan, and I think Arsene's a total prick and his players aren't much better, but you do play beautiful, attacking football, unless Chelski and the scousers, and I'd miss it.


Man Utd and Liverpool to bid for Torres. He would be better off at Utd I think with their more attacking style.

If we do sell Smith, then I could see this happening. He'd be an excellent foil for Rooney to play off, and I do think he'd do well in England. Don't think it's really going to happen though, and honestly I'd rather keep Smith, and go with an attacking line of Rooney, Saha, Smith and Rossi, though that isn't likely to happen.


Man Utd accept bid from Boro for Alan Smith. I thought he would make it at Man U, shame he's a good player.

Haven't seen it confirmed yet, and rumor has it that Newcastle are interested too. If this does happen, at least it'd mean Rossi likely to get a chance, which I really want to happen.

Still, don't want to lose Smith. He's limited, but he's got heart, and he's a generally a good squad player to have around. Hope he does well.


Portsmouth are attempting to outbid Sunderland for David Nugent. If I was him I'd choose Sunderland, Keanes star is on the rise and if he went to Portsmouth he'd have to put up with that annoying man who rings a bell all throughout their home games. I'd go mental if I had to sit next to him. Oh and Harry Redknapps face looks like it's melted which would weird me out.

Yeah, I see Sunderland doing well next season. Keano is great.

[Gary Joyce]

If Thierry Henry is worth 16 million how can Darren bent be worth 17 Mill ?

I also have a feeling Benitez is gonna jump to Real Madrid when Capello leaves or get pushed.

Looks like the title will become a two-horse race again.Because Liverpool and Arsenal just dont seem to be making strides to catch Man Utd and Chelsea

[Haydn C]

If Thierry Henry is worth 16 million how can Darren bent be worth 17 Mill ?

I also have a feeling Benitez is gonna jump to Real Madrid when Capello leaves or get pushed.

Looks like the title will become a two-horse race again.Because Liverpool and Arsenal just dont seem to be making strides to catch Man Utd and Chelsea

I agree to an extent but football is a funny old thing. For example Arsenal did not look like winning the league and then we went a season unbeaten. Stranger things have happened than Arsenal and Liverpool being in the race next season.

[Haydn C]

If Thierry Henry is worth 16 million how can Darren bent be worth 17 Mill ?

It does boggle the mind somewhat, I mean that from the perspective that I can't believe someone would pay that much for Bent. English players are so overvalued.
Henrys price is fair for a player who will be 31 at the end of next season. I hear that there is some concern in Spain about that much money being paid for a player nearly 30.

[Gary Joyce]

It does boggle the mind somewhat, I mean that from the perspective that I can't believe someone would pay that much for Bent. English players are so overvalued.
Henrys price is fair for a player who will be 31 at the end of next season. I hear that there is some concern in Spain about that much money being paid for a player nearly 30.


Probably some concern about how he will come back from his injury too.He has been out for a while.

[Haydn C]

Haven't seen Fran Merida play, and not seen much more of Denilson, but Fabregas is going to be a massive loss, no matter who you have lined up. The lad is class. Is this Fran Merida a youth player?


In any case, I sincerely hope that Arsenal don't turn to crap. I'm a United fan, and I think Arsene's a total prick and his players aren't much better, but you do play beautiful, attacking football, unless Chelski and the scousers, and I'd miss it.


If we do sell Smith, then I could see this happening. He'd be an excellent foil for Rooney to play off, and I do think he'd do well in England. Don't think it's really going to happen though, and honestly I'd rather keep Smith, and go with an attacking line of Rooney, Saha, Smith and Rossi, though that isn't likely to happen.


Haven't seen it confirmed yet, and rumor has it that Newcastle are interested too. If this does happen, at least it'd mean Rossi likely to get a chance, which I really want to happen.

Still, don't want to lose Smith. He's limited, but he's got heart, and he's a generally a good squad player to have around. Hope he does well.

Yeah, I see Sunderland doing well next season. Keano is great.

Merida came the same route as Cesc from Barcelonas youth set up. There is of course no problem yet though as neither Wenger or Fabregas have left and may well be here for years to come.

So do you think Saha will stay?


Much to my shock I have really taken to Keane since he took over at Sunderland. Plus it has spawned a new phrase in my house 'The Fear of Roy'. In that the Sunderland players dare not lose for fear of Roy. He puts the fear of Roy in them.

[Gary Joyce]

I agree to an extent but football is a funny old thing. For example Arsenal did not look like winning the league and then we went a season unbeaten. Stranger things have happened than Arsenal and Liverpool being in the race next season.

I agree stranger things have happened but to me it looks like Arsenal and Liverpool are still rebuilding and the season is getting nearer and they havent added to their squads yet.

