Any football (soccer) fans on this board?

[mikeyj]

Yeah, you're right about the G-14. The big clubs (Man Utd, Juventus, AC Milan, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich et al) are always in control, because they have all the (worldwide) fans behind them, and all the star players who people want to watch on TV or in the stadium. The real threat is that they KNOW they are in control, so they act accordingly.

But they forget they need the smaller clubs as well - in many cases these clubs helped them to become what they are now. Plus, there are always changes. Clubs that were huge in the past are completely lost now (Nottingham Forest, Borussia Monchengladbach, Leeds United, 1. FC Koln), and with the 'right' mismanagement it can still happen to any club, except for the really big guns (think of Real Madrid a couple of years ago), they can be in debt and still go out and buy players for 30 million pounds or so, while others get deducted 15 points for being 500,000 pounds in debt. It's unfair, and another issue that bothers me. The regulations stink, and are different in every country.

Yes, maybe we are pessimistic, and I hate being pessimistic, but it really is getting worse and worse. Something has to be done, but I can't see it happening, so there's no real reason for optimism.

Yes I agree. The big clubs control World football, not FIFA and FIFA realise this. But they should still be (and maby they are? but not very well) trying to fix the problems in European football in particular.

Good point about the bigger clubs going bankrupt etc.. I remember Leeds United were in the Champions League semi finals against Valencia (from memory) and then around two or so seasons later they were virtually bankrupt. Even Real Madrid of course aren't the force they once where. One thing is for sure though, while Roman Abramovich is in charge of Chelsea, I doubt they will ever go bankrupt   I agree though, that that is unfair. It's double standards.

The problem is, what CAN be done? I don't know if there is a solution. Sure there might be a quick fix but then it will just get worse again I feel. The big clubs are just TOO big now.. Maby something could have been done a couple of years ago but I doubt it now.

It sure is good to see that there is other people out there who see it the same way as me. Let's just hope that other fans start to become more outraged at what is going on in the beautiful game.

[8o8o]

I'm an Aston Villa supporter, have been for over 30 years. Current season ticket holder with my 12 year old son.

No gloryhunting for me..............

And may I say what a fantastic new owner/chairman we have in Randolph Lerner?

There is a lot said today in the game about foriegn owners of English football clubs, but our new American owners have been FANTASTIC.

They work in conjunction with supporters to make the club a better place; they look after us, making matchdays a better experience (off the pitch!); they have employed a top class manager, and they supply him with the money he requires.

Also, non-executive director General Charles Krulak actually posts on the Villa fansite I use, answering supporter questions and getting feedback to pass on to the Chairman.

I doubt any other club can boast that!

To be honest I used to support Bradford City (still try to) but since I live in Australia it's hard because it's impossible to see any of their games. But when I was about seven years old (I'm now 19) I was drawn to the Liverpool club mainly by the likes of Owen and Fowler etc.. But also due to the Kop and "You'll Never Walk Alone". But I am sick and tired of Liverpool buying sub-par foreign players when we get rid of Owen and get Antonio Nunez instead? What a farce. Owen is a Liverpool legend without a doubt, but could Rafa Benitez care? Nope, couldn't give a crap.

Villa sounds pretty good compared to a lot of other foreign owners such as Hearts. I think it was them anyway where their foreign owner has been a disaster.

Talking generally, I would prefer the clubs to be in the hands of people who actually appreciate the traditions and history of the club and actually care for the club and its fans and not just money and usually that is only the case when they are English or atleast British owners.

Hearts?   Talk about a mess!

Will be interesting to see what happens at Villa in the long run. I really like Martin O'Neill, an excellent manager, he's proven that on many occasions, plus he's a very nice guy. Villa could do with some stability, so I hope it lasts. They've made some excellent signings, and O'Neill always brings out the best of his players. Think only of Gareth Barry who has done very well this season. It's a joy to watch Agbonlahor, Young etc.  

Oh yeah, you mentioned Neil Mellor..... Where is he now? Still at Preston?

Can you believe Liverpool are looking for another new striker? Come on! Crouch, Voronin, Babel, Torres, Kuyt - do they really need another one?

[Robav63]

Liverpool are really spoilt for choice in the striking department, thats for sure.

Nothiong else will matter for me next Sunday though - we have GOT to beat small heath - they really are scumbags 

[Alex]

Does American Football count? Probably not.

New York Giants all the way!

[mikeyj]

Does American Football count? Probably not.

New York Giants all the way!

