tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6570315173692931722024-03-21T04:46:25.500-07:00The Linesman's ViewAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.comBlogger158125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-66433721106565986032014-06-17T15:24:00.000-07:002014-06-17T15:24:30.263-07:00Brazil's uninspiring draw leaves Big Phil plenty to think<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHnFCbQF9efHj1i11Ben7l6iw8N_pYmGQLjmASv0Y82tj-n3q3lqdgKkRNqnxw5fzZlGJJa1dt6zNqFjMujCgz0A0oGsh51xTKqWq3QYRjbpY0-Fj10ypCcPY5I1r_rMMTlIjr0_2KfmXY/s1600/download+(19).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHnFCbQF9efHj1i11Ben7l6iw8N_pYmGQLjmASv0Y82tj-n3q3lqdgKkRNqnxw5fzZlGJJa1dt6zNqFjMujCgz0A0oGsh51xTKqWq3QYRjbpY0-Fj10ypCcPY5I1r_rMMTlIjr0_2KfmXY/s1600/download+(19).jpg" /></a></div>
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Goalless draws have been an uncommon result in the World
Cup so far and one would not have expected the host Brazil would fail to score.
Although one single point ensures they top group A entering the last round of
group match, their lacklustre performance leaves the nation wonder whether
their dream of lifting the trophy in home soil is still realistic. </div>
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Mexico retained the team which played under pouring rain
five days ago. It was only a narrow victory but was more convincing than what
the host showed against Croatia in the opening day. With both teams knowing
each other quite well, a more cautious approach was adopted. Mexico looked in
particular nervous at the start, possibly wary of the threat of Brazil,
especially when they lost by two goals in Confederations Cup almost the same
day last year.<br />
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Nevertheless, Brazil allowed them to settle, and when they
have, Rafael Marquez, four-time captain of Mexico in World Cup, rightly coordinated
the defence with offside traps, which at time looked risky, but proved to be
effective against the immobile Fred. </div>
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The secret to break offside traps is penetrating runs from
midfield. Paulinho was being tasked with
this role but had largely been disappointing, similar to his debut season in
England. Ramires continued his failure to replicate the electric performance in
Chelsea and was substituted promptly after half time, with little surprise. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_ywtPyiX_IW1TXtc7kOtrMXGbHZbHA2VV2I1vm8QUbvTSgRhHU8W6Op9OrEZArjYFnf8P4Z7Xik-wZP4A6pSOssEQK8UHt39ycwYzAQLlOYZ7P2dkAyvBMk5ip1ZEiHMr9Xm_Ei0-MPU/s1600/images+(54).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_ywtPyiX_IW1TXtc7kOtrMXGbHZbHA2VV2I1vm8QUbvTSgRhHU8W6Op9OrEZArjYFnf8P4Z7Xik-wZP4A6pSOssEQK8UHt39ycwYzAQLlOYZ7P2dkAyvBMk5ip1ZEiHMr9Xm_Ei0-MPU/s1600/images+(54).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ochoa was simply faultless</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The absence of Hulk meant that both fullbacks were the sole
source of width in Brazil's attack, but Dani Alves was far from productive and
from time to time became a liability in offence. Brazil's best chance in the
first half came from a header from an unlikely source --- Neymar, but Guillermo
Ochoa picked up from where he left off to deny Neymar and more crucially, his
determination prevented Brazil from taking advantage of a poorly organised
offside trap that saw four Brazilians surrounding the goalkeeper following a
freekick. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz_ywtPyiX_IW1TXtc7kOtrMXGbHZbHA2VV2I1vm8QUbvTSgRhHU8W6Op9OrEZArjYFnf8P4Z7Xik-wZP4A6pSOssEQK8UHt39ycwYzAQLlOYZ7P2dkAyvBMk5ip1ZEiHMr9Xm_Ei0-MPU/s1600/images+(54).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a></div>
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On the other side, Mexico also could not get their key
threats going. Giovani Dos Santos was often outmuscled, so did Oribe Peralta.
Although David Luiz still occasionally went eccentric, Thiago Silva was as
solid as ever that Mexico could only threaten with long shots. Hector Herrera's
attempts had got Julio Cesar sweating and with time went on, confidence within
the Mexicans were growing fast. </div>
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The introduction of Jo all of a sudden brought Brazil some energy.
Neymar thought he broke the deadlock finally, but Ochoa was one again stood
between his left foot volley and the back of the net. Late in the game, Ochoa
made sure he bagged the man of the match award with a brilliant save to deny
the unmarked Thiago Silva.</div>
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It is true that you don't necessarily tune your team to be
on full gear from the first day of the four weeks tournament, but Brazil looked
worryingly relaxed, uninterested and unmotivated. Marcelo would have further disgusted
the supporters for not standing strong against a soft challenge and let go of a
wonderful opportunity late in the match. Even when Scolari were desperate for
more intensity to be displayed, they never delivered.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qW2B-mHu6wK34Hg1anAWE10suewh0c3QS_cZWftoNOl4A9R2FRPBNHemi5A1gr_VRb3u5ot8yIk6swty8P8de97AoXjg_c8105xK0PHA0t0_CRfNjo_aBNQ5LPhY20vdM_9aFLTwOgJZ/s1600/images+(53).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qW2B-mHu6wK34Hg1anAWE10suewh0c3QS_cZWftoNOl4A9R2FRPBNHemi5A1gr_VRb3u5ot8yIk6swty8P8de97AoXjg_c8105xK0PHA0t0_CRfNjo_aBNQ5LPhY20vdM_9aFLTwOgJZ/s1600/images+(53).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will he still get the call?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It is unlikely their journey stops at group stage. To
advance further, Scolari might have to re-evaluate his best eleven. With no
better option, Fred is still the no.9 but Jo might deserve more playing time.
Paulinho has so far been poor, prompting the questions why Fernandinho is still
yet to log his first minute of action. </div>
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Brazil also needs Oscar to be at his best. When Oscar
appears as a potent threat, he forces opponents to divert focus on Neymar and
thus brings more life to the attack. Oscar's form has dropped tremendously
since February. If Scolari is yet to determine who is his deputy, Willian
deserves to be auditioned in the final group game against Cameroon.</div>
<br />
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Brazil has started the tournament in a way that they could
only get better. Whether they can rediscover the form last summer is yet to be
seen. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-66733029410552846802014-06-14T07:17:00.000-07:002014-06-14T07:19:00.008-07:00Van Gaal led Oranje's revenge in style<div class="MsoNormal">
It's only the second day of the World Cup and surprises are
in no short supply. The Japanese referee's decision was surprising; the weather
deteriorated surprisingly quickly, and the encore of last final turned out to
be a surprisingly one-sided game. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8aO-MYsZJlNY0Y-PzlIHZZBhww8pq1RE6xZtF40ClFTRNQDHFRNzAvkchQupcwb43HA0MCCu8MIH3bVpqABy4NRJ7-AYWgH8EArVcNnC1bwHHESk5ZYqauIdCKMPRgkDBQvDIuoE5dooT/s1600/download+(18).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8aO-MYsZJlNY0Y-PzlIHZZBhww8pq1RE6xZtF40ClFTRNQDHFRNzAvkchQupcwb43HA0MCCu8MIH3bVpqABy4NRJ7-AYWgH8EArVcNnC1bwHHESk5ZYqauIdCKMPRgkDBQvDIuoE5dooT/s1600/download+(18).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flying Van Persie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The shock does not only originate from the final score, but
also how Louis Van Gaal constructed the victory which, on paper, is near to
impossible. None of the starting five defenders were featured in the 2010 World
Cup and only Ron Vlaar has major tournament experience. Their three goalkeepers
have a combined 27 caps, one-sixth of the caps Iker Casillas solely owns. </div>
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Who would have predicted that Netherlands would manage to
keep Spain in check, while the experienced Casillas endured an embarrassing
night?</div>
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Vincent Del Bosque wouldn't be complacent against Robin Van
Persie and Arjen Robben, but might have thought his side would have no trouble
to score against Netherlands. In truth, flaws were exposed among Oranje's three
centrebacks, with a true no.9 Diego Costa's presence open up space for David
Silva and Andres Iniesta to threaten the final third.</div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA9Pnz3oFEa-ZjlZu7DPqVqEgipJvFKhyphenhyphenhMQOcXU0az3L3QNBwf0Rt2i5h-Aqdz8YdceufYMb6Ag-fqK4fy_EJFHnGBl07QXfap66jm0zeVB8JuuspIaOoGlQNXOzqt0Lq2oEaE9ggV8Lc/s1600/Silva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA9Pnz3oFEa-ZjlZu7DPqVqEgipJvFKhyphenhyphenhMQOcXU0az3L3QNBwf0Rt2i5h-Aqdz8YdceufYMb6Ag-fqK4fy_EJFHnGBl07QXfap66jm0zeVB8JuuspIaOoGlQNXOzqt0Lq2oEaE9ggV8Lc/s1600/Silva.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silva's miss proved to be costly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If Van Persie and Robben are credited for driving the win
with some world class quality goals, young goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen also
played a key part in the comeback victory. His save had prevented Silva from
opening up a two-goal load in first half and kept Netherlands' hope alive. </div>
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<br /></div>
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But how did Netherlands fire five goals past Iker Casillas?
On one hand, La Roja had themselves to blame, fielding Casillas and Pique who
both finished the season on a low with dipping form. It might be a bit risky to
play Napoli duo Raul Albiol and Pepe Reina, but the risk all starts from Del
Bosque's unwillingness to experiment prior to the tournament. </div>
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On the other hand, Van Gaal had a gameplan and ordered his
players to execute it perfectly. Rather than attempting to better the midfield
of Spain, diagonal crosses were the main weapon Van Gaal used to unlock the
Spain defence. Although looking fruitless and unconvincing at the start,
Netherlands began to find the way and was only stopped by some well-timed
offside trap. The intelligence of Van Persie and Robben in timing their runs
was well-rewarded by accurate passes by Daley Blind, the highly-rated full back
which is monitored by Manchester United. There were still a lot to do to put
the ball behind Casillas, but the tactics to expose Spain's high line and the
enormous room between Pique and Sergio Ramos was the key to success.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHliWRcCKPPmH5LgkxGJoKu3RufjCGxsWFgBbM5LAWw1X4mqz7-a0cHz40hu5ZnUbzKspJto_5czL9oxnpzJwPESz0gOf4ktcW-aKG5cxSe7EEa3IPodha_p43zCn67s1VvncnoC5YpeVh/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHliWRcCKPPmH5LgkxGJoKu3RufjCGxsWFgBbM5LAWw1X4mqz7-a0cHz40hu5ZnUbzKspJto_5czL9oxnpzJwPESz0gOf4ktcW-aKG5cxSe7EEa3IPodha_p43zCn67s1VvncnoC5YpeVh/s1600/image.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">catch me if you can!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
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Daley Blind's exceptional performance meant Cesar Azpilicueta
had to focus on defence, which in turn limited the width of Spain's attack,
which is highly reliant on flying fullbacks. Fitness of Xavi and Xabi Alonso
under the extreme weather was also questionable, as Netherlands did not have to
work ultra hard to contain the playmakers, and Spain only got more sluggish as
time went on.</div>
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The idea of slotting Pedro in was correct, but a
controversial goal, also some poor marking, and Casillas' mistake killed off
Spain's hope. Del Bosque's refusal to limit the damage granted Robben the room
to humiliate Sergio Ramos and Casillas further. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW6VtFhaRaTkxV2PpPOKwqbCbvXd_dd1NJ43i4C-E69uIidtj5Aly0MAqUsziif5KsDf0rShmrmDqsbaKtNGezus5Jk6aeqoqazk657Hf0_ELqqMC7VnhHikIblv87inxxG0Y6p__hedm2/s1600/images+(52).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW6VtFhaRaTkxV2PpPOKwqbCbvXd_dd1NJ43i4C-E69uIidtj5Aly0MAqUsziif5KsDf0rShmrmDqsbaKtNGezus5Jk6aeqoqazk657Hf0_ELqqMC7VnhHikIblv87inxxG0Y6p__hedm2/s1600/images+(52).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How far can they go?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Compared to recent tournaments when Netherlands overloaded
themselves with attackers, Van Gaal builds the team around Sneijder, Robben and
Van Persie, and when the trio understands and enjoys their role, they deliver.
Van Gaal's squad selection, judged by players' form and functionality over fame,
is well justified so far. Their shortage of experience might be a disadvantage
in later stage of tournament, if they advance that far, but this Oranje is so
refreshing and promising, which not only reminds the Dutch the Golden Age of
Ajax football, also led by Van Gaal, but also sadden the supporters to see the
legendary manager leave the post in a month time. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-22016069929376528442014-06-11T13:23:00.000-07:002014-06-11T13:23:12.706-07:00A little less flair, a higher chance?<div class="MsoNormal">
Brazilian football is equivalent to extraordinary skills,
tricks, attacks and no boring football. It is appealing but does not always
translate to trophies, especially when facing the less impromptu and more
tactical teams in Europe. Being the host of the World Cup again after 64 years,
Brazil is keen to better the runner-up they achieved last time on home soil. </div>
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They have the perfect man to lead them. Luiz Felipe Scolari
has had a successful career at international level and brought Brazil the last
Jules Rimet Trophy in 2002. He is the man who knows how to bring the best out
of Brazil. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTBSxtIyqtVAiuw652DFVwKXoLg36mNKjDZRrBXUKw35ht0hvrJVKq5d2-mfCfu_rIs94hOhQ2e8i3zW58JyrcHnnz4yriAAUt_GkxKloOahmt25KZafopg8MAwPKqYJXHWngA5skSJJZ8/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTBSxtIyqtVAiuw652DFVwKXoLg36mNKjDZRrBXUKw35ht0hvrJVKq5d2-mfCfu_rIs94hOhQ2e8i3zW58JyrcHnnz4yriAAUt_GkxKloOahmt25KZafopg8MAwPKqYJXHWngA5skSJJZ8/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trophy, no problem?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They know the weather; they won the Confederation Cup last
year by crushing Spain. Nonetheless, Brazil is still not being regarded as the
absolute favourite of the tournament. One of the many reasons is the lack of
formidable strikers. Pele, Zico, Romario, Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho were
once the source of goals that Brazil can confidently rely on their attacking
football to conquer the world. This time, it is Fred and Jo to lead the front –
both plying their trade in Brazil after unsuccessful periods in Europe –, supported
by the talented Neymar who has yet to prove himself on the big stage following
a disappointing year at Barcelona. Despite his terrific national goalscoring
record, this is not a frightening frontline at all.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Can the midfield compensate for the shortage in creativity?
Not if Hulk is in the starting lineup again. He wins the heart of Scolari but
is not as brilliant as suggested by his price tag. His left foot is powerful
but overall his style is just too predictable (remember Adriano, anyone?). The
best source of flair should come from Oscar, although his drop of form late in
the season would worry Big Phil. In truth, Oscar has been restless since
Olympics 2012 representing both his country and club. This might give Oscar's
clubmate Willian a shot at the no. 10 position, who, under Mourinho's nurture,
has matured significantly in the last 12 months. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdax6MJ_6l_-7rhV-xi1owSXzToVrsQI1g6YiJWFCb18Ln4471OnSp9ziqfsDVNW1GtNAPtEqk-NQ2BW05IUvVvC7aQEnkKkQ8WPkxpnhXqVm8tiLSnzRXjkkeBJaiAwOS8WO4GOXMP_Zy/s1600/download+(17).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdax6MJ_6l_-7rhV-xi1owSXzToVrsQI1g6YiJWFCb18Ln4471OnSp9ziqfsDVNW1GtNAPtEqk-NQ2BW05IUvVvC7aQEnkKkQ8WPkxpnhXqVm8tiLSnzRXjkkeBJaiAwOS8WO4GOXMP_Zy/s1600/download+(17).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Chelsea duo will fight for a starting berth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The front does not look reassuring, so is the back. They
have got one of the best defenders in the world, Thiago Silva. Unfortunately,
defence is all about teamwork, which could be non-existent when your second
best centreback is David Luiz. He makes himself one of the most expensive defender
in the world, but he has only ever been a liability at Stamford Bridge. The
momentarily brilliance of his freekicks and long shots could not make up for
his carelessness and unawareness at defence. With Brazil have always been in favour
of playing advancing full backs, featuring La Liga rivals Marcelo and Dani
Alves this time, but with his roaming forward with freedom, David Luiz does not
give you the confidence of balancing attack and defence at the centreback
position as Lucio once displayed. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What Scolari has got, though, is a solid mix of central
midfields, which is comparable to the Gilberto Silva - Kleberson partnership in
2002. Having enjoyed a triumphant season with Manchester City, Fernandinho
emerges to be Scolari's prime option in midfield, despite not being selected in
the Confederation Cup last year. Another serious contender is Ramires, who was
also not in the squad last year having fallen out with Scolari for dropping out
of a friendly match against Russia earlier in the year. The two Premier League
players are both all-rounded and box-to-box which are essential to Brazil, who
often plays with an open and attacking game with flying fullbacks. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyuG5DUmuOwGM3nyNrjohvsQhFdOEpp88lvk8wK8BfmOoGKEjlT9f2jHZFOwVUXbUffEfkfn7L1YG-QID57xKo6A61vwHiuAPgpNDdoKC96xoXHODc1h1t9tLf9KsQn92TPPOZA4BPq2h/s1600/images+(51).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyuG5DUmuOwGM3nyNrjohvsQhFdOEpp88lvk8wK8BfmOoGKEjlT9f2jHZFOwVUXbUffEfkfn7L1YG-QID57xKo6A61vwHiuAPgpNDdoKC96xoXHODc1h1t9tLf9KsQn92TPPOZA4BPq2h/s1600/images+(51).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Limiting David Luiz's craziness could be the key to success</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The starting pair last June, Luiz Gustavo and Paulinho,
enriches Big Phil's options in the position, if he is in need of an anchorman
or a more advancing midfielder. Having had to settle in their new clubs, they
have both gone through an up-and-down season, but still have a part to play in
the national team. 29 years old Hernanes is also Scolari's man-to-turn-to if
tempo-controlling and possession-retaining is the key priority during the
match.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Decided against calling up Kaka, Ronaldinho, Lucas Moura or
Robinho, there is less flair and individualism in the team, but shows Scolari's
belief that unity and teamwork are the ingredients for World Cup success. Turning
this decent team to the best in global this summer will not be straightforward,
but could be the most important and notable achievement of Big Phil's managerial
career. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-8717362325165733432014-05-26T07:47:00.000-07:002014-05-26T07:47:14.279-07:00A dramatic All-Madrid Champions League final<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLalY5xfJggMyXSO9cltYECLNGjH8hJbfd5ptJaCybr6jzUnkrzxAPwWolb8ZA5zOwG_5x3EpkPnjF5DDHfIZizVgmHhQsbtBrQYZ57bhUUoLpLn5LddK3SFxJnDCrrk7ACgPbhA4lU1iL/s1600/images+(48).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLalY5xfJggMyXSO9cltYECLNGjH8hJbfd5ptJaCybr6jzUnkrzxAPwWolb8ZA5zOwG_5x3EpkPnjF5DDHfIZizVgmHhQsbtBrQYZ57bhUUoLpLn5LddK3SFxJnDCrrk7ACgPbhA4lU1iL/s1600/images+(48).jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So close to a grand finale to the fairy-tale season, Diego
Simeone's side buckled in the dying minute and witnessed the Los Bloncos never
looked back after Sergio Ramos' equaliser. The final scoreline may not truly
reflect the match. Real Madrid was unconvincing for most of the regular time,
but they kept their belief and persistence to finally overcome Atletico Madrid.