It is strange what has happened with Arsenal since the unbeaten season they have lost and not really replaced them with the same level of quality

Lauren
Keown
Ashley Cole
Parlour
Edu
Vieira
Reyes
Pires
Bergkamp
Henry

[Gary Joyce]

I just wonder if Bendter will be given his chance by Wenger next season he looked pretty good when i saw him last season perhaps Anelka isnt needed ?

I think Man Utd will and should cut their losses on Saha because at the moment he spends more time on the injury table not quiet sure who will take him though.

[Haydn C]

I agree stranger things have happened but to me it looks like Arsenal and Liverpool are still rebuilding and the season is getting nearer and they havent added to their squads yet.

It is strange what has happened with Arsenal since the unbeaten season they have lost and not really replaced them with the same level of quality

Lauren
Keown
Ashley Cole
Parlour
Edu
Vieira
Reyes
Pires
Bergkamp
Henry

Your right but it's hard to replace that level of quality, just look at the list!

I think Clichy will be an able replacement for Cole and Rosicky will be great as will Diaby and Denilson. But this are players for the future. Arsenal will remain competative but probably not be Premiership winner material for a few years yet.

[Haydn C]

I just wonder if Bendter will be given his chance by Wenger next season he looked pretty good when i saw him last season perhaps Anelka isnt needed ?

I think Man Utd will and should cut their losses on Saha because at the moment he spends more time on the injury table not quiet sure who will take him though.

It appears as if Benndter will get some kind of chance, that's why we recalled him otherwise I think he would have been sold. Adebeyor will be off to the African Nations for a bit as well so he may get a go then. This does depend I suppose on whether Arsenal sign another striker.

[Gary Joyce]

Your right but it's hard to replace that level of quality, just look at the list!

I think Clichy will be an able replacement for Cole and Rosicky will be great as will Diaby and Denilson. But this are players for the future. Arsenal will remain competative but probably not be Premiership winner material for a few years yet.


Its all well and god and having these players for the future but will Diaby and Denilson , Fabergas and the rest be content to be just be competitive ?

[Aubergine~!]

Merida came the same route as Cesc from Barcelonas youth set up. There is of course no problem yet though as neither Wenger or Fabregas have left and may well be here for years to come.

Another one from Barca's youth setup? Christ they've got a good system over there. Hear we're after another of their youth players, name of Gay (or Gai) Assulin. Can't wait for the chants for that lad.


So do you think Saha will stay?

I think so. He is a class striker, and the perfect player to lead our line when fit, and we are going to have trouble getting a decent sum for him. Think if he has another season where he misses half of it due to injury he's gone next year. Hope he stays fit, not too optimistic about that though.


Much to my shock I have really taken to Keane since he took over at Sunderland. Plus it has spawned a new phrase in my house 'The Fear of Roy'. In that the Sunderland players dare not lose for fear of Roy. He puts the fear of Roy in them.

Haha, yeah, Keano is amazing. He's a winner, and I wouldn't be surprised if he was to manage United some day.

[Alan Lynch]

Henry's departure will probably give Van Persie a bigger role. I think he's a superb player, who was just starting to show what he could do when he got injured last season. Henry was brilliant on his day, but I don't think he's irreplacable. I'm glad to see the back of him; what an arrogant wee shite he is. At least now I won't see so much of his strops on TV.

[Haydn C]

Henry's departure will probably give Van Persie a bigger role. I think he's a superb player, who was just starting to show what he could do when he got injured last season. Henry was brilliant on his day, but I don't think he's irreplacable. I'm glad to see the back of him; what an arrogant wee shite he is. At least now I won't see so much of his strops on TV.

There is that yes. :D

I think Van Persie could be great, he really has to step up now.

I wonder if Reyes never stood a chance with Henry being horrible to him all the time?

[Haydn C]

Ohh look name change. Nice. I'm actually me.

Thierry who?

[darkhanamaru]

nice to have you back with a real name ;)

[i_mmmchocolate]

Ohh look name change. Nice. I'm actually me.

Thierry who?
Barcelona press is still gushing about his arrival to the club!

So, where will Torres go? Liverpool are offering money and possibly Cisse (or Luis Garcia)

Arsenal might offer money and Reyes

Manchester United might jump back in the bandwagon.

[i_mmmchocolate]

IN OTHER NEWS, Milan appear to be looking for a defensive midfielder. Some names being tossed around in their headquarters: Real Madrid's Emerson, Liverpool's Sissoko, and Barcelona's Motta.

And, Barcelona will have a summer clear-out: Gudjohnsen, Motta, Deco, Guily, Belletti, Saviola, and someone else who escapes my mind at the moment.

