The 2008/2009 English Premier League Thread

[mercurial]

Here's to another great season http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/images/icons/icon14.gif

Fixtures for August 16, 2008:

Arsenal vs. West Brom

Aston Villa vs. Man. City

Bolton Wanderers vs. Stoke City

Chelsea vs. Portsmouth

West Ham United vs. Wigan

Hull City vs. Fulham

Man. United vs. Newcastle United.

Middlesbrough vs. Tottenham Hotspur

Sunderland vs. Liverpool

Everton vs. Blackburn Rovers

[Franckwithak]

It is very wrong of you to start this thread already...we still have to wait 8 weeks before we see a ball being kicked in anger.

Can't wait...

[PoiZoNouZ]

I think its right!

Cant wait, my new Chelsea shirt is arriving soon, cant wait to add to my collection, have them all since the Fly Emirates days, will be wearing with pride!

[hj2k_x]

Grrrr, it is wrong to start this thread so soon :p

[hj2k_x]

In the meantime we can discuss PREMIER LEAGUE transfer gossip in here at least :D

[hj2k_x]

Why would you want to discuss transfer gossip when their is a thread for Summer transfers? :confused:

This is for PREMIER LEAGUE transfer gossip.

I for one don't know or care enough about the other leagues to want to discuss who is going to those clubs.

[hj2k_x]

ROBBO ON HIS WAY
Just in case you missed it last night, it seems Paul Robinson's days at Spurs really are numbered, after they agreed a deal with PSV for the rather odd-looking Brazilian goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes.

More on that one here.


DOWNING TO LIVERPOOL! THIS WAY TO LAUGH!
It was all looking rather good for Liverpool these past few weeks.

With Gareth Barry probably on his way, one full-back signed up and another on his way, the team was starting to take shape.

However, word in the papers this morning is that Rafa Benitez will out-do all his good work by splurging either £10million or £12million on Stewart Downing.

Ha! Now, it's easy to scoff, and to be fair Downing did have a pretty good season last time out, Middlesbrough fans will tell you he's their best player and Liverpool fans might kid themselves that they're signing top young English talent, but is he really worth spending eight figures on? Is he really the signing that will make up the 11-point gap between Liverpool and Manchester United?

In short, no.

Meanwhile, The Daily Express claims Rafa Benitez has persuaded teenager Nikola Saric to join Liverpool, despite competition from Tottenham and Barcelona.


ANFIELD SALES
And the other down side for Pool is that they will have to raise the money for this profligacy.

That will come with the seemingly inevitable sales of Peter Crouch and Yossi Benayoun, and there is word on both players in the morning papers.

The Times claims Portsmouth will not necessarily have to increase their £9million bid for Crouch, rather restructure it. The initial offer was £7million plus £2million with appearances etc, but Liverpool want the full amount up front, and if they're going to splurge money around, we're not surprised.

Meanwhile, The Guardian reckons Spurs, Manchester City and Newcastle will all duke it out with Pompey for the striker.

Benayoun is the other player most likely to be shown the door, and The Daily Mail claims Ajax have joined the chase for the Israeli. Spurs and Portsmouth are also apparently interested in the midfielder, who is likely to cost around £5million.


RON GOING NOWHERE?
No, not that one, silly.

Slightly curious story in The Daily Mirror, which claims Ronaldinho will not be joining Manchester City, but rather staying at Barcelona.

Given that new manager Pep Guardiola said only last week the toothy one (along with Samuel Eto'o and Deco) weren't wanted/needed at the Nou Camp, it's an interesting one, but the paper claims Ron has had talks with Pep and promised to buck up, tuck his shirt in and behave.

Better news for City is word that they will finally complete the signing of CSKA Moscow striker Jo, after those pesky third-party problems were ironed out/brushed under the carpet.

Also, Real Zaragoza striker Diego Milito's agent reckons City are close to snapping him up too.


CHELSEA TRACKING A RUSSIAN
Word in The Daily Star this morning is that Chelsea are after Russia's rather impressive left-back/winger Yuri Zhirkov.

And it's not just idle tittle and tattle at the Star office either, no siree.

Apparently Avram Grant has whispered in their ear, claiming that Chelsea are tracking Zhirkov, currently strutting his stuff for CSKA Moscow.


CONFLICTING REPORTS
Differing stories on the future of David Bentley this morning.

The Sun claims that Blackburn chairman John Williams won't decide on his future until Rovers get back for pre-season training on July 7.

However, The Indepedent reckons Bentley has already held a meeting with Paul Ince, and reiterated his desire to do one, and pretty sharpish.


MORE IN FOR JOHNSON
Quick line on Andy Johnson, who Everton seem keen to get rid of in order raise funds.

The Daily Mail reckons David Moyes will 'reluctantly' sell the striker for £10million, with Sunderland, West Ham, Wigan, Aston Villa, Manchester City and Middlesbrough all interested.


AND THE REST...
Hull boss Phil Brown is set to offer Fenerbahce £2m for Colin Kazim-Richards...Croatia centre-half Josip Simunic is set to join Fulham after he returns from holiday...Oldham striker Lee Hughes is being lined up for a shock move to Dundee United...Bolton striker Daniel Braaten has agreed a move to Toulouse...Everton have lined up a £2m bid for Leicester defender Joe Mattock...Kanu is refusing to sign a new one-year deal at Portsmouth, claiming he deserves better...Wolves have completed their deal for Derby's David Jones for an undisclosed fee...Claude Makelele is staying at Chelsea after agreeing a one-year extension that will keep him there until 2010...Hull are refusing to pay £3m for Bolton centre-back Abdoulaye Meite...

...Portsmouth are keen to sign Nicky Shorey from relegated Reading...Wigan boss Steve Bruce is rading former club Birmingham to take Daniel De Ridder on a free transfer...Norwich keeper Matt Gilks has finalised his move to Blackpool...West Ham technical director Gianluca Nani is ready to make Raul Bobadilla his first signing...Stoke boss Tony Pulis is keen on Celtic's Thomas Gravesen...Paul Ince will bring five MK Dons backroom staff with him to Blackburn...Andrei Arshavin is looking set for Barcelona after the Spanish giants put in an offer for the Russian...Lilian Thuram is to join PSG from Barcelona...Rangers are keeping tabs on central-defender Marek Suchy...Nottingham Forest have signed Liverpool youngster Paul Anderson on a season-long loan.

http://www.football365.com/news/transfers/0,17033,8671,00.html

[mercurial]

Aah I can't wait for the new season.
In other matters, The Sun says that Ronaldo has stated his desire to stay at Man Utd.

[hj2k_x]

Aah I can't wait for the new season.
In other matters, The Sun says that Ronaldo has stated his desire to stay at Man Utd.

Ah, the Sun :)

I cannot belive he has not decided either way yet! :mad:

[hj2k_x]

What? How can you be so onesided? :confused:

Transfers are transfers. So if there is news of a player that might goto an english club, we must post it here?

And news of players going to other clubs, we must post it in summer transfers?

Whats the point?

I am saying that we want to discuss the EPL. That is it. This is where we can do that. When there are games we can discuss them. Until then we can discuss tranfers related to the EPL teams. What is not to understand?

[hj2k_x]

I would think that discussing transfers here is trolling. When there is a perfect thread already open for transfers.

This thread is for the new EPL season. Just like the Summer transfers will close, when the transfers are complete.

Stick to the topic.

And you would be wrong ;)

[mercurial]

I would think that discussing transfers here is trolling. When there is a perfect thread already open for transfers.

This thread is for the new EPL season. Just like the Summer transfers will close, when the transfers are complete.

Stick to the topic.

WTF? Do you even know what the term "trolling" means? :rolleyes: I get the feeling people are just throwing it around without even the slightest comprehension of what the term means :rolleyes:

[mercurial]

Why dont we ask the mods if it is considered trolling? ;)

You don't need a mod to tell you that. Any noob knows what trolling means.

[hj2k_x]

Why dont we ask the mods if it is considered trolling? ;)

No thanks.

Now Kule, go and play nicely with Supa again and then all can be well again.


Liverpool are thinking of buying Downing for 12 million? That is a bit much if you ask me...

[SuPaStA]

WTF? Do you even know what the term "trolling" means? :rolleyes: I get the feeling people are just throwing it around without even the slightest comprehension of what the term means :rolleyes:

An Internet troll, or simply troll in Internet slang, is someone who posts controversial and usually irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community

[hj2k_x]

An Internet troll, or simply troll in Internet slang, is someone who posts controversial and usually irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community

:(

Like this post.

COme on man. Play nice. COntribute to the thread. I am sure you have lots of EPL gossip to share ;)

[mercurial]

An Internet troll, or simply troll in Internet slang, is someone who posts controversial and usually irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community

You forgot the important part of that copy and paste job - "...to provoke emotions from other users..." or perhaps you conveniently omitted that.

[SuPaStA]

You forgot the important part of that copy and paste job - "...to provoke emotions from other users..." or perhaps you conveniently omitted that.

My post was in repsonse to your statement that posting transfer news in a epl section is not related to trolling.

I copied that from the definition in wikipedia of course I would not post the whole article except what my post was in response.

[hj2k_x]

Transfer gossip in the EPL. Does anyone have any?

[hj2k_x]

Theres plenty in the Summer Transfers thread ;)

Yes, great, and this one is to discuss EPL transfer gossip until the season starts. Get it?

[mercurial]

My post was in repsonse to your statement that posting transfer news in a epl section is not related to trolling.

I copied that from the definition in wikipedia of course I would not post the whole article except what my post was in response.

Your response conveniently left out the important bit. It was half a response.

[SuPaStA]

Your response conveniently left out the important bit. It was half a response.

how can it be a half repsonse if what I wanted you to see got put in bold letters, I dont care that there were 500 words after that had nothing to do with my response.

[mercurial]

how can it be a half repsonse if what I wanted you to see got put in bold letters, I dont care that there were 500 words after that had nothing to do with my response.

Not 500 words, just a few(probably less than 10).


What important bit??

I think the response hit it spot on!

Of course you did Kule :rolleyes:

[bwana]

Consider this a gentle nudge back On Topic.
Hi there

This forum has become a liability and we can not continue like this. From now on the action will be simple: ANY personal attack will result in either a forum ban or total ban. Even a simple suggestion that someone is trolling will result in an immediate forum ban. Any argument regarding trolling, even in this thread, will result in an immediate forum ban.

Regards,

RPM

[hj2k_x]

Consider this a gentle nudge back On Topic.

I have not seen any evidence of this actually happening though. :confused:

[mercurial]

As usual, the usual suspects are coming here to ruin the fun for everyone :(
Permaban all the mofos :mad:

[hj2k_x]

As usual, the usual suspects are coming here to ruin the fun for everyone :(
Permaban all the mofos :mad:

It seems simple enough to me.

Have you heard anything new on good old Ronaldo by the way? Things have been strangely quiet lately...

[hj2k_x]

Adebayor says he is staying then minutes later goes back on his word:




Emmanuel Adebayor has opened the door to an AC Milan move just minutes after apparently pledging his future to Arsenal.

In a press conference in Vienna, the Togo striker told the assembled journalists: "I am an Arsenal player and have three years left on my contract.

"The most important thing for me is to keep on enjoying my football. I'm staying at Arsenal."

But then in a subsequent interview with Sky Sports News he claimed that nothing has been decided and talks are due next week.

When asked about a move to AC Milan, he replied: "A decision will be made next week."

Super-agent Vincenzo Morabito had said on Thursday that it was "80 per cent certain" that Adebayor would join Milan in a deal worth up to a massive £32m.

http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3746526,00.html

[hj2k_x]

"We are receiving numerous bad post reports and complaints again. If the fighting in this forum does not stop more permanent bans are on the way – not only to the people who complaints are lodged against but also those who make accusations or cause any form of disruption."

Posted by rpm. Just so that people know.

[hj2k_x]

Platini wants UCL exclusion for clubs in debt (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=551545&&cc=3888)

f'kin crazy italian .... :eek:

I read that as well. What a load of rubbish that man talks.

[Fern9do]

Screw Platini.
This is the Premier League thread.
Liverpool FTW!!!

[Alan]

*sigh*

Liverpool linked with Downing for around 10mill :sick:

[Alan]

Adebayor says he is staying then minutes later goes back on his word:


http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3746526,00.html

LOL no brains :D

[hj2k_x]

*sigh*

Liverpool linked with Downing for around 10mill :sick:

Another quality Rafa signing? :p

I mean he had a good season for Boro but 10 million??

[Fern9do]

*sigh*

Liverpool linked with Downing for around 10mill :sick:SIGH.
I want effing David Silva not Steward flipping Downing.
I really hope it's just a rumour

[Alan]

Another quality Rafa signing? :p

I mean he had a good season for Boro but 10 million??

