Biting Back

We all know that the football world operates on an entirely different scale to the realms of normality. The concept of "reality" is alien on planet football and behind the myriad of flustered journalists, ecstatic fans and excesses of wealth lie human beings who cite their occupation as "footballer".

As the reaction to Luis Suárez's infamous bite on Giorgio Chiellini continues to roll in, this crucial word, "reality", seems once again to be the vital missing ingredient in football discussion. The Uruguayan striker continues to act as a magnifying glass to the wild differences between matters on the pitch and matters of the pitch.

Before I go any further, I must state, superfluous as it may be given the atrocity of the act, that this is in no way a defence of Luis Suárez the footballer. There is a certain stigma attached to the bite and the old adage of "three strikes and you're out" should have been apparent to the troubled forward having spent the majority of his career in Europe.

Instead, this is a reaction to the reaction, rather than to the incident itself. A reaction which has seen the most righteous of figures within media circles state their disgust at such a diabolical crime and that Suárez would be lucky to kick a ball again.

Two aspects of the reaction have been of particular intrigue. Firstly the difference between how a footballer's public and personal life is perceived, and secondly how various cultures respond to certain events.

By all accounts, Suárez comes across as a genuinely warm, friendly, family orientated man off the field of play. His commitment to his family saw him follow his childhood sweetheart, Sofia Balbi, to plying his trade in Europe where she had been working. And yet he is vilified as a cannibalistic monster.

Let us compare this to Ryan Giggs for instance, a man who is held in the highest regard in British football due to his remarkable talents and hugely successful career. This man, who was recently honoured with a cringe-worthy slot on ITV documenting his (unsuccessful) adventure as manager of Manchester United (come on, really?) embarked on an 8 year affair with his brother's wife.  I defy any upstanding citizen to logically explain to me that this is more deserving of respect than a man with a tendency to bite.

Once again this is not an attack on Giggs. The example could have been anyone. Wayne Rooney's well documented flings with prostitutes have not stopped him from being favourite to take on the England captaincy should he retire. Likewise Franck Ribéry and Karim Benzema, the darlings of French football were involved in a controversial incident regarding an underage prostitute. Even Lionel Messi's finances have been scrutinised due to alleged tax evasion. Dare I say the life of Paul Gascoigne, troubled as he may be, would almost certainly come off the worse in a comparison to the life of Luis Alberto Suárez Diaz.

While we are on the matter of biting, does anybody remember Jermain Defoe's bite on Javier Mascherano in 2006?

Many of these reactions have also sought to analyse the mental health of Luis Suárez, suggesting that some of his actions may be involuntary or the result of an over stimulated sense of competition, emotion and passion. Indeed Kenny Dalglish stated this week that "some players have injures you can't see". A touching sentiment but perhaps one that is only really be understood when you take in to consideration the Uruguayan's past and his native culture.

Dónal Óg Cusack's excellent piece in the Irish Examiner (link attached) this week shed light on what life as a Uruguayan meant to the Liverpool strikers. The sheer extent of his childhood poverty is too bizarre to even contemplate for many British and Irish football fans, that they simply have no concept of this "win or die" attitude that Suárez brings to the pitch.

Furthermore the issue of "Picardia"- the Latin American approach to sport where victory by cunning and treachery is a sign of endearment and passion rather than one of villainy- is simply not understood in England.

If the World Cup truly is to be regarded as a union of nations coming together in celebration of the universal language of football, then the response to the tournament has been far from universal. Whilst the Suárez bite seems to be detracting from what has been a phenomenal few weeks of football in Britain and Ireland, the incident in many countries has gone nearly unnoticed. Certain sections of South American and Hispanic newspapers afforded Suárez very little page room in the aftermath of the Uruguay win.

Yes, yes, it is all well and good to sit here and eulogise on the whys and wherefores of how Luis Suárez became public enemy number one in England yet national hero in Uruguay. But what happens next?

Well firstly it is telling that Barcelona have not cooled their interest in the forward. If anything, a move to the Spanish giants now seems closer than ever.

FIFA's ban is also surely damning proof of their political agenda rather than their impartiality. The ban fails to take in to account any notion of rehabilitation and instead has alienated Suárez from his place of work, his bread and butter.

The man needs to be punished but the football world equally needs a dose of common sense. It was a bite. It did not end a career and the Italian centre half was fit to continue the game.

In banning Luis Suárez for racism in 2011, a finding which must go down as the FA's most farcical moment in their existence given Evra's tendency for fabrication, Suárez 's mixed race ethnicity and making a decision based on "probability", footballing authorities set a precedent.

Suárez, for all his shambolic misdemeanours, has now reverted to the victim mentality of his impoverished youth, whilst the public image of the typical footballer became even more detached from the authentic reality than ever before.

It is time for football to finally gain some perspective and return to the word at the top of the piece- "reality". Why is it that we seem to be surprised when players like Suárez behave in such a way when our impulse reaction is to damn, shame and polish our glorified sense of self-righteousness?

Unless a certain perspective is gained regarding both the legitimacy of right and wrong, as well as respect for the many cultures we are so fortunate to play host to in British football, then incidents akin to the Suárez bite cases will continue to tarnish our beautiful game. 

http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/columnists/donal-og-cusack/suarez-is-just-another-crazy-mixed-up-kid-not-a-bad-person-273535.html

Ready for Rio

The fanfare of English hype and sheer gall of dreamy suggestions that England possess a God given right to be handed the World Cup on a silver plate has made the 1966 winners a figure of both ridicule and animosity in recent years. With the abject failure of the so-called "Golden Generation" to capitalize on their celebrity culture on the world stage, England find themselves rather muted amongst the Samba celebrations in Brazil this year. But putting to one side the fanfare over Wayne Rooney's hair transplant and tabloid obsessions with Frank Lampard and Christine Bleakley's wedding day, is the England of 2014, finally, a likeable team? Is this the campaign where Hodgson's men can break the taboo of actually supporting England in a major tournament?