It is the result that matters. Carlo Ancelotti would have little complaints on
how his third personal Champions League trophy is achieved. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Simeone had made most of his decisions right. He managed to
silent the "BBC" trio and did not let his team expose much to Real
Madrid's speedy counter attack. Thibaut Courtois barely needed to glove in the
first half. On the other end, a routine cross following clearance from corner
caught Iker Casillas' hesitation. A rare mistake from the experienced goalkeeper
gifted Diego Godin second goal in last two matches, potentially both title
winner.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT8WNhyphenhyphenTnEmkL0LvqaBBhHl5Yl83EoB60Fte9iSe_yKz3RDrA7FV_lCx2HI-ZtZ4UC5WFUOafoPGgHdeTkQ42XcBi2I_tdRZoctsHDgsrsOGCfv45ToW3_D-qLYGh0Qn4sLNK3wmWUl1hP/s1600/images+(50).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT8WNhyphenhyphenTnEmkL0LvqaBBhHl5Yl83EoB60Fte9iSe_yKz3RDrA7FV_lCx2HI-ZtZ4UC5WFUOafoPGgHdeTkQ42XcBi2I_tdRZoctsHDgsrsOGCfv45ToW3_D-qLYGh0Qn4sLNK3wmWUl1hP/s1600/images+(50).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So close to celebration</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is just too much quality in Real Madrid that to beat
them, you have to be almost perfect for more than 90 minutes. Their two best
players had vanished among the spiritual defence. When Gareth Bale
uncharacteristically squandered two golden chances, somehow they still managed
to pull something out of the bag. Ramos' inch-perfect header and Angel Di
Maria's superb run in the extra time were pure quality and determination which
also defines how extraordinary Real Madrid is. Bale's header is no easy either,
with his body balance adjusted so well to meet Courtois' save.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Being no rookie to big occasion both as a player and
manager, also managed to get four points out of six in the two Madrid derbies
this season, no wonder Sergio Ramos declared themselves as the underdog against
Simeone's side. Nevertheless, the Argentine would be backfired with his
decision to risk playing Diego Costa, a sentimental but ultimately costly
decision. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zq0m3sxrRhTDzFghA1J91NHggX8hIgprMZtGGdmqiepfpIz0pQCsYqhM2A8VNI6HydWuNTOW3xvO2uybUIOC8YUPEhKNkXni1XPQALwVybkpJSMIwTUTrdSe-U5jOrzKwq7Ynh5JoHYA/s1600/images+(49).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zq0m3sxrRhTDzFghA1J91NHggX8hIgprMZtGGdmqiepfpIz0pQCsYqhM2A8VNI6HydWuNTOW3xvO2uybUIOC8YUPEhKNkXni1XPQALwVybkpJSMIwTUTrdSe-U5jOrzKwq7Ynh5JoHYA/s1600/images+(49).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A debatable decision to play Costa for merely 10 minutes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While Ancelotti also played an unfit Sami Khedira in the
starting lineup, Khedira is more of a role player and Real Madrid could afford
to have him being unconstructive to the offense. With no surprise, Khedira was
Ancelotti's primary target to go to when an more attacking approach was
required. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On contrast, Diego Costa is the scoring machine that Atletico
Madrid desperately needs him to be fully fit. Knowing that his fitness
condition is marginal, Simeone allowed Diego Costa ten minutes on the field
with no contribution with the price of one substitution. However insignificant
as it sounds, Felipe Luis' fatigue, Juanfran's cramp and Godin's inability to
race back in extra time how demanding physically to defend Real Madrid in
regular time. Extra pair of fresh legs would do no harm to Atletico. There was
no shocking face when Costa was taken off. This seemed to be an understood
decision among the squad, but certainly debatable if this was a wise one. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4I_yOrHu9tSGQ1NrhsuPFemI-sixRE8sNA4g2l6CeivKtlA5pfj5FC_YC2-ugCwehoZXGBJQf87zxC3uXzY-Sq77W3hR2vGJMbufzfPvPKWiFziVBsP1QuwQGDXhPRyPbcQ-oYCRZEl_s/s1600/download+(16).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4I_yOrHu9tSGQ1NrhsuPFemI-sixRE8sNA4g2l6CeivKtlA5pfj5FC_YC2-ugCwehoZXGBJQf87zxC3uXzY-Sq77W3hR2vGJMbufzfPvPKWiFziVBsP1QuwQGDXhPRyPbcQ-oYCRZEl_s/s1600/download+(16).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ancelotti celebrating his third Champions League trophy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: center;">Many key players in this epic final will be at their own
crossroads to their future. Diego Costa looks destined to move to London, while
Courtois may also return to Chelsea. Raul Garcia, Koke and Gabi will all be hot
targets in the market. Iker Casillas could be on the way out as his importance
at Madrid is fading. The future of Benzema and Morata are also questionable as
Ancelotti is keen to pursuit a top-class striker. Over a summer, it could be a
completely new look at Madrid, but this night will certainly go into the
history book as one of the most dramatic and memorable final ever. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-19288656631904311992014-05-24T02:48:00.000-07:002014-05-24T02:48:01.433-07:00The new era behind Louis Van Gaal<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiS9TUKPashnf1gEQW_9MAN076UzhkmynYUFfr_ib9szHydr3SNYPqwnqCaZ_Nv4OHr3UUZRcoPuacDBF4xOcYmT6q1j4qZDq-CTTyUhedaUQzKiDpG0JxqMXSaXwwv4YEUxZDLkrLz_WZ/s1600/images+(47).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiS9TUKPashnf1gEQW_9MAN076UzhkmynYUFfr_ib9szHydr3SNYPqwnqCaZ_Nv4OHr3UUZRcoPuacDBF4xOcYmT6q1j4qZDq-CTTyUhedaUQzKiDpG0JxqMXSaXwwv4YEUxZDLkrLz_WZ/s1600/images+(47).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Dutch partnership will be at Old Trafford next season</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, he has landed at Old Trafford. It might be twelve years late, but the Red Devils supporters do not mind. They simply can't wait for a new manager, a world class one with proven successful history.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At club level, Louis van
Gaal has already tasted success in the
Netherlands, Spain and
Germany with a CV full of major European titles. Apparently, the board recognises the United nowadays
may not afford a long term project but
rather need instant success. David Moyes is a decent manager, but has
yet to build his authority at a bigger club. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One order that United fans is hoping Van Gaal can restore to is Robin Van Persie's
invincibility. Being so pivotal in his debut season at Old Trafford, Van Persie
was slowed down by injuries (rumour
has it that the Dutch striker implied his injuries were down to the vigorous
training implemented by the Moyes) and also looked uninspired under in
the 13-14 season. Van Gaal's personal connection should help get the best out of the striker – the exquisite volley for example against
Ecuador. He has also demonstrated in the past how to best utilise his
attacking assets at his previous clubs.
The trio of Juan Mata, Wayne Rooney and Van Persie can be a formidable threat
and there are high hopes that they will shine behind van Gaal.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdsqkcJTi81mAc_eCDVAox2lcNxVWOLmvY4TC_kNWxjo9jrZ6j89fzFkn3ApMQfyjkcOHCiIEnhNm45Y-nZ6uS6Q53oI7nNkYPq-p4qjcrCUaLXukWXe4eRWjo7PAgCD5Po1_6q5ITJAI/s1600/evans-sociedad-twitter-oneloveto_mu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdsqkcJTi81mAc_eCDVAox2lcNxVWOLmvY4TC_kNWxjo9jrZ6j89fzFkn3ApMQfyjkcOHCiIEnhNm45Y-nZ6uS6Q53oI7nNkYPq-p4qjcrCUaLXukWXe4eRWjo7PAgCD5Po1_6q5ITJAI/s1600/evans-sociedad-twitter-oneloveto_mu.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Jones (left) and Evans has to fill the void left by Ferdinand and Vidic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nevertheless, the first agenda in his in-tray must be to
repair or more precisely revamp the
defence. Over 500 games of experience between Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic are gone. Johnny Evans, Chris
Smalling and Phil Jones have respectively showed glimpses of talents, though
still short of solidity, consistency and reliability (Roy Keane would agree). With David de Gea having settled,
Patrice Evra staying on for
another year and a break from European
football, it is the perfect circumstance for the three young centrebacks to
step up and show that they can live up to the expectation; though a disastrous pre-season form would convince
the authoritative manager to keep them out of the team (forever).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What van
Gaal can do to nurture them is to allow them settle in their preferred centreback position,
which means to put trust on Rafael and Maroune Fellaini. Rafael's development
has stalled as he has struggled
to find the balance between aggressiveness and recklessness, or he would end up like his twin brother –
signing off his United career with a reckless red card. His sophomore
blue saw Valencia and Smalling take up more duties at right back. Exclusion
from the Brazil World Cup squad is a wake-up call for the young full back and summer work will be essential in order to impress his new boss.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-XRg1gwI8t_7RdSDSLw5Qgu6b1hKJVQXMNnIenFicS8AoLYGADC8T-nCx70nbj0ANNTi5-B64vhyphenhyphenQKp0hhuF1zkG__kTm1kArC1kpy21sMwEcBsfa4uUH7RUhbOX397g3CEIc1qa7zuX1/s1600/download+(15).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-XRg1gwI8t_7RdSDSLw5Qgu6b1hKJVQXMNnIenFicS8AoLYGADC8T-nCx70nbj0ANNTi5-B64vhyphenhyphenQKp0hhuF1zkG__kTm1kArC1kpy21sMwEcBsfa4uUH7RUhbOX397g3CEIc1qa7zuX1/s1600/download+(15).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will any of Muller (left) or Kroos join?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: center;">Rumours are surfacing that Fellaini will be following his
former manager at the exit door. His below-par performance should not be blamed
solely on himself. His lack of mobility is no secret but had been well
complemented at Everton. Pairing him up with Carrick in a 4-4-2 setup was a
mistake that left United midfield short of pace and exposed to counter-attack.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXvRezezdB9G0e41uixczlSTBk9JTqlGkgDNGxakTnpunCCA5AxI5SmhbwpTtv6bazC91xrX4sog4bh3KKFEB9o2au4Vhb3PMCairkvvCUJAZUQOsi_AA4BzEm-MigAK2KgtIOitR4nz6/s1600/58-millions-d-euros-pour-fabregas-et-fellaini-a-mu_72519_w250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXvRezezdB9G0e41uixczlSTBk9JTqlGkgDNGxakTnpunCCA5AxI5SmhbwpTtv6bazC91xrX4sog4bh3KKFEB9o2au4Vhb3PMCairkvvCUJAZUQOsi_AA4BzEm-MigAK2KgtIOitR4nz6/s1600/58-millions-d-euros-pour-fabregas-et-fellaini-a-mu_72519_w250.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">same team next year?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fellaini is still a world-class player who could be a game-changer. His vision, comprehension and physical presence
is invaluable to Manchester United and
is sorely missed when the blue part of Manchester has Yaya Toure and
Fernandinho whereas the Reds only have Cleverley, Fletcher, and forgotten-man
Anderson. A box-to-box type or a more penetrating central midfielder
would be his ideal partner, in which
he can sit deeper as an anchorman to orchestrate the offence, similar to
Carrick's current role. While Toni
Kroos is not van Gaal's cup of
tea, and even if United could not rival Arsenal to sign Cesc Fabregas, the
current central midfielders – even Carrick given his age – would need miracles so stay in the Dutchman’s
plans.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are a lot to fix that even a manager as successful and experienced as van Gaal should not be expected to
steer it right straight away. However, securing the service of the Dutch is the
correct decision to re-inject the self-belief in the dressing room. Van Gaal
has also made his first key decision right by retaining Ryan Giggs, an iconic
and influential figure at Old Trafford
with an eye to succeed van Gaal after his three-year rebuilding. Can
United fans finally cheer in the post-Sir Alex era? We will wait and see. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-60632428897804202802014-05-16T12:36:00.003-07:002014-05-16T12:37:08.584-07:00Analysing the Three Lions<div class="MsoNormal">
A month to go and it's World Cup, the favourite time for
pundits to comment on the squad and predict the possible starting line-up. It
might be the satisfaction of getting it right that makes it fun. The truth is
you will never get it all correct. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Roy Hodgson has delivered what he promised --- no surprise
selection, but certainly some surprise omission. Who would have guessed Ashley
Cole is being left out? It is justifiable given Luke Shaw has had a tremendous
season. Also, if Hodgson is determined that Leighton Baines will be his no. 1
choice, bringing Luke Shaw to Brazil is certainly much more beneficial to
England's future. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxYsAoSPEVleUb3Q3ZFRAXJYkd0R29UTVj5UNgJysc8dfxhz4LHHoCoor-jPrRC4WNoUgKkJNlFEvlMu6lktLsp_UVr7sRazgO4ujLl51MEtzF62F79e3lWJPKGztYlT2PblIEtYhiWkb/s1600/images+(45).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxYsAoSPEVleUb3Q3ZFRAXJYkd0R29UTVj5UNgJysc8dfxhz4LHHoCoor-jPrRC4WNoUgKkJNlFEvlMu6lktLsp_UVr7sRazgO4ujLl51MEtzF62F79e3lWJPKGztYlT2PblIEtYhiWkb/s1600/images+(45).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Baines (left) and Barkley first major tournament</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hodgson has bravely named a lot more exciting youngsters in
this Three Lions squad compared to that of four years ago. Among those, Raheem
Sterling might have the best shot to start in Brazil. With Theo Walcott's
absence and Sterling himself finishing the season in strong fashion, the
attacking position on the right flank is up for him to grab. Ross Barkley is
another serious contender for start XI, although 23 years old Jordan Henderson
would be the natural option to partner club teammate Steven Gerrard to offer
Hodgson solidity in central midfield.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The squad has mostly been named based on form rather than
experience, perhaps apart from whether Gareth Barry deserves a place more than
Frank Lampard. Hodgson should also be praised for giving himself a handful of
tactical options by naming a group of wide diversity. Getting it right against
each opponent would be the next challenge. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first headache is how to accommodate Daniel Sturridge
and Wayne Rooney together. England needs Rooney to start, but is also desperate
for some constant presence in the box, which Rooney seldom offers when starting
up front alone. His ability of dropping deep in midfield, though, opens up the
opportunity for both to start. Nevertheless, goal-scoring could still be a
weakness of England, with Rooney's history of struggles in major tournament and
questionable finishing touch of Danny Welbeck, Sturridge and Sterling.
Sometimes, you only see one chance to score in the entire match and you just
could not afford to miss it in a World Cup group match. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While Jack Wilshere should lead the race to stand alongside
Gerrard, his fitness issue makes Henderson the favourite. However, it would not
be surprising to see all three starting against Italy. Adam Lallana can provide
the ever-missing no.10 creativity to England to threaten between lines of
defence. Ross Barkley and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will be the dynamic duo who
are more than able to shift the momentum within a match.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6hkwPWk52n8p91V_9j_amFYGg3RBQP2BmBF6VsjrpYiJtkCocSaHe2Wl4R0OsWDA0u3tNZBpwnegW-5X5_E2AQrWoTm25ojugaUa1D3CEx5e9dyXtiVjsnN4aNM9a17JIRsRr6fnX7j9/s1600/images+(46).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6hkwPWk52n8p91V_9j_amFYGg3RBQP2BmBF6VsjrpYiJtkCocSaHe2Wl4R0OsWDA0u3tNZBpwnegW-5X5_E2AQrWoTm25ojugaUa1D3CEx5e9dyXtiVjsnN4aNM9a17JIRsRr6fnX7j9/s1600/images+(46).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There gone the familiar faces --- Terry (left) and A.Cole</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, how the midfield mix shapes out could be hindered
by the loopholes at the back. There is no John Terry, Rio Ferdinand nor Ashley
Cole. There is no obvious leadership at the back. Gary Cahill has matured and
improved playing alongside Terry at some highest level of competition, but his
qualifying campaign partner Phil Jagielka has only just returned to fitness. As
Phil Jones also struggles with injury, the assurance at the heart of defence is
scarce.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To pinpoint the weakest link in England, unfortunately, is
again at the back. Glen Johnson is better known as an attacking full back, but
what England really needs is the Gary Neville type of right back ---
defence-driven and solid. Even they manage to escape from group stage,
undoubtedly this will be the area most easily exposed by the likes of Neymar,
Franck Ribery, Arjen Robben and Angel Di Maria. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKXKz2YxfUkRneBobsgDWeOBfOghtnQNcphLzLY3Pha6L4MTwyd7zG243lLeV9vVttWtCL_toIeA60svMEYcpDN3sUaVINRRfMKld06C2UcgMSccrGe5naEomkEhYebawwiSVdCyUwng4/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKXKz2YxfUkRneBobsgDWeOBfOghtnQNcphLzLY3Pha6L4MTwyd7zG243lLeV9vVttWtCL_toIeA60svMEYcpDN3sUaVINRRfMKld06C2UcgMSccrGe5naEomkEhYebawwiSVdCyUwng4/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Will the Liverpool formula work?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">Many urges England to
follow Liverpool's model to search for triumph in Brazil. They might well
should, as obviously their strength does not lie in defence in this group with
the absence of veterans and a typical defensive midfielder. With perhaps the
weakest team in their group, Costa Rica, lined up at the back of the fixture,
it is tempting to fall into the trap of playing safe against Italy and Uruguay.
Hodgson must resist the temptation and be determined to starting the tournament
in a positive fashion. This can not only settle the nerves of the younger
batch, but also inject the belief to the players that they could go all the
way. </span>Conservatism has already cost England too many tournaments.
