Give me a call, Cap!
I can't help feeling sad for the lad Luke Young, having revealed that he doesn't want to play international football anymore at the age of 29.
Undoubtedly these are difficult times for him having lost a much-loved brother over the summer. Nevertheless he apparently made his decision in February. Aston Villa are said to be annoyed by the enquiry as to his availability but I am not sure they need to be.
Speaking as someone who still occasionally wakes from a euphoric dream in which a fit and fleet Robbo has been plucked from obscurity to replace a shot-shy Lampard or a groin-tugged Gerrard during a vital World Cup fixture - and gone on to curl home the winner from 25 yards - I find it right difficult to understand why any player wouldn't want to pull on that jersey.
(Obviously the dream ends with me pulling me shirt off, getting booked, telling the ref what a petty little so-and-so he is, getting my marching orders, bursting into tears and being consoled by a pitchside Garth Crooks...)
Who would have told Chopper he wasn't playing
Young himself has expressed his delight for fellow full-back Stephen Warnock at his call-up. I don't know anyone else who could've resisted playing for England against Brazil, although football is perhaps understandably not a priority for the lad at this time.
Indeed he hasn't played for England since 2005. The fact that he played for Boro for much of that time is surely just a coincidence.
Course, back in my day if you were a full-back it really meant you weren't much good anywhere else. Think Chopper Harris, Phil Neal, Danny Mills, that thick kid at school who was committed to an almost psychopathic degree and could be relied upon to reduce the other team's tricky winger to a cowering kitten. I played there for a while. I've had more fun playing scrabble with just the vowels.
In the late 60s the overlapping full-back was unimaginably daring - like a mini-skirt or a naked musical. Nowadays, your full-backs are your major attackers. They even have their own verb: only full-backs can 'bomb on'.
England aren't blessed in the right-back department when Johnson's not there. When Wes gets close to the opposition by-line he sometimes resembles a toddler running back from the incoming waves of the North Sea.
Young's reasons may well differ from two other recent voluntary retirees: Messrs Scholes and Carragher. The argument that they want to extend their club careers is all well and good but I happen to be old-fashioned enough to believe that a World Cup appearance, potentially in the final, is the pinnacle of a footballer's career.
Both these blokes have suffered from their versatility, mind you. Carragher rarely played at centre-half, Scholes was often shoved out on the left to accommodate less flexible numpties who didn't have the brains to play out of position for a bit. But you can't help thinking an element of their decisions was down to just being a bit narked.
And frankly both of them could've been invaluable to the Fella with the Umbrella as he tried to deal with an untried back four and a misfiring midfield during the qualification matches for Euro 2008. (Always of course allowing for the inevitable sequence of bookings that Scholes would've picked up due to him still tackling opponents with all the finesse of a runaway shopping trolley).
I suppose now Schmiley Schteve is perfecting his Dutch while Capello talks more sense in English than he ever did is a blessing, so perhaps we should thank Paul and Jamie.
Still at least they retired as genuine contenders to the full squad.
Chris Sutton's refusal to turn out for England B a while back was the most self-deluded abstention by any footballer since George Best last turned down a glass of chardonnay. Sutton didn't exactly become the indispensable commodity he imagined did he?
It's not like the good old days
Still, I can't say I'm looking forward to this weekend's friendly that much, despite the opposition. Brazil, under Dunga, seem to have replaced the Samba football with something approaching a military two-step. The two holding midfielders seems right cautious to me, given the talents at their disposal, like wearing two coats in a light shower.
There's no Pato, and Kaka seems to be the only creator left in the side. They've got hulking defenders and the set-piece is their best chance of goals. In fact if Big Sam Allardyce replaced Dunga the only noticeable difference would be the sudden surge in the chewing gum budget.
Even Ronaldo fancies a return to the national team. Seriously, I've nowt against giving a porky lad a run-out, it can't do him any harm, but after the last World Cup, when it looked like he'd been spending too much time with Ronaldo McDonaldo and you could hold a good-sized folk festival in one of his jerseys, he'll just be sending Kaka gaga.
In the meantime I'm quietly encouraged by the number of injuries England regulars are suffering at the moment. In an ideal world Gerrard, Johnson, Lennon, Cashley and Rio will be running into their best form come March and we'll have a squad of revitalized lads taking on the world's best in June. Of course, a niggle in the Wazza metatarsal before Christmas'd be a bonus, not least 'cos United's chances of lifting the Premier League would vanish.
The last thing we want is Capello wading through a sea of crocks come April and Rafa Benitez ringing him up to tell that he thought his injury list was bad.
Of course, if Il Capo is still short of a fully-fit full-back come May, he knows where I am. I may be a holding midfielder by trade (and I hold on for grim flippin' death some Saturday mornings) but I'll answer the call, mate. Any time.
I'm Derek Robson. People call me Robbo. Legend has it I was raised in the furnace and smog of Teesside. Some might say I took the hard road. I like to tell folk I had trials for Middlesbrough, for Hartlepool and for burglary (not guilty). I've always loved sport. My job is to say it as I see it - whether it's in the bar of the Blue Bell or on this blog. You won't find me calling a spade a soil-redistribution implement.
© MMIX~RS~q~RS~~RS~z~RS~57~RS~)
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Hello Robbo
Surely you can understand that Young is going through a difficult time, and wouldn't have gone to the World Cup anyway?
Also, why is it only certain players who get abuse for missing friendlies?
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terrific photos...argue with that, someone!
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Afternoon Robbo, and all.
"England aren't blessed in the right-back department when Johnson's not there. When Wes gets close to the opposition by-line he sometimes resembles a toddler running back from the incoming waves of the North Sea."
This line is probably good enough to create at least a few hundred posts from the love/hate, manc/scouse contingent.
Let the games begin.
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There's no Pato, and Kaka seems to be the only creator left in the side. They've got hulking defenders and the set-piece is their best chance of goals. In fact if Big Sam Allardyce replaced Dunga the only noticeable difference would be the sudden surge in the chewing gum budget.
and in aiming for humour you've killed that nail
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and i'm going to get modded for this, but Carra retired over a fall-out with John Terry involving Jamie's brother and John's mum
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1. captainlazytim: Not sure if Robbo is online at the moment so thought I'd stand up for the Tees Mouth on his behalf. Re Young, he did actually say: "I don't know anyone else who could've resisted playing for England against Brazil, although football is perhaps understandably not a priority for the lad at this time."
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Scholes could be narked by a smiling baby - i don't doubt he retired to try and make his pouty point!
can't wait for the Manc onslaught... i'm sure Robbo's shaking in his boots, eh? ;]
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Chris, I wasn't attacking, but surely players don't value friendly caps the same as a World Cup/competative one?
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Good blog and funny as always Robbo, I understand that Luke Young has been through a rough patch, but a chance to play for your country can't just be dismissed can it?
And if its true that he decided to retire almost a year ago then the death of his brother is irrelevant...... So he must have just thought he was bit part like Scholesy and Carra.
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Both these blokes have suffered from their versatility, mind you. Carragher rarely played at centre-half, Scholes was often shoved out on the left to accommodate less flexible numpties who didn't have the brains to play out of position for a bit.
Funny, Stevie G isn't throwing his toys about playing 'out of position'. Surely a quality attacking midfielder can player from several area?
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1. At 1:36pm on 12 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
Also, why is it only certain players who get abuse for missing friendlies?
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It´s probably because they usually play for Liverpool. ;p
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9. At 1:45pm on 12 Nov 2009, nate_89 wrote:
And if its true that he decided to retire almost a year ago then the death of his brother is irrelevant......
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Not really. He was considering retirement yes, but he hadn't made his mind up at the time.
I think the news in general this week goes to show football isn't the be all and end all in life.
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As you're here H2H,there's an interseting article in this month's WSC about AZ Alkmaar concerning Dick Scheringa going pop.Are they in serious trouble of going to the wall?Is this isolated or are all Dutch teams under the financial cosh?
Anyway,back to matters in house.Give Warnock a go,we seem to have nothing at right back,Johnson will struggle against any decent winger,and he's "the best" we've got.
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Much better blog than usual Robbo, you're much more readable without the constant attempts to transpose your accent unto paper and the 1950's style cheap humour.
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Re Sutton's refusal to play for England B - wasn't he vindicated in that when Le Tissier turned out for the B team, hit a hat-trick and was still ignored by Hoddle for the full squad?
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Lampard has pulled out as well now, I see.
i wonder how many players will have to get injured before Gary Neville gets a recall ?
[and if that doesn't provoke him out of hiding, nothing will]
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You are an odd man Robbo. I hope you know that.
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Aimless by name, aimless by nature.
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As regarding your plans getting the english players injured so as to get them fit and primed in time for WC.
Being an Arsenal fan, I cannot agree more.
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Completely agree Robbo. Playing for England should be the pinnacle of any footballer’s career and I personally can't understand why you would refuse to play given the opportunity? Whilst I understand and respect Young’s decision in this difficult time, I can't show the same appreciation for players like Scholes and Carragher, who should have been England greats.
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Ferguson fined £20,000 and given a 2 match touchline ban
that'll learn him
like it did last year
and the year before that
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" I played there for a while. I've had more fun playing scrabble with just the vowels. "
cracker Robbo
" In fact if Big Sam Allardyce replaced Dunga the only noticeable difference would be the sudden surge in the chewing gum budget. "
corker.
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13 Jacks, the whole DSB (Dick Scheringa Bank) affair had pretty much dominated the news over here for a while, it seems to have gone a little quiet lately.
I know that the colapase left a lot in the skating world in dire straights, although I believe that AZ, who will of course be somewhat effected by lost sponsership revenue, are not in any immeadiate danger of going to the wall.
Last problems I can recall around Dutch clubs was preseason when there was talk of two clubs having to merge to be able to stay afloat. (Fortuna Sittard and Roda JC) but as far as I know this never happened.
Football is extreamly popular in the NL but this is still a relativly small country and the Ere Divisie has nowhere near the pulling power or revenues of the PL. Although at this moment in time the clubs seem to be o.k.
But tomorrow......................?
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Alright Del, good read mate, but i did miss the transposed accent and 50s style humour...
And Onions, in honesty i think Capello would rather field 10 men than call up G-Nev...
Remenber when Sutton signed for Chelsea for 10 million ish (pre rubels) and was an absolute flop for them... they won't make that mistake again...hold on!
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but surely players don't value friendly caps the same as a World Cup/competative one?
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Captain, friendlies should be used to get the team used to playing with each other, not just a means of adding caps.
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Marvelous: "Playing for England should be the pinnacle of any footballer’s career"
This is true, even for those unfortunate enough to be born outside of this great nation of ours, sure we have ASBOS and record teenage prenancy rates, but we have the finest education system in the world!
Rewl Breetanya!
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Of course, a niggle in the Wazza metatarsal before Christmas'd be a bonus, not least 'cos United's chances of lifting the Premier League would vanish.
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And the Man United hatred continues on the BBC
Robbo the half wit
One sentence paragraph man McNulty
Alan Green
Lawro
Hansen
Bog off
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United fan Super?
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Aren't you stealing some of Tim Vickery's thunder with Brazil talk and all?
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slight amendment to #21
it's a 4 game ban with 2 suspended
so i guess that means if he slags off another referee - say in a post match defeat to Liverpool, or maybe Chelsea they'll up it to 4 games
WOW ! They've really thrown the pamphlet at him this time, haven't they?
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Back on the old Scholes/Carragher retirements, surely it is better to play out of position than to not play at all?
Also, there is a feeling of some petulance about it as well. Does it amount to 'if you don't play me where I want, then I want play at all'.
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Yes i am!
This sad little man publishing his usual diatribe of ill researched comments - the BBC must not have an editor that looks at these articles and deems them interesting or factually correct
PS Boro are pants - enjoy the championship you'll be there a while
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21. At 2:12pm on 12 Nov 2009, TommyOnion wrote:
Ferguson fined £20,000 and given a 2 match touchline ban
that'll learn him
like it did last year
and the year before that
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So assuming that comes into effect immediately he'll be back in time for their QF against Spurs in the Carling Cup.
Bugger.
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I can remember a few years back i witnessed Greg Dyke punch an elderly united fan in the face and laugh uncontrolably as the old man staggered for stability... I assure all readers that the BBCs hatred for united is institutionalised.... Unless you are a LIverpool suporter, in which case the BEEB love United and Greg Dyke punched an elderly 'Pool fan an number of years back... Either way, its not what i pay my licence fee for!
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Super, as far as I can see he is simply expressing an opinion as he is paid to do.
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33. At 2:24pm on 12 Nov 2009, Starfire_995 wrote:
So assuming that comes into effect immediately he'll be back in time for their QF against Spurs in the Carling Cup
seems like it but they have warned him about his future conduct so expect him to be a changed man....
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Oh and the Premier League have sent the Old Firm packing
good
at least one body in England is capable of making the correct decision
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Oh and the Premier League have sent the Old Firm packing
good
at least one body in England is capable of making the correct decision
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Totally agree with you there Tommy.
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H2H, I hope AZ survive as they hold a special place in my heart.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Loi235e657k
I think Man Utd hatred is a bit strong.Perhaps it's more a case of pro-'pool?
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#11 Boris was right.
Cheers Robbo, I also thought it was odd that Young pulled out.
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37. At 2:29pm on 12 Nov 2009, TommyOnion wrote:
Oh and the Premier League have sent the Old Firm packing
good
at least one body in England is capable of making the correct decision
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Had to happen some time Tommy.
I see the idea of the two tier system hasn't been booted out yet. I'm sure a swathe of Championship clubs are watching that with interest right now.
Truth be told I'm not all that bothered if they did pass this if it means there's a bit more financial stability throughout the football league.
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Funny, Stevie G isn't throwing his toys about playing 'out of position'. Surely a quality attacking midfielder can player from several area?
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Could it perhaps be due to the current manager telling him to belt up and do as he is told, rather than just letting him and Lampard sit in the middle of the park playing ineffectually like they did for a good portion of the last 5 years?
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Agree about the " old firm " being sent back home to " think agin "
cue the bagpipes and snare drums.
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seems like it but they have warned him about his future conduct so expect him to be a changed man....
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yeah, let's give Fergie the benefit of the doubt - maybe he'll learn how to conduct himself like a professional now that he's nearly 70.
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Although, I must say I'm surprised at the sudden withdrawals from the England squad. Lamps must actually be injured though, because we all know that Capello would otherwise take a leaf out of General Melchetts book and shoot him in the foot himself.
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Commission Chairman Peter Griffiths QC said after the hearing: “Each member of the Commission recognised Sir Alex Ferguson’s achievements and stature within the game. Having said that, it was made clear to Sir Alex that with such stature comes increased responsibilities. The Commission considered his admitted remarks, in the context in which they were made, were not just improper but were grossly improper and wholly inappropriate. He should never have said what he did say.”
HANG HIM, HANG HIM I SAY !!!!
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"I played there for a while. I've had more fun playing scrabble with just the vowels."
Definitely go for euouae on a triple word score
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Funny how so many people trot out that old line about football not being the be all and end all when someone in or connected to the footballing world has died - and then a few days after (when people are still dying), it goes back to being the be all and end all for many.
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48... thats not that funnny, quite sad if anything. You have a warped sense of humour!
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Look let me make this perfectly clear... I'm not doubting Luke Young's motives. Dunno how I'd kick a ball again, let only worry about getting into an international XI and it appears that O'Neill and co at Villa have looked after him really well since his brother's tragic death. The insinuation that I've made light of that is ridiculous and a bit insulting.
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32. At 2:23pm on 12 Nov 2009, superNightshift82 wrote:
Yes i am!
This sad little man publishing his usual diatribe of ill researched comments - the BBC must not have an editor that looks at these articles and deems them interesting or factually correct
PS Boro are pants - enjoy the championship you'll be there a while
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Sad? No. Little? I wish. Boro are pants? Tsk. You got me there. And there's me crowing about our phenomenal achievements every week and bleating about refereeing disasters that continually rob us... I'll out a stop to that right away!
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Well Robbo you have been insulting and not compassionate at all
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bookings that Scholes would've picked up due to him still tackling opponents with all the finesse of a runaway shopping trolley
Brilliant!