'7 out of 10' squad players FTW :cool:



SIGH.
I want effing David Silva not Steward flipping Downing.
I really hope it's just a rumour

I dunno seems like the kind of player Rafa would sign :sick:

[stefan9]

Platini wants UCL exclusion for clubs in debt (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=551545&&cc=3888)

f'kin crazy italian .... :eek:

Firstly he is French not Italian. Also the Italian clubs would be in as much trouble as the english if not more if clubs who have debt aren't allowed in.

[pos(t)er]

platini is french

[Alan]

The Italian league is starting to suffer. Milan can't compete with the likes of Man City and top players are moving abroad.

[pos(t)er]

which is why they want to buy ronaldhino, adebayor, etc.?

[stefan9]

The Italian league is starting to suffer. Milan can't compete with the likes of Man City and top players are moving abroad.

That's cause berlusconi doesn't want to spend as in the past. Fiorentina has signed quite a few good youngsters from abroad so far this summer. Also Inter will sign some of the top players this summer. Its not like in the 1990's but Italian football will still compete.

[pos(t)er]

IMO the day football became bussiness was the day it signed it's death-warrant.(Goes for most sports, but football is already far gone in this aspect.)

[Alan]

That's cause berlusconi doesn't want to spend as in the past. Fiorentina has signed quite a few good youngsters from abroad so far this summer. Also Inter will sign some of the top players this summer. Its not like in the 1990's but Italian football will still compete.

They should. But the Milan director(IIRC) said Italy is now behind Germany. I'm sure he meant financially but 3 or 4 top Italian players have now moved to Germany.

[stefan9]

They should. But the Milan director(IIRC) said Italy is now behind Germany. I'm sure he meant financially but 3 or 4 top Italian players have now moved to Germany.

If you are referring to the two palermo players,dossena to liverpool they weren't top players. They weren't wanted by the top clubs in italy.

Gialliani has to say things like that to keep the milan fans from killing him in the street. Berlusconi is unwilling to spend so they aren't getting the players they need but the milan tifosi blame him and not berlusconi.

What he said is true that overall the italian clubs don't have as much money as the english,german and spanish clubs. The midtable clubs in those countries have more than the italian midtable teams but the big italian clubs will still have enough to spend and compete.

[Alan]

If you are referring to the two palermo players,dossena to liverpool they weren't top players. They weren't wanted by the top clubs in italy.

Most are internationals IIRC

[stefan9]

Most are internationals IIRC

International squad members none of those who left for germany were starters for the azzuri. They weren't considered good enough by the top italian teams and the midtable teams can't pay as well as the germans can.

[nivek]

no, Platini is french

[hj2k_x]

Ya, he is French.

[hj2k_x]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michel_Platini
his parents are Italian, so he is a French born Italian, no ?

French-born Italian suggests to me that he is an Italian, raised in Italy, who just happened to be born in France - is this the case?

[pos(t)er]

platini sure as hell ain't an italian surname, so they must have already been there(france) for long, if they even came from italy...

[mercurial]

Emmanuel Adebayor has cast further doubt on his Arsenal future after revealing his interest in a move to Barcelona.

AC Milan are also pursuing the striker, who has given conflicting statements about his immediate future over recent days.

On Friday he insisted he would be staying with the Gunners before minutes later hinting he would push for a move to the San Siro in showdown talks with manager Arsene Wenger next week.

On Saturday, however, Wenger insisted he would not be seeing Adebayor - who scored 30 goals last season - having already held talks with him.

Now the 24-year-old has further muddied the waters by revealing Barca's interest which he would favour if the north London club do not meet his demands for a pay rise to a reported £120,000 a week

He told the News of the World: 'Milan are a big club but the fact they are not playing in the Champions League next season is less of a challenge.

'Barcelona have made a good financial offer and there is also the chance to play alongside great players.

'Yes, I am still under contract to Arsenal but it's up to the directors to satisfy my demands or I'll leave.

'If my good form of last season has increased my value, my employers have to take account of that.

'I have to prepare for my retirement. Even if you are not scoring fine goals and you have money, you can enjoy a happy retirement.

'The time for preparing for that moment is now.'

The former Monaco striker also believes he should be given parity with ex-team-mate Thierry Henry.

'People ask if I am asking for the same salary as Henry. That is not necessarily the question.

'But I am being considered a worthy replacement for Henry while not deserving his salary.

'The question lies on this level.'




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=552342&cc=5901

[mercurial]

Rio Ferdinand expects Cristiano Ronaldo will report for pre-season training with Manchester United - but concedes he is in the dark over his team-mate's long-term future.

Ronaldo remains the subject of intense speculation linking him with Real Madrid.

The Portugal winger was the star of United's Premier League and Champions League-winning campaign last season and defender Ferdinand does not want him to leave.

The England international told Sky Sports: 'We'd love him to be with us next season. Whatever happens is going to happen.

'We're like the fans, we pick up the papers and read what is going on. We know as much as anyone else.

'We will be going to preseason and I am sure Ronaldo will be there and we will be going with the aim of working hard together and starting off a good new season.'




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=552133&cc=5901

[mercurial]

Reports claim Manchester City have agreed the club record £19million transfer of Brazilian striker Jo from CSKA Moscow.

City executive chairman Garry Cook has been working hard to tie up a deal which represents the first of Mark Hughes' reign as manager.

Cook hoped the signing would have been announced before now but complications over Jo's ownership held up the move - although confirmation the forward has joined fellow countryman Elano at Eastlands may not be made official by the club until Monday.

The fee would eclipse the £13.5million Kevin Keegan paid Paris St Germain to sign Nicolas Anelka in 2002, representing a significant statement of intent from owner Thaksin Shinawatra.

Dr Thaksin may have come under attack from City fans over his decision to dump Sven-Goran Eriksson but fears for the future under the former Thailand Prime Minister have largely been dispelled amid Hughes' appointment and the anticipated capture of Jo.

Although Jo only has a single international appearance to his name, that is down to a row with current coach Dunga, whose own position is under threat following a woeful sequence of results in the South American World Cup qualifiers.

The 21-year-old is viewed as one of the brightest attacking talents in the world and Hughes now has a chance to let him get to know his new team-mates ahead of their UEFA Cup qualifying campaign, which starts next month.

Dr Thaksin will also hope Jo's arrival can revive interest in a move from Barcelona for former world footballer of the year Ronaldinho.

Although City had been hopeful of capturing the legendary playmaker, over recent days it has been suggested AC Milan or even remaining at the Nou Camp remain Ronaldinho's preferred options.

However, even if Ronaldinho is not brought to the north-west, Jo appears certain to be only the first of a significant number of new players at City this summer.




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=552012&cc=5901

[mercurial]

Samuel Eto'o is to make a decision on his future when he returns to pre-season training with Barcelona.

The Cameroon striker is under contract with the Primera Liga side until 2010, but he is expected to leave Camp Nou as new manager Pep Guardiola makes his mark on his inherited squad.

Internazionale, Chelsea and Arsenal are all thought to be interested in Eto'o - who is believed to be valued at 35million euros (£27.6m) by Barca.

And the 27-year-old has revealed he is set for discussions with the Barca board when he returns from his summer holiday.

"Now I am on holiday and I am calm," Eto'o told Sport. "I do not want to know any football news.

"When I return, my priority will be to have a meeting with the directors of Barca and to decide my future."




http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3754712,00.html

[killadoob]

wow would be awesome if arsenal could get him

[iDOL]

I don't think Arsenal will bother with him, he won't fit into the strick wage structure in place, mandated largely by the stadium debt also the falling UK property market is also making things difficult for Arsenal as they still have about 20% of the units at the old Highbury re-devolpment unsold.

So thanks, but no thank you. They will pass on Eto'o

[killadoob]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=552786&sec=england&cc=3888

wow i hope they put barton away for another 5 years

wow this is a shocking story

[mercurial]

:eek: Geez what is that guy's problem?

[iDOL]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=552786&sec=england&cc=3888

wow i hope they put barton away for another 5 years

wow this is a shocking story

He changed his plea, because the judge indcated that he would receive a suspended sentence.

Dabo was in court to see Barton plead guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Barton will be sentenced today. The judge indicated he was likely to get a suspended sentence if he pleaded guilty (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2008/jul/01/manchestercity.newcastleunited)

[mercurial]

This guy is trouble and bad news. This is not the first he would be in jail.

[killadoob]

so you can beat up someone get 6 months, beat the crap out of another person and stab someone in the eye and get a suspended sentence?

what a load of rubbish

im pretty sure had he been a normal run of mill oke he would be sitting in jail for 5-10 years

[mercurial]

Deco arrived at Chelsea from Barcelona, for a fee of around £7million, on Monday night and instantly declared that he can help Chelsea become the best team in the Premier League and in Europe.

The talented playmaker, who became new coach Luiz Felipe Scolari's first signing, had recently been told by the Catalan club he did not feature in their future plans and had been consistently linked with a move to the west London club in recent months.

The 30-year-old has signed an initial two-year deal but it is understood that could be extended.

Deco, who won the Champions League and UEFA Cup with Porto, said: 'It is good for me to be here and first of all I am very happy to be here.

'I am sure I have come at the right time to do great things and be able to help Chelsea go back to the way it was and come back to being the first one, not only in England but also to win the Champions League that has been their dream for so long.

'The Premier League is a great league and it is getting better and you can see that with the Champions League final, where you had two English teams.

'It is great that we have so many great players here at Chelsea and it is great that there is the competition which is healthy for everybody and this just makes the team better

'To have great players in any position just enhances the club. I know it is a new challenge but I am looking forward to it.

'I know I need a little bit of time to adapt but I am sure I will adapt quite well and quite fast and do my best for the team.'

Deco is Chelsea's second signing of the summer after international team-mate Jose Bosingwa.

But his arrival will only add to speculation over Lampard's future.

Chelsea now have Michael Ballack, Michael Essien, Mikel Jon Obi, Claude Makelele, and Lampard in their midfield and with the club intent on reducing their squad, it is clear a number of players will leave.

Scolari must persuade Lampard, currently on holiday off the coast of Italy, to sign an extended deal or face the prospect of losing him to Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan.

Lampard has one year remaining on his current contract and the midfielder seemingly refused to rule out a move to Milan when quizzed over his future.

Ricardo Carvalho's future is equally as uncertain, although Deco's signing may help the new Chelsea coach to persuade the defender to stay.

Chelsea were planning to hold contract talks with the Portugal international, who has only just started a holiday because of his involvement in Euro 2008.

However, Brazil defender Alcides claims he is returning from a loan spell at PSV Eindhoven to replace him at Stamford Bridge.

Alcides has been on loan at the Dutch club for the last 18 months, and said: 'PSV wanted me to stay but I have learned that Chelsea want me back. It seems Carvalho is leaving and I am going to replace him.'




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=552935&sec=england&cc=5901

[hj2k_x]

So Lamps is on his way then? :eek:

[Alan]

So Lamps is on his way then? :eek:

Seems so. Pie sales are going to take a dip in London :o

[hj2k_x]

Seems so. Pie sales are going to take a dip in London :o

Been quiet in the transfer market otherwise though...

Liverpool haven't even bought anyone rubbish yet ;)

And no one has come out in ages to say they think Ronaldo will actually stay :p

[Alan]

Been quiet in the transfer market otherwise though...

Liverpool haven't even bought anyone rubbish yet ;)

And no one has come out in ages to say they think Ronaldo will actually stay :p

They've bought Degen already :o

[hj2k_x]

They've bought Degen already :o

Who?

[Alan]

Who?

Only Rafa would buy a player who can't even get into the Swiss national team :o

[hj2k_x]

Only Rafa would buy a player who can't even get into the Swiss national team :o

Oh, that Degen. :o

[.geek]

so you can beat up someone get 6 months, beat the crap out of another person and stab someone in the eye and get a suspended sentence?

what a load of rubbish

im pretty sure had he been a normal run of mill oke he would be sitting in jail for 5-10 years

That is so very true. :(

[.geek]

Only Rafa would buy a player who can't even get into the Swiss national team :o

I'm not sure a player in the Swiss nation team is much better. Senderos... :p

[hj2k_x]

I'm not sure a player in the Swiss nation team is much better. Senderos... :p

Indeed. They were pretty awful. Despite beating Portugal B 2-0 :o

[mercurial]

Chelsea have stepped up their interest in Real Madrid forward Robinho after sporting director Frank Arnesen met with the player's agent.

New coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, who began his Chelsea job today, has already signed Portugal international Deco from Barcelona and there are increasing signs that Robinho could be the next arrival.

Robinho's representative Vagner Ribeiro is determined to get the best move for the Real Madrid winger and claims he is better than Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been targeted by the Spanish champions.

'It's true that Chelsea are interested in signing Robinho,' Ribeiro told Spanish sports daily AS.

'They have been after him for a while and there has been much more contact since Scolari became the new Chelsea coach.

