Chicharito will Thrive on Valencia's Delivery

Manchester United may have coped well in his absence, but Antonio Valencia has been sorely missed at Old Trafford. His blistering pace on the right wing that has fans off their seats in anticipation - hoping, and often witnessing a dangerous delivery into a good area for the strikers to pounce on has sadly been absent since the wingers very unfortunate injury.

One loss in the Premier League all season isn't bad going for United, but boy would they welcome back their Ecuadorian winger who adds a fiery spark and invaluable energy into the United attack providing chance after chance for the strikers.

It is the kind of delivery that United's relative new boy Chicharito will thrive on.

Since Valencia's injury in September, Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez has proven himself as a deadly finisher, taking the nickname the "baby faced assassin" from United fans. His movement, his awareness of his surroundings, his pace, his vision, his unnerving ability to finish a move off with a delightful finish, have threatened to uproot a strike partnership worth a combined total of around £50 million in Rooney and Berbatov.

So just think of what the Mexican boy will do when he finds ball after ball flying into his territory - the oppositions box. I predict a fantastic partnership between him and Valencia in the future when the winger is fully recovered and back on form. It will be an exciting, and rather frightening prospect, especially for defenders.

Valencia showed it last season - his delivery and intelligent balls into the area helped Rooney to his highest ever scoring total. He provided the assists that Rooney has missed this season - as the English striker has gathered his lowest ever total of goals with seven (granted, the season isn't over).

With Rooney gradually building confidence, starting with his spectacular overhead kick a few weeks ago against City, Berbatov having his best United season by far, and with the little pea having an astonishing first year at Old Trafford, there will be healthy competition for the front spots. When Nani and Valencia occupy the wings, the strikers will have no excuses for a lack of goals, with the deliveries coming at them every two minutes, and hopefully the goals will come in, helping United to more trophies.

Exciting times, no matter what some say.

1-2-1 With... Ewan Dinwiddie (Colombian Football Writer)

My last 1-2-1 was with Mexican football writer Tom Marshall, the next logical step was to move to South America. One country which really caught my attention was Colombia. A country known more for drug related violence than its football which in my eyes is a real shame.

In my search for someone who could give me an insight into football in Colombia, I found Ewan Dinwiddie. Ewan emigrated to Colombia in 2005 and works on a blog covering Colombian football, he also runs his own site on travel and tourism in Colombia.

Name: Ewan Dinwiddie

Teams Supported: England: Nottingham Forest; Colombia: Millonarios

What is the top football club in Colombia and how does it compare to their counterparts in Europe and South America?

Fans of Atletico Nacional of Medellin display the clubs famous green and white colours

Atletico Nacional of Medellin would have to be considered the biggest Colombia football club, certainly in the last couple of decades. Both Millonarios and America de Cali have won more titles than Nacional (13 compared to Nacional’s 10), but it was Nacional’s victory in the Copa Libertadores (South America’s Champions League) in 1989 that began an era of dominance that also signalled the decline of America and especially of Millonarios who have not won a championship since 1988.

In addition to their dominance on the pitch they also have by far the largest support in Colombia. During the 1990s the vast majority of the Colombian national team was made up of Nacional players. They even adopted a policy of only signing Colombian players during that period. Their attractive brand of passing football won them many plaudits and many supporters throughout the country.

These days, however, with football a fully globalised business and players sometimes being sold abroad before they’ve even kicked a professional football in Colombia it is impossible for even Atletico Nacional or any of the other big clubs to compete with their European counterparts.

Who do you feel are the top 3 players playing in Colombia and why are they in your top 3?

Giovanny Hernandez in action for his club side

He may be getting on a bit but Giovanny Hernandez is still a class above most other players in the Colombian League. Straight out of the Carlos Valderama mould Hernandez (or “The Prince” as he is known) is the mastermind behind Atletico Junior’s attack. His pace has long since deserted him, but his vision, range of passing and set-piece taking are still a potent combination.

Dayro Moreno of Once Caldas is a strong, bulky, out and out goalscorer. He has the strikers’ instinct of being in the right place at the right time and has a knack of making goalscoring chances out of nothing. A natural finisher who should be playing his football abroad before the end of the year.

Dorlan Pablo in action for Colombia against Peru

Dorlan Pabon is another terrific talent and at 23 should have a bright future. His pace and quick feet frighten the life out of defenders and he his shooting can be devastating from outside as well as inside the box.

With English clubs always looking out for young foreign talent, name 3 under-21s playing in Colombia who you feel can make it in the Premier League one day? And what are their attributes and position?

Victor Ibardo (20) could have a bright future. He is strong, fast and appears calm when under pressure which could make him a candidate for the Premier League one day.

Part time Luis Nani look-alike Mosquera celebrates for his club Millonarios

Luis Mosquera (21) is another to look out for. A left-sided midfielder currently at Millonarios with good pace and an excellent touch. He likes to get forward and trouble defences with his mazy runs.

It’s very early days but Fabian Castillo (18) of Deportivo Cali could be another one for the notebook if he continues his current trajectory. Another short, fast winger who has made a big impression since breaking into the Cali first team in 2010.

Colombia has a rich history of international stars including Carlos Valderrama, Faustino Asprilla and Rene Higuita, who do you consider to be the greatest Colombian player of all time?

“El Tino” Asprilla has certainly been the player I’ve most enjoyed watching in terms of all out flair. But for his crucial role in the great Colombian team of the 90s it has to be Carlos “El Pibe” Valderama. Valderama was the centrepiece to that side around which their forward play was created. His vision, passing and movement defined the entire style of Colombia’s football during that period. Something which has been sadly lacking in the Colombian game since his retirement.

What is your most memorable international match involving Colombia or involving Colombian clubs?



