Leeds United are among the teams lining up a move for Timo Hubers this summer…
What’s the word?
According to the Daily Mail, the Whites are one of several Premier League sides eyeing up the FC Koln defender, with the likes of Newcastle United, West Ham and Crystal Palace their likely competition.
He will enter the final 12 months of his current contract at the Bundesliga outfit, so could be available on the cheap with the report suggesting that he’s valued in the region of £6m.
Leeds have leaked more goals than any other English top-flight team this season (68), so it’s hardly a surprise to see them linked with the ball-playing 6 foot 2 colossus.
Leeds’ cheap fix?
Something of an aerial threat with 14 goals from 161 career appearances across the senior and youth teams of Cologne and Hannover, Hubers could be a cheap fix to their defensive issues.
From 15 appearances in the Bundesliga this campaign, the 25-year-old rates out as Steffen Baumgart’s highest-rated player, even ahead of fellow Premier League-linked target Ellyes Skhiri and veteran Jonas Hector.
Also per WhoScored, he’s won 2.8 headers per game, which is more than every player at Elland Road bar skipper Liam Cooper (four), whilst he also averages a whopping 2.7 interceptions and 2.1 tackles per league outing too.
Those interception numbers exceed manager Jesse Marsch’s current options, including defensive midfield animal Kalvin Phillips.
Hubers has been described as an “exemplary” professional by Hannover 96’s sporting director Gerhard Zuber in the past, so he should have little trouble in transitioning from the German game to the Premier League and fellow countryman and centre-back Robin Koch could help him settle in quickly.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The American head coach has an array of options in the central defensive department, so it’s hard to imagine everyone keeping their place heading into next season and if the Yorkshire outfit believe Hubers is the answer, then the could be a bargain quick fix to their issues.
His aforementioned numbers stand out amongst the current squad, it’s just whether he can correlate that into a new environment.
AND in other news, Marsch suffers another potential Leeds injury blow ahead of Watford, he’ll be sweating…
Everton starlet Jack Rodwell has decided to commit his future to the club by signing a new five-year contract at the club, and the teenager has done well to resist the lure of the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea.
According to speculation, Sir Alex Ferguson had targeted the 19-year-old as his main summer signing and was set to offer a fee believed to be £15m for the Everton youngster. However Everton manager, David Moyes was quick to offer Rodwell a new deal so that he didn’t risk losing his exciting prospect.
Rodwell has been quick to praise Moyes for his management skills saying, “He’s been brilliant with me, and not just me but with the other youngsters as well. His track record has been brilliant and it’s been no different with me and I’m very happy to work under him.”
Moyes had previously warned Rodwell that he could regret leaving Everton too soon, he said: “Some of the players who have left Everton might say it was the right place for them after all. At the end of their careers, they might look back and say Everton was the best time, they enjoy it here. Even Gravesen, who went to Madrid, would say the same thing. There are lots of players who are going to look back at Everton and say they had a really good time, without winning anything obviously.”
Although by moving on to United, Rodwell would have undoubtedly been much more likely to win things with them than if he stayed at Everton. He could of risked becoming another player that has left them and not progressed like Thomas Gravesen, Joleon Lescott and Francis Jeffers. Of course Wayne Rooney made an almost identical move from Everton to United and has become a great player in doing so but the fact is, it doesn’t work out for everyone. Far too many players are tempted by big teams but often find themselves on the fringes of the first-team and either sold or loaned out within a year or two.
There is also no guarantee that Rodwell would have been able to break into the United side either, but at Everton he will have a greater opportunity of regular first-team football and this will only help his development as a player. Whereas at United he would have to work a lot harder to gain a first-team spot as the competition there will be much more intense.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Rodwell’s show of loyalty should serve as an example to Steven Pienaar. The South African midfielder has been linked with a move to Spurs but he needs to think if he really wants to give up first-team football to be at best rotated in and out of the side. As the form of Tottenham’s midfield this season has been fantastic and Pienaar will struggle immensely to get into the team next year, so he would be better off staying put.
Although Moyes had admitted that they might need to sell a few players so that they can strengthen the squad to compete for the European places in the Premiership. He clearly sees Rodwell as an integral part of his team and someone that can be at the club for many years to come.
