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Just read the story on BBC Sport about the 40th birthday of the now-deceased Ceefax and it all came flooding back. Saturdays spent staring in silence at page 302 and 316, waiting for the live scores to roll around to your team and then reading the match report after because you didn't want to wait until tomorrow's paper. Stop the internet. Stop the live streams and text commentaries. I want those days back :cry:
316? Newbie. 303 until the end of time.
Definitely 303, man.
Interspersed with games of Bamboozled.
Turner the Worm and Digitizer you plebs.
Where is Heath, he is the only football thread regular I have yet to gloat over :colbert:
We have a few football fans on here, do we?
Who do we all support?
Welcome, Magic Pot! I'm a Man Utd fan and I normally pop up once every month or so when we manage a win.
On that note, David De Gea's performance today has confirmed what I already knew. He is the best keeper in the Premier League bar none.
Thibaut Courtois.
De Gea can be erratic and reckless at times- he has the talent, always had, but needs to mature a bit more. He did save Utd today though.Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubba
On my team front though, man was that disappointing- i don't think we played (far) worse than Chelsea but they managed to capitalise on the chances they got, and we had tons of possession and nothing to show for it.
I don't like talking about referees and stuff, but do I wonder what would have happened if the ref gave that clear as day penalty to us (Jack's shot deflected on Fabregas' arm)
anyways, Chelsea are really good this year, and it would be a very difficult task to beat them, especially since we miss a couple of key players.
onwards and upwards, least we got 4 games ahead of us that we should take all 12 points before we play against Utd
De Gea's downfall can often be with corners or free kicks that get whipped into the box. Other than that I agree with Bubba about him being the best keeper in the league.Quote:
Originally Posted by supernaps
Yeah I also wonder what would have happened if the ref had given the very obvious red cards to Koscielny for the pen and Welbeck for the foul near the end. Aside from the drumming Arsenal would have received by Chelsea, it would have been interesting to see them in their next game with only about three defenders available, and no striker.Quote:
I don't like talking about referees and stuff, but do I wonder what would have happened if the ref gave that clear as day penalty to us (Jack's shot deflected on Fabregas' arm)
With regards to Utd, for all our faults, the last few games we've played have been very entertaining. The lack of entertainment last season was one of the most depressing aspects of our form...that and we sucked balls.
you seem to be forgetting cahill's CLEAR red card on sanchezQuote:
Originally Posted by Crop
and please, the welbeck challenge was a yellow, not a red- about kos, it could be debatable, nobody would blame the ref if he gave the red card to him.
utd was lucky as hell today- everton let two cheap goals in, amateur defending on both goals and de gea was having the game of his life. i guess it was entertaining if you like to watch your team suffer and getting exposed but escape with 3 lucky points
Both Koscielny and Cahill could (and probably should) have gone. Would have made the game less of a spectacle but all it confirmed for me is that Arsenal are still miles off a title challenge.
Chelsea will probably end up walking the league. Man City are the only team capable of stopping them and even then they've already blown one chance to make ground on them by not beating them at their place. They're too erratic away from home anyway.
And there's no way De Gea is the best goalkeeper in the Premier League, and given the team I support I should know a thing or two about bad goalkeepers!
I'm a Newcastle fan... not much to really be proud of considering how cringeworthy the fanbase has been the limelight lately but hey, stuck by them for years, no reason to jump ship. Never is!
You are absolutely correct, he should have walked. I only didn't mention it because Chelsea can live without Cahill, whereas Arsenal losing another Defender now that Chambers is out for a game would be a disaster.Quote:
Originally Posted by supernapsyou seem to be forgetting cahill's CLEAR red card on sanchezQuote:
Originally Posted by Crop
and please, the welbeck challenge was a yellow, not a red- about kos, it could be debatable, nobody would blame the ref if he gave the red card to him.
Confirmed for TottenhamQuote:
Originally Posted by Magic Pot
I'm just miffed that De Gea didn't get a single bonus point despite everyone and their dog saying he was the difference. >=/
Chelsea is the strongest atm, but there's no backup for Costa- if he gets injured, they are done- unlike City, who have a couple of players that can cover in that position. Other than the striker front, I'd say they are equal.Quote:
Originally Posted by Magic Pot
As for us, I've said it from the beginning, that it was a DISASTER we didn't sign a world class CDM, and a good backup CB. Had we strenghten those positions, we'd be true contenders. Sadly, you don't make omelette with should/coulda/woulda.
I have to say though, I've seen stranger things happening, it's still too early to crown Chelsea as the EPL champions, there are a lot of stuff that can happen in a season; injuries, bad patches, bad form etc.
But, sadly can't deny that they are looking the strongest rn. Damn.
Haha! Nope, not a Spurs fan. When I say bad, I mean, extremely bad!Quote:
Originally Posted by Old ManusConfirmed for TottenhamQuote:
Originally Posted by Magic Pot
If I were to say to you that my team have suffered arguably the biggest decline in English football in recent years then that'll probably give you an idea as to who I support.
Wtf Old Manus? Lloris is probably second only to Courtois. (Don't worry Bubba, De Gea is third)
Also as a fellow Red who has seen the terrors of James, Westerweld, Brad Friedel when he was trout, Dudek, Kirkland, Carson, the decline of Reina and now the Mignolet nightmare I feel your pain Magic Pot. Though I wouldn't say our decline has been recent. It was over 20 years ago and we've maintained a nice 8th to 2nd zone since then.
Oh, and have faith. Valdes is on his way.
Haha! Having had James (who was brilliant for us when he was here) and Westerveld (who was so shocking I forgot he even played for us) both play for us, I know how you feel. (That's another big clue as to who I support right there)
Pompey?! That's a new one!
Yup! Pompey is my team. From FA Cup winners and competitive football against AC Milan to getting your arses handed to you by AFC Wimbledon in the space of five years. It's a hell of a decline.
And ye know not of bad goalkeepers until you've seen John Sullivan (a goalkeeper so bad he retired at the age of 25) and ye know not real pain until you've seen your side draw 0-0 at Hartlepool on a cold Tuesday night to equal your winless record of 23 games without a win - all in the same season.
