Thought I'd stop cluttering the Fulham thread with BPL banter. Bringing banter over here. Feel free to use the thread to ask any questions you like, I'm a big believer part of advocating soccer here on the First Coast is to help new converts get a grasp on the game.
To get the conversation started lets begin with this photo....
(https://scontent-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1.0-9/s261x260/10273442_634137073341158_8629357014657256744_n.jpg)
I do love kicking MUFC while they are down.
Quote from: JaxByDefault on May 07, 2014, 04:14:12 PM
I do love kicking MUFC while they are down.
Me too ;D
(http://forums.iransportspress.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=36261&stc=1&d=1393360125)
So to keep this somewhat close to a Jax topic, I'd like to introduce a group of American soccer fans. I'd really like to see the Armada be able to develop a supporters group this dedicated and loud. Meet the Timbers Army...
http://www.youtube.com/v/NRSEyLqOpZw
Thoughts? Anyone with good ideas on how to engage the local artist community? Thoughts on Capo style fan support vs. English style?
The Timber Army is by far the best supporters group in the MLS.
There are good and bad aspects of both supporter styles, but I'm bit more laid back so overall I prefer the English fan experience. I like the organic swell of the stands to capo-style cheerleading. But there are big differences in the BPL, too. Craven Cottage has the best match day experience--especially the walk through Bishop's Park and the tiny wooden seats of the Haynes Stand-- but the fans are a bit quiet. Stamford Bridge is a model for a stadium and a quiet residential neighborhood coexisting (pubs, transit, restaurants, parks all within 100 meters of the Britannia Gate). Nou Camp lets you bring in amazing sandwiches sold by the nearby shops and has a good mix of horns, drums, and songs. Most raucous fans I've ever been in the stands with were Wisla Krakow: so much singing, stomping, and flares. The military-grade smoke canisters on the field to cloud the goal end was especially over-the-top. Besiktas threw a heck of an impromptu street party after their 2009 Turkish Cup win that was fun to get caught up in.
I'm also a fan of the lack of commercials, announcing, music (except immediately before the match and at the half) over the loudspeakers, and jumbotrons at games abroad. Everyone is there to watch the match and sing -- that's it. (This could be because alcohol isn't allowed in the stands in England -- something that seems like a tragedy to fans from elsewhere.)
In England, there's a family pen for people who want a more staid environment. (Ironically, it's right near the most vocal supporters at Craven Cottage.) The stands of MLS are more sanitized to be family friendly and there's a lot that lost in not being able to have some sweary fun at the expense of the other side. MLS has actually been paying fan groups not use a certain (albeit not very clever) sweary chant during goal kicks. Watching a 9 year-old let loose --with very prim Dad's permission-- to say "naughty words, just for match chants" is perhaps the most hilarious thing I have ever watched as a soccer supporter. That said, I'm glad the stands in the US are overall less abusive/racist than in some international leagues.
Seing as how I do some art law, I'm now keeping an eye out for clients who can paint tifo.
Armada's supporter group First Coast Syndicate has some great guys getting things started, but they need more help. If you're interested, Gamblor, send me a PM and I'll put you in touch with their board of directors.
Quote from: JaxByDefault on May 07, 2014, 06:20:40 PM
The Timber Army is by far the best supporter's group in the MLS.
There are good and bad aspects of both supporter styles, but I'm bit more laid back so overall I prefer the English fan experience. I like the organic swell of the stands to capo-style cheerleading. But there are big differences in the BPL, too. Craven Cottage has the best match day experience--especially the walk through Bishop's Park and the tiny wooden seats of the Haynes Stand-- but the fans are a bit quiet. Stamford Bridge is a model for a stadium and a quiet residential neighborhood coexisting (pubs, transit, restaurants, parks all within 100 meters of the Britannia Gate). Nou Camp lets you bring in amazing sandwiches sold by the nearby shops and has a good mix of horns, drums, and songs. Most raucous fans I've ever been in the stands with were Wisla Krakow: so much singing, stomping, and flares. The military-grade smoke canisters on the field to cloud the goal end was especially over-the-top. Besiktas threw a heck of an impromptu street party after their 2009 Turkish Cup win that was fun to get caught up in.
I'm also a fan of the lack of commercials, announcing, music (except immediately before the match and at the half) over the loudspeakers, and jumbotrons at games abroad. Everyone is there to watch the match and sing -- that's it. (This could be because alcohol isn't allowed in the stands in England -- something that seems like a tragedy to fans from elsewhere.)
In England, there's a family pen for people who want a more staid environment. (Ironically, it's right near the most vocal supporters at Craven Cottage.) The stands of MLS are more sanitized to be family friendly and there's a lot that lost in not being able to have some sweary fun at the expense of the other side. MLS has actually been paying fan groups not use a certain (albeit not very clever) sweary chant during goal kicks. Watching a 9 year-old let loose --with very prim Dad's permission-- to say "naughty words, just for match chants" is perhaps the most hilarious thing I have ever watched as a soccer supporter. That said, I'm glad the stands in the US are overall less abusive/racist than in some international leagues.
Seing as how I do some art law, I'm now keeping an eye out for clients who can paint tifo.
Armada's supporter group First Coast Syndicate has some great guys getting things started, but they need more help. If you're interested, Gamblor, send me a PM and I'll put you in touch with their board of directors.
Great post. I tend to be kind of a mix of the English and capo. We don't have capos at the Emirates, but someone can shout a keyword, and then you'll hear that section start chanting/singing. Pretty soon the whole stadium joins in. We're very much the stand and sing types, not the sit and clap though (although since the move this is less true unfortunately, but the team is looking to get back to more of the old way). Of course experience wise, Highbury was the best ever, but I was there after she had been standing for a hundred years, and the fans knew what sections were family, and what were Gooner. I do agree though there is nothing funnier than watching a father give his son the nod that it's okay to join in a sweary chant (I have seen it a few times when we start in on "We won the league, at sh%te heart lane")
You're totally right about the experience of being there to just stand and sing really having a better feel than a lot of what we get here, where jumbotrons and loudspeakers too often take over. I do think the MLS needs to be a little more careful about the family stuff though. I know it was their bread and butter for years, but as the league is now shifted so drastically to the younger generations, they are going to need to open things up a bit.
As for the Syndicate, I met a few of them at One Spark and I think I scared the heck out of them. I may have been a little over zealous, but hey they need guys like me. I just don't think they realize that yet. Seriously I had the zeal in me at the moment. I know back in North London when someone has the fire I had in me that day, we take their name , number, give them a free ticket and tell em were gonna need their support every match :) ... But in all seriousness we ended up having a nice long conversation about Liverpool/Suarez, Man U falling off a cliff (we lol'd at that for 20 minutes), and of course what's going on at Fulham before I had to run off to watch the FA cup match against Wigan. They have some good ideas though, but I hate the name. A buddy of mine came up with a great name, and I suggested it to the syndicate but they didn't seem to like it. I don't know if they got all the connotations of it though, but you'll be welcome to join me and my soccer pals in SquidRow, ByDefault, even though you're a Chelsea fan. Lol just kidding, I hang with one Chelsea fan already. The rest of us are gooners though so don't bring up the 6 nille :-X
Oh and the scariest crowd I have ever been around was PSG in the late 90's... Seriously frightening. I'll save that story for later though...
Quote from: Gamblor on May 07, 2014, 07:36:41 PM
I do agree though there is nothing funnier than watching a father give his son the nod that it's okay to join in a sweary chant (I have seen it a few times when we start in on "We won the league, at sh%te heart lane")
That chant is brilliant.
Quote from: Gamblor on May 07, 2014, 07:36:41 PM
I do think the MLS needs to be a little more careful about the family stuff though. I know it was their bread and butter for years, but as the league is now shifted so drastically to the younger generations, they are going to need to open things up a bit.
Agreed -- they are starting a policy of overkill that is going to further dilute the supporter experience.
Quote from: Gamblor on May 07, 2014, 07:36:41 PM
As for the Syndicate, I met a few of them at One Spark and I think I scared the heck out of them. I may have been a little over zealous, but hey they need guys like me. I just don't think they realize that yet.
Fairly certain I scare them, too. They're good guys; all very young. I'm not hot on the name either, but they are
absolutely and intractably sold on it. They do need guys who are interested and willing to help shape the org. I'm an advisor to the organization -- if you're interested, I'll make sure you're invited to their next meeting.
Quote from: Gamblor on May 07, 2014, 07:36:41 PM
you'll be welcome to join me and my soccer pals in SquidRow, ByDefault, even though you're a Chelsea fan.
Awesome. I'm "carefree wherever I may be," but I'll see you in SquidRow.
OMG, Arsenal actually won a trophy.
This invalidates half of all English football memes on the Internet.
Quote from: JaxByDefault on May 17, 2014, 02:46:17 PM
OMG, Arsenal actually won a trophy.
This invalidates half of all English football memes on the Internet.
We tried our best not too!! The first ten i thought i would die...Great game though and hats off to Hull. They fought hard. Okay i would banter more but I was just doin quick site check. Time to party and let some 9 year old demons out.
Yesterday I was doing some research on Orlando City SC and I have to say I am quite impressed. They are doing some really smart things. To illustrate one example of this, and not to clutter the boards with soccer jargon not everyone understands, here is something we can all probably dwell on. Orlando recently changed their logo. Here is a short video on it
http://www.youtube.com/v/CXpJyyNyWfY
While I think this is at least a pretty solid shield, what really smacked me in the face was this genius, 1 day of art/activity that followed shortly after the unveiling to celebrate their new shield...
http://www.youtube.com/v/6Swnl8dj_4E
I know some walls that could use some beautifying/marketing Jags, Sharks, Suns, Armada.... Lets get on it!
Gamblor, I saw this today and instantly thought of sharing it with every Arsenal fan I know.
Behold, the footy quote of the year from Real Madrid's Angel Di Maria:
"Many things were said, sometimes you think a lot and it hurts you when you are trying to always do your best for a club and then it comes out that you might be going to Tottenham."
[http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2080459-angel-di-maria-mocks-tottenham-as-he-aims-to-stay-at-real-madrid]
Wouldn't we all feel that way, Angel?
Quote from: JaxByDefault on May 30, 2014, 07:17:03 PM
Gamblor, I saw this today and instantly thought of sharing it with every Arsenal fan I know.
Behold, the footy quote of the year from Real Madrid's Angel Di Maria:
"Many things were said, sometimes you think a lot and it hurts you when you are trying to always do your best for a club and then it comes out that you might be going to Tottenham."
[http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2080459-angel-di-maria-mocks-tottenham-as-he-aims-to-stay-at-real-madrid]
Wouldn't we all feel that way, Angel?
He was already near the top of the summer shopping list, now he has to be the priority purchase! ;D
Not sure if anyone has mentioned it, but Orlando officially revealed what there new stadium will look like. Here is the quick video
http://www.youtube.com/v/Ug8hRoKDkeo
Here is the long video of the conference. It's worth a watch in my opinion. Got to love a club that proudly says we are building a world class 20k stadium downtown and NOT adding one parking space...
http://www.youtube.com/v/cmgJzXusBkQ
Also Ajax, if you see this I keep meaning to hear your thoughts about this guy. I'm sure they are full of love like mine, but I always like hearing dutch talk about him with such pride. I would have pm you but thought it might be better for others who may have caught the soccer bug over the last few weeks to hear.
http://www.youtube.com/v/70X8goHkONk
^ Nice little stadium, and a steal for Orlando at only around $40 million out of pocket after the team's contribution and state subsidies.
In honor of Man U, the most storied team in modern English soccer losing to MK Dons, a team in England's third tier today....
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t34.0-12/10592098_762217067171297_1801290472_n.jpg?oh=dca5fa016012cf7b6298f9dbdb7047a1&oe=53FF28B2&__gda__=1409257809_f85fc02f5b5b9da0607310729605cf5f)
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/t1.0-9/10603271_762022607169713_2123827397686988385_n.jpg)
http://www1.skysports.com/football/live/match/325029/report (http://www1.skysports.com/football/live/match/325029/report)
Just under 8 hours left for Arsenal to NOT get any striker business* done this transfer window.
*Jermain Defoe would not count as striker business.
http://www.youtube.com/v/rg8wlhoarZA
So frustrated...
+1000
That wins the Internets for the day.
At least you can take comfort that without spending a dime today, and probably even without a striker for half the year, Arsenal will still (somehow) be playing CL football next year.
All I have to look forward to later today is drinking the (heavily liquor-infused) FFP koolaid so I can celebrate offloading Torres on a wage-covering loan* as "good business."
*Don't even get me started on the Mitroglu loan at Fulham.
This particular instance might not be a big deal, but when THIS (http://www.si.com/college-football/2014/09/12/drake-davis-recruit-soccer-football) starts becoming the norm instead of the exception, then my guess is that we would start down the path of being a serious perineal contender on the world futbol scene.
Quote(http://cdn-jpg.si.com/sites/default/files/styles/si_article_main/public/2014/09/12/drake_davis.jpg?itok=jYm014or)
Four-star wide receiver recruit Drake Davis chooses soccer over football
^^ This instance is important though as it is a high profile recruit who is sought after by high profile teams taking the path less taken. And we may never be able to fully judge this, as most athletes tend to make the choice before they receive much media attention, but when you listen to the stories of our soccer players, most can talk about being star athletes in baseball, football, ect as well. Good link though Non appreciate it...
In other news that should be shared, the soccer don is now cancer free and signed up for another 5 years.
http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/09/11/mls-commissioner-don-garber-signs-five-year-extension-through-2018?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=News&utm_campaign=Unpaid
If anyone wants to have some hypothetical discussion, the NFL choose Goodell over Garber, mistake?
My answer, yes. Don has taken the MLS from practically nothing to a precipice no one thought possible when he took over. The next CBA will be vital to continued MLS success, but when I think of the improvement in all areas its amazing. Take TV for instance. When he took over MLS was shot like a high school football game, now with the commitment coming from ESPN and Fox starting next year, it will be shot like NFL and BPL, making it much more possible to clear the national ratings hurdle, which should happen in due time.
And as for Roger, he is getting what he deserves now... a good point was made that he has reacted to the outrage when he should have been outraged about this Rice thing to begin with. But thats been Roger, and its been for the worse.
What makes a good handegg player is not the same as what makes a good footballer. Professional football internationally is full of 5'7" guys who play at the top of the sport because they're fit, fast, and have excellent finesse on the ball. It's the third skill that we have perennial trouble developing in the US. Our men's national team is often taller, faster, and fitter than many opponents (in fact, it's what we relied on for years) but we suffer with tactical acumen, first-touch skill, and overall finesse.
It may help if more good base athletes choose soccer, but it won't fix everything. We need a real academy system.
Quote from: JaxByDefault on September 12, 2014, 05:13:24 PM
What makes a good handegg player is not the same as what makes a good footballer. Professional football internationally is full of 5'7" guys who play at the top of the sport because they're fit, fast, and have excellent finesse on the ball. It's the third skill that we have perennial trouble developing in the US. Our men's national team is often taller, faster, and fitter than many opponents (in fact, it's what we relied on for years) but we suffer with tactical acumen, first-touch skill, and overall finesse.
It may help if more good base athletes choose soccer, but it won't fix everything. We need a real academy system.
I've heard and read and agree with the general sentiment that the majority of our top athletes play sports like baseball, football and basketball while other countries' top athletes play soccer.
It's not about the guy's size, but his overall athletic makeup. And if the tide ever turns to where our top athletes start playing soccer rather than one of the big 3, then our national team will be on par with or greater than most in the world.
Quote from: JaxByDefault on September 12, 2014, 05:13:24 PM
Our men's national team is often taller, faster, and fitter than many opponents (in fact, it's what we relied on for years) but we suffer with tactical acumen, first-touch skill, and overall finesse.
Truth...
Quote from: JaxByDefault on September 12, 2014, 05:13:24 PM
We need a real academy system.
All MLS clubs have been required to have an academy since 2007. Some are better than others and it may not be a big enough system for a country of our population and land area, but it is a good start that is cultivating talent like Yedlin and Zardes
For anyone interested in academies in America, here is an MLS Insider on academies from August of this year which is specifically focused on Philly's as it is the new standard with its fully accredited high school. 8)
http://www.youtube.com/v/Hjhi2UUOnuo?list=UUEPKlFeUjRY_1mpZP8GnkVg
If we can't pay youth to play or tie it into academy-schools, and we're further handicapped in prime development years by the NCAA system, then we'll always be at an international recruitment disadvantage over some European and S. American countries that hand out citizenship cards with early-youth academy spots.
It generally costs U.S. families a lot to send talent kids in their mid-teens to the best soccer camps, summer academies, etc. That limits the reach of the game.
Quote from: JaxByDefault on September 13, 2014, 03:14:51 PM
If we can't pay youth to play or tie it into academy-schools, and we're further handicapped in prime development years by the NCAA system, then we'll always be at an international recruitment disadvantage over some European and S. American countries that hand out citizenship cards with early-youth academy spots.
It generally costs U.S. families a lot to send talent kids in their mid-teens to the best soccer camps, summer academies, etc. That limits the reach of the game.
Considering the state of things ten to fifteen years ago I'd rather focus on the positive, which is a lot in a short period of time. Maybe the NCAA and child labor laws do hamper things but there are a lot of people working hard everyday to make our youth system stronger and it is making a difference.
Also generally MLS academies do not charge and provide their educational services for free...
Yay!! The Qatar 2022 World Cup should die soon. Yay!! Hopefully they can move it to US like Sepp Blatter wants. Yay!!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/22/fifa-executive-world-cup-qatar_n_5860062.html (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/22/fifa-executive-world-cup-qatar_n_5860062.html)
Jacksonville Armada vs the Philadelphia Union will be broadcasted on CW17 at 5:30.
2-0 Armada!!!
Twas a fun one! Looked to me like Union were pretty much just going thru their paces and Armada went out on fire to get one for the fans.
14,000 in attendance.
NASL preseason record.
Quote from: KenFSU on February 07, 2015, 10:51:50 PM
14,000 in attendance.
NASL preseason record.
And most likely barring horrible weather will set the NASL regular season record with their opener.
Quote from: edjax on February 07, 2015, 10:55:10 PM
Quote from: KenFSU on February 07, 2015, 10:51:50 PM
14,000 in attendance.
NASL preseason record.
And most likely barring horrible weather will set the NASL regular season record with their opener.
How? Thought the capacity at the baseball ground for soccer is 8500...NASL record attendance for a regular season game is 660 more than tonight's game..
Yeah, they're at the Baseball Grounds from here on, and that doesn't even hold this amount of people unless they're planning on adding seats or something.
But awesome, awesome news nonetheless.
Unless there was a massive blitz of season ticket sales tonight, in which they sold every open seat, they aint adding any with the season kicking off in less than 3 weeks.
In other news, to make myself feel better about the tragedy that occurred this morning...
(https://scontent-a-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10941019_10202521768125995_5809264767490112852_n.jpg?oh=d61ff56f0f6c9113ae10d362e63eadb5&oe=555B5706)
After checking out some soccer boards, many of our NASL brethren are worried about playing us after the showing yesterday...
(http://gifrific.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Mr-Burns-Saying-Excellent.gif)
the attendance was actually really good for a minor league soccer team.
Quote from: Rynjny on February 07, 2015, 11:03:27 PM
Quote from: edjax on February 07, 2015, 10:55:10 PM
Quote from: KenFSU on February 07, 2015, 10:51:50 PM
14,000 in attendance.
NASL preseason record.
And most likely barring horrible weather will set the NASL regular season record with their opener.
How? Thought the capacity at the baseball ground for soccer is 8500...NASL record attendance for a regular season game is 660 more than tonight's game..
The first regular season game will be played at Everbank as the Baseball Grounds will not be available as the Marlins are playing the Suns there. All games after that will be played at the Baseball Grounds. So they most likely will set the regular season record.
hmmm, wonder if one can do the baseball and the soccer game together.
Should be able to unless times change. Currently the Suns are scheduled for 2pm and the Armada for 7:30
Quote from: Gamblor on February 09, 2015, 03:50:22 AM
Should be able to unless times change. Currently the Suns are scheduled for 2pm and the Armada for 7:30
they can definitely hold both events the same day at different locations. But they aren't going to transform the field (and add/remove stands) from one to the other in just a few hours.
Quote from: tufsu1 on February 09, 2015, 07:55:24 AM
Quote from: Gamblor on February 09, 2015, 03:50:22 AM
Should be able to unless times change. Currently the Suns are scheduled for 2pm and the Armada for 7:30
they can definitely hold both events the same day at different locations. But they aren't going to transform the field (and add/remove stands) from one to the other in just a few hours.
Yeah, simply not possible.
The field conversion itself takes 10-12 hours, and includes removing the pitcher's mound and covering the baseball field with turf.
That first game at Everbank on 4/4 should be a great crowd
The Armada match was amazing, if you missed the first 15 minuets you missed the most exciting portions of the match. We beats a MLS team 3-1 and had great attendance numbers so I think were off to a great starts. I really wish there had been a program with player profiles though... I wanted to know more about number 10, he was on fire.
Once the Armada move over to the Baseball Grounds (with soccer capacity of ~9,000), I have a feeling that demand for tickets might actually outstrip supply. It's rare to see genuinely hot tickets in Jacksonville, particularly for sports, but you can really feel the buzz growing for the Armada. 14k for a preseason game is pretty epic.
Seriously, how awesome of a sports day is 4/4 going to be.
Suns/Marlins in the early afternoon, Armada home opener in the evening.
Quote from: tufsu1 on February 09, 2015, 07:55:24 AM
Quote from: Gamblor on February 09, 2015, 03:50:22 AM
Should be able to unless times change. Currently the Suns are scheduled for 2pm and the Armada for 7:30
they can definitely hold both events the same day at different locations. But they aren't going to transform the field (and add/remove stands) from one to the other in just a few hours.
no I meant just make a day of it. go see the baseball and then the soccer game.
Quote from: tufsu1 on February 09, 2015, 07:55:24 AM
Quote from: Gamblor on February 09, 2015, 03:50:22 AM
Should be able to unless times change. Currently the Suns are scheduled for 2pm and the Armada for 7:30
they can definitely hold both events the same day at different locations. But they aren't going to transform the field (and add/remove stands) from one to the other in just a few hours.
Lol way to follow the conversation
Quote from: TPC on February 09, 2015, 09:18:27 AM
The Armada match was amazing, if you missed the first 15 minuets you missed the most exciting portions of the match. We beats a MLS team 3-1 and had great attendance numbers so I think were off to a great starts. I really wish there had been a program with player profiles though... I wanted to know more about number 10, he was on fire.
Yeah #10 is Alhassane Keita - he was really causing problems for the Union back line. (He has another name on the back of his shirt but I can't remember what it is and don't know what it means). He won the Golden Boot a couple of years ago in the Swiss league. Dario Sala has put together what looks to be a formidable lineup, and I would love to see how many frequent flier miles he's compiled over the past few months. :)
By the way, I had something unexpected come up during the game and had to leave after the 2nd goal. It was really good to be able to turn on the radio and listen during the drive home, and then to be able to get home and watch it on TV. Cole Pepper and Mauricio Ruiz (JU men's soccer coach) did a very good job, and the camera work was very professionally done. I'm really impressed with everything I've seen from this organization - from top to bottom.
I like seeing our guys do well against MLS opposition, and I really can't wait to see them line up against another NASL side (Ft. Lauderdale Strikers) on 2/28.
Quote from: KenFSU on February 09, 2015, 09:01:54 AM
The field conversion itself takes 10-12 hours, and includes removing the pitcher's mound and covering the baseball field with turf.
What if the Sun's just use one of those rubber, removable mounds that they use in Little League? No? Crickets..... ;)
Quote from: Ajax on February 09, 2015, 01:09:24 PM
Quote from: TPC on February 09, 2015, 09:18:27 AM
The Armada match was amazing, if you missed the first 15 minuets you missed the most exciting portions of the match. We beats a MLS team 3-1 and had great attendance numbers so I think were off to a great starts. I really wish there had been a program with player profiles though... I wanted to know more about number 10, he was on fire.
Yeah #10 is Alhassane Keita - he was really causing problems for the Union back line. (He has another name on the back of his shirt but I can't remember what it is and don't know what it means). He won the Golden Boot a couple of years ago in the Swiss league. Dario Sala has put together what looks to be a formidable lineup, and I would love to see how many frequent flier miles he's compiled over the past few months. :)
That is a pretty darn impressive signing by the club. Not that I've heard of the guy, but in looking at his stats he was playing for St. Gallen in the Swiss League last season. They were in Europa League, and he played against Swansea, Valencia, and Spartak Moscow just last year. His strike rate in the Swiss League (which is ranked below Belgium and ahead of Turkey) was 1 goal every 231 minutes. Not great, but not bad. At 31, he's likely on the descent of his career, but I imagine will kill it in the NASL.
need to sign Jermaine Johnson who played for Indy Eleven last year.
Quote from: CityLife on February 09, 2015, 04:56:23 PM
Quote from: Ajax on February 09, 2015, 01:09:24 PM
Quote from: TPC on February 09, 2015, 09:18:27 AM
The Armada match was amazing, if you missed the first 15 minuets you missed the most exciting portions of the match. We beats a MLS team 3-1 and had great attendance numbers so I think were off to a great starts. I really wish there had been a program with player profiles though... I wanted to know more about number 10, he was on fire.
Yeah #10 is Alhassane Keita - he was really causing problems for the Union back line. (He has another name on the back of his shirt but I can't remember what it is and don't know what it means). He won the Golden Boot a couple of years ago in the Swiss league. Dario Sala has put together what looks to be a formidable lineup, and I would love to see how many frequent flier miles he's compiled over the past few months. :)
That is a pretty darn impressive signing by the club. Not that I've heard of the guy, but in looking at his stats he was playing for St. Gallen in the Swiss League last season. They were in Europa League, and he played against Swansea, Valencia, and Spartak Moscow just last year. His strike rate in the Swiss League (which is ranked below Belgium and ahead of Turkey) was 1 goal every 231 minutes. Not great, but not bad. At 31, he's likely on the descent of his career, but I imagine will kill it in the NASL.
He probably heard about all the great stuff happening at the Shipyards and wants to be a part of it.
Quote from: Ajax on February 09, 2015, 01:09:24 PM
Quote from: TPC on February 09, 2015, 09:18:27 AM
I wanted to know more about number 10, he was on fire.
Yeah #10 is Alhassane Keita - he was really causing problems for the Union back line. (He has another name on the back of his shirt but I can't remember what it is and don't know what it means).
Back of his jersey says Otchico. Also not sure what it means
Quote from: Gamblor on February 09, 2015, 07:19:30 PM
Quote from: Ajax on February 09, 2015, 01:09:24 PM
Quote from: TPC on February 09, 2015, 09:18:27 AM
I wanted to know more about number 10, he was on fire.
Yeah #10 is Alhassane Keita - he was really causing problems for the Union back line. (He has another name on the back of his shirt but I can't remember what it is and don't know what it means).
Back of his jersey says Otchico. Also not sure what it means
Apparently that's his full name:
Alhassane Keita Otchico
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alhassane_Keita
^^ psh that's crazy :o
Also anyone see today NYCFC announced they aren't starting an academy team, they are starting an academy league... they maybe promising sith lord apprentices, but if NYCFC throws money at that they way MC throws money at everything, then it is heck of a step forward for developing the next generations
Speaking of Keita or whatever his name is, I'd love to see the Armada sign Nate Sturgis and Eddie Johnson (local guys) from the MLS when their careers start to wane. Eddie is about to turn 31, so he shouldn't be too far off.
Eddie was the best local player I ever watched or played against by a good margin. Not surprised he went on to have a great career.
^^Couldn't agree more about Eddie, you could always see he had the talent.
Chelsea FC have just released some renderings of their proposed new stadium. The architect says, "It's beyond beauty or ugliness". Based on the (few) pics, it looks gorgeous.
http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/architecture-design-blog/2015/jul/03/chelseas-new-stadium-inspired-medieval-village-beyond-ugliness-roman-abramovich (http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/architecture-design-blog/2015/jul/03/chelseas-new-stadium-inspired-medieval-village-beyond-ugliness-roman-abramovich)
Now that the Armada are pretty well established, I wonder what the thoughts are of the poster who was skeptical of their success? It sounds to me like they've done a pretty great job so far in terms of finding support from the community and using the baseball grounds for all it's worth.
Quote from: Tacachale on August 10, 2015, 05:10:12 PM
Now that the Armada are pretty well established, I wonder what the thoughts are of the poster who was skeptical of their success? It sounds to me like they've done a pretty great job so far in terms of finding support from the community and using the baseball grounds for all it's worth.
Were people skeptical? I guess it makes sense - Jax has had its fair share of sports franchises over the years that have struggled.
It seemed to me at the time that the Armada was probably the perfect fit for Jax - as the city had already demonstrated an apetite for soccer. Of course, they're currently sitting at the bottom of the table. I hope they can win more games next season - I'd imagine it's hard enough to establish a any new soccer franchise in a city, much less a losing one.
Quote from: Adam White on August 10, 2015, 05:25:30 PM
Quote from: Tacachale on August 10, 2015, 05:10:12 PM
Now that the Armada are pretty well established, I wonder what the thoughts are of the poster who was skeptical of their success? It sounds to me like they've done a pretty great job so far in terms of finding support from the community and using the baseball grounds for all it's worth.
Were people skeptical? I guess it makes sense - Jax has had its fair share of sports franchises over the years that have struggled.
It seemed to me at the time that the Armada was probably the perfect fit for Jax - as the city had already demonstrated an apetite for soccer. Of course, they're currently sitting at the bottom of the table. I hope they can win more games next season - I'd imagine it's hard enough to establish a any new soccer franchise in a city, much less a losing one.
There was one poster here who was skeptical about how they were proceeding (and who seems pretty knowledgeable about soccer); I don't think that was the general sentiment. In my view the Armada seem to have been very successful in attracting fans and establishing themselves around town, which is all the more impressive considering they haven't played all that well.
Quote from: Tacachale on August 10, 2015, 05:29:39 PM
Quote from: Adam White on August 10, 2015, 05:25:30 PM
Quote from: Tacachale on August 10, 2015, 05:10:12 PM
Now that the Armada are pretty well established, I wonder what the thoughts are of the poster who was skeptical of their success? It sounds to me like they've done a pretty great job so far in terms of finding support from the community and using the baseball grounds for all it's worth.
Were people skeptical? I guess it makes sense - Jax has had its fair share of sports franchises over the years that have struggled.
It seemed to me at the time that the Armada was probably the perfect fit for Jax - as the city had already demonstrated an apetite for soccer. Of course, they're currently sitting at the bottom of the table. I hope they can win more games next season - I'd imagine it's hard enough to establish a any new soccer franchise in a city, much less a losing one.
There was one poster here who was skeptical about how they were proceeding (and who seems pretty knowledgeable about soccer); I don't think that was the general sentiment. In my view the Armada seem to have been very successful in attracting fans and establishing themselves around town, which is all the more impressive considering they haven't played all that well.
I'm really happy they've done well. People will be naysayers - and no one can really predict what's going to happen. But Jax has shown that it's got a decent number of people who will attend a soccer game and with a metro population of over a million people, it's not that big of a stretch to think a second-tier soccer team could manage a few thousand people a match.
