Lets Talk Football

[honeykid]

Chelsea got stumped 3-0. Too bad this couldn't happen earlier in the season!

I don't know that it'd been possible before Chelsea won the title. I mean, sometimes you just have an off day or something doesn't work as it's supposed to, but for the most part I think they've won the title and they've turned off a little. That, combined with a good WBA performance, it being the last home game of the season for them and Fabregas being sent off combined to produce a result which probably wouldn't have happened at another time.

[Fabulous]

Juventus now have the chance for the treble after defeating Lazio in the Coppa Italia; their tenth title in the competition.

[Fabulous]

Stevie G takes the worst beating of his career as Liverpool get shredded 6-1. What an awful last couple games, even season, to end his career as a red.

[honeykid]

I know. Funny as ****, wasn't it? At 5-0 I was just laughing. It was like Brazil/Germany. Stoke for crying out loud! Not a team renowned for turning on the style and scoring a hatful. There's been rumours for a while that some of the players aren't playing for Rodgers (and if you look at that performance you'd be forgiven for thinking it's more than a few) but you'd have thought they'd have done it for Gerard's last game. Loved this, too.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CFyaU26WIAEDdjW.jpg:large

I liked that Rodgers has said that he'll go if the owners want him to. Yes, you will. It's called being sacked mate and you've got no say in the matter. :D Unless he turns to them and says "I'm just not good enough, so I'll forego all the payments I'm entitled to in severance." If he does that, then I'd consider what he said as honest. Not that he gives a **** what I think. :D

Excellent for Stoke, though. Nice to see agent Mame Biram Diouf coming through nicely. Long time sleeper agent there. ;)

Well, that's it for another season. Chelsea were deserving winners. I don't know that I could pick a Rest of the Premier League XI that would beat that Chelsea team more often than not. They've just been that much better and more consistent than the rest.

Normally I'd hear Big Sam's comments that he was going anyway after being told that his contract wasn't being renewed as petty. Face saving, at best. But the rumours coming out of West Ham since Christmas have been that he wouldn't be there after the season, so I'm sure he already knew and, either had already been told or made up his mind. Looking at West Ham's post Christmas season, it does look like a team who knew the bloke in charge wasn't going to have any say in their careers anymore.

In news to surprise no one Falcao hasn't been signed by United on a permanent deal. If the rumours about him being signed if De Gea stayed are true, then he's going to be off, too. Which, I think, is what most of us expect anyway, isn't it?

Not a bad season for United. We did what we had to do and achieved the goal set at the start of the season; finishing top 4. Next year is the year to really put VG under the microscope. A proper summer and pre-season, knowing what he has, needs and wants. Next season we should be aiming at a title challenge. Not necessarily a win (I know that'll be the press expectation) but let's be honest, that's a good Chelsea team and we finished 17 points behind them. If we can get within 8 I'll think we did OK.

Horrible news from Argentina's second division, where defender Cristian Gomez collapsed on the pitch and died on the way to hospital. He'd suffered head injuries when he collided with a concrete wall which surrounds the pitch.

Just 75 days to go till we can do it all over again. I wonder whether it'll be Norwich or Middlesborough who'll be joining us?

How have you enjoyed your first season, PW?

[Powdered Water]

I enjoyed it quite a bit, actually. Did you see my post above about Carrick? You got any insider news on that? I sure hope that isn't true, United needs him. Think I'll get into the Champions league a bit more next season as well.

[Powdered Water]

Oh hey, I seem to have the Middlesbrough Norwich game on right now. So the winner moves up to the BPL?

[honeykid]

Yep, the winner goes up into the Premier League (EPL as it's English, not British.) Bournemouth and Watford are already up (as the winners and runners up respectively) and, with a few minutes to go, it's Norwich who look to be coming back up. They were relegated last season and it looks like they'll be back on the first try.

[-KhaN-]

Yep, the winner goes up into the Premier League (EPL as it's English, not British.)

I think he meant Barclays Premier League not British... :)

[Cole416]

Norwich back to the EPL

[honeykid]

No, I mean, he literally took De Gea out right before Asrenal scored right? Does LVG strike you as a great "system" guy? Its obvious what he's trying to do when they've been on the pitch the last few months, but the substitutions he makes sometimes and his somewhat slow reactions to what some of the other clubs try to do to United defensively. To say its frustrating is putting it mildly.
Sorry I missed this somehow. Yes, De Gea was injured and substituted just before Arsenal scored.

Next year should be when you start to see VG doing his thing. I'm guessing it'll be a 4-3-3 .

Now I'm hearing rumors about a rift between Carrick and LVG too? When Carrick just sort of limped off the field several weeks ago it apparently didn't sit well with LVG? And now Carrick hasn't been seen since? What up with that?
He signed a contract extension in March. He can be replaced this summer, but I don't see the need atm.

Di Maria is definitely gone, yeah? They ponied up the cash for that clown Di Maria, surely they can afford to keep De Gea?
Di Maria isn't definitely gone, but I still think he will go. Either sold or on loan (which there's talk of with Paris Saint-Germain(PSG) as the destination. Not sure if there's anything to that, though. It's where wanted to go last season, but they couldn't get him due to the penalties imposed on them for Financial Fair Play (FFP) violations. If his head and heart's at are United then I'd love to see him stay. He's quality. Otherwise he can go. As good as he is, there's no real point in keeping a player who's heart isn't in it because, even if they really try, it's rare that their performances are up to scratch with any consistency.

With De Gea, it's not about being able to afford him. We can keep him in terms of money, it's the lure of Real Madrid. Even though we bought him from their city rivals, he'd be back in his home town, where everything would be familiar and I'm sure he'd be the first choice keeper. If you'd worked abroad for a few years and were offered a huge amount of money (matching whatever your current employers offered) to go home (where your family and g/f lives and works and the weather is better) wouldn't you be tempted?

[honeykid]

I think he meant Barclays Premier League not British... :)

I see. :facepalm: That makes sense. I'm not sure I could've told you who the sponsors were. :D I normally see the league referred to as the EPL by non-Brits on the net, so I just assumed that's what he'd meant.

[Powdered Water]

Yeah, its called Barclay's premier league here.

[Fabulous]

Real Madrid have sacked Carlo Ancelotti. A head scratching decision...

[honeykid]

Yeah, its called Barclay's premier league here.
Yes, that's the sponsor. :) Officially it's used, but most people don't say it. Including pundits. They/we normally just say "the premier league", Ditto with stadiums being renamed. Newcastle play at The Sports Direct Stadium. But no one calls it that. It's St. James' Park. You're going to hear a lot about The Emirates FA Cup on tv, but the only people who'll be calling it that will be those on tv. It's the FA Cup.

As for Ancelottii and Real. For a proper club who make footballing decisions, it's a head scratcher. For a fantasy club like Real, it's only something which has happened before and will happen again. Just a shame we won't see him at United. Maybe he'll take this year off (as I've heard him say) and we might have a shot next year.

[Fabulous]

Yes, that's the sponsor. :) Officially it's used, but most people don't say it. Including pundits. They/we normally just say "the premier league", Ditto with stadiums being renamed. Newcastle play at The Sports Direct Stadium. But no one calls it that. It's St. James' Park. You're going to hear a lot about The Emirates FA Cup on tv, but the only people who'll be calling it that will be those on tv. It's the FA Cup.

As for Ancelottii and Real. For a proper club who make footballing decisions, it's a head scratcher. For a fantasy club like Real, it's only something which has happened before and will happen again. Just a shame we won't see him at United. Maybe he'll take this year off (as I've heard him say) and we might have a shot next year.

Are you guys already giving up on LvG? From what I can tell, most United fans seem to support him. Mind you I don't pay much attention to MUFC...

[honeykid]

No, I'm not giving up on LVG at all and I've not heard anyone else doing so, either. However, I'd have taken Mourinho or Ancelottii over him each and every day of the week. I've said that, while I think he was the best option available, I wasn't completely sure of him and there's a couple of other managers I'd have rather seen at United. I'm not judging him on this season, though. For all the faffing about, he's done what was expected this season.

[christine]

well well. This FIFA thing is going to be interesting!

[honeykid]

Indeed. Looking forward to it. :D

[Fabulous]

Europa League final today!

Sevilla vs Dnipro

I'm taking Sevilla.

[Fabulous]

Congratulations to Sevilla for winning their 4th UEFA Cup!

[honeykid]

I only saw the first half, but it was a great 45 minutes. Congrats to Sevilla.

[Fabulous]

Some domestic tournaments around Europe wrapped up these last couple days...

England: Arsenal 4-0 Aston Villa | Arsenal's 12th FA Cup

Germany: Wolfsburg 3-1 Borussia Dortmund | Wolfsburg's 1st DFB-Pokal

France: Paris SG 1-0 Auxerre | PSG's 9th Coupe de France

Spain: Barcelona 3-1 Athletic Bilbao | Barcelona's 27th Copa del Rey

Portugal: Benfica 2-1 Marítimo | Benfica's 6th Taça da Liga

[Powdered Water]

There's some really great coverage here in the states now. Haven't caught most of these games but I'm catching bits and pieces and am really getting a lot more into the sport. Can't wait for all the next seasons!

[Fabulous]

There's some really great coverage here in the states now. Haven't caught most of these games but I'm catching bits and pieces and am really getting a lot more into the sport. Can't wait for all the next seasons!

The leagues just wrapped up and the Champions League still has to be played, but I'm so damn anxious for next season, too.

[honeykid]

Sadly the Cup final was a bit of a washout. Villa looked so startled and they just didn't play. I think most people thought that, if they were to have any chance, that either their best players would have to be at the top of their game or Arsenal would have to really be off their game. It turned out the other way around and, by the time Arsenal scored their first, it could've easily been a third or fourth rather than the first. The second goal on the 50th minute just killed the game stone dead. Lovely goal though, so for those who haven't seen it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jae3FxK4RHw

Is that a domestic treble for PSG?

I was both pleased and sad to see the German result. Unless I have a vested interest, I always like to see a club win something for the first time. So that was pleasing and De Bruyne and Dost have had great seasons. But it was a shame that Klopp left Dortmund with that result. I know that most managers, however successful at a club, leave on the downward spiral, but seeing what he's done with them over the last few years and how bad this season has been, the romantic in me would've liked to've seen him go out on a high. Is he going to Liverpool this summer? I think it'd be a perfect fit.

Just because Messi seems to've decided to show that he's the best, I'll include these two recent efforts.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RudW0a32f8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brrJrIPKMtc

[Fabulous]

Domestic quadruple for PSG. First time it's been achieved in French football history.

[honeykid]

You can't really include that first one though, can you? That's like counting the Community Shield. What are they, Liverpool fans?;)

[Fabulous]

You can't really include that first one though, can you? That's like counting the Community Shield. What are they, Liverpool fans?;)

The football federations consider it an official trophy, so yes.

[honeykid]

Yeah, they would. :rolleyes: I'm not saying you don't want to win it, but I'd be embarrassed to be claiming that. If they'd won 'just' that and the league no one would be saying double winners. Not without sniggering anyway.

[Fabulous]

Yeah, they would. :rolleyes: I'm not saying you don't want to win it, but I'd be embarrassed to be claiming that. If they'd won 'just' that and the league no one would be saying double winners. Not without sniggering anyway.

That's great.

[honeykid]

You'd consider this a quadruple?

[Fabulous]

You'd consider this a quadruple?

The club and the French FA do, as well as the clubs and FA's that won it previously. That's good enough for me. However, I do agree that it's not very prestigious or important in the grand scheme of things.

[honeykid]

That's fair enough. I can understand the club and the FA (any nations FA) considering it because it increases prestige/revenue/advertising/etc but I'm more surprised to hear a fan do so. Of course, this could just be a cultural thing. The same way no one over here really give a monkey's about the World Club Championships.

[AlexWilder]

what do you think about juventus chances of winning the champions league saturday ?

forza juve <3

[-KhaN-]

what do you think about juventus chances of winning the champions league saturday ?

forza juve <3

They can win it in my opinion, they already kicked Real out. Barcelona in my opinion has even weaker defenders, if anyone can defend for 90 minutes, score once and win it, Italians can.

[honeykid]

I'm hoping for a Juve win. I do see it being a classic Catenaccio day out. Whether it'll work or not I don't know. They'll have to play better than they did at the weekend, though.

[AlexWilder]

yeah me too i think they have a good chance to win it even though its really hard
but , they showed us over the season that they have a good balanced football with a solid defence and a great coach

it will be so sad if juventus lose another final :( ( they have only won 2 of 7 finals )

[Fabulous]

I'll be cheering them on, too.

[babu]

Heart wants Juve to win but brain says Barca
It should be a cracker though. The Old Lady will not bend over easily.

[puyo]

The Old Lady will not bend over easily.
I totally agree... Juve's an outsider, but that "outsider" has passed many "favorites" and come to the finals

[neiba]

Vidal really wants to go to take a bath earlier, doesn't he?

Neymar is on fire! As soon as Messi as Suarez wake up, I think Juve will suffer!

[-KhaN-]

Vidal really wants to go to take a bath earlier, doesn't he?

Neymar is on fire! As soon as Messi as Suarez wake up, I think Juve will suffer!

Sure Neymar is on fire, he get's on the ground and starts rolling... Barca and Real must be training for fire department, they do know how fall down safely...Sad, looking at Barca players gives them foul.

[neiba]

Now, it's an interesting match!

[-KhaN-]

Well, there is only one way to express myself here... Ehm, Barca players are big, stupid, acting **** **** no matter what their skills are... Suarez is one of biggest ****s ever, if I was a manager I would tell me players to kick the **** out of them so they can fall down with a reason... Oh, I almost forgot, **** referee also, they are so protected so they can do whatever the hell they want... Football is going to hell and skilled fags are leading the way!!!!!!!

Don't take me wrong, it was a good game but I just had need to say this.

[neiba]

Who would guess that Barcelona would teach Juve how to score in counter attack?

Great final, congratulations to both teams, I think the better one won! Juve fell on their feet!