'I met with (Frank) Arnesen in London and he confirmed to me that Chelsea wanted my player for next season.'

The Spanish league champions are reportedly keen to offload the player to free up some cash to buy Ronaldo, but Ribeiro insists his client is as good as, if not better than, the Portugal international.

'Neither Robinho nor I like the fact that Real Madrid can use him as part exchange in their bid to sign Cristiano Ronaldo,' he continued.

'We don't like this attitude and we want Madrid to start valuing Robinho because at the moment they're not.

'Robinho is as good a player as Cristiano Ronaldo or better. The difference is that Cristiano Ronaldo reached the Champions League final and Robinho didn't.

'But if Robinho had won such a title he would be at the same level as Cristiano.'

Robinho played an important role in Madrid's league success last season - scoring 11 goals in 32 games - and enjoyed his best campaign since joining the club in 2005.

Ribeiro claims the 24-year-old is not keen to leave the Bernabeu but that he would seriously consider doing so if Madrid continue to ignore his talents.

'Robinho's priority is to continue at Real Madrid,' he added. 'But he cannot stay in a place in which they don't recognise his talent and at the moment Real Madrid are not doing that and I'm not talking about money.

'I'm referring to the fact that they are undervaluing him in comparison to Cristiano Ronaldo.'

Meanwhile, Scolari has been given a major boost in his bid to keep England midfielder Frank Lampard at the club after Inter Milan boss Jose Mourinho admitted the player would not be joining him until the 2009-10 season.

Lampard's future has come under further scrutiny since the arrival of Deco, who joined the club on a two-year deal yesterday.

The England ace, currently on holiday in Sicily, has one year to run on his current contract and is due to resume talks about an extension when he returns for pre-season training next Monday.

Lampard, 30, wants Chelsea to match the kind of money that Inter Milan can offer him and desires a four-year deal.

But Lampard has the option of letting his deal expire in order to quit Stamford Bridge as a free agent next summer.




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=552986&sec=europe&cc=5901

[mercurial]

Inter Milan boss Jose Mourinho has seemingly abandoned his hopes of signing Frank Lampard from Chelsea this summer but claims he is '100% sure' the midfielder will make the move in 12 months' time.

The arrival of Deco at Chelsea on Monday night appeared to suggest Lampard's future may lie away from Stamford Bridge as rumours continue about the England midfielder.

However, former Blues boss Mourinho is quoted by The Sun on Tuesday admitting it is unlikely the 30-year-old will be at the San Siro any time soon.
'This season? I don't think so,' Mourinho said.

'Why won't he? Well, it's not because we don't want him to, but I'm sure Chelsea and Chelsea's officials don't want to sell him.

'However for the next season it will be easier for him to join me at Inter.

'I'm 100% sure in 2009/2010 he will be playing here.'




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=552934&sec=europe&cc=5901

[hj2k_x]

Still no news on United signings?

I wonder if Fat Frank will leave after all...

[mercurial]

Cristiano Ronaldo will require further specialist advice to discover the exact extent of his ankle problem.

Ronaldo reported the injury in the aftermath of Portugal's Euro 2008 exit and suggested he would fly back to Manchester for an operation.

But the 23-year-old did not return as United medical staff felt a period of rest, which Ronaldo was due anyway, was a better course of action.

However, Ronaldo has now met with medical staff from both Portugal and the Red Devils, with further information now being sought.

'Manchester United medical staff met with the medical team from the Portuguese FA and Cristiano Ronaldo in Lisbon today regarding the ongoing treatment of his injured right ankle,' said a statement released by United on Wednesday evening.

'As a result, further specialist advice is being sought and an announcement will be made on any action in due course.'

The information is awaited with intrigue given Ronaldo's present position.

Should it be decided an operation is required, it could have a major impact over the Madeira-born winger's fitness for the start of the new season, which in turn may determine how far Real Madrid are willing to push their attempts to lure him away from Old Trafford.

Although Sir Alex Ferguson's squad began training today, Ronaldo is not due back in England for another fortnight.

Ferguson is yet to speak to Ronaldo about the large number of statements from Madrid - which went unchecked by the player - during Euro 2008.

Eventually, United grew so sick of Real's advances that they reported the matter to FIFA.

With 42 goals to his name and a world player of the year award much anticipated following United's Champions League triumph, it is little wonder the Red Devils want Ronaldo to stay.

Both Ferguson and chief executive David Gill have insisted the winger is not for sale at any price and while it has been viewed with growing certainty Ronaldo would eventually get his 'dream' move to Real, there have been suggestions in the last couple of days he has decided to stay where he is.

No matter what his future holds, United will want to make sure Ronaldo receives the best treatment possible for his injury.

The player has an impressive appearance record since his move from Sporting Lisbon in 2003, since when he has rarely been injured and United will hope to have Ronaldo available when they begin the start of their Premier League title defence against Newcastle on August 16.

Ronaldo refused to comment on his future when he returned to Portugal after a break in Italy on Wednesday night.

'I can only say that (I) will spend the period of my recovery in my house in Sintra, but regarding my future I cannot say anything,' Ronaldo said in Portuguese newspaper A Bolo.




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=553331&sec=england&cc=5901

[mercurial]

http://img.skysports.com/08/07/218x298/JoCity_998087.jpg

The 21-year-old becomes Mark Hughes' first signing as City boss and has agreed a four-year deal at Eastlands.

The youngster scored 44 goals in 77 games for CSKA since joining from Corinthians in 2005 and Hughes is delighted to have secured the services of a player with limitless potential.

Excited

"Once I became Manchester City manager and the prospect of brining Jo to the club was feasible I wanted to make sure that it happened," he said.

"He's an outstanding young player and we're very excited by the acquisition.

"We feel he's very much the type of player we hope to attract to Manchester City. He's the right profile, technically he's excellent and we feel he has the physical presence to cope with the trials of a Premier League season. We're sure he'll be a huge success here.

"He's got a lot of experience. He's won trophies at his previous club and he's used to playing in big games and games with significance.

"We want to push the club forward and raise the profile of the club. The acquisition of quality players will help in that respect."

Options

The deal to bring Jo to England smashed City's transfer record and the forward admits that other clubs were in the race for his signature.

"I decided to come to Manchester City because they showed most interest in me even though I had other options," he said.

"Once I spoke to the manager, he showed great interest in me and I was very pleased to come.

"One of the other clubs to show an official interest was Valencia in Spain and I know from the press that there were other clubs interested, but only Valencia contacted CSKA."

Settle

Jo also revealed that, while the Premier League is one of the toughest divisions in the world, he expects to adjust quickly to life in the English top flight.

"The Premier League is one of the hardest in the world but I hope that with the help of my colleagues and my manager that I can score goals," he said.

"Probably it will take a little bit of time but I'm sure I will get there."




http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_3767430,00.html

[mercurial]

http://images.football365.com/08/06/240/Emmanuel-Adebayor_984686.jpg

Arsenal are demanding over £35m for Emmanuel Adebayor, according to AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani.

He says the deal is too rich for Milan's blood, with Italian teams struggling to compete with Chelsea and Barcelona for the world's top players.

The Gunners are reported to have turned down a £25m bid from Barcelona for the Togo striker, with Galliani suggesting that Arsenal are looking for another £10m.

"Adebayor is overridden by continuous requests for €45 million (£35.6 m), these figures are impossible for clubs in Italy," said Galliani. "In fact, the top footballers in the world do not come here anymore.

"When big clubs like Barcelona and Chelsea arrive it is impossible to compete, because they have a much more advantageous fiscal situation."

According to a number of reports, Barcelona's bid was turned down yesterday, although it is distinctly possible that the Spanish giants will make an improved offer given the need of Joan Laporta, the club's president, to make a significant splash in the transfer market before he faces a vote of no-confidence from members at the weekend.

A bid of £30m could actually be sufficient to persuade Arsenal to sell Adebayor, especially as he continues to request a hefty wage rise. According to The Times, 'During all his discussions with the club, Adebayor has told Arsenal, where he has three years left on his contract, that he wants to stay, but that they must keep to a promise of a new deal as a reward for an outstanding season.'

The African is understood to be paid around £35,000 a week. While that is a fortune in most people's eyes, it is a relative pittance in Premier League terms.

Moreover, Adebayor would be entitled to expect his salary to reflect Arsenal's valuation of his services. Were he to be sold for £30m, the transfer would be the sixth largest in the history of football.

Adebayor is not due to return to Arsenal to begin pre-season training until the end of the month, although his agent Stéphane Courbis is expected to meet with Arsene Wenger this week. Speaking to The Times, Courbis indicated that a pay rise would persuade Adebayor to stay in north London, remarking: "It is important for Emmanuel that Arsenal show their motivation to keep him. Whatever they will decide, the decision will be taken with respect."




http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3765926,00.html

[mercurial]

Some fun... Football lookalikes (http://www.football365.com/lookalikes/0,17093,8754_3766479,00.html).

[killadoob]

35m for ade come on now

thats crazy

man city holding talks with ronaldino :)

oms i hope they get him

mark hughes plus good team = new top 5 team :)

[mercurial]

35m for ade come on now

thats crazy

man city holding talks with ronaldino :)

oms i hope they get him

mark hughes plus good team = new top 5 team :)

It is crazy ya. I really do hope Ronaldinho goes to Man City. Damn that's gonna be awesome. He can single-handedly put City in the top 4.

[killadoob]

yea and we know mark hughes is a great manager i mean look at how well he did at blackburn

cannot wait for the start of this season :), i would really love a team any team to break up the top 4

[mercurial]

Oh man I cannot wait either. Just about a month and a half away :D

[hj2k_x]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_3767430,00.html

Can't say I have heard of Jo...Good record though :)

[mercurial]

Australia international Harry Kewell has signed a three-year contract with Turkish champions Galatasaray, the club have claimed.

However, there remains some confusion over the conclusion of the deal as Kewell's agent Bernie Mandic has said the announcement is premature.

The 29-year-old turned down a contract offer with Liverpool in May and entered the current transfer window as a free agent, with many clubs across Europe chasing his services.

Kewell was linked with Portsmouth, Fulham, Celtic and Roma but Galatasaray have announced his signing on their website.

Mandic, though, insists that nothing has been finalised.

'We have not finalised a deal for Harry and it's down to two possibilities,' he told Australian FourFourTwo.

'People will be notified if and when Harry decides on one of the options which may be around noon on Saturday European time.

'We will not make any other comments until then.'




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=553548&sec=england&cc=5901

[mercurial]

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani insists the club will not pay over the odds for Barcelona playmaker Ronaldinho.

After a disappointing and injury-hit season, Ronaldinho has been told by the Catalan giants he is not part of their plans as they make wholesale changes after two trophy-less campaigns.

There has been no shortage of interest for the two-time FIFA World Player of the Year with Manchester City having already had detailed discussions with the Brazilian and Chelsea also linked with the player.

Yesterday City's executive chairman Garry Cook claimed they had a '50-50' chance of signing Ronaldinho but Galliani claims Milan are leading the pack, although he insists a deal will only be completed if the price is right.

'It seems to me that Ronaldinho has placed Milan at the top of his desires, even if Chelsea has a lot of appeal,' he said.

'We have to see how much the final cost will be, the transfer and then his signing-on fee. But I don't promise anything to the fans.

'In any case in attack we already have Marco Borriello, Filippo Inzaghi, ***a, Alexandre Pato. If we can get someone else then good, if not we'll stay how we are. We're already competitive.

'I'm not happy not making big signings, I'm a fan too, but a big transfer will only be done if there's the right conditions.

'Players who cost, between wages and other things, 20 million euros (£16million) a year, aren't compatible with Italian clubs' bank balances.'

Galliani has dismissed the prospect of Chelsea's former Milan star Andriy Shevchenko returning to the San Siro.

'If Sheva comes to Italy, he comes to us,' he continued.

'He was one of our targets but we have been told that he is not for sale.'




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=553464&sec=europe&cc=5901

[killadoob]

just saw an interesting stat on espn

109 shots from ronaldo
69 from rooney

1 and 2 in terms of shots

when rooney finds that goal scoring form he is going to score plenty goals, i wonder of those 69 i would say alot where sublime saves

[Fern9do]

just saw an interesting stat on espn

109 shots from ronaldo
69 from rooney

1 and 2 in terms of shots

when rooney finds that goal scoring form he is going to score plenty goals, i wonder of those 69 i would say alot where sublime saves

Rooney has never had goalscoring form so i don't think he will find it:D
GOALS = Great striker....Rooney simply lacks the abbility to score regularly

[killadoob]

its fine if he cant score as long as he keeps setting up

we will see this season though

[Fern9do]

I'll be happy if he carries on 'Setting up goals' instead of scoring 20+ goals a season. Without Ronaldo there he wont be setting up as many:)
Rooney has to be one of the most overated strikers in the world.