English fans know the drill by this point. Media hype surrounds the pre-tournament build up before off the field allegations and scandals interfere with the powers that be on the pitch. The footballing Gods then come together and rule that England shall lose via the medium of the penalty shootout and a nation's hopes are dashed once again. 3 weeks and a few crocodile tears later, high profile names release their "no holds barred" autobiography and promise to do more next time before a crowded press conference clinging to their every word.

It is a drill that has been perfected in recent years. So much so that never before has an England team gone in to a World Cup with such little expectation. Optimism yes, but expectation? Genuine belief in the capabilities of the men wearing the white jersey? Very little.

This squad however represents more than mediocrity. Hodgson's 23 stands for a unanimous rejection of the usual suspects consistently failing. Gone are John Terry , Rio Ferdinand and Ashley Cole. In are hard working, honest, exciting footballers who are of an age where the mere mention of the three lions still conjures blurry eyes and images of garden kickabouts.

In Roy Hodgson, England have a manager who will not seek the spotlight or demand media attention, *ahem Sven, Fabio ahem. In acting as a father figure to these young players as opposed to the ego at the heart of the team, Hodgson has the opportunity to not only change perceptions of him as the worst Liverpool manager in history but also ignite a certain level of Albion patriotism.

Steven Gerrard is also proving himself to be the captain England were begging for under the reigns of Terry and Ferdinand. The old question of Gerrard and Lampard in the same team has been replaced with a sincere welcoming of the two veterans respectfully mentoring and monitoring the  fresh faced naive talents in the squad.

These younger players including Sterling, Barkley, Lallana, Welbeck, Sturridge and Oxlade Chamberlain, all possess the ability to create something out of nothing. A certain "explosivity", a charm, a blend of pace, guile and sheer immaturity mercilessly damning fear and nerves.   Never before have England had in their ranks such a potential to excite and attack the opposition. The reduced presence of Internationally recognised household names removes a certain pressure from the England team, seemingly aware of their limitations ability wise, but willing to make up for it in effort, work rate and desire.

No two players typify these attributes more than Jordan Henderson and James Milner. The Liverpool man has had an outstanding season at Anfield and is proving to the nation what many in red knew all along- he is a top quality footballer.

Milner embarks on his Brazilian adventure with a richly deserved Premier League winners medal. His jovial attitude and caricatured fictional twitter figure as a laid back, gentle, colourless soul have often detracted from his abilities as a footballer. In truth, Milner possesses a remarkable repertoire of skills and an ability to play in numerous positions whilst rarely falling victim to the toxic of fatigue.  In the heat and humidity of Brazil, the energy and versatility of these two players could be crucial to England's chances this month.

As a country notoriously crippled year after year by off the field events, it is refreshing to see the England players actively engage with Brazilian culture by  doing charity events, Capoeira dancing and embracing the Rio atmosphere. Football is a fans game and must be treated as one which can be enjoyed and one which we can be proud of. With all this in mind, England's young talents, the removal of the unsavoury egos and the philanthropy of these heroes, Hodgson's men could well be the first England team since Venables' '96 team that the neutral could enjoy watching and the team since Gazza's infamous tears in Italia '90 that their country can be proud of.

The stars would have to align spectacularly for England to succeed in Brazil this summer. Any football realist will tell you that the squad is desperately lacking and that many of their competitors have vastly more qualified squads to reign supreme in the sweltering Brazilian conditions. But for the first time in decades, this is an England team where cheering for Wayne Rooney does not feel wrong and dirty, but one where should they fall short, English fans will be able to stand tall in defence of their hard working heroes. This sense of unity and excitement could be the three lions' greatest weapon. 

Drain in Spain

Wind the clock back twelve months and take yourself to Wembley, London, the scene of Bayern Munich's victory over Borussia Dortmund. The all-German affair capped a season of infatuation with a style of play which had so ruthlessly disbanded the previous Spanish darlings of football, Madrid and Barcelona. A year later and with the World Cup looming, Spanish football has once again returned to the forefront of the European game, but how will this resurrection affect the national team's hopes in Brazil?

Despite Spain's dominance of International football in recent seasons, winning the World Cup this summer is undoubtedly La Roja's greatest challenge yet. With Brazil in their home country and Argentina containing the most devastating attacking force in world football, the European drought in South America looks set to continue. It is not however, the opposition who will provide the largest threat to Spain's crown. Iberian fatigue in the sweltering climes of Brazil may provide the fatal stab to the raging Spanish bull.

It has been a long domestic season for the Spanish teams. Real Madrid's capturing of La Decima was the 60th game of Carlo Ancelotti's season, which included two cup successes and competing for the title until the final game of the campaign. Despite a remarkable season, Atlético Madrid were visibly exhausted in the second half of the final and during extra time. The incredible achievements of Simeone's men have undoubtedly arrived at a cost, and Diego Costa's end of season injury woes will be a major concern to Vicente Del Bosque.

Barcelona have had their own struggles.  Despite their well documented problems however, which resulted in the resignation of Gerardo Martino, the Catalan club still pushed Atlético until the final game of the season and a late wonder goal from world record signing Gareth Bale in the 85th minute denied them a 27th Copa Del Rey victory.

Overcoming the physical and mental strain of such a gruelling season will be Spain's biggest test. Much is made of England not having a winter break and as such being tired when International tournaments come around over summer.

The tropical heat of Brazil will only exaggerate the fatigue factor.

Spain can at least take solace in the knowledge that their style of play is not running intensive. The mentality of keeping possession and letting the ball do the work will have to be efficient and ruthless, particularly against the bigger teams.

However this style of play is also reliant upon intense concentration and not making mistakes. It would be naive to underestimate the extent to which the season will have drained Real, Barca and Atlético players.

It is a similar story for those not playing for the Spanish big three. Juan Mata and Fernando Torres have struggled this year and will be heading to Brazil (should they survive Del Bosque's final cull) low in confidence, whilst Santi Cazorla ultimately suffered as his Arsenal team once again capitulated in the league.