[neiba]

Well, there is only one way to express myself here... Ehm, Barca players are big, stupid, acting **** **** no matter what their skills are... Suarez is one of biggest ****s ever, if I was a manager I would tell me players to kick the **** out of them so they can fall down with a reason... Oh, I almost forgot, **** referee also, they are so protected so they can do whatever the hell they want... Football is going to hell and skilled fags are leading the way!!!!!!!

With Vidal starting like he did, what were you expecting? This is the first thing you are taught when you play at any football school in any country in the world. If an opponent has a yellow card and with a hot head, provoke him, make him see the second yellow card. How can your manager allow Vidal to enter the match like that, is what I can't understand! It's just irrational!

[neiba]

Oh, and my standing ovation to Pirlo, Buffon and Xavi. 3 legendary players who probably played their last big final! Buffon was also my favourite GK and he proved today why!

[-KhaN-]

With Vidal starting like he did, what were you expecting? This is the first thing you are taught when you play at any football school in any country in the world. If an opponent has a yellow card and with a hot head, provoke him, make him see the second yellow card. How can your manager allow Vidal to enter the match like that, is what I can't understand! It's just irrational!

Did you watch the game? He was provoking Vidal by falling down when Bonuci farts in his direction? First thing they teach you in school is how to act? How to be a **** and pretend?

[neiba]

Now I just don't know what exact move you are talking about.

I know you just lost a final but take a deep breath ;)

[-KhaN-]

Now I just don't know what exact move you are talking about.

I know you just lost a final but take a deep breath ;)

Mate, it ain't because of finals, I think about them like this always, this is just more personal because its Juve... They act and act, Suarez will win Oscar before DiCaprio...

[puyo]

I was hoping that Juventus can surprise, but Barca was much better and deserved to win...

[BlueLion]

Juve the better team.

[honeykid]

Please, Barca pissed all over them. Juve were more than good enough to make it interesting now and then, but outside of the first 2 minutes and about 15-20 minutes in the second half (when they scored) Barca were all over them and should've won by more. I was really hoping for a Juve win (as I think most neutrals were) but that seemed even more highly unlikely after 4 minutes. The way Juve were playing, especially in defence, it could've been Germany/Brazil after 20 minutes.

I'm with Neiba and his opinion of Vidal. WTH was happening there. The ref should've sent him off and had it not been Juve in a final, he probably would've. At least he got his head back and was able to play, but he shouldn't have been on the pitch by then.

The goal shouldn't have been disallowed for handball, either. Though if, as was suggested, the officials didn't see the header, then at least I can understand why it wasn't given.

Lastly, every time I see Pogba play I feel sad inside. I couldn't understand why Fergie didn't play him (or at least let him know he'd play) when we let him go, but seeing him now is just painful. Not only a good player who'll probably become a great, but exactly one of the players that United have need.

[BlueLion]

Please, Barca pissed all over them. Juve were more than good enough to make it interesting now and then, but outside of the first 2 minutes and about 15-20 minutes in the second half (when they scored) Barca were all over them and should've won by more. I was really hoping for a Juve win (as I think most neutrals were) but that seemed even more highly unlikely after 4 minutes. The way Juve were playing, especially in defence, it could've been Germany/Brazil after 20 minutes.

Pissed all over them? Far from it. This Barca team is far from great honestly, I found way too many flaws in their team. This is pretty much the same Barca, in that they always struggle under pressure + their team this season was just not really that spectacular.

I also thought that for the most part Juve read the game brilliantly. I agree about their defence, their positioning in Rakitic's goal in particular was atrocious (just look at how much space he had, at least three defenders were way behind just standing there like utter morons, which should never happen in a CL final) but a repeat of Germany-Brazil? Lol no. After Morata's goal Juve could have easily won it. Juve disappointed me with their defence a little, they really should have parked the bus at times. But other than that I have no complaints about their performance. I think they deserved extra time at the very least.

I'm seriously not worried about this Barca team. Mourinho can beat this Barca side by parking ze bus pretty easily.

[Fabulous]

Congratulations to Barcelona on winning their 5th European Cup. Also completed the treble. Disappointed that Juventus didn't win, but Barça was the better team. On to next season!

[neiba]

Pissed all over them? Far from it. This Barca team is far from great honestly, I found way too many flaws in their team. This is pretty much the same Barca, in that they always struggle under pressure + their team this season was just not really that spectacular.

I also thought that for the most part Juve read the game brilliantly. I agree about their defence, their positioning in Rakitic's goal in particular was atrocious (just look at how much space he had, at least three defenders were way behind just standing there like utter morons, which should never happen in a CL final) but a repeat of Germany-Brazil? Lol no. After Morata's goal Juve could have easily won it. Juve disappointed me with their defence a little, they really should have parked the bus at times. But other than that I have no complaints about their performance. I think they deserved extra time at the very least.

I'm seriously not worried about this Barca team. Mourinho can beat this Barca side by parking ze bus pretty easily.

Whaat? The amount of goals Barca missed could really made Juve lose by a lot, just because The Vecchia Signora had good 15 minutes, they could have won easily? oO come on!

And Mourinho didn't beat PSG playing with 10, how could he have beat this Barca???

[BlueLion]

Whaat? The amount of goals Barca missed could really made Juve lose by a lot, just because The Vecchia Signora had good 15 minutes, they could have won easily? oO come on!

And Mourinho didn't beat PSG playing with 10, how could he have beat this Barca???

A good 15 minutes is enough to win you a final. Ask honeykid (for United two or three minutes is all it took). Not to mention that Chelsea beat Bayern at the Allianz with like two shots on goal in total, while Bayern had something like 32. Atletico very nearly beat Real too last year, despite Real's domination.

Mourinho failed to beat PSG playing with ten men but the preparation and motivation for Barca would be on a whole 'nother level. Not to mention that Barca have failed to win against Chelsea in their last 6 meetings + Mourinho knocked Barca out with Inter and then beat them with Real in the title race. Mourinho + Chelsea = Barca meltdown

[neiba]

If good 15 minutes are enough to win a final, then great 75 minutes are better, and Barca deserved completely the result, including the third goal.
Yeah, but this Barca banalized Bayern in a way I never saw another team do... And Mourinho won the title race? He was there for 3 seasons, he just won 1, and on the first one he was humilliated with 5-0 against Barca. So, it's not that simple. Besides, to prove your point, Chelsea would have needed to get to the finals, and guess what, they didn't and Barca did.

[-KhaN-]

Please, Barca pissed all over them. Juve were more than good enough to make it interesting now and then, but outside of the first 2 minutes and about 15-20 minutes in the second half (when they scored) Barca were all over them and should've won by more. I was really hoping for a Juve win (as I think most neutrals were) but that seemed even more highly unlikely after 4 minutes. The way Juve were playing, especially in defence, it could've been Germany/Brazil after 20 minutes.

Are you serious here? Pissed all over them? I thought on 1-1 Juve was denied clear penalty, huh... Should have won by more? In what universe? You think every chance = goal? Or you mean possession=goal? Comparing this to Germany/Brazil is a nonsense.

I'm with Neiba and his opinion of Vidal. WTH was happening there. The ref should've sent him off and had it not been Juve in a final, he probably would've. At least he got his head back and was able to play, but he shouldn't have been on the pitch by then.

Out all of those fouls, maybe 2 of them were really fouls and none of them for yellow, its just modern football I guess and Barca in general, fall down->cry a lot->pretend you are in pain.

The goal shouldn't have been disallowed for handball, either. Though if, as was suggested, the officials didn't see the header, then at least I can understand why it wasn't given.

What!? He scored with his hand, ball was going wide and he scored perfectly with hand, changing direction of ball totally... Also, you ofc failed to see penalty on Pogba? Well, maybe in handball Neymar goal would be regular.

[honeykid]

I'm not saying this Barca team is great (I think last night was the most I've watched them this season) and it's certainly not perfect. It's not as good as the 09/10 team IMO, but they were in charge for the majority of this game. Simply because a team (any team) can or does win a game doesn't mean they played well. On that I agree completely. I can remember United beating Everton 1-0 without registering a shot on target (as Everton scored an own goal), sometimes you get lucky. But Barca could've been 3 or 4 up in the first 15 minutes and should've scored at least another couple in the second half. Football's all about opinions, as we all know, but from where I was sitting with the exception of about 15 minutes or so, Barca didn't even look ruffled, let alone dominated.

Like you, I'm surprised that Juve played as much as they did, though maybe the early goal changed their minds? But this more counter attacking Barca just showed Juve how to play it and made devastating breaks time after time which Juve were either lucky to get away with or were forced to make a fantastic save or tackle. I felt it was far more often the former than the latter, though.

There's some ridiculous transfer news over here today. Harry Kane to United.... For £50m.... Plus Javier Hernandez, Nani and Adnan Januzaj. :eek: Even if I was confident of my info I'd think twice before filing that story.

Slightly more likely is Karim Benzema to United as a way of easing De Gea to Real. There's been rumours of Benzema leaving this summer for a while now and I doubt the arrival of Benitez will prevent it if the board decide to get rid.

Talk of Jackson Martinez going to Arsenal over the last week or two. Before the figures reported have been stupidly low, IMO, but today the number is £25.7m, which looks far more likely. Thoughts Neiba? What are the rumours over there?

[honeykid]

Are you serious here? Pissed all over them? I thought on 1-1 Juve was denied clear penalty, huh... Should have won by more? In what universe? You think every chance = goal? Or you mean possession=goal? Comparing this to Germany/Brazil is a nonsense.
I said having played as they did in that first 15 minutes it could've been Germany/Brazil. Juve looked like a team who'd lost their heads. Had they scored more in that 15 minutes it could've been like Germany/Brazil.

Do you mean the foul on Pogba for the penalty? If so, then I thought it was a foul but it was outside the box. But in the replay it actually looks like it might've been a good tackle. What the ref saw I don't know, of course, but if that is the incident you're talking about, then wasn't a penalty.

Just to be clear, I'm not saying in any way that Juve didn't have chances to win or that they played badly or that it was a bad game. I'm not a Barca fan and was really hoping that Juve would overturn the odds and win, but I can't understand how anyone could watch that and not see anything other than Barca bossing the game for the majority of it.

Out all of those fouls, maybe 2 of them were really fouls and none of them for yellow, its just modern football I guess and Barca in general, fall down->cry a lot->pretend you are in pain.
It's just modern football? I agree. What year was the game you watched played in? I was watching a modern game of football and, in that game, he was lucky to stay on the field.

What!? He scored with his hand, ball was going wide and he scored perfectly with hand, changing direction of ball totally... Also, you ofc failed to see penalty on Pogba? Well, maybe in handball Neymar goal would be regular.
Hand ball has to be deemed intentional. Whether the ball hits the hand/arm isn't the point. It hit his hand. No question about that. Did he mean to head it onto his hand to score? No, of course not. That's the law of the game. You might not like it (I don't) but they are supposed to play to them. If the officials think that he meant to do that, then it's handball. If not, it isn't and the goal should stand.

[neiba]

Out all of those fouls, maybe 2 of them were really fouls and none of them for yellow, its just modern football I guess and Barca in general, fall down->cry a lot->pretend you are in pain.

Here I have to disagree... I don't know how it is in Italy, but in the rest of the world the first 2 fouls Vidal made are both for yellow card! If the referree wasn't to afraid to send off a player on a CL final so soon, he would have been sent off after 10 minutes on the field.

There is a penalty on Pogba on the second half, I agree with you. But there's also one against Juve on the first half, for handball. And Neymar goal was well disallowed, IMO.
I mean, it wasn't intentional, that's right, but he changed the ball course so, that's a foul.

In the meantime, Messi for the 5th Golden Ball!!!! :D:D:D:D:D

[neiba]

Talk of Jackson Martinez going to Arsenal over the last week or two. Before the figures reported have been stupidly low, IMO, but today the number is £25.7m, which looks far more likely. Thoughts Neiba? What are the rumours over there?

I believe Porto will only sell JM by his clause, which is 25.7£m, I think. He's not going nowhere for less than that!
The alternative is a deal with Atletico Madrid, including Oliver Torres and some more money, like 15M €. That would be even better!

[honeykid]

And Neymar goal was well disallowed, IMO.
I mean, it wasn't intentional, that's right, but he changed the ball course so, that's a foul.
No. The law states the handball has to be intentional. Most of the handballs that are given shouldn't be but, a bit like fouls, shirt pulls, etc the laws aren't enforced as they're supposed to be because it'd cause havoc.

I believe Porto will only sell JM by his clause, which is 25.7£m, I think. He's not going nowhere for less than that!
The alternative is a deal with Atletico Madrid, including Oliver Torres and some more money, like 15M €. That would be even better!
If that's his buyout clause then it makes sense that's what reason for the price. The rumour over here is that Arsenal are getting involved because the Atletico bid wasn't going ahead. It is Sunday and it's the summer, so all that could quite easily be complete bollocks. :D

[Daniel M]

I haven't read all the posts in here, but I agree with HK it seems. What are you guys talking about. Barca were by far the better team, Juventus played too slow and made it boring, when they tried to attack they were ripped to shreds by the intensity of Barca's counter attacking football. Only going to be one winner in that game, I knew that after five minutes.

Khan, no offense but a lot of what you are saying sounds like sour grapes. The type of reaction I would have made about five years ago, now I just accept the better team and respect all teams even if I dislike them. Juventus were by far the dirtier team too, and Suarez' acting is over exagerrated.

[-KhaN-]

Respect what? Acting? Pretending to be in pain? I have this opinion on them all my life, no matter do they play against Celta, Juve or Racing... I can't look at someone's skill when he is a dick who acts all the time, Neymar the Dolphin. Suarez bit 3 people ffs, **** is a ****, no matter his skills...

[Sane]

Not sure what Juventus you've been watching over the years if you are losing it about players from other teams play acting. I agree with your point but Juventus have been front and centre of that behaviour for a long time. Even when Del Piero came to Australia he couldn't help falling over during the pre-game handshake it was so part of his mindset.

