"Bob told me at half-time that he didn't want to be associated with the team any longer, that was it. I should imagine I have had the worst month personally in my life - and that took the biscuit," Fry told the club's website. "At half-time, we said a few things and Bob never contributed anything and as I was going out for the second half, Bob said 'that's it'."
However, Fry insisted he had not fallen out with Gould. "There is not a rift as far as I'm concerned - I applaud him for everything he has done," he said."This has completely knocked me over."
Peterborough had registered just three wins in 10 games in League One before
their LDV Vans Trophy exit on Wednesday.
Pompey keen on Desailly
Harry Redknapp would like to get 36 year old Marcel Desailly to end his
retirement and play for the south coast club. The former French international
left Chelsea at the end of last season and could join Portsmouth immediately
as he is out of contract.
"I'm looking around for a defender who is out of contract," said Redknapp. "There's no one in Britain, they have been snapped up already. That is why I'm looking abroad and I'd love to have Marcel Desailly. I've spoken to him two or three times." He added: "He'd be a terrific signing and someone we could get as he is out of contract. But at the moment he doesn't want to play again. He has got a big television job in France and is concentrating on that, but we'll see."
Desailly retired from football at the end of Euro 2004. He finished his
club career at Chelsea, who he joined from Milan in August 1998 for £4.6m.
He also played for Nantes and Marseille.
Bits and Pieces
Chris Robinson is selling his 19.6% stake in Hearts to Lithuanian Vladimir
Romanov......Alan Thompson injures hamstring, could miss Celtic's Champions
League games against Shaktar Donetsk on Oct 20 and Nov 2...... Sheffield
Utd could get up to £9m from new share issue......
Footiemad news item
September 29, 2004
Goals galore
Defence didn't dominate in several of yesterday's Champions League matches,
as a total of 31 goals were scored in the eight games. On his debut with
the club, Wayne Rooney hit a hat-trick in Manchester Utd's 6-2 win over
Fenerbahce. Liverpool dropped a 1-0 decision to Olympiakos in Athens. Other
winners were Bayern Munich, Dynamo Kiev, Juventus, Lyon, Monaco and Real
Madrid. Alex Ferguson thought the teenager had the best debut game he had
seen.
Djorkaeff joins Blackburn
Former French international Youri Djorkaeff has become Mark Hughes first
signing since taking the reins at Ewood Park. The 36 year old has a short-term
deal until January, after which both parties will assess the situation.
He became a free agent after failing to come to terms with Bolton at the
end of last season.
"Youri is exactly the sort of player we are looking for to make a difference," Hughes told the club's website.
The playmaker was keen to return to the Premiership and has been given
a chance by Blackburn manager Hughes. Djorkaeff said: "I miss playing
in England and I feel I have a lot to offer in the Premier League. I am
a naturally fit person and I have been keeping fit by training hard in
the south of France. I feel I have another good two years left in me."
Baggies' Clement to miss three
West Brom defender Neil Clement has received a three match ban by the F.A.
He was involved in a fracas immediately after his dismissal for a professional
foul against Fulham. The suspension begins immediately, and he will miss
games against Bolton, Norwich and Crystal Palace. He has already served
a one-match ban - against Colchester in the Carling Cup - for his first
ever red card. There are still several charges pending as a result of the
West Brom v Fulham game
The Baggies will also be without defender Darren Purse for the game against Bolton after he was sent off against Newcastle. He has subsequently been charged with Violent conduct by the F.A. for an unrelated incident in that game.
Purse was harshly sent-off for two bookable offences in the loss to Newcastle
and is banned for one match. However, the charge relates to a different
incident when the Purse caught team-mate Riccardo Scimeca with his arm.
He could now be out for a further three games if found guilty of an incident
not in referee Mike Riley's report. In somewhat Draconian fashion, neither
Purse or any representative of the club will be allowed to attend the disciplinary
hearing.
Bits and Pieces
Everton chairman Bill Kenwright suggests a hearing aid for anyone thinking David Moyes would have £30m to spend in January......Spurs' Mauricio Taricco gets three game ban for incident in April's match with Chelsea......Dunfermline extend trial for ex-Arsenal youngster Stephen Bradley......Inverness striker Steve Hislop could be gone for a few months after knee injury. They really need the problem!......
Footiemad news item
September 28, 2004
Keane family home and fireworks
While anyone who has read any of these missives will know I am not a fan of the 'Irish idiot', I must deplore the actions of the sick lunatic/lunatics that apparently set off a crate of industrial fireworks near his home. Police are investigating the attack on the Irish Republic star's home at 0715 BST on Sunday. A spokesman said the powerful rockets were ignited from a crate daubed with an obscene anti-Irish message. (Again, not the actions of someone dealing from a full deck.) It is not known if Keane, 33, his wife Theresa, also 33, or their four children were at home at the time. This garbage has to be stamped out, it's only a game.
Sour grapes from a Wenger mistake
Ex-Arsenal striker Sylvain Wiltord has claimed that his four years at Highbury
were less than blissful for him. The French international, now playing
with Lyon, alleges his time in North London was punctuated with rows with
the boss.
Wiltord was released by Arsenal in August and told the Daily Express: "It was a love-hate relationship. He played me in a position I was unfamiliar with. I could appreciate why he was doing it but we would have blow-ups in his office - and there was nothing controlled about them." He added: "Wenger knew that I wanted to play in attack when he signed me and he used to tease me about that."
The 30-year-old striker signed for the Gunners in a £13m deal from Bordeaux in 2000 and spent most of his time on the wings, with Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp playing up front in the central positions. (And who can argue with that logic.)
Wiltord collected plenty of silverware during his time at Highbury and
admitted: "I could appreciate why the manager was doing it, I made
an effort and we got some desired results. We would tell each other a few
home truths and afterwards that would be it. But there was always a lot
of mutual respect between us. I was always committed during my time at
Arsenal but when I was injured during last season I did not turn up to
watch their games. It used to get on my nerves to watch all the others
enjoy themselves."
Get on with your life, mon ami, today you wouldn't have made the bench!
Bits and Pieces
Wayne Rooney will play tonight. The only question is will he start or come
off the bench......To play Harry Kewell or not to play him, that is the
question. Only Rafael knows......Gilberto's back problem could be a pain
for a month......Manchester City midfielder Claudio Reyna could be out
a month and will miss the U.S. World Cup qualifiers in October......Socceroos
pick EPL players for Confederations Cup qualifiers. Is that a good move?......Caretaker
boss Billy Davies is new manager at Deepdale......Vladimir Romanov set
to buy stake in Hearts......Jay-Jay Okocha fit again and will face the
Baggies on the weekend......
Footiemad news item
September 27, 2004
Two for the price of one today
Business as usual, well almost
With seven Premiership games now history for most of the clubs, the league
table is starting to have a familiar look about it. At the bottom, last
season's promoted clubs are currently 18th, 19th and 20th and although
a couple of clubs just above them are not certainties to stay up, one wonders
if any of West Brom, Norwich or Crystal Palace have enough to warrant more
than one season in the top flight. It really highlights the massive gulf
between the EPL and the Championship and shows the job done by the likes
of Harry Redknapp and Steve Bruce during the past couple of campaigns.
At the other end, it's the 'usual suspects' making the pace, but with a
couple of interlopers in the mix. Bolton, under Sam Allardyce, have shown
steady improvement each year since their return to the 'big time' and could
reasonably have been expected to challenge for a European spot this season.
It's the team currently in third spot that is the biggest surprise. The
blue half of 'Beatletown' has to be buzzing. After an abysmal last season,
when relegation was a distinct possibilty for the duration, and with the
loss of Rooney and Radzinski, Everton are enjoying life near the top. Who
knows when the bubble will burst or these lads will realize they're not
supposed to be that good. Chairman Bill Kenwright recently survived a 'no
confidence' vote at a shareholder's meeting.
For the time being, at least, the Toffees and the Trotters are making the
season a little more unpredictable. If they are able to keep it up for
any length of time, two candidates for 'manager of the year' would have
to be David Moyes and Sam Allardyce, with the nod going to Moyes for the
turnaround at Goodison Park.