It seems bizarre to be writing off Spain with such ease. Even in listing the players who may struggle, who may be tired or who may be low in morale, there is still so much ability and pedigree. They will remain a heavyweight this summer and their opponents will have to be playing at the peak of their powers to defeat them. Spain are a side who relish vindication. Whenever they have been discarded before, they have always provided an answer to the damning question of whether or not they could perform. 

However for the Spanish to truly stamp their authority on the history of world football and not only retain the World Cup but also make it four consecutive major International successes, they will have to break through a physical and mental barrier unlike any they have previously faced. This team has now been together for six or seven years and implementing youth may be necessary soon. In the heat of South America, this is a weakness that will no doubt be hunted by their circling opponents. 

Blue Moon

There was a sense of inevitability in the air yesterday morning. A sense that Liverpool hopes and prayers were always going to be in vain and that Manchester City would dispose of West Ham, claiming their second Premier League title in three years. Goals from Samir Nasri and captain Vincent Kompany banished any faint notions of a blue capitulation and delivered the championship in a professional manner so fittingly typical of their season.

This City team deserves all the praise that will no doubt be lavished upon them, right across the board. Much has been written of how brilliant the playing staff has been this season, but full credit must also go to the manager, backroom staff and those in charge of transfers. City have got little wrong this year.

Fernandinho has been signing of the season. Undoubtedly. Álvaro Negredo has enjoyed periods of good form and players such as Jesús Navas, Stevan Jovetić and even the widely mocked Martin Demichelis have complimented City's incredible spine. They have also kept the majority of key players fit. Even Sergio Agüero's injuries woes have been relatively well managed, ensuring that he would be fit when needed and that adequate cover was available when he was out.

Arsenal will once again point to injuries whilst Liverpool's back four has never reached any level of consistency as there has never been a settled, fully fit defence to choose from. Disappointing transfer windows and poor management has cost Chelsea. José's reputation in the game means he will be afforded the luxury of another chance next season, but having spent over £100 million and still having to resort to poor quality of football and time wasting would be enough for any other manager to face the Roman execution. Chelsea fans can sleep safely in the knowledge that Rafa Benítez had a better season at Chelsea last year without spending a tenth of the amount as José.

No such problems with injuries, transfers, or management for City.

Much has been made of Liverpool's swashbuckling style of play and their attacking brand of football. It is worth remembering however that City actually scored more goals. Throughout the team they have been balanced, focused and ruthless when the opportunities have arisen.

The win over West Ham this weekend returns me back to the one, key word which defines Man City this season. Professional.

Professionalism has been at the heart of blue success this season. Getting the job done has been paramount to the way City have gone about their business. They have sent out goal scoring statements at the right times, all the while knowing that there is also a time to be solid and guarantee the 3 points.

The gaze of the country was upon them in the second half against Aston Villa with the score still goalless. Patience prevailed and goals from Edin Džeko effectively put the result beyond doubt. The blues consolidated the three points before a late flourish emphatically boasted to the world- "We're not bottling this".

The Villa game was emblematic of City's season. Pellegrini has installed a mentality which focuses on getting the three points before indulging in adventure and flair. City have licence to flex their expensively assembled muscles on a "right time, right place" mantra, a formula which has paid dividends across an enthralling 38 game season. The West Ham result became an expectation, a formality, rather than a final hurdle.

Liverpool are worthy runners up. Any fan of football will have enjoyed watching Brendan Rodgers' side this season with their unyielding faith in young players and attacking, intelligent football. Jordan Henderson has been a shining light and for all the folly of rivalry, England captain Steven Gerrard has been symbolic of every boyhood fan deep inside us just yearning to play football and represent their club.

But this year belongs to City. They have been graceful in defeat and humble in victory. Manuel Pellegrini has been the epitome of class with his reaction to the defeat at Liverpool in April a prime example of this, despite being denied an almost certain late penalty.

More thorough and deeper diagnoses will come. There is time for a more intricate examination of how City tactically outclassed their competition or how Liverpool and Chelsea threw the title away. For now however, we must tip our hats and give Manchester City our full respect and praise. An outstanding team and if there is a "right" way to win the league, they have come very close to achieving it. Tonight, Manchester is blue. 

Spanish Inquisition

With just five games remaining in a thrilling La Liga season, the top three of Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid and Barcelona are separated by a mere four points. The rise and rise of El Atléti has continued to surprise and impress many, but with the Champions League and the Copa Del Rey winners yet to be determined, the eventual league winners may well be dependent on results in other competitions.

Goals from Diego Godín and the hugely impressive Diego Costa saw Simeone’s men open up a three point lead over local rivals Real Madrid with victory over league strugglers Getafe and in doing so, put themselves in control of the title race. The team so often in the shadow of their Madrid counterparts have built a hugely impressive squad under the Argentinian and glance forward in genuine hope to a first league title in nearly 20 years.

At the heart of this success has been the 22 year old Koke. The playmaker has been instrumental to the style of play employed by Simeone, his latest major contribution being am early goal to knock Spanish giants Barcelona out of the Champions League. It comes as no surprise that he has drawn praise from the Spanish maestro, Xavi, as well as some hungry eyes from Premier League suitors. 

Belgian international Thibaut Courtois, spending his third consecutive season on loan from Chelsea at Estadio Vicente Calderón has also shone for Los Rojiblancos. The 21 year old has been a formidable figure between the sticks, keeping an impressive 18 league clean sheets this season.

Leading the line in attack is Diego Costa who has, rightfully so, enjoyed the spotlight of being Atlético’s biggest attacking threat. The Brazilian born forward has muscled himself into comparisons with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, and with the veteran forward David Villa beside him, looks set for a summer of immense transfer speculation from heavyweights of European football.