Stoke City have emerged from the Championship under Tony Pulis and established themselves as a decent Premier League outfit. Their style is dependent on hold up play from the front men and an unusual specialist; throw in taker Rory Delap. Stoke’s no-frills approach has led to many detractors but their determination to bypass midfield passing play has been effective so is it worth condemning them or the teams who fail to beat them?
If styles make matches then the exemplar of the Premier League would be Arsenal VS Stoke City. Arsenal hinge their play on short passes whilst Stoke’s primary option is a long ball up to big target men. Even a cursory glance at the stats from February’s match shows the difference in prerogative from both teams: Stoke completed 116 passes whilst Arsenal completed 340, Stoke’s left winger on the day (Danny Pugh) completed just 5 passes (3 of which were backwards) whilst Arsenal’s left side (Samir Nasri) completed 37 passes, and finally Stoke’s holding midfielder (Abdoulaye Faye) completed just 5 passes whilst Alex Song completed 41. These stats only strengthen the obvious: one team places a greater emphasis on possession leading to chances whereas the other relies heavily on long balls from defence to attack, missing out central midfielders.
More interesting than these stats substantiating the obvious is the utilisation of Rory Delap. His inclusion and output elucidates a point of causation: Pulis has supplemented his tactical choice with a specialist. Looking at a five game stretch between mid May and April Delap completed 67 passes and took 86 throw ins. Some people may think this is a slightly misleading statistic in so far as Stoke’s style causes more balls to be knocked out of play and every single throw in from the halfway line or farther is taken by Delap. But this should not mask the fact that Delap is a throw in specialist before he is a midfielder. In terms of intention I believe it is an indictment on the club’s current style to have a player in midfield that passes less than he takes throws but its effectiveness cannot be discounted.
This is symptomatic of Stoke’s general style of play; often the full back or central defender (or goalkeeper) gets the ball and hits it long towards the target man (either Sidibe or Kitson) who then plays it to Ricardo Fuller. A variation is that play goes out to the wings from the defence (either to Etherington, who beats his man and gets a cross in, or to Lawrence – when he plays – who looks to cross and provides some threat from distance shots). Either method (long ball or wing play) lessens the involvement of central midfielders, which generally means Delap plus one other are completely bypassed. This goes some way in mitigating the above stats; it is an intentional ploy probably more to do with current personnel than pre-thought ideals. At least I hope it’s not an ideal.
Any manager’s primary objective is victory, especially where newly promoted teams are concerned. Pulis has implemented a highly direct style that is proving a difficult task for many Premier League sides to overcome. What’s more reassuring from a tactical point of view is that Pulis is attempting to add some creativity to his central midfield (purchasing Uruguayan Diego Arismendi last year is a positive move) and is reportedly looking for one more player in the same position.
Click on image below to see the PORTUGUESE babes at the World Cup
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
So Suarez punched out what would have been Ghana’s winner, Neuer pretended nothing was amiss when he picked up Lampard’s shot, and – before the World Cup even began in South Africa – Henry handled France into the finals. Inevitably the question of ethics in sport is heavily discussed for a few days…until the next incident. If we’re talking ethics then what all of the above have perpetrated is wrong. But this is football; and the only ethical imperative is ‘winning at all costs’.
“I tried not to react to the referee and just concentrate on what was happening. I realised it was over the line and I think the way I carried on so quickly fooled the referee into thinking it was not over.”
These were Neuer’s words after Germany’s resounding 4-1 victory over England in the second round. But the German no. 1 escaped censure and, instead, vitriol was focused on the officials. No football fan expects Neuer to consult the referee and admit a goal had been scored – that would be ludicrous, right? And this is probably where the issue of ‘cheating’ becomes much less straight forward than enforcing new rules or retroactive punishment or television replays. The expectation of fair play, from the watching public, is reflected by the players’ actions and the difficulty stems from excessive partisanship; for Uruguay what Suarez did is hardly ill-advised but for Ghana there can be no more bitter a circumstance to accept. Oscar Tabarez defended his player amid intense media pressure (and we should wonder, for example, had Jermain Defoe punched out a last minute winner leading to England’s progress the circus surrounding it wouldn’t be so vociferous):
“I’m embarrassed by what is being asked by the British press. That is truly shameful. They have been speculating about an action that happens on a football pitch and is dealt with in the laws of the game. It happened [to Harry Kewell] in Australia’s game with Ghana. It happened in 1990 when Uruguay played Spain and a player on the goal-line blocked a shot with both hands. Don’t talk to me about a lack of humility…We’re proud of our performances and what we’ve contributed to this World Cup. Uruguay went through the three previous games with hardly a yellow card, so please don’t tell me we’re cheats.”