[Haydn C]

IN OTHER NEWS, Milan appear to be looking for a defensive midfielder. Some names being tossed around in their headquarters: Real Madrid's Emerson, Liverpool's Sissoko, and Barcelona's Motta.

And, Barcelona will have a summer clear-out: Gudjohnsen, Motta, Deco, Guily, Belletti, Saviola, and someone else who escapes my mind at the moment.

Eto'o ! Eto'o to Arsenal I say!

Oh alright maybe not then. Barca seem like they need a bit of a shake up though. Rikard is staying though?

[Haydn C]

nice to have you back with a real name ;)

The time for a real name comes to us all. It seemed a bit odd now that he's left.

So is darkhanamaru your first or second name? :)

[i_mmmchocolate]

The thought of an Eto'o-Henry-Messi frontline is frightening.

[Haydn C]

Barcelona press is still gushing about his arrival to the club!

So, where will Torres go? Liverpool are offering money and possibly Cisse (or Luis Garcia)

Arsenal might offer money and Reyes

Manchester United might jump back in the bandwagon.

They should really, he's a great player and they are lucky to have him.

Where as I love the idea of Torres at Arsenal I don't see it happening. He's to high profile and exciting for us. Well buy some unknown seventeen year old Latvian striker or something.

The one new signing we really need is that of Mr A Wenger.

[i_mmmchocolate]

Rikard is staying though?
So far, it appears like he will be staying.

[Haydn C]

So far, it appears like he will be staying.

That's good I have a lot of time for him. I also hope Real Madrid see sense and keep Capello as well.

[i_mmmchocolate]

That's good I have a lot of time for him. I also hope Real Madrid see sense and keep Capello as well.
That's still unclear; Calderon made a 'gentleman's agreement' with Getafe's Bernd Schuster.

Schuster literally came out and said something to the effect of, "Hey! I want to manage Real Madrid! Calderon promised me!" Basically to squash any thoughts of Capello staying with the club. Then again, we'll have to wait and see!

[Haydn C]

That's still unclear; Calderon made a 'gentleman's agreement' with Getafe's Bernd Schuster.

Schuster literally came out and said something to the effect of, "Hey! I want to manage Real Madrid! Calderon promised me!" Basically to squash any thoughts of Capello staying with the club. Then again, we'll have to wait and see!

Someone needs to slap some sense into Calderon, maybe with a stick.

[Aubergine~!]

Someone needs to slap some sense into Calderon, maybe with a stick.

Congratulation on the name change!

Real Madrid are a madhouse, and they have been since they let del Bosque go even after winning them the league. The Galactico thing hasn't helped.

The scary thing is, it seems that whenever they win their league, we win the Premiership and vice versa. Same with other teams, it's a bit creepy:

2001 Real Madrid-United
2002 Valencia-Arsenal
2003 Real Madrid-United
2004 Valencia-Arsenal
2005 Barca-Chelski
2006 Barca-Chelski
2007 Real Madrid-United

Got that off some other forum. I now support Madrid.

[Adam West]

Thierry14 err I mean Haydn, sorry to see Henry go, it'll make the league less interesting to lose on of it's best players. Although from a selfish point of few, there's one less striker to worry about when Man Utd meet Arsenal in the new season.
;
Although I have to chuckle at your name change though :D . I made a point of never using a players name in forums I joined, after I saw a user whose name is Zidane21 never return to a board when Zizou moved to Madrid :D:D

[i_mmmchocolate]

Giuly is in Monaco, investigating the possibility of returning to his ex-club.

Sevilla might be interested in Chelsea's Boulahroux and three other places-- my guess is that they're getting ready to lose two or three key players this summer. I read this morning that Maresca (Italian midfielder) might be out the door this summer.

[Haydn C]

Thierry14 err I mean Haydn, sorry to see Henry go, it'll make the league less interesting to lose on of it's best players. Although from a selfish point of few, there's one less striker to worry about when Man Utd meet Arsenal in the new season.
;
Although I have to chuckle at your name change though :D . I made a point of never using a players name in forums I joined, after I saw a user whose name is Zidane21 never return to a board when Zizou moved to Madrid :D:D

I know I should have seen that coming with the name. Just me from now on.

You mean your not worried about Adebeyor and Van Persie?

[Haydn C]

Congratulation on the name change!

Real Madrid are a madhouse, and they have been since they let del Bosque go even after winning them the league. The Galactico thing hasn't helped.

The scary thing is, it seems that whenever they win their league, we win the Premiership and vice versa. Same with other teams, it's a bit creepy:

2001 Real Madrid-United
2002 Valencia-Arsenal
2003 Real Madrid-United
2004 Valencia-Arsenal
2005 Barca-Chelski
2006 Barca-Chelski
2007 Real Madrid-United

Got that off some other forum. I now support Madrid.

