Exclusive: “Things have changed a little bit,” Omar Sy admits about life after Lupin. He laughs. “My parents do know what I do now.”
That’s how the actor and his family like it. Low key. The Frenchman’s move to LA a decade ago was in part driven by a desire for more anonymity. In his home country, Sy is a superstar. In America, picking his kids up from school didn’t need to be a drama. “It’s still different being in LA,” he says, despite his growing fame. “Even if things have changed a bit, there’s still less attention here than it might have been in France. The guy from Lupin is not a big deal in LA.”
In truth, “the guy from Lupin” is becoming a big deal all over the world. Sy was already an established comic in France when The Intouchables took the...
That’s how the actor and his family like it. Low key. The Frenchman’s move to LA a decade ago was in part driven by a desire for more anonymity. In his home country, Sy is a superstar. In America, picking his kids up from school didn’t need to be a drama. “It’s still different being in LA,” he says, despite his growing fame. “Even if things have changed a bit, there’s still less attention here than it might have been in France. The guy from Lupin is not a big deal in LA.”
In truth, “the guy from Lupin” is becoming a big deal all over the world. Sy was already an established comic in France when The Intouchables took the...
- 5/17/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
After a decade in Hollywood, French actor Omar Sy returned home to star in Netflix’s much-loved hit, Lupin. He talks about playing the charming thief, growing up with Arsenal’s Nicolas Anelka and his battle with racism
Actors, obliged to exhaustively market their wares, will pose for hours in front of posters of their latest film or TV show. They’ll hop between city premieres, sit on dreary festival panels, tell rehearsed comic stories on night-time talkshows, then get up early to be on breakfast radio. Before meeting Omar Sy, a 43-year-old Frenchman who stars in the massively popular Netflix drama Lupin, I’d never heard of an actor picking up a bucket and brush to spend a day gluing up their own billboard posters on the Paris metro. Sy, who is 6ft 2in, born in a working-class Parisian suburb to West African parents, explains the thinking behind this...
Actors, obliged to exhaustively market their wares, will pose for hours in front of posters of their latest film or TV show. They’ll hop between city premieres, sit on dreary festival panels, tell rehearsed comic stories on night-time talkshows, then get up early to be on breakfast radio. Before meeting Omar Sy, a 43-year-old Frenchman who stars in the massively popular Netflix drama Lupin, I’d never heard of an actor picking up a bucket and brush to spend a day gluing up their own billboard posters on the Paris metro. Sy, who is 6ft 2in, born in a working-class Parisian suburb to West African parents, explains the thinking behind this...
- 5/30/2021
- by Tom Lamont
- The Guardian - Film News
From a quenelle salute to World Cup controversy, the brilliant short-fuse striker comes with baggage, and this film does a fair job with some fraught material
A galaxy of major names – including Thierry Henry, Arsène Wenger and Didier Drogba – line up to chip in their two-penn’orth on one of the great footballing enigmas of modern times: Nicolas Anelka, the mercurial boy wonder who burst out of the Parisian banlieues but will probably linger longest in the collective memory for triggering a player strike at the 2010 World Cup and flashing the quenelle salute, widely regarded as an ansemitic gesture, after scoring a goal for West Brom in 2013.
But there’s a bit more to this than your standard sporting hagiography: Anelka comes with a lot of baggage, and this film from French director Franck Nataf does its best to get stuck into some comparatively heavy material. We start at the beginning,...
A galaxy of major names – including Thierry Henry, Arsène Wenger and Didier Drogba – line up to chip in their two-penn’orth on one of the great footballing enigmas of modern times: Nicolas Anelka, the mercurial boy wonder who burst out of the Parisian banlieues but will probably linger longest in the collective memory for triggering a player strike at the 2010 World Cup and flashing the quenelle salute, widely regarded as an ansemitic gesture, after scoring a goal for West Brom in 2013.
But there’s a bit more to this than your standard sporting hagiography: Anelka comes with a lot of baggage, and this film from French director Franck Nataf does its best to get stuck into some comparatively heavy material. We start at the beginning,...
- 8/5/2020
- by Andrew Pulver
- The Guardian - Film News
Streaming giant officially announces collaborations with Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Fanny Herrero and Julien Leclercq.
Steaming giant Netflix officially opened its new French headquarters in Paris on Friday in a move that Netflix chairman and CEO Reed Hastings said signalled a long-term commitment to the country.
Hastings, who flew into Paris to celebrate the official launch, said the new French office would enable Netflix ”to work even more closely with the French creative community on great shows and films that are made in France and watched all around the world.”
Some 40 staff are due to be based at the new French offices...
Steaming giant Netflix officially opened its new French headquarters in Paris on Friday in a move that Netflix chairman and CEO Reed Hastings said signalled a long-term commitment to the country.
Hastings, who flew into Paris to celebrate the official launch, said the new French office would enable Netflix ”to work even more closely with the French creative community on great shows and films that are made in France and watched all around the world.”
Some 40 staff are due to be based at the new French offices...
- 1/17/2020
- by 1100388¦Melanie Goodfellow¦0¦
- ScreenDaily
Netflix CEO Reed Hastings today officially opened Netflix’s vast new French headquarters in the center of Paris.
Currently home to 40 employees in film, TV and marketing, and with ample space for at least 100 more, the shiny new space is a major sign of intent for the streamer in one of Europe’s most important – and heavily regulated – markets.
Netflix announced today that it will significantly increase investment in France, with 20 new French productions, and partnerships with leading French creative institutions.
The streamer’s French content executives today unveiled a handful of original shows as well as a range of series and films made by production partners for the streamer. They include:
BigBug, the new film by César Award winner Jean-Pierre Jeunet, based on a script written by Jeunet and Guillaume Laurant — a comedy set in the future with a cast including César Award winner Elsa Zylberstein, César Award nominee Isabelle Nanty and Manu Payet.
Currently home to 40 employees in film, TV and marketing, and with ample space for at least 100 more, the shiny new space is a major sign of intent for the streamer in one of Europe’s most important – and heavily regulated – markets.
Netflix announced today that it will significantly increase investment in France, with 20 new French productions, and partnerships with leading French creative institutions.
The streamer’s French content executives today unveiled a handful of original shows as well as a range of series and films made by production partners for the streamer. They include:
BigBug, the new film by César Award winner Jean-Pierre Jeunet, based on a script written by Jeunet and Guillaume Laurant — a comedy set in the future with a cast including César Award winner Elsa Zylberstein, César Award nominee Isabelle Nanty and Manu Payet.
- 1/17/2020
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix continued to make strides in its European expansion on Thursday, unveiling a swanky multi-floor Paris office and announcing 20 new French shows and movies in the pipeline.
Located in the heart of the city and staffed with 40 employees, Netflix’s office launch attracted French industry figures, including producers and filmmakers working with or looking to work with Netflix.
Netflix CEO Reed Hastings, who was on hand at the event, said the service will be stepping up its investment locally and will target high-profile talent in 2020. New titles include the film “Big Bug,” directed by “Amelie” director Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Penned by Jeunet and Guillaume Laurant, “Big Bug” is a comedy set in the future starring Elsa Zylberstein, Isabelle Nanty and Manu Payet.
Jeunet participated in the first roundtable organised for the event, along with the directors Julien Leclercq and Leïla Sy, as well as rapper-turned-actor Kery James, and Sara May, director...
Located in the heart of the city and staffed with 40 employees, Netflix’s office launch attracted French industry figures, including producers and filmmakers working with or looking to work with Netflix.
Netflix CEO Reed Hastings, who was on hand at the event, said the service will be stepping up its investment locally and will target high-profile talent in 2020. New titles include the film “Big Bug,” directed by “Amelie” director Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Penned by Jeunet and Guillaume Laurant, “Big Bug” is a comedy set in the future starring Elsa Zylberstein, Isabelle Nanty and Manu Payet.
Jeunet participated in the first roundtable organised for the event, along with the directors Julien Leclercq and Leïla Sy, as well as rapper-turned-actor Kery James, and Sara May, director...
- 1/17/2020
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
There are no plans to replace him at present, according to the streaming giant.
Netflix has confirmed French media reports that Diego Bunuel has stepped down as its director of original documentaries.
“I can confirm Diego has left and there are currently no plans to replace him,” a spokesperson in London said.
Bunuel’s departure comes 18-months after he joined the streaming platform from French pay-tv giant Canal Plus in April 2018.
No reason was given for his decision to leave although the French media reports cited “personal reasons” and the fact he was based out of Netflix’s London office,...
Netflix has confirmed French media reports that Diego Bunuel has stepped down as its director of original documentaries.
“I can confirm Diego has left and there are currently no plans to replace him,” a spokesperson in London said.