A team well-known of suffering in penalty stage, England indeed has the edge to
kill off opponents in regular time.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-39169576296774996682014-04-26T15:05:00.000-07:002014-04-26T15:05:18.392-07:00Moyes is gone, is Sherwood the next?<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjteGB6nyFCxjIdLswDhq66hyphenhyphenyWi2ECV3ja89-YWYA3fWFdSl8fuPADCmVqvjLigPtIeAKOFem2mTt6LzVnB2uPRZIEbsSURN56-w1dngHHBTXD6NUyQ8rZ93zPv4EeBGvB74SGmVOsrsmE/s1600/Manchester-United-v-Tottenham-David-Moyes-Tim_3060189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjteGB6nyFCxjIdLswDhq66hyphenhyphenyWi2ECV3ja89-YWYA3fWFdSl8fuPADCmVqvjLigPtIeAKOFem2mTt6LzVnB2uPRZIEbsSURN56-w1dngHHBTXD6NUyQ8rZ93zPv4EeBGvB74SGmVOsrsmE/s1600/Manchester-United-v-Tottenham-David-Moyes-Tim_3060189.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So there goes David Moyes, finally. The fact that United
could not wait for another month to part way with the Chosen One shows the
intolerance of the Board towards Moyes' performance. Opinions are divided
between whether he deserves more time. One thing for certain is another man in
a similar situation seems destined to depart as well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tim Sherwood was picked to inherit Andre Villas-Boas late
last year. Although never being envisioned as the long-term solution, he was still
given a 18-month contract, having explicitly stated his desire to stay. The
deal appeared to pay off initially, with the backing of a revived Emmanuel
Adebayor. However, a horrid run of results against top teams have relegated
Tottenham back to the race for Europa and have unsettled the dressing room that
seems gone out of Sherwood's control. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are a number of similarities between the two managers.
Somehow, they have got the best out of their best strikers. Wayne Rooney has
chosen to stay, either because of his admiration towards Moyes or the payroll,
while Adebayor was rediscovered among the reserves and U18 squad. Regardless of
the reason that he was neglected, his 10 goals has fully repaid the faith of
Sherwood towards himself.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sherwood's affinity with young players have led to the
emergence of some promising talents amidst the turbulent season, which is
comparable to Moyes' introduction of Adnan Januzaj at Old Trafford. Having not
represented the senior team before this season, Nabil Bentaleb has quickly
become Sherwood's favourite, with his all-rounded mentality and techniques
anchoring him as one of the two central midfielders in Sherwood's 4-4-2 setup. Another
youngster Harry Kane also benefits from the departure of Jermain Defoe and sees
his confidence growing with more playing time, bagging his first ever Premier
League goal for Tottenham.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2Nvg6XSa1UpCTWspZyAdtnQwXyXvpG_0F7kysSF8vJRPa_tNasrEShb4O9v_hw8LDxQX28Yj7weIgPAjY_cymbf8Fa08HPQ2weqvvh8m1jWSTXHCHwWOwNemDpHJOIrO7w7pgfUAnhdI/s1600/article-2528358-1A40FA8200000578-619_634x417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2Nvg6XSa1UpCTWspZyAdtnQwXyXvpG_0F7kysSF8vJRPa_tNasrEShb4O9v_hw8LDxQX28Yj7weIgPAjY_cymbf8Fa08HPQ2weqvvh8m1jWSTXHCHwWOwNemDpHJOIrO7w7pgfUAnhdI/s1600/article-2528358-1A40FA8200000578-619_634x417.jpg" height="210" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Bentaleb's breakout season</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, the tactical
side of Sherwood has let Tottenham down. He restores the "old school"
4-4-2 formation, which at times enables Spurs to dominate weaker teams with
extra man in the box. On the other hand, it makes them vulnerable against
stronger sides with a man short in the midfield. Possession game is all modern
football is about, but Sherwood has yet to understand this. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Moyes could blame the lack of recruitment of midfielders.
For Sherwood, he purely fails to find the a pair that works. He favours
all-rounded midfielders thus often pairs up Dembele and Bentaleb. Sherwood still started Sandro at Stamford
Bridge hoping for some solidity. It didn't work well that sees Sandro being
relegated to the bench then, but Sherwood never realised fielding two unfit right
backs on the right flanks was the main reason why they were demolished. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
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</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: auto; padding: 6px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2LbncPvWFXfWF-vAOsBUnoKdLaACD0cdG54u8ISWnCkQQ9WLnOKeDGqaGjP6jLvY5gFTqMouhcuPuq6Uf7wubUZeFaChLMHzDp54GiPAJwWr0j2pJ6wuJJrGlLKCc4MipxoYYrMq_Co_/s1600/download+(14).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2LbncPvWFXfWF-vAOsBUnoKdLaACD0cdG54u8ISWnCkQQ9WLnOKeDGqaGjP6jLvY5gFTqMouhcuPuq6Uf7wubUZeFaChLMHzDp54GiPAJwWr0j2pJ6wuJJrGlLKCc4MipxoYYrMq_Co_/s1600/download+(14).jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Will he get one more chance?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sherwood resumed the partnership of the two left-footers,
although they are too similar in style, both prefers ball at feet and more
inclined to attack, leaving the defence well exposed. They got away behind
Christian Eriksen's brilliance at home against Southampton. A week later,
Sherwood even replaced Dembele with attacking playmaker Sigurdsson at Anfield. Was
it of any surprise when they got hammered? Not really. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tim Sherwood did not have a summer to shape his squad, nor
have the luxury to spend more in January. With Tottenham still manages at sixth
position, one could argue the former Spurs player deserves more time. The truth
is Daniel Levy does not have the patience to wait and Sherwood fails to prove
himself as the one to bring Champions League to White Hart Lane again. Two more
games to go and Tottenham looks ready to welcome another chief in charge. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-87299437263095257312014-04-08T15:16:00.001-07:002014-04-08T15:16:36.050-07:00Arsenal can still finish fourth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOKfZWKaKvuCpyNjZRuNdCTPf6gqOXBm15d_aoYgWPDQa3M3ShzIYXYcZO04vj1iYylMByCF7KC-JEkCDp4hr15WKMlpRmWmAZrx5o01wS2Hamu9s-jWhyWcDbHGhDEZqxixYjpfAyJJa/s1600/images+(44).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOKfZWKaKvuCpyNjZRuNdCTPf6gqOXBm15d_aoYgWPDQa3M3ShzIYXYcZO04vj1iYylMByCF7KC-JEkCDp4hr15WKMlpRmWmAZrx5o01wS2Hamu9s-jWhyWcDbHGhDEZqxixYjpfAyJJa/s1600/images+(44).jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When titles have become such a luxury, consecutive seasons
of Champions League qualification is the sole moment of glory for Arsene
Wenger. Nevertheless, another disastrous performance away from home put their
hope for top four, so as Wenger's prospect at the club, in serious doubt. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was their fourth defeat in their last five away games,
which they conceded fifteen goals and only scored two. It was also the sixth
out of last seven games that they failed to keep a clean sheet. Down this poor
stretch, their only victory was the narrow win at White Hart Lane. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The resilience in defence shown against Manchester City was
vanished. Everton's attack, fuelled by the speed of fullbacks Seamus Coleman,
Leighton Baines and winger Kevin Mirallas, has torn the Gunners' defence apart.
Although Thomas Vermaelen and Per Mertesacker remained relatively deep, Romelu
Lukaku is a beast who requires more attention than Edin Dzeko. While they
managed to keep the slower and more compact attack of Manchester City in check,
Everton beat them with width and pace. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With a game in hand, mathematically Roberto Martinez's side
has the advantage over Arsenal in the race for fourth. However, Gunners'
supporters still have solid reasons to believe it will be their 17th season in
a row to qualify for the Champions League. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbBbktjvyp-9Z1KqJV_LtUmXRymbfS5NQTt1lgWBIz-898cYJEL3-Ud_74sbno0W5ZuAUuvyVlkuWo5blHFNgzECZQX1ytnE0ROA8YaD4T6MNS1kcfggycUUEEbvxmecFFqzVKBD4S32e/s1600/article-2324546-19C78913000005DC-102_634x352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbBbktjvyp-9Z1KqJV_LtUmXRymbfS5NQTt1lgWBIz-898cYJEL3-Ud_74sbno0W5ZuAUuvyVlkuWo5blHFNgzECZQX1ytnE0ROA8YaD4T6MNS1kcfggycUUEEbvxmecFFqzVKBD4S32e/s1600/article-2324546-19C78913000005DC-102_634x352.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Both Walcott and Ramsey were out injured</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
February and March have traditionally been the nightmare
months for Arsenal, when injuries and fatigues are their biggest enemies. It is
the same old story this year. Three of their best players in 2013 could not
bring their forms into 2014. Aaron Ramsey went down in Boxing Day and suffered
couple of injury setbacks. Olivier Giroud was simply burnt out as Wenger is
short of options on the bench. Mehmet Ozil's impressive Premier League debut
gradually fades away amidst the congested fixtures and ultimately is sent to
the treatment room. What made the situation worse was Theo Walcott's lengthy
absence since early January. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, don't forget another Gunners' tradition though ---
they have the ability to finish the season on a high. The importance of
Champions League football is well-understood in the dressing room and Wenger can
inspire his side to recover from the poor run mid-season and hold off the
challenge, recently by Tottenham, to secure the fourth spot by one point in the
past two seasons. The remaining fixtures are as well quite favourable to
Arsenal, with the majority of games at home and against teams with limited
relegation threat.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the other hand, the two Manchester giants are yet to line
up at Goodison Park and the trips to Southampton and Sunderland are awaiting
for the Toffees. The risk of dropping points is apparently higher than Arsenal.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Arsenal is also a far more superior side against weaker
teams than top teams. The talent and creativity of their midfield enables them
to disjoint opponents backline with the free-flowing attack. Having been able
to dominate possession also eases pressure on their defence, who shows solidity
but occasionally looks fragile against speedy strikers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7wqWKEK3s70IUMAA945ukM4A_X6Jqay2UAr8rH28KXvc7T_e9yPbBVKnHt28t26ODquCHslMnnqKusEn6Q3wvakQQkU49oGMLEAHHo8gPz01kgpcfzfRPXwiKVYVAEN6-C-wgbWgctkBh/s1600/images+(43).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7wqWKEK3s70IUMAA945ukM4A_X6Jqay2UAr8rH28KXvc7T_e9yPbBVKnHt28t26ODquCHslMnnqKusEn6Q3wvakQQkU49oGMLEAHHo8gPz01kgpcfzfRPXwiKVYVAEN6-C-wgbWgctkBh/s1600/images+(43).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lukaku is the key to Everton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everton is at their best when playing counter-attack
football. No wonder their records against top teams have been remarkable. On
contrast, they sometimes struggle against teams who are determined to earn a
draw, in particular when playing away from home. Points have already been dropped
at Norwich, Cardiff, Crystal Palace, Stoke City and West Brom. Having Lukaku
back healthy is a huge boost, but not known as a natural-attacking team, bagging
three points could be a tougher task than imagined. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everything appears to be flowing in the opposite direction
for Arsenal at the moment. However, the talents and experience within the
squad, as well as the favourable schedule ahead, they still have a good chance
to come on top of Everton to grab the remaining Champions League spot. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-64728816577242159672014-04-02T14:11:00.003-07:002014-04-02T14:11:37.291-07:00Munich got the upperhand with a draw at Old Trafford<div class="MsoNormal">
It is not too bad a result for David Moyes, considering the
superiority of Pep Guardiola's side this season. The away goal, though, puts
them in the position having to hunt for a goal at the Allianz Arena next week. A couple of points worth noting from
the first leg:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjFDWMn2DfA7Oy0PfVO9-pSmuupxm9HvGDbFTgJ5YKory7R5YYiblGbA_aoyJXUlKr9LFy-nxbW6-qxe8i-PXAWSy16RHnoO594BOpY8DSmhE8xNRWMhjJ_9_XPLTzGww2Uj2JRihLeWv/s1600/images+(41).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjFDWMn2DfA7Oy0PfVO9-pSmuupxm9HvGDbFTgJ5YKory7R5YYiblGbA_aoyJXUlKr9LFy-nxbW6-qxe8i-PXAWSy16RHnoO594BOpY8DSmhE8xNRWMhjJ_9_XPLTzGww2Uj2JRihLeWv/s1600/images+(41).jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>(a) Welbeck's
shyness in front of goal<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His movement was so delightful, yet his finishing was so
awful. After half an hour of tough defensive work, Danny Welbeck ruined a
golden chance to give his team a significant morale boost. Captain Nemanja
Vidic ultimately netted a well-deserved goal, but doubts remain with Welbeck
who shows glimpse of talents but have also been consistently wasteful in front
of goals. In the highest level of football, there is little margin for missed
opportunities. This is also the
key how Welbeck is differentiated from world class strikers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While Manchester United pray his miss will not come back to
haunt them, Moyes' continuous isolation
of Javier Hernandez is growingly hard to justify. The Mexican's clinical
finishing touch has been invaluable to United and makes him too good as a
fourth-choice striker. Giving him this bit-part role only keeps him unsettled
and unfit that does no benefit to Moyes at all. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93q1qeYmNSZThuOcPJn1f5HJvz3b6mm-LQ2P7laASU0BPCaLLQlsyOVFXMMGnaDHQZwVYgsOohebelAC8NGxFXlMN0H8Y63HaAGVpQyw1X6QFNOjKGFqoVLVdex8SNCk2LJXnb0FgyucH/s1600/images+(42).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93q1qeYmNSZThuOcPJn1f5HJvz3b6mm-LQ2P7laASU0BPCaLLQlsyOVFXMMGnaDHQZwVYgsOohebelAC8NGxFXlMN0H8Y63HaAGVpQyw1X6QFNOjKGFqoVLVdex8SNCk2LJXnb0FgyucH/s1600/images+(42).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The way to stop Schweinsteiger --- suspension</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>(b) Pep's
suspension worries </u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the talking points of the night would surely be
Bastian Schweinsteiger's red card. Obviously, Wayne Rooney tried his best to
make the most out of a routine challenge, a minute after fierce complaint to the referee for an unawarded
foul, and only shortly after Antonio Valencia reckless tackle. Schweinsteiger was unlucky to be sent off, although
he should be more careful after being booked, considering his significance to
the team. With Thiago Alcantara out due to injury and Javi Martinez also being suspended following a cynical foul
on Chicharito, Guardiola might be forced to field a more attacking midfield
trio, featuring both Kroos and Gotze, and supported by Philipp Lahm. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The last time they played a similar formation in European
was against Manchester City, which they lost after leading by 2-0. Bayern doesn't
play important games without captain Schweinsteiger often. There will surely be
loopholes and it will be up to Moyes to exploit them. One positive note for Pep
would be Dante's return from suspension, such that he could still field a
reliable back four. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>(c) Moyes is more
comfortable to defend<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it was quite clear that United, as an underdog entering
the match, needed to defend, there was neither confusion nor mysterious
selections in Moyes' game plan.
The experienced pair Rio Ferdinand and Vidic was accompanied by Phil Jones and
Alex Buttner who had orders to
be less adventurous. Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini were also allowed to
drop so deep to contain Toni Kroos in between the lines, with the willingness
of the attacking trio to track back. Eventually, Bayern could only threaten the
Red Devils with crosses, which gave little problems to Ferdinand and Vidic, who
are still relatively comfortable in aerial battles, especially against Thomas Muller.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxzn13i4APJtOvKEz6KW4ag-hSFEv_cLvYv431IHWzRrCjq6I-ehyvUMg9Lqise0i9koXeS0asIZDy1I47upTjGJ7S3WE02r7Ahu_VUFj5ZcTx_25aFiMSt1ys_IBlehMGPBtjmRe-oIn/s1600/download+(13).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxzn13i4APJtOvKEz6KW4ag-hSFEv_cLvYv431IHWzRrCjq6I-ehyvUMg9Lqise0i9koXeS0asIZDy1I47upTjGJ7S3WE02r7Ahu_VUFj5ZcTx_25aFiMSt1ys_IBlehMGPBtjmRe-oIn/s1600/download+(13).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vidic's aerobic header</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nevertheless, only one moment of lapse in Rio's
concentration gifted substitute Mario Mandzukic the chance to set up the
equaliser. Rio's fitness remains a concern whether he could sustain a high
level of performance even for just 90 minutes. After all, Moyes might still go
with his experience when playing at Germany next week, especially with Rafael,
Johnny Evans and Chris Smalling far from fully fit. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Buttner was also forced off due to injury, but United will
have Patrice Evra returning from suspension. Anyhow, the Netherland's left back
deserved a huge credit for keeping his companion Robben quiet for most of the
night and could be the unsung hero if Manchester United manages to go through
to the last four.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-67944428373809142392014-03-27T16:03:00.003-07:002014-04-03T14:29:08.659-07:00Flops of England Referees<div class="MsoNormal">
In the last 50 years, the men 100m world record has
quickened by 0.5 seconds. Improved medical treatment and physiology helps
athletes to be stronger and faster. Officials are expected to catch-up with the
increased pace of the games. When the limit of human beings is being pushed to
the boundary, technology is being called upon. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Various sports have already sought the assistance of
technology. American sports have reasonable tolerance for in-game delays to
allow for review systems. Even fast-flowing sports like tennis adapts Eagle-eye
system and grant players opportunities to challenge questionable calls by
umpire. Meanwhile, football has only begun to bring in goal-line technology to
reduce controversy in close calls for goals, or even "ghost" goals. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_wjwJP_qqc2ajHO54e5BFbElev9Rz6fVbp5ceZULpza3Q5fPqpXbAln1SvMxlqQRHs2b75AgKABfSvh41kb02wETOEr-I5Sv1tFBWDP7tAZUHtpJJS2E7v0IJQW-_IAvETl1M9VxMC57/s1600/Andre-Marriner_2681549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_wjwJP_qqc2ajHO54e5BFbElev9Rz6fVbp5ceZULpza3Q5fPqpXbAln1SvMxlqQRHs2b75AgKABfSvh41kb02wETOEr-I5Sv1tFBWDP7tAZUHtpJJS2E7v0IJQW-_IAvETl1M9VxMC57/s1600/Andre-Marriner_2681549.jpg" height="169" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr Mariner has been having a tough week</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After all, as Mr Blatter insists, officiating is driven by
human beings. Video replays still have to be reviewed by the referees. Also,
there is certain scope of judgement still determined by referees rather than
computers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Officials in Premier League have been under the limelight
lately. Unarguably one of the toughest leagues to officiate, the standard of
the referees, though, are dipping worryingly. You can see referees giving out
penalty although being 50 yards from the action, but also not giving one being
obviously within eyesight distance. You can witness a red card being issued
after two minutes of self-thinking. There seems to be no standard code of
practice for officials, leading to inconsistency in judging level of punishment
for cynical fouls and handling chaotic situation in games. Ultimately, players
take advantage by trying to make the most out of the varying personal
characters of referees.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you look at Italy and Spain, the consistency of the
standard of referees is outstanding. They may still make the wrong calls,
remembering that they are not robots. However, the communication and
understanding among the officials are excellent. They excel in establishing
authority and controlling players' temper. They have clear criteria for
physical contacts and more importantly, stone-hearted that they are not moved
by the crowds or tempered players easily. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vW-AeOdlKDalqyMu4-5e4m6sBNl9mQcKh-cbpAyuGsmd53RaoEVlu94x8Gv0TYHFPOLamZ8Ro-lJ6XzdUw57X8gqLvwDOST7cRXfTJcKtHNbzEnumKv6Q1W1iDA6H7Got-HtkQjDPi4Z/s1600/Chris-Foy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vW-AeOdlKDalqyMu4-5e4m6sBNl9mQcKh-cbpAyuGsmd53RaoEVlu94x8Gv0TYHFPOLamZ8Ro-lJ6XzdUw57X8gqLvwDOST7cRXfTJcKtHNbzEnumKv6Q1W1iDA6H7Got-HtkQjDPi4Z/s1600/Chris-Foy.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris Foy denied a conversation with Mourinho</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is understandable that referees make mistakes. With more
cameras in the field, matches being broadcasted all over the world and local
media also imposing pressure , modern officials are having tough time. Take
Alberto Mallenco, or better known as the referee for El Clasico, as an example.
