Road to 2010 World Cup Final

Beckham’s interest in owning a MLS franchise proves soccer is on the up

2012-01-27T12:08:00.004-05:00

Although you can't argue with the fact that David Beckham decided to turn down an awful lot of money and the lure of several major clubs in order to continue pursuing a career in the MLS, proving a number of soccer betting tips wrong in the process, that fact fades into insignificance when you realise that not only does Becks want to stick around because he enjoys playing in North America, but also because he has a vested interest in staying for the long term in order to take advantage of the clause in his contract that means he could become the owner of an MLS franchise once his deal expires.

With Beckham clearly deciding that he wants to own a franchise, but with that franchise extremely unlikely to be the Galaxy, it looks like the former England captain will be applying to own a new team in preparation for the next round of MLS expansion.

This, combined with the fact that more punters are watching and wanting to bet on soccer games, and more MLS sides are now building and then playing in their own stadiums that are clearly fit for purpose rather than designed to be shared with NFL and College Football franchises, proves that the future of the MLS looks far, far brighter than anyone could have hoped for when David Beckham first joined the LA Galaxy.

If this rate of growth continues, we can only hope that soccer will get bigger and better in Canada and the USA and will perhaps eventually stand a chance of rivalling the traditional sports that we have enjoyed for so long. This may seem unlikely at the moment, but the fact that the MLS is expanding and improving in such a drastic manner means that it may not be that long before it can rival the top European soccer leagues.

Youngsters to look out for at Euro 2012

2012-01-25T07:21:00.000-05:00

Once again there will be certain names talked about at this year's European Championships, with the likes of Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and the other usual suspects likely to be grabbing the headlines.

However there are some lesser known players who be looking to impress on the big stage and really announce their presence on the international stage.

One youngster who is receiving plenty of attention from some of the top clubs from across Europe, including Premier League champions Manchester United, is Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen. Those looking at the Euro 2012 betting online need to remember this.

The highly rated 19-year-old is being touted as one of the next big players to come out of Scandinavia and the youngster, who is currently playing his football with Dutch side Ajax, certainly has a bright future ahead of him.

Eriksen is one of those players who can pick a pass at will and his award for Danish Football Player of the Year in 2011 was well justified.

He will certainly be a player to look out for but Denmark look like they could struggle this summer as they have been drawn with the likes of the Netherlands, Germany and Portugal.

Another youngster who could make headlines at the upcoming European Championships is Borussia Mönchengladbach forward Marco Reus, who has been impressing in the Bundesliga this season.

The 22-year-old is being reportedly tracked by giants Bayern Munich along with Mario Gotze, who is another player to come through the Germany youth system and already has 12 caps to his name despite being just 19.

This duo are part of a German side expected to well once again in this upcoming major tournament and don't be surprised to hear the names of Reus and Gotze in Poland and the Ukraine this year.

Will Spurs' success also be their downfall?

2012-01-24T06:05:00.004-05:00

What a time to be a Tottenham Hotspur fan! Sitting third in the English Premier League and very close to being able to topple the current league leaders should they win this weekend at the Ethiad Stadium in Manchester, the chances are that some of the more hardened and cynical Spurs fans may well be thinking that something dodgy is going on!

This train of thought would, of course, be completely untrue, but those cynical fans may still have a point in that the good may not be as good as it currently feels.

With Tottenham defying the soccer betting tips to stay in the title race, they are now attracting a global soccer-watching audience. The likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid, and AC Milan might just start hovering around White Hart Lane waiting and ready to swoop for players who they feel would be a welcome addition to their team.

For those of you who doubt that would actually happen, I would cautiously point you in the direction of the great Ajax team of the mid-1990s, who went even further than Spurs and utterly dominated their league and eventually found themselves European Champions to boot, only for their team to be absolutely destroyed by bids from around Europe that financed a new stadium (much like Spurs want) but left Ajax as a far smaller team that could not ever be taken seriously by other top clubs again.

With Spurs proving they are not a team to be trifled with last summer in the transfer window, the live soccer betting is still tipping a number of their stars players to be targeted by top clubs over the summer.

Plus with England rumoured to be interested in appointing Harry Redknapp after Fabio Capello quits after Euro 2012, it could be a summer of change for the White Hart Lane club. The reality is therefore that they need both the success they have been enjoying to continue and to maintain their nerve in a transfer environment that will be out to swallow up poor old Spurs.

Clubs start life without African stars

2012-01-20T08:51:00.004-05:00

Losing key players at any stage of the season is far from ideal, so when clubs lose in-form star men during the Africa Cup of Nations it must be particularly frustrating for Premier League managers.

The turn of the year is notoriously difficult for clubs – with injuries, suspensions and fatigue playing a part after a busy festive period. The the premier league odds of sides can be decided during the opening months of a new year.

Robert Mancini will be hoping his Manchester City side can cope without the Toure brothers, although the early signs aren’t good. Yaya and Kolo are on duty for Ivory Coast and City have lost both games in their absence.

Ivory Coast are favourites in the soccer betting for the competition in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, so the Manchester club could have to make do without the influential brothers until the middle of February.

Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou will also feature for Ivory Coast, which is a blow to Chelsea’s top-four aspirations. Despite being in the twilight of his career, Drogba is still an influential member of Andre Villa-Boas’ squad and will be sorely missed.

Perhaps the club most affected by the mid-season tournament are Newcastle United. Demba Ba has been the surprise package this season and has been at the heart of all things good for Newcastle with 15 Premier League goals. Cheick Tioté is also on international duty. It will be a tough month for Alan Pardew’s men.

At the other end of the table, Wigan have lost Mohamed Diame and Mark Hughes will have to work without Adel Taarabt and Arman Traore during his first few weeks at the helm at Queens Park Rangers.

How those sides cope in the absence of some key men may dictate where they finish this season.

FA Cup heartbreak for cash-strapped Wrexham

2012-01-20T05:47:00.003-05:00

Wrexham were denied a lucrative tie with Newcastle United after a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out defeat to Brighton in an enthralling FA Cup third-round replay.

Craig Mackail-Smith scored the decisive penalty after Peter Brezovan had denied Dean Keates to set up a fourth-round home clash against Alan Pardew’s Newcastle.

It was tough on Wrexham, who had taken a first-half lead through manager Andy Morrell. The club have had well-documented financial problems so to miss out by such a fine margin will be tough to take. The televised tie against Brighton did earn the Welsh club £62,000.

Non-league Wrexham had given the Championship club a real scare in the original tie on the south coast and punters who bet on the FA Cup had tipped an upset in the replay.

That seemed likely when they picked up where they left off at the Racecourse Ground on Wednesday night.
Morrell had already had a shot blocked when he gave the home side the lead after 23 minutes. Danny Wright found the boss on the edge of the box and Morrell curled his shot into the top right-hand corner of the goal.

Wrexham gained confidence from the opener and went on to dominate large parts of the game. However, the game became stretched towards the end and with the FA Cup betting starting to favour the non-leaguers, Brighton struck a vital blow with just over ten minutes to go. Ashley Barnes put the visitors on level terms with a header from a Matt Sparrow cross.

Both sides had chances to win the game in normal time and again in the 30 minutes that followed, but the game was decided by a penalty shoot-out.

Brezovan saved Wrexham’s first penalty from Keates and Mackail-Smith kept his nerve after both sides had successfully converted their next four penalties to seal the win and a place in the fourth round.

Torres rumours re-emerge

2012-01-17T11:12:00.004-05:00

Fernando Torres has certainly been putting in the hard work on the training pitch for Chelsea, with this hard graft appearing to pay dividends in recent games during which he has almost been able to capitalise upon the absence of Didier Drogba by displaying a few good performances up front, but Torres has still failed to win over the Chelsea fans by doing the one job that is expected of him: scoring goals.

With this in mind, it is clear that until he starts to do this consistently, soccer betting tips will label the striker as a potential transfer target for any club willing to take a punt on a striker who has looked a very different man since his journey down from Merseyside to London.

Had Torres managed to put away that spectacular volleyed effort at the weekend against Sunderland, then surely the statement made today by Carlo Ancelotti would have been dismissed as a bit of stirring by a man who might want to get some revenge against a club that treated him so badly, but because his shot fell kindly to Frank Lampard rather than in the top corner of the net, the rumours regarding him being touted for transfer and the live soccer betting that comes with it, have gained an additional level of credence.

That said, at least Torres seems to possess the one thing that doomed Andriy Shevchenko when he joined Chelsea, with that yard of pace that is so crucial in the Premier League still inherent in the Spaniard. As a result, it is clear that Torres can still be a success in the Premier League and, should he so desire, could still go on to be a fans' favourite at Stamford Bridge by recreating some of the form that made him such a legend at Anfield.

Unlucky Gonzalez suffers serious injury

2012-01-11T05:43:00.000-05:00

Omar Gonzalez will return to LA Galaxy after suffering a serious injury in his first training session while on loan with German side FC Nurnberg.

The 23-year-old defender will have surgery for a left ACL rupture after colliding with right-back and fellow American Timothy Chandler. He has officially been recalled from his loan spell by the Galaxy to undergo treatment.

“The team doctor in Los Angeles is doing the operation,” confirmed the German side’s press officer Arndt Sonneck. “Then we will see if he can come back to Nurnberg, but the most important thing is that he is better. That is the first thing, that he can recover in good time."

The soccer betting tips are anticipatating that Gonzalez, who is the reigning MLS Defender of the Year, will be out of action for up to six months.

Gonzalez started 29 regular-season games and all four post-season matches for Galaxy last year as they won the MLS Cup. Those who like to bet on soccer games may well think twice about backing Galaxy without their influential defender.

He moved to LA in 2009 after previously playing for the Dallas Texans, the IMG Soccer Academy and Maryland Terrapins.

His first appearance for Galaxy came against DC United almost three years ago and he scored his first goal for the club in the 3-2 defeat to Colorado Rapids in April 2009.Gonzalez was named the MLS Rookie of the Year at the end of his first season in the league and was included in the 2010 MLS All-Star team. Last season he played a key part in Galaxy having the best defence in the league.

Gonzalez has a Mexican passport, but represented the USA at Under-17 and Under-20 levels before making his senior debut against Brazil in August 2010.

New York Red Bulls star Thierry Henry was the hero for Arsenal on his return to English soccer.

2012-01-10T06:48:00.000-05:00

After training with Premier League Arsenal during the MLS off-season, Henry signed a two-month loan deal with the North London club and made his debut against Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium in the FA Cup third round. He showed why he is considered an all-time great with a trademark finish just minutes after his introduction.

The Red Bulls striker and former French international rose to prominence at Arsenal while scoring a club-record 226 goals in 370 appearances. He left the Gunners for Barcelona with a heavy heart in 2007. Two clubs and five years later, he was back and it was as if he had never been away.

All the pre-match hype and soccer betting tips were built around Henry, so it was a disappointment to many when he was named amongst the substitutes for the FA Cup tie.

Leeds, one division below Arsenal in England, frustrated the home side during a first half of few chances. Arsenal pushed forward with more purpose after the interval and threatened to break the deadlock on a number of occasions, only to be thwarted by Leeds’ last line of defence. The stage was set for the Frenchman.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger introduced Henry on 68 minutes and after a quiet ten minutes on the field, the 34-year-old lit up the occasion with a wonderfully composed right-footed finish past the despairing dive of Andy Lonergan and into the bottom corner. Those who bet on soccer games and had backed Henry to make such an impact were sent home happy.

The Arsenal fans were sent home happy too as Henry’s goal was good enough to win the game and signalled an outpouring of emotion, both on and off the field. Fans of the New York Red Bulls will be hoping Henry doesn’t become too comfortable in the place he likes to call home.

Mariners continue to dominate

2012-01-09T12:23:00.002-05:00

Central Coast Mariners showed the true qualities needed from a team capable of winning the league – the ability to win ugly. An Oliver Bozanic goal in the opening 10 minutes was enough to earn the league leader a narrow 1-0 victory against a lacklustre Sydney FC – who slumped to their third straight defeat in the process.

While the hosts were well below-par, the Mariners themselves were way off the high standards which the club have set themselves so far this season and prompted the soccer betting tips to predict title glory. After Olyroo skipper Bozanic had edged the visitors in the lead on nine minutes, the Mariners failed to push on score that second goal, which would have made the afternoon a lot easier for head coach Graham Arnold.

Arnold admitted his side’s performance had proved that while the club were in a good place, there was still plenty for squad to work on if they are to push on this year and claim the A-League title. The gaffer, however, was delighted to have seen his team come out of a poor performance with all three points – the true sign of a championship winning team.

“That second half showed that we've got to do better.”

“I say to the players 'don't look at the table, I know it's hard not to but don't look at it and play every game on its own merit'.”

“We know how to win playing good football but we also have a quality of grinding out a win if need be if we're having a bad day.”

The Mariners are now in a position which they wouldn’t have dreamed they would be in when planning their targets – eight points clear of a stuttering Brisbane Roar, and with a game. The live soccer betting suggests that all the pressure will now firmly be on Arnold and his charges to build on this stunning start to the season and go on and claim the title.

Hughes favourite for Rangers job

2012-01-09T12:04:00.000-05:00

Mark Hughes is the big favourite in the football betting to take over at Queens Park Rangers after Neil Warnock was sacked on Sunday.

Warnock was relieved of his duties after a run of eight Premier League games without a win. He leaves with QPR sat 17th in the table.

QPR chairman Tony Fernandes said: "Sadly, our recent run of poor form has seen us slip alarmingly down the table and the board felt it was the right time to make a change."

Warnock took charge at Loftus Road in March 2010 with QPR languishing in the lower reaches of the Championship. He saved the club from relegation and led them to the league title the following season.

After an encouraging start to life back in the top flight, his side had fallen away in recent months and are among the favourites in the relegation betting. With the transfer window re-open, the board decided a change was necessary.

QPR have moved fast to replace Warnock, with Hughes touted as his successor. The former Blackburn and Manchester City boss has been without a club since he left Fulham last June. Hughes is reportedly in negotiations with the club.

Chief executive Philip Beard expects a speedy resolution. He said: "We are working extremely hard to bring in the right person. I'm hoping we have someone in place in advance of our game against Newcastle (on Sunday)."

It is thought the new man will be given funds to improve his squad during the January transfer window, with firepower a priority. QPR have scored just 19 goals this season and only nine in ten home games.

Warnock’s replacement will need to turn the club’s worrying home form around. QPR have picked up just seven points at Loftus Road, winning once against Chelsea in October. Expect QPR and the new boss to splash the cash this month.

Henry seals Gunners return

2012-01-04T05:48:00.000-05:00

New York Red Bulls striker Thierry Henry’s protracted loan move to Arsenal has finally been confirmed.
The 34-year-old will return to the Gunners on a two-month loan deal and could feature in Monday’s FA Cup third round clash with Championship side Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.

The soccer betting tips are had predicted Henry would make a dramatic return as soon as it was announced that he would train with the Gunners during the MLS off-season.
The Frenchman is Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer with 226 goals in all competitions.

He made 370 appearances for the club and has admitted that he couldn't turn down the chance to play for Arsenal again.

He said of his return to the north London side: “It is unreal, to be honest. But when it comes to Arsenal my heart will always do the talking. Once I knew the plan behind it I was OK with it. I am not coming here to be a hero or prove anything. I am just coming here to help.”

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had been keen to bolster his strike options as Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho are due to take part in the African Cup of Nations later this month for Morocco and Ivory Coast respectively. Those who likes to bet on soccer games are already tipping Henry to mark his return with a debut goal on Monday.

The forward is due to return to New York in good time for his team’s opening game of the 2012 season against FC Dallas on 11th March.

The France international left Arsenal for Barcelona in June 2007 but struggled to break into the first team at the Nou Camp and featured in only 80 games for the Catalan giants in his three seasons with the club.He signed for New York Red Bulls in July 2010 and has found the net 16 times in 47 appearances.

Brisbane desperate for Broich return

2011-12-31T11:24:00.000-05:00

Thomas Broich’s importance to Brisbane Roar was always fairly clear but the club’s recent losing streak has more than highlighted just how urgently they need the German back fit. Broich’s absence from the team has coincided with a run of defeats – as predicted by numerous soccer betting tips that has the potential to undo all the hard work the club did on their way to a record 36-match unbeaten run.

Despite looking dead certainties in the live soccer betting to go on and defend their title, the Roar’s recent form has seen them drop to third in the table – in real danger of losing touch with the league’s two form teams Central Coast and Melbourne Heart.

While head coach Ange Postecoglou hasn’t been helped by a number of injuries to key men, it has been the absence of playmaker Broich that looks to have had the biggest impact on the team. The German’s ability to control the game from the middle of the park has been badly missed by a Roar side that has struggled to create enough chances.

Broich’s heel injury was at first thought of as nothing more serious than bang, maybe resulting in a week out. Further scans revealed more damage than first thought, though, and it looks as if it could be the middle of January before the Roar will be able to welcome back their influential midfielder.

Despite being down to the bare bones in regards fit players, Postecoglou has admitted he isn’t in a position where he can just go out and spend money on new players, backing the current squad to pull together and put an end to their poor form. It’ll remain to be seen just how quickly that happens.

Arsenal looking to bounce back

2011-12-30T06:59:00.000-05:00

Although it's fair to say that Arsenal have enjoyed a rather strange season, lurching from one extreme to another, the fact remains that they have somehow managed to get themselves back in contention for a Champions League place, something that seemed like a distant dream after the crushing 8-2 defeat they suffered against Manchester United early in the season. In fact, some soccer betting tips suggested a season of mid-table mediocrity for the Londoners.

That said, the Gunners know all too well that they need to make sure that their season gets firmly back on track after a draw earlier this week against lowly Wolves, two points dropped in domestic competition that they really couldn’t afford to let slip.

With their North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur proving that their hot streak can run for some time yet (proving those who bet on soccer games wrong at every turn in the process), Arsenal surely know that their only real hope of showing they can still be one of the top soccer teams in London is by getting ahead of rivals Chelsea. Should they want that to become a reality, they know that they will have to make sure that they not only start winning soccer games, but win them convincingly, bringing belief and confidence back to a side that had previously looked like it was going to flounder badly this season.

In spite of this need to succeed being so prevalent, the fact that head coach Arsene Wenger has managed to calm the fans down after an enormous level of rage sent in his direction earlier in the season is testament to how well he is running the club. With this in mind, it is key to remember that the Gunners have a man in charge who knows how to pull off miracles when others lack faith, something that he will once again need to do come the end of the season.

Carling Cup: Can Crystal Palace go on to win the Carling Cup?

2011-12-29T11:26:00.000-05:00

Crystal Palace are one of two Championship sides that remain in the 2011/12 League Cup. Out of the two Championship sides, Crystal Palace remain to be the team that have performed at a lower level than their Championship counterpart and League Cup semi-final opposition Cardiff City.

In the Championship Cardiff are in 5th position with 38 points, whereas Palace currently reside in 8th position with 33 points. The Eagles have never won any form of silverware, but the last time they came close was back in 1990 where the London club managed to get to an FA Cup final. The final of the FA Cup was played over two legs with the first leg ending in a 3-3 draw after extra-time. The second leg, unfortunately for Crystal Palace fans, ended in a 1-0 defeat against the legendary Man United.

So, to answer the question in the title: “Can Crystal Palace go on to win the Carling Cup?” The answer to this particular question would have to be no. The Eagles are certainly not up to the standards of the other semi-finalists and Premier League outfits Manchester City and Liverpool. People looking at the Carling Cup betting should remember this.

Plus, they have to undertake the difficult task of fending off the Welsh side in the semi-finals of the competition. My match prediction for the first leg of the matchup between Crystal Palace and Cardiff City, hosted at Selhurst Park, will be a 1-1 draw. This result will benefit The Bluebirds more as the away goals rule applies in the League Cup. Those looking at the odds carling cup final should bear this in mind.

Palace's best player, or the player that will have the biggest impact in the League Cup semi-final first leg matchup, has to be their top goal scorer so far this season, Glenn Murray. The Eagles' striker has so far made a total of 23 appearances and scored a total of 6 goals.

