Wednesday 14 September 2011
RYAN GIGGS HAS MADE ME PROUD!
Ryan Giggs' solo effort earned a point for Manchester United in a difficult Champions League opener against Benfica in Lisbon. Nicolas Gaitan's delightful long pass had picked out Oscar Cardozo, who controlled on his chest then finished from 16 yards in the 24 th minute. But Giggs cut inside from the right and fired a 20 -yard strike to level three minutes before half-time. United keeper Anders Lindegaard saved from Nolito and Gaitan late on. Live text and stats Wednesday, 14 September 2011 Champions League Benfica 1-1 Man Utd FT (HT 1-1) Cardozo 24 Giggs 42 Jonny Evans (right) and the rest of the United defence were tested by Oscar Cardozo
Sunday 11 September 2011
Chelsea's Daniel Sturridge thanks family for support after backheel goal against Sunderland
Getty Images
The 22-year-old, who played alongside Nicolas Anelka and Juan Mata in attack, put in a strong showing away at the Stadium of Light in a 2-1 victory.
The striker told the club’s official website: “My brother, my uncle, my cousin and his wife travelled to the game and for them to travel all this way and show their support was a great moment, as well as the huge support we had from the Chelsea fans."
Sturridge faces strong competition for a place in the Blues’ first team under Andre Villas-Boas, with Didier Drogba, Fernando Torres, Romelu Lukaku, Salomon Kalou and Florent Malouda all out of the starting line-up against Sunderland.
He continued: “The competition for places is very tough in the squad and the manager has shown huge faith in me to put me in the team after a three-game ban, because I have just been training for the last five weeks, including the international period.
“It was a huge result for the boys to come away from Sunderland with the three points. It is a great stadium and their fans sing very loud but our fans were excellent and it was a big result for the team. Now we need to keep winning and put pressure on the Manchester clubs.”
Sturridge went on to describe his well-taken finish, which came after 50 minutes to put the Blues 2-0 ahead.
He said: “It was a great ball from Raul Meireles, great vision from him, and I got across the centre-half and saw the keeper coming out, so I just went for a little cheeky one. The only way I could have scored was to do that, and it paid off.
“I have done it in training a few times but training is completely different to a game and for it to happen in a game is special for me.
“I was hoping that he [Wes Brown] wouldn't get it before it crossed the line but I was thinking, 'Oh God, he has got it,' and it was a huge moment to see it hit the net because I thought he was going to clear it, so I am very happy.”
Saturday 27 August 2011
Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson hits out at FA in four-letter rant
The Scot blasts the Football Association for treating the Red Devils unfairly despite the fact that they provide several players to the England international set-up
Sir Alex Ferguson has hit out at the FA, claiming that harsher punishments are dealt out to Manchester United even though the club provides many players to the England national team.
The United boss was handed a five-match touchline ban last season for criticizing referee Martin Atkinson, while striker Wayne Rooney was given a two-match suspension for swearing at a television camera when celebrating a goal.
"The FA may realize who has produced more players for their country than any club in the world," Sir Alex said. "Maybe they will realise how important we are to England instead of treating us like s***."
The Scot's comments come ahead of England's Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Wales in September, with Fabio Capello set to name his squad for the matches on Sunday evening.
"It's not a problem, it's fantastic," he said. "Maybe they will realize how important we are to England. I am pleased for the players. They are outstanding."
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger defends bid for Gary Cahill
It was confirmed that the Gunners bid for the England international and the fee involved was reported to be 6 million pounds, an offer that Bolton boss Owen Coyle described being so low that "derisory doesn't even cover it."
However, Wenger reacted bluntly to these reports, stating that the rumored fee was wrong, before confirming the two sides were in negotiations.
“That number is wrong, it is completely wrong. I believe every negotiation is between two parties and you only have to sell the player if you are all right with the price," Wenger said.
"In this case the information is below what has been spoken about."
Gartside reacted angrily to this supposed 6 million pounds bid by re-tweeting a fan on twitter that told Wenger to "f*** right off".
However, Wenger could not understand the anger shown by Bolton, pointing out that if the club doesn’t wish to sell its player then it doesn’t have to and it is as simple as that. But he doesn’t know why the bid – regardless of how small – is “insulting”.
"You only have to sell the player if you are all right with the price. It is not true. You can believe Gartside or you can believe me. It's not right. It's not the truth," Wenger said. "If Gartside can say I am lying I am ready to confront him. The truth is that we never speak about our negotiations.
"They do not need to sell the player, they can keep him. If you ask do I want to buy your house and you are not happy with the price you say no, that's it.
Barcelona 2-0 Porto: Lionel Messi does it again and Cesc Fabregas hits debut goal as Catalans claim UEFA Super Cup
The Argentine gave Pep Guardiola's side the lead late in the first half and the club's most recent signing opened his account to secure victory close to the end.
Messi, named European Player of the Year at UEFA's Champions League draw on Thursday, scored in the only competition in which he had failed to net after he was left all alone by Fredy Guarin's shocking pass-back six minutes before the interval.
Europa League holders Porto started brightly against the Champions League winners, with Hulk a lively presence up front for the Portuguese outfit. Aided by the busy Guarin, Porto rattled their illustrious opponents in the opening exchanges.
Porto was playing the Catalans at their own game, and every time Pep Guardiola's men ventured forward, they were caught out by their rivals' offside trap.
But it doesn't take long for Barca to figure out Porto.
Barca took the lead as Guarin inexplicably played a back-pass into his area where Messi, who would have been offside had the ball been sent through by a teammate, was waiting all alone to pounce, leaving Helton grounded with a glorious feint and slotting into the empty net.
Flashback to 2003, Messi had missed a similar opportunity in his Barcelona debut, but this time he left the Portuguese team with an uphill task.
Barca was the better side and continued to attack in the second half and that pressure brought a rash challenge from Rolando, already booked, who then saw red after a cynical foul on Messi.
And the Catalans took quick advantage as Mess turned provider for Fabregas, who chested down Messi's pinpoint cross and volleyed past Helton to register his first goal in some style.
It could have been three after that, but Barca was comfortable in the end as they lifted a 12th title under Guardiola - and two in two games for Fabregas.
Joey Barton leaves Newcastle United and joins QPR on four-year deal
Getty Images
The 28-year-old was placed on the free transfer list by Newcastle earlier this month after criticizing the club via Twitter for its lack of ambition in the transfer market.