No, this only includes REAL football or atleast the ORIGINAL football.

[mikeyj]

Hearts?  Talk about a mess!

Will be interesting to see what happens at Villa in the long run. I really like Martin O'Neill, an excellent manager, he's proven that on many occasions, plus he's a very nice guy. Villa could do with some stability, so I hope it lasts. They've made some excellent signings, and O'Neill always brings out the best of his players. Think only of Gareth Barry who has done very well this season. It's a joy to watch Agbonlahor, Young etc. 

Oh yeah, you mentioned Neil Mellor..... Where is he now? Still at Preston?

Can you believe Liverpool are looking for another new striker? Come on! Crouch, Voronin, Babel, Torres, Kuyt - do they really need another one?

I've always liked watching Aston Villa through the years. I think Gareth Barry should have been more of an England regular on the left hand side for England. I mean everyone used to say "we have no out and out left sided midfield player".. well what about Gareth Barry? Of course now he has been given opportunities recently and we have another out and out left midfielder in Stewart Downing but previous to that I would have liked to have seen Barry been given more of an opportunity.

Yeh Mellor is still at Preston. I saw him play a few weeks ago.

I can't believe Liverpool sometimes. Babel has been given VERY little opportunity as has Crouch. But I'm not really a big fan of Crouch myself. He's good but not THAT good. And Voronin has overall been poor. I think Kuyt has been dissapointing but I think Torres will become a pretty good player for Liverpool. I still wish we had Owen still though.

[Robav63]

Barry has been criminally overlooked for a long time, he should have 40-50 caps by now, not 10!!!

Ashley Young is going to turn into a fantastic little winger too

[mikeyj]

Barry has been criminally overlooked for a long time, he should have 40-50 caps by now, not 10!!!

Ashley Young is going to turn into a fantastic little winger too

I agree about Barry. I mean I would have rathered him over Trevor Sinclair (who played on the left at 2002 World Cup if I remember correctly). I suppose there is always going to be players that get overlooked though, just seems to be the way.

To be honest I haven't seen much of Ashley Young but what I have seen of him I've been really impressed.

What do you think of Rooney. Never been a big fan myself, he's good but over-rated in my books. On his day he is incredible but I don't think he is consistent enough and I think the reason he does well in the premiership at times is because players are scared of his hype etc.. I mean did you see the defending the other week I think it was against Boro? Absolutely atrocious. Whereas Italy + Spain + Brazil etc.. don't give a crap about the name "WAYNE ROONEY".. theyre not scared of him. That's just my opinion of course. But it always seems that England tries to rely on a few players and it seems to be the way in other sports too. When Owen was younger it was him, there's also been Beckham and now Rooney before all of them there was Gascoigne. And in cricket for example (which I am sick of), england relied on Flintoff etc.. how about England fans for once rely on the TEAM... Because I don't think there is one player in the England team who REALLY stands out amongst the rest (we dont have a Maradona or something)... I remember when Rooney first became a star etc.. and people were suggesting he was the new Pele.. that is the sort of thing I am talking about.. it's a joke if you ask me.

[8o8o]

Crucial game tonight for Liverpool in the Champions League (Besiktas at home). It's 'do or die' from now on, basically.

Do you reckon they can still make it?

As for my opinion on 'Shrek' - I think the first movie was the best.....

England? It's about time the manager starts picking the best TEAM, so I agree with you. For years they've been looking for a formation to accommodate the best 11 individual players.... How many different midfield line-ups have there been over the years?

Defensively they're a mess without Terry. I'm not a big fan of Ashley Cole, a poor defender in my book.

But I'd better focus on my 'own' national team - which, to quote my legendary friends Laurel & Hardy, is "Another Fine Mess". 

[mikeyj]

As for my opinion on 'Shrek' - I think the first movie was the best.....

  - He's such an ugly fella... I can't understand why he is on advertisements etc..

I honestly don't think Liverpool can make it. I can't watch the game, because I don't have access to the channel that it's on. I know L'pool has come back from some pretty dire situations but I can't see us winning our last three games and then depending on other results.

I couldn't tell you but there has been a few midfield line-ups.

I agree about Terry....Ashley Cole is hopeless. I think he was decent as a youngster and showed potential but his defensive ability never really improved much over the years for my liking. But I suppose he is like a lot of left backs these days, such attacking players considering they are defenders. Who should be at left back then? Bridge, Lescott, Baines, Shorey or even Barry who can play left back?