Colombia’s 5-0 victory over Argentina in Buenos Aires in 1993 during qualification for the 94 World Cup is easily the most memorable match in the Colombian national team’s history. Argentina entered the game on a 33-match unbeaten run and were destroyed by a mesmerising Colombia performance. Valderama and Alvarez were as dominant in midfield as Asprilla and Rincon were clinical up front.

Do you think a Colombian club will win the South American Champions League anytime soon?

Brazilian legend Ronaldo battles as his team are eliminated from the Copa Libertadores by Deportes Tolima

With the dominance of the Brazilian clubs at the moment it seems unlikely, but not impossible. Deportes Tolima recently dumped Ronaldo’s Corinthians out of the competition and Atletico Junior have put together a decent squad for their campaign, but they cannot compete with the Brazilian clubs’ spending power and with all ties played over two legs it’s difficult to see any Colombian side making it as far as the final.

Which foreign club is the most popular in Colombia?

Most football supporters here tend to have at least one team they follow in each of the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A. Barcelona and Real Madrid are both well represented, as are Manchester United. I’ve managed to convert one or two into Nottingham Forest fans but there is still much work to be done.

Which European based player is the most popular in Colombia?

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo predictably hog most of the limelight, although players like Fabregas, Rooney and Tevez have a lot of followers too.

There has been an obvious demise in Colombian football in recent history how can this be explained?

Drugs Baron Pablo Escobar (centre) clearly showing his interest in football

During the 80s and 90s the drug cartels bankrolled many of Colombia’s football clubs, most notably Atletico Nacional (Pablo Escobar was a fan), America de Cali and Millonarios. The illicit money floating around Colombian football brought many top players from the continent and also ensured that Colombian players stayed for longer periods in the Colombian League than they do now. As the large drug cartels were gradually destroyed the money dried up and so too did the footballing talent playing in Colombia.

The demise of the national team is harder to explain, but is probably due to a change in footballing mentality of those running both the national team and the club sides. There has been a strong emphasis in recent years on producing tall, strong players and playing a more direct form of football as opposed to the intricate passing style of the 90s. A Colombian football pundit recently remarked that it was a good thing that Messi is Argentinian because had he been Colombian the short, squatty player wouldn’t have even been given a chance at playing professional football. The emergence of players like the slender Giovanni Moreno (now at Argentine club Racing) could signal a potential change in direction, but there is still a long way to go.

Has the political situation in Colombia impacted on its football?

Colombia’s golden footballing era occurred at the same time as the country’s most violent period with the Medellin cartel declaring war on the Colombian government during which time bombings, kidnappings and assassinations were occurring every day. This would suggest that the violence didn’t negatively impact the country’s football. Some players may have been put off from coming to play in the Colombian League as a result of the violence, but they were almost certainly outnumbered by those more than happy to accept a juicy wage packet.

In the Copa America of 2000, held in Colombia, Argentina took the decision not to participate citing the situation with regard to kidnappings as their reason. In Argentina’s absence Colombia won the competition beating Mexico in the final. An example of how the political situation here may have possibly benefitted Colombian football!

Do you see Colombia qualifying for the next World Cup?

Colombia's hopes for the 2014 World Cup rest with star striker Falcao

FIFA are set to meet in early March to decide on the allocation of places for the 2014 World Cup to be held in Brazil. If FIFA decide not to include Brazil in South America’s allocation of 4 and a half spots then it will be a huge boost for Colombia’s hopes of qualifying for the World Cup, particularly as Colombia have found themselves just a place outside the qualification zone in each of the last three campaigns.

Colombia have shown some signs of improvement in some of their recent games. Two weeks ago they lost by just a single goal to world champions Spain and were unlucky not to score on several occasions. The key man for Colombia (who was absent against Spain through injury) is Porto striker Radamel Falcao. He has a prolific scoring record for the Portuguese side, but has so far struggled to replicate that form for the national side. Getting Falcao among the goals will be crucial if Colombia are to qualify for the next World Cup.

Where do you see Colombian football internationally and domestically in ten years time?

This year the Under-20 World Cup is to held in Colombia. We’ll have to wait and see if the next Asprilla or Valderama emerges, but it is unlikely that Colombian football will be anywhere near it’s level in the 90s.

It’s difficult to imagine the Colombian economy strengthening to the extent of that of the Brazilian economy and so Colombian football clubs will continue to be forced to sell their best talents for the foreseeable future which will inevitably limit their chances of success in the Copa Libertadores.

Please could you tell us a little about yourself, your website and your plans for the future in football?

I emigrated to Colombia back in 2005. My website; http://www.colombiatravelguide.net/index.html. is principally a travel guide to Colombia, but I hope to have my Colombian Football blog up and running again in full by June 2011. I have a Guide to Colombian Soccer on the site at the moment which can be found at: http://www.colombiatravelguide.net/colombian-soccer.html. It covers the history of the Colombian game from the 50s when many of the best players in the world plied their trade in the Colombian League, through the glory years of the early 90s, and the tragic death of Andres Escobar in 1994. It also explains the format of the league as well as coverage of the top teams.

For the next few years my plans are to continue covering Colombian football, both domestic and international, with the hope of doing some freelance work for newspapers or websites.

(END)

Well after that I'd like to thank Ewan for taking the time out to enlighten us on the history and current condition of Colombian football. I hope you've enjoyed reading this and also take the time out to have a look at Ewans site.

WATCH: Arsenal 1 - 2 Birmingham Carling Cup Final

Match Report Here

Arsenal 0 - 1 Birmingham [Zigic]



Arsenal 1 - 1 Birmingham [van Persie]



Arsenal 1 - 2 Birmingham [Martins]

Blues end 48 Year Drought to Keep Arsenal's One Going

Watch all Match Goals Here

Arsenal's 6 year trophy drought had nothing on Birmingham's 48, but it was the team in Blue who proudly walked away knowing that the sorry statistic is no more, and that Alex McLeish is now the proud manager who can place silverware in Birmingham's dusty trophy cabinet. So first of all, congratulations to Birmingham City.

