Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
IP addresses are NOT logged in this forum so there's no point asking. Please note that this forum is full of homophobes, racists, lunatics, schizophrenics & absolute nut jobs with a smattering of geniuses, Chinese chauvinists, Moderate Muslims and last but not least a couple of "know-it-alls" constantly sprouting their dubious wisdom. If you believe that content generated by unsavory characters might cause you offense PLEASE LEAVE NOW! Sammyboy Admin and Staff are not responsible for your hurt feelings should you choose to read any of the content here. The OTHER forum is HERE so please stop asking.
I've changed since that stupid outburst at Upton Park, says Rooney
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 08:36 GMT, 8 September 2012 | UPDATED: 08:36 GMT, 8 September 2012
Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney feels he has matured since the infamous moment when he swore at a pitchside TV camera.
The 26-year-old was hit with a two-game ban for reacting furiously when a lens was pointed at him during a match at West Ham in April 2011.
That match also showed the best of Rooney as he scored a hat-trick but, having always had a reputation for hot-headedness, he has done his best to tone down any excesses since.
Outburst: Rooney swears down a camera back in April 2011
Rooney told talkSPORT: 'I honestly don't think I would put myself in that situation again because it has cost me playing games.
'I don't really want to miss games. I feel I have matured as a player and a person. 'You never say never, of course, because football is an emotional game, but I'd like to hope it won't. 'That was the biggest moment where I realised that was wrong and stupid and I need to change. I have tried to do that and feel I have.'
Rooney, who joined United from Everton in 2004, has now spent 10 years playing in the top flight. As he looks ahead to the next decade, he hopes to remain at Old Trafford for as long as possible. Rooney made a transfer request two years ago but now considers that a big mistake and has also brushed off further speculation over his future in recent weeks.
Hat-trick: Rooney also netted three goals at Upton Park
He said: 'Hopefully still here at Man United. That's the aim, the plan and what I want to do. 'As long as this club wants me, I'll be here and trying to be successful.' Of the latest rumours concerning his career at United, he added: 'I saw that but I didn't think anything of it. 'If the manager didn't want me around, I'm sure I'd be the first one he'd tell.
'That stuff you have to deal with, but if I'm wanted at this football club, I'll be at this football club as long as possible.'
Crocked: Rooney receives treatment for a gash on his leg last month
Rooney is currently sidelined after suffering an horrendous gash in his leg in a challenge from Fulham's Hugo Rodallega a fortnight ago. It meant he missed England's match in Moldova on Friday night. He was initially ruled out for a month and feels his recovery is on track.
Rooney told Sky Sports News: 'It is feeling good at the minute and is healing quite well, but it is basically down to the doctor. 'You have to be careful and I don't want to come back too soon because I could get a bang on it and it would open up again.
'We said at the time there was a four-week scale and that would be the case, I imagine.'
Outcast Malouda to be offered way out of Chelsea hell by former club Lyon
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 12:26 GMT, 8 September 2012 | UPDATED: 12:26 GMT, 8 September 2012
Chelsea outcast Florent Malouda looks set for a move back to Lyon in January after the French club's president confirmed they were interested in the winger's services.
Malouda has been a key part of Chelsea's side since joining from Lyon in 2007 but he was deemed surplus to requirements this summer as new manager Roberto Di Matteo set about rebuilding the Blues' squad.
Surplus to requirements: Malouda is set to leave Chelsea in January
The 32-year-old Frenchman has been banished to train with the club's Under 21 side, but Jean-Michel Aulas has revealed he hopes to bring the 80-cap international back to the Stade de Gerland - where he spent four years before leaving for Stamford Bridge.
'Our door is always open to former players,' Aulas admitted. 'Malouda has been in contact with our coaching team very recently.
'We've also spoken with Jeremy Toulalan who has been having problems at Malaga.'
I was close to tears! Dempsey devastated by Fulham row before exit to Tottenham
By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 09:30 GMT, 7 September 2012 | UPDATED: 21:30 GMT, 7 September 2012
Tottenham new boy Clint Dempsey has revealed how his exit from Fulham left him close to tears.
The American forward fell out with manager Martin Jol during pre-season, resulting in suggestions that the 29-year-old had refused to play for Fulham - claims the forward denies.
Liverpool were expected to complete a move for Dempsey, but instead he joined Tottenham in a £6million deal, registered just minutes before the 11pm deadline eight days ago.
In tears: Clint Dempsey said the row preceding his move to Tottenham was 'tough' to deal with
'I just remember calling my wife and my mom and almost wanting to break down in tears because it was a tough time,' Dempsey told Sports Illustrated. 'Going into that last day and night there were still a lot of question marks. It wasn't clear cut this was going to happen.
'Some other things came up and you are going through that struggle, which was not fun for anybody. It was difficult for Fulham and for me, not knowing how it was going to end. 'It's about holding on to hope that something was going to happen that both parties would be happy with.
'In the end that was accomplished, but the deal didn't get done until about 9pm and that was when a fee was agreed. 'But then you had to look at all the logistics, trying to get to Tottenham's training ground, trying to make sure all the paperwork was through, doing the medical, signing the contract and having everything sent back before 11pm.'
On the rumours surrounding his exit from Fulham, Dempsey said: 'I did not refuse to play. Some things that were said were not true.' Demspey was Fulham's top scorer last season with 23 goals but is now looking forward to proving himself across the capital.