I just saw this online and can't decide if it's hilarious, tragic or just embarassing. Or maybe all three.
http://www.itv.com/news/2015-08-10/brawl-breaks-out-in-us-city-in-scene-reminiscent-of-british-style-football-holliganism/?ref=yfp (http://www.itv.com/news/2015-08-10/brawl-breaks-out-in-us-city-in-scene-reminiscent-of-british-style-football-holliganism/?ref=yfp)
Men shouting in faux-English accents have clashed in a street brawl in Newark, New Jersey in the US, in scenes reminiscent of British football hooliganism.
I guess soccer has now made it in the US?
proper fans.
If you look closely, you might catch a fleeting glimpse of Frodo Baggins.
Quote from: Tacachale on August 10, 2015, 05:10:12 PM
Now that the Armada are pretty well established, I wonder what the thoughts are of the poster who was skeptical of their success? It sounds to me like they've done a pretty great job so far in terms of finding support from the community and using the baseball grounds for all it's worth.
1. I watched every game and attended several. I've wanted a professional soccer team here for decades
2. My skepticism stems from having watched many, many start up clubs around this country for many, many years. I've seen what it takes to grow a club in this country, and I wasn't seeing what I'd hope for. I will say I think ownership is getting the message, and taking a much more grassroots approach now.
3. Success isn't firing the entire organization within a year. Not that I have a problem with it. A cleansing fire may be just what is needed.
4. If I'm wrong and the team packs out the stadium every night win lose or draw i'll gladly eat crow. I want to see Armada make it to the MLS. I want a shot at CONCACAF Champions league and dream of dreams, Club World Cup (where we thrash Bayern and Real! ;-D ) ... The chance for that is getting smaller and smaller as more and more cities get teams. Every year a new Orlando, Minnesota, Chattanooga, Sacramento, etc. pops up. We need to contend with them. If not, and we are in NASL for the long haul, we better hope for an MLS players union strike come next bargaining session because Tier 2 and no real TV deal, not gonna be easy...
5. Go Armada!!! (and Orlando till we make it to the big show)
Quote from: Gamblor on February 18, 2016, 01:40:07 AM
Quote from: Tacachale on August 10, 2015, 05:10:12 PM
Now that the Armada are pretty well established, I wonder what the thoughts are of the poster who was skeptical of their success? It sounds to me like they've done a pretty great job so far in terms of finding support from the community and using the baseball grounds for all it's worth.
1. I watched every game and attended several. I've wanted a professional soccer team here for decades
2. My skepticism stems from having watched many, many start up clubs around this country for many, many years. I've seen what it takes to grow a club in this country, and I wasn't seeing what I'd hope for. I will say I think ownership is getting the message, and taking a much more grassroots approach now.
3. Success isn't firing the entire organization within a year. Not that I have a problem with it. A cleansing fire may be just what is needed.
4. If I'm wrong and the team packs out the stadium every night win lose or draw i'll gladly eat crow. I want to see Armada make it to the MLS. I want a shot at CONCACAF Champions league and dream of dreams, Club World Cup (where we thrash Bayern and Real! ;-D ) ... The chance for that is getting smaller and smaller as more and more cities get teams. Every year a new Orlando, Minnesota, Chattanooga, Sacramento, etc. pops up. We need to contend with them. If not, and we are in NASL for the long haul, we better hope for an MLS players union strike come next bargaining session because Tier 2 and no real TV deal, not gonna be easy...
5. Go Armada!!! (and Orlando till we make it to the big show)
You actually sound quite optimistic to me!
It would be nice to see Jacksonville eventually be awarded an MLS franchise - but we should probably get used to having an NASL team. There's probably a greater chance of an MLS team actually eventually playing in the Club World Cup (even if it's essentially a glorified friendly) - never mind being able to win against Bayern or Madrid - than there is of Jacksonville being given a franchise. That said, anything's possible.
I think I'm a bit more sceptical about the long-term health of the NASL, as soccer leagues don't tend to fare too well in the USA.
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 06:49:18 AM
There's probably a greater chance of an MLS team actually eventually playing in the Club World Cup (even if it's essentially a glorified friendly) - never mind being able to win against Bayern or Madrid - than there is of Jacksonville being given a franchise.
I think LA Galaxy played in the Club World Cup a few years ago. I don't think they did much and I'm not refuting your point, I just wanted to say that I believe an MLS team has already played in that competition.
Quote from: Ajax on February 18, 2016, 08:08:13 AM
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 06:49:18 AM
There's probably a greater chance of an MLS team actually eventually playing in the Club World Cup (even if it's essentially a glorified friendly) - never mind being able to win against Bayern or Madrid - than there is of Jacksonville being given a franchise.
I think LA Galaxy played in the Club World Cup a few years ago. I don't think they did much and I'm not refuting your point, I just wanted to say that I believe an MLS team has already played in that competition.
I think you're incorrect. They
were invited to play in the 2001 FIFA Club World Championship, but it was cancelled ;D
The competition was relaunched in 2005 after it was merged with the Intercontinental Cup. No MLS team has every played in either competition. In fact, all but one of the CONCACAF representatives to play in the competitions have been from Mexico.
I saw something the other day where someone compared attendance figures from 2nd divisions across the world. I believe NASL was comparable to 2nd divisions in France, Spain and Italy when it comes to attendance. England and Germany blow everyone away. Of course all of those leagues have promotion and relegation so this isn't even close to being an apples to apples comparison. I'll see if I can find it and post it here later.
When you compare where NASL is today to where MLS was when they were in their 5th or 6th year, NASL doesn't look bad. But I'll admit I'd really love to see NASL succeed since I like their business model better than MLS. I get sick of MLS's discovery rules and drafts and their other peculiarities. But it's always going to be hard to be a 2nd division in the US without at least a modest TV contract. If NASL can move into markets that the MLS can't or won't touch (San Diego, Baltimore, San Francisco, etc.) then there's a chance to grow their national footprint and grow the game.
I also wish that the US Open Cup was a bigger deal and had a TV contract. I love seeing the smaller teams from other leagues play alongside the big boys in MLS, just like I enjoy seeing the minnows compete in the FA Cup.
Funny coincidence - I have just been reminded by Facebook that it was 2 years ago today that the Armada name, etc was unveiled:
http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2014-02-18/story/citys-pro-soccer-team-now-jacksonville-armada-fc-reflecting-navy-ties (http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2014-02-18/story/citys-pro-soccer-team-now-jacksonville-armada-fc-reflecting-navy-ties)
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 08:14:39 AM
Quote from: Ajax on February 18, 2016, 08:08:13 AM
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 06:49:18 AM
There's probably a greater chance of an MLS team actually eventually playing in the Club World Cup (even if it's essentially a glorified friendly) - never mind being able to win against Bayern or Madrid - than there is of Jacksonville being given a franchise.
I think LA Galaxy played in the Club World Cup a few years ago. I don't think they did much and I'm not refuting your point, I just wanted to say that I believe an MLS team has already played in that competition.
I think you're incorrect. They were invited to play in the 2001 FIFA Club World Championship, but it was cancelled ;D
The competition was relaunched in 2005 after it was merged with the Intercontinental Cup. No MLS team has every played in either competition. In fact, all but one of the CONCACAF representatives to play in the competitions have been from Mexico.
Ok thanks - maybe that's what I'm remembering. I should have looked it up before I opened my big mouth so thanks for straightening that out. :)
Quote from: Ajax on February 18, 2016, 08:18:46 AM
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 08:14:39 AM
Quote from: Ajax on February 18, 2016, 08:08:13 AM
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 06:49:18 AM
There's probably a greater chance of an MLS team actually eventually playing in the Club World Cup (even if it's essentially a glorified friendly) - never mind being able to win against Bayern or Madrid - than there is of Jacksonville being given a franchise.
I think LA Galaxy played in the Club World Cup a few years ago. I don't think they did much and I'm not refuting your point, I just wanted to say that I believe an MLS team has already played in that competition.
I think you're incorrect. They were invited to play in the 2001 FIFA Club World Championship, but it was cancelled ;D
The competition was relaunched in 2005 after it was merged with the Intercontinental Cup. No MLS team has every played in either competition. In fact, all but one of the CONCACAF representatives to play in the competitions have been from Mexico.
Ok thanks - maybe that's what I'm remembering. I should have looked it up before I opened my big mouth so thanks for straightening that out. :)
I totally double-checked my memory before I posted that. I had no recollection of an MLS team. But it's not like I watch the competition regularly or anything.
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 06:49:18 AM
I think I'm a bit more sceptical about the long-term health of the NASL, as soccer leagues don't tend to fare too well in the USA.
I'm very skeptical of the health of any league without a TV deal... and a second tier league in America, ya that worries me.
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 08:40:53 AM
Quote from: Ajax on February 18, 2016, 08:18:46 AM
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 08:14:39 AM
Quote from: Ajax on February 18, 2016, 08:08:13 AM
Quote from: Adam White on February 18, 2016, 06:49:18 AM
There's probably a greater chance of an MLS team actually eventually playing in the Club World Cup (even if it's essentially a glorified friendly) - never mind being able to win against Bayern or Madrid - than there is of Jacksonville being given a franchise.
I think LA Galaxy played in the Club World Cup a few years ago. I don't think they did much and I'm not refuting your point, I just wanted to say that I believe an MLS team has already played in that competition.
I think you're incorrect. They were invited to play in the 2001 FIFA Club World Championship, but it was cancelled ;D
The competition was relaunched in 2005 after it was merged with the Intercontinental Cup. No MLS team has every played in either competition. In fact, all but one of the CONCACAF representatives to play in the competitions have been from Mexico.
Ok thanks - maybe that's what I'm remembering. I should have looked it up before I opened my big mouth so thanks for straightening that out. :)
I totally double-checked my memory before I posted that. I had no recollection of an MLS team. But it's not like I watch the competition regularly or anything.
No MLS team has won CONCACAF champions league. Montreal put up a heck of fight last year for it, but the cup has yet to leave Liga MX if my memory serves me correct (so therefore no MLS team has been in Club World Cup)
Quote from: Gamblor on February 18, 2016, 01:40:07 AM
Quote from: Tacachale on August 10, 2015, 05:10:12 PM
Now that the Armada are pretty well established, I wonder what the thoughts are of the poster who was skeptical of their success? It sounds to me like they've done a pretty great job so far in terms of finding support from the community and using the baseball grounds for all it's worth.
1. I watched every game and attended several. I've wanted a professional soccer team here for decades
2. My skepticism stems from having watched many, many start up clubs around this country for many, many years. I've seen what it takes to grow a club in this country, and I wasn't seeing what I'd hope for. I will say I think ownership is getting the message, and taking a much more grassroots approach now.
3. Success isn't firing the entire organization within a year. Not that I have a problem with it. A cleansing fire may be just what is needed.
4. If I'm wrong and the team packs out the stadium every night win lose or draw i'll gladly eat crow. I want to see Armada make it to the MLS. I want a shot at CONCACAF Champions league and dream of dreams, Club World Cup (where we thrash Bayern and Real! ;-D ) ... The chance for that is getting smaller and smaller as more and more cities get teams. Every year a new Orlando, Minnesota, Chattanooga, Sacramento, etc. pops up. We need to contend with them. If not, and we are in NASL for the long haul, we better hope for an MLS players union strike come next bargaining session because Tier 2 and no real TV deal, not gonna be easy...
5. Go Armada!!! (and Orlando till we make it to the big show)
As I said at the other thread, the Armada were definitely a success in terms of attendance, and in their general presence around town. Clearly they weren't successful on the field. But they had one of the highest attendances of all lower level teams and they've been all over the place since they were announced, so they're doing something right.
One thing I appreciate about them is they aren't playing the "MLS in a few years" game. Every semi-successful soccer team in large or mid-sized cities has been doing that, and it's just not going to happen for them all. It'll probably happen for Minneapolis, Sacramento and San Antonio. But MLS will eventually cap out, and on top of taking teams with proven track records, they've also been committing slots to big sexy cities regardless of the track record. Miami, Atlanta, second teams in New York and LA, and probably more in the next couple of years. All that is going to make it all the harder for owners in the smaller cities to get in.
There's clearly a market for second-tier soccer in the US now and the Armada are case in point, whether the NASL makes it or not. Their real long-term problem is stability, in that they keep losing their top teams to MLS or to the promise/threat of MLS. But I can imagine the Armada and other of the more successful teams surviving whatever happens with the leagues.
Quote from: Tacachale on February 18, 2016, 01:55:12 PM
Quote from: Gamblor on February 18, 2016, 01:40:07 AM
Quote from: Tacachale on August 10, 2015, 05:10:12 PM
Now that the Armada are pretty well established, I wonder what the thoughts are of the poster who was skeptical of their success? It sounds to me like they've done a pretty great job so far in terms of finding support from the community and using the baseball grounds for all it's worth.
1. I watched every game and attended several. I've wanted a professional soccer team here for decades
2. My skepticism stems from having watched many, many start up clubs around this country for many, many years. I've seen what it takes to grow a club in this country, and I wasn't seeing what I'd hope for. I will say I think ownership is getting the message, and taking a much more grassroots approach now.
3. Success isn't firing the entire organization within a year. Not that I have a problem with it. A cleansing fire may be just what is needed.
4. If I'm wrong and the team packs out the stadium every night win lose or draw i'll gladly eat crow. I want to see Armada make it to the MLS. I want a shot at CONCACAF Champions league and dream of dreams, Club World Cup (where we thrash Bayern and Real! ;-D ) ... The chance for that is getting smaller and smaller as more and more cities get teams. Every year a new Orlando, Minnesota, Chattanooga, Sacramento, etc. pops up. We need to contend with them. If not, and we are in NASL for the long haul, we better hope for an MLS players union strike come next bargaining session because Tier 2 and no real TV deal, not gonna be easy...
5. Go Armada!!! (and Orlando till we make it to the big show)
As I said at the other thread, the Armada were definitely a success in terms of attendance, and in their general presence around town. Clearly they weren't successful on the field. But they had one of the highest attendances of all lower level teams and they've been all over the place since they were announced, so they're doing something right.
One thing I appreciate about them is they aren't playing the "MLS in a few years" game. Every semi-successful soccer team in large or mid-sized cities has been doing that, and it's just not going to happen for them all. It'll probably happen for Minneapolis, Sacramento and San Antonio. But MLS will eventually cap out, and on top of taking teams with proven track records, they've also been committing slots to big sexy cities regardless of the track record. Miami, Atlanta, second teams in New York and LA, and probably more in the next couple of years. All that is going to make it all the harder for owners in the smaller cities to get in.
There's clearly a market for second-tier soccer in the US now and the Armada are case in point, whether the NASL makes it or not. Their real long-term problem is stability, in that they keep losing their top teams to MLS or to the promise/threat of MLS. But I can imagine the Armada and other of the more successful teams surviving whatever happens with the leagues.
Minneapolis/Minnesota got their MLS card punched already. With the corporations there, MLS wanted in. Sacramento and San Antonio would be the cases I would tell you defy the sexy city argument, and which we could follow. Not that I disagree, MLS does want sexy markets, they go a long way in TV deal negotiations, but smaller markets that hit the marks can make it too.Yes MLS will cap out to some degree at some point. But if Armada had the right plan that fits MLS 3.0 (Unique stadium downtown, neighborhood redevelopment maybe required too by the work groups like Sacramento, Austin are trying to do to get in), the right investor group (Khan? Lamar Hunt rule bans owners from owning teams in every other sports league but MLS...it would go nicely with what seems to be his plans for making the area more active year round as well), and get the fan base out of the 6-7k a game to the 10-12 range, we would get heavy consideration. I would also argue that investments like the new amphitheater and transforming urban neighborhoods like Brooklyn and the District across the river could give this city a "sexier" vibe, and getting an MLS team in that mix would go nicely.
Here's a pretty funny SB Nation vid about soccer snobs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA90TnJVxww
Quote from: I-10east on March 07, 2016, 12:21:54 AM
Here's a pretty funny SB Nation vid about soccer snobs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA90TnJVxww
That's funny.
There is something kind of irritating about American soccer fans. It seems they try too hard to mimic foreign soccer fans. If I have to read another blog or forum post about how well the "lads" played, I'm going to puke. One gets the impression that a lot of American soccer fans are the kinds of guys who would be really into anime or record collecting if they weren't into soccer. Actually, my friend Ricky is into all three. But they're so obsessive and take it way too seriously.
And don't get me started on the people who go to "pubs" and actually sing songs at the television and make banners or signs and stuff. And have 'banter' with fans of other teams. "The multi-billionaire owner of the team you randomly chose to support has marginally more money than the multi-billionaire owner of the team I randomly chose to support".
I know a guy who loves Barcelona. He once told me he "bleeds blue and red". He's never been to Spain.
Reminds me of when I first moved to the UK. I was working at St Pancras station and it was a Saturday. I think Sheffield United or Derby (or Nottingham Forest - I can't quite recall) were going to be playing one of the London clubs, so we were dealing with lots of traveling fans (helping them with their onward journey once they arrived, etc). I saw a skinny, white, indie-looking kid over by the taxi rank looking a bit lost. I asked him if he was down for the football and if he needed assistance. He looked at me incredulously and said, " Do I look like I like football?" He was offended! I told him that football fans in my home town look just like him. I'm not sure he bought it.
And don't get me started on people referring to it as, "The beautiful game".
^Or "football" ;)
Welcome back to JAX, USMNT! This game will actually mean something so I hope the turnout is there.
http://jacksonville.com/sports/other-sports/2016-03-28/story/key-us-team-world-cup-soccer-qualifying-match-heading
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on March 29, 2016, 08:49:47 AM
Welcome back to JAX, USMNT! This game will actually mean something so I hope the turnout is there.
http://jacksonville.com/sports/other-sports/2016-03-28/story/key-us-team-world-cup-soccer-qualifying-match-heading
Seeing as that we showed out last time they played here, I expect this game, especially if it's a must win to advance, to be a new record breaker!
Quote from: johnnyliar on March 29, 2016, 09:21:31 AM
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on March 29, 2016, 08:49:47 AM
Welcome back to JAX, USMNT! This game will actually mean something so I hope the turnout is there.
http://jacksonville.com/sports/other-sports/2016-03-28/story/key-us-team-world-cup-soccer-qualifying-match-heading
Seeing as that we showed out last time they played here, I expect this game, especially if it's a must win to advance, to be a new record breaker!
Normally, I wouldn't have thought this was that big a match (Trinidad?), but after that performance in Guatemala, it could be quite exciting.
Nice! Also, I hope we shape up in this qualifying round. Losing to Guatemala is not a good sign.
Columbus folks staying away from today's match because of ticket prices. Hopefully, the Federation has learned a lesson.
Assumed this was the best thread to post this.
Saw it this morning and it paints a grim picture of Khan's Fulham squad.
http://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/mar/28/fulham-shahid-khan-league-one-championship
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 12:51:38 PM
Assumed this was the best thread to post this.
Saw it this morning and it paints a grim picture of Khan's Fulham squad.
http://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/mar/28/fulham-shahid-khan-league-one-championship
"Fulham have looked particularly jittery at Craven Cottage, where they have lost half their league games this season
and the atmosphere verges on hostile."
So, on the upside, they're finally developing an atmosphere at Craven Cottage.
It's astonishing how fast and how far FFC have fallen. One day, in the PL; then, possibly in League One, next season? Yikes.
Quote from: TimmyB on March 29, 2016, 01:15:52 PM
It's astonishing how fast and how far FFC have fallen. One day, in the PL; then, possibly in League One, next season? Yikes.
It's the curse of Michael Jackson. They removed his statue and he's having his revenge.
Khan has been a terrible owner on both sides of the pond. Financially he is making some serious bank with the Jags because the league prints it's own money. But the team has been horrendous since he purchased the team 5 years ago.
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 01:33:22 PM
Khan has been a terrible owner on both sides of the pond. Financially he is making some serious bank with the Jags because the league prints it's own money. But the team has been horrendous since he purchased the team 5 years ago.
The Jags were pretty horrendous before Khan too.
Quote from: Tacachale on March 29, 2016, 01:56:27 PM
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 01:33:22 PM
Khan has been a terrible owner on both sides of the pond. Financially he is making some serious bank with the Jags because the league prints it's own money. But the team has been horrendous since he purchased the team 5 years ago.
The Jags were pretty horrendous before Khan too.
Maybe the ghost of Michael Jackson just hates football.
Quote from: Tacachale on March 29, 2016, 01:56:27 PM
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 01:33:22 PM
Khan has been a terrible owner on both sides of the pond. Financially he is making some serious bank with the Jags because the league prints it's own money. But the team has been horrendous since he purchased the team 5 years ago.
The Jags were pretty horrendous before Khan too.
Not really. The year he bought them they were 5-11, which is the best record they have had under Khan. The years before that they won 7 and 8 games. They wish they could win that many now.
They have won 14 games in the four seasons he has owned the team. That is historically bad.
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 02:24:40 PM
Quote from: Tacachale on March 29, 2016, 01:56:27 PM
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 01:33:22 PM
Khan has been a terrible owner on both sides of the pond. Financially he is making some serious bank with the Jags because the league prints it's own money. But the team has been horrendous since he purchased the team 5 years ago.
The Jags were pretty horrendous before Khan too.
Not really. The year he bought them they were 5-11, which is the best record they have had under Khan. The years before that they won 7 and 8 games. They wish they could win that many now.
They have won 14 games in the four seasons he has owned the team. That is historically bad.
They were very obviously on a precipitous downward spiral when he bought the team. 2011 was the year the team summarily fired Garrard the week before the season started, and replaced him with Luke McCown and then a thoroughly unprepared Blaine Gabbert, a historic draft bust. Also, they fired Del Rio in the middle of the season. Not shocking that the team was even worse the next year.
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 02:24:40 PM
Quote from: Tacachale on March 29, 2016, 01:56:27 PM
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 01:33:22 PM
Khan has been a terrible owner on both sides of the pond. Financially he is making some serious bank with the Jags because the league prints it's own money. But the team has been horrendous since he purchased the team 5 years ago.
The Jags were pretty horrendous before Khan too.
Not really. The year he bought them they were 5-11, which is the best record they have had under Khan. The years before that they won 7 and 8 games. They wish they could win that many now.
They have won 14 games in the four seasons he has owned the team. That is historically bad.
No sense in debating this...we will all find out how the next decade turns out...but there are many fans who feel far more confidence in the current roster than we did three years ago. Despite the not-as-historically-bad previous seasons.
I have no qualms about Khan's leadership and action (or lack of) on the football-side of things thus far. We will see what happens soon...
Quote from: pierre on March 29, 2016, 01:33:22 PM
Khan has been a terrible owner on both sides of the pond. Financially he is making some serious bank with the Jags because the league prints it's own money. But the team has been horrendous since he purchased the team 5 years ago.
The article does not really paint him as a bad owner though. Fairly unlucky, yes, but very proactive and engaged in providing the resources to turn the team around.
^^^^^Only in the South would a thread dedicated to "football" gets hijacked by fútbol americano...not a complaint per se, just a curious observation.
I was also curious given soccer in North America doesn't have relegation if there was any consideration of having a modified FA Cup in the US and Canada open to top flight USL, NASL, Canada, and maybe some college programs competing along MLS teams? I know MLS does something like that with Mexico and Central America clubs but I'd be somewhat intrigued how some of these smaller clubs could do.
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on March 29, 2016, 03:45:41 PM
^^^^^Only in the South would a thread dedicated to "football" gets hijacked by fútbol americano...not a complaint per se, just a curious observation.
I was also curious given soccer in North America doesn't have relegation if there was any consideration of having a modified FA Cup in the US and Canada open to top flight USL, NASL, Canada, and maybe some college programs competing along MLS teams? I know MLS does something like that with Mexico and Central America clubs but I'd be somewhat intrigued how some of these smaller clubs could do.
The closest is probably the US Open Cup, aka the Lamar Hunt Cup. It's open to clubs in the US but I don't think Canada. At any rate, since MLS started MLS teams have almost always won.
Quote from: Adam White on March 29, 2016, 01:32:00 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on March 29, 2016, 01:15:52 PM
It's astonishing how fast and how far FFC have fallen. One day, in the PL; then, possibly in League One, next season? Yikes.
It's the curse of Michael Jackson. They removed his statue and he's having his revenge.
Sadly, they'd probably still give my United more than they could handle, this year... <<sigh>>
Quote from: TimmyB on March 29, 2016, 01:15:52 PM
It's astonishing how fast and how far FFC have fallen. One day, in the PL; then, possibly in League One, next season? Yikes.
Charlton has done it and Bolton may be going down with them.
Quote from: fsquid on March 30, 2016, 12:54:00 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on March 29, 2016, 01:15:52 PM
It's astonishing how fast and how far FFC have fallen. One day, in the PL; then, possibly in League One, next season? Yikes.
Charlton has done it and Bolton may be going down with them.
There are many similar tales, though I think Portsmouth's is even sadder: from winning the FA cup to playing in League 2 within 5 years.
Charlton and Fulham haven't ever won anything, really. Well, I think Charlton did win the FA cup a long time ago. It's actually a surprise Fulham was able to stay up as long as they were. But I certainly didn't expect them to be facing possible relegation so soon.
Leeds are another sad story. And perhaps Villa's inevitable relegation to the Championship is the saddest story of all.
you guys have any particular teams to root for in the upcoming euro 2016 (http://www.dafabetsports.com/en/)? My top 3 are the following:
1. Germany
2. France
3. England
Quote from: janesill on May 17, 2016, 10:25:18 PM
you guys have any particular teams to root for in the upcoming euro 2016 (http://www.dafabetsports.com/en/)? My top 3 are the following:
1. Germany
2. France
3. England
I'll be supporting Ireland, as I always do. But it's not expected they will make it out of the group stage. I hope England do well, though.
Since the Netherlands imploded I'll just pull for some underdogs... :'(
1. Wales
2. Iceland
3. Poland
After they're all eliminated...I'll be interested to see if Belgium can play well together, and Germany is always fun to watch. I think France won't be able to handle the pressure of playing in front of the home fans, so I'll go waaaaaay out on a limb and predict that Germany wins it all. :)
To be honest, I can't really decide who I think will win the whole thing. Germany seem the strongest, but they hardly set the world alight during qualifying (they lost and drew to the lowly Irish, for example).
I think Group B is interesting in that it contains two British teams. It's a shame (somewhat) that Scotland didn't qualify, as it would be great to see all the so-called 'home nations' competing. If England bother turning up, I think they stand a chance. But their form in recent tournaments has been quite poor and until I see evidence to the contrary, I will expect them to just get out of the group and exit during the quarterfinals (on penalties, of course).
I'll be pulling for Croatia, simply because my son-in-law is of Croatian descent and I know about a lot of the players through talking with him. As for underdogs, I'll pull for England, especially if they play the new kids and not the old guard.
I'll watch all the Iceland matches. Should be fun to watch that minnow country. Germany is my favorite and I don't think England's back four will allow it to even get to the semis.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 18, 2016, 11:14:29 AM
I'll be pulling for Croatia, simply because my son-in-law is of Croatian descent and I know about a lot of the players through talking with him. As for underdogs, I'll pull for England, especially if they play the new kids and not the old guard.
Croatia has a good team. There are a lot of good players in the Balkan region.
Quote from: fsquid on May 18, 2016, 12:29:54 PM
I'll watch all the Iceland matches. Should be fun to watch that minnow country. Germany is my favorite and I don't think England's back four will allow it to even get to the semis.
Iceland could surprise someone. It will be interesting to see if Smalling tries to get away with the same tackling of people in the box for England that he does with MU. He should have given away 10 penalties this year, if the refs had done their job.
Quote from: fsquid on May 18, 2016, 12:29:54 PM
I'll watch all the Iceland matches. Should be fun to watch that minnow country. Germany is my favorite and I don't think England's back four will allow it to even get to the semis.
If Hodgson chooses (and starts) both Walker and Rose, England will be okay. Especially if he puts Dier in front of the back four.
^ You make it sound so easy but my experience watching and rooting for the Three Lions makes it very difficult to believe Roy will do the right thing. Need a real boss, not a caretaker
Quote from: Gamblor on May 18, 2016, 03:05:23 PM
^ You make it sound so easy but my experience watching and rooting for the Three Lions makes it very difficult to believe Roy will do the right thing. Need a real boss, not a caretaker
I'm no huge England supporter, but Roy's a good manager. I don't think it's fair to call him a caretaker. England won all their games in qualifying and yeah, they didn't have the toughest group (and they've done that - or close to it - before and still failed). But they looked good when Roy played the new look younger team in that friendly against Germany in March.
I doubt England will win it, but I'm a bit more optimistic for them this year.
Caretaker is the word he and the English FA have used repeatedly to describe his role/agenda (it is not necessarily a bad thing). His selections don't always make sense though. Taking Wilshire (and I'm an Arsenal fan) who played in 3 games all year and not the likes of Mark Noble who had an outstanding season leading the hammers makes no sense
Quote from: Gamblor on May 18, 2016, 05:04:32 PM
Caretaker is the word he and the English FA have used repeatedly to describe his role/agenda (it is not necessarily a bad thing). His selections don't always make sense though. Taking Wilshire (and I'm an Arsenal fan) who played in 3 games all year and not the likes of Mark Noble who had an outstanding season leading the hammers makes no sense
I've never heard him referred to as a caretaker, but I don't pay too much attention to be honest.
I wonder about some of his choices, though I sometimes think that might be due to FA meddling. Wilshere makes no sense - he's not that good anyway, regardless of his lack of playing time this year.
And he should've picked Defoe.
Totally agree about Defoe, I also think he should have brought Andy Carroll.
Don't overlook Rashford, guys. The kid is insanely composed for a teenager, and he can score goals for Manchester United, which is quite a statement, this year!
Quote from: TimmyB on May 18, 2016, 08:06:56 PM
Don't overlook Rashford, guys. The kid is insanely composed for a teenager, and he can score goals for Manchester United, which is quite a statement, this year!
He seems promising - I think he averaged about a goal every other match with United. He's young, though, and there just isn't enough evidence yet that he can sustain his form.
Remember how everybody claimed Harry Kane was a one season wonder after scoring
21 goals in the 2014-15 Premier League season?
Quote from: Adam White on May 19, 2016, 05:13:22 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 18, 2016, 08:06:56 PM
Don't overlook Rashford, guys. The kid is insanely composed for a teenager, and he can score goals for Manchester United, which is quite a statement, this year!
He seems promising - I think he averaged about a goal every other match with United. He's young, though, and there just isn't enough evidence yet that he can sustain his form.
Remember how everybody claimed Harry Kane was a one season wonder after scoring 21 goals in the 2014-15 Premier League season?
I realize he doesn't have the body of work; at his age, how could he? However, he is big, strong, fast, and relatively fearless. He is MILES ahead of Rooney, as a striker. The sad thing is, I'm sure Roy will keep Rooney, because he is <<gasp>> "our captain". Sorry, man, it's about results, and Rooney's days are (or should be) quite numbered, at least in the main striker role.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 19, 2016, 01:40:01 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 19, 2016, 05:13:22 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 18, 2016, 08:06:56 PM
Don't overlook Rashford, guys. The kid is insanely composed for a teenager, and he can score goals for Manchester United, which is quite a statement, this year!
He seems promising - I think he averaged about a goal every other match with United. He's young, though, and there just isn't enough evidence yet that he can sustain his form.
Remember how everybody claimed Harry Kane was a one season wonder after scoring 21 goals in the 2014-15 Premier League season?
I realize he doesn't have the body of work; at his age, how could he? However, he is big, strong, fast, and relatively fearless. He is MILES ahead of Rooney, as a striker. The sad thing is, I'm sure Roy will keep Rooney, because he is <<gasp>> "our captain". Sorry, man, it's about results, and Rooney's days are (or should be) quite numbered, at least in the main striker role.