Now to Arsenal. I said before the game, that if Arsenal were to lose, it would be through an individual error, and not the fact that Birmingham's quality was greater. In the end, it proved to be true, as Koscielny hesitated in clearing the ball in front of his goalkeeper, only for the ball to rebound off of Sczcesny into the path of Obafemi Martins for the easiest goal he will ever hope to score. Arsenal threw away their best chance to lift silverware today, and it is that reason why Arsenal fans will be so distraught.

The game was a fantastic spectacle, end to end, with full commitment from both sides as they fought fiercely in front of their passionate and willing fans who created a brilliant atmosphere at a packed Wembley Stadium. The pitch was perfect, much improved from the previous finals, which suited Arsenal's silky passing and quick, intricate play, but the Gunners could not take full advantage of it against the resilient Birmingham defence who stood strong for much of the game.

After Nicola Zigic's headed goal opened the scoring, anything looked possible, only for the stand-in captain Robin van Persie to strike into the corner for the equaliser. But it was the final goal from super substitute Martins that won the game and broke Arsenal hearts.

The man of the match was awarded to the deserving Ben Foster who was once again outstanding in a Carling Cup final win, mirroring his stunning performance for former club Manchester United two years ago. The Englishman told Sky Sports that winning the cup was the best feeling after the birth of his two children, and they would certainly be proud of him, just as the whole of Birmingham, and his former employers Manchester United surely are.

Jack Wilshere, Arsenals wonder kid was excellent again, doing his best to run the midfield in the absence of Fabregas, and doing a very good job. He couldn't lead his side to a win, but he created the goal after bringing the ball forward and striking the bar with a spectacular shot, however, he was left with his hands on has had after the winning goal rippled the net, and Arsenal fell, defeated.

The game may decide Arsenal's future. At the start of play, they were in all four competitions, and favourites to grab at least one. That chance has been blown by yet another defensive error, although very unlucky, and could break their season as they head into the vital closing stages of the title race and Champions League knockout-stages.

Arsenal may still be in all three competitions, including that knockout stage with Barcelona fast approaching, but it was Birmingham who delivered an unlikely knockout blow today which saw the Gunners fall to their knees in disbelief and distress. How will they react to such a cruel blow?

The Wayne Rooney Elbow - Banned for Chelsea Game?

Sir Alex Ferguson had an amusing view of the Wayne Rooney incident against Wigan. [Watch at bottom]

As a ball was played by Wigan, Rooney chased it, and on his way, McCarthy slightly edged into Rooney's path. As the Manchester United striker ran passed, he raised his elbow and hit the Wigan player in the side off the head. Credit to McCarthy, he didn't go down, rolling around in agony like some players would have done, but he held his head in genuine pain, as it did look as if the connection was harsh.

The referee, Mark Clattenburg - involved in quite a few controversial decisions involving United - gave a free-kick, although it was not entirely clear whether he actually saw the incident. If he had of seen it, I would think he would have given at the very least a yellow card for raising an arm, or very possibly a red, and not just a talking to and a pat on the back.
Sir Alex Ferguson said after the game:

"I have had a chance to see it. There is nothing in it.

"But, what will happen, the question has been asked and because it is Wayne Rooney the press will raise a campaign to get him hung by Tuesday or electrocuted or something like that.

"It is unbelievable. Watch the press. It will be interesting to see it."

It is a biased view, one that is trying to deflect the spotlight from Rooney, and onto the press, but to say that there was "nothing in it", I have to admit is a bit questionable. The United assistant, Mike Phelan said on his Match of the Day interview, "we can't dispute the referees decision". But we can dispute what you just said Mike! Sir Alex isn't always the biggest fan of referee's decisions when they go against him, and regularly disputes their decisions.
The Wigan manager Roberto Martinez obviously had a conflicting view from Ferguson. He said:

"Once you give a free-kick it is quite clear that it is a red card. When you look at the replay, it is quite clear he catches James McCarthy in the face with his elbow."

I am a United fan, and I am afraid I tend to agree with Martinez's evaluation of the incident. Rooney didn't need to raise his elbow - his running pattern showed that his elbows were down by his sides, and as he went past McCarthy, the elbow was raised in an unnatural position.
Unfortunately, it is indefensible when you see it, and he may be in trouble.

After Ferguson stated only his side and Arsenal are in the title race, United travel to Stamford Bridge to try and extend their now four point lead over Arsenal. Arsenal will play in the Carling Cup final on Sunday, and so haven't played this week-end meaning Wengers side will have a game in hand after the Chelsea - United game.

The question is, will Rooney be available for the game against Chelsea on Tuesday? Will he be punished by the FA? Could he be banned? I suppose it depends which way you look at it.

Watch: Wigan 0 - 4 Manchester United

Manchester United moved four points clear at the top of the Premier League after a convincing four - nil win against relegation strugglers Wigan. A Chicharito double, Wayne Rooney goal and Fabio strike gave United the win, and gives them some breathing space above Arsenal, whom Sir Alex Ferguson recently said are United's only title challengers.

Manchester United face Chelsea on Tuesday 1st March, while Arsenal have their Carling Cup final against Birmingham a little sooner on Sunday against Birmingham.

Nani Interview: Don't compare me to Ronaldo

Manchester United's winger Nani has been an integral part of the team this season, providing tantalising crosses, and constantly threatening defenders on the wing, leaving them for dead when he turns inside and unleashes a belter into the top corner. 

His nine goals have all been pretty special, while his delivery and creativity has made 11 goals for his teammates. In short, Nani is a devastatingly explosive winger, with the fantastic ability to produce moments of magic at any given time.