Hatchet buried at the City Ground
Nottingham Forest boss Joe Kinnear and two of his squad have patched up
their differences. Midfielder Andy Reid and striker Marlon King had fallen
afoul of the manager two weeks ago after a loss to Sunderland, but were
recalled to the side for yesterday's emotional comeback win over West Ham.
"King and Reid came into my office and said they wanted to play for
the club. They can't answer their critics any better than that," said
Kinnear. "Reidy hit the pass of the match and King hit the finish
of the match."
It's warm in Adams' kitchen
Leicester City boss Micky Adams has hinted that he may call it a day after
the club's poor start back in the Championship. This follows last year's
relegation plus the difficult time after the training break at La Manga.
The Foxes suffered their fourth defeat of the season at QPR on Saturday,
with David Connolly collecting the team's third red card of the campaign.
"The discipline side of the club has gone haywire. I'll have to change it or somebody else will have to. If we keep shooting ourselves in the foot, either I sort it or somebody else will," Adams told BBC Radio Leicester.
Leicester were among the favourites to bounce straight back to the Premiership, but they are already nine points behind leaders Reading and star striker Connolly has only found the net once. He did that with a superb strike at Loftus Road but after his dismissal the Foxes let slip a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 in the last minute.
Adams, who took over as Leicester boss in April 2002, added: "I suppose
people will say there is a long way to go. But if we keep getting ourselves
in winning positions and do what we've done, there is not a lot I can do
about that."
Bits and Pieces
Manchester Utd. pre-tax profits down nearly a third......Chelsea to build new training and academy complex at Cobham in Surrey......Robbie Savage has dropped his appeal fight and will miss the England v Wales game......Steve Bruce will bring David Dunn back slowly at Birmingham......Saints' unlikely to axe Steve Wigley......David Beckham doubtful for Real's Champions League game with Roma on Tuesday......Jose Mourinho still whining about his treatment by the media. Get a grip, mate......
Thierry says: Be afraid, be very afraid!
Henry has warned his teammates that
Wednesday's Champions League opposition, Rosenberg, must be taken seriously. The
French star has pointed out that Rosenberg are only a few games away from
retaining there championship, and will be near top form. I didn't see the
full interview, but i'm sure at some point he would've mentioned Arsenal's
failure, year after year, to progress beyond the quarter-finals of the premier
club tournament. But good luck to them we say!
The two best in
Spain?
While
the "galacticos" embarass themselves, week after week, Barcelona and Valencia
show the form that not only makes them joint favorites to win La Liga, but also
the Champions League. Barca won 3-1 over Mallorca, with Henrik Larsson opening
the scoring, and the brilliant signing Samuel Eto'o grabbing the other
two.Valencia joined Frank Rijkaards' men at the top of the league after a
comfortable 2-0 home victory over Racing Santandar. The players for both Barca
and Valencia seem genuinely happy to play for their clubs, and it shows on the
pitch. The spastic who runs Real Madrid, Florentino Perez, was asked just after
he'd brought David Beckham to the club, why wouldn't he sign Ronaldinho. His
answer? "He's to ugly to play for Madrid." Oh, and how did Madrid get on at
the weekend again?
This and that.
Fans chanted Brian Clough's name
throughout Nott's Forest's emotional 2-1 victory over West Ham......Southampton
will stand by manager Steve Wigley, who has taken only one point from five
games, since taking over as head coach......Real Madrid admit they are in
desperate need of a high-quality central midfielder. hmmmmm, amazing
revelation.......Manchester United's pre-tax profits were announced at £27.9
million, down from £39.3 million last year. Next summer's transfer money has
already been spent, so player's will have to be sold before new one's could be
brought in........Lazio striker, Paulo Di Canio, has hit out at Brescia for
scoring the winning goal against Udinese, while the opposition keeper lay
injured. Italian television broadcast footage of last month's Carling Cup match
between Yeovil Town and Plymouth Argyle when the Glovers allowed Plymouth to
equalise after scoring a goal in an unfair manner
Hope you all have a
lovely day, and we'll look for you on the Message Boards! Cheers, FMM.
Footiemad news item
September 26, 2004
The Fall Of The Roma Empire....
Roma coach, Rudi Voeller, has resigned as manager after just 26 days on
the job. Voeller's decision comes after a 3-1 loss to nine-men Bologna.
Hard to blame him though, as the fans are a nightmare, throwing the kitchen
sink off of the referees head, in first Champions League match of the season.
The next two group matches will have to be played behind closed doors,
because to UEFA fines. The captain, and best player, Francesco Totti picks
fights with other star players on the team, only when he's not busy spitting
on opponents. The Roma director of sport, has asked Voeller to reconsider,
but the German wants away. Roma fans, enjoy your season!
Other news......
Manchester United continued their unbeaten run, since the return of Ruud.
Their 1-0 victory also ended Spurs unbeaten start to the season. Other
unbeaten teams also won.........Unfortunately Real Madrid did not win (hahahahaha),
as Athletic Bilbao proved to much to handle for the dear old "galacticos".
2-1 was the score.....Gianluca Vialli is set to buy Millwall for £3 million.......George
Weah, the 1995 world footballer of the year, is being lined up to become
next president of Liberia........Partick Thistle continue to disappoint,
and lose yet again, 2-1 to St. Johnstone......Celtic walked all over Dunfermline,
3-0.........In the Welsh premier, TNS ended Carmarthen Town's unbeaten
start, and put themselves in the drivers seat for Champions League qualifiying
spot. Good luck to them!
Footiemad news item
September 25, 2004
Wenger rejects Real rumours
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has squashed rumours that he may be on his way
to Spain and says he will sign his new contract with the Gunners by the
end of the year.
"I have no desire to leave. If tomorrow I was on the streets and had
no job I would not turn down Real Madrid, but I am happy where I am,"
he said. "My target is to develop this club and team and I feel I
have a big job to do. I shall sign my contract before the end of the year.
There is no uncertainty about it and that is why I am not in a hurry."
He added: "This is a job where I am happy but these jobs are all good
if you win the games. I don't deny that historically Real Madrid are a
bigger club than Arsenal because of what they have achieved, but we can
compete at the top level and my target is to make this club bigger and
bigger."
Islington breathes easier.
Bruce attacked in street, but not footie related
Birmingham manager Steve Bruce was attacked outside his home in the early
hours of this morning, although he was not seriously injured. A spokesman
for the club said Bruce was jumped on by two men after he went outside
to investigate his daughter's car alarm going off.
Blues chairman David Gold said Bruce, 42, was "shaken" but remained focused on Saturday's game against Bolton. He added: "We are all absolutely horrified by this act of senseless violence and the club will support Steve in whatever way it can to ensure that the culprits are brought to justice. I have spoken to Steve who has asked us all to make as little fuss about this as possible as he continues to focus fully on the job in hand at Bolton."
The club said Bruce was keen to stress that both he and his family were
fine and that it would be business as usual at Bolton Wanderers' Reebok
Stadium.
Although of little consequence to Mr. Bruce, happily this, apparently,
was not a footie related incident.
Bits and Pieces
Youri Djorkaeff's move to Fulham has stalled with personal terms being
the problem......Watford have snapped up West Brom defender James Chambers......Celtic
resting Chris Sutton today hoping he'll be ready to face AC Milan on Wednesday......
Footiemad news item
September 24, 2004
Bits and Pieces
Wayne Rooney's Manchester Utd. debut won't happen this weekend, although
he has been declared fit. Could happen in Champions League on Tuesday......Pavel
Nedved retires from the international side...... Michael Bridges has returned
to Sunderland......Steve Morgan questions rival bid for Liverpool......Pompey
midfielder Gary O'Neil joins Cardiff on three month loan......East Fife
climb back into the black......
Footiemad news item
September 23, 2004
Sturrock lands at Hillsborough
Paul Sturrock was announced as the latest boss of Sheffield Wednesday,
the tenth in nine years, earlier this morning. The former Southampton manager,
who was fired after just two games this season and only 13 in all, has
signed a three year deal with the Owls.
The 47-year-old will be joined by Kevin Summerfield, his assistant at Southampton
and Plymouth, and immediately set his sights high. "You play football
to win and the aim for this season is promotion." he said and added
"This is a huge club. It may not be a Premiership team at this moment
in time but the crowd and the stadium are in place."