'I'll die a happy man in the sense of knowing I was able to see if I could do it (at a higher level) or not,' he said.
Proving it: Dempsey hopes he can show he is capable of playing at the top level
Anderson: Manchester United must improve
The Brazilian underlined the high expectations at Old Trafford and maintained that the club should challenge for every trophy, insisting he welcomed competition from new signings
Walcott & Sturridge miss England training ahead of Ukraine clash
The two forwards have pulled out of training after being struck by illness, depleting the national team's striking options even further ahead of their upcoming game at Wembley
Tottenham anger with Porto threatens fresh Moutinho move
Spurs failed to sign the midfielder after the Portuguese club moved the goalposts in the final hours of the summer transfer window after initially agreeing a €30 million fee
Rafael Benitez 'surprised' he was not approached for Liverpool job
The former Reds boss admitted he found it strange that he was never offered his old position with the club, despite the success he brought them in previous years
Newcastle face anxious wait on Krul fitness
The Magpies will soon learn if their No.1 shot-stopper is facing a spell on the sidelines after the Dutchman sustained an elbow injury whilst training with his national team
Aston Villa defender Clark puzzled by Republic of Ireland omission
The young centre-back admits to being baffled at his lack of inclusion on the international scene, despite being a regular performer at Premier League level
Losing Gary Speed has 'hit me hard', admits Bellamy
The Cardiff City striker has revealed that the sudden death of the former Wales boss, who committed suicide last year, has taken its toll on his marriage
Sir Alex Ferguson: Manchester United targeting more Latin Americans
The Old Trafford club have expanded their scouting network in the region after several recent successes in bringing players from that area to the Premier League
Djourou has an Arsenal future, insists Wenger
The Switzerland international defender has been out of favour at the north London club in recent months but has been assured he is still wanted at the Emirates
Deschamps unconcerned by Lloris situation at Tottenham
The France coach had revealed that the goalkeeper "did not appreciate" recent comments made by Spurs manager Andre Villas-Boas but was reassured by his performance against Finland
Terry ruled out of England clash with Ukraine
The Chelsea skipper has failed to recover from an ankle knock picked up during Friday's 5-0 win over Moldova and will now miss the Three Lions' next World Cup qualifier
Sagna: The behaviour of English players makes the French look like saints
The Arsenal defender appeared to reference Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney's tirade into a television camera as he criticised the conduct of the country's stars
Carrick confident young striker Welbeck will get game time with Manchester United
The Red Devils' midfielder feels that his compatriot will get plenty of chances to impress Sir Alex Ferguson this season, despite the electric form of Robin van Persie
So far, so good for Barton at Marseille, says Baup
The midfielder still has to serve nine more games of his 12-match ban following his actions against Manchester City on the final day of last season, but his new boss is upbeat
Fellaini eyes Everton exit
The 24-year-old, who penned a new five-year contract with David Moyes' side in November 2011, insists he is open to moving to another club - or league
Giggs: New Manchester United team-mate Van Persie is a 'world-class star'
The 38-year-old Welshman has hailed the Dutch striker's arrival as a statement of intent that Sir Alex Ferguson's side do not intend to lose the title on goal difference again
Didier Drogba vows to stay in China to help the Ivory Coast secure Africa Cup of Nations glory
The 34-year-old captain scored from the spot against Senegal on Saturday, and he has promised to stay in peak condition for the next edition of the continent's premier tournament
Ronaldo can’t walk past his reflection without admiring it, says Rooney
The Red Devils striker exposed his former colleague's pre-training ritual, and reveals the secrets behind his World Cup 2006 red card in the latest extract from his book
Hodgson wants more consistency from Oxlade-Chamberlain
The 19-year-old Arsenal winger looked less effective in the second half on Friday, and the Three Lions boss feels he needs to maintain a more consistent level of performance
Hoilett calls for time to settle at QPR
The former Blackburn man admits that he is yet to hit form this season but believes that it is only a matter of time until he is firing for the Hoops under Mark Hughes
Premier League is paradise, says Pogrebnyak
The Russian striker has revealed his love for the English game, and happiness to be playing in it with the Royals after last season's brief loan spell at Fulham
Aguero to return to Manchester City for further knee treatment
The 24-year-old has admitted he will not be able to play for his country in the international break after failing to shake off his knee injury in time to feature
Fellaini speculation should leave likes of Manchester United & Arsenal scrambling for his signature The towering Belgian appears to be contemplating the next chapter in his career, and some of the Premier League's finest would do well to snap up this unique and maturing talent
Sep 10, 2012 6:50:00 AM
COMMENT
By Liam Twomey
As David Moyes ponders the make-up of his Everton side for the visit of Newcastle next Monday, he may well dwell with bitterness on the fact that no sooner had he solved the mystery of his team's inability to start a Premier League season before Christmas, a new problem he could scarcely have planned for is threatening to scupper their hard-earned momentum.
With the exception of a comprehensive defeat suffered at the hands of West Brom last time out, the Toffees' start to the new campaign has been rich in promise. Manchester United were battered into submission on the opening day before Aston Villa were blown away inside 45 minutes on their own turf, while a League Cup rout of Leyton Orient has kept all avenues of potential silverware open.
A central figure in this early success has been Marouane Fellaini. The towering Belgian bullied and tortured a makeshift United defence before scoring the winner in emphatic fashion, and also made his considerable presence felt with another powerful header at Villa Park. Moyes' teams are built above all on their collective strength, but Fellaini has undeniably emerged as a key asset.