Come on Valencia, don't tell me they were nowhere in this years La Liga and have no chance next season.

[darkhanamaru]

I know I should have seen that coming with the name. Just me from now on.

You mean your not worried about Adebeyor and Van Persie?

not next year but after that...if the arsenal keep wenger on....

[king mob]

Sven Goran Erikson seems certain for Man City. Poor bastards.

[darkhanamaru]

Sven Goran Erikson seems certain for Man City. Poor bastards.

Poor bastards indeed

[Haydn C]

Sven Goran Erikson seems certain for Man City. Poor bastards.

You think he will be worse than point and shout, no track record Stuart Pearce?
Well maybe, it has been a long time since Sven was in club management I suppose.

[Gary Joyce]

You think he will be worse than point and shout, no track record Stuart Pearce?
Well maybe, it has been a long time since Sven was in club management I suppose.

I actually think Stuart Pearce did a good job at man city if he had bought a decent striker they could have challenged the top 8.

[Aubergine~!]

Come on Valencia, don't tell me they were nowhere in this years La Liga and have no chance next season.

Third, actually. Not bad. I have a theory that Liverpool are paired with Nastic. :D


Sven Goran Erikson seems certain for Man City. Poor bastards.

Pity, hes a good manager. I was hoping for Souness, which was one of the rumors. He would've taken them down.

[Alan Lynch]

Sven had a great record in club management, but the England mess can't be entirely discounted because of it. Tactically he didn't seem to know what was going on sometimes, and that'll get found out big time in the Premiership. And he'll be hammered the first sign that things aren't working at City. It's a hell of an ask for him, and I'm not sure he's up to it anymore.

Saying that, I still can't believe someone like Thaskin hasn't been told he's not wanted in the Premiership. Do you have to be convicted of murder or something before being deemed an "unfit person"?

[king mob]

You think he will be worse than point and shout, no track record Stuart Pearce?
Well maybe, it has been a long time since Sven was in club management I suppose.

I think he'll do well enough to repair his reputation until a 'bigger' club comes calling and then he'll drop Man City in the shite.

[king mob]

Saying that, I still can't believe someone like Thaskin hasn't been told he's not wanted in the Premiership. Do you have to be convicted of murder or something before being deemed an "unfit person"?

Thaskin shouldn't be let near any British buisness but corrupttion is part and parcel for British buisness these days.

[Alan Lynch]

I think he'll do well enough to repair his reputation until a 'bigger' club comes calling and then he'll drop Man City in the shite.
And that's a best case scenario. Worst case he gets sacked and they have to pay out on the 3-year deal he's on. It's a huge gamble either way.

[Aubergine~!]

The biggest problem for Sven is going to be the current roster. It's utter shite. Richards is probably the only player I'd classify as 'good. Plus, they've just sold Barton.

They're going to have to spend a lot of money.

[Alan Lynch]

Thaskin's promised £50 Million or so to spend. How legal that money will be is open for debate.

[Aubergine~!]

Thaskin's promised £50 Million or so to spend. How legal that money will be is open for debate.

How good is Sven at transfers, anyway? All I know is he spent a lot at Lazio and they ended up bankrupt.

And does England have an extradition treaty with Thailand? Because if Thaksin gets extradited, which I've heard may happen, City are in trouble.

[king mob]

Thaskin's promised £50 Million or so to spend. How legal that money will be is open for debate.

If you read the latest Private Eye it seems that it's severly dodgy. The latest issue also goes into detail as to the dodginess of Ken Bates and Leeds.

In other news Darren Bent is off to Spurs. That's probably the end of Defoe there as he'll drop to fourth choice striker.

[king mob]

Capello has just been sacked as Real Madrid manager.

[Aubergine~!]

Capello has just been sacked as Real Madrid manager.

Real Madrid is a madhouse.

2nd manager they've sacked in recent times after winning a league title. Maybe they sacked him because they played boring football, but they would've noticed that before they hired the man.

[darkhanamaru]

Capello has just been sacked as Real Madrid manager.

that's crazy. no reason to have gotten rid of him

[Haydn C]

Capello has just been sacked as Real Madrid manager.

Steve Mclaren is looking over his shoulder.

With any luck he'll see a knife in it soon.

[Gary Joyce]

Capello has just been sacked as Real Madrid manager.

I have a feeling Benitez is gonna replace him

[Aubergine~!]

I have a feeling Benitez is gonna replace him

Nah, Madrid fans want exciting football. That should also rule out Mourinho. Maybe Sven?

Of course, as Madrid is an asylum nowadays, who really knows?