San Jose seal Chavez swoop

2011-12-29T10:44:00.000-05:00

The San Jose Earthquakes have snapped up FC Dallas striker Marvin Chavez for allocation money.

The 28-year-old Honduras international scored six goals in 31 appearances for Dallas last season, having previously played for Victoria and Marathon in his homeland.

He also scored the decisive goal in Dallas’ 1-0 victory at Pumas UNAM in the group stage of the CONCACAF Champions League in August, the first-ever victory by an MLS side in Mexico in any competition, and has been popular among the soccer betting tips ever since.

Those who bet on soccer games will note that San Jose struggled to find a settled attacking line-up last season with head coach Frank Yallop trying many different options with only limited success.

Chris Wondolowski led the line last term, scoring an impressive 16 goals in 30 matches but Yallop may now look to use Chavez as his main striker.

“Marvin is one of the most exciting players in MLS," said San Jose’s General Manager John Doyle. "I can’t wait to see him in an Earthquakes uniform."

San Jose have been very busy in the off-season, adding Jean Alexandre and Shea Salinas to their midfield while allowing the former Reading star Bobby Convey to join Sporting Kansas City.

Meanwhile, FC Dallas have allowed Jeremy Hall to join Toronto FC while head coach Schellas Hyndman has admitted that Maicon Santos also looks set to leave.

Hyndman believes Chavez’s departure will be good for the team in the long run, saying: “Marvin was always an outstanding player and we certainly will miss him, but this move allows us to better balance our team.

“We are losing a solid player, but it’s for the overall benefit of the team. We can strengthen our team in both our back line as well as up front where we really missed having that player who could finish the plays we generated up front last season.”

Anderson admits to first-round struggle

2011-12-29T09:49:00.000-05:00

World number four Gary Anderson has admitted he was far from at his best in his scrappy win over the relative unknown German Jyhan Artut in the first round of the Ladbrokes PDC World Darts Championship.

Last year's runner-up was made to fight all the way to make it into the second round after eventually winning the closely-fought clash at Alexandra Palace on a final-leg shoot-out.

The inexperienced Artut, making just his third appearance at the Ladbrokes PDC World Championships, stormed into a 2-0 lead to set up a potential huge shock in the first round before Anderson responded to level the tie at 2-2. The best PDC darts betting reflects this.

Anderson then missed three darts to seal the win in the sixth, before Artut amazingly levelled the match again with a stunning 102 checkout to make it 3-3.

With a a two-leg margin needed for victory, Artut missed a great chance to progress when off target with four darts and Anderson proceeded to take the match into a sudden-death leg. Anderson, finally playing at somewhere near his usual level then hit bull twice in a row to take the darts, before an impressive two-dart 76 finish handed him the hard-fought victory.
Afterwards, Anderson conceded he had been pushed all the way by his German opponent and described the laboured win as a "wake-up call".

He told Sky Sports: "It was a get out of jail free card tonight. He did play well but the first two sets I couldn’t hit a double to save my life, but I managed to nick a few here and there."

Bluebirds looking to send Eagles crashing out

2011-12-29T09:16:00.000-05:00

Cardiff City are enjoying a good start to the 2011-12 season, and whilst the priority for all clubs in the Championship will always be to make it to the Holy Land of the Premiership, this season a rare opportunity has opened up for Malky Mackay’s side.

Having defeated Blackburn Rovers in the quarter-finals of the Carling Cup, they now find themselves just two games away from an appearance at Wembley in what would be their second run-out at the famous stadium in the last four years – not a bad record for a side that has been stranded outside the top tier of English football since 1962.

Currently sitting comfortably within the play-off spots in the Championship, Mackay will understandably be preoccupied by thoughts of promotion, but the lure of Wembley – as well as the added bonus of guaranteed European football next season should they make the final and the team they play qualify for next year’s Champions League – will ensure that strong line-ups are fielded by both sides. Those looking at the best Carling Cup odds should bear this in mind.

Before this weekend’s 3-2 loss to Middlesbrough, Cardiff were enjoying an unbeaten run which stretched right the way back to mid-October, and the task that now lies ahead of Mackay will be to reaffirm that invincible spirit in the four matches that lie between now and the first leg of the Carling Cup semi-final at Selhurst Park on January 10th – and f this can be done, then Cardiff will surely go into the tie as strong favourites to progress to the final in February.

Tevez dominates City conversation

2011-12-29T08:53:00.002-05:00

The Carlos Tevez saga continues to overshadow all potential transfer dealings of Manchester City in the transfer window. City have rejected a loan offer from Milan for the want away striker while there are rumors that Spurs might make an audacious bid for the Argentinian.

The issue of course is not the size of the transfer fee; Tottenham can afford that, but rather Tevez’s wage packet, which would break the salary structure at White Hart Lane. Would City sell to another Premier League club and would Gareth Bale, Rafael van der Vaart and Luka Modric accept a vastly disproportionate wage earner on their club? Those are two questions that would have to be answered.

Meanwhile the soccer betting tips are connecting City with numerous players, very few of whom will make sense, a bi-product of having enough money to purchase any player that the club wish. Players such as Eden Hazard and Alessio Cerci continue to be linked, the latter not least because Roberto Mancini has spoken of his interest in the Fiorentina winger. Mancini has also praise Daniele De Rossi as the Roma midfielder comes to the end of his contract. Should City pry the Italian international away on a pre contract it will signify a shift in City’s ability to attract top talent from just a pure financial deal to one based around trophy opportunities.

Attackers and midfielders galore are linked with the club each day yet it is in defense that City need to strengthen. They may be regular favourites when you bet on soccer games but that may change with the departure of the Toure brothers for the African Nations Cup, leaving City very thin at the back should Vincent Kompany or Joleon Lescott be suspended or injured. A long term solution at left back would also be helpful as Gael Clichy is the latest not to work out for the club who at least seem to have returned Micah Richards to his form of a couple of years ago as the former England international makes the right back slot his own.

Race to sign Ream hots up

2011-12-27T16:08:00.000-05:00

Bolton Wanderers and West Brom have stepped up their interest in the highly-rated New York Red Bulls defender Tim Ream.

The 24-year-old USA international has spent time recently training with both Premier League sides and was impressed with what he saw.

He said: “I really enjoyed both clubs and I was treated very well. It was certainly good to get a feel for the environment in England and the day-to-day routine there. The level of play is very high and each day was a challenge.”

Baggies boss Roy Hodgson and Bolton manager Owen Coyle have both expressed their interest in signing the former Chicago Fire Premier defender who remains one of the most popular soccer betting tips for the future, although Red Bulls’ sporting director Erik Soler insists Ream is going nowhere.

The Red Bulls signed Ream in 2010 and he made his first-team debut for the club in March of that year when he starred in the 3-1 pre-season friendly victory against Brazilian side Santos. He quickly become a familiar figure with those who bet on soccer games.

His first MLS appearance came later that month in the 1-0 win against Chicago Fire and he has gone on to feature in 58 matches for the club.

Ream represented his country at the CONCACAF Gold Cup earlier this year after making his international debut in the 1-0 friendly victory against South Africa in November 2010.He featured in the Gold Cup games against Canada and Panama before being dropped for the last four matches in the tournament after conceding a penalty in the 2-1 defeat to Panama.

In October it was reported that Arsenal were keen to sign Ream and the Gunners had the player watched in the Red Bulls’ play-off clash against FC Dallas.

Soccer fans over the festive season stuck with the EPL – but is that a bad thing?

2011-12-16T11:02:00.000-05:00

For those of you who are soccer fanatics and love to bet on soccer games, the only real chance you will get during the festive season to watch any soccer will come early in the morning (especially if you are on the West coast!) watching the English Premier League. Although the league does not feature the two unrivaled stars of soccer – Ronaldo and Messi – is it still worth watching?

Simply put the answer is – sometimes! Sure, the EPL lacks the skills of Messi, and there are a lot more players who look like they want to kick players off the field rather than show off their skills with the ball, but it also has an intensity that many of the other leagues in the world lack.

With the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City playing some really awesome football, and teams such as Arsenal and Chelsea not far behind them in terms of style, there are still sides out there who can display some fantastic soccer performances and provide interesting soccer betting tips.

Despite this, the fact that the games are on so early in the morning, and can also sometimes be very, very boring (Stoke City are one team to really try to avoid watching!) can mean that fans of soccer are not always necessarily fans of the EPL.

Whatever you decide on, there is one truth that cannot be ignored: the only soccer that is going to be on your TV during the festive season will be coming from England, whether you love it or you hate it! So, if you are a soccer fan, you better get used to a few early mornings!

Fulham’s effort all in vain

2011-12-15T06:21:00.001-05:00

Martin Jol was trying to take the positives from his side’s Europa League group stage exit, but the reality is, there are very little.

True, it now means his side are free to concentrate on improving their league position, currently a below par 14th.

But given their participation in the competition began in June and incorporated 14 matches it does seem like a huge waste of time given they are now out of it before Christmas.

But such were the fine margins of the game they were on their way through heading into stoppage time at Craven Cottage.

They were leading 2-1 against Danish side OB Odense, who were already eliminated and as such were outsiders in the football betting.

However, with the final attack of the game Espen Ruud whipped in a cross from the right for Ejiby Fall to head home and grab a dramatic point that sent Fulham crashing out of the competition.

It was a harsh way for the Cottagers to exit, especially since they have shown a real desire to progress in the tournament which is derided in other circles – they still have fond memories of their run to the final in 2010.

"I think it is a big blow but every disadvantage has an advantage," said a defiant Jol. "There were positive things in the first half, like how much we put them under pressure."

It is scant consolation though for Jol, with the club racking up 30 live football games already this season for no tangible reward bar plenty of air miles.

He can only hope that the extra games don’t hinder his side in the second half of the season as performances so far suggest it will be a bumpy ride.

Can Rooney fire England to glory?

2011-12-13T08:57:00.000-05:00

England's Euro 2012 hopes were given a boost last week when Uefa reduced Wayne Rooney's suspension to two games.

The Manchester United front man was originally handed a three-match ban after being sent off for kicking Miodrag Dzudovic during England's 2-2 draw with Montenegro in October. The ban was reduced on appeal. Rooney will now be available for England's final Group D game against joint hosts Ukraine.

There was some debate over whether England boss Fabio Capello would take the controversial 26-year-old to Poland and Ukraine. It appears the debate is now over following Uefa's decision. Those looking at the England Euro 2012 odds should remember this.

Rooney is arguably England's only world-class player and will be keen to make amends after losing his cool in his last competitive outing for his country. If England need a result against Ukraine, they will be confident of getting it with a fired up and fresh Rooney at their disposal.

The draw itself was relatively kind to England. They avoided the “Group of Death” and a group stage meeting with Spain. The real threat to their hopes is France, the same France side which played them off the park at Wembley last November. Ukraine and Sweden bring with them their own dangers.

Ukraine will be a difficult proposition in front of their home fans, particularly in the final group game, while Sweden have been something of a bogey side for England over recent decades. Although, England's friendly victory over the Swedes last month broke a 12-match winless run and will have given England and Capello a good look at their game two opponents.

It won't be easy, it never is in a major tournament, but with a revitalised Rooney in their ranks, England have an outside chance.

Boost for England as Rooney ban reduced

2011-12-08T10:24:00.001-05:00

England’s chances at Euro 2012 have been given a boost after UEFA decided to suspended the third game of the striker’s three match ban following his sending off against Montenegro in October.

It now means that the England striker can play in his country’s final group stage game against Ukraine, though he will definitely miss the first two games against France and Sweden.

England’s reliance on the Manchester United striker was shown in the soccer betting, which took a swing in their favour upon the news of his one game repressive.

In sharp cost to a generation ago, when the Three Lions were blessed with the likes of Alan Shearer, Teddy Sheringham, Ian Wright, Les Ferdinand, Andy Cole and Robbie Fowler, the current crop have a distinct lack of world class goal scoring talent among them.

Darren Bent has made great strides at this level in recent months, and he looks likely to lead the line in England’s opening two group matches - barring injury.

But he is a completely different player to Rooney, with Bent much more the predatory striker in the box with Rooney ale to drop deeper and dictate play. That said if you want to bet on the Premiership top scorer, Rooney is never far away from your thoughts.

Fabio Capello and the FA knew this, so pulled out all the stops in their attempts to get the ban educed, including whipping Rooney across from Basel less than 12 hours after Man United’s Champions League defeat to attend the hearing in person. It worked.

Adrian Bevington, the Football Association director of communications and Club England managing director, said: "We've had a very fair hearing.

"Wayne and Fabio are both very pleased. Wayne will head back to Manchester as a matter of priority.

"Wayne has always made clear that he accepted it was a red card offence.

"We arrived with the possibility of him missing the entire group phase - it would have been a huge challenge for Fabio and the team, so to have him available for the final group match against Ukraine is clearly very positive."

Gyan looks to shine at the ACN

2011-11-30T08:26:00.001-05:00

All eyes will be on Asamoah Gyan at the upcoming African Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in January as he attempts to help Ghana go one better than their second place finish two years ago.

The Ghanaian striker was voted African player of the year in 2010 and was one of the players to make the biggest impact on the World Cup in South Africa as he helped his side become only the third African country to make the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Gyan caused controversial earlier this season when he left the Premier League to join Al-Ain in the United Arab Emirates on loan from his parent club Sunderland, with a view to make the move permanent when the January transfer window opens. People looking at the best African Cup of Nations odds should remember this.

Steve Bruce signed the striker from Rennes for £13 in August 2010 where he scored 10 goals in his debut season for Sunderland, however, he was swayed by a move to the Al-Ain where he is reportedly on a contract worth £200,000 a week.

The 26-year old has scored 27 times for his country in 54 appearances. One of his latest goals was at Wembley against England in a friendly to earn the Black Stars a draw against Fabio Capello's side.

Didier Drogba is undoubtedly one of the biggest names at this year's tournament once again. Ivory Coast will expect a big performance from their leading talisman and skipper when the African Cup of Nations gets underway in January. The Ivorian has not been in the best form for his club side Chelsea, however, he is still considered very influential for the Elephants where he is their all-time leading goalscorer.

Barcelona’s exciting matchup against AC Milan deservedly makes the Spanish giants winners of Group H

2011-11-30T06:17:00.000-05:00

The 2011/12 UEFA Champions League has been an enthralling competition so far.

Out of all the groups in the group qualification phase, Group H contains 2 of the best teams in the European competition: Italian giants AC Milan and the current Champions League trophy holders Barcelona.

The other teams confined in Group H are as follows: Gambrinus liga outfit FC Viktoria Plzen, and Belarusian Premier League team FC BATE Borisov. The first matchup between Barcelona and Milan ended in a 2-2 draw with the Spanish side playing at home. People looking at the Champions League promotions should remember this.

It was an extraordinary affair and the excitement lasted even until the final seconds as Brazilian international Thiago Silva headed in a goal in the 2nd minute of stoppage time ensuring that all important draw at the Camp Nou. The second matchup between the 2 sides ended in a 2-3 victory to Barcelona at the San Siro with goals from: Milan’s Mark van Bommel in the 14th minute (o.g.), Milan’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the 20th minute, Barcelona’s Lionel Messi in the 31st minute, Milan’s Kevin Prince Boateng in the 54th minute, and a goal from Barcelona’s Xavi in the 63rd minute. Those who bet on Champions League winner should bear this in mind.

Although the Spanish outfit remained in control for most of the match, the Italian’s certainly had their chances. This article must come down to the question – Who will succeed to the latest stage of the European Cup out of group winners Barcelona and the qualified AC Milan? – My thoughts are that Barcelona are the most likely to win the prestigious tournament.

Their eclectic team includes some of the best players in the world and will cause difficulties for any up and coming opposition. AC Milan are another potential candidate for claiming the most prestigious title; although the most likely outcome for the Italian side would be a place in the Semi-Final.

Ivory Coast favourite for ACN

2011-11-28T09:10:00.001-05:00

Ivory Coast are the heavy favourites going into the African Cup of Nations in 2012 in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea next year.

The Elephants will be able to call upon on the service of a number of high profile European players such as the Toure brothers, Salomon Kalou, Gervinho and Didier Drogba.

It was a disappointing World Cup campaign for Ivory Coast in South Africa last year. They finished third in their group behind Brazil and Portugal despite only losing one game in the competition. Those following the latest African Cup of Nations betting should remember this.

Their record in the African Cup of Nations is fairly moderate; as they have won the tournament just once and that came in 1992. They were runners-up though in 2006 when they were defeated in the final by Egypt.

In 2010 the Elephants were beaten in the quarter-finals by Algeria 3-2 after extra-time in a memorable encounter.

Ghana are likely to be fancied by many going in the tournament this year. Asamoah Gyan has been the star of African football in the past 12 months and will be expected to be one of the leading goal scorers at the competition.

Household names such as Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari and John Mensah will all make up their squad alongside some exciting home-based players that Serbian coach Goran Stevanovic is expected name next month.
Tunisia will be hoping for the same success they had in the African Cup of Nations in 2004 when they won the event. Since then they have had two quarter-final appearances, although they did fail to make it past the group stages last time around. They lost all three of their games against Cameroon, Gabon and Zambia in a disappointing campaign.

Fergie backs Rio ahead of Palace

2011-11-28T06:13:00.000-05:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has backed his experienced centre-back Rio Ferdinand to keep playing an important role at the club head of their Carling Cup clash on Tuesday.

The Premier League title holders take on Crystal Palace at Old Trafford following a tough week for the club, which saw them held to two draws at the Theatre of Dreams.

United had to settle for a point in the Champions League with a 2-2 draw with Benfica, followed by a 1-1 stalemate with Newcastle United on the weekend in controversial circumstances. People placing a Carling Cup bet should remember this.

It was that man Ferdinand in the centre of the attention after his seemingly well timed tackle was given as a penalty for the Magpies, which was then duly slotted home by striker Demba Ba to give the Red Devils just a point on Saturday.

United and Ferdinand will be looking to put that behind them when they host Palace on Tuesday and despite his age, Ferguson believes his defender still has a key role at the club. Those looking at the odds Carling Cup need to bear this in mind.

He said: "Rio's been a great player for us and it's important to explain his present position.

"There's absolutely nothing wrong with that (age), absolutely not. I have no issues at all with Rio, he can play for another couple of years quite easily.

"He's a big figure in our dressing room, so that will continue. I have no thoughts of letting him go."

Palace will be heading to Old Trafford looking to cause another upset to give Ferguson more to think about after a frustrating week for the Scotsman.

Blatter Apologises, but Declines to Step Down

2011-11-21T09:26:00.001-05:00

Earlier this week, FIFA president, Sepp Blatter, caused a stir in the football world, by intimating that racial abuse on the pitch could be fixed in the same way as a foul or a shove; with a simple handshake. Blatter's comments suggested a naivety – or even an outright ignorance to the effects of racism – that prompted calls for his resignation.

The 'race row' currently boiling in football's cauldron concerns a Premier League match at the end of October, in which Chelsea player, John Terry, is alleged to have levelled a racist slur at QPR defender,Anton Ferdinand. Terry denied the allegations, but he admitted to asking Ferdinand if he thought he had been abused, albeit by using racially-sensitive language. Anyone following the best football betting will have been shocked.

In the ensuing weeks, Sepp Blatter, while claiming that he was committed to expunging racism from football, said that there might be "a word or a gesture" that was offensive to minorities, but that racism as a wider issue did not exist in the sport. "I would deny it. There is no racism."

Blatter, who is well known for his gaffes, including his suggestion that women footballers should wear tighter uniforms, was pilloried in the wake of his comments. England midfielder, David Beckham, said that Blatter's opinions were "appalling", and "not very good" for the game as a whole.

Returning to the present; Blatter has responded to calls for his resignation by refusing to step down.

The 75-year-old said that it would be more appropriate for him to face the problem, rather than offloading it to a successor. "I can only say I am sorry for all those people affected by my declarations", Blatter said, noting that he "couldn't envisage" the damage caused by his earlier comments.