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"I don't know anyone else who could've resisted playing for England against Brazil...I may be a holding midfielder by trade (and I hold on for grim flippin' death some Saturday mornings) but I'll answer the call, mate. Any time"
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Have you ever seen the movie Good Will Hunting?
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Super you really need to get a grip on life. Are people not allowed to express an opinion that doesn't align itself with you own?
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@48.
I've never taken football as being the 'be all and end all.' If I did, I'd be too busy declaring Jihad on H2H, DG3 and all the other Arsenal fans on here because they're the supposedly mortal enemies of the Spurs bretheren.
@52
And neutrals like myself have been on this blog and scratching their heads as to why United Fans have been getting a bad name ...
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Time to hit the sack.
Super, one thing before I go, would you have complained as much if the passage in question had read: ...not least 'cos Liverpool's chances of lifting the Premier League would vanish.
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Flaming hellfire. Carlo Cudichini's been taken to hospital after a motorbiking accident.
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Super, one thing before I go, would you have complained as much if the passage in question had read: ...not least 'cos Liverpool's chances of lifting the Premier League would vanish
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that happened long ago - as a supposed unbiased journalist i would like Robbo to explain his United hatred?
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robbo tell nme about Mulller when he was going to move a transfer to everton. what type of guy was he liek. was he an edmundo guy who would invite a monkey to his son;s birthday and them feed him alcohol.? or would he have been a great player and probably scored a lot of goals in the premier league.
i remember his goal againast scootland in italia world cup 1990. it was lovely
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And where did Robbo say or claim to be a Journalist, Super?
'He's says it as he sees it' as the blurb tells you up top.
And anyway. He's devoted blogs in the past couple of months to Rafa (twice) Middlesboro, Pompey, the usefulness of the League cup and how he thinks the big four in general are losing it.
He's gone mighty off topic if he was supposedly employed to trash United day and night as you seem to insinuate.
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59. At 3:04pm on 12 Nov 2009, superNightshift82 wrote:
`that happened long ago - as a supposed unbiased journalist i would like Robbo to explain his United hatred
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Think you need to learn to read in between the lines fella,
Robbo is neither unbiased or a ournalist.
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Re 32. Super, Robbo himself admits Boro are pants so that's not really much of an insult. It's also irrelevant - for most fans supporting a team is about History and Geography: they follow their team out of some kind of affinity with the area they're from or because it's where the family is from. The usual exceptions are United fans of course.
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Re 62, or a journalist even.
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The thing that struck me about Luke Youngs retirement the most is that a hell of a lot of media attention is being given to a footballer who is not exactly an international regular. Bit of attention seeking in my opinion.
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Good blog Robbo, best blog ever because I agree with Denis (that's the second time this week)! Those pictures feature my two favourite players of all time!
You of all people, a die hard Boro fan, know what it's like to have a team half full of fat lads and you also know that on their day they can mix it up with the best of them. In fact, it seems that the departure of the Boro porkies coincided with their demise (more research required).
Anyway, I'll take this opportunity and the forum allowed by your magnificent blog page to formally announce that I am no longer available for International consideration.
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20. At 2:12pm on 12 Nov 2009, marvellous wrote:
I can't show the same appreciation for players like Scholes and Carragher, who should have been England greats.
Carragher an England great, in what era, spell, timeframe would he have been regarded as an England great?
But for the record Robbo the Wes Brown portrayal is a classic line!
Good blog Robbo shame these always turn into utd v pool affair!!!
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superNightshift, chill! Your team have won the title three years in a row, let someone else have a go! You should take it as a compliment that your team is being talked about in this way - it's the price of success.
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Capello should try looking outside the top 6. Tyrone Mears is having a cracking season, consistently winning man of the match for burnley. Easily the fastest right back in the league, he certainly knows how to "bomb on".
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Four match ban suspended for 2?
If that had been Benitez they'd have shot his daughter.
Why didn't they just make it a two-match ban and not insult people's intelligence by suggesting they'd ever enforce the extra two?
Comical.
On the plus side, at least we're going to see Scotland games on council telly - let's hope they put them on around 9pm on a Friday, as I need something to fill my hour of comedy now that Benidorm's finished.
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Capello should try looking outside the top 6. Tyrone Mears is having a cracking season, consistently winning man of the match for burnley. Easily the fastest right back in the league, he certainly knows how to "bomb on".
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Is this the same Tyrone Mears who represented Jamaica in a friendly even though he has no Jamaican roots??
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Of course, a niggle in the Wazza metatarsal before Christmas'd be a bonus, not least 'cos United's chances of lifting the Premier League would vanish.
Not sure why you gotta take a pop at the Red Devils for Robbo. And are you saying we are a one man team?? Surely not mate
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"If that had been Benitez they'd have shot his daughter."
BTP... that's brilliant!
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The very same Mears, maybe Jack Charlton is the national teams scout!
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TrotterUSA wrote:
Good blog Robbo, best blog ever because I agree with Denis (that's the second time this week)!
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it's like the good ol' days, Trotsky (sniff)...ah, i swore i wouldn't do this (sniff, sniff)...i feel a bro-hug coming on!
Sambuca_Claret wrote:
Capello should try looking outside the top 6. Tyrone Mears is having a cracking season, consistently winning man of the match for burnley. Easily the fastest right back in the league, he certainly knows how to "bomb on".
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interesting idea, new guy... i'm not too familiar with Mears, but theoretically, i like the idea of a more broadly representative team.
then again, i'm not English, so my two cents are probably more like two yen on this topic.
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MUFCTrini: you were a one man team, but he's gone to Real Madrid now!
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'but I happen to be old-fashioned enough to believe that a World Cup appearance, potentially in the final, is the pinnacle of a footballer's career'
I hate to break the news to you Robbo but poor auld England aint going to get near the final. My money says you'll get knocked out in the first round after the group stages. Come on, we all know exactly what's going to happen... media hype... pundits fuel media hype... then comes the massive crushing disappointment... as always.
England fans should save themselves the heartbreak and just assume they will be going home early. It's actually gringeworthy to watch you guys hype yourselves up.
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72: I think he has a pop because he is mean and jealous and stupid, it is more of that blatant ManU hatred which seethes from the beeb... Or its because everyone love hating united because their fans cry like petilant children when you say bad things about the team... it is actually quite satisfying. Well done Robbo!
Now say something bad about liverpool, then chelsea, then arsenal....
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77, it makes me gringe too...
Dennis, i thought you were english... how you can be foreign and support Arsenal is beyond me?
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Well at least that means Mears has some international experience :)
ps. given it was only a "freindly" he can still play for England
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77. At 3:37pm on 12 Nov 2009, XavierBreath wrote:
Come on, we all know exactly what's going to happen... media hype... pundits fuel media hype... then comes the massive crushing disappointment... as always.
YES !!!!! Can't wait !!!! Hyping England up to the max is half the fun. Why be dour and say 'we've got no chance...' ? You might as well be Scottish with that sort of attitude.
WE'RE GONNA WIN THE CUP !!!!
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Not sure I quite get this one Robbo
Im assuming the article aimed at highlighted your view that representing England at a major finals is the highlight of an English players career and that making yourself unavailable is in a sense unthinkable and driven by slightly selfish reasons? Yet you have used the example of a player who has a completely legitimate reason which doesnt make much sense to me. Young has suffered a family bereavement and was essentially being called up to fill in while the regulars took some time off for reasons legitimate or otherwise. You say you his reasons are understandable but the underlying theme of the article contradicts this to a sense. More or less saying "I cant believe anyone would not play for England but I sort of understand Youngs reason".
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77, amusing user name, made me chuckle
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Denis, ok, let's not get carried away now.
What will really make the next 7 months interesting is if half a Brazilian team filled with has-been porkers puts 3 or 4 past half an England team padded out with lean mean fringe players! On the other hand, our fringe lads have a chance to stake a claim and upset the whole squad selection theories!
Meanwhile, back in a Bolton bunker, the lads will be spending the weekend watching old videos of Tommy Smith, Mick Mills, Terry Cooper and Norman Hunter.
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Mick Mills.Blimey,I'm filling up just thinking about it.Kevin Beattie in the list as well Trotts
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Joey, hows them harriers doing?
Mate i think you are looking for a profoundness that simply isn't thier, never has been nor will be... Your summary says it all. That is what the blog is about... But rather than look at as a negative on our grey cartoon chum look at it the other way... I read it as "You'd do anything to play for England, so Young pulling out shows the severity of his situation and puts a perspective on this game we all love so much"... But thats our views, is the glass half full or half empty... It depends if you're drinking or pouring... And Bill Cosby said that so you know its spot on.
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No, all those tapes were destroyed!
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Well said RBA...
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Supernightshift - are you a glory supporter - expect to win all the time - and getting beat even once is a disaster? Coz your OTT reaction to a single comment within robbos lenghty (and v funny) article suggests a lack of perspective my dear boy ...
Mind you you may have got one thing right re Boro and our possible length of stay championship - meeeow
Robbo - didnt get your joke about scrabble - I had to share my scrabble set with me older brother - he got the consonants and I got the vowels - it was a lonely childhood but my brother can speak great Polish
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It wasn't me, it was Bill Cosby! But i'll pass on your regards...
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No one has commented on the current Brazil team. In the old days most of their players played in Brazil so they only knew the Brazilian way of playing. Now with so many, if not all playing in Europe they have been sterilized into playing the pragmatic way. It's kinda sad really. If only they could look at Spain to see that the beautiful game can still win trophies.
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86 RBA, with us lot around the glass would be totally empty, probably the glass after that too. But no matter, I´m sure someone´s getting a new round in.(hic)
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Coz transversely all the Spanish players now play in Brazil...
I'm only joking, i see your point... they lack the flare of yester years, alot like my dads trousers...
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Dennis, i thought you were english... how you can be foreign and support Arsenal is beyond me?
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i'm Arsenic, of course!
nah - half Scottish, half Dutch - hence the name... i actually played that Goldmember fellow from Austin Powers XI... apologies for that - you'll never see that face on the silver screen again!
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Robbo - didnt get your joke about scrabble - I had to share my scrabble set with me older brother - he got the consonants and I got the vowels - it was a lonely childhood but my brother can speak great Polish
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He'd probably be red hot on Welsh Countdown too. I suppose that means you are pretty fluent in Whale.
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Imagine the embarrassment if Lucas runs rings around our midfield.
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Anyone think the whole England squad should already be practising penalty shootouts, if and I mean if we go out next year who will miss the famous spot kick........
I will start this off:-
Missed Penalty 1 - Scholes
Missed penalty 2 - Carragher
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#91 - but they've won 2 world cups (94 & 02) with predominantly European based players?
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#82 Yes you sort of worked your way through my logic and came up trumps. Mind you Young apparently made a decision to quit England in February which suggests he wasn't up for it before he lost his brother... but regardless of that, I can only guess at how the bloke's feeling and none of us are in any position to judge such a decision, least of all me.
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Re: #97 - Missed Penalty 3 - Terry, surely?
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Robbo, you'd best let Chris Charles know that you're back from lunch.
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"i remember his goal againast scootland in italia world cup 1990. it was lovely"
@60 EVERY goal ever scored against Scotland was a thing of beauty.
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I miss Lucas' ponytail, although the removal did coincide with his improved performances on the pitch.
Mind you, only on Merseyside could a 22 year old millionaire get a haircut that bad.
Thinking about it, maybe we could scalp Voronin?
(I don't mean a haircut)
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How long do you think my lunch breaks are, Trotsky? I'm just putting on the tea you cheeky get.
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Half Scottish and half dutch... you pack a tight spliff then!
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#103
Now if that isn't an incentive for him to play half decent then nothing will.
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This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the House Rules.
105. At 4:09pm on 12 Nov 2009, RedBlueArmy92 wrote:
Half Scottish and half dutch... you pack a tight spliff then!
LOL!
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Re #105 - Nearly spewed my coffee all over the monitor at that one... brilliant!
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I dunno, you post at half past twelve, stagger back at ten to three, seems reasonable for a Thursday. Does the Beeb still give out the pay packets at noon on Thursday? Try and tip some up at home tonight!
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Trotter!that's harsh.Fair,but still....
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110. At 4:12pm on 12 Nov 2009, TrotterUSA wrote:
I dunno, you post at half past twelve, stagger back at ten to three, seems reasonable for a Thursday. Does the Beeb still give out the pay packets at noon on Thursday?
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It's alright for you trotter, that's our (stealth) tax pounds at work!
Do they pay you by the word Robbo or for every swipe @ Man Utd lol
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Starfire - hows the haircut???
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"England aren't blessed in the right-back department when Johnson's not there. When Wes gets close to the opposition by-line he sometimes resembles a toddler running back from the incoming waves of the North Sea
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Aha an excuse to restart my Gary Neville for England campaign - at least he can cross the ball - bombs-on when he needs to and believe it or not can defend. Is also a natural leader on the pitch and Rio is used to playing in the same team as him as are Rooney, Beckham and Foster (if he somehow gets in the team)
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#110
Who's rattled your cage, mate?
#112
I am actually v generous to United - not least the season before last when they were playing sublime stuff, winning everything and their gaffer wasn't moaning much cos he had no need to. I just don't fancy them winning it this season - they've been middling at best and they've won the last 3 so it's not like it wouldn't be a bad thing.
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But adampsb,
He's a very old man.
He should be sat watching it on the telly with a cocoa and a dippy biscuit.
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114. At 4:22pm on 12 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
"England aren't blessed in the right-back department when Johnson's not there. When Wes gets close to the opposition by-line he sometimes resembles a toddler running back from the incoming waves of the North Sea
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Aha an excuse to restart my Gary Neville for England campaign - at least he can cross the ball - bombs-on when he needs to and believe it or not can defend. Is also a natural leader on the pitch and Rio is used to playing in the same team as him as are Rooney, Beckham and Foster (if he somehow gets in the team)
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Now I liked Gary Neville as England right-back, but he is the exception to the rule these days when it comes to the phrase 'bomb on'. He chugs on. Becks and Nev on the right or Darby and Joan? You take your pick.
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114. At 4:22pm on 12 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
Turn it in fella. The site of either of the Neville sisters in an England shirt is (in the words of Lister) "about as welcome as a horny dog at a Miss Lovely Legs competition"
Don't think I could face seeing his ratty beard and eminently punch-able face either.
114. At 4:22pm on 12 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
Turn it in fella. The site of either of the Neville sisters in an England shirt is (in the words of Lister) "about as welcome as a horny dog at a Miss Lovely Legs competition"
Don't think I could face seeing his ratty beard and eminently punch-able face either.
114. At 4:22pm on 12 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
Turn it in fella. The site of either of the Neville sisters in an England shirt is (in the words of Lister) "about as welcome as a horny dog at a Miss Lovely Legs competition"
Don't think I could face seeing his ratty beard and eminently slap-able face either.
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don't worry Scotcheggsrule
that was deffo worth repeating !!!!!!
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114 Adam, I´d be just as worried about Rio, he´s not exactly been solid lately.
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119. At 4:27pm on 12 Nov 2009, TommyOnion wrote:
don't worry Scotcheggsrule
that was deffo worth repeating !!!!!!
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Can't even use cut and paste properly. Oh the shame....
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Rio's injured, Neville is crap
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I'm sorry Robbo, no offence intended, just thought it was funny that Mr. Charles was covering for you! Well, that and the fact that I'd like to be down the pub on Thursday lunch time (regardless of whether you were or weren't).
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53. At 2:55pm on 12 Nov 2009, Martin wrote:
bookings that Scholes would've picked up due to him still tackling opponents with all the finesse of a runaway shopping trolley
Brilliant!
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and sadly all too true.
As for Scholes if Sven had made Stevie G play on the left and played Scholes in the middle we wouldn't have had to suffer watching Stuart Downing trying to play for England
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Robbo "In the meantime I'm quietly encouraged by the number of injuries England regulars are suffering at the moment"
As a Gooner so am I.....
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120. At 4:27pm on 12 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
114 Adam, I´d be just as worried about Rio, he´s not exactly been solid lately.
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Thas because he has been in on the DRRCPTWFWC2010* all along. Him and Hargreaves.