Alan Pardew had previously stated he intended to keep Barton at St James' Park despite the bust up, but hinted that the midfielder needed to 'buy into what the club are doing'.
But having completed his switch to Loftus Road, Barton has revealed the first impressions at the club were a factor in his decision, as well as the club's ambition in the transfer market.
"The ambition of the club really impressed me," Barton told the club's official website. "There's obviously a great set of lads here already and that's why they had such a great season in the Championship. The gaffer [Warnock] is talking about adding two or three more bodies and that, combined with the potential of the Club and the new owners' ambitions, bodes really well for the future."
QPR boss Neil Warnock was delighted by the capture of Barton, his first signing since Tony Fernandes' takeover of the club last week, and has dismissed the midfielder's negative reputation as a result of his previous outbursts.
"We've got a very, very good player on our hands," said Warnock. "He's coming here to show people what he can do. He wants to get back into the England team. He's very enthusiastic. People will say one or two things about him, but they've said stuff about me in the past too, so I won't worry about that. He's a winner. Even without the armband on, he's a captain every week."
Warnock was also excited to see a player of Barton's caliber in his side.
"He's a lot better play than people give him credit for," he said. "Hopefully we can harness all his positive characteristics and get the best out of him. I think with Tony's backing and Amit coming back on board this is a really positive step for the football club."
Napoli signs Inter's Goran Pandev on loan
The southern Italian outfit get the 28-year-old on a loan deal with his parent club paying the majority of his €3 million per annum wages
| From  |  Goran Pandev Striker Fee: Loan transfer Contract: Jun 2012 | To    Napoli |
Napoli has announced on its official website it has signed Inter striker Goran Pandev on a season-long loan.
The Macedonia international had long been tipped to leave San Siro and was most recently linked with German club Schalke, and Serie A outfit Genoa.
Though the move has been confirmed by Napoli, Pandev had already revealed he was on his way to the Stadio San Paolo earlier on Friday.
"I am very happy to be able to play the Champions League with a club like Napoli as they are a very important club," he told Sky Sport Italia.
Napoli wasted no time in moving for the forward after being told Villarreal's Giuseppe Rossi was unlikely to join them.
Pandev reportedly arrives on a free loan agreement, with Inter paying the greater share of his wages for the 2011-12 season.
Coach Gian Piero Gasperini thus lose another striker following Samuel Eto'o's departure last week. However, Diego Forlan could be in line to move to Inter after his agent confirmed talks were taking place.
The 2010 Champions League winners have also been associated with Genoa's Rodrigo Palacio and Lazio's Mauro Zarate.
Friday 19 August 2011
Tottenham confirm interest in Adebayor
Spurs’ boss Harry Redknapp said that Tottenham are talking to Manchester City about striker Emmaneul Adebayor. The former Arsenal forward would be an excellent addition for Spurs, who are in desperate need for a quality striker.
Redknapp said this Wednesday regarding Adebayor: ”The chairman is talking to Man City about the player but where they (the negotiations) are at, I genuinely don’t know.”The 27-year old Adebayor is no longer needed at Eastlands, especially after the arrival of Sergio Aguero. City manager Roberto Mancini will surely try and cash in on the Togo international.
Adebayor spent part of last season on loan at Real Madrid. During that time, Adebayor made 22 appearances and scored 8 goals for Madrid. He is still a productive goal-scorer, and that is exactly what Harry Redknapp needs.
Emmanuel Adebayor is a former Arsenal player, which will not endear him to the Tottenham faithful. But he is a better option than underachievers Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe. Adebayor could link up with Defoe, and help the English striker return to his form from two season ago, when he scored 24 goals in all compeitions.
The one worry with Adebayor is his attitude. He is a tempermental player who can cause problems in the dressing room. If Redknapp plays Adebayor enough, the striker should keep quiet.
Adebayor is not the future at White Hart Lane, but he can be effective this season. If Tottenham had a quality, in-form striker last season, they could have qualified for the Champions League. Spurs will be hopeful to secure a top-4 finish, especially after watching the Liverpool and Arsenal performances from the weekend.
In short, Tottenham need a striker, and Emmanuel Adebayor needs a team. Spurs will not even push for the Champions League spots if they do not get a quality striker to partner up with Jermain Defoe. Meanwhile, Adebayor will not get a game with Manchester City. It is a perfect match.
Sunshine Stars aim to close gap on Dolphins in the Nigeria Premier League
Mahmoud maher
The Akure side look to regain top spot from their rivals in the west African country's top flight competition after being away on their continental title challenge
While Dolphins have won the league twice, Sunshine are looking for their first title and have been in inspiring form this season, winning two matches out of three in their maiden participation at continental level.
Their fellow travellers in the Confederation Cup, Kaduna United, will host Lobi Stars at home. Kaduna are presently ninth on the table and they also have two games in hand.
Diego Maradona & Lionel Messi are both better than Pele - Argentina assistant coach Julian Camino
The nation's assistant boss stated his belief that the former Napoli hero and current Barcelona superstar are a step above the legendary Brazilian on the pitch
Camino is being accompanied by Alberto Oscar Pernas, a technical committee member of Argentina Football Association (AFA) and Rodrigo Martin Bauso and the trio visited the Mohun Bagan ground on Thursday to check whether it is fit for training.
Earlier this Friday, they carried out an official inspection of the venue of the match – the Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Salt Lake, Kolkata. They also visited the SAI complex and the five-star hotel in which the Argentina squad will be putting up during their stay in the City of Joy.
Camino and co. addressed the media on Friday evening but didn’t reveal much about their feedback on the inspection.
“We will form a report of our inspection and send it to our technical committee,” said Camino during the press conference.
Camino, who is interestingly a former East Bengal player, told the media that the Argentina team and Lionel Messi are very much looking forward to their visit to India and are expecting a big crowd at the match.
The former right-back also expressed his happiness on returning to Kolkata after more than two decades. He had played for the red and gold brigade back in 1988.
“Lionel Messi and Argentina are aware of their huge fan following here in India and Kolkata. They know they will be very well welcomed here. The whole team is looking forward to play in front of a large crowd.
“I have happy memories of playing here in Kolkata so it feels nice to be back here after such a long time.”
