Any football (soccer) fans on this board?

[mikeyj]

The Cahill goal was brilliant, he's a fantastic player. Have been watching him since his Millwall days (they had a good team then), he's been unfortunate with several injuries recently, but it's nice to see he's back now. He and Mikel Arteta are key figures in Everton's squad. Am surprised Yakubu isn't getting more games.

If Scotland win, Italy is out. I can see Israel getting something in their game against Russia, so all is not lost for England, but they have to win themselves, and show they really WANT to go to EURO 2008.

Did you know Dick Advocaat's hoping to become the new Australia manager? Was just crowned champions in Russia with Zenit St Petersburg.

Cahill is by far Australia's best player in my opinion. Viduka + Neill etc.. are good too but Cahill is definately the best Aussie going around at the moment. Kewell used to be the best.. at his peak I'd say he's the best Australian footballer ever.. he was one of the best players in Europe in my opinion, but his career has just gone downhill. He just doesn't seem determined anymore. Yes I'm surprised too about Yakubu, how much did they pay for him again?

GO SCOTLAND!!! I read somewhere that there is an Israeli player who has scored a lot of their goals and when they played Russia earlier on they picked up some sort of result (not sure if it was a win or not) and he got the goal(s).. Like I said I just read it on some message board so I don't know how reliable it is I think that is the key though, if Israel pick up a draw/win against Russia then England have to show that they want to do it for their country & the fans. I think its time for the likes of Gerrard etc.. to REALLY show what he can do, like he does for Liverpool at times. Some of the players just aren't consistent enough at International level in my opinion and Gerrard is one of them. A lot of them are world class players but they just can't perform consistently well at international level.

I've heard rumours about Dick Advocaat and the Australia job. But I don't know what to believe over here. For one, the media over here have very little clue about football and secondly they always seem to name people who they think will take over the Australian job. We've had Gerard Houllier named as a possible candidate for example. But that's interesting that there is rumours in Europe as well. I don't know much about his managerial career (besides what you just told me), but do you think he'd be able to do a good job for Australia with the limited amount of good players that we have?

[8o8o]

The Cahill goal was brilliant, he's a fantastic player. Have been watching him since his Millwall days (they had a good team then), he's been unfortunate with several injuries recently, but it's nice to see he's back now. He and Mikel Arteta are key figures in Everton's squad. Am surprised Yakubu isn't getting more games.

If Scotland win, Italy is out. I can see Israel getting something in their game against Russia, so all is not lost for England, but they have to win themselves, and show they really WANT to go to EURO 2008.

Did you know Dick Advocaat's hoping to become the new Australia manager? Was just crowned champions in Russia with Zenit St Petersburg.

Cahill is by far Australia's best player in my opinion. Viduka + Neill etc.. are good too but Cahill is definately the best Aussie going around at the moment. Kewell used to be the best.. at his peak I'd say he's the best Australian footballer ever.. he was one of the best players in Europe in my opinion, but his career has just gone downhill. He just doesn't seem determined anymore. Yes I'm surprised too about Yakubu, how much did they pay for him again?

GO SCOTLAND!!! I read somewhere that there is an Israeli player who has scored a lot of their goals and when they played Russia earlier on they picked up some sort of result (not sure if it was a win or not) and he got the goal(s).. Like I said I just read it on some message board so I don't know how reliable it is I think that is the key though, if Israel pick up a draw/win against Russia then England have to show that they want to do it for their country & the fans. I think its time for the likes of Gerrard etc.. to REALLY show what he can do, like he does for Liverpool at times. Some of the players just aren't consistent enough at International level in my opinion and Gerrard is one of them. A lot of them are world class players but they just can't perform consistently well at international level.

I've heard rumours about Dick Advocaat and the Australia job. But I don't know what to believe over here. For one, the media over here have very little clue about football and secondly they always seem to name people who they think will take over the Australian job. We've had Gerard Houllier named as a possible candidate for example. But that's interesting that there is rumours in Europe as well. I don't know much about his managerial career (besides what you just told me), but do you think he'd be able to do a good job for Australia with the limited amount of good players that we have?

Yeah, too many serious injuries for Harry Kewell. He was brilliant at Leeds, under David O'Leary's management, they had an excellent team, but then success went to the board's head, and they thought they could challenge the likes of Arsenal and Man Utd and spent way too much money.