Speed: I would not get into this Wales team

2011-11-14T08:17:00.001-05:00

I think it is fair to say that Welsh football is on a high right now. True they are set to spend yet another summer watching a Live Football tournament from afar, but four wins from their past five games suggests manager Gary Speed’s work is bearing fruit and with the side an average age of 24, pointing to a successful long-term future.

Their latest victory – a 4-1 trouncing of Norway – is another sign that Speed has a young a talented nucleus of a side at his disposal and one that can put up a real good fight in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

In Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen there is a creative hub worthy of the biggest stage, so talented in fact that Speed, Wales’ most capped outfield player, thinks he wouldn’t get into the current side.

"I'm serious. I don't think I would have got in that team," said Speed, "All the way through it is quality.”

He isn’t talking just about the young player’s either, 32-year-old Craig Bellamy has had a new lease of life at Liverpool this season and an equally fine revival at international level, contributing to their dramatic upturn in football scores.

A player who often divides many due to his outspoken on-field persona, his quality cannot be denied and his international captain Ramsey is all too aware of that.

"Whenever someone moves to a new club they are going to be excited by that and the season ahead,” said the Arsenal man. “I think he has that spark in him again. He was a threat all game getting down that wing. He is still a massive player for us and we hope to keep him for a long time."

"There is a new buzz playing for Wales," Ramsey added. "I think everyone can see how promising this team looks."

Can Spain win Euro 2012?

2011-11-10T06:25:00.001-05:00

Spain are the bookies' favourite to claim the Euro 2012 title held in Poland and Ukraine but do they deserve to be in this position?

They are undoubtedly the best team in the world and have a respectable history in terms of awards. The Spanish last claimed the European title back in the Euro 2008 where they beat the German powerhouses 1-0 after a goal from the unstoppable Fernando Torres in the 33rd minute. The latest Euro 2012 odds show they are set to do it again.

During the 2008 tournament, held in Switzerland, David Villa – one of Spain's star players – won the Golden Boot award by claiming a total of 4 goals throughout the tournament. The UEFA player of the tournament was given to no other than the awe-inspiring Xavi.

In Spain's last international match versus Scotland, current manager – Vincente del Bosque – fielded a 4-3-3 formation. The man between the sticks was Barcelona's goalkeeper Victor Valdes. Valdes put on a good performance, but I still feel Real Madrid's stopper Iker Casillas as Spain's number one. In right back was Madrid full back Sergio Ramos.

In my eyes, not many players in the Spanish side would be able to match the talents of Ramos in the right back position. Valencia's Jordi Alba adopted the role of left back.

Normally I would prefer Madrid's Alvaro Arbeloa, but as Spain were dominant favourites, del Bosque opted to go for Valencia's youngster. In the centre back roles, Barcelona's Gerard Pique, and Carlos Puyol controlled the first third of the pitch.

Directing the midfield in the centre of the pitch was Xavi, veering towards the right side was Barcelona's Sergio Busquets, and to the left was Malaga's Santi Cazorla. Manchester City's David Silva, Barcelona's Pedro, and David Villa led the Spanish attack.

The result against Scotland ended in a 3-1 victory to the Spanish side with David Silva scoring 2, David Villa scoring 1, and Scotland's David Goodwillie scoring the consolation. With such a strong team, Spain are highly likely to succeed in Euro 2012.

Capello keeps Terry but also eyes youth

2011-11-08T11:55:00.004-05:00

England manager Fabio Capello chose to keep John Terry inhis squad for friendlies against Spain and Sweden but also had one eye on thefuture.

Chelsea skipper Terry is currently the subject of a police investigationof allegedly racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand. Terry strongly deniedthe allegations and Capello insisted he should not be punished for a crime hehasn’t even been convicted of.

"We had a meeting with the FA on Friday," saidCapello. "We spoke to John Terry. I think he is innocent until provedguilty."

Despite Terry’s inclusion Capello has revealed he intends toplay a number of young players against World and European Champions Spain at Wembley on Saturday.

Kyle Walker has been in squad before but is expected to makehis debut, while Daniel Sturridge and Jack Rodwell are called-up for the firsttime.

Chelsea forward Sturridge has been in fine form thiscalendar year, building on a impressive loan spell with Bolton Wanderers beforea carrying a profitable pre-season into matches for the Blues.

He's an interesting player and a player who scoresgoals," said Capello. "I've seen him play right wing, left and centre‑forward. He has improved a lot."

Everton midfielder Rodwell meanwhile has benefitted from playingLive Football regularlyin the Toffees starting line-up and is set to add a senior England cap to hiscollection earned at Under-21 and youth levels.

There is no place for Wayne Rooney, with Capello looking atother options as he prepares to cope without the Manchester United striker forthe first three games of the Euro 2012 campaign thanks to his red card against Montenegrolast month.

Manchester City’s in-form full-back Micah Richards isn’tincluded either. The defender just doesn’t seem to be in favour with Capelloand with have to Watch Football Live on TV like the rest of us. Liverpool defenderGlenn Johnson – never the most convincing at international level - has beencalled-up

instead..

Mancini aware of Villarreal test

2011-11-01T07:36:00.000-05:00

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has warned his players that they will be in for a tough test against Villarreal on Wednesday.

City travel to Spain with their hopes of qualification still intact after Sergio Aguero’s late, late leveller against the same opposition two weeks ago.

However, they have yet to win in the competition this season after drawing at home to Napoli in their opening game and then losing 2-0 away at Bayern Munch – a match remembered more for Carlos Tevez’s apparent refusal to warm-up (or play – depending on your point of view).

The club know that three points in this encounter are vital if they are to defy the football betting and make the knock-out stages in what is their first appearance in this format of the competition.

Villarreal - who finished third last year - are struggling in La Liga this season. Their manager Juan Carlos Garrido is under severe pressure and their star play Guiseppe Rossi out for six months with a knee injury.

The Champions League odds suggest City and their expensively assembled all star line-up will come out on top, but Mancini is not taking anything for granted.

"That goal [Sergio Aguero's late winner] was really important. It is not easy to play against Villarreal,” said the Italian.

"They are a good team, used to playing in the Champions League. Also, when they played against us in Manchester, they did very well.

"Many top teams have played at El Madrigal and had big problems. The supporters are very close to the teams, and Villarreal when they play at home are a strong team."

Gerrard backs Redknapp

2011-10-26T09:57:00.005-05:00

The FA should look no further than Harry Redknapp when it starts the process of finding a successor to Fabio Capello, Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard has suggested.

Italian coach Capello will step down from one of the biggest positions in world football after Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine when his contract expires.

The former Real Madrid coach has overseen an unbeaten Euro 2012 qualifying campaign, with three uninspiring draws - two against Montenegro - the only blemish to an otherwise trouble-free route to next summer's showpiece finals. People looking at the Betfair betting will be wondering how the side will get on.

Now talk has inevitably lead to who will replace the 65-year-old and Anfield hero Gerrard is hoping the FA looks to these shores.

Redknapp leads the betting as the obvious candidate to replace Capello and can count on Gerrard for his vote when the selection progress begins. Fans of Euro 2012 betting will know the Spurs man is among the favourites.

"There are very good English managers out there," Gerrard told Sky Sports News.

"Harry Redknapp's name crops up a lot and he's done an unbelievable job. I don't think he gets the credit he deserves for what he's done at Tottenham.

"There's also maybe two or three other candidates along with Harry."

He added: "I don't see why we should have to look abroad if the English managers are good enough to do it, which I believe they are.

"But, for me, it's always the case of picking the best manager that can bring success for the country."

England will be joined at Euro 2012 by co-hosts Poland and Ukraine as well as holders Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Denmark, France, Greece, Russia and best runners-up Sweden, while the play-offs will involve Turkey, the Republic of Ireland, Estonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Portugal and the Czech Republic.

England need to look at bright side of Rooney ban

2011-10-17T11:08:00.003-05:00

I don’t think anyone can argue that Wayne Rooney acted foolishly when he was sent off for England against Montenegro.

But eyebrows were certainly raised when he was given a three-game ban, ruling him out of the first three live football games of Euro 2012 – the entire group stage. It appears UEFA wanted to make an example of Rooney and England – who aren’t exactly flavour of the month in international football circles at present.

It has left Fabio Capello with a quandary as he now has to re-work a system previously built around the Man United forward and try and come up with a viable solution using the replacements available.

But who is there?

Well Ashley Young and Darren Bent play well alongside Rooney, with the pair finally realising their potential and transferred their club form to the international stage.

Young is versatile enough to switch to Rooney’s position, allowing room for another forward, like his United team-mate Danny Welbeck.

He has progressed significantly over the past 12 months, with his successful loan stint at Sunderland and bright start to the season at Old Trafford.

However, for me, the man who could be England’s saviour is Daniel Sturridge. The 22-year-old hit eight goals in 12 appearances on-loan at Bolton last season and many wondered whether he would return to the Reebok, given the number of senior strikers at Stamford Bridge.

However, Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas resisted the Trotters attempts to lure the striker back up north and his loyalty has been repaid. Sturridge has now hit four goals in his last four games, revealing at the weekend that he has a spot at Euro 2012 in his sights.

For me he has that extra spark and unpredictability that makes him the ideal replacement for Rooney - He can drop deep if necessarily and can create goals as well as score them, just like Rooney. He is even an outside tip in the Top Scorer Betting .

He obviously isn’t as accomplished the former Everton man – yet. But it needs to be pointed out that Rooney hasn’t scored at a major tournament since Euro 2004, so his absence isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

Sometimes in football opportunities are presented through unfortunate circumstance, an injury, a suspension, a manager’s impulse decision.

The emergence of Sturridge – who is expected to make his England debut next month – could make Rooney’s indiscretion in Podgorica a blessing in disguise.

Liverpool’s TV plans given quick rebuff

2011-10-13T05:48:00.000-05:00

It was always a risk for Liverpool to stick their head above the parapet and suggest Premier League clubs should negotiate their own TV rights.

The proposal – like the deal currently used in Spain – would allow Liverpool to try and cash in on their worldwide appeal, rather than coming as part of a complete 20-club package that we have at present.

Well, I suspect the idea will now disappear as quickly as it arrives if the initial reaction is anything to go by. Manchester United (who stand the most to gain from such a deal), Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City have all distanced themselves from the idea.

Wigan – one of the clubs who stand the most to lose – are understandably against the plan, with chairman Dave Whelan labelling it ‘diabolical’.

The thing is though; Liverpool may not actually gain as much as they think if they negotiated their own rights. After all, TV companies would love to divide the Premier League up to try and save cash, rather than pay

for one package, and so that would drive prices down.

You also only have to look at La Liga for evidence of how damaging individual TV rights could be – Barcelona and Real Madrid are now streets ahead of the rest, with many sides in Spain on the brink of administration.

Part of the Premier League’s appeal is the idea that no one can regularly predict the football scores and that anyone can beat anyone – that won’t happen if the financial disparities are allowed to expand still further.

Liverpool’s owners are just trying every avenue possible in order to raise more funds to build a new stadium and therefore improve their premier league odds. I can understand that, but on this occasion I think they have badly mis-judged the mood. And, as has already been pointed out in the media, for a club whose most famous manager preached socialist ‘for the people’ principles, this stance is as capitalist as you can get.

Laudrup steps down

2011-09-28T04:53:00.001-05:00

Michael Laudrup has stepped down as manager of Mallorca after just over a year in charge of the Spanish club.

The Dane has come under pressure recently after a poor string of results at the start of the new Primera La Liga competition, but his side did beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Sunday.

Laudrup's assistant Erik Larsen was dismissed by club owner Lorenzo Serra Ferrer on Monday evening, after Larsen went public with his thoughts on Serra Ferrer. He described him as a "bad person" and stated that he was "unfit to lead the club". Fans of Betfair may have been shocked by the spat.

It took the former Danish international midfielder a matter of hours to hand in his resignation from the club, following the removal of his assistant.

The 47-year-old made the announcement at a press conference on Tuesday morning, in which he stated a breakdown in relationship with the Serra Ferra. Laudrup made it clear that it was now untenable. He can know put his feet up and watch the Betfair Manchester United bowling video.

"This situation cannot continue like this. From now on, Mallorca will be whatever it is Serra Ferrer wants," he said. "Why go now that you've won a game and you're in the middle of the table? I had long been thinking about this, but I could not do it with the team in a bad situation."

Laudrup had criticised the club's transfer policy over the summer in which several of his best players had left the club, including Jonathan de Guzman to La Liga rivals Villareal. He felt that the moves had left in short of forwards this season.

The Balearic Islands club will face Osasuna at the weekend without a coach, following Laudrups's decision.

Hargreaves eyes England return

2011-09-22T06:35:00.004-05:00

Manchester City midfielder Owen Hargreaves has not given up hopes of playing for England, after scoring on his debut at Eastlands in the 2-0 victory over Birmingham in the Carling Cup.

The 30-year old has been plagued with injuries in the last four-years, and his career in the Premier League was in doubt when he was released by Manchester United at the end of the last season, after making just four appearances in the last three years for the club. Those betting online will be wondering if he can get back to his best.

However, he was given a surprise lifeline by the Reds' local rivals City, Roberto Mancini handed the midfielder a one-year contract, after he proved his fitness to their doctor Phillip Batty.

Mancini may be forced to use Hargreaves more in coming months after injuries to several of his midfield stars. The Italian will also lose Yaya Toure to the African Cup of Nations at the start of next year.

Hargreaves had been linked with West Brom, Leicester and Celtic before the move to the Blues. Roy Hodgson had offered him a pay-as-you-play deal, but the opportunity to play City was the chance to continue challenging for the Premier League title, and the added bonus of Champions League football. Fans of Betfair.com will be following his progress.

The former Bayern Munich man has targeted a return to the international set up, in which he has already picked up 42 caps for England. He was voted England's player of the year in 2006, and their best player in the World Cup that year in Germany. However, he has not played for his country since 2008.

Current England manager Fabio Capello hasn't ruled out a return for Hargreaves, if he can continue to prove his fitness and be successful at Manchester City.

England down rankings despite two wins

2011-09-21T08:17:00.000-05:00

The curiosities of the FIFA world ranking system reared its head again this week after the latest edition saw England drop four places from fourth to eighth, despite winning their last two games.

Not that fourth is anywhere near an accurate assessment of where England sit among the world’s footballing elite, but is seems the way teams are ordered is done in an apparently random way, regardless of their recent football scores.

Those who arrange the standings will insist – and seek to prove – it is not. They are worked out using the results over the past four years. However, if you consider England moved up to fourth last August despite not even playing a game – only to drop down again after winning two out of two – you can understand why some people find the rankings a little confusing and therefore dismiss them as a reliable way of judging the best teams in the world.

Elsewhere in the rankings common sense was restored with Spain moving back above Holland into top spot - anyone who goes to watch football live will tell you that they are the best team in the world by a distance at present. The ever reliable Germany are third just ahead of Copa America winners Uruguay.

There was mixed news for the home nations. Wales – who were always unnaturally low - return to the top 100, climbing 27 places to 90th after their Euro 2012 qualifying win over Montenegro, but Northern Ireland fall 11 places to 70th following damaging and disappointing defeats by Estonia and Serbia.

The Republic of Ireland are up two places to 29th after draws with Slovakia and Russia (though I feel they deserve to go higher than that given the importance of the Russia result) while Scotland rise three to 52nd after drawing with the Czech Republic and beating Lithuania.

England back to their old selves

2011-09-07T04:44:00.000-05:00

I never seem to learn from my mistakes when it comes to watching England. With the absence of club football I guess their matches fulfil my fix for the week, which is reflected in the media, who with pages to fill go a little bit England-crazy.

The problem is that the games – usually friendlies but also now competitive matches – prove to be turgid, frustrating let-downs. And so it proved against Wales on Wednesday.

The game was made worse by the fact expectations were raised following Friday’s convincing 3-0 defeat of Bulgaria, though in hindsight it appears they were a lot worse than we thought.

A lot was also made of the two side’s respective FIFA rankings –England 4 and Wales 177. Everyone knew that they were wildly inaccurate but on this display – as well as the football scores from Friday – suggests they are a lot closer together than previously thought.

Part of it I feel was down to Capello’s team selection. His desire to protect Scott Parker from picking up a second yellow card that would rule him out of the Montenegro game meant the Italian recalled Frank Lampard while also brought in James Milner to counter Gareth Bale. The midfield trio of Milner, Lampard and Gareth Barry for me is dull, defensive and uninspiring. Lampard is approaching the end of his international career while Milner and Barry do not have the mobility to drive England forward. The result is the attacking players becoming isolated, none more so than Wayne Rooney who came far too deep to claim the ball – a sure fire sign he is frustrated at the lack of service. Capello should go out and attack teams like Wales, not construct a plan around their one star player, make them worry about England instead.

The Wembley nerves that seem to permeate the team every time they play Live Football in their home Stadium once again grew as the game went on and the match fell into a similar pattern that we saw in qualifying draws against both Switzerland and Montenegro.

In turn Wales grew in confidence and you always thought that they would get once chance – in these sorts of games there is always at least one. Step forward Robert Earnshaw, Wales sub, who blazed over when it was easier to score and deny Wales a deserved draw (there is no way England would have scored again).

So in the end England were grateful for the win that pushed them onto the brink of qualification, they are good enough to grab a draw in Montenegro. However, problems still remain and the same old ‘its results not performances’ excuse can’t be used. Because in the past the problems have never been resolved and masked in the blinding effects of patriotism and mindless optimism when major tournaments come around.

They got away with against Wales; they may not get away with it next time.

Odemwingie still struggling

2011-09-05T05:11:00.000-05:00

West Brom’s top scorer from last season Peter Odemwingie has suffered a setback in his bid to return from a niggling ankle injury, with Roy Hodgson confirming the striker’s return date is yet unknown. The Nigerian first sustained the injury during West Brom’s pre-season, although the striker did come off the bench for 15 minutes against Chelsea.

Last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Stoke came after Odemwingie had been forced to pull out after his ankle problem flared up again during the week. Hodgson revealed the news after seeing his side suffer a controversial last minute defeat to Stoke.

“How serious it is, we don't know. He played last Saturday for 10 minutes against Chelsea, he trained Monday-Tuesday, then we had two days off.”

“When we came back in, the ankle injury was plaguing him again. I'll have to wait and see. But his ankle isn't okay and we will have to wait and see when it will be.”

The 30-year old front-man was the subject of a failed Wigan bid in the summer before committing his future to West Brom by signing an improved three-year deal. Baggies fans will have been desperate to see how Odemwingie and new signing Shane Long played together up front but will now have to wait. Getting the problem fixed now though will give the speedy Nigerian the best chance of making another huge impact on the Premier League betting this season.

Odemwingie’s first season at the Hawthorns went better than anybody could have expected, the striker finishing with 15 goals to his name and began the campaign a outside tip in the Premiership top scorer betting stakes. This season will be a different story though and opposing defenders will be well aware of just what the nippy goal-poacher is capable of if given a yard a space. West Brom fans will believe their man has the ability to be as effective this season as he was the last.

Welbeck hit by hamstring blow

2011-09-01T11:44:00.001-05:00

While it’s fair to say Sir Alex Ferguson will have been a tad chuffed by Sunday’s 8-2 spanking of Arsenal, it did come at a price for the Manchester United manager following the news that Danny Welbeck suffered a hamstring injury. The striker had earlier scored his second goal of the season and the first of his side’s eight in this memorable match. The youngster will now be out of action for between four of five weeks, ruling him out of England’s Under-21’s upcoming matches against Azerbaijan and Israel and the senior sides’ games with Bulgaria and Wales.

Sir Alex revealed the news of Welbeck’s injury, confirming the striker had been due to substituted before sustaining the problem.

“Danny complained of a tight hamstring before he actually pulled it and we couldn't get Javier Hernandez on quick enough.”

“It is a shame for Danny but it [his absence] will be around four to five weeks.”