9
3
3
5
2[/TD]
[/TR]
</tbody>[/TABLE] Consequently, the comments attributed to the 24-year-old in Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad on Sunday, coming as they do less than a fortnight after the close of the summer transfer window, surely made for both bizarre and depressing reading for Everton fans.
"I am just starting my fifth season at Everton," he was quoted as saying. "This will be one of my last. I have seen everything. In January or at the end of the season I will turn to another club or league."
Fellaini later released a statement on his Facebook page revealing he was "surprised" to hear of the speculation surrounding his future, and re-affirming his commitment to helping Everton achieve their aims this season. His lack of an explicit denial of the comments, however, coupled with his failure to clarify his intentions beyond the summer, provided little in the way of reassurance.
It seems reasonably clear that, after four seasons at Goodison Park, the Belgian is at least considering his next step. Nor is it particularly surprising, given that England's top clubs appear to be taking more and more notice of a man whose unique skill-set marks him out as an intriguing talent.
Many eyebrows were raised when the normally thrifty Bill Kenwright was persuaded by Moyes to splash out a club record £15 million for a 20-year-old midfielder back in the summer of 2008, and more followed at the first glimpse of the new signing. With his imposing physique and instantly iconic afro, it was clear Fellaini would never be able to fade into obscurity. Thankfully he never tried.
Instead he set about making his mark – a little too enthusiastically at first, picking up 10 bookings in his first 17 Premier League appearances. His strength, tenacity and industry instantly endeared him to the Toffees faithful, while his ball retention skills and awareness hinted at a complete midfielder in the making.
Fellaini's versatility has also proven invaluable to Moyes as the Scot continues to make success with a small squad an art form. Whether deployed as a midfield destroyer, creator or wrecking ball in the final third, he showcases the ability to be decisive against top opposition.
But the greatest quality the Belgian possesses is the aura which surrounds him. His sheer presence appears to lift his team-mates and unnerve opponents. He is not yet the finished article but, at 24, has plenty of time to hone his gifts and mature into a truly world-class operator.
Unfortunately for Everton and for Moyes, it appears the next chapter in Fellaini's story is fast approaching, and will more than likely involve a change of scene. Where he will go is not yet clear, but several of England's elite may well be tempted to make an offer.
Chelsea appear light in central midfield in the wake of the departures of Raul Meireles to Fenerbahce and Michael Essien on loan to Real Madrid, and might easily regard the 24-year-old as a distinct upgrade on the disciplined but pedestrian Jon Obi Mikel.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are by their own admission searching for a defensive midfielder following the sale of Alex Song to Barcelona, and have lacked a powerful presence in the centre of the pitch ever since the departure of Patrick Vieira. Fellaini is nowhere near that class, but history shows few men polish a rough diamond better than Arsene Wenger.
But it is United who perhaps have the greatest need. Their so far fruitless search for a successor to Paul Scholes has been well documented, but Roy Keane left a void which has never been adequately filled. Fellaini is different in many respects, but would at least supply the snapping tenacity of which the likes of Michael Carrick and Anderson are incapable.
If Fellaini has indeed decided this will be his final season at Everton, he can rest assured he will be presented with a healthy choice of destinations come the summer. In the meantime, Moyes will simply be hoping his star man continues to be part of the solution to his problems.
'I believe the shirt is mine to lose' - Friedel warns Lloris he faces fight to be Tottenham No.1
The 41-year-old goalkeeper has expressed his belief that he is Spurs' first-choice shot-stopper, despite competition from the Frenchman who recently arrived from Lyon
Sep 9, 2012 1:45:00 PM
By Tom J Doyle
Tottenham goalkeeper Brad Friedel has warned Hugo Lloris that he faces a fight to take the No.1 jersey at White Hart Lane.
The highly rated Frenchman arrived in north London for €15 million on transfer deadline day but has yet to make an appearance for his new club.
And Friedel's inspired form in a recent 1-1 draw with Norwich City caused manager Andre Villas-Boas to declare that the veteran remained first choice, a position that the 41-year-old is unwilling to relinquish.
"Right now I believe the shirt is mine to lose, I believe the manager came out and said that. If that's the case then great," he told Sky Sports.
"I will turn up every day and work as hard as I can. I will keep as fit as I possibly can, hopefully get selected to play and hopefully do as well as I can."
With Carlo Cudicini and Heurelho Gomes in reserve, Tottenham have four talented goalkeepers at the club but Friedel insists that he thrives on the challenge.
"It's great to have competition," he added.
"Hugo Lloris is France's No.1, he's going to want to play, I'm going to want to play, and so are Carlo and Heurelho."
The American also admits that he is fully aware that he arrived at the club as a temporary measure despite being top dog for now.
"When I signed for Tottenham, I signed as a stop-gap while Tottenham looked for a long-term goalkeeper. Tottenham deserve a long-term goalkeeper," he continued.
"I want to play, I've always wanted to play, I don't sign contracts not to play. However, I would never demean the manager by spitting my dummy out if I wasn't playing.
"We are all contracted to Tottenham Hotspur and if they ask me to be a No.1 [or a No.2], I'd do that to the best of my ability.
"Hugo Lloris is going to be a team-mate, not an enemy.