Martyn, Kelly, Radebe, Harte, Bowyer, McPhail, Hopkin, Kewell, Robbie Keane, Batty, Hasselbaink - it was a joy to watch them. It's too bad really, because Harry's still relatively young. With the right support, there could still be some magic left in him.

Games like Scotland v Italy are really what it's all about in football - really look forward to that one!

Agree with what you say about the England players - they need to stand up now and let their feet do the talking. Do they really need McClaren to tell them what to do? They're not schoolboys, are they? Come on! They're pros, they earn a lot of money - look in the mirror!!!

Advocaat will either stay in Russia or move to your country. That's what he said in an interview. I'm not a big fan of him myself, but he is a determined guy, prepares himself well. He's good at organising a side, but tactically he's pretty defensive, always thinks of his own team's weak spots rather than the weak spots of the opposition.

His record is pretty good. Champions and Cup wins in the Netherlands (with PSV), champions in Scotland (with Rangers), and of course he's managed our national team, plus the national team of South Korea. Not successful at Borussia Monchengladbach, but he wasn't the right man for the job there anyway.

As for Australia, a lot depends on who's fit. If players such as Cahill, Kewell, Viduka, Neill, Emerton etc. are fully fit they can beat any side. They were one of the better teams in Germany in 2006, unfortunately some bad decisions of the referee spoiled their tournament chances. And look out for Luke Wilkshire (currently at FC Twente here in the Netherlands), he's becoming a really good full back!

[mikeyj]

Yeah, too many serious injuries for Harry Kewell. He was brilliant at Leeds, under David O'Leary's management, they had an excellent team, but then success went to the board's head, and they thought they could challenge the likes of Arsenal and Man Utd and spent way too much money.

Martyn, Kelly, Radebe, Harte, Bowyer, McPhail, Hopkin, Kewell, Robbie Keane, Batty, Hasselbaink - it was a joy to watch them. It's too bad really, because Harry's still relatively young. With the right support, there could still be some magic left in him.

Games like Scotland v Italy are really what it's all about in football - really look forward to that one!

Agree with what you say about the England players - they need to stand up now and let their feet do the talking. Do they really need McClaren to tell them what to do? They're not schoolboys, are they? Come on! They're pros, they earn a lot of money - look in the mirror!!!

Advocaat will either stay in Russia or move to your country. That's what he said in an interview. I'm not a big fan of him myself, but he is a determined guy, prepares himself well. He's good at organising a side, but tactically he's pretty defensive, always thinks of his own team's weak spots rather than the weak spots of the opposition.

His record is pretty good. Champions and Cup wins in the Netherlands (with PSV), champions in Scotland (with Rangers), and of course he's managed our national team, plus the national team of South Korea. Not successful at Borussia Monchengladbach, but he wasn't the right man for the job there anyway.

As for Australia, a lot depends on who's fit. If players such as Cahill, Kewell, Viduka, Neill, Emerton etc. are fully fit they can beat any side. They were one of the better teams in Germany in 2006, unfortunately some bad decisions of the referee spoiled their tournament chances. And look out for Luke Wilkshire (currently at FC Twente here in the Netherlands), he's becoming a really good full back!

I can't believe what happened to Leeds United. It's incredible how they went from one of the top sides in Europe (CL semi final) and then are now in League One. Unbelievable! Those names you mention sure do bring back memories. I've always thought it would be cool to see the top sides of English domestic football all be around at once if you get what I mean. Like the Man United side of the late 90's (the treble winning team), the Arsenal untouchables (or whatever they called themselves), the Liverpool of the late 70's early 80's, the Leeds United side that we mentioned before, the Chelsea side that won the title two years back etc.. etc... I know it's impossible but I think that would be some league. I really do hope Harry can get over his injury problems and come back strong, I would love to watch him at his best for Liverpool (something that we are yet to see)

I wish I could watch the Scotland game I agree though these types of games are the best. I remember when Bradford beat Liverpool on the last day of the season back in 1999/2000 to stay in the premiership. What an amazing event.

McClaren isn't the right man for the job in my opinion. I never thought he would do good. I would like to see a man like Big Sam take over the England job, that would be interesting. I think he would do a good job.

So I'm assuming he is nowhere near as good as Guus Hiddink?