Welbeck will be desperately disappointed to have picked up the problem after such an impressive start to the season.Those who want to bet on the top scorer will also need to re-consider looking at the youngsters chances. United had received plenty of offers to take Welbeck on loan this season – following the youngster’s successful spell with Sunderland last season – but Ferguson was keen to begin blending the striker into the senior squad.

The 20-year old has proved his manager’s decision was right though and two goals in two league matches this season show just why Welbeck is so highly thought of amongst the United coaching staff. The speedy front-man has the ability to play as either an out and out striker as well as playing on either flank if needed and that versatility will make him a valuable asset to United this season. Welbeck will be hoping to pick up from where he left off when he returns to live football give Ferguson a real selection headache

Cesc departure could mean Fab time for Jack

2011-08-16T06:51:00.001-05:00

I think it is fair to say that Arsenal fans are feeling a little frustrated and worried at the moment.
With the Gunners exit door proving much busier than the entrance, they fear their side is slowly being dismantled with no readymade replacements coming in.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is not one to listen to the calls of fans or journalists – in fact it makes him more determined to follow his own path, namely the development of young players rather than paying over the odds for more established stars, adding to the fans frustrations.

The departure of captain Cesc Fabregas is perhaps the most painful of all the players to leave the club this summer. The Spaniard is one of the club’s most talented ever players and a real crowd favourite, as well as being the hub of his team. It is an undoubted blow for Arsenal to see him in a Barca shirt. Those who bet on the Premier League will notice they have slipped down the rankings this season.

However, while the door has closed on Fabregas’ Arsenal career the door could open still further for Jack Wilshere.

The talented midfielder became a regular in the first team last season, as well as earning his first caps for England.

He is widely tipped by many – including Fabregas – to become a future captain of his country and therefore a key player for Arsenal.

With their captain gone and Samir Nasri also expected to leave there will be greater pressure on Wilshire to try and carry Arsenal’s creative burden.

However, from what we have seen so far of the 19-year-old he looks well capable of filling Fabregas’ shoes. The football betting also suggests he is a ready made replacement.

He has a steady temperament, a good touch, excellent vision and creativity – all the attributes required for a successful attacking midfielder.

Cesc may have gone but a good season for young Jack and the fans may soon forget about the Spaniard.

Transfer window builds to frantic finish

2011-08-05T08:28:00.003-05:00

On the face of it it would sound churlish to suggest this summer's transfer window has been quiet so far, with nearly £200million spent. But with a number of big money deals rumbling on and other sides sitting on their hands, I get the impression transfer deadline day could be the most frantic of all time.

After all it would only take one big deal to kick things off, as the selling club then goes shopping with their new found wealth. Only then, after all the drama has finished, will we get a true sense of where each club lies and the soccer betting will become clear.

Should Chelsea finally buy Luka Modric then Spurs will have £35million burning a hole in their pocket – and we all know Harry Redknapp loves to shop!

Should Cesc Fabregas finally (finally!) make the move to Barcelona then even Arsene Wenger might be forced to spend money.

Everton boss David Moyes has had his hands tied in the transfer market this summer, but should he decide to sell one of his top stars all of a sudden the Scot would be plunged into the thick of the transfer market.

Managers, CEOs and chairman appear to be holding back – both buying and selling – in order to get the best deal for their side. But when the clock begins ticking on deadline day offers will be increased, asking prices will be dropped and demands will be met, sparking a manic last minute rush to beat the deadline.

For fans and TV companies this is great stuff, internet forums, rumour websites and Twitter feeds go into melt down as players, agents and executives are randomly spotted across the country (and beyond). It is often more exciting than going to watch live football itself.

Is it good for football? Personally I don't think it is, both in a financial sense and for allowing managers to prepare their squad for a new season.

But despite that I admit I will be there with the best of them, tuning into Jim White's increasingly crimson face and screeching voice, manually refreshing internet forums and desperately awaiting tweets as fans of every club dreams for that big last minute buy just before the window slams (it always has to slam doesn't it) shut for four long months.

Curing the penalty blues

2011-07-13T07:39:00.001-05:00

It is a familiar summer scenario. England, in a major international tournament knockout match, are out-passed and out-classed by an illustrious opponent after qualifying with patchy group stage performances. An at-times heroic defensive display is not enough to clinch victory, with defeat being inflicted on penalties after a tense period of extra time.

In truth this painful outcome that England's women experienced at the World Cup last week would have looked upon by their male counterparts with a degree of jealousy. The dismal performances at last year's World Cup and failure to qualify for Euro 2008 makes Fabio Capello's men yearn for the good old days of heroic penalty disappointment.

Penalty defeats are nonetheless a recurring scenario and whilst looking at the reasons for this shortcoming should not be a priority – England were second-best to France and never looked like tournament winners – this peculiarly English phenomenon is a big issue. Those looking at the football online betting wouldn't have been surprised by the way things went.

English penalty problems have been given special resonance after coach Hope Powell's 'cowardice' comments. These were unsurprisingly poorly received by the players, but the long-serving boss makes an important point.

Having so few genuine volunteers in such a situation is alarming. It is of course not ideal to force unwilling players to taking spot-kicks, but it is only slightly less preferable to having semi-willing volunteers who do not possess the necessary technical attributes.

But this asks another question – are strikers really better-suited to spot-kicks? Beating a stationary keeper with a dead ball is a different skill to being accurate with an instinctive shot past a moving target. Midfielders and defenders are more used to being accurate with build-up play passes and might in fact be more comfortable from 12 yards.

Knockout stage penalties are supposedly missed due to psychological weakness rather than technical shortcomings. Wanting to take one is only part of the picture. Confidence can be misplaced and perhaps the best tactic is to identify the most accurate takers in training and drill them repeatedly in low-pressure situations to help overcome the nerves that take hold when the pressure is on.

Are England better than Brazil?

2011-06-30T05:13:00.000-05:00

FIFA have released their latest world rankings which sees England jump from sixth to fourth, over such giants as Brazil and Argentina. After a disappointing World Cup in South Africa, England have not impressed many in their Euro 2012 qualification campaign, despite leading Group G on goal difference. Both of these rankings flatter an England team that have struggled to live up to their potential. England have only lost once since the World Cup to a French team that are recovering from an embarrassing tournament but have also failed to beat Switzerland, Ghana and Montenegro. Those following the Premier League promotions will know there seems to be a lack of quality in the English game right now.

Qualification for Euro 2012 is far from in the bag, a fact all England fans know when remembering back to Steve McClaren's failure to guide England to Euro 2008, leaving an entire country to watch on and pick another team to support. Those who bet on Premier League action will want the national team to pick up their standards.

Elsewhere, Argentina and Brazil both drop more than 280 ranking points as European teams climb around them due to the South American teams not having to qualify for a competition since the World Cup, only playing friendlies. Expect this to change in July as both teams will be participating in the Copa America, hosted by Argentina.

Both Argentina and Brazil will be looking to make up for an unsatisfactory World Cup which saw them both crash out in the quarter-finals to eventual finalists Spain and the Netherlands who are sitting pretty atop FIFA's world rankings.

Pearce to stay as Under-21 boss

2011-06-21T07:28:00.001-05:00

England under-21 boss Stuart Pearce says he will stay on in the role despite his side's disappointing showing at the European Championships in Denmark.

Two late goals from the Czech Republic meant Pearce's young side crashed out in only the group stages of the competition despite both players and management insisting they believed they had the ability within the squad to win the competition.

Pearce's was recently offered a new two-year contract by the FA with them insisting the former Manchester City boss would not be sacked whatever the outcome of the tournament. Those following the free sports betting may be a little surprised by this.

Pearce has been heavily criticised for both his team selection and his tactics throughout the competition which the Three Lions arrived at as number one seeds but produced three disappointing performances, scoring only once. The sports betting tips suggested they would do much better.

Many have laid the blame squarely at the manager's feet after he continued to stick with skipper Michael Mancienne, a natural centre-half as a holding midfielder as well as striker Daniel Sturridge who after a superb second half of the season playing up-front for Bolton, was continuously employed a right winger.

Pearce has now held the job for four years and despite helping to develop players such as James Milner, Joe Hart and Adam Johnson, now all regulars in the senior side, many believe it could be time for him to move on.

However, he is the favourite to lead a combined Great Britain side at the Olympics as the side must be made up of mainly under-23 players and it is likely this will be the case although nothing has been confirmed.
"It's not been ratified" Pearce told reporters. "Whoever the manager is, he will have some players from the age group".

England's young lions continue to toil

2011-06-17T05:22:00.001-05:00

I have seen some poor matches in my time, but Wednesday's England Under-21 European Championship clash with Ukraine is definitely up there in the 'depressingly dreadful' stakes.

It certainly won't stem the flow of negative headlines that spilled from the back-pages following their opening game draw with Spain on Sunday.

Part of that criticism was probably extra words spilling over from reports on the senior team, who following last year's disastrous World Cup have been the staple diet of critical journalist's overworked keywords.

The main thrust of the negativity centred round the English player's lack of technical ability compared to their continental rivals, something that mirrored itself in the Spain game. Fearing another overhyped, overrated 'golden generation' the young side woke up to similar headlines on Sunday morning. Those looking at the Premier League betting will wonder if these players can really make an impact.

Manager Stuart Pearce was fierce in his defence of his players following the game on Sunday, despite the youngsters receiving a lesson in how to keep hold of the ball, and perhaps hoped a performance against Ukraine would prove those doubters wrong.

Instead, against a hard working but limited Ukraine side this collection of English prospects – some of whom have commanded gigantic transfer fees – looked clueless in their attempts to break their opponents down.

Quite what Kenny Dalglish saw in Jordan Henderson to fork out £16million on him is beyond me. Neat and tidy yes, but he lacked any drive or creativity, consistently giving away possession and was seemingly afraid of trying to take players on.

He wasn't alone though, players like Jack Rodwell and Danny Welbeck failed to live up to their apparently now over-inflated reputations while Pearce also needs to be questioned for his reason behind a 4-3-3 formation that included a defender – Michael Mancienne – in midfield and a front three completely isolated. The Premier League best odds suggest these players aren't ready for the big time.

Even his substitutions, including bringing on defensive midfielder Fabrice Muamba for the final five minutes, were puzzling.

They now face a do-or-die match against the Czech Republic, the sort of get-out-of-jail match the senior team are used to.

But given the hype and disproportionate praise we have heaped on previous generations, lowered expectations may actually be a good thing.

Who should Capello be selecting?

2011-06-13T09:09:00.001-05:00

Building for the future and immediate success are the balancing acts that team selectors need to manage. The Australian cricket tem selectors are under fire for looking too far ahead, which is something Fabio Capello, virtually guaranteed to leave his post as England manager next year, need not do.

Capello is under pressure to deliver success in the short term and his team's abject failure at last year's World Cup will further prevent him from blooding youngsters for the benefit of his successor. It is not cynical to suggest the Italian on a £6m per year salary does not have the future of English football at the top of his list of priorities.

To this end, who should he be picking to ensure qualification for the 2012 European Championships? The first-choice defence is settled, with Joe Hart virtually unchallenged as goalkeeper and John Terry, Rio Ferdinand and Ashley Cole hard to argue with as the mainstays of the defence. Those placing a football bet are aware of this.

In reality none of the above should be guaranteed their place. Michael Dawson, Gary Cahill and Phil Jagielka are younger, faster and more athletic versions of Terry, whose famed leadership skills and top level experience perhaps mask a divisive nature and arrogance that does more harm than good. Leighton Baines and Kieran Gibbs are serious alternatives to Cole at left back.

Critics of Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard claim their club level reputations are enhanced by the quality of their club mates and it is becoming hard to argue against this. Joey Barton was right to highlight the displays of imaginary saviour Gareth Barry at the World Cup. Jack Wilshere, Michael Carrick and Tom Huddlestone need to be given as much chance as the older guard to cement their places. Jordan Henderson and Matt Jarvis need to do more at club level to earn regular selection.

Theo Walcott and James Milner have not progressed after impressive breakthroughs but should be persevered with. Darren Bent must be considered first choice striker, as Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe need to deliver for their club as they have on occasion for England. Andy Carroll should be closely monitored.

Picking over the relegated carcasses

2011-05-23T10:26:00.001-05:00

By their very nature relegated teams are not overloaded with talent worthy of the Premier League. That is not to say that West Ham United, Blackpool and Birmingham City do not have players who will attract interest from top flight clubs. Some players are already the subject of approaches.

West Ham have a core of English players who, whilst generally have been disappointing this season, will be attractive due to their Premier League experience and native nationality. Scott Parker would be a decent addition to any Premier League squad, but Carlton Cole, Robert Green, Mark Noble and the out-of-contract Matthew Upson would do a job for most mid-table outfits. Those following the Premier League odds wouldn't be surprised to see these players in the top flight again next season.

The Upton Park hierarchy will want to retain the younger brigade to rebuild around, but Jack Collison, back to action after an injury nightmare, Freddie Sears, James Tomkins, Zavon Hines and Jordan Spence will surely have their head turns by top flight interest.

Charlie Adam is already packing his bags for a big move, but there are bargains to be had elsewhere in the Blackpool squad. DJ Campbell was the second highest Premier League scorer and can expect a bid, whilst journeymen such as Keith Southern, Ian Evatt and Alex Baptiste have proved themselves in the top flight relatively late in their careers.

Birmingham were the division's lowest scorers, so their strikers and creative players will not be under consideration and in fact the biggest target on their books might be an injured player. Scott Dann has been missing since January, breaking up his central defensive partnership with Roger Johnson, a big factor in the Blues' slide. Both men, along with the consistent Ben Foster and Craig Gardner will be on plenty of radars.

Chelsea already planning for next title hunt

2011-05-10T08:46:00.000-05:00

John Terry has issued a warning to Manchester United by stating that Chelsea are now focussed and determined on winning back their Premier League title next season.

The Blues captain saw his side effectively hand the title to United when they lost at Old Trafford at the weekend, meaning the Red Devils are six points clear with two games to go and need only one point to be crowned Premier League champions.

Chelsea endured a roller coaster of a campaign; they started off firing on all cylinders and looked like they would defend their Premier League title with ease.

Over the new year period they then slumped and went on the club's worst run for 15 years which put them 15 points behind United at one stage in the title race and the Premier League betting suggested they could struggle to make the top three.

Terry claims Chelsea need to be applauded for recovering from that position to put themselves in title contention for so long, but it was that slump that turned out to be "vital" in them handing their title to United.

But the England skipper reckons United should not get too attached to the trophy and it will not be long until Chelsea win the Premier League title again.

Speaking about losing, he stated: "It does hurt when you do it, and it drives you on as well.

"You get a focus for next year and we will be aiming to take it off them."

Newspapers reports have not begun speculating about the future at Chelsea and who they could sign to bolster their title bid for next season and those looking at the Premier League best odds need to bear this in mind.

The likes of Kaka and Javier Pastore have been linked with Stamford Bridge, but it remains to be seen who will be in charge as there is some speculation Carlo Ancelotti could leave the club.

English absence raises questions about second tier of top English clubs

2011-04-11T07:35:00.000-05:00

Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester United can say (up to a point at least) that they have done the Premier League really proud this season, with all those clubs at one stage or another putting on a fantastic show and thoroughly entertaining in the Champions League. However, in the Europa League, the same surely cannot be said of the English sides that have taken part this season. Indeed, it could be seen as a worrying mirror for the England international side's recent failures.

With both Liverpool and Manchester City falling at a stage that can accurately be described as downright disappointing and actually quite humiliating for two clubs that stood great chances of winning the whole competition, and with the other English contenders barely able to make the slightest impression on the competition, the strength in depth down in the second tier of the Premier League must surely be questioned, or at the very least these sides' commitment to the competition must be and anyone looking at the best European football betting will realise this.

This somewhat negative outlook aside, it would seem that it is the latter option (a lack of interest and a true lack of motivation to compete) that means the top sides are now no longer too bothered about competing in a competition that brings little financial reward to the top sides and offers little to no interest to top players who have no want or desire to play a part in the competition, when the only natural place for the top players to be in Europe is the Champions League.

Until UEFA decide to take the Europa League seriously with another change in format, the top clubs in England are not going to offer it a decent level of respect any time soon.

Better late than never for Scott Parker

2011-03-28T08:08:00.000-05:00

Wales were so abysmally poor on Saturday it is hard to give too much praise to England but considering so many are quick to criticise when they lose they perhaps deserve positive word when they win.

For Capello he finally seems to be picking a formation that suits his players. Gone is the 4-4-2 and in comes a fluid 4-3-3 formation that suits the roving tendencies of Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young. In midfield Frank Lampard, not before time, plays in an attacking role he is comfortable with while Jack Wilshire – who was more defensive minded in his last England appearance – looked a better player in a more advanced role.

But it was Scott Parker who caught my eye. The West Ham midfielder is a talisman for his club and has been putting in consistently excellent displays for years, as anyone who has bet on Premier League action will know.

But whether it is because he plays for an 'unfashionable' club I don't know, but England managers have been reluctant to give him a run in the side, a move that has baffled those looking to bet on Premier League winner.

Instead the endless, tedious Gerrard/Lampard combination is forced upon us even though we know it will never work. Gareth Barry then briefly stepped into the breach, providing a barrier in front of the back four that allowed others to attack. But his decline has been stark, in fact he appears half the player, especially at international level, since signing for Manchester City and his dreadful World Cup (he wasn't alone) confirmed my thoughts that he just isn't up to international football anymore.

So I was delighted for Parker to finally be rewarded for his patience. His commitment to the cause is well known but his tenacity and measured defiance in front of the defence gave the platform for Rooney et al to wreak havoc at the other end.

I seriously hope Fabio Capello doesn't revert to the Gerrard/Lampard combo upon the Liverpool man's return. The past two games against Denmark and Wales suggest he has found a system that works, but only with the right players. Now he seems to have found them it a disaster if he went back now.

Bale injury a blessing in disguise?

2011-03-24T07:26:00.000-05:00

Here in England, even the neutrals seem to have a quiet affection for young Gareth Bale, a man who seems to have emerged from nowhere to become one of the best players on the planet. So talented is the Spurs man that even Arsenal fans have had no choice but to send plaudits his way, watching him rip apart the best teams in Europe and become a prime transfer target for the continent's elite and the football rumours reflect this.

It is, therefore, tempting to forget that Bale isn't actually English. A darling of the Premier League he may well be, but this is a man who represents a side fighting against England for Euro 2012 qualification. With England taking on Wales this weekend in Cardiff in a crucial group match, Bale is now set to miss the clash through injury. No doubt the player himself is upset at this but could it be that missing the game has saved him from adopting a slightly different place in the hearts of us England and Premier League fans?

With Bale stating earlier this week that the Welsh team are "quietly confident" as they prepare for the game, and with the Welsh players well aware of the need to secure a result after finding themselves bottom of Group G, the 21-year-old clearly believes that the England team could be in for a shock this weekend when the game comes around even if the international football betting suggests otherwise. The Spurs man was light-hearted in his descriptions of the banter that has become the norm over the past month or so between him and the English contingency at Spurs but those England fans still desperate for their side to continue their post-World Cup recovery without any unexpected interruptions may not have been quite so forgiving if the Welsh star had been the driving force in a home victory at Cardiff.

With England distracted by the captaincy issue rearing its ugly head again, it could be that Wales do take full advantage of their raucous home support and cause a group upset that threatens to derail England's hopes of making Euro 2012 their opportunity to prove they can taste success under Fabio Capello. Bale, though, through his forced non-involvement will still occupy a special place in the hearts of Premier League fans, at least for now.

Will Wenger finally lose the fans if he fails again?

2011-03-15T09:48:00.001-05:00

Few managers are able to get away with defeats in crucial games as well as making the same high-profile mistakes time and time again, but Arsenal fans seem to forgive Arsene Wenger no matter what he does or how he does it, a fact that often leads to rival fans scratching their heads at the manner in which the club's loyal fans appear to tolerate such failure despite the stature of the club and its place in English football.