Forssell blow for Birmingham
Birmingham have learned that Mikael Forssell, who is at St. Andrews for
a second year long loan from Chelsea, will be out of action for six months.
He was a big hit for the Blues last season, scoring 19 goals to help them
to a top-10 Premiership finish.The Finnish striker has had an exploratory
knee operation after suffering pain since pre-season.
"It seems that they found something in his kneecap," said Finnish
Football Association spokesman Timo Walden. He will now miss Finland's
World Cup qualifiers at home to Armenia and away to the Netherlands next
month. "Until Wednesday we had hoped that he would play in our two
matches in October, now we hope he will be fit for the Czech Republic match
in March," added Walden.
de Vries could miss Braga game
Hearts striker Mark de Vries could be forced to sit out the club's UEFA
Cup 1st round, second leg match with Braga next week. The Dutchman suffered
a foot injury during Wednesday's CIS Cup victory over Kilmarnock and is
almost certain to miss Saturday's meeting with Inverness.
Head coach Craig Levein said: "He is in a bit of pain and it doesn't look great to be honest with you."
de Vries has made only three appearances this season, having just recovered
from a hamstring injury. The 28-year-old, who scored 16 goals last season,
was hurt during a pre-friendly against Fulham and this time had to be withdrawn
at half-time against Kilmarnock.
Bits and Pieces
Millwall have offered player-boss Dennis Wise and assistant Ray Wilkins
new one year deal......F.A. considering return to part-time boss after
Eriksson......Liverpool midfielder Antonio Nunez could be out longer than
first expected......Real Madrid say they have no immediate plans to replace
Remon......Villa's Martin Laursen sidelined for up to two months......
Footiemad news item
September 22, 2004
Stay put, Arsene
Arsenal are confident that manager Arsene Wenger will sign a new contract
with the club despite rumours linking him with Real Madrid. Wenger, himself,
has denied reports that he has met with Real's representatives.
Club chairman Peter Hill-Wood told The Daily Star: "If I was a betting man, I'd put my money on him staying with us, not going to Real Madrid."
Real failed to lure Arsenal midfielder and captain Patrick Vieira away from Highbury during a protracted summer saga and Wenger has hinted he will stay at the club as well.
Hill-Wood added: "We've had a handful of meetings with his people
about a new contract. As far as I'm aware everything is proceeding positively
from his point of view and ours. He said he will decide in October and
it's September now and I'm very hopeful we'll come to an agreement with
him next month. I believe he's very happy at Arsenal. He doesn't have to
put up with any interference and we don't buy any players he doesn't know
about. He's left alone and he gets a reasonable salary."
O'Leary happy in Brum
Aston Villa chairman Doug Ellis considers a new deal for David O'Leary
a top priority and the Irishman is ready and willing to talk. He has 18
months to run on his current contract. However, before committing himself
O'Leary will seek assurances from Ellis on the size of his team-building
budget.
The former Leeds boss said: "If they want to offer me a new contract, I want to stay here."
O'Leary took over the reins at Villa Park from former England boss Graham
Taylor in May 2003 after Villa had narrowly escaped relegation. In his
first season in charge, he turned the club round and guided them to sixth
spot in the Premiership.
Barton to stay with City
Midfielder Joey Barton, whose contract was due to run out after this season,
has signed a new three year deal with Manchester City. The 22 year old,
a product of City's academy, would like to spend his career with the club.
"There was speculation I would move but I have stated I want to stay
here and be part of a successful Manchester City. Hopefully we can get
that. There was no decision to make. If I can stay in the team and enjoy
it I will stay here for the rest of my career," Barton told the club
website. "My agent was in on Tuesday morning and as soon as he told
me he had a deal I put pen to paper in the afternoon. The club were happy
and I was certainly happy and wanted to get it done and dusted as soon
as I could. The new deal will take me up to the age of 24 when we will
assess the situation again."
More heat on Megson
West Brom boss Gary Megson, already under pressure in the Premiership and
whose relationship with his chairman is somewhat tenuous, will feel more
pressure as the Baggies were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Colchester,
currently in League One.
It was their seventh game without a win, but Megson shrugged off suggestions
he was feeling the heat. He said: "As a manager you have to deal with
it. I am disappointed with both the result and the manner in which the
result came about. In the first half we did not compete with Colchester
and we looked poor."
Bits and Pieces
Roy Keane charged with assault......Mikael Forssell to miss six weeks after knee operation......Wigan's Per Frandsen will likely be out for three months following knee surgery......Craig Bellamy says he'll play out of position if that's what Souness wants. Rah team......Wales boss Mark Hughes thinks they have a better chance now England will be without Steve Gerrard, no kidding......Flybe's Euro 2004 ad deemed irresponsible, after they urged people
to harass referee Urs Meier following England's defeat......
Footiemad news item
September 21, 2004
Stars pay tribute to Brian Clough.
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill led the tributes to his mentor Brian Clough,
who died from stomach cancer on Monday at the age of 69.
O'Neill and his Celtic assistant John Robertson were key parts of the Forest side that won back-to-back European Cups.
"He was absolutely sensational and I don't think Brian would disagree with us either," said O'Neill.
"He would be the first to say that he was the greatest of all time. But he was like England's version of Muhammad Ali.
"He had fantastic charisma, unbelievable charisma. Outwardly he had this fantastic self-belief and self-confidence but in truth I think sometimes he was as vulnerable as all of us.
 |
"One of the great myths of all-time was that he was a manager and not a coach and seldom on the training ground.
"The very fact is that every day was a coaching lesson from Brian Clough and when he did come down to the training ground for a 20-25 minute spell you'd pick up enough in that time to do you a life time.
"He coached during the course of games. His memory was phenomenal.
"John and I were lucky that probably in that spell from 1975 to 1980 he was at his very best. He was bright, he was everything. It's a very sad day I have to say."
Robertson added: "For me he is at the top of the list because of what he has achieved.
"There have been some brilliant managers but Brian Clough achieved it at two clubs which were totally provincial, not very big and not very fashionable, yet he went on to win two European Cups.
"As far as I'm concerned he is definitely the best there has ever been."
Stuart Pearce captained the side during the final years of Clough's career.
He told BBC Five Live: "It is a sad day for anybody connected with Nottingham Forest and probably the world of football as well. He was one of the big characters in the game. I can't name anyone bigger.
"It was a different day every day, he brought simplicity and the main thing was respect.
|
"I think he was a man for all seasons. He had a reputation for being a hard task master, which he was when it was needed.
"But there were other times like when I came back from the 1990 World Cup under a bit of a cloud and he was there with an arm around the shoulder. He knew exactly what to do at the right times.
"You can talk about him for hours in terms of stories you've got but the bottom line is just go and have a look in the trophy cabinet he brought to different clubs around the country That says it all basically.
"No matter what team we played, what competition he would want to win it. I remember we took a team to Notts County for a testimonial. He played the full side only four or five days before the Cup final, but that was him.
"Football will remember him that's for sure. There's a part of Brian Clough in all of us make no mistake about that."
Forest legend Garry Birtles was a part of the Forest side that enjoyed so much success in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and was a part of the European Cup-winning team in 1979.
He said: "We thought he was indestructible.
"When I heard, it was just like a bolt from the blue. Brian's son Nigel phoned me, he was upset, I was upset and it's just been a major shock.
"When somebody like Brian Clough dies, it's hard to explain how you feel. It's like a member of your family dying."
Clough made Trevor Francis Britain's first £1m footballer in February 1979 and Francis said the master manager never treated anyone differently.
"We all took stick it didn't matter who you were, whether you cost £1m or came on a free transfer," said Francis.
"He treated everyone the same. We all had the greatest respect for him, he was a genius at what he did. I look back on my time at Forest as an honour and a privilege to have played for him."
Former Leeds striker Duncan McKenzie says football will never see anyone like Clough ever again.
"He was box office - wherever he went. He broke the mould, had a different style of management to anyone else - he was an amazing man," said McKenzie.
|
"People talk of Shankly, Paisley, Busby, Wenger and Ferguson - Cloughie is up there with them."
Former Forest midfielder Neil Webb told BBC Radio Nottingham it was a privilege to work with Clough at the City Ground.
He said: "It was a great honour to work for him, you never knew what would happen. He gave you the confidence to be better than you probably were."
