Barcelona Wish They Could Have Arsenal FC's Playing Roster

I am probably not the only Arsenal fan who is sick to death of hearing Barcelona linked with out wonderfully talented players. They have taken Petit, Overmars and Henry in recent memory and now they are being linked with Aliaksandr Hleb. They have previously been linked with Cesc Fabulous (still are being of course) but this could be argued that AFC poached him originally from the Catalan giants. The point of this post is that this so-called "super power" is constantly trying to poach players from the good part of North London. Does this not smack to anyone, or everyone, as Arsenal being the club which has superior players? Sure, Barca have Ronaldinho, Eto'o, Xavi, Iniesta, Henry and Deco (just to name a few) but do superstars really make a team? From Arsenal's start to the season the suggestion would be no, a group of players who really want to play together in a system that works make a very successful team (yes Arsenal have not won any trophies with their current crop of "kids" but their style and swagger in play is second to absolutely none, including Barca). Surely it is just a matter of time before they are linked with Robin van Persie, whom I have always seen as a classic Barca player as he is Dutch, talented and an attacking player, and many of our technically gifted players like Armand Traore, Tomas Rosicky, Abou Diaby and so forth. If Barca are such a powerhouse then why do they raid an English club so often for talent? Oh, that's right, AFC houses the most gifted youngsters from across the globe and Barca does not, contrary to popular belief.

The Man Who Just May Take Over For Thierry Henry

This is a picture of Emmanuel Adebayor scoring his delicious volley against Newcastle United and he is the man who could become Arsenal's new H.N.I.C. Emmanuel grew up idolising another former AFC favourite, Nwankwo Kanu, and now wears his old squad number of 25. This 23-year-old has copped more than his fair share of criticism when he first donned the famous red and white of AFC and I am now almost ashamed to admit I was also a huge doubter of his abilities. Just under 2 years later he is now one of the most feared strikers in the EPL and is constantly improving. Adebayor stands around 6'4 and has pace, power, size, skill, confidence, goal scoring ability and excellent team play. Adebayor has proven his all-round value in front of goal by scoring headers, a world-class volley (against Tottenham), one-on-ones with 'keepers, placed shots, powered shots, team goals and dribbling goals. Adebayor has all this combined with a huge desire to win, excellent team play and he genuinely worries defenders. He sounds reminicent of Henry when you say all this (although Henry possessed much greater pace and a bit more threat in front of goal) and Adebayor did have the benefit of learning of the great man himself for around a season and a half. I don't think he will ever have the supreme strike rate Thierry did but I think Adebayor can go a long way to replacing the legendary striker. Another huge advantage Emmanuel has is he seems to be very well liked by the fans and his teammates alike. Roll on Emmanuel, you are a club legend in the making, provided your stay extends for another 7-8 years atleast.

The Perfect Response To A Draw And A Loss

Arsenal FC this past weekend beat Chelsea 1-0 at The Emirates. This is a huge victory as Manchester United beat Liverpool FC earlier in the day and a draw or loss for Arsenal would have seen them lose top spot.
The victory over Chelsea came after two very dissapointing results; a draw away to Newcastle United and a loss away to Middlesborough. This was even more vital because a loss or draw to Chelsea would have been a psychological blow in the race for the title. William Gallas highlighted this and I agree with him 100% and he showed again just why he was made captain. His performance against Chelsea was immense to say the least and his goal was an oppurtunistic one off a rare Petr Cech mistake (I have always said Cech struggles when the pressure is on and this was once again highlighted by his horrendous error). Arsenal were wrongfully denied one, maybe two, goals by the referee and his assistants so the scoreline was perhaps kind on Chelsea, especially when you consider Fabregas missed two easy chances and van Persie one.
All in all this performance by Arsenal was excellent as they did not allow themselves to be bullied by Chelsea's style of play and they gave as good as they got. The title race is very open but surely the two favourites have to be Arsenal FC and Manchester United.

Arsene Wenger: The Professor

This man, Arsene Wenger, is the most amazing football manager who has ever lived. He is truely omniscient (all-seeing/all-knowing) in spotting young talent. He is very well eduacated, a degree in Engineering and a Master's degree in Economics from Strasbourg University prove this much. His use of economics has allowed him to be very shrewd in his spending in the transfer market and understand the effect(s) of his spendings on AFC's financial status as a whole for the club. This, in turn, has led to AFC to reach new heights in their spending powers. The Emirates Stadium is an imposing, world-class, 60000ish seater which is rated 5-star by both UEFA and FIFA. The revenue this generates along with merchandise sales (which have rocketed as a result of Wenger's unprecedented success and style he has blessed the club with) has allowed AFC to be just 9 or so months away from becoming the World's richest club WITHOUT the aid of a rich, foreign owner. The best indication of Wenger's legendary status is the fact a bronze busk has also been carved out much like the one of another legend, Herbert Chapman.