[Aubergine~!]

Oh, and am I the only one who finds it ridiculous that Bent has been sold for more than Thierry Henry?

[Gary Joyce]

Hull City have been busy in the transfer market we are expected today to announce the signings of Richard Garcia from Colchester who impressed me last season from what little i saw.Bryan Hughes and Henrik Pederson who are both good honest pros who should do us well and Juninho is apparently signing on Monday.

[king mob]

Torres is off to Liverpool. If he manages to transfer his game then he's the 20 plus goals a season striker they need.

[i_mmmchocolate]

Bernd Schuster will replace Capello. Calderon made a gentleman's agreement with the German coach in April, basically guaranteeing him the job. It's been news in the Spanish press for at least a couple months.

It looks like Luis Garcia might be headed back to Spain since Atletico Madrid are very keen on having him included in the Torres deal.

[Alan Lynch]

Oh, and am I the only one who finds it ridiculous that Bent has been sold for more than Thierry Henry?
Nope. It's a nonsense price that. The Spurs supporter I work next to is raging - he doesn't see the point in spending that much money on a striker, not with who they already had. I agree with him.

[king mob]

Nope. It's a nonsense price that. The Spurs supporter I work next to is raging - he doesn't see the point in spending that much money on a striker, not with who they already had. I agree with him.

Bent will be a much better player than Defoe, who is vastly over-rated and probably on his way out. I don't know if Spurs are the right club for Bent, but playing with Keane and Berbatov will turn him into a much better player than he already is.

[i_mmmchocolate]

I think his age has something to do with it, too.

[Haydn C]

Bent will be a much better player than Defoe, who is vastly over-rated and probably on his way out. I don't know if Spurs are the right club for Bent, but playing with Keane and Berbatov will turn him into a much better player than he already is.

But will he play? You have to think that Berbatov and Keane will be first choice. If Bent can replace Keane as first choice then this could turn out to be a great move for him, but I'm not so sure.

[i_mmmchocolate]

Maybe Defoe will end up at Pompey or Newcastle.

[Haydn C]

Maybe Defoe will end up at Pompey or Newcastle.

There's a thought, he could replace Martins or Owen if they come to Arsenal.

I can see him at Villa as well, he would do well with Agbonlahor.

[Haydn C]

Nope. It's a nonsense price that. The Spurs supporter I work next to is raging - he doesn't see the point in spending that much money on a striker, not with who they already had. I agree with him.

My brother is Spurs and he is mightyly annoyed. He loves that they are showing ambition but can't believe they have spent that on one player.

[king mob]

Maybe Defoe will end up at Pompey or Newcastle.

There's still the rumour that he'll end up at Man Utd but I can't see it myself, Newcastle seems far more likely.

[Haydn C]

I wish Liverpool would hurry up and buy Torres, then Athletico will have some money to buy Reyes. Get a move on scousers and we can spend the cash on some unknown twelve year old.

[Aubergine~!]

Forlan to Atletico Madrid. Guess Torres is off then, pity as I think he'd be wasted at Anfield.

And Rooney gets the no. 10 shirt next season for whatever reason. I was expecting him to keep the 8 and for Anderson to get the 10, but whatever.

[Haydn C]

Forlan to Atletico Madrid. Guess Torres is off then, pity as I think he'd be wasted at Anfield.

And Rooney gets the no. 10 shirt next season for whatever reason. I was expecting him to keep the 8 and for Anderson to get the 10, but whatever.

I'm of the same mind, Torres looks a good player, but I would have thought Man U or Arsenal would have suited him better. Time will tell, maybe he is exactly what Liverpool have been lacking.

[i_mmmchocolate]

It looks like Robben might be headed to Real Madrid, at least according to AS. They claim the two clubs' have reached an agreement.

With Forlan out, maybe Villarreal will make a bid for one of their transfer targets: Saviola and/or Ricardo Oliviera.

[king mob]

I'm of the same mind, Torres looks a good player, but I would have thought Man U or Arsenal would have suited him better. Time will tell, maybe he is exactly what Liverpool have been lacking.

They need a goalscorer, right now the closest they have is Crouch.

[Haydn C]

They need a goalscorer, right now the closest they have is Crouch.

Yes but I think that Liverpools overly cautious style of play contributes to their current forwards not being prolific goalscorers so I'm not sure that it will be any different for Torres. Maybe Benitez will change their style of play a bit.

[Aubergine~!]

They need a goalscorer, right now the closest they have is Crouch.

They need a new striker rotation, actually. Kuyt is good as backup, but that's about it. Think they're blowing most of their budget on Torres (and probably signing Mascherano full time), and while Torres is good, he'll need time to adust to the EPL and he's generally a 15 goal a season striker. Nothing to sneeze at, but he isn't the most prolific guy in the world, and I don't believe Liverpool's team is that much better than Atletico's, so service should be about the same.