"It is a difficult position to have four goalkeepers of our quality at the club. Saying that, hopefully there'll be 50-odd games to play this season, which is a lot of games to go around."
ROO BOOTY ... Hugo Rodallega's boot which cut Wayne Rooney has a combination of studs and blades
Exclusive By MIKE McGRATH
Published: 09th September 2012
Cut 'n run
THE introduction of screw-ins in the 1950s permitted the use of aluminium and plastic studs in football boots.
Now referees are told to inspect boots before the game and are given this advice: “Officials must be alert to the possibility of the edge of the blades or studs developing rough areas on either the plastic or metal used in their construction.
“These burrs can become very sharp and have been the cause of lacerations on opponents.
“If match officials are concerned over the condition of the blades or studs, they should refuse to sanction their use until they have been made safe.”
Below, three players reveal the devastating injuries and lasting suffering caused by bladed football boots.
FOOTBALL has undergone an astonishing transformation with the ultra-modern trend for sexy, light and attractive boots.
But no one seems to have considered just how safe these ‘must-have’ inventions are.
Today, a SunSport probe shows there are few guidelines on what players are allowed to wear and how great the potential for injury is.
The players’ union has demanded to know if the studs worn by Fulham’s Hugo Rodallega on his Nike Vapor VIII boots — a popular choice at Euro 2012 — contributed to the severity of the cut Wayne Rooney suffered a fortnight ago.
Rooney sustained a gruesome six-inch gash down the inside of his right leg. It was within a millimetre of a potentially fatal injury.
That was how close he came to having his femoral artery punctured which, untreated, can cause the victim to bleed to death within 10 minutes.
Rooney missed England’s first World Cup qualifier on Friday and is unlikely to return to Premier action for at least two weeks.
Rodallega was wearing Nike Vapour VIII boots in the professional SG Pro configuration.
There is no suggestion the Colombian was to blame — or that Nike broke the rules.
But experts in the game worry.
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez said: “Linesmen check the studs and probably are stronger on that than ever because the safety concerns are huge.
“But the material of the boots — they get sharp and are dangerous.
“There are a lot of studies into football boots but I think some are not safe for players to wear.
“You get the advantage for quick wingers but they are not safe when you go into a tackle.”
Bryan Byrne, who played under ex-Liverpool star Steve Nicol at New England Revolution in the MLS, is CEO of boot website www.SoccerCleats101.com and has studied the Rodallega incident carefully.
He said: “I am not implying the inner forefoot blade was the direct cause but it certainly seems like it might have played some sort of role in causing the skin to tear.
“The sharp edge could easily have pierced the skin as Rodallega landed, dragging his foot back toward him.”
But the blades have many fans.
Sunderland striker Steven Fletcher said: “As long as I’m scoring in the boots, I don’t mind what they’re like.”
CASE STUDIES
ANDY PAYTON — Burnley 2002
BURNLEY legend Andy Payton had his career shortened by a football-boot blade in 2002. A clash with Tranmere’s Sean Thornton left a 10-inch gash across his leg which needed 38 stitches. Payton said: “It was like a carving knife slitting it open. “They stitched my leg but it kept opening up every time I started to try and run again. “My career was coming to an end but it didn’t help.”
ADAM EL-ABD — Brighton 2006
BRIGHTON defender Adam El-Abd needed emergency surgery after suffering a deep leg gash following a clash with Millwall’s Gavin Grant in 2006. He said: “As I stood up, I noticed my calf was streaming with blood. “I grabbed it to stop it bleeding and a big chunk of flesh came away.” Brighton wrote to the FA with their concerns but FIFA downplayed any dangers from the bladed boots.
ANDY HESSENTHALER — Gillingham 2001
ANDY HESSENTHALER was one of the first to suffer from the bladed boots when he suffered a horrific injury playing for Gillingham in an 2001 FA Cup tie against Bournemouth. He said: “The cut was deep enough to put a mobile phone all the way in. I could see the bone. “It frightened the life out of me. I lost all the power in my thigh muscle. “Rebuilding it from scratch was a long process.”
Showdown! France stopper Lloris to demand talks with AVB over Spurs snub
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 09:04 GMT, 10 September 2012 | UPDATED: 09:04 GMT, 10 September 2012
Hugo Lloris' uncomfortable start to life at Tottenham has taken a fresh twist with the France goalkeeper set to demand talks with Andre Villas-Boas when he returns from international duty.
The former Lyon stopper only moved to White Hart Lane on deadline day, but has been disappointed by the comments of his manager in the aftermath of the only game since.
On his knees: Hugo Lloris wants talks with Andre Villas-Boas over his future
After a match-saving performance against Norwich, Brad Friedel was reaffirmed as Villas-Boas' No 1 for the season, suggesting the coveted jersey was the American's to lose.France boss Didier Deschamps hit out at his compatriot and now it Lloris has revealed he wants clarification on the situation as soon as he gets back to London following Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Belarus.
'When I join up with the national team, I concentrate uniquely and we’ll see about my personal situation when I go back,' Lloris said. 'Obviously it is not nice if the coach says he will pick someone else for the first team, but we can see what happens.
'For now, I have to put the situation to one side as France have important matches and I cannot worry about what might happen at my club.' As for Friedel, the veteran has laid down the law to his new team-mate, insisting he has every intention of keeping hold of his starting berth.