Bunuel’s departure comes 18-months after he joined the streaming platform from French pay-tv giant Canal Plus in April 2018.
No reason was given for his decision to leave although the French media reports cited “personal reasons” and the fact he was based out of Netflix’s London office,...
- 12/19/2019
- by 1100380¦Melanie Goodfellow¦0¦
- ScreenDaily
As it prepares to launch a fully staffed Paris office and beefs up its roster of French series and movies originals, Netflix commissioners Sara May, Damien Couvreur, Dominique Bazay and Diego Buñuel discussed the particularities of their development process and deal-making with the French industry, as well as their diversity-friendly approach, at Series Mania.
Although France has presented many challenges for Netflix because of its strict window release schedule (which sets the Svod window at 36 months) and protests from film bodies, the French market has now become one of the fastest-growing for the streaming service, which currently boasts more than 5 million subscribers locally.
Netflix has nearly 20 French originals in the pipeline. So far, it has delivered a couple films, including “Je ne suis pas un homme facile” and “Paris est à Nous,” and three series: political drama “Marseille,” with Gerard Depardieu; romantic comedy “Plan Coeur”; and the science-fiction series “Osmosis,...
Although France has presented many challenges for Netflix because of its strict window release schedule (which sets the Svod window at 36 months) and protests from film bodies, the French market has now become one of the fastest-growing for the streaming service, which currently boasts more than 5 million subscribers locally.
Netflix has nearly 20 French originals in the pipeline. So far, it has delivered a couple films, including “Je ne suis pas un homme facile” and “Paris est à Nous,” and three series: political drama “Marseille,” with Gerard Depardieu; romantic comedy “Plan Coeur”; and the science-fiction series “Osmosis,...
- 4/1/2019
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
As it prepares to open a fully-staffed office in France and ramp up its investment in local originals, Netflix has unveiled three new documentaries, “Move” (working title), “Gims” (working title), and “Anelka” (working title), and the feature film “Of Earth And Blood” while at Series Mania in Lille.
Announced during a panel with Netflix’s commissioning team, the titles will be launching on Netflix from 2020 and will be available in over 190 countries for the streamers’s 139 million members worldwide.
A documentary series, “Move” portrays six contemporary dance choreographers from totally different backgrounds, ranging from the Spanish flamenco to the vertiginous gaga dance, and from Jamaïcan dancehall to American urban and contemporary dance. “‘Move’ will explore the choreographers’ personal histories, chaotic career paths, convictions and their translation into bodies, gestures, grace, sweat, boldness and determination,” said Netflix in a statement. “Move” is produced by Falabracks and Gaumont.
“Gims” is a documentary...
Announced during a panel with Netflix’s commissioning team, the titles will be launching on Netflix from 2020 and will be available in over 190 countries for the streamers’s 139 million members worldwide.
A documentary series, “Move” portrays six contemporary dance choreographers from totally different backgrounds, ranging from the Spanish flamenco to the vertiginous gaga dance, and from Jamaïcan dancehall to American urban and contemporary dance. “‘Move’ will explore the choreographers’ personal histories, chaotic career paths, convictions and their translation into bodies, gestures, grace, sweat, boldness and determination,” said Netflix in a statement. “Move” is produced by Falabracks and Gaumont.
“Gims” is a documentary...
- 3/26/2019
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Paulo Duarte/AP
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is renowned worldwide for his shrewd business in the transfer market. Though their recruitment policy has evolved in the last couple of years, the North Londoners are known as a club which develops young talents into household names (and then usually sells them).
The Gunners’ reputation as a feeder club for Europe’s elite is fast-fading though. Big money arrivals Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez announced a new Arsenal – a one which is willing to splash out on the best players available. Make no mistake, however, Wenger will continue to develop his own talent alongside big name arrivals. Players such as Thierry Henry, Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas flourished into international superstars under the Frenchman since the turn of the decade.
Does Arsene Wenger always get it right in the transfer market though? Arguably, no. The man who bought Nicolas Anelka for £500,000 and...
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is renowned worldwide for his shrewd business in the transfer market. Though their recruitment policy has evolved in the last couple of years, the North Londoners are known as a club which develops young talents into household names (and then usually sells them).
The Gunners’ reputation as a feeder club for Europe’s elite is fast-fading though. Big money arrivals Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez announced a new Arsenal – a one which is willing to splash out on the best players available. Make no mistake, however, Wenger will continue to develop his own talent alongside big name arrivals. Players such as Thierry Henry, Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas flourished into international superstars under the Frenchman since the turn of the decade.
Does Arsene Wenger always get it right in the transfer market though? Arguably, no. The man who bought Nicolas Anelka for £500,000 and...
- 8/15/2015
- by Ryan Elliott
- Obsessed with Film
Simon Dawson/AP/Press Association Images
Arsenal are the second most successful team in the Premier League era (level with Chelsea on three league triumphs), despite now not winning the title in ten years. They could not have achieved this without making some quality signings and building strong squads over the years.
Arsene Wenger was hailed during his early years as manager as someone who could spot a potentially world class youngster and bring him to the club for buttons before developing him into a star.
He has done this countless times, signing Nicolas Anelka for £500,000 before flogging him to Real Madrid a season later for a £23 million profit. Thierry Henry was signed for £10.5 million after being labelled a flop at Juventus. Kolo Toure was brought to the club as a relative unknown and converted into a top quality centre half who became a vital part of the Invincibles team.
Arsenal are the second most successful team in the Premier League era (level with Chelsea on three league triumphs), despite now not winning the title in ten years. They could not have achieved this without making some quality signings and building strong squads over the years.
Arsene Wenger was hailed during his early years as manager as someone who could spot a potentially world class youngster and bring him to the club for buttons before developing him into a star.
He has done this countless times, signing Nicolas Anelka for £500,000 before flogging him to Real Madrid a season later for a £23 million profit. Thierry Henry was signed for £10.5 million after being labelled a flop at Juventus. Kolo Toure was brought to the club as a relative unknown and converted into a top quality centre half who became a vital part of the Invincibles team.
- 3/3/2015
- by Mark McConville
- Obsessed with Film
Peter Byrne/Pa Archive
Just a few years ago, Bolton Wanderers were earning a point at European heavyweight Bayern Munich in a UEFA Cup tie at the Allianz Arena. The Germans, while not the Guardiola-lite powerhouse of today, still boasted the likes of Oliver Kahn, Franck Ribery, Toni Kroos and Bastian Schweinsteiger, so when Kevin Davies netted a late equaliser to salvage a 2-2 draw, the Trotters were in dreamland.
Of course, Bolton were used to such scalps over the big boys. Sam Allardyce had departed for the north-east in the summer, but under him he had developed the plucky First Division side into a tough-tackling, hardened Premier League unit who consistently overthrew those who dared to escape the Reebok Stadium with all three points.
In the last ten years, the Trotters have not only enjoyed two European adventures, but they have appeared in a Carling Cup final, finished in...
Just a few years ago, Bolton Wanderers were earning a point at European heavyweight Bayern Munich in a UEFA Cup tie at the Allianz Arena. The Germans, while not the Guardiola-lite powerhouse of today, still boasted the likes of Oliver Kahn, Franck Ribery, Toni Kroos and Bastian Schweinsteiger, so when Kevin Davies netted a late equaliser to salvage a 2-2 draw, the Trotters were in dreamland.
Of course, Bolton were used to such scalps over the big boys. Sam Allardyce had departed for the north-east in the summer, but under him he had developed the plucky First Division side into a tough-tackling, hardened Premier League unit who consistently overthrew those who dared to escape the Reebok Stadium with all three points.
In the last ten years, the Trotters have not only enjoyed two European adventures, but they have appeared in a Carling Cup final, finished in...
- 12/8/2014
- by Michael Ramsay
- Obsessed with Film
Nick Potts/Pa Archive/Press Association Images
When it comes to making decisions and looking after themselves, modern footballers aren’t always the best influence on themselves. That’s precisely why the biggest stars – and Nicolas Anelka – surround themselves with the toxic gaggle of advisors, agents, financial assistants and distantly related family members to help guide their careers to the big time.
Inevitably, as with any company that tries to rule by committee, a lot of the decisions that result from the consultation period end up being ill-advised – Demba Ba chased Champions League football to Chelsea and was rewarded with a permanent place on the bench after all and he was notoriously assisted by any number of advisors. But it isn’t just the outside influences who are a problem: those characters were only able to get a grip on players because on their own they’re capable of far worse feats of idiocy.
When it comes to making decisions and looking after themselves, modern footballers aren’t always the best influence on themselves. That’s precisely why the biggest stars – and Nicolas Anelka – surround themselves with the toxic gaggle of advisors, agents, financial assistants and distantly related family members to help guide their careers to the big time.