I definitely think Rooney should stay home. As I said, Defoe is a better choice and I agree that Carroll might be worth a punt. Rooney is clearly past his prime. It's possible he will recover his form (or some of it), but I wouldn't risk taking him to France.
Hodgson would be better of playing different players - no matter who he plays, he'll be slated in the press if England don't win. And that's not likely to happen anyway. May as well make a go of it and try something different.
Quote from: Adam White on May 19, 2016, 02:34:14 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 19, 2016, 01:40:01 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 19, 2016, 05:13:22 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 18, 2016, 08:06:56 PM
Don't overlook Rashford, guys. The kid is insanely composed for a teenager, and he can score goals for Manchester United, which is quite a statement, this year!
He seems promising - I think he averaged about a goal every other match with United. He's young, though, and there just isn't enough evidence yet that he can sustain his form.
Remember how everybody claimed Harry Kane was a one season wonder after scoring 21 goals in the 2014-15 Premier League season?
I realize he doesn't have the body of work; at his age, how could he? However, he is big, strong, fast, and relatively fearless. He is MILES ahead of Rooney, as a striker. The sad thing is, I'm sure Roy will keep Rooney, because he is <<gasp>> "our captain". Sorry, man, it's about results, and Rooney's days are (or should be) quite numbered, at least in the main striker role.
I definitely think Rooney should stay home. As I said, Defoe is a better choice and I agree that Carroll might be worth a punt. Rooney is clearly past his prime. It's possible he will recover his form (or some of it), but I wouldn't risk taking him to France.
Hodgson would be better of playing different players - no matter who he plays, he'll be slated in the press if England don't win. And that's not likely to happen anyway. May as well make a go of it and try something different.
Umm Timmy, Rashford is a good prospect, but lets be honest, Rooney would be a way better striker if he still had legs. However, he doesn't, which is why I agree he should be left off the team. It can't happen though, he has been too big a piece of their core for years. Remember the kerfuffle over Landon being left off last US World Cup team? Imagine that but a million times worse. The UK media would make it into a story that never ends.
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 04:43:04 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 19, 2016, 02:34:14 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 19, 2016, 01:40:01 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 19, 2016, 05:13:22 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 18, 2016, 08:06:56 PM
Don't overlook Rashford, guys. The kid is insanely composed for a teenager, and he can score goals for Manchester United, which is quite a statement, this year!
He seems promising - I think he averaged about a goal every other match with United. He's young, though, and there just isn't enough evidence yet that he can sustain his form.
Remember how everybody claimed Harry Kane was a one season wonder after scoring 21 goals in the 2014-15 Premier League season?
I realize he doesn't have the body of work; at his age, how could he? However, he is big, strong, fast, and relatively fearless. He is MILES ahead of Rooney, as a striker. The sad thing is, I'm sure Roy will keep Rooney, because he is <<gasp>> "our captain". Sorry, man, it's about results, and Rooney's days are (or should be) quite numbered, at least in the main striker role.
I definitely think Rooney should stay home. As I said, Defoe is a better choice and I agree that Carroll might be worth a punt. Rooney is clearly past his prime. It's possible he will recover his form (or some of it), but I wouldn't risk taking him to France.
Hodgson would be better of playing different players - no matter who he plays, he'll be slated in the press if England don't win. And that's not likely to happen anyway. May as well make a go of it and try something different.
Umm Timmy, Rashford is a good prospect, but lets be honest, Rooney would be a way better striker if he still had legs. However, he doesn't, which is why I agree he should be left off the team. It can't happen though, he has been too big a piece of their core for years. Remember the kerfuffle over Landon being left off last US World Cup team? Imagine that but a million times worse. The UK media would make it into a story that never ends.
To be fair, if Rooney goes and is rubbish, the media will make a big deal about that. Roy can't win. The general opinion seems to be that he shouldn't go, though. At least that's what it seems like.
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 04:43:04 PM
Umm Timmy, Rashford is a good prospect, but lets be honest, Rooney would be a way better striker if he still had legs. However, he doesn't, which is why I agree he should be left off the team. It can't happen though, he has been too big a piece of their core for years. Remember the kerfuffle over Landon being left off last US World Cup team? Imagine that but a million times worse. The UK media would make it into a story that never ends.
And, I would be 1000 times better than Shaq, if I were two feet taller than the way God made me! ;D
Sorry, but being a die-hard United fan, I know just how far "past it" Rooney is. Any ball into the box will either be handled poorly by his lack of first touch, or never be touched at all, due to his lack of pace and lack of leaping ability. Those skills are gone and they aren't coming back. His ONLY possible salvation (to play at this level, anyway) is to move into the midfield, but there are just SO many attacking mids that are already so far ahead of where he MIGHT be.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 19, 2016, 08:03:56 PM
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 04:43:04 PM
Umm Timmy, Rashford is a good prospect, but lets be honest, Rooney would be a way better striker if he still had legs. However, he doesn't, which is why I agree he should be left off the team. It can't happen though, he has been too big a piece of their core for years. Remember the kerfuffle over Landon being left off last US World Cup team? Imagine that but a million times worse. The UK media would make it into a story that never ends.
And, I would be 1000 times better than Shaq, if I were two feet taller than the way God made me! ;D
Sorry, but being a die-hard United fan, I know just how far "past it" Rooney is. Any ball into the box will either be handled poorly by his lack of first touch, or never be touched at all, due to his lack of pace and lack of leaping ability. Those skills are gone and they aren't coming back. His ONLY possible salvation (to play at this level, anyway) is to move into the midfield, but there are just SO many attacking mids that are already so far ahead of where he MIGHT be.
Okay then, I get what this is for you United fan. You're just mad Wayne isn't giving you 30+ goal seasons anymore. Rashford is some sort of new hope, but he could still turn out to be a Walcott (Arsenal fan).... Call me when Rashford atleast comes close to 20 goals five years in a row and you can say he is better. Have fun on Thursday nights ;D
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 09:47:21 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 19, 2016, 08:03:56 PM
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 04:43:04 PM
Umm Timmy, Rashford is a good prospect, but lets be honest, Rooney would be a way better striker if he still had legs. However, he doesn't, which is why I agree he should be left off the team. It can't happen though, he has been too big a piece of their core for years. Remember the kerfuffle over Landon being left off last US World Cup team? Imagine that but a million times worse. The UK media would make it into a story that never ends.
And, I would be 1000 times better than Shaq, if I were two feet taller than the way God made me! ;D
Sorry, but being a die-hard United fan, I know just how far "past it" Rooney is. Any ball into the box will either be handled poorly by his lack of first touch, or never be touched at all, due to his lack of pace and lack of leaping ability. Those skills are gone and they aren't coming back. His ONLY possible salvation (to play at this level, anyway) is to move into the midfield, but there are just SO many attacking mids that are already so far ahead of where he MIGHT be.
Okay then, I get what this is for you United fan. You're just mad Wayne isn't giving you 30+ goal seasons anymore. Rashford is some sort of new hope, but he could still turn out to be a Walcott (Arsenal fan).... Call me when Rashford atleast comes close to 20 goals five years in a row and you can say he is better. Have fun on Thursday nights ;D
Mad? The only thing I'm mad about is that idiot who is running my club into the ground.
If you wait until Rashford (or ANY player) has 5-20 goal seasons, you have just wasted five years of your life waiting! Let's face it, England aren't that strong. It will hurt them not in the least to play their young kids right now.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 20, 2016, 07:25:11 AM
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 09:47:21 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 19, 2016, 08:03:56 PM
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 04:43:04 PM
Umm Timmy, Rashford is a good prospect, but lets be honest, Rooney would be a way better striker if he still had legs. However, he doesn't, which is why I agree he should be left off the team. It can't happen though, he has been too big a piece of their core for years. Remember the kerfuffle over Landon being left off last US World Cup team? Imagine that but a million times worse. The UK media would make it into a story that never ends.
And, I would be 1000 times better than Shaq, if I were two feet taller than the way God made me! ;D
Sorry, but being a die-hard United fan, I know just how far "past it" Rooney is. Any ball into the box will either be handled poorly by his lack of first touch, or never be touched at all, due to his lack of pace and lack of leaping ability. Those skills are gone and they aren't coming back. His ONLY possible salvation (to play at this level, anyway) is to move into the midfield, but there are just SO many attacking mids that are already so far ahead of where he MIGHT be.
Okay then, I get what this is for you United fan. You're just mad Wayne isn't giving you 30+ goal seasons anymore. Rashford is some sort of new hope, but he could still turn out to be a Walcott (Arsenal fan).... Call me when Rashford atleast comes close to 20 goals five years in a row and you can say he is better. Have fun on Thursday nights ;D
Mad? The only thing I'm mad about is that idiot who is running my club into the ground.
If you wait until Rashford (or ANY player) has 5-20 goal seasons, you have just wasted five years of your life waiting! Let's face it, England aren't that strong. It will hurt them not in the least to play their young kids right now.
The truth is, Rashford is lucky. If United spend a lot of money this summer and bring in more big names up front, he might find himself struggling to get starts or even out on loan.
Quote from: Adam White on May 20, 2016, 07:33:02 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 20, 2016, 07:25:11 AM
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 09:47:21 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 19, 2016, 08:03:56 PM
Quote from: Gamblor on May 19, 2016, 04:43:04 PM
Umm Timmy, Rashford is a good prospect, but lets be honest, Rooney would be a way better striker if he still had legs. However, he doesn't, which is why I agree he should be left off the team. It can't happen though, he has been too big a piece of their core for years. Remember the kerfuffle over Landon being left off last US World Cup team? Imagine that but a million times worse. The UK media would make it into a story that never ends.
And, I would be 1000 times better than Shaq, if I were two feet taller than the way God made me! ;D
Sorry, but being a die-hard United fan, I know just how far "past it" Rooney is. Any ball into the box will either be handled poorly by his lack of first touch, or never be touched at all, due to his lack of pace and lack of leaping ability. Those skills are gone and they aren't coming back. His ONLY possible salvation (to play at this level, anyway) is to move into the midfield, but there are just SO many attacking mids that are already so far ahead of where he MIGHT be.
Okay then, I get what this is for you United fan. You're just mad Wayne isn't giving you 30+ goal seasons anymore. Rashford is some sort of new hope, but he could still turn out to be a Walcott (Arsenal fan).... Call me when Rashford atleast comes close to 20 goals five years in a row and you can say he is better. Have fun on Thursday nights ;D
Mad? The only thing I'm mad about is that idiot who is running my club into the ground.
If you wait until Rashford (or ANY player) has 5-20 goal seasons, you have just wasted five years of your life waiting! Let's face it, England aren't that strong. It will hurt them not in the least to play their young kids right now.
The truth is, Rashford is lucky. If United spend a lot of money this summer and bring in more big names up front, he might find himself struggling to get starts or even out on loan.
No, I disagree with you on the "lucky" part. As for big names, who the heck is going to come (from that category) to United with this oaf in charge? He sold Hernandez, he misused ADM so badly that he left, he puts people out of position just to show them who's in charge,... No one of any headline material is coming. Would it be great if they did? Not really, because lvg will muck it up for them, just as has done for the others.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 20, 2016, 04:55:50 PM
No, I disagree with you on the "lucky" part. As for big names, who the heck is going to come (from that category) to United with this oaf in charge? He sold Hernandez, he misused ADM so badly that he left, he puts people out of position just to show them who's in charge,... No one of any headline material is coming. Would it be great if they did? Not really, because lvg will muck it up for them, just as has done for the others.
Don't get me wrong - I'm not slating Rashford. I think he's really talented. But he's lucky, because if it weren't for injuries to other players (and poor summer transfer business), he wouldn't have had the chance to start and impress. He was a last-minute bench filler for the match against Midtjylland - and then Keane went out injured and Rashford got his chance. And scored twice. And the rest is history.
He was playing in the reserves just before that.
Quote from: Adam White on May 20, 2016, 05:07:28 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 20, 2016, 04:55:50 PM
No, I disagree with you on the "lucky" part. As for big names, who the heck is going to come (from that category) to United with this oaf in charge? He sold Hernandez, he misused ADM so badly that he left, he puts people out of position just to show them who's in charge,... No one of any headline material is coming. Would it be great if they did? Not really, because lvg will muck it up for them, just as has done for the others.
Don't get me wrong - I'm not slating Rashford. I think he's really talented. But he's lucky, because if it weren't for injuries to other players (and poor summer transfer business), he wouldn't have had the chance to start and impress. He was a last-minute bench filler for the match against Midtjylland - and then Keane went out injured and Rashford got his chance. And scored twice. And the rest is history.
He was playing in the reserves just before that.
OK, I see what you are saying, now! I thought you were referring to his abilities. You are spot-on about being in the right place at the right time. And, now that you mention it, who is Keane? :D
So... looks like all this talk of Rashford and the Euros might've been a bit premature.
Especially since it looks like no one from Man U will see much of the field in any case - Kane & Vardy keep scoring...
(For what its worth, I would have brought Walcott along for his speed and ability to play on the wing)
Quote from: bencrix on May 23, 2016, 11:09:37 AM
Especially since it looks like no one from Man U will see much of the field in any case - Kane & Vardy keep scoring...
(For what its worth, I would have brought Walcott along for his speed and ability to play on the wing)
If Rashford is injured and can't play, then that only leaves Rooney and Smalling. I reckon Smalling will start. Not sure about Rooney, though I bet he gets a start at some point if Woy bothers to bring him to France.
Apologies about forgetting Smalling. He had a great year and looks like a starter.
My main point was that I don't see either Rashford or Rooney playing much, given the competition at their positions.
That said, I don't have a problem with both being on the squad. One for the future, the other for experience in the locker room. They could also function as impact substitutes.
West Ham qualified for Europa League when Man U won the FA Cup on Saturday. West Ham is moving into Olympic Stadium in August. Huge step for West Ham.
Quote from: bencrix on May 23, 2016, 11:49:16 AM
Apologies about forgetting Smalling. He had a great year and looks like a starter.
My main point was that I don't see either Rashford or Rooney playing much, given the competition at their positions.
That said, I don't have a problem with both being on the squad. One for the future, the other for experience in the locker room. They could also function as impact substitutes.
Ben, you haven't been watching United this year if you think Smalling has been great. He has been dreadful, and should have seen about 10 red cards. It finally caught up to him on Saturday, when he was given one. He panics in possession, and tackles people, American football style. If he is the best England can do for a CB, God save more than the Queen.
QuoteBen, you haven't been watching United this year if you think Smalling has been great.
I'll admit Man U is one of my least favorite teams to watch, so I'll defer to your opinion other than to say that he's still young, started a lot of games for them alongside a converted midfielder and Man U ended up with a pretty good team defensive record. Who do you think England's two best CBs are? Cahil & Stones are the only other choices at this stage, right?
QuoteHuge step for West Ham.
They do seem to be going places.
As a Tottenham follower I know that is supposed to annoy me, but I'm an American w/o connection to the tribal elements. I'm glad in the end that Tottenham was shut out of Olympic Stadium and is now redeveloping in their own neighborhood. Its the kind of nuanced project that would no doubt generate a lot of interest / debate on MJ.
Quote from: bencrix on May 23, 2016, 02:21:28 PM
QuoteBen, you haven't been watching United this year if you think Smalling has been great.
I'll admit Man U is one of my least favorite teams to watch, so I'll defer to your opinion other than to say that he's still young, started a lot of games for them alongside a converted midfielder and Man U ended up with a pretty good team defensive record. Who do you think England's two best CBs are? Cahil & Stones are the only other choices at this stage, right?
QuoteHuge step for West Ham.
They do seem to be going places.
As a Tottenham follower I know that is supposed to annoy me, but I'm an American w/o connection to the tribal elements. I'm glad in the end that Tottenham was shut out of Olympic Stadium and is now redeveloping in their own neighborhood. Its the kind of nuanced project that would no doubt generate a lot of interest / debate on MJ.
Yeah, the running joke for us is, we still need a strong CB in the next transfer window; who knew it was to play alongside Daley Blind??? ;D :-[
Quote from: bencrix on May 23, 2016, 02:21:28 PM
QuoteBen, you haven't been watching United this year if you think Smalling has been great.
I'll admit Man U is one of my least favorite teams to watch, so I'll defer to your opinion other than to say that he's still young, started a lot of games for them alongside a converted midfielder and Man U ended up with a pretty good team defensive record. Who do you think England's two best CBs are? Cahil & Stones are the only other choices at this stage, right?
QuoteHuge step for West Ham.
They do seem to be going places.
As a Tottenham follower I know that is supposed to annoy me, but I'm an American w/o connection to the tribal elements. I'm glad in the end that Tottenham was shut out of Olympic Stadium and is now redeveloping in their own neighborhood. Its the kind of nuanced project that would no doubt generate a lot of interest / debate on MJ.
Tottenham was the best team in the PL until April. I thought for sure that they were going to catch Leceister.
I've read a little about the development in that neighborhood. I'll be in London in October. I plan on spending some time in that area to see the stadium and the surrounding area up close.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 23, 2016, 05:06:50 PM
Quote from: bencrix on May 23, 2016, 02:21:28 PM
QuoteBen, you haven't been watching United this year if you think Smalling has been great.
I'll admit Man U is one of my least favorite teams to watch, so I'll defer to your opinion other than to say that he's still young, started a lot of games for them alongside a converted midfielder and Man U ended up with a pretty good team defensive record. Who do you think England's two best CBs are? Cahil & Stones are the only other choices at this stage, right?
QuoteHuge step for West Ham.
They do seem to be going places.
As a Tottenham follower I know that is supposed to annoy me, but I'm an American w/o connection to the tribal elements. I'm glad in the end that Tottenham was shut out of Olympic Stadium and is now redeveloping in their own neighborhood. Its the kind of nuanced project that would no doubt generate a lot of interest / debate on MJ.
Tottenham was the best team in the PL until April. I thought for sure that they were going to catch Leceister.
I've read a little about the development in that neighborhood. I'll be in London in October. I plan on spending some time in that area to see the stadium and the surrounding area up close.
Tottenham or Stratford?
Quote from: Adam White on May 23, 2016, 05:17:02 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 23, 2016, 05:06:50 PM
Quote from: bencrix on May 23, 2016, 02:21:28 PM
QuoteBen, you haven't been watching United this year if you think Smalling has been great.
I'll admit Man U is one of my least favorite teams to watch, so I'll defer to your opinion other than to say that he's still young, started a lot of games for them alongside a converted midfielder and Man U ended up with a pretty good team defensive record. Who do you think England's two best CBs are? Cahil & Stones are the only other choices at this stage, right?
QuoteHuge step for West Ham.
They do seem to be going places.
As a Tottenham follower I know that is supposed to annoy me, but I'm an American w/o connection to the tribal elements. I'm glad in the end that Tottenham was shut out of Olympic Stadium and is now redeveloping in their own neighborhood. Its the kind of nuanced project that would no doubt generate a lot of interest / debate on MJ.
Tottenham was the best team in the PL until April. I thought for sure that they were going to catch Leceister.
I've read a little about the development in that neighborhood. I'll be in London in October. I plan on spending some time in that area to see the stadium and the surrounding area up close.
Tottenham or Stratford?
Tottenham but I will spend time in Stratford as well. Stratford is in the middle of gentrification/millennialification. It is an interesting area. There are a lot of good small business ideas in London that could be re-configured to consumers in and around the core. I'm fascinated with stories from the Cereal Killer Cafe in that area.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 23, 2016, 05:39:07 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 23, 2016, 05:17:02 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 23, 2016, 05:06:50 PM
Quote from: bencrix on May 23, 2016, 02:21:28 PM
QuoteBen, you haven't been watching United this year if you think Smalling has been great.
I'll admit Man U is one of my least favorite teams to watch, so I'll defer to your opinion other than to say that he's still young, started a lot of games for them alongside a converted midfielder and Man U ended up with a pretty good team defensive record. Who do you think England's two best CBs are? Cahil & Stones are the only other choices at this stage, right?
QuoteHuge step for West Ham.
They do seem to be going places.
As a Tottenham follower I know that is supposed to annoy me, but I'm an American w/o connection to the tribal elements. I'm glad in the end that Tottenham was shut out of Olympic Stadium and is now redeveloping in their own neighborhood. Its the kind of nuanced project that would no doubt generate a lot of interest / debate on MJ.
Tottenham was the best team in the PL until April. I thought for sure that they were going to catch Leceister.
I've read a little about the development in that neighborhood. I'll be in London in October. I plan on spending some time in that area to see the stadium and the surrounding area up close.
Tottenham or Stratford?
Tottenham but I will spend time in Stratford as well. Stratford is in the middle of gentrification/millennialification. It is an interesting area. There are a lot of good small business ideas in London that could be re-configured to consumers in and around the core. I'm fascinated with stories from the Cereal Killer Cafe in that area.
There isn't much in Tottenham - and to be fair, it's a pretty rough area. Interesting enough, but not a whole lot to see. Stratford doesn't offer too much beyond the Olympic site (and the shopping centres), but there are parks and stuff, too. It's kind of neat to walk up the River Lea - you could actually walk from Stratford to Tottenham along that, if you wanted to spend the time. There are paths along the old canal towpaths and lots of parkland.
Cereal Killer Cafe is on Brick Lane in Bethnal Green - not really too close, but easy enough to get to (you can probably take the Central Line from Stratford and walk the remaining bit).
You are correct! Stratford is the Olympic site and new residences. I was referring to the neighborhoods close by. There are a lot of interesting buildings (West Ham, Bromley, and etc) once you walk behind the bus station.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 23, 2016, 06:26:59 PM
You are correct! Stratford is the Olympic site and new residences. I was referring to the neighborhoods close by. There are a lot of interesting buildings (West Ham, Bromley, and etc) once you walk behind the bus station.
There's a lot of housing, shops, etc in Stratford that pre-date the Olympic stuff - it's just a bit east of the Olympic site. I never really rated West Ham, Bow or any of those places. I guess they're kind of interesting to wander around, though. Lots of council estates and kebab shops, betting shops, chicken cottage, etc.
QuoteI've read a little about the development in that neighborhood. I'll be in London in October. I plan on spending some time in that area to see the stadium and the surrounding area up close.
Take some pics and post to MJ - would be a great article.
I'm fascinated about how these big stadium projects are occurring w/ more frequency in Europe and how they differ from how professional sports development occurs in the U.S.
From my naive perspective, it seems as though the "free-market" American system requires much more public subsidy w/ far less public benefit. The Tottenham project, for example, seems to involve far more private risk and investment in non-sports amenities. Would be interest to learn to what degree that is actually true / not true.
Quote from: bencrix on May 24, 2016, 08:42:18 AM
QuoteI've read a little about the development in that neighborhood. I'll be in London in October. I plan on spending some time in that area to see the stadium and the surrounding area up close.
Take some pics and post to MJ - would be a great article.
I'm fascinated about how these big stadium projects are occurring w/ more frequency in Europe and how they differ from how professional sports development occurs in the U.S.
From my naive perspective, it seems as though the "free-market" American system requires much more public subsidy w/ far less public benefit. The Tottenham project, for example, seems to involve far more private risk and investment in non-sports amenities. Would be interest to learn to what degree that is actually true / not true.
Which is an interesting contrast to the West Ham deal, where they get a stadium that was a) built with public money, b) converted into a football stadium with public money, c) maintained with public money and d) leased to them at below-market rates.
The Northumberland Development Project, by comparison, is currently to be funded exclusively with private monies (though I think Spurs have applied for regional growth funding).
They've not built too much yet - I think there are a few non-stadium things that have been completed (like a new Sainsbury's). The West Ham stadium is almost finished and I think they've even sold out all the season tickets.
Quote from: Adam White on May 24, 2016, 09:37:10 AM
Quote from: bencrix on May 24, 2016, 08:42:18 AM
QuoteI've read a little about the development in that neighborhood. I'll be in London in October. I plan on spending some time in that area to see the stadium and the surrounding area up close.
Take some pics and post to MJ - would be a great article.
I'm fascinated about how these big stadium projects are occurring w/ more frequency in Europe and how they differ from how professional sports development occurs in the U.S.
From my naive perspective, it seems as though the "free-market" American system requires much more public subsidy w/ far less public benefit. The Tottenham project, for example, seems to involve far more private risk and investment in non-sports amenities. Would be interest to learn to what degree that is actually true / not true.
Which is an interesting contrast to the West Ham deal, where they get a stadium that was a) built with public money, b) converted into a football stadium with public money, c) maintained with public money and d) leased to them at below-market rates.
The Northumberland Development Project, by comparison, is currently to be funded exclusively with private monies (though I think Spurs have applied for regional growth funding).
They've not built too much yet - I think there are a few non-stadium things that have been completed (like a new Sainsbury's). The West Ham stadium is almost finished and I think they've even sold out all the season tickets.
West Ham has sold out their season tickets for next season.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 24, 2016, 10:06:18 AM
West Ham has sold out their season tickets for next season.
Yeah, that's what I was saying. Though I was at Westfield a couple weeks ago and they seemed to still be doing a steady business at the ticket office. Don't know what that's all about...
Is financing of Chelsea's new stadium scheme more along the lines of Spurs or WHU? (Wish they could have pulled off that Battersea Power Station idea...)
Quote from: bencrix on May 24, 2016, 11:59:56 AM
Is financing of Chelsea's new stadium scheme more along the lines of Spurs or WHU? (Wish they could have pulled off that Battersea Power Station idea...)
I think Roman Abramovitch is paying for it.
Shoulda known. Good for them.
All this talk about Rashford...
With Mourinho and Zlatan apparently on their way, seems like the poor kid will need a new club soon!
Quote from: bencrix on May 25, 2016, 11:06:59 AM
All this talk about Rashford...
With Mourinho and Zlatan apparently on their way, seems like the poor kid will need a new club soon!
Disagree. Zlatan is a great person for Rash to learn from and to up his game with. I normally would not be so excited for a guy of his age to come in, but he is in great shape and would instantly make us an offensive threat, something we haven't been for a while, now.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 25, 2016, 11:13:01 AM
Quote from: bencrix on May 25, 2016, 11:06:59 AM
All this talk about Rashford...
With Mourinho and Zlatan apparently on their way, seems like the poor kid will need a new club soon!
Disagree. Zlatan is a great person for Rash to learn from and to up his game with. I normally would not be so excited for a guy of his age to come in, but he is in great shape and would instantly make us an offensive threat, something we haven't been for a while, now.
We don't even know if Zlatan will be able to adapt to the Premier League. He's kind of old, too. We'll see. It will be interesting to see what happens over the summer, as the transfer window will be seriously impacted by the Euros.
Adam White: Yeah. This is all fun speculation, I know.
TimmyB: Hopefully you are right, but see Lukaku under Mou at Chelsea. Mou doesn't have a good track record developing youth. Meanwhile, Zlatan doesn't have a good track record working with mere mortals.
Quote from: bencrix on May 25, 2016, 11:34:10 AM
Adam White: Yeah. This is all fun speculation, I know.
TimmyB: Hopefully you are right, but see Lukaku under Mou at Chelsea. Mou doesn't have a good track record developing youth. Meanwhile, Zlatan doesn't have a good track record working with mere mortals.
I'm still waiting for the news that United have appointed someone else to manage the team. That would be hilarious.
Quote from: Adam White on May 25, 2016, 11:37:18 AM
Quote from: bencrix on May 25, 2016, 11:34:10 AM
Adam White: Yeah. This is all fun speculation, I know.
TimmyB: Hopefully you are right, but see Lukaku under Mou at Chelsea. Mou doesn't have a good track record developing youth. Meanwhile, Zlatan doesn't have a good track record working with mere mortals.
I'm still waiting for the news that United have appointed someone else to manage the team. That would be hilarious.
Yep.
MUFC: "We'd like to introduce our new manager, Jose Mourinho!"
JM: "Ummmm... no thanks."
Quote from: TimmyB on May 25, 2016, 12:38:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 25, 2016, 11:37:18 AM
Quote from: bencrix on May 25, 2016, 11:34:10 AM
Adam White: Yeah. This is all fun speculation, I know.
TimmyB: Hopefully you are right, but see Lukaku under Mou at Chelsea. Mou doesn't have a good track record developing youth. Meanwhile, Zlatan doesn't have a good track record working with mere mortals.
I'm still waiting for the news that United have appointed someone else to manage the team. That would be hilarious.
Yep.
MUFC: "We'd like to introduce our new manager, Jose Mourinho!"
JM: "Ummmm... no thanks."
I'm just glad they didn't nab Poch.
QuoteI'm just glad they didn't nab Poch.
Yes! Poch's lunch w/ Sir Alex had Spurs supporters nervous.
I do, however, think that next season will be MUCH more challenging for Poch & Spurs than the previous two. I don't think the cavalier "we don't need a substitute striker; we don't need a defensive mid, I'll convert a spare defender" strategy will work twice (& w/ Champions League in the mix).
At least you didn't convert a DM to a CB!!!
As for Poch, if he performs the next two or three years like he has the past couple, Spurs won't be able to keep him.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 25, 2016, 01:31:07 PM
At least you didn't convert a DM to a CB!!!
As for Poch, if he performs the next two or three years like he has the past couple, Spurs won't be able to keep him.
If he keeps performing as he has, Spurs won't lose him because they'll have won the league (at the very least). He seems to do better year on year.
Quote from: Adam White on May 25, 2016, 02:05:24 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 25, 2016, 01:31:07 PM
At least you didn't convert a DM to a CB!!!
As for Poch, if he performs the next two or three years like he has the past couple, Spurs won't be able to keep him.
If he keeps performing as he has, Spurs won't lose him because they'll have won the league (at the very least). He seems to do better year on year.
I believe you and I are in agreement over his talents. What I am saying is, Spurs are never going to be able to compete with the big-money clubs. If he won the PL, and made a great showing in the CL, it won't be long before Chelsea, City, BM, RM, or even MU come calling. Their owner is a good businessman. He'll be made an offer he can't refuse.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 25, 2016, 02:11:09 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 25, 2016, 02:05:24 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 25, 2016, 01:31:07 PM
At least you didn't convert a DM to a CB!!!
As for Poch, if he performs the next two or three years like he has the past couple, Spurs won't be able to keep him.
If he keeps performing as he has, Spurs won't lose him because they'll have won the league (at the very least). He seems to do better year on year.
I believe you and I are in agreement over his talents. What I am saying is, Spurs are never going to be able to compete with the big-money clubs. If he won the PL, and made a great showing in the CL, it won't be long before Chelsea, City, BM, RM, or even MU come calling. Their owner is a good businessman. He'll be made an offer he can't refuse.
Perhaps. But Spurs aren't that poor - Deloitte ranked them as the 12th richest club back in January. And they were the fourth-highest earning PL club this season (I think). I think Joe Lewis and Daniel Levy have enough money to keep Pochettino. But yeah, he might fall for the 'romance' of managing one of elite clubs (like Madrid).
QuoteWhat I am saying is, Spurs are never going to be able to compete with the big-money clubs.
Ultimately, time will tell if you are right or not.
What is clear is that Spurs are on the cusp (as Adam White pointed out) and are making a go for it.
New stadium. New training facilities. A good youth setup. London. UCL football. A growing international appeal. New TV money. A weak movement to reign in financial excess (e.g. "financial fair play," "home-grown" quotas, etc.). These factors may combine to raise Spurs to the (financial) level of Liverpool soon.
Certainly the likes of Man U / Barca / RM are a long way off.
Quote from: bencrix on May 26, 2016, 08:53:43 AM
QuoteWhat I am saying is, Spurs are never going to be able to compete with the big-money clubs.