Yes it seems to be the way with a lot of the bigger national teams in Europe over recent seasons. For example France, Holland, England etc..

[8o8o]

As for my opinion on 'Shrek' - I think the first movie was the best.....

  - He's such an ugly fella... I can't understand why he is on advertisements etc..

I honestly don't think Liverpool can make it. I can't watch the game, because I don't have access to the channel that it's on. I know L'pool has come back from some pretty dire situations but I can't see us winning our last three games and then depending on other results.

I couldn't tell you but there has been a few midfield line-ups.

I agree about Terry....Ashley Cole is hopeless. I think he was decent as a youngster and showed potential but his defensive ability never really improved much over the years for my liking. But I suppose he is like a lot of left backs these days, such attacking players considering they are defenders. Who should be at left back then? Bridge, Lescott, Baines, Shorey or even Barry who can play left back?

Yes it seems to be the way with a lot of the bigger national teams in Europe over recent seasons. For example France, Holland, England etc..

Well, to be honest, I'd never call anybody 'ugly' for the way they look, and besides he's really popular with the young kids out there, so for me he's the ideal person to feature in ad campaigns.

Ashley Cole was an attacking midfielder originally, wasn't he? So offensively he's alright, defensively he's poor, and that shows in games against equal (or better) opposition, usually not against the weaker sides.

I like Leighton Baines, and Nicky Shorey isn't too bad either. I'd say of the ones you mention Wayne Bridge would probably be the best choice (if he's fully fit that is!). I'd rather have Barry in midfield.

[mikeyj]

Well, to be honest, I'd never call anybody 'ugly' for the way they look, and besides he's really popular with the young kids out there, so for me he's the ideal person to feature in ad campaigns.

Ashley Cole was an attacking midfielder originally, wasn't he? So offensively he's alright, defensively he's poor, and that shows in games against equal (or better) opposition, usually not against the weaker sides.

I like Leighton Baines, and Nicky Shorey isn't too bad either. I'd say of the ones you mention Wayne Bridge would probably be the best choice (if he's fully fit that is!). I'd rather have Barry in midfield.

Well I think he is 'ugly inside' as well. He doesn't seem the nicest person, always so agressive towards referees. He has gotten better, but I have never liked his attitude towards the game and that's my point that it's not good that he's a role model for kids. I mean a person like Michael Owen or David Beckham are much better role models for kids if you ask me. I've watched games of Rooney in the past and he honestly must have sworn over 20 times at the referee in some games.

From what I've always known Cole has always been a left back. He might have been a left midfielder in the youth teams etc.. but I remember his first couple of games and from memory (it's a long time ago) he played at left back.

Yeh I agree, Barry is a better midfield, but he's still obviously an option which is good as it gives some flexibility. I agree I have always been a big fan of Leighton Baines. Not sure yet if Nicky Shorey could make it at international level. What has happened to Wayne Bridge. Always injured etc.. but I agree if he CAN get fit and back to his old form for the likes of Southampton.. then I say he perhaps should be left back.

By the way, I think Liverpool won didn't they?

[8o8o]

Well, to be honest, I'd never call anybody 'ugly' for the way they look, and besides he's really popular with the young kids out there, so for me he's the ideal person to feature in ad campaigns.

Ashley Cole was an attacking midfielder originally, wasn't he? So offensively he's alright, defensively he's poor, and that shows in games against equal (or better) opposition, usually not against the weaker sides.

I like Leighton Baines, and Nicky Shorey isn't too bad either. I'd say of the ones you mention Wayne Bridge would probably be the best choice (if he's fully fit that is!). I'd rather have Barry in midfield.

Well I think he is 'ugly inside' as well. He doesn't seem the nicest person, always so agressive towards referees. He has gotten better, but I have never liked his attitude towards the game and that's my point that it's not good that he's a role model for kids. I mean a person like Michael Owen or David Beckham are much better role models for kids if you ask me. I've watched games of Rooney in the past and he honestly must have sworn over 20 times at the referee in some games.

From what I've always known Cole has always been a left back. He might have been a left midfielder in the youth teams etc.. but I remember his first couple of games and from memory (it's a long time ago) he played at left back.

Yeh I agree, Barry is a better midfield, but he's still obviously an option which is good as it gives some flexibility. I agree I have always been a big fan of Leighton Baines. Not sure yet if Nicky Shorey could make it at international level. What has happened to Wayne Bridge. Always injured etc.. but I agree if he CAN get fit and back to his old form for the likes of Southampton.. then I say he perhaps should be left back.

