Nick Potts/Pa Wire
At the start of this season, following a summer of spending in which Spurs broke their transfer record no less than three times with the signings of Paulinho, Roberto Soldado and Erik Lamela, some people were touting Spurs for a title push.
In addition to the aforementioned trio, the Lilywhites also purchased Nacer Chadli, Etienne Capoue, Vlad Chiriches and Christian Eriksen – an influx of talent that, in total, made seven full internationals (and all at top international teams).
However, this morale-boosting spending spree was overwhelmingly offset by the world record sale of, by far, Tottenham’s best player last season – and arguably one of the best players on the planet – Gareth Bale. Spurs also sold Clint Dempsey, Tom Huddlestone, Steven Caulker and Scott Parker, as well as letting Jake Livermore, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Tom Carroll leave on loan.
That, combined with the inevitable transition period of the new signings,...
At the start of this season, following a summer of spending in which Spurs broke their transfer record no less than three times with the signings of Paulinho, Roberto Soldado and Erik Lamela, some people were touting Spurs for a title push.
In addition to the aforementioned trio, the Lilywhites also purchased Nacer Chadli, Etienne Capoue, Vlad Chiriches and Christian Eriksen – an influx of talent that, in total, made seven full internationals (and all at top international teams).
However, this morale-boosting spending spree was overwhelmingly offset by the world record sale of, by far, Tottenham’s best player last season – and arguably one of the best players on the planet – Gareth Bale. Spurs also sold Clint Dempsey, Tom Huddlestone, Steven Caulker and Scott Parker, as well as letting Jake Livermore, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Tom Carroll leave on loan.
That, combined with the inevitable transition period of the new signings,...
- 2/15/2014
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
Martin Rickett/Pa Wire/Press Association Images
Manchester United were held to a draw by basement side Fulham thanks to a late goal from Darren Bent.
Steve Sidwell had earlier given the visitors a shock first-half lead but United fought back to go in front with quickfire goals from Robin van Persie and Michael Carrick.
But the drama wasn’t over and Bent would have the last say when his close ranged header on 90 minutes again reduced Old Trafford to silence.
United started the game brightly but fell behind when Sidwell stabbed in Lewis Holtby’s cross after 19 minutes as the bottom of the league club went in front.
The Red Devils may even have been two goals down at half time when Muamer Tankovic broke with another counter attack and played in Kieran Richardson, who blazed over.
United pressed for an equalizer and upped the tempo and at last...
Manchester United were held to a draw by basement side Fulham thanks to a late goal from Darren Bent.
Steve Sidwell had earlier given the visitors a shock first-half lead but United fought back to go in front with quickfire goals from Robin van Persie and Michael Carrick.
But the drama wasn’t over and Bent would have the last say when his close ranged header on 90 minutes again reduced Old Trafford to silence.
United started the game brightly but fell behind when Sidwell stabbed in Lewis Holtby’s cross after 19 minutes as the bottom of the league club went in front.
The Red Devils may even have been two goals down at half time when Muamer Tankovic broke with another counter attack and played in Kieran Richardson, who blazed over.
United pressed for an equalizer and upped the tempo and at last...
- 2/9/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
John Walton/Pa Wire
Rickie Lambert scored and laid on two assists as Southampton won their first league game over Fulham at Craven Cottage since 1947.
Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez were the other scorers, as the Saints found the net three times in the second half to round off a comprehensive victory.
The first chance of the match fell to Fulham on eight minutes, Lewis Holtby whipping in a dangerous corner but Dan Burn was only able to head it over the bar.
The game stagnated during the opening exchanges, with Southampton’s possession based approach being cancelled out by Fulham’s organised defence.
Despite being unable to control the match the hosts almost took the lead after 25 minutes, Artur Boruc pulling off a stunning save to deny Brede Hangeland’s header.
Boruc was keeping Southampton in the match, twice denying Darren Bent from giving the Cottagers the lead.
The...
Rickie Lambert scored and laid on two assists as Southampton won their first league game over Fulham at Craven Cottage since 1947.
Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez were the other scorers, as the Saints found the net three times in the second half to round off a comprehensive victory.
The first chance of the match fell to Fulham on eight minutes, Lewis Holtby whipping in a dangerous corner but Dan Burn was only able to head it over the bar.
The game stagnated during the opening exchanges, with Southampton’s possession based approach being cancelled out by Fulham’s organised defence.
Despite being unable to control the match the hosts almost took the lead after 25 minutes, Artur Boruc pulling off a stunning save to deny Brede Hangeland’s header.
Boruc was keeping Southampton in the match, twice denying Darren Bent from giving the Cottagers the lead.
The...
- 2/1/2014
- by Simon Collings
- Obsessed with Film
Jay Z's sports agency says it has signed New York Yankees pitcher Cc Sabathia to join former teammate Robinson Cano in its emerging client base. Roc Nation Sports says the 33-year-old left-hander agreed to a representation deal Thursday. The ace had been represented by Legacy Agency's group, which includes Brian Peters, Greg Genske and Scott Parker. Concert Review: Jay Z Entrances L.A. Crowd, Despite By-the-Numbers Set at Staples Center Sabathia is signed through 2016 at salaries of $23 million in each of the next two seasons and $25 million in 2016. The Yankees hold
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- 1/17/2014
- by The Associated Press
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth
Daren Bent, Ashkan Dejagah and Steve Sidwell gave Fulham head coach Rene Meulensteen the perfect reaction to a huge home defeat last time out by all scoring against Norwich.
Chris Hughton’s Canaries saw their dismal Fa Cup and specific record against Fulham continue as the hosts cruised to victory at Craven Cottage.
Meulensteen rang the changes, nine in all, after Sunderland came to West London and put four past his side in the Premier League on Saturday. Only Sascha Riether and Sidwell kept their places for Fulham.
The home side were buoyed by the return of number one Maarten Stekelenburg and captain Brede Hangeland from injury. Dimitar Berbatov and Scott Parker were amongst those given the night off by Meulensteen.
Norwich made six alterations from their loss at Everton. Young Josh Murphy made a start along with Mark Bunn, Johan Elmander, David Fox, Russell Martin and Nathan Redmond,...
Daren Bent, Ashkan Dejagah and Steve Sidwell gave Fulham head coach Rene Meulensteen the perfect reaction to a huge home defeat last time out by all scoring against Norwich.
Chris Hughton’s Canaries saw their dismal Fa Cup and specific record against Fulham continue as the hosts cruised to victory at Craven Cottage.
Meulensteen rang the changes, nine in all, after Sunderland came to West London and put four past his side in the Premier League on Saturday. Only Sascha Riether and Sidwell kept their places for Fulham.
The home side were buoyed by the return of number one Maarten Stekelenburg and captain Brede Hangeland from injury. Dimitar Berbatov and Scott Parker were amongst those given the night off by Meulensteen.
Norwich made six alterations from their loss at Everton. Young Josh Murphy made a start along with Mark Bunn, Johan Elmander, David Fox, Russell Martin and Nathan Redmond,...
- 1/14/2014
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
Adam Davy/Pa Wire/Press Association Images
Tottenham Hotspur Football Club are currently undergoing a somewhat up and down season.
It’s been a season of transition for the Lilywhites, following the world record sale of Gareth Bale (and the sale of other members of the first team squad including Tom Huddlestone, Scott Parker, Steven Caulker and Clint Dempsey) and the acquiring of seven new players in Paulinho, Roberto Soldado, Nacer Chadli, Etienne Capoue, Erik Lamela, Christian Eriksen and Vlad Chiriches.
The club have also recently parted ways with Portuguese coach Andre Villas-Boas – notably after a 5-0 home capitulation against Liverpool – and appointed former Technical Director (and indeed former player) Tim Sherwood as Head Coach on a two season contract.
As a result, the season has indeed been turbulent and many are seeing Spurs as the perennial underachievers they’ve been for many years.
But I don’t necessarily see it that way.
Tottenham Hotspur Football Club are currently undergoing a somewhat up and down season.
It’s been a season of transition for the Lilywhites, following the world record sale of Gareth Bale (and the sale of other members of the first team squad including Tom Huddlestone, Scott Parker, Steven Caulker and Clint Dempsey) and the acquiring of seven new players in Paulinho, Roberto Soldado, Nacer Chadli, Etienne Capoue, Erik Lamela, Christian Eriksen and Vlad Chiriches.
The club have also recently parted ways with Portuguese coach Andre Villas-Boas – notably after a 5-0 home capitulation against Liverpool – and appointed former Technical Director (and indeed former player) Tim Sherwood as Head Coach on a two season contract.