*Derek Robbo Robson's Cunning Plan To Win Fifa World Cup 2010
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Rio's injured at this moment, TommyO, but in the last few games I´ve seen him in he seems to have lost his way a bit.
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120. At 4:27pm on 12 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
114 Adam, I´d be just as worried about Rio, he´s not exactly been solid lately.
He needs to be kept tsraight which is why James in goal and Neville next to him would be great.
as fro Onion's comment Rio won't be injured by the time the World Cup comes around and Glenn Johnson's hardly a footballing genius is he. Part of a Pool back 4 with 1 win in 9 games and the only Liverpool player who actually struggled against Utd (even Carragher was good until Owen came on)
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127. At 4:33pm on 12 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
Rio's injured at this moment, TommyO, but in the last few games I´ve seen him in he seems to have lost his way a bit.
Agreed but i think it's all injury related, needs to get his back sorted out. Same as Agger for us.
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126, Thanks for enlightening me Spits, living abroad I wasn´t privvy to that cunning plan.
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Is Capello in on it as that would explain how Heskety gets in the team. It is a scam and when the World Cup starts he'll trot out Michael owen, the other teams will panic, he'll score loads and win the cup which will be lifted by Gary Neville as Gerrad will get injured and replaced by Joe Cole, Terry will get suspended and be replaced for Wes Brown and Fabio will say well you're club captain go on, lift it.
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128. At 4:35pm on 12 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
He needs to be kept tsraight which is why James in goal and Neville next to him would be great.
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To be kept straight he needs David James near him? If ever there was an oxy moron that was it!
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Ok woke up from my daydream now
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"When Wes gets close to the opposition by-line he sometimes resembles a toddler running back from the incoming waves of the North Sea."
was going to have a go for not letting the facts get in the way of a line (two CL winners medals?), but then you redeemed yourself with:
"Scholes was often shoved out on the left to accommodate less flexible numpties who didn't have the brains to play out of position for a bit."
Don't be scared, his name is Frank Lampard.
"but after the last World Cup, when it looked like he'd been spending too much time with Ronaldo McDonaldo"
Harsh tbh - Ronaldo was still their sharpest attacker, when he wanted to be... when he was running he was unstopable, which is why all the teams that played him stopped him running.
"Funny, Stevie G isn't throwing his toys about playing 'out of position'. Surely a quality attacking midfielder can player from several area"
that's quality. You're not serious are you? First, take the chip off your shoulder, because it was surely about Lampard, and second, don't you recall Gerrard complaining about being played on the left?
So you can get fined and banned for telling the truth, but cheating is acceptable, and you can get modded on here for stating fact. Does the FA work for the BBC or the other way around?
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Be gentle with me Adam,but here is why Heskey has to play.As much as we try to kid ourselves over golden generation etc. we have 1 world class player.Rooney.The player that gets the best out of him for England is Heskey.As Sir Alf said the best players don't make the best team
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134. At 4:41pm on 12 Nov 2009, GenesisRed wrote:
"When Wes gets close to the opposition by-line he sometimes resembles a toddler running back from the incoming waves of the North Sea."
was going to have a go for not letting the facts get in the way of a line (two CL winners medals?), but then you redeemed yourself with:
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David May got loads of winners medals as well, but did that make him a good player? Medals are not indicatiove of a good player Genesisred. Must try harder.
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LOL @ poor adam having a pop at Johnson when it#s generally accepted that he's had a cracking start to the season.
Seeya, impartiality.
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Also GR, whilst old scotchegg is having a bash, Frank "GenesisRed hates me" Lampard has a few medals himself, but you are OK to mock him???
I get it that United fans are pasionate about the glazers team, but your recent turn of poor performance seems to have ushered in a period of whiney-ness which would put even Kop regulars to shame... Jesus, so you might not win the league one year, is it that bad??? Just because you are plying poorly doesn't mean the whole world is against you...
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"a period of whiney-ness which would put even Kop regulars to shame",
I know, you get sick of them, don't you.
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You do mate...
They gave you scouse boys all hell during the summer, but have you noticed the number of narky united fans has gone through the roof as of late...
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I think they'd gotten themselves all excited about overtaking our league title record, only to realise that they're a bit crap and are going to lose the league, probably to Chelsea.
Ouch.
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Nah, we have a good number of world class players if we're honest. The problem isn't their ability, it seems to be their attitude.
Rooney, Beckham (world class dead-ball delivery and defence breaking passing), Johnson (one of the best attacking right-backs in world football), Gerrard (an unplayable player when played in the right role), J Cole (world class winger), A Cole (world class full back - and cheating get)
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138. At 4:54pm on 12 Nov 2009, RedBlueArmy92 wrote:
Just because you are playing poorly doesn't mean the whole world is against you...
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I think it is more a case of - With a very, very average team (by their standards) and a manager that is slowly starting to lose the respect of people in the game as well as his intimidation factor, the mounting debts (any offers on it reaching a billion, It's only going up!), the emergence of their cross city rivals as more than mere cannon fodder and the fact their superiority is slipping slowly but surely (football is cyclical sport of troughs and peaks) they are becoming very, very defensive.
I to have noticed this "defence mechanism" kick in.
lights fuse, stands back......
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This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the House Rules.
This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the House Rules.
Has the honour of playing for ones country fallen under a hail of Roubles, Dirhams and Dollars or is it the physical and mental demands of playing top flight football especially if you add to that European games, that take their toll. Scholes for instance has almost defintely extended his career in the Premiership by at least one maybe two seasons by retiring from International duty.
Most players clearly still think of it as an honour and the pinnacle of ones career, a few do not.
We should not brood over the decisions of the few!
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GenesisRed wrote:
Something hilarious about Wes Brown.
and then: Beckham (world class dead-ball delivery and defence breaking passing)
which defense, Iceland under-16s? The game has moved on, he is no longer exceptional. He moved it on, but i don't think he'll go. It's ok having him for the good influence in a 26 man squad, but the 23 at the WC will have to be all players.
Jacks, i agree, but it is Stevie G as well, not just Rooney, that benefits from Heskey, and that combo has to fire (Roon and Gerrard) if we are going to have a chance.
Scotch - i prefer party eggs. less chewing involved.
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"David May got loads of winners medals as well, but did that make him a good player? Medals are not indicatiove of a good player Genesisred. Must try harder."
Fair enough. But you don't generally win two CL medals without being good. Let me simply state it, he's one of the best full backs in the country, capable of crossing effectively with either foot, while being a centre back by trade.
As far as my Lampard hating, I actually refrained from that (at least, i think i deleted it before posting). I merely applauded Robbo for finally having the guts to nearly say it.
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I don't mind Heskey going; like Crouch, he's there to do a job, which is holding up the ball in order to allow the goalscorers to get up the pitch.
Heskey's first class at it but can't score; Crouch isn't as good as he tends to get bad calls against him due to his gangliness, but he pitches in with the goals.
They're backup for each other in a position which we know how to play, so Heskey has to go, really.
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"144. At 5:07pm on 12 Nov 2009, BeyondThePale wrote:
At least we're paying off our debt.
Man Utd are like a gyppo family paying off the minimum amount on their maxed-out credit card."
Funny how we didn't have to renegotiate the agreement with our banks recently, while Liverpool did...
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147. At 5:11pm on 12 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
GenesisRed wrote:
Scotch - i prefer party eggs. less chewing involved.
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I do appreciate the mashed mayonaise-y goodness they contain, but "partyeggsrule" doesnt have the same ring.
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"Funny how we didn't have to renegotiate the agreement with our banks recently, while Liverpool did..."
No, you're just letting your debt grow and grow and grow.
I think you'll find we renogiated our debt by paying £60m OFF THE DEBT.
Your lot will be tramping around Salford flogging lucky heather and pegs next.
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"The game has moved on, he is no longer exceptional. He moved it on, but i don't think he'll go. It's ok having him for the good influence in a 26 man squad, but the 23 at the WC will have to be all players."
Name be a single player with better deadball delivery, long-range passing, and ability to cross the ball into the danger area 99% of the time? Which was my statement. England always play better when he comes on.
Other than that i think there is something fundamentally wrong with someone who can't actually work out cut and paste.
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ScotchEggsRule wrote:
138. At 4:54pm on 12 Nov 2009, RedBlueArmy92 wrote:
Just because you are playing poorly doesn't mean the whole world is against you...
--------------------------------------------
I think it is more a case of - With a very, very average team (by their standards) and a manager that is slowly starting to lose the respect of people in the game as well as his intimidation factor, the mounting debts (any offers on it reaching a billion, It's only going up!), the emergence of their cross city rivals as more than mere cannon fodder and the fact their superiority is slipping slowly but surely (football is cyclical sport of troughs and peaks) they are becoming very, very defensive.
I to have noticed this "defence mechanism" kick in.
lights fuse, stands back......
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ouch!
i just nearly swallowed my tightly-packed spliff reading that one!
whatcha got, ManUs?
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"Name be a single player with better deadball delivery, long-range passing, and ability to cross the ball into the danger area 99% of the time? Which was my statement. England always play better when he comes on."
My grandma.
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also, maybe some players resent travelling halfway around the world (when their clubs need them) to fulfil an FA obligation for arab money?
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thanks BTP
well, what beckham can do in crossing positions is irrelevant, as he won't be in crossing positions as even GNev could close him down these days.
he is still a world-class passer and corner taker. passing-wise, lamps, gerrard, hargreaves (if fit) and joe cole are all equally good these days. I admit he is the best corner-taker available to england, but i don't think that's enough to justify his place.
wasn't aware i had pasted poorly, but if so, i couldn't care less. any geeky code-of-cutandpaste is being even my power to care about pointless faeces
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see, i can't even type, who cares if i can cutandpaste?
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I think you'll find your fuses are duds...
As far as clubs on the slide, and general opinions regarding subjects such as relative squad strength would tend to undermine pretty much everything you said.
The debt may be worrying, but its not stopping us buying is it. I can understand why you feel bitter.
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"The debt may be worrying, but its not stopping us buying is it."
Well it seems it is, what with Fergie's 'I'm not buying' even though his squad is plainly depleted after the loss of Ronaldo and Tevez and there's £80m SUPPOSEDLY burning a hole in his pocket.
Valencia, Owen and Stewie Griffin from Family Guy - hardly shelling out, is it.
Although Owen's wage will probably bump it up a bit.
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whether the debt is stopping you buying is a matter of opinion. for whatever reason, Man U aren't replacing the best players they have sold with similar quality, but gambling on players like Obertan and Valencia. I know Fergie said 'market values blah blah' but when has he ever told the truth. many believe the debt is the reason he hasn't replaced his best player. this seems the most logical answer.
but, yes, comparitively, you are currently better than liverpool. quite what that has to do with the Man U debt is anyone's guess, but...yes, well done you (well, not you, but...never mind)
I hate Genesis, the band. Should be left to sleep with dignitas, that Collins flange.
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"I hate Genesis, the band. Should be left to sleep with dignitas, that Collins flange."
Yet many US hip hop artists credit Phil Collins for their underlying rhythm.
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and how many US hip-hop artists can you name who do? i personally find the vast majority of hip-hop coming out at the moment incredibly dull.
wow,i'm finally in the 'it was better when' club.
fetch my pipe and slippers. crack-pipe, i mean
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Tim, your cut and pasting is beyond reproach
"passing-wise, lamps, gerrard, hargreaves (if fit) and joe cole are all equally good these days"
Now that is quality WUM work. You're correct to include Hargreaves on freekicks, but he's kind of injured. As for Gerrard and Lampard...? I can't actually believe you're serious. Assuming you are, i'll stifle a laugh and reply that they have never backed up your suggestion that they're passing comes even close to Beckham's when playing for England.
While Gerrard can drive a ball along the ground with the best of them and Lampard can play excellent short balls sideways and occasionally forwards with the flair of Phil Neville, Beckham plays more Xavi-like balls around and over players to open space and laser-guided balls over defenders shoulders onto the toes and heads of strikers. When Lamps and Gerrard try it, the quality just isn't there.
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113. At 4:18pm on 12 Nov 2009, followingborohurts wrote:
Starfire - hows the haircut???
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Short, and wet now thanks to this crummy weather, thanks :)
Ah we're into the obligatory Man U vs Liverpool piddling competition again.
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Phht! Genesis. Why waste time and my ears with that when there's the marvels of pink Floyd, Deep Purple, Led Zep and Sabbath ;)
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GenesisRed wrote:
What?
Fine, I'm bored of this. Beckham can only get a contract with a top team in Europe's slowest league, the England manager only plays him in pointless games for fifteen minutes at the end, but you know better.
I wasn't trying to WUM anyone, I'm not even sure what that means.
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"his squad is plainly depleted after the loss of Ronaldo and Tevez". Plainly? I only query that since we seem to have added two talented wingers to replace one (who I would argue caused the team to lose shape quite significantly, to the extent that it marginalised one of our best players in Rooney), and a forward with a forward (who has so far proven more deadly in front of goal).
As far as comparison of debt, i think it is a valid comparison. Comparing squads was a retort to the suggestion that it is Man United who are on the slide, which smacks of desperately WUMming or clutching at straws.
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BeyondThePale wrote:
"I hate Genesis, the band. Should be left to sleep with dignitas, that Collins flange."
Yet many US hip hop artists credit Phil Collins for their underlying rhythm.
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did you mean to write "AND many US hip hop..."
because i can't think of a more harsh insult, unless you were talking pre-1994 hip hop.
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Tim, I think you'll find Capello rates Beckham's potential contribution more highly than that, but whatever.
And yes, god forbid that Beckham slum it with Milan.
People have always hated him, because he doesn't beat a man and because of his image etc. But he's always delivered, and will still create more chances from the right than Lennon or SWP. Capello knows how to shuffle his pack and play the opposition. I'm happy to trust his judgement.
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Please, Starfire, i was trying to discuss the England team, not any Liverpool/Man U stuff. I don't think Beckham should go, end of. Nothing to do with where he plays(ed). Just too slow, could do a job against the small nations in the qualies, like Crouch, but can't cut it at World Level anymore.
Could be a decent holding player, if he could tackle.
Aah, Pink Floyd, the only band more annoying than Genesis. Progressively more and more boring.
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Genesis sucks.
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Assuming everybody is fit for England,place yourself in the shoes of the oppositions left back.Who would you rather deal with Beckham or Walcott?Beckham is fine to come on with 15-20 mins to go to control the ball,slow the game down etc. but Walcott has everything.If only we could send all our promising players to Ashburton Grove...
(having lit touchpaper,now moving slowly back...)
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Dennis, harsh, but in the main true. Certainly the average level has dropped massively, and folk'll but anthing these days if there is a hot girl on the cover.
Genesis, don't bother replying to this, it isn't for you, but we clearly disagree too much to have any kind of meaningful dialogue outside of an argument.
Fot the record, Fergie played Ron and Roon out of position in the CL final. Can hardly blame players for that (what am i doing, let it drop, let it drop).
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171. At 5:49pm on 12 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
Aah, Pink Floyd, the only band more annoying than Genesis. Progressively more and more boring.
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If I weren't so Comfortably Numb over here I'd take offence to that ;)
As for Beckham (as this debate seemed to have passed me by while catching up). He's one of those players who has a certain je ne sais quoi about him. He's old, he's experienced and he has a habit or turning games when it matters IMO.
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I think Walcott and Beckham is a far more effective combination than Beckham and Crouch, unless we really want to unsettle the opposition and have stupid height and stupid pace in the same front line, with Gerrard, Rooney and Lampard picking up the balls that bounce of Crouches head.
Can't imagine many teams would be comfortable against that combination.
But i'm happy to agree to disagree. Have a good evening.
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from scotland to holland, Denis. i'd like the latter spliff, please
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Scholes and Carra got slated for playing poorly for england and better for their club. This was because they were out of position, the fans didn't care and just saw them as playing poorly
Yes, top players can play in a few positions but there will still be a position they prefer and even then, a style of play they prefer and do well
To stop the next good English footballer from retiring early, support them
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A0 Yes why would anyone not grab a chance to play for England. If Johnson gets injured the right back spot is up for grabs.
