Sunday, 6 May 2012
Arsenal Season Summary
Yes there is one game left of the season to play and yes that can dramatically change the outcome of our season but I've decided to do some evaluating early, on how my team have performed, and in some cases not, this season.
Arsenal have for the seventh season finished with nothing to add to the trophy cabinet, yet it's not all doom and gloom. Having spent considerably less than our main rivals in the transfer window, I believe we have surpassed expectations being positioned third after 37 games. Also, add in the disastrous first couple of months and it seems a miracle that we are where we are.
I remember on the 1st of September being jubilant that Arsene Wengers had ditched his normal transfer traditions of just signing young unproven talent and instead brought in some much needed experience to the dressing room. I truly believe that Mikel Arteta has been one of the signings of the season as he has consistently played with assurance when conducting Arsenal's play. Alongside Alex Song, the Arsenal number 8 has the freedom to push up but also the experience to cover his midfield partner. Furthermore, he has contributed with some breathtaking goals such as the beautiful strikes against West Brom and Manchester City respectively.
However, Arsene couldn't resist purchasing younger talent and in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain seems to have found a real rough diamond. Exciting and unpredictable, the former Southampton forward has brightened up the flanks at the Emirates as he continues to bamboozle his opponents with outrageous confidence.
I wish I could praise all of Arsene's recruits with this much enthusiasm, yet unfortunately some haven't shone as brightly as others. Worst to make an impression is surely the South Korean striker Park, signed from AS Monaco in August. The only positive being, at least Chamakh has found someone to keep him company on the bench.
Yet ones man loss is another mans gain, as playing like a new signing, our veteran midfield general Thomas Rosicky is having the season of his life. Out of nowhere the 31 year old seems to have rediscovered the form he showed at former club Brossia Dortmund, producing several match winning displays.
No gunner has performed as remarkably though as captain Robin Van Persie who has quite simply carried the squad through matches on occasions. His amazing 30 league goals to date saw him rightly win the PFA Footballer Of the Year and Footballers Writers Player Of the Year awards. With one game remaining to guarantee that prestigious third spot, it is vital that we get all three points against West Brom next week. Not only for Champions League security but also to prove to our number 10 that we are a top European club capable of competing in the best competitions. In addition, the latest announcement of the signing of Lukas Podolski is particularly pleasing. Hopefully the German international has been signed to support Van Persie and not to replace our iconic talisman.
Having bounced back from that early season blip, with impressive wins against the likes of Chelsea, Newcastle and Manchester City it seems that my team from north London is finally beginning to grasp that winning mentality that can get trophies. Also if we keep Van Persie and add more signings like Podolski I think next season can be our year. But doesn't a gunner think that every summer?
P.s M'Vila is a must buy
Saturday, 14 April 2012
Highflying Swans
Courageous defending and a never-say-die attitude are usually the attributes necessary for a newly promoted Championship club to survive relegation from the Premier League. Yet Swansea City have continued to prove all season that they don't need to play 'ugly' to gain all three points. The Swans are currently nested in 12th position and are just four points behind eighth placed Liverpool.
Brendan Rodgers has been tipped by many for manager of the year, after his Swansea side continue to dazzle opponents and spectators alike with their exciting brand of football. Emphatically beating Arsenal 3-2 at the Liberty Stadium is just one of many magic moments their faithful support has witnessed in their debut season in the top division.
To watch arguably the most attractive team in England, be outplayed is certainly a rarity, highlighting the phenomenal job Rodgers has done since taking charge in July 2010. Furthermore, the victory over Arsenal was not the first commendable display by City this season. They have beaten the likes of Stoke and Aston Villa and have drawn against bigger opponents in Liverpool and Tottenham respectively.
A notable factor contributing to Swansea's latest impressive displays is their British talent running through the squad. With Scott Sinclair, Joe Allen, Nathan Dyer and Danny Graham all excelling, don't be surprised to see one of these core players donning the 'interesting' strip of the British Olympic football team this summer.
In the majority of their 11 victories this season, they have been worthy winners, gaining their deserved three points through stylish play. Rodgers has spoken of his admiration for Barcelona's attacking football on more than one occasion, and has used the Spanish champions as a blueprint for his own sides success.