By the way, I think Liverpool won didn't they?

Yeah, the agression towards the referee is something I dislike as well, you see it a lot these days (not only Rooney does it - too many to mention).

I saw Ashley Cole once when he was really young (it was at the Amsterdam Tournament) and Arsenal faced Ajax (a pre-season friendly), and in the second half Wenger was throwing on a lot of subs, mostly youth players (18/19 years old) or reserve players, and Cole was one of them, and I think he played as a left winger almost (a very attacking midfielder).

Bridge was great when he played for the Saints, hope he stays fit and plays himself into the England team.

Well, Liverpool beat Besiktas by the narrowest of margins, didn't they? 8-0! Will see the highlights tonight. 3x Benayoun, 2x Crouch, 2x Babel - a goal fest! Seems like they woke up just in time, haha. 

[mikeyj]

Yeah, the agression towards the referee is something I dislike as well, you see it a lot these days (not only Rooney does it - too many to mention).

I saw Ashley Cole once when he was really young (it was at the Amsterdam Tournament) and Arsenal faced Ajax (a pre-season friendly), and in the second half Wenger was throwing on a lot of subs, mostly youth players (18/19 years old) or reserve players, and Cole was one of them, and I think he played as a left winger almost (a very attacking midfielder).

Bridge was great when he played for the Saints, hope he stays fit and play himself into the England team.

Well, Liverpool beat Besiktas by the narrowest of margins, didn't they? 8-0! Will see the highlights tonight. 3x Benayoun, 2x Crouch, 2x Babel - a goal fest! Seems like they woke up jut in time, haha. 

I agree, I think the referees should be more harsh on some of the players. If they come and argue with the referee and they refuse to go away then they should be booked. I also think that any time a player says to the ref "give that player a booking" then he himself should be booked. Of course there should ALWAYS be bookings for dives that are spotted as I see some referees saying that the player dived, yet not giving a yellow card. I think they should copy what the Rugby League does here in Australia and  review the game afterwards and anybody that the review panel deems has dived, should be banned for 1 match or 3 matches if they dive inside the box (eg: that Rooney dive that cost Arsenal the chance to go 50 games unbeaten a few years back)

To be honest though I think Rooney was/is one of the worst offenders at abusing referees. He is just overly agressive.

You are probably right. Though as you say it was just in a friendly tournament. From what I can remember, I saw Ashley Cole when he scored his first goal for Arsenal (that's the earliest I remember him) and at that stage he was at left back.

I think Bridge has never performed consistently well for Chelsea like he did for Southampton, mainly due to injuries of course, but yes it would sure be nice if England can quickly get a solid left back whoever it may be.

Hey you forgot to mention Gerrard's goal!! Why can Liverpool do this to Besiktas yet can only just (and perhaps undeservedly) beat Wigan 1-0 and likewise play extremely poorly and sneak a win against Everton? Ahwell, I saw the highlights (since I couldn't watch the game - I wish I could see the replay atleast ) and it looked like a fantastic performance. Why hasn't Rafa given Babel and Crouch more of a go this season, and I spose the same could be said for Benayoun too

By the way Robav63, do you remember the FA Cup Final from 2000 (I'm sure you do - and probably don't want to remember).. just wondering if you were there, because I have that game on tape and just thought I'd mention it since I was transfering some of my old tapes onto DVD. Do you remember Paul Merson's effort in the first half (I know it's a while ago now) but that would've been some goal. I wish you guys had gotten one over Chelsea on that occassion.

[8o8o]

Yeah, the agression towards the referee is something I dislike as well, you see it a lot these days (not only Rooney does it - too many to mention).

I saw Ashley Cole once when he was really young (it was at the Amsterdam Tournament) and Arsenal faced Ajax (a pre-season friendly), and in the second half Wenger was throwing on a lot of subs, mostly youth players (18/19 years old) or reserve players, and Cole was one of them, and I think he played as a left winger almost (a very attacking midfielder).

Bridge was great when he played for the Saints, hope he stays fit and play himself into the England team.

Well, Liverpool beat Besiktas by the narrowest of margins, didn't they? 8-0! Will see the highlights tonight. 3x Benayoun, 2x Crouch, 2x Babel - a goal fest! Seems like they woke up jut in time, haha. 