Ultimately, time will tell if you are right or not.
What is clear is that Spurs are on the cusp (as Adam White pointed out) and are making a go for it.
New stadium. New training facilities. A good youth setup. London. UCL football. A growing international appeal. New TV money. A weak movement to reign in financial excess (e.g. "financial fair play," "home-grown" quotas, etc.). These factors may combine to raise Spurs to the (financial) level of Liverpool soon.
Certainly the likes of Man U / Barca / RM are a long way off.
I'm glad you qualified that. No one wants to hate Spurs THAT much! ;D ;D ;D
Looks like Sturridge has another problem. Rashford might get his chance, after all.
http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/marcus-rashfords-path-euro-2016-11389015
So Marcus Rashford just scored a goal within three minutes. Yeah, it's against Australia, but still....
Yeah, I just got home from work. Turned on the TV in time to see the replays of Rooney's goal. Rashford has just made things interesting, for me, at least!
This just in:
Marcus Rashford named to the Euro squad!
http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36413882
Awesome news for the kid!
Quote from: TimmyB on May 31, 2016, 10:00:45 AM
This just in:
Marcus Rashford named to the Euro squad!
http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36413882
Awesome news for the kid!
Yeah, good for him. I'd have taken Drinkwater over Wilshere, though. Overall, the squad is interesting. They'll probably get knocked out in the round of 16, but one can always hope...
Quote from: Adam White on May 31, 2016, 10:31:35 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 31, 2016, 10:00:45 AM
This just in:
Marcus Rashford named to the Euro squad!
http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36413882
Awesome news for the kid!
Yeah, good for him. I'd have taken Drinkwater over Wilshere, though. Overall, the squad is interesting. They'll probably get knocked out in the round of 16, but one can always hope...
Yeah, Danny has to be asking "What more do I need to do to make it?".
QuoteYeah, Danny has to be asking "What more do I need to do to make it?".
Maybe: get a Beckham hair cut and some tattoos, rack up various injuries, play as little as possible, etc.
In seriousness, the ONLY remotely sensible rationale for Wilshere would have to have something to do w/ how "fresh" me *might* be as a result of playing very little. However, since Drinkwater logged a lot less hours than most on the squad (due to limited cups and no European soccer), this too is ridiculous, in my opinion.
TimmyB - you're fav CB, Chris Smalling, with the winner against Ronaldo-less Portugal!
Quote from: bencrix on June 03, 2016, 09:09:39 AM
TimmyB - you're fav CB, Chris Smalling, with the winner against Ronaldo-less Portugal!
Yeah, I saw that. They keep trying to find a place for Rooney, but they couldn't score against 10-man Portugal until the death, and that was by the least likely suspect!
Vardy to Arsenal on a four year/£20 million contract. Can't quite decide if this makes sense or not.
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/arsenal-more-than-most-clubs-in-the-english-game-015712099.html
Quote from: Adam White on June 06, 2016, 06:24:32 AM
Vardy to Arsenal on a four year/£20 million contract. Can't quite decide if this makes sense or not.
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/arsenal-more-than-most-clubs-in-the-english-game-015712099.html
BBC is saying it hasn't happened, yet. Vardy still mulling it over. Probably wants to see if LC can up his wages to the same level.
Quote from: TimmyB on June 06, 2016, 08:22:16 AM
Quote from: Adam White on June 06, 2016, 06:24:32 AM
Vardy to Arsenal on a four year/£20 million contract. Can't quite decide if this makes sense or not.
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/arsenal-more-than-most-clubs-in-the-english-game-015712099.html
BBC is saying it hasn't happened, yet. Vardy still mulling it over. Probably wants to see if LC can up his wages to the same level.
Yeah, it's not happened yet, though everyone seems to be treating it as if it's inevitable. I'd say it's a good move for him - whether or not it is a good move for Arsenal is open to debate!
Apparently they also want Mahrez.
Quote from: Adam White on June 06, 2016, 08:37:16 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on June 06, 2016, 08:22:16 AM
Quote from: Adam White on June 06, 2016, 06:24:32 AM
Vardy to Arsenal on a four year/£20 million contract. Can't quite decide if this makes sense or not.
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/arsenal-more-than-most-clubs-in-the-english-game-015712099.html
BBC is saying it hasn't happened, yet. Vardy still mulling it over. Probably wants to see if LC can up his wages to the same level.
Yeah, it's not happened yet, though everyone seems to be treating it as if it's inevitable. I'd say it's a good move for him - whether or not it is a good move for Arsenal is open to debate!
Apparently they also want Mahrez.
Arsenal might be a little bit in "panic mode", if they do give him a 4-year deal. They are probably seeing MU, MC, LP all getting SO much better, Chelsea bouncing back, Tottenham being solid, etc.
Any ideas on what restaurants, etc might be showing the Euros? I will be in town for a few of the matches and would like to try to go somewhere (rather than just watch at my in-laws' house).
Well, I called 3-1 for tonight's game with CR. Zusi just made it 4-0. Who knew? :D :D :D
Quote from: Adam White on June 06, 2016, 02:23:40 PM
Any ideas on what restaurants, etc might be showing the Euros? I will be in town for a few of the matches and would like to try to go somewhere (rather than just watch at my in-laws' house).
With the matches being on ESPN, you can probably catch them at any sports bar.
Thanks Pierre.
I guess I was looking for a place that's making an effort. I'm sure I can sort something.
Soccer junkies' dream-week, coming up. Four to five games, almost every day, between Copa and Euros!!!
Quote from: TimmyB on June 11, 2016, 02:02:21 PM
Soccer junkies' dream-week, coming up. Four to five games, almost every day, between Copa and Euros!!!
Waiting for the England match to start in 30 minutes. I see Wales beat Slovakia earlier.
Quote from: Adam White on June 11, 2016, 02:30:49 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on June 11, 2016, 02:02:21 PM
Soccer junkies' dream-week, coming up. Four to five games, almost every day, between Copa and Euros!!!
Waiting for the England match to start in 30 minutes. I see Wales beat Slovakia earlier.
I was just sitting in the back yard of a friend who moved here from England, watching the score update on my phone. OK, three minutes to kill off. Then... oh, dear!!! It was even worse when I got home and saw the replay of how soft of a goal they gave up.
Quote from: TimmyB on June 11, 2016, 05:41:10 PM
Quote from: Adam White on June 11, 2016, 02:30:49 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on June 11, 2016, 02:02:21 PM
Soccer junkies' dream-week, coming up. Four to five games, almost every day, between Copa and Euros!!!
Waiting for the England match to start in 30 minutes. I see Wales beat Slovakia earlier.
I was just sitting in the back yard of a friend who moved here from England, watching the score update on my phone. OK, three minutes to kill off. Then... oh, dear!!! It was even worse when I got home and saw the replay of how soft of a goal they gave up.
Yeah, not good at all. They totally deserved to win that match. Well, they should have, at least. Wales are now top of the group :o
Big USA game in an hour. You gonna stay up late and watch it?
Quote from: TimmyB on June 11, 2016, 06:11:29 PM
Big USA game in an hour. You gonna stay up late and watch it?
Might see if I can stream it. It's not playing on Freeview.
Good win for the US! Good to see Brooks is finally playing like he's got a pair. He was a beast all game. He and Cameron need to play like that every game, use their size and physicality against smaller and speedier opponents.
Yes, the Copa is shaping up interestingly for USA. Defense looks really solid, midfield (reasonably) competent, attackers are scoring goals. Meanwhile, Brazil & Uruguay eliminated?!
Ireland just drew 1-1 with Sweden, thereby eclipsing their performance at Euro 2012.
Overall, the Euros have been kind of boring so far, if I'm honest.
Quote from: CCMjax on June 13, 2016, 11:58:04 AM
Good win for the US! Good to see Brooks is finally playing like he's got a pair. He was a beast all game. He and Cameron need to play like that every game, use their size and physicality against smaller and speedier opponents.
Brooks was MOM, by a mile. Simply dominated. Hopefully, that continues.
Quote from: Adam White on June 13, 2016, 02:35:11 PM
Ireland just drew 1-1 with Sweden, thereby eclipsing their performance at Euro 2012.
Overall, the Euros have been kind of boring so far, if I'm honest.
Agreed. Lots of 1-0, tons of possession, little actual scoring or even chances. Sadly, much of what I'm used to from watching United this past season! :( :( :(
QuoteOverall, the Euros have been kind of boring so far, if I'm honest.
That England / Russia draw aside, I agree. The epitome was yesterday's Italy - Belgium result. Fantastic counter-attack goal, followed by 80+ minutes of some of the world's best attacking talent frustrated by one of the world's most boring (but effective) footballing styles. If it wasn't for Buffon's personality, watching Italy would be much harder.
Quote from: bencrix on June 14, 2016, 07:57:54 AM
QuoteOverall, the Euros have been kind of boring so far, if I'm honest.
That England / Russia draw aside, I agree. The epitome was yesterday's Italy - Belgium result. Fantastic counter-attack goal, followed by 80+ minutes of some of the world's best attacking talent frustrated by one of the world's most boring (but effective) footballing styles. If it wasn't for Buffon's personality, watching Italy would be much harder.
That Belgium match was terrible - though it
did have two goals and wasn't a draw - so it had a bit more to recommend it.
Was thinking that watching Belgium was much like watching Spurs (of late) - so much potential, so much hype...so much disappointment.
QuoteWas thinking that watching Belgium was much like watching Spurs (of late) - so much potential, so much hype...so much disappointment.
Ouch! Yes, I see your point, especially since there are several Spurs players lining up for Belgium (not to mention the core of England's squad). Belgium probably should have fielded one more (Dembele) instead of Fellaini.
Though to be fair, Spurs were never really in the title hunt and finishing 3rd being Arsenal, despite a string of bad to embarrassing results at the end of the season, far exceeded all pre-season expectations - most reasonable Spurs fans did not expect UCL qualification until sometime after the new stadium is finished.
So, they are way ahead of schedule and there is nothing really to be disappointed about (and Belgium may still come good!)
Quote from: bencrix on June 14, 2016, 12:53:34 PM
QuoteWas thinking that watching Belgium was much like watching Spurs (of late) - so much potential, so much hype...so much disappointment.
Ouch! Yes, I see your point, especially since there are several Spurs players lining up for Belgium (not to mention the core of England's squad). Belgium probably should have fielded one more (Dembele) instead of Fellaini.
Though to be fair, Spurs were never really in the title hunt and finishing 3rd being Arsenal, despite a string of bad to embarrassing results at the end of the season, far exceeded all pre-season expectations - most reasonable Spurs fans did not expect UCL qualification until sometime after the new stadium is finished.
So, they are way ahead of schedule and there is nothing really to be disappointed about (and Belgium may still come good!)
Full disclosure: I'm a Spurs supporter/member and didn't mean anything too insulting. To be honest, I am not sure if I
expected Spurs to finish fourth or higher, but I think anything less than that would've been a massive disappointment.
Dembele definitely should've got the start against Italy - definitely over Fellaini. I was a bit surprised Chadli didn't even make the trip to France.
USA with a HUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUGE win!!! On to the Semi's!
Very happy for Jürgen Klinsmann; that man gets far too much criticism and now, at long last, maybe our folks can quit talking about Landon Damn Donovan. They almost freaked out at the end, though, and let Ecuador steal the match. But, kudos to Dempsey and Zardes!
QuoteFull disclosure: I'm a Spurs supporter/member and didn't mean anything too insulting.
I get it. The end of the season was disappointing, but viewed from the perspective of pre-season last year, their final position is really, really good.
Curious what you think about the blowback Kane is receiving. I don't think he did much wrong in the last two games given that Roy's midfield isn't really set up to help him much. That said, the Vardy / Sturridge subs (btw, credit due to Sturridge's "something-out-of-nothing" talent) paper over such nuance and may relegate him to the dog house. I feel bad for the guy.
QuoteVery happy for Jürgen Klinsmann; that man gets far too much criticism and now, at long last, maybe our folks can quit talking about Landon Damn Donovan. They almost freaked out at the end, though, and let Ecuador steal the match. But, kudos to Dempsey and Zardes!
Agree about Klinsmann. USA still has a long way to go and I think he's one of the few who sees that relatively clearly. For instance, pushing against having all of our players in the MLS to help that League's financial development vs. helping our national team develop.
Bummer about Jones' red card, as well as Wood & Bedoya's DQs. Jones was stupid, but I really dislike how these tournaments handle accumulated infractions. It will be absurd for USA to play Colombia or Argentina so short handed.
Quote from: Adam White on June 14, 2016, 01:16:07 PM
I'm a Spurs supporter/member
It's happened again, it's happened again.....
Quote from: bencrix on June 17, 2016, 10:06:11 AM
QuoteFull disclosure: I'm a Spurs supporter/member and didn't mean anything too insulting.
I get it. The end of the season was disappointing, but viewed from the perspective of pre-season last year, their final position is really, really good.
Curious what you think about the blowback Kane is receiving. I don't think he did much wrong in the last two games given that Roy's midfield isn't really set up to help him much. That said, the Vardy / Sturridge subs (btw, credit due to Sturridge's "something-out-of-nothing" talent) paper over such nuance and may relegate him to the dog house. I feel bad for the guy.
QuoteVery happy for Jürgen Klinsmann; that man gets far too much criticism and now, at long last, maybe our folks can quit talking about Landon Damn Donovan. They almost freaked out at the end, though, and let Ecuador steal the match. But, kudos to Dempsey and Zardes!
Agree about Klinsmann. USA still has a long way to go and I think he's one of the few who sees that relatively clearly. For instance, pushing against having all of our players in the MLS to help that League's financial development vs. helping our national team develop.
Bummer about Jones' red card, as well as Wood & Bedoya's DQs. Jones was stupid, but I really dislike how these tournaments handle accumulated infractions. It will be absurd for USA to play Colombia or Argentina so short handed.
Kane got a lot of stick at the beginning of the 2015-16 season, because he wasn't scoring goals. It took him a while to get started, but everyone was accusing him of being a one season wonder. He ended up winning the golden boot. He had a long season, being the only striker for Spurs. He's probably tired. If he keeps playing, I bet he scores at some point. He shouldn't be taking corners, though. Or free kicks.
I'm very happy for Klinsmann's success, and not only because he's a Spurs legend. He's the best manager the USA has ever had. I think he gets some pretty decent results out of some pretty average players. He'll shut up all the doubters if the USA manage to beat Argentina - assuming they are their next opponents.
Just to add to the Spurs domination of the Soccer thread today:
Dempsey, who is tearing up the Copa America was a fine player for Spurs (and Fulham).
He was one of the better players in the EPL then and probably still would be a starter for someone now.
Quote from: bencrix on June 17, 2016, 04:07:27 PM
Just to add to the Spurs domination of the Soccer thread today:
Dempsey, who is tearing up the Copa America was a fine player for Spurs (and Fulham).
He was one of the better players in the EPL then and probably still would be a starter for someone now.
Do you think Dempsey was one of the better players in the Premier League? I did think he was was pretty good when he played for Fulham. He was a bit of a disappointment at Spurs. Not bad, but he was clearly not playing as well as he did at Fulham. I agree that he may still be able to start for a Premier League side - but it would likely be somewhere like Boro, Hull or Bournemouth.
QuoteI agree that he may still be able to start for a Premier League side - but it would likely be somewhere like Boro, Hull or Bournemouth.
Yes, I agree. What I like is that he has a knack for consistently scoring gritty (America's new favorite word) goals - a rare & useful quality.
But last night showed why a team like Spurs was wise to shift him. He had very little role to play against a pressing, pacey, & technique-rich Argentina side - who look a lot like the better club teams in England / Europe. Not that he was the problem for USA, but not the solution either.
Quote from: bencrix on June 22, 2016, 08:06:59 AM
QuoteI agree that he may still be able to start for a Premier League side - but it would likely be somewhere like Boro, Hull or Bournemouth.
Yes, I agree. What I like is that he has a knack for consistently scoring gritty (America's new favorite word) goals - a rare & useful quality.
But last night showed why a team like Spurs was wise to shift him. He had very little role to play against a pressing, pacey, & technique-rich Argentina side - who look a lot like the better club teams in England / Europe. Not that he was the problem for USA, but not the solution either.
Was a bit disappointed to wake up this morning and find that the USA had lost to Argentina. Didn't expect them to win, but it would've been nice.
In other news, Northern Ireland apparently have qualified for the knockout stages of the Euros. England and Wales are already through and Ireland will qualify, too, *if* they manage to beat Italy tonight.
The US did not play their best game at all but the result is not unexpected. There was already a huge talent gap before three suspensions, two of which were for players on top level European teams. Replacing those talents with older MLS players will not yield positive results against the best international team and player.
A dose of realism is helpful when watching the USMNT. We were ranked 31st but beat the 13th, 23rd, and 44th ranked teams while falling to the 1st and 3rd ranked squads. Overall I this was a positive tournament for the US.
QuoteIn other news, Northern Ireland apparently have qualified for the knockout stages of the Euros. England and Wales are already through
People love to wring their hands over the futility of England's national team. I know it will never happen, but Imagine if they played as the UK!
QuoteA dose of realism is helpful when watching the USMNT.
Well put. The tournament was a success and there is still chance for more in the 3rd place game.
I agree we really missed the disqualified players, but I still think our midfield is at least a generation away from having a tactical chance against a team like today's Argentina.
Quote from: bencrix on June 22, 2016, 09:51:29 AM
QuoteIn other news, Northern Ireland apparently have qualified for the knockout stages of the Euros. England and Wales are already through
People love to wring their hands over the futility of England's national team. I know it will never happen, but Imagine if they played as the UK!
They fielded a UK team in the last Olympics* and they won their group, only to exit the tournament during the first knockout round (quarterfinals). Apparently the UK does as "well" as England.
*I appreciate that Olympic football isn't the same as senior international football.
Quote from: DrQue on June 22, 2016, 09:50:41 AM
The US did not play their best game at all but the result is not unexpected. There was already a huge talent gap before three suspensions, two of which were for players on top level European teams.
Who was suspended?
Jermaine Jones (who spent most of his career in the Bundesliga), Bobby Wood (just transferred to Hamberg) and Alejandro Bedoya (Ligue 1, etc.) where all suspended and would be available for the 3rd place game.
QuoteApparently the UK does as "well" as England.
Ha! Good point. Bale & Ramsey would be useful, though. Also, Johnny Evans, Ashley Williams, etc.
Quote from: bencrix on June 22, 2016, 10:56:10 AM
QuoteApparently the UK does as "well" as England.
Ha! Good point. Bale & Ramsey would be useful, though. Also, Johnny Evans, Ashley Williams, etc.
I think I'd rather see an all-Ireland team (like they do in rugby).
4-0 and the game wasn't really that close. I don't know if we have a single player who would start for Argentina.
Quote from: river4340 on June 22, 2016, 11:16:32 AM
4-0 and the game wasn't really that close. I don't know if we have a single player who would start for Argentina.
Brad Guzan *might* be able to make the bench.
I can't stand Argentina, but they do have some good players.
Edit: they're supposedly the best team in the world (at least according to FIFA), but I will believe that when they actually win something worthwhile (like the 2018 World Cup).
Quote from: bencrix on June 22, 2016, 10:06:02 AM
QuoteA dose of realism is helpful when watching the USMNT.
Well put. The tournament was a success and there is still chance for more in the 3rd place game.
I agree we really missed the disqualified players, but I still think our midfield is at least a generation away from having a tactical chance against a team like today's Argentina.
Amen to that. Across the board, we were playing two levels or more below Argentina's corresponding player. Midfield, we might be talking light years difference.
Well, Ireland just beat Italy in one of the better matches I've seen so far at the Euros. They'll be progressing to the next round as one of the better third place teams.
Quote from: Adam White on June 22, 2016, 05:14:11 PM
Well, Ireland just beat Italy in one of the better matches I've seen so far at the Euros. They'll be progressing to the next round as one of the better third place teams.
Ireland will have their chance to avenge the Thierry Henry handball from a few years ago. On French soil no less! I can't wait to see that match.
Congrats to Wales and Iceland for making it to the knockout stage. They've been fun to watch.
Quote from: TimmyB on June 06, 2016, 08:22:16 AM
Quote from: Adam White on June 06, 2016, 06:24:32 AM
Vardy to Arsenal on a four year/£20 million contract. Can't quite decide if this makes sense or not.
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/arsenal-more-than-most-clubs-in-the-english-game-015712099.html
BBC is saying it hasn't happened, yet. Vardy still mulling it over. Probably wants to see if LC can up his wages to the same level.
He's apparently staying in Leicester!
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/breaking-news-vardy-stay-leicester-091407410.html (https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/breaking-news-vardy-stay-leicester-091407410.html)
And Deeny is apparently rebuffing Leicester to stay at Watford! I don't know what is happening to the EPL, but I like it!
Michael Bradley is the poster child for America's inferior soccer past (as is Landon Donovan; my goodness, I just don't want to hear a damn thing from him). Bradley is definitely serviceable against all but elite competition but the minute you hit Brazil, Argentina or Chile, etc. -- game over.
Luckily, we have much better athletes in the pipeline and I'm all for letting them play right damn now. Winning 3rd place at Copa America 2016 would be a huge accomplishment.
QuoteMichael Bradley is the poster child for America's inferior soccer past
Maybe a bit harsh, but he
was bad against Argentina and clearly can't cope w/ elite (e.g. top 10 sides).
I don't know all the details / motivations, but I think once he left Serie A for MLS - essentially during his prime, we should have been looking for his replacement. I'm all for the development of the MLS, but it is not a place that currently prepares players well for the USMNT.
I think Italy's coach Conte made a statement to that effect when leaving Pirlo, Giovinco, etc. out of their side. I think Jurgen feels that way too and has hinted as much, but must play politics w/ both MLS & US Soccer.
Quote from: bencrix on June 23, 2016, 10:51:16 AM
QuoteMichael Bradley is the poster child for America's inferior soccer past
Maybe a bit harsh, but he was bad against Argentina and clearly can't cope w/ elite (e.g. top 10 sides).
I don't know all the details / motivations, but I think once he left Serie A for MLS - essentially during his prime, we should have been looking for his replacement. I'm all for the development of the MLS, but it is not a place that currently prepares players well for the USMNT.
I think Italy's coach Conte made a statement to that effect when leaving Pirlo, Giovinco, etc. out of their side. I think Jurgen feels that way too and has hinted as much, but must play politics w/ both MLS & US Soccer.
I don't believe it's harsh at all. The similarities between him and Michael Carrick are enough to make me hurl: constant back passes, very little inventiveness, and an amazing ability to give away the ball cheaply. Just like Carrick, I don't want to hear all the loyalty speeches about how much he's given; when it's time to move on, it's time.
Quote from: TimmyB on June 23, 2016, 03:10:47 PM
Quote from: bencrix on June 23, 2016, 10:51:16 AM
QuoteMichael Bradley is the poster child for America's inferior soccer past
Maybe a bit harsh, but he was bad against Argentina and clearly can't cope w/ elite (e.g. top 10 sides).
I don't know all the details / motivations, but I think once he left Serie A for MLS - essentially during his prime, we should have been looking for his replacement. I'm all for the development of the MLS, but it is not a place that currently prepares players well for the USMNT.
I think Italy's coach Conte made a statement to that effect when leaving Pirlo, Giovinco, etc. out of their side. I think Jurgen feels that way too and has hinted as much, but must play politics w/ both MLS & US Soccer.
I don't believe it's harsh at all. The similarities between him and Michael Carrick are enough to make me hurl: constant back passes, very little inventiveness, and an amazing ability to give away the ball cheaply. Just like Carrick, I don't want to hear all the loyalty speeches about how much he's given; when it's time to move on, it's time.
Carrick was brilliant in his day, though.
Quote from: bencrix on June 23, 2016, 10:51:16 AM
QuoteMichael Bradley is the poster child for America's inferior soccer past
Maybe a bit harsh, but he was bad against Argentina and clearly can't cope w/ elite (e.g. top 10 sides).
I don't know all the details / motivations, but I think once he left Serie A for MLS - essentially during his prime, we should have been looking for his replacement. I'm all for the development of the MLS, but it is not a place that currently prepares players well for the USMNT.
I think Italy's coach Conte made a statement to that effect when leaving Pirlo, Giovinco, etc. out of their side. I think Jurgen feels that way too and has hinted as much, but must play politics w/ both MLS & US Soccer.
Exactly. Bradley's regression is tied straight with his return to MLS. 2014 Bradley was instrumental in US WC. He was the building block, but then he returned to MLS. It has become painfully obvious that even riding the bench in top leagues is lightyears better for development than starting in the MLS.
Jurgen definitely feels that way. He is Gulati's boy though so he has to be very careful about the technical direction he takes US Soccer, because USSF and MLS are almost the same organization.
If Jurgen could say it, he would start with critiquing our pay-to-play system for youth players, and the lack of proper compensation for training facilites who do train the stars of tomorrow. Just look at MLS blocking fees for Yedlin.
QuoteCarrick was brilliant in his day, though.
i.e. when he was at Spurs! ;D
(Speaking of, was happy to hear they made Wanyama official today).
So, Sky are saying that Klinsman is the front runner for the Southampton job. What are you hearing over there, Adam?
Rough stretch of days for England. Exiting the European Union and the European Championships. Crisis of confidence all the way around?
Hopefully (not likely) the English press lays off these mostly young players, who I think are capable bouncing back and improving in time for WC'18.
That said, I think its time for Hart & Rooney to make way. Both were poor and were supposed to be providing leadership. Astonishingly Rooney reminded me of Michael Bradley, w/ his frequent turnovers and inability to quickly advance play. At least Rooney has the excuse of being played egregiously out of position. It's not really fair to expect him to transform into Pirlo, just because we have fond memories of him as an imperious striker.
I've been away - I'm in Jax at the moment. I didn't get to see any of the games, other than the Ireland - France game.
I've not heard anything about Klinsmann for Southampton - though it would be great if he got the job.
As far as England is concerned - it's a shame, but I'm having a hard time feeling too bad right now. Something about a bunch of racist little Englanders crying into their pints makes me happy.
All that aside, the problem clearly isn't lack of talent. It's something else. I am not sure what it is - there are so many opinions. But England haven't managed anything since winning the World Cup in 1966.
Well, when you have 5 Spurs in your starting XI, you can't be too surprised when you come up short...HEY-O!
That being said, the ommision of Drinkwater for Wilshere was the first sign of trouble. Should have had Rashford and Vardy on to start, or at least bring Rashford on at the 60. He had more dribbles into the box in his 5 minutes than anyone else had all match. Rewatched it again last night, and there are multiple times where someone gets the ball around 40 yards out and looked clueless as everyone else stood around.
Quote from: Bridges on June 28, 2016, 11:55:49 AM
Well, when you have 5 Spurs in your starting XI, you can't be too surprised when you come up short...HEY-O!
That being said, the ommision of Drinkwater for Wilshere was the first sign of trouble. Should have had Rashford and Vardy on to start, or at least bring Rashford on at the 60. He had more dribbles into the box in his 5 minutes than anyone else had all match. Rewatched it again last night, and there are multiple times where someone gets the ball around 40 yards out and looked clueless as everyone else stood around.
I was reading that some had given their MOM for England to Rashford, simply because of that reason.
QuoteWell, when you have 5 Spurs in your starting XI, you can't be too surprised when you come up short...HEY-O!
Actually a somewhat (not really) legitimate charge that these guys will have to respond to in some way. Spurs supporters like me are concerned what effect this will have on our upcoming season, which is otherwise full of promise.
I think the hope is that Pochettino is a much better manager than Roy - from conditioning, to man management, to tactics, etc. - and that Poch will continue to get the kinds of performances out these players that justified their inclusion on the national team in the first place.
So Portugal finally plays some football and is in the finals. Amazing - in past tournaments they wouldn't have made it out of the group stage.
They are the least deserving team to be in the finals of ANY tournament, based on their play at this year's Euro's. Listening to Ronaldo, calling out Iceland's tactics, while Portugal has played about 30 minutes of football total in five matches makes me nauseous. I normally couldn't care which team wins or loses, but I hope France squashes them.
QuoteThe English top flight was by far the most heavily-represented domestic division at the tournament, with 106 of the 552 players who travelled to France currently plying their trade there.
And a survey conducted by Press Association Sport found that Mauricio Pochettino's Spurs team bore the brunt of that, clocking up a total of 3,544 minutes; over 900 more than the side with the second-most minutes played - north London rivals Arsenal.
http://www.eurosport.co.uk/football/premier-league/2016-2017/tottenham-s-players-rack-up-most-euro-2016-minutes-of-any-premier-league-club_sto5683321/story.shtml
That is an interesting stat, given:
1) how poorly England has done in these tournaments,
2) how (relatively) poorly EPL teams have done in european competition (UCL & UEL),
3) how poor some (certainly, not all) rate Euro 2016 overall as a competition.
I wonder if there is any relationship btw. the high representation of EPL players and these observations?
Quote from: bencrix on July 12, 2016, 08:00:39 AM
That is an interesting stat, given:
1) how poorly England has done in these tournaments,
2) how (relatively) poorly EPL teams have done in european competition (UCL & UEL),
3) how poor some (certainly, not all) rate Euro 2016 overall as a competition.
I wonder if there is any relationship btw. the high representation of EPL players and these observations?
If I were to hazard a guess:
1) The PL has a higher percentage of foreign-born players than most (if not all) other leagues - so it's little surprise that the best ones aren't English.
2) I would expect PL teams to fare better in European competitions than they do. I can only assume that at least some of it is down to the fact that some teams are more than the sum of their parts (Leicester is the obvious example). Maybe a team of 11 superstars isn't as good as it should be. That said, there are a number of very good English teams and only one or two (or maybe three) good teams in each of the top European leagues. One of the somewhat tired (but kind of true) things said about the PL is that it has more depth than any of the other top leagues.
3) International football is terrible, though this particular tournament was worse than others in recent memory. I think. But then again, all that it really means is that PL players featured the most - not necessarily did the best.
I guess what it really comes down to is that the PL has the most money of any league and that money is distributed more evenly across the 20 teams in the competition. So they buy more foreign players. And the top leagues are all in Europe.
I still think one of the biggest reasons the English club teams don't fare well in Europe is because they don't take a winter break and they play two cup competitions.
I agree. It's one factor that may play a part in England's struggles, EPL's stuggles in UCL/UEL & the poor quality of EURO2016.
Supporting evidence: Belgium's flameouts at WC2014 & EURO2016 - nearly 100% of their players play in the EPL.
Of course, it doesn't explain everything, but I do think the FA needs to do something about the # of fixtures.
For example, with the disclaimer that I am not English and do not understand the heritage value, why not slim down (or eliminate) the League Cup?
Quote from: Adam White on July 12, 2016, 09:38:21 AM
...I guess what it really comes down to is that the PL has the most money of any league and that money is distributed more evenly across the 20 teams in the competition. So they buy more foreign players. And the top leagues are all in Europe.
The EPL is very much like the NFL, in that there is one organization that gets all the media money and then, distributes that in a relatively even way to the 20 clubs. La Liga, on the other hand, is like MLB, where the Yankees get a gazillion dollars from their own TV contract, while the small market teams get jack-****. I have heard that this is being changed, but not sure if it is or not. This is why it is basically a two- or three-team race each year.
That said, you are spot-on about buying more foreign players, and that will be exacerbated with this new ginormous tv contract in the upcoming year. It is why you are seeing average players going for £50-60 M, and big names like Pogba are having 100+M attached to their heads.