It should come as no surprise that these three players in particular have formed the spine of an impressive Atlético team. Praise has been forthcoming from all corners of the footballing world and with the sparkle of players such as Gabi, Turan and Juanfran complimenting this spine, Atlético appear to have finally broken through the barrier of perennial underdogs, joining the elites and posing a genuine threat to the duopoly of Real and Barca.

With such success however comes the burden of extra games, pressure and expectation. The impressive run in the Champions League means that Simeone’s men will have to play at their peak right up until the final whistle of the season, a feat that could prove difficult under the merciless glare of the chasing two.

Read Madrid have been ruthlessly consistent this season across all competitions and find themselves as the closest challengers to Atlético, as well as claiming places in the Champions League final and Copa Del Rey final . With a range of experienced and immensely talented players amongst the ranks, Los Blancos will no doubt feel confident in their ability to use these high pressure games as platforms from which to breed confidence and a sheer winning mentality.

With the two most expensive footballers in world football in their squad, Read Madrid possess the big names for the big situations. In Carlo Ancelotti they have a manager who has further experience of winning titles and European competition. Despite recent relative poor form, the 32 time winners are in pole position to win at least one of three trophies. Victory in this week’s Copa Del Rey final could act as the catalyst for a clean sweep.

Barcelona on the other hand have somewhat stumbled their way in to the position they find themselves in. That is not to say they have been a poor team, nor are they not to be counted as a major footballing force, but there is a certain magic lacking from their performances of late. Perhaps a victim of their own success in recent years, Barcelona arguably must win the cup final this week in order to compel the doubters and believe that they are capable of going on to retain La Liga.

Unlike their rivals, the Catalan giants do not have Champions League football to manoeuvre. In one sense, this allows for greater rest periods and a more focused eye on league proceedings. With the potential momentum and confidence generated from Champions League success however, there can be no doubt that Martino’s men would rather be in the picture than looking at it.

Such is the strength of the three teams that league triumph relies heavily on their fortunes in other competitions. Barcelona face Real Madrid on Wednesday evening in a cup final which could potentially spark a march for the title for each of the teams. With so much at stake, momentum, confidence and pressure will all come in to play in the most exciting Spanish title race in years.

For Barcelona, winning is a must during this period of relative transition. For Atlético, the old adage of winning breeds expectation may be their greatest downfall as they enter unchartered territory. Real Madrid therefore, despite the extra games, are in the best position of the three. With title winners and a balanced blend of experience and youth, success breeding success will be the philosophy from which they look to storm to league stardom, and possibly more.   

Flying Foxes

After a ten year absence from the top flight, Leicester City finally reclaimed Premier League football as QPR and Derby failed to respond to the foxes’ 2-1 victory over Sheffield Wednesday. With 6 games remaining, Nigel Pearson’s men look set to finish the season as deserved champions, capping a decade of turmoil for the club both on and off the pitch.

The departure of Martin O’Neill in 2000 marked the end of a successful period for the midlands team, including League Cup triumphs, Premier League safety and the unprecedented arrival European football. Subsequent financial mismanagement and poor footballing performances however saw Leicester enter a period of deep, rapid decline. Relegation to League One in 2008 was the lowest the club had sank in its history and with the turmoil behind the scenes threatening to do further damage, many feared for the future of the foxes.

Under the leadership of Pearson however, the club was united and ensured that a swift response to the Championship was secured. Relative stability ensued and despite play-off heartbreak in their first season back, Leicester were established as a formidable opponent in the second tier.

But yet again, background affairs destabilised the foxes further. A fall out with owner Milan Mandarić resulted in the departure of Pearson, leading to the short reign of Paulo Sousa and the tumultuous leadership of Sven Göran Eriksson. Financial volatility threatened to derail the club again. Leicester City once more looked doomed to gracing the back pages for all the wrong reasons.

This season however Leicester City have been the epitome of stability and consistency. New ownership has awoken the sleepwalking foxes who next season will be on the hunt for scalps at Old Trafford, Anfield and Stamford Bridge. It has become fashionable to criticise foreign ownership in modern football discussions, but the reign of the Thai owners thus far has proven fruitful. They have learnt the lessons of previous financial mismanagement, with the Guardian’s Richard Rae noting that “Srivaddhanaprabha's (Chairman) swapping of debt for equity unquestionably increases the club's leeway under financial fair play”. The return of Pearson has also proven to be a feather in the cap of the foreign owners.

If his first dismissal was initially deemed as unfair at the time, it must now be said that the decision bordered on the insane.

Pearson will no doubt point to a devastating afternoon in Watford 11 months ago as a pivotal moment in his blossoming Leicester career. An incredible 20 seconds saw a Leicester penalty saved to deny them a place in the playoff final, before Troy Deeney mercilessly snatched victory from the resulting counter attack. Pearson did not spout the traditional message of disappointment and motivation, opting instead for a steely commitment to ensure that Leicester would control their own destiny next year and that no such scenario would be plausible. Pearson has delivered.

The man who missed that penalty was young Frenchman, Anthony Knockaert. The 22 year old has been a shining star for Leicester this season and his winning free kick against Sheffield Wednesday was a truly fitting way for him to bury the ghosts of the previous year and propel his team to the dizzy heights of the Premier League.

Knockaert in truth has been one of many shining stars. David Nugent will be given another opportunity to prove that he deserves to play top flight football whilst Wes Morgan has been a phenomenon in defence. The retaining of his services has proven to be a masterstroke as he has played the role of reliable leader ahead of the formidable Kasper Schmeichel to great aplomb.

Jamie Vardy, Chris Wood, Danny Drinkwater and Lloyd Dyer have all been rightfully heaped with praise throughout the campaign, whilst veterans Kevin Phillips and Paul Konchesky, dropping a tier following his embarrassing spell at Liverpool, have bought stability and experience to the dressing room.

In many ways simplicity has been the most effective method of expression for the foxes. They play a relatively standard 4-4-2 formation, with pacey wingers and orthodox strikers, based upon a consistent, steady faith in trusted players. Pearson has consistently managed expectations and this approach has paid dividends as Leicester have stormed their way to scoring 76 goals in 40 games, an impressive goals to games ration of 1.9.