Arsene is also a noted gentleman who always stops to speak with fans and colleagues alike because of his passion for football. His managerial style is unique, it focuses only on skill, technical ability, short passing and speed; not "muscle", long ball and kicking opponents. This has given Arsenal a very entertaining, and effective for the most part (unbeaten season 03/04), which can only really be stopped by resorting to excessive physical force/fouling.

Arsene's most amazing ability is that which allows him to spot young talent and then mold them into world-class players well before they reach their peak. There are so many examples of this but the 3 that stand out most to me are: Thierry Daniel Henry, Patrick Donale Vieira and Francesc Fabregas Soler.

Thierry Henry is an absolute legendary striker both for France (now their record goal scorer) and Arsenal FC. His move to Barcelona has not yet proved a huge hit but I am confident, in time, he will be back to his damaging best in a slower league. He is much to classy to not be scoring bucket loads of goals in a team rife with talent. He was signed to AFC from Juventus as a "failure" and a winger. He spent some 8 seasons with AFC scoring an incredible 226 goals and setting up so many more. Will be remembered as the club's greatest ever striker and a true role model for any player. Thierry is charismatic and an ultimate professional. His move away this season has let the team as a whole mature; only because they now must all lift their game and make up for his talent. Thierry will always be loved and welcome in and around AFC.

Power, skill, determination, leadership and confidence. All these words describe Patrick Vieira (just look at the picutre for an indication of his power). Patrick was an amazing captain who used to dominate games and exerted a huge positive influence on all his team mates. He never backed down from a physical challenge and had huge skill on the ball to couple with his physical stature. Vieira was never one to back out from a battle and performed to his full potential nearly every time he pulled on the AFC or French shirt. He will always be remembered fondly by AFC, Juventus, Inter Milan and French fans for his amazing committment and skill. The ultimate captain and midfielder, truely world-class and unstoppable.

Though only 20, Cesc could prove to be Wenger's greatest ever signing. He has over 150 first team appearances since debuting at 16 years of age in the Carling Cup. Cesc has quickly become the most important player in the Arsenal line-up with his unbelievable passing range, tackling, dribbling, work-rate and shooting. This season has seen Fabregas become a complete midfielder and a player of amazing quality. Seems more and more keen to spend his entire career with the Gunners and this can only mean one thing; trophies galore.

Wenger's tutelage of many players has shown him to be an amazing manager. Wenger is as passionate of a manager as the day he joined AFC and he will continue to encourage his unique and stylish form of play on all his players.

The Worst Performance For A Very Long Time

I thought it didn't get much worse than watching Arsenal labour to win over Newcastle. It got much worse watching them get dominated completely by Middlesborough. What a fucking joke of a performance. I don't care who is out through injury, you should still give yourself a decent showing and put your pride on display, and it seems that most of the players out there last night had none.



This guy is a disturbingly bad goalkeeper. For Boro's first goal he came walk about off his line (when there was no need) and put Toure under pressure which then resulted in the penalty. The resulting penalty Almunia went the right way and then produced a weak attempt at saving a terribly hit penalty. Almunia has always been too hasty to get off his line and makes way too many mistakes. Bring back Jens; he may be outspoken and an arsehole but he doesn't make nearly as many mistakes. Almunia said he would play for England if he got the chance and I hop he does because he 'keeps like an Englishman.
The only players left with any pride left are the following: William Gallas, Emmanuel Adebayor, Nicklas Bendtner and, I guess, Denilson. The rest of the players should hang their heads in shame and beg the club not to rip up their contracts after a passionless and inept display. I can honestly say I've never been more dissapointed in a Gunners' performance in my time of following them. In previous dumb losses they atleast showed some desire. Tomas Rosicky, who I thought was a bargain at 8 million pounds, is the WORST excuse for an attacking midfielder I have seen at Arsenal FC for a very long time. He cannot play a simple pass and move on with any regularity. He plays like an idiot and everytime he gets the ball he tries a wonderpass and 95% (at best) do not work. About Diaby makes a better left winger.

The Best XI (And Subs) From The EPL's Top 4

Goalkeeper: Jose Reina
Has seemingly rid his game of silly mistakes and is a very good keeper who relishes big games. Best penalty stopper in the world.

Right Back: Bacary Sagna
Signed as an unknown to many in the Summer and has quickly become a solid right back who bombs forward and can deliver an absolute killer cross. Very good defender who is excellent in the air and seems a bargain at around 6 million pounds.

Left Back: Ashley Cole
I personally hate this cunt but his talent is undeniable. Wonderful going forward and in defence, Cole is the complete wing back. Cole has excellent attacking instincts and it won't be long until Chelsea see the best of Ashley (unfortunatley).

