Football Banter

I like those odds!

2011-10-10T03:49:00.000+01:00

So England qualified with room to spare, as I always maintained

OK, technically we did need a point in the fortress of Montenegro - but that's relying on Montenegro winning in Switzerland, after they've already secured the play off - big whoop, it's been pretty straightforward, despite all the usual melodrama from the tv pundits - I predict a five or six point win in the end

Granted a stupid draw at Wembley with the Swiss was unfortunate, but otherwise the only hurdle has been the mighty minnows - and well done to them for defeating three larger nations in qualifying, they deserve the second spot - I look forward to a rematch in group H next year

Anyway, ignoring Rooney's latest drama and a whingeing Neville, let's look at one remaining set of fixtures

Five teams have now sewn up their groups, and Sweden and Montenegro have cemented their play offs

Group A is a bit of a doozie - Belgium lead but need a win in Germany to prevent Turkey taking the spot as they face the useless Azerbaijan -

My tips, home wins all round and Turkey to get second

Group B: Russia have effectively qualified with a point against Andorra required for the official victory, the real interest is in Ireland who only need to avoid defeat against third-placed Armenia

My tip: surely Ireland through to another play-off, at least a draw, if not a win

Group C: Only Serbia can make the difference here, only a win in Slovenia will knock off Estonia, who are waiting on results - you do care right?

My tip: Serbia at 5/6 ain't bad considering Slovenia's home record

Group D is a top of the table clash as France tackle Bosnia - avoiding defeat will be good enough, I'm tipping France to at least draw...surely

E is finished - I expect the Dutch will maintain their 100% record in Sweden, as neither have anything left to play for, I'm backing Hungary over Finland and Moldova over some minnows

F is tricky - Greece lead Croatia by two heading to Georgia for at least a point, Croatia should beat Latvia but can only win if Greece lose - otherwise it's as you were, Israel get three points in Malta

I expect Greece will win the group - even if they don't win the game

G, as I'm sure you know is done - I'm tipping Bulgaria over Wales and the Swiss over Montenegro

H is the fun group - three teams still in it, although Norway need some ludicrous scorelines to knock off Portugal, otherwise it's a straight top two clash - Denmark need to win at home to take the group, otherwise they'll be in the play-offs

My tip: I think Denmark might win, be a close game though - surely Norway will beat Cyprus, qualification is unlikely but they might as well live in hope

Group I: The much anticipated Spain v Scotland game dominates here - you can make up your own minds about this one - considering the joy around their sole away win in Liechtenstein I can't be that confident, but the hope lies in Lithuania, who have so far only been defeated at home by Spain and won in Prague - Scotland don't need to do a thing if they win, but if they draw the Czechs go through on head to head - I think the best bet for Scotland would be a draw in both ties

Good luck to them I say, been a while since Scotland had any luck - the odds from my title are 20/1 for the win, 7/1 for the draw, by the way

I think short odds on Czech republic are a bit harsh to be honest - the draw is a decent 3/1, and home win over 5/1 - not bad I think

2 places below France

2011-08-03T14:37:00.001+01:00

Football rankings are a strange thing

A team wins 12 games in its entire history and rises to 17th in the world

Another team crashes out of a world cup with one goal scored, struggles against Belarus, Norway and Austria in the same period and is ranked 15th

Which is stranger? I ask you

Anyway, the fact remains that Montenegro, who were below Wales 18 months ago, were placed in the same pot as the French, and somehow we have got them again, only this time as second seeds as opposed to fifth...

I can only conclude that their impressive results weigh heavily due to their lack of competitive history, and that teams outside the top 20 really are quite bad

You would think this would be a good thing, avoiding teams like Russia, Serbia and France to play a small, familiar side who are unlikely to remain consistent

But alas, no, ever the pessimists we despair at being drawn with both hosts of the 2012 European championships

Really?

While Ukraine are certainly not the easiest team in the pot, and they did, as Capello pointed out, beat us before South Africa - we had already qualified at the time, and they haven't slipped to 45th for no reason (admittedly one being no competitive fixtures due to hosting) - they have won two games in the past year

It's clutching at straws - either we get a ridiculously easy group and we find it boring, or seem arrogant, or we don't and say it's difficult

How about we just say it's pretty decent? Would you really feel that much better had we got Switzerland again? They were also a decent side a few years ago, qualifying for more tournaments than Ukraine ever have, but their collapse in this campaign means we ignore that for some reason

Ireland, Czech Rep, Bosnia or Israel all would have provided a similar issue - it's the middle pot, and frankly any team would have done, Ireland would've been nice, but possibly a bigger problem

Truth is we should qualify, just as we should qualify for 2012 (and will) and just as we qualified for 2010, despite the hand-wringing

As for Poland, despite a decent showing prior to 2008, when they took top spot from Portugal, they really aren't a threat these days - by seeding standards they were the lowest available from pot 4 - would you really care if it was Romania or Bulgaria (Scotland)? Fact is, we got the lower ranked sides from every pot except Montenegro - and that could be seen as inflated and is a team we know

The less said about Moldova and San Marino the better

Nope, if there's anything to worry about it's the quality of England, not the opposition, the other Home Nations are the ones with the worry

Scotland and Wales did reasonably well being together - more chance of one being through, Croatia, Serbia and Belgium is hardly the group of death - I doubt either will come through, but it's much better than a five team group with Spain, the Dutch or us

Ireland get a tough break with Germany, but that's always likely to happen - battling it out with Sweden for second is probably a better prospect than their current campaign for 2012

Northern Ireland probably got the worst luck - Portugal and Russia are likely to dominate

Elsewhere, the Netherlands, Italy and Spain are all handed pretty straightforward groups (the only three I would rank as in any way better than ours)

France, for once, received some bad luck and are now trading on Spain possibly not being so good in the next two to three years...right

Group G for 'Greece', again shows the farcical nature of the rankings - how can a team that has won one match in a major tournament in seven years, be a top seed - they are a self-fulfilling prophesy - they win 2004 so they get ranked highly, get easy draws as a result and continue to qualify because they never face opposition - what an amazing group as Slovakia and Bosnia battle the mighty Greeks for top spot...

Group E is just as bad for non-entities but frankly Norway deserve their position after sticking it to Portugal and being screwed out of the play-offs in 2010 qualifying

My predictions for European teams going straight to Brazil

Croatia, Italy, Netherlands, Germany, England, Spain, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia (that's my frivolous one)

Play-offs:

France, Ukraine, Greece, Russia, Slovenia, Turkey, Ireland, Denmark, Serbia - obviously one will miss out, but I'm hardly going to call it

Anyway, enjoy

It's time to qualify

2011-06-03T13:26:00.000+01:00

...For one of those corrupt events, if you get my meaning

Anyway, my feelings about the laughable FIFA aside, England play Switzerland and finally may seal their qualification in what has been the longest drawn qualification process for yonks

Unfortunately only game five is being played, but should England beat Switzerland and Montenegro beat Bulgaria then it will officially knock out Wales and all but confirm the two top spots, simple as that

I don't see very good odds - Montenegro are not worth evens, they may win, but they are ultimately unreliable, despite their form

In slightly more fun groups, Germany have two away games in Austria and Azerbaijan, already with a five point lead two wins will effectively cement their obvious victory, personally I think Germany at 2/5 in Austria is pretty decent odds

Belgium v Turkey is crucial to these two teams - a home win is required to keep the Flemish in the hunt for second, this is a punt but Belgium at 5/4 is a reasonable tip as the Turks have been a bit off lately

Group B is typically Irish - three teams on 10 points after five games, Russia and Slovakia have pretty simple home games, the Irish need a result in Macedonia, to be honest it's not looking good with Russia having four home games left and Slovakia three

Group C is still open for Northern Ireland, Italy will cement their position with a win over Estonia and Slovenia have three to gain from the Faroes - that's it...two games (ok, three, but one is pointless)

The muddling French lead group D but still face the tougher tests, the trip to Belarus is probably the game of the round actually - I can dream, can't I? Belarus have won in France so I quite like 13/2 odds for the home side, they also have a home tie against Luxembourg, so that'll keep the pressure on

Bosnia remain in the hunt, playing Albania and then travelling to Romania - I doubt it'll come to anything, France are surely top two, but they do love to try!

The Dutch have won six of six, but have a rest and haven't got a huge lead just yet, but are surely group winners, San Marino will be handing three points to Finland and Hungary, Sweden are going to Moldova and then face neighbours Finland - grudge match?? Not really, second is Hungary or Sweden - do you really care?

Group F remains tight, and will remain so until the end - Croatia at 1/3 over Georgia isn't bad, Greece have their own banker, and arguably so do Israel, so it's probably as you were - Croatia and Greece all the way

Skipping to H, where Norway are ahead of Portugal, which is nice - all I can say is hooway the Norge! A draw would be very nice in Lisbon, Denmark are probably out of it at this point but should be able to beat their cousins in Iceland and may be able to screw over Portugal in October - worrying times for the greasy one even if they beat Noway

It all comes down to Denmark - assuming Portugal win all three easier games they will go in on 16 points, if Norway can beat Cyprus and Iceland they would realistically need a point in Copenhagen

Draw at 4/1 anybody?

In Scotland's mini-group there's a whole one game, Lithuania at 1/2 is not that bad, if uninspiring, Spain win the group, yay

Too funny

2011-03-24T12:43:00.000Z

Gareth Bale...

Truly the Welsh are the most cursed of all Brits

Anyway, it's been a while since we've had some qualifiers, and frankly thanks to the small groups the number of games has been far too low - eight games in two years?

Still, we must make do

As I've said before, England's group is pretty much sewn up - Montenegro have left the door wide open for England, assuming they can avoid defeat in Cardiff (that's me being pessimistic)

Bulgaria play Switzerland in a technically crucial game for both - only the winner will come away with any chance, a draw would be virtual suicide - I'd favour Bulgaria for home form, they are physically tougher, but considering the only points either have got were from Wales there's not much in it

In Group A Germany have a whole round to play Kazakhstan at home (why?? Who negotiated their fixtures?) and continue on their road to full points

Austria will duke it out with Belgium and then go to Turkey, and Belgium get an easy three points at home in what should be a very interesting tight race for second...*yawn*

Group B is the Irish, who always seem to do their level best to fall at the last hurdle, they would do well if Armenia held up Russia, while they have a Macedonia game to not cock up a la England, Slovakia get three points in northern Spain/southern France

In the typically favourable Italy group NI have Serbia away and Slovenia at home, surely four points minimum is required, I'd fancy Serbia in Estonia and my money is on Slovenia when they host Italy

In group D France do their level best to secure a play-off just for the hell of it, but will, in yet another odd piece of scheduling, head to Luxembourg in their sole tie, it's the two away ties in September that will be their downfall - again with the weird fixtures, Albania v Belarus is a 'key' game, how interesting - Bosnia should get three off Romania, who themselves get an easy three off the minnows after

In group E it's all windmills and clogs as the Netherlands face a double with Hungary, I would like to see Sweden keep up with a win over Moldova

Group F is the one that shows the twisted process that is seeding...but anyway Croatia go to Georgia, Greece get three in Malta, do you care about Israel v Georgia? There's only two teams of note here

Skipping England to H - Norway remain 2 points ahead of the cheats with a game in hand - they play Denmark in a no-win situation for myself, I guess Norway would be a better result, Cyprus v Iceland is at least guaranteed to yield more points than the two teams have combined

Finally to Spain and Scotland in I, you may have noticed a welcome lack of Scottish news this week - mainly because they're not playing, should Spain win against the Czechs and then win in, gasp, Lithuania they will have effectively won the group, the Czechs can push on for second with a win over Liechtenstein - leaving Scotland with the unlikely task of at least winning their two remaining home ties in September

This rounds up the rather dull weekend of action

Wales can win...

2011-03-23T12:44:00.000Z

Yes Gareth, Wales can beat England

Just as they could have beaten Bulgaria, Switzerland and Montenegro...or Ireland, Sweden or Croatia

For the sake of fairness they have won (or indeed, not lost) one game during that time - Luxembourg!!

Ttuly, they are capable of anything on their day

Gah

2010-10-12T23:13:00.000+01:00

Cheers, England

My own fault for betting on England - I broke my own golden rule

Still made a profit, thankyous go to Spain, the Netherlands, France and Armenia....(yes Armenia, Capello!), and offset with a quick in-play on 0-0 at half time, but alas, not the most productive of international breaks...

Anyway, besides my own personal misfortunes, it wasn't very good was it?

It's true the ref had a mare - blatant handball in the box, highly physical opponents and what was the yellow card for Ashley Young about? We're playing a side who are chopping us down left right and centre and he penalises him because he's in the box...could've just played on - he had a better view of the sodding handball!

But excuses aside, we were lacking ideas - to their credit Montenegro kept us quiet well, but I think we were lacking ambition - players weren't getting forward enough, Rooney looked off (again) and in general we were frustrated, fair play to the Montenegrans(/groes?) for making the match as about as exciting to Bolton v Huddersfield - not really in the spirit of the game, but we see it every week so I can't complain

And having the ever-miserable Gareth Southgate on to cheer us up on ITV after was not a good move - he said we will now have to go to Montenegro (our final game) and win to qualify

Right...this is based on the minnows of the group doing as well as they already have, granted they've done exceedingly well, but are we really expecting them to win every game?

It's a blow, yes, but we are level-pegging with them, and are massive favourites for the group (and I'll be checking those odds now btw), if this were Russia or Croatia again, Southgate would have a point, but to blindly expect the minnows to head to Switzerland and Cardiff and claim a total six points is a bit of a leap

and as I said before, Montenegro probably need a handful of points to be assured a top two spot, and we are virtually assured a top two because if Montenegro do screw up, they've split the table for us, and if they do well, assuming we don't have a shocker, the other sides are again, kept down

Even if we are basing this on the facts we currently have, Southgate said we need to win in Montenegro - no we don't - they have scored three and conceded none, we have scored seven and conceded one - draw, and we win on GD

He also said second isn't a guaranteed spot - true it isn't, but in reverse to the previous campaign for the world cup rather than the worst of nine being cruelly dumped before the play-offs, the best of the nine will gain an automatic spot - so we don't need to cry just yet

This loss of two points essentially means we have no wiggle room - we need to beat Switzerland and Wales

But do we need to win in Montenegro? I doubt it, and if we do go in needing a win I'll give you my measly winnings from tonight (and that is my last bet on England)

Who would've thought this group would be between Montenegro and England...

Calm down dear

2010-10-12T18:21:00.000+01:00

...It's only a draw

In the Faroes

Bad, yes, but will it condemn NI? Probably not, they still have seven games left and an away draw is not the worst thing that can happen to you, both Serbia and Slovenia have lost at home and are faring worse than the Irish/British

Fact is, NI are rubbish on the road, always are - they should have won this, it's a three-point gift for most teams, but we are basing their fate on what we expect to happen

Do you hear many expecting Italy to slip because they drew in Belfast? No because the pundits expect other results, Northern Ireland do not have the luxury of arrogance, but the result is the same - four home games, all perfectly winnable, win them and they qualify

It's in their hands

Odds will lengthen - this group's wide open

Update

2010-10-09T01:12:00.000+01:00

Well, that was interesting...and profitable

I knew someone would draw out of the home nations - and it was NI, not a bad little earner (this was a bonus, as I decided to use all those free bets I get from Beat Victor)

But in more realistic betting chances my multiples came through, Spain scared me witless until I realised they kicked off at 9, not 8, and they scored 2 minutes after the break - I took an enhanced multiplier and gambled on Portugal, despite my previous concerns, but I rightly stayed away from Italy - got 12/5 on them, the Dutch and Germans

The only loss was Serbia in my 10-way multiplier, a shame, but that's accounted for to start with anyway

A shame that I missed the boat on Montenegro, but I stick with the contention that they weren't worth the price of 17/10 - this has however, lengthened the English odds slightly - shall look at that tomorrow

Group G is rather interesting now, 9 points for the minnows out of three games is impressive by any standards, and formidable when you think 24 is the max, outside of the obvious favourites, only Bulgaria have even got any points from the opening three matches - Wales and/or Switzerland will remedy that in their game on Tuesday

Looking at permutations, one has to expect English success - and Switzerland would still seem to be the obvious choice for second, having three home games left and England done with, so Montenegro will need at least another 3 or 4 points to stand a chance, stand out games for them will be Switzerland away, which may be a crucial final game, Bulgaria at home and a trip to Cardiff - one win and a draw should do it I think, unless of course they beat us and...

Wales are dead and buried as far as I'm concerned - still to play England, they lose in Basel then that's it frankly

The draw for Northern Ireland is an excellent point they were expected, on paper, to not have - and the group remains ridiculously open, I was wrong about Serbia - so I'm glad I mostly opted against betting on them, a home loss to Estonia is excellent news for NI, one hopes - a win in the Faroe Islands is needed to keep ahead of the pack, that will leave them with seven points from nine, and four home games out of seven, with the group favourites already held - looks good, as always...

Ireland's 3-2 loss to Russia was not helpful, but not catastrophic, particularly as Slovakia fell to Armenia - this leaves Ireland in the predictable position of needing to battle Slovakia...and guess where they're going next week? That's right, the much maligned Bratislava, avoid defeat, then do well at home, overcoming the tricky Macedonians on the way, and they can get a play-off

Scotland's loss in the Czech Rep is arguably not too bad, the draw with Lithuania was worse - but fortunately they also won in Prague (so maybe it should be Lithuania we're fearing), leaving it open - both sides have to face the champions twice, and I think once again this will be a very low scoring group behind Spain, but Scotland have the home advantage now - they need home form against Lithuania and the Czechs, and a banker in the micro-state - three games, that's it, if Spain hold up and they beat the Czechs and Lithuania then they cannot be overtaken

Meanwhile, away from the Isles, Norway motored on with another crucial away win to keep a five point lead over Portugal who did ultimately defeat the Danes, for Norway to win the group they probably need to win all three home games, if they can hold off the Danes they should at least secure a play-off this time (they were eliminated rather cruelly for being the worst qualifier last year) - conversely, Denmark will need to beat Norway both times and hope Portugal can also beat Norway at home, and it may all boil down to their final game at home to Portugal - who have created their own deficit and may need every single match to be a win now, it's pretty much wide open! From our perspective, on Tuesday Denmark need to ensure victory against Cyprus, while a Portugal slip up in Iceland would help everyone

In group D, all major rivals drawing paves the way for a French comeback, for whatever reason they play tomorrow - there's little I can say, on paper they should top the group, but it's totally unpredictable

Groups E and F remain as expected, as does the Germans' (A) - that looks wrapped already, with Turkey a likely second

Now I need my investment bets to come through next week

Football is way more fun than benefits

2010-10-07T22:00:00.000+01:00

Well, I'm all tired out from the stupid child benefit cut story, so I'm having a look at the upcoming European qualifiers, see if we can't find some good bets while I'm at it

Group A is set for a top of the table clash between the Germans and the Turks - Germany are the natural favourites for the match, and the group, and you can't really question that - can't really see much from Austria, and Belgium have already lost to Turkey, whom they did beat at home in the world cup qualifying - but came five points behind - not seeing a lot of value in the markets, I could see Belgium top 2 finish at 11/2, as Turkey are 1/4 - so you could offset (i.e. put four on Turkey you'll get a pound, put that pound on Belgium you'll win £5.50) longer odds than the weaker Austrians (who've won 100%!), but I doubt it's worth it

Matches are fairly run of the mill

Group B is interesting - Ireland's always are, fancy a punt on Ireland at home to Russia at 13/8? No didn't think so, I'd want at least double, Armenia could draw against Slovakia, which would be nice for the Emerald Isle - Ireland's trip to Slovakia afterwards is vital, they need to avoid a loss in both games really - Andorra are predictably boring, the bookies are offering shite odds on all three favourites...how dull - could back Russia or Ireland as winner I guess

Group C is Northern Ireland's and is predictably open - with Italy, Serbia and Slovenia making up the main opposition, an away with in Ljubljana bodes well for them - their good home form will give them a shot, an important, but let's face it not must-win game against Italy is first, but surely the trip to the Faroe Islands must be won, Italy V Serbia is also important, NI fans will want a home win, I presume

Betting wise - 9/2 for a home win looks reasonable considering Italy are fairly weak, but maybe a draw at 11/4 would be a more appropriate punt, do you think they'll make the top 2 over Serbia? At 39/11 I think they're undervalued considering they've already got a decent away win - maybe Serbia as group winners as an outsider?