Having got most of the calls right and done a relatively decent job to keep the
intense derby flowing, he was widely criticised by Real Madrid for not having
the fear-looking face as Pierlugi Collina and more importantly, wrongly sent
off Sergio Ramos and awarding the penalty. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fairly speaking, Neymar was sneaky to earn the foul.
Mallenco could have granted Ramos the benefit of doubt. At least, he was
logically correct to give the marching order after his determined penalty
decision. Madrid had also benefited from Mallenco's excellence in spotting Dani
Alves' clipping Ronaldo and earned a penalty, though the foul was marginally
outside the box. Majority of the referees may not award the unobvious foul.
Ancelotti's side should also count themselves lucky not down to ten men before
half time, if Pepe's head-butting was appropriately penalised. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSUy1cFKD0t9Yprgl9O_11OMippPHwTfNjj6WjxySvpPKZCu0mGNd9093vVYqZjhmuhP095xKYnsGbz6rUgnhlwRgZ-t1CR5RD7OHkHejEsZV3tkaPncfaGjzMgT1y-67Xwasdd9gXuuS6/s1600/Howard-Webb-005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSUy1cFKD0t9Yprgl9O_11OMippPHwTfNjj6WjxySvpPKZCu0mGNd9093vVYqZjhmuhP095xKYnsGbz6rUgnhlwRgZ-t1CR5RD7OHkHejEsZV3tkaPncfaGjzMgT1y-67Xwasdd9gXuuS6/s1600/Howard-Webb-005.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howard Webb --- most respectable referee in England now</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Premier League adopted a system to conduct post-match
officiating correction. The effectiveness of it is in doubt. If Andre Marriner
failed to identify Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to be the ball-handler, should
Chamberlain be banned while Kieran Gibbs' suspension is lifted? While Alan
Pardew was given a seven match-ban for head-butting David Meyler, Joe Hart was
only being booked for the same vigorous reaction towards Chris Boyd, with the
latter being banned for three matches, having been seen spitting towards Joe
Hart in the post-match review. Although the logic that incidents being dealt
with within the match will not be overruled in order to maintain the
creditability of referees is valid, to some extent it is contradicting, unless
red card appeals are also forbidden.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mr. Blatter is not wrong after all. Officiating is a human
being's job. We have already seen how crucial one single referee's decision can
impact the outcome of a match, ultimately the title of a league. While FIFA has
little intention to introduce more technology into football in the near future,
England needs to improve the standard of referees, as well as reviewing the
system to prevent it from faltering. Officials should drive the standard of the
league forward, but not dragging it from developing further. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-53008380815595823692014-03-20T11:28:00.001-07:002014-03-20T11:29:25.101-07:00Some room to breathe, but still long way to go<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a1dA2PhJ2tuP2WZb0agN0Gp-0tNOozwWbWnTYUST-Fen4xSHvH2CQmSGcJPtNIMFcFYsUr09JNLZPSAIeqKcEtZN2hCC8ucpr402xTHrDlck2LzBPHWacl1cZI4BSRhKCyCkPCH5joFi/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_a1dA2PhJ2tuP2WZb0agN0Gp-0tNOozwWbWnTYUST-Fen4xSHvH2CQmSGcJPtNIMFcFYsUr09JNLZPSAIeqKcEtZN2hCC8ucpr402xTHrDlck2LzBPHWacl1cZI4BSRhKCyCkPCH5joFi/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To revert the humiliating scoreline at home on Sunday and
advance to the last eight of Champions League is exactly the pain relief that
David Moyes desperately needs. Another loss would almost mean the exit door is
open for the "Chosen One". It
has been long since there was something supporters can cheer at Old Trafford.
They will make the most out of it before the tough league fixtures in the week
ahead. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Ryan the Saviour<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the scoresheet, it was Robin Van Persie who duly
delivered the victory for the Red Devils. In truth, Ryan Giggs was deservedly
the man of the match. The legs are well gone, but not the wisdom. Being
economical with his touch, he kept United's attack flowing and was often the
provider of threatening passes. His pinpointed diagonal overhead passes that
led to the first two goals had said it all. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifAZZwqX17BEcMBhA5NhSPd_G0EhhFheTqFraiPjEX05fR2PFWDLxBxClyKyyTPwBkTs02pnfqRf_BEgkPwqCnWm9xYDK2OvfJVgVHQR-qKVjTVRi1LOFJ5AZBXCfDPawLKi37PfBPQcI1/s1600/hi-res-4e8dbf6d04957210c863e3626d3a832c_crop_north.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifAZZwqX17BEcMBhA5NhSPd_G0EhhFheTqFraiPjEX05fR2PFWDLxBxClyKyyTPwBkTs02pnfqRf_BEgkPwqCnWm9xYDK2OvfJVgVHQR-qKVjTVRi1LOFJ5AZBXCfDPawLKi37PfBPQcI1/s1600/hi-res-4e8dbf6d04957210c863e3626d3a832c_crop_north.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giggs turned back the clock on Wednesday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At 40 years old, Giggs took advantage of the slower pace of
the European football and has been far more productive in continental
competitions. Being by far the best player on Wednesday evening, on one hand
David Moyes cherishes the presence of the veteran, on the other hand fans would
wonder who could they turn to in the more physical Premier League.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Can they go all
the way?<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Despite coming back from two goals down to win the tie,
Manchester United was yet to show their invincibility. Being 3-0 up, Moyes
again decided to opt for a conservative approach, rather than attempting to
seal the deal. A more friendly deflection for Dominguez's freekick or if not of
David De Gea's superb double saves, United would have been eliminated on away
goal, let alone Olympiakos had been wasteful for the whole night. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whether it was Moyes' tactics or the team chemistry not
working well, in simple terms they appear to be the weakest among the last
eight in the competition. While Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid are
obviously more superior, individual flair of PSG and the pace of Dortmund could
easily tear them apart. They might have a shot at Chelsea but Jose Mourinho's
European experience gives Chelsea the edge. Atletico Madrid is distracted by
local title race, but quality of Diego Costa, as well as the characters shown
by the whole team under Diego Simeone has been sensational so far. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgTlQLZz2VLnOlPFCTt0eaG63MEYeep4Tx4n9DrlaKmO-tkI3wWyUakzlIwYDe_vu0T0Egq9D7FHJ3NiR6E1r51mniOztlRYYepqO-S-5SXJzDw1XzF_hNSgsERnqldsoidZO-3CWBrBT/s1600/images+(40).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgTlQLZz2VLnOlPFCTt0eaG63MEYeep4Tx4n9DrlaKmO-tkI3wWyUakzlIwYDe_vu0T0Egq9D7FHJ3NiR6E1r51mniOztlRYYepqO-S-5SXJzDw1XzF_hNSgsERnqldsoidZO-3CWBrBT/s1600/images+(40).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe slightly over-optimistic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Weaker teams usually ride on strong spirit to spring a
surprise. Nevertheless, inconsistency has often halted United's momentum and
fails them to enjoy a long spell of victory throughout the season. The dream to
qualify for next season Champions League by crowning the current campaign
sounds more unrealistic than it used to be, when Sir Alex was still on the
bench. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Europa maybe?<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is almost impossible to think about finishing in top four
now, being 14 points away from Arsenal and Liverpool. A Europa berth at least
limits the damage done this season. Manchester
City's League Cup title means the Europa place is extended to the sixth
position, somewhere United would not have imagined they would finish at, not
even outside. At the moment, they are three points behind Everton, who sits at
sixth place with a game in hand, and are further five points away from
Tottenham, a team who has a far more turbulent season than United does.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwbDLKAf11gkuD_xPV0HYJ9paCkpcOi2476yDxWx0RfSTlWx1hTqcobNZNkbPouXTazGtSwxXSyZBUtyadm_lvIvFKyqUZ-AkRALhxzl-AqI0tLCVTMbS5TuNSjF1YvpmWiZZPVCZOC2c/s1600/download+(12).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwbDLKAf11gkuD_xPV0HYJ9paCkpcOi2476yDxWx0RfSTlWx1hTqcobNZNkbPouXTazGtSwxXSyZBUtyadm_lvIvFKyqUZ-AkRALhxzl-AqI0tLCVTMbS5TuNSjF1YvpmWiZZPVCZOC2c/s1600/download+(12).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mata: Lost</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Moyes still struggles to find his best Eleven in Premier
League. He could not get his new recruits going. Placing Juan Mata on the right
is a strange move that never gets the best out of the Spanish, whereas
Fellaini's mobility is well-exposed. Together with the aging defenders, this
team is nowhere near promising. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Among the three in
the race for Europa, Manchester United faces the toughest fixtures, having yet
to be played Manchester City, Newcastle and Everton, with the latter two games
away from home. The squad have the winning mentality to inspire a strong run to
end the season, but from now they must treat every single match as an
elimination tie. Victory in the derby next Wednesday could be the perfect
catalyst. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-568671960372340532014-03-07T13:45:00.001-08:002014-03-07T13:46:10.873-08:00Can Milan take some positives from this season?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-CYQRxhnZemeahvNsc45KFRN8uOXuClwETsOZ-VwDydB9MJV_VFlIh9i8K7kEOV72p-0tg685KCu0EKVpBV96vQIlAmJMhN_-g4u3QTxZBW6o4dZHxZwm1Ckp1f8hIVbU3A1lJXSWNH8c/s1600/images+(38).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-CYQRxhnZemeahvNsc45KFRN8uOXuClwETsOZ-VwDydB9MJV_VFlIh9i8K7kEOV72p-0tg685KCu0EKVpBV96vQIlAmJMhN_-g4u3QTxZBW6o4dZHxZwm1Ckp1f8hIVbU3A1lJXSWNH8c/s1600/images+(38).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Those were the days</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recent success at San Siro has been painted in blue more
often than red. Inter Milan notched up five straight Serie A titles since the
infamous match-fixing scandal. AC Milan managed to bag one before Juventus
recovered fully from the scandal to dominate Serie A again. During this period,
Milan parted away with Carlo Anchelotti, the coach who brought them European
triumph twice, and also transited from veteran-based squad to more youth-based.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although Massimiliano Allegri was still able to engineer a
league title during the transition, the board has finally exhausted their
patience in this turbulent season and decided to offer club legend Clarence
Seedorf his first club to manage. A complete turnaround is close to impossible
as they are still six points away from Europa football and ten from Champions
League, but could Seedorf and Milan supporters take some positives out of this
campaign and hope for a better future?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>The future pillars
are growing</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5qbwmiOpiblH5fmvWxqV5Jt3YIR_RzA73zjGl8K6gbhqvPdVii6SwZvGgYIUwZ1z0WdpoGObI1I_73V6dv5g103g_wqyd8_5m4Q74SgOMHOV5VuI3-WRkNbvCsMm1OtwELMVxtKvdyDQ/s1600/images+(36).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5qbwmiOpiblH5fmvWxqV5Jt3YIR_RzA73zjGl8K6gbhqvPdVii6SwZvGgYIUwZ1z0WdpoGObI1I_73V6dv5g103g_wqyd8_5m4Q74SgOMHOV5VuI3-WRkNbvCsMm1OtwELMVxtKvdyDQ/s1600/images+(36).jpg" /></a>Undoubtedly Mattia De Sciglio is the most exciting prospect of
Milan in recent years. A solid fullback with good sense of positioning and
strong with both feet, De Sciglio also shows glimpse of brilliance on the
attacking end, gradually drawing comparison to the legendary Paolo Maldini. Conquering
injury and the pressure of expectation will lead him to become another star at
San Siro.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another bright points are the two midfield youngster Riccardo
Saponara and Bryan Cristante. Their playing opportunity is still relatively
limited but has already showed some refreshing sign in their brief appearance.
Compared to Cristante, the highly-rated Saponara will face even stiffer
competition at attacking midfielder position, but also offer Seedorf the option
to field three playmakers to support Mario Balotelli.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don't forget new recruit Keisuke Honda. He is still yet to
hit the ground running but the Japanese's ability is proven in the European
stage. Even though Milan might have made a mess in acquiring him, there is a
good reason why they are his long term admirer. Honda and Kaka could be a
devastating attacking pair in Serie A. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>The belief is
there<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Clarence Seedorf is a statue of success, having title-winning
season in four different countries, including at San Siro, and of course
notably the three Champions League trophies with three different teams. His
tactical knowledge might not be as wealthy as Allegri, but his team-talk might
be more inspiring to a group who has not used to enjoying regular success. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ccKApIlXl3iH0FWgMMv-8BN8YTiHUe_fgAQ-2AVrse1lfKPCf6wQCLdQu-2RKw-X4v1ALfNEOlM5ce9uKUj-7BR3CUrOHmlPGFupbpZLOtESVlTV2fyjA8M0nP8muBZdZGaEvAFstvCo/s1600/images+(37).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ccKApIlXl3iH0FWgMMv-8BN8YTiHUe_fgAQ-2AVrse1lfKPCf6wQCLdQu-2RKw-X4v1ALfNEOlM5ce9uKUj-7BR3CUrOHmlPGFupbpZLOtESVlTV2fyjA8M0nP8muBZdZGaEvAFstvCo/s1600/images+(37).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seedorf is an inspiring figure to the squad </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adel Taarabt and Urby Emanuelsson in
particular seems to have been encouraged by the arrival of Seedorf and showed a
much better display in second half of the season. They might not have seen the
results come yet, but the way they played lately demonstrates more self-belief
and surely is more enjoyable for the fans to watch. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Challenges ahead<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Their defence is no longer as solid as traditionally it was
and have let them down numerous time this season. If De Sciglio is projected to
be their long-term right back, a strong left-back, at least defensively, than
Constant or Emanuelsson is needed. Also, Daniele Bonera certainly has passed
the peak , while Philippe Mexes' decline and temperament is worrying. There are
many loopholes at the back. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Behind Super Mario, Milan is also short of options in
striker position. Even with El Shaarawy returning fit and healthy, it is
obvious that they miss a clinical finisher, like Seedorf's old teammate Filippo
Inzaghi, to convert the creativity of their midfield to goals. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIK5mEuvBe_C9EF8B0P6X61Y8fsSjqRTRBKNr1qvodlnzrqVF9qL-IE93WKGya932QNwYd3xMiO9OlPADl9EWPuoOO4EjtPdKVRzLgU2AypuvnlM94EatYMhjFg-TvolICiGfuz5gUMV5B/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIK5mEuvBe_C9EF8B0P6X61Y8fsSjqRTRBKNr1qvodlnzrqVF9qL-IE93WKGya932QNwYd3xMiO9OlPADl9EWPuoOO4EjtPdKVRzLgU2AypuvnlM94EatYMhjFg-TvolICiGfuz5gUMV5B/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honda (facing) represents the future of Rossoneri</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Allegri transformed Milan to play at a higher pace and press
opponents fast and furious high up the field. However, this is not a young
group and individuals like Robinho, Essien and Kaka often run out of steam
before the final whistle. The aging centrebacks are also well-exposed playing a
high line defence.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are holes to be filled. The glorious history and the
honour to play at San Siro is still appealing,
but likely without Champions League football, also with Financial Fair
Play coming into effect, can they compete with teams like PSG and Manchester
City to attract young talents to join Seedorf's revival project? </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-10490446805566942022014-02-23T14:56:00.001-08:002014-02-23T14:58:43.466-08:00From heaven to hell: What was Martino thinking?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFK02Q4t0lHnQ5z7yMrm8rGms2-BGKj5m9MZqkvJn8W_hwewhN1u8UNRyq22VmrZTHd5K8L7gvu-PSxCgrxCMoXs8J_mLhVYXGXg7GUGMe3zZnM-OAvwe0O4XqvEBP2F7Zrhm-IG_w-5A/s1600/_73163097_021267539-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFK02Q4t0lHnQ5z7yMrm8rGms2-BGKj5m9MZqkvJn8W_hwewhN1u8UNRyq22VmrZTHd5K8L7gvu-PSxCgrxCMoXs8J_mLhVYXGXg7GUGMe3zZnM-OAvwe0O4XqvEBP2F7Zrhm-IG_w-5A/s1600/_73163097_021267539-1.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In basketball, you have a set number of players (twelve) and
it matters little if the starting five does not work, as substitutions are
unrestricted. In football, you have only three chances to correct the mistakes
in naming your squad. This makes managing a team in multi-competitions campaign
a even harder job. On Saturday, Gerardo Martino made a mess against Real
Sociedad in rotating his squad and paid a hefty price of gifting Real Madrid the
top spot in La Liga. There are three questions that Martino did not get his
head around:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><b>(1) Do they need
to rotate?<o:p></o:p></b></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With 38 league matches, about 20 games for cups and European
matches, plus some international duties for majority of the players in a
season, the answer is yes, they do need to rotate. However, it is not the first
time this group has to face congested fixtures. They should be mentally
prepared, and although some of the young legs are gone and it was their third
game in one week, it was never a tough game against Rayo and they had a man
advantage for most of the second half against Manchester City. You would
believe the intelligence of the like of Xavi, Iniesta and Messi should enable
them to prevent from being physically over-drained, as they have demonstrated
in the past few years. The decision to bench both Xavi and Fabregas on the
bench undermined their playmaking ability significantly.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYLJuWseSXt1WbHC17K80LTWg5a94ZWISm2VRqRsEIDDyHEUPVemOwfu1zpQBcCnkrVZJiQxQwqwwBg27vAf6lrW-zos0TSl_JzBdpq4_ddfX1AOqouuAlen68O64eqveMbUFxecOUrBA/s1600/Antoine-Griezmann-008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYLJuWseSXt1WbHC17K80LTWg5a94ZWISm2VRqRsEIDDyHEUPVemOwfu1zpQBcCnkrVZJiQxQwqwwBg27vAf6lrW-zos0TSl_JzBdpq4_ddfX1AOqouuAlen68O64eqveMbUFxecOUrBA/s1600/Antoine-Griezmann-008.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greizmann celebrating his goal that brought the lead</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>(2) Was this the
right moment to rotate?</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Real Madrid's victory made Barcelona's game a must-win.