Centre Back: William Gallas (captain)
Arsene Wenger raised many eyebrows by giving Gallas the captaincy of AFC in the off season but Gallas has never played better. He is relishing in the responsibility and Arsenal's style suits him perfectly. Has vast experience and is a natural born winner.

Centre Back: Ricardo Carvalho
Excellent defender who makes John Terry look much better than he really is. Carvalho is very calm and can easily lead a counter attack with his quick football mind and decent passing skills. Excellent in the air.

Left Midfield: Cristiano Ronaldo
Can easily play on either flank and is a real world-class winger. Scores goals, sets up goals and is a threat every time he touches the ball. Fantastically talented and still very young.

Right Midfield: Aliaksandr Hleb
Finally showing the consistency to go with his unbelievable skill and vision, Hleb now shrugs off being kicked for 90 minutes a game. Huge influence on Arsenal's resurgance without Thierry Henry, Hleb has the chance to stamp himself as one of the best attack-minded midfielders in the world. So unselfish and a real workaholic.

Centre Midfield: Stevie Gerrard (defensive)
Only put in defensive midfield to make room for the next man. Gerrard could play absolutely anywhere on the pitch and be excellent. Powerhouse man who is a real matchwinner and scores wondergoals as often as anyone in the world. Works himself to a standstill whenever he plays and a huge inspiration to his team.

Centre Midfield: Francesc Fabregas Soler (attacking)
20 years old and so mature. Cesc is quickly become a complete midfielder and his displays this season have been nothing short of world-class. Works hard, scores goals, dictates games, has unbelievable vision and skill that surpasses his tender age. Has potential to rule the footballing world.

Forward: Robin van Persie (link-up man)
Has matured so much since joining as a renegade from Feyernoord. Robin has brilliant skills and vision and a real desire to be the best.

Forward: Didier Drogba (goal scorer)
Can play as a goal scorer or target man and Drogba has shown himself to be an amazing forward. Drogba was a late bloomer in his career but he is now making the most of what amazing talent and strength he has.

Sub 1: Petr Cech
World-class keeper who just misses out because of Reina's huge improvement. All-round player who has quick reflexes for a 6'8 man.

Sub 2: Nemanja Vidic
Classy centre half who never gives up and is very brave. A must have in any squad of players.

Sub 3: Paul Scholes
Been around forever and a beautiful passer and striker of the ball. Scholes combines his immense skill with his English robust style of play. World-class midfielder.

Sub 4: Fernando Torres
Just misses out on starting. Classy 23 year old striker of world-class quality. Wouldn't look out of place in any top team the world over.

Sub 5: Kolo Toure
Gets in on merrit of his enthusiasm and ability to play anywhere across the backline or midfield. Real utility value but best at centre half as he has proved in recent seasons. Has immense passion for the game.

The Premiership's Most Promising Striker...

This is a very interesting subject to me as there now seem to be several top candidates who are 23 or under. I have chosen the following as the best the EPL has to offer: Fernando Torres (23), Emmanuel Adebayor (23), Carlos Tevez (23), Wayne Rooney (20 or 21) and, to a lesser extent, Nicklas Bendtner. All of these fellows play for a top 4 club and that is not by accident, they are some of the most talented footballers up front of any age group anywhere in football.

Fernando Torres cost Liverpool somewhere around 23 and 26 million pounds and he looks to be worth every bit and then some. He was (probably still is) one of the most sought after forwards in the world because he can do everything: head, pass, use both feet, finish and works hard when needed. Has had a few minor injuries this season but will no doubt set the EPL alight when he is fully fit and fully adjusted to the pace and physicality. He will probably need a better strike partner to be brought in so we can see the best of him however. At only 23 is one of Spain's top 3 strikers which is amazing considering their array of talent up front.

Adebayor was bought by Arsene Wenger for around 12 million pounds nearly two years ago now and it seemed he was very pricey at the time. Fast-forward to the 07/08 season and after 15 games Adebayor sits alone atop the scoring charts and in imperious form with 9 goals. Can head a ball, chest a ball, finish and has excellent link-up play. Could help fill the goal void left by Thierry Henry.

Ugly as fuck but an excellent player. Looks like he may have formed a decently potent partnership with Wayne Rooney which could turn into something special. Tenacious and extremely skillful, Tevez always give 100% and creates a lot of trouble for defences. A top prospect and already established up front at Manchester United at only 23.

Wayne Rooney is a big, bustling and agressive striker who is very young. Established at Manchester United after a 30 million pound move from Everton, he has started to repay the club with his all round play. Can be a liability at times but usually very dangerous.

Nicklas Bendtner's power and confidence, combined with his boyishly good looks, make him a very good player and very marketable. Has the potential to be a world beater and has the attitude to accompany it. Anyone who has read my previous entries would know my admiration for this fellow.

Best XI Out Of The EPL's Top Four (And Subs!)