As a result, the season has indeed been turbulent and many are seeing Spurs as the perennial underachievers they’ve been for many years.
But I don’t necessarily see it that way.
- 1/8/2014
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Rewind back three years from today and Tottenham Hotspur were sitting fourth in the Barclays Premier League, two points ahead of fifth placed Manchester City and just four behind their North London rivals. That season saw Spurs qualify for the greatest European club competition in sport, the Uefa Champions League.
So where has it all gone wrong for Tottenham since?
The 2010/11 season was tremendous experience for all Spurs fans. They enjoyed an epic journey in the Champions League, beating Europe’s elite in Werder Bremen, Fc Twente and both Milan clubs, including a memorable event when Peter Crouch scored in the dying minutes at the San Siro, which no doubt put chills down the spines of most neutral football fans. That result put them through to a tough quarter final draw against Real Madrid which proved to be an end to their dreams and sent them crashing back down to reality.
Rewind back three years from today and Tottenham Hotspur were sitting fourth in the Barclays Premier League, two points ahead of fifth placed Manchester City and just four behind their North London rivals. That season saw Spurs qualify for the greatest European club competition in sport, the Uefa Champions League.
So where has it all gone wrong for Tottenham since?
The 2010/11 season was tremendous experience for all Spurs fans. They enjoyed an epic journey in the Champions League, beating Europe’s elite in Werder Bremen, Fc Twente and both Milan clubs, including a memorable event when Peter Crouch scored in the dying minutes at the San Siro, which no doubt put chills down the spines of most neutral football fans. That result put them through to a tough quarter final draw against Real Madrid which proved to be an end to their dreams and sent them crashing back down to reality.
- 12/30/2013
- by Chris Theochari
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
After Spurs were thumped 5-0 at the weekend against Liverpool, Andre Villas-Boas was removed from his job as their manager.
Apparently agreeing to leave “by mutual consent”, Villas-Boas held crunch talks with Spurs’ chairman Daniel Levy on Monday and walked out relieved of his duties.
Spurs sold the likes of Gareth Bale, Clint Dempsey, Steven Caulker, Scott Parker and Tom Huddlestone in the summer and spent over £100 million on seven new players in Paulinho, Roberto Soldado, Erik Lamela, Etienne Capoue, Nacer Chadli, Christian Eriksen and Vlad Chiriches. However, Villas-Boas was yet to see the new team click and his dismissal was a direct result of that.
Spurs are still in the League Cup (playing West Ham United this evening), Fa Cup (which is yet to get underway for Premier League teams, of course) and the Europa League (having won all six of their group games, nonetheless), but...
After Spurs were thumped 5-0 at the weekend against Liverpool, Andre Villas-Boas was removed from his job as their manager.
Apparently agreeing to leave “by mutual consent”, Villas-Boas held crunch talks with Spurs’ chairman Daniel Levy on Monday and walked out relieved of his duties.
Spurs sold the likes of Gareth Bale, Clint Dempsey, Steven Caulker, Scott Parker and Tom Huddlestone in the summer and spent over £100 million on seven new players in Paulinho, Roberto Soldado, Erik Lamela, Etienne Capoue, Nacer Chadli, Christian Eriksen and Vlad Chiriches. However, Villas-Boas was yet to see the new team click and his dismissal was a direct result of that.
Spurs are still in the League Cup (playing West Ham United this evening), Fa Cup (which is yet to get underway for Premier League teams, of course) and the Europa League (having won all six of their group games, nonetheless), but...
- 12/19/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Anfield Referee: Michael Jones Date: 9th of November
Liverpool will be hopeful of putting the Arsenal defeat behind them as they continue to keep themselves in contention with Arsenal at the summit. Coutinho is hit and miss whether he will indeed start against a Fulham side greatly lacking in confidence, but Brendan Rodgers’ men are heavy favourites to dole out another defeat for the Cottagers.
Martin Jol and Fulham look to be in another relegation dogfight this season as they cannot stop conceding goals. The side are surrendering chances far too readily in the Premier League this campaign, and the manager’s job is on the line as a result. They’ll do well to keep Liverpool quiet, as only two other sides have scored more league goals than the Reds this season.
Team News
Liverpool will be without Iago Aspas, Jose Enrique, and Sebastien Coates, but Steven Gerrard...
Liverpool will be hopeful of putting the Arsenal defeat behind them as they continue to keep themselves in contention with Arsenal at the summit. Coutinho is hit and miss whether he will indeed start against a Fulham side greatly lacking in confidence, but Brendan Rodgers’ men are heavy favourites to dole out another defeat for the Cottagers.
Martin Jol and Fulham look to be in another relegation dogfight this season as they cannot stop conceding goals. The side are surrendering chances far too readily in the Premier League this campaign, and the manager’s job is on the line as a result. They’ll do well to keep Liverpool quiet, as only two other sides have scored more league goals than the Reds this season.
Team News
Liverpool will be without Iago Aspas, Jose Enrique, and Sebastien Coates, but Steven Gerrard...
- 11/8/2013
- by Crip Cooke
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Date: Monday, October 21 Venue: Selhurst Park Kick-Off: 20:00
Crystal Palace and Fulham will be looking to kick-start their league campaigns by picking up a much-needed three points in tonight’s Premier League clash at Selhurst Park.
Team News
Crystal Palace manager Ian Holloway has a fully-fit squad to select from ahead of tonight’s visit of Fulham.
Yannick Bolasie could be handed his first league start after the winger came off the bench in the 3-1 defeat to Liverpool before the international break.
Fulham could welcome Scott Parker back into the side after the midfielder returned to full training following a calf injury, while defender Aaron Hughes is also in contention having overcome a thigh problem.
Adel Taarabt is also fit following the recent internationals.
(BBC)
Key Stats
This is only the third top-flight fixture between the two clubs. Palace won 2-0 at home in the Premier...
Date: Monday, October 21 Venue: Selhurst Park Kick-Off: 20:00
Crystal Palace and Fulham will be looking to kick-start their league campaigns by picking up a much-needed three points in tonight’s Premier League clash at Selhurst Park.
Team News
Crystal Palace manager Ian Holloway has a fully-fit squad to select from ahead of tonight’s visit of Fulham.
Yannick Bolasie could be handed his first league start after the winger came off the bench in the 3-1 defeat to Liverpool before the international break.
Fulham could welcome Scott Parker back into the side after the midfielder returned to full training following a calf injury, while defender Aaron Hughes is also in contention having overcome a thigh problem.
Adel Taarabt is also fit following the recent internationals.
(BBC)
Key Stats
This is only the third top-flight fixture between the two clubs. Palace won 2-0 at home in the Premier...
- 10/21/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Martin Jol will hope to secure the win that alleviate some of the pressure building on the Fulham manager as his side host Stoke at Craven Cottage.
Fulham will be without Scott Parker, who injured his lower leg in the 2-1 defeat last time out against Cardiff. He joins Maarten Stekelenburg, Matt Briggs, and Ashkan Dejagah on the absentee list. Aaron Hughes is also a doubt. Stoke will give late fitness tests to Jon Walters and Matt Etherington.
The Cottagers will look for a first home win since April 1st, and have lost three of the last four, resulting in a place in the relegation zone. That continues a poor run that has seen them win only two of their last 14 matches.
Stoke started well under Mark Hughes, bringing a more alluring style of play for both fans of The Potters and neutrals, but City have picked up only one...
Fulham will be without Scott Parker, who injured his lower leg in the 2-1 defeat last time out against Cardiff. He joins Maarten Stekelenburg, Matt Briggs, and Ashkan Dejagah on the absentee list. Aaron Hughes is also a doubt. Stoke will give late fitness tests to Jon Walters and Matt Etherington.
The Cottagers will look for a first home win since April 1st, and have lost three of the last four, resulting in a place in the relegation zone. That continues a poor run that has seen them win only two of their last 14 matches.
Stoke started well under Mark Hughes, bringing a more alluring style of play for both fans of The Potters and neutrals, but City have picked up only one...
- 10/4/2013
- by Alan Frost
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
The first London derby of the 2013-14 season sees the clash of two Cockney rivals who’ve had contrasting fortunes in this summer’s transfer window, and contrasting opening-day results as well.
Fulham ground out a fine 0-1 victory up in the North-East against Sunderland, and their successful start will probably ensure an unchanged back-line. Scott Parker, just purchased from Tottenham, will more than likely start in the centre of the park, while Taarabt and last week’s goalscorer Pajtim Kasami will provide support to Berbatov up front. Darren Bent could also start; if he does, he’s likely to take the place of either of the 3 forwards, the most likely being new man Adel Taarabt. Don’t rule out Pajtim Kasami coming off early if he fails to produce the goods either.