Now group D is rather interesting - a flailing France team and no discernible big teams make it highly unpredictable - how is it they always get second teams like Romania and Bosnia? Yet currently the weaker two sides - Albania and Belarus, head the group! France play Romania and have a banker against Luxembourg - six points should be expected...but then teams like France can throw away points and still qualify

The bookies are undecided on Albania and Bosnia, both offering similar prices - 2/1 on an undefeated home side looks good to me - Luxembourg over France at 20/1?? Group winner is pretty open - the bookies have France as big favourites, as they always do - but the punters triumphed substantially on their ignorance pre-2010 so we can again - Romania at 4/1, but surely Bosnia are a decent bet at 11/2 as well - play-offs last time in a group with Spain, they are underrated IMO - top 2 at 2/1 looks pretty good to me as well

In group E Sweden sit pretty after two easy home ties, but will go to Amsterdam and the Dutch are naturally big favourites, Sweden a likely second, in my view - and no good odds. In the matches only Finland v Hungary is open, just above evens - personally I quite like the Netherlands at 6/11 over Sweden - over 50% of your stake is pretty good for that surety

Group F is somewhat of a consolation for Croatia after 2010 (where's ours for 08...), Israel and Greece make up the main threat, although not losing their trip to the Middle East is fairly vital, Greece against Israel will also be important...if you actually care. Fancy aforementioned Croatia at 6/4?

Croatia to win the group at 8/11 is again a fairly dull price, but a sound investment, I think - Israel in a top 2 for 28/17 is about the best I can see otherwise

Group G time...

Seriously...1/5 is the best we can get on England topping the group? This is why you never get good value on England - seriously far too much attention on it - Germany are 3/10, the Netherlands are 2/5 - only Spain give worse odds, admittedly Montenegro have really helped sure it up for us, but one in five? That said - you interested in the Swiss at 19? However second is quite open, Switzerland may be alright at 13/10 and are Wales really as bad as 7/1? Probably - personally I would avoid Montenegro at an inflated 6/4 - unless a serious shock occurs that will get longer by next week

Oh well, despite the outright odds being daft the England match is rather reasonable at 1/4 - 25% back on a game England will win, you can thank the Welsh for that - it probably would've been 1/15 before the group started - Wales against Bulgaria is hard to call, so you can opt for either at just shy of 2/1 - Switzerland at 1/2 against the Welsh again looks a good value banker considering Wales' away form - although they do like to block the goal - fancy Montenegro at home in their first tie? 17/10 is a bit shorter than I'd like

Moving on to Group H, Norway sit five points clear of favourites Portugal, while Denmark are once again ahead of the greasy ones (after one game..) - the bookies still haven't cottoned on and once again they offer a bargain at 2/1, slightly worse than last year, but christ, you'd think they'd get it by now

However, maybe put the chequebook away for now - Denmark visit Portugal first and a fairly predictable loss, or even draw will push those odds in your favour - of course should they lose at home this won't happen, so it's a judgement call - I don't expect Denmark to win, even if Cyprus did put four past them...However it's unsurprising that I have disdain for odds of 8/13 for a home win - a draw at 3/1 or Denmark at nearly 6/1 if you feel like a punt

Denmark's game against Cyprus is of little interest, although the time to get the good odds is probably between the two games, but Cyprus Norway may offer something if you fancy the Norges...or indeed the Cypriots, the best opportunity may be the Iceland Portugal game however - the weakest side in the group maybe, but 7/1 for a home win is tasty, or just over 3/1 on the draw - but I'd watch Portugal's form under new manager Bento in the first game before making that choice

Group I - or should that be group 'aye' (sorry), the Scots are doing well with only two points dropped from two games, despite the win being that rather scary game against Liechtenstein - however they stand zero chance against Spain and must look to second along with the Czechs and Lithuania, they play in Prague first - avoiding a loss is pretty important in such a small group which also happens to have the champions in it, but an it wouldn't necessarily be the end - Spanish victory over Lithuania, and Liechtenstein holding the Czechs would be preferable, they don't play again til September - I doubt they want to be in third or fourth for 11 months

A draw in Prague could be on the cards (45/17), and indeed a draw in the micro-state at 13/2 may be good value (I say good 'value'...not 'likely') - the outright odds for this group are rather shocking, clearly too mediocre for the bookies - Spain offer a 50% return in Glasgow, might be worth it

Only one team can win

2010-10-03T23:02:00.000+01:00

Watching Gary Lineker's 'Can England win the world cup?' where a bunch of talking heads give their opinion on why we bombed in South Africa so spectacularly, I have to point out - it's seven games every four years, and only one team out of 32 can win!

This makes it a rather difficult affair to predict -we can talk about how good Spain are right now, but that does not make it a foregone conclusion that they were always going to win, the best teams don't always win

I don't claim we went out on luck, we were shocking, or indeed that Spain won on luck - but this tournament was a rarity in that nearly everyone's tip actually won - they were overwhelming favourites and the best team, and they actually won

Imagine if they had lost to a decent Dutch or German side? Perfectly possible, and another miserable defeat in Spain's long, long record of failure, one goal in any of those four knock-out games could have swung it against them and now they would be picking over the bones of why their own 'golden generation' missed their chance, just as we did in 86, 90...and 06

Instead, we focus on how great Spain are, and forget entirely that most World Cup results hang on a couple of incidents and a bit of luck - who seriously tipped Italy in 2006? And who (of non-Italian descent) thinks they were the best side?

It's perfectly fine to look at Spain's focus on Spanish players and their investment in local talent, all good points, as is a winter break - but they won't guarantee you a cup, they won't even guarantee you one from five, and this whole tactical issue surrounding Spanish 'technique' and English 'power' is nonsense

Holding the ball and stroking it around the pitch may have worked in this world cup, but Spain could have just as easily fallen flat on their faces with a bad draw or a dodgy penalty, they were technically very good at the past two cups - but they fell to some very odd results in both tournaments, Italy went on to win 2006 against a more favoured German side

The irony is, Lineker then went on to pour praise on an admittedly very good German side - who play with pace and youth, not Spanish technique, tipping them for 2014

Great potential from a young side, but that's all it is, just potential - they will certainly be in the mix in 2014, they always are, but if they don't win, what then? How are they any different to us in 2002-6?

If he had been talking about England's prospects there would be a word for that: 'cockiness'

The fact is, the Germans haven't won in twenty years despite five top 8 finishes and 3 consecutive semi finals (one being at home) - in this event coming second is the same as coming thirty-second, you may get respect, but not a winner's medal, failure in 2014 would be 24 'years of hurt' for a side who are much better at winning these things than us

So in truth, I'd rather crash out of the cup in the second round with a run of abysmal performances than come a heroic second or third, if we actually want to win rather than enjoy the experience of ultimately losing then a bit of pain is worth it to make the national side pull their collective finger out

So can we win - yes, of course we bloody can, if you're good enough to beat anyone on the day then you can win a world cup

1. Montenegro, 2. England

2010-09-07T21:12:00.000+01:00

You won't read this very often

Montenegro top group G, much as Blackpool once topped the league

Hopefully they won't by about 9.30 BST, but still, England might throw it away...

This could be a lifeline for Wales, depending on how you look at it - supposedly Montnegro are the weakest side, taking three points in Bulgaria could be vital for Wales' hopes, who also need to beat them in their next home game

That is, of course, assuming Wales can actually get to six points - and that Montenegro are the weakest side, from what I've seen, they're better than Switzerland too, but maybe, just maybe we'll beat them at Wembley in a month (and I'm struggling to understand that, why is that a solitary game?)

In other news, Portugal are behind in Norway - not a death sentence but once again they may take this to the wire, 2010 qualifying saw useless bookies offer long odds on realistic favourites Denmark and I made a tidy profit, and guess who is in their group (H) yet again??

In group B, Ireland are looking good after an away win last week and Slovakia won in Russia tonight, they'll be in contention, again

France, already with a home loss to Belarus in tow, are currently struggling against Bosnia, two home games against Luxembourg and Romania up next will surely decide their fate, 3/10 to qualify? Lay, people, lay!

And...Scotland are now behind to Liechtenstein, at home, seriously - and they're already in Spain's group (I), unlucky my arse...Liechtenstein!

'FIFA' rules?

2010-09-01T21:50:00.000+01:00

Apparently the idea that Arteta could play for England has been sunk by an obscure FIFA law

Now, forgive me if I'm wrong - wasn't this just a load of media speculation anyway? There's occasionally a few names bandied around when we see Brazilians playing for Germany and Croatia, but isn't the truth that England (and all British teams) cannot field foreigners like most sides can under the FIFA residency rules

There is no such thing as an English, Scottish or Welsh passport, so under FIFA regs any 'Brit' can play for any side, as these teams have no legal identities to distinguish between, the home nations are instead regulated by an old gentleman's agreement that requires a blood tie to the nation

Had you never wondered why Scotland hadn't been gathering up foreigners for years? Apparently Craig Levein tried to cap Shola Ameobi who, as far as I'm aware, has never actually played or lived in Scotland...a neat rule - and ultimately, any talk about Arteta or any other foreigner with no roots here is complete nonsense

Fantasy League

2010-08-13T00:05:00.000+01:00

New season starts in two days!

Please come and join us at fantasy.premierleague.com

Football banter league: 1448808-287576

Season Preview

2010-08-12T14:28:00.000+01:00

OK, as promised, it's time for a preview of the coming season

My league prediction:

1. Chelsea
2. Arsenal
3. United
4. Liverpool
5. City
6. Everton
7. Spurs
8. Villa
9. Fulham
10. Sunderland
11. Blackburn
12. Birmingham
13. Stoke
14. Wolves
15. Bolton
16. West Brom
17. Newcastle
---
18. Wigan
19. West Ham
20.Blackpool

Full team reviews

Arsenal

Well, the good news is they've kept Fabregas, surely the most essential player to their title hopes - and they've replaced Eduardo with the promising Moroccan, Chamakh, while van Persie is hopefully fit and Wenger has a lot of options with Walcott, Arshavin, Rosicky, Ramsey et all - but that's not Arsenal's problem is it? It's always the defence with Arsenal, not goalscoring - Gallas has gone, as have Senderos, Silvestre and Campbell, for what it's worth, but the only purchase is Koscielny, who is promising, and along with Vermaelen the Arsenal defence is possibly getting a bit better, but there's little cover if anyone gets injured, and inevitably Wenger will have a strop because Arsenal will be the only team in the world with injuries. The goalkeeper is perhaps the most pressing problem - rumours about Mark Schwarzer came to nothing, and frankly unless there's a little more strength at the back I can't see Arsenal making up those 11 points they fell short of last year. Not enough improvement for me, very similar to last year's result - Second, maybe third

Fantasy Picks
Fabregas is the obvious name, in recent years he has been matching Gerrard and Lampard while being considerably cheaper - alas no more , he's only got a million on last year's top-scorer Lampard and is now more than Gerrard, who underperformed last year - so his value has gone down substantially. However, take a look at his points to games ratio and he's actually considerably better than Lamps, who barely missed a minute, Fabregas averaged nearly nine points every game, compared to Lump's eight - so if you watch his injuries you may well benefit and save yourself a million. Arshavin looks good value for a mere 9.5, with 10 goals from 25 games and therefore excellent value, but remember he was playing up front in the absence of a striker last year, so he may not score as much, and could be a bit pricey. There's little else of huge note in Arsenal's vast midfield line-up, Song's score was reliant on bonuses, always variable from season to season, and you could punt on a fit Walcott or Rosicky.
The other main area to look at is defence, not the most solid in the world - but Vermaelen's seven goals are definitely worth thinking about, he is the joint most expensive defender in the game, but if Arsenal keep aiming for the centrebacks, which they always do, then he should come good. Koscielny is a cheaper option but a bit of a gamble. Sagna took an injury last year and is reasonable value for assists, particularly if Arsenal keep a few more clean sheets (keep note of goalkeeper situation).
Up front there's only one consideration - a fit van Persie could well be a snip at 10 mill, his points to game ratio was as good as Rooney and Drog last season.

Aston Villa

The recent loss of O'Neill is bound to have ramifications, particularly if someone like Southgate comes in, Villa have only sold players and therefore they're only getting worse, particularly if Milner heads off to City - there's still a lot going for them with a strong defence and decent attacking options in Young, Downing and Agbonlahor, but let's face it, they won't be challenging for Europe this season without some quick investment. My prediction - 8th

Fantasy Picks

Last year's top defender rather strangely comes in slightly cheaper than the most expensive, although that is an increase in two million for Richard Dunne - if he maintains his consistency as the rock of Villa he will be a good pick, undoubtedly claiming bonuses (especially if Milner's gone) and if he knocks in the odd goal, even better. Assuming Villa keep those clean sheets he should do well again, although he's lost value through the price increase so isn't a must have like last year.
In midfield, Ashley Young will once again be a worthwhile investment, he's been very consistent at scoring points with assists and goals, hard to tell if he'll pick up without Milner taking the points or dip if Villa aren't scoring as much.
Up front, Agbonlahor and Carew offer decent returns, but history suggests they aren't the best value - Gabby in particular keeps getting more expensive and yet gets consistent points, so he's losing value - not the best option up front, but a safe choice who tends to go through scoring patches.

Birmingham

Ninth spot last year was the surprise of the season - doesn't mean it'll be the same this year, a few pieces of bad luck may make the difference, but to be honest I think they'll be fine, if not top half. The main problem is goalscoring, Zigic is coming in and may provide some, but they remain a bit thin up front, they need some more investment if Yeung wants to improve on last year. That said, a good defence is what keeps you alive in the Premier League, and Roger Johnson was the signing of the season last year, however if there are many injuries there's very little cover available. The other signing is Foster coming in for Hart, personally I feel he's slightly poorer than Joe, but a good signing for a club this size. All in all, should do well, but don't expect much more than last year, I'm going for 12th.

Fantasy Picks

With Birmingham you might think we are mostly looking for value benchwarmers, however Johnson at 5.0 was one of my best buys last season, definitely worth a look, likewise Lee Bowyer and Barry Ferguson were brilliant value, doesn't mean they will be this season, but everything goes through them so there's definitely a bargain somewhere here, good place to look for your number four or five. Up front Cameron Jerome was an excellent third striker last year, could be again, although watch out for Zigic's influence.

Blackburn

Pretty much zero changes from last season, they've just got (another) Diouf on loan as this year's new striker, I'm predicting lots of long ball football, a physical home style and a mid table finish - 11th

Fantasy Picks

Blackburn is a good spot for your back line. Robbo is a good choice in goal, at a mere 4.5 he's an excellent second choice, or first if you're so inclined. Samba has been reliable and is one of the best value defenders at only 5 mill, and David Dunn was an outstanding value player last year, having played only half the season last year his price has stayed low, he may well be a good choice for a cheap midfield maestro. Up front they're lacking, I wouldn't recommend Diouf or Roberts.

Blackpool

I don't know much about Blackpool, but I know they have a small and inexperienced-at-top-level squad and will have an almighty task to stay up, much like Burnley last year - they start with four away games out of their first five matches, which is not the best prospect, prediction - last

Fantasy Picks
I see they only have 16 members in their squad...not good, Charlie Adam is undoubtedly their best player and that's reflected in him being the only player worth five million, I've never had much luck with top-scoring promoted players, although as he's a midfielder he may be good value. The trick with Blackpool is to find a player who plays every match and costs four mill - stick him on the bench and guarantee yourself two points when required.

Bolton

Finishing 14th last season under Owen Coyle, Bolton haven't exactly been busy this summer and the usual gang of Cahill, Taylor, Davies et all are all there, while they have also made a promising purchase in Martin Petrov. Coyle brings a better quality of football to the Reebok, whether or not it gets results is another matter - but with a good, stable team and a few decent players I can see Bolton getting their usual mid-table finish.

Fantasy Picks
There's a few options at the back - Cahill scored five goals last year and will start, but the clean sheets may be a problem now that he's 5.5, Ricketts may be a better option at 4.5 as a sub, I used to have Andy O'Brien but to be honest I'm not 100% on their first XI anymore. Jaaskelainen has always been a reliable choice - he's a good keeper and usually gets a few penalty saves, but last year's goals against tally is slightly worrying, he's good value for a second choice, but there may be a few better options.
In the middle, Matty Taylor is always a fun pick, now a snip at 6 million for a player who usually gets around ten goals a season, and they're usually from 30 yards, the drop in price this year makes him pretty attractive. Bolton's player of the year, Lee Chung-Yong may be worth a look, but at nearly the same price as Taylor I would argue that Taylor will be more value.
Up front Kevin Davies is one of the best strikers around, he's easily one of the top five best value players and is an excellent third or possibly second striker, Klasnic however may be an even better bargain, having scored eight goals despite playing less than half the season, if he starts regularly, and his full move to Bolton suggests he will, then he's a gem at 6 mill.