Yes Nads had a guest columnist do this (being Mal) so I am copying that but doing it myself.

Goalkeeper: Brad Friedel
This guy is way too good to not be playing for a top club. He is simply amazing and so consistent. He is vastly experienced and looks to have atleast 3-4 more good years left if current evidence is anything to go on. Absolute key to Blackburn being a hugely improved club.

Right Back: Vedran Corluka
One of the best right backs running around in the EPL today. Absolutely fantastic in defence and so composed on the ball. Superstar of the future at either right back or centre back. Again, no coincidence that Manchester City are doing so well with this colossal man in defence.

Left Back: Joleon Lescott
Just edges out Gareth Bale and Nicky Shorey. Ugly as fuck but can easily play central or left back. Very useful going forward and a real robust tackler.

Centre Back: Martin Laursen
Barnstorming season and showing his potential that saw him on the books at AC Milan as a defender for a while. His injuries have finally subsided, atleast for now, and he is 27 years of age so his best years will be just around the corner. Solid through the middle and a huge threat from set pieces.

Centre Back: Sol Campbell
Fantastic since moving to Portsmouth and back to his domineering best. Immense physical presence and robust tackler. Rarely makes mistakes and a handful from set pieces. Back to his best because he is out of the spotlight and can concentrate on playing to his potential.

Right Midfield: Mikel Arteta
You can put this fella anywhere in the midfield and he will be excellent. Huge talent who is unlucky not to be representing Spain with regularity, (being Spanish he has huge competition), he is Everton's apex in attack. Has taken his tremendous form from last season into this one.

Left Midfield: Morten Gamst Pedersen
May seem an odd choice with his season being so quiet but he is a class act. A natural right footer who was made to use his left foot by his father and as a result is very much two footed. Can head a ball, cross a ball, pass a ball and doesn't mind a spectacular goal. Should be at a top 4 club, he has class written all over himself.

Central Midfield (Attacking): Elano Blumer
Has to be Elano. Absolutely scintilating this season and it is hard to understand why he was in the Ukraine for so long. Has his best years ahead of him and is the cornerstone of Manchester City's creativity in attack.

Central Midfield (Defensive): Papa Bouba Diop
Complete defensive midfielder; tall, imposing, physical, able to pass and gets forward when needed. Quiet last season with Fulham after a few very good ones. His move to Upton Park seems to have reinvigorated him and he is back to his best and dominating the midfield like a player of his talent and physical stature should.

Striker (Link Up Man/Target Man): Kenwyne Jones
Exploded into the Premiership after a 7 million pound transfer from Southampton, which seemed laughable at the time. Been quiet in the past few weeks with his goal scoring but still a handful everytime he plays. Reminicent of Emmanuel Adebayor in style and appearance, Jones looks destined for a bigger club than Sunderland. At 23 still has plenty of time to get more skillful and calm in front of goal.

Striker (Goal Scorer): Nicholas Anelka
A man who has seemingly wasted his career through a poor attitude and misguidance as a youngster. An amazing goal scorer who scores bucket loads wherever he ventures to, he is one of the most talented strikers on the planet.

Sub 1: David James
Huge experience and a new lease of life at Pompey, James is unlucky not to be rated first choice here.

Sub 2: Olof Mellberg
Vast experience and can slot in at centre half or right back. Utility value and reliability gets him on the bench.

Sub 3: David Bentley
An English player with good technique and looks set for big things. Can easily score and set up goals.

Sub 4: Gareth Barry
Can play left midfield, left back, attacking midfield or defensive midfield. Great utility and a very talented player. Should make any team.

Sub 5: Obafemi Martins
Top class striker who will thrive WHEN he leaves Newcastle and gets good service. Strong, excellent balance and a real power merchant Martins is more than a handful to any defence.

How Quickly Football Changes

Remember at the start of this season when Arsenal were going to struggle and Tottenham were serious top 4 contenders? How good is football everyone? Now Tottenham are languishing in relegation and could now be considered real contenders to go down; they have only beaten Derby and Bolton (I think) in the league this season! What a change in fortunes hey? I'll be completely honest here, I was worried Arsenal may crumble losing the legendary Thierry Henry to Barca. I also thought that the filthy Spurs could even challenge us for a top 4 spot. How wrong I was and how glad I am for it! I enjoy watching the Spurs "defenders" (because they barely are) try and do what they are meant too, defend. It is fucking honkin' and underlined by none more than one of their "big" summer signings, Younes Kaboul who, by the way, is absolute toss. Martin Jol could not help Spurs because they are idiots and would not give him their full backing and would not let him bring the players in he wanted too. Juande Ramos will have the same problem so I'm sure they will give him the sack at some innapropriate or stupid time too. The picture posted below needs no querky caption because it is already deliciously funny much like Tottenham's league position.