especially with Madrid derby lining up next week, it is important that Barca
keeps up the pace so that they can have a chance to be in the pole position
after the derby. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If this is not a strong enough reason, Real Sociedad's home
record should have convinced Martino to field a stronger team. They have been
unbeatable at home in all local competitions since their loss to Atletico Madrid
in September last year. Ten days earlier, Barca also failed to win in the same
ground in Copa del Rey, despite still advancing on aggregate. Despite their
inconsistency throughout the season, their form at home is unquestionable. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, ahead of the clash with Manchester City, they have
an easy two weeks. facing bottom half teams Almeria and Valladolid. Surely it
makes sense to bite the bullet this week which could be as rewarding as putting
them on the front foot of the title race? As Atletico stumbled tonight, now
it's their rival Real Madrid who has the sole upper hand.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>(3) Did it have to be that radical? <o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Four days after the victory at Manchester, Martino rested
more than half of the team, including three at the back, only one was
injury-forced. Introducing Pedro and Neymar back did little harm to the attack,
but it was the selection of Alex Song that was the most dubious. The Cameroon
is still yet to find his feet in Spain and playing him in a back-three is not
the natural formation Barca has been used to. While they still dominated
possession, the creativity in midfield was not quite there to support the front
three. It is no Song's fault and his own goal was unlucky, but Martino
definitely had better options on the bench. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXRkmdw9QI7KLQw00W50VTYgkjT5Yz2KGHpHncg7UCuALsnGpWzBsFIzglRYT7aJPHFZ0u_pP5vVOqOfQawr-tg0eRHcnUXIiUMPHbY-xiFKVfZwkcbs0EeFOuKnZ1o1uX8Z7mpIebaSJt/s1600/toda-la-desazon-de-alexandre-song-y-gerard-pique-sentado-tras-la-caida-que-sufrio-ayer-el-barcelona-ante-real-sociedad-1-3-que-lo-releg_595_413_1051522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXRkmdw9QI7KLQw00W50VTYgkjT5Yz2KGHpHncg7UCuALsnGpWzBsFIzglRYT7aJPHFZ0u_pP5vVOqOfQawr-tg0eRHcnUXIiUMPHbY-xiFKVfZwkcbs0EeFOuKnZ1o1uX8Z7mpIebaSJt/s1600/toda-la-desazon-de-alexandre-song-y-gerard-pique-sentado-tras-la-caida-que-sufrio-ayer-el-barcelona-ante-real-sociedad-1-3-que-lo-releg_595_413_1051522.jpg" height="222" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Disappointing night for Alex Song again</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bartra and Montoya have both showed solid performance this
season. Still relatively young to highest level of football, playing away
against a team sitting fifth in La Liga is tough for both. With Gerard Pique
looking sluggish all night and Adriano stronger in attack than defence, Antoine
Griezmann and Carlos Vela had torn their defence apart with ease. Poor
communication between the back four was well-exposed in David Zurutuza's goal
as the penetrating midfielder was never picked up. Only Martino knows the best
if Dani Alves or Mascherano was fit enough to play. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-25392858973434991412014-02-19T14:38:00.000-08:002014-02-19T14:38:53.225-08:00Pellegrini's indecisiveness sent City on the back foot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMPZySbUKYZMOcqD2LhKl6-oqBhkGwuM4KNWjiL4uo6mGS31ARQoezeuzo70JwNbJzlQEe_u-zgOLqemQnjxiTlbIzvFnO0OBcm7BuCCuZEy4kpc-cw-dH1-lDxFP_Dw5_wQ6dUjvMV42/s1600/images+(35).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMPZySbUKYZMOcqD2LhKl6-oqBhkGwuM4KNWjiL4uo6mGS31ARQoezeuzo70JwNbJzlQEe_u-zgOLqemQnjxiTlbIzvFnO0OBcm7BuCCuZEy4kpc-cw-dH1-lDxFP_Dw5_wQ6dUjvMV42/s1600/images+(35).jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is always dangerous to comment on a manager's tactical
move in post-game situation. The What-if analysis is theoretical and will never
be justified. While there is little room to argue that Aleksandar Kolarov was
the worst City player on the pitch on Tuesday evening, by fielding the Serbian,
Manuel Pellegrini had already significantly undermined his chance of conquering
Barcelona. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Exposing the opponent's weakness is the most effective way
to get the better of them. Jose Mourinho demonstrated by using border-line
brutality and speedy counter-attacks to put a halt to Pep Guardiola's
dominance. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pellegrini has strong belief in his side. Being the stronger
side in Manchester, facing the team that lost the fear factor and being
labelled as the worst Barca for years, the Chilean wanted to take the
initiative to win the match, emphasising City will attempt to deny possession
of the Spanish giant and retain their attacking football.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsbQAbS3otOj6MdEbPqUfTj5eU011C3xT0za9fvgWCUvToND-kRYSXUj9Mv1FQNw6P-pBkZB5pUp_rzEK9tuYFpFU32Yocmj50I8MU7pS-AEDBoE3pYldyJfl13mLX2kU0Ox8JgvU4s68/s1600/download+(10).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsbQAbS3otOj6MdEbPqUfTj5eU011C3xT0za9fvgWCUvToND-kRYSXUj9Mv1FQNw6P-pBkZB5pUp_rzEK9tuYFpFU32Yocmj50I8MU7pS-AEDBoE3pYldyJfl13mLX2kU0Ox8JgvU4s68/s1600/download+(10).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The call that sent Pellegrini fuming</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nevertheless, this is still one of the best teams in the
world and Pellegrini just has to admit it, no matter how reluctant he is. The
formation was not quite the 4-4-2 that City flourishes at home this season. A
more sensible 4-2-3-1 was adapted. The home team was able to recall Fernandinho
to the squad, but Pellegrini did not make the most out of this luxury The home
team was able to recall Fernandinho to the squad, but Pellegrini did not make
the most out of this luxury to threaten the leader of La Liga. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To pick one player that is most capable of destroying
Barca's defence, it is likely to be Yaya Toure. With Jesus Navas and David
Silva in the lineup, Yaya restored the partnership with Fernandinho, but his
activity in the final third was limited by the defensive duties, as Barcelona
unsurprisingly controlled the match tempo. Javi Garcia is a natural option that
could release Yaya Toure to charge forward more freely, whereas James Milner 's
versatility and discipline offers a good alternative.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUshXzsHdRlHSj2MmL5-tvvaTBE_jM0pv04q3HeTBgQN7W9JN7fU9k0wWTebIy_sT-IvUb4Z6Nk1k2pAo6_e8CidjeO9jo04xmtyeOhLimAKlkRE8PRTgSjOYfwEYtVUgeXNsxg1nvGPg/s1600/download+(11).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUshXzsHdRlHSj2MmL5-tvvaTBE_jM0pv04q3HeTBgQN7W9JN7fU9k0wWTebIy_sT-IvUb4Z6Nk1k2pAo6_e8CidjeO9jo04xmtyeOhLimAKlkRE8PRTgSjOYfwEYtVUgeXNsxg1nvGPg/s1600/download+(11).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Kolarov was quite on top of Barca this evening<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But who should give way? Silva's flair is critical in
unlocking Barcelona's defence; Navas' speed is a serious weapon in counter
attack; deadball specialist Kolarov can convert some precious opportunities. If
one speciality was to be given up, Kolarov would be the sensible choice. When
City even struggled with possession time, there was little scope for the left
back to show his freekick skills, even more strangely Silva was the primary
free-kick taker. Also a relatively one-dimensional player, his moves were
predictable and for sure were well-studied.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His contribution could be on the defensive end to provide
support to Gael Clichy. However, as Pellegrini stressed their intention to
bring the game to Barcelona, he should have higher confidence in his full
backs' ability to contain Jordi Alba and Dani Alves. Should Javi Garcia or
James Milner was fielded, either could also provide cover to Zabaleta and
Clichy with their exceptional working rate. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the end, he could not finish the game and could only get
a booking in his statistics line.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As ridiculous as it sounds, you indeed have to be near to
perfect to beat Barcelona. Martin Demichelis made a mental error that put City
on the back foot, but it was the hesitance or non-determination of his manager in
his tactical approach that have cost City a chance. There was definitely
positives to take from the loss, but it doesn't change the fact that City need
three goals in Camp Nou to overturn the tie.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-52295640309927008962014-02-17T14:08:00.001-08:002014-02-17T14:22:37.569-08:00The Toon in Troubled Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMqXXO5JGrIfO3i7vr3yUZkcSrVyeZv0g3xCo2DgYQ0MUCt6OjNeRf6LUROHJZropBZSIbWiQVpJHZRK-1CXNjVDmy5aJ6DuRL35wOURQAUDOr0RLViiQD3XNOPCXLIZj-DnP1XpDmTCC/s1600/168017985-3411685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMqXXO5JGrIfO3i7vr3yUZkcSrVyeZv0g3xCo2DgYQ0MUCt6OjNeRf6LUROHJZropBZSIbWiQVpJHZRK-1CXNjVDmy5aJ6DuRL35wOURQAUDOr0RLViiQD3XNOPCXLIZj-DnP1XpDmTCC/s1600/168017985-3411685.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The difficulty of managing a mid-table teams could easily
been overlooked. Although free from title expectation and relegation threat, it
is easier said than done to maintain a sustainable team development, while
retaining satisfaction of supporters and support from directors board. The
recent dismissal of Michael Laudrup at Swansea is a classic example. Newcastle,
who is one position above Swansea, is facing similar crisis that put Alan
Pardew's future in serious doubt. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From being awarded manager of the month to three losses in a
row in February, conceding ten goals without answering back, the two key
differences in Newcastle between this period is the departure of Joe Kinnear
and Yohan Cabaye. Few would argue that losing Cabaye was a huge blow to the
Magpies halfway through a season which they were getting stronger and stronger.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He was on the verge of joining Arsenal before the summer
transfer window closed, but Newcastle stood firm to block the move, while
Cabaye, after absenting a few games to calm down, moved on to produce one of
his finest season in career. The prospect of European football once again
reignited at St James Park. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YYcdjmn5589ryw6MJadP5pcZZ3qJECIFJWyDdBtTO0ateaChvDpXf83XFnn6bV86rA7kmxzP8exNwsUm8IjdY7NGSEyBcwOMWkQenfrVYRvbObl4OiyLQLB0b9pzQiW_9cNja7_0gcle/s1600/images+(34).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YYcdjmn5589ryw6MJadP5pcZZ3qJECIFJWyDdBtTO0ateaChvDpXf83XFnn6bV86rA7kmxzP8exNwsUm8IjdY7NGSEyBcwOMWkQenfrVYRvbObl4OiyLQLB0b9pzQiW_9cNja7_0gcle/s1600/images+(34).jpg" /> </a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His phenomenal performance aroused interest from Paris.
Moving ahead of World Cup is debatable, but how many players in the world can
afford to reject the opportunity to wear Paris St Germain's jersey? Mike Ashley
clear understands football is a business. A foreign move minimises the chance
that Cabaye would come back to haunt them, while it is also a good gesture to
thank the Frenchman's contribution in the past two and a half seasons. There
was indeed very little reason to decline the bid. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The problem is Mike Ashley seemed to have no intention to
bring in a replacement. The impact of losing the brain of midfield was obvious
on Wednesday. Without a distributor, they looked clueless in how to unlock
Tottenham's defence, which was far from solid. Fullbacks David Santon and
Mathieu Debuchy in particular suffer from the lack of playmakers, that their
forward runs were often unspotted and unrecognised, which ultimately left Sammy
Ameobi and Luke De Jong exposed to one-on-one situation. It was as if Pardew
was driving a decent car without engine. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
More worrying is that the passion of the players has
vanished. Mohammed Sissoko and Papiss Cisse were the focal point of booing when
both looked uninterested to put on a fight. Late in the game, four Tottenham
players were rushing to receive a cross from fastbreak, but only young defender
Paul Dummett, who replaced Santon who had a horrid night, threw his body out to
block the shot. Together with the 3-0 derby loss at home to Sunderland, Pardew
appears to have lost the magic to inspire his side.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGUVlsEADVaYnZ-wVduCa1vF1xgi1fatCSQJ5UClHd-bsY74m0pxnCEsjEDUy7MrEX3C0glPNTCra60075jwT48jRd355SAr-czkGNzl6jzggrgJLTKQGBt0V2ft_bsp6Gz8ns3JxuBlOR/s1600/article-2557896-1B6F2DC800000578-422_634x435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGUVlsEADVaYnZ-wVduCa1vF1xgi1fatCSQJ5UClHd-bsY74m0pxnCEsjEDUy7MrEX3C0glPNTCra60075jwT48jRd355SAr-czkGNzl6jzggrgJLTKQGBt0V2ft_bsp6Gz8ns3JxuBlOR/s1600/article-2557896-1B6F2DC800000578-422_634x435.jpg" height="219" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">outnumbered, outperformed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With three months to go, Newcastle is now stuck. They have only
the league to compete in. With twelve games to go, they can declare to be
relatively safe from dropping zone, but also not quite in the race for European
football. It will almost certainly be an improvement to their league position
last year, but what should the fans expect? Have they shifted their ambition of
European football to next season? However, can they keep up with the pace of
development of rivals like Everton, Tottenham and Southampton? The comedy around Joe Kinnear and departure
of key players make the club less attractive to quality players. The future of
Newcastle is among the mist.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alan Pardew has led Newcastle to numerous memorable moments
in the past four years. Nevertheless, more than once the supporters cast doubt
over his suitability to the role. He characteristically survived among the
turbulence last season and has recovered to drive Newcastle to where they are
now. As a reward to his commitment, more importantly to the fans' support, Mike
Ashley needs to rate club development ahead of financial return in managing the
Magpies. Otherwise, by the end of season, it will only look even more
depressing at St James Park. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-18018324499737597872014-02-09T14:49:00.000-08:002014-02-09T14:49:00.033-08:00Moyes' tactical inability cost United three points again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdIdFufMbyjAG8U1xUsr-YagBXnbRUiIshIp2wqtQWMnHVQnQ3znC0kWmWyWy_SeAhQJGFsfSjBTdZJspnyPfUQ0dzCHDRgo9QTe8aPCNJq8qKD7d1Gr9_lJXflz79scqUrhmcbTf6zJA/s1600/_72827712_453582995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdIdFufMbyjAG8U1xUsr-YagBXnbRUiIshIp2wqtQWMnHVQnQ3znC0kWmWyWy_SeAhQJGFsfSjBTdZJspnyPfUQ0dzCHDRgo9QTe8aPCNJq8qKD7d1Gr9_lJXflz79scqUrhmcbTf6zJA/s1600/_72827712_453582995.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span lang="EN-US">Too, Too, Too Predictable</span></u></b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Fulham came
with a relegation battle to win and Rene Meulensteen returned with a point to
prove. Moyes’ United have been too predictable and become easy to defend –
scoring an average 1.63 goals only in 24 league matches compared to the 2.26
goals last season. While injuries have often been an excuse for the Scot, his
tactics have hardly changed regardless of the 11 players on the pitch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Starting
with a defensive 4-5-1, Fulham sat back and was ready to absorb pressure from
the hosts. Rafael and Evra were allowed lots of room to overlap and the flanks
contributed an amazing total of 46 crosses in the first half alone. However
United only had 4 attempts on target as Fulham transformed into a 6-3-1-0 with
United pushed forward. With the back four crowding constantly inside the box
and the wide players slotting in as secondary full backs, there just wasn’t
enough quality to beat the quantity; especially when United grew impatient
after trailing behind midway through the first half through a sweet Sidwell
volley.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnPQ8QhhK7asVsKgReZcB6hf2tYb2IP48Hl9r-lazyi1Nu_hYA7F_KzHXMKcqpjkRXocX4ptaCGZAXtraYbMyVDLL1AX9CrSZxOx2oC-7HoXlNw-i9-Kfdu_T_Us98PvKPuhYQ5pX8dLG9/s1600/76490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnPQ8QhhK7asVsKgReZcB6hf2tYb2IP48Hl9r-lazyi1Nu_hYA7F_KzHXMKcqpjkRXocX4ptaCGZAXtraYbMyVDLL1AX9CrSZxOx2oC-7HoXlNw-i9-Kfdu_T_Us98PvKPuhYQ5pX8dLG9/s1600/76490.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">When Adnan
Januzaj came in for Fletcher at the hour mark, moving Mata behind the strikers,
United had already put in 54 ‘wasted crosses’, said commentator Gary Neville. Valencia
and Chicharito soon too came on for Young and Rafael, Moyes just wanted more
crosses. At the end, United put out 81 crosses. The two goals did start off
from a cross but it was hardly related; rather more to Fulham’s exhaustion and
a fortunate deflection. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">To sum up
the ‘tactical changes’ by Moyes: old wine in new bottles; and credit to Fulham
for devising and carrying out a game plan which at least let them leave
Manchester with a much-needed point.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span lang="EN-US">What’s Moyes’ Plan for Mata?<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The
Spaniard’s signature sent a message that United could still attract big names
and his exclusion would’ve contradicted the statement. However, starting on the
right as an inside winger, Mata had little influence on the game. His exquisite
ball-control and delicious long balls were applauded by the Old Trafford crowd
but it’s still far from enough to affect the scoreline; or resurrect United’s
season if he continues to stay so distantly involved. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Qk8Krecl6rrVmKiyguvDmJ1nweruyXVSZ-H4VO4_B1ezGQ6BT4ToCEtch-fsPTUjcBvvksbl3Fk6jGQRf0f3ukZkN-goh1I0yjSvdDH-gFQty84TJi8biRcQ1eVjqxxp2Rn2vzIRejln/s1600/download+(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Qk8Krecl6rrVmKiyguvDmJ1nweruyXVSZ-H4VO4_B1ezGQ6BT4ToCEtch-fsPTUjcBvvksbl3Fk6jGQRf0f3ukZkN-goh1I0yjSvdDH-gFQty84TJi8biRcQ1eVjqxxp2Rn2vzIRejln/s1600/download+(9).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 assists to his name, but still not at his best in red</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The ability
of the former Chelsea player is undoubted, but by moving him onto the right
flank is no different than putting Shinji Kagawa – who used to flourish behind
the striker at Dortmund – on the left. If Mata was as hard-working defensively
as Kagawa, he might have stayed in Mourinho’s plans but if Moyes continues to
put him in such a position, the playmaker’s low work rate would soon backfire
and cost United more points.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Here comes
the question, nevertheless. David Moyes have been sticking with the 4-4-2 for
most of his matches; mainly for two reasons: 1) He has two star strikers which
he has no authority to bench either; especially with Rooney so crucial to an
extent that benching or playing him out of position would make disclosing to
the England man the club’s transfer plans as leverage to renew his contract
complete nonsense; and 2) he simply has not enough good central midfielders for
4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formations. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Hence if
Moyes decides to keep his 4-4-2 unchanged, he will keep on using up one
substitution every game to introduce a winger into the game in order to switch
Mata behind the strikers and sacrificing a central midfield in return which
would be disastrous against bigger teams (think about Yaya Toure/Fernandinho vs
Carrick/Mata). That’s not any tactical masterstrokes, is it? Juan Mata could
only be the player Old Trafford want him to be if he’s played as a proper