Martin Jol has bought cleverly in the transfer market this summer, and the squad...
The first London derby of the 2013-14 season sees the clash of two Cockney rivals who’ve had contrasting fortunes in this summer’s transfer window, and contrasting opening-day results as well.
Fulham ground out a fine 0-1 victory up in the North-East against Sunderland, and their successful start will probably ensure an unchanged back-line. Scott Parker, just purchased from Tottenham, will more than likely start in the centre of the park, while Taarabt and last week’s goalscorer Pajtim Kasami will provide support to Berbatov up front. Darren Bent could also start; if he does, he’s likely to take the place of either of the 3 forwards, the most likely being new man Adel Taarabt. Don’t rule out Pajtim Kasami coming off early if he fails to produce the goods either.
Martin Jol has bought cleverly in the transfer market this summer, and the squad...
- 8/23/2013
- by Diarmuid Hickey
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
The first Premier League game of the season at the Cottage sees Fulham entertain Arsenal with the two teams having contrasting fortunes on the opening day.
With Martin Jol exhorting his team to improve their away form this term they started with a very impressive one nil win at the Stadium of Light. Pajtim Kasami scored his first Fulham goal to claim the headlines but a dominant performance from new goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg stood out and it’s a shame he was stretchered off with a shoulder injury just before the end.
Arsenal’s problems on the opening day have been well documented and although slightly softened by an excellent performance in Turkey this is still another potential banana skin for the Gunners.
A lot of the Fulham manager’s transfer dealings have seen him sign ex Tottenham players in Darren Bent, Scott Parker, Adel Taarabt and...
The first Premier League game of the season at the Cottage sees Fulham entertain Arsenal with the two teams having contrasting fortunes on the opening day.
With Martin Jol exhorting his team to improve their away form this term they started with a very impressive one nil win at the Stadium of Light. Pajtim Kasami scored his first Fulham goal to claim the headlines but a dominant performance from new goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg stood out and it’s a shame he was stretchered off with a shoulder injury just before the end.
Arsenal’s problems on the opening day have been well documented and although slightly softened by an excellent performance in Turkey this is still another potential banana skin for the Gunners.
A lot of the Fulham manager’s transfer dealings have seen him sign ex Tottenham players in Darren Bent, Scott Parker, Adel Taarabt and...
- 8/23/2013
- by DJ
- Obsessed with Film
Fulham’s midfield has been given a massive boost by the signing of Tottenham and England international midfielder Scott Parker on a 3-year deal on Monday.
The midfielder had initially been in talks with Qpr, according to Sky Sports, but it’s believed he opted for Fulham thanks to their offer of Premier League football.
Fulham manager Martin Jol said in an official club press release;
I’m delighted that Scott has joined us. He’s a midfielder who works tirelessly for his team and is a fantastic player both on and off the ball. It is wonderful to see a player of his stature playing for Fulham Football Club
Parker was also quoted in the same press release, stating;
I’m delighted to be joining Fulham and I’m looking forward to meeting my new team-mates at training tomorrow morning. Fulham is an established Premier League club and I...
The midfielder had initially been in talks with Qpr, according to Sky Sports, but it’s believed he opted for Fulham thanks to their offer of Premier League football.
Fulham manager Martin Jol said in an official club press release;
I’m delighted that Scott has joined us. He’s a midfielder who works tirelessly for his team and is a fantastic player both on and off the ball. It is wonderful to see a player of his stature playing for Fulham Football Club
Parker was also quoted in the same press release, stating;
I’m delighted to be joining Fulham and I’m looking forward to meeting my new team-mates at training tomorrow morning. Fulham is an established Premier League club and I...
- 8/20/2013
- by Diarmuid Hickey
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham could be about to miss out on Vlad Chiriches after the Steaua Bucuresti centre-back’s agent revealed the defender would prefer a move to Italy, according to talkSPORT.
Spurs were thought to be on the verge of signing the 23-year-old Romanian until Bucuresti president Gigi Becali vetoed the move at the last minute.
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas needs a new centre-back with Jan Vertonghen and Younes Kaboul recovering from injury, and Steven Caulker being sold to newly-promoted Premier League side Cardiff.
The Portuguese boss is still tracking the Steaua man but the £7 million-rated defender is on AC Milan’s radar, and Chiriches’s agent believes his client would prefer a move to the San Siro.
He told Tuttosport:
“The player wants to go to a big club and Italy attracts him.”
Spurs could now switch their attentions to Toulouse’s Etienne Capoue.
The defensive midfielder is attracting the Lilywhites...
Spurs were thought to be on the verge of signing the 23-year-old Romanian until Bucuresti president Gigi Becali vetoed the move at the last minute.
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas needs a new centre-back with Jan Vertonghen and Younes Kaboul recovering from injury, and Steven Caulker being sold to newly-promoted Premier League side Cardiff.
The Portuguese boss is still tracking the Steaua man but the £7 million-rated defender is on AC Milan’s radar, and Chiriches’s agent believes his client would prefer a move to the San Siro.
He told Tuttosport:
“The player wants to go to a big club and Italy attracts him.”
Spurs could now switch their attentions to Toulouse’s Etienne Capoue.
The defensive midfielder is attracting the Lilywhites...
- 8/9/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham are “working on a deal” to sign Toulouse’s defensive midfielder Etienne Capoue, according to the BBC.
The 24-year-old is expected to sign for Spurs for a fee in the region of £9 million, according to reports.
Toulouse president Olivier Sadran has openly admitted that the player is set for the switch to North London, telling L’Equipe: “He will go there.”
Capoue, who has won five senior caps for France, can operate both as a defensive midfielder and centre-back, which suits the Lilywhites, who are short of defensive cover presently with Jan Vertonghen and Younes Kaboul recovering from injury.
Steven Caulker has also moved to newly-promoted Premier League side Cardiff in a reported £8 million deal, a club-record fee for the Welsh side.
Manager Andre Villas-Boas is set to make Capoue his fourth signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Corinthian’s midfielder Paulinho, Fc Twente winger Nacer Chadli...
The 24-year-old is expected to sign for Spurs for a fee in the region of £9 million, according to reports.
Toulouse president Olivier Sadran has openly admitted that the player is set for the switch to North London, telling L’Equipe: “He will go there.”
Capoue, who has won five senior caps for France, can operate both as a defensive midfielder and centre-back, which suits the Lilywhites, who are short of defensive cover presently with Jan Vertonghen and Younes Kaboul recovering from injury.
Steven Caulker has also moved to newly-promoted Premier League side Cardiff in a reported £8 million deal, a club-record fee for the Welsh side.
Manager Andre Villas-Boas is set to make Capoue his fourth signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Corinthian’s midfielder Paulinho, Fc Twente winger Nacer Chadli...
- 8/8/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Tom Huddlestone will arrive on Wearside for talks with Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio after the Black Cats agreed a £5 million fee with Tottenham Hotspur for the player’s services, according to the Evening Standard.
Di Canio though will have to convince Huddlestone to take a wage cut of £5,000 a week (dropping from £40k to £35k) to come to the Staidum of Light and there could be concerns that a major ankle injury suffered two years ago and that has caused problems for the player since, could hamper the chances of him passing a medical.
The 26-year-old midfielder only made 14 league appearances for Spurs last season and will likely be itching to play regular Premier League football after a lack a opportunities in Andre Villas-boas’s side. New Spurs signing Paulinho has added considerable competition in Tottenham’s central midfield that already included Scott Parker, Jake Livermore, Sandro and January’s new signing,...
Di Canio though will have to convince Huddlestone to take a wage cut of £5,000 a week (dropping from £40k to £35k) to come to the Staidum of Light and there could be concerns that a major ankle injury suffered two years ago and that has caused problems for the player since, could hamper the chances of him passing a medical.
The 26-year-old midfielder only made 14 league appearances for Spurs last season and will likely be itching to play regular Premier League football after a lack a opportunities in Andre Villas-boas’s side. New Spurs signing Paulinho has added considerable competition in Tottenham’s central midfield that already included Scott Parker, Jake Livermore, Sandro and January’s new signing,...
- 7/13/2013
- by Liam Carson
- Obsessed with Film
The Sun is reporting that Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to reduce the fee in a potential deal for Christian Benteke by offering Aston Villa a number of players to choose from in part exchange.
The Midlands club are said to be holding out for £25 million for the Belgian striker, but Spurs Chairman Daniel Levy is not prepared to pay that amount, so Villa are said to have Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Scott Parker, Jake Livermore and Tom Huddlestone to choose from to sweeten the deal.