I agree, I think the referees should be more harsh on some of the players. If they come and argue with the referee and they refuse to go away then they should be booked. I also think that any time a player says to the ref "give that player a booking" then he himself should be booked. Of course there should ALWAYS be bookings for dives that are spotted as I see some referees saying that the player dived, yet not giving a yellow card. I think they should copy what the Rugby League does here in Australia and  review the game afterwards and anybody that the review panel deems has dived, should be banned for 1 match or 3 matches if they dive inside the box (eg: that Rooney dive that cost Arsenal the chance to go 50 games unbeaten a few years back)

To be honest though I think Rooney was/is one of the worst offenders at abusing referees. He is just overly agressive.

You are probably right. Though as you say it was just in a friendly tournament. From what I can remember, I saw Ashley Cole when he scored his first goal for Arsenal (that's the earliest I remember him) and at that stage he was at left back.

I think Bridge has never performed consistently well for Chelsea like he did for Southampton, mainly due to injuries of course, but yes it would sure be nice if England can quickly get a solid left back whoever it may be.

Hey you forgot to mention Gerrard's goal!! Why can Liverpool do this to Besiktas yet can only just (and perhaps undeservedly) beat Wigan 1-0 and likewise play extremely poorly and sneak a win against Everton? Ahwell, I saw the highlights (since I couldn't watch the game - I wish I could see the replay atleast ) and it looked like a fantastic performance. Why hasn't Rafa given Babel and Crouch more of a go this season, and I spose the same could be said for Benayoun too

By the way Robav63, do you remember the FA Cup Final from 2000 (I'm sure you do - and probably don't want to remember).. just wondering if you were there, because I have that game on tape and just thought I'd mention it since I was transfering some of my old tapes onto DVD. Do you remember Paul Merson's effort in the first half (I know it's a while ago now) but that would've been some goal. I wish you guys had gotten one over Chelsea on that occassion.

Someone suggested that in the future only the team's captain would be allowed to talk directly to the referee. Would that help? What do you think?

Was it El-Hadji Diouf who was saying some lovely words to the (assistant) ref last weekend? I'd say 'temper, temper' guys, and concentrate on your own performance on the pitch. He has a nice record, hasn't he, Mr Diouf?

Sorry for not mentioning Stevie's goal. A couple of surprising results yesterday in the Champions League. The only game I saw was Olympiakos - Real Madrid. Tonight it's PSV's turn....

[mikeyj]

Someone suggested that in the future only the team's captain would be allowed to talk directly to the referee. Would that help? What do you think?

Was it El-Hadji Diouf who was saying some lovely words to the (assistant) ref last weekend? I'd say 'temper, temper' guys, and concentrate on your own performance on the pitch. He has a nice record, hasn't he, Mr Diouf?

Sorry for not mentioning Stevie's goal. A couple of surprising results yesterday in the Champions League. The only game I saw was Olympiakos - Real Madrid. Tonight it's PSV's turn....

I would agree with that. Of course unless the referee wanted to speak with a player for fouling somebody or whatever the reason.

Yeh Diouf is one of the worst offenders too. But I don't think anybody tops the old Rooney (I think he HAS improved a lot).. there just seemed to be so much hatred in the way Rooney had a go at the ref, whereas Diouf for example seems to be saying it to the ref etc.. to be smart. That's how it seems to me.

Well I wouldn't have expected Rosenborg to beat Valencia away from home and Real Madrid to only manage a draw in Greece. I hope PSV win. I much prefer the Dutch teams over the Turkish teams to be honest.

[8o8o]

Someone suggested that in the future only the team's captain would be allowed to talk directly to the referee. Would that help? What do you think?

Was it El-Hadji Diouf who was saying some lovely words to the (assistant) ref last weekend? I'd say 'temper, temper' guys, and concentrate on your own performance on the pitch. He has a nice record, hasn't he, Mr Diouf?

Sorry for not mentioning Stevie's goal. A couple of surprising results yesterday in the Champions League. The only game I saw was Olympiakos - Real Madrid. Tonight it's PSV's turn....

I would agree with that. Of course unless the referee wanted to speak with a player for fouling somebody or whatever the reason.

Yeh Diouf is one of the worst offenders too. But I don't think anybody tops the old Rooney (I think he HAS improved a lot).. there just seemed to be so much hatred in the way Rooney had a go at the ref, whereas Diouf for example seems to be saying it to the ref etc.. to be smart. That's how it seems to me.

Well I wouldn't have expected Rosenborg to beat Valencia away from home and Real Madrid to only manage a draw in Greece. I hope PSV win. I much prefer the Dutch teams over the Turkish teams to be honest.