Tabarez makes a valid point; it was dealt with within the laws of the game. So do the laws of the game accommodate flagrant disregard to fair play? Yes and no; Ghana still had the penalty to win it and Suarez did sit out the semi final. But I think the point is more that we can understand why players feign injury, dive, or intentionally foul to break up a counter attack and this somehow leads to a less guilty judgment. Invariably, bad sportsmanship is encouraged; a foul in the opponent’s half is a ‘clever’ foul as opposed to a professional foul, diving in the penalty area is welcomed if it leads to an easier scoring opportunity, staying down to waste time is ‘experienced’ play, and – on the most basic level – every throw-in has both teams’ players raising their hands. Cheating, from the basic to the calculated, is very much a part of modern football. Why? Theo Walcott summed up the simplicity of the situation when Arshavin protested a penalty awarded to him in an away fixture at Portsmouth:
“I saw Andrei [protesting] and I ran over to him because if you’re 1-0 up away from home and the referee’s given a penalty you don’t want to tell him it’s not one. So I grabbed him and said not to worry about it – I know it’s not nice but if you want to win a game you need to take these things.”
And Walcott is completely justified, which is more what should concern any fan lamenting the absence of fair play in football. The ethical questions of fair play take a distant second to the need for victory. And in the extremely rare cases of players exhibiting sporting behaviour (everyone knows what Di Canio did but, less publicised, is a Carlsberg Cup match between Denmark and Iran in 2003 where Morten Wieghorst intentionally hit his penalty wide after an Iranian defender picked the ball up inside the box; he thought the referee had signalled for half time when really it was a member of the crowd immediately behind him who blew the whistle) they are reluctantly praised because fans would much rather see their team win in less than sporting circumstances than lose after passing up a glaring opportunity to win.
Though retroactive punishments and stringent new laws would certainly curb glaring mistakes by officials I would be dismayed if that becomes the only feasible method to cut out poor sportsmanship. Deceiving a referee is very much a part of every single professional match in football and there is no way to stamp it out with new rules (it would require reviewing every single tiny nudge and free kick incident, on and off the ball, in a sport that requires contact). A change in thinking and a greater onus on individual player responsibility is the only thing that can reduce gamesmanship. But that’s a cultural issue and there’s no sign of it changing in the current climate because we still sympathise with players who try gaining an unethical advantage, simultaneously absolving them of blame.
Do you think cheating is an ever present in football? Or is it something new legislation or a change in laws can really curb?
*
If you enjoyed this, you can follow me on Twitter
Click on image below to see the Argentinean babes at the World Cup
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
With his constant declarations of admiration for former manager Rafa Benitez and comments about his family’s unhappiness upon Merseyside, it seems pretty apparent that Javier Mascherano will exit Anfield at some point this summer. Having been an integral part of Liverpool’s starting line-up for the last three years, the loss of the Argentine captain will come as a blow to manager Roy Hodgson. With less than seven weeks to go until the start of the new Premier League season, Hodgson will surely be working on acquiring a replacement for the soon-to-be-departed anchorman. Whilst the Anfield side have been linked with a whole host of transfer targets, the following four midfielders look most likely to replace ‘El Jefe’.
Ever Banega
Linked with the club earlier this year, Valencia midfielder Ever Banega has recently re-emerged as a target for the Anfield club. The 22-year-old, who joined the Mestalla side from Boca Juniors in early 2008, has been described as the ‘Argentine Alonso’ and is thought to be the most likely candidate to replace compatriot Mascherano at Anfield.
Following a difficult first season in Spain, which included a loan spell with capital club Atletico Madrid, Banega excelled last season, with his impressive displays helping Los Che clinch third place in La Liga. Noted for his long-range passing and vision, Banega would help to provide some of the creativity that has been missing in the Anfield midfield since the departure of Spanish international Xabi Alonso. Although Banega originally cost Valencia €18m, their well-documented financial woes mean that he may be available for as little as €10m this summer.