The one good thing about tumbling down the leagues is getting to visit all the grounds. I've done 80 of the current 92 and that includes all of them in the Premier League.
Wow, it's just like me about 7 years ago.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Magic Pot
Wow, talk about putting it into context. These privileged football pages have been humbled by this noble commoner.
Nice silver lining with the grounds though. Which would you say has been your favourite to visit?
inb4 Fratton Park
Interesting question actually. I haven't been to that many grounds (difficult when there are only 4 decent football teams in your country):
The Vetch
Liberty Stadium
The Emirates
Anfield (shut up)
Villa Park
Madejski Stadium
The Hawthorns
(New) Wembley
Millennium Stadium
Park Avenue
My favourite (apart from the Vetch/Liberty natch) would probably be Villa Park. The worst used to be the Emirates, where I learned that the rumours of its complete lack of atmosphere were 100% true and more, but it's recently been overtaken by the Hawthorns, which was the largest library I've ever set foot in. Incredible.
Grounds I've been to: Murrayfield
Number of games being played while I was at Murrayfield: 0
TV watcher for life at this rate.
Filbert Street
King Power Stadium
Highfield Road
Ricoh Arena
Villa Park
St Andrews (not to see a match but twice for corporate hospitality)
Anfield
(Old) Wembley
Liberty Way (The TRUE Liberty stadium where the brave Eyes on FC claimed victory of course)
The best? Wembley was something incredible to see though, the sheer scale of it blew my mind as a nipper. St Andrews is naff, a nightmare to get to, the food is rubbish and their "Legends Lounge" has Christophe Duggary's picture in it.
holy crap, didn't expect to see a portsmouth fan- still remember kanu's amazing two dribbles and then hitting the post before scoring later in the fa final back in 08Quote:
Originally Posted by Magic Pot
lol, i guess it's been a hell of a ride for you guys. but hey, you're debt free rn and that's a first step
Favourite ground is really difficult. Possibly Bramall Lane as it's fairly modern in places but still old enough to retain its character. The atmosphere is excellent at full capacity, too.
Craven Cottage is another favourite of mine simply for its location and the fact you can create a hell of a racket in their away end. Beats Stamford Bridge for a day out hands down.
As for worst grounds, Anfield is definitely up there. Forget the myth that Liverpool fans are amazing - that's only if they're playing someone like United or Everton. They've been pretty quiet every time I've been there. Their away end is a total dump too. Lack of facilities for such a huge club and if you're sat any way over halfway up the stand then the overhang impedes your view.
The absolute worst probably has to be Newport County's Rodney Parade. In one of the worst areas in the town, it smelt of weed when we pulled up to park outside a school of all places, the away end is ridiculously hard to find and happens to be a temporary stand completely open to the elements, complete with awful view of the pitch. The rest of the ground consists of an old stand which looks like it'll be falling down soon and a newer stand which looks like a magic eye picture. It's truly terrible!
Oh we're all doing this now?
Old Trafford
Millennium Stadium
Jenner Park - Home of the once mighty Barry Town.
As of Monday I'll be able to add Cardiff City Stadium to the list.
Wales v Cyprus? I'm going to the Bosnia game on Friday (free tickets with work). You will have the pleasure of walking through my estate on the way to the game!
I've been to the Cardiff City Stadium. Huge concourses but other than that, it's nothing special. Prefer Swansea's ground.
In other news, Pompey lost 2-1 at home to Northampton Town in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy tonight. The joys...
That's the one. Been a few years since I've been to a Wales football game, back when they used to play at the Millennium stadium.Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Manus
And thanks for the heads up, I'll keep an eye on my wallet :p
Mate I know your tears. Losing at home to the likes of Southend United on a wet Tuesday evening. I was there when we won it in 2006 though, beat Carlisle 2-1 and Lee Trundle (peace be upon him) ran around after the game with a "smurf Cardiff" flag, then got fined, the legend. I think it was my birthday. LDV Vans for life.Quote:
Originally Posted by Magic Pot
Haha! Lee Trundle, I remember Pompey fans wanting Redknapp to sign him years ago. Decent player.
The referees in the lower leagues are atrocious though. One of the Northampton players went in very late and very high on our winger and it was the most blatant red card I've ever seen. The result = yellow card and many dumbfounded and angry Pompey fans.
I hate the pisspot trophy...
Peyton Manning!
Isn't he the left-back for Wycombe Wanderers?Quote:
Originally Posted by jenovajunkie
I am eagerly awaiting the game against Chelsea at home. It will be fascinating. I definitely expect us to concede. It's an impossible game to predict. Either way Chelsea have the league sewn up.
The only ground I've been too football wise is Lansdowne Road, The Aviva (both Irish national stadiums), and Old Trafford.
Chelsea have the league sewn up... IF Diego Costa doesn't disintegrate. He doesn't have the best injury record.
For those of you that missed it, watching Rep of Ireland play Gibraltar yesterday was truly painful. I daresay they were worse than Andorra and San Marino. Why the hell are UEFA expanding the competition again?
The ape is Platini.Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Manus
Football is a game played with a round ball.
Sam Allardyce's West Ham are now six points above the relegation zone.
In a Champions League spot.
This season, man. This season is crazy.
smurfing tadic, just took him out of my fantasy team then he goes and has a stormer. :colbert:
loev sergio forever
So Scummers win 8-0 and we get our arses handed to us by Bury on the same day.
I hate football.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Formalhaut
just sayin :smug:Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychotic
The weird thing is that Allardyce is no longer playing hoofball but a fluid 4-3-3. Oh, and Stewart Downing is playing as a no 10 and is somehow sodding tearing teams apart.Quote:
Originally Posted by Loony BoB
I think as a Liverpool fan I may have to go buy a hefty life insurance policy right away as the last game nearly gave me a heart attack.
Take care all.