B) Brazil were in the business of destroying opponents before Dunga. Witness the thuggery that won them the WC in USA. Yes the (used to ) play pretty footie but only after kicking the other team.
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Well, seeing as i got away with it...
Carra's brother allegedly slept with JT's mom in Germany, and JT said he wouldn't play with Carra again.
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180, Tim,
I think the real question is did SHE play with Carra´s brother again?
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This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the House Rules.
blimey all these derogatory remarks about me beloved Pink Floyd. hmmm
by the way Genisis were much better with Peter Gabriel whos top notch.
Collins was better doing drums. his trip into the land of pop ruined any credability he had.
I hope Brazil win. but in truth its a meaningless fixture come to think about it so was englands qualifying group and the results that subsequently followed.
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David, you won't care, but you have forever lost my respect. The only was Genesis could be better is if they were on fire.
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I love reading through these replies to a crackin blog...
I think it's difficult to put yourself in the shoes of anyone else who has lost a family member. His retirement from international duty may have come about because he himself believes it's the right time and because his availability was checked then the story came out,2+2 often =5 in journo world... who knows but him??
As for the Manu bashing.. i like watching manu, arsenal, chelsea and liverpool, i, being a boro fan, wish that my team was getting slated every week for being so bloody good... honestly, if that's all you guys have to worry about then i pity you... And as for being in the fizzy pop league.. i'm actually quite enjoying it... the days of big money players might be over for us, but i really am enjoying it
Cracker again robbo...
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183. At 6:20pm on 12 Nov 2009, davidgilmourthe3rd wrote:
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I was wondering when you'd come to Floyd's defence. Triffic band.
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who referred my libel?
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OnmyedSon and followingborohurts, you guys seem to be coming out of the woodwork lately.
Looks like a true ´boro rival is happening on these pages.
It´s nice to see and I´m sure old Robbo will be chuffed.
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187, tim, I was surprised it actually lasted that long.
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Starfire_995
pure class from Atom Heart Mother all the way through to the Division Bell, my favs are Ummergumma, Animals and The Final Cut.
soz guys cant think of much to say about the actual topic.
but sitting here and reading your input is as ever very entertaining.
Shine On u all.
PS: Peter Gabriel: Plays Live what a corker of an album/cd is that as well.
and for good measure from The Wall: Run Like Hell what a stomper that is.
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My wife is a big fan of Peter Gabriel and she insisted I join her to see him live in concert.Now,his music isn't my thing(more of a blues man)but he does put on a good show.Never got in to Pink Floyd.Do like On An Island,though.
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H2H, i know, i've been waiting for a quiet time to leave that here.
Wasn't random, i hate that crisp-toting sleaze.
The JT bit stayed. I'll try a few more soon.
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My girlfriend is a big fan of Justin Timberlake, and insisted I went with her...my girlfriend went to Justin Timberlake with her Mum.
I saw Wu-Tang.
Jacks, a hint.
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192,tim, I´ll be keeping my eyes open for those, would wait a while if I were you though, I think the mods will probably be on you for a bit after the warning you gave ´em that you´re gonna do it again.
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I'm a terrible evil genius, H2H.
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"Brazil seem to have replaced the samba with the military two-step"
What would Robbo Robson know about it? He wouldn't know the difference between a military two-step and a one-legged man at an a--e kicking contest!
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185, First few lessons are free mate.
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196. At 7:05pm on 12 Nov 2009, groovyGoalmachine wrote:
"Brazil seem to have replaced the samba with the military two-step"
What would Robbo Robson know about it? He wouldn't know the difference between a military two-step and a one-legged man at an a--e kicking contest!
this doesn't make sense, at all. you've mixed several sayings and clauses to create the impression of a complete idiot let loose on a keyboard.
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197, that was for you tim, not 185, my typing sucks.
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Only one thing better than 11 Brazilians. One Scotsman! Just think how better Brazil could be if managed by SAF!
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Re #200
And the tide of excrement rolls further inshore ...
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2nd that, Star.
Cheers H2H, i'm off to meet the bank manager to get a mortgage on a volcano hideout/lair. Might hire Omid Djalili as my Grand Vizier.
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Star, Hat off, I don´t think I´ve ever seen a dis put so eloquently.
Tim, if you get a volcano it should be easy to throw a house warming party.
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ouch, H2H (where in Holland?)
i love it when someone really puts there hand up and says, 'abuse me, i'm annoyingly thick.' somewhere, a village is missing it's idiot.
Star, your comment reminded me of Hunter Thompson's lament of the loss of the acid generation.
'You can still see where the tide broke, stranding those lost souls...'
Only with poo.
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Tim, at this moment in the neighbourhood of The Hague, but I´ve also lived in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
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it's my final destination, with any luck. just need to get a job there...
bastard bank manager rejected my application for a mortgage, so i had him thrown in the paddling pool full of pike.
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203. At 7:23pm on 12 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
Star, Hat off, I don´t think I´ve ever seen a dis put so eloquently.
--------------------------
Well *blushes* One has to dream up some good ways to insult someone when most of one's favourites trip the profanity filter.
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172. At 5:51pm on 12 Nov 2009, DenistheGenius wrote:
Genesis sucks.
SHouldnt it be "Genesis suck"??? or are we not on about the group???
Onmyheadson - totally agree - the perspecitve of being a boro fan and the problems of the big four - Im touting for new signings for our strikeforce on here but no takers so far
H2H - thanks for the shortened name - I feel like I belong - and as for The Wire series 4 (per last night) guess what.... someone dies (imagine the bloke played by Steve Coogan as the swimming pool attendant at this point ... in 1981 no one died ... in 1982 no one died ...
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Why are your troubling (W)Bankers, Tim?
I thought most evil genius's had access to some sort of money printing machine to fund their diabolical schemes.
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...in 1983 there was the incident with the seagull...in 1984, no-one died...
not really cut out, Star, for world domination, need family help to be an evil genius. plus, i'm not up to diabolical level yet, i'm still stuck in the 'questionable morals' bracket.
this is getting quite surreal
still, as my dad always said to me;
you can do this. but, to be more accurate, you probably can't.
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p.s. onmyedson - good job you didnt call yourself onMEedson - else someone would have accused you of not being a real person but merely a northern stereotype made up character - and you know who you are ... know worra mean like
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Money must be tight tim if you had to use pikes instead of sharks in the pool.;P
208, You´re welcome FBH.
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Live in the south-east, pikeys everywhere.
They did have mobile phones to record the event, and those lazer pointers that could potentially blind the WHOLE WORLD.
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Or as James may and Richard Hammond call them 'Steak and kidney Lock Openers'
And those lazer pointers ... gah! I'd take them and shove them where the sun don't shine.
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214 Star,
"And those lazer pointers ... gah! I'd take them and shove them where the sun don't shine"
Where? Up North?
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215. At 8:07pm on 12 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
214 Star,
"And those lazer pointers ... gah! I'd take them and shove them where the sun don't shine"
Where? Up North?
H2H There was one day in July this year when it was sunnier in Middlesbrough than in London ... and the air is fresher!!! Ok you got me ... only one of them is true!!??
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Top Gear , weather, seagulls and evil genius´, maybe we should start discussing football again....
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Nah, we've got a fortnight off football, it's the internationals.
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ok
should the england 1st team be forced to travel to dubai (i think) to play a friendly which is essentially about servicing a debt the FA had to Emirates, or somebody? especially when man u and liverpool are struggling.
i'm an evul apprentice
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a stupid evil apprentice
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If they have to pay for the Emirates, than I´m all for it.
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Robbo - liked the "he'd been spending too much time with Ronaldo McDonaldo" reference - the old'ns are the good'ns!
By the way at least Wes Brown can get back, which is more than can be said for Johnson, who fires off like a rocket, but then looks like he is stranded in orbit (opposing penalty box) - unless Fabio addresses this, we will get punished in the WC.
Great pictures -especially Best v Chopper (I am on that picture somewhere!!)
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But seriously, if all the squad was fit and all the so called best players were going to feature than it would have a been a good test to play Brazil at this moment to access how well the team could do against one of the best in the business.
But if half the team aren´t going to be there then the game does seem to lose it´s credability, even if it gives some of the fringe players a shot.
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222. At 9:08pm on 12 Nov 2009, oncearedalways54 wrote:
By the way at least Wes Brown can get back, which is more than can be said for Johnson
get back from where? he's a born nosebleed
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h2h, but wouldn't it be better for the fans (of either team) if it were being played on the continent one of them were from?
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I think this blog and posts do a diservice to Scholes and Carragher.
Scholes decided not to play for England in order to extend his domestic playing career. He had no team issues, was still a world class player almost assured of being one of the first names on the team sheet and wasn't in a huff. Looking back, who can argue he didn't make the right choice? He had a good innings and served his country exceptionally well.
Carragher had his reasons for the odd whine, and personally I think he was right to do so, but again his primary concern was to ensure he maintained his playing career for as long as possible.
England may not play that often but it does add additional strain to a players regime - and it is no coincidence that Scholes and Carragher are both full blooded 110% committed players who most would do well to aspire to.
Coincidentally both look past their past now but I suspect that would have been the case a good 2-3 years ago had they continued they international careers.
Young is just stupid - and not really good enough.
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Incidentally, I might be wrong but as I understand it there wasn't a huge amount of love lost between the Umbrella Man and Scholes even when he was at Manchester United, so he'd have little motivation to play for him on the international stage at the expense of his club career (if that is true, of course).
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Captainlazytim/HollandtoHolloway,
You both sound like the type of guys who keep their money down their sock.
Know what I mean? Every time you bend over, you get banged in the derriere! (language modified to pass the censor!)
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H2H - you started it with the "up north" jibe :-) You feel me.
By the way one of my worst memories of boro was the 7(seven) - ive typed it like they do on telly 0 at highbury few years ago - we were rubbish - from where I was stood I had a great view (if one is a gooner) of one of the worlds greatest plyers side footing a volley into the goal - I refer to mst henry - what a player - it was at the time his move looked likely and i was singing "hes going to the boro" but for some reason it didnt come off - cant htink why!!!
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Tim, definetly, the Emirates bit was a joke about the debt on the Arsenal stadium being paid off.
It seems that this sort of "arrangement" is becomming more and more commonplace, and once again it´s the magnificent travelling England fans that literaly end up paying the price.
How long do you think it will be before that horrible "39th game" plan becomes reality.
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Hey whitley - nice to hear from you - re your blog last night about whitley bay beating stockton AND Norton ancients 7 0 that is a hell of a result 11 agasint 22 and still managing a result .... result!!! :-)
p.s. being a smoggy Im actually gutted by the result but I ddi look out for your resuts the other week as a result of your blogs
and yeah but ./... never mind the vase - what about the big one ... the league cup 2004???
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HollandtoHolloway,
Check down yousr sock and see if you have the price of a pint! Bet you live in Voorschoten!
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my last blog has too many results - apols for the grammer
anyone tell me why my comp doesnt auto refresh - i seem to go through a tortuious (spell check) process to update!! and its annoying!!!
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228. At 9:20pm on 12 Nov 2009, groovyGoalmachine wrote:
assuming you're insulting me, i'd like to say thanks. i'd be a lot more worried if you agreed, and as you clearly don't share any of my views i can take this as a ringing endorsment that my life is headed in the right direction.
thankyou
Whit: I thought Scholes also hated spending time away from his family, and to be honest England have rarely operated with a system that would bring the best from him, which is odd, because he was awesome.
And i think Young might have considered again if his personal circumstances were different. It's interesting that Cap called him for me.
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I've no doubt that Luke Young has his reasons for abandoning England. The main one being that he knew he was only ever going to be a bit part player. In some squads, occasionally on the bench and very rarely getting a few minutes on the pitch.
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groovyGoalmachine, and what do you wanna be when you grow up sweetheart?
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H2H
aye, twas a good jibe. but i don't lol (except then)
hopefully the game will stay strong. i don't think they'll change the game as long as it keeps making money, or at least that's what i took from the decision not to invite the Scots
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@FollowingBoroHurts
Well as a lower league follower I was supporting Boro on that day at Wembley (well, from the comfort of our sofa anyway).
I didn't want to see Sam lose as I feel he merits a trophy, but nor did I want to see the Boro go through any more suffering after the ZDS Final when the commentator called them 'Geordies' and then the torment of the fastest FA Cup Final goal in history.
I was delighted see Boro win and to be honest I thought they might kick on a bit from there but should have probably known better.
Back to the big boys though.....Norton & Stockton Ancients used to be a decent team, but they're not up to much this season. There are some cracking names in our division though...
West Allotment Celtic (big holes dug in their defence)
Esh Winning (never do)
Bedlington Terriers (named after the local lasses)
Newcastle Benfield Bay Plastics (sportsdirect.com@stjamespark anyone?)
Tow Law Town (say that after a few)
and, of course
West Auckland Town....50 points for the first person to tell me why that club name is one of the most famous in world football.
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Whitley, didn´t they win that Liptonice thingy twice 100 years ago.?
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first winners of the worlds soccer dome super cup by any chance - and the captain was a boro fan - coincidence ??? I think not!!!
great names big man!!!
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Rumour has it the hosts were expecting woolwich arse and were surpirsed when west auck turnde up
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h2h you beat me toit - only coz my pc doesnt auto refresh :-) 25 points each???
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just to clear a few things up here,
1 - Scholes went nigh on 3 years without scoring for England, played the vast majority of that time in his favoured attacking centre midfield role. The miracle was how Sven didn't drop him completely not that he was shunted out left to accomodate an in-form Lampard.
2 - Carragher got hacked off that his club form was good enough to shine out amongst the cream of Europe whilst at international level it was thought Ledley King, despite struggling to train or play 2 matches in a row was considered a better bet than him at centre back.
3 - If Gary Neville was a horse he would have been shot 2 years ago.
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Yup, West Auckland Town were, in essence, the first winners of the World Cup.
So, how many of you can say you support a club that beat the former World Cup Winners 3-1 in September this year? :)
Tommy...no signs of you being a Liverpool fan in the Scholes, Carragher and Neville post eh. lol
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FBH, you can have all the points mate, I completly cheated with Wiki, and I know that Whitley don´t like us cheating with his excellent triv quiz´s.
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it;s only point 3 that gives that away
the other 2 are factually correct (with a touch of opinion ;o) )
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Whitley - you accusing some on here of being subjective rather than objective ???? Hmmmm
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H2H - consider yourself Luton Towned.
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whitley - do you dine out on the 3 1 reference every year - sometimes twice even
h2h - wiki - you should be ashamed
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@FBH
How dare you! I am completely objective because I know Whitley Bay FC are the greatest club on the planet, the reigning FA Vase holders, went unbeaten in 14 games at the start of this season, and if we were to draw Manchester United in the FA Cup next year (we're out this year cos we decided to concentrate on the start of our FA Vase defence TOMORROW) we'd win 0-5 at Old Trafford. So there.
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245. At 9:51pm on 12 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
FBH, you can have all the points mate, I completly cheated with Wiki, and I know that Whitley don´t like us cheating with his excellent triv quiz´s.
248. At 9:52pm on 12 Nov 2009, WhitleyBayWonTheVase wrote:
H2H - consider yourself Luton Towned.
And who said honesty was the best policy!
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Whitley - Alsagetown in the 2nd round - did you get a bye in the 1st
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Yes, we got a bye, thats cos' we're the reigning FA Vase holders. I keep forgetting to mention that.
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Q: Who said honesty was the best policy
A' The FreeDictionary and other well known reputable stores http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/Honesty+is+the+best+policy
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By the way, for anyone who loves football and loves a sense of humour...
Go visit our FA Vase 2nd round opponents website:
http://www.alsagertown.org.uk/
Outstanding home page that the webmaster needs much credit for. Its what non league football is all about!
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Cheers for that FBH.
But isn´t that cheating too?
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thats enuf from me - the warders only let me have access to the pc til 10 - as long as it doesnt have any sharp edges
keep it real or at least light hearted and humorous - thats aimed at groovy goal machine - that reminds me - thats what we thought afonso alves was ... how wrong can 12 million pounds be!!!???
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no one likes bad news
obviously
it's like
do you like good music?