The player himself recognises that this season has been a special one, but despite similarities in their playing style, as well as obvious similarities such as nationality, he refuses to be compared with Cristiano Ronaldo:

"It is my best season at United. I don’t compare myself to Ronaldo or anyone else, I just think about myself and the club and what I can do for them. I hope to improve much more.

“It is good to have that many goals and assists but the most important thing is to win the trophies with the team. When I have won the trophies I will look back at how I have contributed.

“It is good for your confidence to know people are looking at you to win matches for the team. When you are on the pitch, it means you want the ball all the time because everything is going so well.

Nani is always looking to improve however, just like all good footballers do, while keeping himself in top physical condition so he is always ready for competitive football. Despite Ronaldo's move to Madrid, him and Nani are still very much in touch:

“I know, though, that I can do better. That is why I’m training hard every day and staying fit for every game.”

“We are good friends. He spoke to me before the Marseille game and wished me good luck. He always tells me how well I am doing.

“I know people liken me to Cristiano but I just want to be Nani, a good player who people enjoy watching.”

Nani wasn't always a first team regular however, mainly because of Ronaldo's massive presence in the team, and he spoke of his increased frustration at being left on the bench:

“I have ambition and it is not easy to give up on Manchester United. But at the same time, you come to this club to play.”

His manager Sir Alex Ferguson was not going to let him go in any case - he saw his exciting potential, and is delighted that the potential has been realised this season:

“Nani wasn’t close to leaving because he’d have had to get by me! Of course we sat down and talked. You do that with all your players.

“I don’t need to trumpet his improvement, he’s been consistent all season. He’s a match winner – he creates goals and he scores goals. Every time he gets near the ball, you think something special is going to happen. That’s the sign of a great player.”

Fabregas & Walcott Out - And Arsenal want Bojan Krkic

Despite the injuries, there is good news. Arsenal apparently want Bojan Krkic of Barcelona [Full Story].

That seems unlikely; especially as Barcelona have only recently called Arsenal "immoral" in their capture of a Barca academy player. I wouldn't think Barcelona would be too keen on dealing with Arsenal after that.

Anyway...
Fabregas and Walcott will miss the Carling Cup final through injury, and Walcott is likely to miss the Barcelona clash on the 8th March. This must be unbelievably frustrating for Fabregas especially, seeing as his main aim as captain was to lift a trophy, and now Arenal's best chance of doing so has come about he is going to be nothing more than a Wembley spectator.

Wenger said of Walcott who suffered an ankle injury against Stoke:

"Walcott will be out for two to three weeks with an ankle problem.

"I would say today it is very unlikely he will be fit for the second leg of the Barcelona game.

"I imagine the worst so maybe I will be surprised in a positive way but I just give you my gut feeling at the moment."

And of Fabregas:

"You cannot play football when you're injured. He's sad and disappointed but it could have been worse the injury - it's a very small one. We have many targets in front of us so it is important he is not out for longer."

Asked how long he would be absent, Wenger replied:

"One or two games maybe."

I think it isn't so bad that Fabregas will miss the next few games. The injury isn't at all serious, so he will just be rolled up in cotton wool and rested until the Barcelona game. It may work out well. No disrespect to Birmingham, but even without Fabregas and Walcott, Arsenal are comfortably the better side and should win comfortably.

The Walcott injury on the other hand isn't so good. His pace will be missed against Barcelona, but Arsenal should cope - although Wenger hasn't completely ruled him out of it, and still hold the hope that he will be pleasantly surprised.

Pecandu FM Inginkan Kursi Manajer Middlesbrough

Anda yang menyukai gim Football Manager bisa mencoba peruntungan Anda melamar kursi pelatih di sebuah klub ternama di dunia nyata.

Oleh Taufik Bagus
24 Feb 2011 10:15:00

Ingin menjadi manajer tim papan atas Eropa? Jika tak memiliki latar belakang sepakbola yang mumpuni, Anda masih bisa mewujudkan impian tersebut dengan memainkan gim Football Manager.

Memainkan gim ini adalah sesuatu yang lumrah bagi mereka yang terobsesi sebagai pelatih tim besar. Namun akan lain ceritanya jika obsesi tersebut diteruskan dengan mengajukan lamaran resmi ke tim yang memang sedang mencari pelatih baru.

Adalah John Boileau yang melakukan hal ini. Warga Inggris yang belum genap berusia 30 tahun itu memutuskan untuk mengajukan lamaran menangani Middlesborough.

Namanya memang tidak tenar. Tapi ia sudah menangani tim gurem seperti Nuneaton Borough, Rushden and Diamonds, dan Doncaster Rovers, sampai ke kancah Liga Champions Eropa. Hal itu hanya terjadi di gim Football Manager versi 2005. Di dunia nyata, Boileau menangani tim U-11 St Paul sejak tahun 1999.

Dengan 'latar belakang' yang dimilikinya itu, Boileau pun mengajukan lamaran, sekaligus curriculum vitae yang mengagumkan. Ia juga memasang bandrol gaji minimal 80 ribu poundsterling untuk satu musim.

"Jumlah tersebut sangat masuk akal jika melihat jumlah gaji di dunia sepakbola sekarang ini," katanya dalam surat lamaran resmi yang dikirim ke Chairman Middlesbrough Steve Gibson.

Boileau juga menyebut dirinya sebagai "pelatih muda yang ambisius dengan pengalaman yang melimpah di Football Manager 2005, dalam menangani klub di level bawah dan papan atas baik di Inggris dan luar negeri."

"Saya sudah pernah menangani tim Liga Primer Inggris, Championship dan juga Serie A Italia, La Liga Spanyol dan kompetisi di Swedia," lanjutnya.

Di bawah ini adalah contoh CV dari Boileau:

Dan rupanya surat lamaran ini mendapat tanggapan serius dari manajemen Middlesbrough. Gibson bahkan menulis sendiri balasan untuk Boileau, meski mungkin penerima surat ini sedikit kecewa. Lamarannya tidak lolos.

