Future Star Series: Hachim Mastour

The next star of the beautiful game? Reportedly yes. A lot of players have being touted as the next so in so, going on what has being happen in recent days in Italy something about this kid has got his current club AC Milan in a frenzy. The Rossoneri signed the young Moroccan from Reggiana for the then 14 year old last summer, fighting off reported interest from rivals Inter, Barcelona, Juventus, Manchester City and Real Madrid for €500,000 euro's. The lack of funds at AC Milan is more than apparent after slimming down with the sales of Zlatan and Thiago Silva in the summer. According to Total Football Magazine, the kid could be their best signing yet.

Anyone familiar with Football Manager will be accustomed to the word Trequarista - what is it some will say? Well in the grand scheme of things it is a player who usually is a number 10, a playmaker. Legends of the past like Del Piero, Baggio, Bergkamp, Dalglish, Maradona and the great Zizou - Zinedine Zidane have performed this role in some shape or form throughout their careers. Hachim has being compared the great Frenchman amongst others, for someone so young it doesn't seem to be fazing him in the slightest. His rapid rise from a local "junior" side to AC Milan in just 5 years, he has clearly being scouted and something in him made the likes of AC Milan sign him. Why is he future star may you say? Well I take you to why I write about this young starlet.

His ball control and dribbling skills have being compared to two of the greatest players to play the game, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. A video released highlighted some of those skills with a ping pong ball and an orange(for someone who only noticed this lad during the summer, anyone who has played keepy uppies with a proper ball can't only appreciate the skill on show here):

More importantly, news that AC Milan are petitioning to have the lad playing in a Serie A despite not being eligible to play in Serie A. The rules legislate that players have to be at least 16 in the Italian game, so as it stands Hachim will have to wait till he turns sixteen next June. But Massimiliano Allegri as well as the board have recognised with Hachim's performances in the Italian equivalent of youth football under Milan legend Filippo Inzaghi has warranted such a petition.

If rumours are to be believed Allegri has wanted to add Mastour's creativity into a side lacking some at present. Despite the rules not allowing it to happen, owner Silvio Berlusconi and his CEO Adriano Gailiani are going to make a request to the F.I.G.C(Italian Football Federation) to be given special dispensation so that Hachim Mastour can included in their squad for the remainder of the season. Further empathises their belief was his impact debut for the AC Milan under-15's which will only serve more notice what a talent that the Rossoneri possess to not only F.I.G.C but the football world: Mastour's Milan Debut

As a football fan, it will be interesting to see are Berlusconi and co. get granted their request. This is one to keep an eye on over the weeks ahead.

Reds Crash To Defeat At Spurs

We have being here before many times in the last 18 months. Our play more deserving more than we get, refereeing decisions, poor decision making on the field etc... Last night we optimistically went to White Hart Lane in the hope of bringing back the 3 points to Anfield. Unfortunately for Liverpool much like our recent visits we were blown away by a fast start by the home side, like last season Spurs broke the deadlock after 7 minutes. 

A surging run from the ever dangerous Gareth Bale fired the ball across to the back post where Stewart Downing playing at left back fell asleep and let in Aaron Lennon for the opening goal of the night. Rodgers has taken some criticism for playing Downing at left back, wrongly or rightly having played a similar role at Middlesborough he should still have the basic awareness to defend somewhat to a professional football standard. 

Just before the quarter hour mark, a "challenge" by Henderson on Clint Dempsey just a few yards outside the box drew a free kick in a dangerous position. As Bale stepped up, Reina had set his wall up as it should be but you cannot legislate for deflections. Bale's free kick deflected off the wall sending Reina who was already committed going to his left looked on forlorn as the ball went to the right. 2-0 Spurs and deservedly so. 

Moments earlier Henderson had a great chance to equalise, but the fragile confidence at the moment the lad possesses is worrying. Similar situation to his chance in Moscow a couple of weeks ago when he squared the ball instead of going around a keeper that had already committed itself. He came in for a lot of criticism for missing the chance last night, I feel for the lad it isn't his fault we paid  the fee for him nor is it his fault he hasn't got more games this season and recently has showed there is a talented player in there. On the Daily Mirror's ratings, he was given a rating of 4 by John Cross, a bit harsh considering the impact the rest of the midfield had. Steven Gerrard was anonymous and the sooner Lucas is back the better for Joe Allen. 

Liverpool began to get some foothold in the game, controlling the ball for large majority of the rest of the game. Spurs defence was now being pushed back, especially down the left hand side of their defence where recently Arsenal and Manchester City targeted. The pressure was mounting, neat interplay between Suarez and Gerrard allowed Gerrard to run into the box only for to be manhandled by Moussa Dembele, to Liverpool's dismay Phil Dowd waved away the protests. It has being said this season by the Liverpool faithful "We're going to have a party, when Suarez gets a pen", at this rate they should be singing instead of Suarez when Liverpool get a pen. 

As the games wear on, Jose Enrique is getting more and more impressive. Attacking at every opportunity went close on a couple occasions but seeing one of his shots saved by Hugo Lloris and a shot that just flashed past the post in the second half. 27 minutes into the second half Liverpool finally make the breakthrough in comical circumstances, a corner from Jonjo Shelvey who had come on as sub for Henderson delivered the set piece. Daniel Agger rose to knock on the ball to Gerrard, who saw his header cleared off the line by Lennon. Lennon's clearance smashed straight into Gareth Bale's face and into the back of the net. Comical stuff indeed. 2-1 Liverpool were now in the ascendancy. Unfortunately for Liverpool, good fortune and good defending for Spurs thwarted Liverpool's attempts for an equaliser. While for Spurs it was back-to-back wins at home, for Liverpool their first defeat in 8 games. 


In both their post match interviews, Rodgers described the players performance as brilliant further adding:

"We're bitterly disappointed to have lost, but if we continue to play like that we will climb the league quickly.

"We started OK. The free-kick [that led to the second goal] should not have been given - Clint Dempsey [who was fouled by Jordan Henderson] was clever.

"It wasn't to be tonight - we go away empty handed. Their striker Jermain Defoe, who has been on fire, was quiet. And apart from the first 15 minutes, both wingers were quiet"

Villas Boas viewed the win as important but also said:

"Brendan feels a fair result would have been a draw - I have to agree.

"We did extremely well to hold on to the lead. We got the result we wanted. The players have shown great strength and character throughout the season."

From a Liverpool supporters point of view, on countless occasions the big decisions have gone against us. It would be easy for me to say that is why we are 12th in the table. In all honesty, the problem is some of the players mentally(I hate picking on Downing) but some just cannot cope with the pressure of playing the style and the demands Rodgers places on his sides. Until Rodgers gets the players he wants and needs we can expect more of the same for the rest of the season.

For Liverpool and Rodgers it is imperative that the next seven games bring more points than we have garnered in fourteen games so far. Four of the seven games are at home, all are must wins starting with the Saints on Saturday. No game will be easy, but the return of Lucas Leiva while not fully I would think for a few more weeks will be a massive boost for Rodgers. His ability to close down the space between the defence and midfield, in protecting the back four will give Liverpool more steel. What is more obvious is the need for more options up front, not essentially someone that can alone put the ball in the back of the net but someone to compliment the industry that Suarez supplies. If that man is Theo Walcott, or whoever FSG need to back their manager in January in getting those reinforcements.