Causing a stir: Andre Villas-Boas' comments were criticised by Didier Deschamps
The 41-year-old American said: 'I feel like I played pretty well in my last game and hopefully I continue to get picked. Right now I believe the shirt is mine to lose.
'I believe the manager came out and said that and if this is the case then it’s a great challenge for me.'
Speed's mum believes footballer's career contributed to his tragic death
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 08:44 GMT, 10 September 2012 | UPDATED: 09:11 GMT, 10 September 2012
Gary Speed's mum is convinced her son would not have killed himself if he hadn't been a footballer.The Wales manager's death shocked the sporting world when he was tragically found dead last November. And his parents have spoken out for the first time about struggling to come to terms with his death.
Pain: Gary Speed's mum (right) thinks football contributed to her son's death
'It’s been absolutely horrendous,' Speed's mum Carol told the Wales on Sunday.'We’ve got no answers and we don’t know why.'He was such a private man. If we had some answers we could perhaps come to terms with it a little bit, but we haven’t got any.'Speed was only 42 when he died and Carol believes his career played its part.'I wish he’d been a postman,' she added. 'He had a good life, but a short life. If he’d been a postman none of this would have happened.'
Tragic: Gary Speed was found hanged in his garage last November
Speed's dad Roger said he had found comfort in helping Gary's sons Ed, 15, and Tommy, 14, in their fledgling careers.'I’m taking the lads to football and that’s helping me a hell of a lot. Ed’s at Wrexham and he’s playing for Wales under-16s so I’m pretty well occupied,' he said.'It’s bringing back memories of when I used to do it with Gary and that’s helping me, but Carol’s got nothing to help her come along. She’s really struggling.'On Sunday, Cardiff City striker Craig Bellamy revealed he has been going through the 'worst time in his life' since Speed died.
Struggling: Craig Bellamy (centre) with Speed's sons Ed (left) and Tommy
The former Liverpool and Manchester City striker, 33, told the Sunday Mirror he has moved out of the marital home he shared with wife Claire and their three children. He said: 'Losing my best mate has affected everything. I can't believe how hard it is.'He was the best mate I've ever had. It's sad but unfortunately it got to my marriage. I'm here and she's there.'I don't know if that's it for us. All I know is that my best mate has gone. I'm struggling. I can't lie.'
Sneijder rules out move to Manchester by pledging future to Inter
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 10:34 GMT, 10 September 2012 | UPDATED: 10:34 GMT, 10 September 2012
Inter Milan midfielder Wesley Sneijder has ruled out a move to the Premier League before his contract expires in 2015.The 28-year-old has been linked with both Manchester City and Manchester United in recent years after helping Inter win the Champions League in 2010.But the Dutch playmaker has no plans to leave the Italian giants in the near future.
Staying put: Wesley Sneijder plans to remain at Italian side Inter Milan
'I want to stay at Inter,' Sneijder told Gazzetta dello Sport. 'I have never, never thought about leaving Inter. I like the team, the city, the club, and I also like the coach [Andrea Stramaccioni].' He understands players, like president [Massimo] Moratti.'Stramaccioni talks a lot with me, about everything. This lets me feel his faith and this is good for each player.'
Wanted man: Sneijder was courted by bother Manchester clubs this summer
Sneijder has not yet decided what he will do when his contract expires with the Nerazzurri but admits he could return to former club Ajax.
'Never say never, but now it’s too soon to think about [returning to the Amsterdam club],' he said. 'I have a deal with Inter until 2015 and I want, as a minimum, to remain until the end of the contract.'
The Liverpool - Arsenal fixture is one that always excites and has produced some of the greatest moments in Premier League history. Both clubs always come in to this match looking for a win and this one was no different. This time the two clubs came in to the match still seeking their first win of the season which further fuelled the fires that so often make for the fast-paced, entertaining matches that the English first division is so widely renowned for. One team won, one team lost. This is my opinion on why:
Key players failing to produce
For all the tactical know-how of both managers and the tactics they did indeed implement against each other during the game, one thing let Brendan Rodgers down that he had practically no control over: his stars failed to shine.
Upfront, Suarez and Borini made a real mess of the attack, showing little if any penetration and a complete lack of composure on the ball. 17-year-old Sterling was by far the most impressive of the front three and looks a promising talent. However, at his age, the responsibility for scoring and creating goals does not fall on his shoulders. Borini looked lost out on the right flank and Suarez's tactic of falling down whenever the wind blew probably cost him an all-important penalty decision.
At the other end of the pitch, Pepe Reina failed to inspire much confidence either, his poor attempt at stopping Cazorla's well-struck but straight forward strike going under his arm and into the net. It was hardly the performance Liverpool fans have come to expect from the usually consistent and reliable keeper, who has now made three slip-ups in as many matches. It would hardly surprise me if he started the next game on the bench.
Finally, the captain, Stevie G, who is undoubtedly one of, if not, THE most important player in this Liverpool side. Gerrard was quiet for most of the match and his mistake in midfield led to the first goal. Personally, I think his age has begun to take its toll and while he may be an immensely talented player, he can't keep playing back-to-back matches without suffering from the effects of fatigue. Rodgers may need to seriously consider the number of times in a row he puts Gerrard on the pitch if he wants his talisman in top form.
Full backs neglecting their defensive duties
Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique both had decent games going forward on the attack, with the latter especially making dangerous passes and feeding Sterling down the wing and Suarez down the middle. However, neither had a very good game defensively and Johnson was especially to blame since both goals came down his flank.