Argentina announced their 26-man squad for the friendlies against Venezuela and Nigeria (September 6) with Lionel Messi being named as the captain. Carlos Tevez is one notable absentee but when asked the reason for the Manchester City player’s exclusion, Camino told the media that he wasn’t in a position to comment: “We have named a strong team but I can’t answer regarding Tevez’s absence, only the technical director of AFA] can do that.”
The game against Venezuela will be the Argentina national team’s first match under new coach Alejandro Sabella and Camino stated that the two-time world champions will be taking the game very seriously.
“Any international match is important so the same applies for this game. We would look to give a good performance and get a good result,” he explained.
With Lionel Messi being the star attraction of this much awaited friendly, there were plenty of questions from the addressed media about the Barcelona star.
Camino refused to comment on Messi and Argentina's failure in Copa America 2011 but he did give an answer when he was asked to compare Messi and his former team-mate, the great Diego Maradona.
Argentina's past and present stars | Camino claims both are better than Pele
“Both [Maradona and Messi] are great players and it is difficult to answer this question as an Argentinean. But for me they are both better than Pele,” said the 50-year-old.
Camino and the other representatives are next expected to go to Dhaka in Bangladesh to inspect the arrangements there for Argentina’s friendly against Nigeria on September 6.
Fulham's Damien Duff signs a one-year extension until 2013
The Republic of Ireland international has revived his career with the west London outfit since joining from Newcastle in 2009 and is delighted to be extending his stay
Fulham midfielder Damien Duff has signed a one-year contract extension that sees him tied to the club until at least 2013.The Republic of Ireland international has been something of a revelation in west London since joining the club in 2009 after a disappointing spell at Newcastle United and has become an integral part of the Cottagers' team.
Duff was part of the squad that Roy Hodgson took to Hamburg in the Europa League final back in 2010 and is once more doing his part in ensuring Fulham embark again on a European adventure this season.He told his club’s website on signing the new deal: “I’ve enjoyed every minute of my time at Fulham since joining two years ago and I’m delighted to be staying at the Cottage until at least 2013.
“This is a fantastic club with great supporters and it’s a very exciting time to be part of the team. I feel in great condition and I’m hungry to achieve more success for this club.
“We’ve had some great moments together so far and I believe there’s more to come from us in the Premier League and Europe this season under [current manager] Martin Jol.”
‘Carlos Tevez one of the greatest Manchester City players I have ever seen’ – Noel Gallagher
The singer feels the Argentine deserves to be considered among the club's best and wants him to stay even if he is unhappy, while he has praise for Roberto Mancini and Joey Barton
The former Oasis member said the Argentine compared favourably with the best he had seen play for City over his lifetime due to the amount of goals he has scored for the club since joining from rivals Manchester United.
Asked who the greatest City player he has ever watched was, Gallagher told Absolute Radio: “Well I was lucky enough to see Colin Bell, Mike Summerbee and Franny Lee and all that, and I’ve seen Kinkladze, Paul Lake and all the greats that maybe you’ve never heard of, but I don’t know, I’ve got to say Colin Bell, but Tevez would take some beating I think for all the goals he’s scored, and Joe [Hart].
“Honestly, and I guess I speak for the majority of City fans here, we’ve always thought he was going to stay, because he’s been for sale since last January, and if he was going to go he’d go now, but as long as they do it on the pitch, he can moan about the weather and his back garden and the rest of it until the cows come home, to be quite honest.”
Gallagher answered a number of questions about City and football in general.
He said that manager Roberto Mancini should be credited for the way he has run the team and added that perceptions of the club had changed since they became the biggest spenders in world football.
“The black cab drivers down here in London used to be all ‘Oh Man City, Man City, we love Man City’, and now it’s like you get shouted at in the street, ‘Hey, can’t buy the league, we can’t buy the league’,” he said.
“I’m not buying anything, you know.”
And on Mancini he added: “There’s a lot of money at Chelsea and they didn’t win anything last season, well they did the season before, but I think he’s spent really, really well, and I think he knows what he wants, and I think to have won the FA Cup last season, they had such a great season with a band of players who were, if you believe the press, at each other’s throats all the time, means he’s got some kind of man management skills, but I like him.”
Gallagher said he would be pleased to see Samir Nasri join from Arsenal and that the Frenchman would know that he is coming to a club where he would not be able to play every game.
He said: “He knows what he’s coming into, right, he knows that we’re going for four trophies, not everybody can play every game. I don’t think, apart from Joe Hart, anybody is the first name on the team sheet.
“It’s a big club now. I can see where they’re coming from because God forbid if Silva ever got injured, we’d be in serious trouble, but I think if we get him he’d be an incredible signing because he gets goals.”
City play Bolton Wanderers at the weekend, but Gallagher is confident that they can match the 4-0 thrashing they handed out to Swansea City on Monday night.
“Honestly I think we’ll demolish them, they’ve got a great manager and Kevin Davies is as good as it gets I suppose as the big front man, but I just think City are going to have too much because Tevez is back, now he’s got [Mario] Balotelli, I just think we’ve got too much in midfield. Where Nasri’s supposed to fit in all this is anybody’s guess,” he said.
Having been a City fan for many years, Gallagher will have heard a number of different footballing chants during his time following the club.
And whilst he admits that he does not like to join in with the chanting during matches, he still finds one about Balotelli particularly funny.
He said: “I’m not a singer at football matches, I don’t get involved in any of that. What’s the famous one?
“Oh, there was one when Balotelli first signed and it was [sings] ‘We don’t know his name but we’ve seen him on the telly, we don’t know his name but we’ve seen him on the telly, we can’t spell his name but we’ve seen him on the telly, hey Balotelli’. I thought that was pretty funny.”
One man who has been in the news a lot recently is Joey Barton for his use of Twitter to attack Newcastle United and his behaviour in the recent game against Arsenal, but Gallagher says he is much different off the pitch.
He added: “Well Roy Keane used to get it as well though, do you know what I mean?
“He doesn’t do himself any favours, but I’ve met him a few times and I’ve got to say he’s a nice lad, but when some players are on the pitch it’s all vastly different isn’t it.”