Chelsea

Last year's winners undoubtedly remain the team to beat, even if they aren't the best side in Europe, the ageing spine of Terry, Lampard, Drogba remains and there's no reason to think it won't last another year, personally I think they're weakening at the back, still reliant on Mourinho's squad, but I don't see much better from the other top clubs. So far Chelsea's biggest buy has been Benayoun, not a bad purchase but hardly season defining, while Ballack, Cole (J) and Deco have all gone, and Carvalho is set to leave - while there's no big parts leaving, there's definitely need of a few replacements. I have to back them as returning champions

Fantasy Picks
Chelsea are expensive, so pick wisely - generally the lesser players are too pricey so we'll aim for big names. Cech wasn't brilliant last year, and has a niggle, maybe avoid such an expensive option. At the back Terry is a competitive top pick, but Ivanovic costs the same and considering games played last year he's far better value, just check he's always starting. Likewise Ashley Cole is a good choice, again better value than Terry, even if he's the most expensive in the game, his goals and assists are vital.
In the middle, you have one of the trinity to pick (the new trinity is Lampard, Fabregas, Gerrard), and Lampard's phenomenal score of 22 midfield goals last year must be worth considering, however as the most expensive player in the game you have to ask if the 32 year-old will be as prolific. Malouda had a great season last year and at 9.5 is competitive value, the power of Lampard means there's little room for anyone else from Chelsea.
Up front, the obvious choice is the Drog himself, the decision is totally up to you, he's now 12.5 and so has lost considerable value since the start of last year (10.5), and he may not start the season due to a groin injury, Anelka is a reasonable choice, but you could get cheaper, depends on form with him. I will point out Chelsea have a favourable early fixture list, not playing any big names til week 6.

Everton

The tightest ship going, Everton continue to make the best out of peanuts and have secured the services of Jermaine Beckford on a free, while selling a few peripheral players. Not much has changed then, and as ever, they will be dependent on injuries, I'm hopeful they'll be a little luckier this season. I'm going for sixth

Fantasy Picks
Howard at 5.5 is an average keeper, Baines is a solid selection, but has lost the bargain value he once had, Jagielka is probably the best bet at 5.5, having missed most of the season through injury he may be a bargain if he stays fit. The fixture list is medium from a defensive perspective, they face United in their second home game, sandwiched between Wolves and Newcastle and have an early trip to Villa.
In midfield, Arteta is an old favourite of mine and is, based on past scores, better value than Cahill, who now costs the same, Fellaini could be a reasonable bet, but the others would probably trump him.
Up front, Saha would be a reasonable choice, with 13 goals in 25-odd games, but is no bargain at 8, there are better value options.

Fulham

With a new manager it's difficult to see how Fulham will fare, Mark Hughes has a good track record and I hope he shows the pettiness of City's hierarchy by doing well this year. Fulham's main issues were goals and fatigue, as they don't have Europe to worry about this year they should be alright on the defensive front, but still need a goalscorer. It depends who Hughes can coax away from other clubs, Kevin Greening will not cut it, so I expect a dependable result from the Cottagers, Ninth.

Fantasy Picks
Hangeland was the pick of the 08/09 season, but last year Fulham were definitely weakened by their Europa cup involvement, despite this Hangeland remained one of the better value, if not spectacular, defenders, he's definitely an appropriate price at 5.5. Aaron Hughes is slightly cheaper and scored nearly the same as Brede last year, but he played more games so hasn't got quite the same worth, but a solid choice. Konchesky may be the better option as he is more essential to the team and scores occasionally.
Duff and Dempsey are the real choices in the middle, both offer a good return for a reasonable price, Dempsey has often been a good midfield back up but has now reached a high of 7.0, so Duff may be the better option.
Personally I wouldn't go near Zamora, although his stats are decent, the fact that he scores goals off his back should say something, last season was his best in years and he's now a bit pricey at 6.5, you can do better.

Liverpool

Finally, a new manager, and Joe Cole on a free, things may be looking up at Liverpool, but although I think Cole is a move in the right direction, he's not going to challenge on his own. A fit Torres though, just might, as his goals to game record is superb, although it seems unlikely he'll stay fit with his record (he's already on a groin injury) and Liverpool definitely need a bit more up front. They also probably need a bit more cover at the back and creativity in the middle to win the title, but that said, I think we'll see them do considerably better than last year's seventh - fourth

Fantasy Picks
Gerrard massively underperformed last year, and on that evidence Lampard or Fabregas would be a better choice, but we all know what he is capable of and it could be a shrewd move to back a better performance this year as he's dropped to 11.5. Cole will have to do well to live up to his 9 million price tag, but could be worth it if he starts well. Mascherano remains good value at a mere 5 million. The only striker worth thinking about is Torres, he's doubtful starting the season though, if N'Gog is used more regularly by Hodgson then he could be a bargain at 5.5.
In defence, 'Mr. Reliable' Carragher is a solid choice at 6.5, but Johnson will probably give you more points for an extra million. A good combination of a weak enough defence to make saves, and a healthy number of clean sheets made Reina the top scoring keeper in the league last year, so he's definitely worth a look. Liverpool do not have it easy however, facing Arsenal, City and United in the first five weeks.

Man City

By far the biggest spending club this summer, in fact pretty much the only spending club this summer (age of austerity and all that), City will be looking to break the top four finally (that'd be 'get higher than Spurs' then...) with their nigh on £80million spending blitz, and yes, that's net. There's some nice purchases, with Boateng coming in at centreback, and Kolarov on the left, Silva's basically a better replacement for Robinho, and Yaya Toure coming in to strengthen the midfield. There's a lot of talent there, alongside existing players like Tevez and Adebayor, and on paper they look formidable - but it's all about performance and it's hard to spot the first eleven in this squad, the bench will be the best in the world, but on the pitch it remains to be seen how the team will gel, no doubt Mancini has made his own mark now, but the defence needs to be proven and it's still hard to see how the midfield will operate aside from having a blinding winger. Fifth again...

Fantasy Picks
Christ this is a mess of a team - in goal you have two excellent keepers who may well alternate, Hart was the star of last season and is now 6 million, so I wouldn't risk either of them. In defence there are eight players five million or above, so I have no idea who will be playing, but surely the £27 million pair will be first team, Kolarov is pretty prolific and may be worth it at six, and Boateng could be good value if City keep clean sheets this year.
The midfield is further mess - due to rotation City provided no high scoring players last year, SWP doesn't have bad value, but he needs to start a lot to warrant 7.5 of my cash, the up and coming Adam Johnson may be better at 6.5, Silva will presumably play a lot so might be a steal at nine million, and then Milner might come in! In short, there's so many here it's prohibitive for a fantasy manager, we need players to play every week, and while some might hit the points when on the pitch, half the time your money is going nowhere, and that's shown by the low scores across the board last year.
Up front it's a different story, Tevez had a great season last year and could be great value if he keeps up with Rooney and Drogba again, but you'd be reliant on him performing due to his new price of 10.5, Adebayor is a million less and if he finds the net like he used to then he could be a steal. City in general are very much a gamble

Man United

Few changes for United, some much-needed cover at the back in the form of the promising Chris Smalling, and a shrewd purchase of Hernadez are good signs for a team that lost out by a point, we can expect much of the same from United. But that said, if Vidic and Ferdinand struggle (which Rio in particular still is) they remain fairly exposed at the back, and that partnership will need fixing quick. They remain highly reliant on their two part-timers in midfield, Giggs and Scholes provided seventeen assists and eight goals (so with Rooney, that's well over 50% of goals created or scored by the trio) last season, players like Carrick, Valencia and Nani played more and weren't as influential, one wonders how much longer those two can go on and how many matches they will feature in. Up front they remain blessed with Rooney, but are still overly reliant on him, unless they can match Giggs' influence from midfield in particular then I think they still might fall short, and if the defence isn't as reliable as it was once was then teams like Chelsea will beat them again. Doesn't mean they can't win, I think it'll be tight this year, but I don't think they'll be champions. My prediction - third

Fantasy Picks
Rooney had a phenomenal season last year, from an overpriced and poor value striker (fantasy league perspective, ok!) who'd never scored more than 14 in a season, he scored 26! Now at 12 million he's a more realistic price and will have to get around 20 to prove his worth, but there's little reason to think he won't, unless Hernadez steals them all. Berbatov has gone down to a more appropriate price of 8.5, but there's still better value out there, and Hernadez looks good for 7.5, twelve goals or more would be an excellent return for him.
At the back, United defenders usually provide the goods, Vidic was a god a few years ago, but his and Ferdinand's injuries scuppered them both last year, with no reliable starters the only United defender worth anything was Evra, who remains a good choice thanks to his attacking prowess down the left, although he's top price and Wes Brown at 5.5 wouldn't be a bad investment if he stays fit. Maybe Smalling is worth a punt as Rio will miss a fair few games, and Fergie isn't going to leave his biggest signing on the bench, at 5 mill he's a snip. I wouldn't touch Van Der Sar, he's top end price but with his age and injuries he's unlikely to be worth it.
In the middle Giggs broke into the top echelons despite playing roughly half the season and at 7 is pretty good value...when he plays, you'll need a good sub to offset when he's not there though, and he's also an intensive option - he must play well when he plays. At the same price Darren Fletcher will certainly play more, but he's clearly not as effective when it comes to points, his price increase puts me off him this season. Valencia can certainly get points, but he's got lots of competition with a fairly hefty price tag of 8.5, while Nani had some excellent play last year and his points ratio is very good, if he were to keep it up I'd recommend him at 8, but risky though. Avoid Carrick as, well as he might play, he doesn't get the assists and isn't recognised in the scoring, nor is Scholes. United start with a decent set of fixtures, Newcastle, Fulham and West Ham - and they don't even play Arsenal and Chelsea til Christmas.

Newcastle

They're back - and frankly far better for it, they've had to become leaner and are now a fast, attacking side, from a side that used to...well, do nothing, trouble is Ashley is still there and the league money/parachute payments are not going into new players by the look of it. They've retained a few talents from their old Premier League days - Taylor, Gutierrez, Coloccini, Joey Barton...but that just goes to show what little they had two years ago, formerly solid players like Nicky Butt are gone and the team that steamrollered the Championship may struggle against Premier League defences. In midfield they may have some decent options, but up front they lack any experience and rarely have strikers like Andy Carroll come up and done well. The defence is the main worry - commanded by new signing Sol Campbell and lacking experience and depth this could be a disaster waiting to happen, and we all know it's defence that keeps you up in this league. Newcastle should be aiming solely for survival, and I'd like to think the bosses will be as realistic as the fans, but things could start to go mad again if they start off too badly, they will be reliant on teams like Blackpool, West Brom, Wigan and Wolves to do worse. I think they'll ~~go down~~ stay up, 17th (ish)

Fantasy Picks
One for the brave I think - no player is more than 5.5 and there could well be a gem in there somewhere - probably in midfield, Kevin Nolan or Gutierrez perhaps could be a decent sub, or you could gamble on Barton finally being sane. You could back a striker like Carroll as a third striker, but not Ameobi, let's be sensible (see: Special 1 TV). Frankly, I think you're insane to go for anything from that defence, even if it's a rock bottom sub (ie Perch, if you must have one). Certainly a more fun team to choose from...

Stoke

Who is Florent Cuvelier? He's a promising Belgian youngster, and he's Stoke's only signing - so as you can tell, we're getting much of the same from Pulis' men, with pretty much everyone coming back for more throw ins! What else can I say, the defence remains sound, they still have no goal threat outside of throw ins, and they still tackle hard - the only thing is to watch for Pulis' purchases - he wants a striker or two...he needs some midfield creativity. They've been 12th, 11th, so I'm saying 13th this time

Fantasy Picks
Stoke had the most clean sheets outside of United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Villa, so naturally we are looking for value defenders here. Shawcross at a mere five is excellent value and the most promising prospect, while Sorenson is a rock and came fourth in the keeper table last year - a wise investment for again, five mill.
For all my talk, Delap only managed one assist last season, quite a decline, and while a decent prospect for a lowly five, which is about as cheap as a starter gets, you could probably do better, in this team for one - Matthew Etherington, as Stoke's sole creative player was the best value midfielder last season - at six million he's a potential bargain.
Unsurprisingly, they offer little up front, what with being the lowest scoring side bar Wolves, Fuller is alright at five, but there are better choices, watch out for any purchases though. Early games against Spurs, Chelsea and Villa may be discouraging for your initial line up.

Sunderland

There's been some interesting, if not exciting, developments up on the Wear - Steve Bruce has brought in names such as Angeleri (RB), Mignolet (GK), Riveros (M), Al-Muhammadi (RM) and...Titus Bramble, who was a Sunderland favourite at Newcastle - so there could be some improvement, and they retain the services of top-scorer Darren Bent, who ironically, got a knock with England...They may need a new striker if Kenwyne gets his way, but I would think if that defence has improved a bit they could push on from last season's 'averageness' to about tenth.

Fantasy Picks
Bent looks good value for 8.5 considering he got 24 goals last season - he may not be starting the season though. Jones not so much, and he may be off to pastures new.
Sunderland's defence let them down last year, so Bramble coming in with a better previous score than any of the rest of them is a good sign - he's always a fun choice at a mere 4.5, however own goals now cost you (note: 50p says he scores against Newcastle...possibly for them as well...). You could bet on the promising Al-Muhammadi at 4.5 also, he likes to get forward and should play. Mignolet is a good prospect, but will probably take a back seat to Gordon when he returns, and I don't trust the Black Cats defence that much.
Midfield is pretty barren, unless you want to take a punt on Riveros, he'll be missing the opener however. Sunderland open with Birmingham at home and West Brom away, but then have City, Arsenal, Liverpool and United within the space of five games...

Tottenham

Europe for 'Arry, but it doesn't look promising to me - great man-manager he may be, but he's strapped for cash, the defence needs more than a plaster, and the midfield, while promising, needs bolstering to keep up with the likes of City and Liverpool, and to play the extra European games. Up front, Keane may go, leaving the main strikers a bit thin on the ground - but of course we'll have to wait and see who Redknapp can secure, rumours surround Ashley Young (because they need another winger...), Loic Remy would be a better option for me. I think they'll struggle - seventh

Fantasy Picks
Tottenham kept one of the tightest defences last year, which they can mostly thank for their final position, that's reflected in the once-mocked Gomes' high score, however at the back the injury merry-go-round meant that no one did too well, if they continue to utilise injury-prone King and Woodgate then players like Dawson underperform.
In the middle, Bale and Lennon look your best bets, they've come into their own now, Bale remains significantly cheaper despite less match time and a higher score last season, check he starts regularly but he could be a bargain.
Defoe is a solid choice up front, but has never merited his 9 million price tag by breaking into the 20s, he's not bad, but you can get cheaper. Crouchy actually has great value, this is somewhat offset by his propensity to be benched, but as his price has dropped to seven he's actually worth it for assists and goals.

West Brom

Boing, boing indeed - feels like only yesterday since the Baggies came up and went down again, could this be their season? Personally I think they might do it, they're a bit tougher than the Mowbray era and with Scott Carson shepherding the defence they might just have the capability - there's not a lot here, but good solid teamwork at the back means they're possibly in better shape than champions Newcastle - 16th

Fantasy Picks
(at this point Blogger deleted the last few entries so now we're keeping it short - and yes, I checked it saved) Carson, Olsson, Shorey are value, Mulumbu good sub

West Ham

Think they're going down, frankly - a couple of purchases doesn't cover their frailty at the back - reliant on Parker, Green and Cole and very vulnerable - 19th

Fantasy Picks
Parker is good value, the two new purchases in midfield are worth looking at, Cole is still cheap and Upson isn't a bad investment

Wigan

I've tipped them to go down, some exciting new attacking options in Boselli, but at the back they are without cover - Martinez has created a true South American side...Argentina, defence keeps you up - so they will be in the dogfight, 18th

Fantasy Picks
Avoid the defence, stick to N'Zogbia, Rodallega or Boselli

Wolves

Decent investment from Mick this summer, looking to beat 40 points and achieve relative safety, I'm going for 14th

Fantasy Picks
Craddock should remain great value if he keeps getting on the crosses, Matt Jarvis offered good value last season, he may again, Doyle and Fletcher may be useful at a mere 5.5, if they work well...

It's back...I'm Back!

2010-08-06T22:40:00.000+01:00

Sorry the blog has been left idle for so long...I had hoped to be about during the World Cup but alas real life is more pressing, I'm hoping that the structure of the league will improve the situation

Anyway, I thought I'd get back into the swing of it by looking at last year's predictions

I said:

1. Chelsea (1)
2. United (2)
3. Liverpool (7)
4. Arsenal (3)
5. City (5)
6. Everton (8)
7. Villa (6)
8. Spurs (4)
9. Fulham (12)
10. Wigan (16)
11. Bolton (14)
12. Blackburn (10)
13. Stoke (11)
14. Birmingham (9)
15. West Ham (17)
16. Sunderland (13)
17. Wolves (15)
----
18. Burnley (18)
19. Hull (19)
20. Pompey (20)

Well, it started off alright - I picked the top two (a good sign for my straight forecast this year), and I got City right, and relegation was bang on - but only six perfect overall

I don't know if that's a good figure or not, it goes to show the middle is always the trickiest, and in fairness it's quite random, I'm really only unhappy with Birmingham and Wigan

FA cup - wrong! I said Spurs (Semi)
League Cup - I said United
Champions League - I said Barca (Semi)
First Sacking - I said Brown, who was fifth, first was Paul Hart
Top scorer was Drogba, I said Torres...who came sixth, however had he actually played I would've been right, best goals to game ratio going!
I said West Brom would come up champions - they were runners up

I shall try to get this year's up tomorrow!

Update: New Sneak Peek

2010-05-05T20:06:00.001+01:00

With apologies; it seems there was a bug in the wikio system. Please disregard yesterdays post and here are the updated and correct positions for the Sports Blogs:

1	Arseblog (=)
2	Gunnerblog (=)
3	F1 Fanatic (+2)
4	The Corridor (a cricket blog) (+6)
5	Line and Length - Times Online WBLG (+1)
6	Republik of mancunia (+1)
7	East Lower (+4)
8	West Ham Till I Die (-4)
9	Who Ate All The Pies (+25)
10	Goodplaya (-7)
11	SoccerLens (-3)
12	Off The Post (+1)
13	F1 Minute (-1)
14	Goonerholic (+3)
15	Twohundredpercent (+1)
16	BlogF1 (-2)
17	Joys & Sorrows (+23)
18	Football and Music (+14)
19	Just Football (-1)
20	The Rugby Blog (-1)

Ranking by Wikio

Wikio Sneak Peek

2010-05-04T12:42:00.003+01:00

Here is the sneak preview of the top 25 Sports blogs as ranked by Wikio

1	Arseblog (=)
2	Gunnerblog (=)
3	Goodplaya (=)
4	West Ham Till I Die (=)
5	F1 Fanatic (=)
6	Line and Length - Times Online WBLG (=)
7	Republik of mancunia (=)
8	SoccerLens (=)
9	BBC Sport - Phil McNulty blog (=)
10	The Corridor (a cricket blog) (=)
11	East Lower (=)
12	F1 Minute (=)
13	Off The Post (=)
14	BlogF1 (=)
15	Twohundredpercent (+1)
16	Goonerholic (+1)
17	Just Football (+1)
18	The Rugby Blog (+1)
19	Bitter and Blue (-4)
20	Football Banter (=)
21	BBC Sport: Jake Humphrey (=)
22	Gooner Talk (=)
23	Studs Up (=)
24	Blue Days (=)
25	Bikerholic (=)

Ranking by Wikio

When will politicians address the real issue?