And if the 39 year old is able to persuade his brightest talents to stay this summer, then the sky is the limit for these highflying Swans.
Brendan Rodgers has been tipped by many for manager of the year, after his Swansea side continue to dazzle opponents and spectators alike with their exciting brand of football. Emphatically beating Arsenal 3-2 at the Liberty Stadium is just one of many magic moments their faithful support has witnessed in their debut season in the top division.
To watch arguably the most attractive team in England, be outplayed is certainly a rarity, highlighting the phenomenal job Rodgers has done since taking charge in July 2010. Furthermore, the victory over Arsenal was not the first commendable display by City this season. They have beaten the likes of Stoke and Aston Villa and have drawn against bigger opponents in Liverpool and Tottenham respectively.
A notable factor contributing to Swansea's latest impressive displays is their British talent running through the squad. With Scott Sinclair, Joe Allen, Nathan Dyer and Danny Graham all excelling, don't be surprised to see one of these core players donning the 'interesting' strip of the British Olympic football team this summer.
In the majority of their 11 victories this season, they have been worthy winners, gaining their deserved three points through stylish play. Rodgers has spoken of his admiration for Barcelona's attacking football on more than one occasion, and has used the Spanish champions as a blueprint for his own sides success.
And if the 39 year old is able to persuade his brightest talents to stay this summer, then the sky is the limit for these highflying Swans.
Tuesday, 13 March 2012
The Fall of The Emperor
Having managed to resist the temptation of riches from Chelsea and Real Madrid, the then 23 year old terrorised the Treviso defence with an emphatic hat-trick on the first day of the 2005/06 season in Serie A for Inter Milan. The following day he dominated the sports pages and was being dubbed to move on to greater heights. The Brazilians fortunes have some what changed of late and many sporting fans have disregarded him entirely. The man I speak about is of course Adriano, the forgotten 'emperor' of Brazilian football.
Now 30 and a free agent, it is hard to think of a player who has fallen as dramatically from such great heights. In his prime, many considered Adriano to be one of the finest centre forwards in the game, whose power and determination could be matched by few defenders. Yet, troubles off the field revolving around the death of his father and alcoholism led to his fall from grace.
After failing to impress in his first season in Milan, the Brazilian was provided with a life line when Parma decided to form an agreement to co-own the striker. Forming a formidable partnership with Adrian Mutu, Adriano went on to score 22 goals in 36 games for the Crusaders. This devastating form eventually led to Inter again paying for full ownership of the forward in 2004 in a deal reported to be as much as £21million. In his first season back at the Nerazzurri, he continued his impressive strike rate, finding the back of the net on 15 occasions in just 16 outings.
Boasting a lethal left foot capable of striking a ball with lethal power, the Brazilian became one of the most feared players of his generation. It was during this period where Adriano was most impressive and eventually led to being linked to transfers to Chelsea and Real Madrid. Yet, he decided to stay put in Italy and over the course of 12 months from July 2004, managed to score 40 goals in all competitions both domestically and internationally.
However, soon his fortunes were to change for the worse when in 2006 his father died prematurely. Adriano was unable to cope with the grief and turned to alcohol and was often spotted out at late night parties. In addition to this, his performances and interest of the game waned and so did his love affair with Inter.
After stints firstly in Brazil with Flamengo, then in Italy with Roma and back to his native with Corinthians, the once called 'emperor' has never managed to recapture his form and has suffered continuous problems regarding his weight. Now, after being released by Corinthians this month due to missing training on several occasions, the Brazilian isn't just searching for a new club, but also for a new lease of life.
Adriano's career is a reminder of how fickle fame can be and how it can destroy lives as well as making them. Had he been given the right support, who knows how far he could have gone. With the correct guidance maybe he could have been representing Brazil at the 2014 world cup in his homeland. Yet, unfortunately for the 30 year old it is unlikely a club will again show either trust or faith in him.
Now 30 and a free agent, it is hard to think of a player who has fallen as dramatically from such great heights. In his prime, many considered Adriano to be one of the finest centre forwards in the game, whose power and determination could be matched by few defenders. Yet, troubles off the field revolving around the death of his father and alcoholism led to his fall from grace.