Yeh we were unlucky against Italy, but that's football I suppose. Sometimes the decisions go for you and other times they go against you. That's interesting about Luke Wilkshire, I have only seen him a few times for Australia and he's never really caught my eye. But if he is becoming a top fullback that's great news, because Australia lacks depth at the back (actually in every position )

[8o8o]

Yeah, too many serious injuries for Harry Kewell. He was brilliant at Leeds, under David O'Leary's management, they had an excellent team, but then success went to the board's head, and they thought they could challenge the likes of Arsenal and Man Utd and spent way too much money.

Martyn, Kelly, Radebe, Harte, Bowyer, McPhail, Hopkin, Kewell, Robbie Keane, Batty, Hasselbaink - it was a joy to watch them. It's too bad really, because Harry's still relatively young. With the right support, there could still be some magic left in him.

Games like Scotland v Italy are really what it's all about in football - really look forward to that one!

Agree with what you say about the England players - they need to stand up now and let their feet do the talking. Do they really need McClaren to tell them what to do? They're not schoolboys, are they? Come on! They're pros, they earn a lot of money - look in the mirror!!!

Advocaat will either stay in Russia or move to your country. That's what he said in an interview. I'm not a big fan of him myself, but he is a determined guy, prepares himself well. He's good at organising a side, but tactically he's pretty defensive, always thinks of his own team's weak spots rather than the weak spots of the opposition.

His record is pretty good. Champions and Cup wins in the Netherlands (with PSV), champions in Scotland (with Rangers), and of course he's managed our national team, plus the national team of South Korea. Not successful at Borussia Monchengladbach, but he wasn't the right man for the job there anyway.

As for Australia, a lot depends on who's fit. If players such as Cahill, Kewell, Viduka, Neill, Emerton etc. are fully fit they can beat any side. They were one of the better teams in Germany in 2006, unfortunately some bad decisions of the referee spoiled their tournament chances. And look out for Luke Wilkshire (currently at FC Twente here in the Netherlands), he's becoming a really good full back!

I can't believe what happened to Leeds United. It's incredible how they went from one of the top sides in Europe (CL semi final) and then are now in League One. Unbelievable! Those names you mention sure do bring back memories. I've always thought it would be cool to see the top sides of English domestic football all be around at once if you get what I mean. Like the Man United side of the late 90's (the treble winning team), the Arsenal untouchables (or whatever they called themselves), the Liverpool of the late 70's early 80's, the Leeds United side that we mentioned before, the Chelsea side that won the title two years back etc.. etc... I know it's impossible but I think that would be some league. I really do hope Harry can get over his injury problems and come back strong, I would love to watch him at his best for Liverpool (something that we are yet to see)

I wish I could watch the Scotland game I agree though these types of games are the best. I remember when Bradford beat Liverpool on the last day of the season back in 1999/2000 to stay in the premiership. What an amazing event.

McClaren isn't the right man for the job in my opinion. I never thought he would do good. I would like to see a man like Big Sam take over the England job, that would be interesting. I think he would do a good job.

So I'm assuming he is nowhere near as good as Guus Hiddink?

Yeh we were unlucky against Italy, but that's football I suppose. Sometimes the decisions go for you and other times they go against you. That's interesting about Luke Wilkshire, I have only seen him a few times for Australia and he's never really caught my eye. But if he is becoming a top fullback that's great news, because Australia lacks depth at the back (actually in every position )

Haha, in certain computer games you can bring all these classic teams together, but I see what you mean, it would surely be exciting.

I still feel England will make it - but I can still see someone else (a new manager that is) coming in for EURO 2008. Anyway, it's up to the players, if they are as good as they think they are they go out and win the game. Doesn't matter if McClaren is on the bench, or Mourinho, or Woody Woodpecker. They've underperformed and need to get their stuff together. Enough experience in the side. If they fail, they don't deserve to be there. That's my view.

No, no, Advocaat is no Hiddink. Both are very experienced, and have seen it all. Still, Guus is cleverer, a charmer, always calm and relaxed. Looks after the youngsters in the team, and embraces the star players. Advocaat is suspicious, negative, and easily offended. But there are worse managers out there. But no, definitely no Hiddink. 

[mikeyj]

Yeh in my old FIFA game I made all the classic squads but I dont play it that much to be honest

Who do you think would be a good England manager (presuming that they are English)?

England really need to start playing as a team. Well if Russia DO beat Israel and England win against Croatia (which means of course that England are out) then I don't think they deserve to go through. The table never lies.
Great. By your description it sounds like Advocaat is a REAL great manager

[8o8o]

Yeh in my old FIFA game I made all the classic squads but I dont play it that much to be honest

Who do you think would be a good England manager (presuming that they are English)?