A great start for Ronald Koeman at Valencia  Madrid were poor yesterday, a boring game. PSV will face a tough battle tonight, with the fanatic Turkish fans and all the noise they create. They need to get at least something from the game. Probably the final game for caretaker manager Jan Wouters - Martin Jol most likely to become the new boss next week.

[mikeyj]

A great start for Ronald Koeman at Valencia  Madrid were poor yesterday, a boring game. PSV will face a tough battle tonight, with the fanatic Turkish fans and all the noise they create. They need to get at least something from the game. Probably the final game for caretaker manager Jan Wouters - Martin Jol most likely to become the new boss next week.

No real surprises last night really. Unfortunate that PSV didn't win last night. I think Turkish fans are some of the most intimidating fans. I certainly wouldn't like to play in front of them.

That's interesting I've always been a big fan of Martin Jol, I think he did a pretty good job at Tottenham except towards the end of course, but he has built a pretty strong squad at White Hart Lane.

[8o8o]

A great start for Ronald Koeman at Valencia  Madrid were poor yesterday, a boring game. PSV will face a tough battle tonight, with the fanatic Turkish fans and all the noise they create. They need to get at least something from the game. Probably the final game for caretaker manager Jan Wouters - Martin Jol most likely to become the new boss next week.

No real surprises last night really. Unfortunate that PSV didn't win last night. I think Turkish fans are some of the most intimidating fans. I certainly wouldn't like to play in front of them.

That's interesting I've always been a big fan of Martin Jol, I think he did a pretty good job at Tottenham except towards the end of course, but he has built a pretty strong squad at White Hart Lane.

Honestly, I didn't feel PSV were unfortunate to lose the game in Turkey. They got what they deseved - nothing. Overrun in midfield, poor display. It's really become a terrible international season for the Dutch clubs. 

And Martin Jol (I like him too) will NOT be the new PSV boss, by the way. He has no interest in the job, so they're looking for someone else.

Some nice clashes in the Premier League tomorrow (and on Sunday):

Sunderland - Newcastle

Chelsea - Everton

Birmingham - Aston Villa

Man Utd - Blackburn

Good stuff to look forward to, don't you think? (Liverpool play Fulham at home.....)

[mikeyj]

Honestly, I didn't feel PSV were unfortunate to lose the game in Turkey. They got what they deseved - nothing. Overrun in midfield, poor display. It's really become a terrible international season for the Dutch clubs. 

And Martin Jol (I like him too) will NOT be the new PSV boss, by the way. He has no interest in the job, so they're looking for someone else.

Some nice clashes in the Premier League tomorrow (and on Sunday):

Sunderland - Newcastle

Chelsea - Everton

Birmingham - Aston Villa

Man Utd - Blackburn

Good stuff to look forward to, don't you think? (Liverpool play Fulham at home.....)

I didn't see the PSV game (like I said I dont get to see any CL games anymore) but I wish they had won. I was shocked that Bolton drew with Bayern Munich last night (and incredible result for them).

That's a shame about Jol. To be honest I hope he comes back to the Premiership some day (I think I heard that he wants to stay in England).

There is some really good matches there. Especially the two derbies. And Blackburn always seem to perform well against Man United (I don't mean they usually beat them but they usually give them a hard time). Hopefully Liverpool can carry on their form from the CL and beat Fulham comfortably (say 3-0 or something) which is something they haven't been known for this season (except maby for Derby - but big deal). I think the Chelsea and Everton game will be pretty good too - they usually are. I'm in a tipping competition and here is who I tipped for this week:

Sunderland v Newcastle
Derby v West Ham
Liverpool v Fulham
Birmingham v Aston Villa
Chelsea v Everton
Bolton v Boro
Man U v Blackburn
Tottenham v Wigan (draw)
Pompey  v Man City
Reading v Arsenal

Do you think I should change any of my tips? I haven't been going too well this season (I missed a couple of weeks) so I need to make up a bit of ground.

[8o8o]

Honestly, I didn't feel PSV were unfortunate to lose the game in Turkey. They got what they deseved - nothing. Overrun in midfield, poor display. It's really become a terrible international season for the Dutch clubs. 

And Martin Jol (I like him too) will NOT be the new PSV boss, by the way. He has no interest in the job, so they're looking for someone else.

Some nice clashes in the Premier League tomorrow (and on Sunday):

Sunderland - Newcastle

Chelsea - Everton

Birmingham - Aston Villa

Man Utd - Blackburn

Good stuff to look forward to, don't you think? (Liverpool play Fulham at home.....)