I will keep my Arsenal bit short and sweet; top of the table and playing beautiful football. Hell, even Reading can defend better than Spurs!

Can Two Yanks Who Don't Understand Football Undermine LFC?

Well Liverpool's not-so-well-football-educated owners seem to have been offended by what Rafa has recently said or been doing. Something about them not understanding the European transfer market (which he isn't wrong about that) and this made Mr Hicks' and Mr Gillet's vaginas full of sand. Rafa may be relatively new to the English game but he sure as hell isn't new to Europe. He has won the FA Cup, La Liga, the UEFA Cup (I think) and the Champion's League. An excellent track record which few managers around would have. The fact these owners won't back Rafa is incredible to me; the guy has won so many "important" trophies and, given the financial and board backing, I see no reason why he will not continue to win more big trophies. It seems the Yanks want to run LFC as a business first and then a football club; one would think it should be the other way round. This can only spell disaster for LFC if this problem isn't sorted out soon, the problem being Yanks not knowing the first thing about football. Rafa needs the full backing and after letting him spend around 23 million pounds alone on Torres they would even more stupid not to give him the backing he desires. Rafa is a quality manager who needs time and stability to be able to finish his "Rafalution."

Hicks and Gillet- Wankers who don't know

football.

The Hardest Man In The EPL...

Is Aliaksandr Paŭlavič Hleb. A random and silly choice to some but hear me out with my reasoning. Mr Hleb this season has shown a remarkable improvement on his previous time with Arsenal and has become as important as Cesc to the team. Aliaksandr also has a huge amount of skill and flair which attracts other "hard men" to kick fucking lumps out of him. However hard Aliaksandr is kicked he keeps going until he simply cannot anymore. For example, remember Mark Noble's "tackle" on Hleb in the derby against West Ham? Noble cleaned out Hleb with a leg breaking tackle and Hleb was stretchered off, 3 days later he is playing 90 minutes. His injury was described as "the worst bruising ever seen" by Arsene Wenger yet Hleb manned the fuck up and played soon after. Then recently Carew hacked him terribley and he only went off by the fact he coudn't run, he also got kicked many times before Carew dealt what could described as the "killer blow". Mr Hleb gets kicked so many times a game he could almost be a football. Anyway, he is my choice for the Premiership's hardest man because of his amazing toughness. The picture above shows him standing up to renowned "hard man" Tomas Repka with no fear. Bring it on kids, Hleb is the toughest and one of the most skilled footballers around.

John Carew A Jealous Talentless Tall Titty Fuck?

Well about five and a half hours ago I finished up watching Aston Villa v Arsenal. It was brought

to my attention that John Carew is nowhere near the calibre of a player I thought he was during this game. Yes, he was heavily involved in the set-up of Villa's goal and hit the bar but apart from this he did nothing but duesche around and fuck up. He also showed his jealousy by blatantly hacking Aliaksandr Hleb (a very talented footballer indeed) from behind nowhere near the ball and injuring him; without recieving a red card. Why do players not get sent off for this? Carew was atleast four yards from the ball and his tackle's intent was so obvious for all to see that he should have been given his marching orders. In the end Carew hit the underside of the bar and didn't score so that took some of the edge of losing Hleb to a disgusting and unneccessary challenge. It wasn't that long ago that the Lyon president was saying something along the lines of Carew being rubbish. I thought this was sour grapes but now I agree. In short, fuck you John Carew you tall fucking knob I hope you get a serious knee injury very soon as a result of karma. Enjoy mediocracy at Aston Villa.

Luka Modric Bound For The World's Best League?

It seems the answer to this is yes. Either to Chelsea (I hope to Cesc not) or Arsenal (please). I have taken a small interest in Dinamo Zagreb because of the array of young talent they have recently had/still have. The 3 names that spring to mind are Vedran Corluka, Luka Modric and Eduardo Alves Da Silva (Eduardo for short). All these men are in their early 20's and are supremely talented footballers. Corluka has adapted to the pace and power of the EPL in impressive fashion and done it quickly and is now fast becoming one of the best right backs around. His tackling, tactical knowledge, tackling, passing, calmness and confidence have all fallen into place nicely to make him a very complete right back. Eduardo, now with Arsenal FC, is taking longer to adapt, mainly by the fact he has been on the bench a lot but I have great hopes he will become the box predator Arsenal are so desperatley lacking and have been for a long time. Only time will tell. Lastly I shall discuss Luka Modric, the most talented of the 3. He is in his very early 20's, two-footed, can play anywhere across the midfield, is agressive, can tackle, pass creativly and works hard. He also seems to be able to strike a ball quite accurately and powerfully on goal. He is very much a complete midfielder one would think perfect for ANY team because of these qualities. Modric seems to like to involve his team mates a lot too, he seems humble and has the ability to dictate a game. I think if he moves to Arsenal (his footballing style is perfect for there) under the tutelage Arsene Wenger he could flourish and become one of the world's most respected midfielders. I hope this happens for both himself and my club but regardless of this hewill be successful wherever his career takes him.