Fernando Gago
Rumoured to have been offered as a makeweight in Real Madrid’s bid to sign Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, Fernando Gago has unsurprisingly been touted as a replacement for fellow Argentine Javier Mascherano. Like Banega, Gago moved to Spain from Boca Juniors, joining Real Madrid in late 2006. Capped 28 times for his country, Gago has featured 114 times for Real Madrid, and was a key member of their title-winning side of 2007/08.
Although Gago has been assured that he is part of Jose Mourinho’s plans for next season, a starting berth at the Bernabeu isn’t certain, and he may wish to depart in search of guaranteed first-team football. A move to Anfield would almost certainly provide this.
Paul Scharner
The least glamorous and distinguished player on this list, free agent Paul Scharner has emerged as a shock target for Liverpool over the last few days. The former Wigan Athletic man featured 156 times for the DW Stadium outfit and has proven experience of playing in the Premier League. Scharner is also versatile operator, having played in most outfield positions during his four and a half seasons at Wigan Athletic.
The former Wigan Athletic man’s agent, Valentin Hobel, has talked up the prospect of his client moving to Anfield, stating “Roy Hodgson and Paul Scharner – this is a special relationship. Hodgson thinks that Paul’s strengths in midfield are better than his attributes in central defence. Liverpool would be a dream, of course, but we are in contact with several clubs. Because he is a free transfer, he can choose.”
Having (unsuccessfully) tried to sign Scharner for Fulham on three separate occasions, Roy Hodgson is known to be a huge admirer of the Austrian international. Despite rumoured interest from Aston Villa and Sunderland, Scharner is thought to have his heart set on a move to Anfield this summer.
Gilberto Silva
The impending exit of Javier Mascherano may re-open the Premier League door for former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva. The 33-year-old, who left the North London side during the summer of 2008, is thought to be high on Roy Hodgson’s summer wish-list. Currently contracted to Greek side Panathinaikos, the veteran midfielder appeared for Brazil during all five of their games at the World Cup and still appears to be capable of playing at the highest level. Silva also contributed to his club side’s recent domestic league and cup double.
Due to financial problems, Panathinaikos have made Silva available for transfer, and a clutch of Premier League, Serie A and Primera Liga clubs are thought to be interested in the Brazilian. Despite having expressed an earlier desire to return to former club Atletico Mineiro, Silva may fancy one last stab at English football and Liverpool could do much worse than secure the mild-mannered former Arsenal man’s services.
Which defensive midfielder should Roy Hodgson look to snap up this summer?
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Follow all things Red at www.twitter.com/Liverpool_FFC
Follow me on twitter at www.twitter.com/zarifrasul
Click on image below to see the SPANISH babes at the World Cup
Following the shock departure of Ulsterman Martin O’Neill from Aston Villa last week, the club’s chairman Randy Lerner is now actively looking to appoint a new manager at Villa Park. Below Football FanCast looks over the runners and riders in the frame for the job.
25/1- Slaven Bilic, Croatia National Team Coach
West Ham and Everton’s former defender Slaven Bilic has been linked with a plethora of Premier League jobs since masterminding home and away victories over England as the coach of Croatia during the Euro 2008 qualifiers. Bilic’s charm and charisma has seen him drawing comparisons to former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho and the young manager would relish the challenge of managing in the enthralling Premier League environment.
Bilic’s appointment would be a favourable one amongst Villa supporters despite his lack of experience outside the international arena. However the 41-year-old may feel obliged to see out his country’s Euro 2012 qualifying campaign after failing to guide Croatia to the 2010 World Cup. Bilic previously rejected the chance to take up the manager’s position at former club West Ham earlier this year and therefore is unlikely to accept an offer from Villa.
7/2- Sven Goran Eriksson, Unemployed
Former England manager Sven Goran Eriksson is reportedly desperate to return to the Premier League and the Villa job will certainly interest the Swede. Eriksson is the new Terry Venables, being linked with every vacant managerial position that becomes available, most notably with both Liverpool and Fulham over the summer. His availability makes him an appealing candidate for the Midlands club.