Inevitably, as with any company that tries to rule by committee, a lot of the decisions that result from the consultation period end up being ill-advised – Demba Ba chased Champions League football to Chelsea and was rewarded with a permanent place on the bench after all and he was notoriously assisted by any number of advisors. But it isn’t just the outside influences who are a problem: those characters were only able to get a grip on players because on their own they’re capable of far worse feats of idiocy.
- 10/9/2014
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
John Walton/Empics Sport
Jose Mourinho has revealed he passed up a chance to sign striker Diego Costa eight years ago when the player was still at Braga prior to signing with Atletico Madrid. The £32 million striker, who will be leading the line in Chelsea’s opening game of the Premier League season tonight at Burnley, was still a teenager learning his game at the time and Mourinho says he was ‘blind’ to the player’s potential.
In the 07/08 season, when Costa was first available, Chelsea already had strikers Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka, Andriy Shevchenko and Claudio Pizarro on the books, not to mention Salomon Kalou offering further backup and Israeli Ben Sahar breaking through from the academy. With Costa not yet having made his impact on the game, perhaps it’s no surprise that Jose decided not to take the plunge at the time. It’s also noteworthy that...
Jose Mourinho has revealed he passed up a chance to sign striker Diego Costa eight years ago when the player was still at Braga prior to signing with Atletico Madrid. The £32 million striker, who will be leading the line in Chelsea’s opening game of the Premier League season tonight at Burnley, was still a teenager learning his game at the time and Mourinho says he was ‘blind’ to the player’s potential.
In the 07/08 season, when Costa was first available, Chelsea already had strikers Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka, Andriy Shevchenko and Claudio Pizarro on the books, not to mention Salomon Kalou offering further backup and Israeli Ben Sahar breaking through from the academy. With Costa not yet having made his impact on the game, perhaps it’s no surprise that Jose decided not to take the plunge at the time. It’s also noteworthy that...
- 8/18/2014
- by Xander Markham
- Obsessed with Film
David Davies/Pa Wire/Press Association Images
Date: Saturday, February 7 Venue: Selhurst Park Kick-Off: 15:00
Team News
Crystal Palace may hand debuts to their deadline day trio of Tom Ince, Joe Ledley and Scott Dann.
Glenn Murray, the Eagles top scorer last season, is yet to feature this season because of a knee injury but he could feature in this game.
West Brom are without the injured trio of Jonas Olsson, Nicolas Anelka and Stephane Sessegnon.
However James Morrison returns from injury and new signing Thievy Bifouma is expected to take a place on the substitutes bench.
Key Stats
Crystal Palace have only lost one home game under Tony Pulis, picking up 13 points from a possible 18. However, Jason Puncheon is the only player to score in the clubs last six games.
The Eagles have only scored 15 goals all season but they defeated West Brom in the Fa Cup last month...
Date: Saturday, February 7 Venue: Selhurst Park Kick-Off: 15:00
Team News
Crystal Palace may hand debuts to their deadline day trio of Tom Ince, Joe Ledley and Scott Dann.
Glenn Murray, the Eagles top scorer last season, is yet to feature this season because of a knee injury but he could feature in this game.
West Brom are without the injured trio of Jonas Olsson, Nicolas Anelka and Stephane Sessegnon.
However James Morrison returns from injury and new signing Thievy Bifouma is expected to take a place on the substitutes bench.
Key Stats
Crystal Palace have only lost one home game under Tony Pulis, picking up 13 points from a possible 18. However, Jason Puncheon is the only player to score in the clubs last six games.
The Eagles have only scored 15 goals all season but they defeated West Brom in the Fa Cup last month...
- 2/7/2014
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
Nigel French/Empics Sport
Pepe Mel has confirmed his interest in competing the signing of promising 21-year-old striker Theivy Bifouma before 11pm.
The Baggies have been lacking a goalscoring striker this season since the departure of on-loan striker Romelu Lukaku last summer, and the French U-21 international has been impressing on loan at Las Palmas of late, scoring 11 goals already this season.
Should the deal be confirmed shortly as expected, he will be expected to slot in for their clash at home to Liverpool this Sunday.
Albion are heavily depleted offensively at the minute, with Nicolas Anelka and Stephane Sessegnon out for thematch against Liverpool on Sunday, and striker flop Markus Rosenberg set to complete a move to Swedish outfit Malmo today, after failing to score in any of his 28 appearances for the club.
The Baggies lie a mere 3 points above the drop zone, and have not won since beating...
Pepe Mel has confirmed his interest in competing the signing of promising 21-year-old striker Theivy Bifouma before 11pm.
The Baggies have been lacking a goalscoring striker this season since the departure of on-loan striker Romelu Lukaku last summer, and the French U-21 international has been impressing on loan at Las Palmas of late, scoring 11 goals already this season.
Should the deal be confirmed shortly as expected, he will be expected to slot in for their clash at home to Liverpool this Sunday.
Albion are heavily depleted offensively at the minute, with Nicolas Anelka and Stephane Sessegnon out for thematch against Liverpool on Sunday, and striker flop Markus Rosenberg set to complete a move to Swedish outfit Malmo today, after failing to score in any of his 28 appearances for the club.
The Baggies lie a mere 3 points above the drop zone, and have not won since beating...
- 1/31/2014
- by Diarmuid Hickey
- Obsessed with Film
Sang Tan/AP/Press Association Images
Nicolas Anelka has today been charged by the Football Association for his perceivably racist goal celebration against West Ham United on December 28, according to the BBC.
The West Brom striker made the controversial “quenelle” gesture after scoring against the Hammers last year and now faces a minimum five-match ban if found guilty.
The incident has caused a furore, with the ex-Chelsea forward’s reputation hanging by a thread and Albion’s sponsor Zoopla ending its agreement with the club at the end of the season because of it.
The former France international made the “quenelle” sign the day after the French government announced it was trying to ban comedian Dieudonne M’bala M’bala’s displaying of the salute.
France’s Sport minister Minster Valerie Fourneyron blasted Anelka for the gesture, labelling him anti-Semitic and calling his actions “shocking and disgusting”.
Critics say the...
Nicolas Anelka has today been charged by the Football Association for his perceivably racist goal celebration against West Ham United on December 28, according to the BBC.
The West Brom striker made the controversial “quenelle” gesture after scoring against the Hammers last year and now faces a minimum five-match ban if found guilty.
The incident has caused a furore, with the ex-Chelsea forward’s reputation hanging by a thread and Albion’s sponsor Zoopla ending its agreement with the club at the end of the season because of it.
The former France international made the “quenelle” sign the day after the French government announced it was trying to ban comedian Dieudonne M’bala M’bala’s displaying of the salute.
France’s Sport minister Minster Valerie Fourneyron blasted Anelka for the gesture, labelling him anti-Semitic and calling his actions “shocking and disgusting”.
Critics say the...
- 1/21/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
David Davies/Pa Wire/Press Association Images
Diego Lugano’s second half header ensured Everton slipped to sixth in the Premier League as Pepe Mel picked up a point in his first game in charge of West Bromwich Albion. The visitors had led at The Hawthorns through a fourth goal of the season for Kevin Mirallas.
Albion started brightly with the controversial Nicolas Anelka feeding strike partner Matej Vydra as the young Czech worked Toffees keeper Tim Howard on eight minutes. Mel’s new managerial magic swiftly subsided, however.
Bryan Oviedo, in the Everton XI in place of the injured Steven Pienaar, fired wide twice in the space of a minute. First he volleyed the second ball from a free kick across goal when Liam Ridgewell’s clearance fell to him.
Oviedo then snatched at a second effort and Mirallas worked Ben Foster in the home goal after coming inside.
Diego Lugano’s second half header ensured Everton slipped to sixth in the Premier League as Pepe Mel picked up a point in his first game in charge of West Bromwich Albion. The visitors had led at The Hawthorns through a fourth goal of the season for Kevin Mirallas.
Albion started brightly with the controversial Nicolas Anelka feeding strike partner Matej Vydra as the young Czech worked Toffees keeper Tim Howard on eight minutes. Mel’s new managerial magic swiftly subsided, however.
Bryan Oviedo, in the Everton XI in place of the injured Steven Pienaar, fired wide twice in the space of a minute. First he volleyed the second ball from a free kick across goal when Liam Ridgewell’s clearance fell to him.
Oviedo then snatched at a second effort and Mirallas worked Ben Foster in the home goal after coming inside.
- 1/20/2014
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
Nigel French/Empics Sport
Date: Monday, 2o January 2014; Venue: The Hawthorns, West Bromwich; Kickoff: 20:00 GMT
Pepe Mel makes his debut in the West Bromwich Albion dugout knowing Everton have won on three of their last seven Premier League trips to The Hawthorns.