[hj2k_x]

I'll be happy if he carries on 'Setting up goals' instead of scoring 20+ goals a season. Without Ronaldo there he wont be setting up as many:)
Rooney has to be one of the most overated strikers in the world.

United will always score goals. I cannot an EPL season where we have scored fewer than 70 goals.

"Can United score? They always score...."

1999 Champions League Final, in case you forgot ;)

[killadoob]

you could look at it this way without rooney how will ronaldo score so many?

sure he will score but him and rooney are perfection

we see in the next season :), hopefully fergie has said stop being so nice and laying the ball off to other ppl and go for goal, because setting ppl up does nothing for your rep :)

guess the team is more important to rooney than trying to score them all himself

[hj2k_x]

you could look at it this way without rooney how will ronaldo score so many?

sure he will score but him and rooney are perfection

we see in the next season :), hopefully fergie has said stop being so nice and laying the ball off to other ppl and go for goal, because setting ppl up does nothing for your rep :)

guess the team is more important to rooney than trying to score them all himself

Indeed. People who say that he had a bad season this year cos he only scored 12 goals really are misguided. It's not all about scoring the goals, even if you are a striker. Especially when Ronaldo hit 40+. How many more goals did they want us to score?? :confused:

[killadoob]

i could understand ppl having a go at rooney if nobody could score in united's team

see most ppl who rag him didnt watch many united games, they just see he only scored 12 goals must have had a bad season when infact i feel he had a great season

[hj2k_x]

i could understand ppl having a go at rooney if nobody could score in united's team

see most ppl who rag him didnt watch many united games, they just see he only scored 12 goals must have had a bad season when infact i feel he had a great season

That is exactly the problem - they comment on things they have no idea about.

Like you say, it is not like no one at United scored. I mean we won the Double, scoring the most goals in the prem and conceding the least. Not really a bas season at all :rolleyes:

[hj2k_x]

http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3775539,00.html

Arsene Wenger reckons Arsenal will dominate again(?) next season.

Wenger added: "We just want to make another improvement next year, and if we can manage that improvement, what will follow naturally is domination."

:D

[killadoob]

do the talking on the pitch i say

fergie said united could do the treble and then we lost to portsmith :)

[hj2k_x]

do the talking on the pitch i say

fergie said united could do the treble and then we lost to portsmith :)

Indeed. So close we were again. For the 2nd season in a row.

This season will be the third time lucky :)

[hj2k_x]

x2

cashmoney seems to be a Liverpool fan, (if so) the 18 year EPL drought is really affecting him :p

Well it's not going to change any time soon I don't think :)

[hj2k_x]

WELL THAT DIDN'T LAST LONG
One of the more curious signings of the January transfer window was that of Branislav Ivanovic by Chelsea.

Not that the signing itself was curious, but rather the fact that he seemed to disappear almost immediately, and hasn't turned out at Stamford Bridge since.

And now, it seems the all too brief love affair may well be over, as The Daily Mirror claims Juventus are prepared to buy the Serbian defender, and stone the crows if Chelsea aren't going to make a profit out of the whole kaboodle.

Chelsea paid £9million for Ivanovic in January, but now The Mirror reckons Juve will stump up £12million to get their man.

Makes Winston Bogarde' spell at the Bridge look positively action-packed. http://www.football365.com/news/transfers/0,17033,8671,00.html

And they say United are a selling club? :rolleyes:

[hj2k_x]

http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3781843,00.html


Arsene Wenger has admitted Arsenal will probably have to sell their star players every year for nearly another two decades.

The Arsenal boss is currently trying to persuade Emmanuel Adebayor and Alexander Hleb not to follow Mathieu Flamini out of the club.

Adebayor has made it clear only a huge wage increase will persuade him to stay, but Wenger has revealed the ongoing cost of the move to the Emirates Stadium two years ago means, financially, his hands are tied.

"The strategy of the club is to sell every year and to buy less expensive players," he told the News of the World.

"We manage at Arsenal to maintain all our football ambitions - national and European - while having to free up - for 17 more years - an annual surplus of £24million to pay for our stadium.

"The club's strategy is to favour the policy of youngsters ahead of stars and to count on the collective quality of our game."

Wenger is frustrated by the financial power players have over clubs.

"If I had the power to change anything basic in football, it would be the transfer system which makes mercenaries of players," he continued

"If they are bad ones, they stay and, if they are good, they think only of leaving.

"I have fought for them to earn a very good living, but I impose respect for their contract upon them."

Wenger admitting that Arsenal are a selling club.

:o

[mercurial]

Well for the fun/sake/entertainment of the EPL, I sincerely hope those players stay. A 4-way title race FTW ;)

[mercurial]

Ajax striker Klaas Jan Huntelaar claims Manchester United are 'very interested' in signing him.

The 24-year-old's failure to agree a new contract at the Amsterdam ArenA has led to speculation he could be in line for a move, and the Holland frontman reckons the English champions are keen to acquire his services.

'I know certain English clubs are following me, like Manchester United, who are very interested in me,' he told Dutch reporters.

'I love clubs with great history like Ajax, I also love Manchester United.

'It's a club that makes me dream, especially as Ruud van Nistelrooy played there and did great things with them.




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=553862&sec=england&cc=5901

[mercurial]

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has seemingly conceded defeat in his pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo after admitting 'the most likely scenario' is that the winger will stay with Manchester United.

Calderon will meet United chief executive David Gill on Monday, where it is expected the English Premier League side will issue an official 'hands off' warning to Real.

The Real president told the BBC earlier today the two clubs had not met to discuss a possible transfer of the Portugal star, and claimed he never wanted to cause problems between United and their player.

Later, Calderon revealed the Spanish champions' frenzied pursuit of Ronaldo may now be at an impasse.

'He must love Manchester,' Calderon told Marca. 'Once Manchester decide they want to sell and they tell us this, then we will say that we're talking about a transfer.

'But today that's not happening and therefore this is a situation that may end up as it is now, as nothing, and Cristiano Ronaldo will continue at Manchester next year.

'At the moment, that's the most likely scenario. They (United) don't want to sell so we can't do anything.'

True to form, Calderon admitted he held out some hope of bringing Ronaldo to the Spanish capital, adding that there may be time to convince United to change their mind before the August 31 transfer deadline.

'Theoretically there's still time (for things to change),' he continued.

'There are two months left until the end of August if Manchester get in touch with Real Madrid and make us an offer.

'But still we don't know if it would be possible to buy him even if they did want to sell.'

Reports in Spain suggested United were set to test Real's resolve by offering Ronaldo for around £80million - nearly £12million more than the £67million Real were reportedly prepared to pay.

Calderon admitted that for a player of Ronaldo's calibre such sums were not out of the question, but insisted the figure was only speculation as the two clubs had never discussed terms.

'This is speculation which may be reasonable given what has happened in the major transfers in football history,' he said.

'But we never got round to talking about amounts of money because Manchester never gave us the opportunity to do so.

'He (Ronaldo) said that he would like, that it is his dream, that he would be extremely excited to come to play for Real Madrid, but it is a desire of the player that cannot be realised without Manchester's consent.'




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=553870&sec=england&cc=5901

[mercurial]

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani says the club have received an offer for K_ka from Chelsea.

K_ka has been linked with a big-money move to Chelsea after his fellow Brazilian, Luiz Felipe Scolari, took charge at Stamford Bridge.

Milan have repeatedly stated the playmaker is not for sale, while K_ka has voiced his intention to stay at the San Siro.

Galliani claims Chelsea have tried to tempt the club into parting with K_ka and that the Rossoneri have also received enquiries for influential midfielder Andrea Pirlo.

"For K_ka, a really big offer has arrived from Chelsea," Galliani told La Stampa.

"For Pirlo, there have been many requests. As for him, neither Pirlo nor his agent have come in to my office asking for an improvement in his salary."


Meanwhile, Galliani says Milan supporters should not be disheartened if the club do not make any further signings this summer, despite the interest in Emmanuel Adebayor and Ronaldinho.

He added: "We do not have a transfer kitty stashed away here. Despite failing to qualify for the Champions League, the club is strengthening the squad and increasing the wages. This means we'll be £35million in the red without (owner Silvio) Berlusconi's help.

"The fans should be happy, as all we'd need to do in order to wipe out our debts is sell K_ka and Andrea Pirlo. Instead they won't move, so if that's not a show of love for this club, I don't know what is.

"It is incredible that the supporters are not celebrating the arrival of Marco Borriello, who scored 19 goals last season, the fact Alexandre Pato can finally play a full campaign, Mathieu Flamini from Arsenal and World Cup winner Gianluca Zambrotta.

"As a fan, I too hope something else will happen, but Milan have already reinforced their squad."




http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3784808,00.html

[mercurial]

Tottenham assistant manager Gus Poyet has admitted that the club "can't afford" to lose Robbie Keane.

The striker has been linked with a move to Liverpool, with reports claiming Rafa Benitez wants to pair the Irishman with Fernando Torres.

Having sold Jermain Defoe to Portsmouth in January, Poyet is aware the club can not risk depleting their attacking options any further.

And Poyet admits it is vital that Keane is at White Hart Lane next season to continue his profitable partnership with Dimitar Berbatov.

"I was shocked when I heard him being linked with Liverpool - he's a very important player for us," Poyet told the Daily Star Sunday.

"We can't afford to let Robbie go.

"We have lost Jermain Defoe and, hopefully, Dimitar Berbatov will stay.

"If we lost Robbie it would be too much."





http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3784363,00.html

[mercurial]

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani claims Ronaldinho has rejected a move to Manchester City, and says it is 'useless' to meet Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger to discuss Emmanuel Adebayor.

Ronaldinho is likely to leave Barcelona over the summer after new coach Pep Guardiola admitted he can plan without the Brazilian for next season.

City have already made an offer for the playmaker, but Ronaldinho's agent and brother has said a move to Milan is '90 per cent likely'.

Talks are ongoing, but Galliani concedes the 28-year-old's salary is an issue after Ronaldinho turned down a lucrative transfer to City.

"As for Ronaldinho, he's not in Guardiola's plans, so he has a different price," Galliani told La Stampa.

"But the problem is the salary - to pay him his salary it would mean his arrival would not cost much. A loan? It depends on Barcelona.

"Ronaldinho rejected Man City's offer, who were ready to give him double what we had offered."

Milan are also keen to sign Adebayor from Arsenal, and are battling with Barcelona for the Togo striker.

Galliani feels the Italian club would struggle to compete with Barcelona on a financial basis and retains his belief that Gunners boss Wenger is demanding too much for Adebayor.

He added: "Adebayor has Milan in his mind, but if I have been beaten by Barcelona it is not because I'm a fool.

"It's difficult to compete with those who have higher earnings and the best fiscal system.

"Wenger fixed a meeting in Nice, but it's useless that I go. He told me he wants 45million euros (£35.6million) - an impossible sum."




http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3784177,00.html

[Franckwithak]

Some transfers/speculation that happened over the weekend, that no one picked up on.

Didier Digard {France u21} signed for Middlesbrough for 4mill from PSG
Marvin Emnes {Dutch u20} signed for Boro for 3mil from Sparta Rotterdam
Never heard of them...maybe someone else out there can tell me if they were worth the money.

George Boateng in (advanced) talks with Hull City regarding a switch.

[hj2k_x]

Wow, lot of interesting stuff being posted here :)

Looks like the whole Ronaldo thing has finally died a death - just like after WC2006 when everyone thought he was gonna leave as well...

[hj2k_x]

you sure ?

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3789359,00.html

They will keep recycling the same old crap until the season starts I guess. :o

[hj2k_x]

if only mr.CR can give us MU fans some indication :mad:

Exactly. If he just came out and said he was staying then it would all be sorted!

[hj2k_x]

Our African player Manucho has a serious (knee?) injury, looks like we wont be seeing him in S.A now

Did he get his work permit sorted out to play in England?

[hj2k_x]

Anyone see the new chelsea bra ?

No cups and rubbish support? :)

[killadoob]

lol shame john terry from mr chelsea to the man who slipped

[mercurial]

Anyone see the new chelsea bra ?

lots of support but no cups


John Terry giving up football for cricket
Can't bat or bowl but is an expert in the slips.

:D

Here's something that I think you will enjoy -> http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php?t=120299

[mercurial]

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood insists the club have no intention of selling star striker Emmanuel Adebayor at any price.

Barcelona and Milan are keen on the Togo international, who is under contract at Emirates Stadium until 2011, and the former have reportedly had a £25million offer rejected.

Both Barca and Milan are eager to rebuild after disappointing seasons last year and neither are expected to give up their pursuit of Adebayor without a fight.

However, Arsenal have responded to calls from Adebayor's agent Stephane Courbis to demonstrate their desire to keep the 24-year-old and are adamant they will not be selling.