While Eriksson is certainly a talented manager, after successful trophy laden spells in Sweden, Italy and Portugal, his reputation in England remains tarnished. The 62-year-old has been hopping from one club to the next since leaving his England post in 2006, pocketing massive pay cheques along the way. The former Manchester City boss’ perceived lack of loyalty remains a disadvantage, as does his much-criticised relaxed style of man management.
On the plus side Eriksson has bags of experience and has a point to prove after previously being booted out of Eastlands by former chairman Thaksin Shinawatra. Despite achieving the joint highest points total in the club’s history and becoming the first manager since 1969-70 to win both derby games against Manchester United in one season, Eriksson was given his marching orders in 2008. Despite his impressive record, Villa fans would treat the potential appointment of Sven with caution.
7/2- Bob Bradley, USA National Team Coach
USA coach Bob Bradley was the early frontrunner and bookmakers’ favourite to replace Martin O’Neill after guiding his country to the second round of the World Cup in South Africa earlier this summer. Owner Lerner is reportedly keen to install his compatriot as the club’s new manager, although reports suggesting Bradley had left his USA post on Friday proved to be unfounded.
Bradley’s contract with the USA runs out at the end of this year and the Americans are keen to extend his deal. However Bradley has his heart set on coaching abroad, saying:
“ I have said over and over that I am always excited about new and different challenges,” said Bradley.
“Certainly coaching in Europe at some point is something that I would love to do.”
The American’s lack of experience managing in Europe and his commitments with the USA count against him however and could ultimately cost him a shot at the Villa job.
Continued on Page TWO
6/4- Kevin McDonald, Caretaker Manager
Liverpool Double winner Kevin McDonald has emerged as a shock contender for the Villa job after stepping in to take charge of The Villains impressive opening day 3-0 victory over West Ham. The Scotsman has been part of the club’s coaching staff since 2003 and also had a spell as Steve Staunton’s assistant with the Republic of Ireland.
McDonald certainly has the backing of the club’s players, with captain Stilian Petrov hoping Villa’s performances in the coming weeks can persuade owner Lerner to offer him the job:
“He has been at the club a long time and has done a great job with the youth and has the opportunity to do it now.
“He showed with the determination, how he prepared us and the way he wants us to play that he wants to hold on to that job and I hope we can help him take that job.”
McDonald may not be the blockbuster name Villa fans are hoping for but his knowledge and experience of the club would be vital following the shock timing of O’Neill’s departure.
2/1- Martin Jol, Ajax
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
54-year-old Martin Jol is the club’s No.1 reported target despite the Dutchman knocking back the advances of Fulham earlier this summer. Jol is prepared to leave the Amsterdam Arena should the right offer come along and Villa’s may be tempting.
Jol’s reputation remains high in England after guiding Tottenham to two successive fifth placed finishes before he was harshly sacked at the end of the 2006-07 season. Jol’s future in Holland reportedly rests on the club overcoming Dynamo Kiev in the next fortnight to reach the Champions League. A failure to do so could see Jol quit the club and return to the Premier League as the new manager of Aston Villa.
100/1- Diego Maradona anyone?
No it’s not April Fools’ Day. Amazingly former Argentina manager Diego Maradona has thrown is name into the hat for the vacant post at Villa after declaring his love for the English countryside. El Diego’s spokesman Walter Soriano explained:
“If the owner Randy Lerner wants to make him a serious offer, I’m sure he’d get a very positive response.”
The club’s players would love to have Maradona as their new coach if reports regarding the Argentine legend’s training methods are correct. Maradona prefers to have a light afternoon training session as he rarely gets up before mid-day. Maradona at Villa? Crazier things have happened.
Like this article? Then follow this author by subscribing to his RSS feed or follow him on Twitter.
Having witnessed Karl Henry and Joey Barton go toe to toe, although boot to face might be a more appropriate term, it made me think of great personal feuds that the Premier League has played host to. When Wolves rock up at St James Park are we in line for another midfield battle as the two players lock horns again? Here are some of the Premier League’s best. Let us know of the others.