As of now Rodgers has to use his squad, avoid injuries and suspensions to key players. If he can continue to do that over the next month aligned with getting better results which are needed to stave off the criticism which is starting to surface, going on LFC's match-day phone-in last night. What doesn't help is the supporters who campaigned for Benitez to be removed are resurfacing and we know how that ended. 

From me I say: I muinín Rodgers againn, ní mór dó níos mó ná am

Tottenham vs. Liverpool - 28/11/12 (K.O. 7.45) Preview

VS.

Liverpool head to White Hart Lane on a run of 8 games unbeaten(3 wins and 5 draws) in search of their first win at the Lane in 4 and half years. Not since Fernando Torres strike in May 2008 which broke the record for a foreign player in their first season in a 2-0 win.

Liverpool head into the game on the back of an away draw at Swansea last Sunday, a game they could have easily gone home with the three points but a draw was fair on what both sides contributed. In an unusual 0-0 draw there were a lot of entertainment, the football was good to watch unfortunately for Rodgers a disallowed goal snatched him of a win on his return to the Liberty.

Tottenham, also like Liverpool are a side in transition with a new manager. Andre Villas Boas appointment garnered a mixed reaction probably due to his reign at Stamford Bridge last season which lasted only till February when he was sacked. Should the sack at Chelsea deter a manager being viewed as a failure? The Chelsea manager's job is probably the poison chalice of club football this last decade. Another of the reasons I think AVB's appointment at Tottenham has being viewed by their supporters is more so down to the popularity of the previous incumbent, Harry Redknapp. Similar situation to when Roy Hodgson was appointed manager of Liverpool FC, he replaced Rafael Benitez a popular manager on the whole but who had his critics. When you had a manager who gave you the best days/nights in following you're club, it is hard to let go. I experienced it with Benitez and most likely some Spurs fan's feel the same towards Redknapp. 

Back to the game tonight, as I mentioned above Liverpool are looking to take their first win and in fact a point. Lost on each occasion in our visits to the Lane since 2008, last seasons 4-0 defeat summed up what the season ahead was to be like. A wonder goal from now former Spurs man, Luka Modric after 7 minutes set the tone. The two sendings off of Martin Skrtel and Charlie Adam all but killed any chance of Liverpool getting a result despite it only being 1 -0 deficit. But a brace from Adebayor and Defoe completed the rout for Spurs. If Liverpool can keep all the men on the pitch this time we have a chance of getting something.


As for the team news, Spurs welcome back Sandro and the introduction Dembele back from injury last weekend was a sight AVB and the Spurs faithful were delighted to see. In what I believe was a coup at £15 million he was snapped up from Fulham. A type of player I am surprised the likes of Manchester United didn't go for. What is United's loss will surely be Spurs and AVB's gain. Will he start tonight remains to be seen.

For Liverpool, Rodgers welcomes back Andre Wisdom back having picked up an injury against Young Boys last week forcing him to miss the Swansea game. Fortunately or unfortunately, the game comes to soon for the impending return of midfield general Lucas Leiva. I don't disguise my bias regarding this lad, who has come along way since the days of being ridiculed by supporters and former players alike. At the moment he isn't too far away having played 60 minutes last Friday in a Under-21 Premier League game at the Academy, even after all the injuries this last 12 months you just have to admire his mental attitude to get back to fitness. The sooner he is back, the more Rodgers will be welcome. 

As for predictions for tonight, I hate making them cause I usually get them wrong. But I anticipate two contrasting styles which should make for an intriguing encounter. 

Contributor Article: Pep Is Not The Man For United by Andy Kiely

Why Pep Guardiola shouldn’t be the next Manchester United Manager.

It’s been a great celebratory week for Manchester United and all of the clubs fans too. Sir Alex Ferguson's achievements have been memorized in bronze outside Old Trafford, and we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the ultimate masterstroke signing in Premier League history (Thus Far) of "The King" Eric Cantona.


On the back of these celebrations are the continuing rumours of Pep Guardiola holding out for the Manchester United job when Sir Alex finally decides to retire. I took great solace in Roberto Di Matteo’s sacking at Chelsea earlier in the week. This could possibly mean that Roman Abramovich might finally get his man in Pep Guardiola. Only to find that he has appointed Rafa Benitez on a short term deal. This may leave a lot of people to believe that he is keeping the seat warm for Guardiola and I only hope this is the case. As a Manchester United fan I personally do not want to see Guardiola in that dugout in The Theatre of Dreams just yet.


I know a lot of people might disagree with me on this but I think at this point in time Guardiola is all wrong for Manchester United. Firstly, there is no denying that he is a talented young manager, but I feel he still has to prove himself somewhat. The fact is he inherited the best team in the world. It would almost be impossible to not win with that team as long as you keep them happy.


It was “Big” Sam Allardyce that once said give him Real Madrid or Inter Milan and he could be winning doubles every year. I firmly believe this is the case. You could have given Big Sam that job at Barcelona and he could have won all around him too.


I look to Guardiola’s lack of tactical awareness as a starting point. When something rarely goes wrong in a match for Barcelona he just can’t seem to cope with it and doesn’t know what changes he can make to resolve this issue. You look at the semi final of the Champions League last season against Chelsea. Chelsea who are by no means the best team at that time. They are an aging group and have problems with individuals off the field and a misfiring striker. They manage to win the home leg 1-0 against Barcelona.


Going into the second leg at the Camp Nou, you have home advantage in that glorious stadium. You couldn’t help think Chelsea didn’t have a chance. Thinking this you would imagine a tactical astute manager would be able to get the right players in the right frame of mind with the right formation, but instead lined out with a limp 3-4-3. Sure they went 2-0 up, but they showed not heart and no teeth in doing so. Soon after they got their second, Ramires popped up with a great goal and Guardiola was knocked back. Great men have been able to get their teams in at the half and instil confidence and change tactics where needed. Benitez against AC Milan case in point. They showed no desire. It was just pass pass pass, and no end product. Showing no way to penetrate that parked bus of Chelsea. The only thing he could thing to towards then end was push everyone defenders and all up front, leaving them exposed at the back for the misfiring Torres to score (Queue Gary Neville Scorgasm). It was that moment when an “Interim” manager bested the “Master” who had won everything.


I firmly believe this lack of tactical knowledge and inability to make changes that benefit the team in the middle of a match is what makes Guardiola the wrong choice for Manchester United at this time. He should not be given a free pass to work at the tops clubs in the world based on achievements at the best team in the world. He should have to earn his stripes at a lesser club before stepping into the Manchester United dugout or even the Chelsea one for that matter.


If placed in charge of Manchester United after Sir Alex goes I fear what could possibly be the outcome. Will I be proved wrong and will it be a success? Will I be proved right and Guardiola be the wrong man and in being the wrong man place the club firmly outside the running for a league title even possibly a Champions League spot? 