Andre Villas-Boas doesn’t rate Assou-Ekotto highly, while the arrival of Paulinho ensures that Parker, Livermore and Huddlestone will see their first team opportunities limited in the coming season, meaning that all four players are surplus to requirements at White Hart Lane.
Villa are said to be holding out for a cash only deal, however, which makes any deal between the two clubs somewhat difficult.
Left-back Assou-Ekotto...
The Midlands club are said to be holding out for £25 million for the Belgian striker, but Spurs Chairman Daniel Levy is not prepared to pay that amount, so Villa are said to have Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Scott Parker, Jake Livermore and Tom Huddlestone to choose from to sweeten the deal.
Andre Villas-Boas doesn’t rate Assou-Ekotto highly, while the arrival of Paulinho ensures that Parker, Livermore and Huddlestone will see their first team opportunities limited in the coming season, meaning that all four players are surplus to requirements at White Hart Lane.
Villa are said to be holding out for a cash only deal, however, which makes any deal between the two clubs somewhat difficult.
Left-back Assou-Ekotto...
- 7/11/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
Along with the news that Gareth Bale is definitely set to stay with the club, news has emerged that two Spurs first-team squad members are set to be subject to bids from other clubs, leading to speculation that they could be on the way out.
The London Evening Standard is reporting that Harry Redknapp’s Queens Park Rangers want combative midfielder Scott Parker to lead their charge back to the Premier League, while the Express say that talks have already opened between Spurs and Turkish side Besiktas regarding the transfer of Emmanuel Adebayor.
Parker’s exit would seem likely, given that Spurs have recently added Paulinho to their central midfield contingent. The Brazilian was voted third best player at the recent Confederations Cup and is currently one of the hottest properties in world football. Spurs already have the likes of Sandro and Mousa Dembele in their ranks, so Parker would...
The London Evening Standard is reporting that Harry Redknapp’s Queens Park Rangers want combative midfielder Scott Parker to lead their charge back to the Premier League, while the Express say that talks have already opened between Spurs and Turkish side Besiktas regarding the transfer of Emmanuel Adebayor.
Parker’s exit would seem likely, given that Spurs have recently added Paulinho to their central midfield contingent. The Brazilian was voted third best player at the recent Confederations Cup and is currently one of the hottest properties in world football. Spurs already have the likes of Sandro and Mousa Dembele in their ranks, so Parker would...
- 7/4/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
Arsenal have targeted England and Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry, according to The Sun
The Gunners are weighing up the possibility of making a move for the 32-year-old, who only has one year left to run on his £100,000-per-week deal at the Etihad.
Arsenal would not be prepared to match those wages however, and do not necessarily see the veteran midfielder as a regular starter should they bring him to the Emirates.
They could however put a two-year deal on the table on lower terms, which may be appealing for Barry.
Manager Arsene Wenger is in the market for a holding midfielder having been rebuffed in his efforts to sign Lars Bender, 24, from Bayer Leverkusen.
However, it is understood London rivals Tottenham could also be interested in Barry, with Andre Villas-Boas’ side seeking a replacement for Scott Parker this summer.
Wenger has had a long-standing interest in Barry. Along with Liverpool,...
The Gunners are weighing up the possibility of making a move for the 32-year-old, who only has one year left to run on his £100,000-per-week deal at the Etihad.
Arsenal would not be prepared to match those wages however, and do not necessarily see the veteran midfielder as a regular starter should they bring him to the Emirates.
They could however put a two-year deal on the table on lower terms, which may be appealing for Barry.
Manager Arsene Wenger is in the market for a holding midfielder having been rebuffed in his efforts to sign Lars Bender, 24, from Bayer Leverkusen.
However, it is understood London rivals Tottenham could also be interested in Barry, with Andre Villas-Boas’ side seeking a replacement for Scott Parker this summer.
Wenger has had a long-standing interest in Barry. Along with Liverpool,...
- 7/3/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham Hotspur’s push for Champions League football will see them overhaul their squad this summer with up to ten players expected to leave, according to the Metro.
Spurs came agonisingly short of qualifying for Europe’s elite competition on the final day of last season, two seasons in a row where they have missed out by just a whisker. To ensure they definitely do qualify next season, Spurs boss Villas-Boas wants a fresh look to his side and that may not involve several current key players as part of a restructuring process.
Former Football Writers’ Association Player Of The Year Scott Parker is thought to be one player set to leave. After a fine year in Harry Redknapp’s final campaign in charge during the 2011-2012 season, the 32 year old struggled for fitness last term and failed to make the same kind of impact he had previous.
Another England...
Spurs came agonisingly short of qualifying for Europe’s elite competition on the final day of last season, two seasons in a row where they have missed out by just a whisker. To ensure they definitely do qualify next season, Spurs boss Villas-Boas wants a fresh look to his side and that may not involve several current key players as part of a restructuring process.
Former Football Writers’ Association Player Of The Year Scott Parker is thought to be one player set to leave. After a fine year in Harry Redknapp’s final campaign in charge during the 2011-2012 season, the 32 year old struggled for fitness last term and failed to make the same kind of impact he had previous.
Another England...
- 6/14/2013
- by Alex Peace
- Obsessed with Film
The end of May saw one of this summer’s biggest rush of transfer activity with four sought-after stars moving clubs and, unfortunately for English teams, none of them will be plying their trade in the Premier League next season.
Radamel Falcao, James Rodriguez, Joao Moutinho and Neymar all left their respective clubs for Monaco and Barcelona, respectively, and while the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City will be ruing their inabilities to land the first and the latter of the quartet, Tottenham will be kicking themselves for missing out on Moutinho yet again.
The midfielder was a transfer target for Spurs for ages, who were reportedly within minutes of signing the star on last summer’s transfer deadline day, but the transfer window slammed shut and wrecked their dreams of bringing the Portuguese national to England.
Spurs badly need a new central midfielder. The likes of Luka Modric and...
Radamel Falcao, James Rodriguez, Joao Moutinho and Neymar all left their respective clubs for Monaco and Barcelona, respectively, and while the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City will be ruing their inabilities to land the first and the latter of the quartet, Tottenham will be kicking themselves for missing out on Moutinho yet again.
The midfielder was a transfer target for Spurs for ages, who were reportedly within minutes of signing the star on last summer’s transfer deadline day, but the transfer window slammed shut and wrecked their dreams of bringing the Portuguese national to England.
Spurs badly need a new central midfielder. The likes of Luka Modric and...
- 6/2/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham are preparing a £36 million double-bid to bring Leandro Damiao and Robert Soldado to White Hart Lane in a bid to persuade Gareth Bale to stay with the club, according to the Express.
Chairman Daniel Levy has been urged by manager Andre Villas-Boas to spend big this summer or face losing the Welsh winger.
Negotiations with Leandro’s club Internacional have reportedly already begun and the Brazilian has been a long-term target of the North London club. They attempted to sign him on transfer deadline day in January but failed with a £16 million bid.
They are hopeful however that a deal can be clinched within the next fortnight.
Spurs are also in talks with Spanish side Valencia over striker Robert Soldado, who has impressed this season having scored 22 goals.
Were Tottenham to secure both players, the total outlay would amount to £36 million, which is unprecedented expenditure for the usually cautious Levy.
Chairman Daniel Levy has been urged by manager Andre Villas-Boas to spend big this summer or face losing the Welsh winger.
Negotiations with Leandro’s club Internacional have reportedly already begun and the Brazilian has been a long-term target of the North London club. They attempted to sign him on transfer deadline day in January but failed with a £16 million bid.
They are hopeful however that a deal can be clinched within the next fortnight.
Spurs are also in talks with Spanish side Valencia over striker Robert Soldado, who has impressed this season having scored 22 goals.
Were Tottenham to secure both players, the total outlay would amount to £36 million, which is unprecedented expenditure for the usually cautious Levy.
- 5/23/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham are lining up an ambitious summer move for former Arsenal midfielder Alex Song – but only if they qualify for the Champions League – according to the Daily Mail.
The Cameroonian has struggled to break into the starting XI at Barcelona since his move from the Emirates last summer and is longing for a return to the Premier League.
He is unlikely however to return to Arsenal having left the club on bad terms and London rivals Tottenham could be about to pounce.
Spurs manager Andre Villas-Boas is plotting a clear out of his midfield at the end of the season with the likes of Tom Huddlestone, Scott Parker and Jake Livermore all set to be moved on, and he wants Song to compete for a starting berth in his side with the likes of Mousa Dembele and Sandro – once he returns from his season-ending injury.
However, a move for Song...
The Cameroonian has struggled to break into the starting XI at Barcelona since his move from the Emirates last summer and is longing for a return to the Premier League.