I also believe the others are correct about burnout. I was joking with my wife that I won't know what to do now that the Copa America and Euro 2016 are done. There won't be any football until the pre-season starts. This Saturday.
Quote from: bencrix on July 12, 2016, 02:55:21 PM
For example, with the disclaimer that I am not English and do not understand the heritage value, why not slim down (or eliminate) the League Cup?
I say eliminate it. It's already pretty slim (only open to PL and football league sides).
QuoteI also believe the others are correct about burnout. I was joking with my wife that I won't know what to do now that the Copa America and Euro 2016 are done. There won't be any football until the pre-season starts. This Saturday.
Ha! I said the same thing to my wife. We are definitely spoiled!
Timmy B: what do think about the Manchester teams' moves so far this off-season? They both seem to be swinging for the fences (excuse the baseball pun).
Quote from: bencrix on July 14, 2016, 08:12:54 AM
Timmy B: what do think about the Manchester teams' moves so far this off-season? They both seem to be swinging for the fences (excuse the baseball pun).
I'm pleased with United's business, so far. We've taken care of three of the glaring weaknesses, but a commanding midfielder is still needed. Missing out on Sanches looks to be a big miss, but I don't believe we'll ever know the real story, there. If we add that one mid, plus maybe another strong CB, I believe we are in great shape.
As for City, I've been a little surprised that they haven't been more active, to this point. Money has never been an object to them (can't imagine why!), but they have looked more like United in this summer's market. They are linked with a thousand names, and supposedly selling a bunch as well, but much less actual business from them than I thought to this point.
Looks like Pogba might be your mid? Twitter had pics of Ibra and him hanging out in LA...
Yeah, I saw the same pics and story this morning. Not sure how it's going to play out.
Timmy B, congrats on the Community Shield and what appears to be the imminent world-record transfer.
I must say that Leicester still looks good (though it seems they will miss Kante dearly).
It all starts up again this weekend.
It sure will be interesting to see how the big boys w/ their new big men (Man U / Mourinho, Man City / Pep, Chelsea / Conte) come together.
Who will be this years' unexpected challenger from the depths?
How will the newly promoted adjust? (I find Middlesbrough particularly interesting, given their aggression in the transfer market)
Hoping that Spurs pick up where they left of last season (minus those last few matches, of course).
Quote from: bencrix on August 08, 2016, 08:47:18 AM
Timmy B, congrats on the Community Shield and what appears to be the imminent world-record transfer.
I must say that Leicester still looks good (though it seems they will miss Kante dearly).
It all starts up again this weekend.
It sure will be interesting to see how the big boys w/ their new big men (Man U / Mourinho, Man City / Pep, Chelsea / Conte) come together.
Who will be this years' unexpected challenger from the depths?
How will the newly promoted adjust? (I find Middlesbrough particularly interesting, given their aggression in the transfer market)
Hoping that Spurs pick up where they left of last season (minus those last few matches, of course).
Got tix to Spurs - Sunderland next month. Not really relevant to much of anything, but I am excited about the match. I love it when the season starts - you never know what's going to happen. Usually a bit more worried than anything else. But you never know...
That's great! I look forward to seeing a Spurs match one day. I'll be curious to hear about your experience.
Maybe Sunderland will be the surprise team of the year. I'll be interested to hear TimmyB's opinion, but I think Moyes is a great manager and will be a good fit.
Hopefully that becomes evident (if it does) Sept 24 (instead of Sept 18).
Quote from: bencrix on August 08, 2016, 09:22:27 AM
That's great! I look forward to seeing a Spurs match one day. I'll be curious to hear about your experience.
Maybe Sunderland will be the surprise team of the year. I'll be interested to hear TimmyB's opinion, but I think Moyes is a great manager and will be a good fit.
Hopefully that becomes evident (if it does) Sept 24 (instead of Sept 18).
I fear they will need more than Moyes! They've been so bad for so many seasons, I really can't expect they'd be any different this year.
You are probably right. But they have some interesting talents (M'Villa, Rodwell, Van Anholt, etc.). Defoe probably is still good for goals. And I'm thinking they might get Yedlin, too (although I hope Spurs keep him since I think he is at least equal too, perhaps better than Kieran Trippier).
I'll be in London for the Jags game. I'm hoping to be able to make it to a West Ham match. They are scheduled to play Middlesbrough on 10/1 but that will change if they win their Europa League match in a few weeks.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 08, 2016, 11:51:00 AM
I'll be in London for the Jags game. I'm hoping to be able to make it to a West Ham match. They are scheduled to play Middlesbrough on 10/1 but that will change if they win their Europa League match in a few weeks.
That's cool - who are the Jags playing? Is it in Wembley or is it one of the matches in Twickenham (assuming that is happening this year)?
Do you have tickets to the West Ham match already? If you end up sitting behind goal, try to take a few pics - I am really curious about how the view is.
Quote from: Adam White on August 08, 2016, 02:54:26 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 08, 2016, 11:51:00 AM
I'll be in London for the Jags game. I'm hoping to be able to make it to a West Ham match. They are scheduled to play Middlesbrough on 10/1 but that will change if they win their Europa League match in a few weeks.
That's cool - who are the Jags playing? Is it in Wembley or is it one of the matches in Twickenham (assuming that is happening this year)?
Do you have tickets to the West Ham match already? If you end up sitting behind goal, try to take a few pics - I am really curious about how the view is.
The Jags are playing the Colts in Wembley.
I don't have tickets to the West Ham match yet. If West Ham qualifies for Europa League then their match will be moved from 10/1 to 10/2 which would be at the same time as the Jags game.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 08, 2016, 03:12:11 PM
Quote from: Adam White on August 08, 2016, 02:54:26 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 08, 2016, 11:51:00 AM
I'll be in London for the Jags game. I'm hoping to be able to make it to a West Ham match. They are scheduled to play Middlesbrough on 10/1 but that will change if they win their Europa League match in a few weeks.
That's cool - who are the Jags playing? Is it in Wembley or is it one of the matches in Twickenham (assuming that is happening this year)?
Do you have tickets to the West Ham match already? If you end up sitting behind goal, try to take a few pics - I am really curious about how the view is.
The Jags are playing the Colts in Wembley.
I don't have tickets to the West Ham match yet. If West Ham qualifies for Europa League then their match will be moved from 10/1 to 10/2 which would be at the same time as the Jags game.
Looks like they drew Astra? I would say it shouldn't be an issue, but apparently they knocked them out of the Europa League last year? So who knows.
Yea! I thoughts or sure that we would be in group play last season. Hopefully, the team can use it as motivation this year.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 08, 2016, 04:09:06 PM
Yea! I thoughts or sure that we would be in group play last season. Hopefully, the team can use it as motivation this year.
You'd think so, right? West Ham were pretty good last year - but maybe it took a while for them to find their form. I don't know. I'd expect a lot more from them this year.
Good luck with getting tickets - sounds like you're in a bit of a bind. You'd want them to win, but if they win, you don't get to see them :(
Quote from: bencrix on August 08, 2016, 08:47:18 AM
Timmy B, congrats on the Community Shield and what appears to be the imminent world-record transfer.
I must say that Leicester still looks good (though it seems they will miss Kante dearly).
It all starts up again this weekend.
It sure will be interesting to see how the big boys w/ their new big men (Man U / Mourinho, Man City / Pep, Chelsea / Conte) come together.
Who will be this years' unexpected challenger from the depths?
How will the newly promoted adjust? (I find Middlesbrough particularly interesting, given their aggression in the transfer market)
Hoping that Spurs pick up where they left of last season (minus those last few matches, of course).
Hey, Ben! Thanks. I would have seen this earlier but I was out of town for my granddaughter's baptism, so I missed the game (saw the goals on dvr) and haven't been online too much in the past 36 hours! Sadly, I am running a tri up north this Sunday morning, so I'll miss the Bournemouth season opener, as well.
Yeah, it will be interesting to see if JM has the stones to actually play his best 11. If he does, Rooney can't be considered, because he is not at the top of the depth chart for ANY position on the team. Glad the Pogba saga is over (knock on wood); I personally don't care what it costs. It's not my money and it's not as though MUFC can't afford it, nor does it mean they must stop everything else from happening. I believe the difference will be beyond obvious. We will have changed our weak link into our strong one.
Interesting year for everyone coming up. Four very good (new, if I count Klopp) coaches with very strong personalities. I think Spurs should be thankful they held on to MP. That could have been disastrous.
As for Moyes, I liked him and I wish that he would at least have been given until the end of the season, even the start of the next. I could understand it if a manager like JM or Pep or someone of that stature had been available, but they weren't. Van Gaal had a pretty up and down resume and I know they wanted someone who was a little more direct in his approach, but he just sucked the joy right out of the game for so many of us. I hope David does well down there and proves himself again.
QuoteI thoughts or sure that we would be in group play last season.
Europa League seems like a bit of a curse for EPL clubs. Not enough clout (or money) to attract the squad depth to compete on Thursday and Sunday every week.
So, it ends up being a situation where the EPL is the priority, unless / until one somehow finds themselves in the advanced knock-out rounds - even then, it seems a burden that is hard to balance.
Crashing out is sometimes a blessing in disguise!
QuoteYeah, it will be interesting to see if JM has the stones to actually play his best 11.
It does seem like Mou is already dealing w/ some selection headaches. I agree about Rooney, but their best 11 isn't abundantly clear to me. Given that, do you think ManU is a clear favorite for the title this year as many are suggesting? To me, there doesn't seem to be an obvious favorite.
Quote from: bencrix on August 09, 2016, 08:32:51 AM
QuoteI thoughts or sure that we would be in group play last season.
Europa League seems like a bit of a curse for EPL clubs. Not enough clout (or money) to attract the squad depth to compete on Thursday and Sunday every week.
So, it ends up being a situation where the EPL is the priority, unless / until one somehow finds themselves in the advanced knock-out rounds - even then, it seems a burden that is hard to balance.
Crashing out is sometimes a blessing in disguise!
QuoteYeah, it will be interesting to see if JM has the stones to actually play his best 11.
It does seem like Mou is already dealing w/ some selection headaches. I agree about Rooney, but their best 11 isn't abundantly clear to me. Given that, do you think ManU is a clear favorite for the title this year as many are suggesting? To me, there doesn't seem to be an obvious favorite.
I agree with you; there is no CLEAR favorite. We are back in the discussion, however, and that's a positive! As with any team sport, there are so many variables, and soccer is one of the hardest to predict, because a team can score a fluke goal (or be awarded a PK), then park the bus the rest of the day. It's really hard to win games like that, and even harder to predict the future because of that. I believe that six or seven teams could be really, really good this year: MU, MC, Chelsea, Spurs, Arsenal, Liverpool, maybe even Leicester again. Heck, Everton could challenge. It's going to be fun for the neutrals!
Whew, exhausting weekend in the EPL.
Recognizing that Chelsea & West Ham have yet to play, what struck me was how unprepared all the teams looked. W/ the 9 month season + coaching turnover + Copa America / Euro 2016 + Olympics + an incomplete transfer window, it it seems these teams have had just a few practices with each other -- and it shows.
Not even ManU, which arguably had the most impressive outing, seems remotely near the finished article. I'm predicting a crazy August / September.
Quote from: bencrix on August 15, 2016, 08:55:18 AM
Whew, exhausting weekend in the EPL.
Recognizing that Chelsea & West Ham have yet to play, what struck me was how unprepared all the teams looked. W/ the 9 month season + coaching turnover + Copa America / Euro 2016 + Olympics + an incomplete transfer window, it it seems these teams have had just a few practices with each other -- and it shows.
Not even ManU, which arguably had the most impressive outing, seems remotely near the finished article. I'm predicting a crazy August / September.
Not really the performance I was looking for this weekend - but I keep in mind that Spurs lost their opening match last year and then went on an incredible 14 match unbeaten run. So a draw away to Everton isn't the worst thing in the world.
The highlight of the weekend, I'm almost ashamed to say, was Gary Lineker hosting Match Of The Day in his underwear.
Luckily, Match Day 1 is not a very good indicator of future performance. Unluckily, Arsenal apparently always loses it first match.
Spurs clearly needs Dembele back badly, but won't have him until mid-September. It will be interesting to see how they solve what looks like a problem linking defense to attack.
Quote from: bencrix on August 15, 2016, 11:08:40 AM
Luckily, Match Day 1 is not a very good indicator of future performance. Unluckily, Arsenal apparently always loses it first match.
Spurs clearly needs Dembele back badly, but won't have him until mid-September. It will be interesting to see how they solve what looks like a problem linking defense to attack.
I didn't get to watch the match as it wasn't televised (the 3pm Saturday matches are blacked out here) - but I had hoped Wanyama would be a good replacement for Dembele. I heard Janssen was good?
Wanyama was OK, individually. As was Dier. The problem is that together they essentially performed the same function, i.e. screening the back four. Neither did much to get the ball to Ericksen / Lamela / Alli / Kane. When Janssen came in for Dier, everything changed and Spurs dominated. Janssen looked very good to me and maybe should've scored. I'm thinking he might be in the line up against Palace.
Quote from: bencrix on August 15, 2016, 12:11:22 PM
Wanyama was OK, individually. As was Dier. The problem is that together they essentially performed the same function, i.e. screening the back four. Neither did much to get the ball to Ericksen / Lamela / Alli / Kane. When Janssen came in for Dier, everything changed and Spurs dominated. Janssen looked very good to me and maybe should've scored. I'm thinking he might be in the line up against Palace.
I assume Pochettino changed the shape when Dier went off and Janssen came on?
Not so much a change in shape but a reshuffling: Janssen up top, Kane behind, and Alli in front of Wanyama, and Wanyama in Dier's place. Looking forward to Palace this weekend! Crystal Palace is South London, no? What's it like?
Quote from: bencrix on August 17, 2016, 08:53:00 PM
Not so much a change in shape but a reshuffling: Janssen up top, Kane behind, and Alli in front of Wanyama, and Wanyama in Dier's place. Looking forward to Palace this weekend! Crystal Palace is South London, no? What's it like?
Yeah, Crystal Palace is pretty far south. The club is actually based in South Norwood (in the Borough of Croydon). I only ever seem to go down that way when I'm traveling to or from the airport. They say Crystal Palace park is really nice - it has Victorian dinosaur statues - but I've yet to go.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 08, 2016, 11:51:00 AM
I'll be in London for the Jags game. I'm hoping to be able to make it to a West Ham match. They are scheduled to play Middlesbrough on 10/1 but that will change if they win their Europa League match in a few weeks.
*POOF*
Your wish is granted.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/aug/25/west-ham-astra-giurgiu-europa-league-match-report
Quote from: Adam White on August 26, 2016, 03:01:20 AM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 08, 2016, 11:51:00 AM
I'll be in London for the Jags game. I'm hoping to be able to make it to a West Ham match. They are scheduled to play Middlesbrough on 10/1 but that will change if they win their Europa League match in a few weeks.
*POOF*
Your wish is granted.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/aug/25/west-ham-astra-giurgiu-europa-league-match-report
So disappointing but it may be for the best with all of our injuries to start the season.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 26, 2016, 07:13:12 AM
Quote from: Adam White on August 26, 2016, 03:01:20 AM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 08, 2016, 11:51:00 AM
I'll be in London for the Jags game. I'm hoping to be able to make it to a West Ham match. They are scheduled to play Middlesbrough on 10/1 but that will change if they win their Europa League match in a few weeks.
*POOF*
Your wish is granted.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/aug/25/west-ham-astra-giurgiu-europa-league-match-report
So disappointing but it may be for the best with all of our injuries to start the season.
I guess European football would've been nice (as would the money, right?). But at least you'll get to see them play Boro.
You have to question just how much Bilic really wanted to play in the Europa League. Does he see the better way to qualify for CL next year is to finish top 4, so why have the distraction of Thursday night football, with the extra fatigue and injuries?
Quote from: TimmyB on August 26, 2016, 10:19:43 AM
You have to question just how much Bilic really wanted to play in the Europa League. Does he see the better way to qualify for CL next year is to finish top 4, so why have the distraction of Thursday night football, with the extra fatigue and injuries?
£££££
Quote from: Adam White on August 26, 2016, 02:19:27 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on August 26, 2016, 10:19:43 AM
You have to question just how much Bilic really wanted to play in the Europa League. Does he see the better way to qualify for CL next year is to finish top 4, so why have the distraction of Thursday night football, with the extra fatigue and injuries?
£££££
No, I get there's a lot of lost money, Adam, but maybe that pales compared to the TV money they are all receiving this year. I mean, two years in a row against a team that no one has ever heard of, outside of this? Just doesn't add up, to me.
Quote from: TimmyB on August 26, 2016, 04:46:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on August 26, 2016, 02:19:27 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on August 26, 2016, 10:19:43 AM
You have to question just how much Bilic really wanted to play in the Europa League. Does he see the better way to qualify for CL next year is to finish top 4, so why have the distraction of Thursday night football, with the extra fatigue and injuries?
£££££
No, I get there's a lot of lost money, Adam, but maybe that pales compared to the TV money they are all receiving this year. I mean, two years in a row against a team that no one has ever heard of, outside of this? Just doesn't add up, to me.
They're just not that good (especially without Payet - amongst others). And it's so early in the season, no one really could expect them to be firing on all cylinders yet. That's the problem with having to play in qualifiers.
They're missing out on a lot of money, depending how far they got in the competition (especially when you consider the gate receipts, etc they would get per match). And since they basically are paying nothing for their stadium, it's all icing on the cake. On the bright side, this reduces the likelihood of English football hooliganism plaguing Europe this autumn.
Quote from: Adam White on August 26, 2016, 05:02:57 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on August 26, 2016, 04:46:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on August 26, 2016, 02:19:27 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on August 26, 2016, 10:19:43 AM
You have to question just how much Bilic really wanted to play in the Europa League. Does he see the better way to qualify for CL next year is to finish top 4, so why have the distraction of Thursday night football, with the extra fatigue and injuries?
£££££
No, I get there's a lot of lost money, Adam, but maybe that pales compared to the TV money they are all receiving this year. I mean, two years in a row against a team that no one has ever heard of, outside of this? Just doesn't add up, to me.
They're just not that good (especially without Payet - amongst others). And it's so early in the season, no one really could expect them to be firing on all cylinders yet. That's the problem with having to play in qualifiers.
They're missing out on a lot of money, depending how far they got in the competition (especially when you consider the gate receipts, etc they would get per match). And since they basically are paying nothing for their stadium, it's all icing on the cake. On the bright side, this reduces the likelihood of English football hooliganism plaguing Europe this autumn.
Oh, please. There are PLENTY of hooligans left other than West Ham. I mean, theoretically. I mean...oh, never mind.
I think Europa League is a curse.
As a Spurs fan, it can be argued that it cost them Top 4 in the EPL more than once in the post-Redknapp era (he who completely and totally disregarded the EL, which I think it is Bilic's stance too).
I also don't think there is nearly as much $$$$ (can't find the key for pounds!) as the EL UCL - for instance, do any of you watch EL if your team is not involved?
(Also agree that WHU is a shadow of itself w/o Payet... Surely he'll play against Man City?)
Quote from: bencrix on August 26, 2016, 08:38:32 PM
I think Europa League is a curse.
As a Spurs fan, it can be argued that it cost them Top 4 in the EPL more than once in the post-Redknapp era (he who completely and totally disregarded the EL, which I think it is Bilic's stance too).
I also don't think there is nearly as much $$$$ (can't find the key for pounds!) as the EL UCL - for instance, do any of you watch EL if your team is not involved?
(Also agree that WHU is a shadow of itself w/o Payet... Surely he'll play against Man City?)
It's a curse, but it sure makes the weeks go by quicker when you don't have to wait seven or eight days between games, plus international breaks. It also gives others a chance to play. For United, it represents a glorious chance to automatically qualify for CL next year, which is not a sure thing with six (or seven, if Arsenal gets its head out of you-know-where) pretty good teams fighting for those four golden spots.
Quote from: bencrix on August 26, 2016, 08:38:32 PM
I think Europa League is a curse.
As a Spurs fan, it can be argued that it cost them Top 4 in the EPL more than once in the post-Redknapp era (he who completely and totally disregarded the EL, which I think it is Bilic's stance too).
I also don't think there is nearly as much $$$$ (can't find the key for pounds!) as the EL UCL - for instance, do any of you watch EL if your team is not involved?
(Also agree that WHU is a shadow of itself w/o Payet... Surely he'll play against Man City?)
Well, they get money for qualifying (which they didn't) and then money for each round (as well as each win or draw in each round). So the longer they're in, the more money they get. It's not a crazy amount, but it
is money they wouldn't otherwise earn. And there's the prize for winning, of course. And the added revenue from ticket sales and concessions at the stadium. I think it's a decent amount of money when it's all factored in - but whether it is worth the Europa League hangover every Sunday after playing is debatable.
I never really watch the Europa League or Champions League if Spurs aren't playing. But I rarely watch football if Spurs aren't playing.
Quote from: bencrix on August 26, 2016, 08:38:32 PM
I think Europa League is a curse.
As a Spurs fan, it can be argued that it cost them Top 4 in the EPL more than once in the post-Redknapp era (he who completely and totally disregarded the EL, which I think it is Bilic's stance too).
I also don't think there is nearly as much $$$$ (can't find the key for pounds!) as the EL UCL - for instance, do any of you watch EL if your team is not involved?
(Also agree that WHU is a shadow of itself w/o Payet... Surely he'll play against Man City?)
In my opinion, our two best players are Payet & Lanzini. Hopefully, they can play tomorrow. We always seem to play well against the big clubs. It is the lower clubs where we screw up.
Fulham is off to a good start to start the season.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 27, 2016, 12:15:12 PM
Quote from: bencrix on August 26, 2016, 08:38:32 PM
I think Europa League is a curse.
As a Spurs fan, it can be argued that it cost them Top 4 in the EPL more than once in the post-Redknapp era (he who completely and totally disregarded the EL, which I think it is Bilic's stance too).
I also don't think there is nearly as much $$$$ (can't find the key for pounds!) as the EL UCL - for instance, do any of you watch EL if your team is not involved?
(Also agree that WHU is a shadow of itself w/o Payet... Surely he'll play against Man City?)
In my opinion, our two best players are Payet & Lanzini. Hopefully, they can play tomorrow. We always seem to play well against the big clubs. It is the lower clubs where we screw up.
I hope so, too!
Quote from: bencrix on August 26, 2016, 08:38:32 PM
I think Europa League is a curse.
As a Spurs fan, it can be argued that it cost them Top 4 in the EPL more than once
The only curse is your being a Spurs fan. It happened again, it happened again....
The real curse is living in an area full of West Ham supporters. Can't watch the match at a pub - had to pay £6.99 for a day pass to Sky Sports to watch the Liverpool match.
Kind of a weird lack of buzz for tonight's game, no?
Quote from: KenFSU on September 06, 2016, 03:00:03 PM
Kind of a weird lack of buzz for tonight's game, no?
What game is that?
Quote from: KenFSU on September 06, 2016, 03:00:03 PM
Kind of a weird lack of buzz for tonight's game, no?
I was pretty impressed by the last two USMNT games in Jax (v. Scotland in 2012 and v. Nigeria in 2014).
The three biggest differences I can think of with this one.
The last two were in May and June. This one coincides with the start of football season, so it has gotten lost in the shuffle.
This is against a much less notable opponent. While more meaningful, I don't think the opponent does much to excite casual fans.
It's on a Tuesday. The other two were on Saturday nights. The Scotland game being the Saturday of a holiday weekend.
Quote from: Adam White on September 06, 2016, 03:04:57 PM
Quote from: KenFSU on September 06, 2016, 03:00:03 PM
Kind of a weird lack of buzz for tonight's game, no?
What game is that?
I don't know if you MEANT this to be as funny as it was!!! :D
Switching gears, what's the buzz over there regarding Rashford and Rooney? How the **** can Big Sam NOT have Rashford on his team and at the same time, basically guarantee Rooney a place in the XI??? It's insanity, to me.
Quote from: TimmyB on September 06, 2016, 05:50:12 PM
Quote from: Adam White on September 06, 2016, 03:04:57 PM
Quote from: KenFSU on September 06, 2016, 03:00:03 PM
Kind of a weird lack of buzz for tonight's game, no?
What game is that?
I don't know if you MEANT this to be as funny as it was!!! :D
Switching gears, what's the buzz over there regarding Rashford and Rooney? How the **** can Big Sam NOT have Rashford on his team and at the same time, basically guarantee Rooney a place in the XI??? It's insanity, to me.
Unintentional, I swear! I ended up Googling it - I had no idea there was a match in Jacksonville today. I think it's great that the powers-that-be really seem intent on staging games in Jax. And World Cup qualifiers are always fun.
TBH, I haven't heard too much about the England team. I've seen a couple of articles questioning a) why Rooney started and b) why Rooney didn't retire after the Euros. I watched about half of the Slovakia match and was really disappointed. If anything, I thought they looked worse than they did under Hodgson, though it was only one match and he had plenty of bad results, too. But it seemed like they'd not manage anything and only really started to look a lot better once Slovakia were down to 10 men.
I agree about Rashford.
Quote from: pierre on September 06, 2016, 03:39:54 PM
Quote from: KenFSU on September 06, 2016, 03:00:03 PM
Kind of a weird lack of buzz for tonight's game, no?
I was pretty impressed by the last two USMNT games in Jax (v. Scotland in 2012 and v. Nigeria in 2014).
The three biggest differences I can think of with this one.
The last two were in May and June. This one coincides with the start of football season, so it has gotten lost in the shuffle.
This is against a much less notable opponent. While more meaningful, I don't think the opponent does much to excite casual fans.
It's on a Tuesday. The other two were on Saturday nights. The Scotland game being the Saturday of a holiday weekend.
Watching the broadcast of the match. While I'm sure those new club seat areas are nice, when people aren't sitting in the seats, it sure makes it seem like there is a sparse crowd.
Quote from: Todd_Parker on September 06, 2016, 09:54:36 PM
Quote from: pierre on September 06, 2016, 03:39:54 PM
Quote from: KenFSU on September 06, 2016, 03:00:03 PM
Kind of a weird lack of buzz for tonight's game, no?
I was pretty impressed by the last two USMNT games in Jax (v. Scotland in 2012 and v. Nigeria in 2014).
The three biggest differences I can think of with this one.
The last two were in May and June. This one coincides with the start of football season, so it has gotten lost in the shuffle.
This is against a much less notable opponent. While more meaningful, I don't think the opponent does much to excite casual fans.
It's on a Tuesday. The other two were on Saturday nights. The Scotland game being the Saturday of a holiday weekend.
Watching the broadcast of the match. While I'm sure those new club seat areas are nice, when people aren't sitting in the seats, it sure makes it seem like there is a sparse crowd.
A problem in ANY sport. When the venue is far too big, it makes it far less attractive and far less exciting. 20,000-ish was the announced crowd, and if that were in a stadium built for soccer which housed 30,000, it would have been rocking. In that place, it could have been very bad. Credit to the USA fans, though; they cheered loudly throughout and if you couldn't see the empty seats on the screen, you wouldn't have guessed that was the case.
In all fairness we got spoiled with our previous opponents. If we were playing a more high profile team than TNT we would have had a larger crowd.
Quote from: Todd_Parker on September 06, 2016, 09:54:36 PM
Watching the broadcast of the match. While I'm sure those new club seat areas are nice, when people aren't sitting in the seats, it sure makes it seem like there is a sparse crowd.
And that was pretty much the impetus on getting the club section remodeled. During Jag games, I'd say anywhere from 40-60% of all of the club fans are wither in the inside bar or on the way to or from the bar which made it look worse than it was when the cameras would pan across midfield.
The solution was to bring the bar crowd back outside.
I can't wait to see it on TV this Sunday, but during the preseason, it looked like somewhere people will hang out.
Quote from: jaxjaguar on September 06, 2016, 10:30:57 PM
In all fairness we got spoiled with our previous opponents. If we were playing a more high profile team than TNT we would have had a larger crowd.
True, but the other matches were international friendlies/warmups. I believe this was the first match with actual tournament implications. Will be curious to see how attendance will affect attempts to host future games.
Quote from: Todd_Parker on September 07, 2016, 09:20:07 AM
Quote from: jaxjaguar on September 06, 2016, 10:30:57 PM
In all fairness we got spoiled with our previous opponents. If we were playing a more high profile team than TNT we would have had a larger crowd.
True, but the other matches were international friendlies/warmups. I believe this was the first match with actual tournament implications. Will be curious to see how attendance will affect attempts to host future games.
It had implications, but they were very limited. There was about .0000001% chance of the USA not qualifying. The only question was 1st or 2nd in the group. I hope that Jax is not punished due to this, especially when ALL factors are considered. It was a virtually meaningless game, on a Tuesday night, with school in session the next day, during the fall when the college football season had already begun. I think 20K is a reasonable crowd to expect, given those.
Quote from: TimmyB on September 07, 2016, 10:36:46 AM
Quote from: Todd_Parker on September 07, 2016, 09:20:07 AM
Quote from: jaxjaguar on September 06, 2016, 10:30:57 PM
In all fairness we got spoiled with our previous opponents. If we were playing a more high profile team than TNT we would have had a larger crowd.
True, but the other matches were international friendlies/warmups. I believe this was the first match with actual tournament implications. Will be curious to see how attendance will affect attempts to host future games.
It had implications, but they were very limited. There was about .0000001% chance of the USA not qualifying. The only question was 1st or 2nd in the group. I hope that Jax is not punished due to this, especially when ALL factors are considered. It was a virtually meaningless game, on a Tuesday night, with school in session the next day, during the fall when the college football season had already begun. I think 20K is a reasonable crowd to expect, given those.
20k people showed up in Jacksonville to watch the USA play Trinidad? If so, that's pretty great.
http://www.ussoccer.com/mens-national-team/tournaments/2018-fifa-world-cup-qualifying-semifinal-round/160906-mnt-v-tri#tab-1
Looks like the official attendance was 19,410. Not bad for a Tuesday night against Trinidad and Tobago. Especially given the attendance problems/ticket price issue USMNT has had all summer.
Quote from: Tacachale on September 07, 2016, 10:50:15 AM
http://www.ussoccer.com/mens-national-team/tournaments/2018-fifa-world-cup-qualifying-semifinal-round/160906-mnt-v-tri#tab-1
Looks like the official attendance was 19,410. Not bad for a Tuesday night against Trinidad and Tobago. Especially given the attendance problems/ticket price issue USMNT has had all summer.
I agree - not too shabby at all.
Wow, West Ham fans in trouble, again. Who'd a thunk it, eh Adam?
http://m.bbc.com/sport/football/37332919
Quote from: TimmyB on September 11, 2016, 04:25:01 PM
Wow, West Ham fans in trouble, again. Who'd a thunk it, eh Adam?
http://m.bbc.com/sport/football/37332919
Whilst it's really unfair to tar all West Ham supporters with the same brush - it stands to reason that the majority of them are decent people. But they have a lot of really unsavoury types that seem to cause a lot of trouble. Lots of antisemitic chants when they visit Spurs, for example.
The area I live in is overwhelmingly West Ham country. Yet it was one of only three London Boroughs where the majority of voters voted to leave the EU and it's the only place in London where I've had British National Party supporters hand me leaflets (on multiple occasions) during an election season.
Quote from: Adam White on September 11, 2016, 04:46:37 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on September 11, 2016, 04:25:01 PM
Wow, West Ham fans in trouble, again. Who'd a thunk it, eh Adam?
http://m.bbc.com/sport/football/37332919
Whilst it's really unfair to tar all West Ham supporters with the same brush - it stands to reason that the majority of them are decent people. But they have a lot of really unsavoury types that seem to cause a lot of trouble. Lots of antisemitic chants when they visit Spurs, for example.