Be it Guardiola, Di Matteo, Moyes, Mourinho or Solskjaer, the list goes on, I fear for a time when Manchester United are AF (After Fergie). Who can possibly come straight into the club and live up to that reputation? Who would want to come straight in and live up to that reputation? Personally I would like Moyes or Di Matteo as I feel they have the head/knowhow/tactical awareness to handle a club of this size. One thing's for certain, I don’t want it to be Guardiola as he is just not the right fit for this club at this time.

Andy is a Manchester United supporter from Waterford, currently living in Galway. An I.T. support technician for EA Sports. You can follow Andy on twitter at: @ITheKTrainI 

Homage To The Gentle Giant Who Became A Liverpool Legend

Legend, a word often in fact very often overused in the world of football. Many foreign imports have come into the English game who haven't made an impact but that can't be said of the big Finn, Sami Hyypia. When Sami left Anfield in the summer of 2009 for pastures new in Germany, the effects it had on the side next season was to be seen. A disappointing season, Rafael Benitez's last season in charge it was to be. The presence of Hyypia with his experience was badly missed but taking it back to the day he arrived at the club.

Liverpool legend Ron Yeats was apart of the scouting department when Gerard Houllier was in charge and after Yeats scouted Sami, Houllier wasted no time in signing Sami from Willem 11 Tilburg. The fee was just £2.5 million pounds, in the age of multi-million pound deals the money invested was without a doubt the biggest bargain Liverpool FC have had in the Premier League era. It could have being all so different had Newcastle identified his talent when he was invited to train with their first team twice before moving to Holland.

On the 19th of May 1999, Sami Hyypia signed for Liverpool Football Club and together with Stephane Henchoz went on to have one of the greatest defensive partnerships at this great club. The change of style at Liverpool from Roy Evans to Gerard Houllier meant changes needed to be made.

The signing of both and especially Hyppia would be a master-stroke that can rival the best of transfers in the history of Liverpool Football Club. He became a leader on the pitch and quickly established himself as captain of the club in the absence of Jamie Redknapp and Robbie Fowler. Later in 2002, when both players had left the club Houllier gave the captaincy on a permanent basis to Sami.

Although, he later lost the captaincy to Steven Gerrard in late 2003. Sami Hyppia showed the class in accepting the decision and dignity despite the blow in losing the captaincy. The freedom of not having the captaincy allowed Hyypia to recapture his form and being back at his best. The defensive responsibility was Hyypia's main concern but his impact in the other box was also felt.

During his decade at Anfield Hyypia scored 35 goals for the club, for a centre back it is incredible. Even more impressive when you consider he scored almost 20 more goals than other Liverpool legends Alan Hansen, Phil Thompson and Ron Yeats. His first goal came from a header against Manchester United at Anfield in a 3-2 defeat in September 1999 to his last strike in a 5-1 victory at Newcastle in December 2008, as always that big smile would be accompanying his goal.

But 3 of the most important goals he would score occurred in 3 separate Champions League Quarter-Finals, against Arsenal, Juventus and the side he currently is manager of Bayer Leverkusen. While the goal against Bayer Leverkusen wasn't enough to get Liverpool into a Champions League Semi-Final, his two other strikes sent the Reds on the way to 2 Champions League Semi-Finals against Chelsea. His strike against Juventus will definitely go down as one of his greatest goals, a wonderful left foot volley from an out-swinging corner flicked on by Luis Garcia into the path of Sami. Not even Gianluigi Buffon, one of the greatest goalkeepers of the modern era hadn't a chance of saving it the strike was so sweetly struck and with power.

A member of the treble winning side of 2001 to the Champions League winning side of 2005, Hyypia was at the heart of Liverpool's greatest triumph's. A medal haul of 1 Champions League, 1 Uefa Cup, 2 FA Cups, 2 League Cups and 2 European Super Cups on top of 464 first team appearances(20th in the all-time Liverpool list) including 35 goals.

Sami Hyypia was and is justifiably a Liverpool legend, the infinity he had with the fans was never more so apparent when on his last appearance against Spurs in May 2009. Ten years after joining, he got a rapturous reception when the then manager Rafa Benitez brought on Sami from the bench. The emotion at the end with the whole of Anfield in unison singing his name brought the giant to tears. It's uncommon for foreign players to have such an infinity with a club and that bore out at the end of that game.

He was voted #38 in the list of the "100 Players That Shook The Kop"  by the fans in a poll run by the official Liverpool web site. His former team-mate Jamie Carragher said of Hyypia:

“I’ve been saying it for years, Sami will go down in history alongside the likes of Ron Yeats, Alan Hansen and Emlyn Hughes. When you think of the foreign players who have played in this country, for me Sami is up there with Dennis Bergkamp and Gianfranco Zola. Not many players have come to the Premiership from abroad and played for just one club for as long as Sami has and in all the time he’s been at Liverpool you could probably count his bad performances on the fingers of one hand."

Since he left Anfield, Hyypia moved to Leverkusen making 61 appearances netting 3 times before announcing his retirement from professional football in May 2011. A year later, Hyypia was named caretaker manager of Bayer alongside Sascha Lewandowski after the sacking of Robin Dutt. Such was the impression that Hyypia and Sascha Lewandowski made, on the 15th May 2012 they were confirmed as managers till the summer of 2015.

Their record reads 26 games and a win percentage of almost 62%, they currently sit in the Bundesliga standings at the moment 5th but only 1 point off 2nd. Although they are ten points behind the leaders Bayern, they ended Bayern's unbeaten league start by securing an impressive 2-1 win at the Allianz Arena at the end of October.

The potential of Hyypia as a future Liverpool manager is one to watch out for, his beginning at Leverkusen has gone smoothly so far. What the future holds for Hyypia is anyone's guess but his legacy as a Liverpool legend has being long secured. One more time "Oh Sami Sami Sami, Sami Sami Sami Hyypia". 

Viability of League Of Ireland: What is the Future?

The demise of Monaghan United this year just a few short months after promotion from the League of Ireland First Division was a shudder that went right to the core of senior football in the Republic. Questions were asked, Monaghan joined a list including Kildare County, Galway United, Kilkenny City and Sporting Fingal of clubs who financially fell by the wayside. How have the FAI, the governing body of the game in this country allowed them to happen. The introduction of stricter budgets since they took over the League was to prevent this kind of thing happening, making it a thing of the past. 

Just as some fans of LOI clubs thought it couldn't get any worse, on the 19th September 2012 the FAI held meetings with clubs to discuss the structure of the 2013 season. Having witnessed as a Wexford Youths supporter the farce that the First Division 2012 season, you would have thought action and positive action at that being taken. Our south-east neighbours Waterford United, a club with great history were leading for calls of a single tier division before the meetings in September. Pat Devlin, manager of Bray Wanderers was one of the men supporting that view, he said in August:

“Sponsorship, attendances, everything’s been really badly hit over the last couple of years and so we need change right across the board,” he said.

“I don’t think a lot of clubs can survive the way things are going and the top three or four can’t play on their own. They are going to have to take the views of the smaller clubs into account.” 

Which brings us to the decision made by the FAI, below was their held view after consultation with the clubs, it read:

"The Board of Management of the Football Association of Ireland today (September 19) confirmed the structure of the Airtricity League for 2013 season.