England really need to start playing as a team. Well if Russia DO beat Israel and England win against Croatia (which means of course that England are out) then I don't think they deserve to go through. The table never lies.
Great. By your description it sounds like Advocaat is a REAL great manager

Haha, well, he's not too bad, he's no Souness......  Or Peter Reid......

Agree that the table never lies, the thing is, they don't have it in their own hands anymore, so the best they can do is win, whether it is enough remains to be seen. It would be a disgrace if they did not qualify. Liverpool's Yossi Benayoun is out for the Russia game, which is too bad, he's maybe the best Israelian player of the moment. They'll miss him.

My choice for the England job? Tough decision, if he has to be English. Look at the big clubs in the Premier League, they all have foreign managers:

Man Utd - Ferguson (Scotland)
Arsenal - Wenger (France)
Liverpool - Benitez (Spain)
Chelsea - Grant (Israel)
Spurs - Ramos (Spain)
Villa - O'Neill (Northern Ireland)
Everton - Moyes (Scotland)
Man City - Eriksson (Sweden)
Blackburn - Hughes (Wales)

Options therefor: Alan Curbishley (West Ham), Harry Redknapp (Portsmouth) or Sam Allardyce (Newcastle)? Who else?

I think they're looking at an experienced foreign manager (Capello? Lippi? Hiddink?). Maybe Klinsmann, as he's still popular in England and did well with Germany in 2006. Your guess is as good as mine 

P.S. Go here for Steven Gerrard's opinion on something we discussed earlier:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/7094812.stm

[mikeyj]

Haha, well, he's not too bad, he's no Souness......  Or Peter Reid......

Agree that the table never lies, the things is, they don't have it in their own hands anymore, so the best they can do is win, whether it is enough remains to be seen. It would be a disgrace if they did not qualify. Liverpool's Yossi Benayoun is out for the Russia game, which is too bad, he's maybe the best Israelian player of the moment. They'll miss him.

My choice for the England job? Tough decision, if he has to be English. Look at the big clubs in the Premier League, they all have foreign managers:

Man Utd - Ferguson (Scotland)
Arsenal - Wenger (France)
Liverpool - Benitez (Spain)
Chelsea - Grant (Israel)
Spurs - Ramos (Spain)
Villa - O'Neill (Northern Ireland)
Everton - Moyes (Scotland)
Man City - Eriksson (Sweden)
Blackburn - Hughes (Wales)

Options therefor: Alan Curbishley (West Ham), Harry Redknapp (Portsmouth) or Sam Allardyce (Newcastle)? Who else?

I think they're looking at an experienced foreign manager (Capello? Lippi? Hiddink?). Maybe Klinsmann, as he's still popular in England and did well with Germany in 2006. Your guess is as good as mine 

P.S. Go here for Steven Gerrard's opinion on something we discussed earlier:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/7094812.stm

NOBODY is as bad as Souness Peter Reid was pretty bad too but atleast he did some good things (ie: with Sunderland - although that was mainly due to Kevin Phillips )

Well one thing is for sure if England don't make it they don't deserve to. Yeh a real shame about Benayoun but I still think Israel are more than capable (they are at home, right?)

The only reason I said it had to be English was because if it could be any nationality then there could be hundreds of managers who COULD take over the England job when McLaren gets sacked

I still say Big Sam would be my pick as England manager. He is confident (something which McLaren doesn't always appear to be) and although he might not encourage the most entertaining football all he cares about is the result. I've always like Paul Jewell as a manager, though theres no chance that he'd get the job of course. But considering what he did with Wigan and before that with Bradford City he certainly is under-rated by most people in my opinion. Don't know if he could handle the pressure of International football though

Yeah I heard about this. I agree with it but doubt it will happen. How will they suddenly get rid of all their players? (in the case of say Arsenal)... Still I don't think it can or indeed will happen.

[8o8o]

Yes, it's Israel v Russia.

Owen's out now for Wednesday. Sometimes I feel he's made of glass. No luck for the lad.

I like Paul Jewell, he did a wonderful job at Wigan. He, Hughes, Moyes, O'Neill, Curbishley, Coppell, etc. are the sort of managers I like.

Report in the press today: Advocaat is staying on as Zenit manager - there you go Mikey!! No more sleepless nights!

In the paper tomorrow: Souness approached by Australian FA........ 