2010-04-23T00:12:00.000+01:00

It's suddenly dawned on me, there's only one real issue in this election - getting us the bloody world cup

I don't care about hair-dos, MPs' expenses, or even NI - the first politician who makes it a major election campaign to woo the corrupt FIFA board has got my vote, the economy is screwed whatever happens, but the tournament needs securing

Vote Football!

(Let's face it, we'd probably take Beckham over all three of them)

Wikio Sneak Peek

2010-04-02T14:20:00.001+01:00

Here is this months cheeky look at the sports rankings:

1	Arseblog (=)
2	Gunnerblog (+1)
3	Goodplaya (+9)
4	West Ham Till I Die (=)
5	F1 Fanatic (+11)
6	Line and Length - Times Online WBLG (-1)
7	Republik of mancunia (+4)
8	SoccerLens (-2)
9	BBC Sport - Phil McNulty blog (-2)
10	The Corridor (a cricket blog) (+5)
11	East Lower (-1)
12	F1 Minute (-4)
13	Off The Post (+1)
14	BlogF1 (-5)
15	Bitter and Blue (-2)
16	Twohundredpercent (+2)
17	Goonerholic (+2)
18	Just Football (+3)
19	The Rugby Blog (+14)
20	Football Banter (-3)
21	BBC Sport: Jake Humphrey (Ent.)
22	Gooner Talk (Ent.)
23	Studs Up (+2)
24	Blue Days (+7)
25	Bikerholic (-5)

Ranking by Wikio

Dan's Super 6

2010-03-27T13:38:00.000Z

Birmingham 1 - 2 Arsenal

Chelsea 2 - 1 Aston Villa

Hull 2 - 1 Fulham

Tottenham 4 - 0 Portsmouth

West Ham 1 - 1 Stoke

Wolves 0 - 2 Everton

Beckham's Season And World Cup Dream Is Over

2010-03-15T09:02:00.000Z

As everyone who isn't living in a cave is aware, David Beckham has been on loan to AC Milan in a bid to improve his chances of making the World Cup this summer. That dream has now ended after Beckham tore his Achilles tendon during yesterdays match with Chievo.

I do feel sorry for Beckham but the thing is, if I were Capello I probably would not have taken David Beckham to the World Cup anyway, and thus Fabio Capello and more importantly the England Team can be spared a media backlash from Beckhams absence in South Africa.

There is a good argument that Beckham would be an impact player, who could come from the bench and deliver a vital free kick or corner in the dying minutes of a game that could further our progress. But I would say that any player who is not in consideration of 90 minutes of action per game probably should not be going and I would also say that with the likes of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in the team we should not need additional set-piece takers, they are certainly good enough to build our set piece tactics around. Yes, Beckham may still be the best in the world at set piece delivery, but that is not enough on it's own in my book for special consideration.

Beckhams form has not been great for AC Milan, and he has not nailed down a first team slot. So, if he is not good enough to break into the team demolished by Man Utd recently, is he good enough for England?

I wish Beckham well and a speedy recovery and I will look forward to seeing him in his blazer giving his opinion from the BBC match box.

Dan's Super 6

2010-03-13T10:07:00.000Z

The scores now officially cursed are...

Birmingham 2 - 2 Everton

Bolton 2 - 0 Wigan

Burnely 2 - 1 Wolves

Chelsea 3 - 0 West Ham

Stoke 2 - 2 Aston Villa

Middlesbrough 1 - 2 Newcastle

Daniel1979 Predicted....

2010-03-10T14:09:00.000Z

So, with three-quarters of the season gone how are my pre-season predictions going?

League finish                    Actual (today)

1. Chelsea                          Man Utd                   Close
2. Man Utd                        Chelsea                     Still close
3. Liverpool                       Arsenal                      Must have confused Liverpool and Arsenal
4. Man City                       Tottenham                 Sorry, but it won’t last.
--
5. Arsenal                          Man City                  Nearly
6. Everton                          Liverpool                  erm…
7. Tottenham                     Aston Villa                not too bad.
--
8. Aston Villa                     Birmingham              I was way off! Well done Brum
9. West Ham                      Everton                   Injurys, blah, blah, blah!
10. Sunderland                   Fulham                    Close again
11. Fulham                         Stoke                      Sorry Potters! I am a convert though (now!)
12. Blackburn                    Blackburn                Zing!
13. Bolton                         Sunderland               Come on Brucie!
14. Wigan                         Bolton                      Not bad
15. Portsmouth                 Wigan                       Another one that is one spot away
16. Birmingham                 West Ham                oops! I’ll blame the Icelanders for that
17. Hull                             Wolves                    Still time for the drop zone
--
18. Stoke                         Hull                          This could be the Hull Story, battling to stay above the line
19. Burnley                      Burnley                      Bang on again!
20. Wolves                      Portsmouth                I clearly picked the wrong whipping boys.

Other Predictions

League Cup – Arsenal (oops, though Wenger and Asenal would be up for a cup run this year)

FA Cup – Liverpool (Blame Rafa, not me!)

Bottom Christmas Day – Stoke (no excuse, they can play football I just hadn’t really noticed)

First Premier Manager to be Sacked – Paul Hart (How come I knew that, but not that they would be bottom?)

Scottish Champions – Rangers (As good as in the bag!)

So my pre-season prediction have been a little off, and there were a few more made on Europe and top scorer to be decided. But arguably these much better than my Super 6 predictions which have been dreadful all year.

Welcome

2010-03-10T13:50:00.000Z

Welcome to the Blogroll to Back of the Net which is a thoroughly good read.

Wikio Sneak Peek - Sports Top 20

2010-03-03T16:01:00.000Z

Here is the sneak peek at this months Top 20 Sports Blogs as per the unique Wikio ranking's.

1	Arseblog (=)
2	BBC Sport - Football blog (=)
3	Gunnerblog (=)
4	West Ham Till I Die (=)
5	Line and Length - Times Online WBLG (=)
6	SoccerLens (+6)
7	BBC Sport - Phil McNulty blog (-1)
8	F1 Minute (+2)
9	BlogF1 (+4)
10	East Lower (-2)
11	Republik of mancunia (-2)
12	Goodplaya (+2)
13	Bitter and Blue (-6)
14	Off The Post (-3)
15	The Corridor (a cricket blog) (=)
16	F1 Fanatic (+2)
17	Football Banter (-1)
18	Twohundredpercent (+5)
19	Goonerholic (-2)
20	Bikerholic (+70)

Ranking by Wikio

Dan's Super 6

2010-02-27T12:18:00.000Z

Remember, more likely than not, these are now jinxed!

Birmingham 2 - 1 Wigan

Bolton 2 - 1 Wolves

Burnley 2 - 1 Portsmouth

Leicester 1 - 1 Nottingham Forest

Watford 1 - 2 Newcastle

West Brom 3 - 1 Derby

Wayne Bridge Rules Himself Out From England Selection

2010-02-25T13:43:00.000Z

Wayne Bridge today declared that he is ruling himself out of contention for the World Cup. In a short statement this morning the Manchester City defender claimed that his presence within the England squad was potentially divisive and as such, he did not wish to be selected.

It would seem that Bridge has done some soul-searching and decided that it is an impossible situation for him to play alongside his former friend and ex-captain. Fabio Capello was questioned earlier today on his return to England from South Africa and refused to make a comment.

The decision also means that Capello is without his first and second choice left-backs for the Egypt friendly and attention will turn to Stephen Warnock and Leighton Baines, both of whom should get some minutes on the pitch now.

Bridge's decision vindicates Capello's decision to strip Terry of his Captaincy over the affair. The situation of Bridge potentially being available for selection but ruling himself out because of his captains actions warrant that Terry cannot be captain if his own actions damage the strength of selection available to the manager.

Here is the statement:

"I have thought long and hard about my position in the England football team in the light of the reporting and events over the last few weeks,

"It has always been an honour to play for England. However, after careful thought I believe my position in the squad is now untenable and potentially divisive.

"Sadly therefore I feel for the sake of the team and in order to avoid what will be inevitable distractions, I have decided not to put myself forward for selection.

"I have today informed the management of this decision. I wish the team all the very best in South Africa."

Obligatory AC/JT Joke

2010-02-24T18:10:00.000Z

Ashley Cole just got caught doing 104mph in a 50mph zone. When questioned by police to why he was speeding he said I've just heard John Terry is parked outside my house!

Super 6 Predictions

2010-02-20T12:08:00.001Z

Here's my Super 6 Prediction...

Arsenal 3 - 0 Sunderland

West Ham 2 - 1 Hull City

Wolves 0 - 2 Chelsea

Newcastle 3 - 0 Preston

Nottingham Forest 2 - 1 Middlesbrough

Sheffield Wednesday 2 - 1 Ipswich

No Grab5Grand today.

Wolves actually got fined

2010-02-19T00:20:00.000Z

Ok, this has got to be the most subjective application of a rule I've seen - Wolves have been fined £25,000 for:

the team fielded in their league fixture against Manchester United on 15 December 2009 was not full strength and therefore in breach of Rule E20.
"The board also deemed that the club had failed to fulfil its obligations to the league and other clubs in the utmost good faith and was therefore in breach of Rule B13.

'Not fielding a full-strength team' - how on earth do you decide that? I know this one got done to death a few months back, but it really does defy common sense when all teams rest players

I did this myself, and as I pointed out then, while the media may report 'ten changes' - at least four of those ten were perfectly acceptable first-team players, so he was almost swapping first and second stringers across two games

If you take that view into account then how can you not question when Liverpool play a defensive midfield and go on to lose to Portsmouth? I had this argument with Robbo - his point was that when Arsenal/United etc rest players in the cup, or before a big European game, they are still aiming to win...right

Even though they don't..., as we've seen three of the big four knocked out of the FA cup, Liverpool crash in the league and Champions' League and so forth - why is this any different? These are managerial decisions that result in defeat being more likely, unless we are saying that McCarthy actually set out to lose, which would be match-fixing, then all we are doing is passing judgement on his team

Only one member of that team was a débutante, about half were regular players (such as Mancienne, Zubar, Foley, and David Jones, who have all played the last five matches) the rest were usually subs - take an example: before Robinho went, City had five major strikers in their squad - if they don't play the ones we decide are the best, then surely they should be fined too?

What we're saying is that Wolves' bench-warmers aren't good enough to play, but teams like Chelsea have a good enough team in reserve...even if they subsequently lose

I'm making no comment of the quality of the Wolves side that went out, simply that it stinks of a subjective, opinionated decision to fine a small team for something that big teams get away with all the time because some people have decided that these players aren't worthy, personally I don't think it's a fair application of the 'law', it's arbitrary and the rule is probably not even workable short of sending out a team of 12-year olds (the Carling Cup presumably doesn't have these rules...)

I presume from now on the Premier League will be informing all managers, especially teams like Hull, West Ham, Burnley etc who they must field each week

He Should Have Gone To Specsavers

2010-02-14T19:07:00.000Z

I was at the Oxford United v Histon game yesterday and it was quite an experience. The game managed to bring (from memory) 5,360 into attendance, though Histons contribution seemed from where I was sat to number only 33. There may have been a few more in the directors box, and I am told Teddy Sheringham was also there to watch his son who came on in the second half for Histon.

Despite the cold stadium, the fans gave a fantastically warm welcome and are vocal and passionate. Despite not living locally (any longer) I shall be going back because it was a great day.

The reason for writing this was the shockingly poor linesman at the game. I mean shocking. He probably came up with the away fans, because he was either on the take or of exceptionally poor eye sight. In the first half, he gave Oxford offside when the there were two Histon players a full 10 yards ahead of the play… this was not one of those slow motion jobbies we see on Sky Sports where there is a cigarette paper in it; you could have parked a couple of cars in that space. A few minutes later, gave the very worst offside decision ever given in a game of football anywhere in the world in the history of time. Oxford were given offside, when not only not being in an advance position of a number of defenders, but also whilst not having a single player past the halfway line in the opponents half. There were at least three more offside’s given when there were one or more Histon players keeping Oxford’s advances onside, again not by a small margin.

Histons gameplan was clearly to kick and scrap their way through the tie, and were not afraid to get a little over physical. There was the cross-throat-drag-down in the box, that went unnoticed only by the ref and his comically unaware linesman as well as a number of other challenges that would not look out of place in a MMA arena. Histon did get one red card, and several yellow cards – but should count themselves fortunate not to have been reduced to 7 men and under police investigation for assault.

The officials got the brunt of the fan’s fury, and rightly so. But if the officiating is typical of the Conference level and below the FA really need to get these guys to start watching a video of their mistakes and their decisions. They should start with this game, which could provide a big contribution to any refereeing bloopers Christmas DVD.

Some quick points

2010-02-12T23:32:00.001Z

Evening all

I have a few issues, and, as always at the moment, am short on time

Firstly, the most pressing issue is the Ashley Cole injury - I know it's a fairytale (or some sort of fictional account) that Wayne Bridge could be called up to play alongside Terry (his arch-nemesis!!!) but can we be serious for a minute here? A week ago most commentators didn't even expect Bridge to make the squad...now he's first choice? This is a man who's played about 2 hours in over 2 months, and has struggled with form all season - Fabio picks on form, not potential, and the fact that Bridge is now a contender shows how weak we are at left-back currently

Bridge is a shoe-in if Cole isn't fit because our only other proper left-backs are Leighton Baines and Stephen Warnock, personally I'd want Baines with Cole, but it shows an incredible frailty within the squad, although Cole is easily one of the best left-backs in the world, so maybe we have too-high standards

Next I have some issues with the media - number 1 - 'innocent-party' Bridge has not said a word - does he even care?? I bloody don't...

2) Terry was not dropped on 'moral' grounds, and it's not about English sensibilities - it's about our media and the fact that Capello is a wise man and didn't want his figurehead plagued by a media scrum during the tournament, the English press, unlike their European cousins, are bloodthirsty and love a good sex scandal, nobody is offended that he cheated (except his missus of course)

Ok, that's off my chest, moving on to this weekend...

Chelsea are considered red-hot favourites (BBC) now that the other big four teams are gone and it's only the fifth round, but the way I see it, there are still 16 teams and that gives quite good odds of Chelsea going out to a 'cupset' - normally we'd have another 2 or 3 of the big boys left, one upset is to be expected, so I just see Chelsea as the last pin standing - so I don't expect a waltz to the trophy from here, and although they only face a weakened Cardiff without Terry and Cole, they've been pretty patchy lately, a tricky away tie in the next two stages could give us an interesting result

So the big question is...who will win? Surely Villa, Spurs and City are the only serious contenders, and if not them it'd be an amazing result...Bolton for the cup?

Personally I think it's Villa's time

edit: and also - in response to the Euro 2012 qualifiers - is it just me or is it somewhat easier than the world cup draw, despite using the same system? There's only one extra spot to be won, but I don't really see any bad groups, England's hardest ask is mighty Switzerland, while Portugal only have to deal with Denmark...oh wait

Seriously though, I just can't see any really tasty groups, aside from the odd local derby few decent teams face a threat - although looking at it I think it's solely down to there not being three good sides in our group and Croatia effectively moving to the ridiculous group 2, maybe it's just a bit more even this time, but I'm sure France can cock up Bosnia and Romania...again

So in conclusion - 24 teams is going to be a joke...but Scotland will at least get a play-off

EURO 2012 Qualifying Groups Announced

2010-02-07T15:52:00.001Z

Group A
Germany
Turkey
Austria
Belgium
Kazakhstan
Azerbaijan

Group B
Russia
Slovakia
Republic of Ireland
FYR Macedonia
Armenia
Andorra

Group C
Italy
Serbia
Northern Ireland
Slovenia
Estonia
Faroe Islands

Group D
France
Romania
Bosnia-Herzegovina
Belarus
Albania
Luxembourg

Group E
Netherlands
Sweden
Finland
Hungary
Moldova
San Marino

Group F
Croatia
Greece
Israel
Latvia
Georgia
Malta

Group G
England
Switzerland
Bulgaria
Wales
Montenegro

Group H
Portugal
Denmark
Norway
Cyprus
Iceland

Group I
Spain
Czech Republic
Scotland
Lithuania
Liechtenstein

Bye to finals (hosts)
Poland
Ukraine

Saturday Betting

2010-02-06T13:52:00.000Z

Ladbrokes Grab5Grand is on again this week, here's my predictions:

Man Utd 3 - 0 Portsmouth

Burnley 2 - 1 West Ham

Bolton 1 - 2 Fulham

Ipswich 2 - 1 Middlesbro

Notts Forrest 3 - 1 Sheff Wed

Here is my regular Super 6 entry.

Bolton 2 - 1 Fulham

Burnley 2 - 1 West Ham

Hull City 0 - 2 Man City

Man Utd 3 - 0 Portsmouth

Stoke 2 - 1 Blackburn

Sunderland 2 - 0 Wigan

Eagle-eyed readers will have noticed that I have reversed the Bolton v Fulham score, basically this is just because I think it could go either way and my general rule when predicting Fulham scores is to bet 2-1 as most of their games in the Premier League have, over a period of time, tended to end up that way.

Good luck everyone!

Terry Stripped Of Captaincy

2010-02-05T18:43:00.001Z

It seems that Fabio had already made his mind up and todays meeting lasted just 12 minutes. I think it probably is the right decision, mostly because of his actions having an effect on an England team mate in Wayne Bridge.

Congratulations to Rio, who I suspected would be an England and Man Utd captain one day, and I also suspect he will want to quickly make people forget how he became Captain by putting in some strong performances.

Hopefully we can all focus on the World Cup now!

Brand Spanking New From Wikio

2010-02-03T15:29:00.001Z

Me again, and I have more from Dan at Wikio.

There is a new function that is a fantastic enhancement to the existing Wikio Ranking System. Those in the know will be aware of the broad categories upon which the various Wikio rankings are compiled, such as Sports, Politics, Technology etc…

However, Wikio have now about to take the ranking system a step further, and have developed a new sub-ranking system. So, in future, the categories that you are familiar with will also be available split into sub-rankings.