The Premier League no doubt offers a warm welcome to a team who have been missed from the top tier of English football. Many fans will fondly remember the successful 90s team which included Matt Elliott, Emile Heskey, Neil Lennon and Robbie Savage and look forward to embracing the next generation of potential legends from the east midlands. The King Power Stadium will justifiably play host to the very best that English football has to offer as Leicester City prepare for what could be an exciting, defining season in their incredible recent history. What is most important now is that Leicester remember the platform that took them to these lofty heights- stability and simplicity.  The fox says promotion. 

Paw Felix

With just six weeks remaining in this scintillating Premier League campaign and the destination of the title marvellously undecided, each fixture brings with it an immense amount of pressure and consequence. Fulham’s defeat to Champions League hopefuls Everton had profound effects on the race for 4^th place as well as compounding Felix Magath to yet another defeat in charge of the beleaguered cottagers. The German has picked up just one victory during his time in London and comparing this to Tony Pulis’ record at Crystal Palace since taking control at the seemingly doomed Eagles makes grimacing reading for any advocate of finding the answers abroad in a relegation dogfight.

Magath has a fearsome reputation for maximising the potential of otherwise limited players and an ability to pull clubs away from the brink of relegation. Dubbed as “the firefighter”, the German has repeatedly proven himself to be a credible and highly respectable manager. On paper, the decision to hire Magath makes logical sense. Fulham have struggled this season and the consequent sale of the talented maverick Dimitar Berbatov has left the Londoners desperately short in attack. Staggeringly, the goals against column reads 73 conceded. Not scoring enough and terminally bleeding goals normally means relegation. Such an emergency surely calls for the firefighter, right?

A damning return of conceding 15 goals in Magath’s six games in charge however may suggest that the firefighter has ran out of water, but there is a stronger argument for duty of rescue being slightly different in England to the continent. A short glance eastwards to their London rivals at Selhurst Park supports this argument. Pulis’ Palace picked up a deserved victory over title contenders Chelsea at the weekend to put them 5 points clear with a game in hand over Cardiff City who occupy the final relegation spot. The Welshman’s style of football is not always entirely pleasing on the eye, but it is perhaps the British answer to Magath’s maximising the potential of players. The appointment of a safe pair of hands which could readily clench in to a punch packing fist has thus far proven to be favourable to Felix’s paw.

In truth, the teams which look to have the most heart and the greatest chance of survival are all led by managers with experience and knowledge of English football. Steve Bruce at Hull City has carefully steered the tigers to relative safety without ever truly being in a position of danger whilst West Ham’s faith in Sam Allardyce looks like it will, just about, pay dividends.  There is also a school of thought that if Cardiff had stood by Malky Mackay then they would perhaps be in a better position than they find themselves in. Hypothetical, sure, but there is no doubt that Solksjær’s lack of experience in such a position is threatening to ground the flight of the bluebirds.

Of course, managers need to be given jobs in order to gain such experience. Interestingly, Solksjær would perhaps have been more successful at a team in the relative comfort of mid table where he could hone his skills and develop a greater understanding of English management. The Norwegian can point to his successes at Molde FK as proof that he has the credentials to do well but to be thrown in to a relegation battle at this early stage of his career serves as the harshest of educations in football.

Pepe Mel is another example of a manager who boasts an impressive C.V and comes across as an insightful, intelligent man. His West Brom team are floundering at present and will be praying for the season to end as soon as possible. The confident “boing boing” of the baggies looks more like a desperate hobble towards the finish line and they may be more reliant upon the failures of three other teams than their own ability and sheer grit. His appointment and performance is in stark contrast to that of Roy Hodgson who guided the midlands team to safety from a position of danger, echoing his great escape with Fulham in 2008.

It must be noted that this is not a xenophobic rant at foreign managers being either not good enough or stunting the progress of British managers. Hodgson’s quite frankly inept reign at Liverpool, to take just one example, shows that nationality and success are not intrinsically linked in the Premier League. Furthermore, the massive improvement of Sunderland under Gus Poyet, who had managerial experience with Brighton and coaching experience with Swindon, Leeds and Tottenham, shows that a detailed understanding of English footballing culture is more crucial to success that just having a sense of “Englishness”, particularly on limited funds. Admittedly, Sunderland are still struggling. A cup run however and some hugely impressive performances have propelled them in to a position of having touching distance between themselves and survival. West Brom will no doubt feel the black cats breathing down their necks.  

The amount of success achieved by foreign managers in Britain and relative strangers to these shores shows that there is an immense amount of talent on the continent that English football can only benefit from. However with relegation meaning more financially to clubs this season than ever before, surely if a change in manager is required, clubs are better suited to employing somebody with experience and intricate knowledge of how to handle such a position? If managers like Magath and Mel are to survive, their respective clubs may benefit from their approaches next year where relegation battles are just a distant memory. But such is the magnitude of this “if” that the distant memory of a relegation battle may instead be a nostalgic reminder of the halcyon days in the Premier League as Fulham prepare from trips to Barnsley and Doncaster.

Tips for relegation:

18^th West Brom

19^th Fulham

20^th Cardiff City

Bowled Over

On a cold, Friday night in South Dublin, UCD recorded their first win of the season over recently promoted Athlone Town. Goals from Robbie Creevy and Ayman Ben Mohamad saw the students leave the Belfield Bowl with a valuable three points in what is already shaping up to be a tough season for Athlone.

Question marks were raised during pre-season as to how Athlone would fare at the top level without the leadership of the controversial Roddy Collins, but a bright start from the visitors appeared to quash any doubts over their credibility in the Airtricity League. An early penalty shout was correctly ruled out when Philly Gorman was brought down inside the box, only for the linesman to rule that he had strayed offside.

The atmosphere in the bowl was lively with the visiting supports impressively vocal in their contributions. The entrance of a drum to the proceedings only riled up the fans further, with the fantastically pronounced “A’ lone” being the main source of chanting.