The tactic Liverpool seemed to be employing was to stretch play with width from the fullbacks, allowing the centre of the park to become more open and allow for the tiki-taka passing style Rodgers favours to be made a little easier. Unfortunately, neither got back to fulfil their duties as defenders, often leaving Agger and Skrtel in a two-on-two situation, and while the centre back pairing are good in the air, on the ground they simply lack the pace and agility to be comfortable in such a situation. A clear example of this was the first goal, which saw Podolski race past a nonchalant Johnson to receive a fantastic ball from Cazorla and a wonderful finish to boot. The second saw Glen Johnson so amazed at the sight of the 5'6" Spaniard running in front of him with the ball, that all he could do was stand and watch. The shot was good, but, as previously mentioned, Reina should have done better.
A disorganised midfield
Aside from Steven Gerrard's uncharacteristically quiet game, Joe Allen and Nuri Sahin (on his debut), while obviously individually talented (Joe Allen achieved 93% pass completion) did not play to each others' strengths, or to the benefit of the team.
The pair played alongside each other in the holding role, but it was clear that they were both performing the same function. Both were playing the deep-lying playmaker role and that left the defence rather threadbare as a result. If the fullbacks in your side are advancing up the pitch to aid the attacking play, then it is absolutely essential that you have a holding midfielder sit back and make that defensive tackle for them. As it turns out, neither player performed that role and 9 of 11 players were caught up the pitch pressuring the Arsenal defence and were unable to protect their goal.
You can blame Rodgers for not setting this out to his holding midfielders before the game, but only to a certain extent. I think it is more bad luck that their main enforcer has gone out injured in Lucas Leiva and that Rodgers now has to tell an attack minded midfield player to sit back a bit more and defend. But how on earth do you explain the importance of defending to several egotistical, over-ambitious, money-fuelled young men? Liverpool fans will just have to hope one of them listens, for the sake of the whole team.
Where’s Carroll?
Now, the sound of mind among you must surely be thinking: "this idiot doesn't really think that Andy Carroll could've won the match for Liverpool does he?", and, well, you'd be right, I don't. But it must be said that Carroll would have given a different dimension to a paper-thin Liverpool side with very few options on the bench (when you have to bring on a man who recorded a grand total of no goals and no assists in the EPL last season, you know you're in trouble).
This current crop of players is still learning the Rodgers system and until they fully settle into it they will, occasionally, revert back to they methods they used under Dalglish and when you're sending an aerial ball into the box, the 6ft 3in frame of Andy Carroll makes for a much easier target. In addition to that, tiki-taka won't work for you every time. Sometimes you need to mix it up a little to get results and as of now, Rodgers does not have the options required to do so.
Conclusion
Liverpool have a talented crop of players under a talented manager. But in the end they were beaten by a superior Arsenal side that controlled the midfield and were let down by many of their key players. The lack of solid transfer activity is going to mean Rodgers will have to come up with some magic during the two-week international break, or both he and his club are at risk.
Ex-Wigan keeper Kingson claims he was offered bribe to throw World Cup match
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 12:08 GMT, 10 September 2012 | UPDATED: 12:09 GMT, 10 September 2012
Ghana goalkeeper Richard Kingson has claimed he rejected a $300,000 (£187,000) offer to throw a World Cup match in 2006.Kingson, 34, explained that the bribe was to ensure his country lost 2-0 to the Czech Republic in the group stage. He admitted to weighing up the options before deciding against accepting the offer.
Bribe: Richard Kingson claims he was asked to throw this match in Germany
Kingston said he 'got confused by weighing the options of getting richer by $300,000 after that match, whereas all that I would get in the event of a Ghana victory would be much less - just $3,000''. In the 2006 World Cup in Germany, we were about to play Czech Republic. By then they were the second best in the world,' he told a Nigerian church.
'A Ghanaian led me to some people to take a bribe and it was this woman [his wife] who delivered me and delivered Ghanaians. I was very confused and I didn’t know what to do but I called her and told her.
Former glories: Kingson played for several clubs in England
'My wife said: "Richard, I love you not because of your money, so don’t get tempted by this offer to lose your dignity and credibility".'Goals from Asamoah Gyan and Sulley Muntari saw Ghana beat the Czechs 2-0. They went on to qualify for the knockout phase, in which they were beaten 3-0 by Brazil.