For example. .. Here, as a sneak peek is the sub-rankings for the football blogs, as a sub-ranking to the UK Sports blog list I published a few minutes ago…

1	Arseblog (Ent.)
2	BBC Sport - Football blog (Ent.)
3	Gunnerblog (Ent.)
4	West Ham Till I Die (Ent.)
5	BBC Sport - Phil McNulty blog (Ent.)
6	Bitter and Blue (Ent.)
7	East Lower (Ent.)
8	Republik of mancunia (Ent.)
9	Off The Post (Ent.)
10	SoccerLens (Ent.)
11	Goodplaya (Ent.)
12	Football Banter (Ent.)
13	Goonerholic (Ent.)
14	Just Football (Ent.)
15	The Gunning Hawk (Ent.)
16	Twohundredpercent (Ent.)
17	Lord of the Wing (Ent.)
18	A Cultured Left Foot (Ent.)
19	Some People Are On The Pitch (Ent.)
20	Blue Days (Ent.)

Ranking by Wikio

It’s a brave new world people.

Wikio Sneak Peek - UK Sports Blogs

2010-02-03T15:05:00.000Z

Dan has been good enough to provide me with the sneak peek for the Top 30 Sports Blogs this month, as per the Wikio ranking system.

1	Arseblog (=)
2	BBC Sport - Football blog (+1)
3	Gunnerblog (-1)
4	West Ham Till I Die (+3)
5	Line and Length - Times Online WBLG (+1)
6	BBC Sport - Phil McNulty blog (+6)
7	Bitter and Blue (+2)
8	East Lower (-4)
9	Republik of mancunia (Ent.)
10	F1 Minute (+4)
11	Off The Post (-6)
12	SoccerLens (-4)
13	BlogF1 (-3)
14	Goodplaya (+1)
15	The Corridor (a cricket blog) (-4)
16	Football Banter (-3)
17	Goonerholic (Ent.)
18	F1 Fanatic (-2)
19	Letchworth Girls' Rugby (+38)
20	Just Football (Ent.)
21	Test Match Special (-4)
22	The Gunning Hawk (-4)
23	Twohundredpercent (-3)
24	Joys & Sorrows (Ent.)
25	King Cricket (-6)
26	Lord of the Wing (-1)
27	BBC Sport: Jake Humphrey (-6)
28	A Cultured Left Foot (+13)
29	Some People Are On The Pitch (-7)
30	BBC Sport: Chris Charles (-7)

Ranking by Wikio

If you want to look in a little more depth to some of the trends and who is linking to whom, then check out Wikio Labs

The John Terry Issue

2010-01-31T16:11:00.002Z

Like most of you, I have been shaking my head at the revelations that have come to light regarding John Terry’s personal life, and more specifically it’s encroachment into Wayne Bridge’s personal life. The judge who presided of the attempted injunction made clear his feeling that John Terry had been more concerned about how this may affect his income through his sponsorships than he was of the feelings of those involved. The question now is this; should JT now carry on as England Captain?

I think when we ask this question the situation becomes murkier, because it wouldn’t matter if Terry resigned or was asked to step aside the problem becomes who would be asked to step into the breach? Well, that is open to debate, but the leading candidates are not exactly covering themselves in glory, certainly not if Terry is stripped of his captaincy because he is deemed not to be setting a healthy example of a role model off the pitch.

Let’s look at the potential candidates.

Rio Ferdinand. Missed a drugs test eight years ago despite receiving a reminder that very morning and still took himself off shopping for the afternoon… and turned his mobile off whilst out. All very fishy at the time, and perhaps Rio has won the benefit of the doubt from most it has left question marks over the whole situation. As far as sex scandals go, Rio was one of the players who gave new meaning to the term “Roasting” a few years back whilst on holiday in Ayia Napa with Frank Lampard and Kieron Dyer.

Steven Gerrard. Appeared in court last year on charges of assault, and though acquitted there was some released CCTV footage that sticks in the mind that seems not to hold up Gerrards version of having acted in self defence. I feel he is very lucky not to be in Prison.

Gary Neville. United Captain, but not only has Capello not picked him in any team yet, Neville is struggling to get selected for United and with his age is unlikely to be putting in a consistent run between now and the World Cup.

David Beckham. The appointment of Beckham would be a return to the past, not necessarily a welcomed one. He is someone who has struggled for fitness in recent years and has struggled to impress Capello consistently, both for England and for Real Madrid. He is a fringe player in todays England squad. Beckham was centre of his own sex scandal when he is alleged to have had an affair with Rebecca Loos. Then Manager Sven Goran-Eriksson didn’t seem to mind the allegations, but then again Sven was repeatedly revealed to be playing out the role of sugar daddy to a number of women behind the back of long term girlfriend, and paparazzi friend Nancy Dell’olio.

David James. About to be relegated. Not necessarily England’s first choice goalkeeper, so unlikely to figure in any discussions as new captain.

Frank Lampard. Well, as mentioned there are sex scandals, and then there are sex scandals where the English language is changed forever. This would appear not to have been an isolated incident so in the wake of one England captain stepping down in favour of another, Lampard may find he is not in contention for the same reasons.

Gareth Barry. Perhaps the leading choice based on probability of a start and lack of personal scandal in the media. With Barry as Captain in a four man midfield Capello may be forced to choose between Lampard and Gerrard for the role alongside him in the middle of the park. It is worth remembering that Barry was stripped of the Aston Villa Captaincy when he spoke out against Martin O’Neil and the club for turning down Liverpool’s advances. B as far as scandals go, not one that made the front pages.

Wayne Rooney. In arguably the best form of his career for Man United and if his metatarsals are strong enough he will be on the plane and a certain starter at the next World Cup. Two things do stand out against Rooney in the context of this debate; firstly Rooney has been centre of his own sex scandals, most remember ably with Patricia Tierney, or as most people will recall “ye auld Slapper”. Though, this is looked upon more in the context of a very young man thrust into the lime light acting out. Secondly, and this is more a personal thing, I don’t like Captains to be front players. I have always felt that the best captains are those in Central defence or Midfield because their position puts them in the best place to influence others.

So, back to Terry… Like I mentioned, I am in the camp that feels let down by his behaviour and is ashamed to see yet another England Captain embroiled in a tawdry affair. This is not new territory for Terry. He has confessed to a number of affairs before his marriage, and was involved in both a nightclub brawl which resulted in an arrest but also the shameful events around the September 11th attacks when a group of Chelsea footballers (including Frank Lampard) were drunkenly heckling American tourists about the attack in a bar near Heathrow. But, it would perhaps be somewhat hypocritical to strip Terry of the captaincy only to hand it to someone else whose scandals are just a little less fresh in the mind. Terry should be stripped of the captaincy but the general behaviour of the modern international player at the top of their game makes it impossible to choose somebody who both deserves to be the first name on the team sheet and also reflect exacting moral standards; or, at least has a better track record of keeping his pants on.

Yet again, England fans can feel a little aggrieved and pinned into a corner. Depending on how Terry plays this with the morally strict Capello, we will probably keep his place and the armband, but really it’s a reflection on the whole squad that there is nobody waiting in the wings in a position to assume this role given what has happened.

I lament educashon

2010-01-30T22:59:00.001Z

I was just over at Super Six checking how I did (got one right, if you must know) and I seriously despair when I see this sort of crappy writing:

Late goal earns trio a share of the spoils

Liam Ridgewell's last-gasp goal for Birmingham proved a real winner for three Soccer Saturday Super 6 players as they shared this week's £5,000 prize.

Terry Stevenson from Woolwich, Andrew Mahon from Halifax and Jordan Fox from Leeds all cashed in as Ridgewell's goal earned Birmingham a point and secured all three players there fifth correct result of the afternoon.

Tracy and Jennifer are among 19 runners-up each receive a £50 free bet.

It's just sloppy - I know people with good jobs who actually have to write to people and can't handle basic grammar either and frankly it's quite shocking - and it's written on a computer! Far too many people can't (or cannot) spell on their own, or bother to proof-read

Grammar Nazi?

Free Saturday Betting

2010-01-30T13:04:00.001Z

Ladbrokes are back with their Grab5Grand competition again this week. All you need is a Ladbrokes online account and be over 18 to play.

Here’s my entry this week:

Liverpool 2 – 0 Bolton

Birmingham 1 – 1 Tottenham

Fulham 2 – 1 Aston Villa

Hull 2 – 1 Wolves

West Ham 2 – 1 Blackburn

I have taken the same scores for my Super 6 entry this week but added:

Wigan 2 – 2 Everton

Good luck!

One less Spaniard at Liverpool

2010-01-28T17:41:00.000Z

Hello all,

It's been a while since I've been able to get on footie banter - my apologies, I don't have as much free time anymore and the past month has been mad

So anyway - lets look at the burning question of the day: When will Rafa bugger off?

Skybet have a reasonable 5/6 by the end of the season and let's be honest, he's got to go - FA cup at the first hurdle, Champions League at the first hurdle, struggling to get fourth in the league - this is all not good

I admit, one bad season does not mean it's the end and after last season I can understand some optimism, but clearly something has gone wrong, it's been four years without a trophy now, at least Arsenal are having a go and stick to Wenger's principles, Rafa just seems to float along making ridiculous decisions

You could defend him with the old 'Hicks and Gillett crippling the club' line - but their investment this year has been far more than United's and look at the disparity, Rafa has bought in both Johnson and Aquilani for nigh on 40 million, and now Maxi - O'Neill and 'Arry have done better with less, United are pushing first with no back four and are heavily reliant on Rooney and a Welsh OAP - so although money is pretty tight I don't think there's much excuse there, I simply can't see what Rafa is trying to build and haven't done for several years

In short, Liverpool are stagnant and I can't see how Rafa is going to mount a challenge on the league next season, nor any cups - so I think his time is up, the Pool are going nowhere fast

I think it's a sad state of affairs when clearly the owners couldn't give two hoots about Liverpool's performance and just want all the merchandise and tv cash

Personally I still think Rafa is a decent manager, maybe he's just lost his impetus through lack of support or what-not, although I don't think I'd pay for him through the nose like Juventus might

And so, as I said in December - bye-bye, Rafa (sorry for basically repeating myself, but it's the big issue right now I feel - it's that or the Glazers...)

Next up: who the bloody hell replaces him?

New - Wikio Labs

2010-01-27T12:49:00.001Z

Dan the Man from Wikio has emailed me today with news of the launch of Wikio Labs and having just gone and had a play around with some of the tools I have to say I like it. It will not be for everybody, but will be of interest to a number of bloggers. It requires no log in so is a tool which is open to the blogosphere to do some analysis. I understand that some of these tools have been designed based on the feedback from bloggers.

Basically, Wikio Labs (still in the Experimental Edition) is designed to give those of us with blogs a bit of a look inside the Wikio aligned Blogosphere and it has to be played with to be appreciated properly. For example, ever wondered which backlinks were giving you such a good Wikio Ranking? Well, using the Backlink Factory now you can go see who has been linking to you. Likewise, you can see your outgoing links by volume to other blogs. The cool thing is, as an analysis tool, this works for any url that you pop into the tool, so if you want to know who is consistently linking to a particular blog, or how a particular blog has achieved a high ranking, Wikio Labs now give this tool to go and analyse these things. This tool might in itself prompt some lively discussions about blog affiliations already in place.

Speaking of Wikio Rankings, there is a tool which has tracked your rankings over time, so now there is the option to go view a particular blogs progress in the rankings over time in a tool called Wikio Sources. Enter the url and look through summaries and articles of that blog. There is also then the statistics which shows a graph for Overall Ranking, Sub Ranking (i.e. Politics, sport etc), Publication volume and Number of backlinks.

Buzz Clouds are included to show trending topics of discussion and link back to the main Wikio Page. Wikio Trends is a simple to help demonstrate how a particular trending topic has garnered attention over time, versus another trending topic. Here’s some I made earlier…

And

Conclusions. The tools are cool, I am just a big kid when it comes to things like this, and I think there is something for most bloggers here, even is some may not see value in it. Some of the big boy blogs and MSM blogs will definitely find some benefit in the trending tools, especially comparison by trending topics. MSM Blogs may wish to see if they are setting the agenda or following it. For those of us who do not necessarily need nor want the broader analysis tools, there is the Backlink Factory analysis tool which may (or may not) stir a few dramas about who is, or is not linking to whom. I have added to my favourites already for the occasional browse.

Crystal Palace Go Into Administration

2010-01-26T21:45:00.000Z

Crystal Palace FC has gone into administration and will suffer an immediate 10 point penalty.

P & A Partnership have been appointed as administrator to rescue the club by reconstructing the clubs finances and seeking new a new owner which they are confident of locating and claim there are many interested buyers.

The point deduction will take Palace from 9th in the Championship to just above the relegation zone which may be better than Southampton fared recently, but will be worrying for Palace's fans as the entire squad is basically available for transfer until the window shuts as the administrators will have no choice but to consider all reasonable offers in their reconstruction efforts. Victor Moses is on a number of clubs shopping lists, and may now leave.

Robinho To Move On Loan?

2010-01-26T13:14:00.001Z

Sky Sports is reporting that Robinho is looking to move back to former club Santos on loan until the end of the season so as to ensure that he is playing regular football prior to the World Cup. As a player known in England not to perform well on away fixtures this is a move to very much home surroundings.

Robinho's City career now seems as good as over and should a bid be received it may well be accepted for a summer move. Robinho moved to City for £32.5m in 2008, just three seasons after moving to Spain from Santos.

Manager Roberto Mancini clearly feels that Craig Bellamy fits the bill and is ahead of Robinho in the pecking order, with sufficient cover both up front and coming in from the left with the other squad members.

And yet another Brazilian Superstar follows his wallet whilst his talent dims. At 26 though, there perhaps is still time for Robinho to recapture some form with a move to a sunnier climate, should of course he be prepared to agree to a sensible wage.

Dan's Super 6

2010-01-23T13:10:00.000Z

Aston Villa 3 - 0 Brighton & Hove Albion

Wolves 1 - 1 Crystal Palace

Everton 2 - 1 Birmingham

Portsmouth 2 - 0 Sunderland

Bolton 2 - 1 Sheffield Utd

West Brom 2 - 1 Newcastle

More Free Money

2010-01-22T16:06:00.001Z

Do you have a Ladbrokes online account? Would you like a stake free chance at £5,000?

If the answer to those two questions is YES, pop over to Grab5Grand and select your 5 scores for the listed games and you are in line for a five grand payout, with free entry.

Here's my entry:

Portsmouth 2 - 0 Sunderland

Villa 3 - 0 Brighton

Wolves 1 - 1 Crystal Palace

Southampton 2 - 1 Ipswich

Man Utd 2 - 0 Hull

If you know anything about my Super 6 predictions, my scores are probably now worth avoiding.

Good luck!

Expert Advice

2010-01-22T13:39:00.001Z

I have to admit that when I checked out the Football Banter inbox the other day there was an email that did surprise me. It was from Dan at Wikio, who does email on occasion and has given Football Banter a few sneak peeks at the monthly rankings a few times.

Dan's question to me was, would I like to be listed on the Wikio site as their Sports Blog "expert", with a nice blurb and link back to the site?... Hmmm.... sure, thanks very much.

So that's it, I am hereby installed to the lofty title of Wikio Sports Blog Expert and will be helping Wikio with a few things on the Sports Blog side and in turn I hope to do my bit to help the Sports Blogs take off, and offer some feedback and opinions as well as new links that I may come across. There are some excellent blogs out there already; a look at the ranking speaks for itself. There are many blogs that are closer to sports clubs than this one, and there are many blogs more frequently contributed to and better supported, I read a number of them. There is more to come from the Sports Blogging arena, and I will be a small part of that. My opinion on Sports Blogging in the UK overall is that we have only just scratched the surface, there is massive potential for more blogs and of differing character. Large and small, all shapes, sizes and sports - it is not just football blogging to which I am referring.

I personally started blogging because I had been following Politics for a long time and Politics Blogs. After I had set up my own blog, the same principles seemed to transfer across to football so very easily; I was surprised both at how many Politics blogs there were, and how few sports blogs. Politics dominate the Wikio rankings partly because they are so numerous and partly because the political media have embraced them. They have become required reading in their own field. The realms of Political Blogging have been widely explored to an extent that Sports Blogs have not, well at least not yet been explored. At the heart of the rise of the political blog are two key points. 1. A desire from the masses to take more and more of their information from uneditorialised sources, and 2. The desire of people to also have their own say. By using those markers, the potential for sports blogs are great.

The next challenge for the sports bloggers, new and established is to challenge the existing main stream media sites by offering rival content, written by fans and for fans. The Sport Blog community is our community, we can make of it whatever we wish, and we can have a lot of fun along the way.

Final point I would like to add, is to acknowledge my co-author Tarquin. I have said before that I would have wound this blog up if he had not of come on board to keep the content flowing more regularly and insightfully. If Wikio have looked to this site and thought of me that is in no small part at all to Tarquins contribution to this blog. Thanks.

Rafa Poll Closes

2010-01-20T19:29:00.000Z

Last week we put up a poll after Liverpools 2-1 defeat to Reading. Well the poll is closed, here's how you answered.

1. Should Liverpool sack Rafa Benitez?

Yes = 60%
No = 40%

2. Will Liverpool achieve a top four finish this season if Rafa remains in charge?

Yes = 20%
No = 80%

Worlds Longest Throw In

2010-01-19T13:16:00.000Z

I just saw this on Eurosport so I thought I would share.

A PE teacher from Yorkshire has set a new world record for the longest football throw in caught on camera. The throw of 49.78m beats the previous record set in 1998 of 48.17m.

Here it is:

PE teacher breaks world throw-in record @ Yahoo! Video

Dan's Super 6

2010-01-16T13:58:00.000Z

These scores are now officially jinxed

Chelsea 2 - 0 Sunderland

Man Utd 2 - 1 Burnley

Portsmouth 1 - 1 Birmingham

Tottenham 2 - 1 Hull

Wolves 2 - 1 Wigan

Sheff Utd 2 - 1 Middlesbrough

Rafa Poll

2010-01-13T22:44:00.000Z

Following on from Liverpool's 2-1 loss in extra time to Reading tonight in the FA Cup the big questions once again loom large. Should Liverpool sack Rafa? Will Liverpool finish in the top four with Rafa still in charge?

Let us know what you think.

Click here to take survey

Rafa Gets Maxi

2010-01-13T21:15:00.000Z

Rafa Benitez has secured the signature of Maxi Rodriguez on a free transfer from Atletico Madrid. The 29-year-old player signed a three-and-a-half year deal after Atletico who are languishing in 11th place in La Liga deemed Rodriguez surplus to requirements and with his contract set to expire in the summer, and with no offers on the table the club seem to have felt that the players prospects for first team football in Madrid so bleak that it was better for them to get him off the wage bill.