It was UCD however who grew in to the game and despite great energy levels and intensity from the visitors, the students struck the first blow in a game of few chances. The hugely impressive Robbie Creevy, who in the opening half hour gave a master-class in dictating possession and tempo, latched on to a Mulhall free kick to open the scoring.

Gorman remained a constant threat in attack for the visitors and UCD were relieved to come in at the break a goal to the good. Following the half time interval however, the blues controlled the game and began to look a very classy outfit.

 UCD opened the second half passing the ball with greater authority and some intricate triangles on the left hand side repeatedly threatened to break the stubborn Athlone defence. It took a moment of magic however from Ayman Ben Mohamad to finally penetrate the defensive barrier. After picking the ball up on the halfway line, the Tunisian’s mazy run was completed with a fine finish, coming in from the left wing to slot home from the edge of the box.

The goal settled the nervous UCD crowd who grew louder in voice as the banging of the Athlone drum was silenced. UCD continued to apply pressure and the slick Bowl surface benefitted the blues who’s impressive passing football will stand them in good stead throughout the season.

However with such glorious possession football comes great vulnerability when passes are astray and runs are not met. Some sloppy play in midfield allowed Athlone back in to the game when the dangerous Gorman was rewarded for a fine performance when he looped a header in to the net from a deflected cross.

The formerly impressive UCD invited pressure on to themselves for the remaining 20 minutes and resorted to parking the bus against a committed Athlone Town outfit. Gone was the short, sharp passing game which preceded the goal and each clearance was cheered like a goal from the anxious home crowd. Against stronger opposition, the students may have been punished for such a mentality, something recently appointed Aaron Callaghan will no doubt want to work on in the coming weeks.

But the Athlone efforts were not enough and UCD held out to gain a crucial three points, condemning the visitors to a third straight defeat. Whilst life at the top level may be proving more difficult than ever imagined for Athlone, UCD proved themselves to be capable of playing some scintillating football, well out of context with their annual tag of relegation favourites.

A thoroughly enjoyable evening in Belfield where the warm, lively atmosphere more than made up for the freezing, spring conditions. At just 5 Euro for a student ticket, the teams provided a wealth of entertainment and an attractive alternative to the typical Friday night plans. Next up at the Bowl are Limerick FC, following a trip to Bray Wanderers, where the students will look to build upon claiming their first three points of the season.

Oh, and the chips aren’t bad either!

Result: 2-1

Goals: UCD- Creevy, Ben Mohamad, Athlone- Gorman

Man of the Match- Creevy 

Up for the Cup

After another thrilling weekend of cup action, football’s greatest soap opera entertained us with the kind of plot twist we have come to cherish in the FA Cup. Wigan Athletic’s 2-1 victory over potential champions elect Manchester City left Arsenal fans surely dreaming of ending their barren trophy less run. But with the impressive Hull City hoping to book a place at Wembley with victory over League One  Sheffield United, could the trophy be heading to Humberside come May?

It is worth remembering that Arsenal have been in a similar position before. On paper, they are overwhelming favourite for the trophy, with competition coming in the face of a recently promoted team, a Championship outfit and a League One club emerging from the depths of a relegation battle. Compare this to 16 consecutive seasons of Champions League football and there is certainly reason to be optimistic this year in London.

However a journey to 2011 and the scene is the very one that will stage the Gunners’ effort to claim silverware in May. A late Obafemi Martins winner for Birmingham City prized the trophy away from the overwhelming favourites and the oasis once again became a mirage for the parched Arsenal fans.

They must first get past the holders, Wigan Athletic, which in itself will be no mean feat. The Latics have already proven themselves as a formidable cup team, defeating the star studded Manchester City in the final last season and this season’s quarter final. As a result they already have experience of the big game atmosphere and how to handle opposition of a supposedly higher calibre.

Wigan are also in good form following the arrival of Uwe Rösler. 7 wins from a possible 8 have put the Greater Manchester team firmly back in the chase for promotion and with young talents like Josh McEachran, Callum McManaman and James McLean, they will go in to the Arsenal game full of confidence.

It is a similar story for Sheffield United. Nigel Clough’s men flirted dangerously with relegation and seven years after Premier League football, very nearly faced life in the bottom tier. The Blades, however, haven’t dropped a point since a 3-0 defeat to Crewe on the opening day of February and, like Wigan, are gazing skywards at a potential promotion. United also have relative giant killings on their record this season. The Bramall Lane outfit have triumphed over Aston Villa, Fulham, Nottingham Forest and Charlton Athletic to reach this stage. They will by no means bow down to Hull.

Both teams will face the Premier League clubs knowing that the pressure is off and expectations are low in comparison to the opposition. The cup has offered the two teams an escape from a season riddled with turbulence and disappointment and is now looking altogether brighter for both outfits. The old adage that success breeds confidence has been proven true in the case of the two underdogs. Rösler and Clough have capitalised on the liberated style of play often seen in cup competition and transferred these successes in to league form.

It is Hull City however who could emerge as the most legitimate challengers to Arsenal’s success. Steve Bruce has done a very good job at the KC stadium this year and is surely close to securing Premier League survival in a season where they have never truly looked in danger of the drop. Curtis Davies has had an impressive season in defence whilst the acquisitions of Nikica Jelavić and Shane Long appear inspired signings. With Tom Huddlestone dictating play in the centre of the team, Bruce has created a strong spine to a squad which many tipped for a relegation battle at the start of the season.

Instead the Tigers sit 13^th in the table with a place in the FA Cup semi-final and given some of their impressive results this season, they will believe that they stand a strong chance of victory. There is also no doubt that Hull will be aware of the pressure upon Arsenal. The Tigers find themselves in a relatively comfortable position in that they are a Premier League team and therefore have an air of superiority over Wigan and Sheffield United, but they are newcomers to the division and still hold, to a degree, the tag of minnows.