With the Gunners chairman Peter Hill-Wood a man who clearly has nothing but reverence for Wenger, and the rest of the board seemingly terrified at the prospect of being responsible for firing a man who has brought the club glory in the past as well as a worldwide following, it appears that only a sustained and vocal lack of support for Wenger from the fans would lead to any real chance of him being dislodged. It would be a shocking piece of football news if he did go.

However, with fans of Arsenal obviously desperate to see the club achieve the success that has been promised over the past five or six years, they have so far publically done everything they possibly can to stay firmly behind their manager, despite the fact that in private many Gunners fans are wondering whether their manager will ever learn from his own mistakes and start to copy the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United by spending money on players who can benefit the club in the future, but also improve the squad significantly in the short term and although the football rumours link Arsenal to big names, they never seem to buy them.

As well as this, Arsenal fans are beginning to wonder whether or not their manager really believes in his side after so much failure, or if he is now just using the club as a means to pick up a final paycheck as he looks to end his career in England. With the club needing a trophy soon if it doesn't want to risk losing its status as a big club in the global context of football, Wenger either needs to deliver or else leave the club.

Finding the domestic and overseas balance

2011-03-04T09:33:00.001-05:00

After watching the talent on display between Manchester United and Chelsea this week , I noticed that only Seven English players featured at the Stamford Bridge out of a total of 28, with only two of those came in under the age of 29.

As a football nation, we are proud of being able to boast about having the greatest league in the world with the world's greatest players providing the entertainment.

However, despite the talent we love so much, it is a great shame on the international front that English players in the Premier League are certainly a minority.

Despite turning our concern to the lack of home grown talent being present in the Premier League after every England failure in a major tournament, the excitement of the league quickly clouds over the serious matter of developing young English players and goalwire live score fans should remember this.

The issue has been attempted to be met head on this season however, as the FA implemented the home grown quota at the start of the campaign where clubs have to name at least 8 home grown players in their squad of 25.

This is a great idea to urge Premier League clubs to nurture home grown talent, although the defining of home grown players as being registered for at least three seasons at an English or Welsh club between the ages of 16 and 21 whether you are indeed English or foreign – is a clear contradiction of what the quota suggests It is aiming to do and those who follow the latest football scores will realise this.
This doesn't at all prevent clubs from going overseas to nurture talent and it is difficult to see how so the quota will increase the number of English players in the Premier League and in turn an improved national team.

As a football fan proud of our fascinating elite league, I am also desperate for some International success. I fear as football and the premier league continues to develop as a business, driven by money and profits, the FA will find it difficult to implement a system which will balance both.

The Premier League's international star performers

2011-02-11T09:52:00.002-05:00

England fans are a bunch of supporters who don't turn their noses up at friendly victories over apparently lesser sides in world football such as Denmark. After all, we can't really afford to do that after the general misery and frustration, not to mention lack of success, of the past four years or so. However, last night's win over Denmark really was bordering on the impressive for a number of Premier League stars who furthered their case for consistent inclusion in boss Fabio Capello's plans.

Jack Wilshere is perhaps the most obvious example of this. A man whom the England camp were warned by none other than Mr Confident himself, Nicklas Bendtner, to protect rather than thrust straight into action, the young Gunner looked accomplished in a midfield he was tasked to act as a protective shield for.

Some Arsenal fans may have worried that, denied of the free role to join up with attacks, Wilshere's performance would go unnoticed by the England boss, but it was this very fact that made his performance so strong; we did notice him and his tackles brought more applause from the crowd than some of England's play up front. Of course the international football betting suggested England would win, but it was still nice to see a youngster doing well.

Ashley Young looked more confident in an England shirt than he ever has done before, playing in a more advanced role than usual, just as he has been doing for Villa this season. His goal was the icing on a pretty tasty cake from his point of view, and he's another decent option for Capello to bear in mind and it's something that would no doubt be covered in the latest Andy Gray podcast.

Darren Bent grabbed a goal that, although not exactly the best he'll ever score, will provide him with further confidence when lining up for the national side in the future, whilst a hardworking performance from James Milner may give Roberto Mancini pause for thought when he considers his starting eleven for the weekend's clash against title rivals Manchester United.

England aren't the finished product just yet, that's for sure, but the signs are certainly encouraging for Capello's wounded unit.

McClaren sacked again, but reputation is rebuilt

2011-02-08T08:17:00.001-05:00

The very fact Steve McClaren is already being tipped for vacant positions in English football shows you how his stock has risen despite being sacked as Wolfsburg boss this week.

Rewind three-and-half-years and that fateful, soggy November night at Wembley, McClaren – the wally with the brolly – was dismissed as England boss with his reputation in tatters.

Chairman and boards across the country dared not appoint him - even if they recognised his talents - given the derision and vitriolic abuse he received from fans and press alike. It took a long time for England fans to forget the livescore from the game against Croatia.

So, credit to the former Middlesbrough boss he picked himself up and went across to Holland where he rebuilt his shattered reputation with FC Twente - how we could do with other players and coaches trying their luck abroad.

This culminated in the Dutch title, the first Englishman to guide a Dutch team to a national title since Bobby Robson in 1992 and Twente's first title since 1974.

His reward was the job at Wolfsburg, who won the Bundesliga title in 2009. The German league though has made a habit of swapping Champions in recent years (in stark contrast to the Man United/Chelsea/Arsenal triumvirate in the Premier League) so their 2009 title was no guarantee of future success and livescore football fans should remember this.

And so it has proved with their season going from bad to worse. After just five victories in 21 games McClaren leaves with the club just a point above the relegation places.

A return to England looks likely, but the very fact that is considered an option is testament to the rebuilding job undertaken in Holland.

I wouldn't expect him to go near a brolly anytime soon though.

Home Internationals unlikely to be regular fixture

2011-01-31T04:46:00.000-05:00

The FA has suggested it is unlikely to resurrect the Home Nations tournament on a permanent basis, instead looking to reinstate the tournament to celebrate its 150th birthday.

New sponsors Vauxhall are said to be eager to have the competition on a yearly basis but the FA have now moved quash any speculation surrounding the tournament.

General Secretary Alex Horne says the governing body is still in talks with the Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish FA’s about hosting the tournament in 2013 to celebrate the FA’s landmark anniversary. He said: “We’re talking to the home nations about a possible one-off round of matches with them.”

"I think we’d be talking about a series of one-off matches in 2013 to mark our 150th anniversary (rather than a regular tournament). He added.

The Home Nations was a regular fixture in the international until 1984, where a combination of falling attendances, crowd trouble and the emergence of the World Cup and European Championships put paid to the tournament.

A smaller 4 Nations tournament has been organised between every Home Nation country and the Republic of Ireland except for England in 2011, to be hosted in Dublin. The existence of this tournament is not said to be a threat to any future Home Nation’s tournament.

Vauxhall are now hoping to tie up sponsor deals with the remaining Home Nation sides to ensure the completion goes ahead on a regular basis. Both the Scottish and Welsh governing bodies have expressed an interest in reviving the tournament and football bets will be placed in favour of a return of the once popular competition by fans.

England boss Fabio Capello has also hinted he would welcome the return of the tournament and football betting would likely see his side installed as favourites were the tournament to go ahead.

Sunderland welcome back key players

2011-01-12T06:41:00.000-05:00

Sunderland have been handed a major boost ahead of their massive north-east derby at the weekend, with the news that three key players could return to action in time to face Newcastle. Nedum Onuoha, Danny Welbeck and club captain Lee Cattermole could all be named in a Sunderland side desperate to gain some pride back after their 5-1 at the hands of their arch-rivals spanking earlier in the season, something the football betting suggests they have every chance of doing.

Steve Bruce will be desperate to go into the match with all guns blazing and the return of the trio will certainly give the squad a boost. "Onuoha, Cattermole and Welbeck might be in the equation, but we'll see how things go. It's early in the week right now. I hope we'll have some of our big players back for Sunday's game," he told the club website.

Onuoha has been absent from Sunderland's defence since suffering a hamstring injury in the 2-0 home defeat against Blackpool on December 28th. The 24-year-old has impressed during his time at the Stadium of Light, since arriving on a season loan from Manchester City. Bruce could be exploring the option of trying to organise a permanent deal for the versatile defender.

Cattermole's return will be essential in the midfield battle against Newcastle's Kevin Nolan and Joey Barton. The skipper injured his back in the Blackpool defeat but has returned to training this week. After struggling earlier in the season with his poor discipline on the pitch, Cattermole has matured into a very valuable player for Bruce’s side.

Up front, Bruce will be pleased to see Danny Welbeck able to take his place in attack with Darren Bent. The young striker has been something of a revelation this season, his form keeping record signing Asamoah Gyan restricted to the bench, although the football predictions indicate he could play a part in Sunday's game.
With the Black Cats riding high in the league, Newcastle will need to be very wary of underestimating their rivals. This will surely be a different Sunderland side that was so easily demolished earlier in the season.

Chelsea receive much needed Lampard boost

2010-12-17T11:11:00.001-05:00

Frank Lampard is a man who could rightly be described as cutting a frustrated figure for much of this season, since he's been forced to miss the majority of Chelsea's campaign with a series of injuries that have kept him sitting on the sidelines. For a man who has been a mainstay in the Chelsea starting line-up along with John Terry since the Russian revolution started under owner Roman Abramovich, this season hasn't been an easy one for the prolific midfielder so far, but neither has it been simple and smooth sailing for the Blues.

With Chelsea's form sliding dramatically since their early season exploits, more than a few sighs of relief could be heard today around Stamford Bridge when it emerged that the midfielder will be fit to start Sunday's game at home against Manchester United.

Those looking at the betfair free bet code report that the news came after Lampard followed up a quiet cameo against Spurs at the weekend with a 60-minute practice game at the club's training ground. Carlo Ancelotti and the Chelsea fitness staff will monitor Lampard's fitness closely over the next 48 hours to ensure no ill effects result from today's match but, if all goes as expected, the midfielder will come into the first eleven to provide some attacking thrust and leadership to a Chelsea midfield that has been lacking both at times this season.

United are three points in front of Chelsea with a game in hand, so the importance of winning this crucial fixture is clear for all Blues fans, who must also watch their team take on Arsenal away before the year is out.

If Lampard can inspire the Blues to victory this weekend with a goal scoring performance, then those looking to place a free sports bet this weekend believe it may yet be a Happy Christmas for Ancelotti and co.

Durkan Chase set for Fairyhouse Wednesday card

2010-12-14T10:09:00.000-05:00

Irish racing fans starved of National Hunt racing in the main for the last two weeks due to the persistent freezing weather, received bad news and good news on Monday with the abandonment (again) of the Punchestown fixture that was scheduled to stage the Grade 1 John Durkan Memorial Chase, writes Elliot Slater.

That, of course, was the bad news. The good news, is that the four-time re-arranged Fairyhouse fixture that is now scheduled to take place on Wednesday, has stepped in to save the race and has agreed to add it to what is already a potentially outstanding card that already includes three other Grade 1 events.

As long as the weather doesn’t take a turn for the worse, those assessing the latest horse racing tips believe that Fairyhouse is set to present an eight-race card that as well as the ‘John Durkan’ will include the Royal Bond Novices’ Hurdle, the Drinmore Novices’ Chase, and the feature Bar One Racing Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, where live Cheltenham Champion Hurdle contenders Solwhit, Hurricane Fly, Donna’s Palm and Voler Le Vadette, take each other on.

Time and again the Fairyhouse card has been planned, abandoned and re-scheduled, and it is testament to the quality of the racing in question that the Irish authorities and the executive at Fairyhouse are determined not to let these key events in the 2010/11 racing calendar be lost without doing everything in their power to save them.

The Drinmore Novices’ Chase is another race sure to add plenty of racegoers to the gate, with the prospect of the high-class Mikael D’Haguenet’s chasing debut worth travelling a long way, (despite the weather), to see. Willie Mullins’ triple Grade 1 winner hasn’t been seen since trouncing Cousin Vinny at the Punchestown Festival in May 2009, but is reported to have schooled well and is a leading Cheltenham Festival fancy.

Wales looking for Speedy resolution

2010-12-10T06:02:00.001-05:00

With the bookmakers slashing the odds of Gary Speed being the next Wales manager from 40-1 down to 2-1, it seems somebody knows something. The rumours are getting stronger that the Welsh FA are about to approach Sheffield United regarding their manager.

Wales have been on the look-out for a new gaffer after John Toshack stood down in September and they are now weighing-up a move for the former midfielder. The 41-year-old has only been a manager since August, when he took over from Kevin Blackwell at Bramall Lane.

In that time the rookie gaffer has had a decent start to his managerial career, winning six of his 17 matches in charge of the Championship side. With Wales struggling in the early stages of their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign, the Welsh FA will be aware that Speed's appointment would be a hit amongst the few fans that actually turn up to watch the national side. During his stellar career, Speed earned 86 caps for Wales and is held in high esteem by the Welsh public. Having said that, whoever they appoint you won't get many people placing football bets on Wales reaching Euro 2012.

The Wales job would be a full-time gig and it would seem unlikely that Sheffield United would be keen on having to look for their third manager of the season. Any move would probably be down to whether Speed thinks he is ready to take the role at the age of 41. The former Leeds, Everton and Newcastle midfielder is remaining calm over the whole situation.

"I've not heard anything - it's nothing, just speculation so I have nothing to say on that," he said.

Speed still isn't the favourite for the job in the football betting, however, former Sweden boss Lars Lagerback still leads the way. The experienced manager took his country to two World Cups during his nine years in charge and most recently Nigeria this summer in South Africa. Largerback certainly has the experience needed to take the job but the Welsh FA know how important it is to start getting the public back on side and that could sway any decision.

Jose steels himself for frosty reception

2010-11-26T05:08:00.001-05:00

Jose Mourinho’s outspoken and often controversial style means he isn’t always universally popular among players, managers and fans.

This is especially evident in Spain at present where his former club, Barcelona, prepare to host his present employers and bitter rivals Real Madrid on Monday. To say it is worth keeping up to date with the latest scores on Monday is an understatement.

Mourinho began his career as a translator at the Catalan club for Bobby Robson and Louis Van Gaal in the mid 90s but quickly developed into a fine coach in his own right.

After winning the Champions League with Porto he went on to enjoy domestic success with Chelsea before winning the Champions League again with Inter Milan last season.

En route to last year’s European success the Italian club knocked Barcelona out of the competition, denying them the chance to win the Champions League on the ground of their bitter rivals Real.

This only increased Mourinho’s unpopularity among the Barca support, who still mockingly refer to him as Tradutor – ‘the translator’ – despite his success as a manager.

Now Mourinho is preparing to heap more misery on his old club by guiding Real to victory in his first Clasico as coach.

The build up to the game – Mourinho aside – is bound to be dominated by the club’s two star players - Cristano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Those studying the Spanish football live scores regularly will tell you that former Man United star Ronaldo is in superb from, hitting 18 goals in as many games to justify his £80million price tag. Messi meanwhile is in even better form, hitting 15 goals in his last nine appearances, with a strike against Panathanaikos in midweek his 150th for the club.

It seems likely one of those star players will be key in deciding whether ‘El Tradutor’s’ return to the Camp Nou is a happy one or frustrating one.

Spartak look for silver lining

2010-11-24T05:46:00.000-05:00

Spartak Moscow will go into their must win Group F match against Marseille this week, on the back of a demoralising 3-1 loss to city rivals CSKA despite leading 1-0 at half-time. The loss was made worse by the fact CSKA played the last 40 minutes with ten men.

Valeri Karpin will need to get his players in the right mindset for what he has described as his team’s “game of the season” at the Luzhniki Stadium. With Chelsea six points clear at the top of the group, the all important second spot is still very much up for grabs.

Champions league betting pundits note that Spartak’s better head-to-head record means any win for the Russians would be enough to progress, while Marseille need to win by more than 1-0 to secure their place.

Spartak were on the end of a resounding 4-1 defeat in their last Group F match, coming at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea, while Marseille thumped Zilina 7-0. The French club are enjoying a decent season domestically, lying fifth in Ligue 1, just two points behind leaders Lille.

The hosts have a number of injury concerns heading into the match, with Alex, Ari and Martin Stranzl all doubtful. Sergei Parshivlyuk is still missing after his knee injury and will be joined on the sidelines by Andrei Ivanov, who is out with a thigh injury. Marseilles are only without Benoit Cheyrou who has a groin injury but otherwise Didier Deschamps is picking from a fit squad.

Even with their injury concerns, the Champions League odds suggest that Spartak should gain enough advantage from being the home side and take the points needed to progress to the next stage.

What does the future hold for Fabio Capello?

2010-11-22T03:59:00.000-05:00

Since the start of the 2010 World Cup, we have watched our national team go from a free scoring, confident outfit; to a nervous, shaky looking team that doesn’t look comfortable in possession and one that isn’t living up to the countries expectations. Why is this?

For me; the finger is pointed firmly at the coach – Fabio Capello. Now, he hasn’t become a bad coach overnight that is for certain. During the start of his tenure we looked an unstoppable outfit; beating arch rivals Germany, thrashing a very good Croatian side, not once but twice and blasting in an incredible 34 goals during the qualification campaign for the 2010 World Cup. Then it all went wrong.

It all seemed to start in the 3 warm up matches before the World Cup. Whilst winning all 3 games, England looked unconvincing on the pitch and it didn’t seem clear if Capello knew what his strongest side was and what tactics to employ. This was confirmed during the World Cup itself, when we struggled through the group stages; finishing 2nd in a group which we really should have dominated. We were then dismantled by a German side who had themselves not looked at there best in Group D, and what was the most promising England side we had had in years was on the plane home.

The biggest mistake we made was extending Capello’s contract before the World Cup had even begun. Since then, he has rested on his laurels and England have started off their Euro 2012 campaign in a nervous manner, albeit still undefeated. But after what can only be described as a disastrous stalemate at home to Montenegro and a disappointing defeat against France on Wednesday I, along with those over at footballboots.co.uk are starting to wonder is Capello really starting to lose the plot?

Take the game against France for example. Yes it was a friendly, so you can forgive the manager for wanting to try out some new faces; but at least choose some players that have the slightest chance of making the squad for the Euro 2012 finals. No disrespect to the likes of Jay Bothroyd & Jordan Henderson, but they just aren’t going to make that squad. When you then look at the likes of Scott Parker and Kevin Davies; two players who weren’t selected for the game against France, but are having sterling seasons for their clubs, you do start to wonder what goes through Capello’s mind.

Culminate the above with Capello’s team selection and the England set up is all wrong. Phil Jagielka was started in an unfamiliar right back role on Wednesday night; one which he doesn’t occupy for Everton and was subsequently given a torrid time by Flourent Malouda. Gareth Barry has been consistently poor for England since the World Cup, yet continues to start game after game, and the two players who looked the most threatening against Montenegro – Ashley Young and Adam Johnson, found themselves on the bench for the France game.

All basic things which Capello is not getting right at the moment, but in the long run will cost us dearly. We may be able to go through the group stages by beating average teams playing average football, but when it comes to a major tournament; with this man in charge we will get found out and the long wait for a major tournament win will continue.

Newcastle forward looking to emulate hero

2010-11-17T07:21:00.001-05:00

Newcastle striker Andy Carroll could follow in the footsteps of his idol at Wembley on Wednesday night when he makes his England debut against France.

It was back in 1992 that a young striker from Gosforth made his England debut against France at Wembley. Alan Shearer started an illustrious international career with a debut goal that day and it saw him become a hero for all lads growing up around Newcastle.

Gateshead-born Carroll has followed in the footsteps of his hero by graduating into the famous Newcastle number nine shirt and will now be looking to copy Shearer's introduction into the England side after being included for the first time by Fabio Capello.

The 21-year-old forward has been in impressive form for Newcastle since their return to their Premier League and Capello recently stated he was impressed by "everything" Carroll did when he scored the winner for his side at the Emirates. The Premier League betting suggested Newcastle could struggle this season, but Carroll's goals have helped fire them up the table.

Despite all the plaudits there have also been questions about Carroll due to his high-profile off-the-field problems, but this is a real opportunity for the powerful striker to make a name for himself at international level and the football betting indicates he has every chance of finding the net tonight.