 

[mikeyj]

Ok so that plays in Englands favour atleast.

Yeh poor Owen. He's had some nasty injuries in recent times. I would say the most injury prone player though is Chris Kirkland. Man that guy has been unlucky.

Yeh, those managers take the lesser clubs and make them more established whereas Mourinho etc.. just get millions and millions of dollars to play with.

Good. I'm so relieved. I actually heard about it this morning (meaning morning in Australia) - so about 15 hours ago or something and I felt so relieved.

Haha!! Thanks for making me laugh. Wouldn't that be a disaster. I spose though atleast he can't buy players so he can't bring in players like Ali Dia!! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ali_Dia)

Apparently Souness may be going to Wigan. When will these clubs learn? That's another club thats going to have to be rebuilt almost from scratch

[mikeyj]

By the way Israel WON!! WOOHOO!! Go Israel.. I love Israel much more now But still England now HAS to beat Croatia which won't be that easy either.

Unfortunate that Scotland lost.. so does that mean that they are definately out? Or is it still possible for Scotland to qualify and therefore knock out Italy or someone?

[8o8o]

By the way Israel WON!! WOOHOO!! Go Israel.. I love Israel much more now But still England now HAS to beat Croatia which won't be that easy either.

Unfortunate that Scotland lost.. so does that mean that they are definately out? Or is it still possible for Scotland to qualify and therefore knock out Italy or someone?

Scotland is definitely out, yes, unfortunately. They did really well in the second half, deserved at least a point. A real anti-climax.

No, a draw will do for England. Here's the low-down from the BBC website:

An England draw coupled with a Russia win means both teams finish on 24 points. England will qualify because teams which finish level on points are divided according to their head-to-head record. England have the edge on goal difference after their 3-0 win at home in London was followed by a 2-1 defeat away in Moscow.

But it's risky to try and play for a draw - never know what happens in a game. On the other hand, Croatia have already qualified, so......  1 + 1 = 2.

Kudos to Israel, England got what they wanted.

And we've qualified as well, following a spectacular 1-0 victory over the mighty Luxembourg 

The Aussies beat Nigeria in a friendly, right? 1-0.

B.t.w. it looks like Steve Bruce is heading for Wigan. Poor Graeme S. 

[mikeyj]

Yeh Scotland beat France both times if I remember correctly. They should be in the tournament. Ahwell, sometimes Football isn't always fair.

Yeh England HAVE to play for the win, no question about that.

Yeh well done to Israel. I didn't see the game obviously but am so glad they won. Sucked in to our old mate Hiddink He said "there's no way we will lose" or something to that effect

Woah. Is that the record victory for Holland. What a result!!

Yeh Australia played really well. I only watched the first half because it was REALLY early in the morning but I tell you who played REALLY well in the 1st half anyway... Harry Kewell.. You wouldn't believe how well he played, considering his injury problems and poor form in recent times.

Oh what a shame for Souness ... I've always been a fan of Steve Bruce, he's done well as a manager in my opinion... so hopefully he can do well for Wigan.

[mikeyj]

Can't believe England lost!! What a joke. McLaren was a joke in the first place (I know it's easy to say in hindsight but he was never really THAT fantastic for Middlesbrough anyway)... I say appoint Big Sam right away. They are suggesting Shearer amongst others.. but he hasn't had ANY managerial experience. Anyway, can't believe it... didn't have access to watch the game but from the highlights England played pretty poorly.

[Beach Boy]

That's really a disgrace.

[8o8o]

Yeh Scotland beat France both times if I remember correctly. They should be in the tournament. Ahwell, sometimes Football isn't always fair.

Yeh England HAVE to play for the win, no question about that.

Yeh well done to Israel. I didn't see the game obviously but am so glad they won. Sucked in to our old mate Hiddink He said "there's no way we will lose" or something to that effect

Woah. Is that the record victory for Holland. What a result!!

Yeh Australia played really well. I only watched the first half because it was REALLY early in the morning but I tell you who played REALLY well in the 1st half anyway... Harry Kewell.. You wouldn't believe how well he played, considering his injury problems and poor form in recent times.

Oh what a shame for Souness ... I've always been a fan of Steve Bruce, he's done well as a manager in my opinion... so hopefully he can do well for Wigan.