All four teams will fancy their chances for varying reasons. In an ironic twist, it is arguable that Arsenal will have the greatest mountain to climb in that this young team must break the mantle of perennial underachievers. The trophy is essentially Arsenal’s to lose and this could work in Hull’s favour as they provide an intriguing middle ground between favourites and underdogs. If Arsenal are already envisioning the famous trophy in red and white, they could be in for a bitter surprise to find it clad in orange and black on the day. There’s many a slip between a cup and a lip. 

Heads

Newcastle United’s second consecutive win at the weekend marked a resurgent recovery from a period where the Toon army had picked up just one point from a possible 12 and failed to score since victory over West Ham in January. However the impressive 4-1 victory over Hull will be remembered for the wrong reasons. Alan Pardew’s 71^st minute head-butt on David Meyler has been, unsurprisingly, blown out of proportion by the media and he has been attacked from various circles in the footballing world. The Magpies’ manager must now, however, use this incident to nail his colours firmly to the Newcastle mast and endear himself to the Geordie faithful.

Reaction to the incident has been incredible. Some have suggested Pardew should resign whilst others have even called for a criminal case to be held against him, with accusations of assault labelled against the Londoner.

The incident itself was by no means serious enough to warrant questions over the security of his job. Even the term “headbutt” exaggerates the nature of the offence. A swift apology and a statement by the club should be the end of it. Opposition manager Steve Bruce has accepted the apology and Pardew appeared genuinely remorseful in the aftermath. So why is his job still in doubt?

Well firstly Pardew has previous. Use of offensive, abusive language towards Manuel Pellegrini has already blotted his 2014 copy book and an altercation with an official last season further damaged his reputation. Clashes with Arsène Wenger and backroom staff at Newcastle, West Ham and Southampton have tarnished his otherwise impressive managerial record to the point where BBC’s Phil McNulty claimed that “his track record suggests the apologies, contrition and promises to change merely provide a delay and a shield between this transgression and his next”.

Furthermore Pardew is still in the early stages of a financially lucrative contract that runs until 2020. If Mike Ashley did want a change of direction at St James’ Park, he would have to pay Pardew for the remainder of his contract, with some figures reaching up to £10 million. Ashley could manipulate this incident to either force Pardew to openly resign or indeed claim gross misconduct and a breach of conduct to terminate relations. The infamous egomaniac in Ashley would suggest that this is a highly possible option.

Alongside Southampton, Newcastle are perhaps the only genuine “mid table” team. They almost categorically will not get relegated and a push for European football would require a remarkable run of form. The sale of the talismanic Yohan Cabaye coupled with the form of Everton and Tottenham suggests that such an outcome is unlikely. So Ashley could realistically “get away” with relieving Pardew of his duties knowing that Newcastle will finish either in 7^th, 8^th or 9^th place come May. A caretaker manager could look after proceedings until then before signing a high profile figure to take over with a substantial transfer kitty to play with in the summer. An easy, dignified way out for all parties.

Pardew however needs to use this incident to launch an attack on the upper echelons of the Premier League table. Newcastle fans have not had a great deal to cheer about in recent years. The Tyneside outfit last tasted silverware 45 years ago and a spell in the Championship represented a bitter trough in the flight of the magpies. The anonymity of mid-table almost seems alien to a club who enjoy the roller-coaster more than most.

The head-butt could be a defining moment for Pardew. With Manchester United looking vulnerable and Southampton seemingly happy to consolidate their position, Newcastle have a real opportunity to use the passion and incandescence of the head-butt for positive means. Pardew’s all action reputation may be the platform to truly unite the Newcastle fans behind the cause and if they are able to maintain intense levels of performance until the end of the season, there will certainly be reason to believe that not only is the spirit in the squad strong enough to fight tooth and nail for every point available, but that Pardew is unequivocally the man to take them forward. He is the man who will, quite literally, fight for his people and demand the highest levels of grit, belief and determination from his players. In a world where the roots of the beautiful game are becoming more and more distant, some traditional methods could be the catalyst for unity and progression at Newcastle.

Of course nobody is condoning the behaviour. Pardew has been rightfully lambasted and will now face further discipline; his actions were not befitting of a man in such a position at such an institution. After years of relative mediocrity however and so soon after selling their prized asset Newcastle are in need of a centralizing figure. If Pardew negotiates this incident correctly and gains momentum in the remaining weeks of the season, there is reason to believe that a European push next season is a somewhat tangible dream. 

Cool Runnings

The final week of February brings with it thoughts of pancakes, longer days and most importantly welcoming arms to the impending warmth of spring. As we look to embrace our countdown to the summer months and the World Cup in Brazil, what better way to banish the frosty days of winter and greet sunnier times than celebrating all things tropical, with a star studded Caribbean XI.

The rules are straightforward. The player must be capped at international level for a member of the Caribbean nations. In accordance with FIFA regulation, international eligibility will be prioritised over birthplace. For instance, Raheem Sterling, despite being born in Kingston, Jamaica, is not eligible to play for the Caribbean XI as he has represented England at international level. Conversely, Aylesbury born Emmerson Boyce qualifies to play as a result of his caps for Barbados. Simple?

Then here goes! Trinidad & Tobago were the last Caribbean team to qualify for a World Cup and stand at 77^th in the FIFA world rankings, the highest of the Caribbean nations. In recent years they have produced a plethora of British footballing cult heroes, including Stern John, Russell Latapy and the legendary Dwight Yorke. It is no surprise, therefore, that the smallest nation to compete at a World Cup provides the captain and spearhead, Cardiff City’s Kenwyne Jones.

Given the large Jamaican population in the UK, the “Reggae Boyz” dominate the Caribbean contingent playing in the English leagues. The Jamaicans last qualified for a World Cup in 1998, a campaign which included a 2-1 victory over Japan. Members of the famous ’98 squad included Deon Burton, Marcus Gayle and Robbie Earle. Former Bolton, Bradford and L.A Galaxy ‘keeper Donovan Ricketts is in between the sticks, with Watford legend Lloyd Doyley at the heart of the defence. Alongside him in a back three, is Crystal Palace’s Adrian Mariappa and the man who captained Wigan Athletic to FA Cup success over Manchester City, Barbadian Emmerson Boyce. Notable mentions go to veteran Jlloyd Samuel, Wes Morgan and Justin Hoyte who will play on the bench.