Barcelona were deserving winners and could have won by more - fortunately it didn't get embarrassing. Neymar's goal should not have been disallowed. The law says "deliberate" and that obviously wasn't. Even using the current "interpretation" of the law it still should have stood - what he was doing was "natural" and his hand wasn't in a strange position. Therefore it's play on.

Pogba may have deserved a penalty, although I don't think he did, but Barcelona were still so much in control that it probably wouldn't have mattered.

[Cobpyth]

Barcelona were deserving winners and could have won by more - fortunately it didn't get embarrassing. Neymar's goal should not have been disallowed. The law says "deliberate" and that obviously wasn't. Even using the current "interpretation" of the law it still should have stood - what he was doing was "natural" and his hand wasn't in a strange position. Therefore it's play on.

Scoring with your hands is never allowed. Even if it's not deliberate. The hand touch also completely changed the direction of the ball. He didn't get a card, because it obviously wasn't intentional, but the goal doesn't count.

Barca was by far the better team, though. No question.

[Sane]

Scoring with your hands is never allowed. Even if it's not deliberate. The hand touch also completely changed the direction of the ball. He didn't get a card, because it obviously wasn't intentional, but the goal doesn't count.

Which rule did it break?

[-KhaN-]

Which rule did it break?

Scoring with his hand? You do understand he scored with his hand? Literally? As ball was going wide and he directed it towards goal with his hand? That is handball mate. You don't look at intentional or not intentional when someone scores with his hand. You look at ball when someone shots at you from close range for example, not when idio... Neymar kicks ball at his own hand and scores with his hand.

[neiba]

The thing is, if it wasn't for his hand, he wouldn't have scored. So, to me it's a well disallowed goal.

[Sane]

Scoring with his hand? You do understand he scored with his hand? Literally? As ball was going wide and he directed it towards goal with his hand? That is handball mate.

Nope - handball is when it is deliberate. You could argue that the rule doesn't deal adequately with this situation, which it doesn't, but according to the laws of the game that was a goal.

Also, calm down :)

[Sane]

The thing is, if it wasn't for his hand, he wouldn't have scored. So, to me it's a well disallowed goal.

I understand what you are saying and you are highlighting the problem with the rule but the rules say nothing about what would have happened if it didn't hit his hand. I think what you are saying should be part of the rule - but it isn't.

Anyway, doesn't really matter. Must say it didn't help Neymar's case that he promptly lied about it by motioning that it had hit his shoulder :rolleyes:

[-KhaN-]

Nope - handball is when it is deliberate. You could argue that the rule doesn't deal adequately with this situation, which it doesn't, but according to the laws of the game that was a goal.

Also, calm down :)

Mate, could you copy-paste rules? Or give the link to them? Because I'm sure they apply differently to different situation, its not only when its deliberate and not in all situations.

:)

[Sane]

This article discusses the rule along with the current interpretation - http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/rules_and_equipment/4524354.stm

This is a PDF from FIFA that describes that it has to be deliberate and outlines what needs to be taken into account - http://www.fifa.com/mm/document/afdeveloping/refereeing/law_12_fouls_misconduct_en_47379.pdf

This is why people get so frustrated at referees :) I agree that what happened probably shouldn't be a goal but according to the rules it really should be and this ambiguity leads to frustration. If that happened to Juventus there would be plenty of your fellow supporters agreeing with me and as the rules are written they would be justifiably annoyed.

[honeykid]

As I said earlier, the rules aren't applied properly because there'd be chaos if they were. Can you imagine that first weekend when they start giving penalties for pulling shirts or holding in the penalty area? The reason people fall down without the need to fall down is because it forces the referee to make a decision. Same as when you see a player grab the ball when they're on the ground. They think they've been fouled and they're forcing the officials to make a decision. More often than not the ref seems to give it their way but wasn't looking like he was going to.

IMO, most of the stuff which Khan (and most people) don't like with the falling over, going down easily, etc comes because refs won't enforce these laws. By extension, if the players didn't do these things (pulling shirts, holding, etc which is gaining an unfair advantage lets not forget) then the refs wouldn't have a decision to make anyway.

[babu]

Top 100 Transfer Values, Lionel Messi Exceeds $300M, Cristiano Ronaldo's value Falls (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2490625-cristiano-ronaldo-falls-in-top-100-transfer-values-lionel-messi-exceeds-300m)

Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is now worth less than Chelsea's Eden Hazard in terms of transfer value, according to a new study from the Football Observatory of the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES).

Barcelona's Lionel Messi remains the most valuable player inside the top 100, with youngsters such as Liverpool's Raheem Sterling and Juventus' Paul Pogba now considered among the most valuable transfer commodities in football.

We can expect the likes of Hazard, Sterling and Pogba to continue rising in value over the coming seasons. Transfer prices are becoming increasingly inflated—hence why Gareth Bale cost more in 2013 than Ronaldo did in 2009—a trend that is likely to continue.

1. Messi - 288 ml
2. Hazard - 151 ml
3. Cristina - 127 ml
4. Neymer 101 ml
6. Sterling 83 ml
7. Pogba 79 ml
9. Sanchez 76 ml
12. Griezmann 66 ml

[honeykid]

An excellent win for Wales last night.

[-KhaN-]

Well Serbia just became World Champion for U20... I can't express myself at the moment, I cried and then screamed and then I laughed... A lot. And tonight, well tonight we are going to drink, and then cry and laugh a little more! We were never nothing special in football, we are one of the best in basketball, handball, volleyball and so on... This is just amazing!

"Sing Serbia land of heroes!
Sing Serbia land of battles!
Sing Serbia louder and stronger!
Sing Serbia you cried enough!"

[honeykid]

It was a great win from what little I read. Last minute of extra time wasn't it? Must've been incredibly thrilling. Congrats to the Serbs! :)

As you won, I'm sure you won't mind me posting the wonderful goal that Brazil scored against you. That's United's Andreas Pereira, BTW.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4rmFEb4XrM

[-KhaN-]

Thanks HK, yea it was very thrilling and I don't mind. :)

I'm just sad these kids will probably never have anything even close to this in main squad, our FA is retarded, we had ****** manager after ****** manager, when we get a good one they ruin it because they have deals with managers to play their players. Just look at our A squad. But never mind that, we have best kids in the world!

[Fabulous]

I stayed up to watch the match and it ended up being very entertaining. Both sides had some great chances.

[honeykid]

Good win for England women yesterday at the Women's World Cup. Cracking goal to win it, too. I liked that we spent the last 6 or 7 minutes playing into the corners, too. It's about time.

Lots of talk about Sergio Ramos and Bastian Schweinsteiger coming to United. Anyone actually think this will happen? :nope: I can't believe the deal they're talking about for Ramos. De Gea plus money? I wouldn't be happy with a straight swap, let alone plus money. Add on his, what I'm sure are insane, wages and you can probably add another £8m-£10m a year onto the deal. Does anyone think Ramos is worth that? Apart from him and his agent, of course.

Arsenal might finally be getting the top four keeper they've needed for the past 12 or so years. It always take me aback to think just how negligent Wenger has been in that area for so long.

[-KhaN-]

Lots of talk about Sergio Ramos and Bastian Schweinsteiger coming to United. Anyone actually think this will happen? :nope: I can't believe the deal they're talking about for Ramos. De Gea plus money? I wouldn't be happy with a straight swap, let alone plus money. Add on his, what I'm sure are insane, wages and you can probably add another £8m-£10m a year onto the deal. Does anyone think Ramos is worth that? Apart from him and his agent, of course. I don't think so, he is ok player, but not that special, you could find much better for a lot less money/wages.

Arsenal might finally be getting the top four keeper they've needed for the past 12 or so years. It always take me aback to think just how negligent Wenger has been in that area for so long.

Not only that area, I felt sorry for them for a while, then they kept doing bad transfers year after year, so its funny now. I would in all honesty love to see strong Arsenal, would make the league a lot better.

[honeykid]

I don't think so, he is ok player, but not that special, you could find much better for a lot less money/wages.
I completely agree. I'm aware that I have a bit of a blind spot when it comes to defenders (mainly because I like them to defend) but I really don't see what makes him a top defender other than playing for Real.

Not only that area, I felt sorry for them for a while, then they kept doing bad transfers year after year, so its funny now.
Whilst I'd probably agree, at least some/most of these transfers/lack of signings were down to Wenger's philosophy and the type of players he wanted. A good keeper is a good keeper. Unless you're looking to play some kind of sweeper/keeper (which he never has) then they have the same attributes that you want. I didn't think Lehman was good enough, but he's of Cech's calibre compared to what they've had since.

[Fabulous]

Add to that he is 29 going on 30, and I think someone like Otamendi would be a better choice for United. Plus, there are reports in Spain that he is just using United as leverage to get a larger contract with Madrid. I find it hard to see him leaving them.

[neiba]

Otamendi is not that good, not for a team like ManUn. I say this because he played in FCPorto for some seasons. He's good only on FM.

[honeykid]

Add to that he is 29 going on 30, and I think someone like Otamendi would be a better choice for United. Plus, there are reports in Spain that he is just using United as leverage to get a larger contract with Madrid. I find it hard to see him leaving them.

That's the feeling over here, too. He's done it before and it's quite possible that Schweinsteiger, though there has been some talk of him not being entirely happy at Bayern. Probably over pay, though. I don't expect either to show up at United, but I think Ramos is less likely.

Otamendi has been linked with United for a few years now, since his time at Porto, and is being so again. I think it was more likely when Fergie was in charge though if there's no one else we can get I expect to see him at OT.

[honeykid]

Matteo Darmian is due to have a medical at United before a move. £12.7m was the figure I saw being put out there a couple of days ago but there's no mention of it in the article on the BBC website. Also talk of Otamendi coming too.

Still waiting to see what happens with De Gea, but as we're off to the States on Monday it's possible something might be done over the weekend and there's talk of Untied and Spurs talking about Lloris

Southampton said they turned down a £20m bid from United for Schneiderlin. I'd expect United to come back with a bigger offer. Somewhere around £25m, though there are rumours that Schneiderlin would rather go to Arsenal. Makes sense, seeing as he's French. :D It'd be a shame, though. As those who've read these pages over the years will know I'm a big fan of Schneiderlin and he's someone I've wanted at United for 2 or 3 seasons now.

I seem to be getting my wish with van Persie said to be going to Galatasaray. There are some rumours that he wants United to pay up his contract before he'll move, despite Galatasaray being prepared to match his wages (said to be £240,000 a week).

[NedStark09]

Is this tread about American football or is it about Soccer.

[honeykid]

Soccer. :)

[honeykid]

It's just been announced that United have agreed a deal with Bayern Munich for Bastian Schweinsteiger. :cool: Todays papers had the deal rumoured at £5.75m with wages of about £145,000 a week. I suspect that kills the Schneiderlin deal.

[neiba]

So, Casillas probably on his way to Porto... I think noone expected that :p

[Fabulous]

Casillas to Porto is best for both himself and Madrid.

[neiba]

And Porto, btw! :p

[Fabulous]

I would say so. He would finally be able to escape all the media speculation and questionable treatment he has received from the fans. Perhaps it could even help him regain his form.

[honeykid]

For quite a while I thought Casillas was the best keeper in the world (I know, Buffon, but I thought Casillas) and it'd be great to see him reclaim at least some of that credit back after what has been a bad couple of years for him.

Talk in some places that Schneiderlin might still be in LVG's plans. I'd like that, but surely it's too many in midfield? I know both Carrick and Schweinsteiger have injury issues, but you'd hope to have at least one of them fit and able to play for the majority of the time.

[Fabulous]

With Schweinsteiger about to turn 31, combined with his recent injuries, I would've taken Schneiderlin. He is already proven in the PL plus has age on his side. However, a player like Bastian should have no problem settling into the league. If he can stay healthy, I think he can give United a solid 2 or 3 seasons. Are you happy with the signing, or did you want Schneiderlin instead?

[-KhaN-]

I lost my respect for Iker during last few years... He was club captain and he constantly complained and cried to newspaper, something was obviously wrong in his mind.

[honeykid]

With Schweinsteiger about to turn 31, combined with his recent injuries, I would've taken Schneiderlin. He is already proven in the PL plus has age on his side. However, a player like Bastian should have no problem settling into the league. If he can stay healthy, I think he can give United a solid 2 or 3 seasons. Are you happy with the signing, or did you want Schneiderlin instead?

My worries about Schweinsteiger are the same as yours, though I'm not as confident with him settling in, but money in my hand, I'd have gone with Schneiderlin so long as he wants to come to us. It does seem as if we'll get both, atm, which would be fantastic. I'm still not sure what we're going to do with all these midfielders unless a couple of sales are made, but I like it nonetheless.

I am happy with the signing, though. I wasn't confident with either Di Maria or Falcao simply because I felt they'd rather be elsewhere. But Schweinsteiger really could go where he pleased or stay at a club where he's a hero and that alone makes me happier with this even if it doesn't work out.

I love seeing that Delph has decided to stay at Villa rather than sit on the bench and make up the quota at City. I hope more players follow his lead and choose first team/rotation play over bench warming. Still, it's got to be difficult to turn down that money.

EDIT: Just read that both Schweinsteiger and Schneiderlin have joined United. :) Consider me happy.

[honeykid]

Some transfer news.

Chelsea have signed Asmir Begovic from Stoke for a reported £8m. Chelsea are also said to be looking at Pedro from Barca for his reported £22m buyout clause.

QPR will get £9m from the sale of Raheem Stirling due to a 20% sell on clause when he moved to Liverpool. Sterling is set for a £49m transfer to City.

Feyenoord's Jordy Clasie is the preferred choice for Southampton to replace Schneiderlin. This one has been running for a month or two now, so now the deal is done expect it to move along quickly.

The rumoured £4m transfer for Stambouli from Spurs to Watford is said to be nearly done.

Scott Dann looks like he's going to disappoint Everton by signing a new contract at Palace.

Porto might be happy with their new signing, but his mother isn't. According to El Mundo:

Iker Casillas' parents have blamed Real Madrid president Florentino Perez for the Spanish goalkeeper's departure to Porto. The 34-year-old's mother also labels the Portuguese side a second division team, adding that her son deserves better.