Prior to the decision, information meetings were held with clubs and the matter was also discussed by the National League Executive Committee.

The Board recommends a 12 club Airtricity League Premier Division for the 2013 season. The Board will also seek expressions of interest for First Division licences from clubs or new entities for the 2013 season. Interested clubs will be invited to contact the FAI in the first instance after which they will be forwarded a pack and a licensing manual to apply for an Airtricity League First Division license."

Repetition is common place in League football, my own club Wexford Youths have faced for example Limerick FC or 37 when they both joined the League in 2007 a total 21 times over that period in the League alone. Put that into context that is almost ten seasons of football played between the both clubs if they just played home and away once. This is similar in the whole League, it is no wonder some fans are turning away. No disrespect to the big clubs but how many Dublin Derbies can one take in one season, over 20 last season. Familiarity can breathe contempt, when you are playing the same side like as I mentioned regarding my own club so many times in a League format supporters can get fed up with that and stay away. 

What is the future? 

Seeing the likes of Sligo Rovers make the breakthrough this year in terms of winning the League was fantastic and as a club their recent shirt deal with Umbro is one to take solace in that financially good things like that can happen. Then again the independent report recommending their should be only 1 club side from Galway in senior football, released by Fran Gavin and the FAI in October will leave just 7 teams to play in the First Division next season as it stands. And Waterford United's concerns over their viability in next season's competition after their recent play-off defeat to Dundalk. The First Division could end up with just 6 teams and possibly the loss of one of its most historic clubs.

It remains to be seen what happens but facilities are essential along with ticket prices in this day and age in attracting supporters to the game. Its not the big clubs in the country that are at stake here, as Pat Devlin said the top 3 or 4 cannot play on their own. Will the FAI revisit and rethink their recommendations for the structure of the 2013 season remains to be seen. If they don't in my opinion, it would reinforce the point that they only care for the national side while the ranking of the domestic league in UEFA ranking terms descends into further obscurity. 

European League Rankings

As of November 23rd 2012, Republic of Ireland's domestic league ranks 36th in the list of 53. Next season the League of Ireland will lose its 2.500 ranking points from 2008/09, after a disappointing season in European action this season their position is unlikely to improve. 

Similar leagues to this country such as the Scandinavian leagues, fair far better than our own in terms of rankings. We marvelled at Shamrock Rovers run in the Europa League last season which was fantastic for the exposure of the League. Imagine if more clubs not just a once off consistently did well in Europe at the same time, it is possible but only if the FAI change the league structure which suits all clubs not just the few. 

For the good of the game, it has too happen.

Can Los Rojiblancos Upset La Liga's Applecart?

As I write this article, Barcelona have kicked off away to Levante in the knowledge that they could open an 11 point advantage on their fiercest rivals, Real Madrid. In Spain, not since 2003/2004 every title since has gone to the Bernabeu or the Camp Nou. Rafael Benitez's Valencia were the last side to to wrestle the title from the two giants with a brand of football that entertained, and attracted Liverpool into acquiring Benitez's services for the season after. That Valencia side secured their second title in 3 years, nearly a decade since could we now have probably the biggest upset in Spanish football history unfold before our very eyes.

Los Rojiblancos, for anyone not familiar is the nickname of the other side in Madrid, Atletico Madrid. Under the shrewd managerial-ship of Diego Simeone, Atletico have not seen these dizzy heights since they secured the double of League and Cup in 1995/96. In that famous season under another shrewd character, Radomir Antic which included the current manager and top striker Kiko among others they captured the League title 4 points of ahead of Valencia.

The current Atleti side also hold a top striker, which has propelled them at the moment to be level on points with Barcelona. The most sought after player outside two  of greatest players to have played the game in Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, that man Colombian goal machine Radamel Falcao.

Falcao joined Atletico from Porto for 40 million euros after Sergio Aguero left in a multi-million pound deal to Manchester City. His record of 36 goals in 47 league games(including tonight's penalty in a 4-0 win over Sevilla) is a testament to what he contributes to Simeone's side. In all competitions, his record of 51 goals in 64 games further empathises what will be a crucial upcoming transfer window for both player and club. Major interest from Chelsea has surfaced since he demolished their defence in the European Super Cup final last August.

The question is will Enrique Cerezo, the owner of Atleti risk the wrath of a passionate fan base and a manager like Simeone? Why sell, when the same fee would be discussed in the summer if not more € being added could Atletico win La Liga? His value to the club and to the Spanish League in general, could make for one of the most exciting title races in recent times.

Not to detract from the rest of the Atleti side which contains such talented players to compliment the majestic Falcao are, Chelsea loanee goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, the heir apparent to Chelsea legend Petr Cech. Turkish talent Arda Turan who has being linked with the likes Liverpool in the past, former Chelsea midfielder now Atletico general Tiago Mendes and cultured centre back Diego Godin to name a few. Simeone has assembled a side which so far has shown they are up for the challenge, a battling 1-0 at Granada last weekend whilst being down to ten men for the last 20 minutes showed they have the gut for the fight. Atletico sides in the past would have crumbled under similar circumstances.

Their title credentials will be severely tested next weekend when they head to the Bernabeu, a stadium where Atleti fans since their last victory there in 1999/2000 season have had to witness some excruciating nights. Simeone's men go into the game on the back of a good run of form and with Real's defeat last night against Real Betis. It will be the one game as a lover of football will want to watch and hoping that Atleti can continue to upset the applecart.

Young Boys Deny Rodgers's Men - Reds Must Win In Udine To Guarantee Progression In Europa League

Heading into tonight's home Europa League encounter with Young Boys of Berne, resulting from Anzhi's earlier 2-0 victory in Russia meant the Redmen could book their place in the last 32 next February if they could beat their opponents at Anfield. What resulted was a similar pattern to some games this season.

This was going to be no easy game, Udinese were dispatched home and away by Young Boys leading into tonight's encounter. Young Boys set their stall out right from kick-off when within 10 seconds had they being more calmer could have got off to the perfect start. A neat ball played behind Wisdom, only for the chance of a shot at Reina's goal go to waste. The passing of Young Boys was to be admired on the night, and found a lot of space like most sides have done between Liverpool's defence and midfield this season. 

On the night the often maligned Joe Cole, had one of his best performances in a Liverpool shirt. A neat one two with Suso on the half an hour mark set up Liverpool's goal machine in this competition Jonjo Shelvey for the opening goal of the night. A little dink from Cole over the keeper, made it easy from 2 yards out for Shelvey to bag his 4th goal in 5 games in the group stage. The ever impressive Suso, was lively and the potential this lad has along with Sterling is a shining light that this European campaign so far has garnered. Liverpool went into half time at the break, probably harshly on Young Boys who showed glimpses in the first half that this game was far from over.