I think they'd have been better off signing proven EPL strikers. Tevez would've been perfect, for one. No idea why they didn't go for Viduka on a free, and they'd do well to get Owen back. With the cash they're likely to spend on Torres, I don't see them having the funds to buy a decent strike partner.

[i_mmmchocolate]

I don't believe Liverpool's team is that much better than Atletico's, so service should be about the same.
Believe it. Atletico Madrid's midfield is in poor state without a true playmaker; they're in a process of rebuilding it this summer.

Luis Garcia is expected to head back to Spain to play for Atletico. At least according to MARCA.

[Aubergine~!]

Believe it. Atletico Madrid's midfield is in poor state without a true playmaker; they're in a process of rebuilding it this summer.

Surely they've better wingers than Liverpool though. And the Scousers play too defensively, so I'm not sold on Torres becoming the 20 goal a season man they expect. Good buy though.


Luis Garcia is expected to head back to Spain to play for Atletico. At least according to MARCA.

For cheap too, if the quoted price (4m) is true.

And Lampard's apparently refused a new contract. Much as I hate the fat bastard, he's an integral player to the system Chelski play. Hope he goes to Italy or Spain and gets horribly exposed.

And anyone else hear about Man City putting in a bid for Torres? Any truth to that?

Aaand I hear Atletico are close to getting Quaresma. They'll be quite good next year if true. Forlan, Garcia and Quaresma should help the fans forget all about Torres.

[Haydn C]

Arsenal make a signing, Eduardo da Silva

http://football.guardian.co.uk/comment/story/0,,2095000,00.html

24 years old, Brazilian by birth but Croatian by nationality. 34 goals in 32 domestic games last season and 7 in 11 for Croatia. Not bad.

Wenger signing though ,not a big name but bags of potential.

[i_mmmchocolate]

Aaand I hear Atletico are close to getting Quaresma. They'll be quite good next year if true. Forlan, Garcia and Quaresma should help the fans forget all about Torres.
I'll cry tears of joy if Quaresma and Riquelme join the club. This past season was awful and horribly inconsistent. It's good to finally see the club being linked to some top-notch players.

Personally, I'd love to see a Forlan-Torres frontline, but that won't happen. It's Torres' time to go.

Edit: I'll laugh myself silly if da Silva turns out to be a success than Torres.

[king mob]

Arsenal make a signing, Eduardo da Silva

http://football.guardian.co.uk/comment/story/0,,2095000,00.html

24 years old, Brazilian by birth but Croatian by nationality. 34 goals in 32 domestic games last season and 7 in 11 for Croatia. Not bad.

Wenger signing though ,not a big name but bags of potential.

Will he be a good enough replacement for Henry though?

[Haydn C]

Edit: I'll laugh myself silly if da Silva turns out to be a success than Torres.

Oh yes, huge fee for Torres and eight million for Da Silva. It will be interesting.

[Haydn C]

Will he be a good enough replacement for Henry though?

Who can say, none can really replace Henry.

I'm just shocked that Wenger appears to have bought an out and out goal scorer. Well I hope he scores goals but you know what I mean.

[king mob]

Who can say, none can really replace Henry.

I'm just shocked that Wenger appears to have bought an out and out goal scorer. Well I hope he scores goals but you know what I mean.

If he's crap you can always pick up Robbie Fowler who apparently hasn't had one offer from any club.

[Haydn C]

If he's crap you can always pick up Robbie Fowler who apparently hasn't had one offer from any club.

No offers at all? That's strange, he could still do a decent job for someone.

Nice to see Roy Keane not messing around. He's called off the Nugent offer because they are arseing around to much.

[darkhanamaru]

i thought the rumour was fowler was to go to the galaxy for big money..did that die??

[Aubergine~!]

i thought the rumour was fowler was to go to the galaxy for big money..did that die??

Thought he'd gotten an offer to play in Australia...

And is Aguero (at Atletico) a striker? I can't recall.

Edit: And it looks like da Silva's fee was pretty high too. As high as Henry's, if this is to be believed.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=442806&cc=4716

[i_mmmchocolate]

And is Aguero (at Atletico) a striker? I can't recall.
Yep, kun, as he is nicknamed.

Unfortunately, he had an average 06/07 season with the club (his first year with the club). I expect good things from him next season though.

[darkhanamaru]

Edit: And it looks like da Silva's fee was pretty high too. As high as Henry's, if this is to be believed.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=442806&cc=4716

oh that's sad...