Lastly a lovely story to remind us that, while the top players earn more money in week than most of us will earn in years, they also do some great things with that money.

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-star-mesut-ozil-has-paid-for-11-brazilian-children-to-have-lifesaving-surgery-10383835.html

[Golgot]

Hey, only Spurs are allowed to poach from the Saints! It's this deal we have going ;)

(I think it's their way of thanking us for taking Hoddle off them all those years ago ;))

[Fabulous]

Looks like United will have a very strong midfield, but perhaps a little immobile based off recent signings. I've also read some rumblings about PSG edging closer to a deal for Di María, but I'm not putting too much stock in that.

[honeykid]

Short passing midfield with a direct pacy front three/wide front two and striker would be my guess, Fab.

I think defence will be a little shaky for the first few months regardless of what happens. Either there'll be (a) new defenders with a new keeper or what we had with a new keeper. I know it's possible that de Gea could stay and leave for nothing next year but surely United aren't going to let that happen regardless of what they say.

Talk of stikers has turned to Cavani or Lewandowski in todays papers. Both have been linked before, Cavani quite strongly, but I'd much rather it was Lewandowski. I remember towards the end of the season there was talk that even thought it'd only been his first year, Bayern weren't averse to taking a good sum for him this summer, so might not be as unlikely as I think it sounds.

Cavani is another great name I'm not convinced by. Not to the extent I wasn't by Falcao (due to his injuries) but like him, sitting on huge wages in France for a year or two isn't the best way for a talent of his calibre to spend his time, IMO. He's not exactly set the world alight at Paris, either, but that probably has as much to do with the most overrated player on the planet being on the same pitch as him and his treatment there, as it is a true reflection of his ability.

Re: Golgot. It is a shame you're not our feeder club of choice anymore. :D

[Powdered Water]

Looked into seeing United here this weekend but of course they want almost 40 bucks a seat for the cheapest seats in the house. Guess I'll skip that as I can't afford to give up a quarter of a weekly check just to see a friendly. Yikes. Who gets all that cash I wonder? I often find that I am in the wrong line of work.

[neiba]

Feyenoord's Jordy Clasie is the preferred choice for Southampton to replace Schneiderlin. This one has been running for a month or two now, so now the deal is done expect it to move along quickly.

Porto might be happy with their new signing, but his mother isn't. According to El Mundo:

Iker Casillas' parents have blamed Real Madrid president Florentino Perez for the Spanish goalkeeper's departure to Porto. The 34-year-old's mother also labels the Portuguese side a second division team, adding that her son deserves better.

Clasie is a player I have admired for long! He was close to sign for Porto last year. It didn't happen but I'd love to see him here.

Well, she is spanish so I wasn't hoping to hear something good about Portugal, I just never expected her to be so damn idiot!

Around here, rumours point Joao Moutinho back to Porto on loan from Monaco (please please please let it be true!!!), every newspaper say that benfica's Gaitan will probably sign for ManUn and people talk about Llorente from Juve coming to Porto while Alex Sandro goes to Juve (hard to believe in my opinion). Ah, and there's also the Gourcuff rumour that he may come to Porto also.

[honeykid]

PW: What would the cost of a friendly/pre-season ticket for the Seahawks be?

I can understand you being hopeful that Moutinho goes back to Porto. He's a cracking player. I'd be slightly surprised if Gaitan goes to United. Firstly because this rumour has been cropping up most summers for the last 4 summers and, secondly, because we're pretty flush in that area. Unless you can get Gourcuff on a low wage or a pay as you play deal, I'd stay away from him. His injury record is appalling.

More rumours of Di Maria to PSG today. Either for £40m+ or a swap deal with Cavani.

Raheem Sterling has made the switch to Man City for £44m with another £5m in add ons.

Stoke City has bought Moha El Ouriachi from Barcelona Stoke is starting to become a little bit of a Spanish enclave/Barcelona rejects with Bojan and Marc Muniesa already at the club.

[Golgot]

Re: Golgot. It is a shame you're not our feeder club of choice anymore. :D

Hands off Kane godd*mmit :D

(And no getting Bale on the rebound either ;))

[honeykid]

All Your Base Are Belong to us. :D

[Powdered Water]

I honestly don't know what an exibition season ticket price is. Its the NFL... so its really expensive. Probably double or triple that price, which is why I haven't been to agame since the 90's.

[honeykid]

That's the kind of prices the cheapest England tickets go for at Wembley, I think. How much is a ticket for a regular season game?

Slightly sad to see Freddy Adu moving yet again. He's only 26 and he's just moved to his 13th club. If he was 10 years older it'd still be a fair number of clubs.

A much more pleasant story is of Rivaldo and his son Rivaldinho both scoring in the same match.

[Powdered Water]

You hear anything about De Gea yet HK? Anyone over there get to do an interview with him maybe? Sometimes those guys tell the truth when they talk. Think he'd like to stay at United?

[Fabulous]

There are rumours in Spain about Madrid getting prepared to sign Kiko Casilla from Espanyol. That would give them a starter and back up without having to purchase de Gea if they feel they won't be able to close the deal this transfer window.

[honeykid]

The current feeling is that Real are prepared to wait a season to sign him on a free next season. I'd be surprised if United did that, but I'd be OK with it. We bought him for £18m and with only one destination for him to go/that he'll go we'll do well to get more than £25m for him, which I think is nowhere near his actual value. A final year with United should guarantee another top 4 finish this season so, in monetary terms, he'd pay that fee in CL money for the season after.

More talk of United making another bid for Ramos. £42m is the figure I saw, but it's not from a place I take seriously so while I can believe a bid could be offered, I doubt the amount. I certainly hope not and I think Otamendi is the more likely target now that Real (both Rafa Benitez and Florentino Pérez) have come out and said he's staying.

Flush with the Sterling money, Liverpool have bid £32.5m (the reported release clause amount) for Christian Benteke from Aston Villa.

Bookmakers have stopped taken bets on Charlie Austin moving to Newcastle is going this summer after a large amounts of bets were placed.

Everton may be signing United's Jonny Evans for around £6m. United are known to want £10m, but with only one year left on his contract and Everton now valuing the player anywhere near that amount, I'd expect a move if/when United get a defender in.

Still with Everton and Spurs are said to be offering cash plus Aaron Lennon for James McCarthy.

The Mail says PSG think they can get the deal for Angel Di Maria done by the end of the weekend, while The Telegraph says that Cavani won't be part of any deal between the clubs.

Arturo Vidal to Bayern Munich for £28m?

[neiba]

Vidal would be an amazing sign for Bayern, IMO.

Around here, Teo Gutierrez is coming to Sporting Lisbon... People talk about Moutinho, Rudiger and Mitrovic to Porto while Quaresma is returning to Besiktas. I don't know if they found oil in the stadium but I never saw Porto spending so much money on a transfer season as this one!

[honeykid]

There's at least three Premier League teams rumoured to be interested in Mitrovic, as well as an Italian club. Basically he's up for grabs. I wouldn't be surprised to see him linked to at least one club in most of the top European leagues.

[Fabulous]

Real Madrid make the signing of Kiko Casilla official. I guess we can rule out de Gea to Madrid this window?

Also, Fabian Delph changed his mind again and is joining Man City. Solid squad pickup.

[honeykid]

That £8m buyout clause was ridiculous. Even if it only applied to a CL team. They're the clubs that can afford to pay more. Even double that would've been nothing to those teams, but it would've helped Villa a lot more.

United are saying 'no Ramos, no de Gea' so it does appear he's going nowhere this summer.

[neiba]

Well, most recent reports tell that Moutinho is a hard deal, Monaco is asking for 25M€, while Porto is trying a loan... Zenit, Inter Milao and Arsenal are possibly interested. Andre Villas Boas is a fan of Moutinho, so it wouldn't be a surprise if he went to Zenit, to play alongside Hulk again.

It has been a particularly silly season the last few weeks, with rumours now about Drogba to Porto (seriously?)... One thing is for sure, we need a striker!

[Powdered Water]

I'm glad that de gea seems to be staying. When does the season start?

[Fabulous]

I'm glad that de gea seems to be staying. When does the season start?

Next weekend. The Community Shield match is tomorrow, though.

[honeykid]

I'm glad that de gea seems to be staying. When does the season start?

It is good news that he seems to be staying for the season, considering the amount being offered. Frankly anything less than £40m isn't worth even thinking about, despite the fact that he'll go for nothing next season. However, I am worried about how a David De Gea with his head turned performs over the season.

Dzeko is going to Roma for £14m.

[Powdered Water]

First game this weekend already? Did I see that right?

[honeykid]

Yep. TOMORROW!!!!!! It's actually passed quite quickly for once. Usually when there's 'no football' during the summer, it drags even more than usual.

de Gea won't be starting tomorrow because LVG doesn't want to put the pressure on him. Maybe he'll go after all, but this is along the lines of what I was worrying about if we keep him for his final season. Spurs is usually a gimme at home, but first game of the season always worries me. And they've got Lloris back in time.

More talk of Ramos again. I really hate that the transfer window goes on till the end of the month. I wish they'd get this stuff done before the first game. We still need a striker and a centre back. Rooney at the top of a three is fine but he doesn't have the pace to keep up with Young or Depay. I have seen people make a United lineup with Mata on the right, but that went so poorly before that he'd have to be a hell of a lot better to make the position his.

Anyway, we'll find out tomorrow. Bring on the season!

[Fabulous]

Results from BPL Match Day 1:

West Brom 0 - 3 Man City
Stoke 0 - 1 Liverpool
Arsenal 0 - 2 West Ham
Newcastle 2 - 2 Southampton
Chelsea 2 - 2 Swansea
Bournemouth 0 - 1 Aston Villa
Everton 2 - 2 Watford
Leicester 4 - 2 Sunderland
Norwich 1 - 3 Crystal Palace
Man Utd 1 - 0 Tottenham

[Fabulous]

UEFA Super Cup

Barcelona 5 - 4 Sevilla | Barcelona's record tying 5th UEFA Super Cup

Scoresheet:

Barcelona: Messi 7' + 16', Rafinha 44', Suárez 52', Pedro 115'
Sevilla: Éver Banega 3', Reyes 57', Gameiro 72' (PK), Konoplyanka 81'

[neiba]

UEFA Super Cup

Barcelona 5 - 4 Sevilla | Barcelona's record tying 5th UEFA Super Cup

Scoresheet:

Barcelona: Messi 7' + 16', Rafinha 44', Suárez 52', Pedro 115'
Sevilla: Éver Banega 3', Reyes 57', Gameiro 72' (PK), Konoplyanka 81'

A hell of a match that one!!!

I can't see them winning the Spain Super Cup after losing 4-0 against Athletic Bilbao on the first hand!

Around here, the league started this weekend.
Porto has 8 or 9 midfielders but we still need a good offensive one like Oliver Torres was last season. The rest of the squad is nice! I hope that when the season's over, people in UK start hearing a lot about Aboubakar!

[christine]

well after a disappointing first match last week, Everton got it right yesterday. I'm sorry for calling you a pudding Romelu, your goal scoring was lovely this week ;)

He's a lad with lovely manners too
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO4KbdvGp7w

[neiba]

Otamendi signing with Man. City for 40M€ and Valencias receives Mangala as a loan! Seriously, I think Premier League is by far the best championship in the world but when it comes to buying centre-backs, clubs there either are too stupid or have too much money in their hands...
Mangala, David Luiz, Otamendi, Rojo, Paulo Ferreira - all far from brilliant players bought by so much more money than their real worth... And these are the ones I can remember from the Portuguese Championship!

[Fabulous]

I'm not quite sure Mangala will be sent there on loan in exchange. Still conflicting reports between Spanish and English press. Possible rumblings that Rony Lopes is instead part of the deal.

[Fabulous]

Premier League Match Day 2:

Aston Villa 0 - 1 Man Utd
Sunderland 1 - 3 Norwich
Swansea 2 - 0 Newcastle
Spurs 2 - 2 Stoke
Watford 0 - 0 West Brom
West Ham 1 - 2 Leicester
Southampton 0 - 3 Everton
Man City 3 - 0 Chelsea
Crystal Palace 1 - 2 Arsenal
Liverpool 1 - 0 Bournemouth

[Fabulous]

2015 Supercopa de España

Athletic Bilbao 5 - 1 Barcelona | This is Athletic Bilbao's 2nd Supercopa de España

First Leg:

Athletic Bilbao 4 - 0 Barcelona
(Mikel San José 13', Aduriz 53' + 60' + 67' [PK])

Second Leg:

Barcelona 1 - 1 Athletic Blibao
(Messi 43' - Aduriz 74')

[honeykid]

I've been meaning to post in here for the last week but haven't. So, what do we have? Well, United are two for two and.... That's about where the good news ends atm. Still lacking a striker and a centre back, (playing Daly Blind can't go on for too much longer surely?) while we've barely been able to string together two passes going forward. I know we're not the free flowing United anymore, but I know LVG wants a hell of a lot more than this.

Rooney looks shocking, but that's not anything new. He always has periods where he can't trap a bag of cement and would miss an open goal. Whether it happens now or two weeks from now isn't really the issue. It's the lack of a replacement and the fact that he's rarely taken off when playing like this which bothers me. You can often tell in the first five or ten minutes if he's going to have one of those games and, whenever he leaves the pitch, you've rarely been proved wrong.

De Gea's state of mind could be a real (pun intended) worry should he stay. Rumours out there atm that he's looking to sack his agent (or, as we have to call him, super agent Jorge Mendes) if this move doesn't happen before the end of the window. I'm hoping that United stand firm on this. If not, then they should've sold him earlier and got in the replacement I'd hope they had lined up.

On the plus side, we're 2-1 at half time against Club Brugge thanks to two fantastic goals from Memphis. :cool: Freaky OG against us, though. I'm still not sure what happened there. Still plenty in this match, though, and anyone who thinks that United will walk it now is surely underestimating both Club Brugge (who are well into their season now, I believe) and how poor United have been playing in the first few games this season. It wouldn't surprise me if Brugge scored in the first 5 minutes or so of the second half, catching United sleeping. Hopefully United will look to put this tie to bed here and now.