Yep, Liverpool will actually be what kills me. What absolute comedy. Our defence is a joke, Balotelli is utter bobbins (and hasn't even done any wacky antics to make up for it) and thank smurf for our new signing Own Goal is all I can say. Honestly, every game we've won this season apart from Spurs we have not deserved to. We are rubbish... and yet somehow we're 5th. Football. :confused:
Real Madrid are going to do something thoroughly unpleasant to our backsides. Ronaldo vs Lovren and Skrtel. smurf me. What odds are there on at least 5 goals being conceded?
Bet365 offering 50/1 on a 5-0 loss. That's...not value.
I was going to say what odds on 5-0 and Ronaldo to score but then I realised you'd probably get better odds on 5-0 and Ronaldo not to score.
Couple days late BUT SO WHAT, SHHH, DON'T JUDGE ME T-T...
So Sunderland got thrashed 8-0, by Southampton who are doing insanely well anyways!! :O
I saw highlights of the match and all I saw was the Sunderland defence give up and let Southampton score... I guess this is one situation where the revered Jean Alain Boumsoung could have easily carried a team's backline. Poor, poor Sunderland... OH AND NEWCASTLE WON A MATCH... We actually won a match... I didn't think that was possible.
I thought first and second was sewn up (and it is) but also that the battle for 3rd and 4th would be incredible with three slick red machines in Liverpool, Man United and Arsenal all fighting it out. Instead it's like watching three chubby drunken blokes stumble around, swinging wildly and hoping to be the last one not to pass out on the floor.
Indeed. We all seem to have defensive problems this year, especially United. It's not even the way we play where we leave ourselves exposed all that much, it's just that we keep making such silly mistakes. I suppose that's what good defenders do though, not make mistakes. :eep: Wish we had a solid defender although Rojo doesn't look bad mind.
Tonights game will be brilliant. Something like a 2-3 to Madrid.
Right now I just want to see consistency at the back. Through injury or selection, we've not had a consistent central partnership in particular, let alone wingbacks, since the start of last season, perhaps before that too. If we can get a preferred duo (or trio, if he does opt for three at the back) of LVG's to sit and learn to work with each other then we might not be too bad. I don't think our defenders themselves are as much the problem as the defenders as a group.
Psychotic will be pleased to know that his previous bantering about the odds has caused me to place a cheeky tenner on a Real win tonight. Scousers worldwide can now sleep easy in the knowledge of a certain Liverpool victory.
:erm:
Nice job breaking it :colbert:
Wasn't as bad as it could've been, they will utterly spank us in Madrid though.
The first goal was pure class, no defense in the world could stop that. The second two were just terrible defending though.
Was impressed with Can in the second half, I think he deserves an extended look over Allen. Really, as it has been all along, it's going to come down to whether we can win our last two group games if we want any hope of advancing.
Take care all.
Can hasn't impressed in the league, Allen has been better there.
On the plus side at least we are on level points with the other two teams in the group.
Happy enough with a point vs. Chelsea. We were the better team in the first half, not so much the second. Some interesting ref calls will dominate, but the points could have gone either way regardless of all calls because both teams had a decent number of chances. Both keepers were on top, top form.
For God's sake Mario.
How bad do you have to be for him to score against you? Ludogorets and Swansea I guess. lol? Lol.
Also jammed it, Leicester still the best City and city :colbert:
There are words I never thought I would post, and I have to post them quickly while they're still true - before the inevitable happens.
Joe Allen has had Cristiano Ronaldo in his pocket all night.
That is physically impossible. Unless Joe Allen is some kind of giant... which he is not.
He's Welsh. They need deep pockets to keep their coal handy in case they need a snack.
That could have gone a lot worse for based Rodgers last night, I saw the team sheet and was thinking four or five nil.
Versus cup holders Real Madrid away in the Champions LeagueQuote:
"I didn't see this as a big showcase game where I had to play the so-called names," said Rodgers.
He absolutely trout out of that game. Is the Premier League more important than the European Cup now?
Apparently the whole point of the Premier League is to come fourth so you can qualify for the Champions League, which itself is a distraction from the noble pursuit of coming fourth in the Premier League.
I guess that's been the Arsenal business model for years though.
Speaking of Arsenal, that reminds me that me and Sophie saw Santi Cazorla doing an acoustic gig from our balcony whilst we were in the South of France. He wasn't bad.
Attachment 60346
It's sad that we don't have charliepanayi anymore to get his panties in a twist.
My greatest accomplishment and my worst ever deed.
A thorough 1-0 spanking of Crystal Palace has revived our hopes of winning the league. A mere 13 points behind Chelsea after 11 games and they honestly look like a team low on confidence. The Blues will be lucky to be in the Champions League next season on current form.
Southampton fans must be in dreamland at the minute. 25 points after 11 games. Reminds of a similar start that Wigan had many moons ago. Can't see it lasting but you never know. We'll see where they are after New Year.
Remember Blackpool's awesome start to the season that one time?Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubba
Hull did it too under Phil Brown.
Still, I think Southampton are way above the level of all of those teams.
Attachment 60456
The most beautiful man in football.
I HAD HIM ON MY BENCH smurf
Arsenal fans are just pure value. Absolutely losing their trout
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMxiGI7Rhlo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIz6UvWDWMY
>We've got Swansea fans taking the piss, who are Swansea?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Manus
What the hell has happened to Newcastle? No-one wants to play these smurfers at the minute.
On another note, it's looking like a good time to play Arsenal next Sunday. I'm sure we'll happily f*** it up though.
It's kind of Newcastle's thing, isn't it? Switching from sublime to ridiculous at the drop of a hat. Then again, it's kind of Arsenal and Liverpool's thing too.
well well well psychotic you sure picked the right time to bring down the forum so nobody could mock you and you didn't have to explain yourself. a massive charliepanayi move here methinks
Liverpool's losing streak comes to a (very unconvincing) end, EoFF comes back up again 12 hours later. Coincidence...?
>that feel when you have a good few weeks in fantasy football and check the eoff league and find rocket edge is like 150 points ahead
The league is looking very interesting at the minute. The top ten teams are all so close. Looking forward to our Monday night showdown with the Saints.