number 10, and if rumors of Cavani and Diego Costa are true, b<i>uena suerte</i> Juan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-63278961647970503102014-02-04T13:46:00.001-08:002014-02-04T13:46:04.985-08:00It's Mourinho 2 Pellegrini 0<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21zGOb3h9dqEB3JjtEGekBU53OnOIGs0YiwimfRufyN2_0KBnBrTAQEcdRB_g79MrbiS0kygqgW1Q8UWECgsKjEZdBmGLg_4rlYTM9Z2NzYEyZfhd4xo7kPIjusvF4PlpXhkE3jIwPLEk/s1600/Chelsea-manager-Jose-Mour-010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21zGOb3h9dqEB3JjtEGekBU53OnOIGs0YiwimfRufyN2_0KBnBrTAQEcdRB_g79MrbiS0kygqgW1Q8UWECgsKjEZdBmGLg_4rlYTM9Z2NzYEyZfhd4xo7kPIjusvF4PlpXhkE3jIwPLEk/s1600/Chelsea-manager-Jose-Mour-010.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was not 19th century football, nor were buses parked at
Eithad Stadium. Manchester City finally failed to score at home, lost the
opportunity to regain the top spot, and more significantly gives Chelsea the
mental edge in the title race<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">, having swept the series of this season</span>. Both teams were not playing with their
best XI. However, the difference being Manuel Pellegrini was forced to make
changes that weakened the team; Jose Mourinho's moves were more
tactically-driven.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Is Manchester City
running short of options?<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A statement makes little sense at all for a team whose
second string still looks too strong for the competition, however, they looked
toothless attempting to fight their way back against Chelsea and Pellegrini
struggled to spring any surprise from his bench.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The absence of Fernandinho once again labels the weak point
in their squad --- lack of a
reliable central midfielder in Pellegrini's 4-4-2. On paper, having the
defensive-minded Martin Demichelis would
not undermine the free-scoring City much. The presence of Fernandinho is indeed
equally important to that of Yaya Toure and Sergio Aguero. Not only just being
younger and able to cover a lot more grounds, his technique and vision also
help open up space for Yaya Toure to roam forward. When City was trailing, this
became particularly obvious when Yaya had to drop deeper to initiate attack, at
the same time hinder his powerhouse potency.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sergio Aguero's injury was also critical, who could
potentially be devastating to Chelsea's defence, but City has little to complain
when they still have the like of Negredo, Dzeko and Jovetic, while all failed
to deliver and with Dzeko particularly disappointing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Tactically
out-battled <o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The dilemma was always there for Pellegrini: Should he
retain the side that is unstoppable at Etihad, or should he opt for a more
tactical approach against Chelsea? The result shows the latter might be the better
way against the tactician master. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: auto; padding: 6px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim83FQCkrMILCZzUirQx1Cag2qTUqXQrAOZisTbHOUW7mCbRyxAPVoKqEDGwr4Sd5o5enooQ_lUpyFEohxUvLRjzRlGtAuJWtsWeFYrDESEyuVhVzv6Yk0nAQq7SRNktSKeeu8UPy6Ykfw/s1600/ivanovic_2811207b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim83FQCkrMILCZzUirQx1Cag2qTUqXQrAOZisTbHOUW7mCbRyxAPVoKqEDGwr4Sd5o5enooQ_lUpyFEohxUvLRjzRlGtAuJWtsWeFYrDESEyuVhVzv6Yk0nAQq7SRNktSKeeu8UPy6Ykfw/s1600/ivanovic_2811207b.jpg" height="199" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">The unlikely hero --- Ivanovic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jose Mourinho decided against playing his favourite no. 10 Oscar but granted Nemanja
Matic a league debut who partnered David Luiz to protect the backline. City did
have a couple of decent chances early in the match, but they needed to work
harder than at White Hart Lane to break the defence, and gradually the momentum
shifted to the Blues when Willian, Eden Hazard and Samuel Eto’o caught the opponents sleeping in
counter attacks. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This attacking trio, as well as Ramires, all possess
tremendous speed and are incredibly dangerous in counter attacks. At 33 years old,
Demichelis further tilted the battle to Chelsea's side. Ramires would have
brought the lead with better finishing following a 4-on-1 basketball-type
fastbreak. Samuel Eto’o's shot only needed to be one inch
lower to double the lead. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To compensate for the loss of attacking ability of Fernandinho,
Pellegrini chose Kolarov over Clichy. Although Kolarov delivered a number of
quality crosses, Mourinho successfully exposed the defensive liability at
City's full back positions, as well as their weak spot in between the line. If
David Silva mastered the victory against Tottenham in that position, City was
in turn punished with a lack of cover in the similar spot. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>What could have
been done?<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rather than sticking with two strikers, Pellegrini could
have cast trust on his midfielders and field only one, especially with Negredo
not being fit. While neither Dzeko nor Negredo had contributed much, James
Milner could be a better option this evening. By placing him alongside
Demichelis, the cover for fullbacks will be more assuring. Yaya Toure can also
be liberalised to challenge the Chelsea
defence more than it turned out. His versatility is also a plus when Pellegrini
has to make in-game tactical changes. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-j_UTjWmHq_LHQ1U6KilV_ke2O9yh5ylkaFH_Knjm26Oa9u2KKmsNzjOcyRZFgWB7YpdDwBEDct-6MU2Z40YjqBx8ETgRDZaXSzOGruc7Uq9-nCachNtveFx3ZS3pxtw5b68w71xsrZdK/s1600/PA_SOCCER-Man-City-213479_7313085-6666358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-j_UTjWmHq_LHQ1U6KilV_ke2O9yh5ylkaFH_Knjm26Oa9u2KKmsNzjOcyRZFgWB7YpdDwBEDct-6MU2Z40YjqBx8ETgRDZaXSzOGruc7Uq9-nCachNtveFx3ZS3pxtw5b68w71xsrZdK/s1600/PA_SOCCER-Man-City-213479_7313085-6666358.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yaya was kept busy on both ends of the field</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With Chelsea's defence being exceptionally organised,
overloading a flank would be an effective way to stretch their back four. Later
in the game, Zabaleta and Jesus
Navas combined to put together good efforts that put Cesar Azpilicueta, who had
been solid at left back for the whole night, on the back foot. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nevertheless,
they did not do enough of this, especially when winning goal-scorer Branislav
Ivanovic was booked before the interval, but there were limited direct runs
towards the right back in the second half.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Their quality in attack will enable them to conquer most of
the teams playing with liberty, but to beat a team like Chelsea, you need to do
something a little more special to get the better of the Special One. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-48343448046144598562014-01-24T14:10:00.000-08:002014-01-24T14:10:49.192-08:00The secrets behind Tim Sherwood's success <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgjgS6e50L58UFOak8iM2NoVa31mcCKhJQncmo0MVFP2ZVRcVUX_VOd6-bB0pQWoZ3tftqDLd00Zv-71DVgPHpx9rU9D6B-XBot7VaxIaDcs1x1wcSARRyJ0PR6SDUnXZVRII2I19Pp1D/s1600/article-2533259-1A60989800000578-468_634x350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgjgS6e50L58UFOak8iM2NoVa31mcCKhJQncmo0MVFP2ZVRcVUX_VOd6-bB0pQWoZ3tftqDLd00Zv-71DVgPHpx9rU9D6B-XBot7VaxIaDcs1x1wcSARRyJ0PR6SDUnXZVRII2I19Pp1D/s1600/article-2533259-1A60989800000578-468_634x350.jpg" height="176" width="320" /></a></div>
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Managerial change in mid-season is always a gamble. The hard
work in pre-season could be all undone with new philosophy being introduced. A
string of poor run usually is a strong shout to send the manager jobless. Andre
Villas-Boas might be an exception, compared to his fellows Paolo Di Canio, Ian
Holloway, Martin Jol and Malky Mackay who were all sent packing. Despite
qualifying in Europa League and just shy of fourth place in Premier League,
humiliating defeats to West Ham, Manchester City and Liverpool catalysed his
departure.</div>
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Old boy Tim Sherwood is Daniel Levy's next chosen one. His
unproven managerial ability makes him unlikely the long-term solution, but
Tottenham shows renewed confidence and energy under Sherwood. Five wins out of
six league games seems to justify the 18 months contract offered by Levy.
Curiously, what is the secret behind Sherwood's magic?</div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Tactical freshness<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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AVB's impressive first season was more of Gareth Bale's
individual brilliance rather than tactical excellence. Since Harry Redknapp's
tenure, the 4-2-3-1 formation is not unfamiliar in White Hart Lane, but looked
far from lively without a creative attacking midfielder in 2012-13, since the
departure of Rafael Van der Vaart and Luka Modric. The influx of attacking
talents in the summer could not compensate for the loss of Gareth Bale and
AVB's philosophy has completely fallen apart.</div>
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There is no stubbornness in Sherwood's tactics. Instead of
fitting the players into his system, he finds a system to fit his best eleven. He
daringly fielded an attacking 4-4-2 at
Southampton that got him a 3-2 victory. Sherwood further fine tuned the
formation to accommodate his attacking trio Christian Eriksen, Emmanuel Adebayor
and Roberto Soldado and see them concede only three more goals in the next five
matches. Playing Swansea away from home, he reverted back to one striker set-up
to counteract Swansea's possession football and notched up another win. Sherwood's
attempt to bring the best out of his squad is refreshing and promising.
Positive results just naturally flow through. </div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<b><u>Revival of Adebayor</u></b></div>
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The true contributor to the timely revival of Adebayor could
well be AVB. As Sherwood has admitted, he has not done much other than granting
the striker more playing time. Everyone agrees that Emmanuel Adebayor is a
top-class striker. At the same time, he failed to impress the Portuguese since
his permanent switch to Tottenham. The endless negotiation on the wage demand before
his arrival also raised doubts over his motivation in football. His fallout
with AVB seems to be inevitable. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhpQ7vrXX7dow22eUeeMx80AO5XZYW4GNpMysOMWoKNNBJwJMthJhAkUAQg61JYRCZkvrAP3RmgXIS36UZVtG8iZtxkRTj3Wkknadxoebov8DrwbyGfcqgH-OQsn9cDNmS10dPUiJik-P5/s1600/images+(33).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhpQ7vrXX7dow22eUeeMx80AO5XZYW4GNpMysOMWoKNNBJwJMthJhAkUAQg61JYRCZkvrAP3RmgXIS36UZVtG8iZtxkRTj3Wkknadxoebov8DrwbyGfcqgH-OQsn9cDNmS10dPUiJik-P5/s1600/images+(33).jpg" /></a></div>
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With fire in his belly and lots to prove to his former manager,
the lazy and uninterested-looking Adebayor last season is once again chasing
after defenders and proactive in the final third. His physicality and Premier
League experience has also helped settle the struggling Soldado who lately shows
a glimpse of quality. </div>
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His ability is well-reflected with six goals in his last eight
games, but who knows for how long will his fire stay glowing? Even though the
Togo international will be thankful to Sherwood for rescuing him from misery,
his character off-the-field could just be too unpredictable to handle.</div>
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<b><u>Injuries bring stability<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJrlzSCR1fr1GjciZoAIM718U0xd5IEkfBzFy9J_3pcl1FtisnA8KsHX04VnX14c7injTLsHN2mScGanvj2UfSrp8jENiXJqRvT6Z8Qp0sgI_-WjCqSm55csqRhL_QGNU3j-iigYXbHvz0/s1600/A5260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJrlzSCR1fr1GjciZoAIM718U0xd5IEkfBzFy9J_3pcl1FtisnA8KsHX04VnX14c7injTLsHN2mScGanvj2UfSrp8jENiXJqRvT6Z8Qp0sgI_-WjCqSm55csqRhL_QGNU3j-iigYXbHvz0/s1600/A5260.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
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A phrase that does not apply to every team, fortunately for
Tottenham they have the depth to mitigate the risk of injuries. Certainly
over-crowded in central midfield, the injuries to Brazil duo Sandro and
Paulinho ease the headache for Sherwood to pick his midfield partners. Limiting
squad rotation enhances the understanding between players, while with some
luck, the squad harmony is also maintained, as more players are focused on
returning from injury rather than complaining the lack of playing time.</div>
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Credit should not be taken away from Sherwood for his
determination to drop Etienne Capoue and Lewis Holtby, not to be blown away by
their international experience but striving to field the best performing
players, notably Nabil Bentaleb. Although still relatively raw, the young
Frenchman's composure and intelligence are appreciated under Sherwood. </div>
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<br /></div>
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With Andros Townsend, Jan Vertonghen, Younes Kaboul, Sandro
and Paulinho all lining up for return,
how Sherwood works out the correct mix-and-match will be the key to
Tottenham's success in the 2nd half of season.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzeEbqeiKKaubB9zSoirXhuSvWWRFaTWdHl8OS4Bohagk0yDkUMCbnLfVwqFXHnhTngWyDo7ikFNPBXCnL1gnPmHCALjepaXhUf8GGGKrHMin9gMtle6-2MDkkIjfaAnQtZmE5Z9VbeO-/s1600/article-2532275-1A6093A900000578-764_634x467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzeEbqeiKKaubB9zSoirXhuSvWWRFaTWdHl8OS4Bohagk0yDkUMCbnLfVwqFXHnhTngWyDo7ikFNPBXCnL1gnPmHCALjepaXhUf8GGGKrHMin9gMtle6-2MDkkIjfaAnQtZmE5Z9VbeO-/s1600/article-2532275-1A6093A900000578-764_634x467.jpg" height="235" width="320" /></a></div>
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Honeymoon period would not last forever. The next game could
be incredibly vital to Tottenham. A solid result at home against red-hot
Manchester City will extend their recent run and represent a serious confidence
boost. Critics who are uncertain of Sherwood's ability to lead Tottenham to top
four, despite having beaten the struggling Manchester United, will surely be
convinced. A defeat, even not a heavy one, could see them take a step backward
again and Sherwood will need to dig even deeper to restore the order. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-87097212865899945712014-01-07T15:05:00.000-08:002014-01-07T15:07:12.670-08:00Manchester United entered a new low following the defeat at Sunderland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6FgmWnYmG8Da9dhBAP7s9xhjg6cGbFEzYhpNX3b-L8oGjnExnbhMECHIHQJ3yMPcsOKiKexK9KJmR43O5Fepz-ZAt6Bu6P0g4vhsBoqg6jHDn4tt_xDYGlT-_yPKbRfPD8fJcQn9WF2v/s1600/download+(8).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6FgmWnYmG8Da9dhBAP7s9xhjg6cGbFEzYhpNX3b-L8oGjnExnbhMECHIHQJ3yMPcsOKiKexK9KJmR43O5Fepz-ZAt6Bu6P0g4vhsBoqg6jHDn4tt_xDYGlT-_yPKbRfPD8fJcQn9WF2v/s1600/download+(8).jpg" /></a></div>
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On paper, it should not be a game they struggled against the
bottom team of the league, but this is what makes football interesting. Unlike
video games, it is not only about ratings of the team. It is about how much you
want the match. Manchester United seems yet to recover from New Year's eve
hangover and is still searching for their first victory in 2014. Three defeats
in a row has put the Red Devil in a new low point under the Chosen One, David
Moyes. </div>
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<br /></div>
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While both managers have sent on their best lineup
available, Gus Poyet obviously took the pride to momentarily forget about their
blue in Premier League. The presence of John O'Shea, Wes Brown and Phil
Bardsley might have further spiced up the momentum, as they have something to
prove to their former employer. The latter two combined to force an own goal by
Ryan Giggs to give David Moyes a miserable end to the first half.</div>
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<br /></div>
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For the first twenty minutes of the game, Sunderland
dominated the possession. A disciplined Lee Cattermole inspirationally led a
midfield of high work rate. Although not much was created to support lone
striker Steven Fletcher, the home fans were definitely lifted by the spirit. Sunderland
players appear to be more encouraged by these dead-or-alive cup ties, but lose
the focus in Premier League the marathon race. At their current position, they
could not afford for this to happen and have to treat every single league game
as if a cup final to replicate their spiritual performance tonight and that
against Chelsea last round. </div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0P87g6UIk5pLE1DLLJu-pkwffcx1k25gBBPzu2Wu_EoMl4NpBq2bIzKF3JwEXbx06T-sRQIqk32hUq6ZVOC9WBTV5m-_dzyIzRe96plQLexT_bLk0s_44v4oHK1SJ7vDzJ2lS_RqYqwE/s1600/images+(32).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0P87g6UIk5pLE1DLLJu-pkwffcx1k25gBBPzu2Wu_EoMl4NpBq2bIzKF3JwEXbx06T-sRQIqk32hUq6ZVOC9WBTV5m-_dzyIzRe96plQLexT_bLk0s_44v4oHK1SJ7vDzJ2lS_RqYqwE/s1600/images+(32).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Does he know why it's not working?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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On contrast, United was edgy, sloppy and unmotivated. Injury
is not a valid excuse to clubs like Manchester United. It was unfortunate to
miss both Rooney and Van Persie, as well as Nani, Fellaini and Rio Ferdinand,
but they have the quality and depth in the squad to cover. More worrying was
the display on the field, notably Patrice Evra. Looking rather uninterested to
play, he was always second best to the ball, not to mention his lack of
contribution in attack. </div>
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<br /></div>
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The other source of disappointment was Tom Cleverley. With
United desperate for central midfielder, this should be the season Cleverley
strives to prove his worth to the team. His development, though, has
significantly slowed down in the last two years, going from a potential Paul
Scholes' replacement to merely a role player. The clumsy challenge on Adam
Johnson that gifted the penalty concluded his horrendous night. </div>
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<br /></div>
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United will count themselves lucky to at least retain the
service of a regular right back coming weekend. Rafael could have easily been
sent off with bookings on either side of Fabio Borini's penalty, two days after </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
his twin brother Fabio foolishly was sent off.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbH8ZsT5fXP0IiGHZ5LxFnoiktEVhplgQeRB8dDarG7v8HnZy_6ioSsKd9I5vGmGZ8n-EniZiJMVv5Mb7vv6Gco_yp_EyNmHP98HwSy7YRPQHOTWJzP6kYyIEaBH3f5zrq37CSfCTedoQj/s1600/download+(7).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbH8ZsT5fXP0IiGHZ5LxFnoiktEVhplgQeRB8dDarG7v8HnZy_6ioSsKd9I5vGmGZ8n-EniZiJMVv5Mb7vv6Gco_yp_EyNmHP98HwSy7YRPQHOTWJzP6kYyIEaBH3f5zrq37CSfCTedoQj/s1600/download+(7).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welbeck (right) was isolated up front </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
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Even with five midfielders, the support to the red hot Danny
Welbeck was scarce. Playing with two wide players, there was not enough body in
the box to threaten Vito Mannone. At 40 years old, you really could not rely on
Giggs to be running up and down all the time. When Adnan Januzaj, undoubtedly
the best United player of the night, shifted to the centre, the away side began
to look more dangerous. However, the absence of a speedy striker to keep Wes
Brown and John O'Shea on the back feet limited the damage to Sunderland. While
the intention of keeping Javier Hernandez on the bench was understandable, it
would make sense to release him after interval, or at least more than the three
regular minutes he got to play.</div>
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<br /></div>
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When you lose the battle of midfield, the confidence of
opponents grow and more pressure is put on the defence. Ultimately it buckles.