Is history repeating itself with Mourinho? There's been talk of three year cycles here, which isn't surprising, though I have to admit that, for some reason, I thought this wouldn't happen this season at Chelsea.

Sadly City do look like the City of two seasons ago. Hurt and hungry. An ominous sign and it looks as if Otenmendi is on his way, too.

OK, second half has started so I'm off to watch it. :)

[the samoan lawyer]

Important goal that from Fellaini and would like to think that is enough for us to get through. I am now reading Pedro not going to Utd now and looks like going to Chelsea. I'm kind og glad we didn't get him although I do rate him but why on earth have we not signed a striker or centre back yet??!!

HK what you think of Darmian? I had checked him out on youtube when heard him first mentioned and really liked his style of play. I think he's going to be an excellent acquistion although he's definately a booking waiting to happen.

[honeykid]

I like the look of Darmian. I wasn't even sure if I'd seen him or not when I heard we were going in for him, but once I knew he was the Italy right back I knew I'd seen him a couple of times. I agree that he hangs his leg out, but he's young. Plus, he plays for United. Can you remember what Gary Neville got away with? ;)

While he'd have obviously improved our team, I don't care that much about Pedro While his stats look good, I've never sat and been impressed by him. That said, if we'd have got him and played him on one side with Memphis on the other, then Mata could play where he's supposed to (behind the striker) and we'd look a lot better going forward, IMO. I really don't know what LVG is doing. TBH, I suspect this is still a problem behind the scenes with those doing the negotiating more than LVG himself. If you want Pedro and his buyout clause is £21m and you're United and you've already spent £80m+ this summer, pay the bloody buyout fee and make the player know you really want him. Don't fanny about with a million here or there.

This is the third summer where United have been linked with everyone and not gotten anyone they've been interested in where there was another option. I'd like to think that they're doing more than looking on Football Manager and then going to youtube, but more than a couple of their targets make it look like that's the approach. Ramos? I really hope there was little more than "if he's offered we'll think about it" spent on that because it was never happening otherwise. Not that I'd want it to. Schweinsteiger for £14.5m? When I first saw this deal someone forgot to put the one in front of the four. I thought that was a good deal, despite him being 31, injury prone, never wanting to leave Bayern and not being in Pep's thinking. At £14.5m it looks like someone didn't barter too hard. Muller isn't going to happen either and he's another I don't really get. He's great at World Cups, though.

Someone who has made a good buy today is Leicester, who've brought Gokhan Inler in from Napoli for £5m. I think that's a very nice piece of business and he should go some way to fill the gap left by Cambiasso's departure.

[honeykid]

Southampton have said that United made a bid last week for Sadio Mane. Maybe this is why United were messing about with Pedro?

Song is said to be having a medical at West Ham.

[Fabulous]

Nicolás Otamendi to Manchester City confirmed. €45m and a 5 year contract. Looks like Kevin De Bruyne will be joining him soon, too.

[the samoan lawyer]

Southampton have said that United made a bid last week for Sadio Mane. Maybe this is why United were messing about with Pedro?

Song is said to be having a medical at West Ham.

Seems to be genuiune interest in Mane. He's good but then again so was Michu in his first season. Same as what we already know, we need a triker and a cb. Not Mane.

[Powdered Water]

Ha. I was just gonna come in here and comment about how I like watching 31 with the ball and I see that HK isn't a big fan already. Funny how the game sort of slows down when he has the ball isn't it? Don't know if thats good but its interesting. I really like what United is doing right now HK. I think they've shored up alot of stuff that was killing them early on last season. And now this year their off to a quick start. Now whats up with De gea? Is he gonna play this week? The back end looks good but De Gea needs to be out there too. He's not pouting or something is he?

[honeykid]

Schweinsteiger is a fantastic midfielder and will improve just about any team. That he's worked with LVG before is a bonus, too, as he knows what he's getting and is (I'd assume) ok with that. I just think it's the top end of the value for someone that comes with the baggage I mentioned. Not that it's about paying it out (that money is nothing to United, including the wages he's on. Ditto the Pedro deal) but whether it's value or not is another thing. If he can both get fit and adapt to the league, then it's going to be good.

If he stays, then de Gea is going to be on the bench until the window closes (Sept 2nd) I'd guess. What he'll be like after that is/has always been the worry, but once you make the stand (unless they've brought Romero in as a replacement and not said or bring Valdes back into the fold) you shouldn't blink once the league starts, IMO.

Here's something I've been mulling for the last couple of weeks. Charlie Austin to United? He's not the pacey forward I think we'd have if possible. Neither is he the big target front man LVG often has at the top of his formations. But he puts the ball away and with the creativity we have around him, could he do a job for us? With only Rooney, Wilson and Hernandez up front, we need another striker anyway. I know there's rumours of Ibra and Benzema and, while Ibra is the kind of player LVG would like up front physically, I'm not sure if he'd want that ego in the dressing room. Plus, if he goes, then Milan is all set up, isn't it? Benzema is just unlikely because otherwise why not use him in the de Gea deal rather the never going to happen Ramos?

Basically I think they're both very unlikely, so a £15m punt for a season sounds like a no brainer to me.

[Powdered Water]

Ah, I got ya. We see that a lot here too. Especially in Baseball. There's many a dude whose been overpaid in that sport just for being mediocre at best. Do you think Young should be starting? I love his crosses. I like him on one side and Mata on the other.

[honeykid]

Don't get me wrong, the one thing you can't think about Schweinsteiger is that he's mediocre. In midfield he's up there with the best of them. Or, he was. Whether he can stay fit enough and how he plays outside of Bayern (which is the only team he's played for) and in a different league are my concerns. If he can be the player we need, I don't really care how much we pay him. :D

Having spent a lot longer watching Young than you have, I can't say I'm overly concerned whether he's starting or not. That said, under LVG he's been really good, certainly one of the brighter stars of last season, so my heart doesn't sink as it once did when I saw him on the team sheet. That's coming from someone who was quite excited when we bought him, too, as I thought he was ripe to kick on and become the top level player he looked like he could be. However, bar the first few weeks at United, last season was the only other time he's looked even close to being good enough for United. If we're going to use pace in the front three (which I'd assume is the plan) then I'd rather see him out there than Mata.

I don't like Mata on the wings at all. He doesn't have the pace or work to play out there and Darmian will get too exposed on the break, as we've already seen in the first couple of games. When he leaves the wing and comes inside things look far more likely to happen.

Newcastle at the weekend. If Rooney's going to get going this season this game seems more likely than any other for it to start. I think I'm right in saying that he's scored more against Newcastle than any other team. Including this one, of course.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KuJg9BdgeXw

[Powdered Water]

Good stuff HK. I assume you saw that live? Its always fun to experience that stuff isn't it? Definetly one of the coolest aspects of sports spectatin,. I think.


EDIT: Hey, I meant to ask you if you have a local radio station that broadcasts the games? I wanna see if they're online. I bet they probably are.

[Fabulous]

United draw 0-0 with Newcastle. United needs to start putting some balls in the back of the net.

Spurs blew another game, too. Unlucky for them.

[honeykid]

I don't really like being in big crowds, so live games aren't really my thing. It's been a long time since I went to a football game (decades) so maybe I'll try it again sometime. Not that I'll be able to get/afford a ticket to go to OT, though. :D

If I listen to a radio commentary it's usually the BBC 5 Live. There might well be one on the BBC world service, too.

Well, we had about 30 minutes of decent football there. The first twenty minutes and the last ten. If we could put the ball away it might do us some good. Let's be honest, two exceptions Kruul didn't have a save of note to make. Rooney was unlucky with that offside call. It might be the right call, I'm still not convinced it's not level, but if he'd been on the far side of the player that goal would've stood as he'd have looked as if he was onside. As usual, for all our good play there's no cutting edge. This has been the case for a few years now, bar van Persie's one good season (and even he pretty much stopped by Feb but at least Rooney was there to take over) and unless we get someone in it doesn't look like it's going to change any time soon.

Who would we get, though? Who's out there? The only two I can think of are Ibra (who they said will probably see out his contract and then go to the MLS next season) and Icardi at Inter. I don't like what I've seen, but he's quick and he's got the numbers, but I'm sure it'd take an absolute fortune to get him now and that's if he wants to move. From what I've heard he's pretty happy in Italy. I thought Higuaín might move this summer but I've heard nothing so I guess he's staying at Napoli.

The more I think about it, the more Charlie Austin sounds like a decent plan B for this season. I know he hasn't got any pace or anything, but neither has anyone else at United. He puts the ball away and, as LVG doesn't seem to fancy Hernandez and Wilson is unproven and 19 he's got to be worth a punt when LVG decides that Rooney isn't going to be any good?

Neiba, when was the last time that the big three in Portugal dropped points on the same weekend? You must've been worried. In the end, you were on the plus side. :up:

Juve lost their first game, so that's the league going elsewhere in Italy. :D Roma for the title?

Catania have been demoted to Serie C in Italy after being found guilty of match fixing.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34008226

[Fabulous]

Should be an interesting game tomorrow, Arsenal-Liverpool.

Also seems like Dortmund is back on track after last season's disaster? They won again, 4-0. It was against a newly promoted side, mind you.

[Powdered Water]

I don't know HK. What I see is a pretty talented team what I don't get and I think you've mentioned this a little before is the lineup. When is LVG gonna stop moving people around? I don't care if he was managing Chelsea, you can't keep changing the lineup every single game. Did you like Rooney in the 10 spot I think they called it? That was when United really made their push at the end. Still can't believe that Smalling header didn't find its way in. So it goes. But yeah man. I see flashes but then the lineup changes. He's got to settle down and solidify his team by getting people in the right spots doesn't he?

[Fabulous]

Well, Arsenal-Liverpool ended scoreless. Perhaps Liverpool got lucky with Arsenal's disallowed goal? Liverpool has been having some lucky breaks go their way early this season.

[honeykid]

I don't know HK. What I see is a pretty talented team
I can understand that. United have a tradition of playing fast, wide and direct. English/British teams do play in their own way, usually a quicker and more direct style than on the continent.

That's not what LVG does and it stands out in this league. Try and impose it on a team like United and it just looks slow and ponderous. However, if you're not used to seeing United play, then you aren't going to know any different and, maybe, see and appreciate it for what it is. I know we aren't going to play wide and direct, yet on the odd occasion that we do, it's often our best play of the game. So I sit there wishing they'd do it more often, but that's not how LVG plays.

what I don't get and I think you've mentioned this a little before is the lineup. When is LVG gonna stop moving people around?
I think this feeds in a little to the difference between how the English league plays and his own way of playing. I don't think he knows his best team. I don't think the team can play his style of playing as a unit for 90 minutes. I think the team is unbalanced. If you're going to play as slowly/with the control/possession he wants us to, you need to have plenty of movement around the ball. Lots of options for the man on the ball and you have to be able to do this continuously so as to move the opposition around, pulling them out of position, thereby creating space for someone to make a run into. When it works, it's very effective (look no further than Barcelona to see this done to perfection for the last 5 to 8 years) The problem is that all those things have to happen in order for it to work and, in the English game, you don't get usually get the time on the ball if/when you make a mistake. Barca rarely make mistakes in this respect and when they do they often correct it quickly. That's why we lost the CL final in 2009 and 2011. They were just that good, especially in 09.

In short, I don't think LVG has the tools to do the job the way he wants to do it. Not yet, anyway.

He's been mentioning buying quick, creative players. Which, if he wants to play 4-4-3 (which he usually does) makes sense. As he'd use his midfield to keep and move the ball before exploiting the space created by the quicker players or using those player to create their own chances when up against very well organised teams. The problem is that they cost a lot of money, there aren't many of them, and there's teams out there that'll pay more than United and, frankly, are a more attractive proposition. Both on and off the pitch.

Did you like Rooney in the 10 spot I think they called it? That was when United really made their push at the end.
When Rooney's playing that badly, to an extent, it doesn't really matter. That said, if you play Rooney in the #10 role (which is just behind the striker and is usually a creative player) then when he drops back to find the ball (which he will because unless he's involved he doesn't have the discipline not to) then at least there'll still be someone up front to get the ball to. Too often when Rooney is wandering all over the pitch to find the ball, you see him get it and then look up. As he's the one that's supposed to be up there, there's no one to pass it to, so he either starts dribbling with it (and if he's having a bad day then you or I would only be a slightly worse bet and if he's having a good day then he still has to get past half a team) or he has to pass it to someone else and then try and run back into position. Where he'll more than likely become isolated and start running back to get the ball. Thus the whole things starts again.

He's got to settle down and solidify his team by getting people in the right spots doesn't he?
It sounds obvious, but I'm a big fan of round pegs in round holes. Sometimes you can get by for a game or two (the last few seasons at United have seen midfielders having to play in central defence because of injuries) but for all the praise he's getting atm, I don't like to see Blind at centre back. He's too short, too weak and he doesn't have the pace. I think we need another centre back (preferably two) and, if the papers are to believed, our first target was unrealistic (IMO) and strung United along as he has before for an improved contract at Real and the second was bought by City, partly because he could be and partly because United hadn't made their minds up because they seemed to think they had a chance of getting Ramos. I'm of a mind that a good team will beat a team of great individuals more often than not. I think there's too much put on getting that player who'll win a game for you one his own. Of course, if you can get a group of brilliant individuals to become a team, then you're really onto something.

[honeykid]

Well, Arsenal-Liverpool ended scoreless. Perhaps Liverpool got lucky with Arsenal's disallowed goal? Liverpool has been having some lucky breaks go their way early this season.

They weren't called Lucky Liverpool for nothing when I was a kid. :D I've not seen the game or the 'goal'. What happened?

[Fabulous]

Pretty crap quality, but Ramsey was ruled offside early in the game.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EilT1bPDpg

[honeykid]

Yes, that's unlucky. Especially as the official would've been on the nearside.