Oh bloody hell I forgot my EoFF team again. :shobon: Had a revamp, got Aguero and Sanchez in. Going for Silver.
think i've already scored more points now than I ever have in any other FF game so I'm quite pleased. 3rd! sheer hilarity
That Newcastle vs Chelsea game man, wat.
So 2nd half Newcastle brings on a goalkeeper who has never before played an EPL game for them since Rob Elliot's injured himself. Steven Taylor gets sent off for two yellows around abouts the 80th minute, guess he must have seen the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie recently. Newcastle ends the game 2-1 after SIX MINUTES OF EXTRA TIME and Mourinho blames the loss not on his team, not Newcastle's pretty damn good performance but... The ball boys.
BALL BOYS.
It's just, what. I mean yeah the team lost their first premier league match and all but blaming it on the ball boys?
Every time I play this thing I end up around 2nd/3rd for a few weeks, get complacent, slack off, return weeks later and find myself mid-table. Dangit. xD
okay then guys i'm ready let's hear it
andy carroll is a beautiful man and fully deserved his two goals. i'm sure everyone here could barrack you horribly about it but it still wouldn't make that much difference. it would be pointless anyway. one day, one day, you will let go of the petty hate inside of you, embrace the big man and come to love this day as much as the rest of us. to drive you away with derision at this point would only make everything worse.
also sergio's crippling effectively ends our challenge for the league, congrats chelsea, thom you and your team are a bunch of utter hateful :bou::bou::bou::bou:s and i hope you never come close to beating liverpool for another 300 years etc
no, let's hear it from you. Let's hear a full apology to Andy Carroll, admitting what a true hero of football he is and how you were wrong to besmirch him. Last year he scored against you and he got two assists too. Can't you see the only person you're harming is yourself? Can't you see you, yes, you, and your hatred and refusal to accept the big man has turned him into the Swanslayer? Open your heart to Big Andy. It is the only way to make it stop.Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Manus
I will add to this discussion with a saying of the greatest Dutch football player of all time, Johan Cruijff
"The ball is round, it can go in all directions."
Just let that sink in.
I...can't. The spirit of Jason Scotland keeps me on the right path.
This reaction to Aguero's injury is ridiculous from a lot of City fans. It's as if he's got a life-threatening illness or something. Yes, he'll be missed as he is world class but Jesus guys, get over it. It's an injury and they happen all the time.
Interested to see how Utd line up against Southampton tonight. They've had a tough few fixtures, The Saints, lets hope their confidence is low after the last couple of results.
Yeah, will be a tough game tonight, but then I suppose every game this season can be considered a tough game.
Have you ever met Daniel Sturridge? I doubt it, given that he is never not injured.Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubba
Attachment 60868Quote:
Originally Posted by Loony BoB
You all do realise that I'm gonna do this every season, don't you?
edit: Thanks!
Now to watch the Dutch drive Man. Utd. into the ground.
It's funny, both the last Old Trafford games have been 3-0 and each time that scoreline flattered United. :greenie:
ahahahaha now that one is quality
I have him as my FF goalie in my work league (where I'm second behind a United fan! NOT ENJOYING THIS :colbert: ) so it softens the blow somewhat.
I'm not sure whether to be for Southampton or Man. United. Both have Dutch coaches.
David De Gea can save anything... and anyone.
Attachment 61127
So I guess you'll be losing to a United fan in both of your fantasy football leagues, then?Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychotic
in b4 liverpool approach based garry monk
Here's a blast from the past...guess who just scored his 18th career goal (and he's only just turned 20) and did so playing in a higher division than Dyer :3:Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychoticyour tears will be that much sweeter when raheem manages to break dyer's impressive 17 career goals record.Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Manus
Nathan Dyer? Jesus titty-f***ing Christ.
...well I was talking about my Football Manager save file :smug:
did swansea do better than 4-1 on your save file lmao
#MonkOut
http://i.imgur.com/xA2E1Qm.jpg
:(
I was smurfing eleven when he made his debut. Tell you what, between 2004 and 2009 he was arguably the finest midfielder on the planet. The man could move mountains.
Probably for the best now, though. I think the slip utterly destroyed him and he's more than earned the right to go off to the US or whatever for a retirement nest egg somewhere new. Just will seem weird as hell having a Liverpool without Steven Gerrard.
Attachment 61619
Sorry, couldn't resist :shobon:
I'll be so glad to see the back of him. I obviously have an automatic hatred for him through his Liverpool association but he is still a legend. I would give Paul Scholes the edge in terms of best attacking English midfielder, but the fact that he makes my number two spot whilst spending his entire career at Liverpool, shows how great he was.
Good riddance to the scouse :bou::bou::bou::bou:.
On Gerrard (34): "He is number one for me and he always will be. He has meant everything to me growing up," added Lambert (32).
:stare:
I myself am now removing myself from the footballing world until the hour long tribute videos, Phil McNulty op-eds, and general inevitable media love-in of The One and Only Merseyside Maradona finally winds to a close, which should be in about a month's time.
I think you're stuck with it until May.
Then he'll join LA Galaxy.
...then go on loan to Man City and win the title.
YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST
Hah, wouldn't that be ironic. I see him going to either the Red Bulls, who just lost Henry, the Revolution with the John Henry Boston connection, or the Galaxy.Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychotic
I started following Liverpool right before the 2005 Champions League started, as it was the first time all of the matches were being broadcast in the states that I had access to. Needless to say, I saw the very best Stevie and the Reds had to offer that season, in terms of drama and triumph. I was hooked.
I do think he really is suffering from a broken-heart over last year. Gerrard, say what you will about him, is always honest and I think when he looks at the team and all that has happened, knows he'll never get that close again during his playing career at Anfield. He can walk away knowing he really did give his all and that is no small feat. There have been some real dark days for Liverpool over the years and he has remained the one constant but I think it's time for them to embrace the new era.
Wouldn't it be nice to have him go out on top one more time though? Maybe the FA Cup or even somehow winning the Europa league and gaining Champions League status again despite their standing on the table. That just seems fitting for such a player.
Here's a fantastic article about the legacy of Stevie G:
http://www.theguardian.com/football/...P=share_btn_tw
YNWA Steven Gerrard.