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tim - do you mean sweet soul music yeah yeah = night
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FBH, He was awesome in the Ere Divisie a real Goal Machine, just goes to show what a step up it is to the PL.
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259, an Arthur Conley classic, and I didn´t have to "Wiki" that.
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There's no Pato, and Kaka seems to be the only creator left in the side. They've got hulking defenders and the set-piece is their best chance of goals. In fact if Big Sam Allardyce replaced Dunga the only noticeable difference would be the sudden surge in the chewing gum budget.
Absolutely fabulous! Well done mate
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Tim, judging by the number of moderated posts you have, you must have upset a few people here today.
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Captain my captain your comment about money worries me. In general terms much wants more and I can't help thinking that if those clubs who are biggest and making the most can find a way of playing less and making more, they will. Then it will be devil take the hindmost.
I mentioned this on a previous log so forgive me for repeating myself. How long is it going to be before the Champions League metamorphoses into a European league championship with all the top Euro clubs playing each other and stuff the rest of us.
Perhaps I'm just being cynical. I very much hope that I am.
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How long is it going to be before the Champions League metamorphoses into a European league championship with all the top Euro clubs playing each other and stuff the rest of us.
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Preach, that may not be such a bad thing, at least it would make the PL a bit more competitive.
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264 Preach, I think you´re probably right, I´m not saying it will happen soon, bot I´m afraid that the writing does seem to be on the wall that it will eventually happen.
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I think Bo that would all depend on how it was set up. What happens with promotion and relegation to such an exclusive league? Would there be alternative European competition for those not involved.
Where would the money flow because at the moment the bulk of the money is coming from TV and primarily SKY in this country?
I fear that with the best teams and best players playing elsewhere the TV companies would not be very interested in the rest of us.
A painful result might be the demise of a great many clubs up to and including some in the current Premier League.
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You ask some tough questions there preach.
Promotion and relegation would certainly be tough, maybe the team finishing at the bottom of the new league could be replaced by a team from it's own country. Not very satisfactory I agree.
I imagine groups such as SKY and ESPN or maybe an amalgamation of European TV companies would bring it to whoever wanted to watch it.
English football survived for over a century without the aid of TV money, I am sure they would manage. They would just have to temper their ambitions.
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Guess the BIG 4 going into a Euro league would have the same effect on the prem as celtic and Rangers going into the prem i.e. the rest would just get on with it and grow stronger..... or not. In theend everyone will still support their local team (manu excluded) no matter what.
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Yes, Bo, but never know who got offended. One was deliberately, um, for the mods. But yeah, looking back, i do seem to have got some backs up. Ho hum.
I think the problem would be with the EuroLeague that the fan appeal, and audiences, might suffer, as around the world the big games are derbys with a lot of local history.
Games like Chelsea vs Barca and the like have good appeal for the rarity value and the quality of player and prize, but i can't see it having the same enduring appeal as the Clasico, or Spurs vs Arsenal.
Hopefully
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Tim, at least Arsenal may finally get to play a derby game... Arsenal v PSG
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Preach asked
What happens with promotion and relegation to such an exclusive league?
I reckon it would be similar to NFL or the Super 14, where all the teams are franchises and new members can come in if the money is right. Promotion and relegation would disappear.
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272, That sounds about right Tim, the death of footy as we know and love it, but maybe it´s just me that´s being too cynical now.
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Evening fellas,
the thing with Europa league is, its a natural progression of the globalization of PL. A fan coming from a 2 miles from a club has the same chance of running into a regular player as some one in Ivory Coast i.e. zero.
Same goes for the attendances. Most fans are hurting at the price they have to pay to go to matches and with train fare reaching a £1000 (still cant believe it) how many are there who can follow their team away?
So what difference does it make if they play Everton or Byarn Munich? At least with the last two, you could book a cheeper flight in advance. Also the beer is cheaper.
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* last one
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Train fare reaching a thousand pounds? where is that Spit?
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Thing is, the big 4 would be Man U, Chelsea, probably Arsenal, maybe Liverpool, but Man City have more commercial appeal than Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea in different respects.
Have hope, H2. The thing about football is that it already makes a huge amount worldwide, and hopefully this should deter too much change. FIFA will never turn their back on money, and they aren't fond of risk.
With my theory about the derbies, it could ironically be the die-hard fans that save that game as we know it.
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276. At 11:21pm on 12 Nov 2009, BojanglesOfOz wrote:
Train fare reaching a thousand pounds? where is that Spit?
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Its for the sake or argument but still.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8340561.stm
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Exactly my point, well said young man!
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This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the House Rules.
Man City have more commercial appeal than Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea in different respects.
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Man City would like to think that but I can't agree with you on that one Tim.
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277. At 11:23pm on 12 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
Thing is, the big 4 would be Man U, Chelsea, probably Arsenal, maybe Liverpool, but Man City have more commercial appeal than Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea in different respects.
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Can´t agree with that Tim, maybe in the future Man City will be bigger due to their new money, but they´ve got a long, long way to go before they reach the appeal of Chelsea, let the alone the global brands of Arsenal and Liverpool.
I´ve never seen a Man City shirt, or any other kind of their merchendise over here, but almost all sports shops have something from the "top 4" in their selections. Man Utd, L´pool and Arsenal are still more popular then Chelsea.
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I didn't say i thought it, but from a FIFA point of view it would be difficult to miss out on potentially the biggest-spending team in the world.
Or maybe the Saudi's would just buy Liverpool instead.
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Any club wanting global appeal can do much worse than buying half decent chinese or indian players. Thats a market of 2.3 billion right there.
People in these countries are fans of players and not clubs. Why else do you think Real paid 100mil euros for CR. They will recover it in about 4 years time.
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280 Now that one I like!!
Staying with train fares, it appears that BR have organised a do for its staff and have advised them that buses are being laid on because the train fares are too expensive!
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The thing with the Euro-league is the logistics in getting everyone to agree how it will work before it starts. I cannot see how you are going to get all those egos to agree on anything on than making more money that would allow them to start. Which teams from which countries would play in the league? As you've mentioned promotion/relegation or franchisees? What if the power base in european football moves. How do they get out if it's a flop? How is the revenue going to be shared? Too many ego busting topics to get anything over the line if you ask me.
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Spit, remember Junichi Inamoto, that signing was all about selling shirts in Japan.
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why are we all assuming its a european thing? surely a worldwide system would satisfy the criteria we are trying to fill (money).
might also bring up the standard in Africa/Asia if they had a team or two in. The money is there in places
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It won't necessarily be FIFA or UEFA who would organise it if it were to happen. I suspect the club owners would simply get together and do it, remember they have threatened it once and it almost came to pass.
I don't think it will but money talks very loudly indeed.
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286 , arrrrgh, Some good points, although never underestimate the power of greed. The "haves" will always want more, and the G14 (or whatever it´s called) already literaly "rule" uefa.
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That Tim is visionary and you never know it might even bring up the standard in Beckham country
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Maybe the standard of football is quite high in Africa/Asia now Tim, they import players to Europe after all. I would be interested in the standard of football in England if you removed all overseas players.
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That shouold read export not import... my bad
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I'm off, lads. Given my orders.
Take it easy.
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Bo, remove all overseas players and what you have left wouldn´t be a very high standard anymore
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To be fair to Chris Sutton, his decision not to play for the England B Team was completely vindicated when Matt Le Tissier, who did play for the B Team and scored a hatrick, was still overlooked for the world cup squad.
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I watched the last African world cup or whatever it is they call it and I was very impressed with the standard of most of them teams. It is high but uneven so there is still a long way to go I think.
Again only my opinion Bo but having regularly watched our under 21s and younger this last two seasons we are producing youngsters who with the right help and self determination could go on to become world class.
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after saying to Bo, it's about them being able to keep the players. I'd rather see Drog and Essien at Hearts of Oak, with a tournament as big as the Euro CL, but the reality is they have to come to Europe early to realise their potential, due to resources and training.
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them?? Should be "the". 40 years of trying and I still can't type!
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The G14 is an excellent starting point.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G-14
This could be expanded to include perhaps 4 more clubs with a lot of cash and off you go. I will hate it, but eventually will turn up to watch the show and so will millions at home.
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Captainlazytim,
I'd never insult uou, darlin'!
HollowaytoHolland,
when you think of Holland you think dykes, canals, Gouda, Edam, tulips etc. When you think of Holloway you automatically think of the only thing people associate with it - a women's prison! When d'ya get out luv?
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HollowaytoHolland,
Bet you're real butch!
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I think so too preach and it is only in recent years that England have recognised the importance of International youth tournaments. It could be a sign of better things ahead.
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I forecast that at the turn of the century someone like Darwin will come along and produce a book called "The Evolution of Football in the 21st Century"
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@BoJanglesOz
"Maybe the standard of football is quite high in Africa/Asia now Tim, they import players to Europe after all."
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Interesting comment. However, I don't think the standard of football in Africa/Asia is anywhere near high and a long way from where analysts expected it to be.
See, I recall a time in the 80's when Pele and many others predicted an African nation would have won the World Cup by 2000. We're still waiting and they've been a long way off.
If anything the African nations have been eclipsed by the likes of Japan and South Korea in major tournaments, and i do think their more rebellious nature has a lot to do with that. African nations don't seem to be able to produce stable and well disciplined teams - or at least not with the consistency other countries do.
I will be the first to admit I recall seeing Ghana in the early 90's and thinking they were a dead cert for winning the world cup by 2000. I also remember thinking Nigeria could flatten any team they wanted to, and by and large they did....until they couldn't be bothered any more and started living the high life and losing the motivation to try.
I think it'll be another 20 years or more before an African or Asian nation stands even a remote chance of winning a major international tournament, and their domestic league structures mean they can't keep hold of talent so they'll never do a great deal on that stage either.
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Let us so hope! And I wish you all a fond farewell until the next time.
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295. I agree H2H. It has been the influx of money that has brought about the improvement in English football (if you call it an improvement). Unfortunately the money is not really being put back into the grass roots but into bringing in more overseas players in an effort to win more trophies. To me this is only going to lead to disaster.. then again, maybe it is just my turn to be cynical this morning.
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304. At 00:08am on 13 Nov 2009, redpreacherman wrote:
I forecast that at the turn of the century someone like Darwin will come along and produce a book called "The Evolution of Football in the 21st Century"
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Thats about 90 years to go then to see if you are proven correct then.
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I think it'll be another 20 years or more before an African or Asian nation stands even a remote chance of winning a major international tournament, and their domestic league structures mean they can't keep hold of talent so they'll never do a great deal on that stage either.
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Most likely you are right Whitley. So how long did it take England won the World Cup?
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Let me try that question again.
How long did it take England to win the World Cup?
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I should be gone but gone but here's a dreadful pun for you. With at least three of of us cynical can we push the changes through on tricycle?
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Have you been watching Tim Wonnacott preach?
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Bo - Improvement in the standard or football or facilities. I think most of the football improvements would have occurred with a lot less money due to the chaning attitude to fitness in sports generally. The improvements in facilities in definitely a result of the increased money but there is a marked difference in the improvements between the haves and the have-nots. I cannot see Man U agreeing to have the same slice of the bigger pie as say a Lyon or Bayern and they would only begrudgingly agree to Real or Barca have the same slice because, as every red manc on this blog seems to think, they are the best and biggest club in the world.
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313. At 00:24am on 13 Nov 2009, arrrrgh wrote:
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Dividing the loot is easy. Just take the spanish model. Every club sells its own media rights.
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You've found me out. Now I really am going before my better half puts a hammer through the monitor.
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307, Bo, maybe the biggest threat to the future strength of the PL is the high tax rate in the U.K. compared to some other high profile football nations. Although I did read something about propossed changes in the Spainish tax laws that would close loopholes currently being exploited.
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arrrrgh.. part of the problem as I see it is the two tier structure that exists there (correct me if I am wrong). The PL and the FA. If all football in England was controlled by one body, then the money would (or should) flow down through the different levels. As it is now (At least as I know it to be which could be quite wrong) the majority of the money stays in the PL and the rest of football makes do with the crumbs.
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H2H are you suggesting all euro-league competitors will e registered in Luxembourg or the Bahamas?
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BTW, since this is a RObbo blog, am I the only one who thinks this particular blog is, well how do I put it, lame?
I know he tries to please JDR and the likes but seriously, its supposed to be light hearted and where is the humour?
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H2H, is football being taxed at a greater rate than other business concerns in the UK?
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318 arrrrgh, Don´t you think they´d do it if they thought they could get away with it? ;p
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I wholeheartedly agree with you Spit, I think this blog is lame... The only line that interested me was the one about Man U.
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Maybe Robbo is becoming cynical too.
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Bo - and the 3 tier structure the euroleague would create would mean even less money filtering down to grass roots and the chances of a decent England player emerging from depths even more unlikely than it is today.
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and he hasn't mentioned the Blue Bell for ages either.
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319, Spit, it wasn´t as good as most, but still more than enough chuckle worthy bits. Must be hard when there´s a 2 week break every few weeks.
320 Bo, The U.K has a 50% tax rate if you earn a certain amount per anno.(I think)
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326. Is that for individuals or business or both?
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I have to hit the road guys.
Slaap lekker to H2h. and bugger the rest of ya... lol.. not really. good morning/night to one and all.
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Not sure, although I think it´s for all individuals that earn a certain amount. (though don´t quote me on that)
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Individuals pay income tax - highest rate 40% supposedly looks a little more on this though:
http://forum.football.co.uk/about33128.html
Companies pay corporation tax - highest rate 28%
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28% is pretty lenient. That is the amount of tax football clubs are hit with? Can't really complain at that if it is.
arrrrgh I'll try to come up with a suitable response to 324 while I am out today.
Bye all
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Probably talking to myself here but nothing new there. On doing the euroleague thingy outside of the FA/UEFA/FIFA umbrella the only threat they have against the G14/17/18/?? is to prohibit all players from participating in their sanctioned tournaments which, bringing us back to the blog would mean choosing between "the pinnacle of a footballer's career" or money. Cricket went through that in the '70s with Packer and World Series cricket - Packer won that war but then cricket's world cup does not really compare to football's.
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Once again having a dig at Utd?
good blog apart from that
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Sam,I don't see it as a dig at Utd.Robbo did say he tipped Chelsea for the title,so to see the main threat to that lose their best player may be the reason for his little dig.What I would like to point out is how serenely Arsenal are running along and nobody in the media mentions them.Would be nice to see Cesc with the trophy at the end of this season.
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Sam doesn't like it when we talk unfavourably about Man U.
Jacks, Cesc is my favourite player, and as Liverpool can't be expected to turn it around from here i'm throwing my support at the Emirates, at least for the title.
Having said that, some part of me would like to see Carlo do it at the first attempt, to annoy others.
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arrrgh -
but now cricket is abandoning tests (to some extent) for the IPL, Twenty20 and the like, and now the ECB are complaining about losing their Sky money (ungracious toads, they did alright on free to air in 2005)
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Wearing my neutral hat,I know Liverpool are struggling at the mo',but I remeber Arsenal starting the97/98 season like this and did the double.United have countless times had rubbish starts and won it.Where there's life....
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Would be nice to see Cesc with the trophy at the end of this season.
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Noit wouldn't be. (biut it is looking highly likely as they are winning their games comfortably at the moment. Am hoping they can narrowly beat Chelsea (quite possible as Lampard is possibly out until Jan) when they play them as if we start winning again then goal difference becomes important and it will put us back in contention at the top.
Predictions for next round of games
Birmingham v Fulham (1-1)
Burnley v Aston Villa, (1-2)
Chelsea v Wolverhampton, (3-0)
Hull v West Ham, (1-0)
Liverpool v Man City, (1-3)
Man Utd v Everton, (3-0)
Sunderland v Arsenal (1-2)
Bolton v Blackburn, (0-0)
Stoke v Portsmouth, (1-1)
Tottenham v Wigan, (2-0)
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159. At 5:29pm on 12 Nov 2009, GenesisRed wrote:
I think you'll find your fuses are duds...
As far as clubs on the slide, and general opinions regarding subjects such as relative squad strength would tend to undermine pretty much everything you said.
The debt may be worrying, but its not stopping us buying is it. I can understand why you feel bitter.