"We want him (Adebayor) to stay," Hill-Wood said in the Daily Telegraph.

"Adebayor still has a long time left on his contract and we have absolutely no intention of releasing him from that contract."

Meanwhile, Hill-Wood admits he expects Alexander Hleb - a target of Barca, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich - to leave Arsenal.

Manager Arsene Wenger has already seen Mathieu Flamini join Milan on a free transfer and Hill-Wood also expects Hleb to head for the Emirates exit.
"Hleb has made it clear he wants to go," Hill-Wood added. "I think maybe he will go."




http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3788009,00.html

[mercurial]

Chelsea insist they have yet to receive any bid from Inter Milan for England star Frank Lampard despite fevered speculation to the contrary.

The future of both Lampard and striker Didier Drogba will come under further scrutiny today after more speculation involving both Milan clubs.

Inter insist Lampard remains a top transfer target and Drogba is on the wanted list of rivals AC Milan.

Luiz Felipe Scolari is almost certain to be quizzed on the situation concerning both players when he is officially unveiled as Chelsea boss to the English media today.

AC Milan are still closely tracking Drogba, according to the club's technical director Leonardo.

They are in the hunt for a striker after selling Alberto Gilardino to Fiorentina and with Ronaldo suffering from a serious knee injury.

"It's no secret we're interested in signing a forward and are studying candidates," said Leonardo.

"Drogba is a fine player. We are waiting for the right time to move."

Ivory Coast forward Drogba has already been linked with Milan's city neighbours Inter as well as Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Chelsea are yet to receive a single offer for the striker and the same goes for Lampard.

The 30-year-old midfielder has just one year left on his current deal and could force his way out of Chelsea and join Inter immediately by using FIFA's Article 17 to buy out the last year of his contract.

Alternatively, he could wait until January and sign a pre-contract with Inter that would let him leave for free at the end of the season.

Lampard has been pressing for a new contract at Stamford Bridge for months but so far there has been no agreement. However, talks were expected to resume this week.

Meanwhile, Zenit St Petersburg insist they have had no talks with any English club regarding the transfer of playmaker Andrei Arshavin.

Reports suggested the Russia star was on his way to either Chelsea or Arsenal but Zenit confirmed in a statement that no negotiations have taken place.

The club also stated Spanish giants Barcelona are the only club to have made an official approach for the player.

"FC Zenit informs everyone that, as of this moment, there are no negotiations about Andrei Arshavin's transfer to any club," read a statement on Zenit's website.

"The only request about the possibility of the forward's transfer was the offer from Barcelona.

"Information in the media about Zenit's negotiations with Chelsea is not corresponding to the truth."




http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3791717,00.html

[mercurial]

Cristiano Ronaldo looks set to miss the start of the new Premier League season after undergoing surgery on his right ankle.

Manchester United said the operation in Holland on the Portuguese superstar had been a success.

However, it will be at least a month before Professor Niek van Dijk, the Dutch ankle specialist who operated on the 23-year-old, can assess when he will be ready to return to action.

Van Dijk is one of the world's foremost experts in ankle injuries, and is a former head of Dutch Squash Federation's medical committee.

He operated on the Portuguese winger at the Academic Medical Centre in Amsterdam.

Review

United said in a statement on their official website: "Cristiano Ronaldo underwent surgery today to his right ankle and the initial indications are that the procedure was successful.

"Cristiano will begin his convalescence under the direction of club medical staff and an estimation of his return to full fitness will be possible following review by the specialist in one month."

It remains to be seen whether the operation has any adverse effect on Real Madrid's continued pursuit of Ronaldo.




http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3789826,00.html

[mercurial]

Frankly, what a clown. Sepp Blatter is up to his usual tricks by wading into the Cristiano Ronaldo saga, saying players should be allowed to move where they like, and saying footballers are treated like 'modern slaves'. We don't think many cotton pickers got £200,000-a-week Sepp, but what do we know?

FIFA president Sepp Blatter believes Cristiano Ronaldo should be allowed to leave Manchester United for Real Madrid if he so desires, criticising a trend towards "modern slavery" in football.

The Portugal winger is one of the hottest properties in the sport after a superb season at Old Trafford last term and speculation about a move to the Spanish side has dominated the summer's transfer gossip.

There has been an ongoing war of whispers emanating from both clubs for several weeks and when asked about the protracted wrangle over the 23-year-old's future, Blatter insisted players should be allowed to leave with impunity when they want to move clubs.

"The important thing is, we should also protect the player," he told Sky News.

"If the player wants to play somewhere else, then a solution should be found because if he stays in a club where he does not feel comfortable to play then it's not good for the player and for the club.

"I'm always in favour of protecting the player and if the player, he wants to leave, let him leave."

Blatter believes the issue raises interesting questions about the way transfers and contracts are dealt with in the game.

"I think in football there's too much modern slavery in transferring players or buying players here and there, and putting them somewhere," he continued.

"We are trying now to intervene in such cases. The reaction to the Bosman law is to make long-lasting contacts in order to keep the players and then if he wants to leave, then there is only one solution, he has to pay his contract."

Blatter went on to dismiss the Premier League's much-criticised '39th step' proposals, insisting plans to play competitive matches overseas - either in the league or domestic cups - was doomed to fail.

He said: "The 39th game as presented will never happen. To my knowledge what they (the Premier League) want to do is perhaps to play some of the League Cup matches somewhere outside of England. That's the last information I got.

"They should just forget about that."





http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3800222,00.html

[mercurial]

Frank Lampard remains determined to leave Chelsea unless the club agrees to his demand for a five-year, £140,000-a-week contract and is even prepared to exploit the Webster rule and risk walking away from the final year of his current deal, according to reports.

Chelsea remain adamant that Lampard will not leave, rejecting a £7.95m bid from Inter Milan for the midfielder yesterday. "The situation is ongoing," declared chief executive Peter Kenyon. "We have always maintained that we want Frank to stay and an offer was made to that effect. That offer is still on the table.

"Frank is under contract and he still has one year to run on that. We'd like to hope we can reach an agreement but if we can't we have always worked on the basis that Frank sees out the terms of his contract."

Yet their refusal to offer the 30-year-old Lampard a five-year deal has apparently opened up an irreparable breach, with The Times reporting that he is 'so disillusioned with his employers' reluctance to bend to his will that he has decided to follow Jose Mourinho to Inter Milan before the transfer window closes at the end of next month.'

While it has been previously speculated that Lampard would demand a move, the twist in the tale is the claim that he has received legal advice about the possibility of walking out of Stamford Bridge this summer. According to The Independent, Lampard has been told by his lawyers that 'it would be impossible for the club to hold him to the final year of his contract. It would then be up to Chelsea to try to recoup compensation for him from football's world governing body, Fifa. In what has turned into a bitter dispute over his future, Lampard's lawyers have investigated whether he should invoke the so-called "Webster Clause" - Article 17 of Fifa's rules - which effectively allows certain players to unilaterally terminate their contract with their present club.'

The Guardian also reports that Lampard has investigated the option of invoking the Webster clause, although it also points out that 'Under Article 17 of Fifa's regulations for the status and transfer of players, a player who signed a contract before the age of 28 is entitled to buy himself out of the contract three years after the deal was signed.

'Lampard is currently in that "unprotected" period though, technically, he should have served notice of any desire to leave Chelsea within 15 days of the final league game of last season. That would leave him open to "disciplinary measures" from Fifa, though he might consider that a risk worth taking. Webster was guilty of a similar breach, though it only cost him a ban for the first two weeks of the 2007-08 season, with the final compensation figure granted to Hearts on appeal at CAS for a player who earned around £250,000 a year only totalling some £150,000.'

Nonetheless, the disclosure that Lampard is considering such an extreme measure is an indication of how determined he is to leave the club. Chelsea's resolve to keep him is set to be put under greater over the next forty-eight hours with Inter expected to make an improved bid for his services.




http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3800729,00.html

[stefan9]

Chelsea are being hypocrites here. When Shevchenko was at milan. Milan didn't want to sell initially but chelsea then claimed no player should be kept when he wants to go. Now with Lampard they seem to have changed their tune.

Still believe he will be at Inter before 31 August. I don't think it will to article 17. The clubs will find a compromise.

[iDOL]

Interesting read for you chaps :

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/the-latest-transfer-news-and-speculation-for-your-club-830888.html

Arsenal :

Owned by: Major shareholders - D Fiszman (24.1%), A Usmanov (24%), N Bracewell Smith (15.9%); S Kroenke (12.2%).

Value: £612m.

Turnover: £200.8m (to May 2007).

Profit/loss: £51.2m operating profit.

Debt: £268.2m.

Prem TV cash 07-08: £47.04m.

Summer kitty: £25m+.

Chelsea :

WHAT'S IN THE KITTY?

Owned by: R Abramovich (since 2003).

Value: £381m.

Turnover: £190.5m (to June 2007).

Profit/loss:-£75.8m loss.

Debt: £578m (interest-free loans from Abramovich).

Prem TV cash 07-08: £45.58m.

Summer kitty: £100m.

Liverpool :

WHAT'S IN THE KITTY?

Owned by: T Hicks (50%), G Gillett (50%) (since 2007).

Value: £523m.

Turnover: £133.9m (to July 2007)

Profit/loss: £21.7m loss.

Debt: £350m.

Prem TV cash 07-08: £45.44m.

Summer kitty: £20m plus receipts.

Man United :

WHAT'S IN THE KITTY?

Owned by: Glazer family (since 2005).

Value: £936m.

Turnover: £210m (to 30 June 2007).

Profit/loss: £79.1m operating profit.

Debts: £666m. (last annual interest payment, £42m).

Prem TV cash 07-08: £49.35m.

Summer kitty: £60m+.

[hj2k_x]

All that cash and still United haven't bought anyone exciting :p

[nivek]

Wheres Spurs on that list? Summer kitty - 5.6bn?

[hj2k_x]

Wheres Spurs on that list? Summer kitty - 5.6bn?

And then they will buy all these great players and still finish mid-table :o

[nivek]

one can only hope that continues

[nivek]

http://blogs.notw.co.uk/sport/2008/07/andy-dunn-col-1.html
lol
too funny

[Fern9do]

Depressing reading that. Those clowns running our club must go asap.
Hopefully well be signing keane though. United have been quiet, arsenal have been stingy and chelsea have been...well chelski:)

[nivek]

arsenal arent stingy they just dont waste on money on worthless signings ala spurs and they stick to their beliefs when it comes to paying and paying for players

why should a footballer earn 100,000 pounds a week??

[Fern9do]

Because thats the current going rate for good players.You think guys like cesc and adebayor will be happy earning less than henry,gerrard or rooney?
If arsenal dont change their wage structure they will continue to lose their best players. Flaminis already left the club, hleb and adebayor are close to leaving and its only a matter of time before Real or Barca comes sniffing around for Fabregas again.
Wenger had the same arrogant attitude when it comes to signing players, another season with no trophys and it looks like his changing his philosophy now by going after expensive players like nasri,arshavin and villa.

[nivek]

nasri wasnt that expensive.. i cant see him signing arshavin or villa

adebayor doesnt deserve henrys salary, hes had 1 good season, henry had good season after good season.. if adebayor can do it again, he'll get paid what he deserves.. he still has to prove himself.. and he just got a new contract, its just greed

cesc gets a new contract every year :)

[hj2k_x]

Because thats the current going rate for good players.You think guys like cesc and adebayor will be happy earning less than henry,gerrard or rooney?
If arsenal dont change their wage structure they will continue to lose their best players. Flaminis already left the club, hleb and adebayor are close to leaving and its only a matter of time before Real or Barca comes sniffing around for Fabregas again.
Wenger had the same arrogant attitude when it comes to signing players, another season with no trophys and it looks like his changing his philosophy now by going after expensive players like nasri,arshavin and villa.

Exactly. He needs to change that immediately if Arsenal are gonna win anything again. Seems like ages ago when they had that 'unbeatable' season which made the rest of us :sick: .

[Fern9do]

4 seasons without a trophy...wenger is the luckiest manager in the world.What other clubs board would be happy with winning nothing so consistently. If he doesnt deliver anything this season...

[mercurial]

http://www.premierleague.com/page/Headlines/0,,12306~1316307,00.html

[mercurial]

2 more weeks :D

[.geek]

http://blogs.notw.co.uk/sport/2008/07/andy-dunn-col-1.html
lol
too funny

LOL. Nice find. The picture of Hleb is brilliant. :D

[.geek]

I hope he does. It still doesn't make it any less amusing. :)

[mercurial]

What is amusing is the Ronaldo saga. :D

No, it's irritating. :)

[killadoob]

Whats amusing is with 100m united can go buy a whole new team like Barcelona if needed :p, maybe just maybe they can use that to purchase messi :p

The most amusing thing is some people never give up, i find that amusing genius :p

[mercurial]

2? Lol. Way more than that dude.