There is zero chance that Jay Bothroyd will be in the England squad by the time Capello names his squad for the next Euro 2012 qualifying game with Wales come March, but there is a real chance that Carroll could cement himself as a regular England squad member if he impresses on his debut.

If Capello really sees this game as an opportunity to test young players such as Carroll, Jordan Henderson and Keiran Gibbs then it looks good for England going forward.

But this has happened before when he took over, he used younger players then turned to the likes of Jamie Carragher and even Paul Scholes when the more important games came around.

Is he going to do the same this time and discard the youth in favour of more experience if we do qualifying for Euro 2012? The young players are really going to have to impress to ensure there is no chance he cannot keep them in future squads.

Henderson set to become mainstay with England team?

2010-11-16T04:36:00.002-05:00

After the England squad was announced most of the attention focused rights and wrongs of calling up the talented but troubled Andy Carroll.

This meant the merits of Jordan Henderson's call-up to the squad were largely ignored. This is probably because Henderson is one of the genuinely decent guys in English football and one who does all his talking on the pitch for Sunderland, avoiding the off field issues that make the back pages.

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce believes him to be the brightest young prospect in English football right now, and that includes the much hyped Jack Wilshere. Clearly Fabio Capello will be hoping that making the step up to the senior international team doesn't intimidate the man who helped his team upset the football odds and thrash Chelsea in stunning style at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Henderson said that although he'll "give players respect" on the international scene, he wants to "go out and prove to people" what he's capable of. With the England manager keen to blood new talent before the Euro 2012 qualifiers start up again, now could be the perfect time for the player to steal the limelight and fulfil his potential in front of the millions of observing England fans.

Sunderland fans will be hoping that if this does happen, Henderson doesn't end up leaving the club in the near future, as many fear he will. With Manchester City said to be interested in the player, and many players arriving at Eastlands finding themselves eventually surplus to requirement and earning a salary as a bench-warmer, fans of both Sunderland and the future of English football as a whole will be hoping that the 20-year-old midfielder's head isn't turned over the next few months.

Meanwhile, the Leicester betting tips suggest the side's season is back on track.

They had been sitting near the bottom of the table, but a recent run of four games unbeaten has seen them head in the right direction.

Arsenal hold the key to England's future

2010-11-09T05:51:00.002-05:00

Arsene Wenger has been highly criticised over the years for developing overseas players, potentially at the expense of English youth. Despite being remarkably astute with his purchases in the transfer market - buying Thierry Henry, Patrick Viera and Cesc Fabregas - he has both brought through a staggeringly high number of foreign players in comparison to those eligible for England's national side.

But it's not as though his cast-offs, who include Mathew Upson, Richard Wright, Steve Sidwell and David Bentley, have been lost to football. They were overlooked, yes, but then sold on to other clubs where they have been given their chance, and in the vast majority, made at least a slight impact at international level.

However, over the last few years, Wenger has started insisting that his club is now producing plenty of English talent through their academy and now we find ourselves in the position where Wenger's Arsenal look as though they may well be grooming this country's next golden generation in the shape of Jack Wilshere and Kieron Gibbs. The Arsenal betting suggests the pair can help push their club to glory, and they can do the same for England.

Gibbs is just 20 but has already made an appearance in a Champions League semi final. He looks calm under pressure and shows a level of maturity not seen since the emergence of his role model and former Arsenal player Ashley Cole. Cole has gone on to represent his country 85 times, if Gibbs manages even half that total then we owe Wenger at least a nod of appreciation. Meanwhile, Jack Wilshere's development at Arsenal has been incredible, taking even Wenger by surprise. His close ball-control and rasping left-foot have drawn comparisons with former Arsenal legend Liam Brady.

In short, when the current crop of England stars call time on their international careers, it will be a relief to know that players of such ability are waiting in the wings, and if they've been given the Wenger seal of approval, that's one heck of an endorsement.

Meanwhile, the Sunderland betting suggest the club could get one over on Arsenal's North London neighbours Spurs tonight.

Jarvis close to call up

2010-10-29T04:06:00.000-05:00

Fabio Capello could use England's upcoming friendly against France to have a look at Wolves' exciting winger Matt Jarvis. The 24-year-old has caught the eye for Wolves this season and has been tipped by many to earn his first cap. The winger produced a supreme display during his side's narrow Carling Cup loss to Manchester United, prompting the travelling fans to call for their man to play for England.

Wolves' manager Mick McCarthy has made his feelings on the matter quite clear.

"I don't think there are many better wingers around. When the fans chant for him to play for England, they're not far away," he said.

"I sat next to Fabio Capello's assistant Franco Baldini at Stoke on Sunday and he spoke highly of him."

Although there are plenty of pacey, skilful wingers available to Capello, Jarvis offers something the others lack - a good end product. Aaron Lennon and Shaun Wright-Phillips can beat people all day with their incredible speed and trickery, but they lack the final quality ball needed from wide men.

Quality delivery was seriously lacking at the World Cup in the summer. In recent years English wingers have had a tendency to overlook the basics and focus not on crossing but on the amount of step-overs they can perform. As the Betfair specialists point out, someone who can consistently get the ball in the danger areas will always be a valuable member of any squad and especially England.
Jarvis looks to be the full package so far but the former Gillingham youngster has only played one season in England's top flight and will need to keep his level of performance up if he is to fulfil his potential.

Another thing Jarvis will need to avoid is having his head turned by a big club when they inevitably come calling. At 24 Jarvis needs to be playing regularly if he is to reach the top of his game. If Wolves go down, which the Premier League tips suggest they could, then Jarvis would have to move, especially if he was part of the England set-up.

However, he'll need to pick his club wisely if he is to play on a regular basis.

Martinez welcomes old friends

2010-10-26T06:56:00.000-05:00

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez will welcome his old club Swansea to the DW Stadium when his new side Wigan host the Championship club in their Carling Cup fourth round tie this week.

The travelling Swansea fans will be sure to give Martinez a rough time, the Spanish managers move to Wigan was seen as low blow to the club who gave him the chance to cut his managerial teeth.

Those who bet on carling cup matches believe that this is sure to be a close match with both sides experiencing contrasting fortunes in their league campaigns. Wigan are down in 15th in the Premier League after a poor start to the season. The Latics have improved recently though and are unbeaten in four league games, although they’ve only picked up a solitary win during that time.

Swansea have bounced back from the disappointment of narrowly missing out on last year’s play-off, and are riding high in the Championship in third place. Brendan Rodgers has got his players playing a similar attractive passing game that the Swans played under Martinez and has proved an instant hit with the Welsh side’s fans.

They proved their promotion credentials again at the weekend, beating a vastly improved Leicester side 2-0, Scott Sinclair once again demonstrating his exciting potential by scoring his 10th of the season, following on loan Marvin Emnes’s opener.

With Wigan’s defence looking far from formidable this season, something which is bound to affect their odds to win carling cup silverware, Sinclair’s raw pace could prove to be a major deciding factor in this tie.

Wilshere sending off keeps youngster grounded

2010-10-20T05:20:00.001-05:00

Although Arsene Wenger will have been sorely disappointed to see his young star receive a red card for a lunging, reckless tackle in the Gunners' recent game against Birmingham at the Emirates, Fabio Capello may well have been delighted to see Jack Wilshere taught a valuable lesson at club level in the hope that he can avoid getting hot headed during a crucial international match for his country.

The English youngster is one of a handful of young talents widely expected to move on to bigger and better things in the near future but Capello knows that young players badly need to be protected from themselves and also from those seeking to undermine them in the tabloid press. If you needed any proof of this, take a look at the recent reports regarding Andy Carroll, a man who has gone from hero to zero in a matter of days following his court appearance and subsequent reports in the media.

Players such as Arsenal's Kieran Gibbs have been more successful at staying out of the public eye but Stuart Pearce will know that he needs to keep his group of highly talented under-21 players under firm control if they are to fulfil their potential at the top level of international football. Anyone who has placed a football bet on England winning Euro 2012 will hope he can succeed.

Capello is likely to give youth a chance in upcoming international fixtures and the England camp will be desperate, in light of the negative World Cup press, to show the world that it is able to invest in, and look after, young talent, with many foreign commentators believing that the Premier League and English football in general is obsessed with attracting mega-rich individuals capable of buying immediate success.

With players such as Wilshere and Carroll starting to become highly valued regulars at their clubs, the chances for young talent to shine in the Premier League seem to be increasing. Let's just hope England's chances of success continue to increase along with these opportunities.

Meanwhile, the Notts Forrest betting suggests the side could still make a push for promotion.

They club got off to a slow start, but has now started to turn things around.

Gargano dismisses Liverpool's Euro chances

2010-10-18T04:01:00.000-05:00

Walter Gargano, midfielder for Italian side Napoli, has revealed that he is not in the slightest bit scared of Liverpool ahead of the game between the two sides next Thursday in the Europa League.

Rewind a couple of years and the thought of a second rate team from elsewhere in Europe dismissing Liverpool in such a manner would be unthinkable; this is, after all, a side that won the Champions League not so many years ago and had serious Premier League title ambitions a couple of seasons back. Now, though, the controversial attitude of Gargano is in fact entirely understandable.

Those who bet on UEFA Europa League note that the days in which Liverpool were a European powerhouse to be feared far and wide in European competition seem like ancient history, with the Reds currently occupying an unwanted spot in the Premier League relegation zone and preparing amid off the pitch instability for a crucial derby against rivals Everton on Sunday.

A defeat in that fixture, even a narrow one, would provide the worst kind of preparation for Liverpool's Europa League fixture next week, which is surely going to be a tough one, with the Reds coming up against the team that, according to Gargano, are "not scared" of the Merseyside club and in fact have dreams of winning the Europa League this season.

The Italian side have enjoyed a fairly decent start to their domestic campaign this year, sitting level on points alongside Inter Milan and AC Milan in the Serie A table and just two points behind current leaders Lazio.

The current odds to win Europa League don't exactly make Napoli massive favourites for glory in the competition this season but that doesn't mean that they should be written off; just think back to Fulham's travels through the competition last year and you'll realise that even the smallest club is capable of making a big splash against all the odds.

Schalke look to strengthen

2010-08-26T09:52:00.001-05:00

Schalke boss Felix Magath has stated his intentions of bringing Brazilian forward Julio Baptista to Germany.

After finishing only five points off title winners Bayern Munich last time out, Schalke only needed to add a little more firepower to challenge for the league more strongly this season.

The first order of business for Magath this summer was to secure the signing of Spain’s all time leading scorer and genuine legend, Raul from Real Madrid. The Spanish side have since strengthened and are hoping to close the gap on current La Liga champions Barcelona. The latest La Liga odds suggest it will be a tightly-fought race.

Meanwhile, Schalke are now hoping to team Raul up with his former Real team-mate Baptista.

Magath has made it clear he is chasing the striker by declaring "Julio Baptista is a good player, the rebuilding of the club has just started. If we want to fulfil our expectation we need new quality inside the squad. We could use some more signatures.”

After a decent first season in Italy with Roma, Baptista suffered a difficult second campaign in the capital, starting only four games in Serie A, scoring a meagre three goals.

Baptista has proven his quality ever since he was first brought to Europe by Sevilla in 2003. His prolific scoring record with Sevilla convinced Real to make a move for the player. During a three year spell in the Spanish capital, Baptista won the La Liga title in 2008 before spending time at Arsenal and then being sold to Roma.

The 28 year old is under contract with Roma until 2012 but his club have made it known they would be willing to listen to offers for the player. Schalke look to be in the lead to sign the Samba boy and if they do, they will see their chances of winning the title in the Bundesliga odds significantly strengthen.

United fans to have the last laugh?

2010-08-24T08:50:00.000-05:00

Whilst Manchester City have spent over £150 million pounds acquiring new players this summer, compared to the small amount spent by Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson to acquire Chris Smalling, Bebe, and Hernandez, history suggests that United fans have little to worry about.

Having in large part beaten off the challenge to United’s dominance of the Premier League from Chelsea, winning three titles in a row, and with Ferguson enjoying a second success in the Champions League during that time, the United boss is no stranger to fighting off wealthier contenders.

However, with the ‘noisy neighbours’ showing no sign of letting up, Ferguson is aware that City are not likely to be giving up any time soon in their quest to lead the way when it comes to English Premier League betting.

With City putting in a lacklustre display at Champions League rivals Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, yet still managing to come away with a point, Ferguson will be aware that City will be determined to gel their squad as quickly as possible, something that Roberto Mancini knows his job depends upon.

Should Mancini be able to get his squad pulling together and looking like a team, few people would argue that, whilst United are the more seasoned campaigners, City have the stronger squad, and one that includes players such as James Milner and Joe Hart, who have every incentive to show they are the best in the country.

Whilst Mancini will have to demonstrate he can keep a squad of stars happy, Ferguson is famous for discarding any player who deems himself above the team, including Roy Keane and David Beckham, and has shown that when United are up against it, he is at his very best. For that reason, who would bet against United’s football odds to have the last laugh?

The Last Post

2010-07-15T12:13:00.003-05:00

July 11, 2010 has come and gone.

I worked for the better part of 3 years to get myself in a position to make it to South Africa and watch the final in Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg.

Unfortunately, it was not meant to be.

Having said that, watching Sunday's final between my adopted country Spain and Holland felt right.

Undertaking a project of this magnitude by yourself is always daunting. There were many times I wanted to give up, simply because the scope of the endeavor was vast. I'd never done anything like this before ... who did I think I was?

But as time rolled by, it became great fun. I learned more and more about the intricate world of African football, the happy demeanor and joyous breadth of anecdotes that dot the continent. Besides that, I met some incredible people: people I'll consider friends for the rest of my life.

I've learned to pay more attention. Football is not just about South America and the money-rich European landscape. The game's soul resides in the streets of cities like Nairobi, where great people are doing work using the game of football to teach youngsters the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases.

Or in cities like Abidjan, Ivory Coast, where a superstar like Didier Drogba uses his fame to literally calm a civil war.

That's the power of the game. That's something I hold near and dear to my heart.

So I didn't make it to South Africa for the final game. I didn't rub shoulders with Nelson Mandela and Jacob Zuma like I wanted to ...

But I did learn a great deal about the game and myself in the process. And had a blast doing it.

Standing at my local pub in New York City, watching the scenes unfold from South Africa as my team scurried around the pitch with the trophy, I felt at peace.

My life was good. I've traveled an interesting, winding road to get to July 11, 2010. I got to the 'final', sort of speak.

Maybe it wasn't in South Africa. Maybe the final was always a personal journey.

I'll have more information up in the next few weeks for anyone that wishes to follow my journey to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and possibly, the 2012 European Championships in Poland.

Stay tuned. I'm not done yet!!!

Rooney ready to explode

2010-06-25T03:12:00.002-05:00

After the best season of his career at Manchester United, Wayne Rooney was expected to take this World Cup by storm. The plan was for England to top their group with nine points, saunter on through the last 16, see off possibly France and Holland in the quarter and semi finals.

All this before England met the Germans in the final, in which Rooney would bang four goals in and England would claim the title.

Now, when it comes to World Cup Betting England haven’t exactly stuck to this plan. In England’s three group games, Rooney has looked off the pace, culminating in him having a go at booing England fans. With some calling for him to be dropped from the team, it would be the perfect time for some Rooney magic to make an appearance at this World Cup.

A little known fact is that England won the World Cup in 1966, since then it’s been slim pickings from the old success tree. The pressure heaped on Rooney before the tournament, was more than even his stocky shoulders should have been asked to carry. It may have been a reason for his below par performances so far. When Rooney plays badly, England usually follow suit. The stage is set now for Rooney to hit form at the perfect time,

If Rooney finds the form that he had this season in the EPL, then England will beat Germany. The Germans don’t have a player who can match an on fire Rooney. Looking at World Cup betting Spain don’t even have a player as forceful as our Wayne.

The two squads are fairly equal, England has Rooney though. Simply, Rooney performs, England go though. If not, Geoff Hurst and Bobby Charlton will be wheeled out again in four years time, advertising Strongbow for Aldi, to success starved England fans, screaming ‘This is the year, this is our time’ just so they can numb the hurt.

Rooney ready to explode

2010-06-25T03:12:00.001-05:00

Brazil v Cote d'Ivoire preview

2010-06-21T06:57:00.000-05:00

This crucial Group G clash presents Brazil with the chance to take this World Cup by the scruff of the neck. Surprise defeats for Spain, Germany and France and scrappy draws for Italy and England means no one has stepped forward to stake a claim for the trophy.

Brazil were nearly as unimpressive in beating North Korea 2-1 in their opener, but their task against Cote d’Ivoire is not simply to signal their intent to go all the way; the three-way battle to reach the second round is a tight one according to World cup 2010 betting odds and the Samba Kings must go all out for three points.

Dunga’s men have been derided in many quarters as too functional and unexciting and it is certainly true that they need to find a spark against the Elephants, who gave as good as they got in sharing a goalless stalemate with Portugal.

Betting world cup 2010 pundits have noted that talisman Kaká looked off the pace against North Korea, unsurprisingly so considering he barely completed a game for Real Madrid after Christmas. He was not alone in looking pedestrian, reflecting a collective arrogance against under-estimated opposition.

The forward men will get another chance to impress, despite the claims of Nilmar and Grafite. Sven Goran Eriksson will make a change in attack, as the recovering Didier Drogba is ready to lead the line after coming on as a substitute against Portugal.
These teams have never previously met and the West Africans are unlikely to be overawed. The tournament has exploded into life with a burst of goals and the wealth of attacking talent on show in this one might maintain the trend.

Chile thankful Suazo is fit

2010-06-14T02:11:00.000-05:00

Chile will have their eyes firmly fixed on second place in World cup Group H betting as they look to progress to the second round from a section that looks wide open after strong favourites Spain.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side is one that has plenty of talent, and he will hope that star striker Humberto Suazo recovers from a thigh injury in time to feature in their opening clash with outsiders Honduras on Wednesday.

Suazo, who plays in Mexico for Monterrey, was the top scorer in the South American qualifying group but became one of the countless star players in the tournament whose short-term future was placed in doubt because of a training ground injury.

Thankfully for Chile fans, he returned to light work a couple of days later, but the injury was not what they needed as they closed their preparations for the clash in Nelspruit – a game they would see as their banker in the race for second, which most likely involves them and a very limited Switzerland side.

Group H has a very similar look about it to Group F Betting 2010 World Cup wise, with there being one team standing out from the rest who are all capable of claiming 2nd spot.

As for Suazo, he has only had a brief spell in European football so far in his lengthy career, and that only came in the second half of last season when he made the move over to Spain on loan and scored six goals in 17 outings for Real Zaragoza.

But his scoring record in South and Central America is as good as any player you could possibly find – how about these figures…40 goals in 40 games for San Luis, 40 in 62 for Audax Italiano, 52 in 54 for Colo-Colo and then 44 in 85 for Monterrey.

Add in another 18 goals in his 42 games for Chile and Suazo is a striker you would love to have on your side in a group where goals for teams not named Spain might be tough to come by.

He scored 10 of those in qualification for South Africa, two ahead of Brazil’s leading scorer Luis Fabiano, including a couple against Brazil and one more against fellow World Cup qualifiers Paraguay, just in case you were thinking he might be getting his goals against the smaller South American nations.

So it is understandable that there was a collective sigh of relief when Suazo returned to training and passed himself fit to face Honduras – no disrespect to possible replacement Esteban Paredes, but he doesn’t have the record Suazo brings to the party.

0 Days To Go: Enjoy!

2010-06-11T06:34:00.003-05:00

ENJOY!

1 Day To Go: Who's Winning the 2010 World Cup?

2010-06-10T11:52:00.005-05:00

Less than 24 hours to go ...

All the hype and hoopla ends tomorrow when Mexico kicks off against host nation South Africa in the first match of the 2010 World Cup ... (check out some INCREDIBLE photos of South Africa in the run-up to tomorrow's opening match, courtesy of boston.com)

Once the ball starts rolling, it doesn't stop until someone lifts the FIFA World Cup Trophy on July 11th.