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The second paragraph you have typed is pure gobbledygook. Your squad IS weaker than last season, considerably now that Cronaldo and Tevez left, Scholes, Neville and Giggs are 1 more year closer to senility. ferdinand's looking shakey and Vidic looks equally sluggish. You have strengthed by signing a french crock winger and ....thats about it. So YES you are weaker than last season and looking at games lost that proves that so you are on the slide in that sense.
You can do better than that feeble response GR or is the Man Utd's fans humour on the slide, just like their club?
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164. At 5:40pm on 12 Nov 2009, GenesisRed wrote:
Tim, your cut and pasting is beyond reproach
"passing-wise, lamps, gerrard, hargreaves (if fit) and joe cole are all equally good these days"
Now that is quality WUM work. You're correct to include Hargreaves on freekicks, but he's kind of injured. As for Gerrard and Lampard...? I can't actually believe you're serious. Assuming you are, i'll stifle a laugh and reply that they have never backed up your suggestion that they're passing comes even close to Beckham's when playing for England.
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And you had the cheek to tell me earlier that personal opinions negated any facts that may be made in an argument. Well I don;t see many facts in your "post" above. Still same old Man Utd eh? One rule for them and one for everyone else.
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Jacks - Arsenal did indeed make up 11 points on United that year but they had 3 games in hand, the best back 4 in the country, Viera and Henry in the team, lost 6 and drew 9 all season. LIverpool have already lost 5 and drawn 1 and I can't see them not losing again this season and not drawing. They would have to win 4 more games than Chelsea this season and hope that Utd, Arsenal, City, Spurs, Villa and Sunderland aall lose at the same time as Chelseas and it just isn't going to happen
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You can do better than that feeble response GR or is the Man Utd's fans humour on the slide, just like their club?
evidence would suggest not, Eggy
adam - just saying he is favorite player, and they play amazing football, so if Liverpool can't do it then they are MY PERSONAL second choice. I haven't liked Man U winning since the year GNev lifted it after playing about 2 games. Well, let's be honest, it's always been hard to watch you lot win. Even with Ron.
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341. At 09:34am on 13 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
Jacks - Arsenal did indeed make up 11 points on United that year but they had 3 games in hand, the best back 4 in the country, Viera and Henry in the team, lost 6 and drew 9 all season. LIverpool have already lost 5 and drawn 1 and I can't see them not losing again this season and not drawing. They would have to win 4 more games than Chelsea this season and hope that Utd, Arsenal, City, Spurs, Villa and Sunderland aall lose at the same time as Chelseas and it just isn't going to happen
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Weren't that the year the bookies stopped taking bets early on United winning and some even maying out early, only for Arsenal to screw them over by winning at the death?
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* lol maying out, should read paying out.
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I appreciate the point Adam,but would point out that Utd. have lost at Burnley,Chelsea have lost at Wigan,going to Stoke and Fulham is no picnic,mid table teams like Spurs,City and the Villa no longer look or play like mid table teams.Anything can happen yet.
But still,up the gunners,and I hope(MUCH more importantly)three points at Portman Road tomorrow to continue our meteoric rise up the table!
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#340 -
Here is a leaf from Rafa's book.
Beckham is Englands best passer and set-piece taker- FACT
Tevez was just an expensive version of Alan Smith as his lack of goals at City is proving - FACT
United have actually signed quite a few players and Valencia is starting to look good, Obertan is on his way to looking like he can make the grade - FACT
Michael Owen will come good and start scoring - FACT
We are not on the slide but are in transition and need to start beatiung the teams we were seeing off with ease last year faster (although have only lost to Liverpool, Chelsea and Burnley) and last season we lost to Pool twice, Bolton & Fulham and still won the league and drew 6 so while we have lost 3 we have only drawn 1 so have a good chance considering Chelsea and Arsenal have already lost twice
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when was the last time 3 teams were in the hunt? i know last year Chelsea and Liverpool sort of were, but imagine of the last game decides the title, with Chelski, Le Arsenal and Man U all in it. that'd be cool. cooler if there were four, with Liverpool too, but i reckon it'll be Man Citeh if anyone.
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aah, adam, up a bit early to be rational, eh?
Scholes, Neville and Giggs cannot play 90 mins at the top level
FACT
At the moment, the defense is struggling and the keeper needs replacing
FACT
Things only look good at Man U if you compare them to Liverpool (or Portsmouth, but you get the drift). In comparison to last year, they look weak, and a bit toothless, which is putting a dangerous burden on the Roon, given that we need him to win the World Cup
FACT
And in the context of a game, i'd personally say he's (BECKHAM) the best corner/freekick taker, but passing-wise is no longer the best...
OPINION
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#343 - yes it was but that was a straight fight as Arsenal were in 2nd for most of that time (Utd still finished 12 points clear of 3rd placed Liverpool) wheras there are 6 teams in Liverpools way so I can't really see them catching up. (also they aren't as good as that Arsenal team were - their front line of Bergkamp and Henry was outstanding much the way hat Cantona and Cole had been the previous year and Yorke and Cole were the year after - Torres polays up top on his own too much and Ngog is hardly in the same class)
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adamspb wrote:
Michael Owen will come good and start scoring - FACT
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Quite simply that is not a fact, lad. That's a whole heap of wishful thinking. Chelsea aren't playing great but keep winning. United won't win the Premier League. They'll be 2nd, probably.
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aah, adam, up a bit early to be rational, eh?
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Computer wouldn't load up the site last night so bene able to think points through. Who would you say is the best passer if not Becks - Lampard & Gerrard aren't bad and Rooney is good also but I don't think they have the range that Beckham has although they do pass the ball well.
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#350- Robbo -
Wishful thinking it may be but United do play better in the 2nd half of the season and I think if we are within 4 points of the top in January we have a strong chance of winning it. Also I think Chelsea will suffer without Lampard as Deco still isn't really convincing and Malouda is too hot & cold - although Joe Cole is coming back at a handy time for them he is also injury prone and could end up out of action again
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Robbo, you never answered my Q on the other blog about diving. If you ban N'Gog, do you ban players for any cheating that might result in a goal, , eg handball or pushing at a corner, or just diving? Also, the rules apparently allow a player to jump to avoid contact without losing the foul (not saying that is what Wash did, just an aside).
just purely on passing, i reckon Huddlestone, but he comes with other problems. Beckham is still fantastic, but i'd say the players i mentioned, Carrick as well, probably are on his level, and offer other things too. The whole world learnt from DB, and now can do what he does.
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Adam,Beckham starting for England completely alters the style of the side.Yes,he takes a good free kick but so does Rooney(eg the free kick to get his first hat trick for you against,I think Fenerbache?),Lampard,Barry,Joe Cole.His passing can be a bit Hollywood at times,remember those long high balls for SWP?
Tevez is over rated.A lot of my customers that follow Utd. liked him because he tries.Well,I could run around for 90 minutes and I'm rubbish,so yes I agree.
Valencia?Hmm,I'd say Etherington is doing a better job on the wing at Stoke.Obertan?
Owen is still a good striker and with Utd. always creating chances will score goals.But does he suit the style Utd. play
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Valencia? Hmm,I'd say Etherington is doing a better job on the wing at Stoke.
They play opposite sides, and i'd rather have lil Louise than fatty Fotherington, meself. Lookss like he could get really good. COULD.
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Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini has suffered "potentially life-changing injuries" in a motorbike accident in east London, police said.
bad week for keepers
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Thats nothing Tim, poor Frank Lampard has injured his thigh on a cramped economy flight... oh the humanity!
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Fair does Tim.Although Walcott puts them all to shame.(hark at me,closet gunner)
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277. At 11:23pm on 12 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
Thing is, the big 4 would be Man U, Chelsea, probably Arsenal, maybe Liverpool, but Man City have more commercial appeal than Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea in different respects.
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And how do you work out that Man City have greater commercial appeal than Arsenal? Is it the Stadium? No. History? No. Fan base? No. Entertainment factor? No. Squad strength? No. Youth set up? Pretty similar. Club value? No. if you meant that City would be cheaper to buy and make profit on then possibly, but to get the profitability they would have to be successful and to be successful they would need to spend a fortune. Would you care to enlighten yours truly as to ho you came to that conclusion?
I take and offer no offence at your comment but am curious how you could justify such a (to me anyway) preposterous comment....
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152: BTP Wrote:
"Your lot will be tramping around Salford flogging lucky heather and pegs next."
Last night Mike Phelan knocked on my door and offered to Tarmac my drive...
This gypo theory is holding water! (I live in a bit of "gypo" town and all the do-as-you-likeys support united??)
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yes Eggy
i said on some levels, and didn;t single out just Arsenal, but the whole top 4, which i'm sure you didn't miss, and at this stage only Liverpool are vulnerable, for me.
over the next 10 years, providing that all works out for them, Man City will have some of the world's best players on their books, and most likely break some transfer records.
FIFA have already proved that for them, marquee names are essential (seedings at the playoff stage) and Man City will have that. The fans at Liverpool and Arsenal are a big deal, but Arsenal tend to create their own stars, and as a Liverpool fan i'm not optimistic that we'll be seeing a Ribery, Kaka or the like bought for a long time, especially if Nando wins nowt.
it isn't my opinion, but i don't think FIFA care about the historical, local or youth setup. I would say that if they do what they say they want to, then they could have a team to rival Arsenal's on an entertainment basis fairly soon.
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316. At 00:28am on 13 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
307, Bo, maybe the biggest threat to the future strength of the PL is the high tax rate in the U.K. compared to some other high profile football nations.
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Why would footballers be PAYE when surely thaey can be contractors as they have a contract over a setr time the could be employed as such and pay between 8-15% instead? Or is their something I am missing?
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I see Rafa just been sacked...
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Morning gents.
Nice to see it's safe here again, there was a bit of a plank here last night.
If there's one thing I've learned from football over the years, it's that you can never write off United, SAF almost always finds a way to pull them through, I don't know how he does it and I wish he would stop.
I think most Arsenal fans, like myself, are happy to see our team doing well yet still managing to slip under the rader of most of the so called experts. I'm personaly glad that the spotlight usually seems to shine somewhat brighter on L'pool, Utd, Chelsea (not as much as the previous 2) and even Man City, although the hullabaloo around them has died down quite a bit lately, but there is a transfer window opening soon, so let the City fun & games begin again.
It's nice and safe going "unnoticed" and it keeps away unwanted pressure.
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337. At 2:28pm on 03 Nov 2009, RedBlueArmy92 wrote:
No it is accurate, Rafa Jones from the Co-Op on North Lane, got sacked for nicking pick 'n' mix... i saw him at lunch...
Oh.......you thought i meant....
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Sorry RBA.Bit geeky of me to find the answer!
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361. At 10:24am on 13 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
yes Eggy
it isn't my opinion, but i don't think FIFA care about the historical, local or youth setup. I would say that if they do what they say they want to, then they could have a team to rival Arsenal's on an entertainment basis fairly soon.
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Ah the joy's of reasoned, learned debate!
Yes fella, I saw the other names mentioned also, but as Gooner I had to take umbrage at your scurrilous, nah slanderous comments! ;o)
So you think FIFA would allow a team entry into some new competition based purely on the players they have nothing to do with league standings or anything else that is important or matters? Surely FIFA being the bastion of honesty and purity would stoop so low, so to be seen as callous and shallow? All teams "want" to do things, like Chelsea breaking even by 2010 LOLOLOLOL Teams like City are in a far more precarious situation than a club like Arsenal whose revenue streams are pretty much guaranteed most season (they budget for non CL qualification every 3 seasons) City rely (for their survival now) on the whims of an investor who isn’t going to make money. How long will that last? Nobody knows, hence the uncertainty.
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362 SER, I stated later that I'm not sure if I was correct or not. I just remember reading something about a change in the tax rate for the countries top earners that would effect many in the game.
I could be wrong, it wouldn't be the first time & definetly not the last.
360 RBA, Ha Ha Ha.
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334. At 09:13am on 13 Nov 2009, jacksofbuxton wrote:
Sam,I don't see it as a dig at Utd.Robbo did say he tipped Chelsea for the title,so to see the main threat to that lose their best player may be the reason for his little dig.
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Ermmm Can someone please point out where ' a niggle in the Wazza metatarsal before Christmas'd be a bonus, not least 'cos United's chances of lifting the Premier League would vanish ' is not a dig at Utd??
And on the subject of Arsenal - I can see them doing good things this year, although I have been guilty of saying this in previous years when they seem to fizzle out over the christmas period!
Back on to the subject of Utd, if in January the gap is only 5 points or so, I still will be quietly confident we can pull something out the bag.
Maybe fergie needs to splash the cash..I'd like to see that.
Will he do it though??
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No worries JOB, and it was a different Rafa this week any how, Rafa Patel, he got fired from his dads Tandori Tapass restaurant... He was the worlds first Hindu Bullfighter... you never seen a lad so confused in all your life...
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368. At 10:40am on 13 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
362 SER, I stated later that I'm not sure if I was correct or not. I just remember reading something about a change in the tax rate for the countries top earners that would effect many in the game.
I could be wrong, it wouldn't be the first time & definetly not the last.
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Yeah join the club. It wasn;t in response to your statement more to follow it up. Why don't footballers go Ltd instead of PAYE? Or do they?
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Is that a recurring theme, now, RBA? I'm sure you slightly jolted my morning thuswise last week.
H2H - bit of a plank, understatement
this year it's been more criticising the big teams, not praising (certainly most of the ManU/Liv stuff), which i think is why Arsenal are getting less press. Less to criticise.
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from BBC gossip column
Liverpool have placed a £14m price tag on midfielder Lucas Leiva after a couple of top European sides inquired about his availability. (Daily Mirror)
i know he's improved this season but this still made me laugh !
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Onions, also made me giggle, he'd struggle to be worth 14 million in Zimbabwe dollars... I mean i know the pound fell a bit this week, but thats just ridiculous...
Tim, yeah sorry mate... i was just bored and thought it might stir people a bit...
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So you think FIFA would allow a team entry into some new competition based purely on the players they have nothing to do with league standings or anything else that is important or matters?
SHORT ANSWER - YES (refer you back to the playoffs)
Well, if it were league standings, then the sooner the better. I'm not sure that Liverpool, Arsenal or anyone could be sure of finishing above Citeh if they keep spending.
What i don't understand is this situation people talk about where the investors get bored and leave. Wouldn't thay have to sell up? Or do you just think they would let it wind down and go bankrupt?
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Liverpool have placed a £14m price tag on midfielder Lucas Leiva after a couple of top European sides inquired about his availability. (Daily Mirror)
i'm going to stick my neck out and say he will keep improving until this looks cheap. He's been doing a better job than the Mash, for me.
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anyone reckon Ireland are gonna turn over France this week and join England in South Africa ?
loved this, btw...
http://irishsoccerinsider.wordpress.com/2009/11/11/french-and-irish-fall-out-over-box-incident/
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377. At 10:59am on 13 Nov 2009, TommyOnion wrote:
anyone reckon Ireland are gonna turn over France this week and join England in South Africa ?
mate, i really hope they do, and the anchovies go out too.
i'd love to see FIFA left looking silly again
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375. At 10:55am on 13 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
So you think FIFA would allow a team entry into some new competition based purely on the players they have nothing to do with league standings or anything else that is important or matters?
SHORT ANSWER - YES (refer you back to the playoffs)
What i don't understand is this situation people talk about where the investors get bored and leave. Wouldn't thay have to sell up? Or do you just think they would let it wind down and go bankrupt?
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LOL fair enough!
As for investors becoming bored, I don't think that is it as by their very nature they don't invest because of interest or excitement, it is about making money and raising one's profile. Well Mansour (sp?) has done the latter but will never make money from City so it makes you wonder, when an investor will say to himself, "enough is enough" not just about City, all wealthy backers.
Also when it comes to spending constantly yes it can improve the team, ut that is no garauntee of ending the seasonn higher than other far bigger more established teams is it? As for Arsenal and LIverpool, personally I think it is Man Utd and liverpool who should be looking over tehir shoulders. The gooners have 9 players out injrued and still put an XI and bench capable of competing with the best. Plus those youngsters, the future is brighter than that of most rivals on the pitch anyway.