Before I start about last night:

Good to hear Kewell did well. I honestly believe it would be best for him to change clubs (albeit on loan), and go someplace where he can get regular first team football again. He needs it if he wants to further his career. Feyenoord would be a nice club for him (Brett Emerton can tell him all he needs to know about the club, and they could do with a left winger), or if he prefers to stay in England, a club such as Fulham or Birmingham.

Too much competition for him at Liverpool. Latest news on the Autralia job: Pim Verbeek seems to be in pole-position now, another Dutchman. And another one I wouldn't pick, but that's another story. Besides, I'm not in charge.


What a game yesterday!!!  

It's unfair to put all the blame on McClaren. He wasn't on the pitch yesterday. Where was Gerrard? Lampard? Campbell? The only one who had a decent game was Crouch, who usually gets a lot of stick. They didn't do it, so it's all over now.

Hat's off for Scotland - they went down battling.

I think I'll leave it with that.  

[mikeyj]

That's really a disgrace.

To say the least!!!

Before I start about last night:

Good to hear Kewell did well. I honestly believe it would be best for him to change clubs (albeit on loan), and go someplace where he can get regular first team football again. He needs it if he wants to further his career. Feyenoord would be a nice club for him (Brett Emerton can tell him all he needs to know about the club, and they could do with a left winger), or if he prefers to stay in England, a club such as Fulham or Birmingham.

Too much competition for him at Liverpool. Latest news on the Autralia job: Pim Verbeek seems to be in pole-position now, another Dutchman. And another one I wouldn't pick, but that's another story. Besides, I'm not in charge.


What a game yesterday!!! 

It's unfair to put all the blame on McClaren. He wasn't on the pitch yesterday. Where was Gerrard? Lampard? Campbell? The only one who had a decent game was Crouch, who usually gets a lot of stick. They didn't do it, so it's all over now.

Hat's off for Scotland - they went down battling.

I think I'll leave it with that. 

I agree. I think he should leave Liverpool all together though.

I've never even heard of that guy? Who is he?

Well I don't blame it ALL on McLaren but the majority of it on him. His tactics are pathetic. He picks Carson in goal!! He's an inexperienced youngster and you put him in goal in such a big game!! Robinson might have made one or two mistakes but you have to stick loyal to your players unless they play REALLY poorly over a few games.. Every player makes mistakes. And I don't understand some of the selections. I am a fan of Peter Crouch (I can't understand why people have a go at him - he does the job) but he hasn't played much for Liverpool. And why he picked Wayne Bridge is another mystery!! And I agree with most England fans.. they should only pick either Gerrard OR Lampard... probably Lampard.. and then I would go with someone like Carrick who can concentrate on defending so the other central player can attack.

Yeh well done Scotland.. Atleast they actually played with passion throughout the campaign!!

I see Holland lost.. that's a bit of a surprise really. But apparently they are the top-ranked side going into the tournament.

[8o8o]

No surprise for me. We're spinning in a hole, there's no progress whatsoever. It was terrible yesterday, good thing we already qualified on Saturday, otherwise we could've ended up in England's company. No Denmark or Belgium either on Euro 2008. Too bad.

No Van der Sar, Seedorf and Van Nistelrooy yesterday, but still, guys such as Van der Vaart (who played well), Sneijder, Ooijer, Kuyt, Babel and Van Bronckhorst should be able to do better.

Van Basten is a hard to understand. Can't believe why he leaves good players such as Van Bommel, Hofland and Makaay out of the squad. We could do with George Boateng's winner's mentality as well. But he just seems to ignore these guys.

Verbeek took over from Advocaat as South Korea boss after the World Cup in 2006. Pretty low-profile (has worked for Fortuna Sittard and Feyenoord for instance). Is usually 'the assistant'. He's a nice guy and all that, but he's not going to win the war for you. Rob Baan (another Dutchman) is in charge, he's the managing director of the Australian FA if I'm not mistaken and I think he's desperate to bring in a 'friend'.

[8o8o]

Oh yeah, now that McClaren is out the speculation can start:

Mourinho?
Cappello?
O'Neill?
Curbishley?
Shearer?
Coppell?

A lot of backgrounds on the BBC website. Big Sam has already ruled himself out.

[mikeyj]

Oh yeah, now that McClaren is out the speculation can start:

Mourinho?
Cappello?
O'Neill?
Curbishley?
Shearer?
Coppell?

A lot of backgrounds on the BBC website. Big Sam has already ruled himself out.