This is another gamble from Rafa, but this one at least has not involved a sizable transfer fee. Rodriguez, if he settles quickly and can adapt to the fast pace and tough tackling of the Premier League could prove a useful utility forward, who can play on either wing or provide cover for, or, alongside Torres. Either way, he give Benitez some options.

Time will tell if Rodriguez proves a good signing, but I have my doubts that this signing will be the one that will bring Liverpool a top four finish and win back the increasingly deflated fans... If he bags a last minute winner in his first couple of games there could be some hype, but in my mind Rafa has brought in a squad player to fill in for the departure of another after Veronin's move to Moscow.

Sol Campbell To Rejoin Arsenal

2010-01-12T20:20:00.000Z

The news comes as a bit of a surprise but shouldn't really, but Sol Campbell looks to be close to agreeing a short-term deal with Arsenal. Arsenal have obtained a special registration which will allow Campbell to take part in a reserve team match against West Ham reserves tonight.

Campbell has been training with Arsenal in Hertfordshire since soon after leaving Notts County and will act as cover for Thomas Vermaelen and William Gallas until the end of the season. This strikes me as a good signing as Campbell is a first class defender, and was key to Wengers 2003/04 Invincibles Team will provide confidence in the event of absence or need for rest to Wengers key centre-halves which will lend Wengers title chances more credibility. He is also available for registration in the Champions League which again is an added bonus. For Arsenals blossoming young players he is a hero of recent memory and will likely act as positive motivation and as another source of leadership. His experience will benefit the team greatly.

There is also the potential benefit that if Campbell somehow finds himself in an extended run of games before the summer there is another solid defensive option available to Fabio Capello who will surely take a good look at Campbell now given his experience of two prior World Cups.

Wenger would be hard pressed to have found a better signing if he had of opened up the cheque book and spent big.

This certainly spells the end of Philippe Senderos' Arsenal career, and he will be regretting not joining Everton in the summer.

There Must And Should Be A Better Option Here

2010-01-11T20:57:00.000Z

I may be alone here in feeling a little outraged on behalf of the players of Togo at what I have just found out... but I doubt that I am somehow.

Everybody knows that the team where attacked by machine gun fire on Friday and that thus far the death toll stands at three. Most people will also be aware that despite some uncertainties about whether Togo will return to the tournament they left after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and Angolan Government officials were unable to make guarantees regarding the player’s security.

However, the CAF have told Ghana, who were due to play Togo on Monday that they must proceed as if the Group B match is going ahead; Togo will then be officially disqualified from the tournament for failing to field a team for the match. Ghana may be forced to take to the pitch in full strip and stage a mock kick off before the game will be cancelled and Togo officially withdrawn.

Togo may also face sanctions from the CAF for failing to field a team.

This, to me is frankly shocking behaviour. The Togo team are clearly worried for their security and grieving their countrymen, their team-mates, their friends. The actions or perhaps the stated probable actions of the CAF defy grounding in humanity. Togo's Prime Minister said today that the country had withdrawn completely and that reports that the team may return after three days of mourning were quite wrong.

"We withdrew our players on the basis that they were victims of a terrorist attack."

"Our analysis is that they want it to be seen as a non-event and the show must go on as planned; there mustn't be an official change and Togo is causing problems to the festival"

Clearly my sympathies are with the Togo team. I wonder if UK teams could get together some games to compete with the African nations in which the Togo team could come play in.... Man United have a free weekend late in January, courtesy of Leeds United.

I of course hope that no such event happens again, but I would like to think that if any similar atrocity were to occur that UEFA would not force a similar farce to take place.

Sneak Peek - The Latest Wikio Rankings For Sports Blogs

2010-01-05T09:49:00.000Z

Here, thanks to Dan at Wikio is the sneak peak of the latest ratings on the Sports Blogs. Arseblog continues it's vice like grip on the top spot, and Football Banter has climbed back a couple of spots to 13th.

1	Arseblog (=)
2	Gunnerblog (=)
3	BBC Sport - Football blog (=)
4	East Lower (+5)
5	Off The Post (=)
6	Line and Length - Times Online WBLG (-2)
7	West Ham Till I Die (+4)
8	SoccerLens (-2)
9	Bitter and Blue (-1)
10	BlogF1 (+4)
11	The Corridor (a cricket blog) (-1)
12	BBC Sport - Phil McNulty blog (-5)
13	Football Banter (+2)
14	F1 Minute (-1)
15	Goodplaya (-3)
16	F1 Fanatic (=)
17	Test Match Special (+5)
18	The Gunning Hawk (+28)
19	King Cricket (-2)
20	Twohundredpercent (-2)

Ranking by Wikio

Oh, you're angry?

2009-12-23T12:16:00.000Z

Apparently Man City are angry at the reaction to their recent managerial swap

I don't think they have the right to be angry - they're the ones who sacked the manager with the fewest losses in the league, the manager who took them to their first semi-final in three decades, AND the manager who was pretty much bang on with the targets set (70 point season - top 6)

You expect kudos for this petty decision to sack a decent manager for not instantly leading the league and replacing him with a big name who has virtually no experience of the league? As far as I can tell, the media are spot on - hopefully they'll be proved right when Mancini produces their first home defeat of the season and fails to lead the team to every trophy available - at the very least we will ask 'what was the point, you childish tossers?'

What Not To Bet - Dan's Super 6

2009-12-19T12:20:00.000Z

Steer clear of these predictions, I have just cursed them...

Aston Villa 2 - 0 Stoke City

Blackburn 2 - 2 Tottenham

Fulham 1 - 2 Man Utd

Man City 3 - 1 Sunderland

Blackpool 1 - 2 West Brom

Cardiff 2 - 1 Leicester

Champions League Last 16 Draw

2009-12-18T11:31:00.000Z

Inter Milan v Chelsea

Porto v Arsenal

Stuttgart v Barcelona

AC Milan v Man Utd

Olympiakos v Bordeaux

Bayern Munich v Fiorentina

Lyon v Real Madrid

CSKA Moscow v Sevilla

Arshavin At Anfield

2009-12-17T22:16:00.001Z

Team selection update: Guess who ees complaining

2009-12-17T11:30:00.000Z

How can you not love the Voyeur when he comes out with such gems as this

And all because Hull got a Wednesday off and he didn't

It's Hull, Wenger, at home, grow up (oh, and please win, I have money riding on this)

"We have some teams who do not play at all. We play Sunday and Wednesday away and at home on Saturday against Hull, who have not played all week."

By 'some' he means two - Hull and Stoke get a week off because Everton and Fulham have Europa league commitments

This does of course mean they will have to play catch-up at a later date, but really Wenger should be taking this up with the ridiculous Europa league - and every year we get six games in December, how long does it take a Frenchman to get used to this?

I would also like to point out that Hull played an extra game on the 25th November, as did Everton, Blackburn and Fulham - this was not Hull's fault, but Arsenal got a mid-week off (then lost at home to Chelsea, while Hull got a point at City...) - did I here anyone complaining (well yes, David Moyes, but that's a different story)

Of course, Arsenal do play in the Champions' League - but for the purposes of this argument Wenger is sticking to the concept of league fairness - presumably then Hull shouldn't be playing extra games in November to benefit Everton? I didn't hear Phil Brown whingeing about City getting a week to prepare while he had an extra game to deal with

But wait, there's more!

Wenger went on to criticise Mick McCarthy's decision to rest players against United

"We will have to compete with Manchester United over 37 games instead of 38," said Wenger.

As I mentioned earlier - were Wolves expected to get anything at Old Trafford - did I miss that hot tip? If we are going to subjectively judge Wolves' team as worthless then there's no reason for me not to state categorically that United were always going to win that match, I guess it's ok to send out the reserves as long as you keep it to one competition eh, Arsene?

And let's be honest - you're competing with Chelsea, and you're really just narked that you lost two points at Burnley because your team doesn't have staying power

Truly, the Voyeur is worth every penny Arsenal pay him (especially when he's taking his team up north mid-week) - and I can't resist posting this:

Will Pompey be summoned too?

2009-12-17T00:33:00.000Z

In tonight's 2-1 defeat to Chelsea, Avram Grant made seven changes to his already-meagre squad from the weekend - albeit a few were enforced, but he still rested a few, such as that well known midfielder Hassan Yebda and Michael Brown

But nevertheless, these were both players who had become first team fixtures in the past months and were not injured, likewise leading scorer Dindane was on the bench - so will the Premier League be asking them to explain themselves?

It is true that "Premier League rule 20, section E, says teams must field a full-strength side in all top-flight matches"

But how exactly do you enforce this rule? Does Rafa get picked up for resting Torres or Gerrard (he started N'gog over Torres this evening)? Does Fergie always have to play Vidic and Rooney when fit, and indeed, the Lord Giggs himself?

I thought the manager was in control of his team - I was not aware that the Premier League issued 'preferred team sheets' to all clubs and sought to discipline a manager for making a tactical decision

Perhaps from a point of view of match fixing I can understand, but considering United already had odds of 1/9 prior to the changed team I found that an unlikely concern in this case

And while there may been ten changes, there were still a few first-team performers, much like how several of the seven at Portsmouth weren't just being rested

For example, one of Wolves best players, Mancienne, started after being on the bench at the weekend, as did league regular Greg Halford, who's been injured, and George Elokobi made his ninth start of the season, as did Castillo - would you question these decisions in any other game? No, so that's already got this figure of 10 down to six

Then there's Chris Iwelumo, who needs no introduction - is he considered a Wolves trainee?

So all in all you can see that there were only five players who you wouldn't expect to be there (and David Edwards picked up a serious injury against Spurs), does anyone at the league have a problem resting Doyle for Iwelumo? Do they regard it as a sin for Mark Hughes to rest Adebayor and Tevez for Santa Cruz and Bellamy?

No, of course they don't, the manager has the right to pick whoever he wants - McCarthy certainly picked a weakened side, but that's a subjective opinion - at least half his squad can be considered first team regulars, while only one player made his debut - George Friend, so he was hardly 'doing an Arsenal'

He rested several key players, just like any other manager who needed his team fit for the weekend would, and he gave a run-out to several deserving players like Mancienne, Halford and Iwelumo - what the league are effectively doing here is disapproving of a manager who uses a bit of rotation (see: Mourinho)

Or rather, what they are doing is passing judgement on Wolves because they don't respect a few of the players fielded, they would never do this if Fergie played Nani, or rested Berba for Owen

I can't say I'm McCarthy's biggest fan, but he made a decent tactical decision - he's got a weak side as it is and faced playing three league games in a week, when you are facing the reigning champions days before a potential six-pointer against Burnley wouldn't you want to give yourself the best possible chance against Burnley and cut your losses against United? Yes, they might have done a bit better with Craddock, Berra, Stearman, Henry, Jarvis and Doyle on the pitch, but be realistic - Old Trafford the game after United were beaten at home? If they had Arsenal or Chelsea the weekend after maybe, but it's completely sensible to write off the mid-week game when faced with a very good chance a few days later, nobody seriously thinks they stood a chance - I predicted four before I even knew about the team, 3-0 is hardly a travesty at Old Trafford ....it could've been two, big whoop

To be honest I find it quite disrespectful for the league to judge what is and isn't a full strength team - he hardly fielded the under-12s, don't all members of a squad (only one of whom hadn't played before) deserve the occasional run-out?

I will finish my rant with a response:

Wolves supporter chief Arthur Williams - "Hopefully he will pick a full-strength team against Burnley and make amends."

Of course he bloody will, you numptie!... What is the obsession with wanting to see a full-strength side lose at United? Take your blinkers off and look at the bigger picture - it's about 20 miles to the north...

I Agree, Rafa Should Go

2009-12-15T14:11:00.000Z

Last week Tarquin asked if it was time for Benitez to go. I agree, in fact I think the time is past due and that Liverpool are heading for tough times unless they make a change before the January transfer window opens.

I also agree with Tarquin that Harry Redknapp and Martin O’Neil would be replacements that could do more with the team than Rafa has, and could build a genuine title challenging squad in a relatively short spell of a couple of seasons. But in my mind the man who has to replace Rafa is Jose Mourinho, because not only his Chelsea Team tactics would suit Liverpool very well, he is a winner, and Liverpool needs a winner at the helm.

I did float an alternative earlier in the year about another alternative; I still do not think this is an unreasonable suggestion, especially since the man in question is currently in the employment of Liverpool FC. That would be Kenny Dalglish, who also happens to be the last Liverpool manager to have won the league with them. But this was back in February, when Benitez was under fire, and had not signed his new five year deal. If Benitez is to go, Liverpool will have to open the cheque book just to pay him off; they might as well clear enough funds to pay off Inter for Mourinho as well who I think has the pedigree to guarantee at least one Premier League title.

Either way, I really do feel if Liverpool persist with Rafa, they will have to sack him later in the year and will regret not acting sooner.

Speaking to a couple of Liverpool fans Saturday night in the pub, they seemed despondent even though United had just been done at home to Villa. They want Rafa out of the door, with Lucas following quickly behind. The sale of Alonso and the absence of a strike partner and back up to Torres despite exit of three decent strikers in Crouch, Bellamy and Keane who were all purchased by Rafa also feature highly on their list of grievances; the failure to look at Michael Owen was not mentioned which I latterly assumed to be a self-imposed mental block placed on the Man Utd Striker. Finally, their hopes now rest on success or failure of unfit acquisition Alberto Aquilani. If the Italian fails to shine this will be the final straw for Benitez in the eyes of the fans.

The fact is, Tottenham, Man City and Villa all can stake a stronger claim for fourth place than Liverpool and Everton could also be a factor in the race later in the season. Liverpool have already lost six from sixteen in the league and drawn a further three. On present form they would finish in the fifty to fifty-five point bracket, which may not be good enough for Europa League qualification, let alone Champions League qualification. And if that happens, Gerrard and Torres would almost certainly have to be sold so keep the clubs finances in order and lower the wage bill, leaving Reina and Carragher as stars in an ordinary team. Liverpool fans and Board Members will need to act soon, because the January Transfer Window will be needed by whoever the replacement is because there are more than a few average players that might need to make way.

What The Scores Won't Be... Dan's Super 6

2009-12-12T13:27:00.000Z

In my worst year ever for tipping, it's probably best that we drop the pretences now... Here's what I picked, so steer clear.

Birmingham 2 - 1 West Ham

Bolton 1 - 1 Man City

Burnley 2 - 1 Fulham

Chelsea 3 - 0 Everton

Hull 1 - 1 Blackburn

Tottenham 3 - 0 Wolves

Have some free money

2009-12-11T11:20:00.000Z

God I love Beat Victor - it's on virtually every week this year - I think I've won 40 quid out of it since August, all at no risk! I think Victor's a bit barmy, must be worth the extra business I guess

Anyway, enough fawning, Viv Anderson's preds for this week are

Bolton 2-0 City (eh?)

Chelsea 3-0 Everton

United 1-1 Villa

Liverpool 1-0 Arsenal

I've gone for:

City 1-2

Chelsea 2-0

Villa 1-2

and Liverpool 2-1

I have also got a weekend multiplier going on - Stoke, Birmingham, Sunderland and Spurs all to win

Time for Benitez to go?

2009-12-09T23:55:00.000Z

As former Champions League champions Liverpool further compound their misery by losing yet another group game at home, while languishing down in seventh in the league at the same time, 12 points off the pace (and it's not even Christmas), is it not time to seriously consider that Rafa's time is up?

I don't mean sack him right now and go fetch the biggest name the yank owners can find, but surely the time has come to look for new blood? Where are Liverpool going? What is Rafa doing to boost their chances?

All he has done this year is swap Alonso for the untested (and injured) Aquilani and brought in a decent right-back, that was never enough to take the league (for those that remember I asked if it was worth a punt on them winning the title a while ago, that was about profitable odds, I didn't think they would, although I didn't expect it would be this bad) - there comes a point where you have to admit that very little is going on at Liverpool, this is now potentially the fourth year without a trophy and with no sign of improvement on the horizon surely the head honchos have to think that Rafa is a spent force, even after last year's decent performance

Both Martin O'Neill and 'Arry are proving better at building a side capable of cracking the top four, imagine what they could do with Liverpool's funds, not to mention Gerrard and Torres, while Rafa relies on mediocrities like Lucas, Babel and N'gog they have built solid sides, with more English players to boot

I think the gratitude for the Champions League victory should be wearing a bit thin now, and while I don't think Rafa should be given a hasty, ungracious booting I think it's time for Liverpool to realise that their ship is currently rudderless and the manager is out of ideas

Man Utd Selection Crisis

2009-12-08T17:11:00.000Z

Not even in the worst, most challenging moments whilst playing away on Football Manager and Champ. Manager over the years has the computer programming deemed it realistic or fair to deal out in a football simulation game the selection crisis currently facing Sir Alex Ferguson ahead of tonights Champions League clash against Wolfsburg.

Not Available
Edwin Van der Saar (Knee Injury)

Gary Neville (Groin Injury)
Rio Ferdinand (Back & Calf Injury)
Wes Brown (Hamstring Injury)
Nemanja Vidic (Illness, Flu)
Fabio da Silva (Groin Injury)
Rafael da Silva (Groin Injury)
John O’Shea (Thigh Injury)
Jonny Evans (Calf Injury)
Ritchie de Laet (Ineligible)

Owen Hargreaves (Not Yet Fit)
Ryan Giggs (Rested – Did not travel)

Wayne Rooney (Hamstring Injury)
Dimitar Berbatov (Knee Injury)
Frederico Macheda (Injured)

Available
Tomasz Kuszczak
Ben Foster

Patrice Evra

Park Ji-Sung
Michael Carrick
Paul Scholes
Darren Fletcher
Antonio Valencia
Darron Gibson
Anderson
Zoran Tosic
Nani
Gabriele Obertan

Michael Owen
Danny Welbeck

Promoted – Available for selection
Oliver Gill (Defender)
Magnus Eikrem (Midfield)
Cameron Stewart (Midfield)
Matty James (Midfield)
Oliver Norwood (Midfield)

So, I will do my fortune teller bit, here's my guess for the line up, 15 into 11 leaves few options....

GK Tomasz Kuszczak

DL Darren Fletcher
DR Park Ji-Sung
DC Patrice Evra
DC Michael Carrick

MC Anderson
MC Paul Scholes
MC Darron Gibson

AMR Antonio Valencia
AML Nani

ST Michael Owen

Easy?