The Baggies took three points from their last home game against the Toffees in September 2012. Shane Long, who has been sold to Hull City this winter, and Gareth McAuley were on target in that victory.
When the sides met in the reverse fixture last August neither side could score. Nikica Jelavic led the line for Everton that day, but like Long has left his former employers for the Tigers.
Life goes on for both clubs and talented youngsters spearhead their respective attacks in Saido Berahino and Romeluk Lukaku – who faces the club he spent last season on loan with. Leighton Baines may be the man for Roberto Martinez...
Date: Monday, 2o January 2014; Venue: The Hawthorns, West Bromwich; Kickoff: 20:00 GMT
Pepe Mel makes his debut in the West Bromwich Albion dugout knowing Everton have won on three of their last seven Premier League trips to The Hawthorns.
The Baggies took three points from their last home game against the Toffees in September 2012. Shane Long, who has been sold to Hull City this winter, and Gareth McAuley were on target in that victory.
When the sides met in the reverse fixture last August neither side could score. Nikica Jelavic led the line for Everton that day, but like Long has left his former employers for the Tigers.
Life goes on for both clubs and talented youngsters spearhead their respective attacks in Saido Berahino and Romeluk Lukaku – who faces the club he spent last season on loan with. Leighton Baines may be the man for Roberto Martinez...
- 1/20/2014
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
West Brom must be starting to lose patience with Nicolas Anelka. At the start of the season, it looked like the Baggies had pulled off a clever piece of transfer business with the signing of the 34-year-old. However, it’s a gamble that has ultimately backfired on the club – and maybe cost Steve Clarke his job in some respects.
At the end of the day, the club are involved in a relegation battle at the bottom of the table – and simply can’t afford to rely on Anelka any longer. This is all especially the case with the French forward likely to be banned for a lengthy spell due to his anti-semitic goal celebration during his side’s 3-3 draw with West Ham.
Money is likely to be tight at the club judging by their summer transfer activity – so it stands to reason that the club might...
West Brom must be starting to lose patience with Nicolas Anelka. At the start of the season, it looked like the Baggies had pulled off a clever piece of transfer business with the signing of the 34-year-old. However, it’s a gamble that has ultimately backfired on the club – and maybe cost Steve Clarke his job in some respects.
At the end of the day, the club are involved in a relegation battle at the bottom of the table – and simply can’t afford to rely on Anelka any longer. This is all especially the case with the French forward likely to be banned for a lengthy spell due to his anti-semitic goal celebration during his side’s 3-3 draw with West Ham.
Money is likely to be tight at the club judging by their summer transfer activity – so it stands to reason that the club might...
- 1/4/2014
- by James Kent
- Obsessed with Film
Tony Parker apologized Monday for a Twitter photo in which he made the ‘quenelle’ gesture, which is often associated with an anti-Semitic message.
Tony Parker Apologizes For ‘Quenelle’ Gesture
On Saturday a three-year-old photo of Parker making the quenelle was posted on Twitter. The quenelle gesture was popularized by Dieudonné M'bala M'bala, a prosecuted anti-Semite and French comedian.
Quenelle de Tony Parker ! #Dieudonné #Anelka pic.twitter.com/U8hkaVOm0U” a ouais il est fière celui la en plus”...
Tony Parker Apologizes For ‘Quenelle’ Gesture
On Saturday a three-year-old photo of Parker making the quenelle was posted on Twitter. The quenelle gesture was popularized by Dieudonné M'bala M'bala, a prosecuted anti-Semite and French comedian.
Quenelle de Tony Parker ! #Dieudonné #Anelka pic.twitter.com/U8hkaVOm0U” a ouais il est fière celui la en plus”...
- 12/31/2013
- Uinterview
Media Image Ltd
Neutrals were treated to an absorbing draw between two of the Premier League’s bottom six at Upton Park. West Bromwich Albion came away from East London with a point thanks to bright prospect Saido Berahino.
A topsy-turvy game at West Ham saw Sam Allardyce’s side lead 1-0 through Joe Cole only to go in behind at half time thanks to a Nicolas Anelka brace. Three goals in four manic second half minutes first saw the Hammers reclaim the lead through sub Modibo Maiga and Kevin Nolan. Baggies striker Berahino then ensured honours finished even.
Major talking points from this great game of football also included the Hammers playing 80 minutes without a recognized centre back. James Tomkins limped off with a groin injury. West Brom’s second goal came from a controversially-awarded corner and Berahino rattled the goal-frame late on with a stunning free kick.
Big Sam,...
Neutrals were treated to an absorbing draw between two of the Premier League’s bottom six at Upton Park. West Bromwich Albion came away from East London with a point thanks to bright prospect Saido Berahino.
A topsy-turvy game at West Ham saw Sam Allardyce’s side lead 1-0 through Joe Cole only to go in behind at half time thanks to a Nicolas Anelka brace. Three goals in four manic second half minutes first saw the Hammers reclaim the lead through sub Modibo Maiga and Kevin Nolan. Baggies striker Berahino then ensured honours finished even.
Major talking points from this great game of football also included the Hammers playing 80 minutes without a recognized centre back. James Tomkins limped off with a groin injury. West Brom’s second goal came from a controversially-awarded corner and Berahino rattled the goal-frame late on with a stunning free kick.
Big Sam,...
- 12/28/2013
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Premier League strugglers West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion played on an enthralling rollercoaster 3-3 draw at Upton Park that left neutrals satisified, but neither side any better off.
Joe Cole opened the scoring for the hosts inside five minutes before a late first half brace from Nicolas Anelka put the Baggies ahead. Modibo Maiga and Hammers captain Kevin Nolan struck in quick succession to complete the turnaround after the break.
Saido Berahino rescued a point for West Brom, however, and it could have been more but for the goal frame. His late free kick rattled the woodwork, so both sides shared the spoils.
West Ham survived an early scare when Chris Brunt fired into the side-netting for Albion, and then went ahead in the fourth minute. Joe Cole profited from Diego Lugano’s defensive error after Carlton Cole won an aerial ball. Passes were exchanged...
Premier League strugglers West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion played on an enthralling rollercoaster 3-3 draw at Upton Park that left neutrals satisified, but neither side any better off.
Joe Cole opened the scoring for the hosts inside five minutes before a late first half brace from Nicolas Anelka put the Baggies ahead. Modibo Maiga and Hammers captain Kevin Nolan struck in quick succession to complete the turnaround after the break.
Saido Berahino rescued a point for West Brom, however, and it could have been more but for the goal frame. His late free kick rattled the woodwork, so both sides shared the spoils.
West Ham survived an early scare when Chris Brunt fired into the side-netting for Albion, and then went ahead in the fourth minute. Joe Cole profited from Diego Lugano’s defensive error after Carlton Cole won an aerial ball. Passes were exchanged...
- 12/28/2013
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Stamford Bridge Referee: Lee Probert Date: 9th November
While the absence of the in-form Fernando Torres would be a problem for the Blues, Samuel Eto’o has performed well when deputising. Manager Jose Mourinho looks to be finally getting the best out of the striker and as a result it lifts the burden off the Chelsea midfield to be getting all the goals.
West Brom know all about the threat of Chelsea and how they’ll play, as manager Steve Clarke has long been a friend and former work colleague of Mourinho. He will name his side to nullify to threat of the Blues on the break, and will hope he can spring a counter at Stamford Bridge.
Team News
Chelsea will be without Marco Van Ginkel, Fernando Torres, and Ryan Bertrand. Manager Jose Mourinho revealed dropped midfielder Eden hazard will play against West Brom this weekend.
West Brom...
While the absence of the in-form Fernando Torres would be a problem for the Blues, Samuel Eto’o has performed well when deputising. Manager Jose Mourinho looks to be finally getting the best out of the striker and as a result it lifts the burden off the Chelsea midfield to be getting all the goals.
West Brom know all about the threat of Chelsea and how they’ll play, as manager Steve Clarke has long been a friend and former work colleague of Mourinho. He will name his side to nullify to threat of the Blues on the break, and will hope he can spring a counter at Stamford Bridge.
Team News
Chelsea will be without Marco Van Ginkel, Fernando Torres, and Ryan Bertrand. Manager Jose Mourinho revealed dropped midfielder Eden hazard will play against West Brom this weekend.
West Brom...
- 11/8/2013
- by Crip Cooke
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Arsenal were the big winners last weekend – their 2-0 victory over Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to 5 points after five of the chasing six dropped points. Arsène Wenger’s side followed that up with an impressive result, beating Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in Germany on Wednesday night in the Champions League.
The Gunners travel to Manchester United on Sunday. David Moyes’ side were victorious again last week, beating Fulham 3-1 and closing the gap between them and 4th place to 3 points after Tottenham drew 0-0 with Everton. United are coming off of a disappointing 0-0 draw with Real Sociedad in the Champions League.