As the second half kicked off, some of Liverpool's problems albeit with somewhat a reserve side showed similar failings. We let the opposition control the ball, allowed them space between our defence and midfield. The return of Lucas Leiva is for Liverpool a must sooner rather than later as again his ability in dominating the space between defence and midfield is never more missed when glaringly exposed as tonight. We were made to pay when a dink over Henderson to Bobadilla ,who took one touch and smashed the ball beyond Reina into the far corner of the net. 1-1. Henderson was caught out by ball watching to allow Bobadilla in,  now playing at right back due to Gerrard coming on for the injured Wisdom, moved into the centre of midfield. It was an unbelievable strike and one Young Boys probably deserved for the tenacity. 

Liverpool did recover, the introduction of in-form Luis Suarez. He was involved in the goal, a nice move which set up Joe Cole for Liverpool retake the lead. A neat lay-off to Gerrard, who slipped the ball between the two Young Boys centre backs for Joe Cole to finish on his left foot under the on rushing keeper.  2-1.  Joe Cole's first goal in the Red of Liverpool since the 5-0 win over Birmingham in April 2011. 

But, like some games this season we were punished by not closing down and standing admiring the oppositions passing. Neat play from Young Boys 2 minutes from normal time, allowed Zverotic to score a fierce drive into Reina's net. Reina's form has being a concern among Liverpool fans for a long time now. He could have saved the shot but it went through between his both hands but such was the power and technique it would be harsh to label the goal as his fault entirely. The defence and midfield didn't close down which allowed the situation to arise. 

A little frustrating for Rodgers and the Redmen, more control of the game would be what Rodgers wanted up till the second equaliser it could have being that way had the Redmen closed it out. Rodgers summarised in his post match interview with ITV: "We didn't control the game well in the final few minutes. But it's another point and we can still control our own destiny. It makes it harder than we would have liked. I'll always pick a team to win each game, listen, we want to qualify and if we have to go out to Udinese and win then so be it. Jonjo Shelvey was outstanding as a striker, and it was nice for Joe Cole. He's worked hard in training, he knows it's difficult for him, he's been away on loan but he's a fighter and that is all he can do."

Joe Cole was denied the hero due to Zverotic's strike. It's a pity for Cole with how his Liverpool career has transpired and also the win for Liverpool didn't come but both sides can be credited for a decent game. The win would have allowed a dead rubber in Italy in two weeks, but the Liverpool faithful now face a tricky trip to Udine in two weeks knowing only a win will guarantee that they play in the last 32 in the new year. At least the trip money wise could be well worth it for Liverpool's away support. 

Despite that, Liverpool are progressing with Swansea on the horizon at the weekend. A the Liberty Stadium on Sunday, will be one game where Rodgers will love nothing more than the 3 points. And with the likes of in-form Johnson, Enrique alongside Allen, Agger, Gerrard, Suarez and Sterling to come back into the starting 11. Liverpool after the victory over Wigan last weekend go into the game 7 games unbeaten looking to avenge the 3-1 defeat in the League Cup at Anfield just under a month ago. 

Ashley Williams has stoked up the fire ahead of the game regarding Luis Suarez, we will see how those comments look come Sunday when in-form Suarez comes to town. On a final note, the gesture of the Young Boys holding loft a banner "In Memory of Hillsborough" was a classy touch by a foreign set of supporters. Shows that the tragedy extended far beyond the isles of the UK and Ireland.

Wednesday's Champions League Review

The remaining English representatives, Arsenal and Manchester City headed into tonight's crunch games on the back of 5 goal displays at the weekend but in different situations in their respective groups. Arsenal playing at home to French Champions and struggler's this season Montpellier, in the knowledge a win and a Schalke win in Gelsenkirchen would send them through to the knockout stages which they have become accustomed under Arsene Wenger. As my primary focus was on the glamour tie of the night, Arsenal  goals from Jack Wilshere and Lukas Podolski in the second half secured their win. Along with Schalke's late win over Olympiakos which confirmed the Gunners place in the draw, who finishes 1st or 2nd in the group will go down to the last matchday when both sides travel away from home to decide the all important seeding for the knock-out round.

Moving onto the glamour tie of the night, Manchester City made 3 changes to their side following the weekend's 5-0 win over Villa. Out went Barry, Clichy and in-form Tevez - in came Dzeko, Kolarov and Zabaleta. The decision to start Dzeko in place of the in-form Tevez was a big decision for Mancini to make, would it prove a good decision or bad? While City made those changes, Real also made changes from their 5 goal display against Bilbao at the weekend. Jose Mourinho brought in Khedira and Di Maria in place of Callejon and Ozil.

Manchester City knew their fate before they kicked off, a win was needed but couldn't have wished for a worse start when ten minutes into the game when City failed to close down Di Maria who put a perfect cross for a striker and a nightmare for a defender. Maicon and Zabaleta were caught out by the quality of the delivery and movement of Benzema, Benzema headed the ball beyond Joe Hart 1-0 to the Spanish Champions. Tactically City went at the start with 3-5-2 or 5-3-2 whichever way you want to look at it, like in past games the system didn't seem to suit the City players for whatever reason and Mancini switched back to his tried and trusted 4-4-2. For the duration of the first 20 minutes, Real Madrid dominated City and easily could have doubled their lead on 13 minutes when Cristiano Ronaldo turning Kompany on the left wing inside out before delivering a perfect cross for Sami Khedira to see the ball ripple the side netting.

At this stage City were failing to close down Real high up the pitch which was contributing to their problems, once Mancini changed the formation they at least formed some sort of foothold after the chances Real had created. I counted within the first 20-25 minutes, Real had 8 shots on goal with 6 on target compared to City's zero. Jose Mourinho's compact and organised side had control of the game all over the pitch at that stage. Although City did have some moments, a great run soon after from Maicon playing a lovely one two with Sergio Aguero, flashed his shot wide of Casillas's goal was their first shot in anger. City created little from open play thereafter but did have a set piece from Kolarov which was flashed wide just after the half an mark. As the half came to a close, City had limited the damage of just conceding one by making the necessary changes to curb Real's domination of the early stages.

Just after the break, City came out with more gusta to take the game to Real. A Maicon cross found at the near post where Aguero flashed his header from a difficult angle into the arms of Casillas. Five minutes into the second half, a great chance fell to David Silva from Dzeko cross which was partially cleared to David Silva by Alvaro Arbeloa. Silva didn't connect with it properly and went straight into the grateful arms of Iker Casillas. Just as the game approached the hour mark, Nasri sent in a delivery from the right hand side, only for Dzeko to be thwarted by the presence of Casillas again eventually leading to a City corner which came to little. As the pressure cranked up the supporters of City started to taunt their former Manchester United foe Cristiano Ronaldo with chants of "you're just a shit Lionel Messi" - in another world Ronaldo would be the guy being talked about in the taunt. It was one of those nights for Ronaldo, quiet by his standards but did have one moment where he hit a fierce shot on 65 mins which Joe Hart spilt, Ronaldo tried to get to the follow up and easily could have had a penalty on another day with the challenge on him.