Chelsea named European Club of the Year after Champions League success
The Blues were rewarded for their stunning victory on penalties against Bayern Munich in May with the prestigious title, given to them by the European Club Association
Assou-Ekotto: Lloris will have to fight Friedel for place at Tottenham
The 28-year-old has warned the club’s new keeper that he is likely to have to be content with a place on the bench at White Hart Lane
Cazorla revelling in free Arsenal role
The Spaniard has revealed that he is enjoying life in the Premier League following a summer move from Malaga and has thanked team-mate Mikel Arteta for helping him to adapt
Boenisch bewildered by Stoke City rejection
The former Werder Bremen defender had an offer from Stuttgart retracted, before he was turned down by Tony Pulis despite a successful trial period at the Britannia Stadium
The 'inner chimp' did it: Barton explains Manchester City red card
The Marseille midfielder's last-day red card for elbowing Carlos Tevez and scuffling with two other players earned him a 12-match ban but he insists that he wasn't himself
Kompany unconcerned by Manchester City's 'difficult' Champions League group
Roberto Mancini's men have been drawn against the champions of Germany, Holland and Spain in the shape of Borussia Dortmund, Ajax and Real Madrid in the group stages
Benitez claims Hicks and Gillett stifled Liverpool's Jovetic move
The former Reds manager blames the club then-owners for failing to land the Fiorentina star in the summer of 2010 and reveals he was more 'bank manager than football manager'
Manchester United prepared to sell Brazilian midfielder Anderson
Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson has lost patience with the 24-year-old's injury record and lack of improvement, with talks held over selling the former Porto man last month
Crouch refused Euro 2012 spot, reveals Hodgson
The Stoke striker is in a self-imposed exile from the national team after refusing to be on the stand-by list, and may have a long wait before his next international call-up
Rodgers arrival has made me more confident, says Liverpool youngster Shelvey
The England Under-21 international is enjoying the added responsibility given to him by the new manager and is hoping he can continue to improve and impress during the season
Cech requires surgery on injured elbow, insists Czech Republic doctor
The shot-stopper will be rested for all foreseeable friendlies as his club and country agree to limit any unnecessary exposure to injuries before an operation next summer
Hodgson: Walcott out of Ukraine clash with virus but Sturridge could play
The 65-year-old indicated the Arsenal attacker's absence forced him into making some late additions to the squad, while he assured the Chelsea forward's illness is not as severe
Barry: Silva makes my job at Manchester City much easier
The 31-year-old also revealed fellow central midfielders Javi Garcia and Jack Rodwell are settling in very well, expecting the former to adapt to the Premier League quickly
Muamba heads to Downing Street in bid to teach kids life-saving skills
The former Bolton midfielder almost died after collapsing on the pitch at White Hart Lane, but has recovered and is now hoping children will benefit from his near-death experience
Sterling worthy of England call-up, insists Gerrard
The 32-year-old suggests the winger's impact at club level shows he warrants a chance on the international scene, while warning the media not to over-hype the talented teenager
Kompany: The best is yet to come from Manchester City
The team's captain defends their record at the back, despite failing to keep a clean sheet so far, maintaining that their opponents had improved but that the Blues would also
Liverpool youngster Sterling called up to England squad as Walcott misses Ukraine clash
Southampton midfielder Adam Lallana and Tottenham's Jake Livermore are also brought in for the game on Tuesday as the Arsenal man is withdrawn and Daniel Sturridge is a doubt
Manchester City to tie David Silva to new deal & ward off Real Madrid interest
The Premier League champions are confident the Spanish playmaker will sign a new, five-year €240,000-a-week contract following three meetings with the player's camp
Liverpool winger Sterling interests Jamaican national team
The 17-year-old winger has impressed for the Reds and has been tipped for big things with England in the future, but his birth nation say the door is still open to represent them
Former QPR chief Briatore preparing Birmingham City bid
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 08:20 GMT, 11 September 2012 | UPDATED: 08:20 GMT, 11 September 2012
Flavio Briatore is set for a dramatic return to English football as the co-owner of Birmingham City. The former Queens Park Rangers chief, along with long-time friend Gianni Paladini, is considering a move to buy the npower Championship outfit. Birmingham owner Carson Yeung is seeking new investment and according to the Daily Mirror, Briatore, 62 is weighing up a bid.
Weighing up a bid: Briatore could buy Birmingham City
Yeung paid a staggering £80million for ownership of City in 2009, but less than two years later he was arrested in his native Hong Kong in connection with money-laundering and is now facing charges. Briatore, the former Benetton and Renault F1 chief, ended his tenure at Loftus Road last year after Tony Fernandes bought the west London club. But the Italian wants a return to football, with Birmingham among his targets.
'Shocking' Hillsborough files to be released on Wednesday
MP Andy Burnham to disclose revealing documentation on the investigation into the Hillsborough disaster which saw 96 Liverpool fans tragically lose their lives
Sep 11, 2012 9:48:00 AM
By Andy Sixsmith
Labour MP, Andy Burnham has warned that files to be released on Wednesday regarding the Hillsborough tragedy will be more shocking than people realise.
The MP orchestrated an independent panel to review the files over the past two years - files which include previously unseen documentation.
The 1989 disaster at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough stadium saw 96 Liverpool fans lose their lives and Burnham has now tellingly claimed that senior figures will have "questions to answer" upon release of the 400,000 documents tomorrow.
Mr Burnham told the Daily Mirror: “There will be many *individuals with questions to answer on Wednesday into Thursday night.
“But the truth will have its own power.
“I know enough about Hillsborough to know a national apology from the Prime Minister is justified. I hope Mr Cameron responds in the right way.
“I get the feeling the disclosure will be more shocking than many people realise.
“The closer we get, I’m confident the full truth will be told. That is an enormous thing."
The Labour MP continued by discussing the involvement of Dr Stefan Popper, a coroner at the inquest hearing in 1991.
Popper infamously imposed a 3:15pm cut-off point, by which time he stated all Liverpool fans would have died and no evidence would be considered thereafter.
Such an imposition resulted in little investigation into the emergency services’ late response time to the disaster, a transgression that has since been discredited by families of the victims who claimed their loved ones were alive after that time of 3:15pm.
And Mr Burnham confirmed there would be an investigation into Dr Popper’s imposition, while also expressing his surprise over Hillsborough’s failure to possess a stadium safety certificate.