Chelsea will be looking to bounce back from their 2-0 defeat at Newcastle when they host West Brom this weekend. José Mourinho has won 51 of his 65 Premier League games drawing the other 14 and his Blues are heavy favourites to pick up 3 points this weekend.
Arsenal were the big winners last weekend – their 2-0 victory over Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to 5 points after five of the chasing six dropped points. Arsène Wenger’s side followed that up with an impressive result, beating Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in Germany on Wednesday night in the Champions League.
The Gunners travel to Manchester United on Sunday. David Moyes’ side were victorious again last week, beating Fulham 3-1 and closing the gap between them and 4th place to 3 points after Tottenham drew 0-0 with Everton. United are coming off of a disappointing 0-0 draw with Real Sociedad in the Champions League.
Chelsea will be looking to bounce back from their 2-0 defeat at Newcastle when they host West Brom this weekend. José Mourinho has won 51 of his 65 Premier League games drawing the other 14 and his Blues are heavy favourites to pick up 3 points this weekend.
- 11/8/2013
- by Barrie's View
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
A hard fought draw at the Hawthorns ended Arsenal’s impressive run of away victories but on reflection they will consider themselves fortunate to escape with a point.
If ex-Gunner Nicolas Anelka had his shooting boots on he may have condemned his former club to their first defeat since the opening day of the season. Twice in the opening moments of the second half Anelka had guilt edge chances to double the Baggies advantage only to miscontrol the first opportunity in front of an open goal and then narrowly curl the ball wide when bearing down on Schezney.
The first half was a rather tame affair with West Brom happy to surrender possession while defending deep and Arsenal unable to find the passing rhythm that had served so well this term.
However, in the closing moments the home side built up a head of steam and after...
A hard fought draw at the Hawthorns ended Arsenal’s impressive run of away victories but on reflection they will consider themselves fortunate to escape with a point.
If ex-Gunner Nicolas Anelka had his shooting boots on he may have condemned his former club to their first defeat since the opening day of the season. Twice in the opening moments of the second half Anelka had guilt edge chances to double the Baggies advantage only to miscontrol the first opportunity in front of an open goal and then narrowly curl the ball wide when bearing down on Schezney.
The first half was a rather tame affair with West Brom happy to surrender possession while defending deep and Arsenal unable to find the passing rhythm that had served so well this term.
However, in the closing moments the home side built up a head of steam and after...
- 10/7/2013
- by DJ
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Sunday afternoon’s game sees the league leaders’ travel to the Hawthorns to meet a West Brom side buoyed by their magnificent performance and result at Old Trafford last week.
Arsenal will be looking to continue their five game winning run in the Premiership with another three points although the Baggies will be out for revenge after their penalty shoot out defeat to the Gunners in the Capital One cup.
Albion were one of the surprise packages last season and though they faltered slightly in the second half of the campaign they sill finished a creditable eighth. They have improved greatly over the past few weeks after a sticky start to their Premiership campaign. This is partly due to some crucial signings on deadline day, (Sessegnon, Amalfitano, and Anichebe) which bolstered their squad and confidence of the supporters.
Nicolas Anelka, if selected, another summer signing will also...
Sunday afternoon’s game sees the league leaders’ travel to the Hawthorns to meet a West Brom side buoyed by their magnificent performance and result at Old Trafford last week.
Arsenal will be looking to continue their five game winning run in the Premiership with another three points although the Baggies will be out for revenge after their penalty shoot out defeat to the Gunners in the Capital One cup.
Albion were one of the surprise packages last season and though they faltered slightly in the second half of the campaign they sill finished a creditable eighth. They have improved greatly over the past few weeks after a sticky start to their Premiership campaign. This is partly due to some crucial signings on deadline day, (Sessegnon, Amalfitano, and Anichebe) which bolstered their squad and confidence of the supporters.
Nicolas Anelka, if selected, another summer signing will also...
- 10/4/2013
- by DJ
- Obsessed with Film
Date: Saturday, September 28 Venue: Old Trafford Kick-Off: 15:00
Can Manchester United maintain their unbeaten streak against West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League?
Team News
Manchester United striker Robin van Persie is available again having missed his side’s last two matches with a groin problem.
Midfielder Tom Cleverley is also back in contention despite missing the mid-week win over Liverpool with a knee injury.
West Brom will be hoping Victor Anichebe and Nicolas Anelka are available despite minor knocks.
Claudio Yacob should be fit despite sustaining a dead leg, but midfielder Chris Brunt will again miss out with a groin injury.
(BBC)
Key Stats
Manchester United are unbeaten against West Brom in the Premier League era, having drawn three and won 11 of their last previous encounters.
The last time West Brom won in this fixture was 1984, courtesy of a 2-0 win at the Hawthorns.
Defeat here for United would...
Can Manchester United maintain their unbeaten streak against West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League?
Team News
Manchester United striker Robin van Persie is available again having missed his side’s last two matches with a groin problem.
Midfielder Tom Cleverley is also back in contention despite missing the mid-week win over Liverpool with a knee injury.
West Brom will be hoping Victor Anichebe and Nicolas Anelka are available despite minor knocks.
Claudio Yacob should be fit despite sustaining a dead leg, but midfielder Chris Brunt will again miss out with a groin injury.
(BBC)
Key Stats
Manchester United are unbeaten against West Brom in the Premier League era, having drawn three and won 11 of their last previous encounters.
The last time West Brom won in this fixture was 1984, courtesy of a 2-0 win at the Hawthorns.
Defeat here for United would...
- 9/28/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Date: Wednesday, September 25 Venue: The Hawthorns Kick-Off: 20:00
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will rotate his squad for tonight’s visit to West Brom in the all-Premier League Capital One Cup clash.
Team News
Arsenal outcast Nicklas Bendtner is set to make his first appearance for the club since August 2011 as the Londoners travel to West Brom for their third round tie in the League Cup.
Manager Arsene Wenger will rest a number of his key players, such as Jack Wilshere, while Theo Walcott will not play as he needs stomach surgery.
West Brom could hand a start to Saido Berahino following his hat-trick-heroics in round two of the competition, with strikers Shane Long and Matej Vydra expected to be absent.
Former Arsenal player Nicolas Anelka could feature against his old club.
Key Stats
All three of the League Cup meetings between these sides have ended 2-0 to Arsenal.
West Brom...
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will rotate his squad for tonight’s visit to West Brom in the all-Premier League Capital One Cup clash.
Team News
Arsenal outcast Nicklas Bendtner is set to make his first appearance for the club since August 2011 as the Londoners travel to West Brom for their third round tie in the League Cup.
Manager Arsene Wenger will rest a number of his key players, such as Jack Wilshere, while Theo Walcott will not play as he needs stomach surgery.
West Brom could hand a start to Saido Berahino following his hat-trick-heroics in round two of the competition, with strikers Shane Long and Matej Vydra expected to be absent.
Former Arsenal player Nicolas Anelka could feature against his old club.
Key Stats
All three of the League Cup meetings between these sides have ended 2-0 to Arsenal.
West Brom...
- 9/25/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
According to Sky Sports News, young Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku is set to re-sign for West Bromwich Albion on loan for the season after enjoying a successful temporary stay with the club last year.
The Belgian striker has apparently turned down Everton to re-link up with West Brom, as he would prefer, according to Sky Sports News, to join back up with the side he is familiar with. The explosive striker would represent a considerable coup for West Brom, especially considering how well he did last year, and he could enjoy more first team time than if he were to head elsewhere, which is clearly more valuable to Chelsea.
West Brom currently sit at the bottom of the league, having failed to score in three consecutive games, despite welcoming Nicolas Anelka back from compassionate leave against Swansea City at the weekend.
If Lukaku does sign for West Brom,...
According to Sky Sports News, young Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku is set to re-sign for West Bromwich Albion on loan for the season after enjoying a successful temporary stay with the club last year.
The Belgian striker has apparently turned down Everton to re-link up with West Brom, as he would prefer, according to Sky Sports News, to join back up with the side he is familiar with. The explosive striker would represent a considerable coup for West Brom, especially considering how well he did last year, and he could enjoy more first team time than if he were to head elsewhere, which is clearly more valuable to Chelsea.
West Brom currently sit at the bottom of the league, having failed to score in three consecutive games, despite welcoming Nicolas Anelka back from compassionate leave against Swansea City at the weekend.
If Lukaku does sign for West Brom,...
- 9/2/2013
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
Hull City are closing in on the transfer of West Brom striker Shane Long, according to Sky Sports News sources (and now being reported by ITV News).