[mercurial]

I don't know much about Alves, but I wouldn't pay more than 40 mill for Messi.

[hj2k_x]

I don't know much about Alves, but I wouldn't pay more than 40 mill for Messi.

I agree.

I am not a lover of Messi.

[killadoob]

You really think messi is worth less than ronaldo?

roflmao!!! messi is worth 100m so is ***a, pity you not the boss of Barcelona, we could have picked up messi cheap cheap.

Why is messi worth more than ronaldo though?

All 3 are fantastic players and worth plenty.:)

[hj2k_x]

Alves is the highest paid defender in the world. Messi is worth more than Ronaldo.

Remember the end of last season, Chelsea wanted to offer him 80 million to come to London.

I am not sure about that at all. The figures being bandied around for Ronaldo were well in excess of that...

[killadoob]

Ronaldo is not just a soccer player, he is becoming an icon much like beckham.

Messi is just an amazing player, has no appeal outside the soccer field. This is why he would be worth more or less the same.

Please show me a season that messi has scored 40 odd goals and helped barcelona to win trophy :), Barcelona don't even remember what a trophy looks like.

Messi = new maradona
Ronaldo = portugal's maradona :p

both great players and saying who is better because they have won awards is just silly.

Milan have won way more trophies than united, but who is the better team in the 3 years? according your theory milan would be :p

[hj2k_x]

Wow, another clone. How original.

*SIGH

[mercurial]

I don't ever recall anyone offering Messi 100 mill. AFAIK, only Ronaldo was offered that much, hence Ronaldo is more expensive than Messi.

[killadoob]

80m vs 100m, maths 101 china, still more expensive :)

Your arguing he is not more expensive and you quote an amount less than your argument :p

[hj2k_x]

Chelsea wanted Messi to come after the CL final. They were reported offering in the region of 80 million for the player.

80 < 100.

What are you on about?

[mercurial]

80m vs 100m, maths 101 china, still more expensive :)

Your arguing he is not more expensive and you quote an amount less than your argument :p

Exactly. :confused:

[antowan]

Don't tempt me guys! Seriously keep it savory.

Infractions are a click away.

[SuPaStA]

Don't tempt me guys! Seriously keep it savory.

Infractions are a click away.

Suppose to be bans for personal attacks as per RPM's sticky.

[killadoob]

Supa you have ant's pm, use it

Guys lets keep this about england and nothing more please.

[SuPaStA]

No problem talking about EPL but getting tired of selective modding, ppl should get banned.Kule got banned for calling someone a idiot, merc calls me a mofo and his post gets deleted.

[mercurial]

Don't tempt me guys! Seriously keep it savory.

Infractions are a click away.

I, at times, get sucked into their nonsense because I think they are talking nonsense and want to rectify them. I have been able to control my temper very well, and almost got angered a few minutes ago, but I have resisted the urge to "debate" with them. They may think that I'm not replying because I don't have a "comeback", but it's because I realised that people will believe whatever they want, and no matter what one says to them or what one shows them, they will never listen to us, because they have their beliefs and that's never gonna change. I shall not reply to them anymore :)

One less job for you ;)

[mercurial]

No problem talking about EPL but getting tired of selective modding, ppl should get banned.Kule got banned for calling someone a idiot, merc calls me a mofo and his post gets deleted.

I did not specifically call anyone a mofo. It was a general rant. I'm done discussing with you lot. Sorry Antowan, I'm gonna ignore them from now on :)

[Fern9do]

I dont see the problem with a healthy debate.that is what a forum is for after all.

[SuPaStA]

I dont see the problem with a healthy debate.that is what a forum is for after all.

Mate there are people on here that cant debate themselves out of a cardboard box, hence they run to the mods.

[killadoob]

Yea but it never is a debate, it becomes a who can attack the person more debate which is senseless.

You see supa there is a difference between debating and calling the other forum members names and attacking them.

Please don't try make out we run to mods every second, you know full well why certain members are banned.

[SuPaStA]

Yea but it never is a debate, it becomes a who can attack the person more debate which is senseless.

There was one attack by merc calling everyone who does not agree with him mofo's.Show me one post by another user that was insulting to anyone?

[Fern9do]

Then i guess mercurial will be banned?seeing that he called everyone who didn't agree with him mofo's

Personally i dont agree with insults = ban rule, but thats the rules rpm made.

[antowan]

We have to be harsh as some folks just don't listen. But lets all move on with the topic. All is well now. Steer clear from calling each other names and all is well. :D

"mofo" is not allowed even if it is funny! Mkay! :D

You can however use it to insult Telkom. That is 100% ;)

[Alan]

*sigh*

[Fern9do]

Mmmmmokay:)

[mercurial]

We have to be harsh as some folks just don't listen. But lets all move on with the topic. All is well now. Steer clear from calling each other names and all is well. :D

"mofo" is not allowed even if it is funny! Mkay! :D

You can however use it to insult Telkom. That is 100% ;)

LMAO. Ok, I will not call anyone that again. It's not even a word but I'll respect your wishes :D

[nivek]

12 pages and a ball hasnt been kicked yet

[Fern9do]

Lol. Can you imagine what this place will be like when the season actually starts!:):)

[killadoob]

Just three days after his release from prison, Joey Barton has fallen foul of the footballing authorities once again.

The Newcastle United midfielder was belatedly charged with violent conduct by the Football Association over his training ground assault on Ousmane Dabo 15 months ago.

Barton, 25, was given a four-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, on July 1 after admitting assault occasioning actual bodily harm on his former Manchester City team-mate in May last year.

The FA were unable to launch their own investigation into the incident - of which there is no video footage - until the completion of the criminal investigation and court case.

That fact has not assuaged his current employers, however, who immediately voiced their discontent when the FA charge was handed out.

'Newcastle United can confirm that it has received documentation from the Football Association stating that it is charging Joey Barton with misconduct in relation to the incident that occurred with Ousmane Dabo in May 2007, at a time when he was a registered player of Manchester City,' a club statement read

'The club has sought clarification from the Football Association as to why this decision has been reached now, given the incident occurred nearly 15 months ago.

'Joey will be requesting a personal hearing in relation to the charge and the club will be making no further comment on the matter at this time.'

The new charge from the FA comes as a result of the criminal hearing at Manchester Crown Court after football's governing body received all the relevant documentation from the case.

Barton now has until August 13 to respond to the charge.

There is no maximum sentence which could be issued to Barton by the FA and, given the severity of the attack on Dabo, a lengthy ban and possible fine would be the likely outcome were he found culpable.

Speaking days after the assault by Barton, Dabo, who has also since left City to rejoin Lazio, said: 'I went to turn around, he hit me and knocked me out.

'He is a despicable coward, it wasn't a fair fight. I am disfigured.'

The FA case will be heard by an independent regulatory commission on an as yet unspecified date.

It is understood that the FA will strongly contest any claim by Barton that further punishment for the offence would be a case of 'double jeopardy', given that an employee in any industry would expect to suffer professionally for a criminal offence committed at work.

When Eyal Berkovic was kicked in the head by West Ham team-mate John Hartson during a training session in October 1998, he was fined £20,000 and banned for three matches the following February, although the FA admit there is no direct precedent for such a severe, non-match attack.

When then Manchester City defender Ben Thatcher knocked out Portsmouth's Pedro Mendes with a forearm smash during a game two years ago he was banned for eight games, with a further 15 suspended for two years.

It is believed the Dabo incident is considered to be of an at least equal severity at Soho Square, although it will be up to the independent commission to decide if the two attacks are comparable.

The FA's charge comes just three days after Barton was released from Strangeways prison in Manchester after serving 74 days of a six-month sentence for beating up a teenager in Liverpool city centre last December.

Newcastle wasted no time in offering their support to the controversial midfielder who earned a solitary England cap in February 2007.

However, Barton's boot sponsors Nike yesterday confirmed they had terminated their deal with the Huyton-born player.

Trouble has followed Barton throughout his career with previous misdemeanours including a fight with a 15-year-old fan during a pre-season trip to Bangkok in 2005 and an incident at a Christmas party in 2004 when he stubbed a cigar out in the eye of City youngster Jamie Tandy.


I hope the FA ban this oke for a very long time, the authorities could not even give him the sentence he deserve, i hope the FA do

Im shocked and angry that a person who is so brutal gets such a light sentence, an average joe would have gone to prison for atleast 5-10 years.

[mercurial]

Eish, the guy is a disgrace to footy. He is always making the headlines for the wrong reasons, and they usually involve violence. Permaban!

[Genius.]

They should ban this oke forever!!! Bad example for the kids.

[hj2k_x]

Lol. Can you imagine what this place will be like when the season actually starts!:):)

Chaos central I would imagine.

I can't wait.

[Fern9do]

Chaos central I would imagine.

I can't wait.

You and me both buddy:)
Wish the season would start already!!!!:D

[hj2k_x]

You and me both buddy:)
Wish the season would start already!!!!:D

OT- I seemed to have missed the boat - I take it you have changed your name from cashmoney to this then?

[Fern9do]

OT- I seemed to have missed the boat - I take it you have changed your name from cashmoney to this then?

yeah man. Fernando Torres is just sooo hot:o

[hj2k_x]

yeah man. Fernando Torres is just sooo hot:o

I see. :o indeed :p

[killadoob]

yeah man. Fernando Torres is just sooo hot:o

You think torres is sexy
You wantttttt to marry torres :p

Can't remember the movie that comes from.

[poolmania]

You think torres is sexy
You wantttttt to marry torres :p

Can't remember the movie that comes from.

I'm afriad he's taken......

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2008/07/30/article-0-021B51E400000578-48_468x406.jpg

[Fern9do]

I'm afriad he's taken......

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2008/07/30/article-0-021B51E400000578-48_468x406.jpg

PLAYER!!!
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/FUTBOLGIRL18/Fernando%20and%20Olalla/torresDM1007_468x381.jpg

[killadoob]

Damn Fernando you is sexy is pink :p

[hj2k_x]

PLAYER!!!
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/FUTBOLGIRL18/Fernando%20and%20Olalla/torresDM1007_468x381.jpg

Is that his sister? :)

[mercurial]

Cristiano Ronaldo should be given the green light to step up his recovery programme this week.

While talk of a showdown between Ronaldo and Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson seems to have dominated certain agendas, particularly in Spain, the Red Devils are more concerned about the 23-year-old's recent ankle operation.

Indeed, United officials have reacted with some amusement to news of potential negotiations between Ronaldo and Ferguson, not least because the Portugal winger is not due to fly into England until later this week at the earliest.

Reports in Spain a fortnight ago suggested Tuesday would be the day Ronaldo told Ferguson face-to-face of his desire to leave for Real Madrid.

However, that will not be the case given he is now due to visit a specialist in Amsterdam to discover how successful his surgery has been.

Only then is Ronaldo set to report in at Carrington, meaning it will be the end of the week at the earliest before he can speak with Ferguson.

And given the United boss is under the impression both men discussed what they had to during a meeting following Portugal's exit from Euro 2008, he is not expecting any further dialogue about Ronaldo's future.

The Red Devils - and Ferguson in particular - have made their position perfectly clear on the matter - Ronaldo, after just one season of a five-year contract, is going nowhere, no matter what price is placed on his head by officials at the Bernabeu.

It is a situation Real president Ramon Calderon may find difficult to stomach but could be forced to accept given his repeated recent protestations that his club do not want to get involved in luring Ronaldo away from Old Trafford and will only act once Old Trafford officials signal their willingness to do a deal.

Such statements have been greeted with mirth at United given the blame being placed at Calderon's door for the discussion over Ronaldo's future, which began almost as soon as the player got his hands on the Champions League trophy in Moscow last May.

Although United have a healthy disregard for reports that come out of Spain, claiming most, including those that stated Ronaldo would return on Tuesday, have been proved false, they are aware most of them originate from Real.




http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=559913&sec=england&cc=5739

That should put an end to all the BS rumours that certain people keep posting.
Please also refrain from making this thread really gay with Torres pics :sick:

[SuPaStA]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=559913&sec=england&cc=5739

That should put an end to all the BS rumours that certain people keep posting.
Please also refrain from making this thread really gay with Torres pics :sick:

How does this put a end to anything?

Nowhere in the article does Ronaldo say "I want to stay at manchester united", the only things he has said in regard to this is the fact his dream is to play for Real Madrid.

[mercurial]

You can't read I take it?

[Genius.]

Everybody, even people living under a rock knows that Ronaldo wants to join Real Madrid. If he has his way, he would have been there yesterday.

Its only the United die hard fans that believe that this is all media hype. They remind me of Jacob Zuma supporters. The man is guilty as hell, yet his supporters still believe he is innocent.

Ronaldo has flirted with the media in so many instances, declaring his love for Real Madrid - yet the United fans believe that it is the media that are making these rumours up.