That's a shame.. Still I would offer the job to him, see if he will change his mind once it's offered ... sometimes that happens

No surprise for me. We're spinning in a hole, there's no progress whatsoever. It was terrible yesterday, good thing we already qualified on Saturday, otherwise we could've ended up in England's company. No Denmark or Belgium either on Euro 2008. Too bad.

No Van der Sar, Seedorf and Van Nistelrooy yesterday, but still, guys such as Van der Vaart (who played well), Sneijder, Ooijer, Kuyt, Babel and Van Bronckhorst should be able to do better.

Van Basten is a hard to understand. Can't believe why he leaves good players such as Van Bommel, Hofland and Makaay out of the squad. We could do with George Boateng's winner's mentality as well. But he just seems to ignore these guys.

Verbeek took over from Advocaat as South Korea boss after the World Cup in 2006. Pretty low-profile (has worked for Fortuna Sittard and Feyenoord for instance). Is usually 'the assistant'. He's a nice guy and all that, but he's not going to win the war for you. Rob Baan (another Dutchman) is in charge, he's the managing director of the Australian FA if I'm not mistaken and I think he's desperate to bring in a 'friend'.

Yeh I saw that Bulgaria were just one point behind in the end!! Lucky you got that win against Luxembourg!! I don't know who to support now in Euro?? I suppose nobody. I probably won't even watch much of it, besides the finals. I'm surprised though that Denmark especially didn't make it!!

I've always been a big fan of players like George Boateng. He is very underrated in my opinion. Won't do too much flashy sort of things but he does his job and deserves more credit! Players like him, Makelele, Hamann, Gravesen etc.. rarely get enough credit. I mean Real Madrid got rid of Makelele and they started conceding lots of goals... Everton get rid of Gravesen.. they started going down in form etc..
I suppose though it didn't really matter too much about the result though? Maby he was just trying out new players. Generally, what do you think about Van Basten as a manger though?

Great!! I don't like when people select their 'friends' in positions... That always seems to happen in sport. Like I'm sure it would've happened to you before, where the coach just gives his son all the opportunities etc.. There was one pundit in Australia (he is pretty stupid ) who suggested that we should try and get Gianfranco Zola as manager!! Explain that one to me!!

[8o8o]

Yes, players such as Boateng, Makelele, Gravesen and Davids don't always get the credit they deserve, it's a key position in the team these days, that of (defensive) holding midfielder. As you rightly put it, you start to miss them when they're not there.

There's a time to experiment and there's a time to start building a team, Marco's been in charge now for a couple of years, but it feels if he's still experimenting, but it's going nowhere. He started off well, but after that the football became less and less attractive.

When you look at the stats, he's done a brilliant job. But that's the problem, we are different in the Netherlands. We like to win AND play attractive football, which is becoming more and more difficult, yet not impossible (Arsenal, Barcelona), if you have the right players.

There's a big difference between being a club manager and a national team manager. There just isn't enough time to implement a certain style, unless you work with the players day in day out. Van Basten's an admirer of the 1-4-3-3 system with wingers, but we simply don't have those wingers anymore (except for Arjen Robben, who's out-of-form). So now he positions Van der Vaart on the right wing, or Dirk Kuyt, only to have that position covered. 1-4-4-2 would suit us much better. The majority of the players are much more familiar with that. But he's never tried it out in a friendly or so....... Strange. Could've at least given it a try in a few friendlies to see how it goes.

Are we spoiled romantics?  Yes, maybe, haha. On the other hand, it's what made us earn respect all over the world, and distinguish ourselves. Attacking, dominant football. Nothing's left of that. 


Gianfranco Zola? Where does he come from? A fantastic player though!!! Leo Beenhakker would make a good manager for Australia, but he has just extended his contract with Poland.

[8o8o]

Btw Mikey, what do you think? Are we allowed to call ourselves the Smiley Smile Football Pundits or what? LOL.   

[mikeyj]

Yeh I understand what you mean. I think a manager should experiment for a little while when he first gets in charge but once he has found the right team you have to try and stick with the best 11 game in and game out so that they can start building a good understanding amongst themselves.

Yeh the Netherlands have usually always played attractive football and I think you guys still are capable of doing that. Though of course the results in the end are what people remember. So has Van Basten EVER tried different tactics in his time in charge?