[Fabulous]

League Cup - Round 3:

Middlesbrough v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Norwich City v West Bromwich Albion
Hull City v Swansea City
Leicester City v West Ham United
Aston Villa v Birmingham City
Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal
Manchester United v Ipswich Town
Liverpool v Carlisle United
Crystal Palace v Charlton Athletic
Fulham v Stoke City
Sunderland v Manchester City
Newcastle United v Sheffield Wednesday
Reading v Everton
Preston North End v Bournemouth
Walsall v Chelsea
Milton Keynes Dons v Southampton

[honeykid]

Ipswich are up and flying at. Obviously it should be a win, but depending on when we play them, it might be a tougher proposition than many will expect.

Looking forward to Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal. That should be a cracker, though the way things look atm, Arsenal will wipe the floor with Spurs.

Aston Villa v Birmingham City is another good derby game which will be a good test for Sherwood's Villa. Oddly,. despite their respective current form, I think Southampton won't be too troubled by MK Don's.

I see Stones has put in a transfer request. Do you think you should hang on to him for another year, Christine? Tell him it's too late in the window to leave or take the rumoured £40m and buy a decent defender to replace him? If they do sell, then surely it's because they have some idea of who they'll bring in. It's not as if this hasn't been on the cards for most of the summer, is it?

Club Brugge tonight for United. A goal should finish the job, but with the way United are playing who knows if we'll find it.

[honeykid]

Surprised to see Herrera starting tonight for United. First game of the season for him. We can't afford to lose this tie, so I hope it all goes well from the start. If Club Brugge start quickly it could get very nervous out there very quickly.

[Powdered Water]

And Fellani in at striker? More examples of what we were just talking about eh?

[honeykid]

Yes. However, I can understand it because that physical type of player is the lone striker he likes to play. I don't think he'll do it, it'll be an option (especially from the bench) but I think it was a way of deflecting attention from the fact that United were expected to win and win comfortably against Club Brugge. Thankfully it ended up being a lot easier than it should've been. Not that I blame them. You either sit there and play 40 minutes or not trying in order to save face or you still take chances, push forward and risk getting beaten by five or six.

[christine]

I think Stones should go HK. Every time you see him he's got a miserable gob on him. I just don't think he's giving us his all and if he's not what's the point?

[Fabulous]

Champions League - Group Stage Draw:

Seeding Pot 1
Barcelona
Chelsea
Bayern Munich
Juventus
Benfica
Paris Saint-Germain
Zenit Saint Petersburg
PSV Eindhoven

Seeding Pot 2
Real Madrid
Atlético Madrid
Porto
Arsenal
Manchester United
Valencia
Bayer Leverkusen
Manchester City

Seeding Pot 3
Shakhtar Donetsk
Sevilla
Lyon
Dynamo Kyiv
Olympiacos
CSKA Moscow
Galatasaray
Roma

Seeding Pot 4
BATE Borisov
Borussia Mönchengladbach
Wolfsburg
Dinamo Zagreb
Maccabi Tel Aviv
Gent
Malmö FF
Astana

[honeykid]

I think it's gone about as well as we could expect as United fans. Wolfsburg are a tough team with or without de Bruyne. But if he goes (as expected) to City, then it'll be easier. Away in Russia is rarely easy, but United and Wolfsburg should be pretty happy with this draw.

Here's to another miserable European campaign for City. :p I hope it's at least as difficult as it looks.

Group A: Paris St Germain, Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donetsk, Malmo
Group B: PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United, CSKA Moscow, VfL Wolfsburg
Group C: Benfica, Atletico Madrid, Galatasaray, Astana
Group D: Juventus, Manchester City, Sevilla, Borussia Monchengladbach
Group E: Barcelona, Bayer Leverkusen, AS Roma, BATE Borisov
Group F: Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Olympiakos, Dinamo Zagreb
Group G: Chelsea, Porto, Dynamo Kiev, Maccabi Tel-Aviv
Group H: Zenit St Petersburg, Valencia, Olympique Lyon, Gent

Just read that West Brom have told Berahino that he won't be sold this summer.

[neiba]

Tough Group for Fc Porto... We hv never won in UK, I hope the group is solved before the last match against Chelsea away.

Kiev is a tricky team, and to play in Ukraine is always difficult.

Telaviv must be easy though Benfica lost there some years ago. Maybe Chelsea keeps the bad form and we can dream with the 1st place.

Benfica is playing bad this year so I can't see them doing better than 3rd place, but we'll see.

[neiba]

Also, it will be fun to see Casillas vs. Mourinho!

[Fabulous]

United in the easiest group, it would be funny to see them get knocked out. I could see it happening, too.

[honeykid]

I don't think it'll happen, but I can see United not finishing top 2 in that group if our defence starts to play up.

De Gea to Real by Monday? That's what's being said.

[neiba]

And Bale on the opposite way, perhaps?

[Fabulous]

And Bale on the opposite way, perhaps?

Doubt it. Had a pretty good game yesterday with 2 goals, plus seems happy to continue with Madrid in a recent interview.

[Fabulous]

Premier League Match Week 3:

Swansea City 2-1 Manchester United
Southampton 3-0 Norwich City
Tottenham 0-0 Everton
Aston Villa 2-2 Sunderland
Bournemouth 1-1 Leicester City
Chelsea 1-2 Crystal Palace
Liverpool 0-3 West Ham United
Manchester City 2-0 Watford
Stoke City 0-1 West Bromwich Albion
Newcastle United 0-1 Arsenal

[honeykid]

I don't think there's any chance of Bale (or any other of these stupid big name signings) taking place. As I said to PW, United just aren't as an attractive a proposition as they were five years ago. Plus there's more competition and, whether we like it or not, location is a big pull for many players (especially those from overseas, which is most of the targets these days) and, do you want to live in the North West of England and play games over Christmas and New Year or Madrid/Barcelona/Paris/Munich and have a few weeks off? Even if you want to have the Christmas experience or they offer you more, you've still got the London clubs to contend with who, obviously, can offer London which, whether people like it or not, is one of the worlds great cities and often the one place many players want to be.

I can't remember which player it was said to be, but Middlesborough signed a player, in the early 00's I think it was, and the only reason he went was because his agent told him that Middlesborough was a suburb of London. I don't know if that story is apocryphal, but it's something I've heard a few times and it wouldn't surprise me if it's true. For the record, it's 250 miles from London in distance and decades in most other things. :D Poor lad. I've always hoped he sacked his agent, too.

Yesterdays result isn't a surprise, which is sad in and of itself. Swansea are the first good team we've come up against this season (on paper Spurs looked a tougher proposition, but they've had a poor start) and have been scoring goals freely. I wasn't surprised to see Gomis up against Blind from the start and it's something we're going to see again and again this season.

Again, though, the real problem was up front. Rooney looked awful again and, as they said on MotD2 last night, short of confidence. The moment he took that ball into the box at the end you knew he'd be bullied off it. I know this happens to strikers, but not having an option to take over/give him a rest for a game or two, is holding us back greatly, IMO.

I didn't see this live, but it looked like Shaw was caught out twice yesterday for the goals or, if you will, Swansea exploited our left side every time that Shaw came forward. That's not his fault, he's been asked to do that, but we have to be able to cover when he makes the run or he has to come back with the same urgency. I know they were looking at LVG last night on MotD2, but that's the kind of thing you shouldn't need to change tactics to combat. Look at the players on the pitch, they should be able to see that and accommodate the run. It's something that I've have thought was addressed through the week in training.

Still, a good win at home for Swansea and their passing game looked sharp. Crisp passing and movement is always tough to play against and, despite our possession stats, it's the shots on target stat which stood out to me. Four each. We only had a couple of shots more than them, too. Fannying about with the ball isn't the same as being good. No one would be trying to copy Barcelona's style if they lost 2-1 all the time but had 90% of the possession. Swansea won because they were more clinical when they got the chance/created better chances.

Arsenal got away with it this weekend. An own goal away from a 0-0 draw in a game they owned and had a man advantage against. Arsene's had Theo for nine years now and he's still arguing with him about where he plays. Here's a clue, Arsene. He. Isn't. A. Striker.

A great win for Crystal Palace against a Chelsea which must be starting to worry a few of their fans. This isn't the Mourinho way. A bad CL result and it'll start looking very reminiscent of his last days in charge.

It was lovely to see Liverpool take a beating, too. :D 3-0 away from home? Well done, West Ham.

I spent much of the weekend watching the Italian football. Juve look in worse trouble than Chelsea. Three huge players left in the summer (Vidal, Tevez and Pirlo) plus they were missing a couple of their new signings. I don't think they'll have to worry about fending off any offers for Pogba today, because he was really poor and lucky to stay on the pitch. I said last week that we could write off another Juve title win and now it looks like you can do it in pen as Juve have now lost their first two games of the season in their history. Maybe with an obviously weakened Juve will give Roma and Napoli (among others) to believe that they can do it and really challenge Juve for the title.

[honeykid]

Transfer day is getting busy for United.

Martial in for £36m. I know we (and everyone else) has been looking at him for a couple of seasons now and pace and power is what LVG is looking for, but from what very little I've seen of him, he's really raw (which is to be expected as he's 19) and that price is huge. LVG has said no panic buys, but this feels like it's at least a season earlier than they'd want to, making it even more of a risk.

The talk yesterday of Hernandez to Leverkusen seems to have been borne out, as a £9m deal seems to be just about done and dusted. Another rumour in Germany yesterday was Julian Draxler to Wolfsburg, as they spend some of that de Bruyne money, and that seems to be just about done. More United/Germany news as Januzaj is about to move to Dortmond for a season loan.

Anders Lindegaard is set to leave United and the deal for de Gea seems to be moving forward. :( There seems to be some talk about the fee. £24m-£26m from the Spanish side, atm, while Sky are reporting that it's around that plus Keylor Navas. I'll be gutted if he goes for that price. More so if we don't get Navas as well.

Fabio Borini has joined Sunderland for £10m as Liverpool continue their striker clear out.

Chelsea have brought in Nantes defender Papy Djilobodji for £4m. I've seen Nantes play a couple of times, but I don't know him beyond being a name on the teamsheet. He's always there though, so I'm guessing solid and dependable.

*EDIT* - Is it wrong that I'm hoping Jose throws it in at Chelsea in the hope that United do what they should've done the first time and pick him up? Today's been quite depressing, despite the millions thrown about. We've been questioning the running of the club for the last couple of seasons and, I think, today looks like conformation.

[Fabulous]

Looks like the de Gea transfer has fallen apart. The Clubs weren't able to finalize the papers in time. This is quite an ending to a summer long saga.

[honeykid]

Well that was a mess, wasn't it? Whoever you believe is immaterial, we've now (probably) got a disgruntled, gutted player who feels he's been prevented from doing what he wanted. If we were going to keep him the worry was always that he wouldn't be motivated to the same level, even if he was applying himself. Now he's gotten so close and missed out, I can only think it's going to affect him even more negatively. So we've now got four keepers at United. Three of whom are first team quality, two of whom don't want to be there and are world class. :facepalm:

That said, get him back in goal asap. I don't believe he'd have let that second goal in on Sunday no matter how affected he was. He's simply much better with his feet. It's part of what makes him the best. It's an international week so there's the best part of two weeks to get the raw hurt and disappointment out of the way. Now's when LVG should be earning his money, but I can't say that with confidence.

A few deadline day transfers, though I do find it funny that they're really pushing this when everyone knows that yesterday was the day as the Spanish, German, French and Italian windows are all shut now. :D

Seeing as United need a defender I'm surprised that Virgil van Dijk hasn't been linked with United at all. Not even in a "well if they can't get anyone else they'll go for van Dijik" way. He's been on his way out of Celtic for most of this year and it seems that Southampton have taken the plunge. Being Dutch I assume that LVG knows him well and doesn't think he's good enough, but £11.2m doesn't sound too bad to me, especially when you see Blind playing at the back.

West Ham have been busy signing Alex Song (who was there on loan last season), Victor Moses (on a season loan) & Nikica Jelavic from Hull for £3m. That's decent business, I think. Song worked well there last season and you know what you're getting with Moses. If they can get the Jelavic who first went to Everton he might become a regular, though I suspect he's been brought in as back up considering the pace they're playing with.

Joleon Lescott is crossing the city from West Brom to Villa, I assume, for first team football after Evans and James Chester arrived recently. I don't see what the fee is, but it mentions it rising to £2m. I think this could be a good move for him and he might make a good partnership with Vlaar. If nothing else it gives them experience at the back when/if Vlaar is out.

Glenn Murray has been leaving Crystal Palace all summer, even after scoring for them this season, and he's finally gone to Bournemouth for £4m. Another deal which I think suits all sides.

I know nothing about Everton's new £9.5m defender, Ramiro Funes Mori. I can't even say I've heard of him, but he's from River Plate and that's about the extent of my knowledge. If anyone can add any more I'd be interested in hearing it. :)

Norwich have taken striker Dieumerci Mbokani on loan for a season from Dynamo Kiev.

[Fabulous]

I think this deal was United's to lose. They were by far getting the better end of the deal. Getting a nice chunk of money for a player who doesn't want to be there while on the last year of his contract, in exchange for a pretty good starting keeper. Perhaps de Gea will still move in January? But then there is the issue of both keepers being cup tied for Champions League play. It would be a shame if he ends up walking next summer with United receiving nothing in return.

I also never understood the point of this deal from Madrid's side. If he was so desperate to join them as they claim, why not get him for free next summer and keep Navas an extra season? Navas is a more than serviceable starter. All they would have to worry about is de Gea's wages, while at the same time receiving a fee for Navas.

[honeykid]

While I find it more than believable that United cocked this up, considering the last three summers, the fact that Real have said they won't appeal screams to me that they're not really up for it and are more than happy to take him on a free next summer. When Real want something, they more often than not get it, they certainly don't give up without a fight and they don't give a fig about rules or protocol. Throw in the point by point plan and I think the lady doth protest too much.