*sigh*

[mercurial]

The issue is not whether or not he WANTS to play for RM. The issue is that he WON'T be able to do THIS season. Read the article.

[Genius.]

Who cares if he os going to stay. The damage has been done and he has already damaged your club.

[SuPaStA]

You can't read I take it?

Are you illiterate?
There is nothing from ronaldo saying I want to stay at manchester united.There isnt even a quote from anyone from the manchester united team.

[mercurial]

Who cares if he os going to stay. The damage has been done and he has already damaged your club.

Damage? What damage?


Are you illiterate?
There is nothing from ronaldo saying I want to stay at manchester united.There isnt even a quote from anyone from the manchester united team.

Read the damn article. Geez. It's not hard. Really it isn't.




The Red Devils - and Ferguson in particular - have made their position perfectly clear on the matter - Ronaldo, after just one season of a five-year contract, is going nowhere, no matter what price is placed on his head by officials at the Bernabeu.




That's just a small quote.

[Genius.]

Damage? What damage?



Read the damn article. Geez. It's not hard. Really it isn't.

He basically undermined your club, referring to Manchester United as treating their players as slaves.

All the fans adored him, he didnt pay any respect to them - he wanted to flee to Real Madrid. If you still think that CR doesnt want to goto Madrid then you lying to yourself.

The only thing keeping him there is the contract, he would be in Spain in a heart beat if he could.

[SuPaStA]

Damage? What damage?



Read the damn article. Geez. It's not hard. Really it isn't.

Ill put this in capital letters so maybe you will then understand:
There is nothing from ronaldo saying I want to stay at manchester united

The article doesnt even have a quote from a member of the united staff.

[Genius.]

:D :D

[mercurial]

He basically undermined your club, referring to Manchester United as treating their players as slaves.

All the fans adored him, he didnt pay any respect to them - he wanted to flee to Real Madrid. If you still think that CR doesnt want to goto Madrid then you lying to yourself.

The only thing keeping him there is the contract, he would be in Spain in a
heart beat if he could.

No one is denying that he wants to go. The article states that him wanting to go is not going to happen, regardless if he says he wants to go to RM. This is what flopperstar ↓↓ can't get into his head.


Ill put this in capital letters so maybe you will then understand:
There is nothing from ronaldo saying I want to stay at manchester united

The article doesnt even have a quote from a member of the united staff.

[Genius.]

No one is denying that he wants to go. The article states that him wanting to go is not going to happen, regardless if he says he wants to go to RM. This is what flopperstar ↓↓ can't get into his head.

Ya, but almost every single article for months is saying the same thing that you just posted.

Thats old news with Man United saying his is locked down to his contract bla bla bla.

I actually hope he stays and proves to the whole world what a average player he is.

[mercurial]

Ya, but almost every single article for months is saying the same thing that you just posted.

Thats old news with Man United saying his is locked down to his contract bla bla bla.

I actually hope he stays and proves to the whole world what a average player he is.

Yet it's the truth and all your articles posted says he's going to RM. He can't go if the club doesn't release him. That's what I've been trying to tell you lot. He can go on and on about how much he loves RM but if the club does not want to release him, there's nothing he can do.
IMO, I'd ship him off to RM already.

[SuPaStA]

No one is denying that he wants to go. The article states that him wanting to go is not going to happen, regardless if he says he wants to go to RM. This is what flopperstar ↓↓ can't get into his head.

Lets see your previous post:

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=559913&sec=england&cc=5739

That should put an end to all the BS rumours that certain people keep posting.
Please also refrain from making this thread really gay with Torres pics :sick:

You post puts a end to nothing, the day Ronaldo says " I want to stay at manchester united" is the day any transfer rumours end.Your article is a pointless post as it doesnt bring anything new to the table.

[Genius.]

Yet it's the truth and all your articles posted says he's going to RM. He can't go if the club doesn't release him. That's what I've been trying to tell you lot. He can go on and on about how much he loves RM but if the club does not want to release him, there's nothing he can do.
IMO, I'd ship him off to RM already.

Thats what i mean by damage. Your last statement is what most Man fans are feeling. He has left them with a bitter taste in their mouths. He was onced loved but his antics is making him most hated.

That is how he has damaged your club.

[mercurial]

OMG you must be !#@$!#@$#@&*(*(

What part of that quote in my previous previous post did you not get? It says that regardless of what Ronaldo says and wants to do, that he will still play for MU this season because the club will not release him. Good Lord. How old are you supa?

[Genius.]

OMG you must be !#@$!#@$#@&*(*(

What part of that quote in my previous previous post did you not get? It says that regardless of what Ronaldo says and wants to do, that he will still play for MU this season because the club will not release him. Good Lord. How old are you?



What Supasta is saying is that your post is nothing new. Its the same writeup that was posted countless times.

So it cannot put an end to any transfer rumours. United have said millions of times that Ronaldo is going nowhere cos of his contract.

So nothing new here.

[mercurial]

Thats what i mean by damage. Your last statement is what most Man fans are feeling. He has left them with a bitter taste in their mouths. He was onced loved but his antics is making him most hated.

That is how he has damaged your club.

That's speculation. Most MU fans are saying he must go but not because they hate him, but because if a player wants to go, then he should go...
I don't hate him. I just don't see the point in keeping him if his heart is also somewhere else.

[mercurial]

What Supasta is saying is that your post is nothing new. Its the same writeup that was posted countless times.

So it cannot put an end to any transfer rumours. United have said millions of times that Ronaldo is going nowhere cos of his contract.

So nothing new here.

True, but he keeps denying it.

[SuPaStA]

OMG you must be !#@$!#@$#@&*(*(

What part of that quote in my previous previous post did you not get? It says that regardless of what Ronaldo says and wants to do, that he will still play for MU this season because the club will not release him. Good Lord. How old are you supa?
lol typical change your tune.

When I posted to your OP that it says nothing about ronalod saying he wants to stay so it does not stop any rumours.
you posted "You can't read I take it?"
Read what?You post is pointless, we know this news months ago ffs.

Yet you still post it as if its "new" news.You need to stop reading websites that refer to football as soccer then maybe you can be up2date on the news.

[mercurial]

* SIGH *

/wonders why people are so in denial?

[SuPaStA]

* SIGH *

/wonders why people are so in denial?
Denial of what?
The fact that ronaldo's dream is to play at real madrid?
The fact he wants to leave manchester united?

I want him to stay, after next season Real madrid wont want him.

[mercurial]

Denial of what?
The fact that ronaldo's dream is to play at real madrid?
The fact he wants to leave manchester united?

I want him to stay, after next season Real madrid wont want him.

Do you actually read my posts? Tell me where I said that Ronaldo doesn't want to play for RM. I've been saying it all along. What I said with the posted article is this: No matter how much Ronaldo wants to play for RM, he won't be able to, at least for this season because the club won't release him. Now please don't twist this around. Mkay?
You guys need to stop player-hating Ronaldo. Get over it already.

[killadoob]

Can we put this issue to bed please guys.

Lets just wait and see what develops, if he goes he goes, if he stays he stays, we wont see him for the few months anyhow due to injury.

Nobody on this forum can argue with the fact he had a remarkable season. even if he did not perform in the big games he is still the reason United did not slip up against the smaller teams like Arsenal and liverpool did.

Yes there are a few players who are rated better than him but none of those players had the season he did regardless of injuries and what not.

So lets see what happens instead of arguing about the same kuk over and over.

[SuPaStA]

Do you actually read my posts? Tell me where I said that Ronaldo doesn't want to play for RM. I've been saying it all along. What I said with the posted article is this: No matter how much Ronaldo wants to play for RM, he won't be able to, at least for this season because the club won't release him. Now please don't twist this around. Mkay?
You guys need to stop player-hating Ronaldo. Get over it already.

Your post is a few months to late, we have heard this from Manchester since the end of the season, the day ronaldo makes his alliance with manchester is the day we will stop seeing rumours.
I want Ronaldo to stay, if I was a manchester fan I wouldnt.

If messi acted like ronaldo, Barca would not think twice about letting him go.

[killadoob]

Yup you are correct supa but United are not happy with the way Real have gone about the ronaldo saga and thats why they are being so stubborn.

Real should approached United in a decent manner and they may have sold him, now united are just being spiteful.

[Genius.]

NO NO NO

Why do people blame Real?????

It is RONALDO that started this thing and it is HE who is keeping it going.!!! Not real madrid.

[SuPaStA]

Cant understand why people are blaming real madrid.

They never aproached him, he was the one that said he wants to leave and that he wants to go to Real.

[killadoob]

I dunno about that to be honest.

Please give a us link claiming ronaldo asked real madrid to come out and say they would be willing to pay 100m for him.

http://worldsoccer.about.com/b/2008/06/21/ronaldo-admits-he-wants-real-madrid-move.htm

Interesting article about how madrid leak they want ronaldo and then deny it :p

[mercurial]

Your post is a few months to late, we have heard this from Manchester since the end of the season, the day ronaldo makes his alliance with manchester is the day we will stop seeing rumours.
I want Ronaldo to stay, if I was a manchester fan I wouldnt.

If messi acted like ronaldo, Barca would not think twice about letting him go.

Yes and we have heard time and time again from your articles how Ronaldo wants to go, but we all knew that he was never gonna go cos the club would not release him. So your posts were pretty useless and only served to increase your postcount.

Really? I wonder. Clubs tend to hang onto their star players. Ferguson has let many stars go before. Stars that wanted to go. You know who I'm referring to of course.

[SuPaStA]

I dunno about that to be honest.

Please give a us link showing claiming ronaldo asked real madrid to come out and say they would be willing to pay 100m for him.

Ronaldo came out and said that his dream is that he wants to play for Real Madrid.

Madrid have said they would like him to play for them (what any other team would do in the same position) but there has never been a offer from Real madrid where they have said "we going to give u X amount of money".

[Genius.]

No formal offer from Real yes.

[killadoob]

So all those pages and pages of google saying they will pay 100m is all rubbish and lies :p or media BS?

No formal offer granted but only because United have said no Sale.

[SuPaStA]

So all those pages and pages of google saying they will pay 100m is all rubbish and lies :p or media BS?

No formal offer granted but only because United have said no Sale.
Dont think you understand what a formal offer is.

Real madrid dont need manchester to say ihis for sale to come out and say Ronalod we will offer you X amount.Which would have been agreed by their Board of Directors.

All the reports have been speculation as to how much Real madrid may pay for him.

[Genius.]

Yup. Thats why Ronaldo came out and said, he wants to goto Madrid - and Madrid have to pay what has been going around in the media which is 100 million.

Still... Madrid never put a formal offer of 100 million on the table.

[killadoob]

Explain to me how madrid would formally offer United anything if they not willing to sell.

There is no table to put the offer on.

He is under contract, surely anything put on the table needs to be done through United, so they can go say we will offer you this and that, how would that message get relayed or heard by a team who wont sell? this is what im not understanding.

Seems silly for madrid to offer ronaldo anything if united won't sell him. Waste of time.

[SuPaStA]

Explain to me how madrid would formally offer United anything if they not willing to sell.

There is no table to put the offer on.

Madrid can come out and say we willing to pay you x amount if you want to sell.It doesnt need Manchester to say we going to sell him, please make a offer.It does not need a club to say we going to sell him, for offers to come in.

Madrid have never madea offer for him, this whole thing has been started by Ronaldo.Cant believe people still think its real madrids fault.

[Genius.]

EXACTLY!!! Well said Supa!

Ronaldo is hot property just like Messi!!!!

If Messi said it was his dream to play for Werder Bremen. I will bet alot of money that Werder Bremen will put a offer in for Messi. It can be 200 million or it can be 30 million. They will still put a offer in.

Thats what people must understand. This has been started by Ronaldo NOT Real Madrid. United are getting irritated with Real cos of what????

They should get irritated at their player, who enjoys all the attention and likes to let the media know of his desire to leave.

[killadoob]

So ronaldo reported in the media that madrid wanted to buy him for 100m

is this just a rumour? Stuff the media making up?

what about the barcelona story where they would be willing to pay ronaldo 300k a week? also a load of rubbish?

[SuPaStA]

So ronaldo reported in the media that madrid wanted to buy him for 100m

is this just a rumour? Stuff the media making up?

what about the barcelona story where they would be willing to pay ronaldo 300k a week? also a load of rubbish?

How hard is it for you to underestand.No formal offer from madrid, this was media speculation as to how much madrid will pay for him.

I have not seen any valid story about Barcelona wanting him, why would they want him if they have Messi.

[Genius.]

So ronaldo reported in the media that madrid wanted to buy him for 100m

is this just a rumour? Stuff the media making up?

what about the barcelona story where they would be willing to pay ronaldo 300k a week? also a load of rubbish?

No man! dont u get it?