He is unlikely however to return to Arsenal having left the club on bad terms and London rivals Tottenham could be about to pounce.
Spurs manager Andre Villas-Boas is plotting a clear out of his midfield at the end of the season with the likes of Tom Huddlestone, Scott Parker and Jake Livermore all set to be moved on, and he wants Song to compete for a starting berth in his side with the likes of Mousa Dembele and Sandro – once he returns from his season-ending injury.
However, a move for Song...
- 4/22/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
A rainy night in Switzerland played host to a highly entertaining match, in which Spurs lost out in a penalty shoot-out.
Basel kicked off in this Europa League quarter-final second leg and immediately went on the attack – Their first opportunity coming in the third minute, when Fabian Schar struck a free kick from 30 yards out. The ball whizzed along the wet grass and just wide of Brad Friedel’s right post.
Spurs then took over for a while and, without creating any real chances, began to get an early feel for the ball, keeping possession well and dominating in the key midfield area.
It wasn’t until the eighth minute that they had their first strike at goal, but Jan Vertonghen’s 30 yard free kick was struck harmlessly at the wall.
A minute later, Clint Dempsey tried his luck from just outside the Basel penalty box, but a poor effort...
Basel kicked off in this Europa League quarter-final second leg and immediately went on the attack – Their first opportunity coming in the third minute, when Fabian Schar struck a free kick from 30 yards out. The ball whizzed along the wet grass and just wide of Brad Friedel’s right post.
Spurs then took over for a while and, without creating any real chances, began to get an early feel for the ball, keeping possession well and dominating in the key midfield area.
It wasn’t until the eighth minute that they had their first strike at goal, but Jan Vertonghen’s 30 yard free kick was struck harmlessly at the wall.
A minute later, Clint Dempsey tried his luck from just outside the Basel penalty box, but a poor effort...
- 4/12/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
A bright afternoon at White Hart Lane saw two teams battling for Champions League places come up against each other and share the spoils. Everton kicked things off.
Spurs stunned the Toffees within the first 40 seconds as Jan Vertonghen found himself in possession on the left wing and delivered a whipped-in ball which was met by Emmanuel Adebayor. The Togolese striker needed a little bit of luck, as he struck the ball straight at Tim Howard, but the ball ended up in the back of the net to give the Lilywhites a dream start to the match.
Less than three minutes later, Spurs were nearly through again. Dempsey was clean through, but Jagielka nipped in to touch the ball back to Howard, who took no chances and cleared promptly.
Everton started to press a little bit more and Leon Osman on the left almost played Victor Anichebe through in the sixth minute,...
Spurs stunned the Toffees within the first 40 seconds as Jan Vertonghen found himself in possession on the left wing and delivered a whipped-in ball which was met by Emmanuel Adebayor. The Togolese striker needed a little bit of luck, as he struck the ball straight at Tim Howard, but the ball ended up in the back of the net to give the Lilywhites a dream start to the match.
Less than three minutes later, Spurs were nearly through again. Dempsey was clean through, but Jagielka nipped in to touch the ball back to Howard, who took no chances and cleared promptly.
Everton started to press a little bit more and Leon Osman on the left almost played Victor Anichebe through in the sixth minute,...
- 4/7/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
An entertaining match at White Hart Lane produced a poor result for Tottenham Hotspur this Thursday evening.
Spurs kicked things off in this Europa League quarter-final first leg and looked to get forward early on.
In the fourth minute, William Gallas went down under a heavy challenge and looked to be heading off early – the stretcher being brought out. But he managed to get to his feet and walk off before returning to the pitch.
The opening spell of the match was quite dull, with very little happening and most of the play occurring in the midfield.
The first opportunities of the match fell to Basel in the space of a minute around the 10 minute mark. First, Schar tested Friedel from 18 yards, before Streller got on the end of a cross and tested Friedel again from inside the box, until the spell of pressure ended when Salah blasted over from 12 yards.
Spurs kicked things off in this Europa League quarter-final first leg and looked to get forward early on.
In the fourth minute, William Gallas went down under a heavy challenge and looked to be heading off early – the stretcher being brought out. But he managed to get to his feet and walk off before returning to the pitch.
The opening spell of the match was quite dull, with very little happening and most of the play occurring in the midfield.
The first opportunities of the match fell to Basel in the space of a minute around the 10 minute mark. First, Schar tested Friedel from 18 yards, before Streller got on the end of a cross and tested Friedel again from inside the box, until the spell of pressure ended when Salah blasted over from 12 yards.
- 4/4/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
Spurs kicked things off at the Liberty Stadium, on a chilly but calm Saturday afternoon, in a match that could define their season.
Both teams made tentative starts, passing cautiously but not really making any substantial progress in the opening minutes.
But, after seven minutes, Spurs opened the scoring through Jan Vertonghen. The Belgian found himself in possession on the halfway line and burst forward, playing a neat one-two with Gareth Bale, latching on to the Welshman’s classy through-ball and calmly slotting past Michel Vorm in the Swansea goal.
The next few minutes saw Spurs find themselves with the wind in their sails, and Gylfi Sigurdsson almost put Bale through in the eleventh minute, but Vorm gathered.
On the twelve minute mark, Adebayor was put clean through on goal by Moussa Dembele, but the Togolese marksman’s finish was lacklustre and straight at Vorm. He really should have put Spurs two goals up.
Both teams made tentative starts, passing cautiously but not really making any substantial progress in the opening minutes.
But, after seven minutes, Spurs opened the scoring through Jan Vertonghen. The Belgian found himself in possession on the halfway line and burst forward, playing a neat one-two with Gareth Bale, latching on to the Welshman’s classy through-ball and calmly slotting past Michel Vorm in the Swansea goal.
The next few minutes saw Spurs find themselves with the wind in their sails, and Gylfi Sigurdsson almost put Bale through in the eleventh minute, but Vorm gathered.
On the twelve minute mark, Adebayor was put clean through on goal by Moussa Dembele, but the Togolese marksman’s finish was lacklustre and straight at Vorm. He really should have put Spurs two goals up.
- 3/30/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham Hotspur blew a great opportunity to extend their lead over Arsenal and consolidate their third place position in the Premier League in a forgettable match at White Hart Lane.
Spurs started brightly with man of the moment Gareth Bale back in the side and the Welshman immediately looked lively, getting in on the action from the off.
A couple of early corners were awarded to spurs as they pressured Fulham and it was Bale’s header from Gylfi Sigurdsson’s in-swinger that was cleared off the line – the first real chance of the match in the 6th minute.
A quiet spell ensued, as the match became somewhat disjointed, in which neither team seriously threatened for some time, but it was a spell in which Fulham did seem to grow a little in confidence.
In the 24th minute, a free kick from the left hand side was swung in by...
Spurs started brightly with man of the moment Gareth Bale back in the side and the Welshman immediately looked lively, getting in on the action from the off.
A couple of early corners were awarded to spurs as they pressured Fulham and it was Bale’s header from Gylfi Sigurdsson’s in-swinger that was cleared off the line – the first real chance of the match in the 6th minute.
A quiet spell ensued, as the match became somewhat disjointed, in which neither team seriously threatened for some time, but it was a spell in which Fulham did seem to grow a little in confidence.
In the 24th minute, a free kick from the left hand side was swung in by...
- 3/18/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
Spurs got the match underway on a massive afternoon for both teams.
A tentative start saw no real openings until the 6th minute when Olivier Giroud was beaten to a cross by Michael Dawson, who headed it out for a corner. Giroud then met the corner with his head again, but headed straight at an alert Hugo Lloris.
This was followed by a short spell of pressure by Arsenal, in which Giroud found himself through on goal after 10 minutes, only for Jan Vertonghen to make a great last ditch challenge to prevent the shot as Spurs struggled to settle.
A minute later, Aaron Ramsey found himself through on goal, but the through ball was too long and Lloris beat him to it.
On 13 minutes, an attempted cross that was heading for goal from young Carl Jenkinson almost caught Lloris off guard, but he was alert again to catch it at his near post.
A tentative start saw no real openings until the 6th minute when Olivier Giroud was beaten to a cross by Michael Dawson, who headed it out for a corner. Giroud then met the corner with his head again, but headed straight at an alert Hugo Lloris.
This was followed by a short spell of pressure by Arsenal, in which Giroud found himself through on goal after 10 minutes, only for Jan Vertonghen to make a great last ditch challenge to prevent the shot as Spurs struggled to settle.
A minute later, Aaron Ramsey found himself through on goal, but the through ball was too long and Lloris beat him to it.