I think this Zola guy is from Spain or something   I remember watching him at Chelsea, he was fantastic to watch. Of course people remember that goal in the FA Cup against Norwich (I think if I am remembering correctly).. and I also remember his chip against Everton in the last second of the game in one of his last games at Stamford Bridge. Absolutely brilliant player!! Reminds me of Bergkamp in a way. Different but similar in that they both can pull off unbelievable things. Bergkamp's goal against Newcastle should have been the number one goal of the decade in the premiership. That was outrageous skill!!

Oh ok. I have never heard of him either!!

[mikeyj]

Btw Mikey, what do you think? Are we allowed to call ourselves the Smiley Smile Football Pundits or what? LOL.   

Haha!! I dunno how many people are listening to us, but I think we deserve to be called that

[8o8o]

Yeh I understand what you mean. I think a manager should experiment for a little while when he first gets in charge but once he has found the right team you have to try and stick with the best 11 game in and game out so that they can start building a good understanding amongst themselves.

Yeh the Netherlands have usually always played attractive football and I think you guys still are capable of doing that. Though of course the results in the end are what people remember. So has Van Basten EVER tried different tactics in his time in charge?

I think this Zola guy is from Spain or something   I remember watching him at Chelsea, he was fantastic to watch. Of course people remember that goal in the FA Cup against Norwich (I think if I am remembering correctly).. and I also remember his chip against Everton in the last second of the game in one of his last games at Stamford Bridge. Absolutely brilliant player!! Reminds me of Bergkamp in a way. Different but similar in that they both can pull off unbelievable things. Bergkamp's goal against Newcastle should have been the number one goal of the decade in the premiership. That was outrageous skill!!

Oh ok. I have never heard of him either!!

Well, of course I know Gianfranco Zola. He's Italian, btw. Played for Parma and Napoli, where he was Maradona's 'right hand' so to speak. A fantastic player. With my comment "Where does he come from?" I was only expressing my surprise as to how the FA came to him for the manager job. Why Zola? Ah well.....

That Bergkamp goal against Newcastle (Nikos Dabizas!) can be found on YouTube, there's a nice Bergkamp Tribute video there with lots of goals in it. This one was 'ballet' like, sometimes it seemed he barely touched the pitched with his feet. I miss him, he was one of a kind.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCEXkik6Iuk

Do you remember the goal he scored in France in 1998 against Argentina? Then there's some beauties he scored for Ajax, and of course a lot of Arsenal goals.

Can't really say Van Basten has tried anything else. He HAS tried players on many positions. Kuyt has played on the left wing, right wing and as a central striker. Van der Vaart has played on both wings, various positions in midfield etc. His best position is that of playmaker or playing 'off' a striker in a free role, like he does at Hamburger SV. But we have Sneijder for that position as well. Van Persie prefers to play there, and so does Seedorf.

It's all about finding the right balance, as with the England side. You have to make choices. Lampard AND Gerrard AND Joe Cole, etc, etc. Or only one of them? I think you'll understand what I'm trying to say.

[mikeyj]

I know that he's Italian!! That's why I did the eye-rolling emoticon.. You can tell that Maradona was his mentor. The FA aren't considering him (as far as I know).. I meant for the Australian job that somebody in the media over here said that he would be a good manager for Australia.. which of course I think is outrageous!!

You can't blame Dabizas to be fair. I think he was as besumed as most people when they first see the goal!! Thanks for the video. I've seen all of those goals (except the Ajax ones) but it brings back great memories of watching him play. I remember when I first saw the Newcastle goal and I had to keep replaying it to see exactly what he did.. I just couldn't believe it.. I miss Bergkamp too. But then I also miss Zola, Shearer etc..

He wasn't the most prolific goalscorer but when he scored they were usually pretty special. I have seen the goal against Argentina on many occassions. I bet (if you were watching the game live) you were jumping up and down and screaming when that went in!! From what I can recall wasn't it the winning goal and just before it was to be decided on penalties?

Well I think the Netherlands are extremely lucky in terms of attacking talent (from what I gather not as lucky in terms of depth in the defensive department). Whereas England are lacking depth in most areas and usually lack imagination going forward!! What do you think about Kuyt at Liverpool? I remember seeing a few games when he played in Holland and he was fantastic but at Liverpool he hasn't impressed me that much. So many attacking midfielders!! I suppose Arjen Robben COULD even play just off the striker(s) as well!!

Yeh I see what you mean. Do you agree with me in getting rid of either Lampard or Gerrard - in which I say Gerrard as he is usually poor for England. And then Gerrard could always be used off the bench as an impact player anyway.