After failing to impress in his first season in Milan, the Brazilian was provided with a life line when Parma decided to form an agreement to co-own the striker. Forming a formidable partnership with Adrian Mutu, Adriano went on to score 22 goals in 36 games for the Crusaders. This devastating form eventually led to Inter again paying for full ownership of the forward in 2004 in a deal reported to be as much as £21million. In his first season back at the Nerazzurri, he continued his impressive strike rate, finding the back of the net on 15 occasions in just 16 outings.
Boasting a lethal left foot capable of striking a ball with lethal power, the Brazilian became one of the most feared players of his generation. It was during this period where Adriano was most impressive and eventually led to being linked to transfers to Chelsea and Real Madrid. Yet, he decided to stay put in Italy and over the course of 12 months from July 2004, managed to score 40 goals in all competitions both domestically and internationally.
However, soon his fortunes were to change for the worse when in 2006 his father died prematurely. Adriano was unable to cope with the grief and turned to alcohol and was often spotted out at late night parties. In addition to this, his performances and interest of the game waned and so did his love affair with Inter.
After stints firstly in Brazil with Flamengo, then in Italy with Roma and back to his native with Corinthians, the once called 'emperor' has never managed to recapture his form and has suffered continuous problems regarding his weight. Now, after being released by Corinthians this month due to missing training on several occasions, the Brazilian isn't just searching for a new club, but also for a new lease of life.
Adriano's career is a reminder of how fickle fame can be and how it can destroy lives as well as making them. Had he been given the right support, who knows how far he could have gone. With the correct guidance maybe he could have been representing Brazil at the 2014 world cup in his homeland. Yet, unfortunately for the 30 year old it is unlikely a club will again show either trust or faith in him.
Monday, 12 March 2012
Too Much Too Soon For Villas-Boas
After months of talking about the 'new project' taking place at Chelsea, Roman Abramovich has finally returned to his old ways by unfairly dismissing the young Andre Villas-Boas. After just 8 months in charge of the London club, the Portuguese was shown the exit door after seeing his team fall to fifth in the table, outside the Champions League qualification spots. The total number of different managers in the dugout since Abramovich took charge in 2003 is now at an alarming nine, with Roberto Di Matteo appointed temporary manager this month.
Although results had not gone in favour of Villas-Boas, with disappointing defeats to Everton, Napoli and West Brom, there was an ounce of sympathy felt by many after the decision of his sacking was made public. In order for a new project to be successful, time must be given to the man making the decisive changes. Before the 34 year old was appointed in the summer, fans of the club and critics of its owner were calling for changes to be made on and off the pitch. With older players such as Florent Malouda, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba nearing the end of their contracts and failing to perform in key matches, drastic changes were needed. Yet, one major factor prevented Villas-Boas from making the necessary adjustments. The elder players omitted from the starting line-up began to demonstrate their power at their club, and also their egos.
Once a key player for the blues, Lampard was unable to come to terms with being overlooked and turned to the media to voice his concern about the managers decisions. This unprofessional and egotistical behaviour created enemies for the young manager amongst the public as well as inside the dressing room.
Similar to the England national squad, the players are given too much power and are dictating the fortunes of the manager. Although the decisions made by Villas-Boas did not provide instant success, there was a platform being made to build off. Whoever the new manager is should stick to the plans left in place by his predecessor, because change is what this club needs.
Furthermore, what is also needed, that Villas-Boas lacked, is a manager who can demand respect from his players. Without this squad of power-mad celebrities on side, the new man in charge can expect to suffer similar circumstances of previous fallen Blues managers.
Although results had not gone in favour of Villas-Boas, with disappointing defeats to Everton, Napoli and West Brom, there was an ounce of sympathy felt by many after the decision of his sacking was made public. In order for a new project to be successful, time must be given to the man making the decisive changes. Before the 34 year old was appointed in the summer, fans of the club and critics of its owner were calling for changes to be made on and off the pitch. With older players such as Florent Malouda, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba nearing the end of their contracts and failing to perform in key matches, drastic changes were needed. Yet, one major factor prevented Villas-Boas from making the necessary adjustments. The elder players omitted from the starting line-up began to demonstrate their power at their club, and also their egos.