The English Premier League

Is by far the best competition in the world. This is proved by the new European club team rankings. Allow me to list the top 20; 1 (1) Arsenal - 27.692 (2) Manchester United - 25.713 (3) Internazionale - 22.924 (4) Barcelona - 22.885 (5) Real Madrid - 21.156 (6) Porto - 20.557 (7) Chelsea - 208 (8) Roma - 19.179 (9) Milan - 19.0810 (10) Liverpool - 18.7211 (13) Fenerbahce - 17.9212 (14) Rangers - 17.0913 (11) Sevilla - 16.9614 (12) Valencia - 16.7315= (15) Shakhtar Donetsk - 16.6115= (16) Rosenborg - 16.6117 (17) Lyon - 16.5718 (18) Benfica - 16.3019 (19) Werder Bremen - 16.0720 (-) Celtic - 13.82. As we can see Arsenal and Manchester United are number one and number two. Chelsea are seventh and Liverpool tenth. 4 of the top 10 European clubs are from the English Premier League (not to mention number one and two). No more reasons to doubt which is the best league in the world. The best part of all this? English football also produces the most exciting football in the world too, doubling my delight. Football is entertainment and business and the EPL combines these two aspects to perfection to make the most aesthetically pleasing and quality football around. I am fully aware teams like Bolton and Derby are around still but every league around the world has rubbish clubs who don't know the first thing about how to play football properly and these teams usually play dirty longball because they lack the skill to keep up with the other teams in the EPL or their respective league. This is why so many players across the globe dream of playing in England because it is the best league around and probably pays better than any of the others (this would not be an inscentive personally for me but for others it may well be). Lets not forget Arsenal have never won the European Cup (closest being losing the final in '06), Manchester haven't won it since '99 I believe, Chelsea haven't won it but Liverpool won it in '05 and lost the final in '07 and are the lowest ranked of the English sides! This just goes to show winning the European cup doesn't make you the best side in Europe, consistency does and the 4 English teams all deserve to be in the top 10. Many may disagree that Arsenal are the best side in Europe but surely their style and swagger ranks them atleast in the top 4 or 5. I don't think you can argue Manchester United's position (unless you were saying they should be number one) and Liverpool and Chelsea I think are also fair. Liverpool consistently come 3rd or 4th in the EPL (no shame in coming behind the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and/or Arsenal) so they surely are a top 10 team, especially considering their European strengths. So in summing up, English football is the best because of their lack of limits on foreigners. David Dein recently pointed out England haven't won the World Cup (their last major trophy if I am not mistaken) since 1966, way before the foreign "invasion" had occurred. Foreigners make English players want to be better and help them by making them play with and against the best the entire world has to offer. Platini and Blatter should fuck off, EPL will go from strength to strength without limits and the English national team should too.

The man photographed here in my post is one Nicklas Bendtner. He is currently 19 years of age and a I think will become a raging success at any club he goes to (hopefully he will stay at Arsenal for his entire career though) because he is very tall, quick feet, can pass, cross, head and finish. He is a complete striker who has the potential to become the best "target man" around for some time to come. He will tell you he is much more than just a target and I think he is very much correct. He is a very, very confident young lad who, given more chances, will score and set up loads of goals. He has set up 2 of Arsenal's last 3 goals and been heavily involved in the other. Perhaps within a year or two he will threaten Emmanuel Adebayor's position in the starting line-up which is scary really seeing how much Adebayor has improved. To give you a view of how talented he is, Inter Milan offered Adriano as a straight swap for him. While Adriano may be going through a rather large rough patch, it wasn't all that long ago he was valued at well over 20 million pounds. AC Milan and many other clubs were also interested in his services but, thankfully, Arsene convinced Nicklas to sign a new 5 year deal.

This post was brought on from last night. I was at a local pub for an Inside Sports model search competition. The last contestant was probably the best looking woman I have ever seen, in real life or on my internet and magazine searches. I was awestruck by her perfection. Anyway, earlier in the night I had been impressed by a fellow male who looked exactly like Nicklas Bendtner (not impressed sexually but I was jealous of his likeness to Nicklas). When this amazing lady earlier mentioned left, she left with fake Nicklas. Fake Nicklas is now a hero of mine, whoever or wherever he is, I salute him for looking like Nicklas and fucking a woman worthy of a rich professional footballer like this 19-year-old wunderkid (wunderkid spelling is retarded I know).