I didn't see the PSV game (like I said I dont get to see any CL games anymore) but I wish they had won. I was shocked that Bolton drew with Bayern Munich last night (and incredible result for them).

That's a shame about Jol. To be honest I hope he comes back to the Premiership some day (I think I heard that he wants to stay in England).

There is some really good matches there. Especially the two derbies. And Blackburn always seem to perform well against Man United (I don't mean they usually beat them but they usually give them a hard time). Hopefully Liverpool can carry on their form from the CL and beat Fulham comfortably (say 3-0 or something) which is something they haven't been known for this season (except maby for Derby - but big deal). I think the Chelsea and Everton game will be pretty good too - they usually are. I'm in a tipping competition and here is who I tipped for this week:

Sunderland v Newcastle
Derby v West Ham
Liverpool v Fulham
Birmingham v Aston Villa
Chelsea v Everton
Bolton v Boro
Man U v Blackburn
Tottenham v Wigan (draw)
Pompey  v Man City
Reading v Arsenal

Do you think I should change any of my tips? I haven't been going too well this season (I missed a couple of weeks) so I need to make up a bit of ground.

Some reports in the press say that Jol's waiting to become the next Dutch national team manager........ Ajax is also still an option. Others link him to Newcastle Utd (what about Big Sam then?). I guess he's waiting for the right train to jump on. We'll see.

Agree with most of your predictions, these would be mine:

Sunderland v Newcastle
Derby v West Ham
Liverpool v Fulham
Birmingham v Aston Villa draw
Chelsea v Everton draw
Bolton v Boro
Man U v Blackburn
Tottenham v Wigan
Pompey v Man City
Reading v Arsenal

[mikeyj]

Some reports in the press say that Jol's waiting to become the next Dutch national team manager........ Ajax is also still an option. Others link him to Newcastle Utd (what about Big Sam then?). I guess he's waiting for the right train to jump on. We'll see.

Agree with most of your predictions, these would be mine:

Sunderland v Newcastle
Derby v West Ham
Liverpool v Fulham
Birmingham v Aston Villa draw
Chelsea v Everton draw
Bolton v Boro
Man U v Blackburn
Tottenham v Wigan
Pompey v Man City
Reading v Arsenal

I doubt he would go to Newcastle. Big Sam is a pretty good manager and I think he will do a fine job for Newcastle. I guess you are right, he is just waiting for the right train to jump on. I honestly can't believe the Gary Megson is the new Bolton manager, I've never been a big fan of him myself. Gareth Southgate will certainly be a man under pressure if the form doesn't improve. Maby Jol will end up Boro?

Interesting that you tip Chelsea & Everton as a draw, that may well be the case. Im still sticking to my prediction. I think both local derbies will be very close (as they usually are). We will wait and see who's tips are the closest (even though they are pertty similar), sort of like our own mini-competition .

[8o8o]

Some reports in the press say that Jol's waiting to become the next Dutch national team manager........ Ajax is also still an option. Others link him to Newcastle Utd (what about Big Sam then?). I guess he's waiting for the right train to jump on. We'll see.

Agree with most of your predictions, these would be mine:

Sunderland v Newcastle
Derby v West Ham
Liverpool v Fulham
Birmingham v Aston Villa draw
Chelsea v Everton draw
Bolton v Boro
Man U v Blackburn
Tottenham v Wigan
Pompey v Man City
Reading v Arsenal

I doubt he would go to Newcastle. Big Sam is a pretty good manager and I think he will do a fine job for Newcastle. I guess you are right, he is just waiting for the right train to jump on. I honestly can't believe the Gary Megson is the new Bolton manager, I've never been a big fan of him myself. Gareth Southgate will certainly be a man under pressure if the form doesn't improve. Maby Jol will end up Boro?

Interesting that you tip Chelsea & Everton as a draw, that may well be the case. Im still sticking to my prediction. I think both local derbies will be very close (as they usually are). We will wait and see who's tips are the closest (even though they are pertty similar), sort of like our own mini-competition .

Not a fan of Megson either. Was surprised he got the job. Despite messing up all the time, they still get a fine new job every once and a while. Graeme Souness - same thing. Always leaves a mess behind. Glenn Hoddle, another one. John Gregory. A lot of crappy managers out there, but a lot of excellent ones as well.