Barca never ever wanted Ronaldo. The reason that was mentioned in the media was when Barca had their elections. The person running against Laporta said that if he was elected he will bring Ronaldo to Camp Nou. This is what people running for the presidency do. Caleredon did the same with Beckham.

So yes, that was rubbish!!! Perfect example how quickly you believe things:rolleyes:

Do this - find me a link from the real madrid news site or website that says that madrid has offered United 100 million.

If u cant do that, then rather give up. This is getting boring.

[killadoob]

Well there wont be a link from madrid as they have they not put in a formal offer to man united because united are not selling, so why would there be a report.

Lets leave at ronaldo leaked to the press madrid would pay 100m for him :P

[SuPaStA]

Well there wont be a link from madrid as they have they not put in a formal offer to man united because united are not selling, so why would there be a report.

Lets leave at ronaldo leaked to the press madrid would pay 100m for him :P

How old are you becuz u unable to comprehend simple english.

Do you think every team goes out saying "we selling our player, please come make offers"??
Real madrid making a offer has nothing to do with manchester wanting to sell or not.Real madrid have never put in a offer for Ronaldo.

As posted a few times now but you seem to keep missing it THE PRESS HAVE SPECULATED as to how much they would pay.Nothing to do with ronaldo saying they going to pay so much for me.

This is why there are arugments in these threads, people like you who cant understand simple football concepts.

I'm convinced you in your early teens by the way.

[Genius.]

This is getting ridiculous. Geez!!

Now there are people believing that Ronaldo leaked to the press that Madrid would pay 100mil.

It isnt that hard to understand.

[killadoob]

My comment was tongue in the cheek okes. Wooooooooooooooooooooooooossssssssssssaaaaaaaaaaaa aaaaaaaaaaaaaa

end of ronaldo discussion.

[Fern9do]

United facing Striker Crises PDF Print E-mail
Written by Ashraf
Wednesday, 06 August 2008 14:11

Wayne Rooney

Manchester United have a striker crises on their hands after the club confirmed that Wayne Rooney will miss the start of their English Premier League campaign because of picking up a virus in Nigeria.

This means that Carlos Tevez will be the only recognised striker that will be fit when United kick off their title defense against Newcastle United at Old Trafford. United may now be forced to push ahead with their bid to sign Tottenham's Dimitar Berbatov after the North London club rejected their first initial offer of £20.5 million.



“I doubt we’ll get Rooney for the start of the season with this virus he’s had,” Ferguson, who reiterated that Ronaldo would not be leaving for Real Madrid, said. “It’s a virus he’s picked up in Nigeria, I believe, and it’s not a nice one. He’s not trained. There are [11] days until the start of the season and he’s not back yet. We came back on July 28, so it’s a long time." said Ferguson.

Rooney has not been admitted to hospital but the club is monitoring his health closely and have confirmed that he does not have malaria.

“We’ve done all the investigation — we’ve got the facilities here to do those things now. We had malaria tablets and it’s nothing to do with that — it’s not malaria.”

United will also be missing Louis Saha, Park Ji Sung and Owen Hargreaves, all of whom have knee problems, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been ruled out until October with an ankle injury. Nani is suspended for the first two matches of the campaign after his red card against West Ham United last season, while Anderson is away with Brazil at the Olympic Games in Beijing and is therefore unavailable until the end of the month.



This will only add to the United manager's problems ahead of the new season after their summer plans have been overshadowed by the Chritiano Ronaldo transfer saga.
http://www.safootballfans.co.za/barclays-premier-league/36-barclays-premier-league/204-united-facing-striker-crises.html

[hj2k_x]

This is getting ridiculous. Geez!!



Yes it is. Yet you don't want to stop with this pathetic 'debate'.

[hj2k_x]

http://www.safootballfans.co.za/barclays-premier-league/36-barclays-premier-league/204-united-facing-striker-crises.html

It's going to be an interesting first few games, then :eek:

[Fern9do]

It's going to be an interesting first few games, then :eek:

I'm loving it:)
United really need a striker because if you take Ronaldo out of the equation scoring becomes way more difficult:)
Hope they drop a many points as possible while these guys are out.

[hj2k_x]

I'm loving it:)
United really need a striker because if you take Ronaldo out of the equation scoring becomes way more difficult:)
Hope they drop a many points as possible while these guys are out.

LOL.

United will never struggle to score goals. Last season it was Ronaldo, this season it will be someone else, the next season someone else.

People seem to forget how many goals United's midfield contribute. Just look at the Treble season for a good example of goals coming from virtually every position.

That said, I cannot belive we have not bought another quality striker to plug the whole that will be left by all the players who are injured/unavailable/made of biscuits as is the case with Saha :o

Our first ten games are tough. If we can come out of those somewhere near the top of the league, it will be great :)

[SuPaStA]

Yes it is. Yet you don't want to stop with this pathetic 'debate'.

There was not debate,It was just one person who couldnt understand a simple point.

[hj2k_x]

There was not debate,It was just one person who couldnt understand a simple point.

Who cares? Arguing over who may or may not have made a bid for this amount or the other. So sad.

[SuPaStA]

Who cares? Arguing over who may or may not have made a bid for this amount or the other. So sad.

Ya a simple issue, yet some people cant grasp it.Thats the problem 2 many people on this forum who have jumped the bandwagon without understand simple football concepts, such as making a formal offer for a player.

Like some people who couldnt understand the offside rule...

[hj2k_x]

Ya a simple issue, yet some people cant grasp it.Thats the problem 2 many people on this forum who have jumped the bandwagon without understand simple football concepts, such as making a formal offer for a player.

Like some people who couldnt understand the offside rule...

Wow, what a funny comment :rolleyes:

I can see where this is going to end up, yet again.

[killadoob]

/boring as usual

Got this sneaky feeling this is liverpool's year, Will be interesting to see how united do without rooney and ronaldo. They play tnite against juventus who beat arsenal 1-0 at arsenal's home ground.

Its a friendly tnite but i have a feeling both teams will field good sides. Juventus got nailed against hamburg but that was their second team, totally different to the one that beat arsenal.

Lets drop the ronaldo thing already.

Supa one thing is for sure its pointless debating you. the minute we start a debate then the bandwagon comes out and silly mistakes or things people were not aware of get thrown in their face which is rather sad but hey thats life.

Anyhow looking forward to next weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[SuPaStA]

/boring as usual

Got this sneaky feeling this is liverpool's year, Will be interesting to see how united do without rooney and ronaldo. They play tnite against juventus who beat arsenal 1-0 at arsenal's home ground.

Its a friendly tnite but i have a feeling both teams will field good sides. Juventus got nailed against hamburg but that was their second team, totally different to the one that beat arsenal.

Lets drop the ronaldo thing already.

Supa one thing is for sure its pointless debating you. the minute we start a debate then the bandwagon comes out and silly mistakes or things people were not aware of get thrown in their face which is rather sad but hey thats life.

Anyhow looking forward to next weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Did I say anything about a bandwagon in posts towards you reagarding Ronaldo? NO!

No mention of the charity shield by anyone so far,considering its happening this weekend.

[.geek]

Anyhow looking forward to next weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can't wait. :) These last few weeks have gone by so slowly in terms of getting closer to the kick off of the new season. :(

[killadoob]

i'm not really excited about watching United play portsmith, i am however excited about the start of the premier league!!!!!!!!!!!

I will watch the game but im not exactly counting down the hours till united play Portsmith, If anything i hope united field a poor team and make sure they are Injury free, with ronaldo and rooney out we cannot afford another big injury.

[Fern9do]

Its because its united vs pompey. Not exactly a match that people will be waiting for with anticipation:)

[Genius.]

LOL.

United will never struggle to score goals. Last season it was Ronaldo, this season it will be someone else, the next season someone else.

People seem to forget how many goals United's midfield contribute. Just look at the Treble season for a good example of goals coming from virtually every position.

That said, I cannot belive we have not bought another quality striker to plug the whole that will be left by all the players who are injured/unavailable/made of biscuits as is the case with Saha :o

Our first ten games are tough. If we can come out of those somewhere near the top of the league, it will be great :)

hahahahah United have a massive problem on their hands.

I found it funny how confident you are, yet you use an example of the treble as that was the last time u scored so many goals.

The treble was hahaha about almost 10 years ago. United have a problem ol right. Rooney and Ronaldo out is a big problem.

[killadoob]

Rooney is the problem, i think united only 1 game out 6 or 7 he did not play last season.

Rooney is the key to United. Ronaldo can be replaced but i don't think rooney can, yes i know how many goals he scored so please elts not get into that.

[bonobo_slr]

Sorry chaps, but the boys from SW6 will be a tough outfit to beat this year. I fancy them regaining the title. Can't see them slipping up as much as they did last year.

[bonobo_slr]

Rooney is the problem, i think united only 1 game out 6 or 7 he did not play last season.

Rooney is the key to United. Ronaldo can be replaced but i don't think rooney can, yes i know how many goals he scored so please elts not get into that.

Rooney and Tevez are similar players. I am not sure that Rooney would be all that missed if Tevez is playing.

[killadoob]

I don't think thats true, when rooney does not play United don't do well.

[hj2k_x]

hahahahah United have a massive problem on their hands.

I found it funny how confident you are, yet you use an example of the treble as that was the last time u scored so many goals.

The treble was hahaha about almost 10 years ago. United have a problem ol right. Rooney and Ronaldo out is a big problem.

I'll humour this with a response though it does not really merit one :o

I used the exaple of the Treble because no one has ever won one before or since in England.

Also, if you want to talk about scoring goals, which team do you think has consistently scored the most goals each season since the start of the Premier League?

Maybe I should have used the example of the Double last year then, or the year before when we also won the league. :o

Still laughing?

[Genius.]

I'll humour this with a response though it does not really merit one :o

I used the exaple of the Treble because no one has ever won one before or since in England.

Also, if you want to talk about scoring goals, which team do you think has consistently scored the most goals each season since the start of the Premier League?

Maybe I should have used the example of the Double last year then, or the year before when we also won the league. :o

Still laughing?

Yes.

Cos United without Rooney and Ronaldo is like a toothles tiger. Besides Ronaldo and Rooney this season, who scored your goals???

Yes, i am still laughing. Very loud actually ;)

[killadoob]

Not sure why your laughing but anyways. Players get injured and yes United are going struggle without the 2 of them, Don't see how its so funny.

[mercurial]

Cristiano Ronaldo has vowed to give everything in the Manchester United cause this season.

Ronaldo has publicly abandoned his desire to play for Real Madrid - at least until next summer - and instead committed himself to Old Trafford.

Any Red Devils supporters still sceptical after a summer transfer wrangle, which at one stage seemed destined to end in Ronaldo moving to Madrid, need have no fear.

'Before rumours emerge saying that I will play against my will, I want to make this clear - whoever says or writes that is lying,' he told Portuguese newspaper Publico.

'I will play for Manchester with all my heart and soul. I will fight and honour that shirt with the same commitment and dedication as always.'

United had agreed with Ronaldo's desire to end speculation over the matter and were informed about the interview before last night's 0-0 draw with Juventus.

The 23-year-old is due to see a specialist in Amsterdam later today to have an updated assessment on the ankle he recently had operated.

If as expected Ronaldo is given the all clear, he will fly straight into Manchester.

Clearly, he was eager to end the speculation over his future before meeting his team-mates again - especially because a decision about where he would play this season was made last month after a meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson, once Portugal had been dumped out of Euro 2008.

'He heard my arguments; I heard his - and in fact, it was settled that the best for both parties would be for me to stay,' said Ronaldo, with Ferguson adding his view once proceedings at Old Trafford had reached their goalless climax.

'We cleared the air in Portugal, and the boy spoke to a few of the players as well,' said the Scot.

'The thing is, he knows he is happy here and has always been happy here.

'The fans have to understand it has been a very difficult time for him. He has been offered all this money - when his dad has died a young man and he is looking after his mother, his sister and his brother.

'But once he knew my stance he settled down - and as far as we are all concerned, the matter is finished. The boy is a United player - that is what is important.'

Ronaldo's renewed commitment brings some welcome good news for United, who look like heading into the opening game of their Barclays Premier League title defence against Newcastle on August 17 missing 10 senior players for one reason or another.

The virus affecting both Wayne Rooney and Michael Carrick is yet to be resolved - while, despite the injury worries and confirmation they are under no legal obligation to release him, United will let Anderson stay in China to honour his Olympic commitment to Brazil.

The shadow of Madrid will still linger over Ronaldo.

'I knew Real Madrid were interested in signing me and that they had allegedly made a very high offer to Manchester United,' he said.

'My desire was, for some time, that Manchester had accepted my transfer to Madrid.

'Saying otherwise would be to trick people and my own consciousness.'




ESPN (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=560619&sec=england&cc=5739)

[Genius.]

Old news. Was posted in Summer Transfers :D