5. Nemanja Vidic v Fernando Torres
Not all battles have to be physical. Nemanja Vidic can be a colossal player for Man Utd, dominating teams at times and putting up a near unreachable barrier, but no player gets under his skin more than the electric Spaniard. Not being able to cope with Torres is by no means a shameful thing, but Vidic is excellent and yet Torres is like kryptonite to the Serbian. As good as Vidic is, he much prefers an aerial battle, or a grittier match up, rather than being made to run on the turn. Having been sent off three times against Liverpool, Vidic is definitely on the losing side when it comes to this head-to-head, and all eyes will be on the personal battle when the two teams meet at Old Trafford in less than two weeks’ time.
4. Peter Schmeichel v Ian Wright
A battle between two hot-heads that boiled over during the two meetings of the 1996/97 season. Old Trafford in November saw allegations of racist remarks aimed at Wright by the Great Dane, although these were never proved and the case was dropped. It did however add spice to the return fixture in North London the following February. In one fifty-fifty challenge, Wright apparently lunged in two-footed, which caused one of a number of altercations during the match, as well as being pulled apart in the tunnel after the final whistle. Still, they managed to make up enough to share a BBC sofa and agree a pact of neither man being able to offer anything close to an opinion……about anything.
3. Sir Alex Ferguson v Arsene Wenger
From 1998 to 2004, Arsenal and Manchester United were the only real contenders to the Premiership crown. Throughout that period the two men hurled insults at each other, led their teams to brawls on the pitch, and were of course responsible, for the now infamous ‘pizzagate’. Although during the period, things began to get a little petty, the bitterness has now gradually morphed into mutual respect. The relationship that Fergie had with Wenger, and then Mourinho afterwards, is a loss to the league. Maybe Fergie should make fun of Ancelotti’s eyebrow?
2. Cristiano Ronaldo v Ashley Cole
Ronaldo has publicly said Cole is the best opponent he has ever faced. Cole says he misses Ronaldo being in the league. A rivalry at the highest level of pace and skill that graced both the domestic and international stage. Cole was embarrassed by Ronaldo early on and vowed never to be so again, even having the gall to show United fans the pocket he was keeping him in on an Old Trafford night. Cole’s performance in Euro 2004 against Ronaldo is one of the best full-back performances of all time.
Watch their battle here.
1.Roy Keane v Patrick Vieira
Although not intentionally featuring so many United players, there was never going to be another contender for the top spot. Like Wenger and Ferguson above them, the two captains and talismen were at their best when they faced each other. Both capable of creativity and destruction, arguably the two greatest central midfielders the Premiership has ever bore witness to, were cut from the same cloth. Of all their meetings, a particular pre-match tunnel confrontation springs to mind. Even the referee told them to “save it for the pitch lads!” Better than all of that, is the pathetic attempt by Gary Neville to stare down Vieira during the handshakes at the end of the clip.
The two in the tunnel
Who have we missed out? Let me know by commenting or following me on twitter where you can get updates on my articles.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
*
A welcome addition to the Premier League’s Wag arena – Click on image below to view gallery
Dimitar Berbatov fired in a sublime hat-trick to inspire Manchester United to a deserved 3-2 victory over arch enemies Liverpool on Sunday. Roy Hodgson’s side were completely overwhelmed by United and their rejuvenated Bulgarian, who scored an 84th minute winner to dash any Liverpool hopes of grabbing a point after the unlikeliest of comebacks. So what did we learn about Liverpool after this defeat?
The jury remains out on Hodgson
After a dismal seventh placed finish last term, Liverpool have started this season under the guidance of new manager Roy Hodgson in similarly poor form. There was certainly no traditional honeymoon period for Hodgson who has faced Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United in the opening five league games of the season. The former Fulham man has failed to beat any of these sides and has faced criticism for his selection and tactics.
The decision to take off the increasingly influential Portuguese midfielder Raul Meireles for Milan Jovanovic immediately back-fired with Berbatov scoring the winner within five minutes of the change. Despite Meireles struggling with fitness towards the end, the former Porto playmaker was causing United problems with his pin-point passing and substituting the largely anonymous Joe Cole may have been a better option.
Hodgson also came under fire for changing from Rafael Benitez’s preferred 4-2-3-1 system to a 4-4-2 at Manchester City earlier in the season, where they were comprehensively beaten 3-0. Liverpool were completely outnumbered in midfield that day and Hodgson will know that every decision and tactic will be under the spotlight during his tenure at Anfield. The Reds have managed just five points in five games; however Hodgson will be positive of improved results after navigating a difficult run of games.