Ex-Forest defender Kenny Burns added: "Cloughie is the greatest English manager ever, he saw things that nobody else could see, that was his beauty.
"Sir Alf Ramsey won the World Cup but what Clough did was more impressive."
Frank Clark, who replaced Clough as Forest boss in 1993, said: "His greatest strength was man management.
"He hadn't learned it from books, or from going on courses, he was just a natural. He had a gift of getting 100% from everyone who played for him."
Dave Mackay, who was Clough's captain at Derby, added: "He was a one-off.
|
Arsene Wenger, who has seen his Arsenal team recently beat Forest's unbeaten 42-match league record, said Clough was a true legend of English football.
"I remember watching his teams play and I would say that the Forest side of the late 1970s will go down in history as one of the all-time greats," said Wenger.
"It is not an exaggeration to say that I was truly touched recently when he complimented the way this current Arsenal side plays and that we deserved to break his record.
"People use the word legend too freely but Brian Clough is a true legend of English football and his success in this country and in Europe is a legacy for which he will always be remembered."
Sir Alex Ferguson and his Manchester United side locked horns with Clough during the 1980s and 90s.
Ferguson said: "He's done something unique. He's won two leagues with provincial teams, not the big guns, and he's won the European Cup twice in a row with a provincial team.
"He was eccentric at times, but I don't think there was anything wrong with that.
"I quite enjoyed some of it, though I was sometimes on the end of it."
FA spokesman Andrin Cooper told BBC Sport: "Once selected for testing, a player cannot now leave the presence of a Doping Control officer. We have also increased testing by 25% on last season, resulting in around 1600 tests at all levels of the game. Players know they can't miss a test. After Rio, the message has hit home."
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand was punished for failing to take a test at the club's Carrington training headquarters in September 2003. His eight-month ban ends on today, when he is expected to line up against Liverpool at Old Trafford. The case led to then FA chief executive Mark Palios calling for an examination of the governing body's drugs testing procedures.
Cooper said: "We opened up our procedures to external scrutiny and
invited Lord Coe to conduct a review. He had been publicly critical of
the testing procedures in football before that, but upon review found that
we were on the right track. We did need to make some adjustments, and we
have sharpened up. The majority of out-of-competition tests will be unannounced
and there will be also be more post-match tests. We are confident that
players are conversant with the regulations."
A different image
Italian triallists Fabio Macellari, shown above wearing a protective face
mask during his spell with Bologna, and Lorenzo Cresta will not be playing
for Dundee in the immediate future.
"At this moment in time we could not afford them," manager Jim
Duffy told The Courier. "Gate receipts are down on what had been anticipated
and the financial projections are not matching the expected figures. I'm
disappointed as I felt they had something to offer and we do need to add
to the squad."
It was more for the picture
Bits and Pieces
Managers debuting in the league with new clubs, Mark Hughes and Graeme
Souness, both got off to good starts......Nosebleeds at Goodison Park with
Everton's lofty position. Maybe young Wayne blew it by moving to a lower
club......Nottingham Forest boss Joe Kinnear, not happy with the commitment
of Andy Reid and Marlon King, hints they may be kicking their heels for
a while......Fulham facing F.A. action after Saturday's game with West
Brom......
Footiemad news item
September 19, 2004
Galacti-hahahahahahaha!!!
Real Madrid beaten 3-0, midweek in Champions League, and they returned
to La Liga to get beat 1-0 from Espanyol!! Walter Samuel marked his Madrid
debut with a red card! HAHAHAHAHA!!!
Bergkamp to play on??
Dennis Bergkamp has revealed that this may not be his final season, even though he will be 36 years old at the end of the current campaign. His form and fitness are as good as they've been in the past 5 years. He is enjoying watching Arsenal grow stronger, and admits it will be very difficult to say no to a contract extension. Good on him, as he's one of the greats, certainly of his generation, and some say of all-time. Hopefully Pires will retire.........probably to a swimming pool, with a
10 metre spring board!!
Bits and bobs.......
Apparantly Yoda, pictured, is playing for West Brom., and nobody told me........I read a news column that referred to Oleg Luzhny, as "former Arsenal ace". Proof the accuracy is the last thing on most journalists minds (some may even say mine?!!).......Fergie hints that Rio Ferdinand will play on Monday against Liverpool......Man. City deny rumours that Robbie Fowler was fined after a row with Kevin Keegan......the Jags were upset, at home, against Q.O.S., stoppage time winner as well. BOO-HOO.....In case you haven't heard, Real Madrid lost 1-0 at Espanyol. WAA-HOOO!!.......Gerard Houllier for the Wales job??......Roma captain, Francesco Totti, believes it is time Antonio Cassano cleaned up his act. hmmmm, i'm thinking about a pot and kettle.
The message boards are FREE TO REGISTER, and very theraputic. Tell the
world what the good, bad, and ugly are, in the football world! Cheers,
FMM.
Footiemad news item
September 18, 2004
Give the baby his bottle....
Whhhaaaaahhhh, wwwhhhhaaahhhhhh!! Arsene Wenger, pictured above, has hit
back at Bolton boss Sam Allardyce's claims that the big clubs always get
the decisions from the referees, who are intimitated. Wee Arsene says managers,
shouldn't be coming out with these type of comments before a match, as
they put additional pressure of the referee. Arsenal who have been the
recipient's of many favourable calls during this "streak", are
obviously bothered that now not only are people questioning the clubs place
in history, because of failure after failure in Europe, but also because
of the lack of player ethics, which has lead to many unjust calls going
in favour of the Gooners.
Fear the reaper!
Alex "the cat" McLeish, has used up 8 of his 9 lives, so say
Rangers support. The manager himself says he is not worried, as he believes
the club will come good, although he realizes the fans have had it. Failure
to win convincingly against Maritimo, in the return match at Ibrox on August
30, will certainly mean the end of his tenure as 'Gers boss.
This and that....
Francesco Totti has accused referee Anders Frisk of being biased in the
midweek between Roma and Dynamo Kiev, which was abandoned after the referee
was bloodied by a missle which was thrown from the crowd.......Wayne Rooney
may be on bench for Manchester United for Monday's showdown with Liverpool....Kevin
Keegan wants to pledge his future to Manchester City, but realizes the
teams results must improve....Sol Campbell will play in a reserve match
for Arsenal on Monday.....Jose Pekerman is named the new coach of Argentina.....the
glamour match of the day, surely will be the rejuvenated St.Johnstone v.
powerhouse Falkirk......If "the Championship" were to end today,
Stoke City would be in the premiership. hmmmm.....
Go to the fascinating Message Boards. FREE to register, and....ooh the
banter!! Cheers, FMM.
Footiemad news item
September 17, 2004
Has it been eight months already?
Rio Ferdinand has served his suspension for the missed drug test, or stupidity, and is ready to return to action on Monday against Liverpool. Hopefully he will have learned from the experience and come back a more
humble person (with a better memory.)
"I cannot tell you how much I've been looking forward to this day.
Whether or not I'm picked to play against Liverpool it is a big moment.
I'm available for selection again." said the 25 year old defender,
who says he has been training harder than ever.
England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson said last month that he "would be
surprised" if Ferdinand was not in the squad for the World Cup qualifiers
early next month.
Another good night in Europe
'British' clubs, including Republic champs Shelbourne, had a decent showing
in the UEFA Cup first leg games yesterday. Hearts, Middlesbrough and Newcastle
all won at home. Millwall and Shelbourne both drew, with the latter coming
back from a 2-0 half time deficit, to give themselves a chance in the return
engagements. A 1-0 loss by Rangers to Maritimo was the only blot on the
copybook and they should be able to put that right when the two meet at
Ibrox.
A 'legend' in the making?
With three games under his belt since arriving at Anfield, Spanish midfielder
Luis Garcia is drawing comparisons to Kenny Dalglish. The 23 year old,
who came from Barcelona for £6m in August, is causing quite a stir on the
Kop with some impressive displays.
"It is great for a player to hear fans making comparisons like that and talking in such terms. I wanted to earn the respect and faith of the fans as soon as possible. It has happened very quickly." he said. Garcia scored in the 3-0 defeat of West Brom and was in sparkling form in the victory over Monaco as Liverpool got off to a great start in their Champions League campaign. "We always had the intention of building something special here and we are setting off in the right direction. And if I am making the fans happy, then I am happy too. All the better for everyone." Amen to that!