Once a key player for the blues, Lampard was unable to come to terms with being overlooked and turned to the media to voice his concern about the managers decisions. This unprofessional and egotistical behaviour created enemies for the young manager amongst the public as well as inside the dressing room.
Similar to the England national squad, the players are given too much power and are dictating the fortunes of the manager. Although the decisions made by Villas-Boas did not provide instant success, there was a platform being made to build off. Whoever the new manager is should stick to the plans left in place by his predecessor, because change is what this club needs.
Furthermore, what is also needed, that Villas-Boas lacked, is a manager who can demand respect from his players. Without this squad of power-mad celebrities on side, the new man in charge can expect to suffer similar circumstances of previous fallen Blues managers.
Friday, 24 February 2012
Worthy of the Shirt
There have been many legends to have worn the red of Arsenal throughout the years, and how Arsene Wenger could do with one of those fighters in his current squad. Gunner's fans, some more recognisable than others, are taking to every social network site to express their concern for the London club.
With a realistic chance of going a seventh year without a trophy after dismal displays in the same week against AC Milan and Sunderland, Wenger must repair his squad in the summer. This includes getting rid of the deadwood who are unwilling to fight for the team and reinvest in exciting spirited players who can dig deep for a result when called upon.
On Twitter Piers Morgan highlighted the small amount of players at the Emirates who have heart, desire, hunger and passion. And his damning conclusion was that there were too few.
Above all else what the team is lacking in is leadership. Robin Van Persie may be an outstanding footballer but Arsenal desperately need a leader in the mould of Tony Adams or Patrick Vieira, to wear the captains armband. Someone who the younger players can look up to. The closest player to this at the Emirates is Thomas Vermalen, yet he is too often on the injury table. The way Steven Taylor plays for his beloved Newcastle is a prime example of what Arsenal are lacking. I am not suggesting that Wenger should bid for the Englishman as he is not the answer. However, I do believe signing a player who has a passion for the club itself is a must.
One thing that all previous Arsenal greats possessed was that they were true fans of The club. Patrick Vieira, Dennis Bergkamo and Martin Keown would sweat blood and tears to grind out three points. It was clear to see how much the north London club meant to another ex-Gunner when Thierry Henry returned last month. His sheer determination and passion for Arsenal was blatant from the moment he scored his match winning goal against Leeds in the FA Cup. The Frenchman erupted with emotion at the final whistle. Not because he had scored on his second debut, but because his side had won. It is hard to imagine the likes of Andrey Arshavin or Marouanne Chamakh reacting in that way. They are both decent players but they are not what this club needs to end its trophy drought.
There are many great players out there who should be considered to don the red shirt. Phil Jagielka, Yann M'VIla and Danielle De Rossi are just a few that would add an extra dimension to Arsenal's fluent attacking side. Though, it must not be forgotten that in the likes of Jack Wilshere, Alex Song and Emmanuel Frimpong Arsenal do possess young players with the ability to standup and be counted. Yet, more players willing to fight for the famous crest can turn this great team into a winning one. A small margin but a big difference.
With a realistic chance of going a seventh year without a trophy after dismal displays in the same week against AC Milan and Sunderland, Wenger must repair his squad in the summer. This includes getting rid of the deadwood who are unwilling to fight for the team and reinvest in exciting spirited players who can dig deep for a result when called upon.
On Twitter Piers Morgan highlighted the small amount of players at the Emirates who have heart, desire, hunger and passion. And his damning conclusion was that there were too few.
Above all else what the team is lacking in is leadership. Robin Van Persie may be an outstanding footballer but Arsenal desperately need a leader in the mould of Tony Adams or Patrick Vieira, to wear the captains armband. Someone who the younger players can look up to. The closest player to this at the Emirates is Thomas Vermalen, yet he is too often on the injury table. The way Steven Taylor plays for his beloved Newcastle is a prime example of what Arsenal are lacking. I am not suggesting that Wenger should bid for the Englishman as he is not the answer. However, I do believe signing a player who has a passion for the club itself is a must.