On 13 minutes, an attempted cross that was heading for goal from young Carl Jenkinson almost caught Lloris off guard, but he was alert again to catch it at his near post.
- 3/3/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
On a night when the life of West Ham and England legend Bobby Moore was immaculately celebrated by all present, Upton Park was home to an exciting London derby that did the 1966 world cup winning captain proud.
West Ham made a lively start to the game and the first real test for either goalkeeper came in the 10th minute, when Matthew Jarvis cut inside and shot low to Hugo Lloris’ right, but the Frenchman was equal to it and held it well.
Almost immediately, Spurs countered quickly and Aaron Lennon came close to putting the Lilywhites one up.
But it was that man Gareth Bale, in the same attack, who found the net first, side-stepping James Collins and burying the ball in to the bottom left from 20 yards after 13 minutes.
Spurs started to take charge immediately after the goal, showing the greater purpose as West Ham looked wobbly, but were...
West Ham made a lively start to the game and the first real test for either goalkeeper came in the 10th minute, when Matthew Jarvis cut inside and shot low to Hugo Lloris’ right, but the Frenchman was equal to it and held it well.
Almost immediately, Spurs countered quickly and Aaron Lennon came close to putting the Lilywhites one up.
But it was that man Gareth Bale, in the same attack, who found the net first, side-stepping James Collins and burying the ball in to the bottom left from 20 yards after 13 minutes.
Spurs started to take charge immediately after the goal, showing the greater purpose as West Ham looked wobbly, but were...
- 2/25/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
A sensational 90th minute strike from Moussa Dembele put Tottenham Hotspur through to the Europa League round of 16 at the expense of Lyon at the Stade de Gerland.
Leading 2-1 from the first leg, a 1-1 draw sees the men from White Hart Lane through 3-2 on aggregate.
Lyon took a 17th minute lead, when a free-kick crossed in by Clement Grenier was headed in to the net by Maxime Gonalons, after Kyle Walker gave away a soft foul on the left touchline.
Lyon began to dominate the match following on from their goal, as Spurs appeared to lack discipline – giving the ball away in midfield far too often, with Scott Parker being the worst offender – and were limited to counter-attacking on the break.
A rare opening was created on 30 minutes, with Alexandre Lacazette crossing to Lisandro Lopes who dragged his shot wide after making poor contact with the ball.
Leading 2-1 from the first leg, a 1-1 draw sees the men from White Hart Lane through 3-2 on aggregate.
Lyon took a 17th minute lead, when a free-kick crossed in by Clement Grenier was headed in to the net by Maxime Gonalons, after Kyle Walker gave away a soft foul on the left touchline.
Lyon began to dominate the match following on from their goal, as Spurs appeared to lack discipline – giving the ball away in midfield far too often, with Scott Parker being the worst offender – and were limited to counter-attacking on the break.
A rare opening was created on 30 minutes, with Alexandre Lacazette crossing to Lisandro Lopes who dragged his shot wide after making poor contact with the ball.
- 2/21/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
André Villas-Boas has confirmed in his weekly pre-match press conference that key Tottenham Hotspur defender Younès Kaboul is set to return to training, after a 5 month lay-off with a knee injury, at the start of next week.
This is a welcome boost for a team whose luck with injuries of late has been rather unfortunate.
Ledley King, Kaboul’s central defensive partner of last season – a season in which Kaboul finally came of age for Tottenham – was forced to retire as a result of a persistent knee injury at the end of last season. Scott Parker, last season’s player of the year, had missed the majority of this season due to an Achilles injury up until recently. Key midfielder Sandro has recently been ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury and Jermain Defoe, Tottenham’s top scoring striker this season, has been ruled out...
This is a welcome boost for a team whose luck with injuries of late has been rather unfortunate.
Ledley King, Kaboul’s central defensive partner of last season – a season in which Kaboul finally came of age for Tottenham – was forced to retire as a result of a persistent knee injury at the end of last season. Scott Parker, last season’s player of the year, had missed the majority of this season due to an Achilles injury up until recently. Key midfielder Sandro has recently been ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury and Jermain Defoe, Tottenham’s top scoring striker this season, has been ruled out...
- 2/7/2013
- by Kev Stewart
- Obsessed with Film
A Brazilian wonderkid – a rare player every football fan secretly wishes their team had. They may not be known for their reliability or work-rate but their creative genius and ability on the ball is world-renowned. Maybe it’s the single name (Neymar, Ronaldo, Pele etc.) but there’s always been something more enthralling and exciting about a Brazilian; something the effort or enthusiasm of a Grant Holt or Scott Parker can never quite make up for.
The worldwide appeal and wealth of the Champions League has proved vital in drawing the major South American stars to Europe. It hasn’t always been this way. The legendary Pele spent most of his career playing for Santos, while Zico – one of the best players of the late seventies and early eighties – transformed Flamengo into one of the best sides in the world, even destroying Liverpool 3-0 in the Intercontinental Cup in 1981.
One...
The worldwide appeal and wealth of the Champions League has proved vital in drawing the major South American stars to Europe. It hasn’t always been this way. The legendary Pele spent most of his career playing for Santos, while Zico – one of the best players of the late seventies and early eighties – transformed Flamengo into one of the best sides in the world, even destroying Liverpool 3-0 in the Intercontinental Cup in 1981.
One...
- 1/21/2013
- by Jamie Callaghan
- Obsessed with Film
Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli could be leaving the club in the January transfer window, whilst Brazilian wonderkid Neymar could be brought in as a replacement, according to reports from the MailOnline.
The Italian has been restricted to just 15 appearances at the Etihad this season, and the recent furor involving him threatening to take the club to a Premier League tribunal this week may have been the final straw as City’s hierarchy are contemplating cutting their losses on the star, according to the Mail.
The report states that Mancini believes the Italian could develop into one of the best players in the world, and he said ‘I’m his manager and if he deserves other chances he will have them.’ But last season Balotelli missed 12 games through suspension for offences such as deliberately stomping on Tottenham’s Scott Parker. He was also dismissed in his sides encounter with Liverpool...
The Italian has been restricted to just 15 appearances at the Etihad this season, and the recent furor involving him threatening to take the club to a Premier League tribunal this week may have been the final straw as City’s hierarchy are contemplating cutting their losses on the star, according to the Mail.
The report states that Mancini believes the Italian could develop into one of the best players in the world, and he said ‘I’m his manager and if he deserves other chances he will have them.’ But last season Balotelli missed 12 games through suspension for offences such as deliberately stomping on Tottenham’s Scott Parker. He was also dismissed in his sides encounter with Liverpool...
- 12/23/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Director: Thomas J. Wright Writer: Robbie Thompson. CW's latest "Supernatural" episode makes a radical departure from its norm and shows that not every episode has to keep its focus on the Winchesters. The series has gone against the grain before, but this time, the change in direction needs to be studied and explained. Perhaps the biggest item that needs to be addressed is in why the producers chose to use the found footage format in in the fourth episode, "Bitten." The style effectively highlights how rabid two future filmmakers, Scott Parker (Eric Benard) and Mike Wheeler (Brendon W Jones), are gung-ho about their future. Instead of making a pseudo-documentary movie that could potentially rival Michael Moore's, they wind up making a film about themselves. This film reveals their give and take relationship. When Mike takes a shining to Kate in a café, she could have slapped him in the face for stalking.
- 10/29/2012
- by noreply@blogger.com (Ed Sum)
- 28 Days Later Analysis
Venue: White Hart Lane Kick- Off: 12.45pm
After the thrilling, but ruined Yorkshire derby last night that saw an idiot slap a former England goalkeeper, it’s off to a hopefully more civilized derby in North London for today’s early game in the Premier League between Spurs and table-toppers Chelsea.
Tottenham didn’t start the season at all well, with unwelcome attention falling once more on the methods and age of new manager Andre Villas Boas – but the past couple of weeks have seen a rapid improvement in fortunes and results, and Spurs look an entirely different prospect from those early weeks. Attention will no doubt turn to the former Porto manager once more, as he leads out his new side against the team who unceremoniously sacked him, and replaced him with a man deemed incapable and unsuitable by West Brom.
Chelsea have been fantastic at times so far this season,...
After the thrilling, but ruined Yorkshire derby last night that saw an idiot slap a former England goalkeeper, it’s off to a hopefully more civilized derby in North London for today’s early game in the Premier League between Spurs and table-toppers Chelsea.
Tottenham didn’t start the season at all well, with unwelcome attention falling once more on the methods and age of new manager Andre Villas Boas – but the past couple of weeks have seen a rapid improvement in fortunes and results, and Spurs look an entirely different prospect from those early weeks. Attention will no doubt turn to the former Porto manager once more, as he leads out his new side against the team who unceremoniously sacked him, and replaced him with a man deemed incapable and unsuitable by West Brom.