The 26-year-old has reportedly been granted permission to take leave of the Republic of Ireland squad this evening and return to England as speculation grows of a potential move to the Kc Stadium. ITV News reports that Brom have given Long permission to hold talks with Steve Bruce’s newly promoted side over a switch.
Long recently spoke of the speculation surrounding his future, which is currently undecided with just one year left of his current deal and the option to sign for an extra 12 months.
Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, the former Reading man remarked:
“We’re still in talks. I have a year and an option left.
“I am looking forward to playing with West Brom and we’ll see how talks go.
The 26-year-old has reportedly been granted permission to take leave of the Republic of Ireland squad this evening and return to England as speculation grows of a potential move to the Kc Stadium. ITV News reports that Brom have given Long permission to hold talks with Steve Bruce’s newly promoted side over a switch.
Long recently spoke of the speculation surrounding his future, which is currently undecided with just one year left of his current deal and the option to sign for an extra 12 months.
Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, the former Reading man remarked:
“We’re still in talks. I have a year and an option left.
“I am looking forward to playing with West Brom and we’ll see how talks go.
- 9/2/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Bottom of the table West Brom are currently being touted as the next destination for out-of-favour Sunderland midfielder Stephane Sessegnon, who caused controversy by being arrested for drunk driving as his team were playing Mk Dons in the League Cup last week.
According to MailSport the Baggies have made a £6million offer for the Benin national forward, who was one of the shining lights of last season, but whose future at the Stadium Of Light has been unclear since Paolo Di Canio took over at the helm at the end of the season.
Though they haven’t yet won this season, Sunderland have a new look squad after Di Canio sanctioned a massive 12 incoming signings, and the Mail say Sessegnon is now surplus to requirements.
West Brom have also had a tough start to the season – they have failed to score in their three games so far, and yesterday’s...
According to MailSport the Baggies have made a £6million offer for the Benin national forward, who was one of the shining lights of last season, but whose future at the Stadium Of Light has been unclear since Paolo Di Canio took over at the helm at the end of the season.
Though they haven’t yet won this season, Sunderland have a new look squad after Di Canio sanctioned a massive 12 incoming signings, and the Mail say Sessegnon is now surplus to requirements.
West Brom have also had a tough start to the season – they have failed to score in their three games so far, and yesterday’s...
- 9/2/2013
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
West Brom striker Nicolas Anelka is on the verge of retiring following the tragic death of his agent.
The Frenchman only joined the Baggies a month ago and featured in their first game of the season against Southampton, but was allowed to miss this weekend’s game against Everton on compassionate grounds.
Following his arrival at the Hawthorns after a brief spell with Italian champions Juventus, Anelka was considered manager Steve Clarke’s biggest coup in a transfer window that has also seen Scott Sinclair arrive from Manchester City.
However, the Baggies could soon find themselves with a shortage of firepower should the journeyman quit the game, leaving them with just Shane Long and the unsettled Peter Odemwingie as their only senior strikers.
Romelu Lukaku has gone back to Chelsea following his loan stint at the Midlands club and you can’t help but worry about a...
West Brom striker Nicolas Anelka is on the verge of retiring following the tragic death of his agent.
The Frenchman only joined the Baggies a month ago and featured in their first game of the season against Southampton, but was allowed to miss this weekend’s game against Everton on compassionate grounds.
Following his arrival at the Hawthorns after a brief spell with Italian champions Juventus, Anelka was considered manager Steve Clarke’s biggest coup in a transfer window that has also seen Scott Sinclair arrive from Manchester City.
However, the Baggies could soon find themselves with a shortage of firepower should the journeyman quit the game, leaving them with just Shane Long and the unsettled Peter Odemwingie as their only senior strikers.
Romelu Lukaku has gone back to Chelsea following his loan stint at the Midlands club and you can’t help but worry about a...
- 8/26/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
West Brom striker Nicolas Anelka has reportedly retired from football with immediate effect after walking out on a training session with the Midlands club, according to Team Talk
The former Chelsea striker only joined the Baggies last month after leaving Chinese outfit Shanghai Shenhua, and put in some impressive performances during pre-season, scoring seven goals.
However, the 34-year-old looked jaded in West Brom’s 1-0 home defeat to Southampton at the weekend and it now appears the Frenchman has decided to call time on his storied career, though his club are yet to confirm this.
Instead, they have released a brief statement on their official website confirming that he will miss Saturday’s game against Everton.
The short message read:
“West Bromwich Albion can confirm that Nicolas Anelka will not be involved in Saturday’s game at Everton.
“The club have excused the striker from club duty on compassionate grounds.
West Brom striker Nicolas Anelka has reportedly retired from football with immediate effect after walking out on a training session with the Midlands club, according to Team Talk
The former Chelsea striker only joined the Baggies last month after leaving Chinese outfit Shanghai Shenhua, and put in some impressive performances during pre-season, scoring seven goals.
However, the 34-year-old looked jaded in West Brom’s 1-0 home defeat to Southampton at the weekend and it now appears the Frenchman has decided to call time on his storied career, though his club are yet to confirm this.
Instead, they have released a brief statement on their official website confirming that he will miss Saturday’s game against Everton.
The short message read:
“West Bromwich Albion can confirm that Nicolas Anelka will not be involved in Saturday’s game at Everton.
“The club have excused the striker from club duty on compassionate grounds.
- 8/22/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
West Brom have confirmed the signing on a season-long loan of Udinese striker Matej Vydra, according to Team Talk.
The Czech will be well known to English fans having enjoyed a successful loan spell at Watford last season, where he scored 22 goals to fire the Championship side to the final of the play-offs, form which alerted West Brom boss Steve Clarke.
Clarke, speaking on the club’s official website, said he was delighted to have landed Vydra.
“I’m delighted to welcome Matej to the club, he had a really good year with Watford and we believe he’s got the qualities to score goals at a higher level. Hopefully, he’ll show that this year with us.”
And the former Chelsea and Liverpool assistant manager also revealed he had been keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old before making a move to land him on loan.
“We had Matej watched throughout last season.
The Czech will be well known to English fans having enjoyed a successful loan spell at Watford last season, where he scored 22 goals to fire the Championship side to the final of the play-offs, form which alerted West Brom boss Steve Clarke.
Clarke, speaking on the club’s official website, said he was delighted to have landed Vydra.
“I’m delighted to welcome Matej to the club, he had a really good year with Watford and we believe he’s got the qualities to score goals at a higher level. Hopefully, he’ll show that this year with us.”
And the former Chelsea and Liverpool assistant manager also revealed he had been keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old before making a move to land him on loan.
“We had Matej watched throughout last season.
- 8/13/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
West Brom could be set to hand Jermain Defoe a Premier League lifeline by hijacking Queens Park Ranger’s bid for the Tottenham striker, according to The Sun.
The 30-year-old has emerged as a surprise £6 million target for Qpr which would see him reunite with former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp at Loftus Road.
Defoe is said to be open to a transfer but is concerned that dropping into the Championship would harm his World Cup credentials ahead of next summer’s tournament.
Baggies boss Steve Clarke could therefore hand the striker a Premier League lifeline and the chance to stay in the topflight by bringing him to the Hawthorns.
Defoe netted 15 Premiership goals last season but knows he will likely have to play second fiddle to the Lilywhite’s record signing Roberto Soldado when the new campaign gets back underway.
Soldado is expected to finally complete his £26.4 million move from Valencia today,...
The 30-year-old has emerged as a surprise £6 million target for Qpr which would see him reunite with former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp at Loftus Road.
Defoe is said to be open to a transfer but is concerned that dropping into the Championship would harm his World Cup credentials ahead of next summer’s tournament.
Baggies boss Steve Clarke could therefore hand the striker a Premier League lifeline and the chance to stay in the topflight by bringing him to the Hawthorns.
Defoe netted 15 Premiership goals last season but knows he will likely have to play second fiddle to the Lilywhite’s record signing Roberto Soldado when the new campaign gets back underway.
Soldado is expected to finally complete his £26.4 million move from Valencia today,...
- 8/5/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Arguably, last season West Brom were the surprise package of the Premier League finishing in an impressive 8th position, but not before flirting with European positions at various stages of the season. In the end it was 3 defeats in the final 4 games that put a small dampener in what was a largely successful debut season for manager Steve Clarke.
The use of the loan system to grab Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea was an undoubted shrewd and clever move made by the manager that came to be repaid by the Belgian’s impressive tally of 17 strikes in the Premier League (which propelled him above any player’s total from his parent club).
However, he has now returned to the fold at Chelsea under José Mourinho and has told the club’s TV channel he wants to be an integral part of the team for the upcoming season.
Now, with Peter Odemwingie...