Take care all.
RIP Andy Townshend
The nightmare is finally over.
Now all we need to do is get rid of Robbie Savage, Alan Shearer, Phil Neville, Roy Keane, Gareth Southgate, Danny Mills, Garth Crooks, Mark Lawrenson, Jason Robinson, Jamie Redknapp, Michael Owen and Rio Ferdinand, then we've got a result. Sky Sports seem to be the only ones who have any idea (apart from Redknapp), and I have a feeling Thierry Henry will be pretty good.
For me, Clive, Andy Townsend was the worst pundit but by the end of it he was so bad that he was good and this genuinely saddens me. I'll miss his "That's better" whenever a struggling England/English team string together a couple of passes. I still don't quite understand what "In and around the penalty area" means and I've already voice my thoughts on the classic "If anything he's hit that too well." But is there anything more fun during a dreary England game than playing Andy Townsend Cliché Bingo? Not for me, Clive.
Your list is a veritable rogue's gallery of the awful and the mundane, and although I can't believe I'm going to do it, I'm going to object to two ex Man United players being on that list. I enjoy Roy Keane's hateful venom well enough, but what really makes it fun is that he looks like he is about to chin Adrian Chiles or Gareth Southgate at any moment, and Chiles in particular looks terrified. I remember once when he did some stupid typical trademark cheesy joke and was like "what do you think of that Roy?" and he just got a death glare and stopped mid laugh. smurfing had me howling.
The other is Rio. He sounds like a smurfing knob but he provides little anecdotes about facing players that I don't often see other pundits doing and it's fascinating. Obviously he can't have a Hansen or Lawrenson length pundit career off the back of this but here's a good example from the World Cup about Sergio Busquets taking the piss out of Man United (which in turn makes me feel less dirty about praising the former United duo) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mVyE2RFndA
Still yet to enjoy any football commentary outside of Sky Sports to this day. I actually prefer random foreign commentators to ITV and BBC.
Is LA Galaxy the go-to American retirement home for aging footballers?
You're thinking of Chelsea.
Sky Sports are the benchmark. If game coverage is on any other channel then I'll just tune in for kick-off. I've actually found myself watching the first hour of Monday night football to watch Gary Neville's insights then not bother to watch the game :p I'm still not convinced by Jamie Carragher. He can talk a lot of sense sometimes but I just can't get past the accent.
It seems me and Paul are on role-reversal at the minute because I need to say that Paul Scholes should not be a pundit. Again, he does talk sense but for some reason he sounds like he's either about to cry or start laughing maniacally.
For me, Clive, the whole country is. If anything he's retired too well.Quote:
Originally Posted by Formalhaut
I wish I had Sky Sports. A shame you have to pay for it, curses! I have to make do with the BBC Match of the Day coverage, which is fine for me, as I don't really have the time to watch an entire match!Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubba
Can someone give me some thoughts on Southampton? I'm genuinely shocked they are doing so well, I would never have thought they would be fourth. I'm really rooting for Southampton this season because of it.
Already did back in August! ;)Quote:
Originally Posted by Formalhaut
Amusingly Robbie Savage predicted they'd be relegated.Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychotic
On that note, let me just say that I may end up being right on the money with the latter part of this post. Swans have risen, though! By three places so far!
Quote:
Originally Posted by Loony BoB
Don't worry, you'll all be lampooned in the end.
Can't say you weren't warned. It's going to keep happening until you apologise.Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychoticno, let's hear it from you. Let's hear a full apology to Andy Carroll, admitting what a true hero of football he is and how you were wrong to besmirch him. Last year he scored against you and he got two assists too. Can't you see the only person you're harming is yourself? Can't you see you, yes, you, and your hatred and refusal to accept the big man has turned him into the Swanslayer? Open your heart to Big Andy. It is the only way to make it stop.Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Manus
It's been a very weird season, that's for sure. Liverpool is 8th, Arsenal 6th. If you looked at the seasons before, the top four or five were always a mix of Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool. Now look at it! I might be remembering wrong the last couple of seasons though: I'm not as massive a football fan as you guys are.
RIP Adrian Chiles
With Roy Keane as well it looks like ITV is really making an effort to get rid of the dead wood. It's currently the worst sports coverage on television.
I can't remember if Mark Pougatch is any good. Is he any good?
I've never even heard of him but I like his name.Quote:
Originally Posted by Loony BoB
What a rubbish transfer window. Bony is the only interesting move. Jermain Defoe? Should've stayed in America. Kyle Naughton? Shower of lols for Old Manus.
trout really gripped me after the loss to Chelsea that I have already wiped from my mind.
"HAS BONY DEAL GONE SOUTH FOR SWANS?"
"SHOULD THEY HAVE SOLD HIM?"
"LOST MORE THAN JUST WILF BONY TO CITY?"
The dude is in the ACON. He wouldn't have played anyway.
Besides that, now Bafe Gomis is turning out to be a right pearler. Kicking up a stink because he wasn't starting every game in place of one of the league's top goalscorers, and now that we've made him first choice striker he's still whinging that he wants to leave (to world football heavyweights Crystal Palace, no less). Apparently he wangled himself a £8M signing-on fee, which was due to be paid alongside his regular wage (so we can cook the books and pay him huge money that would break our wage structure), so if he leaves we're going to have to give it all to him at once. Rumours abound that he was playing the scam from the start. At this point, if it's all true, he can sod off. I had a dream last week that he'd gone to Wigan.
Kyle Naughton, though, meh. We have a habit of taking average players from other teams and making them look good (Routledge, Sinclair, (SPOILER)Allen), so maybe it will work. Paid too much money though. At the moment our full backs are Angel "I'm still 23 in my mind" Rangel, Neil "Remember when I was good?" Taylor, Jazz "Conference National" Richards and Dwight "I can't believe I've convinced people I'm a footballer" Tiendalli. We need 3 more Kyle Naughtons.
This is it. This is the day Old Manus finally snapped.Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Manus
That was actually when I replaced my signature with a picture of Jason Scotland.
Swansea City confirmed as the new Stoke
Do you love Jonjo yet?