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Also when it comes to spending constantly yes it can improve the team, ut that is no garauntee of ending the seasonn higher than other far bigger more established teams is it?
It's the players on the pitch, at the end of the season, and Man City have a lot of quality, plus Sparky has just been told he can go wild in Jan if he needs to.
But i'm not arguing that Arsenal are in the strongest position. They have a more realistic debt, and a manager who can put out a quality team regardless of injuries, without spending huge.
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Tommy,that's magnificent.Combined with the hindu bullfighter and tight joint joke the standard just gets better!
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379, a good lesson in... Egg-o-nomics!
I think the biggest problem with Arsenal winning the league would be the catastophic levels of smugness eminating from North London... I mean the "Invincible" thing was bad enough, but god if they do it with this super ethical team of £2 feotuses Wengers put together it will be truly unbearable... It has been a while sinc ethey won anything, and i think people are forgetting just how bloody smug gooners are... Yeah at present they're agreeable, but you just wait... Since they last won anything i have become a parent (twice)... I dont want my kids being raised in what could potentialy be a lethal level of smugness... Please, wont some body think of the children (not the ones in red and white shirts playing football)
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Robbo, credit for starting with a topic off the usual subjects (Youngs call up), but as I carried on reading it was inevitable that Man U & Liverpool players get dropped in further down to re-ignite the same old repetative arguments again. Credit for the Wes Brown swipe however, that was funny.
But to save time on the next blog why not give the header:
"Mancs Vs Scouse: You decide...."
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SMUG ALERT - I love that episode.
We'll all be left crying - WE DIDN'T LISTEN
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382. At 11:21am on 13 Nov 2009, RedBlueArmy92 wrote:
379, a good lesson in... Egg-o-nomics!
LOLOL
I think the biggest problem with Arsenal winning the league would be the catastophic levels of smugness eminating from North London... I mean the "Invincible" thing was bad enough, but god if they do it with this super ethical team of £2 feotuses Wengers put together it will be truly unbearable...
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Like trhat episode of SouthPark when a huge cloud of Smug was about to destroy Boston!
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Since they last won anything i have become a parent (twice)...
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Does the missus know? ;o)
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Smug?Arsenal?They won't stand for that in Islington!!
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383. At 11:23am on 13 Nov 2009, Owls_Geezer wrote:
that's a little unfair. we've talked about...hinduism, and economics...er...alright, SAVE GARY NEVILLE
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376 Liverpool have placed a £14m price tag on midfielder Lucas Leiva after a couple of top European sides inquired about his availability. (Daily Mirror)
i'm going to stick my neck out and say he will keep improving until this looks cheap. He's been doing a better job than the Mash, for me.
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By the time he improves enough to make 14m look cheap Tim, he'll be too old to play any more.
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387. At 11:28am on 13 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
383. At 11:23am on 13 Nov 2009, Owls_Geezer wrote:
that's a little unfair. we've talked about...hinduism, and economics...er...alright, SAVE GARY NEVILLE
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From what? The bad beard monster?
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Antique value, then, Bo?
Eggy, from disappearing up his own Corey?
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387. At 11:28am on 13 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
that's a little unfair. we've talked about...hinduism, and economics...er...alright, SAVE GARY NEVILLE
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Yeah you're right, must be my male time of the month (this is when the missus is 'on' and I get none!) besides we'd never reach past 10 posts if the Utd/Pool arguments ceased so carry on Robbo....
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Exactly like that South Park episode, when ever i hear a Gooner wax lyrical about the style of play and how Wenger done it all with a tax credit voucher and a few Merlin premier league swapsies... i instantly think of Kyles Dad breathing in and savouring his own farts...
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391. At 11:34am on 13 Nov 2009, Owls_Geezer wrote:
"carry on Robbo..." could make a film about mank hating scousers?
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Or further recession. I mean, it was 20 million marks (or something like that) for a loaf of bread in pre-war Germany, so 14 million for a plank isn't bad.
I do think he'll make it, but i can see why others don't.
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390. At 11:33am on 13 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
Antique value, then, Bo?
Eggy, from disappearing up his own Corey?
Although the thought of Gary Neville dissapearing up his own "gary" is possibly the most unappealing thought ever I'm sure there would be a sizeable and appreciative audience lol
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392. At 11:34am on 13 Nov 2009, RedBlueArmy92 wrote:
Exactly like that South Park episode, when ever i hear a Gooner wax lyrical about the style of play and how Wenger done it all with a tax credit voucher and a few Merlin premier league swapsies... i instantly think of Kyles Dad breathing in and savouring his own farts...
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lol Even I as a gooner admit it sometimes gets a bit much, but in all fairness it is mainly fromt he press.
Talking of vouchers, do they still make Luncheon Vouchers?
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392. At 11:34am on 13 Nov 2009, RedBlueArmy92 wrote:
i instantly think of Kyles Dad breathing in and savouring his own farts...
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Doesn't everyone?
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There would be a collective sigh of relief, Eggs.
They could do it at OT, Ferguson can do the same (he won't retire, just crawl on up), and you'd have 76,000 people watching quietly and politely, just like Roy Keane enjoys. ("Who are you calling a crazy quitter? Just because i've got mad, staring eyes, and a tendency to quit, doen't mean...right, i'm going to kill you...")
sorry, ad-lib me interviewing Roy Keane
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397... You do always enjoy your own flavour, thats a given!
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398. At 11:42am on 13 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
("Who are you calling a crazy quitter? Just because i've got mad, staring eyes, and a tendency to quit, doen't mean...right, i'm going to kill you...")
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LOL Different class mate, I can picture it now!
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While we're on South Park, remember the episode when Cartman wants to get Family Guy taken off air and he goes to the studios and manages to find out how it's made.
Anyone else think that the gossip columns maybe compilled in the same way? With the pool & the balls etc.
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Are you saying Robbo is a manitee?
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But to save time on the next blog why not give the header:
"Mancs Vs Scouse: You decide...."
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DECISION MADE - MANCS WIN
There you go - shortest blog in teh world.
Re Jacks point (somewhere in the 350's ) about Beckham - he offers more than free kicks. (at which Rooney has been poor this season probbaly because CR7 took them all for 4 years) his movement, accurate passing, crossing, ability to make space for himnself and others in addition to the fact that opposition players will still be worried by him being in th team make him invaluable whether as a starter or substitute in South Africa to the point where if someone said I could pick Beckham or Owen I would pick Beckham.
And of course GARY NEVILLE
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Whitely, really not sure that "his primary concern was to ensure he maintained his playing career for as long as possible" is true tbh. It was very clear and open that Scholes didn't like playing on the left, and then getting grief for not playing well. Likewise, Carragher was always complaining that he didn't get to play in the middle.
In both cases, unlike Young of course, it smacked of toys being thrown. But I think they were both right to walk. Scholes is as far removed from a left winger as you can reasonably get and never played there, whereas at least Carragher occasionally filled in there for club.
http://www.rediff.com/sports/2004/sep/26foot.htm
"When he announced his international retirement last month, Scholes said he planned to spend more time with his family and to prolong his club career.
However, he now concedes that negative press coverage may have had a part in his decision.
Scholes was often forced to play out of position in England's troublesome left wing berth and went three years without an international goal before scoring in his penultimate match, England's 4-2 group stage win over Croatia at Euro 2004.
Asked if criticism of his England displays had anything to do with his international retirement, he said: "Maybe it did, a tiny bit. Really it was a combination of things."
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C'mon Adam, i've learned to ignore the Gary Neville bit, but is this serious or another jibe?
...his movement...to make space for himself and others...
i agree about having him over Owen. if he isn't picked i'd take him as a coach, or ball-boy, if he'd be willing, because he's such a good influence. I just don't think he's able to do it on the pitch anymore.
Having said that, if Glen Johnson goes then Beckham will do a better job covering than Walcott, Lennon or SWP. Maybe it depends on Hargreaves, then. He would be the biggest miss if he doesn't make it, i reckon.
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Agree with Beckham, maybe not to start off with but he's still a player who can come on and make a difference. I'd leave either Lennon or SWP at home as too similar so only take one, and leave Downing tied to a block of concrete at the bottom of the Trent
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403. At 11:56am on 13 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
And of course GARY NEVILLE
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No can do I'm afraid adampsb. Neville's disappearing up his own chuff a week on Tuesday. Tickets still available you know.......
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#375 What i don't understand is this situation people talk about where the investors get bored and leave. Wouldn't thay have to sell up? Or do you just think they would let it wind down and go bankrupt?
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They just withdraw their personal funding, or sell it, but then call in the "loans" that they have made to teh club and forcing it to exist on its operating turnover only (matchday receipts, programme sales, food sales, sponsorship, TV cash etc) and as they would be deep in dept as typically have spent past their income they would go into administration and as the owners live abroad they would be pretty much untouchable.
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RE 401 and 402...
I think Robbo does compile his blog in a simialr way... I put a selection of classic Robbo Gems and football terms in a hat and picked the following "balls" at random... I came up with the following...
Ball 1: Rafa
Ball 2: Tony Thompson
Ball 3: Defence
"Any road, my mate TONY THOMPSON, reckons he'd get in to RAFAs squad ahead of Lucas, even though he's got a head shaped like a toblerone he thinks he's as lethal as a Steven Gerard self DEFENCE class"
The jig is up Robbo...
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Nice theory RBA.
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407. At 12:04pm on 13 Nov 2009, ScotchEggsRule wrote:
403. At 11:56am on 13 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
And of course GARY NEVILLE
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No can do I'm afraid adampsb. Neville's disappearing up his own chuff a week on Tuesday. Tickets still available you know.....
LOL!!!
he wont need a ticket - he's Gary's fluffer !!!
HAHA - that'd make a change, you usually take an almighty kicking !
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and that
HAHA - that'd make a change, you usually take an almighty kicking !
should have been in response to this
403. At 11:56am on 13 Nov 2009, adampsb wrote:
But to save time on the next blog why not give the header:
"Mancs Vs Scouse: You decide...."
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DECISION MADE - MANCS WIN
There you go - shortest blog in teh world.
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C'mon Adam, i've learned to ignore the Gary Neville bit, but is this serious or another jibe?
...his movement...to make space for himself and others...
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no serious he puts himself into positions where he can recive the ball, draws opponents towards him thus creating space for others to run into and then sticking the ball there just as they reach it.
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The only fluffer round here is RAFA's fluffer Mr Onion who has his nose so far up Rafa's butt sometimes benitez swallows a hankie so Onion can sneeze
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Scotch eggs said: "And you had the cheek to tell me earlier that personal opinions negated any facts that may be made in an argument."
That doesn't sound like the kind of thing i'd say at all. All of my facts (just like yours) are subject to selection because of my opinion. Doesn't necessarily change them from being fact though. For example, my opinion of Gerrard is that he is a world class player, who can - on his day - break an opponent with his tackling running and shooting. But that doesnt' change that he's no where near the passer that Beckham is. He has goals in him, unlike Beckham, but his deadball delivery, crossing and defence opening passing range doesn't compare.
Tim: "At the moment, the defense is struggling and the keeper needs replacing FACT"
Our normal first choice defence has been injured. In the meantime, Evans and Brown managed to hold off a free scoring Anelka and Drogba, only beaten by a foul goal. The only thing the keeper needs is support and game time.
We looked toothless last year too, and the year before - because we haven't played with a proper outright goalscorer. We had Ronaldo scoring, and he picked up slack, and this year Rooney is doing the same. But we do, at least, now have one in Owen, even if he can't play full 90s yet. We also have a young lad learning who is that future goalscorer, Macheda.
Most of football discussion is opinion - it's what shows the lie in the line that if you take referee decisions away from the game they'd be nothing to talk about. I can't accept that Carrick has the passing game to match Beckham though. He has the range of Gerrard - very similar in fact, but Beckham is more akin to Xavi with the combination of short and long passes, and movement.
Rooney is no free kick taker. Hargreaves is the only player in England to come close or probably match Beckham. But he can't deliver a good corner yet, nor cross the ball as well. Beckham does those three jobs as good as anyone in world football, while also having the confidence to accept (nay, demand) the ball, unlike any other England player when they wear the England shirt.
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Re 401/402/409
It wasn't so much Robbo I was referring to, it's the gossip columns, how they come up with sum of that guff is beyond me.
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409. At 12:06pm on 13 Nov 2009, RedBlueArmy92 wrote:
RE 401 and 402...
I think Robbo does compile his blog in a simialr way... I put a selection of classic Robbo Gems and football terms in a hat and picked the following "balls" at random... I came up with the following...
Ball 1: Rafa
Ball 2: Tony Thompson
Ball 3: Defence
"Any road, my mate TONY THOMPSON, reckons he'd get in to RAFAs squad ahead of Lucas, even though he's got a head shaped like a toblerone he thinks he's as lethal as a Steven Gerard self DEFENCE class"
The jig is up Robbo...
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Heh, heh. Nice theory, son. It's GIG, though. As in the Gig's Up. As in Ryan, as my mate Tony Thompson would say and in his defence he's usually funnier than a Rafa substitution.
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Fair enough, must admit i haven't seen him start against a quality team for a while.
I think that he could cover a lot of positions and player, but is the squad big enough to take him for just 15-20mins.
on the other hand, no other player seems to want to play down the right, so maybe...
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Fair dues then H2H, but the theory holds true for Robbo all the same...
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419, RBA, he agrees to, the gig is up.
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I'll let you have that one Robbo my old mucker... I want to meet you mate Tony though, if he is funnier than a Rafa sub, he must be a right old jiggle... i mean giggle.
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Tim: "At the moment, the defense is struggling and the keeper needs replacing FACT"
Our normal first choice defence has been injured. In the meantime, Evans and Brown managed to hold off a free scoring Anelka and Drogba, only beaten by a foul goal. The only thing the keeper needs is support and game time.
Rio has been shocking and vidic has fallen away too.
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Tim: "At the moment, the defense is struggling and the keeper needs replacing FACT"
Our normal first choice defence has been injured. In the meantime, Evans and Brown managed to hold off a free scoring Anelka and Drogba, only beaten by a foul goal. The only thing the keeper needs is support and game time.
We looked toothless last year too, and the year before - because we haven't played with a proper outright goalscorer. We had Ronaldo scoring, and he picked up slack, and this year Rooney is doing the same. But we do, at least, now have one in Owen, even if he can't play full 90s yet. We also have a young lad learning who is that future goalscorer, Macheda.
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I would actually agree with Tim the defence does look shaky at the moment and needs improving but I just think they need to foccus more as Brown & Evans did do a good job Sunday we need to see more consistency just as we did this time last season.. We have the same personnel they just need to play better
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Quick question, it is prenounced "jig" and not gig isn't it... other wise i am getting my 20's slang in a right old muddle.
Jig? Glad you pieced that one together for me Robbo...
It is slow in my office today i tell thee..
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I think maybe bringing in someone like Shawcross again may be good but he would need a guarantee of 1st team appearances and that is maybe a season away. I would definitely consider selling Rio next summer if a player like Jaap Stam (when he was younger) was available. Should really never have let Pique go to Barcelona because he has really shone there over the last season and a half
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415. At 12:13pm on 13 Nov 2009, GenesisRed wrote:
For example, my opinion of Gerrard is that he is a world class player, who can - on his day - break an opponent with his tackling running and shooting. But that doesnt' change that he's no where near the passer that Beckham is. He has goals in him, unlike Beckham, but his deadball delivery, crossing and defence opening passing range doesn't compare.
agree with all that except this "defence opening passing range doesn't compare" Gerrard's play with Torres over the past couple of years has been exceptional.
Oh and Carrick isn't a patch on Gerrard, Lampard's set piece delivery is excellent (if not quite Beckham's level) and Beckham has nowhere near the ability to control a game like Xavi.
I'd still find a place for him in the squad though but he'd only be a sub.
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Re Beckham going to South Africa:
Pro:experience,good squad member,offers extra options
Con:his wife
tough call would you say?
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Just read following that German keepers suicide that Buffon has also suffered with Depression.... Wha???