The area I live in is overwhelmingly West Ham country. Yet it was one of only three London Boroughs where the majority of voters voted to leave the EU and it's the only place in London where I've had British National Party supporters hand me leaflets (on multiple occasions) during an election season.
As a teacher, I agree about not painting all with a broad brush. However, there are just those few whom trouble seems to follow. I think that may be the case, here! ;D
We need to focus on improving our defense not worrying about fans standing during the matches.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on September 11, 2016, 11:01:37 PM
We need to focus on improving our defense not worrying about fans standing during the matches.
If I understand the issue correctly, it's not the club so much as it is the company that is responsible for managing the stadium. They are enforcing the rules (previously disregarded by the club at their own ground) and it isn't going down well. But that's what happens when you get handed a stadium for practically nothing and don't have to pay for the running of said stadium. I suspect this wouldn't be an issue if West Ham were paying for the stewards.
I suppose the club could turn a blind eye, but then they won't be allowed to have more than 57k fans in the stadium each week (or whatever the number is).
I still can't see how that would cause people to fight each other. Seems more than a bit daft.
They never should've left Upton Park.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on September 11, 2016, 11:01:37 PM
We need to focus on improving our defense not worrying about fans standing during the matches.
They turn in any more performances like that last one, they won't have to worry about too many fans in the stands, eh?
Quote from: TimmyB on September 12, 2016, 07:37:52 AM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on September 11, 2016, 11:01:37 PM
We need to focus on improving our defense not worrying about fans standing during the matches.
They turn in any more performances like that last one, they won't have to worry about too many fans in the stands, eh?
Was it that bad? I saw the score and was surprised to see they had lost to Watford. I was in Paris on the weekend and didn't get the chance to see any of the matches. Had hoped to at least catch the highlights on Match of the Day last night, but I dozed off.
Going to see Spurs on Sunday which, knowing my luck, will end in a loss!
Quote from: Adam White on September 12, 2016, 08:01:48 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on September 12, 2016, 07:37:52 AM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on September 11, 2016, 11:01:37 PM
We need to focus on improving our defense not worrying about fans standing during the matches.
They turn in any more performances like that last one, they won't have to worry about too many fans in the stands, eh?
Was it that bad? I saw the score and was surprised to see they had lost to Watford. I was in Paris on the weekend and didn't get the chance to see any of the matches. Had hoped to at least catch the highlights on Match of the Day last night, but I dozed off.
Going to see Spurs on Sunday which, knowing my luck, will end in a loss!
Well, 2-nil after 33 minutes, then a 2-4 final score! Not going to win a lot of fans that way.
(http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b597/TimmyB44/MSD-BERKEYT/whu%20score_zpsoq6audi0.png)
I just saw that there was fan trouble today in the WHU v. Chelsea game. Now, who would have thought that was possible? ??? ??? ???
Chelsea fans were causing a ruckus.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on October 26, 2016, 07:03:34 PM
Chelsea fans were causing a ruckus.
You could have said either one. Neither team has fans that I'm overly impressed by.
Quote from: TimmyB on October 26, 2016, 07:09:18 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on October 26, 2016, 07:03:34 PM
Chelsea fans were causing a ruckus.
You could have said either one. Neither team has fans that I'm overly impressed by.
I wrote that tongue and cheek since I am WHU supporter. Both sides should exhibit better behavior.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on October 26, 2016, 07:29:03 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on October 26, 2016, 07:09:18 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on October 26, 2016, 07:03:34 PM
Chelsea fans were causing a ruckus.
You could have said either one. Neither team has fans that I'm overly impressed by.
I wrote that tongue and cheek since I am WHU supporter. Both sides should exhibit better behavior.
Ha! I totally missed it, then. OK, good enough for me. Damn Chelsea fans! ;)
JaxAvondale - did you manage to go to a match when you were over here? If so, what did you think of the stadium?
Adam -- while we wait for JaxAvondale's report, how was your trip to WHL several weeks ago? Could you get a sense of whether the Northumberland Development Project will be a success?
There was a big hole in the corner of the stadium. That was about it, really. They are doing a lot of development behind the stadium and there are lots of cranes, etc. You can see the footprint of about 1/3 of the new stadium. It will be interesting to see what happens when the whole thing is complete. They have a nice new Sainsbury's located behind the stadium, probably the first real hint of the development. It's really needed, as the closest supermarket used to be the big Tesco at Seven Sisters.
The downside to the match was seeing Harry Kane get stretchered off.
Quote from: Adam White on October 27, 2016, 03:40:54 AM
JaxAvondale - did you manage to go to a match when you were over here? If so, what did you think of the stadium?
I was able to attend the match. The sight lines from the upper deck were fine. Actually, I would rather sit in upper deck seats at Olympic Stadium than at Wembley. Cosmetically, I thought that there was too much exposed concrete in the stadium but that could be easily corrected with hanging a few signs or banners.
One thing that is absolutely going to be a problem is that the Stratford & West Ham tube stations can't handle the vast amount of people when fans are leaving the stadium. You have to leave early or plan on hanging around Westfield for a few hours which is always packed.
Maybe Kane will be back this weekend? (I doubt it, but Spurs sure need his goals right now).
Quote from: JaxAvondale on October 27, 2016, 09:03:15 AM
Quote from: Adam White on October 27, 2016, 03:40:54 AM
JaxAvondale - did you manage to go to a match when you were over here? If so, what did you think of the stadium?
I was able to attend the match. The sight lines from the upper deck were fine. Actually, I would rather sit in upper deck seats at Olympic Stadium than at Wembley. Cosmetically, I thought that there was too much exposed concrete in the stadium but that could be easily corrected with hanging a few signs or banners.
One thing that is absolutely going to be a problem is that the Stratford & West Ham tube stations can't handle the vast amount of people when fans are leaving the stadium. You have to leave early or plan on hanging around Westfield for a few hours which is always packed.
I wondered about how the view would be behind goal (especially on the lower deck), as it looked like the pitch was quite far from the seats, due to the running track.
I went to the stadium once during the Paralympics (got to see Oscar Pistorius compete) - the view for athletics was fine. And the atmosphere was great.
Quote from: bencrix on October 27, 2016, 09:13:22 AM
Maybe Kane will be back this weekend? (I doubt it, but Spurs sure need his goals right now).
I heard he should be back soon. Son has been great, but apparently was anonymous last weekend. I didn't see that match.
Apparently West Ham are to ban 200 fans. And Wayne Rooney might be headed to LA:
https://uk.yahoo.com/sports/news/esp-football-warm-west-ham-ban-hundreds-rooneys-next-060442430--sow.html
Quote from: Adam White on October 28, 2016, 04:54:33 PM
Apparently West Ham are to ban 200 fans. And Wayne Rooney might be headed to LA:
https://uk.yahoo.com/sports/news/esp-football-warm-west-ham-ban-hundreds-rooneys-next-060442430--sow.html
If we can clear up that 15M per year,... OH, HAPPY DAY!
Bob Bradley got the sack!
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/news/bob-bradley-first-american-premier-league-manager-fired-by-swansea-192940233.html
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
They have a few good players - not sure what the problem is. Bradley clearly wasn't up for the job. They've really slipped, though. They've been pretty consistently mid-table since being promoted. And they even won the League Cup and qualified for the Europa League. If something doesn't change, they're going to be in the Championship next season.
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:07:55 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
They have a few good players - not sure what the problem is. Bradley clearly wasn't up for the job. They've really slipped, though. They've been pretty consistently mid-table since being promoted. And they even won the League Cup and qualified for the Europa League. If something doesn't change, they're going to be in the Championship next season.
And, I don't disagree with that, but on the other hand, Leicester has a few REALLY good players and the same thing can be said for them. I just get annoyed with the pomposity of so many English fans, who don't even look at the reality that Tony Pulis is the ONLY English manager in the top half of the table in the PL! All of the others are from the continent or S.A.
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:31:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:07:55 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
They have a few good players - not sure what the problem is. Bradley clearly wasn't up for the job. They've really slipped, though. They've been pretty consistently mid-table since being promoted. And they even won the League Cup and qualified for the Europa League. If something doesn't change, they're going to be in the Championship next season.
And, I don't disagree with that, but on the other hand, Leicester has a few REALLY good players and the same thing can be said for them. I just get annoyed with the pomposity of so many English fans, who don't even look at the reality that Tony Pulis is the ONLY English manager in the top half of the table in the PL! All of the others are from the continent or S.A.
Pulis is Welsh!
But yeah, he's the only British manager in the top half of the table. And there aren't many in the PL at all.
Maybe people ignore Pulis because he is a clown. This is a guy who once headbutted his own player while he was naked in the locker room. Also, dumb hats
He's a very competent manager. I'd take him over Alan Pardew, Alan Curbishley or even Fat Sam any day of the week. I'm not like a huge fan or anything, but he doesn't seem so bad. Most managers have their issues.
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:41:48 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:31:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:07:55 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
They have a few good players - not sure what the problem is. Bradley clearly wasn't up for the job. They've really slipped, though. They've been pretty consistently mid-table since being promoted. And they even won the League Cup and qualified for the Europa League. If something doesn't change, they're going to be in the Championship next season.
And, I don't disagree with that, but on the other hand, Leicester has a few REALLY good players and the same thing can be said for them. I just get annoyed with the pomposity of so many English fans, who don't even look at the reality that Tony Pulis is the ONLY English manager in the top half of the table in the PL! All of the others are from the continent or S.A.
Pulis is Welsh!
But yeah, he's the only British manager in the top half of the table. And there aren't many in the PL at all.
You're right, and I KNEW that. My bad! But, I'm sure the Welsh don't mind. :D ;)
You have to go all the way down to Bournemouth to find an English manager, if I'm not mistaken.
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:55:31 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:41:48 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:31:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:07:55 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
They have a few good players - not sure what the problem is. Bradley clearly wasn't up for the job. They've really slipped, though. They've been pretty consistently mid-table since being promoted. And they even won the League Cup and qualified for the Europa League. If something doesn't change, they're going to be in the Championship next season.
And, I don't disagree with that, but on the other hand, Leicester has a few REALLY good players and the same thing can be said for them. I just get annoyed with the pomposity of so many English fans, who don't even look at the reality that Tony Pulis is the ONLY English manager in the top half of the table in the PL! All of the others are from the continent or S.A.
Pulis is Welsh!
But yeah, he's the only British manager in the top half of the table. And there aren't many in the PL at all.
You're right, and I KNEW that. My bad! But, I'm sure the Welsh don't mind. :D ;)
You have to go all the way down to Bournemouth to find an English manager, if I'm not mistaken.
Well, with Fat Sam taking over at Crystal Palace, you only need go to London's southern suburbs.
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:57:29 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:55:31 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:41:48 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:31:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:07:55 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
They have a few good players - not sure what the problem is. Bradley clearly wasn't up for the job. They've really slipped, though. They've been pretty consistently mid-table since being promoted. And they even won the League Cup and qualified for the Europa League. If something doesn't change, they're going to be in the Championship next season.
And, I don't disagree with that, but on the other hand, Leicester has a few REALLY good players and the same thing can be said for them. I just get annoyed with the pomposity of so many English fans, who don't even look at the reality that Tony Pulis is the ONLY English manager in the top half of the table in the PL! All of the others are from the continent or S.A.
Pulis is Welsh!
But yeah, he's the only British manager in the top half of the table. And there aren't many in the PL at all.
You're right, and I KNEW that. My bad! But, I'm sure the Welsh don't mind. :D ;)
You have to go all the way down to Bournemouth to find an English manager, if I'm not mistaken.
Well, with Fat Sam taking over at Crystal Palace, you only need go to London's southern suburbs.
Well, I kinda meant down IN THE TABLE, not directionally!!! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:11:25 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:57:29 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:55:31 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:41:48 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:31:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:07:55 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
They have a few good players - not sure what the problem is. Bradley clearly wasn't up for the job. They've really slipped, though. They've been pretty consistently mid-table since being promoted. And they even won the League Cup and qualified for the Europa League. If something doesn't change, they're going to be in the Championship next season.
And, I don't disagree with that, but on the other hand, Leicester has a few REALLY good players and the same thing can be said for them. I just get annoyed with the pomposity of so many English fans, who don't even look at the reality that Tony Pulis is the ONLY English manager in the top half of the table in the PL! All of the others are from the continent or S.A.
Pulis is Welsh!
But yeah, he's the only British manager in the top half of the table. And there aren't many in the PL at all.
You're right, and I KNEW that. My bad! But, I'm sure the Welsh don't mind. :D ;)
You have to go all the way down to Bournemouth to find an English manager, if I'm not mistaken.
Well, with Fat Sam taking over at Crystal Palace, you only need go to London's southern suburbs.
Well, I kinda meant down IN THE TABLE, not directionally!!! ;D ;D ;D
D'oh!
Interesting, though, that Pulis is the most successful British manager so far this season, with West Brom sitting in 9th place. All the others are in the lower half of the table, with two of the three teams at the bottom of the table having British managers.
Maybe Bradley
was out of his depth as an American (I doubt it), but Britain - the country that invented the game - isn't making much of a case for itself.
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 04:25:09 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:11:25 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:57:29 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:55:31 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:41:48 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 03:31:59 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:07:55 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
Yeah, I've been in the discussion on the UK espn site. Some typical idiots believing that if he hadn't been an American, Swansea wouldn't suck! Sorry, lads, but they'll suck in May when they are relegated. I hope Giggs doesn't take this job, as they are a nightmare.
They have a few good players - not sure what the problem is. Bradley clearly wasn't up for the job. They've really slipped, though. They've been pretty consistently mid-table since being promoted. And they even won the League Cup and qualified for the Europa League. If something doesn't change, they're going to be in the Championship next season.
And, I don't disagree with that, but on the other hand, Leicester has a few REALLY good players and the same thing can be said for them. I just get annoyed with the pomposity of so many English fans, who don't even look at the reality that Tony Pulis is the ONLY English manager in the top half of the table in the PL! All of the others are from the continent or S.A.
Pulis is Welsh!
But yeah, he's the only British manager in the top half of the table. And there aren't many in the PL at all.
You're right, and I KNEW that. My bad! But, I'm sure the Welsh don't mind. :D ;)
You have to go all the way down to Bournemouth to find an English manager, if I'm not mistaken.
Well, with Fat Sam taking over at Crystal Palace, you only need go to London's southern suburbs.
Well, I kinda meant down IN THE TABLE, not directionally!!! ;D ;D ;D
D'oh!
Interesting, though, that Pulis is the most successful British manager so far this season, with West Brom sitting in 9th place. All the others are in the lower half of the table, with two of the three teams at the bottom of the table having British managers.
Maybe Bradley was out of his depth as an American (I doubt it), but Britain - the country that invented the game - isn't making much of a case for itself.
He was out of his depth AS A MANAGER, not because of his nationality. The only place where I can see his nationality hurting him is, we have no idea over here what relegation really means. The teams at the bottom of the standings (NFL, NBA, NHL, whatever) don't change their playing style in order to stay in the league next year. Perhaps, THAT is where he made his biggest mistake.
Anyway, I did a little research, comparing USA soccer to England. In the last six WC's, the USA has reached the quarters once, England twice; Round of 16, USA 3, England 1; out in the group stage, USA 2, England 1; and, did not qualify, USA 0, England 1. Hardly a record for any Englander to point fingers and laugh at, eh?
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:55:06 PM
Quote from: Gamblor on December 27, 2016, 03:53:22 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:50:00 PM
he doesn't seem so bad
Way off
Really? I guess you know me better than I do.
Lol I know what you meant here, but the way it is actually written is quite funny in a not what you meant sort of way. Just go back man and read old stuff about him. He is essentially a Bobby Knight, but with more vulgarity. Oh god you're going to tell me Bobby Knight was a great coach and those kids needed a beating aren't you? I mean, pretty sure you said you're a Spuds fan so I wouldn't be suprised :P
Quote from: Gamblor on December 27, 2016, 05:10:55 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:55:06 PM
Quote from: Gamblor on December 27, 2016, 03:53:22 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 03:50:00 PM
he doesn't seem so bad
Way off
Really? I guess you know me better than I do.
Lol I know what you meant here, but the way it is actually written is quite funny in a not what you meant sort of way. Just go back man and read old stuff about him. He is essentially a Bobby Knight, but with more vulgarity. Oh god you're going to tell me Bobby Knight was a great coach and those kids needed a beating aren't you? I mean, pretty sure you said you're a Spuds fan so I wouldn't be suprised :P
I don't know much of anything about Bobby Knight, so I can't really comment on that. I am quite familiar with Pulis and don't find him any more objectionable than any number of other football managers.
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:40:42 PM
Anyway, I did a little research, comparing USA soccer to England. In the last six WC's, the USA has reached the quarters once, England twice; Round of 16, USA 3, England 1; out in the group stage, USA 2, England 1; and, did not qualify, USA 0, England 1. Hardly a record for any Englander to point fingers and laugh at, eh?
That's the funny thing about it, really. England are always disappointing. Their supporters are always complaining about the team, the manager, the FA, whatever.
Back in 2010, they sent an email around the office celebrating England progressing from the group stage to the round of 16. I enjoyed hitting 'reply all' and congratulating them on a second place finish in the group.
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 06:26:25 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:40:42 PM
Anyway, I did a little research, comparing USA soccer to England. In the last six WC's, the USA has reached the quarters once, England twice; Round of 16, USA 3, England 1; out in the group stage, USA 2, England 1; and, did not qualify, USA 0, England 1. Hardly a record for any Englander to point fingers and laugh at, eh?
That's the funny thing about it, really. England are always disappointing. Their supporters are always complaining about the team, the manager, the FA, whatever.
Back in 2010, they sent an email around the office celebrating England progressing from the group stage to the round of 16. I enjoyed hitting 'reply all' and congratulating them on a second place finish in the group.
But, they're so quick to dismiss us lowly Yanks! :D TBH, there have been a couple of women on the USA team that I would have play for the men's team, no questions asked! They have more heart, by far.
Funny enough, I came across this today:
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/ten-premier-league-stars-from-the-usa-who-prove-americans-can-be-successful-in-england-154818037.html
I personally think Friedel is the greatest - or one of the greatest. Looks like the USA has done okay providing keepers to the Prem. Guzan didn't make the list, which isn't quite fair, I don't think.
Spurs have a new site online which shows the new stadium. It has a pretty nice video at the beginning. Worth viewing, as it also shows (briefly) the NFL layout.
http://new-stadium.tottenhamhotspur.com/
(http://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/tottenhamsfuturestadium...throughtheeyesofarsenalfans-SUNDAY.jpg)
Clever, Gamblor...
In any case, the better to flush the Chelsea's of the future...
Quote from: Gamblor on January 04, 2017, 11:51:18 PM
(http://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/tottenhamsfuturestadium...throughtheeyesofarsenalfans-SUNDAY.jpg)
I thought "bowl games" were strictly an American thing!
Quote from: TimmyB on January 05, 2017, 08:11:59 AM
Quote from: Gamblor on January 04, 2017, 11:51:18 PM
(http://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/tottenhamsfuturestadium...throughtheeyesofarsenalfans-SUNDAY.jpg)
I thought "bowl games" were strictly an American thing!
I wouldn't be surprised if that image was created by an American.
Quote from: Adam White on January 05, 2017, 08:29:57 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on January 05, 2017, 08:11:59 AM
Quote from: Gamblor on January 04, 2017, 11:51:18 PM
(http://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/tottenhamsfuturestadium...throughtheeyesofarsenalfans-SUNDAY.jpg)
I thought "bowl games" were strictly an American thing!
I wouldn't be surprised if that image was created by an American.
Lol
(https://soccersanity.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/532.jpg)
(http://goonertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/AmhJjYFCAAABhde.jpg)
Quote from: Adam White on December 28, 2016, 04:48:12 PM
Funny enough, I came across this today:
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/ten-premier-league-stars-from-the-usa-who-prove-americans-can-be-successful-in-england-154818037.html
I personally think Friedel is the greatest - or one of the greatest. Looks like the USA has done okay providing keepers to the Prem. Guzan didn't make the list, which isn't quite fair, I don't think.
Where the fuck is John Harkes on that list. It's his fault that I follow Sheffield Wednesday.
Quote from: Gamblor on January 05, 2017, 10:03:41 AM
Quote from: Adam White on January 05, 2017, 08:29:57 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on January 05, 2017, 08:11:59 AM
Quote from: Gamblor on January 04, 2017, 11:51:18 PM
(http://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/tottenhamsfuturestadium...throughtheeyesofarsenalfans-SUNDAY.jpg)
I thought "bowl games" were strictly an American thing!
I wouldn't be surprised if that image was created by an American.
Lol
(https://soccersanity.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/532.jpg)
(http://goonertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/AmhJjYFCAAABhde.jpg)
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Quote from: fsquid on January 05, 2017, 10:10:15 AM
Quote from: Adam White on December 28, 2016, 04:48:12 PM
Funny enough, I came across this today:
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/ten-premier-league-stars-from-the-usa-who-prove-americans-can-be-successful-in-england-154818037.html
I personally think Friedel is the greatest - or one of the greatest. Looks like the USA has done okay providing keepers to the Prem. Guzan didn't make the list, which isn't quite fair, I don't think.
Where the fuck is John Harkes on that list. It's his fault that I follow Sheffield Wednesday.
Maybe the author wasn't alive back then?
Quote from: Adam White on January 05, 2017, 11:01:52 AM(https://i.imgflip.com/1h4mm0.jpg) (https://imgflip.com/i/1h4mm0)via Imgflip Meme Generator (https://imgflip.com/memegenerator)
Not a random team, but you're making that assumption says a lot about you. I always thought that could be the only way someone would choose to support Tottenham, a team whose fans pelt players on stretchers with coins. But then again you think a coach headbutting his player while naked is acceptable so I wouldn't say your standards are much to go on
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Quote from: Gamblor on January 05, 2017, 05:04:19 PM
Quote from: Adam White on January 05, 2017, 11:01:52 AM(https://i.imgflip.com/1h4mm0.jpg) (https://imgflip.com/i/1h4mm0)via Imgflip Meme Generator (https://imgflip.com/memegenerator)
Not a random team, but you're making that assumption says a lot about you. I always thought that could be the only way someone would choose to support Tottenham, a team whose fans pelt players on stretchers with coins. But then again you think a coach headbutting his player while naked is acceptable so I wouldn't say your standards are much to go on
Not random at all, I'm sure. I bet you have 'supported' one of the most successful teams in the history of English football since the day you were born. I always marvel at how many people 'support' clubs like Arsenal, etc for completely 'honest' reasons - yet never really seem to be attracted to less glamorous, less successful sides. There's a phrase for that.
As far as bad fans are concerned, you're on dangerous ground there. You can ask the Turkish residents of Finsbury Park if you need any more evidence.
And I never said I didn't think there was anything acceptable about Pulis (manager) headbutting a player. I said Pulis doesn't seem any worse to me than a number of other managers, in particular Alan Pardew.
Quote from: Adam White on January 05, 2017, 11:06:02 AM
Quote from: fsquid on January 05, 2017, 10:10:15 AM
Quote from: Adam White on December 28, 2016, 04:48:12 PM
Funny enough, I came across this today:
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/ten-premier-league-stars-from-the-usa-who-prove-americans-can-be-successful-in-england-154818037.html
I personally think Friedel is the greatest - or one of the greatest. Looks like the USA has done okay providing keepers to the Prem. Guzan didn't make the list, which isn't quite fair, I don't think.
Where the fuck is John Harkes on that list. It's his fault that I follow Sheffield Wednesday.
Maybe the author wasn't alive back then?
well the man needs to get educated!
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 06:52:12 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 06:26:25 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:40:42 PM
Anyway, I did a little research, comparing USA soccer to England. In the last six WC's, the USA has reached the quarters once, England twice; Round of 16, USA 3, England 1; out in the group stage, USA 2, England 1; and, did not qualify, USA 0, England 1. Hardly a record for any Englander to point fingers and laugh at, eh?
That's the funny thing about it, really. England are always disappointing. Their supporters are always complaining about the team, the manager, the FA, whatever.
Back in 2010, they sent an email around the office celebrating England progressing from the group stage to the round of 16. I enjoyed hitting 'reply all' and congratulating them on a second place finish in the group.
But, they're so quick to dismiss us lowly Yanks! :D TBH, there have been a couple of women on the USA team that I would have play for the men's team, no questions asked! They have more heart, by far.
FA Cup fifth round draw just happened. Looks like United drew Blackburn and Spurs drew Fulham. Two decent local derbies.
Quote from: Adam White on January 30, 2017, 02:39:34 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 06:52:12 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 06:26:25 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:40:42 PM
Anyway, I did a little research, comparing USA soccer to England. In the last six WC's, the USA has reached the quarters once, England twice; Round of 16, USA 3, England 1; out in the group stage, USA 2, England 1; and, did not qualify, USA 0, England 1. Hardly a record for any Englander to point fingers and laugh at, eh?
That's the funny thing about it, really. England are always disappointing. Their supporters are always complaining about the team, the manager, the FA, whatever.
Back in 2010, they sent an email around the office celebrating England progressing from the group stage to the round of 16. I enjoyed hitting 'reply all' and congratulating them on a second place finish in the group.
But, they're so quick to dismiss us lowly Yanks! :D TBH, there have been a couple of women on the USA team that I would have play for the men's team, no questions asked! They have more heart, by far.
FA Cup fifth round draw just happened. Looks like United drew Blackburn and Spurs drew Fulham. Two decent local derbies.
And, all of the big teams, plus Arsenal, were drawn away. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: TimmyB on January 30, 2017, 03:13:51 PM
Quote from: Adam White on January 30, 2017, 02:39:34 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 06:52:12 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 06:26:25 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:40:42 PM
Anyway, I did a little research, comparing USA soccer to England. In the last six WC's, the USA has reached the quarters once, England twice; Round of 16, USA 3, England 1; out in the group stage, USA 2, England 1; and, did not qualify, USA 0, England 1. Hardly a record for any Englander to point fingers and laugh at, eh?
That's the funny thing about it, really. England are always disappointing. Their supporters are always complaining about the team, the manager, the FA, whatever.
Back in 2010, they sent an email around the office celebrating England progressing from the group stage to the round of 16. I enjoyed hitting 'reply all' and congratulating them on a second place finish in the group.
But, they're so quick to dismiss us lowly Yanks! :D TBH, there have been a couple of women on the USA team that I would have play for the men's team, no questions asked! They have more heart, by far.
FA Cup fifth round draw just happened. Looks like United drew Blackburn and Spurs drew Fulham. Two decent local derbies.
And, all of the big teams, plus Arsenal, were drawn away. ;D ;D ;D
Spurs probably got the toughest tie of them all. I'll be gutted if they lose to Fulham.
Also saw in the news today that Danny Rose has discussed United's interest in him with the club. Not sure if it's just the usual bit of nothing being turned into a story or if there's anything to it. I'd be very unhappy to lose Rose.
Quote from: Adam White on January 31, 2017, 01:28:43 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on January 30, 2017, 03:13:51 PM
Quote from: Adam White on January 30, 2017, 02:39:34 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 06:52:12 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 06:26:25 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:40:42 PM
Anyway, I did a little research, comparing USA soccer to England. In the last six WC's, the USA has reached the quarters once, England twice; Round of 16, USA 3, England 1; out in the group stage, USA 2, England 1; and, did not qualify, USA 0, England 1. Hardly a record for any Englander to point fingers and laugh at, eh?
That's the funny thing about it, really. England are always disappointing. Their supporters are always complaining about the team, the manager, the FA, whatever.
Back in 2010, they sent an email around the office celebrating England progressing from the group stage to the round of 16. I enjoyed hitting 'reply all' and congratulating them on a second place finish in the group.
But, they're so quick to dismiss us lowly Yanks! :D TBH, there have been a couple of women on the USA team that I would have play for the men's team, no questions asked! They have more heart, by far.
FA Cup fifth round draw just happened. Looks like United drew Blackburn and Spurs drew Fulham. Two decent local derbies.
And, all of the big teams, plus Arsenal, were drawn away. ;D ;D ;D
Spurs probably got the toughest tie of them all. I'll be gutted if they lose to Fulham.
Also saw in the news today that Danny Rose has discussed United's interest in him with the club. Not sure if it's just the usual bit of nothing being turned into a story or if there's anything to it. I'd be very unhappy to lose Rose.
You might have lost him, anyway. He got clobbered in the game against Sunderland and limped off with a bad left knee!
that free kick by Chelsea. HAHAAHAH
Quote from: TimmyB on January 31, 2017, 05:49:41 PM
Quote from: Adam White on January 31, 2017, 01:28:43 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on January 30, 2017, 03:13:51 PM
Quote from: Adam White on January 30, 2017, 02:39:34 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 06:52:12 PM
Quote from: Adam White on December 27, 2016, 06:26:25 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on December 27, 2016, 04:40:42 PM
Anyway, I did a little research, comparing USA soccer to England. In the last six WC's, the USA has reached the quarters once, England twice; Round of 16, USA 3, England 1; out in the group stage, USA 2, England 1; and, did not qualify, USA 0, England 1. Hardly a record for any Englander to point fingers and laugh at, eh?
That's the funny thing about it, really. England are always disappointing. Their supporters are always complaining about the team, the manager, the FA, whatever.
Back in 2010, they sent an email around the office celebrating England progressing from the group stage to the round of 16. I enjoyed hitting 'reply all' and congratulating them on a second place finish in the group.
But, they're so quick to dismiss us lowly Yanks! :D TBH, there have been a couple of women on the USA team that I would have play for the men's team, no questions asked! They have more heart, by far.
FA Cup fifth round draw just happened. Looks like United drew Blackburn and Spurs drew Fulham. Two decent local derbies.
And, all of the big teams, plus Arsenal, were drawn away. ;D ;D ;D
Spurs probably got the toughest tie of them all. I'll be gutted if they lose to Fulham.
Also saw in the news today that Danny Rose has discussed United's interest in him with the club. Not sure if it's just the usual bit of nothing being turned into a story or if there's anything to it. I'd be very unhappy to lose Rose.
You might have lost him, anyway. He got clobbered in the game against Sunderland and limped off with a bad left knee!
Yeah, bad news. I hope it's nothing too serious. Spurs have the second-best defence in the league, but that will change without Rose or Vertonghen. And struggling against a club like Sunderland isn't very promising. Last night was the perfect opportunity to gain (slightly) on Chelsea.
Hard to know for sure about these things, but Danny is reported to have said the injury is "not bad." Should know more soon. Highly doubt that Levy would deal Rose to Man U. The whole Berbatov thing, etc... Even so, I'm even less worried about Pochetino's ability to mould the next star left back in the league. That seems to be his specialty!
Quote from: bencrix on February 01, 2017, 07:58:55 AM
Hard to know for sure about these things, but Danny is reported to have said the injury is "not bad." Should know more soon. Highly doubt that Levy would deal Rose to Man U. The whole Berbatov thing, etc... Even so, I'm even less worried about Pochetino's ability to mould the next star left back in the league. That seems to be his specialty!
If I had to lose one, I'd rather lose Walker. Right backs aren't as hard to come by and Trippier has moments of brilliance. It will be interesting to see how the season plays out. If Spurs don't win the league (let's be honest - they won't) and don't win any silverware, I wonder how many of the players will be tempted to leave. They might stick around for another season. If Poch gets poached by a bigger team, then I bet they lose a number of their stars.