One thing that all previous Arsenal greats possessed was that they were true fans of The club. Patrick Vieira, Dennis Bergkamo and Martin Keown would sweat blood and tears to grind out three points. It was clear to see how much the north London club meant to another ex-Gunner when Thierry Henry returned last month. His sheer determination and passion for Arsenal was blatant from the moment he scored his match winning goal against Leeds in the FA Cup. The Frenchman erupted with emotion at the final whistle. Not because he had scored on his second debut, but because his side had won. It is hard to imagine the likes of Andrey Arshavin or Marouanne Chamakh reacting in that way. They are both decent players but they are not what this club needs to end its trophy drought.
There are many great players out there who should be considered to don the red shirt. Phil Jagielka, Yann M'VIla and Danielle De Rossi are just a few that would add an extra dimension to Arsenal's fluent attacking side. Though, it must not be forgotten that in the likes of Jack Wilshere, Alex Song and Emmanuel Frimpong Arsenal do possess young players with the ability to standup and be counted. Yet, more players willing to fight for the famous crest can turn this great team into a winning one. A small margin but a big difference.
Monday, 20 February 2012
Boxing Mad
As well as being "no angel" David Haye has also proved he is no dignified sportsman after his astonishing mindless brawl with fellow boxer Dereck Chisora. The outburst occurred during a Chisora press conference and ended with both fighters and the name of boxing tarnished in shame. After feeling he had been unnecessarily provoked, Haye took it upon himself to retaliate with a blast of crude insults and taunts.
Just days after the incident, Haye released a statement apologising for his actions. Yet, the former Heavy Weight World Champion believes the majority of the blame should be on his compatriot.
"Chisora began firing insults at me from his position on the top table. In fact, he has recently made a habit of saying derogatory things about me in the press.
"Moments before declaring he wanted to go face-to-face with me, he assured the gathered media that he would give me 'two slaps'."
It has also been revealed that Chisora was shockingly recorded repeatedly claiming that he will "shoot" the 31 year old.
In his statement, Haye added: "Chisora then climbed down from the top table, removed his robe and then walked towards me, entourage in tow, in an aggressive manner. I held my ground, but, unfortunately, he caused a serious disturbance to occur, something which threatened to damage the reputation of the sport we both love.
"I realise I am no angel — and don't mind a bit of professional trash-talk to help raise boxing's profile — but, during my 21 years in the sport, I have never been involved in, or even witnessed, such a serious fracas."
His defence of "holding his ground" has not been enough to prevent being charged by the police which is expected to happen this week.
The unprofessional scrap was captured on video and has already become a viral YouTube sensation. Furthermore, with both the fighters being British, the mêlée has added negative publicity in the build up to the London Olympics later this summer which will need amending.
With so many great British boxers in our history, it is shameful to see two overrated and pompous fighters show how little class they possess and how little respect they hold for the sport. It is also hard to imagine a boxing legend like the late great Henry Cooper performing like this. Perhaps, Haye and Chisora should remember that they are representatives for Great Britain outside of the ring as well as in it.
Just days after the incident, Haye released a statement apologising for his actions. Yet, the former Heavy Weight World Champion believes the majority of the blame should be on his compatriot.
"Chisora began firing insults at me from his position on the top table. In fact, he has recently made a habit of saying derogatory things about me in the press.
"Moments before declaring he wanted to go face-to-face with me, he assured the gathered media that he would give me 'two slaps'."
It has also been revealed that Chisora was shockingly recorded repeatedly claiming that he will "shoot" the 31 year old.
In his statement, Haye added: "Chisora then climbed down from the top table, removed his robe and then walked towards me, entourage in tow, in an aggressive manner. I held my ground, but, unfortunately, he caused a serious disturbance to occur, something which threatened to damage the reputation of the sport we both love.
"I realise I am no angel — and don't mind a bit of professional trash-talk to help raise boxing's profile — but, during my 21 years in the sport, I have never been involved in, or even witnessed, such a serious fracas."
His defence of "holding his ground" has not been enough to prevent being charged by the police which is expected to happen this week.
The unprofessional scrap was captured on video and has already become a viral YouTube sensation. Furthermore, with both the fighters being British, the mêlée has added negative publicity in the build up to the London Olympics later this summer which will need amending.