How can you get depressed by playing week in week out for one of Italys top 3 teams, be a national treasure and voted best Italian Goalie of all time (above Zoff!) and be married to one of footys nicest Wags. Oh and the small factor of about 100,000 euros deposited in his account on a weekly basis.
Maybe im wrong, and maybe he's not so different from the average jobless, toothless, simpleton sitting on the Jeremy Kyle show with 25p to his name, only on the show to find if the DNA shows he is in fact the dad to the three other contestant's children.
Its a hard life been a footballer.
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#428
maybe that's why Neville employs adam to *ahem* brighten his day ?
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415. At 12:13pm on 13 Nov 2009, GenesisRed wrote:
Scotch eggs said: "And you had the cheek to tell me earlier that personal opinions negated any facts that may be made in an argument."
That doesn't sound like the kind of thing i'd say at all. All of my facts (just like yours) are subject to selection because of my opinion. Doesn't necessarily change them from being fact though.
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to this
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159. At 5:29pm on 12 Nov 2009, GenesisRed wrote:
As far as clubs on the slide, and general opinions regarding subjects such as relative squad strength would tend to undermine pretty much everything you said.
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Savvy?
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Should really never have let Pique go to Barcelona because he has really shone there over the last season and a half
how did that happen? fergie's choice? seems very odd.
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RBA, it's definetly jig, Robbo was probably refering to gig as in job i.e the gig is up- I've been found out, no job anymore. (I think)
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428. At 12:28pm on 13 Nov 2009, Owls_Geezer wrote:
mate, not the point, and not really in very good taste
depression is often a motivating factor in the amount of work a sportman puts in (Wilkinson is very insecure and this leads to his obsessive practising, but has nothing to do with monetary success how hot your wife is
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Not in bad taste, the german keeper I'm not picking fault at, he had personal reasons about family life so I'm not commenting on that, for buffon it was purely football related, and although I regard him as the best keeper in the world I cant see how you can get depressed at that level. Just like musicians and film stars who claim to be depressed, its a little hard to believe in my opinion.
You mentioned Wilkinson, thats an obsession not really depression.
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Depression rarely has anything to do with personal circumstances. People can be more suseptable to depression than others. It's a serious debilitating illness that should be taken seriously. Not subjected to your small minded quips.
I doubt you'd use enke and buffon's example with such frovolity if they suffered from cancer would you??
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frivolity even!!
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316. At 00:28am on 13 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
320. At 00:34am on 13 Nov 2009, BojanglesOfOz wrote
362. At 10:24am on 13 Nov 2009, ScotchEggsRule wrote
Gentlemen, I think I've found a simular article to the one I'd read refering to the higher tax bracket in the U.K.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/5221803/Arsene-Wenger-New-tax-on-high-earners-will-drive-foreign-stars-away.html
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Depression is like a virus. You don't get immunity by being successful.
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Maybe Marcus Trescothick describes it best
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/tv_and_radio/inside_sport/8352396.stm
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On a lighter note, Red blue asked JDr about the Harriers. Please don't tell me that the notorious "anti robbo" hales from the mighty Kidderminster, as that's my neck of the woods and we've got enough problems here without having to share the same geographical location as our resident pantomime villian!!!
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Also,qiute interesting to compare the reaction within the cricket world to Tres to some of the comments on here.
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At 1:06pm on 13 Nov 2009, captainlazytim wrote:
Depression is like a virus. You don't get immunity by being successful.
well put skipper!
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Agree with Tim & Charlie on the depression thing. No laughing matter and succes and money have nothing to do with it.
I"ve heard it comes from some chemical inbalance or something along those lines. (I'm translating it from Dutch)
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"Savvy?"
Well, I understood, but i'm not sure you did. Which I can understand because it wasn't very clear.
"As far as clubs on the slide, and general opinions regarding subjects such as relative squad strength would tend to undermine pretty much everything you said."
Translation: generally, people would agree that the United squad is stronger than that of Liverpool. And considering that last year these two were the top two, the current state of play suggests Liverpool are more on the slide than United.
Savvy?
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it's partly down to the world footballers live in.
Cricketers are much more human, as they seem to live in a more real way.
We look at footballers, Buffon for example, and we think that he has everything we ever wanted. But we wanted happiness, and money is the tool. So we find it hard to think that he could have these things and be unhappy, because we think they will make us happy.
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Genesis, all that was aid was the fact that Liverpool (and many other teams) have seen a dip is nothing to do with Man U. From their POV the teams around them (chelsea and arsenal in particular) are not weaker than last year, so Man U are in trouble
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They would make me happy... but if you accept that it is chemicals in the brain (just like love, hate, happiness and tiredness) then you have to feel some sympathy.
But I can't help feel that a sense of perspective would help.
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H2H,
Yeah it can do, it's a complex condition, with a massive amount of sufferers. It still has quite a stigma attached to it, in this country at least. Even GP's often dismiss it.
Genesisred.
I'm an exceptionally proud Liverpool fan. mainly because it's my fathers heritage, but even i agree with you. My dad always subscribed to the theory we should be as gracious in defeat as in victory, which i happen to agree with. Love the banter, the rivalry it's part of the game and maybe if people approached it like you and i and most of us on this blog the world'd be a nicer place!!!
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Perspective is bit of a white elephant though don't you think. The human condition dictates that we take anything that happens to us as indivduals as relative. It's not often said but our problems, or problems that directly affect us, at times, become the most important thing to us. You could even call it a survival instinct.
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Hmm... I stand corrected, I just imagined any depression (other than personal family issues) is created by the famous themselves for getting bored from the limelight, but I agree I might have dropped a boob on this one.
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443. At 1:12pm on 13 Nov 2009, Holloway2Holland wrote:
Agree with Tim & Charlie on the depression thing. No laughing matter and succes and money have nothing to do with it.
I"ve heard it comes from some chemical inbalance or something along those lines. (I'm translating it from Dutch)
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Yeah, that's pretty much it H2H.
It's a terrible illness I wouldn't wish on anyone.
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Charlie, I wouldn't say that there was a stigma to depression over here, (NL) Yet it remains one of those illness' that remains difficult to detect, diagnose or even prove that the sufferer actually has.
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Takes a man to admit that owls. PLus Enke was a father, and most of you who is a dad will agree it's a pretty tough voaction (dad not goalkeeper) and we can all feel pretty overwhelmed by that, regardless of yor circumstances.
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My god i can't type today!!! (vocation) who is a dad?? what am i talkin about. who are dads!!! apologies for my slender grip on the english language i am from the midlands!!!!
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Owls - you obviously know nowt about depression - its like saying to a footy player with cancer "whats the matter" as he shouldnt have any probs as he is a footy player - der
Tommyonion - I dont think your link to the correspondence between the Irish FA and French got the recognition it deserves!!! Thanks for my best giggle today - or is it jiggle???? :-)
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Just to clear it up it was a pop at footballers in general, i know it stemmed from the Enke incident but just want to make it crystal it wasn't aimed at him, he had reasons I wouldn't wish on anyone.
And cheers, I admit when i'm wrong charlie, just tucking into a large humble pie as I type this.
anyway back to the Rafa and Fergie comments....
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So,back to other things(respect owls to you)John Terry may miss the Brazil game leaving the captaincy to Shreck.Hmm,who do Chelsea play next?
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H2H - are you a tax assessor. You seem to haave an unhealthy obsession with numbers. Mind you the amount of goals scored by Woolwich Arsenal thus season I can see why :-)
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Followingboro... did you read the one i posted after that? No obviously not, and whilst I may be wrong about depression (as I thought it was often self inflicted) I wouldn't compare it to cancer.
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#305 I think it'll be another 20 years or more before an African or Asian nation stands even a remote chance of winning a major international tournament
Ghana just won the last under-20 World Cup - a major international tournament by any standards I reckon. And that's a first for Africa. And Nigeria aren't doing badly in ongoing under-17s.
I also consider Ghana unlucky in last World Cup - where they matched Brazil throughout the match despite missing Essien through suspension.
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450. At 1:25pm on 13 Nov 2009, Owls_Geezer wrote:
Hmm... I stand corrected, .... but I agree I might have dropped a boob on this one.
Respec!! Mind you you did generate a very interesting thread and seems many on here a very enlightened. Respec to all!!
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i've personally always struggled with the notion that depression is an illness.
I can't deny it, it also triggers the same response when people talk about bulimia and anorexia as illnesses, and likewise obesity.
I'll presume that this will probably get modded after about 10 minutes, but I think its a state of society to blame problems on things out of our control. Like luck.
Doesn't necessarily make the personal experience of suffering any less real, but it is LITERALLY in the sufferers head. Unlike Cancer which is rather more literally substantial.
In a similar vein, stuttering or hiccups can be controlled by concious will to breath calmly, and breathing deep literally releases chemical into the body that calms it. For every chemical reaction the body is designed to be able to trigger an equal an opposite-effecting chemical reaction.
(discuss)
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Yeah Jacks, dropping like flies aren't they. Might be a bit cynical but i can't imagine most of the lay offs over the past few days wouldn't have happened if this was a crucial qualifier!
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Owls - think we havejust fallen out again - our posts crossed in the websphere
p.s. final comment as dont want to get too heavy - depression, just like cancer, is a killer.
Anyway, from medicine to footy. Being a Boro fan is not good for ones mental health. :-)
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458 FBH, Tax man, moi? Oooooo, that's below the belt, ha ha.
Naa, just following up on a discussion about how strong the PL would be without the foreign players.
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You do have a very good point, and i am assuming your not dismissing depression just not convinced by it. Which is a credible argument. But depression can be a chemical inbalance. So the chemical reation to counteract your depressive state is less or in some caes non existent.
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Fair enough boro, we'll blame the net, back to the footy
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would the England side be stronger without the foreign players? or would it all be cloggers hoofing the ball around?
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i think being a football fan in general isn't good for your mental health. Ask the majority of the fairer sex.... they'd certainly get on board with that notion!!!
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468. At 1:58pm on 13 Nov 2009, GenesisRed wrote:
would the England side be stronger without the foreign players?
I didnt think any foreign players played for England ... if only it was thus???
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"So the chemical reation to counteract your depressive state is less or in some caes non existent."
we are regularly on the receiving end of chemical imbalances from the womenfolk, and it is generally accepted that is the cause. I just wonder why the same get-on-with-it attitude doesn't prevail across all other chemical related afflictions.
Let me be clear, the likes of Young have my deepest sympathy. The likes of Buffon, however, don't as it isn't triggered by any external source or event, meaning its within them to sort it out.
(and let me be clear again, i'm not going to suggest women an just sort themselves out when they're 'on' because theirs seems to be more complicated... ).
*pulls parachute*
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469. At 2:01pm on 13 Nov 2009, charlie_9 wrote:
i think being a football fan in general isn't good for your mental health.
Hi Charlie - even the "big 4/5" - they only think they suffer !?!?! Lol
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468. At 1:58pm on 13 Nov 2009, GenesisRed wrote:
would the England side be stronger without the foreign players? or would it all be cloggers hoofing the ball around?
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It would be slower, apart from where SWP and Lennon and a few others are concerned, but better? not sure?. I think the capping system works, not sure what the rule is currently but the 3 overseas rule worked best I reckon.
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GR,1 in 4 people in this country will suffer with some form of mental illness.Obviously there are other illnesses such as Alzheimers that give noticeable symptoms,but imagine living with someone that has clinical depression.I've sat in a hospital waiting room while my wife had surgery to remove a cancer growth and it is an awful experience I wouldn't wish on anyone.Thankfully she's A1 because of the surgery.The support network in this country is stunning,as is the N.H.S despite what that moron Cameron has to say about it.Depression,as you say, is all in someone's mind but affects everyone and everything about them.There is no cure,no operation to remove it and it's still a subject people won't take seriously.I don't mean to sound harsh,or pompous,I just hope that the tragedy of Enke taking his own life will mean we can step out of the dark ages with regards to an horrific illness.
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Ha ha Following, we are the only ones that suffer lol.
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Genesis,
Yeah i agree with you to a degree. Dperession is can be cheapened by so called "sufferers" that typify the blame culture some people tend to wallow in. Bu there is a real core of people that are severely inflicted with it. Ironically the majority of people that do truly suffer from a dpressive illness won't come forward with there problems. So unfortunately, in extreme cases, sufferers turn to the only solution they think they are left with..... suicide.
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cor, it is well cheery on here this afternoon...
Is Laughter still the best medicine? If it is someone tell a joke...
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I see Rafa's been sacked...
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In the interests of keeping this football related........... Who do youthink is the next Man UTD boss. What affect will fergie hanging up his hair dryer have on the club? who would you like to see at the helm??
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I say Rafa... i hear he's looking for a job?
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479. At 2:20pm on 13 Nov 2009, charlie_9 wrote:
In the interests of keeping this football related........... Who do youthink is the next Man UTD boss. What affect will fergie hanging up his hair dryer have on the club? who would you like to see at the helm??
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Vidal Sassoon, he's pretty nifty with the old hair dryer
There you go RBA (478)
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Or Robbos mate Tony Thompson, with Robbo as number 2... The Blue Bell as sponsor, and half time Parmos...
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Redblue...........you rotten B******D i fell for that!!! ha ha
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479. At 2:20pm on 13 Nov 2009, charlie_9 wrote:
In the interests of keeping this football related........... Who do youthink is the next Man UTD boss. What affect will fergie hanging up his hair dryer have on the club? who would you like to see at the helm??
I reckon its young Fergie... just been freed by Posh, its been a set up all along!
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i was thinkin Ron Atkinson making a sensational return to the club!!! I'm sure every liverpool fan'd welcome the appointment!!!
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Who'd wanna follow SAF?
Sounds like a poison chalice to me.
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Mourinho or Bruce fo shizzle
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Nice blog here. Will have to follow it more often. But for now will have to check out. Cheers to those who make it happen, you too Robbo. C u soon
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I think Darren Ferguson could do a good job, anyone ever seen that movie Tommy Boy with Chris Farley?
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485, Charlie, as long as he don't get the job of stadium announcer you've got my blessing.
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I cant see him retiring anyway, he loves it there too much, I think he'll stay there until he gets sacked or dies, and cant see him getting sacked even if they slipped to 15th in league.
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489 I think they liked that movie so much that they made it twice, once they called it Tommy Boy and the other time Black Sheep.
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ROTW time RBA.
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Charlie - soory forgot you're allegiance is with red half of merseyside - it was your reference to Kidderminster (think I spent a week there one night) that put me off :-)
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Owls - Depression isn't an illness per se but a serious mental condition that preys upon feelings of self-worth and insecurities connected with that. Enke was depressed as ghis daughter died and I think they had been trying for a long time to have one.
Celebrities can get depressed as they are never certain if they are liked by those closest to them for who they are or simply because they are a meal ticket or because of who they provide proximity to.
It is no repecter of persons to coin the phrase as wealth & success comes with its own pressures to perform and if someone feels that they can't do so consistently it will eat away at their self-esteem.
Tommy - Gary Neville employs me to taunt Scousers - and it's a fun hobby. - Maybe Rafa and you can "brighten each others days" as you put it instead (although his wife might not be happy about it so you may have to settle for Dirk Kuyt)
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Who'd wanna follow SAF?
Sounds like a poison chalice to me.
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Could be as post busby managers had difficulty with him castinga shadow and all that but it doesn't have to be as Bob Paisley, Joe Fagan and Kenny Dalglish will tell you it is possible to maintain that success by building on what has gone before rather than being scared by it
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Charlei - you fell for RBA's Rafas been sacked - its the second time hes done it today!!!! Mind I think his timing was better on the re-run!!!
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Ha ha that'd be amazing. H2H.
I think mourinho'd get the nod though. Shame really. As much as i despise SAf you have to respect the way he gets his teams to play. Never liked mourinho's tactics. I know Chelsea'll say results first, but if your a football fan you want to see it played in the spirit it was intended. You don't see kids practising time wasting contacts. you see them practising 1 2's heads and volleys, keepy ups, dribblin all the stuff we tune in to see (unless you a boro fan, only jokin follower) every week!!!
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sounds like someone's got Fluffer Rage !
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My allegance was a curse inherited from my father unfortunatley, as was living in kidderminster come to think of it!!!!! He has a lot to answer for!!!!
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