“After the disclosure, my thinking will turn to a new inquest as the sheer cruelty of the 3.15pm cut-off point, when the coroner ruled that all Liverpool fans had died by this time, can’t be allowed to stand," he added.
“I, like the families, cannot accept a verdict of accidental death.
“Any football supporter who visited Hillsborough would have said it was an unsafe football ground.
“The country will be shocked to learn how the stadium did not have a valid safety certificate.”
And the MP concluded by reassuring families of the 96 victims that there would be no tampering or editing of key documents pertinent to the case since the initial investigation.
“I think we will see everything and it will be comprehensive," he continued. "Steps have been taken and orders passed through Parliament to ensure full disclosure takes place.
“When this process started, we promised the truth and I feel that in my heart we have done that."
Silence! United try to gag wantaway midfielder Nani as contract dispute drags on
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 09:40 GMT, 11 September 2012 | UPDATED: 09:40 GMT, 11 September 2012
Manchester United have tried to silence Nani as his contract dispute with the club continues to rumble on. His 'unreal' wage demands wrecked any chance of the United winger moving to big-spenders Zenit St Petersburg this summer.
And the Portugal international has become increasingly disillusioned with life at United after failing to agree a new contract and finding himself outside Sir Alex Ferguson's preferred line-up.
Hush! The United winger looks set to leave Old Trafford
Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young are ahead of Nani in the pecking order on the wings, while the arrivals of Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa this summer have further shunted Nani away from the action. Nani believes he has been mistreated by United over his contract situation and the club have been angered by claims that Nani intends to run down his contract and leave for free when it expires - according to reports in The Mirror.
Nani was dropped following United's defeat at Everton in their opening match of the Barclays Premier League season and has not yet forced his way back in. The former Sporting Lisbon ace came off the bench to replace Kagawa with 29 minutes remaining in the 3-2 win at Southampton in his only other appearance for United this season.
Eyes on the prize: Nani's move to Zenit collapsed this summer
Benitez blames Hicks and Gillett for Liverpool's failure to win Premier League
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 09:14 GMT, 11 September 2012 | UPDATED: 10:53 GMT, 11 September 2012
Rafa Benitez has hit out at former Liverpool owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett for denying him funds to strengthen his squad for a Premier League title challenge.
The Spaniard spent six years at the Anfield club, winning the FA Cup and Champions League, before leaving two years ago.And the 52-year-old has revealed he was not given the support to mount a title challenge in his final season at the club.
Lashing out: Rafa Benitez claims he was not supported in the transfer market
‘Attempting to work in the transfer market that summer was almost impossible,’ Benitez said in his new book being serialised in the Daily Mirror.‘We knew we would need cover and support for Fernando Torres, as David Ngog was still developing, and we had raised the cash to find it.‘The player we identified to fill that role was Stevan Jovetic, a young Montenegro forward playing for Fiorentina in Italy.‘The funds we thought we had available would also have stretched to another central defender, to provide cover for Jamie Carragher, Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger.
Missing links: Matthew Upson (left) and Sylvain Distin were targets for Benitez
‘The two players we had identified were Sylvain Distin, then with Portsmouth, and West Ham’s Matthew Upson, both boasting abundant Premier League experience.‘Signing one of those two, plus the tall, powerful, intelligent Jovetic, would have given Liverpool the squad we needed to build on the previous year’s title challenge, when we had run Manchester United so close.‘Liverpool, though, was no longer a football club. It was a business.‘The money, which we wanted to use to take Liverpool on to the next level, was all gone.
Main man: Stevan Jovetic (right) was highlighted as a top target
‘We would be punished for the disappearance of that money - and our failure to sign Jovetic - again and again that season.‘That was supposed to be our year, the season it all came together. Instead it was a long, hard campaign, a battle from start to finish.’Benitez paid the price for Liverpool’s seventh-place finish in the Premier League when he left the club by mutual consent.And he lays the blame for the club’s demise squarely at the door of Hicks and Gillett.
‘For five years I had been a football manager at Liverpool. By the start of my sixth, it was clear I had become something else entirely. I was suddenly supposed to be a bank manager.‘Decisions were being made to appease the banks, not the fans. That is how serious the situation with the owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, had become.
‘At the end of April, Tom Hicks and George Gillett at long last agreed to put Liverpool up for sale to end their involvement with the club altogether.‘They had been forced by the banks, as a condition of their latest loan, to appoint Martin Broughton, a Chelsea fan and the chairman of British Airways, to the same position at Anfield.‘As the season drew to a close, I was informed on three occasions that I would have a meeting with Mr Broughton.
Blame game: Former Liverpool owners George Gillett (left) and Tom Hicks
‘When we did eventually meet, after the final game of our campaign, it was clear that we did not share the same vision for the future of the club.‘It was at that point that it became evident what was about to happen. It was obvious that they had decided that my time at Anfield was up and wanted to come to an arrangement as quickly as possible.‘I was not in a hurry to leave Liverpool - quite the opposite, I wanted to stay.
‘It was while I was on holiday in Italy that I next heard from the club.‘Their lawyers had contacted mine to offer me a settlement.‘It was confirmation that the directors of the team I had worked so hard to turn into a force at home and abroad no longer wanted my services.‘I was disappointed, hurt and sad. I would not be given the chance to try to solve the problems that had arisen during the season, to complete the six years of work I had put into the club.’