[Alan Lynch]

Fowler's been linked with moves all over the place. Rangers are a regular one, despite nobidy at the club ever expressing an interest in him.

Newcastle have picked up Geremi, depending on his work permit. I like what Sam's brought in so far; steadying the ship, particularly at the back. All solid signings, and I'm unusually excited about next season already.

[Haydn C]

Thought he'd gotten an offer to play in Australia...

And is Aguero (at Atletico) a striker? I can't recall.

Edit: And it looks like da Silva's fee was pretty high too. As high as Henry's, if this is to be believed.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=442806&cc=4716

That is not to be believed. BBC sport reckons around 7.5 million.

[Haydn C]

Fowler's been linked with moves all over the place. Rangers are a regular one, despite nobidy at the club ever expressing an interest in him.

Newcastle have picked up Geremi, depending on his work permit. I like what Sam's brought in so far; steadying the ship, particularly at the back. All solid signings, and I'm unusually excited about next season already.

As much as I dislike Sam Allardyce, which is a lot, there is no denying that he is a good manager. Just what Newcastle need I would think. I hope Owen and Martins stay.

[king mob]

Fowler's been linked with moves all over the place. Rangers are a regular one, despite nobidy at the club ever expressing an interest in him.



Fowler's people are the ones spreading the rumours. I'm surprised a Championship club haven't picked him up, if Hull can get Juhinio then surely Fowler can give a few seasons for a club there?

[Aubergine~!]

That is not to be believed. BBC sport reckons around 7.5 million.

Probably not, but the sources say that those figures come from Croatia.

And Jagielka to Everton, apparently. Interesting.

[Adam West]

Torres apparently went to Liverpool for 27 million deal. 7 million of that comes in the form of Luis Garcia to the other way.

The track records of Spanish strikers in Premiership isn't too good, it'll be a huge gamble for them.

[Aubergine~!]

Torres apparently went to Liverpool for 27 million deal. 7 million of that comes in the form of Luis Garcia to the other way.

The track records of Spanish strikers in Premiership isn't too good, it'll be a huge gamble for them.

I'm hoping he's the next Morientes.

And Atletico came out far the better of this deal, imo.

[Alan Lynch]

As much as I dislike Sam Allardyce, which is a lot, there is no denying that he is a good manager. Just what Newcastle need I would think. I hope Owen and Martins stay.
Owen is there until at least Januray - no way will anyone trigger the clause until he's played some football. Martins on the other hand is apparently avaliable for £13 Million due to a clause in his contract. Which isn't a huge amount given his ability and age. I hope they both stay for a while, but I can't see it.

Torres apparently went to Liverpool for 27 million deal. 7 million of that comes in the form of Luis Garcia to the other way.

The track records of Spanish strikers in Premiership isn't too good, it'll be a huge gamble for them.
As was said earlier in here, Liverpool don't play the most attacking football in the world. They'll have to open up a bit, or Torres is going to be feeding off scraps. And that doesn't help anyone.

[Haydn C]

Sheffield Utd are challenging the arbitration panel in the high court

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sheff_utd/6270920.stm

It looks like they aren't going to let it go.

[i_mmmchocolate]

Plain and simple: if Torres doesn't score 20 goals this coming season, Liverpool will be the laughing stock of the EPL.

Who will sign Dani Alves? Chelsea, Real Madrid, or Liverpool?

[Haydn C]

Plain and simple: if Torres doesn't score 20 goals this coming season, Liverpool will be the laughing stock of the EPL.

Who will sign Dani Alves? Chelsea, Real Madrid, or Liverpool?

Just been listening to you all talking about that on the radio show.

I think your right about Torres, with such a high price tag he has to perform and quickly.

Alves to Real I think, unless Chelsea just outbid them. But I hope he goes to Real. Not much good for your lot I know but I don't want another good player at Chelsea.

[i_mmmchocolate]

Right now, it looks like it's a two horse race for Alves. Chelsea placed a bid, but Sevilla want 5 million more than what they are offering.

Man, last night's show (my last for a few weeks) was marred by two phone blunders at my end! One with me yelling for my sister to lower her music before I realized I was on air and the other with my mother dialing on the other phone.

[Haydn C]

Right now, it looks like it's a two horse race for Alves. Chelsea placed a bid, but Sevilla want 5 million more than what they are offering.

Man, last night's show (my last for a few weeks) was marred by two phone blunders at my end! One with me yelling for my sister to lower her music before I realized I was on air and the other with my mother dialing on the other phone.

I know, enjoyed the yelling. It gave my cat a shock though who was attempting to nuzzle the lap top to death just as it happened.

It will be interesting to see if Chelsea continue to be frugal or if they cough up.