You forgot "We're trying to get hold of Harry"
FFP ruined the transfer window. It's been generally trout.
I was starting to lose faith in him. He scored that goal for me personally, to remind me to never turn from him again.
How am I supposed to get bingo with a 3x5 grid!? *shakes fist at sky*Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubba
Well, Van Gaal just went full on Kevin Keegan/Rafa Benitez... against Sam Allardyce of all people. Bloody hell. I think he's really benefited from the usual suspects having atrocious seasons and he's not done enough with the resources he was given in the Summer.
I love it. Coming with props and everything. Inviting all the journalists to take a copy. I'm half expecting him to start talking about milk bottles following the trawler.
He has a point though.
Well yeah, but the correct response would've been a chuckle, saying "Sam Allardyce complaining about long ball? What next, Mourinho telling other teams to stop spending so much money?" and that would've been that, and he would've won kudos. Even "We're not really a long ball team, but we did switch tactics towards the end and it was successful as we salvaged a point on a ground where many other teams have come unstuck" if he wanted to play it straight (like his long ball loving team do lmao)
What you do not do is pre-prepare a pamphlet full of random statistics and diagrams, and then going on some half-baked rant insisting that you're not a long ball team so there you naughty bad man how dare you suggest a thing because it makes you look like a smurfing lunatic.
I mean don't get me wrong, I enjoyed it, but smurf me that's even more cringeworthy than the nonsense about "7 and a half" or "good technicians in the group" that Brendan spouts every week. At least he's just a harmless eccentric and not flipping out at random managers for minor perceived slights.
Hu uvvahca, Bcolrudel. Pid E tu pameaja oui yna dymgehk uid uv ouin ynca.
Oh, c'mon, it's Louis Van Gaal. At least he's living up to the crazy-man hype. What happened to Mourinho's arrogant antics? Oh, that's right, he went to Real Madrid. Never mind, then. :(
Huha dygah, pid ouin syhykan'c cdemm yh aspynnyccsahd!Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubba
Yd maycd uin days ech'd yh aspynnyccsahd! Fyed y sehida... oac ed ec.Quote:
Originally Posted by PsychoticHuha dygah, pid ouin syhykan'c cdemm yh aspynnyccsahd!Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubba
Yc oui fana.
The only people who are embarrassing right now are the two numpties posting in Al Bhed in a freaking football thread. Speak English or gtfo.
BNP supporter located. ;)Quote:
Originally Posted by Loony BoB
Again, it's a football thread. Speak English, minus politics, or gtfo.
Wait, that's probably just as much BNP as the earlier comment...
I didn't even recognize it as Al bhed. Cmon guys, Let's talk some FOOTBALL
Scudamore is all "£5.1b and we still can't get people to talk about our bloody matches in football threads."
Fixed :monster:Quote:
Originally Posted by Loony BoB
So speaketh the owner of EOFF.
What a smurfing game that was. Emre Can is a smurfing monster.
oh and mario balotelli etc. etc. BUT EMRE CHAN THOUGH
Did you know that CHAN in al bhed is BEST?
As in, George Best. Man Utd legend.
I have an elderly client who is a big United fan and regularly tells me all about how he used to see Best play and how he was there when United won the European Cup. Tells me Best was indeed the best of all time. He's very lonely so I haven't had the heart to tell him I'm a Liverpool fan. I actually think he thinks I support United because I know so much about the current squad and was having an in depth conversation about the development prospects of Blackett, McNair and Wilson. I'm just a football nerd, honest :shobon:
On the subject of development prospects, who needs Raheem Sterling anymore? He just got replaced! Have a prediction: Jordon Ibe will be in the England squad within a year. Old Manus will not be happy about it and insist Nathan Dyer is the One True King of Westeros. A front three of Sterling, Sturridge and Ibe makes me get entirely too excited for a Wednesday morning.
All three shots on goal tonight by United, as at half time, have been made by Smalling (both headers, both goals) and McNair (shot on the half volley, on target but too close to keeper). This is with RVP, Rooney, Januzaj, Falcao and Di Maria playing. Bizarre.
Rooney should be playing up front. Drop Falcao or RVP. Clearly the ball isn't getting to the forwards enough with the system we play, and since Rooney tracks back anyway we might as well be playing with 10 men. I'd love to see the stats with how involved our two strikers are. For as much flack Fellani takes, I have a liking to him. Much like Paul's love for Shelvey before he left - it's eternal. He gives us something different and I think his passing is underrated honestly. 3 at the back kills the full backs bombing forward too. I was secretly happy Jones went off because IMO Smalling (larging :smug:) is our best CB.
The biggest problem is we can't get the ball to the forwards enough and Falcao & RVP don't seem to have the graft to do more than put away chances. Herrera would be very welcome too. I know Januzaj is a winger but I think the guy would offer more. He looks devoid of confidence at the moment. Pundits go on about it's an advantage to not have cup games as a distraction & a drain on fitness, which is true, but Adnan would be playing them instead of league games to bring up his confidence.
On a last note, I feel slightly sorry for Lambert leaving Villa. He's a good manager and had to go but he had nothing really to work with. The contradiction is Sean Dyche, but there can only be one Sean Dyche.
RVP is the one who should be dropped, for either Rooney moving up or alternatively Wilson coming in. LVG loves him too much, though. And yes to Januzaj, the kid showed he's happy to run at players recently and we need more of that from people who can actually get past said players (Mata, I'm looking at you - you don't get past the players, you just run at them xD). He and Di Maria have a similar problem of "no end product" at the moment when they get surrounded but don't pass it and end up getting the ball taken off them too easily. If they can just run past a couple of players, draw them in and get rid of the ball to someone else, they'd be doing a better job for us (and the forwards).
RVP and Falcao are too similar in playing style, I think, dropping off the shoulder of the last man. Definitely drop one of them. I think Falcao at least shows a willingness to get around the pitch! I think Januzaj should go on loan to a team like Villa, which brings me onto...
I don't feel sorry for Lambert xD The football was a dirge. The likes of Guzan, Vlaar, Delph and Benteke are all very good players. He should've done more with them. At least scored goals or something!