[christine]

the lad Rooney's done well for himself. Come on a bit from when he was our mascot back in '96. Congrats Wayne on your England goalscoring achievement :)

http://i4.liverpoolecho.co.uk/incoming/article10018266.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/rooney-mascot.jpg

http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/09/wayne-rooney-england-scoring-record-sir-bobby-charlton-roy-hodgson

[Powdered Water]

If De Gea isn't in there against Liverpool then Lvg should be fired. I'm not even joking. Maybe its too early to be playing such a huge game. But this is huge game. United needs to get the best team out there and that means De Gea. How you doin HK? Covered in bodypaint yet? Plan on starting any fires or anything? Maybe sacrifice a few chickens?

[honeykid]

I'm sure De Gea will play. There's been lots of talk about 'now what for De Gea' but surely he has to play? I think the two goals Swansea scored would've made up LVG's mind.

Some confirmation today that Schweinsteiger's transfer to United was a lot closer to the £4.5m first reported (which is what I saw) than the, upto £16.5m that was later reported. TSV 1860 Rosenheim, the club who Bayern got him from, say he went for £6.5m and they've been paid £15,000, I presume, as part of a sell on clause or development fee or something.

Big game for United on Saturday, but Liverpool are going to be wanting to bounce back, too. The fans of the losing team aren't happy in any case in this fixture, but it does feel as if there's something in the air for both managers if they lose here. Not that they're a defeat from the sack, but you can see both managers leaving at the end of this season and losing this game might be the beginning of the end for either/both.

[honeykid]

Ronaldo scored five this weekend to pass club legend Raul and become Real Madrid's top scorer. Passing Raul's 228 in the defeat of Espanyol he's now on 230 in just 209 games. That £80m price tag looks cheaper and cheaper every season, doesn't it? Thankfully I can still remember these days.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGMGFAIXCGc

Frankfurt are spanking Koln (Cologne) atm. They've just scored their 6th in what is now a 6-2 game.

Any comments on Chelsea? I watched the game today and Everton were well worth their win.

[Fabulous]

Chelsea lose again. Looks like the international break didn't help them. Still look like the same uninspired bunch with absolutely zero confidence. It's quite fun to watch Mourinho get bashed.

City pick up a hard fought 3 points against a tough Crystal Palace side. Selhurst Park is usually a pretty raucous environment. Even with resting some players and Kun picking up a knock, they managed to pick up the win.

In United/Liverpool, two great goals were scored. Benteke and Martial both with great finishes. On Twitter, the United supporters are claiming this kid is the next Henry and that his goal has immediately made him worth what they paid. Getting a little ahead of themselves. :)

[honeykid]

United have paid well over the odds for Martial. I don't see how anyone can say otherwise.

Whether he turns out to be worth the money or not, is a different question and one which will only be answered in years, not months. It's a great start for him, though and about as good as you could expect. I feel that coming off the bench to score means that there's less pressure. He's not been thrown in from the start and scoring means there isn't going to be any of those 'how long till he scores?/when will he score?' type conversations. All good stuff as far as I'm concerned.

Palace are better away from home, but that's still a good win for City as Palace are really flying atm. Being at home probably hinders them more as it's the counter attack where they're strengths lay.

[Optimus]

Martial is a great young talent and i think he will be worth the price in the future.

Liverpool look shocking. 6 goals conceded in 2 games and only 3 goals scored in 5. They just dont seem interested at all and Rodgers doesnt seem to know what hes doing.

Everton looked great. They have a really good side with some great young talent. Stones, Barkley, and McCarthy are excellent. Without europe this season i think they could challenge top 4.

City looked good today even without Sterling and Silva. Plus Aguero going off didnt help things either. I know its only early but i think they will runaway with the league this season. Fantastic team all over.

[honeykid]

I saw City a couple of weeks ago and they look pretty good when it's all clicking. The also look, by far, the best team in the league atm when you look at both how they're playing and their squad. If things carry on as they are, there's no reason why City couldn't be 10 points clear of any of the usual challengers by Christmas.

Juve are still 1-0 down to Cheivo. About 30 minutes to go and, though they've had a lot of possession and just had a Pogba shot brilliantly blocked, Cheivo are pretty good value for their lead and, but for a superb save from Buffon, would be 2-0 up.

[christine]

Fantastic game EFC v Chelsea. Enjoyed it immensely (of course) and three excellent goals . This is more like it!

[christine]

Forgot to say thanks to United for beating Liverpool. What a satisfactory Saturday :)

[Fabulous]

Juventus bailed out late with a PK to finish with their first point of the season. Chievo also had a clean goal ruled offside. Definite struggles from the Italian champions early in the season.

[honeykid]

I had to leave that game with about 25 minutes to go. Shame they nicked a point. :(

Cracking goal from Benteke yesterday. Naturally I hate him now, but you've got to applaud when a player does that. Even against your own team.

Also, did anyone see MotD last night? I loved Ian Wright's reply to Alan Shearer when they were talking about tackling/red cards and Shearer brought up Wright's tackle on Schmeichel. Something like "Least I didn't kick Neil Lennon's head down Philbert Street":D

[Fabulous]

Tottenham pick up their first win of the season, but they were far from impressive today.

[Fabulous]

Champions League - Group Stage - Week 1

Tuesday, September 15:

Wolfsburg vs. CSKA Moscow
Benfica vs. Astana
Paris vs. Malmö
PSV Eindhoven vs. Manchester United
Manchester City vs. Juventus
Real Madrid vs. Shakhtar Donetsk
Sevilla vs. Mönchengladbach
Galatasaray vs. Atlético Madrid

Wednesday, September 16:

Chelsea vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv
Bayer Leverkusen vs. BATE
Valencia vs. Zenit
Roma vs. Barcelona
Dinamo Zagreb vs. Arsenal
Dynamo Kyiv vs. Porto
Olympiacos vs. Bayern Munich
Gent vs. Lyon

[Fabulous]

Champions League - Group Stage - Week 1

Tuesday, September 15 - Results:

Wolfsburg 1 - 0 CSKA Moscow
Benfica 2 - 0 Astana
Paris 2 - 0 Malmö
PSV Eindhoven 2 - 1 Manchester United
Manchester City 1 -2 Juventus
Real Madrid 4 - 0 Shakhtar Donetsk
Sevilla 3 - 0 Mönchengladbach
Galatasaray 0 - 2 Atlético Madrid

[honeykid]

I only saw the first half :( but it sounds as if, while United's cutting edge was as dull has it has been this season (and beyond) we did at least create a lot more chances. So I guess that's something, though not the 3 points which is what matters. Hell, even a point for the opening away game would've been OK. Especially after what happened to Luke Shaw. :eek: I have to say that I didn't think it looked that bad at first, though his reaction obviously told a different story. Even after the first replay I didn't really see it. It's a great loss to the team.

On the plus side, City lost. We take our pleasures where we find them on nights like this.

BTW, what is it with United and freaky goals in the CL this season? I hope that's the last of those we see.

[Fabulous]

A perfect week would be if Arsenal and Chelsea lose tomorrow.

[Fabulous]

Already a perfect week, had 11/1 on 2-1 PSV :)

Are you a football fan?

[Fabulous]

I am so but I tend to keep football thoughts mainly to myself tbh.

May I ask which club you support?

[Fabulous]

Mesut Özil with Real Madrid was one of my favourite players for a while.

[honeykid]

Sanchez was a great buy, Chyp. Do you think he needs a rest or will it click back in for him?

[honeykid]

That's why I was wondering if he needs another game out.

Sad to see Mr. Glass Ankles (more commonly known as Jack Wiltshire) out for another 3 months. I hate to say it, but he's starting to remind me of Kieron Dyer and I'm starting to wonder if he'll get a season fit before his late 20's? TBH, I don't know what it is with Arsenal, but if I were one of those players I'd be getting out of there. They're like Spurs in the 90's. :D

[honeykid]

Anyone seen the Roma goal against Barca in the first half? Great goal and he definitely means it as you can see him take a look before he tries it.

Things really going against Arsenal in the first half. 1-0 down (an unfortunate OG, too) and Giroud sent off.

[-KhaN-]

Can we now say Arsenal should change Wenger? I get he brought you stuff in the past... But come on, you are not title contenders for a long time, Cup's are top for you and you are Arsenal ffs... That's saying something.

[Fabulous]

The Valencia/Zenit match was great fun. Second half was good end to end action. Hulk with a nice brace.

[Powdered Water]

Well done Hammers!

[Fabulous]

How City failed to score in the second half amazes me...

If United win tomorrow, City has pretty much blown their good start to the season and end up back at square one.

[honeykid]

Great win for West Ham. Do we expect Joe Hart to do a little better with the first goal or do you just have to say well done to Victor Moses?

When do Leicester start to worry about conceding so many goals?

Just how bad are Newcastle? Do you think that Newcastle and Sunderland have little chance of staying up? Do you think it's possible that all three promoted teams will stay up because Newcastle, Sunderland and Aston Villa are so poor?

Cracking goal from Matt Ritchie for Bournemouth's second against Sunderland.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=362-bofO5YQ

[honeykid]

I only caught last 15 minutes or so, but Ralf Fährmann's performance in goal for Schalke 04 against Stuttgart was, but all accounts, brilliant. Well worth seeing if you get the chance.

[Fabulous]

Great win for West Ham. Do we expect Joe Hart to do a little better with the first goal or do you just have to say well done to Victor Moses?

Mangala or Kolarov should've closed in on Moses and not give him so much time, but at the same time I think Joe Hart needs to save that. A rolling shot from 30 yards in the short side corner. He has to save that.

[neiba]

FC Porto 1 - 0 benfica

WOOHOO!!!

[honeykid]

LVG must've been delighted with United's third goal yesterday. Or, rather, the 40+ passes that went before it. I know I'm supposed to drool over this kind of thing, but I've always found it quite boring. It was interesting to me that the only time I wasn't really worried during the whole thing was when Schweinsteiger had the ball. I'm sure had Southampton closed a couple of the players down a little quicker they'd have made the mistake.

I didn't expect a win yesterday, despite Southampton's relatively poor start to their season, but I was very pleased to be proved wrong. Yet another game that shows Rooney's time at United might be nearing an end? If LVG is determined to play him, then why not shunt him out to the right instead of Mata? I don't know if Rooney could be much/any worse/wasted than Mata is out there, but I'm sure that Mata will be far more effective in the #10 position.

[honeykid]

Sunderland are getting their arse handed to them by City. 4-0 after 35 minutes.

Oh, and Bayern are 5-1 up against Wolfburg. Lewandowski came on at half time and scored all 5 in 9 minutes. :eek: He's got 20 minutes to finish a second half double hattrick.

[honeykid]

Nice to see that Villa won the biggest game in their history. ;)

Lewandowski failed to score another in that game and it finished 5-1. Dortmund have to win (and by a few) tomorrow to stay top of the league.

[Fabulous]

It will be interesting to see if there are any upsets in the League Cup tomorrow. I'm hoping for a few. :)

[honeykid]

It'll be interesting to see how United line up. There must be a few youngsters at the club thinking if they don't play tonight when will they get a game? I think the defence will be the best it can be considering the injuries, but LVG will be praying that they all get through the game unscathed, as I don't think we have anyone else. Even the back up are injured and we were short at the back to begin with.

No idea how long it'll stay up for because they're being pulled down quite quickly, but here's Lewandowski's five from last night. It was amazing, but just check out the last goal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezbe6LfNRn4

[Fabulous]

Dortmund can only salvage a draw, giving Bayern the lead in the Bundesliga.

In Spain, Barcelona got beat by a whopping 4-1. If Madrid can hold on to their lead, they will go top of La Liga.

Liverpool currently level with Carlisle, but nothing else is too out of the ordinary.

[gandalf26]

Cmon Carlisle! I live in Carlisle!

[Fabulous]

League Cup - 4th Round Draw

Manchester City v Crystal Palace
Liverpool v Bournemouth
Manchester United v Middlesbrough
Everton v Norwich City
Southampton v Aston Villa
Sheffield Wednesday v Arsenal
Hull City v Leicester City
Stoke City v Chelsea

[honeykid]

Cmon Carlisle! I live in Carlisle!

So close, gandalf. I'd have much rather you'd/they'd won... Obviously. :D

[Fabulous]

Do you think Rodgers will make it through the season?

[honeykid]

Nope. I'll be surprised if he makes it to the end of the year. Hell, at this rate he'll do well to last to the end of next month.

His comments last night about Liverpool being back in the mindset they were when he started have been picked up (quite rightly IMO) but what people seem to've forgotten is that he pretty much lucked into the great season he had at Liverpool. He tried to create a controlled, free passing game, like at Swansea, and they struggled. However, he had great pace and skill up top and (finally) realised that was the way to play. Now Suarez (who he didn't buy and let's not even get into how poor he's been in the transfer market and the amount he's spent) has gone, Stirling (who was already at the club) has gone, Gerrard (who was at the club) has gone and Sturridge? Well, he's been gone and whether he'll be back to what he was before with those players around him, who knows. Assuming that Benteke plays through the middle and he doesn't play two up front (which isn't what he wanted to do before) then that will push Sturridge out wide, which he doesn't like and won't be anything like as effective as he was/is through the middle.

[Fabulous]

Just looking over Liverpool's squad, I'm not sure a different manager would be able to do much better. It seems like FSG's transfer policy and conservative spending are only hampering their chances at fielding a good squad. You have to spend money in today's football world if you want to be successful.

[gandalf26]

So close, gandalf. I'd have much rather you'd/they'd won... Obviously. :D

Yeah I thought if they can make that last pen then it's sudden death and the quality of Liverpool pen takers drops dramatically, becoming a real crapshoot.

Brendan Rodgers = awesome.

[honeykid]

Just looking over Liverpool's squad, I'm not sure a different manager would be able to do much better. It seems like FSG's transfer policy and conservative spending are only hampering their chances at fielding a good squad. You have to spend money in today's football world if you want to be successful.

Surely he's giving them the targets and he's coaching them, though? He sees the players every day and training, though, so either they can't do it on the pitch (a mental problem/lack of confidence) or it's not working in training and he needs to change the tactics. I know they've lost the best of their team, but it's his job to make them a unit.