Everything is just not right for David Moyes at the moment and again they have
very little time to recover, having to face Swansea at home six days after
Wilfried Bony denied their progression in FA Cup in the same stadium. Rooney's
return could be crucial, but first of all Moyes has to find a way to reignite
the fighting spirit of the Red Devil. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-81686157983137177582014-01-06T14:16:00.002-08:002014-01-06T14:20:05.534-08:00Tom Huddlestone is back in business<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYv4WIwPif6Q_IKl2Pq67sAww75jZSxNKiNWUNcSkwyHhCKo-1Y-RECAx4Pv_SQKccIWqZUEeWnl1aWihC7PeON3ST2Y0K2l-Ri7of5ZDpb1x2SMVdcavnaQg2NdJzYSnZLpNpw1OKg22R/s1600/download+(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYv4WIwPif6Q_IKl2Pq67sAww75jZSxNKiNWUNcSkwyHhCKo-1Y-RECAx4Pv_SQKccIWqZUEeWnl1aWihC7PeON3ST2Y0K2l-Ri7of5ZDpb1x2SMVdcavnaQg2NdJzYSnZLpNpw1OKg22R/s1600/download+(5).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a joke Tom (left)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A swollen belly with a MacDonald bag in one hand. It was a
good joke but so true that everyone thought the photo was real. Overweight and
lazy shouldn't be the description of Tom Huddlestone on football field. The
eight years spell at White Hart Lane could not justify the reason he was once
rated as the future of England midfield, not until his move to Hull City last
summer, having established as a cornerstone of Steve Bruce's team and finally
live up to his potential. Huddlestone is once again a delight to watch.</div>
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As an anchorman, Huddlestone is a complete package. Being an
expertise in spreading the ball around and controlling match tempo, his ability
to do this with either feet makes him more special. And not to forget his
trademark thundering long shot. The power he can generate yet makes it look so
casual is incredible. The fact that he doesn't score often does not cause his
skills to be forgotten, but make each of his goals more phenomenal (See videos). In modern
games which possession is the key, Huddlestone should be a midfield that every
manager dreams to own.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/b9JRiu4yNrg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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However, the sole element that is missing in his resume has
been costly to his career. Perhaps he would have to blame for where he was
born. When Andrea Pirlo and Xavi are classified as the world's greatest
playmakers, Huddlestone has struggled in English football which is all about
pace. Many are disillusioned by his 6 feet 2 inches tall and strong body.
Similar to Pirlo and Xavi, the 27 years old midfielder is at his best playing
alongside a more natural defensive midfielder. </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
This was not the case in Tottenham. Either in a 4-4-2 or
4-2-3-1 formation, he was paired with an all-rounded midfield (Jermaine Jenas)
or creative playmaker (Luka Modric), that Huddlestone's main responsibility was
to protect the back. Asking Tom to chase after the ball for 90 minutes is
absolutely a waste of his talent. Employing him at centreback occasionally does
not help either. His lack of speed is just not ideal to play in both positions
in Premier League. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Although never quite at his best, Huddlestone still
established himself as one of the fan favourites in North London. However, to
saviour his career, leaving Tottenham was a no-brainer, especially when they
have more than just a handful of central midfielders.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qpLfZs-GNfrZZBCCqMH1Wfv_cbO1jwwiI8DDw9Lm_V7a6z-pT9_Kd_p7rcvhCNmPCjVwwVsoSTFJq4i1NtdI7EaUAIB1gZYJsESl1hcq7ySxUSVCGJmeuUohyphenhyphenX8-JZX9HhFdJSVfZXhG/s1600/images+(31).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qpLfZs-GNfrZZBCCqMH1Wfv_cbO1jwwiI8DDw9Lm_V7a6z-pT9_Kd_p7rcvhCNmPCjVwwVsoSTFJq4i1NtdI7EaUAIB1gZYJsESl1hcq7ySxUSVCGJmeuUohyphenhyphenX8-JZX9HhFdJSVfZXhG/s1600/images+(31).jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Under Steve Bruce, he is treated as the heart of midfield
that balls are accustomed to go through Huddlestone first to initiate the
attack. More importantly, he is surrounded by blue-collar midfielders whose
focus are on regaining possession. In Bruce's 5-midfield setup, Huddlestone
finds his comfort zone to show his vision and passing range, also demonstrate
his sense of positioning to recover possession rapidly.</div>
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While matches against Liverpool and Fulham raise the eyebrow
of many, long-term admirers would not be surprised by his low-profiled,
laidback but stylish game. This reminds people of his once-teammate Michael
Carrick. The natural question that comes next is how likely Huddlestone will be
under Roy Hodgson's radar to join the squad to Rio. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unfortunately, Hodgson does not appear to be keen with this
type of players. One can tell that he doesn't mind to forfeit the right of possession
to his opponents. No wonder, Carrick and Huddlestone both fail to be in the mix
regularly. As Hodgson also claimed his scouting for World Cup squad is more or
less completed that there should be no more surprising choice, it is unlikely in
the near future Huddlestone can add to the four caps he has earned, let alone
playing the tournament in Brazil. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NENSQgtx0ZnJwAxExFo2cv9DqfpRlEqzJgyjIoBuEgn-_03l9sBwes0-x3YSk91IO3fDzFF2ckRI4YmkGrD5v19x0tuIM-vQfDJLXSwOxhYzyUKgwdZ6HX-PMyd2SM4tBHezkHwfKrps/s1600/download+(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NENSQgtx0ZnJwAxExFo2cv9DqfpRlEqzJgyjIoBuEgn-_03l9sBwes0-x3YSk91IO3fDzFF2ckRI4YmkGrD5v19x0tuIM-vQfDJLXSwOxhYzyUKgwdZ6HX-PMyd2SM4tBHezkHwfKrps/s1600/download+(6).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goodbye hair</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Steve Bruce was hoping the less hairy Tom could get some weight off
his boy. He should know well Huddlestone's game is all about intelligence
rather than mobility. It is not only his appearance is different now. We are
witnessing a reborn Tom Huddlestone in Hull City's jersey, confidently ruling
the midfield of KC Stadium.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-91282082220296748502013-12-31T08:21:00.002-08:002013-12-31T08:21:39.185-08:00What to expect in January 2014 transfer market<div class="MsoNormal">
Managers of English Premier League live a pretty busy life.
After a congested festive period, teams are returning to action on the first
day of New Year. Transfer market is also re-opened. In contrast to the summer transfer
window, they do not have a month to focus on scouting their targets; there is
no pre-season for the new signings to adapt to the new environment; there is additional
pressure on the signings to be influential saviours rather than luxurious benchwarmers.
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGvObXY1Q3W5du8-s5zTgkdIuyndBt9AOj9JGQOUU0snjS3QiR4BXolg5wibWCa-uL28gKq1zIxd1U-S-f7NJivuRk6ltq5sywrNZy9iE2NpHtDRHxMMZf52IcKm7FweLdzsBlsQxLfb3/s1600/download+(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGvObXY1Q3W5du8-s5zTgkdIuyndBt9AOj9JGQOUU0snjS3QiR4BXolg5wibWCa-uL28gKq1zIxd1U-S-f7NJivuRk6ltq5sywrNZy9iE2NpHtDRHxMMZf52IcKm7FweLdzsBlsQxLfb3/s1600/download+(4).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Previous successful January transfers --- Vidic (left) and Dempsey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Good scouting could earn you the Nemanja Vidic in 2006 or
Clint Dempsey in 2007, but prices are often inflated in January, that the
return does not always correlate positively with the investment. Afonso Alves
disappointed Middlesbrough who had even relegated in 2008. Andy Carroll's
vintage form at Newcastle disappeared at Liverpool. And there of course, the
infamous £50 million Fernando Torres.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is no secret defending champion Manchester United are desperate
for additional signings. A new central midfielder is almost essential. Ander
Herrera will again be the prime target. Koke and Marco Reus are also reportedly
under David Moyes' radar. Ross Barkley is also Moyes' favourite, but they will
have to break their bank account to lurk him away from Everton. A more reliable
left back as Patrice Evra's understudy will be useful as well. Fabio Coentrao
will hit the headline again.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPVQhQ8ccdJEuDIneBW7wZfRktwkWPK8m_F8612FoDoNNIusIDWyrQR3aVxmBf2mFmceE9chSzIiO3Ce9YGO6G8kIYmGcrDTKyguRuvezwiNjIcFFI24MXlSWBvvoFcsgp5d8t7V9KB2t/s1600/de-gea-koke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPVQhQ8ccdJEuDIneBW7wZfRktwkWPK8m_F8612FoDoNNIusIDWyrQR3aVxmBf2mFmceE9chSzIiO3Ce9YGO6G8kIYmGcrDTKyguRuvezwiNjIcFFI24MXlSWBvvoFcsgp5d8t7V9KB2t/s1600/de-gea-koke.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will Koke (right) join De Gea at Old Trafford?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chelsea likely will be United's main rival in the transfer
market, as it is evident they are seriously weakened playing without either
Frank Lampard or Ramires. <span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Eliaquim Mangala or Inter Milan Andrea Ranocchia may land at Stamford
Bridge soon. </span>Wesley Sneijder could be on the brink to rejoin Jose
Mourinho, who would also welcome more resources at the back to cover for John
Terry. Long-term target</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Mourinho
might also face fierce competition in bidding for defenders elsewhere in
Manchester, as City also realises their over-reliance on Yaya Toure,
Fernandinho and Vincent Kompany. Budgets will not be City's concern, but they
definitely do not want another Martin Demichelis. Rumours also suggest Manuel
Pellegrini is monitoring Iker Casillas to bring consistency to goalkeeper
position, despite Joe Hart's impressive performance lately. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">League
leader Arsenal unarguably has the best midfields in Premier League and have
little concerns in that department. Instead, they are out again to search for
strikers. As Michael Cox suggested (</span><a href="http://espnfc.com/blog/_/name/tacticsandanalysis/id/2408?cc=5739">http://espnfc.com/blog/_/name/tacticsandanalysis/id/2408?cc=5739</a>),
Olivier Giroud needs a break having sustained a high level of performance for
half a season. The problem is who can they turn to? Luis Suarez and Gonzalo
Higuain are impossible to switch. Edin Dzeko is a good option but Manchester
City will not allow him to go to title rival. If Diego Costa is slightly too
hefty, will Dimitar Berbatov be an attractive bet with potentially wealthy
return? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Berbatov's former club Tottenham has survived a turbulent
2013 and found themselves not too far off the pace from Champions League
football. Tim Sherwood will eager to anchor the squad, but having already spent
over £100 million in Summer, will Daniel Levy be generous in six months time?
Reality is they are short in defenders due to injuries. Barcelona Martin
Montoya's versatility could be the solution. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Liverpool is also keen to sign Montoya. Brendan Rodgers'
trust in youngsters could be an appealing point to the young full back. At the
same time, Liverpool's depth in defenders is pretty decent, so as the balance
of the squad, despite they are yet to get the best out of newcomers Iago Aspas
and Luis Alberto. A reliable third-choice striker will help relieve the burdens
on Suarez and Sturridge.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OSoqsLezx3U9OWgJsi2oQ4FJviIEvMtjqrFk3zEBXiVLcH5xn3JDaQthhqEHslN71T6z5vbi2MfVT-2fgd7FhV6nFg-ZXX3CiPUYFEqQ1ZU0_SDwdP2vVijgrdnZwXX3rUy-NnMpYntK/s1600/images+(30).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OSoqsLezx3U9OWgJsi2oQ4FJviIEvMtjqrFk3zEBXiVLcH5xn3JDaQthhqEHslN71T6z5vbi2MfVT-2fgd7FhV6nFg-ZXX3CiPUYFEqQ1ZU0_SDwdP2vVijgrdnZwXX3rUy-NnMpYntK/s1600/images+(30).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pochettino (right) will have a lot to consider in January</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everton is the biggest surprise pack this season, who is also
unexpectedly the team who least requires changes . They did not falter when
Leighton Baines and Arouna Kone injured, nor with their awareness of
over-wearing Ross Barkley. Roberto Martinez has constructed a team with
incredible squad depth. With both eyes on European football, there is very
little reason to risk disrupting the harmony of the squad. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also playing some impressive football, Southampton has
slowed down lately as they struggled to find their form with their bench
players. Mauricio Pochettino is now facing the dilemma in either pushing for
European qualification or keep a steady pace in club development by seeking
improvement from last year's 14th position. However, Adam Lallana, Ricky
Lambert and Morgan Schneiderlin might share a stronger ambition that the Saints
might fail to retain them in long run. Selling key players at the right moment
is also a challenge to mid-table clubs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: auto; padding: 6px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0l5cdZR3zZ6R2f1FsH1mGBMRhmtP2PC1aIGC25s3xkbXEobdrsKQI-lKaxEp_sjFdC0X4Ai3V7vaMwvLjEACGx_eSbylFR12B7pvyvKmSOI-Dw4Wk6X16pC2b1wj-CVV8HmyrJWGAv5jP/s1600/images+(29).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0l5cdZR3zZ6R2f1FsH1mGBMRhmtP2PC1aIGC25s3xkbXEobdrsKQI-lKaxEp_sjFdC0X4Ai3V7vaMwvLjEACGx_eSbylFR12B7pvyvKmSOI-Dw4Wk6X16pC2b1wj-CVV8HmyrJWGAv5jP/s1600/images+(29).jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Is he still willing to listen to offers?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Newcastle will be keen to retain Yohan Cabaye though. They
have recovered from the poor August form and the Cabaye's transfer chaos to sit
at 8th place. Speed and creativity in attack can further improve their squad.
Jeremy Menez can be a good fit to Magpies. He is quick and desperate for
first-team football. More importantly, he speaks French. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are teams who are eager to hold on to their key
players. There are teams who will strive to search for bargain talents. There
is no short of excitement for football fans in January. Let's wait and see
which team will have the last laugh.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-12581651758952210182013-12-29T10:00:00.002-08:002013-12-29T10:01:26.748-08:00Back to the top --- Gunners show resilience to defeat the Magpies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO6-9IqKN48BLlcmxOTDGG2JEJpTfy4SOJWNA5zxQejbE1qzCHN1EO-UI1yDQmCXdrdTZDEGmy-EY-5dU6pIx7_qb4GxAV1gRqIoMGmm_Wlg92fcGA6kr6OVI5AG_BQdYG_EOvYNySLhxB/s1600/images+(28).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO6-9IqKN48BLlcmxOTDGG2JEJpTfy4SOJWNA5zxQejbE1qzCHN1EO-UI1yDQmCXdrdTZDEGmy-EY-5dU6pIx7_qb4GxAV1gRqIoMGmm_Wlg92fcGA6kr6OVI5AG_BQdYG_EOvYNySLhxB/s1600/images+(28).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
1-0 victories brought Jose Mourinho his first league
champion in England; Manuel Pellegrini stressed the importance to secure 1-0
victories to be a champion. Seeing Olivier Giroud's goal at St James Park sealed
the top spot of the league, Arsenal's title talk is becoming increasingly
realistic in 2014.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Packed fixtures during festive period finally led to the
injury of Aaron Ramsey. Jack Wilshere returned, so as Mathieu Flamini to anchor
the midfield. However, it did not go as Arsene Wenger predicted. Newcastle,
usually more adventurous at home, was content to sit deep and not rush into
counter attacks. Cheik Tiote and Vurnon Anita offered Theo Walcott and Santi
Cazorla very little room to use the ball. When Giroud was more busy lurking on
the ground, Arsenal barely created any chance in the first half. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The stalemate continued after interval. Newcastle was
patiently waiting for that one and only chance, until Alan Pardew finally made
the move of bringing Hatem Ben Arfa. Somehow, it was Arsenal who broke the
deadlock. A needless tackle by Tiote gave Walcott the chance to find Giroud in
the box. The Frenchman surprisingly was unmarked and beat Tim Krul with a glancing
header.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTajfUyW6XBMb7ljUAVB1R3qFDfdYkLKpEFhbHaB4ImVHxJzkDRGEF9hsPlq_oNplXxWMFG3-P0OZWNU2rjZ2GdpddfYmU-Toa_iQH_Ef4_AZ82sOhGVSz2lIOTePOGIhUXc_p96aOuAN/s1600/Mathieu-Flamini-Arsenal-Marseille-Champions-L_3042400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTajfUyW6XBMb7ljUAVB1R3qFDfdYkLKpEFhbHaB4ImVHxJzkDRGEF9hsPlq_oNplXxWMFG3-P0OZWNU2rjZ2GdpddfYmU-Toa_iQH_Ef4_AZ82sOhGVSz2lIOTePOGIhUXc_p96aOuAN/s320/Mathieu-Flamini-Arsenal-Marseille-Champions-L_3042400.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well-thought substitution --- Flamini</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pundits suggested Wenger's conservatism ruined their chance
to beat Chelsea at home last Monday. His decision to move Mathieu Flamini to
left back against Newcastle would not be backfired though. The defensive
midfielder successfully kept the in-form Ben Arfa in check, who struggled to
threaten for even once. Getting Carl Jenkinson in for the last ten minutes
might be a passive move, but at least the extra height of Jenkinson helped
encounter the aerial attack led by Shola Ameobi and more importantly preserved
the lead till the final whistle.<span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTajfUyW6XBMb7ljUAVB1R3qFDfdYkLKpEFhbHaB4ImVHxJzkDRGEF9hsPlq_oNplXxWMFG3-P0OZWNU2rjZ2GdpddfYmU-Toa_iQH_Ef4_AZ82sOhGVSz2lIOTePOGIhUXc_p96aOuAN/s1600/Mathieu-Flamini-Arsenal-Marseille-Champions-L_3042400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If not of Debuchy's awareness, Walcott would have already
doubled the lead. Ultimately, the Gunners would not need the extra cushion and won
the hard-fought battle at St James Park. Sitting above all teams to begin 2014
campaign would be the best New Year present to Arsene Wenger, having faced huge
pressure in recent years to end Arsenal's title droughts. The Gunners are still
yet to convince they are forceful enough to conquer the big clubs, but improved
consistency and mentality send them flying in the first half of 2013 season.