Also as far as Shelvey goes, he's a really talented player. He just doesn't try as much as he should. He's like a less extreme Taarabt/Ben Arfa/Morrison etc.
:colbert: On paper Villa's team should be safely mid-table.Quote:
On a last note, I feel slightly sorry for Lambert leaving Villa. He's a good manager and had to go but he had nothing really to work with.
Just on this note: He was probably our most dangerous player on the pitch (aside from Smalling, apparently) and he's one of the few people in our team who will try to beat a man. I think he should be fine with us and continue to get more games. Apparently only two people had played more games at United before turning 20, and they were Ronaldo and Giggs. He's doing pretty well for himself, even if he isn't being lauded like he was last season (although I think that's a good thing, because he needed to not get too ahead of himself - needs to now focus on fine tuning and selflessness and he should be okay).Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychotic
Interesting. Most United fans I know think he's regressed since the halcyon days of Davey M.
He has, but not by as much as some would say. It's easy to overrate a youngster - some might argue Wilson has regressed because he isn't scoring two in every game now. If he was performing better he'd probably have been poached by Real Madrid. :p But it's like blaming one person for last season's disaster - in the end, it was the team that fell, not an individual. This season the team is not performing well. At least with Januzaj you can get some exciting football before he buggers it up by not passing. Most players just make a rubbish pass without doing anything exciting first. Sadly, at the moment, this includes Di Maria. Young, Valencia, Wilson and Januzaj are the players I see as most exciting in our team at the moment. Shaw is surprisingly (well, for me, because I'd not seen him play much before he joined us) good when he's in the opposition third, too, I suppose. RVP has been rubbish. Falcao has been disappointing too, but at least he tries. Blind has been excellent. Mata shines on occasion and is generally frustrating other than that (the match where he skied/missed about 3-4 clear cut opportunities stands out to me).
Overall, Januzaj isn't doing that bad. We're doing well to win when we're playing poorly, but something has to give at some point. People are very, very quick to point at our defence when only Southampton and Chelsea have conceded fewer goals. In the end, it's our midfield that continues to disappoint and I do wonder how much of that is down to the new winger-less system that just doesn't lead to enjoyable football for me. It's like a knee-jerk reaction to last season when everything came in from crosses. We need to get a finer balance, a more flexible approach than "4-4-2 diamond" or "3-5-2 with wingbacks". If you played Di Maria and Januzaj on the two wings, I dare say you'd be causing some massively exciting games. They can cut in or stay wide and they are very capable at both options. Let's use that.
But eh, in the end, it's easy for us all to be critics here. I assume LVG has a plan that he's working towards and hopefully in the off season we'll see him make a team that he really does feel suits his system.
Antonio Valencia is the least exciting footballer in the Premier League. xD Even Ben Mee and Wes Moore are more exciting than Valencia. He is actually the most one footed footballer on the planet and only has one thing that he does. Every single time he gets the ball, I guarantee you he will go to the right of the defender and try to go round the outside. If he isn't tackled at this point (rare, most defences have figured him out now) and manages to get past the left back, he'll put in a low drilled cross that won't clear the first man. Every single time.
Next United match you watch, look out for that!
I think a midfield trio of Herrera, Blind and Fellaini would be incredible. I don't know what the Rooney in midfield business is all about. Well, I do, it's to accommodate him, RVP and Falcao. Never thought I'd say this but Van Gaal needs to grow a pair xD Need to drop at least one of those players. 4-3-3 with the midfield I named and front three of Di Maria and then either Falcao and Rooney or Rooney and Januzaj/Young would be killer. That or, if you want to go more attacking, you could drop Fellaini and put either Rooney or Mata in the #10 role. Van Gaal doesn't seem to be a fan of poor old Herrera though.
I don't care because unlike last season, he's actually getting past the left back again. You say it like you're talking about last season - the games he has played this season, he's been good. I'm not sure what the difference is but he's able to beat his man again lately. Perhaps it becomes more noticeable when so few other people are actually doing that in our team, but when he is playing we are suddenly that much more dangerous down the right, you can definitely feel the difference. The alternatives this season haven't been great - although Rafael probably hasn't had enough match time to really compete. All our other players who have played in Valencia's position have been meh.Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychotic
As for who should play, it's hard to say because there are a lot of different kinds of players who can all play excellently if the formation fits. The problem is that none of them are really playing well in the current formations. Makes me wonder if there is something in the water sometimes... we simply aren't playing up to scratch full stop. The understanding between players just isn't there yet. Personally, though...
Rooney - Wilson
Di Maria - Blind - Carrick - Januzaj
Young - Jones - Smalling - Rafael
De Gea
That'd probably be my first choice team. A year ago I'd never have imagined I'd have Young ahead of Rojo or Shaw at left back, it's utter madness. Falcao and RVP can interchange with Wilson, Mata can interchange with Rooney, Harrera and Fellaini can interchange with Carrick/Blind, and if needed Carrick (and Blind to a lesser extent) is capable of dropping back to help the central defence given Young and Rafael will move forward easily. Valencia can switch with either of Januzaj and Rafael, Shaw can interchange with Young who can also interchange with Di Maria, Rojo can interchange with the left side of the back four. 4-4-2, don't even care. The players in that side could, with a single tweak or substitution, adjust to various formations should the need arise. But definitely drop RVP at the very freakin' least. For all the flexibility LVG supposedly has and demands of his players, LVG seems to play the same 2-3 strategies and few of them are the kind that United fans are hungry for.
I suspect certain players are contracted to get x number of games per year given how LVG was surprised at the "commercial" side of the football club, and that's perhaps why we see the same big name players week in, week out despite their underperforming. At least Wilson and Januzaj are getting games, but I do feel they should be getting more games than their counterparts given how they are performing better than the big wage players in our club.