Feeling good about life in 'the smoke'
Arsenal's teenage sensation, Francesc Fabregas, has committed himself to
the club, signing a new long term contract. The 17 year old Spanish midfielder,
who joined a year ago from Barcelona, is one of the best prospects in the
game and has already cemented himself in the first team squad at Highbury.
(Move over and make some room up there,Wayne.)
"I'm delighted to be pledging my long-term future to Arsenal,"
he told the club's website. "My first year here has been like a dream
- I never thought I would have the opportunity to play in the first team
so early on. But I've worked hard and will continue to do so, learning
from the best players around - I'm very excited about my future here."
He made history by becoming the youngest player to turn out for Arsenal
when he featured in the Carling Cup match against Rotherham United at 16
years and 177 days last October. The Spaniard then became the club's youngest
scorer in his next appearance against Wolves in the same competition.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said: "Cesc has shown great maturity
since he joined and has adapted well to the pace of the English game. He
is a playmaker, someone with real vision and he has all the ingredients
to be a big player for us. We have a young team with good experience and
Cesc is very much a part of the future of the club."
Bits and Pieces
Crystal Palace boss Iain Dowie is ready to sign a new four year deal with
the club......Kieron Dyer out with hamstring problem, could be several
weeks......Jose Pekerman has been appointed coach of Argentina, replacing
Marcelo Bielsa, who resigned......Alex McLeish still confident Gers can
progress in Europe...... Aberdeen's Zander Diamond attracting interest
from Europe......David Dunn ready for Birmingham return...... Mark Hughes
and Graeme Souness make league debuts with new clubs on the weekend......Ronny
Johnsen has signed a short term deal with Newcastle......
Footiemad news item
September 16, 2004
The Italian Job
Swedish referee Anders Frisk was hit by a missile as he left the pitch
at half time in the Champions League match between AS Roma and Dynamo Kiev.
The Ukranian side were leading 1-0 and Frisk had sent off Roma's Phillipe
Mexes for a stupid kick at a Kiev player as the half ended. The incident
occurred as the official was headed to the tunnel, prime seats not usually
allocated to visiting supporters, so it would be assumed that the culprit
was part of the home contingent. Mr. Frisk had blood pouring from the head
wound and, with no guarantee for his safety, decided the game would be
abandoned after a 40 minute delay.
Dynamo are demanding the points, which is within UEFA's power to award,
and they would appear to have a legitimate argument. Roma could be banned
from having 'home' games, again UEFA have this jurisdiction. This would
seem appropriate, given the five year ban on English teams in the competition
following the infamous 'Heysel final'.
That the incident occurred at all is a sad commentary on the mentality
of a few lunatics who attend matches. It seems that only by penalizing
the clubs will anything be done to curb such mindless violence. All right
thinking fans should applaud any punitive action taken against, in this
case Roma, in an effort to keep such individuals from attending the games.
It is to be hoped that the governing body have the backbone to take the
necessary action. September 21 is decision day.
For the Lancashire faithful, Liverpool were winners and Manchester Utd.
got an away draw.
UEFA Cup games go tonight with Middlesbrough and Millwall making their
first forays into Europe. Good luck to both of them.
Hughes takes Blackburn job
Wales coach Mark Hughes has been announced as the new boss at Ewood Park,
following the departure of Graeme Souness to Newcastle. Hughes will continue
to guide the Principality through their next two World Cup qualifying games
against England and Poland in October. The Welshman has signed a three
year contract with the club.
Hughes' agent Dennis Roach told BBC Five Live that it was a difficult choice
for his client to make, and that he was glad to be able to stay on for
two matches with Wales. "Everybody knows how much Mark loved the job
but it's been four of five years now," said Roach. "The nice
thing is that he'll be covering the next two matches. That was important
for him to go out in the right way. He feels that he's brought Wales on
a long way and that it's now time for someone new to come in with a fresh
face."
Bits and Pieces
Southampton have denied rumours of a Glenn Hoddle return......Neil Lennon
could be leaving Celtic at the end of the season, according to his agent......Sean
Gregan has moved to Leeds for £500,000 up front plus £250,000 dependent
on appearances, and another £250,000 if the Yorkshire club win promotion
back to the Premiership......Joseph Yobo denies he will quit Everton and
insists that it is indeed Nirvana......Celtic defender Jackie McNamara
could miss six weeks with ankle ligament damage......
Footiemad news item
September 15, 2004
A rare evening at Parkhead
The Swedish 'King of Celtic Park' returned to Glasgow last night, came on as a second half substitute and scored the third goal for Barcelona as they ended the Bhoys' incredible undefeated-at-home-in-Europe run. The Scottish champions were beaten 3-1, bringing to a close a three year era of invincibility in the east end of Glasgow. Henrik Larsson, as one would expect, handled the occasion impeccably.
"There were mixed feelings," said Larsson. "I have had seven
great years here but I know what I have to do now. I'm a Barcelona player.
It felt good but it was very difficult to celebrate when I had such a great
time here. But I'm happy we got the three points. It was a good result
for us."
In other action involving teams from 'that sceptered isle', Arsenal and Chelsea were both winners. Manchester Utd. and Liverpool are both playing tonight.
Cahill suspension stands
Referee Steve Bennett, not a stranger to controversial decision making
when handling games, has had yet another massive brain cramp and refused
to rescind the second yellow he gave Everton's Tim Cahill for lifting his
shirt above his head while celebrating his goal on Saturday. This intractability,
despite criticism from FIFA and the F.A., makes one wonder if such decisions
should be made by the person responsible for the initial ruling. This is
maybe another instance of a referee needing some time off, a la Andy D'Urso,
to consider his interpretation of the rule book.
Is Goodison not heaven?
His commitment to his country is the reason he hasn't moved to one of the top three clubs in the Premiership, according to Everton's Nigerian defender Joseph Yobo. (When you look at the rosters of the three clubs, you have to question
the validity of his thinking.)
He told Kick-off magazine: "People don't understand the sacrifices we players make to play for Nigeria. I've lost out on big moves because I play for my country. They ask if I would consider quitting international football. When I say no, that's usually the end. Otherwise, I would not be at Everton now." He added: "Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea have come to talk to me. But I will continue to play for Nigeria as long as I can because I have benefited a lot from Nigeria and I have to give back to my country."
The 24-year-old, who moved to Everton from Marseille in May 2003 for £3.5m
admitted he is looking to follow star striker Wayne Rooney out of Goodison
Park soon. He said: "I will leave here as soon as my contract expires.
Players are refusing to come here while some others have left us because
of all the troubles in Everton."
Bits and Pieces
Millenium Stadium will host both F.A. Cup semi-finals in 2005, as well
as the final. The showpiece is due to return to Wembley in 2006......Blackburn
have approached the Football Association of Wales regarding a move for
Mark Hughes, who would apparently be receptive to overtures from his former
club......It won't be too long a honeymoon for Graeme Souness, as all that
is required by Newcastle is instant success......Manchester City defender
Danny Mills has denied claims of a major bust-up between himself and manager
Kevin Keegan......Darlington come out of administration and are looking
for better times. They have the stadium and facilities already......
Footiemad news item
September 14, 2004
Cham-pi-o-nees, championees, o-lay-o-lay-o-lay!!!
Champions League kicks off tonight. Who will win? It's anybody's guess after Porto and Monaco suprisingly made it through to last season's final. Which was actually quite nice, rather then having the mega-rich, usual suspects playing for the title (that obviously wouldn't include Arsenal, on any level!!). Personally, i'm looking forward to following Group A, with Deportivo, Liverpool, Monaco and Olympiakos (with the swine Rivaldo). Even though there are three or four favorites for the title, most games
in the tournament, even the group stages, are absolutely fantastic! I'll
probably put a wee wager on Valencia, as they're paying quite good value
despite being the Spanish champions. But you can let us know who you think
will win it, on the Message Boards.
Other "exclusive" footiemad gossip.....