The use of the loan system to grab Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea was an undoubted shrewd and clever move made by the manager that came to be repaid by the Belgian’s impressive tally of 17 strikes in the Premier League (which propelled him above any player’s total from his parent club).
However, he has now returned to the fold at Chelsea under José Mourinho and has told the club’s TV channel he wants to be an integral part of the team for the upcoming season.
Now, with Peter Odemwingie...
- 7/26/2013
- by William Carter
- Obsessed with Film
Chelsea forward Demba Ba is set to be sold to Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala, just six months after being bought by Newcastle, according to the Mirror.
The Senegalese striker will be joined by Jon Obi Mikel, who is poised for a move to Galatasaray, to leave the club while attacking midfielder Marko Marin has already gone to Sevilla on loan.
Ba, 28, now looks set for a move to Anzhi despite the fact he only moved to Stamford Bridge from St James’ Park in January. He enjoyed a relatively disappointing debut at the club having just managed two league goals for Rafa Benitez’ side.
He has reportedly rejected the chance to join West Brom, who last night signed ex-Chelsea marksman Nicolas Anelka instead, while also saying no to former club West Ham United in favour of a move East.
Germany forward Andre Schurrle has already joined the Blues, who are also...
The Senegalese striker will be joined by Jon Obi Mikel, who is poised for a move to Galatasaray, to leave the club while attacking midfielder Marko Marin has already gone to Sevilla on loan.
Ba, 28, now looks set for a move to Anzhi despite the fact he only moved to Stamford Bridge from St James’ Park in January. He enjoyed a relatively disappointing debut at the club having just managed two league goals for Rafa Benitez’ side.
He has reportedly rejected the chance to join West Brom, who last night signed ex-Chelsea marksman Nicolas Anelka instead, while also saying no to former club West Ham United in favour of a move East.
Germany forward Andre Schurrle has already joined the Blues, who are also...
- 7/5/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Much to the surprise of many observers, the largely unknown Frenchman, Arsene Wenger, has transformed the dull, aging Arsenal side over-reliant on staunch defence and Ian Wright’s goals into genuine challengers to Manchester United at football’s top table.
Following the increased confidence of the mercurial Dutchman, Dennis Bergkamp and the immediate impact of the largely unknown Patrick Vieira, Arsenal were expected to challenge for a top four spot this year. Galvanised by the impact of Marc Overmars, the unheralded Emmanuel Petit, and the new kid on the block Nicolas Anelka, the team has a chance of winning its first trophy since the 1994 Cup Winners Cup miracle in Copenhagen.
After a good start, the now traditional November blip kicked in, with Arsenal losing four out of six fixtures in November and early December, and the pre-season predictions of a Uefa Cup spot looked accurate. However, since the last of those,...
Following the increased confidence of the mercurial Dutchman, Dennis Bergkamp and the immediate impact of the largely unknown Patrick Vieira, Arsenal were expected to challenge for a top four spot this year. Galvanised by the impact of Marc Overmars, the unheralded Emmanuel Petit, and the new kid on the block Nicolas Anelka, the team has a chance of winning its first trophy since the 1994 Cup Winners Cup miracle in Copenhagen.
After a good start, the now traditional November blip kicked in, with Arsenal losing four out of six fixtures in November and early December, and the pre-season predictions of a Uefa Cup spot looked accurate. However, since the last of those,...
- 4/1/2013
- by Matthew Wade
- Obsessed with Film
It seems David Beckham can solve any soccer crisis. The Paris-St. Germain soccer stud has been named a global ambassador for Chinese football in an effort to restore the image of the game in the country and attract international attention to the Chinese team. The Chinese Super League is suffering after the exit of Nicolas Anelka and former Chelsea striker Dideier Drogba as well as the match-fixing ban of 58 Chinese soccer officials, following a three-year anti-corruption push. Becks will continue to play for Paris-St. Germain while he serves as ambassador. "I am honored to have been asked to play such an important role at this special time in Chinese football history," he said in...
- 3/5/2013
- E! Online
Venue: Celtic Park Date: Tuesday, 12th February K/o: 19:45 Team News
Celtic have major doubts over Georgios Samaras and Efe Ambrose ahead of this last-16 Champions League encounter against Juventus.
Striker Samaras is struggling with a hamstring injury whilst Ambrose featured in the Final of the Africa Cup of Nations against Burkina Faso on Sunday and has only just this morning arrived back in Glasgow.
Left-back Emilio Izaguirre has recovered from his knee injury, however, and winger James Forrest is fit again after a hamstring problem.
Juventus midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah, who also featured in the Africa Cup of Nations for Ghana, is also a slight doubt.
Former Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka could play after joining the Italians on-loan from Shanghai Shenhua.
Match Preview
From the agonising last-gasp defeat to Barcelona at Camp Nou in October, to the dizzying heights of defeating the Spanish Giants at Celtic Park a month later,...
Celtic have major doubts over Georgios Samaras and Efe Ambrose ahead of this last-16 Champions League encounter against Juventus.
Striker Samaras is struggling with a hamstring injury whilst Ambrose featured in the Final of the Africa Cup of Nations against Burkina Faso on Sunday and has only just this morning arrived back in Glasgow.
Left-back Emilio Izaguirre has recovered from his knee injury, however, and winger James Forrest is fit again after a hamstring problem.
Juventus midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah, who also featured in the Africa Cup of Nations for Ghana, is also a slight doubt.
Former Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka could play after joining the Italians on-loan from Shanghai Shenhua.
Match Preview
From the agonising last-gasp defeat to Barcelona at Camp Nou in October, to the dizzying heights of defeating the Spanish Giants at Celtic Park a month later,...
- 2/12/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba is poised to join Galatasaray after rejecting an offer by Roman Abramovich to return to Stamford Bridge, according to The Sun.
The Chelsea owner is understood to have made a U-turn by sanctioning a move for the former Blues star, just 8 months after allowing him to leave for Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua.
However, Drogba has rejected his overtures, and is expected to sign for Turkish outfit Galatasaray later today.
The Ivorian is considered a cult hero at Stamford Bridge after scoring the winning penalty against Bayern Munich in the Champions League final in May, which won Chelsea their first ever European Cup.
That would be his final game for the Blues before he joined Shanghai Shenhua, but along with former Stamford Bridge team-mate Nicolas Anelka, who also moved to the Chinese club, he has endured a tumultuous period there after a dispute over unpaid wages.
The Chelsea owner is understood to have made a U-turn by sanctioning a move for the former Blues star, just 8 months after allowing him to leave for Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua.
However, Drogba has rejected his overtures, and is expected to sign for Turkish outfit Galatasaray later today.
The Ivorian is considered a cult hero at Stamford Bridge after scoring the winning penalty against Bayern Munich in the Champions League final in May, which won Chelsea their first ever European Cup.
That would be his final game for the Blues before he joined Shanghai Shenhua, but along with former Stamford Bridge team-mate Nicolas Anelka, who also moved to the Chinese club, he has endured a tumultuous period there after a dispute over unpaid wages.
- 1/28/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
When Celtic drew Benfica, Spartak Moscow and Barcelona back in August the popular opinion was that the Scottish side would be lucky to escape with a Europa League place. The reputation of the Spl was at its lowest in years – the UEFA coefficient currently ranks it 18th out of the member countries – and it had been almost ten years since Celtic were defeated by Jose Mourinho’s Porto in the UEFA Cup Final. Even the official ITV twitter feed had a dig at the reigning Spl champions, tweeting ‘Bye Bye Celtic’ when the groups were announced.
A 0-0 result against Benfica at Parkhead proved nothing but the next match sparked hope. Gary Hooper opened the scoring at the Luzhniki Stadium before two goals from Emmanuel Emenike set Spartak on the road to an important three points. At the 63 minute mark Juan Insaurralde was shown red and the game was turned on its head.
A 0-0 result against Benfica at Parkhead proved nothing but the next match sparked hope. Gary Hooper opened the scoring at the Luzhniki Stadium before two goals from Emmanuel Emenike set Spartak on the road to an important three points. At the 63 minute mark Juan Insaurralde was shown red and the game was turned on its head.
- 1/27/2013
- by Jamie Callaghan
- Obsessed with Film
Sundays mean one thing: Sunday papers. Sunday papers mean one thing: transfer gossip – lots of it.
The Rumour Mill
Both the Sunday People (which is linked with the Mirror) and yesterday’s Mail Online claim that Frank Lampard is to reopen talks with Chelsea over a new contract, just a day after becoming the second-highest ever goalscorer for the Blues.
The People also reports that Manchester City have placed a bumper £45m bid for Edison Cavani from Napoli – leaving Mario Balotelli‘s future at the club in the balance. AC Milan are said to be interested in the Manchester City troublemaker, but will not make a move until the summer.