If a striker has to be dropped it will be Falcao. He's already left him out a couple of times and it seems RVP is his main man almost. I like Falcao and how hard he works. I don't blame him for his under performing either, because when I see him he looks at sea with the defenses in the PL. I think it would change drastically with better service though, but counter attacking in Spain and 11 in the penalty box against West Ham when we get the ball is what he's not used to I'm guessing. Also, my god shut up big Sam. I want to like him but is there a bigger whinger in football management? They could lose a game 5-0 and still say they deserved to win and complain about the other team every time. Talk about insecurity in his job.
My first team is like Paul's:
De Gea
Valencia - Rojo - Smalling - Shaw/Young
Di Maria - Herrera - Fellani - Blind - Young/Januzaj
Rooney
Could throw in Mata & Falcao in there either and drop Young/Januzaj and push Herrera out wide. Valencia starting because he defends as good as Raf anyway. Valencia is extremely predictable but he still beats the player and we have gotten many a goal out of it, more than we can say than a lot of our players. Feel sorry for Nani with that.
Bottom line - something has to change. The only reason we are winning is because of the natural talent we have in the team. We realistically should be asking to win titles with the team we have. Imagine where we would be in the league under Mourinho for example?
Also: lol http://www.express.co.uk/sport/footb...verton-Chelsea
On the one hand, I think he's an idiot for saying that publically. On the other hand, it's refreshing honesty from a footballer who is saying what ever other guy his age is thinking, so I won't hold it against him.
Read an interesting article about Lukaku and fatigue. Good quote:
To have played 211 senior matches before turning 21 is almost unprecedented in the modern game. Wayne Rooney, the obvious name who springs to mind, boasted 175, whilst Lionel Messi played a similar 173, including matches for Barcelona's B and C team. With eight playing months until Sterling reaches that age, his current total is 121. If Lukaku isn't close to breaking point, it would be a surprise.
Not really entirely related to that but I just found it interesting to account for his less-than-stellar performances of late! Was absolutely woeful in the derby. Then again, so was every player other than Can and Ibe and yes I'm going to mention them in every post ever from now on :love: until Ibe ends up being sold to Bolton or something I guess. Can's German so he's sorted until Real come a-knocking.
I'm agreeing that you never want RVP in your team. The dude is so overhyped that it's sad. I still believe he's the reason we didn't go to the final in the World Cup. Simply because we wouldn't have needed to waste a switch to get that limping little smurf out of the field.
He's the epitome of undependable. Throw em out and get Wilson in.
>Tactics Tim
Let's just say I got a smile on my face when I heard he was injured for Monday's game.
http://www.theguardian.com/football/...ive-midfielder
Somewhere in Manchester, a solitary tear rolls down the beautifully chiseled cheek of Juan Mata.
Badly titled article. I'm pretty sure he's suggesting we need a "non-creative" midfielder, not a creative one. He mentioned that we have four creative players and that we need balance... if the Guardian thinks that means another creative player, uh... xD Also, Mata isn't much of a creative midfielder any more than the other guys.
I think we do have good creative players, just a bad formation and perhaps selection, and certainly the players haven't gelled perfectly on the pitch as of yet.
Also, Mata was played recently and he didn't create much, but others created for him. He spurned three clear cut chances. Skied them, missed them, fluffed them, whatever. I hope he comes good but I don't feel he compliments the other players in our team.
We need a Vidal kind of player if we're looking for a midfielder. Blind has been fantastic and Herrera has been good too, but I still feel we're missing that real star-quality box to box player (or at least a formation that works for our midfield options).
I have decided that Vidal is your own personal Wesley Sneijder.
It wasn't just me (I say "wasn't" as we need a player like Vidal but it's getting to the point that his age will work against him in future transfer windows, so while I'd welcome him, I'm uncertain if he is the best option for long term plans). Vidal has some of the longest transfer threads in the various United forums. It got pretty mental, poems and all that, even at the point of transfer deadline day after pretty much everyone had agreed it wasn't going to happen. "BUT WILL IT HAPPEN???" Muppetry at it's finest, but seriously Vidal is a beast and he would have helped us endlessly this season if we'd have got him in. Not too many footballers like him (in quality and style) these days, even less when you try and establish who is actually available.
Oh, Vidal is United's Reus then.
United Summer signing prediction: The Pog's coming home.
I have wondered about Pogba, but I don't think he would return "to stay". I think he'd just head off to Real Madrid or something given the opportunity. Would gratefully eat my words should it happen, though, and would probably be okay with Pogba spending about three years with us if he's still going to be as awesome as people say he is. Will have to look at his stats again... but that can wait 'til after the season is over, we still have football going on right now!
Maybe I meant Pavel Pogrebnyak :colbert:
Maybe Pogba is my nickname for Pavel Pogrebnyak...
Maybe Pavel Pogrebnyak is my nickname for Kieran Richardson :doublecolbert:
Maybe your face is a nickname for Kieran Richardson. :jess:
I had to wonder what Kieran Richardson was even doing these days. "He's probably on the bench at Aston Villa or Stoke or something" I thought, and lo and behold he's struggling to get into the Villa starting XI. Which brings us nicely back around onto Tactics Tim!
Kieran being kept out by Cleverley, eh?
Man, every Man. United game I watch, it's always like watching a battle. Yes, they win, but I never have the feeling they win easily.
Of course, I usually watch the matches with the more difficult teams, so that may be it.
It's not.Quote:
Originally Posted by Aerith's Knight
Wonderful play by RvP again. 3 shots, 0 on goal.
Way to be the pride of our nation man.
And then the back up pride of the Netherlands, Ron Vlaar, goes and gets himself sent off. The future is evidently not orange.
It's a sad day for orange football everywhere.
Ah well, I'll enjoyliverpool suckingthe premier league until they recover in 12 years or so.
Going to smurfing regret saying this as it's tempting fate but: Unbeaten in 17 games, so you don't really have much to enjoy right now. :greenie:
i'm starting to worry if this erection will ever be quelled
Imagine coming home to find Iain Dowie and Dirk Kuyt ploughing like it's going out of style on your kitchen counters.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychotic
Ah, if they lose the next match, I'm so going to enjoy this comment. Mostly because I was just messing with you.
(SPOILER)why does this only make me harder :ohdear:Quote:
Originally Posted by Psychotic