The title race is still incredibly close with only eight points separating the
top seven. Arsenal still has every reason to enjoy in the driving seat of the
race to celebrate their sensational 2013. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-64027436484780508522013-12-15T14:53:00.000-08:002013-12-15T15:01:03.595-08:003 mistakes of AVB that sent Tottenham hammered<div class="MsoNormal">
Missing Jan Vertonghen and Danny Rose for the clash might be
a misfortune. Having Paulinho sent off with half an hour to go could be a bit
unfortunate as well. However, 5-0 is never the scoreline reflective of the
differential between the quality of two teams. Brendan Rodgers managed the
absence of Steven Gerrard and Daniel Sturridge very well. On the other hand,
Andre Villas-Boas has committed some fundamental tactical mistakes that halts
Tottenham strong run in December, also adds further pressure to his managerial
position at White Hart Lane. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk64-2mIDDINcmFMmkDCOI0cV5UIzvZqkQJ5Lc6e1XDNH6csQO56B_93PiwuvC1GAiBMCwvdguoKTFAUhbLiVoT2c0ryz9uzmoZXBgLWEzAuH8ZvrBxUOjZlYSzDsceRQRBzDaWQRGp-VG/s1600/AVB-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk64-2mIDDINcmFMmkDCOI0cV5UIzvZqkQJ5Lc6e1XDNH6csQO56B_93PiwuvC1GAiBMCwvdguoKTFAUhbLiVoT2c0ryz9uzmoZXBgLWEzAuH8ZvrBxUOjZlYSzDsceRQRBzDaWQRGp-VG/s1600/AVB-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How long will he stay?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>1. High line
defence</u></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Playing a high back four is a more active defensive
strategy, which aims to regain possession as quick as possible and take charge
of the tempo of the match. The key to success is to have a back four of
excellent communication and understanding, also with reasonable pace. Barcelona
has executed this near to perfection, but AVB's attempt to clone this in
England has been disastrous. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Portuguese seems to have learned little from his failure
in Chelsea. Having only four available first-team defenders for the match, with
two of them not the usual starters, also facing the red-hot Luis Suarez and
speedy Raheem Sterling, AVB's decision to press high up the field will hardly
be justified. Michael Dawson was forced on races with Suarez; Etienne Capoue's
lack of centreback positioning sense was well exposed; Kyle Naughton was simply
slaughtered. Hugo Lloris spent more time as a sweeper, having to go all the way
to the edge of the box at least three times each half to clear the dangers,
while once embarrassingly misjudged a header (Yes, a header) that went
unpunished, and in the second half helplessly being lobbed by Suarez. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It could be players' fault for failing to execute AVB's game
plan, but who would expect to see Dawson and Capoue trying to set Suarez in an
offside trap for 90 minutes?</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxWOh2FZFakBillgtNmhFr-E7Kt17BoAUv_ByySLKV4XAVDLVfiVda7v0TeETlxQweYr5yUJJ2wLIVoFqNTalI1jDbK-ii75FjFGsp4Cg8qBwnViwDBhzrz8ZyFlBzg4PQ5j0zfxFS-i4/s1600/http-content.reuters.com-auth-server-content-tag-reuters.com0000-newsml_gm1e9cg056w01-2061377826-tag-reuters.com0000-binary_gm1e9cg056w01-baseimage-tokengknjoz3t5tohjhlbf6pbbyqo-klwb8ayfbfqhdraq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxWOh2FZFakBillgtNmhFr-E7Kt17BoAUv_ByySLKV4XAVDLVfiVda7v0TeETlxQweYr5yUJJ2wLIVoFqNTalI1jDbK-ii75FjFGsp4Cg8qBwnViwDBhzrz8ZyFlBzg4PQ5j0zfxFS-i4/s1600/http-content.reuters.com-auth-server-content-tag-reuters.com0000-newsml_gm1e9cg056w01-2061377826-tag-reuters.com0000-binary_gm1e9cg056w01-baseimage-tokengknjoz3t5tohjhlbf6pbbyqo-klwb8ayfbfqhdraq.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liverpool celebrating Flanagan's goal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>2. Where is plan B<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Playing with ten men, trailing by two goals and with thirty
minutes to go, damage limitation should be the priority. On contrast, Tottenham
rode on the belief that they still had a chance to level the game. What AVB had
changed after Paulinho's dismissal was not solidifying the back, but to switch
from a four-men defence to a three-men one, pushing Capoue higher up and moving
Kyle Walker to the centreback. With Lewis Holtby and Nacer Chadli remained in
the more advanced midfield position, and Capoue desperately trying to make up
for his horrific defence, Liverpool only found it increasingly comfortable in
shaping up their counter attacks. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There might be some supporters who genuinely admire the team
for giving it a go, but with no question, 0-2 is a less demoralising scoreline
than 0-5. For the second time in a month Tottenham is demolished heavily. AVB's
decision-making ability in big matches is very questionable. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>3. Lennon and/or Townsend?<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYhFbBVHf2lkBIfUMhlVoLhe1IXYPNnOAkincmTQ6wlIMf_AmqlQflq1xJodLkwwEcGIIY3HnbP8x3W83G120MnjPGfJ9Kr-khy9M3vRREc7n_L7pEiBWE_yYy1o_8fP7RXGGCFUO2zOE/s1600/images+(27).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYhFbBVHf2lkBIfUMhlVoLhe1IXYPNnOAkincmTQ6wlIMf_AmqlQflq1xJodLkwwEcGIIY3HnbP8x3W83G120MnjPGfJ9Kr-khy9M3vRREc7n_L7pEiBWE_yYy1o_8fP7RXGGCFUO2zOE/s1600/images+(27).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">who's right? Townsend (left) or Lennon?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AVB seems to fancy playing a right-footer attacking midfield
on the left, which offers extra ball-handling ability in Tottenham's eleven. This
could work well with an attacking full-back like Danny Rose, but pairing up
Kyle Naughton and Chadli left Tottenham with an unbalanced attack. This
definitely did not help Aaron Lennon, who came back from injury and still
struggled to hit top form. Facing John Flanagan on the right, who maybe the
weakest link of Liverpool defence, the Kop could focus on protecting Flanagan,
as Spurs hardly created anything on the left. Chadli's best move of the night was
a header after a corner, leaving Glen Johnson alone with a relaxed afternoon.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Preventing Andros Townsend from over-burning is obviously
important for his young career, but undoubtedly he is the most dangerous winger
in AVB's side. It was already his fourth successive substitute appearances.
With Chadli and Lennon continue their unimpressive performances, would AVB finally
consider starting his best two wingers together?</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-27119821612660750662013-12-10T14:40:00.002-08:002013-12-10T14:40:23.998-08:00Phil Jones stops the bleed of the uninspired Red Devils<div class="MsoNormal">
Knowing that even the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson did suffer
in his early days at Old Trafford would not bring much comfort to the man in
crisis, David Moyes. Third successive defeats will put the tolerance of the
fans under test. With no room for failure, also aiming to top the group, United
supporters saw a strong side being fielded against Shaktar Donetsk, despite
already secured their berth in the knockout round. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEM4PjM4m7kM9h_smh02Y13r0fyis05bIvNa9ZAoGj87tRKVQmmzdtHz4ISqI1yM1wP5YQHt2XQKvqypyp8hjudCrMZjd72NyQc4ovB-yA9jDU2oPl3GkVxO_41R6OVam-O8Mrr7HPKr7/s1600/images+(26).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEM4PjM4m7kM9h_smh02Y13r0fyis05bIvNa9ZAoGj87tRKVQmmzdtHz4ISqI1yM1wP5YQHt2XQKvqypyp8hjudCrMZjd72NyQc4ovB-yA9jDU2oPl3GkVxO_41R6OVam-O8Mrr7HPKr7/s1600/images+(26).jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phil Jones (centre) celebrating the winning goal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With a squad having so used to be on the winning side, the
players were undoubtedly no short of motivation to get out of the mini slump.
The missing factor was obviously confidence. At times it seems United was more
concerned of not losing the match rather than convincingly bagging a victory.
This is a dangerous mentality to have in mind against a side who needs to
better Leverkusen's result at Spain, while also being well-known of their
technical skills and pace of attack. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ryan Giggs might have turned back the clock at Leverkusen, but
Moyes would regret starting the 40 years old against Shaktar. Giggs was caught
out of position more than once in the first half, leaving the midfield largely
exposed to allow Shaktar threaten United defence. Better finishing would have
already see Shaktar earn a well-deserved lead at half time. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When Tom Cleverley came in after the hour mark, United
regained the control of midfield. Although Cleverley lacks Giggs' quality of
touches, his area of coverage is important to shield the backline, led by the
aging Rio Ferdinand. With ball in feet, he is still one of the top class
defenders, but the lack of match fitness, as well as the decline of
physicality, sees him being increasingly fragile at the heart of defence. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Luckily escaped from trailing, the Red Devils also struggled
on the other side of field. A number of fringe players failed to impress and
put up strong fight for the starting positions. Ashley Young surely was the
most disappointing among those. While spoiling a golden chance in the first
half, he could not live up to the expectation and never quite connected with
Kagawa and Rooney throughout the night. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeeEhwAYA6x38Ki1CpR4JrFzDuELDT9oTbjglBGDp6AKrELo-MRVNzX8QaCn0UR4VcuHpNNYmTie6tHxXXuGTmzCGepnp88ILn4GF8B-_Jd6LHh497k49p4k8FaXzTXmPBRYboJjSI_Y4w/s1600/article-2521533-1A0313DD00000578-420_634x447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeeEhwAYA6x38Ki1CpR4JrFzDuELDT9oTbjglBGDp6AKrELo-MRVNzX8QaCn0UR4VcuHpNNYmTie6tHxXXuGTmzCGepnp88ILn4GF8B-_Jd6LHh497k49p4k8FaXzTXmPBRYboJjSI_Y4w/s320/article-2521533-1A0313DD00000578-420_634x447.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even Pyatov (left) didn't know how Young missed it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rafael and Alex Buttner would also need to work harder to
move up the pack under Moyes. Rafael has obviously hurt from not playing
regularly. The sharpness and decisiveness in overlapping he has shown last
season are badly missed. Buttner has a crystal clear role to play in United ---
being the understudy of Patrice Evra. The attacking full-back, though, does not
show much improvement in the quality of his end-products. While roaming down
the left flank, his crosses often found the opponents before his teammates in
the box.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The only player that David Moyes can find some comfort in is
Phil Jones. More well-known as a versatile defender, Jones is starting to find
his feet as a defensive midfielder. If playing at centreback is a waste of his
energy, while crossing from byline is not his strength, being the anchorman
would be the best fit of his character. Positioning Jones just in front of the
back four provides solid cover between the midfield and defensive lines. With
growing confidence, he has started to find himself appear in the right place at
the right time even in opponents' half. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDrmhn99nBqB_2ynPvhFN8mNaY7Q6WCRXqk4xlqgYSkyaYcwLKKiHrF-e-5oITsnJuCfJFU1QbYRN-JTqOv8Daca78mcgkU_-NnJ7WLxa2c-CIliLVvmLDXUEcaUlBtl2vOJGEYLEhIGX/s1600/Great-Result-But-Best-Still-Come-Says-Manchester-Uniteds-David-Moyes-After-50-Rout-Bayer-Leverkusen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDrmhn99nBqB_2ynPvhFN8mNaY7Q6WCRXqk4xlqgYSkyaYcwLKKiHrF-e-5oITsnJuCfJFU1QbYRN-JTqOv8Daca78mcgkU_-NnJ7WLxa2c-CIliLVvmLDXUEcaUlBtl2vOJGEYLEhIGX/s320/Great-Result-But-Best-Still-Come-Says-Manchester-Uniteds-David-Moyes-After-50-Rout-Bayer-Leverkusen.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first big achievement and much-needed relief </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: center;">It was still another lacklustre performance for the reigning
Premier League champion. Three away league games have lined up before the
calendar year ends. Although Aston Villa, Hull City and Norwich City have all
sort of problems to resolve, Manchester United just does not offer the
supporters the confidence at the moment. They must now ride on their
historically strong performance during the Christmas period to prevent their
title hope being completely written off. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657031517369293172.post-750147479404836452013-12-08T03:12:00.001-08:002013-12-08T03:13:41.854-08:00Spurs yet at their best but back on track<div class="MsoNormal">
November was blue and turbulent. The month of Christmas
appears to be a different story though. For the second time in four days,
Tottenham dug deep and somehow found the way to win. They were nowhere near
playing the style of football they want to, but the resilience they have rarely
shown this season is enough to please the fans, when picking up victories is the
main priority after the disastrous defeat to Manchester City. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Still scrappy<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqUEgKISIPTLhFxxJAS3JLm0Oc7R5gG_ZG4ilUvy_mixxlhhSaN28B3MwpYAL-BuPiciqdpv2WTFqvPkC2shfndN3BAjMCbqNzAr6Pf3c_sUnMgWE_ldFBu4E4kj9QWPALDWtl2EoExtL/s1600/_71606453_71606452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqUEgKISIPTLhFxxJAS3JLm0Oc7R5gG_ZG4ilUvy_mixxlhhSaN28B3MwpYAL-BuPiciqdpv2WTFqvPkC2shfndN3BAjMCbqNzAr6Pf3c_sUnMgWE_ldFBu4E4kj9QWPALDWtl2EoExtL/s320/_71606453_71606452.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lloris (yellow) dipping form is worrying</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a team, Spurs again looked very flat. From time to time,
it seemed Sunderland wanted the game more than Spurs did. While winning the
majority of possession, the ball was not moved quick enough. Nacer Chadli was not
creating much but was a liability in defence. His failure to impose pressure on
Ondrej Celustka indirectly led to the goal, although it was Hugo Lloris who
cheaply mishandled the cross that allowed Adam Johnson score. The French
goalkeeper has not recovered since returning from international duty. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqUEgKISIPTLhFxxJAS3JLm0Oc7R5gG_ZG4ilUvy_mixxlhhSaN28B3MwpYAL-BuPiciqdpv2WTFqvPkC2shfndN3BAjMCbqNzAr6Pf3c_sUnMgWE_ldFBu4E4kj9QWPALDWtl2EoExtL/s1600/_71606453_71606452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although dominating the early second half, they failed to
kill the game off. Jermain Defoe and Paulinho had several opportunities. Better
luck or finishing would have saved their manager some scare in the final minute
of the match. It has been individual brilliance that won them two straight
victories, but not quite the well-worked goals they have invested heavily for. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Moussa Dembele<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Despite not scoring many, he has quietly established as an
integral part of AVB's midfield. The all-rounded Belgian covers a lot of ground
and times his run into the box to perfection. Although single-footed, his
dribbling is first-class, also thanks to his strong upper body. There are not
many individuals who can shake off the challenge of the like of Wayne Rooney
and Jozy Altidore. His bursting run beat another strong man Jack Colback and led
to John O'Shea's own goal. Tottenham midfield looks completely different
without Dembele. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QLsWYdTwxh4F7ldYTKLUd5QeqQMIcT1W9zyYIdYCJO2bO88eoAPamFlhEGtVXPZOPuSJLfzNiH5IQJe3CiM-YMwpsFjhkTI3FWqpe2i_AhYtLp-niDqoUZtOswgdMyaHcu3s5jytfSex/s1600/john-oshea_0812getty_630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QLsWYdTwxh4F7ldYTKLUd5QeqQMIcT1W9zyYIdYCJO2bO88eoAPamFlhEGtVXPZOPuSJLfzNiH5IQJe3CiM-YMwpsFjhkTI3FWqpe2i_AhYtLp-niDqoUZtOswgdMyaHcu3s5jytfSex/s320/john-oshea_0812getty_630.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">O'Shea (right) in despair when Dembele celebrated the winning goal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>He did the subs
right<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Andre Villas-Boas' tactics at Etihad Stadium was
questionable. Tonight, his in-game changes worked well. Sandro might have been
sent on only because of Dembele's injury, but it was when Spurs needed a
defensive midfielder the most. Sandro was always the first to break Sunder
land's counter attacks and protect the back. His aerial ability was also
invaluable in defending set pieces. His controversial handball could have
changed the results. After all, he did his job in his twenty minutes. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Three games in a row, Andros Townsend came in as a substitution.
It is logical for AVB to use the exciting young star sensibly, who had not made
a single Premier League start before this season. Townsend's speed is a
nightmare to defenders late in the game, which offers AVB an impactious option
on the bench. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Man of the Match<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VQ6J6ys9GnXHDzihyjQk0hbUjTYeEKtPciw6_fjbsWMMVrkAmpB-dOP6Kl6IsiU4qMmkfnUc3lkHk_3aGSAc7qU7qOvOe1N3wVw6wkLLqG6Qzu5wjrHCabiwkZtLO_b8uAbGh31aYZNs/s1600/article-2518259-19D9409600000578-265_634x470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VQ6J6ys9GnXHDzihyjQk0hbUjTYeEKtPciw6_fjbsWMMVrkAmpB-dOP6Kl6IsiU4qMmkfnUc3lkHk_3aGSAc7qU7qOvOe1N3wVw6wkLLqG6Qzu5wjrHCabiwkZtLO_b8uAbGh31aYZNs/s320/article-2518259-19D9409600000578-265_634x470.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I go for Lewis Holtby. He has made no direct contribution to
the victory, only to blame Defoe for the below-par finishing, but he did
exactly what the fans love, and also what AVB exactly needs. Sitting behind
Defoe, his creativity might not be those of a natural playmaker, but his
coverage area was sensational, always trying to make himself available for
passes, also constantly applying pressure to the opponent defenders with ball
in feet. He might not be AVB's first choice midfield in the long run when
Christian Eriksen is fit, but Holtby was the key to help Tottenham pick up six
points in four days. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Who's next?</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They might still have not fired all the cylinders. The bright
side is they are not that far off the pace for Champions League football yet. Three point away from second place, their next
opponent Liverpool, a <span style="text-align: center;">third successive
league victory could mean they have finally set things straight. Despite the
red hot Luis Suarez, Spurs still have a decent chance at home as Gerrard and
Sturridge are destined to miss the game. Jan Vertonghen's ankle recovery progress
could be vital, while AVB would be grateful the mid-week Europa fixture is only
a formality, as Tottenham has already qualified for second round. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10300551755411104645noreply@blogger.com0