2009-12-07T06:50:00.000Z

I keep hearing comments to the tune of England getting an easy ride, admittedly this is mostly from Ozzies, not quite understanding that if they hadn’t gotten Germany they still would’ve got a Spain, Brazil, Holland or Italy…

It’s true England’s draw was pretty nice – but overwhelmingly ‘easy’? Let’s look at the figures

England have the US, rank: 14^th, top team from the second pot, along with Algeria (28^th) and Slovenia (33^rd)

I think a lot of this is down to there being little respect for the US, with little fear of them due to the fact that we’ve beaten them fairly easily multiple times in recent history, and it’s only the yanks - but nevertheless they are 14^th – people would probably be more wary of Ivory Coast, who are two places below the yanks, with Drogba in their ranks – now regardless of whether you think Ivory Coast are a better side, the facts remain that the US are highly ranked, and we can really only go on that – I’ve seen some managers say that Spain and the Netherlands have it easiest - we’re all biased here, and the only piece of information we can use here is *rank*, even if it is unrepresentative, it can’t fairly be based on our opinions on individual teams

If you look at England’s average rank of opponent it’s a healthy 25, with their lowest tam being 33^rd

By far the easiest draw was Italy, facing an average rank of 47, and not a single side within the top 30 – they face Slovakia, who are one place below our opponent Slovenia, Slovakia won the group but there’s little between the two, whipping boys New Zealand, and Paraguay, the second-worst team out of the Africa/South America pot

Argentina face Nigeria, South Korea and Greece – a middling African side, one of the weakest Asian teams, and Greece, who remain 12^th in the world somehow – average rank of 28.6, on an opinionated note I see little difference between the Argies and England here – both face some sides that could cause trouble but are unlikely to, I think people consider South Korea to be a good side after their exploits in 2002, but they lag behind Japan and Australia and are little threat really, hence why they are 52^nd in the world

The Dutch meanwhile face Denmark, a middling European side, Japan, and Cameroon – they face arguably the toughest side from Africa, but the other two are of minor concern, giving an average opponent rank of 26.6, I think they have it slightly tougher than England, but nothing devastating

Spain are the only side to face a tougher average opponent than England at 24.3 – with Chile a particular concern, few would view the Swiss as a major threat, but they are ranked 18^th, while lowly Honduras make up the numbers – tough, but again not much worse than England

If you look at it, England face a higher ranked side than Spain, France, Germany, and Italy

They also have no team below 33^rd – the strongest ‘weak’ team of any group

As I said, England picked the hardest team from pot two – certainly in a toss-up between the best European side and worst pot 2 side, and the top pot 2 team and worst European side, I’d take the latter, but it’s hardly our fault the top ranked side in there isn’t rated – had we got North Korea or New Zealand then we could view that as a free-ride, but we got a fairly reasonable draw – and no-one else comes close to the ease of Italy’s group

Averages aren’t always a fair way to measure this – but with Italy it’s fairly clear they have an easy ride, up against perennial first-round drop-outs Paraguay, the weakest European side and frigging New Zealand (and I’m not discounting averages to favour England, on that alone they have the second-hardest group)

In a couple of groups average doesn’t really seem fair – in Group A France are effectively the seeds, facing two top 20 sides in Uruguay and Mexico, and S.Africa – who skew the average, and as hosts should be feared, despite their rank

In Group D, Germany get an average of 26, but with Serbia and Australia in 20^th and 21^st respectively the group is competitive, although Germany should be big favourites - meanwhile Ghana are rated because of 2006, but still linger in 37^th, technically the weakest team from the Africa pot

And then of course, there’s Group G – the average is badly skewed by North Korea in 84^thbut Brazil are facing a top ten side in Portugal, and the Ivory Coast in 16^th, three good sides after two spots

We got a good draw, but it wasn’t exceptionally favourable, I see only Brazil having a very tough group, and only Italy really getting lucky

England get USA, Algeria, Slovenia - France get lucky

2009-12-04T19:17:00.000Z

Have to do it don't I

Here's the full world cup draw

Group G is the group of death, Group D is the group of death-lite

Group A	Group B	Group C	Group D
South Africa	Argentina	ENGLAND	Germany
Mexico	Nigeria	United States	Australia
Uruguay	South Korea	Algeria	Serbia
France	Greece	Slovenia	Ghana
Group E	Group F	Group G	Group H
Netherlands	Italy	Brazil	Spain
Denmark	Paraguay	North Korea	Switzerland
Japan	New Zealand	Ivory Coast	Honduras
Cameroon	Slovakia	Portugal	Chile

We will hopefully face Australia, Ghana or Serbia in the second round, we may then get a crack at France in the quarters, but we could also end up with a run of Germany and Argentina

We can't meet Brazil or Portugal til at least the semis, nor Italy, the Netherlands or Spain, what a shame...

Super 6 Predictions - 05-Dec-09

2009-12-04T18:00:00.002Z

You have worked hard all week, and you are wanting to know if I will publish tonight or not, eager to take a sneak peek prior to making your own entry. Fear not, here they are.

Arsenal 3 - 0 Stoke

Aston Villa 2 - 1 Hull

Blackburn 1 - 1 Liverpool

West Ham 1 - 2 Man Utd

Wigan 1 - 0 Birmingham

Wolves 2 - 2 Bolton

Mandela talks to the world

2009-12-04T07:06:00.001Z

Former South African president and all-round good guy, Nelson Mandela, will address the world later today at the FIFA World Cup draw in Cape Town, via video, as the 91-year-old is very frail these days

We, at Football Banter have got exclusive access to a clip from that address

enjoy:

It would seem he's a bit short of cash...

Messi Wins Ballon d'Or

2009-12-03T09:10:00.001Z

Congratulations to Lionel Messi who was awarded this year’s Ballon d’Or by an impressive margin, scoring 473 points to second place Ronaldo’s 233 points.

The award is decided by a poll of world football journalists from a shortlist of 30 players. The highest placed Premier League star was Wayne Rooney in eighth position, followed by Drogba and Gerrard who were ninth and tenth respectively. Michael Owen was the last Englishman to win the award back in 2001.

Ballon d'Or standings:

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina, Barcelona) 473 pts

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal, Man United & Real Madrid) 233 pts

3. Xavi (Spain, Barcelona) 170 pts

4. Andres Iniesta (Spain, Barcelona) 149 pts

5. Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon, Barcelona & Inter Milan) 75 pts

6. Kaka (Brazil, AC Milan & Real Madrid) 58 pts

7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden, Inter Milan & Barcelona) 50 pts

8. Wayne Rooney (England, Manchester United) 35 pts

9. Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast, Chelsea) 33 pts

10. Steven Gerrard (England, Liverpool) 32 pts

11. Fernando Torres (Spain, Liverpool) 22 pts

12. Cesc Fabregas (Spain, Arsenal) 13 pts

13. Edin Dzeko (Bosnia, VfL Wolfsburg) 12 pts

14. Ryan Giggs (Wales, Manchester United) 11 pts

15. Thierry Henry (France, Barcelona) 9 pts

16 Luis Fabiano (Brazil, Sevilla) 8 pts

16 Nemanja Vidic (Serbia, Manchester United) 8 pts

16 Iker Casillas (Spain, Real Madrid) 8 pts

19. Diego Forlan (Uruguay, Atletico Madrid) 7 pts

20 Yoann Gourcuff (France, Bordeaux) 6 pts

21 Andrei Arshavin (Russia, Arsenal) 5 pts

21 Julio Cesar (Brazil, Inter Milan) 5 pts

21 Frank Lampard (England, Chelsea) 5 pts

24 Maicon (Brazil, Inter) 4 pts

25 Diego (Brazil, Werder Bremen & Juventus) 3 pts

26 David Villa (Spain, Valencia) 2 pts

26 John Terry (England, Chelsea) 2 pts

28 Franck Ribery (France, Bayern Munich) 1 pts

28 Yaya Toure (Ivory Coast, Barcelona) 1 pts

30 Karim Benzema (France, Lyon & Real Madrid) 0 pts

Previous Ballon d'Or winners:

1956 - Stanley Matthews (England), 1957 - Alfredo di Stefano (Spain), 1958 - Raymond Kopa (France), 1959 - Di Stefano, 1960 - Luis Suarez (Spain), 1961 - Omar Sivori (Italy), 1962 - Josef Masopust (Czechoslovakia), 1963 - Lev Yashin (USSR), 1964 - Denis Law (Scotland), 1965 - Eusebio (Portugal), 1966 - Bobby Charlton (England), 1967 - Florian Albert (Hungary), 1968 - George Best (Northern Ireland), 1969 - Gianni Rivera (Italy), 1970 - Gerd Mueller (West Germany), 1971 - Johan Cruyff (Netherlands), 1972 - Franz Beckenbauer (West Germany), 1973 - Cruyff, 1974 - Cruyff, 1975 - Oleg Blokhin (USSR), 1976 - Beckenbauer, 1977 - Allan Simonsen (Denmark), 1978 - Kevin Keegan (England), 1979 - Keegan, 1980 - Karl-Heinz Rummenigge (West Germany), 1981 - Rummenigge, 1982 - Paolo Rossi (Italy), 1983 - Michel Platini (France), 1984 - Platini, 1985 - Platini, 1986 - Igor Belanov (USSR), 1987 - Ruud Gullit (Netherlands), 1988 - Marco van Basten (Netherlands), 1989 - Van Basten, 1990 - Lothar Matthaeus (Germany), 1991 - Jean-Pierre Papin (France), 1992 - Van Basten, 1993 - Roberto Baggio (Italy), 1994 - Hristo Stoichkov (Bulgaria), 1995 - George Weah (Liberia), 1996 - Matthias, Sammer (Germany), 1997 - Ronaldo (Brazil), 1998 - Zinedine Zidane (France), 1999 - Rivaldo (Brazil), 2000 - Luis Figo (Portugal), 2001 - Michael Owen (England), 2002 - Ronaldo, 2003 - Pavel Nedved (Czech Republic), 2004 - Andriy Shevchenko (Ukraine), 2005 - Ronaldinho (Brazil), 2006 - Fabio Cannavaro (Italy), 2007 - Kaka (Brazil), 2008 - Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal).

Le Injustice!

2009-12-03T00:42:00.000Z

The French cry foul over FIFA's decision to place them in pot 2

Of course they do, we would - although I'd hope we'd have a little bit of humility after losing to Austria and only beating the Faroe Islands and Lithuania on the road, had they been in England's group they wouldn't have qualified, let alone been seeded

"...it looks like FIFA has punished France for the Thierry Henry handball against Ireland,” roared furious Goal.com France editor Alexandre Walraevens.

Leaving aside the fact that FIFA said they would use the October rankings months ago (rare that) and it was patently obvious to even my mother that the November rankings were unfair and rewarded teams for failing to win their group - why exactly is it unfair?

The argument is this: France got to the 2006 final! Give us a seed over Argentina, England and the Netherlands

Skipping the dismal exit in 2002 (and 2008 for that matter), it is also claimed it mattered that they won the 98 world cup - 12 years ago? FIFA haven't counted back three world cups since 2002 - I don't see why 1966 is more meaningless than 1998, it's all ancient history, Walraevens is the sort of man that would probably count 1986 too, while skipping 90 and 94, seeing as 2002 was apparently meaningless for the likes of Korea

While I do have sympathy for their plight, and I do dislike the way FIFA can choose their rules after the results, which is just plain wrong (in my mind it's playing the FA cup to the final and then announcing the winner as the team who scored the most goals overall) the very idea that France 'deserve' a spot is ridiculous, maybe Zidane deserves a spot on his own...but France

And remember I'm not hugely biased here - this is about the Netherlands, not us

FIFA had two options - go with the old method, and eject the 3rd ranked team, who qualified with a 100% win record, for the team that they smashed 4-1 in the latest tournament and who struggled in ridiculous fashion in the latest qualification

Or... go with the ranks - which while debatable, but were pretty fair - there's only nine teams that should really be considered for seeding, and if you had a toss-up between France and the Dutch who would you go for?

FIFA have been rather unethical here, playing with the rules to fit whatever they'd already decided, but they've got the result right - it's a case of the ends justifying the means, they need to keep the best teams in the world apart to keep the competition..well..a competition

Like I said, had this been us, cue outrage - but we aren't defending a MacLaren-level-idiot in Domenech and one of the patchiest string of results in Europe, nor a piece of cheating that made international news, they should be eating humble pie and be happy that they're in at all, it's no one's fault but their own (alright, it was Austria's, Romania's, and Serbia's) that they were ranked 9th - we were seventh despite not even playing in Euro 2008

There is no perfect system, ranks are flawed, using historical results is flawed - as such no one method will keep everyone happy, but on a balance of probabilities had the rigging been in favour of France it would've sparked far more outrage around the world - FIFA got the seven best performing teams at present, bar perhaps Argentina, the French don't have a leg to stand on, the Ivory Coast have more of a case

I shall leave with more from Walraevens:

“France are the most hated team in the world, everyone seems to be against us and I don’t understand why,”

Let me explain it to you:

“With respect to the other seeds, we think it is unbelievable and it looks like FIFA has punished France for the Thierry Henry handball against Ireland,” roared a furious Walraevens.

“Argentina has struggled like France, England has done virtually nothing in the World Cup since 1966. The same with The Netherlands.

“If France qualify then France should be seeded as they are the winners from 1998 and runners-up from 2006."

'Nuff said really

England Seeded

2009-12-02T09:43:00.002Z

England are seeded!

The seeds are as follows (in no particular order)

Spain
Brazil
England
Argentina
Netherlands
Italy
South Africa
Germany

i.e. the top ranked sides

Update:

As I guessed earlier (in the wrong order) the other pots will be:

Pot 2

Honduras, Mexico, US, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, S.Korea, N.Korea

Pot 3

Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, Ivory Coast, Algeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria

Pot 4

France, Portugal, Greece, Denmark, Switzerland, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia

FIFA to announce seeding

2009-12-02T02:58:00.000Z

FIFA will be announcing their seeding criteria later today, I can't find out when exactly, but this afternoon at the latest I'm sure

This is where we will find out if England make it into pot A rather than the second European pot (presumably)

Jonathan Pearce has written a comprehensive blog about it, as he's going to the draw on Friday

Personally I think, knowing FIFA, that the October rankings will be highly important, because they probably won't want the 3rd placed Netherlands to miss out after fairly average 2002, 2006 and 2008 results, particularly if the 2006 finalists France get in instead, this would in turn, help us out

If they go for the two previous world cups rather than the slightly more awkward regional tournaments then we should be quids in with two quarter finals, just like in 2006 when we were somehow second seeds...despite not being ranked second, ever, and not seeing a semi-final in decades, let alone a final..so you never know!

It is of course possible that it's screwed up, FIFA seem to be incredibly pro-French and manipulated the European play-offs in the same way, but it seems fairly pointless to stir up another hornet's nest in lieu of France's dire form, and of course, that Irish incident - either way, if we miss out, it's likely the Dutch will miss out, which would be utterly retarded, so it'll be a moral victory and they'll be at least two or three teams that we can avoid in the Euro pot

It's generally a given that FIFA will have decided their seeds first and will have then decided their criteria second, hopefully they will feel Capello's side is good enough

It's all theoretical, but here's the likely pots according to Pearce

definite seeds:
SA
Brazil
Spain
Italy
---
likely:
Germany
Argentina
Netherlands
England

There will most likely be a pot of Africa and South America

Chile
Paraguay
Uruguay
Ivory Coast
Algeria
Cameroon
Ghana
Nigeria

Europe will fill in the blanks, and should be simple this time if it gets 5 seeds, leaving 8

[France]
[Portugal]
Greece
Denmark
Switzerland
Serbia
Slovenia
Slovakia

Remainders will presumably be North America, Asia and New Zealand

Honduras
Mexico
US
New Zealand
Australia
Japan
S.Korea
N.Korea

Seems pretty simple this time round - obviously a seeded spot would give us a better group, but we may we wanting to avoid France/Argentina/Portugal if we are anyway

Any thoughts on who we want (to avoid)? Also what will be the 'group of death' this time around?

I believe the term is: ROFL!

2009-11-30T21:08:00.000Z

Ireland have asked for an extra world cup place

Now we know why the Irish are so over-represented in the comedy circuit

Super 6 Predicition - 28-Nov-09

2009-11-27T16:50:00.000Z

Hey y'ol

Blackburn 1 - 2 Stoke City

Fulham 2 - 1 Bolton

Man City 3 - 0 Hull

Portsmouth 1 - 2 Man Utd

West Ham 2 - 1 Burnley

Wigan 2 - 1 Sunderland

Pele vs Maradona Video

2009-11-26T12:29:00.002Z

For what it's worth, between the two I put Pele at the top of the tree.

Admin Notice 2

2009-11-25T20:26:00.002Z

All should be up and running now and hopefully nobody experienced any problems. I hope you like the new format, it is free for us, but under licence from the generous people at Gisele Jaquenod. I wanted to move away from the basic blogger format that had been in use and provide a skin that people would remember and associate with and as we grow our small community I wanted a slightly more professional and unique feel to our site.

To accommodate this new format, there are a few less distractions in the sidebar, but the best and most used links remain. We have added buttons to aid subscription via a rss reader, and a quick link to our Twitter Page. There is also a function in the sidebar to subscribe to an automated daily email, this service is provided via feedburner who will provide the T&C's, but if you do subscribe we at Football Banter will not ever pass on your email address for any reason. For those who currently receive an email, I will be transitioning you to this service, so you will stop getting an email after every post, but the new daily email. You will receive an email automatically to your inbox with a link, if you wish to subscribe please click on the confirmation link, if not, delete the email and your Football Banter emails will cease once the old method is switched off in a few days time.

The font is slightly smaller than before (or seems to be) I hope this causes no issues for anyone. For now, this is not something I can change across the whole blog, though if people comment that it is an issue I will look into it further, and/or we can set individual posts to post in a larger font. Gone too unfortunately are the reaction buttons which allowed a quick 1 button response for those not feeling the inclination to leave a comment. This is still listed in our HTML set up, so I actually hope we can bring this back soon. FYI Tarquin, we also lost the 'Nav Bar' at the top of the page which allowed quick access to the editing pages, but I hope to be able to get that added back in; but I need to go and look into how that can be done.

I hope that overall the changes are to peoples liking, feedback, advice and/or abuse should be sent to footballbanter@gmail.com or left in the comments field.

Admin Notice

2009-11-25T18:17:00.000Z

I am playing around with the Blog set up tonight, with the hope of rolling out a new format.

Please bare with me. If you encounter any problems, it is probably not your PC, but because I am toying with the gears. All should be done by 9pm UK Time (probably earlier).

Daniel

Those of you who selected Paul Hart, please form an orderly queue

2009-11-24T21:43:00.000Z

Yes, that's right - no shocks this season as Paul Hart is the first Premier League manager out the door, the bookies will not be impressed

And neither will anyone else I bet, the board have 'reluctantly' taken the decision 'based on recent results', they felt that 'the team should have accrued more points to date and we need a new man in charge'

Sorry Peter Storrie, but go and stick that up your arse - while admitting the team have been under severe financial restrictions (a slight understatement) he still blames the man - FOR WHAT? He got seven points with the weakest team in the league by a country mile, they sold something like 70 million pounds worth of talent, they even gave away Sol Campbell!