Noel Gallagher spoke to Absolute Radio extra’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Football in an interview to be broadcast on the station this Saturday 20th August. Click through to www.absoluteradio.co.uk/rocknrollfootball for the full interview
‘Liverpool’s Andy Carroll reminds me of Alan Shearer’ – Arsenal's Robin van Persie
The Dutchman is a big fan of the £35m England international and is expecting a tough game against the Reds, who he considers title challengers, as Tomas Rosicky calls for results
Carroll, another former Newcastle player, scored the winning goal at the Emirates last season for the Magpies, but has since moved on to Liverpool for £35 million.
The England international has had a mixed time of things since going to Merseyside, but Van Persie said the Gunners will have to be alert to deal with the threat he poses.
“He’s very strong and reminds me of Alan Shearer in style - holding the ball well, heading it strongly, moving nicely and looking lively in the box," Van Persie is quoted as saying in Arsenal’s matchday programme.
“We’ve seen what Carroll can do before - he scored the winner here for Newcastle last season. We’ll need to be on our guard against him."
Liverpool have strengthened their squad in the summer, signing, amongst others, Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing.
The Reds had a great second half of last season to get themselves into sixth place in the Premier League, and Van Persie expects them to be challenging even higher than that this year.
“I rate them as title contenders every year, and they look strong this time around,” he said.
“You can only look forward to games like these.
“I’m excited to be playing against them. Our last encounter, in April, was certainly dramatic and started in the 90th minute really! Hopefully we can give the fans a nice experience on Saturday.
“I’ve seen highlights of their match against Sunderland last week, and they seemed unlucky not to win - although I have to say Sunderland looked decent too.”
His team-mate Tomas Rosicky, who will be unavailable for the match, told his Gunners team-mates that they need to start passing the ball quicker at home if they are to avoid slipping up on as many occasions as they did last year.
"It’s time to show that we’re serious with our home results," he said.
"At times we played better football away from home last season. I think that’s because you automatically play quicker in away games, when you’re under more pressure from the opposing crowd and their team.
"It’s important that we pass the ball equally quickly at home - when you take too many touches you give the opponent time to regroup, to get their shape back. Teams drop off us and you need to move their defensive block around at speed.
"That’s what we lacked in a few games last season - we played a bit too slowly and held the ball too much.
"Passing the ball quickly is a basic strength of ours and if we start doing it consistently I’m sure we will have a very good winning streak at home again."
Liverpool will not stand in the way of Christian Poulsen leaving, agent confirms
The midfielder has struggled since arriving from Juventus last summer and has been told that he will not find regular football at Anfield this season as clubs monitor situation
Poulsen had a difficult debut season in the Premier League after joining from Juventus last year in a deal worth €5 million.
He failed to impress at Anfield and made only 21 appearances last season for the Reds.
His situation was made harder by new manager Kenny Dalglish signing midfielders Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing this summer, pushing the Dane further down the pecking order.
And after talks with the club’s management, the agent of the former Sevilla and Schalke player, Jorn Bonnesen, said he has been allowed to try and find a new place to ply his trade.
"I've talked with Liverpool now. They have said that they are not confident that they can meet Christian's desire for playing time, and they understand that we are trying to find a new club for Christian," Bonnesen told bold.dk.
"We are looking around and exploring the options.
"There are clubs interested, but I can not tell more about the possibilities."
Wesley Sneijder needs support, Arturo Vidal could be the real deal & five things Inter, Juventus & AC Milan learned from the Trofeo TIM
A triumvirate of friendly matches rarely brings overwhelming positives, but regularly gives coaches and players points to note, and last night in Bari certainly did that
The Trofeo TIM is not exactly the first thing that catches everyone's attention when August arrives and the new Serie A season comes into view, but that is not to say it doesn't carry any weight. The triangle of 45-minute clashes gives Italian football's three biggest sisters the opportunity to pit their wits against likely rivals for the big trophies only days before the campaign begins in earnest.
The chance to test new players, systems, and even coaches against the Italian cream was afforded to AC Milan, Inter and Juventus for the 11th time in Bari on Thursday. The Nerazzurri recovered from their recent Supercoppa Italiana loss to their cugini by picking up five points from their two games to retain the trophy, recording a seventh win in total.
So what did the coaches, directors, players and fans learn about their sides - and about their adversaries - in last night's three fixtures? We've picked out five of the key points picked up from events at the San Nicola.
| INTER'S SYSTEM NEEDS WIDTH, BUT WHERE IS IT? |
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Though the Nerazzurri picked up the trophy at the end of the night, they didn't always give the impression of a harmonious unit on the pitch. Wesley Sneijder now walks around the field with a slightly more sullen expression than in seasons past, no doubt a knock-on effect of the lack of service he's been receiving of late, and therefore the fewer chances he's able to create.
They also have big problems in that Gasperini has them playing in various formations which encourage the use of width. It sounds great in theory, but when attempting to put it into practice with square pegs in round holes the plan goes awry. Joel Obi regularly found himself picking up the ball 30 yards deeper than would have been optimum, Ricardo Alvarez seems scared of taking on opponents out wide, and Jonathan was exposed regularly when leaving space in behind to venture forward. And Goran Pandev? 'Time to sell' is probably the best response.
| JUVE NEED A CENTRE-BACK MORE THAN A WINGER |
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A wonderful opening against Inter, capped by a deserved goal, gave rise to momentary belief that this new incarnation of the Old Lady could be an explosive and successful one. But it took no time at all for reality set back in, with the same old defensive issues coming back to haunt them, and their set-piece presence simply non-existent.
On two occasions Leonardo Bonucci failed to even leave the ground as he was beaten to headers from simple left-wing corners by Andrea Ranocchia, and will count himself lucky that the second one didn't end up in the same corner of the net as the first. And after Inter continued to bombard Antonio Conte's side from set-pieces, Antonio Cassano danced his way through their back-line on more than one occasion as Milan also threatened to make hay.
Expect those links will Diego Lugano and Sebastian Coates to be explored once more in the coming days.
| VIDAL HAS THE GAME AND GUTS FELIPE MELO LACKED |
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His display wasn't the most convincing to begin with as he endured a quiet start before finding himself muscled off the ball in the build-up to the opening goal of the game.
However, his response was magnificent, as he took it upon himself to drive his side on. His passing was crisp, his energy vibrant, and his belief seemingly unaffected - at least not in a negative sense - by his earlier error.