Torres remains frustrated up front on his own
Fernando Torres struggled to make an impact on the game over the first 45 minutes and was well marshalled by the centre-back pairing of Nemanja Vidic and Jonny Evans. After receiving initial support from Meireles, Hodgson changed the badly faltering system by bringing on Frenchman David N’Gog for the ineffectual Argentine Maxi Rodriguez on the hour mark.
N’Gog was the perfect foil for Spaniard Torres, with the youngster running in behind United’s defence and allowing Torres to isolate one of either Vidic or Evans. This paid dividends and helped bring Liverpool back into the game when Torres was fouled to win the penalty and free-kick, incidents which helped bring Hodgson’s side level. Torres has previously profited from the playmaking abilities of Xabi Alonso and the support of Steven Gerrard and will receive more service once Hodgson has adapted his preferred system and a settled side.
Liverpool look fragile defending set-pieces
Despite having a solid defensive record at Liverpool, Rafael Benitez was repeatedly criticised for his insistence on zonal marking. Hodgson is also a fan of zonal marking and is credited with introducing the system to Scandinavian football during spells at Halmstad and Malmo FF.
Hodgson has yet to fine tune his new side in defending set-pieces and they looked unclear on their responsibilities against Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, who took full advantage. Torres was the culprit, foolishly left man-marking (if you can call it that) Berbatov as the evergreen Giggs floated in a corner just before half-time. The Bulgarian didn’t even have to jump to direct a deft header past Pepe Reina for the opener. Hodgson will know extra practice on the training ground is needed to alleviate such mistakes.
Hodgson has yet to find the right system
Roy Hodgson’s preferred system is the 4-4-2 tactic he used to phenomenal success in guiding Fulham to the Europa League final last season. Under Benitez Liverpool played with a fluent 4-2-3-1 system and Hodgson has continued to use this during the opening months of the season. While a brief change to a 4-4-2 system at Eastlands ended in a 3-0 defeat.
New signings, Joe Cole’s suspension and Dirk Kuyt’s injury means Hodgson has yet to name an unchanged line-up in the league. Cole, Gerrard and Meireles have all been deployed in the second striker role, while the central midfield axis has rotated between Lucas/Christian Poulsen and Lucas/Gerrard. The Reds do not have the right personnel to successfully deploy a 4-4-2 and it may take a few games for Hodgson to find the right formula in the final third.
A tough season ahead for Liverpool
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
This season was always going to be a tough one for new manager Hodgson, given the arduous task to rebuild a Liverpool side short on confidence and with a minimal budget at his disposal.
The Reds have been disappointing so far this season, but could have easily been three more points better off and up to fourth had they held their lead for another minute against Arsenal and grabbed an undeserved point at Old Trafford. Liverpool have had a difficult start and will improve, but will struggle to break back into the top four this season.
You can read more of my blogs HERE or follow me on Twitter.
Liverpool old boy taking the Championship by storm
Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle has admitted that he will soon start contract talks with in-form striker Johan Elmander.
After making the move to the Reebok Stadium from French side Toulouse in a club-record transfer deal in 2008, the Swede struggled to make an impact under former boss Gary Megson.
But after notching four times in seven outings this term, Coyle believes he is seeing the best in Elmander alongside recent England debutant Kevin Davies.
"I have had a chat with the chairman and the owner as you do and, when the time is right, which shouldn't be too far away, I'm pretty sure we'll get round to trying to sort something out on that," Coyle said.
"Johan knows that he has a manager that believes in him and wants him at the football club.