Souness wants Shearer to play beyond this season........Reyes believes
Arsenal are better then Real Madrid.....Joe Cole claims English clubs must
improve their passing, if they want to succeed in Europe.....Portsmouth
put £12 million price tag on Yakubu, to warn off any buyers......Jose Mourinho
admits being disappointed at not landing Steven Gerrard in the summer.....Barca
coach, Frank Rijkaard, says he has no problems playing Henrik Larsson against
his former club, Celtic, in tonights Champions League match....Gary Neville
is out for four weeks, after suffering a hairline fracture in his kneecap,
while playing for England against Poland......Hearts fans left in the dark
over plans to sell Tynecastle to property developers....the Jags are away
to Ross County, in the super-mega, quarter-final, bonaza in the Bell's
League Challenge Cup. C'mooooon the Jags!!
Footiemad news item
September 13, 2004
Boys will be boys
West Brom manager Gary Megson will probe an incident which took place on
the team bus after the defeat at Liverpool on Saturday. Some childish prank
allegedly got out of hand when defender Thomas Gaardsoe had water squirted
in his face.
"There was an incident on the team bus," admitted Megson. "I
shall be trying to find out what happened. I've given the players the day
off on Monday so they can clear their minds and gather their thoughts."
Megson was not on the team coach when the incident erupted but was alerted to it when he rejoined his players for the trip back to The Hawthorns. (Could be some took the 3-0 loss a little harder than others?)
He enjoyed his day in the sun
John Carver, Newcastle's caretaker boss for one game, has been fired by
the club along with David Geddis and Kenny Wharton, however, former player
and reserve team manager Tommy Craig has been kept on. New boss Graeme
Souness, who will officially take over as Newcastle manager on Monday,
told the United staff at a meeting on Sunday. He has brought in Dean Saunders,
Alan Murray and Phil Boersma from Blackburn to form his backroom team.
Carver was in charge as Newcastle beat Blackburn 3-0 at St James' Park.
He dedicated the victory to fired manager Bobby Robson and afterwards admitted
he did not know what the future held for him.
"I know what football is about, I know managers take their own staff
with them and I'll take what comes to me. It's been a fantastic time. How
can I start to tell you about my feelings and my emotions?" he said.
"I was quite nervous, but excited, excited to have to pick a team
and to go out on to St James' Park with the team and sitting in that dug-out.
That was a fantastic feeling, and I know there are so many people out there
who would love to do that, and I've done it now, and with a good result,
and that makes a big difference. I'll tell you what, I'm going out from
this place certainly a proud Geordie and I'm going to enjoy it."
Two out of three have now been put right
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, who was carded for diving on Saturday, has had his yellow rescinded by referee Rob Styles after reviewing the incident. Should it have been a penalty? Probably, but at least he's put right what
he can.
Former Premiership referee Jeff Winter has commented on the other two controversial incidents in Saturday games. Mark Halsey, the subject of a little ribbing from the Scottish Manchester Utd. office, was able to correct an erroneous decision on the spot by consulting his assistant. (Which is why they are there)
Winter, who retired at the end of last season, believes Halsey was correct
to change his mind about the Fulham penalty. Halsey initially awarded the
spot-kick after Andy Cole appeared to be brought down. But after a flurry
of complaints from the Arsenal players, he consulted his assistant referee
and waved away Fulham's penalty claims. "Mark Halsey appears to have
got the right decision," Winter said. "But it seems as if referees
can't win. If he'd have given the penalty he would have been chastised
for that. And he's had the strength of character to change his mind and
is still getting in the neck."
The third incident, described by Winter as "absolutely ridiculous",
involved Everton's Tim Cahill getting a second yellow for celebrating a
goal by pulling his shirt over his head. Referee Steve Bennett would seem
to be a little draconian in his interpretation of the rule regarding apparel
and where on the body it should be. I'm sure the good citizens of Manchester
were not horrified by the sight of Cahill's torso and Everton don't score
that often anyway. Come on Mr. Bennett and put this right. Make it three out of three.
Bits and Pieces
Chris Sutton and Didier Agathe could both be ready for Celtic's Champions
League game with Barca tomorrow. Former Bhoy Henrik Larsson may sit this
one out, with Ronaldinho likely to get the nod......Gary Neville to miss
four weeks with a hairline fracture of his kneecap......Referee Andt D'Urso,
serving a four week suspension, vows a Premiership return......Hearts defender
Robbie Neilson, whose arm was attacked by Jean-Alain Boumsong's throat
during the weekend game with Rangers, will not face further disciplinary
action by the SFA. He was given a yellow after the game by referee Dougie
McDonald, who had missed the incident as it happened......Division 1 Clyde
will now not be building a fourth stand at Broadwood Stadium......
Footiemad news item
September 12, 2004
Halsey explains controversy.
Referee, Mark Halsey, has explained the sequence of events that lead to
him handing Fulham a penalty, then changing his decision as they were beaten
3-0 by Arsenal.
"It just dawned on me, i'd put my weeks wages on Arsenal!" He
laughed.
Feeling abit unusual.
Maradonna, pictured here looking at the smallprint in Pollock FC's comeback
offer, has been rushed to a hospital with a fever and high blood pressure
according to medical sources in Buenos Aries. The legendary striker was
then readmitted to the psychiatric clinic where he is undergoing drug rehabilitation
therapy.
The beat goes on.......
Henrik Larsson scored his first league goal for Barcelona, in a 2-0 win
over Seville. The "King" will make his return to Celtic Park
this Tuesday, and there is a very good chance his scoring prowess could
mean another first round Champions League exit for the 'Tic.........................Beckham
scored only goal for Madrid, in a 1-0 victory over Numancia...........St.Mirren
go top of Scottish Division 1, after beating highly fancied Partick Thistle
2-1, at Love St.........Serie A new-boys Livorno got a dream result yesterday,
with a 2-2 draw against AC Milan.......Teddy Sheringham scored the late
winner for West Ham. The 2-1 victory over Sheffield United, keeps the promotion
dream alive!
Go to the Message Boards. They are FREE to register. You can tell us all
you know about football, because most people on the site know very little,
so we'd appreciate your expertise! Cheerio, FMM.
Footiemad news item
September 11, 2004
Okay, the mad Frenchy has finally cracked up!!
Wenger obviously has far to much time on his soft little hands, as he has
put forward a conspiracy theory about Wayne Rooney's move to Manchester
United. United have pledged to pay Everton additional fees, dependent upon
there success during Rooney's six year contract. ARSEne feels Everton will
allow United to beat them if it means they will be paid money for the result.
Is that questioning the ethics of the two teams? Slightly?
He goes on to confuse himself, and all of us, even further with memorabile
quotes such as.....
"It is becoming worrying," stated Wenger. "I think I
cannot see any malicious intention behind the contract."
Thank goodness you've raised the conspiracy theory then, Arsene! Then he
says....
"Sometimes you make this kind of contract and it's fair, and when you take a
distance with it, I think it's unfair.
Come down off the fence whenever you're ready.....
"I think, in England, it's not a problem, the teams play for it but
you could have the suspicion."
Riiiiiiiiight. The only thing i'm suspicious of, is the mental health of
this obviously weakening man.
Fifa's new look World Club Championship
Europe's leading club sides have agreed to play in Fifa's new look World
Club Championship. The tournament will begin in December 2005. 6 teams
will be involved, one from each of Fifa's confederations. The European
club involved will be on an invitational basis, and not necessarily the
Champions League winner.
All by myself.....
don't wanna be, all by myself, anymoooooooore!!
David James says he will fight to win his starting place in goal for England.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!
Other news....
Craig Bellamy can't believe he has to keep playing for Wales...........Sam
Allardyce has obvioulsy been enjoying himself on the bevvy, as he says
Bolton fear nobody, including Manchester United. I hope he doesn't bruise
after the drop.........Rafael Benitez has stated that Real Madrid are not
interested in signing Steven Gerrard........El Hadji Diouf says Liverpool
was in shambles, without any team unity, and zero respect for Houllier,
the former boss......Put your seatbelt on, and get ready for the 3pm kickoff
at Love St., as two titans of British football do battle. Partick Thistle
visit St. Mirren, in what is sure to be a fast paced, physical, 90 minutes.
C'mooooon the Jags!!
Go to the message boards. They are FREE to register, and you can have your
say! Cheerio, FMM.