When he struck a dipping effort from range toward the near post which escaped the attention of Flavio Roma, it reminded one of his new midfield partner Andrea Pirlo (think Ghana 2006 or Real Madrid 2009). Better that than mirroring his predecessor Felipe Melo, whose first reaction to failure was rarely positive during his underwhelming two years in Turin, despite a promising beginning.
Just to ensure he had made his remorse clear, he got forward again to create a double chance for himself, with his second effort coming back off the underside of the bar, and even had time to tee up Alessandro Matri's late winner with a perfect teasing cross. Juve will be hoping that first impressions last this time.
| WITHOUT THEIR BIG MEN, MILAN ARE ORDINARY BOYS |
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With errors by both goalkeepers over the two games, defensive holes appearing both left and right, battles regularly lost in midfield, and attacks generally losing direction but for the odd bit of something different from Antonio Cassano, the two versions of the Rossoneri were both pale imitations of their usual selves.
Of the inclusions from the primavera ranks there were good showings from Simone Ganz and Kingsley Boateng in particular, but even they appear some way from first team level just yet, while the likes of Daniele Bonera, Marco Amelia, Massimo Oddo, Urby Emanuelson and Luca Antonini are among the more likely reserves. There's a gap that needs bridging if Milan are serious about playing 50-plus matches this term.
| TIME TO TAKE MORE GAMES AROUND ITALY |
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But the very fact that the big three clubs have such huge fan bases away from their home cities, yet spend most of the season playing in front of half full arenas, suggests that there is untapped potential to be explored.
In US baseball, each club has a second home in the south of the country which they use to host games in the hugely important spring training phase of the calendar, and it may just be time for Calcio to follow suit. Wouldn't it be better to see one of the big three playing a January Coppa Italia tie in front of 50,000 in Bari rather than 10,000 in Turin or Milan? There are many ways for the Italian game to make itself more accessible to its disenfranchised public, and this is just one.
Nigeria's Peter Odemwingie signs contract extension at West Brom
Nigerian striker agrees new deal with the Baggies following speculation linking him with a move away from The Hawthorns after fantastic debut season in the Premier League
The striker enjoyed a fantastic first season in England in which he bagged 15 goals, catching the attention of bigger teams in the Premier League and abroad.
However, the Nigerian has chosen to remain at The Hawthorns as the club look to build on last year’s mid-table finish.Odemwingie expressed his delight at his new deal on his Twitter page, saying: “Signed my new contract with WBA for 3 years! Very happy! The atmosphere in this club is very positive and I surely will improve more!”
The striker’s thoughts were echoed by manager Roy Hodgson, who is looking forward to seeing him back in goalscoring action.
He told the club’s official website: "I'm obviously very pleased that Peter has pledged his future to West Bromwich Albion.
"I always believed this would be the case and I am grateful to both him and the club for reaching an agreement.
"We can now look forward to benefiting once again from Peter's goalscoring prowess and seeing him play an important part in our campaign to stay in the Premier League for a second successive season."
Sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth added: "It has been well documented that Peter still had two years left on his previous deal but off the back of his achievements last season, the club wanted to reward him with an improved, longer-term contract.
"We have obviously been involved in lengthy discussions with Peter over the summer and I am delighted that they have come to a successful conclusion.
"From the outset, both parties wanted this to happen but, as with any contract, there are always one or two issues to be ironed out.
"Peter can now fully focus on showing everyone what a key player he is for West Bromwich Albion and contributing to what we hope will be another successful season."
Tuesday 16 August 2011
Arsenal's Nicklas Bendtner could make surprise appearance against Udinese in Champions League - report
The Danish striker had appeared to be on his way out of the club this summer but a move has yet to materialise.
With Robin van Persie suspended and there being doubts over Marouane Chamakh, Wenger could – according to the report – include Bendtner in Tuesday's game against the Italian side.
Wenger has previously admitted that if the right offer for both Bendtner and the club was to come in, he would not stand in the Dane's way.
"I promised I'd let him go if he found the right club and that hasn't changed. When I make a promise, I keep it," Wenger told reporters.
However, Wenger has also claimed that Bendtner may have a future at the club and he would be happy to see him remain.
"But if he doesn't find the right opportunity, he'll stay and fight for his place like everybody else. He looks sharp in training."
Nicolas Anelka's readiness to quit chelsea
Nicolas Anelka ready to quit Chelsea after Stoke City snub - report
The Frenchman was overlooked by new manager Andre Villas-Boas in the side's opening game of the season at Stoke City, with the Portuguese boss favouring £50 million signing Fernando Torres.
With Torres, Didier Drogba, Daniel Sturridge, Salomon Kalou and Florent Malouda, as well as Chelsea-bound Romelu Lukaku, all set to be vying for starting roles this season, Anelka's first-team opportunities at Stamford Bridge could be limited.
Anelka has one year left on his current deal with the Blues and, despite previously stating that he wanted to stay at Stamford Bridge this summer, is ready to listen to offers after dropping down the pecking order under Villas-Boas.
West Brom put £8m price tag on Tottenham & Wigan Athletic target Peter Odemwingie - report
Following an offer from the Latics last week and reported interest from Spurs, the Baggies are believed to be willing to sell the Nigeria international for the right price
Wigan Athletic had a bid rejected by the Baggies last week, with boss Roy Hodgson describing the club's offer as "laughable".
The Latics have been looking to strengthen their attacking options after allowing Charles N'Zogbia to join Aston Villa for £9.5m earlier in the transfer window, and are believed to be lining up a new bid for the striker.
Talks between Odemwingie, who has also been linked with a move to Tottenham, and West Brom over a new contract have stalled, and the Baggies have now set an £8m price tag on the Nigerian.
Blackburn Rovers slap £16m price tag on Arsenal and Tottenham target Chris Samba
By Greg Stobart
The Lancashire club take hard a negotiating stance in an attempt to deter clubs interested in the defender following the departure of Phil Jones to Manchester United
Blackburn Rovers have put an astonishing £16 million (€18m) asking price on Arsenal and Tottenham target Christopher Samba.
Everton have also been linked with a bid for Samba but Blackburn are in a strong negotiating position as the 27-year-old is under contract at Ewood Park until 2015.
Kean insisted last week that Blackburn have not received an official bid for Samba despite reports that Tottenham have made a player-plus-cash offer including Sebastien Bassong.
He said: “Chris is only a few months into a five-year contract. There have been rumours every single week but we have not had any bids at all, not one, and long may that continue.”
