Johnny Come Lately

I'm posting this for two reasons.

(1) It will allow us to forget his 10 minutes in goal this past weekend.

-and-

(2) Rivals Rooney's chip for one of my favorite United goals.

More on Italy Tragedy....

A good write-up by James Richardson.

China vs. QPR Brawl

This is getting a lot of publicity in the UK. The comments in the Youtube section below the video are vile and racist. This doesn't look like it is going to turn out good for both clubs.

'Pool Takeover Comments

I'm by no means a finance, nor football expert, however I believe this takeover by the two Americans of Liverpool can be nothing short of a future success story. My basis is on the following:

1. Past Example - Although United's takeover by the Glazer family is in its infancy, as a United supporter, I have seen no evidence that the United Football Club is either in financial distress, nor its future has been compromised. I am sure others would disagree with me. but whenever solicited for important money for transfers, the Glazer family has "ponied up the dough" (e.g. Carrick). In addition, all you have to do is look at what the Glazer's have done with the Tampa Bay franchise to see their dedication for winning.
2. $$$$ - How can in influx of a lot of money not be a good sign towards future development?!?!
3. World Marketing - Spreading the Liverpool name even farther across the globe can only help in marketing Liverpool, let alone the EPL.
4. Enhance Rivalries - As if the Scouse/United rivalry needed any more ammunition, but now you have Americans owning both teams. I can hear the "USA...USA...USA" chants right now.
5. No DIC - The DIC takeover bid sounded a bit "dodgy" if you ask me.
6. Alex Rodriguez - Tom Hicks is not afraid to take chances on high-priced athletes.

We will see how this plays out over time, but between United and Aston Villa I have had no indication that the Americans are ruining the EPL.

Maldini ever the Captain....

A practical solution to a huge social issue in Italy. I have always respected Maldini, both on and off the field. He has grace and intelligence, something lacking in most footballers.

Scholes is a Genius

A very flattering article by Henry Winter. I believe that Scholes by-passing national duty has prolonged his club career, however it would be great to see Scholes under this new regime.

Italian Tragedy

This is a brief and well-written summarization of the problems of Italian domestic football.

A detailed review of the Ultras in Italy.

Big Phil Opens Big Mouth

I'm guessing this isn't going to sit well with Sir Alex. Beyond Big Phil's angst towards Coach Carlos, hinting on Ronaldo's future will certainly cause a reaction from Sir Alex.

Now they are complimenting the defense!?!?

Vindication

The trip to White Hart Lane turned out to be fruitful for United. Beyond a lackluster and somewhat entertaining first 40 minutes, United took form close to halftime. A somewhat controversial penalty for Ronaldo (quite a strike) gave United the lead. United used some quick attacking to make the rest of the game a blowout.

The highlight of the game was watching a shaky John O'Shea tend goal after EVS leave the game with a broken nose (seemed a bit rash by Robbie Keane if you ask me!). Even with a 4-0 lead, I got a bit nervous towards the end.

Where's Louis?

I realize he has had a couple of knocks lately, but I find it kind of ironic that we have not seen too much of Louis Saha lately.

The irony?

Well, it was about this time last year that Sir Alex disposed of RVN for the Carling Cup Final to allow Saha to get some playing time. This season shortly after the New Year, Ole Gunnar and Henrik Larsson have been getting the time.

I'm sure Sir Alex is just resting Louis for the rest of the Premiership, FA Cup and Champions League races, but it has been quite awhile since we have seen Louis service.

Yankees to do Biz with the Scouse....

Its kind of funny that one of the most storied teams in England, can't find a buyer. I am not too sure what is going in the Board Room for Liverpool, but they can't seal a sale for anything. Now the same man who "sold the farm" to bring in A-Rod and another owner who can't bring a winner to the most storied team in Canada want to purchase the Reds. Is this newsworthy, or just another failed attempt to get a new stadium in Liverpool?