ESPN Coverage

Well I am currently watching a replay of Tottenham v Aalborg on ESPN. It gets to half time and there are advertisements for about 10 minutes then another one comes up saying "due to time constraints we will skip further into the program after these messages." What the fuck is that? I missed Tottenham's first goal due to these "constraints" but they still have time to whore off all their programs rather than show the current one in full. Get fucked ESPN, your picture quality is poor, your commentators enragingly shit (especially the Americans who cannot pronounce a name or know what a throw-in is called, one of them calls this a "toss-in") and then you go and shorten replays for more advertisements? Thank Cesc (God) for Setanta Sports because it shows more football with a lot better picture. The commentators still may be poor but they atleast know what a throw-in is. ESPN can suck the fattest and hairiest part of my arse.

A Turd Who Doesn't Pass

I know many people admire this little turd and I am one who admires his ability but not him. He is undoubtedly talented and at only 20 years of age he certainly has a long time to get even better. I just wish someone would tell him football is a team sport and that passing is essential. Everytime I see him play for club or country I see him create wonderful oppurtunities where he should pass the ball but instead he tries to be a hero and beat too many players or shoots. For Barca, I see time after time where he can give it off to Henry who is unmarked in the centre (he is also a lethal finisher) and instead he tries to be a hero. van Persie once suggested to players who don't pass the ball that they should play tennis, I definatley agree. So Lionel go and play exhibition matches against Roger Federer or Pete Samphras (whatever the spelling may be) because you obviously want to be seen in the spotlight by yourself. You are a turd.

The Most Talented Footballer Around

This man here is the most talented footballer on the face of the planet in my opinion. This is an image of Francesc Fabregas Soler equalising at Anfield in the 07/08 (current) season. This shot may not show his good looks however, it does show his amazing passion for the shirt he plays in. Cesc this season has shown himself to be the most complete of complete midfielders around. He is 20 years old and is absolutely unbelievable. He creates goals, scores even more (this season), tackles, works hard and lets nothing or nobody intimidate him. Take for example in the Champion's League third round qualifiers this season, Cesc came up against renowned "hardman" Tomas Repka who plies his trade at centre half for Sparta Prague. The story goes as follows; Repka tells the Arsenal team in the tunnel that he will kick them all game and then tries to hack Cesc during the game. Cesc moves and stomps Repka's knee, in the same motion, and in the process sends the "hardman" down the tunnel nice and injured. He then goes on to mock Repka by limping while Repka tries to give him a verbal spray being helped off the pitch. The morale of this? Don't fuck with Cesc, he WILL rip you to shreds with his silky footballing or his not-so-silky studs. This at the age of 20. I cannot believe I am only 3 or so months younger than this MAN. He just shows how self-belief, the belief of the manager and hard work can make you amazing. This of course needs talent to go with it but talent means nothing with out these ingredients. I love Francesc Fabregas Soler and I would die for him to be able to live on. AFC until I die. Cesc Fabregas until I die.

International Football Games And Breaks

Why are these so often and so compulsory? These rob club teams of their finest talents for extended periods of time and often from games that mean little or nothing. For example, Arsenal have now lost Aliaksandr Hleb for around 21 days playing for Belarus in a qualifier which meant nothing to them. Why make him play? Give the young players a go so they can get prepared for the next round of qualifiers. The break before this robbed Arsenal of Robin van Persie who is still yet to return.

I will start this next point off by saying I have the greatest of respect for African footballers and their countries but the African Cup of Nations is a joke. It is so unfair on the players and clubs it is ridiculous. How is a player supposed to choose between missing around 10 games for his club (and it even goes upwards of that!) or staying being viewed as a traitor in a place where most countries are in poverty which makes football like religion? I respect the that trying to hold such a tournament in Summer in Africa would be in smoldering heat but it would be easier on the players with that rather than choosing between club and country. I have also become aware that this is a rain season (Summer) in many parts of Africa. This still needs to be moved to accomodate for club football. This brings me to the clubs. A club asking players to not attend the African Cup of Nations is disrespectful and could (and probably should/would) upset most players as Africans seem to all be very proud of their origins.

Anyway all this said, Platini and Blatter are so keen to see international football improve it seems hopeless to think that clubs will ever wield enough power to refuse to release their players for international games (I know this can be wrong too but where is the line drawn on the powers of the nations???) as to protect some of their most prized players (think Barca with Eto'o and Yaya Toure, Chelsea with Drogba, Essien and Kalou and then Arsenal with Kolo Toure, Eboue and Adebayor, who will not be attending this time because of Togo's failure to qualify). Blatter and Platini are both obviously whacked out of their minds and moves for foreign quotas and the increase, or even staying, of the current power of nations over clubs will only serve to bring down the mighty game of football.

England's National Football Team

What a joke! No qualification for Euro 2008 for them. Lampard is a waste of space and Wayne Bridge is just inept. One Scott Carson also proved England lack a good goalkeeper and have done since David Seaman. Well done Croatia, you have probably done English international football a huge favour as McClaren SHOULD and probably will lose his job for a below-par performance. Suddenly Sven doesn't look like such a bad manager, does he?