Arsenal are believed to have given up their pursuit of Samba due to his price tag and are now concentrating on signing one of Phil Jagielka, Gary Cahill or Scott Dann.
Spurs, who are also admirers of Cahill, continue to monitor Samba's situation but have set a £12m (€13.5m) ceiling on any deal for the French-born defender who joined Blackburn from Hertha Berlin in 2007.
Samba missed Blackburn's opening day defeat to Wolves with a groin strain but is expected to return for Saturday's trip to Aston Villa.
Samba will not attempt to force a move away from Blackburn but he was quoted last month speaking of his desire to play in the Champions League and alluded to Arsenal's interest.
“I want to play Champions League football,” he told The Sun. “Which player doesn't dream of that?
“A player who has no ambition to play at a higher level has made a mistake and chosen the wrong sport.
“I don't know what is happening with Arsenal because I am not dealing with it and it's not my problem.
“At the minute I am still at Blackburn but it would be a big lie if I told you 'everything is good and I don't want to play in the Champions League'.”
Islam Feruz set to leave Celtic to join Chelsea - report
The Somalia-born 15-year-old is set to move to Stamford Bridge instead of signing a new deal with the SPL side, but will not be able to pen a professional contract until he is 17
Celtic youngster Islam Feruz is set to leave the club to join Chelsea, according to the Scotsman.The 15-year-old, who will earn wages of around £2,500 a week (€2,800) on a youth contract at Stamford Bridge, is unable to sign professional terms with the Blues until he is 17.
Chelsea will reportedly take advantage of a flaw in the legal system by paying just £300,000 (€340,000) in compensation to sign the striker.
But a Blues spokesperson said: "Until an official press release is made by Chelsea FC, we cannot make any comments regarding signing speculations."
Feruz faced deportation back to Somalia after joining Celtic, but he was allowed to stay after pressure was put on government officials by the late Tommy Burns.
Ransacked by Barcelona - why continental cousins Arsenal & Udinese need the Champions League this season
The two clubs may have very different views about finishing fourth last season, but they are more alike than many believe, suggesting a superb contest ahead over the next 10 days
COMMENT
By Kris Voakes
They come from separate countries, have very different reputations and boast hugely contrasting infrastructures, but when Arsenal and Udinese clash at the Emirates Stadium tonight they will be sharing a very common goal.
With a pass to the Champions League group stage up for grabs, the two sides go in to perhaps their most important game of the season having only played one competitive game between them in the campaign so far. However, Arsene Wenger and Francesco Guidolin will need to have their players fit and firing, as both coaches will be more than aware of the consequences should their respective club miss out on the glamour ties that lie in wait for the winners.
However, their desire to reach the elite final 32 is not the only common ground between the two clubs, as Arsenal will look to take a vital first-leg advantage to Udine next week to take on an outfit with whom they can draw countless parallels.
| Pass masters |
 |
The trophies may have dried up, and the big name players may be less prevalent in the Gunners' squad these days, but they are as committed as ever to playing their football in the right way.
Over in Udine, the Zebrette have become widely renowned as the best team to watch in Italy over the last couple of years. Though they don't dominate games in the same way as Arsenal, and until last season their win column was nowhere near as jam-packed, their excellent approach on the break, superior command of the ball, and their technical and tactical ability in managing to constantly stretch opponents, has seen many draw comparisons between them and the north Londoners.
| No case for the defence? |
|
Arsenal's defensive record in the league matched that of the Friulani, whose 43 conceded tended to come in clusters against sides who were able to ask serious questions of their back-line. They went down 4-0 to Juventus and 5-2 against Fiorentina, while they also squandered the lead twice to draw 4-4 with AC Milan, proving that they can be found out at times. They lost perhaps their best defender this summer when Cristian Zapata was sold to Villarreal, though one bright star last term was Moroccan centre-back Mehdi Benatia. He will be joined in the new campaign by Danilo after his purchase from Palmeiras, but it will be an untried partnership which takes on Arsenal's rapid-fire front-line over the two legs.
| A talent school |
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With an excellent worldwide scouting network having been set up, the Friuli side have become known for their ability to groom players and sell them on for huge profit. Even before the summer sales of Alexis Sanchez, Zapata and Gokhan Inler there were names such as David Pizarro, Sulley Muntari, Vincenzo Iaquinta and Asamoah Gyan who came on the cheap and brought in a pretty penny when they left. The great imponderable as to when is the right time to stop selling and start building the club's future around such players is a difficult one to address.
Although Arsenal do not see themselves as a selling club, there is no doubting they have a similar ability to spot and recruit young talent from across the globe. Some recent sales suggest that they are finding the long-term part of Wenger's vision hard to pull off, but while they still have the likes of Jack Wilshere coming through, the justification for the approach remains firmly in place.
| Talismen checking in at Barcelona |
 |
The double swoop for the Catalans has left the two sides without their best player going into the new season, and Tuesday's clash is the kind of game in which they would normally have been looking to their respective talismen for a big Champions League performance. As a result, it may well be the side that best fills the recently vacated spot in their line-up who progresses.
Arsenal will look to the likes of Andrei Arshavin and Aaron Ramsey to drive the side, while for Udinese it will be down to Mauricio Isla and Giampiero Pinzi to provide the extra support to the right of Antonio Di Natale where Sanchez once caused havoc.
| Must-win tie |
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The English side were finalists in 2006, standing only 15 minutes away from victory before Barcelona foiled them, and have since made another semi-final in 2009. But their recent trend in the league has seen them slip away as a title challenger, and the result this year is a tricky tie with a club looking to go the other way. Defeat is unthinkable as it would be a major blow to the bank balance in a season when they need to restate their intentions to be title hopefuls once more, or else it may be a long way back.
For Francesco Guidolin's side qualification for the group stage would be seen as a vital step towards justifying their 'long game' model of shopping in the youth market. Now could be the time for them to hold onto some of their better players and become the biggest of the provincial sides looking to challenge Serie A's traditional big three. While Roma, Lazio and Napoli have threatened to break up the triumvirate at the top - and have all even claimed titles in recent history - none have been able to stick around with the bigger clubs.