The idea that this is in any way based on Hart's results is just a plain lie, and pretty offensive to Hart - either that or it's incredible arrogance from the board for expecting something for nothing

I seriously can't believe anyone would be stupid enough to believe that Pompey should have done any better - you look at any start of the season predictions this year and the vast majority put Portsmouth dead last, any pundit (even Andy Gray) could tell you that they had no chance, having sold all their talent bar David James and not brought anyone in

What's ridiculous is that Hart was actually doing a good job with what he had, they were playing well, okay on occasion they were unlucky, but for the most part they simply didn't have the quality to take on most teams - I know this is a results game, but you cannot strip the team bare and then expect miracles, I'd be surprised if anyone could've done much better with their hands tied like that, you might as well have asked Rochester to avoid relegation with Jose Mourinho in charge

At least be honest and say you wanted old tombstone in charge, it's no bloody wonder Hart turned down the offer to look after the youth side

Babel On The Move?

2009-11-24T08:57:00.000Z

It would not really be a shock if Ryan Babel were to move on from Liverpool, but the promising young talent has spoken with The Sun and says that he wants to discuss his future with Rafa, and if he is not content that he will get more football, he will move on.

In his first season, Babel opened a few eyes, and put in a few good performances. Clearly he was a raw talent, but he showed great promise. However, in his second season, he could barely get a game with Dirk Kuyt a fixture on the right flank.

The stand out comment though was this:

"I have tried to talk to the manager but it isn't of any use. I couldn't really do anything with the feedback Benitez gave me.

"We have agreed to look at my situation during the winter. If there's no improvement then, I want to play somewhere else"

Babel should have no problem finding a new club and a starting place, and if he digs his heals in and forces the move could be one of the best players to go on the market in the January window. Not all Liverpool fans have warmed to Babel, so there will not be too many that will miss him, though he has the potential to become a big player on the European stage, and he may come back one day and haunt Liverpool.
Babel will miss tonight's game against Debrecen through injury.

Sweet baby jesus

2009-11-23T03:50:00.000Z

Ok, I'm impressed - over at the fantasy league, Rich M has broken 100 points in one gameweek to claw his way back up to the top

Yes, he had the fortune of Defoe's five goals - but that only makes up 25% of his points, he still whooped us with 75 from his other ten players, with a combination of Sorenson, Shawcross, Bullard and Bent doing the hard work

And you know what's really sick? He's still got five players to play again....! Including his captain Jimmy Bullard (though I must say my choice of Dunn wasn't far behind)

And with Rodwell Sylvie's only player getting a second run out Rich is all but assured of making up the four point deficit

...and he even left Bramble on the bench

I tip my hat to you, sir

Do not heed the moaners and whingers

2009-11-22T12:47:00.000Z

I keep hearing this

"Yet watching TV the day after the match, I saw footage of the Ireland/Georgia game that took place in February. "Ireland won a penalty that should never have been given. The resulting goal put the team through to the play-off against France" - Matthieu Barbarin, writing in the Guardian

Not quite - Ireland qualified by a good lead of four points over Bulgaria, that one dodgy decision was responsible for two of those points - against the bottom side in the group, whose performances weren't even counted in the decision on the final eight, Ireland comfortably made the second spot regardless of that goal

and, as I've said before, dodgy decisions across a drawn out competition tend to balance themselves out - one single incident in a 30-minute tie-breaker is not quite the same

The other line of pursuit, typically from those who like to pour scorn on popular sports, like Dominic Lawson, is the one that footballers all cheat - Henry simply didn't get caught, so the referee gets the blame much like a copper getting the blame for not stopping a murder

Very true, cheating is tolerated far too much - but he misses the point, simply because Robbie Keane would've done the same thing does not make it acceptable to allow that goal

Why not? Because it's a miscarriage of justice - we know that the goal was a blatant foul, not in some grey area of 'did he/didn't he' - any cheating is noted by the viewers and the press, and disliked by the vast majority, but if no one will act then why won't the players 'chance their arm' - they are human, after all, it doesn't mean we should write the whole game off

You see, what the disdainful commentators fail to add in their criminal metaphor is that what actually happens is, while the crime is indeed committed, even with irrefutable evidence the court does nothing to seek justice - there is no punishment

No wonder they'll have a go at burglary if they can't be tried after 10 million witnesses saw them coming out the back window with a bag marked 'swag' - "ah, but ze referee did not see eet"

It is FIFA who allow this ridiculous fiasco to continue - we all see the crime, but they refuse to act on it with video technology that could easily sort the problem out within 30 seconds, allowing the game to be decided by a couple of fallible humans watching 22 players with nothing but their own eyes, while the audience has a perfect view of every minute detail, not only breeds dishonesty in the players, but anger from the audience - hence the reaction to France's victory - there was absolutely no need to let it stand

Maybe we are hypocrites, all humans are certainly guilty of that at times, but it is the fact that we allow seen cheating to go unpunished that enrages us so, it goes against the desire for natural justice

Super 6 Predictions - 21-Nov-09

2009-11-21T13:13:00.003Z

Here are my Super 6 Predictions, which should perhaps serve as a guide of what scores not to predict as this year they have not been terribly fruitful (outside of one week when I nailed 3 in one go)

Birmingham 2 - 1 Fulham

Burnley 1 - 0 Aston Villa

Chelsea 7 - 0 Wolves

Hull 2 - 1 West Ham

Sunderland 1 - 2 Arsenal

Barnsley 2 - 2 Cardiff

Good luck!

FIFA get something right...

2009-11-21T06:41:00.000Z

The latest FIFA rannkings are out and, as predicted, France and Portugal replaced England and Argentina in the top seven, owing to their UEFA play-offs

However, FIFA are actually being fair about this and it will be the October 2009 rankings that will be used for the seeds (although FIFA may use some other criteria as well)

The detailed criteria to determine the seeded teams for the Final Draw for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ will be confirmed at the next meeting of the Organising Committee for the FIFA World Cup™ in Cape Town on 2 December 2009 (and announced at a press conference following the meeting).

If the criteria to determine the seeded teams were to include, as in the past, the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, then it would be the October 2009 edition of this ranking which would be considered, and this for sporting reasons. In fact, using the November 2009 edition would create an uneven situation, specifically for the European Zone, where the play-offs involving the eight best runners-up led to an imbalance in the number of qualification matches played between the teams.

This means that the top seven ranked teams considered will be:

Brazil, Spain, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Argentina, England

England's Euro 2008 failure may impact on them, but surely the French, with their truly awful Euro 2008 performance, won't get a spot either

We shall find out on 2nd December...

Anger on the Internet

2009-11-19T11:56:00.000Z

In a rather unprecedented move the BBC have set up a live chat solely so we can all whinge about the Ireland robbery, technically a foreign country (yet whose citizens have certain special benefits here) but it's aroused the Brits considerably, 15,000 votes cast already (the referee and Henry getting most of the flak)

The feeling is strong, there's no doubt it was wrong - but FIFA won't do a thing, they've got their top ten nation and that's all that matters - so you may as well go and let off steam

I was barely walking when it happened and the Hand of God still gets to me, so welcome to the club boys

Ireland robbed by ghost of Maradona

2009-11-18T22:36:00.001Z

Ireland, after having outplayed France and beat them at home, have been robbed by a ridiculous handball by Thierry Henry in extra time, France head to the world cup as cheats

A truly shocking turn of events - I thought we were better than that these days? What with four officials and all, I have yet to see it myself - but the BBC say it was blatant and I'll look for a video to put up

Edit: Here's the video - he's even keeping it in play with his hand - France should've had their top striker sent off before a penalty shoot out and instead they go the world cup...C'est la vie

Seriously - how can they allow such an injustice to go unchecked? It's blatant, everyone was aware of it as it happened, this isn't 1986 anymore

In other news Portugal did qualify, as I expected...

But Russia and Ukraine both surprisingly went down - Greece claimed the only goal of the two-leg tie to sink Ukraine in Kiev, and Slovenia beat a deflated Russia 2-2 on away goals

In Africa, Algeria triumphed in the deciding play off in Sudan

Slovenia were the only unseeded team to qualify from the UEFA play-offs

So much for Hiddink...

The final spot is fairly benign, between Uruguay and Costa Rica - Uruguay lead 1-0 and are at home - perhaps Costa Rica will tie it and Uruguay will throw the ball into the net in ET?

This is a travesty - I just don't understand how they can allow this to stand - it's only 15 minutes of extra time anyway...just call a penalty shoot-out!

Stop jinxing it!

2009-11-18T09:18:00.000Z

Alistair Magowan at the BBC has done a feature on Portugal (or rather, Ronaldo) missing out on the world cup

We do not need you to start jabbering away about this when they have a one goal lead already! Focus on it if they actually aren't going, don't tempt fate!

And according to former Portuguese midfielder Paulo Sousa... it would be huge blow for every fan not to witness Ronaldo at his peak.
"A World Cup would not be the same without Portugal not only for the country but for football fans all over the world," he told BBC Sport.

I'm practically in tears here...

Three words: Suck it up

*They'll qualify...go bet on it now

What Ever Happened To Applying A Cold Wet Sponge?

2009-11-17T21:08:00.000Z

I chortled my sizable behind off when I heard this news on the radio this morning.

Robin Van Persie (RVP) is off to see a specialist about his ankle injury that is keeping him on the sidelines until Christmas. It isn't the bloke in America that Shearer, Owen and Hargreaves flew off to see, and he isn't in Harley Street.... In fact, he, is a she. In fact it is the not so well known Mariana Kovacevic from Serbia.

Theres more.

RVP on Sky Sports:

"I will fly to the Balkans to meet with a female doctor who helped [PSV Eindhoven midfielder] Danko Lazovic.

"She is vague about her methods, but I know she massages you using fluid from a placenta.

"I am going to try. It cannot hurt and if it helps, it helps.

"I have been in contact with Arsenal physiotherapists and they have let me do it."

Pardon, could you say that again please?

"placenta"

OK great; thought that's what was said, just checking...

Perhaps Arsene Wenger's ever decreasing average squad age has pushed an old man like Van Persie to drastic measures and the mere mention of placenta fluids got RVP all excited. Or, perhaps RVP has sussed that the older a person gets, the less they smell like an infant to Wenger; and ipsofacto the less likely you are to be included in the current Arsenal squad? A little Placenta fluid could add years onto his Arsenal career.

Run it off lad!!

Twitterers

2009-11-17T20:43:00.000Z

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Fergie forced to speak to BBC? Not on your life

2009-11-17T00:32:00.000Z

The Premier League have just agreed new rules that will require managers to speak to television rights holders (no doubt for extra cash) from next season (2010/11)

This, of course, means that Fergie will have to speak to the BBC in post-match interviews, as well as the written press, whom he has also boycotted for seven years, giving almost all of his screen time to the club's in-house MUTV channel

Now, knowing the famously stubborn soon-to-be-68-year-old do you think he will be going near the BBC? In 2007 he was pretty clear about never going back there

So, I ask - is this finally Fergie's final season? It's been on the cards for years, but will he, now surely at the end of his career, be forced back to the 'arrogant' BBC by the club for only a few years? Or will he bother with the sliding scale penalties, or will he just take his retirement?

I'd be doing the latter, not that I personally like being told who I have to talk to

So, money on Fergie retiring methinks

And yes this will also apply to Big Sam and 'Arry

Nine spots left

2009-11-13T00:42:00.001Z

And so we approach the end of World Cup qualifying, within the next five or six days we shall have all our teams settled and ready for the big draw on 4th December, in which we will all moan about getting Sweden...again

All eyes (in Europe at least) are on Portugal, facing plucky Bosnia without their precious Ronaldo, among others - there probably wasn't a worse team for them to face, so perhaps a little justice has been served after FIFA's decision to seed the teams at the eleventh hour

There is much hope being placed on Bosnia's shoulders - who come into the play-offs having scored eight more goals than Portugal and matching them for points, despite having had to compete with Spain and Turkey while Portugal faced Denmark and Sweden, qualifying by only one point

Nevertheless, Portugal will go into this game as 1/2 favourites (although I might point out that they were also favourites for the group - that was a nice big profit) - Bosnia are at 7/1 and the draw is 10/3 - quite tasty if you ask me, but I don't wish to tempt fate

The other big game in Europe is Ireland v France - lots of home nation support for both the Irish to qualify for their fourth world cup appearance and for the dismal French to miss out on a major tournament for once - France are slight favourites at 6/4, but Trapattoni's Ireland, who are undefeated in qualifying, have shown that they can be a match for the likes of Italy, so they can certainly do the same for an undeserving French side - this may come down to away goals

Might it be worth a sneaky 5/2 on Ireland to qualify, or 13/5 on Bosnia?

In somewhat less interesting news, Russia play Slovenia and Greece play Ukraine, looks like a lot of the Eastern European landmass will be getting representation next year

Further afield Costa Rica, now on their third consecutive finals appearance, battle it out against whiney bitches Uruguay, the bookies can't tell them apart - but I would have to say that at home Costa Rica are pretty good

The other intercontinental play-off will be over first - being in New Zealand and the first leg already having been tied at 0-0 (in the desert as Ryan Nelson put it) - I've already mentioned this, but the sheer concept of New Zealand going to the world cup is mind-boggling - should they beat Bahrain they will have their tickets

Honestly, Ireland have to navigate Italy and Bulgaria, and then defeat France, New Zealand basically get a free ride to a play-off in which they face Bahrain for a place in the finals...

The remaining three spots are in Africa, to be played tomorrow afternoon

In group A, Cameroon head to bottom-placed Morrocco with a one-point lead over Gabon, who will be in Togo

In group B, Tunisia hold a two-point lead over Nigeria, both will be away, facing Mozambique and Kenya respectively

In group C, it all comes down to Egypt v Algeria - Algeria hold a three point lead, so Egypt need to win by three goals or more to qualify (two goals would mean a play-off)

And that's it, it'll all be over for seven months

Or until we all start theorising about the seedings...

Update: New Zealand are in the world cup for the first time since 1982 after a 1-0 victory over Bahrain - they will possibly be the lowest ranked team to enter, I wouldn't normally be interested, but then it's not normally a country I've been to

Why Is Nani So Crap At Football?

2009-11-12T14:16:00.000Z

I made it up for the Blackburn game recently, and it was the first live game I have been to where Nani got a start.

He is a frustrating player to watch!

Thankfully, I am not alone in my assessment of Nani, and a section of the crowd nearby frequently sang "you'll never be Ronaldo" whenever he copped hold of the ball. Obertan, (like Michael Owen) was granted standing ovations when they replaced struggling 1st teamers mid-way through the second half.

Anyway, I just spotted this over on The Bun, it seems Nani thinks he's crap because Sir Alex has mismanaged him....

Bwahahahahahah! Not only can he not control a football, it seems he can not control his verbal diarohea. Sir Alex has an exempluary record in bringing through youngsters and making them superstars, perhaps Nani, the problem lies a little closer to home.

Nani has not lived up to his potential, and looks no better today than he did when he first arrived. Christiano grabbed his chance and eventually learned that just looking good and having a few tricks is not what makes a good footballer. Man Utd do have some creativity and penetration problems at the moment, which will not resolve itself. I was hoping that Nani would get a run this year and that he would come good, but it just is not happening for him. Time to look elsewhere, and soon because United are not well stocked on [young] creative midfielders.

Sad News

2009-11-11T09:05:00.000Z

News has emerged that Germany's no.1 goalkeeper has died from an apparent suicide

Robert Enke RIP

David NGog Penalty Decision Video

2009-11-11T08:29:00.000Z

Here is the footage for those who did not get to see it.

A Trip To Old Trafford

2009-11-09T20:28:00.000Z

There has been a delay in me putting these up thanks to the modern challenges of technology, but I was lucky enough to make the Man Utd vs Blackburn game last week and thought I would share a couple of snaps. In my life, I will never get as good seats again. South stand, fourth row between the tunnel and the dug out. My wife and I sat either side of the fading 22 yard line fading from a previous rugby league match.

Super 6 Predictions 07-Nov-09

2009-11-07T11:32:00.000Z

Aston Villa 2 - 1 Bolton

Blackburn 1 - 0 Portsmouth

Man City 3 - 0 Burnley

Tottenham 2 - 1 Sunderland

Crystal Palace 1 - 1 Middlesbrough

Leicester 2 - 1 West Brom

Get well soon Tarquin!

Beat Viv

2009-11-06T01:52:00.000Z

Just a quickie as I'm under the weather, but Beat Viv is back again

Since they brought in this new regular format I think I've won 15 quid out of five goes

Free money: good

Stick your own predictions underneath - I'm off to bed

Super 6 Predictions - 31-Oct-09

2009-10-30T17:02:00.001Z

Here they are, here is my predictions on the Super 6 for tomorrow.

Bolton 1 - 1 Chelsea

Burnley 2 - 0 Hull

Everton 2 - 1 Aston Villa

Fulham 1 - 2 Liverpool

Stoke 3 - 1 Wolves

Sunderland 2 - 1 West Ham

Fire Sale, Everything Must Go

2009-10-28T18:22:00.000Z

I do think sometimes that the money men in football are a bit unappreciated and misunderstood. However, there are some who have brought their way into the footballing landscape that it is very hard to get an understanding or appreciation of.

Mike Ashley has to be one of those people, because I really cannot fathom the man or his actions, well most of the time anyway.

There are, at least, two sides to every story and with much that goes on in Newcastle in the past couple of years those side to these stories do seem to be poles apart. Unquestionably despite what I and many others took as good intentions in the beginning has been followed by decisions and actions made which have taken the club backwards, fast.

Newcastle is one of those few clubs that no matter what the back-story is, should consider it a huge shortcoming to not be in the top league.

Recently the drama has focused on who the manager will be, with the return of Alan Shearer lasting but a few weeks, and with the only realistic takeover bid being rejected. The story of modern football failure in the big clubs is all too similar, and usually rests with the ego of men who think they know better than the fans.

I saw today that Ashley now wishes to rename St James Park to take advantage of an avenue of revenue that some other clubs have exploited. Surely this decision is a year too late or a year too early to be justified in a maximising of revenue argument? But more serious, and more in keeping with the general feeling is that this is not some new stadium, it already has a name. St James’ Park. It is a part of the tradition and soul of the club that this millionaire has snapped up and plays around with like a child with a train set. In buying the bricks, the club the pitch and the team we have yet another owner who thinks they own the soul of the football club.

What next? Doing away with the famous black and white stripes? A new nickname? What else is up in this firesale?

What must be worse for Newcastle fans is that it would appear they will not be able to force the owner out until they re-establish themselves with a Premier League slot, as it would appear the value of the club has plummeted under the current owners stewardship.

Newcastle’s fans are often described as “long suffering” that seems a bit like an understatement to me right now.