Don't think Jol is interested in Boro (should the post become available - which is not the case yet).

Well, as for the predictions: 9 games played - 5 correct answers for me, 4 for you - not that bad, you were right with Villa, I was lucky to get Chelsea v Everton correct.

Reading - Arsenal today. Plus a lot of great clashes coming up on Saturday - think only of Scotland v Italy!!!! I really hope Scotland win this game.

[mikeyj]

Not a fan of Megson either. Was surprised he got the job. Despite messing up all the time, they still get a fine new job every once and a while. Graeme Souness - same thing. Always leaves a mess behind. Glenn Hoddle, another one. John Gregory. A lot of crappy managers out there, but a lot of excellent ones as well.

Don't think Jol is interested in Boro (should the post become available - which is not the case yet).

Well, as for the predicitions: 9 games played - 5 correct answers for me, 4 for you - not that bad, you were right with Villa, I was lucky to get Chelsea v Everton correct.

Reading - Arsenal today. Plus a lot of great clashes coming up this on Saturday - think only of Scotland v Italy!!!! I really hope Scotland win this game.

Graeme Souness must be the worst manager ever. He might win a few games but as you said he always leaves a mess behind. While the others are bad too, he seems to destroy clubs. Why on earth anybody even considers him anymore is a joke. Look at how good the morale was getting at Newcastle just before he left (think of the fight between Bowyer and Dyer). I mean he was at Blackburn at the players morale was really low and they were performing really badly. Then he gets sacked and Mark Hughes is working miracles at Blackburn now. Then he takes over at Newcastle (who in my opinion should have kept Bobby Robson - from memory he got sacked after not playing Shearer or subbing him off - which from memory again has happened to several Newcastle managers and I think it happened to Souness as well) and they almost get relegated. He is pathetic.

You are just ahead of me and we tipped the same for the last game so you win this weekend . I think I was lucky to get Villa though just as you were with the Chelsea game. I'm surprised Newcastle didn't beat Sunderland but I suppose Sunderland were at home and haven't been all that bad this season (atleast compared to when they were last in the Premier League). Good old Aussie Tim Cahill with a wonder goal.

I REALLY hope Scotland wins too. If they could qualify that would be the best. Imagine Italy or France (I'm not 100% sure on the situation in that group but I think Italy is more likely to fail to qualify) didn't qualify, that would be the greatest. I would like to see Scotland qualify, but even more so I would like to see England qualify. Come on Israel!!!

[8o8o]

Not a fan of Megson either. Was surprised he got the job. Despite messing up all the time, they still get a fine new job every once and a while. Graeme Souness - same thing. Always leaves a mess behind. Glenn Hoddle, another one. John Gregory. A lot of crappy managers out there, but a lot of excellent ones as well.

Don't think Jol is interested in Boro (should the post become available - which is not the case yet).

Well, as for the predicitions: 9 games played - 5 correct answers for me, 4 for you - not that bad, you were right with Villa, I was lucky to get Chelsea v Everton correct.

Reading - Arsenal today. Plus a lot of great clashes coming up this on Saturday - think only of Scotland v Italy!!!! I really hope Scotland win this game.

Graeme Souness must be the worst manager ever. He might win a few games but as you said he always leaves a mess behind. While the others are bad too, he seems to destroy clubs. Why on earth anybody even considers him anymore is a joke. Look at how good the morale was getting at Newcastle just before he left (think of the fight between Bowyer and Dyer). I mean he was at Blackburn at the players morale was really low and they were performing really badly. Then he gets sacked and Mark Hughes is working miracles at Blackburn now. Then he takes over at Newcastle (who in my opinion should have kept Bobby Robson - from memory he got sacked after not playing Shearer or subbing him off - which from memory again has happened to several Newcastle managers and I think it happened to Souness as well) and they almost get relegated. He is pathetic.

You are just ahead of me and we tipped the same for the last game so you win this weekend . I think I was lucky to get Villa though just as you were with the Chelsea game. I'm surprised Newcastle didn't beat Sunderland but I suppose Sunderland were at home and haven't been all that bad this season (atleast compared to when they were last in the Premier League). Good old Aussie Tim Cahill with a wonder goal.

I REALLY hope Scotland wins too. If they could qualify that would be the best. Imagine Italy or France (I'm not 100% sure on the situation in that group but I think Italy is more likely to fail to qualify) didn't qualify, that would be the greatest. I would like to see Scotland qualify, but even more so I would like to see England qualify. Come on Israel!!!

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.