Footiemad news item
September 10, 2004
Rooney not ready for a while yet
Manchester Utd's new signing Wayne Rooney will be another three weeks before
he is ready to play. The youngster is not now expected to make his debut
in red until October 3, six days before England play Wales in a World Cup
qualifier.
"Wayne is coming along fine, but after the injury he has had, he is still working with the remedial department," said United boss Alex Ferguson. "He is training on his own and he should be ready in maybe three weeks."
Rooney was hoping to make his England comeback against Wales at Old Trafford,
and then travel to Azerbaijan for the second of a World Cup double-header.
However, United may prefer not to rush their £27m striker back into action,
and could hold him back for the visit to Birmingham on October 16, missing
the England games altogether.
Is that the door at The Hawthorns?
West Brom manager Gary Megson will reportedly not be offered a new contract
when his current deal runs out at the end of the season. Megson's relationship
with chairman Jeremy Peace seems less than amicable after his pre-season
comments about the need to spend on the squad.
"I'm proud of what I've done but pride comes before a fall," said Megson. "Over the past three years this club must be one of the top three in the country in terms of progress,"
Peace's predecessor Paul Thompson left the club after a bust-up with Megson and
his success at The Hawthorns means Megson would be an attractive target for
other clubs looking for a new manager.
It's not Dave, but
Norwich's Scottish international defender Malky Mackay has moved to West
Ham for £300,000. The 32 year old, who captained last season's promotion
winning team, spent nearly six years at Carrow Road. He had been linked
with a move to Coventry, which fell through at the last minute.
"His strength, experience and presence will prove of enormous value
to our push for the title," Hammer's manager Alan Pardew told the
club website. Mackay said he 'jumped at the chance' to go to Upton Park.
"West Ham is a massive club and when I was told the club was accepting
offers for me you look onwards and upwards."
Norwich manager Nigel Worthington paid tribute to Mackay, saying "I
wish him every success in his career at West Ham. He has played a major
part in what we have achieved up to now but I have brought other people
in and I have got ample cover in that department. It's good business. We
paid about £325,000 for him and now we're getting £300,000 back which will
go into the kitty."
Murray to clean the slate at Ibrox
Newly re-installed chairman David Murray will announce plans to eliminate
Rangers' debt within a year. Last week he announced plans for a £57m share
issue, to which he will contribute £50m. While Rangers are expected to
announce an increase in their debt to £72m next week, Murray aims to eliminate
that entire amount.
"We can't spend as we did in the past or have continuing losses,"
said Murray.."No football club is generating enough to spend like
we used to. It's my intention, in the region of a year, to eliminate debt
totally." Of the share issue, he said: "I'm not demanding or
expecting any of the ordinary shareholders to take them up - they already
offer the club a lot in buying season tickets. But I intend to take up
£50m and I've spoken to some large players involved and hopefully it will
all be taken up."
Bits and Pieces
Robbie Savage does U-turn and will continue to play for Wales. Glory be......Chief executive Keith Wyness has left Aberdeen and taken the same
post at Goodison Park......Damien Johnson has signed a new deal at Birmingham......Oft
injured Saints' striker Marian Pahars still having problems with an ankle
ligament and will see a specialist......After SFA meeting, Berti Vogts
is still Scotland boss......Blackburn have a shortlist to replace Graeme
Souness......Bill Kenwright survived a non confidence vote at Everton extraordinary
general meeting......The F.A. is none too pleased with Messrs Beckham et
al for refusing to speak with the press. A £25m sponsorship deal is apparently
in jeopardy as a result......
Footiemad news item
September 9, 2004
When will they walk to France?
Sven did half a job yesterday by playing Paul Robinson instead of the sieve
in goal and England got the necessary win in Poland. David Beckham was
on the park putting in yet another less than spectacular performance. It
was the after match refusal to talk to the media, however, that garnered
most of the headlines. The players, believing they had been unfairly criticized
for their abject showing against Austria, decided they could teach the
press a lesson by staying silent. That in itself would be viewed as a plus
in some quarters, but do these young overpaid, underachieving, 'gods' deem
themselves to be both individually and collectively above criticism? In
the real world they could find themselves being sued for dereliction of
duty after similar performances. Grow up lads, this is too reminiscent
of the threatened strike action of last year.
Bits and Pieces
Spurs new signing Calum Davenport loaned to West Ham in a short-term flexible deal......Khalilou Fadiga of Senegal's World Cup side has been trying out with Bolton......Ex Holland coach Dick Advocaat a candidate for Blackburn job......Everton chairman Bill Kenwright will face the fans at an extrordinary general meeting tonight......The great Robbie Savage threatens to leave the international scene after being sent off in yesterday's draw with Northern Ireland. What a shame!!......James McFadden thinks Scotland deserved better after drawing with
mighty Slovenia......Republic boss Brian Kerr happy with draw in Switzerland......
Footiemad news item
September 8, 2004
Here we go again
World Cup qualifying takes centre stage again today with action everywhere. Of particular interest, at least from this seat, is the game in Katowice between Poland and England. Will the stubborn Swede start the same eleven that disappointed in Vienna? Anything less than a win would be a disaster, if not from a point perspective, certainly in terms of morale in the England camp. Calamity and Becks should both be rested, the former permanently and the latter to get his head clear or his form
back, or both. The seemingly unflappable Sven-Goran should get an asbestos
suit if he chooses either of them and we have a repeat of Saturday's performance.
North of the wall Berti Vogts, who has had his share of detractors over
his period in charge, will be hoping his side can recover from the Hungary
debacle and get a win against Slovenia. A Scotland failure will not auger
well for his continued stewardship, as a certain faction of the populace
would have happily hung him outside Central Station on August 19. Vogts
himself has his eye on a second place finish in the group and a play-off
spot.
Bits and Pieces
Youri Djorkaeff is being linked with Everton......Steve McManaman will
miss three games with an achilles injury......Alex Rae could miss up to
two months for Rangers with a torn calf muscle......West Ham central defender
Anton Ferdinand may be out for a while after picking up a suspected cracked
fibula in England U21 win over Poland yesterday......Paul Sturrock wants
to get back into the Premiership fray......BBC Wales have a four year deal
to broadcast Wales home game highlights on the Welsh language channel S4C......Leeds
boss Kevin Blackwell says former manager Peter Reid was given a raw deal
by the club......Bolton's Ricardo Gardner will miss Saturday's game with
Man U. because of international duty with Jamaica......
Footiemad news item
September 7, 2004
Injuries hit Airdrie
Scottish League Division 1 side Airdrie Utd. have informed the league that
they may have a problem putting a side together to face Clyde on Saturday.
They lost two defenders, Neil McGowan and Paul Lovering, after the pair
clashed heads during Saturday's loss to Queen of the South. With 12 players
on the injured list and only 13 fit, they may ask for a postponement. A
decision is expected by Thursday.
Eriksson's job on the line (or it should be)
If Sven persists with David James in goal and an obviously under par David
Beckham leading the side against Poland tomorrow, should England lose,
he should do the gentlemanly thing and walk away from the job, forgetting
about compensation. Neither player has demonstrated he should be on the
team and it appears only the stoic Swede cannot see this. It's fine to
look for any silver lining in the game on Saturday, but it should not be
forgotten it was Austria, not Brazil, they were playing and blowing a 2-0
lead is unacceptable.
Up on Tyneside
Graeme Souness is delighted to be headed for Newcastle and it looks like
his assistant at Blackburn, former Welsh international striker Dean Saunders,
will be joining him. It remains to be seen how the hard-nosed Scot will
deal with the apparent player unrest at St. James' Park.
Meanwhile Steve Bruce, the Geordie in charge at Birmingham, said it was difficult to turn down the challenge, but loyalty won out. Wonder how the Crystal Palace faithful feel about that?
Bits and Pieces
Diego Maradona has left the rehab clinic near Buenos Aires where he has
been since May. He has been given permission to return to Cuba.......Nottingham
Forest and Pierre van Hooijdonk reach an out-of-court settlement......Hibs'
skipper Ian Murray ready to return after nine month injury lay-off......Mark
Hughes cools Blackburn speculation......