I think he needs a new keeper. Someone who gives his defenders confidence. Lovren doesn't look like a £2m player, let alone a £20m one and I can only think it's lack of confidence. I think Lallana either needs to be played or sold. I don't know that he's able to come in for a game, miss three or four, then play again. I don't know that Benteke is a good choice for a lone striker if you're going to ask him to hold it up for the midfield. Not because he couldn't do that, but because he's an out and out goal scorer and he's going to be shooting if he can.

If he can get something together when he has his team back and fit, if he can get them to work of course, then he might make it till the end of the season, but I don't think that'll happen.

[Fabulous]

I hear you, I just think that the overall quality down the squad is pretty poor. You can have a good manager in there moulding them to fit his tactical ideas and filling them with confidence, but I just don't see the talent. Hard work can only get you so far.

[honeykid]

Enough talent for what though? Winning the league? No chance, I agree with you. Top four finish? An outside chance at best and relying on one of the others making a balls up of it, ala United a couple of seasons back. But Europe? That squad should be looking at a top 6 finish, IMO. He needs to get Henderson, Sturridge and Coutinho back in and find out how to get the best out of Firmino/Lallana and Benteke. Otherwise I think it'll be about 8th.

[Fabulous]

Enough talent for what though? Winning the league? No chance, I agree with you. Top four finish? An outside chance at best and relying on one of the others making a balls up of it, ala United a couple of seasons back. But Europe? That squad should be looking at a top 6 finish, IMO. He needs to get Henderson, Sturridge and Coutinho back in and find out how to get the best out of Firmino/Lallana and Benteke. Otherwise I think it'll be about 8th.

A club like Liverpool who don't stop spouting about their precious history should always strive for the top, but it is also important that they remain realistic and not make any rash decisions based on unrealistic goals. Top 4 will be very hard for them this year, but securing a Europa League spot seems manageable. If they finish top 6, then I would classify that as a success considering their squad. The only question is whether the board are smart enough to understand their current predicament.

[honeykid]

As I said, I think top 6 is what they should be achieving this summer with this squad.

I think that Liverpool would have to spend at least £100m+ in the summer just to make the top 4 realistic. Not assured, maybe not even probable, but realistic. And that's not taking into account the others improving.

I do wonder about his backroom staff, which was pretty much replaced in the summer in a 'deal', I suspect, which kept him at the club. Obviously most/none of them are first choice/the people he wanted to be working with because those were the people who were 'forced out', if I read the stories correctly over the summer. Moyes did the same (voluntarily of course) when he went to United and pretty much everyone and his dog said at the time it was a mistake and everyone and his dog says it now that they've been proved to be right.

[Powdered Water]

So what do ya think of the new kid HK? 2 goals in his first 2 games? Whats the longest scoring streak by a new player? The kid sure looks cool as a cucumber out there doesn't he?

[honeykid]

I've no idea what the longest scoring streak from a debut is, but I wouldn't mind betting that Martial is already only a game or two away from it. At United, anyway.

It's still very, very early to say just how good he is. However, the goals he's scored so far indicate that he does have the stuff to be really good and he's certainly giving us something we don't have atm

His goal against Liverpool showed great skill, his first goal against Southampton showed the ability to readjust his feet/body quickly and react while not panicking and his second showed that, when one on one and expected to score, he never looked like he was going to miss and that's something I've not seen at United since Ronaldo in his pomp and from van Nistelrooy from an out and out striker. If he can be anything like as good as van Nistelrooy I'll be very happy. For my money, he's the best striker I've seen at United in my lifetime. My dad would say Law, but I wasn't around then.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmqQ7CvfAFk

[the samoan lawyer]

i read this this morning actually, Ian Stanley Moore scored in his first 3 league games for Utd in 72 and has not since been matched.

On Ruud, totally agree, best striker in my lifetime at utd definately, 10 consecutive goals in appearances too!!

[honeykid]

The man was a machine. I know most think there's no place in the game atm for someone like that, but I find it difficult to agree/accept that. If you have someone who does nothing but put it in the net and he does, how can that be bad/wrong?

[the samoan lawyer]

The man was a machine. I know most think there's no place in the game atm for someone like that, but I find it difficult to agree/accept that. If you have someone who does nothing but put it in the net and he does, how can that be bad/wrong?


Totally with you HK. I think Higuin would have been a perfect t signing for us this summer, obviously not as good as Ruud but not far off

[honeykid]

I'd have liked to've seen Higuin at United, too. I don't see that he's at the level he was a couple of seasons ago at Napoli or before at Real, but that might change with a new location/team. I've yet to watch Napoli this season so I don't know how he's playing this season.

[Powdered Water]

Just saw the end of the United/Ipswich game and saw that Martial scored again. What a run that kid is on!

[honeykid]

Yes and, again, he just didn't look like missing, did he? If he continues to develop like this and creates an understanding with Memphis, we'll be looking really dangerous up front for a while yet.

Today's game should be (on paper) the easiest game we play this season. Sunderland look terrible throughout their team (though the keeper is decent) and we're at home. We should be looking at, at least, a three goal win today. Obviously I'll happily take any win, but it really should be a chance for Rooney and Memphis to get their goal scoring season going. Rooney took his well on Wednesday, so there might be a chance he's starting to find some form.

As you mentioned records earlier, I believe the record win in the Premier League is still this 9-0 win over Ipswich.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ohR9kECLu9U

This was the first of the three great United teams Fergie built. BTW, the Hughes you'll see in this is indeed the Mark Hughes who now manages Stoke City. That's what time and management does to you. :D

[gandalf26]

Craziness today.

UTD vs SUN
WHAM vs NOR
NEWC vs CHE
LIV vs VILLA

£20 to win £712 haha

[Golgot]

Good thing you didn't have the City game in there :D

That looks pretty sweet. Think Villa's your main worry, although you never know with a Sherwood attacking side, and with Liverpool looking shaky.

[honeykid]

Liverpool are poor, but I don't know if they're beaten by Villa poor. Good luck, though. :up: I hope you're right, but I think you'll lose your money on the Villa and WHam result. I'm not convinced that West Ham can do it unless they're really fired up for it and I don't think they will be against Norwich.

[honeykid]

Keep an eye on Bayern's game. They're 4-0 up already and it's not quite half an hour gone yet. Lewandowski has another two, so far.

The other Bayern are beating Barca atm, too. I'm hoping Porto can do a number on Chelsea.

[honeykid]

I forgot to mention, BATE are 3-0 up against Roma. :eek:

Arsenal have just gone a goal down. To Olympiacos. At home. Can Olympiacos actually win away from home and in England?

EDIT: Arsenal level about 20 seconds after I posted. :D

EDIT: And Olympiacos are back in front. But was it a goal?

EDIT: Lewandowski hattrick. That's 10 goals in a week.

[honeykid]

Both Chelsea and Arsenal lose. :D I know I shouldn't be pleased as the co-effeients are close between England, Germany and Italy and that could make things harder for United, but it's always nice to see them lose. Strangely, though, it's not that bigger a shock to me, despite Olympiacos having never won in England before.

Let's hope United can do better tomorrow, but I wouldn't bank on it.

[neiba]

WOOOOOOOOO!!!!! Another great match to the Dragon!!!

[honeykid]

I can't remember Chelsea ever looking less like a Mourinho team under him than they do this season.

[Fabulous]

WOOOOOOOOO!!!!! Another great match to the Dragon!!!

Happy to see Porto beat Mourinho's Chelsea. Never liked that combination.

[neiba]

Mourinho will always be a very special manager to me, after 2003 and 2004, two of the most epic seasons in the history of football. I'd say we owe him as much as he owes us, cause he was nobody till our legendary chairman saw him as the right manager to make people forget of the worst season of our recent past. That being sad, I find kind of sad his attitude towards our club sometimes, as if we are nothing without him. I loved proving today, besides beating Chelsea is especially tasty!

And 2015 has been 100% victorious so far in home matches, with only 4 goals conceded, 2 of the against Chelsea and Bayern!

[Fabulous]

I just hate his whining attitude that has become a daily occurrence with him.

[neiba]

If he didn't hate to lose he wouldn't be the best, so I can respect that! Besides, much of what he says are messages to his own players, simple strategy.
But he tends to be quite arrogant everytime he speaks about Porto or Inter, as if those teams wouldn't win again without him! And that isn't classy nor true, the amount of cups in our museum won before and after him proves it!

[Fabulous]

His constant excuses and complaining everytime Chelsea drop points is humorous. Everyone is out to get him, it's José vs. The World.

[honeykid]

If he didn't hate to lose he wouldn't be the best, so I can respect that! Besides, much of what he says are messages to his own players, simple strategy.
But he tends to be quite arrogant everytime he speaks about Porto or Inter, as if those teams wouldn't win again without him! And that isn't classy nor true, the amount of cups in our museum won before and after him proves it!

And that same museum will show the one European cup you've won was won with him at the helm. Inter have three, but two of those were back to back (which is great, but one team) and 40 years ago. It's not that they won't/can't with without him, it's just far less likely.

TBH, I think that AVB is the special one at Porto (as I understand it) is what really annoys him.

The world vs _____ is something many managers do, none so well as Fergie, but you have to be doing it around vital games/crisis and there's just too many fires around Chelsea atm to make this effective. I really do think there's something very wrong behind the scenes at Chelsea and I think it goes back to the summer.

[honeykid]

Ah, if only anyone could've foreseen the shortage in defence. ;)

Back to the match, now, though United have (again) started the half poorly. Hopefully we can get another goal quickly and settle into this half.

[neiba]

And that same museum will show the one European cup you've won was won with him at the helm. Inter have three, but two of those were back to back (which is great, but one team) and 40 years ago. It's not that they won't/can't with without him, it's just far less likely.

TBH, I think that AVB is the special one at Porto (as I understand it) is what really annoys him.

The world vs _____ is something many managers do, none so well as Fergie, but you have to be doing it around vital games/crisis and there's just too many fires around Chelsea atm to make this effective. I really do think there's something very wrong behind the scenes at Chelsea and I think it goes back to the summer.

That's where you're wrong. Check the 1987 final of Champions League. ;) and we lost the final of 1984.

AVB is loved by many and hated by many. We had a great year with him, with some international success, but he promised he wouldn't go to any other club and he ended being like any other greedy football guy, going after Chelsea petrodollars. He wouldn't be consensual if he came back though he still swears his unconditional love for this club.

I think as a team playing in the Portuguese league with limited resources, we have been doing the best we can. Football now isn't the same how it was in 2004, Mourinho wouldn't do what he did in Porto now. And I'm not saying what he did was easy - it was absolutely amazing and there's not many managers in history that would have done the same - but CL will be won by Real Madrid, Bayern or Barca the next 5 or 10 years with very few exceptions.

[Fabulous]

I guess the guys from Manchester have to show London how it's done.

[honeykid]

That's where you're wrong. Check the 1987 final of Champions League. ;) and we lost the final of 1984.
I stand corrected. :) I thought you lost that one. :o

AVB is loved by many and hated by many. We had a great year with him, with some international success, but he promised he wouldn't go to any other club and he ended being like any other greedy football guy, going after Chelsea petrodollars. He wouldn't be consensual if he came back though he still swears his unconditional love for this club.
Thanks for this. Mostly what we hear over here is that AVB is the one that's loved by the Porto fans and that that's probably where he's going next season because you'll all want him back.

I think as a team playing in the Portuguese league with limited resources, we have been doing the best we can. Football now isn't the same how it was in 2004, Mourinho wouldn't do what he did in Porto now. And I'm not saying what he did was easy - it was absolutely amazing and there's not many managers in history that would have done the same - but CL will be won by Real Madrid, Bayern or Barca the next 5 or 10 years with very few exceptions.
I'm with you on this. I think Porto (and Benfica) do really well in Europe with the finances you have and the league you're in. While the laws allowing who can be signed make it easier for you, as opposed to the English teams (among others) I think you're both among the best examples of what having an excellent scouting network does, as well as playing the most talented young players (18-22) regularly and getting the best out of them. If you look at the English players in that age group you'll only see a few of them getting regular top level competitive football.

As for the CL, I agree that anyone other than those three winning the CL in the next five years is unlikely as it is now. But I think if Chelsea, United or Juve can get their team together over the next couple of seasons they might be able to realistically challenge them. Other than that it's going to take an enchanted run ala Liverpool in 05 to do it.

Good win for United tonight. I hoped we would, but I wasn't expecting it. Especially when you look at how we started both halves. Why he took Schweinsteiger off I don't know, (maybe he picked up a knock or was tired?) as I thought that would be the last midfielder you'd take off given the choice in that situation.

How about Mata's assist for the second goal? Beautiful. And Smalling getting on the end and finishing well was fantastic, too. He's really coming into his own this season. I hope it's not just a purple patch.

Rooney was poor again. If he must play (and as captain I'm guessing LVG can't see how/why he should drop him) then play him out wide where Mata is playing atm. Mata is so much more effective behind the front man and Rooney, when he's not playing well, rarely does anything much more than run around and give plenty of effort. At least that might have him tracking back and being useful.

Martial looked good again and I believe more and more that he's the real deal with every performance. Memphis needs to start doing it because he was really sloppy tonight and it's not the first time either.

They seemed to be a little surprised tonight that Untied looked at their best when they played quickly and were direct. Not only are we an English team, but we're United. That's exactly how we should play. It's in the DNA. It's not going to happen under LVG, though.

Some people have a theory that LVG, not expecting United to do well in the CL this season, is allowing Giggs the opportunity to pick the team and style of play in these games. I don't know it's true (LVG giving someone else control doesn't sound like him at all) but United do seem to play more direct in these games so far this season (the two games against Bruges, PSV and tonight) than they do in the Premier League. I'd love it to be true.

[ashdoc]

i watch only world cup and euro football . growing up in india ( where there is no club culture of any game ) i cant find myself cheering for clubs . i can cheer for nations though . brazil is my favourite . among european nations it is germany .

[Tacitus]

Had no idea that James Richardson has his own film review YouTube channel, the wonderfully named JimboVision (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo1Uqueql7hxXklZZTj1Ycw).

This guy is made for MoFo. Legendary broadcaster. ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whLjRdz5u0o