After Ronaldos effort, City poured forward when again Maicon delivered another cross and again Aguero was denied by Casillas in the Real goal. Mourinho brought on Callejon on for Modric, while Mancini brought on Tevez for Nasri to give City more going forward. As the clocked ticked down, were City going to fashion something or force a mistake to get back on level terms. That moment came on 73 minutes when a knockdown by Dzeko to Aguero fed the ball into the box. Arbeloa on his way back lost his barings and gave a silly penalty, picked up his second yellow card and received his marching orders. Mourinho decided to make a change just as Aguero was stepping up and stepping up he did to send Casillas the wrong way and send the ball into the bottom right hand corner. 1-1 game on now at Etihad, Real made the change off came the goalscorer Benzema and on came young French defender Raphael Varane. Now City looked more confident but still as the game ticked towards the 90 minutes they didn't keep the patience needed to forge an opportunity.

As the full time whistle blew, City again were knocked out of the Champions League. Luckily for them they still have a chance to progress to the Europa League due to Borussia Dortmund's 4-1 win in Amsterdam through goals from Reus, Gotze and Robert Lewandowski with a brace. Both Dortmund and Real progress to the draw for the knockout round, Dortmund have secured top spot and nothing can be done on Madrid's part due to their head to head record. Mancini and co. can take some solace that they can concentrate on retaining their Premier League title but still this will hurt the owners Sheikh Mansour and co.

As mentioned, Arsenal and Schalke qualified from their group just the deciding factor of who finishes importantly top. In Group A, FC Porto had already qualified for the knockout round but PSG secured their passage thanks to a 2-0 victory in Kiev thanks to a brace of goals from Ezequiel Lavezzi, summer signing from Napoli. It couldn't get any better when both sides meet on the final match day in Paris to decide who importantly finishes top. Finally to Group C, Malaga already secured their passage through, all that needed to be decided was in Brussels. Massimo Allegri's AC Milan, having a difficult season travelled to play Anderlecht knowing a victory would secure their passage. It was to be a good night for the Rossoneri, with goals from Stephan El Shaarawy, Pato either side of Anderlecht's Sutter who made the score 2-1 with 12 minutes to go until Pato's injury time third goal.

But this goal deserves a paragraph on its on, the one time Manchester United target even was given a jersey by Alex Ferguson with this name and number 6 while he was an up and coming player from the French version of the Dario Gradi Academy Auxerre. That man was former Auxerre, Roma man Phillpe Mexes, here is a link to the centre back's wonder goal ... Ibra who? http://www.101greatgoals.com/blog/unbelievable-philippe-mexes-out-of-this-world-overhead-kick-ac-milan-v-anderlecht/

Not to be outdone, Arsenal's Lukas Podolski literally lived up to the "Podolski Bang" Irish fans will know what I am referring too with this cracker against Montpellier tonight:
http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/golazo-lukas-podolski-arsenal-v-montpellier/

To finish my review during the match build up on Sky, the ticker tape breaking news announced that Chelsea appointed Rafael Benitez as interim manager until the end of the season. I have no bitterness here towards him, he had being out of a job for 2 years next month, with the squad of players that the current European Champions have it was a no brainer for me and a chance had to take. To see some comments from fellow Liverpool supporters that he has somehow tainted his legacy is a load of bullshit, at the end of the day he is a professional wait any longer and he as a manager would have become irrelevant simple as that.

The good thing to come out of all this, a lot of people can move on including the fans and Rafa himself. And now Brendan Rodgers will not have the shadow of the Liverpool European Cup winning manager out of work on the Wirral. It will allow Rodgers work to now go unhindered and stop the high profile Reds in the media with their agenda firmly in the tracks. Tomorrow night at Anfield, there is only one Brendan Rodgers should be run around in unison to let the Irishman know he has the fans backing that he always had since he arrived on that June day last summer.

Roman's Merry Go Round

When I woke this morning my first thought was to write a piece on Rafael Benitez's new book Champions League Dreams co-written with the excellent Rory Smith. But having seen the news of the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo, what signal does this send out to a Chelsea supporter. Di Matteo joins managers thrown off the Roman Abramovich merry go round such as Claudio Ranieri, Jose Mourinho, Avram Grant, Luiz Felipe Scolari, Carlo Ancelotti and Andre Villas Boas. Unlike the names mentioned above, unluckily for Avram Grant, Roberto Di Matteo succeeded at the holy grail of the owner in bringing the European Cup to Stamford Bridge.

Fast forward six months, since Chelsea Football Club's greatest moment, Roman pulls his trigger finger and another manager bits the bullet at the Bridge. Where to next for Chelsea supporters who have seen their fair share of managers in the last decade as mentioned above. Is winning the European Cup good enough for a manager to be given time, surely in the real world I would say yes but the poison chalice that is the Chelsea managerial position is not for the faint hearted.

Now so quickly after firing Roberto Di Matteo, Chelsea hope to announce a successor TODAY. If that isn't an indication that he was being undermined behind the scenes puts into context some of their performances recently. According to the BBC, they have indicated Rafael Benitez was contacted before Tuesday's defeat. If there is any manager that could get the best out of Fernando Torres it is Rafa, his record under Rafa compared to his time at Atletico Madrid and Chelsea are poles apart. Some Liverpool supporters might say, Chelsea don't deserve a manager of Rafa's quality, I believe Rafa being the professional that he is would jump at the chance of managing what is a talented squad of players at his disposal.

If he is appointed as the new manager of Chelsea, he will have an owner that will back him unlike Gillett and Hicks. As Rafa said in his book, "For Five Years I Had Being Manager of Liverpool. By the start of my sixth,  I had become something else entirely. I was suddenly supposed be a bank manager" - the one thing is for sure he won't have to be a bank manager or have his transfer budget wiped away under his nose to fulfil a 30 million interest payment owed to two banks.

Chelsea and Benitez, could be the perfect fit the way it was supposed to be with Liverpool and Benitez until the two Americans and Christian Purslow road through the Shankly Gates. Should be interesting day ahead to see does the appointment come to pass. If I was a Chelsea supporter and an admirer of the Milan sides of the late 80's/early 90's get ready for the ardent student of Arrigo Sacchi.

Tuesday's Champions League Review

Going into tonight's Champions League action, Manchester United having already qualified for the knock-out round.. There fellow British counterparts, Celtic and Chelsea had the chance to both qualify or strengthen their respective positions in the groups. Having witnessed Barcelona defeat Spartak in Moscow 3-0 with the little man Lionel Messi scoring his 79 and 80th goal for club and country this calendar left Celtic in the knowledge a point in Lisbon would be enough to send the Bhoys through to the knock-out round next February. 

Benfica, are a side not be taken lightly at home in Europe as I know all to well with Liverpool's visits there in a couple of occasions in the last decade. Celtic couldn't have got off to a worse start when they failed to retain possession in their own half and Ola John made them pay by firing into the bottom right of Fraser Forster's net to give Benfica the lead after 7 minutes. Celtic not be unturbed, continued to forage their way into the game. They were rewarded on the half hour mark when in swinging corner from Charlie Mulgrew evaded the awful attempt by Artur in the Benfica goal to get to the cross. Which allowed probably throughout Celtic's run in the competition this season their talisman, Georgios Samaras, with the easiest of headers he will ever have from a yard out at the back post to head home Celtic's equaliser. Celtic grew more in confidence as the half wore on, the conditions in the Stadium of Light hindered any sort of classic football match. It was a war of attrition as they headed into the break. 