So who wins it? Let's find out!

First, the groups. The teams in bold are in the order I think they'll finish.

Group A - France, Mexico, Uruguay, South Africa.
Group B - Nigeria, Argentina, South Korea, Greece.
Group C - England, USA, Algeria, Slovenia.
Group D - Germany, Australia, Ghana, Serbia.
Group E - Holland, Cameroon, Denmark, Japan.
Group F - Italy, Paraguay, New Zealand, Slovakia.
Group G - Brazil, Ivory Coast, Portugal, North Korea.
Group H - Spain, Chile, Switzerland, Honduras.

So, that gives us these matchups in the round of 16.
First team listed is my winner.

Argentina-France
England-Australia
Holland-Paraguay
Brazil-Chile
Nigeria-Mexico
Germany-USA
Italy-Cameroon
Spain-Ivory Coast

That gives us these quarterfinal matchups. Same as before. Winner goes first.

England-Argentina
Brazil-Holland
Germany-Nigeria
Spain-Italy

Ok, semifinals. Same rules as before.

Brazil-England
Spain-Germany

The Final pits Spain against Brazil.

Wow ... imagine that matchup. The two favorites fighting it out for the championship of the world!!!

The winner?

SPAIN

I can't wait! Let's get this started!!
See you soon!

Where to Watch the 2010 World Cup in New York City

2010-06-09T15:13:00.011-05:00

So you're in New York and you're looking for your World Cup fix ... where do you go?

If you can't make it to South Africa, New York City isn't a bad place to be.

Just about every country in the world is represented in the city's five boroughs. The city will certainly be bustling during the world's greatest sporting event.

So where do you go?

First on the list is the bar 'Where Football is Religion' - the great Nevada Smith's in the East Village.

Bar manager/football minister Jack Keane will graciously take care of you, showing the matches on 15 high-definition TV screens that line the bar's walls and a 12-foot projection screen in the rear.

This is my local and I love it. Make sure to see me there.

But let's say you're craving something different ... where to?

Some suggestions abound ...

First off, the Huffington Post has '25 Bars to Watch 25 Days of Soccer' in New York City. Make sure to check out places such as The Red Lion, which is also a great music venue in the evenings; Eight Mile Creek, an Australian restaurant/bar and Floyd's in Brooklyn, which also has a great bocce court. Addresses and pictures are provided on the link!

Next, the New York Daily News has suggestions on great places to watch the matches.
How about Madiba, a South African restaurant in Brooklyn? Or Zum Schneider, the German beer garden in the East Village?

Let's not forget Mr. Dennehy's in the West Village, home of the Real Madrid supporter's club and maker of great hamburgers!

Jeez, some great places already!!

But there's more!!

Time Out New York is not to be outdone, with their list of places to watch the great tournament!

If you're a USA fan, how about heading to Dempsey's downtown?

As TONY says:

This convivial Irish pub has been slowly gaining a loyal following of East Village soccer fans, and it plans to make the World Cup its official coming-out party. Every game of the tourney will be shown live on eight HD screens, and the morning games (which begin at 7:30am) will be accompanied by full audio—no one needs U2 that early—and breakfast specials. The boozing comes cheap too: Cash in on $3 pints and $10 pitchers of Coors Light throughout the competition, as well as $3 shots to calm your nerves during the nail-biting moments.

Count me in!!

And if you want a virtual stadium experience? (Only in New York, people!) Check out PlayBeautiful.

This pop-up space is looking to re-create a stadium atmosphere, with 70 flip seats facing two projector screens. It’s free, but you need to book your tickets in advance through its website. Don’t worry if your team loses: World Cup cakes from How Sweet It Is bakery will cheer you up, as will copping a T-shirt from the retro FIFA Collection ($25–$70). PlayBeautiful is the only shop in the city to stock these designs from yesteryear’s World Cups; a gentler time when World Cup Willie didn’t have an alternative meaning.

You're in Brooklyn and don't want to hike to New York City?

Besides the places I've mentioned, how about Woodwork which just opened up in Prospect Heights? An awesome space.

Then there's the Black Horse Pub in Park Slope, one of my personal favorites. An official partner bar of the World Cup, the Black Horse is kicking off the Cup with an opening-day party at 6pm, offering $4 pints, fish and chips specials, and the chance to win signed English football jerseys and two tickets to an upcoming Red Bull-LA Galaxy game. The deals continue with $4 Radeberger pints throughout the Cup. And the bar will open early enough to show every game.

And that's without listing the great Brazilian and Portuguese restaurants in Newark, NJ and the wonderful African enclaves in Brooklyn and Harlem and the list goes on and on and on ...

Any other suggestions? Please let me know or post them in the comments section!! Let's share this tournament with the world!

The 1st Game: Mexico-South Africa Preview

2010-06-09T14:53:00.003-05:00

It's almost here! Two days away!

First game of the 2010 World Cup?

Mexico vs. the host country South Africa!

A preview by Yahoo Sports by Nicolino Di Benedetto ...

Hosting the World Cup already has South Africa feeling proud, but translating those emotions into results on the field might be a problem.

Considered one of the worst teams to host the tournament, South Africa will try to avoid becoming the first home team to lose an opener when it faces Mexico in Johannesburg on Friday.

FIFA was determined to bring the World Cup to Africa for the first time, and South Africa was awarded the event with six years to prepare.

"We knew from that moment that South Africa would never be the same," President Jacob Zuma said. "It is clear that millions of our people have waited for years and look upon this tournament with hope, pride and a sense of belonging.

"Bringing the World Cup to South Africa is to trust South Africa, to trust Africa and to say, 'You are strong and you can do it.'"

Doubts over the country's ability to put on the World Cup have waned heading into the opener, but now the questions are about the team. South Africa is ranked 83rd by FIFA - the lowest for any host.

Host nations have never lost an opener and have reached at least the second round of each World Cup, with six winning it. Over the last three tournaments, the hosts have gone 10-0-2 in the group stage.

Reaching the second round would be a first for South Africa, which didn't qualify in 2006 after going 1-2-3 in the two previous World Cups.

The task of advancing at home is even tougher with Group A also consisting of former winners France and Uruguay. Bafana Bafana has won one of eight meetings with its group rivals - a 2-1 victory over Mexico in 2005.

"The mission of our boys is to make this country proud," said coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, who guided Brazil to the 1994 World Cup title. "And the goal, the goal is to go as far as we can in the World Cup. That's it.

"Once the ball moves, anything can happen. Everyone knows our group is a tough one. But we are ready."

Katlego Mphela might be Bafana Bafana's best hope for creating goals. The forward has 15 goals in 31 games for South Africa with the last 11 coming on home soil, including two in a 3-2 loss to Spain in last summer's Confederations Cup.

Mexico's lineup is unsettled with coach Javier Aguirre deciding if veteran Guillermo Franco or rising star Javier Hernandez will start at forward. Goalkeepers Guillermo Ochoa and Oscar Perez are also waiting to find out who will start.

"These are decisions for the coach," Ochoa said. "One never knows who is going to play. You don't know until the lineups come out that day."

Hernandez scored three goals in Mexico's last three friendlies, while Franco has been hampered by a foot injury.

Mexico, ranked 17th, was eliminated in the round of 16 in the last four World Cups.

2 Days To Go: How to Stay Safe in South Africa

2010-06-09T14:19:00.003-05:00

2 days to go! Can we just fast forward to Friday?

Today, some scary news out of the host country South Africa as three foreign World Cup journalists were robbed at gunpoint early on Wednesday morning.

According to ESPN Soccernet, the three journalists escaped the ordeal unhurt, although they were a bit shaken.

Portuguese photographer Antonio Simoes was woken early in the morning by two men entering his room at the Nutbush Boma Lodge outside of Magaliesburg and two other reporters were also robbed at the same hotel.

"One of the guys pointed a hand gun at my head, and then they took all my gear - cameras, lenses, laptop," Simoes said. "Then they told me to lie on the bed and they covered me with a blanket, pressed the gun against my head and told me to sleep.

"The whole thing took one or two minutes, but it felt like hours."

There's fear that crime will run rampant in South Africa while the World Cup ensues.

So how does one stay safe should they be traveling there to watch the world's greatest sporting event?

Here, some tips from the Christian Science Monitor, provided by Johan Burger of the Institute for Security Studies and from the South African Police Service.

1. Don’t advertise that you are a stranger in town. Criminals look for those who may seem fearful or unfamiliar with an area, or who may not know to take certain precautions, such as putting your wallet in your front pocket, rather than in the back pocket. Try to get directions from people you can trust, such as hotel staff, police officers, or store personnel. If someone is pestering you, politely refuse to take their help, and keep moving toward your destination or to a place of safety.

2. Hide the bling. You may have beautiful taste in watches or jewelry, but South Africans know to wear costume jewelry, if they wear any at all. Keep most of your valuables (including passport, cameras, etc.), locked away either in a hotel safe or locked in your bags at the hotel room. If you are withdrawing money from a bank, stand close to the automatic teller machine to obscure the view of others on how much you are taking out.

3. Travel in groups. There are areas that are safer than others in South Africa, as in any major city of the world. But you can still pay visits to historic monuments in South Africa – many of which are in older, urban areas – or to poorer townships such as Soweto and Alexandra, if you travel in a group organized by a tour operator recommended by your hotel.

4. Listen to locals. Ask the concierge or manager of your hotel or guesthouse for recommendations of what to see and when it is safe to travel. Many restaurants and nightclubs are clustered in areas that are generally safe, but it is always good to take the advice of local people on where to visit and when it is safest to return home.

5. Stay alert for carjackers. In most cases, it is the car that is the target and not the drivers or passengers. If you find yourself facing a gunman, simply get out of your car and hand over the keys without argument or delay. If you are being followed by someone who appears to be acting suspiciously, try to drive to the nearest police station, or to a public place like a shopping mall where there may be more protection and visibility.

6. Watch for “smash and grab” robberies. Try to keep valuables such as cellphones, purses, computer laptops, or other valuables out of sight, or better yet, locked away in the trunk of the car. Again, if you are the victim of a smash and grab, do not add to your risk by resisting the robber.

For more tips, check out the South African Police Service’s website.

Jones loss saddens Socceroos

2010-06-09T05:44:00.000-05:00

While the excitement of the World Cup and Online Football Betting continues to ramp up in South Africa, it would be remiss to forget some of the players who can’t be there, most upsettingly the sad story of Australia’s reserve keeper Brad Jones.

Jones, who plays in the English Premier League for Middlesbrough, has returned to Europe and might not return to the squad after learning that his four-year-old son Luca had been diagnosed with leukaemia.

Jones has not yet confirmed whether he will return to the squad, but online betting seem certain that Socceroos coach Pim Verbeek will call up standby keeper Eugene Galekovic to his 23-man squad – he is already training with the team at their base.

But the affect of Jones’ departure on the squad has already been massive, with some of their players admitting they had been left numb when they learned of the severity of the problem that had forced him to fly to be with his former wife in France.

It was reported that some of his closest friends had broken down in tears, especially those who know him well from his time in England, where he used to be back-up to current international keeper Mark Schwarzer at ‘Boro.

“It puts football as completely irrelevant, even a World Cup, for everybody," his team-mate Lucas Neill told reporters at a Socceroos press conference. “We consider ourselves a family, and the news we heard ... it was devastating. It hit all the boys for six.”

The reports out of the Australia camp also go a long way to explain a below-par performance in their pre-tournament friendly with the United States on Saturday, a game they lost 3-1 and seemed visibly shaken for long spells of.
Now is the time for them to regroup and remember what they are in South Africa for – to go as far as possible in the world’s greatest football tournament – perhaps with the thoughts of their departed team-mate and his stricken son to inspire them to even greater heights.

The Vuvuzela Will Deafen Us!

2010-06-08T14:09:00.003-05:00

According to the wonderful football blog Off The Post, experts have warned that the vuvuzela could leave World Cup spectators with permanently damaged hearing, after tests showed that the South African trumpet is actually louder (127 decibels!) than a chainsaw.

UGGH! I could have told you that just by watching last year's Confederations Cup on television. The vuvuzela is awful!

The Hear the World Foundation - formed by Swiss hearing products group Phonak to raise awareness about hearing loss - found the trumpets were louder than a chainsaw in tests conducted in a sound-proof studio.

The vuvuzela was crowned the noisiest instrument at 127 decibels, beating the air horn at 123.5 decibels, with the samba drum and cow bells trailing in third and fourth.

Audiologist Robert Beiny said: “My advice to fans would be to enjoy the atmosphere that the World Cup creates, but also to consider their hearing. Why not give their ears a break from the noisy atmosphere at half time, or if they are one of the lucky ones heading to South Africa, remember to pack some earplugs - once the damage is done, it is irreversible, so prevention is key.”

Don't believe the news? Listen to this ...

Turn it off. Turn it off NOW!

The Ultimate Fan’s Guide to World Cup 2010 on the Web

2010-06-08T14:01:00.002-05:00

This is a cool guide to the 2010 World Cup on the web, courtesy of First and Goal.

You'll find links to relevant news sites, wikis, games, phone apps, video sites and Twitter accounts!

Is that enough for you?!?

Make sure to check out the link and bookmark it. It's one you'll be going back to often during the World Cup.

3 Days To Go: All-Injury Team

2010-06-08T13:27:00.008-05:00

3 days to go and can Friday come any sooner?
I'm tired of waiting! Let's start the 2010 World Cup already!

No idea where I'm watching the first match between South Africa and Mexico.
I'll have more on that tomorrow.

For now, 3 posts today. So make sure to come back and check out the other material after reading this entertaining, enlightening post.

Today's big news concerns Portugal winger Nani, who's been ruled out of the 2010 World Cup with a collar bone injury.

Nani, who plays for English side Manchester United, suffered the injury in a training session with his national side in Portugal, before leaving for the tournament.

Bad news all around, as Nani is a wonderful talent.

But this tidbit got me to thinking: How many star players are going to miss the World Cup?

Take a look at this list of the injured and the doubtful ... You could field a nice team with all these guys. Also, lots of Germans and Chelsea players on this list, eh?

MICHAEL BALLACK, Germany

The German captain was ruled out of the Cup with an ankle injury after a late challenge during Chelsea's FA Cup final win over Portsmouth in May.

RIO FERDINAND, England

The England captain will miss the finals after injuring his knee in his country's first major training session in South Africa on Friday.

MICHAEL ESSIEN, Ghana

The Ghana midfielder suffered a knee injury at the African Cup of Nations in January and has failed to recover in time.

JOHN OBI MIKEL, Nigeria

The midfielder was forced out of the tournament with a badly bruised ankle suffered in Nigeria's first full contact training session in South Africa on Friday.

LASSANA DIARRA, France

The holding midfielder will not play in South Africa after being told he needed an extended rest because of persistent stomach pains which began during France's week-long training camp in the French Alps last month.

DAVID BECKHAM, England

England's most capped player ruptured his Achilles tendon playing for AC Milan in March.

RENE ADLER, Germany

Germany's first-choice goalkeeper underwent surgery on a rib injury in May and will play no part in the finals.

SIMON ROLFES, Germany

The midfielder ruled himself out of the World Cup after saying he was short of match fitness following knee surgery in January.

CHRISTIAN TRAESCH, Germany

The midfielder, who was considered a possible replacement for captain Michael Ballack, is out after injuring his ankle in a friendly at the squad's training camp in Italy.

HEIKO WESTERMANN, Germany

The defender will miss the tournament after fracturing a bone in his foot during a warm-up win over Hungary last week.

MIROSLAV KARHAN, Slovakia

Slovakia's most capped player has a hamstring injury and will miss his country's first World Cup appearance.

Doubtful

DIDIER DROGBA, Ivory Coast

The Ivory Coast's fearsome striker underwent successful surgery on an injured elbow on Saturday but remains a doubt for the finals. Drogba picked up the injury in a World Cup warm-up against Japan on Friday.

ARJEN ROBBEN, Netherlands

The Dutch winger needs a scan to determine the extent of a hamstring injury he suffered in a 6-1 friendly thrashing of Hungary on Saturday.

ANDREA PIRLO, Italy

The Italian midfielder will miss the defending champions' opening game of the tournament against Paraguay, and possibly the whole tournament, after injuring his calf in Thursday's 2-1 friendly defeat by Mexico.

HARRY KEWELL, Australia

The Australian winger has hardly played since December because of a troublesome groin injury.

TIM BROWN, New Zealand

It is unknown if the New Zealand vice-captain will recover in time from surgery on a fractured shoulder suffered in the friendly defeat to Australia last month.

HUMBERTO SUAZO, Chile

Chile's leading striker will reportedly miss their opening World Cup match against Honduras and possibly the second game with Switzerland because of a hamstring injury.

LEE DONG-GUK, South Korea

The South Korean striker was named in the final 23-man squad despite concerns over a thigh problem which is expected to keep him out of their opening game against Greece on June 12.

4 Days To Go: The 5 Best Games of the First Round

2010-06-07T14:28:00.005-05:00

4 days left and the 2010 World Cup gets underway!

There's SO much news on the internet, magazines, newspapers, television, etc.
I'm but a lowly blogger trying to carve his niche in the big, bad soccer media world.

Having said that, I'm BEYOND excited for the Cup, even if I can't make it to South Africa.
I'm making lemonade out of lemons, looking forward to enjoying the Cup in New York City!

So what are the 5 biggest matches of the first round?

1 - USA vs. England (June 12, 2:30pm)

Call this the teacher vs. the student, if you wish. It's the colonial power against the formerly subjugated. The football powerhouse against the budding superstars.

USA-England has all the drama of a Spanish soap opera.

Most prognosticators give USA little chance against the magic of Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard.

Having said that, USA's not as bad as many pundits think. They're scrappy, they're quick and with Landon Donovan and Michael Bradley, they have pace and vision.

Expect a tough one before the USA succumbs to the English brawn and power.

2 - South Africa vs. Mexico (June 11, 10 a.m.)

Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg will be rocking for the opening match of the 2010 Cup. South Africa's not a strong team, but Brazilian coach Carlos Alberto Parreira has provided the squad with much needed structure.

Mexico is consistently one of the quickest, most offensive sides in the world, so this should be a show stopper and a fancy way to open the Cup.

3 - Argentina vs. Nigeria (June 12, 10 a.m.)

The unstable Diego Maradona guides the likes of world player of the year Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuain into a match against one of Africa's powerhouses. Who knows what'll happen here?

Expect a raucous atmosphere. It's one of Africa's best hopes of advancing out of the first round against a perennial power, coached by the greatest player of all time.

Must See TV, anyone?

4 - Brazil vs. Portugal (June 25, 10 a.m)

Brazil is the co-favorite to win it all. Portugal boasts the world's most expensive player in Cristiano Ronaldo and a fast, loose style.

Both teams will be looking to finish first in the group, as the second-place side settles into a likely match with co-favorite Spain. So expect a knockout, drag-out fight by these two Portuguese-speaking nations

5 - Ghana vs. Germany (June 23, 2:30 p.m)

Who will feel the injury bug the most: Ghana, who is missing Michael Essien? Or Germany, who is missing Michael Ballack?

The Ghanaians will be hard pressed against the efficient Germans, but their freewheeling style may cause fits of anxiety for the former World Champions.

The pro-African crowd may play a part in this.

All in all, five games that will entertain and excite. What do you think?

5 Days To Go: Pressing Questions

2010-06-06T19:39:00.005-05:00

Instead of inundate you with 2010 World Cup news a mere 5 days before the first game (South Africa-Mexico), let's ask the top 5 questions for the contenders before the start of the Cup (courtesy of Jesse Spector, New York Daily News although I added some too) ...

1 - Which big-name team is in the most danger of a first-round exit? Brazil? Italy? Portugal?

2 - Can a European team find success on another continent? Favorites Spain, England, Germany and Italy will all try to become the first to win a World Cup outside Europe.

3 - Was Brazil right to leave Ronaldhino out?

4 - Can Lionel Messi play for Argentina like he has for Barcelona?