If Udinese are to ever have any chance of winning silverware, they can't pass up an opportunity like this one. Add to that the lessons learned from Sampdoria last season, who imploded after losing to Werder Bremen in this same fixture and were eventually relegated to Serie B, and it's easy to see the fine lines in Italian football. The Friuli have never known a game this big.
| ALEXIS WHO? | Udinese's biggest threats to Arsenal |
| Antonio Di NataleStriker | Kwadwo AsamoahCentre-midfielder | Pablo Armero Left winger |
 Scorer of 57 league goals in two years |  Club's best midfielder in successive seasons |  A breakout star in 2010-11 campaign |
Arsenal’s Alex Song & Gervinho given three-match bans by the FA for conduct against Newcastle United
The Gunners will appeal the length of the Ivory Coast winger’s ban after his straight red, whilst both clubs have been charged with failing to control their players during the game
Gervinho, 24, was given a straight red card for slapping Magpies midfielder Joey Barton.Barton was given a yellow card for his role in the melee, as he had initially dragged the Ivory Coast winger off the ground after an apparent dive from the Arsenal star.
Because he had been dealt with during the game, the controversial midfielder has escaped any punishment in the aftermath of the feisty encounter on the opening day of the Premier League season.
Song, however, has been charged with violent conduct and given a ban for stamping on Barton's leg, an incident the referee did not see at the time.
Arsenal have accepted the ban given to Song but will appeal against the severity of the suspension handed to former Lille winger Gervinho.
Because they are not contesting the ban itself they should avoid being handed an extra game on the player’s ban for a frivolous appeal.
Instead, the club will likely try and argue that Barton himself has admitted publicly that he overreacted to the slap to try and get the number of games the 24-year-old is out for reduced.
Both the Gunners and the Tyneside club also face charges by the FA for being unable to keep their players under control in the game, which carries a £25,000 fine.
Newcastle have denied the charge and their case will be heard by an FA disciplinary commission, while Arsenal are undecided on their course of action.
Real Madrid can beat Barcelona in Spanish Supercopa second leg - Karim Benzema
The striker has voiced his belief that Jose Mourinho's side have what it takes to beat the European champions at Camp Nou on Wednesday
Both sides played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the first leg on Sunday and Benzema is confident that Madrid can do even better in the return to win the Supercup.
"I have a very good feeling after the first leg. We did a lot more than Barcelona in the first leg. We know that we have everything in our own hands and that we have a good chance to beat Barcelona on Wednesday," Benzema said to AS.
"We obviously want to win the Spanish Supercopa and it can still go either way after the first leg. I am convinced that the second match will be an open game and we will go out to play for the win on Wednesday."
Benzema set up Mesut Ozil for the opener on Sunday, but was eventually replaced after 81 minutes of play.
Wednesday's clash between the two Spanish giants will kick off at 23:00 CET.
Fighting for possession - how Real Madrid matched Barcelona in more than goals as Jose Mourinho seeks Clasico dominance
For 75 minutes of the Supercopa first-leg clash, the home side controlled the ball and unsettled the Catalans with a performance packed with passing, pressure and positivity
By Ben Hayward
It is often said that possession is nine-tenths of the law, that ownership is easier to sustain with control and dominion. Whoever coined that phrase almost certainly did not have football in mind at the time, but the same rules apply.
The roots of Barcelona's dominance domestically and internationally in the last three years can be traced back to the stat sheet. Goals and assists obviously win games, but another number on there is also key: possession. Incredibly, the Catalan club have been superior in that department for their last 184 matches. Sunday's 2-2 draw at Real Madrid in the first leg of the Supercopa showed, however, that Jose Mourinho's men may be ready to bring an end to a damning statistic which has seen Real second best in control of the ball in Clasico clashes dating back to 2003.
Barca coach Pep Guardiola has lost just once to Real Madrid since taking over at the Catalan club. That defeat came in last season's Copa del Rey final at Mestalla, following a goalless 90 minutes of football in which Madrid had looked the better side in the first half before riding their luck in the second period to stand firm against a wave of Barca attacks.
Controlling the play | Xavi and Lionel Messi are pass master for Barca
In that match, Madrid held the ball for less that 30 per cent of the total time, a figure which actually decreased in the side's ultra-defensive display at home to Barca in the Champions League semi-final first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu just days later. Then, Madrid enjoyed possession for barely a quarter of the game, 26.6%, leaving their fans frustrated at a brand of football they had not been expecting to witness from their privileged positions perched on the precipitous pews of Real's famous old stadium.
Two goals down and on the verge of Champions League elimination, Mourinho's men then produced a performance of promise and potential in the second leg at Camp Nou, looking the better side and rather unfortunately having a Gonzalo Higuain goal ruled out. Their efforts ultimately fell short as the sides drew 1-1, but the display brought renewed optimism for the future - Madrid had been more positive and they had wanted the ball. A possession percentage of 33.5, on enemy lines, was cleary an improvement, too.
On Sunday, Madrid picked up where they left off and for 75 minutes, actually controlled the possession by 53% to Barca's 47% - albeit against a side missing several stars, notably Xavi, whose late entrance saw the Catalans control the last quarter of an hour. That swung the overall stat in Barca's favour as Guardiola's team ended with 52% of the possession.
| POSSESSION STATS - LAST 6 CLASICOS | |||
 | |||
| Game RM-Barca Barca-RM RM-Barca RM-Barca* RM-Barca Barca-RM | Result 2-2 1-1 0-2 1-0 1-1 5-0 | Possession (Barca)52% 66.5% 73.4% 70.5% 72.2% 62.8% | Possession (Madrid)48% 33.5% 26.6% 29.5% 27.8% 37.2% |
| *Neutral venue | |||
Possession doesn't always mean success, of course, as Mourinho knows only too well. His Inter side conceded the ball to the Catalans for more than 80% of the sides' Champions League semi-final second leg the season before last, but his team held on with 10 men to secure a 1-0 defeat which saw them progress to the final. Likewise, Barca have lost plenty of times when they have bossed possession. Control the ball, though, and you invariably control the game. And it now seems Mourinho, and Madrid, are ready to take that next step.
Madrid matched Barca by pressing high up the pitch on Sunday, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema both running tirelessly for the team. Barca, behind in their fitness work and stretched because of injuries, struggled to compete with their rivals high-intensity approach and struggled to get into the game for long periods.