Ini dia balasan surat dari Gibson untuk Boileau:

Hehe mungkin ada FMLovers Indonesia yang mau ikutan ?? heehhe

Sumber GOAL.COM

Arsenal Midfield v United Midfield

After about 20 or so minutes in the Manchester United - Marseille game yesterday, it became very clear that neither side was prepared to take a risk going forward and give the opposition a chance to score. It was the kind of game that the commentators like calling "cagey". It was true - neither side wanted to give anything away, which resulted only in a tedious, drab draw which left pretty much everyone frustrated.

United's best effort was a Darren Fletcher snap shot which he hit into the ground proving awkward for the goalkeeper, but he dived well to save it despite seeing it late through a sea of flailing legs.

Then, probably the most interesting and curious event was Wayne Rooney looking up to see the keeper off is line only for him to attempt a Beckham style half way line goal that was easily caught.
Those two attempts were the only two that United managed to get on target - long range efforts that required no clever or defence cutting passing, no midfield creativity, no team imagination - simply a spur of the moment snap shot and an individual piece of forward thinking which in the end, both led to nothing.

Before the game, the Marseille manager Didier Deschamps claimed that this United team lacked "fantasy". Unfortunately, his comments were pretty well supported with clear evidence on the pitch last night (not that his team proved to be creative masterminds themselves).

A look at the starting midfield for Manchester United explains a lot. Darron Gibson, Darren Fletcher and Michel Carrick. They are all good midfielders, and they all do their own job - granted, not always well, but they can sure up the midfield, making it a steady area and so on. The problem is, they don't have that inventive artistry that makes Paul Scholes such a great midfielder with his superb vision, and ability to follow through that vision with his astonishing passing range. The midfield last night was left passing sideways to each other and could not find an innovative forward ball enough.

Compare United's central midfield triplet last night to Arsenal's three, Nasri, Fabregas and Wilshere, and no matter which way you look at it, even if you are the most avid United fan, the Arsenal midfield is far more dangerous, imaginative and attackingly productive.

This is why Paul Scholes is so important to United. He has the quality and vision to do what the Arsenal midfield do - find that clever ball, cut open the opposition defence - create a goal.

Unfortunately, when he came on yesterday, he was getting frustrated by the movement around him, and couldn't make the impact that was hoped for. He has been sitting on the bench all game watching the defence and midfield try hopeful long balls to no avail, with the penetrative "fantasy" that Deschamps was talking about woefully absent.

United can be better, they have proved it before this season, but unfortunately, they haven't shown it enough, especially away from home. Ferguson will certainly need to add to his midfield in the summer that is beyond doubt, especially if he is to be without Paul Scholes if he decides to retire. The United manager will also need to spend big on quality and not potential, as this is a problem that needs to be fixed sooner rather than later.

United have some tough remaining fixtures with two games against Chelsea, and one away game against Arsenal at the Emirates where the two midfields will come face to face. I still tip United for the win, as the defence is far stronger (Chris Smalling was brilliant with Vidic again yesterday), but Arsenal have a superior midfield, which is something that needs to be sorted out if the Red Devils are to challenge for all the trophies next season.

Fabregas & Walcott Injuries [Pics] & Reaction

So Arsenal claimed victory against a physical Stoke side to move within a point of Manchester United at the peak of the Premier League. But the three points came at a price. Two of Arsenal's talismanic players in Cesc Fabregas and Theo Walcott went off the pitch injured, with the latter having to be stretchered off.

See what Arsene Wenger had to say about the injuries below:

Wenger on Fabregas injury:

"Fabregas has a hamstring problem. We will assess that tomorrow. It is impossible to see how serious it is. We will know Thursday."

"It is of course a concern that he (Fabregas) is injured but it happens unfortunately. He was very upset. I am as well. But it is not his fault or mine. It is part of sport.

"It's strange when it happens early in the game but we have to face it. We did the job after that in a very professional way."

Wenger on Walcott Injury:

"Theo Walcott has an ankle sprain and he is out. For how long, I don't know, but he is definitely out of Sunday.

Games for Arsenal are coming in thick and fast, and injuries are the last thing that Wenger would have wanted, especially to their captain Fabregas and sometimes game changing winger Walcott. The three points will however soften the blow as the days count down towards the Carling Cup final on Sunday against Birmingham.

Wenger praised his sides performance against a defensive Stoke side:

"We did the job after the injury in a very professional way against a Stoke team who defended very well. They were very compact but we were intelligent, calm, patient and overall I believe we were resilient."

Stoke have been criticized for the way they play sometimes - using Rory Delap's long throw, not playing on the ground and being too physical - Wenger even once said they played with "rugby" tactics. But he had no complaints after Wednesday's game:

"No. I have no issue with the long throws and I do not have issue with any other aspect of their game. It is a team you know you have to prepare mentally for before the game because you will not take the points if you do not do it.

"Nobody likes to play against Stoke because they have a very special way to play the game, but I have to say tonight for me they defended in a very intelligent way. When we found some space they quickly cut it off and we could not take advantage."

Arsenal v Stoke - Szczesny: We Must Win Every Game

Arsenal face Stoke tonight at the Emirates in a game which the Gunners' goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has billed as a must win, along with every other game after that if they are to stay in the title race with Manchester United.

Arsenal have won the last three Premier League meetings between the two sides, and are unbeaten in their last nine matches, while Stoke have failed to win anyof their away games in 2011, so the omens are good for Arsenal as they continue in a very busy period of football for them.

Szczesny emphasised the importance of the game, in which Arsenal could move to only a point behind the leaders, who also play tonight in the Champions League against Marseille. He said:

"[Stoke] is a massive game for us, we need to win every single game to make sure that we catch Manchester United. It will be a very tough game but we’re confident going into win and we believe we’re going to win.