[Gary Joyce]

Fowler's people are the ones spreading the rumours. I'm surprised a Championship club haven't picked him up, if Hull can get Juhinio then surely Fowler can give a few seasons for a club there?


I'm suprised Fowler hasnt had an offer but it showed how far he had fallen when Phil Brown was on sky saying we wouldnt be making an offer for him (Fowler had been spotted in hull buying property to add to his vast collection which is why the rumor started).

I hope the Sheff Utd thing doesnt drag out for much longer because we are after Danny Webber and Robson wont sell until he knows whats happening.

[i_mmmchocolate]

That easily ranks as one of the most embarassing Internet moments for me...

More players still available:
-Simao
-Sneijder
-Quaresma
-Gudjohnsen
-Saviola
-Kewell (?)
-Flamini

[i_mmmchocolate]

Aaanndd Chris Coleman is set to become Real Sociedad's next manager (http://www.realsociedad.com/caste/home/real.asp?menu=110100&id=75252).

[darkhanamaru]

usa 6 - poland 1 u-20 cup...

maybe, finally the usa will become more competitive on the world stage...made me very happy indeed...and adu had three goals!

[Alan Lynch]

Sheffield Utd are challenging the arbitration panel in the high court

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sheff_utd/6270920.stm

It looks like they aren't going to let it go.
I really wish they would. What happens if the High Court do nothing? How much longer are they going to drag this out for? Yes, they were hard done by but enough is enough. The FA won't deal with it and that should be that.

[Aubergine~!]

Plain and simple: if Torres doesn't score 20 goals this coming season, Liverpool will be the laughing stock of the EPL.

I honestly don't expect him to. Moving to a side that plays like Liverpool isnt going to increase anyone's goal tallies, and Torres scores around 15, usually.


Who will sign Dani Alves? Chelsea, Real Madrid, or Liverpool?

Hope its Madrid.

Edit: And we're apparently closing in on Tevez, which I'm not too thrilled about.

[Adam West]

Fergie has a habit of signing opponents players that caused us most problems. That's how we signed Dwight Yorke. A player who came out just out of the blue, because I remember clearly Kluivert was very close to joining us, only for him to change his mind.

To be honest, Tevez is a strong lad and know what it takes to play in the Premiership. I can see him forming a partnership with Rooney.

[Alan Lynch]

Tevez would be an excellent signing for any Premiership club. He looked superb playing for a shite team last season, so stick him in a side like Man Utd who can play a bit and he could be terrifying. Not to mention he knows the style of football now, unlike a guy like Torres who could need time to adjust.

[i_mmmchocolate]

Aannd Tevez is set to join Manchester Utd.

Be afraid. Be very, very afraid. Tevez is a proven EPL striker, Torres isn't, at this point...

[Aubergine~!]

Oddly enough, I'd think we'd have been better off with Torres and they with Tevez.

Tevez essentially is the same kind of player as Rooney, as both of them are better with someone to play off of. Imo, that's the type of striker United are (usually) missing at the moment, as Saha is perpetually injured and Smith is, frankly, not good enough. Rossi may be it, but he's short, and unproven in the EPL.

I also find Tevez to be more prolific than Torres, and I think he would've given the Scousers the 20 goal a season man they need. Either that, or he could've created more goals for whoever he played off of.

All that said, next season should be quite exciting, especially for United fans.

[king mob]

I have my first game coming up soon: a pre-season friendly between Bristol City & Yeovil that will be as 'friendly' as the Vietnam war.

[Haydn C]

I really wish they would. What happens if the High Court do nothing? How much longer are they going to drag this out for? Yes, they were hard done by but enough is enough. The FA won't deal with it and that should be that.

They're not going to stop.
For me it boils down to did the Premier League have to deduct points as a punishment or was deducting points an optional punishment. If the rules state that points must be deducted then they have a case to complain.
But of course even then there is no saying that West Ham would have been deducted exactly the right amount of points to save Sheffield.

Plus Sheffield were bloody useless last season.

[Haydn C]

I have my first game coming up soon: a pre-season friendly between Bristol City & Yeovil that will be as 'friendly' as the Vietnam war.

Hope the weather improves, I'm thinking of building an Ark.

[king mob]

Hope the weather improves, I'm thinking of building an Ark.

Remember April? Remember how we all complained when it was like July and it was just incredibly hot & dry for a whole month?

This is karma I reckon for people moaning back then.

[thomas_catbiscuit]

ladies and gents thanks for one of the best threads on the comm board (imo). my i direct your attention to the new season thread.







last one out turn off the lights....

[Puma]

http://gallery.hd.org/_exhibits/natural-science/_more2000/_more10/stars-in-night-sky-over-London-England-tweaked-2-DHD.jpg