5 - Which African team will go farthest in the 1st World Cup on the continent? Ivory Coast? Nigeria? Cameroon?

6 - Which team will feel the impact of a players injury the most? Ivory Coast and Didier Drogba? Germany and Michael Ballack? England and Rio Ferdinand?

Things that make you go HMMM ...

6 Days To Go: Aggh!

2010-06-05T11:05:00.011-05:00

6 days left and the stars are falling left and right!

Drogba, Ferdinand, Ballack ... who's next? Messi? (Did I just say that??)

Will we even know who's playing in the World Cup at this rate?

As we creep closer and closer to the big date, I'll list the 5 must-see matches of the 1st round, the 5 breakout stars of the Cup, the 5 countries who could win it all and ... well, any suggestions?

Today's Tidbits

1 - USA USA USA defeats Australia 3-1 off two goals by Edson Buddle. Next up? ENGLAND! Bring it!!

2 - So maybe Didier Drogba will play after all? Let's hope so ...

3 - Sven-Goran Eriksson: 'I like challenges, yes. Why not with the Ivory Coast?'

4 - Slovenia is the least populous nation playing in this month’s World Cup, but members of its national team are looking forward to making a name for themselves.

5 - The right way to use a vuvuzela? Hmm ... I'd say YES!

What I Think I Think

Soccer stories are in vogue here in the United States these days.

You'd think that soccer/football is now the most popular sport in the USA, with wall-to-wall coverage of the tournament on ESPN, the country's biggest network and stories in almost every newspaper/magazine.

Not only that, adverts are plastered around the country, people are walking the streets in their country's kits and talk is rampant about who'll win the big prize come July 11th.

It's exciting, to say the least. The country is abuzz over the World Cup.

Here's one particularly interesting story/photo essay about the Cup, courtesy of the New York Times.

It's the evolution of the World Cup ball. From Uruguay 1930 all the way to South Africa 2010, the ball used in the World Cup has changed dramatically.

Have a look. It's very entertaining, to say the least.

7 Days To Go: One Week!

2010-06-04T11:01:00.005-05:00

One week to go!
7 days before the start of the 2010 World Cup and I can hardly believe it!
Lots of news today, so let's get to it ...

Today's Tidbits

1 - Since I started writing this site, one of the main protagonists has been the Ivory Coast's Didier Drogba. He's on magazine covers, won tons of accolades and is one of the faces of Africa's first World Cup.

BAD news today, as Drogba is set to miss the 2010 World Cup.

According to reports, Drogba is set to miss the Cup with a suspected fractured elbow after he was forced off in a friendly against Japan. Drogba had put his country 1-0 ahead with a free-kick in the 15th minute before going down following a challenge from the Japan defender Tulio – off whom Drogba's goal had deflected in – and he left the pitch in visible distress.

Drogba was immediately taken to hospital in Sion, Switzerland, where the Ivorians have been undergoing altitude training. "Of course I am worried, he's our captain and one of the best players in the world," said the Ivory Coast manager, Sven-Goran Eriksson, who attached no blame to Tulio. "It was unlucky, he didn't want to hurt anyone. Football is a game of contact."

Just bad, bad news ... at the age of 32, will we ever see Drogba in a World Cup again?

2 - MORE injury news, as England's captain Rio Ferdinand will miss the World Cup.

This after injuring his left knee in training.

The England captain broke down after a tackle in the final few minutes of his team's first training session since landing in South Africa, and was taken to hospital for a scan.

The results of the scan are believed to indicate knee ligament damage and the 31-year-old will take no further part in the World Cup.

Michael Dawson, who was part of Fabio Capello's initial 30-man squad, is the likely replacement, while Steven Gerrard will be promoted to the captaincy.

UGGH!!

3 - Team USA plays one more friendly, against Australia, before the start of next week's Cup.

4 - Speaking of Team USA, is the opening match against England the Revenge of the Colonies??

Sounds like a Star Wars movie.

5 - Fears and frustration temper the pride many locals feel about hosting the World Cup, according to the Guardian's Anna Kessel.

What I Think I Think

A week away and just a question:

Who do you think will win the 2010 World Cup?

I'll write an analysis of my thoughts tomorrow.

8 Days To Go: I Haven't Left!

2010-06-03T11:53:00.007-05:00

I missed yesterday's post.

Please don't boo me out of the building.

I was sick but your friendly neighborhood blogger is back, ready to provide you with news regarding the 2010 World Cup.

8 days away and the news is ratcheted up. There's so much information out there regarding the tournament, it's quite literally information overload.

But that's why I'm here.

Today's Tidbits

1 - Goalkeepers dislike the official World Cup Adidas ball more than Diego Maradona dislikes reporters and photographers, according to the New York Times.

As reporter Jere Longman says, 'the ball is being criticized for being too light and too curvy, as if it were a fashion model obsessed with too little food and too much plastic surgery.'

I love that analogy ...

2 - Spain's sports daily MARCA has the best World Cup fixture calendar I've yet to see. It's in Spanish but I'm sure you can figure it out. It's brilliant.

3 - The BBC has a wicked 2010 World Cup site. It's obviously geared towards the English national team. But what's this? WHAT'S THIS?! Stop the presses ...

One of the blogs there, Piers Edward's football blog, has your friendly neighborhood blogger linked on the side!!!

Sorry, I had to gloat some. It's great to be linked to the BBC ...

4 - The 2010 World Cup is already lucrative to FIFA. You think?

5 - Nelson Mandela will attend the 2010 World Cup. The 91-year-old will attend the opening match between Bafana Bafana and Mexico as well as the Final scheduled for July 11 at Soccer City Stadium. Great news!

And because I wasn't here yesterday, one extra news tidbit:

6 - North Korea tried to pull a fast one on FIFA, listing one of their strikers as a goalkeeper. Tsk tsk ... Bad, bad Korea ...

What I Think I Think

Football's a global phenomenon but for fans, it's also a personal experience.

Let me delve inside my fandom for a bit and touch on a news story.

Today, Liverpool confirmed Rafa Benitez is leaving the club after 6 seasons.

"It is very sad for me to announce that I will no longer be manager of Liverpool FC," Benítez said. "I would like to thank all of the staff and players for their efforts.

"I'll always keep in my heart the good times I've had here, the strong and loyal support of the fans in the tough times and the love from Liverpool. I have no words to thank you enough for all these years and I am very proud to say that I was your manager."

As many of you know, I'm a huge fan of Spanish club Valencia CF, where Benitez made his name. While managing Valencia, Rafa guided Los Che to their first Spanish title in 31 years and two years later, the double, winning the Spanish league and UEFA Cup.

Since Rafa's departure, Valencia's star has fallen.

But Benitez has been a star, capturing the 2005 UEFA Champions League in dramatic fashion over AC Milan in a match no one will ever forget. He also led 'Pool to the 2007 final against the same AC Milan team, losing 2-1.

Ultimately, Rafa's undoing was his failure to capture the English championship, which has eluded Liverpool since 1990.

Where does he go now? Inter Milan? Back to Spain?

Who knows ...

What I do know is that Rafa's provided me with some of my favorite football memories.

From Valencia winning 2 Spanish titles to the UEFA Cup against Marseille.

From the incredible 2005 Champions League final to some heart stopping matches against Chelsea in the CL semifinals, Rafa's teams have consistently provided entertainment and excitement.

Sure, one of Rafa's criticisms are that his teams play 'boring' football. But whatever. The guy's a winner and that's all that matters to the fans.

He didn't win the English Premier League and that cost him his job. But that doesn't mean Rafa doesn't deserve accolades.

Thanks for the memories, Rafa. We wish you the best in the future.

10 Days To Go: Time Flies

2010-06-01T13:22:00.003-05:00

Time sure does fly.

I feel like I started this blog a few months ago.

But it's been 3 years now and here we are, a mere 10 days away from the 2010 World Cup.

Time flies!!!

Today's Tidbits

1 - Brazil will win the World Cup! According to an executive producer of the BBC, at least.

2 - Theo Walcott fails to make the final England squad. Tough break for the young lad.

3 - A movie review of 'Looking for Eric.' The Eric in question is Man U legend Eric Cantona.

4 - Speaking of movies, if you're in the New York City area, check out the 2nd annual Kicking and Screening soccer film festival. Some great films here, folks.

5 - D.C. United midfielder Andy Najar is the first MLS academy product to make a major impact. Many could follow, altering the landscape of American soccer.

What I Think I Think

Now THIS is a soccer advert ... are we all ready for the USA-England match? Should be a classic!

11 Days To Go: Summer Time

2010-05-31T11:28:00.007-05:00

Bright, sunny days such as today in New York City remind me what I love so much about soccer.
Lush, green grass.
Warm, balmy weather.
Dust being kicked up from the tracks of football players.

It's the sight, smells and feelings of playing the sport that drive one to identify so much with the Messis and Ronaldos of the world, who'll be vying for the world's richest sporting prize in 11 days time.

What's the weather going to be like in South Africa anyways?

Today's Tidbits

1 - Fabio Capello looks set to steer the England ship until 2012.

2 - USA lands safely in South Africa. USA, USA, USA!

3 - Nice pictures of South Africa's World Cup stadiums.

4 - Guess who's the new coach of Real Madrid? The Special One, Jose Mourinho. A match made in heaven, if you ask me.

5 - What's the mood in South Africa less than two weeks before the start of the Cup? The World Cup and CSR blog has an interesting take, with a view of the ongoing situation before the Cup starts from blogger Adam Boros.

What I Think I Think

Can it be? Could someone from FIFA actually be talking sense?

According to the football website The Spoiler, the annoying South African noisemaker known as the vuvuzela may be banned during the World Cup.

Joy of joys!

Look, I'm all for expressing your unique cultural qualities.

Singing, dancing, etc. I think it's fabulous.

But the vuvuzela is incredibly annoying.

It's 50,000 people blowing their air horns (vuvuzelas), making a noise that can only be described as a nasty beehive descending on your head.

Remember the Confederation Cup last year? How indescribable the noise of the South African noisemaker was? You didn't hear cheering or singing or boos and yays. You heard a non-ending BZZZZZ that kept going and going and ...

According to the website:

Prior to South Africa’s warm-up friendly with Colombia yesterday, fans were warned the plastic horn was still ‘under review’ and could be banned from the World Cup if too much noise was made during the match. Apparently TV networks have been struggling to cope with the 140db onslaught during broadcasts, while players have complained of not being able to hear their manager, or even each other.
Making a point of not actually referring to vuvuzelas directly, head of the World Cup Organising Committee, Danny Jordaan, warned fans to choose the right moment to make their noise:

'If there is an order to evacuate that stadium and an announcement is made, you have to ask yourself, will everyone in that stadium hear that evacuation order?'

Jordaan also made it clear the instruments would banned if “one incident of violence [occurs] involving a vuvuzela”. We’re not sure how much damage you can do with a plastic stick, but there you go, the man has spoken.

Hallelujah!!!

12 Days To Go: Protracted Edition

2010-05-30T09:29:00.005-05:00

We're less than two weeks away from the 2010 World Cup and we here at 'Road to 2010' pause to reflect during a holiday weekend in the USA ...

(pause)

And how was that for everyone?

Today, a short edition of the blog as it's Memorial Day in the US and we'd like to get our BBQ on.

Today's Tidbits

1 - USA defeated Turkey 2-1 last night in their final domestic tuneup before traveling to South Africa. Not bad. But June 12th is what counts.

2 - Quick! What's the best country never to win a World Cup? Yep, the Dutch. Can they win it all this year?

3 - Samuel Eto'o whined and threatened to take his ball home if people didn't stop bad mouthing him. All for naught, as Eto'o plans on playing for Cameroon in the World Cup. Baby ...

4 - England didn't look too hot in a 2-1 win over Japan.

5 - Mexico '86: The World Cup that had everything! According to Four Four Two magazine, at least.

What I Think I Think

I think I need to get off this computer and enjoy some sun! You do the same. See you tomorrow!!

13 Days To Go: Travel Advisory

2010-05-29T09:01:00.007-05:00

I know tons of people making their way to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup.

One thing these very (very) lucky people don't have to worry about is tickets, as most people venturing to the tournament have their entrance passes.

But ticket sales to African citizens have been sluggish. (Maybe because the tickets are 6 feet tall? Look at the size of that thing!)

Not anymore. Looks like ticket demand is sky high with the Cup a mere two weeks away.

So all these tales of empty stadiums we've been reading the past few weeks? Doubtful.

Now does anyone have a ticket they can spare for their friendly neighborhood blogger?!?

Today's Tidbits

1 - Photographer Michael Donald of the Guardian tracks down the men who have lived every boy's dream – to score in the World Cup final. A compelling gallery.

2 - Five questions England must answer before their 2-1 loss to the United States in their opening match.

3 - Just-football.com has an analysis of all 32 squads at the World Cup. Here's their Spain assessment. Can you say winner?

4 - Cameroon captain Samuel Eto'o on Friday questioned his participation at the World Cup finals after criticism from former compatriot Roger Milla that he had brought nothing to his country. And we thought divas only existed in American sports.

5 - The Columbian national team were robbed by 'scantily clad girls' at their Johannesburg hotel hours after 2-1 friendly defeat to South Africa. Salacious.

What I Think I Think

The entire premise of this blog centered around a trip to Africa for the 2010 World Cup. That didn't materialize. So while I'm extremely jealous of everyone making their way south for the Cup in 2 weeks time, heed my advice: be careful.

The US State Department has issued a South Africa Travel Alert for all visitors to the country for the World Cup.

The alert includes mentions of a heightened risk for terrorist activity (American citizens traveling in South Africa are encouraged to register with the United States mission to receive specific alerts), a general warning on crime and “public disturbances,” and even a note about a shortage of lodging, particularly in the smaller World Cup host cities.

There is also a reminder about the so-called yellow fever belt, which covers much of Africa and South America, and the need to carry proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Better safe than sorry, eh?

Have fun ... lucky buggers.

14 Days to Go: Almost There!

2010-05-28T15:07:00.007-05:00

14 days away!

Two weeks to go until the start of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa! Can you believe it? Time flies when you're having fun.

South Africa v. Mexico opens the biggest sporting event in the world in two weeks time and I'm wondering: Will the casual fan watch?

Now I know many people could care less about soccer/football in the United States. But this is the World Cup. This is as big as it gets.

Even the soccer hater has to at least gaze at the TV screen to see how the Italys and Brazils of the world are doing, no?

Even someone who doesn't understand the 1st thing about the 'Beautiful Game' must want to know what the hub bub is about, eh?

Ahh, what do I know?

What I DO know is that I can't wait ... two weeks away!!!!

Today's Tidbits

1 - How will the host country do at the 2010 World Cup? South Africa have been widely tipped for World Cup humiliation but Carlos Alberto Parreira has forged a new team spirit, according to David Smith of the Guardian.

2 - Jose Mourinho is the new coach of Real Madrid. Yawn.

3 - Meet the soccer studs of the 2010 World Cup. This one's for the ladies.

4 - Who are the top 10 teams to never win the World Cup? Holland? '82 Brazil?

5 - France will host Euro 2016. Road to 2016 Euro, anyone?

What I Think I Think

Days after Argentina coach/Greatest Player of All-time Diego Maradona promised to run naked through the streets of Buenos Aires should his country win the Cup, more salacious news from the South American power.

Now, word that the Argentina team is allowed to have sex with their wives and girlfriends during the World Cup.

Joy!

It's common practice to sequester players during a tournament. Honestly, who wants athletes wasting energy on their significant others when they should be trying to win matches?

Apparently that's not the thinking of the Argentinians.

"The players can have sex with their wives and girlfriends during the World Cup," Dr. Donato Vallani said on Radio Del Plata (via AP). "Players are not Martians."

But the doctor did have one set of restrictions, saying the players' sex "should not be at 2 a.m. with champagne and Havana cigars."

So what would his words to former President Bill Clinton be?

15 Days To Go: The Beautiful Game

2010-05-27T15:24:00.005-05:00

Followers of soccer or football or futbol (or whatever you call it) also refer to the sport as 'the Beautiful Game.'

Certainly, long-time fans know why it's beautiful.

Skillful play, impeccable ball handling, expert dribbling and exhilarating goals make us jump out of our seats and tremble with joy.

But where I'm from, the United States, most people would rather watch baseball or golf than 'the Beautiful Game.'

Come 15 days, though and the casual fan will catch a match or two to figure out what the rest of the world finds so fascinating about this strange game.

So for those of you with friends who have no idea what the World Cup is about, I present ...

Today's Tidbits

1 - A World Cup FAQ for your friends who have no idea what the World Cup is about!

For example, say your friend ask, 'How does the World Cup work?'

Well, there's an answer for that and so much more. Make sure to forward it along.

2 - President Barack Obama and former President Bill Clinton welcomed the USA national team to the White House before their departure to South Africa.

"Everybody's going to be rooting for you" Obama said.

No, they won't.

3 - Some bad news: Michael Essien is out of Ghana's World Cup squad. UGGH.

4 - The final FIFA rankings of all the 2010 World Cup teams. #1?

Brazil.

Surprise, surprise.

5 - Another FAQ of sorts for people who don't watch soccer but want to watch the World Cup. This is comprehensive and just awesome in so many ways.

It's called 'A World Cup History for Dummies/Americans'

It's good, it's informative and it's very funny ... Read it now!

What I Think I Think

I don't really have anything to say today, so I'll just list some stuff I think.

- I'm not a fan of friendlies. I understand they're important, but they're pointless overall. So until the real matches start in 15 days, I just don't care.

So the US lost to the Czech Republic in a friendly. And? What exactly does that mean and why should I care?

- Speaking of the USA, if they happen to win the World Cup, what would the celebrations be like in the States?

- Who do you think is the favorite going in to the Cup?

For me, it's Spain. Some say Brazil. Others say it's England. Others say it's Holland.

I'd really like it to be Spain. It's their time and they play brilliant football.

Umm, that's it people. I don't have anything more.

16 Days To Go: Hot Hot Hot!

2010-05-26T14:24:00.009-05:00

If you're in New York, you're probably standing in front of an air conditioner or fan.

It's HOT, something like 99 degrees.

Since when is it summer in May?!?

I wonder if it'll be this hot in South Africa for the World Cup?

Probably not ... anyways, I digress.

Today's Tidbits

1 - Diego Maradona will run naked through the streets of Buenos Aires if Argentina win the World Cup. Lock up your women and children now.

2 - USA announces their 23-man roster ... you know, the team that will defeat England 2-1 June 12th.

3 - Did you hear? Jose 'the Special One' Mourinho, fresh off his Champions League victory with Real Madrid, is the new coach of Real Madrid.

4 - From one of my favorite football websites, The Global Game ... 'Football's powers of resurrection have rarely had a better exemplar than Martin Afrika. The 32-year-old captain for South Africa at the Homeless World Cup has reconstructed his identity through sport.'

5 - Who were the 10 greatest Cameroon football players of all time? Glad you asked ...

What I Think I Think

This past weekend's Champions League final between Inter Milan and Bayern Munich didn't do so hot in the ratings.

The first U.S. over-the-air network telecast of a European Champions League final got a 1.1 overnight rating and 3 share on Fox from major markets.

Fox Sports chairman David Hill said last week he hoped for a rating of 2.0 to 2.5. So it has to be somewhat disheartening to see the ratings info.

But when you think about it, it's not as bad as you think.

First off, it wasn't the sexiest match-up. Inter? Munich? We're not talking Manchester United and Real Madrid here.

Second, did you even know the game was on Fox? I didn't. It's not like the network did a great job of advertising the match. Maybe to the die hards that watch Fox Soccer Channel. But the casual fan had to search for the game.

Also, people usually watch big matches like this in groups. I watched it with about 40 people at a bar. So it makes sense that there were a lot more eyes on this match than the rating indicates.

Lastly, football's just not that big of a sport in the USA.

No big revelation here, of course. Soccer has its niche, much like ice hockey and Nascar. And that's ok.

Besides, more people will watch the World Cup, which usually attracts the casual fan.

Seen in this light, the rating's ok. No need to worry. The game's just fine here in the States.