Chelsea have been fantastic at times so far this season,...
- 10/20/2012
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: White Hart Lane Kick-Off: 3pm
16th placed Aston Villa make the trip down to London having drawn their last match 1-1 at home to West Brom. After a stuttering start, it appears that the Villa players are starting to come round to Paul Lambert’s style of play and seem to have turned a corner after the humiliating defeat they suffered at the hands of Southampton. However the apparent fall out between Lambert and star striker Darren Bent is unlikely to have a positive effect on the rest of the team, added to which the continuing fall-out between Paul Lambert and old club Norwich City can also be classed as bad timing.
Tottenham, meanwhile, having drawn 1-1 in Greece during the week in the Europa League, are likely to be raring to go after their 3-2 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford last weekend. With rumours of player unrest towards Andres Villas-Boas,...
16th placed Aston Villa make the trip down to London having drawn their last match 1-1 at home to West Brom. After a stuttering start, it appears that the Villa players are starting to come round to Paul Lambert’s style of play and seem to have turned a corner after the humiliating defeat they suffered at the hands of Southampton. However the apparent fall out between Lambert and star striker Darren Bent is unlikely to have a positive effect on the rest of the team, added to which the continuing fall-out between Paul Lambert and old club Norwich City can also be classed as bad timing.
Tottenham, meanwhile, having drawn 1-1 in Greece during the week in the Europa League, are likely to be raring to go after their 3-2 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford last weekend. With rumours of player unrest towards Andres Villas-Boas,...
- 10/7/2012
- by Ross Potter
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham Hotspur will be looking for their first home victory of the season when they welcome London rivals Queens Park Rangers to White Hart Lane. Kick-off time is at 4pm and the match won’t be screened live on UK television.
Here’s the team news ahead of the game…
Spurs striker Emmanuel Adebayor faces a late fitness test on his hamstring injury to see if he is available for selection today. Boss Andre Villas-Boas hopes Kyle Naughton will be fit despite the defender picking up an injury to his right foot against Lazio on Thursday night.
Scott Parker (achilles), Jake Livermore (groin), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee) and Younes Kaboul (knee) are all sidelined through injury, as is third choice ‘keeper Heurelho Gomes (ankle).
For Mark Hughes’ Qpr, defenders Anton Ferdinand (hamstring), Stephane Mbia (groin), Fabio (hamstring) and Armand Traore (leg) are all sidelined. Andre Johnson (anterior cruciate ligament) and Samba...
Here’s the team news ahead of the game…
Spurs striker Emmanuel Adebayor faces a late fitness test on his hamstring injury to see if he is available for selection today. Boss Andre Villas-Boas hopes Kyle Naughton will be fit despite the defender picking up an injury to his right foot against Lazio on Thursday night.
Scott Parker (achilles), Jake Livermore (groin), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee) and Younes Kaboul (knee) are all sidelined through injury, as is third choice ‘keeper Heurelho Gomes (ankle).
For Mark Hughes’ Qpr, defenders Anton Ferdinand (hamstring), Stephane Mbia (groin), Fabio (hamstring) and Armand Traore (leg) are all sidelined. Andre Johnson (anterior cruciate ligament) and Samba...
- 9/23/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Reading welcome Tottenham Hotspur to the Madejski Stadium for today’s only Premier League match. Kick-off is at 4pm and the match will be screened live on Sky Sports UK television.
Here’s the team news ahead of the game…
Reading boss Brian McDermott is without only Jason Roberts for today’s game. The forward is missing with a calf injury.
The rest of Reading’s international players all returned from the international break unscathed. Jimmy Kebe is also back in the squad after the Mali winger returned to training last week following the hamstring injury that has kept him out of the season so far.
Goalkeeper Adam Federici has been declared fit ahead of the game after a small doubt over his fitness last week.
For Andre Villas-Boas’ Spurs, veteran goalkeeper Brad Friedel is expected to keep his place in the side despite the recent acquisition of French captain Hugo Lloris.
Here’s the team news ahead of the game…
Reading boss Brian McDermott is without only Jason Roberts for today’s game. The forward is missing with a calf injury.
The rest of Reading’s international players all returned from the international break unscathed. Jimmy Kebe is also back in the squad after the Mali winger returned to training last week following the hamstring injury that has kept him out of the season so far.
Goalkeeper Adam Federici has been declared fit ahead of the game after a small doubt over his fitness last week.
For Andre Villas-Boas’ Spurs, veteran goalkeeper Brad Friedel is expected to keep his place in the side despite the recent acquisition of French captain Hugo Lloris.
- 9/16/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
According to the website transfermarkt.co.uk, the Belgium starting eleven that defeated Wales 2-0 is worth £181 million. It’s a statistic that raises more questions than answers. If they have so much talent why are they only 40th in the FIFA Rankings and how did they fail to make it to Euro 2012?
Group A was one of the strongest. While Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan posed little threat Austria are always dangerous. As for the two teams who finished above them; Turkey have an experienced squad and few teams can match the quality of Germany.
People are already starting to doubt whether these wonderfully talented individuals can form a strong team. Everyone recognises the extraordinary talents playing for the Red Devils yet for some reason they can’t work together. With an average age of 24 the team who defeated Wales have years to gel and that was an eleven excluding 19-year-old...
Group A was one of the strongest. While Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan posed little threat Austria are always dangerous. As for the two teams who finished above them; Turkey have an experienced squad and few teams can match the quality of Germany.
People are already starting to doubt whether these wonderfully talented individuals can form a strong team. Everyone recognises the extraordinary talents playing for the Red Devils yet for some reason they can’t work together. With an average age of 24 the team who defeated Wales have years to gel and that was an eleven excluding 19-year-old...
- 9/12/2012
- by Jamie Callaghan
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham Hotspur’s first Premier League match at White Hart Lane this season takes place this afternoon as they welcome West Brom to North London. Kick-off time is at 3pm and the match won’t be screened live on television in the UK.
New Spurs defender Jan Vertonghen could make his Tottenham debut today after Younes Kaboul was ruled out of the game with a knee injury. Andre Villas-Boas decided to field William Gallas and Kaboul as his central defensive partnership in last week’s 2-1 defeat against Newcastle at St. James’ Park. Michael Dawson could also be involved after his move to Queens Park Rangers broke down this week, despite the defender holding talks at Loftus Road.
Luka Modric won’t feature today as the Croatian midfielder looks certain to finalise his move to Real Madrid within the next few days.
Emmanuel Adebayor is available to start after his...
New Spurs defender Jan Vertonghen could make his Tottenham debut today after Younes Kaboul was ruled out of the game with a knee injury. Andre Villas-Boas decided to field William Gallas and Kaboul as his central defensive partnership in last week’s 2-1 defeat against Newcastle at St. James’ Park. Michael Dawson could also be involved after his move to Queens Park Rangers broke down this week, despite the defender holding talks at Loftus Road.
Luka Modric won’t feature today as the Croatian midfielder looks certain to finalise his move to Real Madrid within the next few days.
Emmanuel Adebayor is available to start after his...
- 8/25/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
This time last week pundits were overwhelmingly backing Manchester United to win the Premier League this season after the Red Devils pulled off the biggest transfer of the window with former Arsenal captain Robin Van Persie joining in an astonishing £24 million deal. And with Van Persie joining Japanese attacking-midfielder Shinji Kagawa and English youngster Nick Powell as new United recruits, you’d be a fool not to be predicting at least one piece of silverware this season.
However in what was supposed to be the perfect stage for new signings Robin Van Persie, 29, and Shinji Kagawa, 23, turned out to be the opposite as Everton managed to defeat Manchester United in the Red Devil’s first Premier League game of the season. It’s unfair to blame Kagawa and Van Persie for playing any part in the defeat however they just did not live up to the hype they’d been given before the big kick-off.
However in what was supposed to be the perfect stage for new signings Robin Van Persie, 29, and Shinji Kagawa, 23, turned out to be the opposite as Everton managed to defeat Manchester United in the Red Devil’s first Premier League game of the season. It’s unfair to blame Kagawa and Van Persie for playing any part in the defeat however they just did not live up to the hype they’d been given before the big kick-off.
- 8/21/2012
- by Matt Guyett
- Obsessed with Film
Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has been recalled to the England squad to face Italy by manager Roy Hogdson, whilst teammate Wayne Rooney and former captain John Terry have been left out.