"He is playing ever so well, he is showing what a good player he is and he looks like he is enjoying his football, which is important for him. Long may that continue.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
"I believe I have a quality striker on my hands in Johan Elmander and it is for me as a manager to try and nurture that and bring the best out of him."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email
The Merseyside derby has always been hotly contested despite protestations to the contrary from those who instead name it the friendly derby. However, since the inception of the Premier League the game has had more red cards than and any other. As a neutral, I always look forward to this explosive fixture and Sunday will almost certainly be no different given Liverpool’s desperation to share the spoils. It is the longest currently running top-flight derby in England, having been played at that level since 1962 when Liverpool were promoted to the First Division so naturally there have been some classics. Here are my top five:
1) Everton 2-3 Liverpool (Premier League, April 2001)
If you look back 9 years to this fixture, you will be reflecting on one of the most pulsating and tempestuous Merseyside derbies of all time. Liverpool were seeking to close a nine-point gap on third place whilst the Toffees were desperate for three points in order to combat the threat of a relegation battle. It saw 12 yellow cards, two penalties, a red card and five goals in total. Emile Heskey opened the scoring for Liverpool after just four minutes in wake of a claim for handball from Jamie Carragher, who then played it Dietmar Hamman. The German slid a clever pass into Big Emile who shrugged off Steve Watson to crash the ball past Paul Gerrard. Everton’s equaliser came on 42 minutes when Michael Ball crossed into the opposition penalty area and Kevin Campbell gave chase only to be tackled by Carragher. In Carragher’s attempt to prod the ball away from Campbell, he inadvertently prodded it to Everton’s big number nine, Duncan Ferguson for 1-1.
After the break Liverpool hit an Everton side that were dominating proceedings on the counter attack. As Robbie Fowler attempted pick out Smicer, the ball found its way, via a deflection to Markus Babbel who slotted it home. 2-1. Liverpool’s Robbie Fowler then missed a penalty before Everton won one of their own – Jeff Winter pointing to the spot following a lunge on David Unsworth from the already booked Igor Biscan and as Biscan went to run an early bath, Unsworth dusted himself down and smashed it Sander Westerveld. In an already frenetic game, there was to be a final twist. In stoppage time, Niclas Alexandersson fouled Gregory Vignal over 40 yards from goal and Gary McAllister curled the ball majestically past Paul Gerrard to win it for the red half of Liverpool.
2) Everton 4-4 Liverpool (aet, FA Cup 5th Round replay, 1991)
It was a crazy game which produced one of the most exhilarating FA Cup games of all time. Peter Beardsley put Liverpool 1-0 up with a simple half-volley from close range and the men in red looked comfortable until Everton hero Graeme Sharp met Andy Hinchcliffe’s cross at the far post and headed them level. It was Beardsley again to make it 2-1, shimmying his way past Martin Keown and placing his left foot shot past Neville Southall. It was beginning to heat up and Sharp levelled in the 73 minute after an infamous mix up between Grobelaar and defender Nicol to make it 2-2. Everton needed to rescue it in the final minutes after Ian Rush’s goal and Tony Cottee was the man to do so and take it into extra time. In extra time, you’d have thought for all the world Barnes had sealed a famous victory with his curled effort for 4-3 but Cottee nabbed another leveller in minute 114th of this classic. Dalglish bizarrely resigned following the game.
3) Everton 3-0 Liverpool (Premier League, September 2006)
Everton continued their great start to the season with this victory over their Merseyside rivals with Andrew Johnson scoring twice. They showed a ruthless streak in front of goal and stood firm in the face of a Liverpool revival to record the biggest derby win in 42 years. Toffees fans who look back fondly at that day, will have Pepe Reina’s fumble of Lee Carsley’s shot for Andrew Johnson to nod home at the forefront of their minds.
4) Everton 1-0 Liverpool (FA Cup 2009)
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Teenager Dan Gosling fired home the winner in this one with two minutes of extra time remaining to gift Everton bragging rights in this fourth round replay curling home a measured finish past Pepe Reina sparking wild celebrations from the Evertonians in Goodison Park.
5) Liverpool 3-1 Everton (FA Cup Final, May 1986)
Seven days after Liverpool had secured the title, with Everton coming second, the two met at Wembley for this historic FA Cup Final. Everton were appearing in their third successive final whilst Liverpool were bidding to be the third team in the 20th century to do the double. Gary Lineker latched onto Peter Reid’s 40 yard ball to open the scoring for Everton in the 27th minute. But Ian Rush equalised in the 56th minute and then five minutes later Johnston stabbed home for 2-1. There enough time for Rush to complete a brace with another goal late on linking up with Jan Molby. Bobby Mimms thwarted the Welshman in getting his hat-trick.