The Sunday Mirror says that Arsene Wenger is interested in a number of players – most notably Wigan midfielder James McCarthy, who the Gunners value at £8m.
Luka Modric could be on his way back to the Premier League, also according to the Mirror.
The Rumour Mill
Both the Sunday People (which is linked with the Mirror) and yesterday’s Mail Online claim that Frank Lampard is to reopen talks with Chelsea over a new contract, just a day after becoming the second-highest ever goalscorer for the Blues.
The People also reports that Manchester City have placed a bumper £45m bid for Edison Cavani from Napoli – leaving Mario Balotelli‘s future at the club in the balance. AC Milan are said to be interested in the Manchester City troublemaker, but will not make a move until the summer.
The Sunday Mirror says that Arsene Wenger is interested in a number of players – most notably Wigan midfielder James McCarthy, who the Gunners value at £8m.
Luka Modric could be on his way back to the Premier League, also according to the Mirror.
- 1/6/2013
- by Jamie Cotton
- Obsessed with Film
Sunderland are said to be winning the race to sign Paris St Germain forward Guillaume Hoarau, according to a report in The Sun.
Manager Martin O’Neill is in the market for a new striker with Steven Fletcher his only consistent forward so far this season. Former Manchester United duo Fraizer Campbell and Louis Saha have yet to play a whole 90 minutes for the club so far this season.
Hoarau has only 6 months left on his current contract with Paris St Germain, whilst Everton and Liverpool are also thought to be interested in the 28 year old.
The former Le Havre forward, who scored 33 times in 81 appearances for the Lige 2 side, is known for his strength and aerial abilities, standing at an imposing 6ft.
He came through the youth ranks at Reunion Premier League side Saint-Pierroise between 1994 and 2004 before his move to Le Havre, where he spent four years. He later...
Manager Martin O’Neill is in the market for a new striker with Steven Fletcher his only consistent forward so far this season. Former Manchester United duo Fraizer Campbell and Louis Saha have yet to play a whole 90 minutes for the club so far this season.
Hoarau has only 6 months left on his current contract with Paris St Germain, whilst Everton and Liverpool are also thought to be interested in the 28 year old.
The former Le Havre forward, who scored 33 times in 81 appearances for the Lige 2 side, is known for his strength and aerial abilities, standing at an imposing 6ft.
He came through the youth ranks at Reunion Premier League side Saint-Pierroise between 1994 and 2004 before his move to Le Havre, where he spent four years. He later...
- 1/3/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Many foreign players have gone on to become Arsenal legends, especially under Arsene Wenger. The Frenchman was appointed manager in 1996 and under his tenure Arsenal have experienced an influx of players from abroad. A number of those footballers who have made a big impact at Arsenal are not even included in this top ten list, with the likes of Robin van Persie, Kolo Toure, Lauren, Bacary Sagna, Jens Lehmann, Nicolas Anelka and even more names being excluded. All these players are or have been world class at times in their careers.
It wasn’t an easy task picking the best ten, but I feel my final choices have that extra ability, class and legendary status that the other players don’t possess. So this is my personal top ten of the best foreign talent to have ever worn the Arsenal shirt.
10. Marc Overmars
(Holland. 1997 – 2000. 142 Appearances, 41 Goals)
When Marc Overmars joined...
It wasn’t an easy task picking the best ten, but I feel my final choices have that extra ability, class and legendary status that the other players don’t possess. So this is my personal top ten of the best foreign talent to have ever worn the Arsenal shirt.
10. Marc Overmars
(Holland. 1997 – 2000. 142 Appearances, 41 Goals)
When Marc Overmars joined...
- 12/26/2012
- by Luke
- Obsessed with Film
Former Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka could be making a return to the Premier League in January, according to The Telegraph.
The Frenchman is believed to be in talks with his current club, Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua, about terminating his contract. It is now being reported that a potential switch to Qpr could be on the cards in January, but for that to happen, Anelka would have to forego the final year of his contract with the Super League outfit, believed to be worth about $7million.
It is understood the former Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Bolton and Chelsea forward is unhappy with his current sides performances, which has led to him reconsidering his future.
He told France’s Le Journal du Dimanche recently:
“The team is very young and, apart from the foreign recruits, lacks experience, we’re starting from zero, or near enough.”
It is also believed that there has...
The Frenchman is believed to be in talks with his current club, Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua, about terminating his contract. It is now being reported that a potential switch to Qpr could be on the cards in January, but for that to happen, Anelka would have to forego the final year of his contract with the Super League outfit, believed to be worth about $7million.
It is understood the former Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Bolton and Chelsea forward is unhappy with his current sides performances, which has led to him reconsidering his future.
He told France’s Le Journal du Dimanche recently:
“The team is very young and, apart from the foreign recruits, lacks experience, we’re starting from zero, or near enough.”
It is also believed that there has...
- 12/18/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
New Manchester United signing, Shinji Kagawa produced an impressive display in the club’s 1-0 pre-season win over Shanghai Shenhua earlier today.
Kagawa, who scored the only goal of the game linked up well with the likes of Bebe as Manchester United stole a win over Shenhua, who were without former Chelsea stars Didier Drogba and player/manager Nicolas Anelka.
Manchester United fielded a ‘weak’ side as they have done through their South Africa tour and will continue to in Asia, whilst Rooney and co have a break from the Euros.
The likes of Powell, Bebe, Petrucci, Griffiths and Lindegaard found themselves playing along side Kagawa, Scholes, Hernandez and Valencia.
Sir Alex Ferguson spoke after the game of his delight at how the team played in the second half:
“I was very pleased with the way we played very well in the second half. In the first half we had...
Kagawa, who scored the only goal of the game linked up well with the likes of Bebe as Manchester United stole a win over Shenhua, who were without former Chelsea stars Didier Drogba and player/manager Nicolas Anelka.
Manchester United fielded a ‘weak’ side as they have done through their South Africa tour and will continue to in Asia, whilst Rooney and co have a break from the Euros.
The likes of Powell, Bebe, Petrucci, Griffiths and Lindegaard found themselves playing along side Kagawa, Scholes, Hernandez and Valencia.
Sir Alex Ferguson spoke after the game of his delight at how the team played in the second half:
“I was very pleased with the way we played very well in the second half. In the first half we had...
- 7/25/2012
- by Matt Robinson
- Obsessed with Film
The Chelsea exodus is set to continue with The Daily Mail reporting that Florent Malouda’s representatives have held early talks with Brazilian side Vasco da Gama about a move away from Stamford Bridge. The French international has just returned from Euro 2012 duty and is already eyeing a possible move to South America, following the exits of Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka, Salomon Kalou and Jose Boswingwa in the past year.
Reports are that Malouda’s former Lyon team-mate and current Vasco da Game star Juninho has recommended the Chelsea winger to manager Cristovao Borges.
32-year-old Malouda has just one year left to run on his deal at Stamford Bridge and the Chelsea hierarchy now have the conundrum of whether to sell him now for fear of losing him on a free next year, or offer him an extension to his current deal. With Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo believed to...
Reports are that Malouda’s former Lyon team-mate and current Vasco da Game star Juninho has recommended the Chelsea winger to manager Cristovao Borges.
32-year-old Malouda has just one year left to run on his deal at Stamford Bridge and the Chelsea hierarchy now have the conundrum of whether to sell him now for fear of losing him on a free next year, or offer him an extension to his current deal. With Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo believed to...
- 6/27/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Chelsea will activate Newcastle United striker Demba Ba’s £7.5 million transfer release clause this week after being priced out of a move for flamboyant Porto forward Hulk.
The Portuguese side have slapped a bloated £38 million price tag on their star player which has turned off owner Roman Abramovich who is reluctant to get stung again after paying over the odds for the inconsistent Fernando Torres. The highest they would offer was £30 million but with rich French side Paris St Germain also interested in making a move, Porto are jacking up the price looking for a bidding war, something which Chelsea Chief Executive Ron Gourlay said the Blues wouldn’t get involved in.
Roberto Di Matteo will now turn his attention to Ba, who Abramovich is a keen admirer of and who can be bought for a cut price deal. Chelsea are in need of new strikers having lost Didier Drogba,...
The Portuguese side have slapped a bloated £38 million price tag on their star player which has turned off owner Roman Abramovich who is reluctant to get stung again after paying over the odds for the inconsistent Fernando Torres. The highest they would offer was £30 million but with rich French side Paris St Germain also interested in making a move, Porto are jacking up the price looking for a bidding war, something which Chelsea Chief Executive Ron Gourlay said the Blues wouldn’t get involved in.
Roberto Di Matteo will now turn his attention to Ba, who Abramovich is a keen admirer of and who can be bought for a cut price deal. Chelsea are in need of new strikers having lost Didier Drogba,...
- 6/25/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
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