With so many great British boxers in our history, it is shameful to see two overrated and pompous fighters show how little class they possess and how little respect they hold for the sport. It is also hard to imagine a boxing legend like the late great Henry Cooper performing like this. Perhaps, Haye and Chisora should remember that they are representatives for Great Britain outside of the ring as well as in it.
Thursday, 16 February 2012
England Manager
English Football In Dismay
Fabio Capello's decision to resign as England manager has come as a shock considering its timing. With only five months until England compete in the European Championships, the Italians decision has left the FA in dismay and with very little time to resolve their latest dilemma, who to appoint to replace the 65 year old. Although he was the most successful England football manager in the last 17 years, Fabio Capello's reign in charge was thwarted by controversy. Publishing the 'Capello Index', where he assessed the performance of his players and the ongoing saga regarding the overhyped captaincy armband are just two topics that prevented a relationship blossoming between the England nation and himself.
The majority of the public believe an English replacement for Capello is what our country needs to fulfil it's potential on the pitch. Favourite to be approached by the FA first is Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp. Having recently been cleared of tax irregularities, the 64 year old is a superb candidate. Boasting an impressive managerial record with the likes of Southampton, Portsmouth and most recently Spurs, Redknapp has expressed his desire to one day take the hardest job in football and has stated that if he were approached it would be"hard to turn down". Yet, with his Tottenham side enjoying their best ever season in well over a decade it would be hard for the Londoner to leave.
Described as one of the best man managers in the game, Redknapps ability to control an egotistical squad is what previous England managers have lacked. Too often have the England team been treated as celebrities rather than sportsmen and have allowed their personal lives to interfere with their perpetration at tournaments. Even some of the most difficult players have been tamed by a quiet word in the ear from Redknapp, with the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor and William Gallas benefitting from their managers caring approach.
The FA has revealed that they intend to resolve this issue as swiftly as possible, yet it is a decision that must not be rushed. For the national team to succeed it needs stability. Current World champions Spain did not become the best footballing country in the world over night. For Vicente Del Bosque's side it was a long process that required patience and dedication. If the FA hope for England not to endure another tournament toiled by embarrassment, they must act wisely and listen to the demands of the public when making their choice. For me that choice is in the dugout at White Heart Lane.
Fabio Capello's decision to resign as England manager has come as a shock considering its timing. With only five months until England compete in the European Championships, the Italians decision has left the FA in dismay and with very little time to resolve their latest dilemma, who to appoint to replace the 65 year old. Although he was the most successful England football manager in the last 17 years, Fabio Capello's reign in charge was thwarted by controversy. Publishing the 'Capello Index', where he assessed the performance of his players and the ongoing saga regarding the overhyped captaincy armband are just two topics that prevented a relationship blossoming between the England nation and himself.
The majority of the public believe an English replacement for Capello is what our country needs to fulfil it's potential on the pitch. Favourite to be approached by the FA first is Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp. Having recently been cleared of tax irregularities, the 64 year old is a superb candidate. Boasting an impressive managerial record with the likes of Southampton, Portsmouth and most recently Spurs, Redknapp has expressed his desire to one day take the hardest job in football and has stated that if he were approached it would be"hard to turn down". Yet, with his Tottenham side enjoying their best ever season in well over a decade it would be hard for the Londoner to leave.
Described as one of the best man managers in the game, Redknapps ability to control an egotistical squad is what previous England managers have lacked. Too often have the England team been treated as celebrities rather than sportsmen and have allowed their personal lives to interfere with their perpetration at tournaments. Even some of the most difficult players have been tamed by a quiet word in the ear from Redknapp, with the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor and William Gallas benefitting from their managers caring approach.
The FA has revealed that they intend to resolve this issue as swiftly as possible, yet it is a decision that must not be rushed. For the national team to succeed it needs stability. Current World champions Spain did not become the best footballing country in the world over night. For Vicente Del Bosque's side it was a long process that required patience and dedication. If the FA hope for England not to endure another tournament toiled by embarrassment, they must act wisely and listen to the demands of the public when making their choice. For me that choice is in the dugout at White Heart Lane.
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