Exactly, [there's no margin for error], we need to make sure that we win every single game. We’ve been playing quite well recently and we seem to be catching up. We only made up one point so far but we believe we can win all the current games.

There’s not a lot in the Premiership at the moment because we play all the Cup games and we need to make sure that we win every single one to catch up. If we lose a single game we could be out of the title race or out of the Champions League so we have to take it game by game and we’re going to make sure to do our best in every single game.

We are very disappointed after [the Leyton Orient draw] because not only we drew the game but the circumstances didn’t help because it looked like we were going to win it but they scored with a couple of minutes to go. So we’re disappointed but we’re confident when they come to our place we can win the replay and get through to the next round."

Arsenal are without Diaby through suspension, and Koscielny and van Persie through injury, but should all be back for the Carling Cup Final against Birmingham on Sunday.

Four Of The Finest: Father And Son Footballers

I'm sorry there haven't been any recent posts. I haven't been able to spare the time due to becoming a father for the first time. I'm pleased to say it is a boy, so I'm able to introduce him to the beautiful game, buy him a football kit and all the other football things boys like to do. With this in mind I decided to look into the fathers and sons who have both been part of the footballing fraternity.

Johan and Jordi Cryuff
 

 
Cryuff is a name almost synonymous with Dutch football. Johan Cryuff played a major part in implementing "Total Football" for Holland and Ajax Amsterdam and then exporting the concept to Barcelona where his tactics have become a mantra espoused by the coaches at the club. His son Jordi also played for the Dutch and Catalan sides. Jordi was also capped by Holland and most notably played in Euro 96.

When the independent compared the careers of father and son it noted that Jordi may have benefited from his fathers name but he may have also been underrated as a player due to the often comparisons between the father and son.

"The thought has always lingered that had Jordi's surname been (say) Beaglehole, then his career would not have touched the dizzy heights of Barcelona and Manchester United. Johan was one of the best players ever to grace the game and a legend at Barcelona and Ajax. When dad was manager at Ajax, so Jordi was in the youth set-up there. When dad took over at Barcelona, so Jordi joined him. In truth, he was a decent player (decent enough to play for Holland) but not a superstar like his dad. And when Johan was sacked, Jordi was sold. He failed to really establish himself at United and returned to Spain to play for Alaves and Espanyol. He is now in management in Malta."

Cesare and Paolo Maldini

Between them they played 994 games for AC Milan the most successful Italian club in European competition. Son Paolo is a record holder for caps for Italy and games played for AC Milan and father Cesare has managed both club and country.

They also became the first and only father and son to lift the European Cup when Paolo as captain lifted the trophy exactly forty years after his father, captained the Rossoneri to victory over the legendary Eusebio's Benfica side in 1963.

In the 1998 World Cup Cesare managed Italy with Paolo as the captain. In most countries there would be murmurs of nepotism, but in Italy such is their standing there was no such discontent.

When Paolo retired, so did his number 3 shirt, but will be issues again only if another Maldini makes it into the AC Milan first team. So far, Paolo Maldini's oldest son and Cesare Maldini's grandson Christian is shaping up well to take up the challenge. Just seventeen he is currently a member of the Milan youth squad, displaying the sterling defensive talents that made the Maldini dynasty so long a feature at Milan and on the Italian international scene



Diego Maradona and Sergio Aguero

Okay, I know that these two are only family as Maradona is Aguero's father-in-law but after seeing Aguero's two year old son, Maradona's grandson, Benjamin kick a ball on Youtube I had to mention it.



Benjamin aside, Maradona is possibly the greatest player of all time leading Argentina to 1986 World Cup victory. Famous goals against England in that tournament have ensured that Maradona's name is etched in World Cup history.Aguero on the other hand doesn't have the legendary status of "El Diego" but he has played in a World Cup for Argentina and scored 113 goals in 274 club games for Independiente and Athletico Madrid.

Peter and Kasper Schmeichel

When Kasper Schmeichel came on to the scene their were all sorts of comparisons between him and his father, Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel. When making the comparison between father and son, after Kasper had kept two clean sheets for his now former club Manchester City it was said,

"Kasper Schmeichel has followed his father into the family business of keeping clean sheets. Two Premier League games, two shut-outs.

Now all he has to do to emulate dad is to play 129 games for his country, win five titles and a European Cup. Oh, and score 11 goals at the other end."

Kasper has made a promising start to his goalkeeping career and is currently playing for Leeds United in The Championship. Most recently he put in a superb performance in the FA Cup against Premiership side Arsenal, pulling off one particularly good save which even his father would've been proud of.

Too Much Too Soon for Bebe & Obertan?

After the game against Crawley Town in which Manchester United squeezed through to a narrow win, there were more than few questions asked about certain United players - questions that challenged whether some players were good enough to represent one of the best football clubs in the world.

As usual, when bold questions like these are put forward by the media and some fans, there is a barrel of mixed, contradicting and interesting views.

There are those who say the players who underperformed once too many - in this case Bebe and Obertan, should be gotten rid of as soon as possible. They say that if they can't perform against a lowly team like Crawley - 90 or so league places below United, then they have no chance of making any positive impact in the Premier League against teams like Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City and the rest. If they cannot even look like penetrating a Crawley defence, how are they going to fair against Champions League defences, who are trained to keep out the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo?

It has to be said, that Bebe and Obertan have not done themselves any favours with performances like that against Crawley in the F.A Cup. That was their time to shine - they won't get many chances in the League - so if they wanted to show the Old Trafford faithful what they are capable of, the F.A Cup was the perfect time. They failed to deliver.

On the other hand, there are those who jumped to the defence of the under fire pair. They say that they haven't been given enough time to shine or enough time to settle. Some hold the strong belief that Bebe and Obertan have the quality, but do not have the fitness in Bebe's case, or the confidence in Obertan's case, ad in time, with the guidance of the genius of Ferguson, they will come good.