As the second half began, you could see Lennon's side play more on the counter-attack and his side dropped deeper and deeper as the half wore on. A string of brilliant saves from Fraser Forster keeping Celtic within touching distance of their hosts. When I see this lad in goal, he is getting better and better which Celtic need to beware of the vultures that will circle if he continues his form and inclusion in the English set up. But Luisao, recently returning from a long suspension stayed up from a corner kick moments earlier to knock-on the ball for his centre back partner former Real Madrid player Ezequiel Garay. The Argentinian fired a blasted volley of top quality which Forster had no chance in getting too. 

The impressive Victor Wanyama picked up a booking which will see him miss the Spartak game at Parkhead in two weeks, almost equalised from a curling shot but for Artur getting down well to parry the shot. The only other chance Celtic produced near the end was from Barcelona goal hero Tony Watt, unfortunately for Lennon it was a weak effort on target which Artur easily gathered. Celtic were defeated but ask any Celtic supporter at the beginning of July having to go through those qualifiers and the group they were handed. To have a chance at home to clinch the win needed to go through with their rivals having to go to the Nou Camp to get a result. I think any supporter would have snapped your hand off, for Neil Lennon in a season domestically when they are expected to win the League at a canter due to the poor quality of the SPL  and no Rangers. It makes his achievement in Europe this season as a shining light for not only Celtic Football Club but for the badly maligned Scottish football.

Moving onto Chelsea, the Champions of Europe. Their fans have let everyone know "we know what we are, we know what we are, we're the Champions of Europe, we know what we are", again very original vocal support for the flag waving crew of the Shed End. You will have noticed the sarcasm, seriously Spurs supporters still 6 months on are moaning over Chelsea's inclusion and their exclusion from this seasons competition. I am by far an admirer of Chelsea FC, but like Liverpool in 2005 to have the holders not in the competition to defend their trophy is farcical that it was nearly allowed to happen almost 7 years ago. Thankfully for Chelsea supporters, they have got the chance to do so albeit after tonight's result in Turin their brief hold on the trophy their owner Roman Abramovich courted so much since his takeover of the club almost a decade a go is slipping from his Russian grip so early. 

Right from the get go, Juventus without their suspended manager Antonio Conte who has being watching his side from the stands the last 3 and half months due to match fixing. This dating back to his time at Siena, his Juventus side set the tone for what would be a footballing master-class by the Old Lady of Italian football. Chelsea discarded their 50 million former Liverpool goalscorer extreme Fernando Torres to the bench for this crunch tie.  Torres's form in front of goal is widely known so there is no need to go over old ground. Roberto Di Matteo, used their 35 million ace Eden Hazard in the "false 9" position that we have become accustomed since Pep Guardiola introduced us to this back in 2008/2009. 

In probably the most funniest and comedy gold on TV commentary for a long time, the aforementioned Hazard was put clean through on goal by the ever impressive Oscar. In fact it was a great save by Buffon, but a cart before the horse moment was spoken by Clive "That Night In Barcelona" Tyldesley. Just as Hazard hit the ball, thus sending the ball into the side netting from a great save with his legs from the Legend Gianluigi Buffon. "And Chelsea Take The Lead" was bellowed out by Clive and comedy gold ensued. Link: http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/lolz-clive-tyldesley-fail-and-chelsea-take-the-lead/

As I mentioned from the get-go Juventus set out their stall to attack Chelsea thus causing Mikel and Ramires all sorts of problems in midfield. In fairness to Chelsea, they set up to counter-attack and looked threatening but in general play Juventus were in very much control of the ball. The magician Andrea Pirlo, sporting a movember beard that puts many to shame bar possibly Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Like a fine wine, Pirlo gets better with age and orchestrated the demise of Chelsea tonight alongside his willing amigo's Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal were causing Chelsea loads of problems through the centre. 

The ever available former Lazio man, Stephan Lichtsteiner busting up and down their right made Ashley Cole think a lot more of his defensive duties. Lichtsteiner almost broke the deadlock when a great cross to the back post from Mirko Vucinic was turned onto the post by Petr Cech. Juventus were not be denied, maybe unlucky or  great piece of improvisation from Fabio Quagliarella to deflect Pirlo's shot wrongfooting Cech in the process who got a fingertip to the shot only to see it hit the back of the net. Juventus went into the break with the lead and the result in Denmark where Willian equalised right on half time for Shakhtar to heap more pressure on. 

As the second half kicked off, Juventus picked up where they left off, Vidal   began to roam. Chelsea brought off the ineffective Cesar Azpilicueta for Victor Moses to change things, which Di Matteo had to do, but such was the power and pace of this Juventus side. This was none more so shown with former Udinese man, Kwadwo Asamoah asserted more pressure on Ivanovic who was decent for Chelsea tonight. Kwadwo's run into the box was skillful as it was powerful, laid it back on a plate for Arturo Vidal. 

The former Bayer Leverkusen man, dispatched the ball with an aide of a deflection into the Chelsea net beyond Petr Cech, 2-0 Juventus and now Chelsea were in serious trouble. Shakhtar in that time had were already 4-2 in the lead in Copenhagen. 

In a last ditch effort to save the day, Fernando Torres was dispatched from the bench to replace Mikel. Much like Torres's previous 86 appearances in which he has scored just 19 goals, he was like a lost sheep in a side which knew their fate. The Fernando Torres I knew and loved is a pale shadow to this Fernando Torres playing in blue for Chelsea. Yes, he has won the Champions League and FA Cup with Chelsea contributed little to those exploits and yes he left Liverpool to win things, which he probably feels vindicated to some extent. The love he was given at Liverpool by the supporters hasn't being forthcoming with Chelsea supporters, especially after he spoke glowingly of Liverpool a few weeks ago in a interview. Deep inside this Fernando Torres is torn and embattled by his own inner demons. He spoke glowingly about Liverpool but why the need to go there. Harbouring for a move back? Who knows. 

As we approached the 90 minutes, one last piece of action in the game where Sebastian Giovinco was sent in the clear with Ashley Cole in position to probably get back and make a challenge. Petr Cech did his best impression of David James post-Tomb Raider marathon when he raced from his goal, making it easy for Giovinco to dispatch it underneath the big Czech Repubic International to seal at 3-0 defeat for Chelsea and a great night for the Old Lady. 

This was Chelsea's biggest defeat in the Champions League since Barcelona dispatched Chelsea 5-1 after extra time in the Nou Camp at the Quarter-Final stage of the 1999/2000 Champions League season. The defeat tonight was only compounded by the fact Shakhtar booked their place in the knockout round with their 5-2 victory over FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark.

Meaning Chelsea, have to hope that Shakhtar beat Juventus in two weeks and they to beat FC Nordsjaelland to have a chance of keeping a hold of their crown as European Champions. It should make for a nervy night at Stamford Bridge as they hope in hope that they get help from elsewhere. Meanwhile elsewhere in the Champions League tonight, Bayern secure their qualification alongside Valencia with a point in the Mestalla. Doing just enough after Lille beat Bate Borisov in Minsk. 