Footiemad news item
September 6, 2004
Souness to St. James'
First of all, Freddy Shepherd's proboscis was found to be perfectly normal
upon checking, while I have had to wipe some blancmange from mine. Blackburn
boss Graeme Souness quit the Lancashire club this morning and will take
over the reins at Newcastle next Monday, Sept 13, following next Saturday's
meeting between the two clubs.
Blackburn chief executive John Williams said: "My reading of the situation
is quite clear. Graeme is very reluctant to leave a job he considers one
of the best in the business, but he views Newcastle as a massive opportunity
and one he cannot resist. But now is the time to look forward and we need
to focus all our energies on finding Graeme's successor."
The 51 year old Scot had previously managed at Galatasaray, Southampton,
Torino and Benfica before taking over at Blackburn in March 2000.
If Terry Venables and Freddy Shepherd meet this week, wonder what they'll
talk about!
Bits and Pieces
Scotland skipper Barry Ferguson praises Berti Vogts ahead of Slovenia clash......Spurs' U.S. international keeper Kasey Keller is considering a return to the States after losing job to Paul Robinson......Jose Mourinho targets 100 points if Chelsea are to win the championship........Sunderland keeper Mart Poom believes the Black Cats will be ok despite poor start......Steve Gerrard being linked with Real for next season in Spanish press. Sillyness starting early this year......
Footiemad news item
September 5, 2004
James accepts blame
David James has accepted that he cost England the game yesterday. Rightly so, but surely Sven-Goran Eriksson must take take some heat for having him on the park at all. The much-travelled keeper might be a nice guy, but between the posts he is a disaster of titanic proportions waiting to happen. Not all of the managers he has played for can be wrong and he has played for several. I have yet to read that any regretted his departure. Come on Sven, take off the blinkers and put in one of the young lads, in
the hope that England might have a Gordon Banks or David Seaman in the
making. Wednesday's game against Poland would be a good time to make the change.
Reiziger to miss much of the season
Michael Reiziger, who has played two games for Middlesbrough since his
arrival on a free transfer this summer, has had an operation on his shoulder
and could be out of action for six months. The Dutch international defender
said: "When the surgeons opened me up they were horrified and told
me to forget about playing football for a while. I don't think I've got
any chance of playing this side of Christmas."
Porkies in the North East?
Terry Venables says that he met with Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd yesterday to discuss the vacant manager's job at the club, with more talks scheduled during the week. Have you checked the mirror lately Freddy, regarding any sudden growth
of your breathing apparatus?
The former England coach is available after leaving Leeds last season and told the News of the World: "I don't think there is a club in this country bigger than Newcastle. (That's open to discussion) It is a tremendous opportunity - I am very excited about it. Freddy is a down-to-earth guy and we got on well."
Shepherd had denied speaking to Venables earlier in the week and had hinted
that his top target is currently working in the Premiership.
Bits and Pieces
Wayne Rooney hopes to return to the international scene in the qualifier against Wales. Can you play in goal, lad?......Sven-Goran Eriksson vows to stay on as England coach......Roy Keane could
be in the Republic of Ireland team to face Switzerland on Wednesday......SFA
chief executive David Taylor will stay on even if Berti Vogts doesn't......
Footiemad news item
September 4, 2004
Technical problems in Glasgow
News is late today due to glitch at the Scottish office. Berti Vogts is
to blame.
England wait to name team
Although earlier reports had Steve Gerrard passing a late fitness test,
this is as yet unconfirmed. Alan Smith is expected to partner Michael Owen
up front. Now if only David James were in Manchester!!!!!!
Blue shirt giveaway
Everton have given thousands of jerseys with the Rooney name on to charity.
What could have been a financial bonanza for the Toffees has been turned
into a worthless pile of linen for the club. They are expected to be given
to children returning from military duty in Liberia after the civil war
in the West African state.
Bits and Pieces
Chris Kirkland nixes the idea of returning to Coventry on loan......Ipswich
deny that teenager Dean Bowditch is slated to go to Liverpool during the
January transfer window......Leeds will up the bid for Baggies Sean Gregan
to £500,000......Scot's are now calling for all internationals to be 59
minutes in duration after getting a draw with Spain. Berti Vogts to be
given the keys to Glasgow following such a successful outing......
Footiemad news item
September 3, 2004
Terry who!
Despite media speculation that Terry Venables is talking with Newcastle
about the vacant manager's post, chairman Freddy Shepherd is denying any
conversations along those lines. "Terry Venables has not been here.
I have not spoken to him and I cannot even remember the last time I saw
him." said Shepherd. Unless his nose is growing at an alarming rate,
it would seem that the ex-England boss is not about to be getting a fat
cheque on Tyneside, at least in the immediate future.
Newcastle's favourite son, Alan Shearer, who was rumoured to be being groomed
in the managerial arts under Venables has ruled himself out, saying the
job would be far too big for him at this stage of his career. Down the
road, just maybe.
Gerrard a doubt for Austria game
Steve Gerrard pulled out of training early on Thursday and missed today's session with a groin injury, and is no better than 50/50 for England's first World Cup qualifier on Saturday. He will have a late fitness test prior to the game. The Liverpool skipper is expected to be fit to face Poland on Wednesday, however. In the event that he is ruled out, Sven-Goran Eriksson, who would like his side to be fast out of the gate (and what manager wouldn't), does have some alternatives. "One option is to bring David Beckham into the centre and have Shaun Wright-Phillips on the right. It is a good option," said England's head thinker.
Bits and Pieces
Arjen Robben has resumed training at Chelsea after a pre-season injury......Life
doesn't get any easier for Berti. Steve Pressley is extremely doubtful
for Scotland's friendly tonight against Spain......Clive Woodward of rugby
fame has ruled out joining Southampton, or anyone else in the footie world,
until mid-2005. He did admit, however, that his future interest did involve
the round ball......
Footiemad news item
September 2, 2004
Yorke says nae to Celtic
Dwight Yorke has opted to join Birmingham rather than the Scottish champions
upon getting away from Ewood Park and his soured relationship with manager
Graeme Souness. The former Manchester Utd. and Aston Villa striker could
get a new lease on life at St. Andrew's with the Midlands club being short
in the 'goals for' department. Yorke, who "greatly admires what Steve
Bruce has accomplished", arrived for an undisclosed fee and has a
one year deal with an option on a second.
Mourinho reveals death threats
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho tells of receiving death threats over the telephone
prior to Porto's Champions League final with Monaco. While obviously the
work of a couple of nut bars, it is not known from whom or why, although
one could hazard a guess that it was for boring people to their graves
with his style of play. Better get an unlisted number in London mate.
Bits and Pieces
Rafael Benitez says Liverpool would have liked Jonathan Woodgate, but could not afford him......Spurs have signed 19 year old Australian midfielder Spase Dilevski......Scotland likened to San Marino by Spanish coach ahead of friendly between the two. It's nice that he can be so complimentary......Tranmere's Jason McAteer retires from the international scene......Coventry
are trying to get Liverpool keeper Chris Kirkland on loan......Referee
Andy D'Urso suspended for 28 days by the Premiership for failing to send
off Barry Ferguson......UEFA have cleared Roman Abramovich of any conflict
of interest regarding Champions League and his possible involvement with
CSKA Moscow......Rangers to raise £57m with a rights issue to eliminate
their debt......Marcel Desailly turns down Celtic move......
Footiemad news item
September.1, 2004
The News.....
The news is a bit late today, sorry, but Footiemadtony has left Glasgow to return to his primary duty of regulating East York, Toronto. His departure was disappointing to Pollock FC, as they'd thought they'd done enough "convincing" at Finalys pub, on Kilmarnock Rd. The transfer is on hold until January anyway, as Glengarry Utd. wouldn't let the player move. Celtic and Rangers also missed signing the crafty vet. (pictured 4th from left)..........other then that, Rooney was unveiled at Old Trafford.......Desailly
turns down Celtic.....Southampton interested in Sir Clive Woodward to join
club, at some level......Sylvia Wiltord has moved from Arsenal to Lyon.
She's some player........Zlaton Ibrahimovic has signed for Juventus......Rudi
Voeller gets the Roma job......Steve McClaren and Sam Allardyce have ruled
out move to Newcastle.
The Message Board is the place to go, to give your opinions. Registration
is free. It's all a laugh, so fire in, and don't be intimidated by all
of the "experts" you'll encounter! Cheers, FMM.