Contrary to popular belief, Mourinho is keen to replicate Barca in terms of technical play and pressing all over the park, but the Portuguese believes his side can better the Catalans' pretty passing with a more direct and athletic approach, utilising the wing wizardry of Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria and new signing Fabio Coentrao to rattle the rhythm of the European champions, unsettle them on the ball and devastate going forward. With 30% of the possession against Barca last season, Madrid were highly dangerous on the counter-attack. With 50% of the play, it's a whole new ball game.
With the signing of Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas, Barcelona could begin the next great tactical revolution
Pep Guardiola has become adept at using midfielders 'out of position' at centre-back. But what if that was the plan all along?
Cesc Fabregas - Barcelona
By Peter Staunton
Arrigo Sacchi, the innovator who coached AC Milan to a pair of European Cups, once declared that the next step in the evolution of football would be the conversion of the entire pitch to one midfield area. The teams at the vanguard of tactical rejuvenation would be able to count on players to line up in a range of positions on the field of play but actually function as midfielders; closing space and passing accurately within their sectors, using the ball intelligently, moving well off it.
In an interview with the author Jonathan Wilson for the prize-winning book, 'Inverting the Pyramid', Sacchi stated that the proliferation of ‘specialists’ in certain positions has only served to inhibit the fluidity potentially contained within a group of players. For example, a playmaker, such as a Zidane, demands an enforcer like Makelele.
In order to progress football, Sacchi told Wilson, universality was integral; it was necessary to eliminate specialists and forge a collective of performers capable of functioning as one liquid unit, no matter their nominated position of play. The Dutch model of Total Football, formulated and implemented by Rinus Michels and Johan Cruyff at Ajax in the 1960s and 70s, brought with it interchangeability. Players would nominally be named at a position but would be competent and clever enough to press high, read the nuances of the match, fill in for absent colleagues and pick up the slack in many areas of the field.
 | “It’s become all about specialists. Is football a collective and harmonious game? Or is it a question of putting x amount of talented players in and balancing them out with y amount of specialists?” - Arrigo Sacchi |
The players at Pep Guardiola's disposal, their utter adherence to the ideal and a work-rate unmatched by any team in Europe mean that Barcelona could be about to bring Sacchi's prediction to bear. And the acquisition of Cesc Fabregas, quite aside from being a trophy signing, could prompt the evolution. With Cesc in the ranks, Barcelona can play, in effect, with a team of midfielders; amalgamating the separate strands of defence, midfield and attack into one. Total domination of possession, total domination of space.
Fabregas' arrival could mark the gradual elbowing from the first team of Carles Puyol, not Sergio Busquets or Xavi or Thiago Alcantara. A natural leader, a primordial tour-de-force, the heartbeat of the team he may be, but Puyol is irrevocably in decline. Each passing year chisels another chip from the man of granite. His replacement in the team, gradually at first, totally later, will be Fabregas.
Dani Alves and Lionel Messi have been integral components in this Barca transition. They have redefined their positions. Cesc will bring the evolution further.
How Barcelona could look with Fabregas replacing Puyol
GOALKEEPER
Victor Valdes
Victor Valdes
| RIGHT-BACK | CENTRE BACK | CENTRE BACK | LEFT-BACK |
 Dani Alves |  Sergio Busquets |  Gerard Pique |  Adriano |
| CENTRE MIDFIELD | CENTRE MIDFIELD | CENTRE MIDFIELD |
 Cesc Fabregas |  Xavi |  Andres Iniesta |
| RIGHT FORWARD | CENTRE FORWARD | LEFT FORWARD |
 Alexis Sanchez |  Lionel Messi |  David Villa |
Pep’s preference for playing a ‘defensive midfielder’ in an auxiliary centre-back role has raised eyebrows in the past although Yaya Toure, Busquets or Javier Mascherano have yet to prove they can’t actually do it. Barca have even done it, twice, in Champions League finals when orthodox central defenders were available. Moreover, the utilisation of midfield players in the back-line has been deliberate, measured and it is in line with Sacchi's heralding of tactical evolution.
Busquets has featured in the centre of defence extensively in pre-season, Mascherano played there at Wembley while the ball-playing capabilities of Gerard Pique are not matched by many of his stature. The role of the central 'defender' will become obsolete in the Barcelona system; making way for one more passer, one more ball retainer, one more playmaker.
Fabregas will come into the starting XI in midfield while Busquets or Mascherano will revert permanently to the rearguard. Those two have their defensive deficiencies; slow on the turn and uncomfortable under the high ball. But even specialist centre-backs suffer those blights. And, in all honesty, how much defending are Barcelona likely to do? They routinely keep the ball for 70 per cent of any given match so aerial onslaughts and rapid, repeated raids on their defensive lines are unlikely.
Barca's shorn specialists
| Martin Caceres | Zlatan Ibrahimovic | Dmytro Chygrynskiy |
 |  |  |
Martin Caceres, Henrique and Gabriel Milito have all been shown the exit door this summer; specialist defenders. They have been cast on the scrapheap onto which Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Dmytro Chygrynskiy were thrown last year. Zlatan is not compatible with the Barcelona system. Chygrynskiy never looked like a Barca player. Neither is adaptable. Neither has a second function. Guardiola is gradually ridding the team of 'specialists', in a positional sense, and nurturing a squad who will treat the entire pitch as a midfield area. Rapid possession win-backs, quick passes, every man, potentially, the playmaker.
Puyol and fellow veteran Eric Abidal, as well as David Villa, will be the only exceptions to the rule this season. The two defenders will be phased out. Indeed, the signing of the versatile Adriano two summers ago could in hindsight be seen as Pep's first attempt to implement a midfield of sorts in his preferred back-line although it has not quite worked like that as yet. Villa, a centre-forward by trade, has been reinvented as a wide attacking player capable of devastation in front of goal when on form. Even he is now a midfielder.
Cesc has not come home to replace Xavi, that honour will eventually be bestowed on Alcantara. He has come home to eventually supplant Puyol and take Barcelona, tactically, to another realm. We stand on the precipice of Total Football, Cruyff’s Barcelona dream-team and 30 years of Masia graduates drilled to do things the Barcelona way being assimilated together in one team.
The best team in the world, playing in sync, playing fluidly, using the entire pitch as their personal fiefdom, closing the spaces high up the field, perpetually recycling the ball once they seize it. It's complex and it keeps the ball and it tires you out. A Barcelona team which are far, far ahead of their rivals will evolve the game as we know it.
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