Quote from: fsquid on February 01, 2017, 12:11:59 AM
that free kick by Chelsea. HAHAAHAH
Ouch! I just saw that on YouTube. Embarrassing!
I don't see this as a win-the-league-or-bust season for Spurs. Most folks received a raise and a contract extension this season, including Poch. Top 4 + Champions League would be mission accomplished. If they finish out of the top 4, I'd start to worry about Dele going to Real Madrid. But Levy would still hold all the cards. Can't think of a club that Poch would be tempted to jump to, either.
More on the subject of Spurs' fullbacks:
Hard to imagine a manager and style that depends more one's abilities as a fullback than Tottenham's. I think Rose and Walker probably realize that only a massive pay raise would improve on their current situation. I know its often said that these players care only about the money (and I would not begrudge them that were it so), but I'm not so sure that is always the case.
Quote from: bencrix on February 01, 2017, 08:34:07 AM
More on the subject of Spurs' fullbacks:
Hard to imagine a manager and style that depends more one's abilities as a fullback than Tottenham's. I think Rose and Walker probably realize that only a massive pay raise would improve on their current situation. I know its often said that these players care only about the money (and I would not begrudge them that were it so), but I'm not so sure that is always the case.
Maybe. But Rose
did mention that he wants to win things. I can see him being tempted away by a more successful club. To be honest, I wouldn't be as worried if they had managed a decent showing in the Champions League. Top 4 + quarterfinals or semifinals would look good. Maybe they will win the Europa League, but I don't see it happening.
QuoteMaybe. But Rose did mention that he wants to win things.
So he transfers to United? Nah! ;)
Quote from: bencrix on February 02, 2017, 08:19:47 AM
QuoteMaybe. But Rose did mention that he wants to win things.
So he transfers to United? Nah! ;)
Ha! Probably Madrid, as we're apparently their feeder club.
Quote from: bencrix on February 02, 2017, 08:19:47 AM
QuoteMaybe. But Rose did mention that he wants to win things.
So he transfers to United? Nah! ;)
After last night, I wouldn't blame him. On the other hand, if he looks at either of our FB's, he's knowing he could walk into the team. God, I am so sick of watching people shoehorned into postions. Ashley Young sits and watches all season long, while Rashford looks like Bambi out there on the left wing. This team couldn't score if they walked down Las Vegas Boulevard with $100 bills falling out of their pockets.
Quote from: TimmyB on February 02, 2017, 09:33:54 AM
Quote from: bencrix on February 02, 2017, 08:19:47 AM
QuoteMaybe. But Rose did mention that he wants to win things.
So he transfers to United? Nah! ;)
After last night, I wouldn't blame him. On the other hand, if he looks at either of our FB's, he's knowing he could walk into the team. God, I am so sick of watching people shoehorned into postions. Ashley Young sits and watches all season long, while Rashford looks like Bambi out there on the left wing. This team couldn't score if they walked down Las Vegas Boulevard with $100 bills falling out of their pockets.
There's something kind of funny about Spurs having one of the best defences in the League (for a few years now). Used to be that they'd manage a fifth place finish with a single-digit goal difference (or thereabouts).
Quote from: Adam White on February 02, 2017, 09:48:19 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on February 02, 2017, 09:33:54 AM
Quote from: bencrix on February 02, 2017, 08:19:47 AM
QuoteMaybe. But Rose did mention that he wants to win things.
So he transfers to United? Nah! ;)
After last night, I wouldn't blame him. On the other hand, if he looks at either of our FB's, he's knowing he could walk into the team. God, I am so sick of watching people shoehorned into postions. Ashley Young sits and watches all season long, while Rashford looks like Bambi out there on the left wing. This team couldn't score if they walked down Las Vegas Boulevard with $100 bills falling out of their pockets.
There's something kind of funny about Spurs having one of the best defences in the League (for a few years now). Used to be that they'd manage a fifth place finish with a single-digit goal difference (or thereabouts).
That's pretty much where United are, right now. Since the loss to Chelsea in late October, they've given up only 14 goals in 23 outings in all comps, and 11 of those 23 were clean sheets. And, it's not because they play this boring, possession-at-all-costs football as LVG did. They simply don't take their chances.
Quote from: TimmyB on February 02, 2017, 10:46:08 AM
Quote from: Adam White on February 02, 2017, 09:48:19 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on February 02, 2017, 09:33:54 AM
Quote from: bencrix on February 02, 2017, 08:19:47 AM
QuoteMaybe. But Rose did mention that he wants to win things.
So he transfers to United? Nah! ;)
After last night, I wouldn't blame him. On the other hand, if he looks at either of our FB's, he's knowing he could walk into the team. God, I am so sick of watching people shoehorned into postions. Ashley Young sits and watches all season long, while Rashford looks like Bambi out there on the left wing. This team couldn't score if they walked down Las Vegas Boulevard with $100 bills falling out of their pockets.
There's something kind of funny about Spurs having one of the best defences in the League (for a few years now). Used to be that they'd manage a fifth place finish with a single-digit goal difference (or thereabouts).
That's pretty much where United are, right now. Since the loss to Chelsea in late October, they've given up only 14 goals in 23 outings in all comps, and 11 of those 23 were clean sheets. And, it's not because they play this boring, possession-at-all-costs football as LVG did. They simply don't take their chances.
Spurs have always played pretty exciting football - but every time they'd score, they'd ship a goal. Not as bad now, obviously. Maybe United's fortunes will improve in a season or two if they keep Mourinho and make some clever purchases.
Hey, guys. Did you see what was just announced? Real vs Barca in Miami this summer, as part of the International Champions Cup that's been going on for the past few years!!! Holy smokes, that is going to be a hot ticket.
http://www.espnfc.us/english-premier-league/story/3095417/premier-league-playing-39th-game-in-us-not-that-far-away-icc-chief
If Fulham gets promoted then there is a good chance that we will be able to see a Premier League match in Jacksonville in the near future.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on April 03, 2017, 09:32:31 PM
http://www.espnfc.us/english-premier-league/story/3095417/premier-league-playing-39th-game-in-us-not-that-far-away-icc-chief
If Fulham gets promoted then there is a good chance that we will be able to see a Premier League match in Jacksonville in the near future.
1. No way this happens.
2. See rule #1.
3. Just in case, make sure Fulham's players all get the flu this month.
What a terrible idea. Who are you going to bring to the US? United vs City? Chelsea/Arsenal? WBA vs Bournemouth? That'll pack 'em in. This guy is a promoter, nothing more. He is throwing crap up against the wall just to see if any of it sticks.
Quote from: TimmyB on April 03, 2017, 09:38:48 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on April 03, 2017, 09:32:31 PM
http://www.espnfc.us/english-premier-league/story/3095417/premier-league-playing-39th-game-in-us-not-that-far-away-icc-chief
If Fulham gets promoted then there is a good chance that we will be able to see a Premier League match in Jacksonville in the near future.
1. No way this happens.
2. See rule #1.
3. Just in case, make sure Fulham's players all get the flu this month.
What a terrible idea. Who are you going to bring to the US? United vs City? Chelsea/Arsenal? WBA vs Bournemouth? That'll pack 'em in. This guy is a promoter, nothing more. He is throwing crap up against the wall just to see if any of it sticks.
I think any PL match would do well in the states. Also, I'm sure that NBC is pushing for an abroad week as well.
I assume you're talking about a friendly, right?
Quote from: Adam White on April 04, 2017, 02:16:42 AM
I assume you're talking about a friendly, right?
No. This promoter believes that the PL will play a 39th game, on the record.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on April 03, 2017, 09:51:41 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on April 03, 2017, 09:38:48 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on April 03, 2017, 09:32:31 PM
http://www.espnfc.us/english-premier-league/story/3095417/premier-league-playing-39th-game-in-us-not-that-far-away-icc-chief
If Fulham gets promoted then there is a good chance that we will be able to see a Premier League match in Jacksonville in the near future.
1. No way this happens.
2. See rule #1.
3. Just in case, make sure Fulham's players all get the flu this month.
What a terrible idea. Who are you going to bring to the US? United vs City? Chelsea/Arsenal? WBA vs Bournemouth? That'll pack 'em in. This guy is a promoter, nothing more. He is throwing crap up against the wall just to see if any of it sticks.
I think any PL match would do well in the states. Also, I'm sure that NBC is pushing for an abroad week as well.
I don't share your enthusiasm for this, but I wouldn't mind being wrong about that market.
Quote from: TimmyB on April 04, 2017, 08:23:19 AM
Quote from: Adam White on April 04, 2017, 02:16:42 AM
I assume you're talking about a friendly, right?
No. This promoter believes that the PL will play a 39th game, on the record.
That was shot down in 2014. It might be resurrected again, but I would be surprised to see it happen. FIFA, UEFA and all the supporters' groups oppose overseas matches.
Another thing to consider is that if it does happen, there are no guarantees it will be the USA that gets the games. It could be India, Malaysia, China or somewhere else. Jacksonville seems like a long shot, even if the 39th game thing gets legs.
Quote from: Adam White on April 04, 2017, 08:29:58 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on April 04, 2017, 08:23:19 AM
Quote from: Adam White on April 04, 2017, 02:16:42 AM
I assume you're talking about a friendly, right?
No. This promoter believes that the PL will play a 39th game, on the record.
That was shot down in 2014. It might be resurrected again, but I would be surprised to see it happen. FIFA, UEFA and all the supporters' groups oppose overseas matches.
Another thing to consider is that if it does happen, there are no guarantees it will be the USA that gets the games. It could be India, Malaysia, China or somewhere else. Jacksonville seems like a long shot, even if the 39th game thing gets legs.
Agreed! That is why I stated that Jax would need for Fulham to get promoted in order to get a match.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on April 04, 2017, 11:43:43 AM
Quote from: Adam White on April 04, 2017, 08:29:58 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on April 04, 2017, 08:23:19 AM
Quote from: Adam White on April 04, 2017, 02:16:42 AM
I assume you're talking about a friendly, right?
No. This promoter believes that the PL will play a 39th game, on the record.
That was shot down in 2014. It might be resurrected again, but I would be surprised to see it happen. FIFA, UEFA and all the supporters' groups oppose overseas matches.
Another thing to consider is that if it does happen, there are no guarantees it will be the USA that gets the games. It could be India, Malaysia, China or somewhere else. Jacksonville seems like a long shot, even if the 39th game thing gets legs.
Agreed! That is why I stated that Jax would need for Fulham to get promoted in order to get a match.
I don't see it making much of a difference, really. I guess if they play 10 matches in one country, there would be a possibility that Jax could get one with Fulham. But I think the plan called for multiple matches in the same city or cities, so it would mean Jax would have to get a few matches. Of course, all of this is conjecture and the plan could be tweaked. But I don't see it happening, as opposition is so strong.
I hope it happens, but a lot has to go right for Fulham to win promotion...
Speaking of London clubs, where's that Gamblor bloke?
Was wondering how work is coming along on his clever St. Totteringham's Day memes?
Quote from: bencrix on April 10, 2017, 09:37:29 AM
I hope it happens, but a lot has to go right for Fulham to win promotion...
Speaking of London clubs, where's that Gamblor bloke?
Was wondering how work is coming along on his clever St. Totteringham's Day memes?
Probably getting ready to go to the "pub" tonight and sing at the television while polishing off some authentic "Irish" sliders or nachos or something.
Anyway - I just checked the table. Fulham are just outside the playoff spots, right? It's not inconceivable that they could be promoted.
Fulham: certainly not inconceivable at all. Just a lot of work left to do, particularly as it looks like they'd be aiming for the playoffs - anything can happen there. I hope it happens!
Quote from: bencrix on April 10, 2017, 10:12:32 AM
Fulham: certainly not inconceivable at all. Just a lot of work left to do, particularly as it looks like they'd be aiming for the playoffs - anything can happen there. I hope it happens!
I don't watch the Championship, but I try to keep an eye on it when I remember. I seem to recall them doing rather poorly last season. Perhaps even looking like a possible candidate for relegation at some point? Looks like they've turned their fortunes around, to say the least.
Maybe the curse of Michael Jackson's ghost was short-lived.
Quote from: bencrix on April 10, 2017, 09:37:29 AM
I hope it happens, but a lot has to go right for Fulham to win promotion...
Speaking of London clubs, where's that Gamblor bloke?
Was wondering how work is coming along on his clever St. Totteringham's Day memes?
I'm not one to engage in much banter, because I think it's stupid. But I'd be lying if tonight's result didn't make me smile. There are still seven games left (or eight, for Arsenal) and anything could happen. I've been watching football (and Spurs) long enough to know not to take anything for granted. But still...
QuoteI'm not one to engage in much banter, because I think it's stupid. But I'd be lying if tonight's result didn't make me smile.
I know what you mean and tend to agree. I follow Spurs, but since I am not from North London / London / England (i.e. a
dilettante), I can say that I actually admire Arsenal as a comparatively well run club that plays in an attractive style, but Gamblor's anti-Spurs meme fit earlier in this season was way over the top and deserving of whatever negative karma it generated - such as a shellacking at the hands of Crystal Palace ;D.
Quote from: bencrix on April 10, 2017, 10:12:32 AM
Fulham: certainly not inconceivable at all. Just a lot of work left to do, particularly as it looks like they'd be aiming for the playoffs - anything can happen there. I hope it happens!
Guess who just crept into the playoff places?
Quote from: Adam White on April 17, 2017, 04:07:24 PM
Quote from: bencrix on April 10, 2017, 10:12:32 AM
Fulham: certainly not inconceivable at all. Just a lot of work left to do, particularly as it looks like they'd be aiming for the playoffs - anything can happen there. I hope it happens!
Guess who just crept into the playoff places?
Arsenal?
Quote from: TimmyB on April 17, 2017, 05:37:24 PM
Quote from: Adam White on April 17, 2017, 04:07:24 PM
Quote from: bencrix on April 10, 2017, 10:12:32 AM
Fulham: certainly not inconceivable at all. Just a lot of work left to do, particularly as it looks like they'd be aiming for the playoffs - anything can happen there. I hope it happens!
Guess who just crept into the playoff places?
Arsenal?
Fulham. Though Arsenal did just move back into sixth place with their entirely unconvincing win at Boro.
Quote from: Adam White on April 17, 2017, 05:44:07 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on April 17, 2017, 05:37:24 PM
Quote from: Adam White on April 17, 2017, 04:07:24 PM
Quote from: bencrix on April 10, 2017, 10:12:32 AM
Fulham: certainly not inconceivable at all. Just a lot of work left to do, particularly as it looks like they'd be aiming for the playoffs - anything can happen there. I hope it happens!
Guess who just crept into the playoff places?
Arsenal?
Fulham. Though Arsenal did just move back into sixth place with their entirely unconvincing win at Boro.
I was joking, Adam! I knew what was going on; I just love taking shots at Arsenal when they present themselves!!! :D
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/a6/d0/f6/a6d0f65d526d833b9e038c9a2f8cbb63.jpg)
Good lord, does ANYONE want the top 4??? All we need now is for Liverpool to lose tomorrow and the weekend couldn't be any more ridiculous!
That pretty much locks up the title for Chelsea.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 05, 2017, 05:05:10 PM
That pretty much locks up the title for Chelsea.
After dropping points to Swansea last week, suddenly United's run in doesn't look impossible. Arsenal can be beaten, and Spurs now look like they will have little to play for. I basically was not even caring about Sunday's result, but this game today might get my ears perked up a little. If Spurs was still in the hunt, there was almost no way United was going to take points from them at their place.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:08:03 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 05, 2017, 05:05:10 PM
That pretty much locks up the title for Chelsea.
After dropping points to Swansea last week, suddenly United's run in doesn't look impossible. Arsenal can be beaten, and Spurs now look like they will have little to play for. I basically was not even caring about Sunday's result, but this game today might get my ears perked up a little. If Spurs was still in the hunt, there was almost no way United was going to take points from them at their place.
Chelsea had the title already. No way were they going to not win two of their remaining matches.
Quote from: Adam White on May 05, 2017, 05:09:34 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:08:03 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 05, 2017, 05:05:10 PM
That pretty much locks up the title for Chelsea.
After dropping points to Swansea last week, suddenly United's run in doesn't look impossible. Arsenal can be beaten, and Spurs now look like they will have little to play for. I basically was not even caring about Sunday's result, but this game today might get my ears perked up a little. If Spurs was still in the hunt, there was almost no way United was going to take points from them at their place.
Chelsea had the title already. No way were they going to not win two of their remaining matches.
Right. And, United can't possibly puke away an 8-point lead with only 6 games to play. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:37:22 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 05, 2017, 05:09:34 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:08:03 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 05, 2017, 05:05:10 PM
That pretty much locks up the title for Chelsea.
After dropping points to Swansea last week, suddenly United's run in doesn't look impossible. Arsenal can be beaten, and Spurs now look like they will have little to play for. I basically was not even caring about Sunday's result, but this game today might get my ears perked up a little. If Spurs was still in the hunt, there was almost no way United was going to take points from them at their place.
Chelsea had the title already. No way were they going to not win two of their remaining matches.
Right. And, United can't possibly puke away an 8-point lead with only 6 games to play. ;D ;D ;D
Don't worry - United still play Spurs. So that could be three points right there.
Quote from: Adam White on May 05, 2017, 05:38:46 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:37:22 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 05, 2017, 05:09:34 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:08:03 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 05, 2017, 05:05:10 PM
That pretty much locks up the title for Chelsea.
After dropping points to Swansea last week, suddenly United's run in doesn't look impossible. Arsenal can be beaten, and Spurs now look like they will have little to play for. I basically was not even caring about Sunday's result, but this game today might get my ears perked up a little. If Spurs was still in the hunt, there was almost no way United was going to take points from them at their place.
Chelsea had the title already. No way were they going to not win two of their remaining matches.
Right. And, United can't possibly puke away an 8-point lead with only 6 games to play. ;D ;D ;D
Don't worry - United still play Spurs. So that could be three points right there.
I think you missed my point, Adam. I was referring to when United gave up that lead in 13 to hand City the title.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:47:42 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 05, 2017, 05:38:46 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:37:22 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 05, 2017, 05:09:34 PM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 05, 2017, 05:08:03 PM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 05, 2017, 05:05:10 PM
That pretty much locks up the title for Chelsea.
After dropping points to Swansea last week, suddenly United's run in doesn't look impossible. Arsenal can be beaten, and Spurs now look like they will have little to play for. I basically was not even caring about Sunday's result, but this game today might get my ears perked up a little. If Spurs was still in the hunt, there was almost no way United was going to take points from them at their place.
Chelsea had the title already. No way were they going to not win two of their remaining matches.
Right. And, United can't possibly puke away an 8-point lead with only 6 games to play. ;D ;D ;D
Don't worry - United still play Spurs. So that could be three points right there.
I think you missed my point, Adam. I was referring to when United gave up that lead in 13 to hand City the title.
Ah, yes. Was that the season United blew the lead and City won the title? I was thinking about you worrying about qualifying for Europe.
QuoteDon't worry - United still play Spurs. So that could be three points right there.
It will be interest to see who is on the field for that one. We now know Mourinho will field a mix of his academy and B-teamers, given injuries and the Europa League final priority.
Will Spurs also heavily rotate? It sure would be nice for them to win the last game at the Lane, completing an undefeated season at home.
Quote from: bencrix on May 08, 2017, 09:37:35 AM
QuoteDon't worry - United still play Spurs. So that could be three points right there.
It will be interest to see who is on the field for that one. We now know Mourinho will field a mix of his academy and B-teamers, given injuries and the Europa League final priority.
Will Spurs also heavily rotate? It sure would be nice for them to win the last game at the Lane, completing an undefeated season at home.
Only need one point from their remaining games to end up in second place. I'd hope they'd still try for maximum points, though. Although I think it's close to impossible for them to win the title, you never know. And beyond that, I'd like to see them bounce back from this terrible performance and not just roll over like they did last year.
Sheffield Wednesday in the playoffs again. Can't wait to see how they break my heart again.
Quote from: fsquid on May 08, 2017, 12:27:14 PM
Sheffield Wednesday in the playoffs again. Can't wait to see how they break my heart again.
Yes - I noticed that and thought of you. Maybe they will get lucky. And if Hull get relegated, they will be the only Yorkshire club in the Premier League.
Quote from: bencrix on May 08, 2017, 09:37:35 AM
QuoteDon't worry - United still play Spurs. So that could be three points right there.
It will be interest to see who is on the field for that one. We now know Mourinho will field a mix of his academy and B-teamers, given injuries and the Europa League final priority.
Will Spurs also heavily rotate? It sure would be nice for them to win the last game at the Lane, completing an undefeated season at home.
I have no problem with Jose deciding to put all of his eggs in the EL basket, especially with the tough run-in we have. However, if you are going to play the kids, play the damn kids. Watching Rooney and Carrick stroll around like a mid-July friendly at Arsenal yesterday was enough to make my blood boil. Then, he made his three subs (after we went down 2-0) and they were Mata, Mkhi, and Herrera. Are you freaking kidding me? Rooney and Carrick could walk down Las Vegas Blvd with $100 bills falling out of their pockets and still not score.
Also, Coventry who was a founding member of the EPL is relegated to League Two. Man.
But Fulham is in the playoffs for promotion to the EPL! and Adam White correctly predicted it!
Quote from: bencrix on May 09, 2017, 02:28:19 PM
But Fulham is in the playoffs for promotion to the EPL! and Adam White correctly predicted it!
Even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Quote from: Adam White on May 09, 2017, 03:20:10 PM
Quote from: bencrix on May 09, 2017, 02:28:19 PM
But Fulham is in the playoffs for promotion to the EPL! and Adam White correctly predicted it!
Even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Hey, Mr. Broken Clock: would you please use your two picks on a couple more United wins in the Europa League? Just two. That's all I want. Pretty please?
Quote from: TimmyB on May 09, 2017, 08:44:40 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 09, 2017, 03:20:10 PM
Quote from: bencrix on May 09, 2017, 02:28:19 PM
But Fulham is in the playoffs for promotion to the EPL! and Adam White correctly predicted it!
Even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Hey, Mr. Broken Clock: would you please use your two picks on a couple more United wins in the Europa League? Just two. That's all I want. Pretty please?
United do appear to have the upper hand against Celta - if they go through and face Ajax (which is what it looks like is going to happen), they should be able to beat them, no problem. Of course, if it were Spurs, they'd bottle it.
I'm no Paul the Octopus, but I'd say United are the favorites to win the thing.
Quote from: Adam White on May 10, 2017, 02:12:55 AM
Quote from: TimmyB on May 09, 2017, 08:44:40 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 09, 2017, 03:20:10 PM
Quote from: bencrix on May 09, 2017, 02:28:19 PM
But Fulham is in the playoffs for promotion to the EPL! and Adam White correctly predicted it!
Even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Hey, Mr. Broken Clock: would you please use your two picks on a couple more United wins in the Europa League? Just two. That's all I want. Pretty please?
United do appear to have the upper hand against Celta - if they go through and face Ajax (which is what it looks like is going to happen), they should be able to beat them, no problem. Of course, if it were Spurs, they'd bottle it.
I'm no Paul the Octopus, but I'd say United are the favorites to win the thing.
I'll settle for Adam the Iguana, if your predictions are correct!
Looks like Fulham will be spending another year in the second division:
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/reading-1-fulham-0-2-204524219.html
On a different note, looks like Al Habsi is the star of that match.
Let's talk about premier league. It seems like Manchester City is on top of the bookies' list in claiming next season's title. Do you guys agree?
Quote from: janesill on May 22, 2017, 12:32:11 AM
On a different note, looks like Al Habsi is the star of that match.
Let's talk about premier league. It seems like Manchester City is on top of the bookies' list in claiming next season's title. Do you guys agree?
A few things:
1) I didn't even realise Al-Habsi was still playing, much less in England (or for Reading, for that matter).
2) I don't pay too much attention to the bookmakers, so I cannot confirm if that is the case. Makes sense, though. City have a lot of money and generally, how much you spend on wages correlates to where you end up in the table at the end of the season. This season was odd (as was last season) - most of the larger clubs under performed, with the exception of Spurs (who are sixth in spending but finished in second place).
3) I assume you are a woman, based on your name - but that doesn't make your avatar any less distasteful.
4) Are you some sort of bot?
Quote from: Adam White on May 22, 2017, 05:38:08 AM
Quote from: janesill on May 22, 2017, 12:32:11 AM
On a different note, looks like Al Habsi is the star of that match.
Let's talk about premier league. It seems like Manchester City is on top of the bookies' list in claiming next season's title. Do you guys agree?
A few things:
1) I didn't even realise Al-Habsi was still playing, much less in England (or for Reading, for that matter). Me, neither.
2) I don't pay too much attention to the bookmakers, so I cannot confirm if that is the case. Makes sense, though. City have a lot of money and generally, how much you spend on wages correlates to where you end up in the table at the end of the season. This season was odd (as was last season) - most of the larger clubs under performed, with the exception of Spurs (who are sixth in spending but finished in second place). Nah. If United win Wednesday, we'll attract a whole new wave of players desiring to play for MUFC in the CL. Convert those draws into wins.
3) I assume you are a woman, based on your name - but that doesn't make your avatar any less distasteful. See answer 4.
4) Are you some sort of bot? That would be my guess, based on the three random posts.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 22, 2017, 09:00:12 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 22, 2017, 05:38:08 AM
Quote from: janesill on May 22, 2017, 12:32:11 AM
On a different note, looks like Al Habsi is the star of that match.
Let's talk about premier league. It seems like Manchester City is on top of the bookies' list in claiming next season's title. Do you guys agree?
A few things:
1) I didn't even realise Al-Habsi was still playing, much less in England (or for Reading, for that matter). Me, neither.
2) I don't pay too much attention to the bookmakers, so I cannot confirm if that is the case. Makes sense, though. City have a lot of money and generally, how much you spend on wages correlates to where you end up in the table at the end of the season. This season was odd (as was last season) - most of the larger clubs under performed, with the exception of Spurs (who are sixth in spending but finished in second place). Nah. If United win Wednesday, we'll attract a whole new wave of players desiring to play for MUFC in the CL. Convert those draws into wins.
3) I assume you are a woman, based on your name - but that doesn't make your avatar any less distasteful. See answer 4.
4) Are you some sort of bot? That would be my guess, based on the three random posts.
We'll see. United will throw a lot of money at players, but whether that translates to success on the pitch is a different matter altogether. United have only finished in the top four once (I think) since Ferguson left. Whether Mourinho will be able to win the league with United remains to be seen.
I think a bunch of expensive players doesn't necessarily equate to winning the league - just look at City. They seem to struggle far more than they should with the money they have (granted, they
have won the league twice). Obviously, you have Leicester winning last year with comparitively little spent, but that was admittedly an anomaly. However, United had the second highest wages bill this season and finished sixth. City had the highest and finished in third. Arsenal were the fourth highest (as usual) and finished fifth. Only Spurs (sixth highest, as usual) and Liverpool (fifth highest) managed to overperform.
I'm not so naive to assume Spurs will push on to win the league next season, of course - there are too many things counting against them. Of the top four finishers this season, I think City and Chelsea look most likely to win the league next year.
The Arsenal thing is very funny to me, because they
always outspend Spurs. I think last season (or maybe it was the season before), they had the second-highest wages bill in the first part of the year. Yet their Jax fans go on an on about how Chelsea spends its way to the title. Yeah - and Arsenal spends it way to fourth place.
Looks like Al-Habsi's luck ran out. Huddersfield have been promoted to the PL.
Quote from: Adam White on May 29, 2017, 02:32:17 PM
Looks like Al-Habsi's luck ran out. Huddersfield have been promoted to the PL.
what an absolutely dreadful match that was.
Quote from: fsquid on May 30, 2017, 10:16:58 AM
Quote from: Adam White on May 29, 2017, 02:32:17 PM
Looks like Al-Habsi's luck ran out. Huddersfield have been promoted to the PL.
what an absolutely dreadful match that was.
I totally forgot about it until it was shortly before halftime. I looked at the stats and decided to watch the tennis instead.
Quote from: Gamblor on June 17, 2016, 12:53:17 PM
Quote from: Adam White on June 14, 2016, 01:16:07 PM
I'm a Spurs supporter/member
It's happened again, it's happened again.....
Funny how the 'banter' dies down when fortunes change.
West Ham manage to stay up after a dreadful season.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on May 13, 2018, 05:22:23 PM
West Ham manage to stay up after a dreadful season.
Ended on a bit of a high (sort of), right? Apparently Moyes only has a 25% chance of staying at the club. Seems a bit unfair.
Fulham in a 1-0 hole heading into tomorrow's home leg. Somehow still favored to advance and second best odds to win promotion, but backs are against the wall now.
Fulham is through to the final after a thrilling 2-0 victory. They will face Aston Villa or Middlesbrough with promotion on the line. It is soooo close!!
Quote from: ProjectMaximus on May 15, 2018, 02:55:18 PM
Fulham is through to the final after a thrilling 2-0 victory. They will face Aston Villa or Middlesbrough with promotion on the line. It is soooo close!!
I personally hope Villa go through.
Remind me - if Middlesbrough wins 1-0, then the aggregate would be 1-1. Is it away goals that the tiebreaker? Meaning Middlesbrough would advance?
Quote from: Steve on May 15, 2018, 04:40:43 PM
Remind me - if Middlesbrough wins 1-0, then the aggregate would be 1-1. Is it away goals that the tiebreaker? Meaning Middlesbrough would advance?
Non-issue now. Looks like Fulham-Aston Villa at Wembley.
Quote from: Steve on May 15, 2018, 04:40:43 PM
Remind me - if Middlesbrough wins 1-0, then the aggregate would be 1-1. Is it away goals that the tiebreaker? Meaning Middlesbrough would advance?
I think they just do added extra time and then penalty kicks.
Quote from: Steve on May 15, 2018, 04:45:10 PM
Quote from: Steve on May 15, 2018, 04:40:43 PM
Remind me - if Middlesbrough wins 1-0, then the aggregate would be 1-1. Is it away goals that the tiebreaker? Meaning Middlesbrough would advance?
Non-issue now. Looks like Fulham-Aston Villa at Wembley.
Probably the best option for the final, as they were the third and fourth placed teams at the end of the season.
With the relegation of West Brom and Stoke, it would be nice to see Villa join Wolves in the Premier League.
Quote from: Adam White on May 15, 2018, 04:46:42 PM
Quote from: Steve on May 15, 2018, 04:40:43 PM
Remind me - if Middlesbrough wins 1-0, then the aggregate would be 1-1. Is it away goals that the tiebreaker? Meaning Middlesbrough would advance?
I think they just do added extra time and then penalty kicks.
I believe this is correct. They were saying if Derby had gotten one back on Fulham it would have gone to extra time.
And Fulham it is! 1-0 FT, and playing the last 26 minutes with only 10 men! Congrats, FFC.
Congrats to Fulham! Hoping for some PL friendliest in Jax soon.
Cue all the Shahid Khan worshipers citing this as an example of his skillz
That Shad Khan is a genius!!! If only he would buy my football team! Trophies every year!!! ;D :P ;D
Yay Fulham! Go Cottagers!
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 02:10:31 PM
Cue all the Shahid Khan worshipers citing this as an example of his skillz
Well, one
could commend Shad's son, Tony, for the success. He is the Director of Football Operations for Fulham and the Head of Analytics for the Jaguars, and in both cases supposedly has tremendous influence on the scouting and player management. The Jaguars brass appears old-school in approach, but they incorporate analytics, at least to some degree, into much of what they do.