I look forward to a Euro 2008 without the usual hype about an overrated English team who usually resorts to long ball because they lack creativity throughout their midfield. Funnily enough I wasn't much of a Guus Hiddink fan for what he did for Australia but I am a fan of him helping ruin England. I believe the term "LOL" or "ROFLcopter" would be appropriate to direct towards all Englishmen at this point in time. Have fun getting burnt easily at the beach next summer boys!!!

I Am Dumb

Please forgive any errors in spelling and grammar in the last blog. I am fucking tired.

Fuck It I Got Gee'd Up...

I was just discussing with Rafa The Gaffer the state of the Australian game. The A-League is better than this old NSL shit but it is still rubbish. The recently sacked (aaaaaaaahahahaha) Branko Cullina (if I got that spelling wrong I don't care, he doesn't get or deserve my respect) not so long ago called Sydney FC the "Manchester United of Australian football." Who the fuck does Cullina think he, or for that matter, Sydney FC is/are? Manchester United are a club filled with a mighty tradition of winning and doing it in style. Winning the inaugural A-League doesn't constitute such a tradition. I wish more people in Australia would understand the state of the game here is nowhere near what it could and probably should be. It is no secret Aussies tend to get good at sport when we try, we are born winners I suppose. The technique of most Australian footballers (myself very much included here) is absolute toss. This needs to be addressed and quickly.

Staying with this theme, what about the World Cup 2006 and Australia's supposed acrimonious circumstances of elimination. How is this for acrimonious? Public enemy number 1 in football, Materazzi, being sent off for what was at worse a yellow card. Italy playing from around the 50th minute onwards, wrongfully, with 10 men. Now for Grosso's "dive." I still to this day, as an Australian, maintain that it WAS a penalty. The exceedingly arrogant Lucas Neill slid in the box, missed the ball, clipped Grosso and he did what any other person would, go down. Italy won. Italy won the World Cup. Grosso is a genius. Mr Grosso also took down Mr Neill a peg or two which was excellent. Lucas Neill now, at West Ham, thinks he should have wages on parity with Freddie Ljundberg. HAHAHAHAHA. Surely this is bullshit. Freddie has won so much and is classy, two things Lucas cannot lay claim to.

This rant is over simply because I am so damn tired and want to go to bed. Have a good one all, Tim Cahill will be feeling the wrath of my blog sometime soon. He isn't missing out.

The First Of Many Views/Rants...

Why have I started blogging? Well Rafa The Gaffer gave me the brilliant idea of sharing my sometimes controversial football views/ideas with the rest of the world via a blog. The name "Ringhio" is Italian for something along the lines of "snarl" or "grunt"; this is the nickname of Gennaro Gattuso. I admire him greatly and think he is one of the best defensive midfielders around. The number 4 represents Francesc Fabregas Soler, the most amazing 20 year-old I think anyone will ever see. He is doing things at 20 that Zidane couldn't at 23.

Anyway, I suppose the first thing I should speak about in the blog is where my loyalties lie; English football and, more specifically, Arsenal FC. I have a very big admiration for Manchester United and Pompey too because of their brands of football. Style of play is what attracts me, not trophies. I also have respect/admiration for teams like Bayern Munchen, Real Madrid, Barcelona, AC Milan, Inter Milan, the Spanish national team, the Argentinian national team, most African national teams and, to a lesser extent, Brazil (mainly Kaka). Now this may just look like a list of most of the football's super powers but these are the teams who come to play (perhaps AC and Inter not all the time though). Teams like Liverpool, Chelsea, Juventus etc piss me right off. They seem incapable of producing good football conistently even with an amazing array at talent at their expense. Chelsea, under new manager Grant, may be improving but the Fat One in midfield (Frank Lampard) makes my blood boil. He is about as good of a human as van Nistelrooy. These teams and their managers need to realise that football is in fact entertainment, as well as a results driven business. How else could Arsenal fill a 60000 seat stadium with phenomenal ticket prices week-in and week-out during a "trophy drought" by their own high standards? They couldn't.

Now onto this foreign quota shit Platini is trying to introduce. This is blatant racist behaviour and will only serve to make football less competitive and fair for guys trying to get a break in one of the "big leagues" (these being the Bundesliga, La Liga, EPL, Serie A and Eeredivisie). This will serve to help international football but international football, realistically, is nowhere near as important as club football. Would you rather see your club team play good football for anywhere from 40-60 games? Or watch your national team in a tournament every two years play well for 10 games at best? I know which I would choose. Besides, there is a certain element of beauty seeing people from all corners of the Earth work in tandem to score a team goal.

All this said, please stop by and check out my sometimes firery rants and my sometimes sympathetic views. Hopefully I can update this atleast weekly. Enjoy kids.


AFC Until I Die.