Going on the performances I have seen from the pair, there isn't much basis for the above argument.

Obertan certainly holds the more natural talent from what I have seen - he has trickery, pace, and is building his strength. At the moment he is not good enough to challenge for a place on the wings - Nani and Valencia are currently in another league to him, but I think he will improve with support and confidence. Having said that, I can't see him ever nailing down a first team place, and I see him more of a lively substitute in the future.

Bebe on the other hand has shown very little to convince me that he is good enough - now or in the future - to challenge for even a substitute place. He has been so very poor, and the amount of abuse he has received - although harsh, is mostly true.

I think Sir Alex has learned his lessons. One, watch a player before you sign him, and two, don't take Carlos Quieroz's recommendations too seriously. Spending £7 million on Bebe was a mistake - his agent must still have his jaw firmly rooted to the floor in utter disbelief. Sir Alex will have to work miracles himself if he were to re-coop the fee paid for the Portuguese attacker.

I think it has probably been a case of too much too soon for both players. Obertan was hardly a regular at Bordeux before his £3 million move, and Bebe was playing on the streets of Portugal, and had no big League experience.

A few more seasons playing in the reserves with the occasional appearance in the Carling Cup and F.A Cup will do good for Bebe so he can gradually build his fitness, confidence, and lets hope his quality too.

Obertan can be trusted with more first team appearances, but needs the support of the fans, his team mates and his manager to build his confidence. Both need to settle in, but if they don't perform in the reserves, there is only one place they can possibly go - out the door.

£13 million Striker "a big fan of Manchester United"

Asamoah Gyan, the Ghanaian striker who plays his football for Sunderland, had announced his ambition to one day play for Manchester United - his manager, Steve Bruce's former club.

Gyan was signed on the 31st August 2010 for the Black Cats for a club record fee of £13 million after catching the eye of Bruce with his impressive displays for Ghana in the World Cup. He scored three goals in the competition, helping his country to the quarter finals only to be cheated out of it by Uruguay and since his move to Sunderland has scored 11 goals in 25 games.

He said:

"Of course I'm a big fan of Manchester United and will like to play for them if the chance comes my way."

It would be unwise to say this and then not reaffirm his commitment to his current side, while citing the need to repay the fans for their continued support. So he did:

"But at the moment I'm at another great club and will want to concentrate on that and help repay the faith the club and the fans have reposed in me."

Manchester United look likely to be a striker down come the end of the season, as it doesn't look like Michael Owen will be offered a new contract after suffering yet another injury. However, I don't see Sir Alex making a move for Gyan, no disrespect to Gyan, but I think United would be going for a better striker who would be able to nail down a regular place in the team ahead of the likes of Rooney, Berbatov and Chicharito.

Juventus (2017/2018) Pertengahan Musim dan Brazil

Oke Akhirnya sampai juga di pertengahan musim bersama Juventus dan dimusim ini seperti musim terbaik saya karena berhasil mencapai posisi kedua dimusim pertama bersama Juventus dan hanya kalah sekali melawan Milan

Dan berikut Penghargaan yang didapat oleh pemain Juventus

Seydo doumbia menjadi salah satu calon top skor musim ini.

Dan berikut hasil Di Europa League

Oke setelah ini kita ke Brazil, sebelumnya saya posting bahwa Brazil berhasil masuk piala dunia 2018 di russia, hal anehnya adalah piala dunia di Brazil dahulu yang juara adalah Italia namun ditahun 2018 Italia Tak berhasil masuk ke Piala Dunia FM yang aneh 

Dan Berikut 32 negara yang akan main di World Cup 2018

So apakah Juventus akan juara akhir musim ini, dan siapa saja yang akan saya beli di transfer Januari?? nantikan postingan berikutnya

Ramsey Scores First Goal Since Arsenal Leg Break

On loan Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey scored his first goal since his double leg break for Cardiff on Tuesday night, and now feels he is getting back to his best.

He was playing his sixth game for Cardiff against Leicester City as his one month loan to the Welsh club comes to an end in the latter stages of February.

Ramsey said:

"I wanted to get a goal before I go back and I was glad it came at home

"I feel I'm getting there. That is what these games are for, to get me back in the swing of things and I feel that is coming and I'm getting better and stronger with each game."

Dave Jones, the Cardiff manager is apparently going to ask Arsene Wenger if Ramsey can stay at Cardiff for longer than the agreed loan period, and he is confident that the Arsenal midfielder is over the horrific injury that left him on the sideline for what seemed like ages:

"He is over the injury. What he needs is games and you probably saw in the last 15 minutes is he is not at that top level yet.

"For us it is good enough but for the next level he is probably just a few games still short."

Ramsey required surgery to fix fractures to both his tibia and fibula in his right leg following a challenge from Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross. That happened almost exactly a year ago, on the 27th February 2010, and today, on the 23rd February 2011, Arsenal will take on Stoke City once again - this time at the Emirates in a bid to win another three points and gain ground on Manchester United in the title race.

Shawcross should prepare himself for a frosty reception, as many Arsenal fans refuse to forgive the high, leg breaking challenge that led to Ramsey's career hitting rock bottom.
Arsenal fans will however be delighted that their starlet is well on his way and back on track to breaking into the Arsenal first team again, and in the future helping them to some trophies. It is always great to see injured players come back and be successful, and I wish Ramsey all the best.

Sign Scholes Up

"The greatest player of his generation", "a beautiful player to watch", "he can do anything". Those are just a few of the compliments that have been presented to Paul Scholes, the Manchester United legend who will turn 37 later this year. He is a role model to all footballers with his absolute professionalism and must be a joy to manage for Sir Alex Ferguson - never seeking the limelight, described off the pitch as "shy".