In midfield is where the greatest problems are posed. With the plethora of attacking options, versatility is the name of the game in the middle of the park. One such example is Reading skipper Jobi McAnuff, who will partner Leeds destroyer Rodolph Austin in central midfield, despite being primarily a winger. Completing an all Jamaican midfield will be McAnuff’s Reading team mate Gareth McLeary and Sheffield Wednesday winger Jermaine Johnson. Former Bolton Wanderers stalwart, Ricardo Gardner, who has 112 international caps to his name, is also in contention, despite the currently being a free agent.

Up front, the Caribbean team is spoilt for choice. Kenwyne Jones has already been confirmed as the central striker, so the dilemma is in who will play alongside the 29 year old. The two wingers in midfield demands that an aerial presence is required, alongside an ability to stretch the opposing defence to create space for the wide men. Former Stoke City striker Ricardo Fuller is one option, having featured over 70 times for Jamaica and scoring over 100 goals in English football whilst Antigua & Barbuda international Dexter Blackstock has gained a reputation in the Championship for an ability to hold up possession and link other players in to the game.

Jermaine Beckford’s prolific spell with Leeds and Premier League experience with Everton also puts him in with a strong chance of appearing for the Caribbean XI. Marlon King further provides the option of a player who has experience of scoring goals at the top level. Grenada international Jason Roberts could also stake a claim for the central forward berth, having played in the Premier League for Blackburn, West Brom, Portsmouth, Wigan and Reading. The 36 year old, however, admitted recently that numerous attempts to recover from injury and return to completive, consistent football have failed and that the dreaded trapdoor of retirement looms.

The absence of a Caribbean nation from Brazil 2014 may seem to be a damning reflection of the standard of football in the Atlantic islands. However there is reason to believe that future tournaments will be more fruitful. Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago and the Dominican Republic have all risen in the recent FIFA rankings and the emergence of Cuba as a competitive force, having won the 2012 Caribbean Cup suggests that this corner of the world could potentially supply a representative at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Until then, however, how would the fortunate few chosen men suffice if they were to perform this summer? Presenting to you the “Reggae Boyz”, the “Spice Boys”, the “Soca Warriors” and more, the Caribbean XI. Think you can do better? Grab a cocktail, play some Bob Marley and see how you would fare as the Caribbean coach!

3-4-1-2

Ricketts (Jamaica)

Boyce (Barbados) Doyley (Jamaica) Mariappa (Jamaica)

McLeary (Jamaica) Austin (Jamaica) McAnuff (Jamaica) Johnson (Jamaica)

Blackstock (Antigua & Barbuda)

Fuller (Jamaica) Jones (Trinidad & Tobago)

BENCH: Jlloyd Samuel (Trinidad & Tobago), Wes Morgan (Jamaica), Heinz Barmettler (Dominican Republic), Marlon King (Jamaica), Carlos Edwards (Trinidad & Tobago), Jermaine Beckford (Jamaica), Justin Hoyte (Trinidad & Tobago)

Man in the Middle

Manuel Pellegrini’s incandescent attack on the integrity of Jonas Eriksson ensured that the visit of Catalan giants Barcelona will be remembered for more than just a demolition of Manchester City’s dreams of an unprecedented quadruple.

Pundits and fans have been waxing lyrical over the swashbuckling nature of the sky blues this season leaving many to afford optimistic glances towards a mouth-watering tie with Messi, Xavi and Neymar. It was only 15 years earlier that Shaun Goater spearheaded City to a 2-0 over Macclesfield Town. Last night it was £20 million Spanish international Álvaro Negredo who dared to do battle with the Spanish champions.

However the game was never in danger of any genuine physical battle. A bemused Negredo was penalised countless times for displays of strength whilst the wide-eyed figure of Yaya Touré with arms abreast questioning the referee became an image so symbolic of City’s evening.

Barcelona deserved the win on the night. Martín Demichelis’ red card was definite and the decision to award a penalty, whilst debateable, was understandable. The way to deal with such a debate was for the defence to deal with the first ball, not desperately point fingers at a foul on Jesus Navas in the build-up.

BBC’s Phil McNulty damned Pellegrini’s outburst and attack on Swedish sporting culture as “bizarre and ill-advised”, lambasting the Chilean’s “verbal destruction of Eriksson’s performance”.

The most telling decisions however, were not the red card, the penalty or even Barcelona’s wrongly disallowed goal for offside. If Pellegrini is correct in saying that the referee decided the game, then he did so in the complete censorship of physical battle.

Following the match skipper Vincent Kompany claimed “there was a lot of soft fouls. In the Premier League they would not have been given”. The Belgian is right.

English football culture is such that speed, strength and athleticism are valued alongside technical ability and tactical nous. Eriksson denied City any opportunity to “ruffle the feathers” of their Spanish counterparts, penalising even the softest of challenges.

Referees need to have a greater understanding of the different styles of play across Europe instead of pandering to the possession game currently in vogue across southern Europe.

It would be interesting to see how Eriksson would have controlled the game should he have spent a season refereeing in England. If football is becoming an increasingly global competition with foreign players and managers, why should referees be exempt from foreign footballing culture?

The expanding European network has to be opened up to men who officiate the game.  A certain drafting system of elite referees performing weekly across Europe would guarantee a greater knowledge and respect for how different cultures approach the game.

There is no doubt that City were deservedly beaten last night and that Pellegrini now faces the iron fist of UEFA’s disciplinary board. The referee was competent in the major decisions, but in his totalitarian protection of the Spanish outfit, City were denied the opportunity to express why they have been such a force in the Premier League this season.