Quote from: ProjectMaximus on May 26, 2018, 03:25:06 PM
Yay Fulham! Go Cottagers!
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 02:10:31 PM
Cue all the Shahid Khan worshipers citing this as an example of his skillz
Well, one could commend Shad's son, Tony, for the success. He is the Director of Football Operations for Fulham and the Head of Analytics for the Jaguars, and in both cases supposedly has tremendous influence on the scouting and player management. The Jaguars brass appears old-school in approach, but they incorporate analytics, at least to some degree, into much of what they do.
Was he "Director of Football Operations" (whatever that means) when Shahid got the club relegated out of the Premier League and almost relegated from the Championship? ;D
I'd have liked to see Villa promoted, but it's no biggie one way or the other to me. The upside is possibly being able to go see Spurs play at Craven Cottage next season. No atmosphere, but easy to get a ticket.
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 05:30:14 PM
Quote from: ProjectMaximus on May 26, 2018, 03:25:06 PM
Yay Fulham! Go Cottagers!
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 02:10:31 PM
Cue all the Shahid Khan worshipers citing this as an example of his skillz
Well, one could commend Shad's son, Tony, for the success. He is the Director of Football Operations for Fulham and the Head of Analytics for the Jaguars, and in both cases supposedly has tremendous influence on the scouting and player management. The Jaguars brass appears old-school in approach, but they incorporate analytics, at least to some degree, into much of what they do.
Was he "Director of Football Operations" (whatever that means) when Shahid got the club relegated out of the Premier League and almost relegated from the Championship? ;D
I'd have liked to see Villa promoted, but it's no biggie one way or the other to me. The upside is possibly being able to go see Spurs play at Craven Cottage next season. No atmosphere, but easy to get a ticket.
That's ironic. A fan of Spurs talking about someplace else having no atmosphere? ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: TimmyB on May 26, 2018, 06:17:57 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 05:30:14 PM
Quote from: ProjectMaximus on May 26, 2018, 03:25:06 PM
Yay Fulham! Go Cottagers!
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 02:10:31 PM
Cue all the Shahid Khan worshipers citing this as an example of his skillz
Well, one could commend Shad's son, Tony, for the success. He is the Director of Football Operations for Fulham and the Head of Analytics for the Jaguars, and in both cases supposedly has tremendous influence on the scouting and player management. The Jaguars brass appears old-school in approach, but they incorporate analytics, at least to some degree, into much of what they do.
Was he "Director of Football Operations" (whatever that means) when Shahid got the club relegated out of the Premier League and almost relegated from the Championship? ;D
I'd have liked to see Villa promoted, but it's no biggie one way or the other to me. The upside is possibly being able to go see Spurs play at Craven Cottage next season. No atmosphere, but easy to get a ticket.
That's ironic. A fan of Spurs talking about someplace else having no atmosphere? ;D ;D ;D
I beg your pardon, but WHL probably has (or had) the best atmosphere of any of the 'top' clubs' grounds - except maybe the Etihad.
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 06:35:00 PM
I beg your pardon, but WHL probably has (or had) the best atmosphere of any of the 'top' clubs' grounds - except maybe the Etihad.
That was my point entirely. They aren't playing there, any more. Wembley hasn't exactly stricken fear in anyone playing there, at least not from the "atmosphere" standpoint.
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 05:30:14 PM
Was he "Director of Football Operations" (whatever that means) when Shahid got the club relegated out of the Premier League and almost relegated from the Championship? ;D
Nope. He began building the analytics dept in mid-2015 and you could almost see it as the rock bottom for Fulham. He became Director of Football Operations in 2017.
Quote from: TimmyB on May 26, 2018, 07:30:49 PM
Quote from: Adam White on May 26, 2018, 06:35:00 PM
I beg your pardon, but WHL probably has (or had) the best atmosphere of any of the 'top' clubs' grounds - except maybe the Etihad.
That was my point entirely. They aren't playing there, any more. Wembley hasn't exactly stricken fear in anyone playing there, at least not from the "atmosphere" standpoint.
Apparently, Wembley ranked fifth (and best of the 'big' clubs).
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/tottenham-stadium-champions-league-advert-083500985.html
(https://en.onefootball.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2018/05/Spurs-poster.jpg)
Looks like Shahid Khan's Fulham FC have sacked their manager and appointed PL title-winner Claudio Ranieri. That's six managers in five years. Coupled with the fact that Fulham currently sit dead last (with one win, two draws and nine losses), in spite of spending about £100 million in the summer transfer window (third only to Chelsea and Liverpool), things aren't looking too rosy for the club these days.
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/slavisa-jokanovic-sacked-fulham-appoint-091826413.html
Fulham is in some serious trouble. Last week they lost to Huddersfield, the previous worst (and winless) team in the league.
Quote from: pierre on November 14, 2018, 08:01:59 AM
Fulham is in some serious trouble. Last week they lost to Huddersfield, the previous worst (and winless) team in the league.
They're en route to being the next Derby.
Apparently Arsene Wenger turned Khan down and that's why they went for Ranieri.
Also: for those of you who believe everything Shahid Khan says about his intentions, consider what Khan said a few weeks ago:
Quote"As for the sensational and fictional headlines related to Slavisa this week, I'm equal parts amused, astonished and disappointed. I ask you not to believe everything you read. Or, in this case, don't believe anything you read."
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-s-shahid-khan-slams-sensational-fictional-headlines-that-slavisa-jokanovic-is-close-to-being-a3971676.html
Fulham is in trouble but hopefully they can turn things around. Relegation would be a huge setback.
Quote from: Adam White on November 14, 2018, 10:30:50 AM
Also: for those of you who believe everything Shahid Khan says about his intentions, consider what Khan said a few weeks ago:
Quote"As for the sensational and fictional headlines related to Slavisa this week, I'm equal parts amused, astonished and disappointed. I ask you not to believe everything you read. Or, in this case, don't believe anything you read."
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-s-shahid-khan-slams-sensational-fictional-headlines-that-slavisa-jokanovic-is-close-to-being-a3971676.html
Because similar are not said all the time in every sports league in the world?
It's called a "dreaded vote of confidence" for a reason.
Quote from: pierre on November 14, 2018, 03:57:15 PM
Quote from: Adam White on November 14, 2018, 10:30:50 AM
Also: for those of you who believe everything Shahid Khan says about his intentions, consider what Khan said a few weeks ago:
Quote"As for the sensational and fictional headlines related to Slavisa this week, I'm equal parts amused, astonished and disappointed. I ask you not to believe everything you read. Or, in this case, don't believe anything you read."
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-s-shahid-khan-slams-sensational-fictional-headlines-that-slavisa-jokanovic-is-close-to-being-a3971676.html
Because similar are not said all the time in every sports league in the world?
It's called a "dreaded vote of confidence" for a reason.
My point really is that some people seem to think that Shahid Khan isn't planning on moving the Jaguars to London (or elsewhere) because he says he isn't. I don't know if he is or isn't. But it's foolish to put too much stock in anything he says.
^^^It's also foolish for Jags fans to be on pins and needles all because of some dumb fixation that it's "only a matter of time" that the Jags are gonna leave Duval for the big bad wolf London, just because it's a world class city.
If you "don't know if Khan is or isn't leaving Jax" then why keep bringing it up (even on a soccer thread nevertheless)? A soccer player leaving Fulham automatically equates with some supposed 'uncertainty" with the Jags in Jax, okay...
Quote from: I-10east on November 14, 2018, 09:07:13 PM
^^^It's also foolish for Jags fans to be on pins and needles all because of some dumb fixation that it's "only a matter of time" that the Jags are gonna leave Duval for the big bad wolf London, just because it's a world class city.
If you "don't know if Khan is or isn't leaving Jax" then why keep bringing it up (even on a soccer thread nevertheless)? A soccer player leaving Fulham automatically equates with some supposed 'uncertainty" with the Jags in Jax, okay...
No, the Manager (iow, head coach) of Fulham being sacked by Khan a couple of weeks after he explicitly stated that he wasn't going to fire the guy is evidence that you can't or shouldn't believe everything Khan says.
Plus, he's a douche with a ponytail. That's reason enough to assume he's full of shit.
Fulham relegated to the Championship. They just missed out on tying the record for quickest relegation. This is after spending £100 million over the summer buying players (many on the last day of the transfer window).
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/fulham-relegated-premier-league-loss-203633284.html
They have been terrible defensively and that is coming from a West Ham supporter.
As a relative pro soccer newbie, I was wondering if some of you more veteran aficionados could give me more insight on a concept I can't fully grasp: What happens to a team financially when they get relegated particularly like Fulham did after 1 year in the Premiership. So many questions...
How does it effect TV revenue? What about kit sponsorships and other revenue supports? Do big time players have incentives to be or not be relegated out of the Premiere League? Is their pay effected when they go to the Championship or League One and do some have the power to opt out when their team gets relegated?
How does attendance typically change when a team is no longer in the Premiership? Are ticket prices and season ticket commitments affected in any substantial way? And do team owners get some kind of cushion for all this potential lost revenues?
I understand that history and loyalty would be enough to keep a club going through good times and bad. But does it make any financial sense for an owner like Khan to own a team like this, spend all this money, and have this be a good investment given all the struggles this side has since he bought this team? Perhaps it's my North American sports mindset but I have a hard time picturing this working out for Khan at all, short or long term.
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on April 03, 2019, 12:02:53 PM
As a relative pro soccer newbie, I was wondering if some of you more veteran aficionados could give me more insight on a concept I can't fully grasp: What happens to a team financially when they get relegated particularly like Fulham did after 1 year in the Premiership. So many questions...
How does it effect TV revenue? What about kit sponsorships and other revenue supports? Do big time players have incentives to be or not be relegated out of the Premiere League? Is their pay effected when they go to the Championship or League One and do some have the power to opt out when their team gets relegated?
How does attendance typically change when a team is no longer in the Premiership? Are ticket prices and season ticket commitments affected in any substantial way? And do team owners get some kind of cushion for all this potential lost revenues?
I understand that history and loyalty would be enough to keep a club going through good times and bad. But does it make any financial sense for an owner like Khan to own a team like this, spend all this money, and have this be a good investment given all the struggles this side has since he bought this team? Perhaps it's my North American sports mindset but I have a hard time picturing this working out for Khan at all, short or long term.
I can't be certain about the arrangements in other leagues, but in the case of the Premier League, teams that are relegated get a set number of parachute payments over the course of the next season to help them cope. It gives them an advantage (at least theoretically). TV revenues are definitely missed out on - they don't televise Championship football in the UK and even if they do it on specialty channels or overseas, the revenues are nothing like what is available via Sky and BT Sport.
Fulham would likely sell some players in order to balance the books but player development is key.
I appreciate the clarifications. Also wondering about a team like Fulham spending all this money on players only to move down from the EPL after one year, is this unprecedented? How often does this happen to English soccer teams?
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on April 04, 2019, 08:23:58 AM
I appreciate the clarifications. Also wondering about a team like Fulham spending all this money on players only to move down from the EPL after one year, is this unprecedented? How often does this happen to English soccer teams?
I don't know for certain, but I believe it is unusual for a newly-promoted team to spend that much. Most probably couldn't afford it. To put it in perspective, Fulham were third in terms of spending at the end of the summer transfer window. They were only outspent by Chelsea and Liverpool.
Usually where you end up in the league is (somewhat) a function of how much you spend. That clearly wasn't the case with Fulham this year. Based on the plans to renovate and expand the stadium, it would seem Khan wants to make Fulham a bigger name in English soccer. I don't know if he is going to succeed. I'd not be surprised to see him sell the team in the next few years.
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on April 03, 2019, 12:02:53 PM
As a relative pro soccer newbie, I was wondering if some of you more veteran aficionados could give me more insight on a concept I can't fully grasp: What happens to a team financially when they get relegated particularly like Fulham did after 1 year in the Premiership. So many questions...
How does it effect TV revenue? What about kit sponsorships and other revenue supports? Do big time players have incentives to be or not be relegated out of the Premiere League? Is their pay effected when they go to the Championship or League One and do some have the power to opt out when their team gets relegated?
How does attendance typically change when a team is no longer in the Premiership? Are ticket prices and season ticket commitments affected in any substantial way? And do team owners get some kind of cushion for all this potential lost revenues?
I understand that history and loyalty would be enough to keep a club going through good times and bad. But does it make any financial sense for an owner like Khan to own a team like this, spend all this money, and have this be a good investment given all the struggles this side has since he bought this team? Perhaps it's my North American sports mindset but I have a hard time picturing this working out for Khan at all, short or long term.
Teams that don't have sugar daddy owners like Khan that get relegated very often have serious financial issues, some multi-year Premier League mainstays like Portsmouth, Blackburn, Leeds, and Wigan had a lot of turmoil after relegation. Leeds were one of the best teams in England in the late 90's/early 2000's and have spent time in the 2nd and 3rd division since 2004 (they may finally come back up this season); Wigan and Portsmouth were very similar to Fulham performance wise as perennial mid-lower table EPL teams and both have been disasters since relegation; Blackburn won the EPL title in 1995 and have been in the 2nd division since 2012.
Khan is going to get absolutely raked over the coals financially this summer. Most players have relegation clauses in their contracts that allow them to be sold for reduced fees or for free if their team is relegated. Khan will have to sell expensive buys like Seri, Mitrovic, Mawson, and Anguissa at pennies on the dollar, and will also struggle to keep young talent like Sessegnon. He's going to do another major rebuild next year, and even then getting back to the EPL is no guarantee.
His ownership of Fulham has been an absolute disaster.
So if Khan's ownership of the Jaguars can be seen as a success (at least monetarily) and his running of Fulham the opposite I'm curious how things will turn out with his pro wrestling league.
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on April 08, 2019, 11:20:25 AM
So if Khan's ownership of the Jaguars can be seen as a success (at least monetarily) and his running of Fulham the opposite I'm curious how things will turn out with his pro wrestling league.
He might be making money on Fulham - I have no idea. And I would argue that his ownership of the club hasn't been completely terrible. While it could be argued that he tinkered a bit much in his first season (firing managers left and right) - and possibly causing the club to be relegated - he did manage to eventually get them promoted (he almost managed that in their second season in the Championship). And the Premier League is a tough league to survive in - it's not at all unusual for a newly-promoted club to be relegated at the end of their first PL season. Yeah, he spent a LOT of money - third most in the league behind perpetual big-spending Chelsea and Liverpool. I have no idea if bears much or any responsibility for who that money was spent on. That said, he did fire two managers this season.
Fulham have never won anything of consequence and have spent long periods outside of the first division/premier league in the past. So while they had a few years of stability, it could hardly be argued that Fulham under Khan are anything other than Fulham in general.
Sorry Adam, but Khan's ownership has been a disaster.
Fulham were in the EPL for 13 consecutive seasons prior to Khan's purchase. They only flirted with relegation in 2 of those seasons (07 and 08). Their average finish was 9th in the 5 seasons prior to Khan's purchase (09-13). They were becoming an entrenched mid table club. Khan takes over and they were immediately relegated the following season. They would have likely languished in the Championship permanently based on the moves Khan made. Fortunately, for Khan, Fulham's youth program had a generational talent in Ryan Sessegnon who had been at the club since he was 8. Sessegnon pretty much carried them to the EPL as a 17 year old.
Khan has spent more money than Wolves in the last 5 years and they are in 8th place with almost triple the point total of Fulham. So it can be done, especially with the type of money Khan has spent. He's going to have to spend a lot of his own money to right the ship and bring Fulham up. Fortunately, the guy is loaded and it's probably just play money for him and his son.
Quote from: CityLife on April 08, 2019, 07:37:55 PM
Sorry Adam, but Khan's ownership has been a disaster.
Fulham were in the EPL for 13 consecutive seasons prior to Khan's purchase. They only flirted with relegation in 2 of those seasons (07 and 08). Their average finish was 9th in the 5 seasons prior to Khan's purchase (09-13). They were becoming an entrenched mid table club. Khan takes over and they were immediately relegated the following season. They would have likely languished in the Championship permanently based on the moves Khan made. Fortunately, for Khan, Fulham's youth program had a generational talent in Ryan Sessegnon who had been at the club since he was 8. Sessegnon pretty much carried them to the EPL as a 17 year old.
Khan has spent more money than Wolves in the last 5 years and they are in 8th place with almost triple the point total of Fulham. So it can be done, especially with the type of money Khan has spent. He's going to have to spend a lot of his own money to right the ship and bring Fulham up. Fortunately, the guy is loaded and it's probably just play money for him and his son.
Maybe - but Fulham had a bad season and got relegated. It happens - particularly with unspectacular mid-table teams. I'm not sure I can blame Khan for that. Yeah, he sacked a few managers - but I can't say with any certainty that had he kept Jol (for example) things would've changed. It's worth considering that while Jol had a fairly solid track record prior to joining Fulham, he was really struggling to win matches that season.
And while their next season almost ended in relegation from the Championship (!), Khan stopped the rot and almost got them promoted to the PL the following year. And while Sessegnon is (supposedly) a good player, I'd be shocked if any team was able to gain promotion based
solely on the contributions of a fullback ;D
Fulham's 13 years in the Premier League is a blip on their overall record. And that's probably because they had a billionaire owner for those years. Yeah, Khan has more money than Al-Fayed, but spending money doesn't always equal success.
So what is the vibe from actual Fulham fans about Khan's ownership compared to the previous owner? We're they just glad to get rid of him or was there any trepidation about the ownership change at the time?
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on April 09, 2019, 10:52:26 AM
So what is the vibe from actual Fulham fans about Khan's ownership compared to the previous owner? We're they just glad to get rid of him or was there any trepidation about the ownership change at the time?
I have no idea - I rarely interact with Fulham fans. I used to work with a guy who supported Fulham, but he left the company before Khan took over, I think.
QuoteFulham
Craven Cottage: posh fans called Hugh stand next to tourists who can't believe how lucky they are to watch a football match this close to the River Thames. Both types of Fulham fan are extremely quiet.
^I'd argue that they're more likely to be sitting than standing.
https://thetab.com/2016/04/25/football-fans-worst-87959 (https://thetab.com/2016/04/25/football-fans-worst-87959)
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on April 09, 2019, 10:52:26 AM
So what is the vibe from actual Fulham fans about Khan's ownership compared to the previous owner? We're they just glad to get rid of him or was there any trepidation about the ownership change at the time?
My interaction has been limited to social media. But from what I have seen, there is much more animosity towards Tony Khan than to Shad.
Quote from: pierre on April 09, 2019, 12:16:14 PM
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on April 09, 2019, 10:52:26 AM
So what is the vibe from actual Fulham fans about Khan's ownership compared to the previous owner? We're they just glad to get rid of him or was there any trepidation about the ownership change at the time?
My interaction has been limited to social media. But from what I have seen, there is much more animosity towards Tony Khan than to Shad.
Tony does player analytics right?
Quote from: pierre on April 09, 2019, 12:16:14 PM
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on April 09, 2019, 10:52:26 AM
So what is the vibe from actual Fulham fans about Khan's ownership compared to the previous owner? We're they just glad to get rid of him or was there any trepidation about the ownership change at the time?
My interaction has been limited to social media. But from what I have seen, there is much more animosity towards Tony Khan than to Shad.
Wasn't he really rude to the fans a few months ago?
So here we finally are with Fulham in the fight to get back to the EPL in the promotion playoff (or whatever it's properly called?) So fascinating that this is the only way you have anything like an American pro league playoff system in the league. Anyone like their chances for this final promotion spot?
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on July 26, 2020, 10:54:31 PM
So here we finally are with Fulham in the fight to get back to the EPL in the promotion playoff (or whatever it's properly called?) So fascinating that this is the only way you have anything like an American pro league playoff system in the league. Anyone like their chances for this final promotion spot?
To be fair, I've not watched too much soccer this season - even before the pandemic, the app I used to watch games with stopped working (it was likely not legal) - and I am not going to shell out the money required for SkySports and BT Sport. And I don't really keep up with the Championship.
All that said, you'd have to assume Fulham and Brentford are the most likely candidates for promotion, given they're both on 81 pts (8 pts clear of Cardiff and 11 pts clear of Swansea). Not looking too great for Brentford at the moment, having lost the first match to Swansea.
If I had a choice, I'd want to see Brentford promoted, given that they've not played in the top league since the 1950s (I don't think). Given that Brentford and Fulham are traditional rivals, I think it would be a great playoff final to see the two of them playing for promotion.
I hope they don't make the playoff and then get relegated again. Khan has pissed me off beyond belief. Everything he supposedly does for this city is subsidized by us. Guy doesn't even pay a bed tax when he's in town.
Brentford has been awful for the last few matches. I think it is going to be Swansea vs. Fulham. I prefer Fulham back in the PL as I want to watch West Ham play an away match there.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on July 27, 2020, 09:58:02 AM
Brentford has been awful for the last few matches. I think it is going to be Swansea vs. Fulham. I prefer Fulham back in the PL as I want to watch West Ham play an away match there.
If things had ever gone so *slightly* different, you could have had the opportunity to watch West Ham v Fulham in the Championship. Oh well, maybe next season.
Quote from: Adam White on July 27, 2020, 10:48:36 AM
Quote from: JaxAvondale on July 27, 2020, 09:58:02 AM
Brentford has been awful for the last few matches. I think it is going to be Swansea vs. Fulham. I prefer Fulham back in the PL as I want to watch West Ham play an away match there.
If things had ever gone so *slightly* different, you could have had the opportunity to watch West Ham v Fulham in the Championship. Oh well, maybe next season.
Haha! Your negativity isn't welcome in this thread, Adam!
It is a tough season for the hammers but we played much better after the break. Fix a few things defensively and we should be in the top half next season. It will be interesting to see what happens with my season tickets and when everybody will be able to return to their seats. I went to a match in February and wore a mask with no issues.
Hope springs eternal, eh? Not sure that's gonna happen with David "Midtable" Moyes.
Playoffs are a crapshoot. Throw in Covid19 and it's even more so.
Next year is going to be a mess. Don't be surprised to see high energy / high press teams like Leeds, Liverpool, Southampton, etc fall apart by xmas if they don't change their approach. They have no summer break this year.
Moyes has been fine. Apparently, he spent some time at RB Leipzip after his first stint with West Ham and has a different approach to the game now. At this point, we the season starting in 6 weeks, I have no choice but to ride with Moyes.
I do think that the 20/2021 season is going to be wild. I don't see how they are going to play the EFL Cup this season with a compact schedule.
Teams always have a choice when it comes to manager. Look at Watford axing Nigel Pearson w/ 2 games left even though he had dug them out of that hole and given them a chance to stay up.
And West Ham has shown they're more than happy to toss Moyes aside, bring him back only to toss him aside again. An 18 month deal isn't the sort of thing ya sign with a manager you want to keep around for long. And, IIRC, he's won less games w/ West Ham than any other manager in team history. Or did that win at Chelsea pull him off the absolute floor?
Anyway, nothing against him. Just doesn't have the sort of record nor history nor contract that would have me thinking anything other than him being a placekeeper while the club lands a long term target.
Ya, that tight schedule isn't going to help. My two-bits - and it may not turn out to be - is that without that summer break those legs that would be getting tired in March are going to tire in December ./ January. Maybe, maybe not.
Quote from: bl8jaxnative on July 29, 2020, 10:44:22 AM
And, IIRC, he's won less games w/ West Ham than any other manager in team history. Or did that win at Chelsea pull him off the absolute floor?
I think Zola is the worst they've ever had (assuming you mean Moyes's cumulative win percentage). They've not had a lot of very "successful" managers, as a general rule - they have a *bit* of a tendency to bounce between the top two divisions.
So, Brentford apparently are in the play-off final? Could be a Brentford v Fulham "West London derby" for promotion.
Quote from: Adam White on July 30, 2020, 02:43:21 AM
So, Brentford apparently are in the play-off final? Could be a Brentford v Fulham "West London derby" for promotion.
And it is! Wow has it really been decades since Brentford been in the top flight? Wonder when the last time they were this close?
And I wonder which team has the closest trip to Wembley, anyway? :P
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on July 30, 2020, 08:04:18 PM
Quote from: Adam White on July 30, 2020, 02:43:21 AM
So, Brentford apparently are in the play-off final? Could be a Brentford v Fulham "West London derby" for promotion.
And it is! Wow has it really been decades since Brentford been in the top flight? Wonder when the last time they were this close?
And I wonder which team has the closest trip to Wembley, anyway? :P
I could be wrong, but I think they've not been in the top flight since the 1940s. I don't think I've ever met a Brentford fan (that I know of), though I did work with a girl whose boyfriend at the time supported the club.
In the run up to the race for promotion I found this article very interesting concerning the benefits of getting into the top flight.
https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/brentford-earn-200m-promoted-premier-league-72143224
Holy shit if that isn't incentive for Brentford to get promoted! Compare that to the comps they got when they were last promoted before the days of television. And those parachute payments are not too shabby either. It's like they were going after an American CEO compensation package model, or vice versa.
While at it, I'm curious of what Brentford London is like since I've never heard of it before. Is it like Slough from The Office?
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on August 03, 2020, 09:24:31 AM
In the run up to the race for promotion I found this article very interesting concerning the benefits of getting into the top flight.
https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/brentford-earn-200m-promoted-premier-league-72143224
Holy shit if that isn't incentive for Brentford to get promoted! Compare that to the comps they got when they were last promoted before the days of television. And those parachute payments are not too shabby either. It's like they were going after an American CEO compensation package model, or vice versa.
While at it, I'm curious of what Brentford London is like since I've never heard of it before. Is it like Slough from The Office?
Brentford is actually not bad. It seems very characterless to me - sort of a nowhere place between Ealing and Richmond.
At least it's not Slough. And although it's in the farther western reaches of Greater London, it's still in London, unlike Slough. I've only been to Slough once - it wasn't
terrible - I've seen worse - but it's not somewhere I'd want to live. And my standards aren't very high - I live in Hornchurch, after all.
Thanks for clarifying and I figured the comparison to Slough may be unfair but thats the only frame of reference I could think of (now I can't get the song "Eton Rifles" by the Jam out of my head ;D)
How amazing and frustrating for Brentford fans to have this moment with so much at stake and not being able to cheer them on at Wembley. So looking forward to the match tomorrow.
So Fulham did it and have been promoted. Exciting match. So bonuses and jewelry from Shad for their efforts? Well earned extra time win.
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on August 04, 2020, 06:05:26 PM
So Fulham did it and have been promoted. Exciting match. So bonuses and jewelry from Shad for their efforts? Well earned extra time win.
I didn't see the match - no way was I going to pay for it. I wish Brentford would've won, but when I think about it, it really makes no difference to me!
Quote from: Adam White on August 03, 2020, 01:50:19 PM
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on August 03, 2020, 09:24:31 AM
In the run up to the race for promotion I found this article very interesting concerning the benefits of getting into the top flight.
https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/brentford-earn-200m-promoted-premier-league-72143224
Holy shit if that isn't incentive for Brentford to get promoted! Compare that to the comps they got when they were last promoted before the days of television. And those parachute payments are not too shabby either. It's like they were going after an American CEO compensation package model, or vice versa.
While at it, I'm curious of what Brentford London is like since I've never heard of it before. Is it like Slough from The Office?
Brentford is actually not bad. It seems very characterless to me - sort of a nowhere place between Ealing and Richmond.
At least it's not Slough. And although it's in the farther western reaches of Greater London, it's still in London, unlike Slough. I've only been to Slough once - it wasn't terrible - I've seen worse - but it's not somewhere I'd want to live. And my standards aren't very high - I live in Hornchurch, after all.
About 10 years ago (before the Olympics), my buddy and I was going to a West Ham match and we didn't know that they were working on the Central Line to get the area around Stratford completed before the games. On our way back, we got on a District line train and ended up going in the wrong direction (East). I believe we got off near Hornchurch to catch the train going back West. All that I can remember was how different the area looked as compared to the area around Stratford bus station which wasn't that far away.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 04, 2020, 09:02:43 PM
Quote from: Adam White on August 03, 2020, 01:50:19 PM
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on August 03, 2020, 09:24:31 AM
In the run up to the race for promotion I found this article very interesting concerning the benefits of getting into the top flight.
https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/brentford-earn-200m-promoted-premier-league-72143224
Holy shit if that isn't incentive for Brentford to get promoted! Compare that to the comps they got when they were last promoted before the days of television. And those parachute payments are not too shabby either. It's like they were going after an American CEO compensation package model, or vice versa.
While at it, I'm curious of what Brentford London is like since I've never heard of it before. Is it like Slough from The Office?
Brentford is actually not bad. It seems very characterless to me - sort of a nowhere place between Ealing and Richmond.
At least it's not Slough. And although it's in the farther western reaches of Greater London, it's still in London, unlike Slough. I've only been to Slough once - it wasn't terrible - I've seen worse - but it's not somewhere I'd want to live. And my standards aren't very high - I live in Hornchurch, after all.
About 10 years ago (before the Olympics), my buddy and I was going to a West Ham match and we didn't know that they were working on the Central Line to get the area around Stratford completed before the games. On our way back, we got on a District line train and ended up going in the wrong direction (East). I believe we got off near Hornchurch to catch the train going back West. All that I can remember was how different the area looked as compared to the area around Stratford bus station which wasn't that far away.
Yeah, it's very suburban. Nothing much to recommend it, other than being about 45 minutes or so from Central London on the Underground. Unless, of course, you consider living a short bus ride from Romford as something worth recommending!
Our local club is Hornchurch FC. They play in the Isthmian League Premier Division (the seventh level of the pyramid), alongside such titans of football as Bognor Regis Town and East Thurrock United. The most popular Premier League side is West Ham, as Upton Park was only about 20 minutes away by train (and a lot of the local population moved here from Newham over the preceding decades to escape the influx of scary brown people into Newham).
Although not really that far away as the crow flies, I ultimately decided against buying season tickets to Spurs (when, after 12 years, I finally got a chance) because it would take me about 1.5 hours just to get to the stadium (and likely longer on a match day). Well, the cost of the ticket and the time were the main factors. The resultant football has made me think I made a good choice.
I remember the first time in that area and I saw someone wearing a FAMU sweatshirt. Now, that area is completely gentrified.
On my trips to London, I normally stay in the Bayswater area. So, I get on the Central line at Queensway and ride it to Stratford for matches.
Quote from: JaxAvondale on August 06, 2020, 10:20:43 AM
I remember the first time in that area and I saw someone wearing a FAMU sweatshirt. Now, that area is completely gentrified.
On my trips to London, I normally stay in the Bayswater area. So, I get on the Central line at Queensway and ride it to Stratford for matches.
I remember seeing lots of people wearing Franklin & Marshall College sweatshirts when I moved here. It seemed really odd, as the college is fairly small (or at least I thought it was). Turns out some company basically stole the name and were selling the shirts as a fashion thing - I guess the collegiate look was really popular.
I still can't believe that goal from Lanzini yesterday.
Yes. Not just that goal, but all three late goals to get a tie.
Welp that was short lived, Fulham!
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/premier-league/fulham-relegated-as-ashley-westwood-and-chris-wood-strike-for-burnley/ar-BB1gA9xY?ocid=BingNewsSearch
Quote from: JaxJersey-licious on May 13, 2021, 10:10:17 AM
Welp that was short lived, Fulham!
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/premier-league/fulham-relegated-as-ashley-westwood-and-chris-wood-strike-for-burnley/ar-BB1gA9xY?ocid=BingNewsSearch
Yeah, after a decent spell in the PL, they appear to have become a bit of a yo-yo club.