Despite his age, Scholes still has the defence cutting creativity and fantastic range of passing that has made him a regular starter at Old Trafford for the past 16 and a half seasons, which has enabled him to make 660 appearances and counting. It is no wonder therefore, that the United manager wants to hold onto him for as long as he possibly can, and with Scholes apparently still undecided over his future in football, Ferguson will be doing his best to persuade him to stay in the game.
Sir Alex said:

"I am more than hopeful about Paul signing another contract."

"I think he should.

"His fitness isn't in question. I think Paul feels he has to play all the games.

"It is not a bad thing to be that way but at his age, that is impossible.

"But he can still play a big part for Manchester United, this season and next."

It is unsurprising that the Manchester United manager is desperate to keep Scholes in the red of United, because in the current transfer market climate, he won't find another player of Scholes' calibre going on the cheap.

The current midfield isn't exactly full of developed top quality players; Michael Carrick is in an unfortunate long spell of bad or inconsistent form, while Darron Gibson is constantly under pressure to impress due to constantly being used as a scapegoat by some fans after poor team performances. Anderson was beginning to shine after some injuries but has suffered another injury which will rule him out for a little while - so what will his form be like when he gets back?

United have been linked to several midfielders as they scour the globe to find a replacement for Scholes, including Nuri Sahin, Steven Defour and Marek Hamsik - all would cost at least over £10 million, with the highest valuation being around £35 million for Hamsik.

Perhaps it would be better to give some young players from the reserve team a go - there are certainly some talents in there, with Tom Cleverley, who was on loan at Wigan and Paul Pogba impressing. Pogba may be too young at the moment, but I would like to see more of Cleverley, but it looks very possible that Ferguson will be looking for a new play maker in the market this summer.

Either way, it would be better for United if they could keep hold of Scholes for another season, and even if he doesn't play every game, he will still have a big impact on the squad with the example he sets and has set since his first appearance for the Red Devils.

Wenger: Van Persie, Diaby and Koscielny Out Injured

Arsene Wenger confirmed that Robin Van Persie, Abou Diaby and Laurent Koscielny will all be out of Arsenal's next game against Stoke City with injuries, although Diaby wold have missed the game with suspension anyway. Arsenal host Stoke on Wednesday, but Wenger is positive that the trio will all be fit for Sunday's Carling Cup final clash against Birmingham where Arsenal have the chance to win some overdue silverware.

Wenger said:

"We don't have Van Persie, Diaby and Koscielny available."

"Everybody else is fit. Diaby is suspended. Van Persie has a hamstring problem and Koscielny a back problem."

"Both are short term and they have a chance for the game on Sunday"

Johan Djourou has been in very good form this season, making up for the absence of Thomas Vermaelen alongside Koscielny in the centre of defence, and Wenger will welcome the Swiss back into the side after missing the F.A Cup draw against Leyton Orient.
The Arsenal manager said:

"Johan Djourou is better and will play."

The replay with Leyton Orient in the Cup isn't going to help, as although Arsenal are favourites to win, it is another long 90 minutes and risks injuries or fatigue that they will not want in the lead up the back end of the season, as well as a second leg with Barcelona at the Nou Camp awaiting them.

Juventus Musim (2017/2018) Awal Musim Dan Timnas Brazil

Yuph akhirnya tiba juga impian saya yaitu melatih tim Juventus setelah sebelumnya merintis karir bersama Luton Town, Everton dan sekarang melatih Juventus, oke selain juventus saya juga melatih negara Brazil yang notabenya adalah negara dengan talenta alamnya yang menghasilkan pemain-pemain berbakat.

Oke kembali ke Juventus, karena saya di kontrak dari tahun sebelumnya maka saya pun di pertandingan pertama dihadapkan adalah Tim Cup melawan napoli dan akhirnya saya menangkan dengan adu pinalti

Karena memenangkan piala italia atau TIM cup maka saya pun harus melawan juara seria A tahun lalu yaitu Palermo, namun palermo pun berhasil dikalahkan berkat gol Luiz Suarez di menit-menit terakhir 

Oke karena menurut saya skuad juventus sudah terlalu tua dan banyak pemain yang tak terpakai maka saya berinisiatif untuk membeli pemain baru, dan sang bos pun memberikan uang yang banyak untuk menambah kekuatan juventus tahun ini dengan target bisa main di liga champions tahun depan.

Maka berikut pemain yang datang

Federico Rodriguez

Sebenarnya ini bukan kemauan saya membeli pemain ini, sepertinya manager sebelumnya yang membeli pemain ini.

Marco Sonzogni

Pemain masa depan italia dan merupakan jebolan dari akademi parma, saya membelinya 10 M dan merupakan pembelian pemain paling mahal saya di FM 2011

Luka Modric

Dibeli dari Man City karena kebanyakan pemain bagus hingga pemain sekaliber modric pun di jual murah, seharga 7 M. bisa bermain disetiap posisi di bagian sayap, bisa sebagai playmaker

Ricardo Montolivo

Sama seperti Luka Modric dia juga merupakan buangan dari City dan saya dapatkan gratis karena kontraknya tak diperpanjang.

Steve Mandanda

Kiper berpengalaman dari Marsiele yang saya dapatkan gratis karena kontraknya tidak di perpanjang, kedatangannya menggeser hennessey yang saya jual ke Levante.

Glen Jhonson

Mantan pemain Liverpool ini pun saya dapat gratis dari Liverpool dan cocok sebagai pemain bek sayap kanan.

Michele Conte

Pemain terakhir yang saya beli masih muda, dan saya pinjamkan ke klub lain agar menambah pengalaman sebagai pemain profesional.

Dan inilah daftar skuad juventus 2017/2018

Dan berikut formasi Idealnya

Dan berikut kompetisi yang akan diikuti juventus musim ini adalah Europa League, berada digrup yang relatif mudah.

Selain itu berita baiknya adalah Brazil berhasil lolos ke piala dunia tahun depan

Oke nantikan Postingan saya berikutnya....
Stay update :)