Carrick’s international future looked uncertain when he refused to be considered for the squad last January, having not featured at all at the 2010 World Cup. As a result, he also missed this summers European Championships in Poland/Ukraine.
But the 29 year old will be considered for selection when England take on the Euro 2012 runners-up in a glamour friendly next Wednesday.
With fellow central midfielders Gareth Barry and Scott Parker ruled out through injury, it is understood Carrick accepted Hodgson’s Sos call. The England manager told The BBC:
“He didn’t want to be considered for the Euros, so I reluctantly thought if people are not available they are not available.
“He has had discussions with Gary...
Carrick’s international future looked uncertain when he refused to be considered for the squad last January, having not featured at all at the 2010 World Cup. As a result, he also missed this summers European Championships in Poland/Ukraine.
But the 29 year old will be considered for selection when England take on the Euro 2012 runners-up in a glamour friendly next Wednesday.
With fellow central midfielders Gareth Barry and Scott Parker ruled out through injury, it is understood Carrick accepted Hodgson’s Sos call. The England manager told The BBC:
“He didn’t want to be considered for the Euros, so I reluctantly thought if people are not available they are not available.
“He has had discussions with Gary...
- 8/11/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Leaked images of Tottenham Hotspur’s home and away kit for the forthcoming 2012/2013 season have appeared at a club fansite. Thanks to Spursfan1982 for sending them over to us.
The brand new all white home kit, which goes against the Spurs tradition of navy blue shorts, gives the club a “Real Madrid” feel and are being modeled by Michael Dawson, Scott Parker and Kyle Walker. The kits have been produced by Under Amour and are yet to be officially unveiled by the club (though we would expect an official reveal is likely to have been brought forward now).
The all dark navy blue away kit features Gareth Bale (who recently signed a long term contract at the club), Rafael Van Der Vaart and Michael Dawson once again!
Perhaps tellingly (though do promotional images really mean anything?), the shirt campaign perhaps suggest Van Der Vaart is going to be staying at...
The brand new all white home kit, which goes against the Spurs tradition of navy blue shorts, gives the club a “Real Madrid” feel and are being modeled by Michael Dawson, Scott Parker and Kyle Walker. The kits have been produced by Under Amour and are yet to be officially unveiled by the club (though we would expect an official reveal is likely to have been brought forward now).
The all dark navy blue away kit features Gareth Bale (who recently signed a long term contract at the club), Rafael Van Der Vaart and Michael Dawson once again!
Perhaps tellingly (though do promotional images really mean anything?), the shirt campaign perhaps suggest Van Der Vaart is going to be staying at...
- 7/10/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Having been unsurprisingly confirmed as Tottenham manager this week, Ladbrokes are this morning suggesting that Andre Villas-Boas will be given a hefty £70 million to juggle as his transfer fund. The bookies current stance is that Avb is odds-on to return to former club Chelsea in order to spend some of that substantial transfer kitty.
The Chelsea players in question are England international Daniel Sturridge, who was unlucky to miss out on a Euro place yet is set to figure for Team Gb in this summer’s Olympics. The other being one of Avb’s signings whilst in charge at Chelsea, fellow countryman Raul Meireles, who’s also a target for Napoli.
Knowing Villas-Boas record from Chelsea, the Spurs board will want to back their newly appointed manager and will likely give him time, yet with the growing expectations of the Spurs faithful after the largely successful tenure of Harry Redknapp,...
The Chelsea players in question are England international Daniel Sturridge, who was unlucky to miss out on a Euro place yet is set to figure for Team Gb in this summer’s Olympics. The other being one of Avb’s signings whilst in charge at Chelsea, fellow countryman Raul Meireles, who’s also a target for Napoli.
Knowing Villas-Boas record from Chelsea, the Spurs board will want to back their newly appointed manager and will likely give him time, yet with the growing expectations of the Spurs faithful after the largely successful tenure of Harry Redknapp,...
- 7/5/2012
- by David Howland
- Obsessed with Film
“Why Always Me?” a sweatshirt read on 23rd October 2011.
Mario Balotelli had just scored the first of his two goals against Manchester United in that 1-6 rout at Old Trafford.
But he has made headlines for all the wrong reasons throughout a career that has seen more ups and downs than an elevator attendant.
Just days after signing for Manchester City from Inter Milan, Balotelli quite literally crashed onto the scene when he was involved in a prang in his Audi R8 on thw way to the cubs training ground.
Since then the mishaps have kept coming.
In October 2011, the Italian had another run-in with the emergency services after a firework was set off in the bathroom of his home, setting his house ablaze.
Prior to this, he had already picked up two red cards – one of which came in the same afternoon that he scored his first ever goals for City against West Brom.
Mario Balotelli had just scored the first of his two goals against Manchester United in that 1-6 rout at Old Trafford.
But he has made headlines for all the wrong reasons throughout a career that has seen more ups and downs than an elevator attendant.
Just days after signing for Manchester City from Inter Milan, Balotelli quite literally crashed onto the scene when he was involved in a prang in his Audi R8 on thw way to the cubs training ground.
Since then the mishaps have kept coming.
In October 2011, the Italian had another run-in with the emergency services after a firework was set off in the bathroom of his home, setting his house ablaze.
Prior to this, he had already picked up two red cards – one of which came in the same afternoon that he scored his first ever goals for City against West Brom.
- 7/1/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Andrea Pirlo shone for Italy last night, dictating the rhythm of the game, spreading out passes at will and helping Gli Azzurri dominate possession. He even scored the most audacious penalty you are ever likely to see at this stage of a competition – with the pressure on after Riccardo Montolivo’s spotkick miss, he teasingly dinked the ball into the air with his right boot. Joe Hart was on the floor before the ball dropped into the net.
Former England, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Manchester United striker Michael Owen thinks we had a player of equal quality – but he was left at home.
After coming out of retirement in January this year, and in spite of an injury pileup that ruled out the likes of Gareth Barry and Frank Lampard, Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes still did not receive a call from Roy Hodgson.
Writing on Twitter, Owen remarked:
Pirlo...
Former England, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Manchester United striker Michael Owen thinks we had a player of equal quality – but he was left at home.
After coming out of retirement in January this year, and in spite of an injury pileup that ruled out the likes of Gareth Barry and Frank Lampard, Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes still did not receive a call from Roy Hodgson.
Writing on Twitter, Owen remarked:
Pirlo...
- 6/25/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
England have crashed out of the European Championships on penalties.
Substitute Alessandro Diamanti’s decisive penalty saw off Roy Hodgson’s men after Ashley Young and Ashley Cole both missed. England’s miserable record at penalties has now stretched to just one win in seven of their previous penalty shoot-outs at major tournaments.
In truth, Italy should have put the game to bed much sooner. The stats speak for themselves. Gli Azzurri enjoyed 63% of the overall ball possession and had 18 shots on target to England’s 4. Daniel De Rossi thundered a superb shot against the post after just 3 minutes, leaving keeper Joe Hart well beaten whilst Diamanti again hit the post in the tenth minute of extra time with a cross-cum shot.
After peppering the England goal with 31 shots in total, Italy thought they had finally made the breakthrough five minutes from the end of extra time when Antonio Nocerino...
Substitute Alessandro Diamanti’s decisive penalty saw off Roy Hodgson’s men after Ashley Young and Ashley Cole both missed. England’s miserable record at penalties has now stretched to just one win in seven of their previous penalty shoot-outs at major tournaments.
In truth, Italy should have put the game to bed much sooner. The stats speak for themselves. Gli Azzurri enjoyed 63% of the overall ball possession and had 18 shots on target to England’s 4. Daniel De Rossi thundered a superb shot against the post after just 3 minutes, leaving keeper Joe Hart well beaten whilst Diamanti again hit the post in the tenth minute of extra time with a cross-cum shot.
After peppering the England goal with 31 shots in total, Italy thought they had finally made the breakthrough five minutes from the end of extra time when Antonio Nocerino...
- 6/24/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
So England have pulled off quite the accomplishment, Roy Hodgson has not only managed to guide the three lions into the Quarter-Finals of the tournament but also go into the stage as winners of Group D, a group that many had doubted England would even manage to get out of. Players have really stepped up their game with the likes of Danny Welbeck, Theo Walcott and Joleon Lescott gaining praise for their excellent performances for the side when called upon. So they now face Italy a side brimming with confidence after managing to fight-off a good Croatian side in the battle for second place in Group C. Italy will not be easy opponents for England but England come into this game most likely with a ton of motivation and will probably be confident of possibly making it through to the Semi-Finals.
Here I look at the 11 players I believe should...
Here I look at the 11 players I believe should...
- 6/23/2012
- by Matt Guyett
- Obsessed with Film
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