Manchester United lost 1-0 in Istanbul with a makeshift side in what seemed according to reports a feisty atmosphere, in turn losing their unbeaten winning sequence but having qualified already it was a case for Ferguson to try out the likes of Nick Powell also to get the game out of the way. While the second qualifying spot will go down to shoot out between Galatasaray and Romanian Champions CFR Cluj, both sides head into the last match day away from home. Much depends I think on what side both Braga and Manchester United send out but makes for an interesting night.

Now we roll on to Wednesday night's games, where the big game is at the Etihad when the aristocrats of European Cup football "Los Blancos" Real Madrid come to town. Which will sure to be a tasty encounter if the clash in Bernabeu was anything to go by, with David Silva back in the side City have the ability to get at Real's defence. 

In the tandem of Aguero/Tevez, Pepe and co. will be in for hard night on English soil not seen since they came to Anfield in March 2009. In a 4-0 defeat, that ended Juande Ramos's case for the position of Real manager on a full time basis. 

It all depends on Mancini, can he finally get it right in Europe that remains to be seen.

Gary Neville's Football Education Clinic

It’s a far cry from the announcement that Gary Neville was going to be a pundit on Sky’s football coverage in the summer of 2011. A number of fans wrote to Sky in disgust and threatened to cancel their subscriptions in protest at Neville’s ascent to TV football.

Fast forward 16 months or so, the decision to appoint the former Manchester United defender in mine and my peoples eyes has being a masterstroke and not bowing to the requests fully justified. By all accounts as a Liverpool supporter, his views of my club didn’t help when he was player at United. A dye in the wool United fan who played in their major successes during that period, there is a grudging respect as you understand yourself what it means to love the club you support since a kid.


The player and pundit are one of the same, his passion for football and his understanding of the game has endeared him to football fans right across the tribal divide. His critical analysis of football as a pundit on our TV’s has been nothing short of brilliant. His role in Sky has being a  breath of fresh air and what, how football is analysed needed. Out went the drudgery of Andy Gray-esque spoon-fed rubbish and has allowed football fans to critically analyse, understand more aspects of professional football. Thus shaking up how punditry is done on TV.


Neville’s in all this is showing up really how bad we have being told why this player did that etc...the likes of Burley, Hansen, Lawrenson, Shearer, Southgate and Jamie Redknapp punditry is second rate and in some cases third rate. The critical analysis Neville is providing, is spawning a new way of how football is analysed by the supporter viewing both on TV and at the game. Thus, giving not only the younger generation but football supporters who have experienced the names mentioned above over the last 20 years thinking more for themselves and differently than ever before.


The prime example of this, was Gary’s analysis of Spurs against Arsenal and City last night on Sky’s Monday Night Football. Specifically looking at how tactically both Arsenal and City attacked 50% & 47% down Spurs left hand side throughout the 90 minutes in both games. Neville went in depth and showed why both sides pinpointed this weakness/Gareth Bale’s game intelligence.


Did anyone notice this in both games that Spurs were skinned down the left in both games in 50% of the opposition attacks? I believe the majority will not have noticed that.


He further elaborated as to why this was happening which primarily focused on Bale’s in game intelligence. Bale’s in game intelligence that Neville pinpointed were in regards to his defensive responsibility. Neville showed how when Vertonghen pushed ahead of Bale to provide more in attack Bale didn’t provide the cover, so as Arsenal counter-attacked they exploited the space left where Bale should have being covering. Simple and to the point.


Neville went further to hammer home the point, Bale had cleared the header from the box to an Arsenal player 30 yards out from goal. The obvious thing would be to close down the space or keep the shape Neville was alluding too, Bale did neither after he headed the ball wandered off as if Spurs had possession, towards to the left wing to do what he does best. But with Spurs down to ten men and Arsenal in possession, Bale’s decision to not keep in the shape which Spurs had set-up on the edge of the box, left the space open. This allowed Arsenal’s maestro Santi Cazorla to cross the ball into that space where Bale had vacated when he cleared the header previously. Arsenal scored and Bale was no where in the vicinity of the 18 yard box.


Did anyone notice this in the game on Saturday on both accounts? I would believe again the majority did not. While you have being reading the above, you probably can recall countless of moments on TV where Neville has done this.


The point I am hinting at here is next time you watch or at a game because of Neville’s analysis you will find yourself critically assessing why certain things happen or are happening in a game. Neville is the Spain of football analysis, leaving like Spain everyone else in the shade. From a Liverpool fan, I say thank you to Gary Neville for giving clinics on football each and every week on Sky thus giving supporters more reason to critically assess the game in a different way. Long may it continue.

Luis Suarez - The Man Everyone Loves To Hate

Luis Suarez – The Man Everyone Loves To Hate

Since the day Luis Suarez arrived on Merseyside, he raised ire among many a football follower of English clubs. Be it in a Liverpool shirt or recently at the London Olympics with Uruguay, he is booed everywhere he goes. Football fans in their nature are tribal, we have seen this more prevalently due to the magnification of the game with the media, wanting to get their next seller for the day or week ahead.

In my time following Liverpool, one man, Eric Cantona a foreign player in English game who similarly garnered so much hatred by fans like Suarez. Particularly where Leeds Football Club is concerned which Eric left for Manchester United in 1992. As with Luis Suarez, Cantona had a gift to entertain and do spectacular pieces of skill on the pitch, due to the magnificence of his football brain would get more so United fans off their feet and the opposition cursing him.

Cantona's brilliance on the pitch wasn't the primary focus for the best part of 9 months in 1995 while he served a ban for kung-fu kicking a Crystal Palace supporter having been sent off in the fixture at Selhurst Park. Which had an impact on the title race no doubt with Blackburn Rovers, who ended their long wait for a top flight title. The chances United created against West Ham on that last day of the season, I think a lot of supporters of Manchester United cursed their luck due their talisman being banned.

Similarly to Eric, Luis Suarez has endured well over 12 months of focus. Be it the racial incident with Manchester United's Patrice Evra or the diving, which at times has being justified but like Cantona in 1995 redemption among the media cohorts is nearing for the magical Uruguayan. The 1995/96 season proved to be Cantona's season in English football, the media who castigated his antics early in 1995 when the incident occurred were less than 18 months later toasting the man who carried Manchester United to their second League and Cup double in 3 seasons. Comparing Luis Suarez on this account wouldn't be fair as the Liverpool side he plays in are not the well oiled machine of the United 96 vintage.

Instead his 2012/13 season could be one where the man everyone loves to hate much like Eric Cantona, can be appreciated for his brilliance and marvel at his abilities as a footballer thus looking beyond what has gone before. His goal return of 10 goals in 12 League games, plus 2 assists attest to his form and what he recorded before his move from Ajax to Anfield. Who knows what the next 6 or so months will bring, but finally Suarez is getting some of plaudits as a footballer he deserves like Cantona did after his brush with controversy.

I was one of those people in 1995 in regards to Eric Cantona, at 11 going on 12 years of age you don't appreciate seeing players at their zenith. As you get older, you appreciate the quality of the player was despite your allegiances. Hopefully like me when you read this you can look beyond these trappings and appreciate the man you love to hate as a world class player which English football should be privileged to have plying his trade.