2009 is set to be a fine year indeed for football fans. And no less so for these ten players; ten players who all have the potential to excite audiences across the country. Big moves could well beckon for these young stars in 2009.
Jamie Ward – Chesterfield
The diminutive striker has notched 14 goals in 22 starts for Chesterfield this season, and is attracting the interest of a number of Championship clubs. Pacy and with an eye for goal, The Northern Ireland U21 international may be due a big move sooner rather than later with his current contract due to run out in June. However, a summer move could be the more likely option, with Ward looking increasingly likely to review his options at the end of the season.
Tommy Rowe – Stockport County
With five goals already this season, Rowe is a big part of the Hatters second successive push for promotion, with the 20 year old left winger having all the physical and technical attributes to make an impact in the higher echelons of English Football. Rowe is one of many young starlets attracting interest at Edgeley Park, with the likes of Kevin Pilkington and Jimmy McNulty also being monitored by scouts across the country. Manager Jim Gannon will certainly have a job keeping his young side together over January to maintain their playoff charge.
Joe Lewis – Peterborough
England have already come calling, what next for the Peterborough goalkeeper? Everton and QPR have expressed an interest in the past for the 6’6 keeper, who commands his area well and can pull off spectacular saves when required. The Posh won’t let him go easily though, and have the financial clout and big ambition to convince Lewis to stay at London Road.
Victor Moses – Crystal Palace
The sky is the limit for Moses, who has bags of pace and ability. A regular for England’s Under 19 squad, Moses is equally at home on either wing, and after bursting onto the scene so successfully last season, the winger was the subject of much transfer speculation, with the likes of Arsenal expressing an interest in the player. However, after signing a 4 year deal with Crystal Palace, it appears Moses has committed his future to Palace – for now at least.
John-Joe O’Toole – Watford
Watford’s fans haven’t had much to cheer about this season, but in O’Toole they have a proper player. The midfielder has come through the ranks at Vicarage Road, and at 6’2 is a great athlete as well as a great passer of the ball, with eight goals to his name already this season – not a bad return for a 20 year old in only his second season as a professional. With international football at senior level for the Republic of Ireland surely beckoning, will Watford be tempted to cash in on another of their assets when the big clubs undoubtedly come crawling?
Scott Davies – Reading (on loan at Aldershot)
After leaving his mark on the Blue Square Premier, the on loan Reading youngster is now setting his sights on the Football League, and Gary Waddock’s Aldershot are once again reaping the benefits of the winger’s services. A player with a great work rate and accurate delivery, Davies is also quite capable of producing the spectacular. However, it remains to be seen whether the 20 year old will be given the chance to show off his obvious talents at his parent club, Reading. If not, other clubs will be sure to express an interest in the midfielder.
Sam Baldock –Milton Keynes Dons
Born and bred in Milton Keynes, the emergence of Sam Baldock from promising youngster to first team regular has surprised almost everyone at Stadium: MK. A player with great pace and movement; Baldock is also very composed in front of goal, as his 9 goals in 21 starts this season would testify to. Celtic are rumoured to be interested in the 19 year old hitman, but MK will want to keep hold of their sole home grown talent as long as possible.
Kyle Naughton – Sheffield United
A product of The Blades youth academy, Naughton has made the right-back spot at Sheffield United his own this season. A player comfortable in defence but just as adept going forward to support the attack – Naughton is a fine player, with blistering pace and skill to boot – not traits you’d necessarily associate with a defender. A lifelong Blades fan, Naughton will be hoping to take his hometown club back to the Premiership this season – before the Premiership comes to him.
Scott Dann – Coventry City
Strong, brave and good in the air, The 21 year old has shown maturity beyond his tender years for Coventry during this campaign as captain as one of the youngest backlines in the Championship. After making a successful into the England Under-21s set up, the future certainly looks bright for the young centre-back, who has played at every level in the Football League pyramid so far.
Will Buckley - Rochdale
Premier League scouts have been flocking to Spotland to watch this exciting winger for quite some time now, and the 19 year old has duly obliged with some splendid performances. With six goals to his name already this season, it seems like a matter of time before Buckley moves on to pastures new. But after losing top stars such as Grant Holt, Glenn Murray and Rickie Lambert over the years, Rochdale will be determined to hang on to their man for a while yet as they strive for promotion from League Two.
Wednesday 31 December 2008
Saturday 20 December 2008
BSP report cards
That’s right, we’re coming up to that halfway stage already, or near enough to do this anyway.
So, it’s time to reflect on the first half of the season in the BSP, and see just how right (or wrong!) I’ve been so far with my pre-season predictions. Feel free to have a giggle at my expense HERE: http://shaunicus.blogspot.com/2008/08/bsp-preview.html (sorry, I cant work out hyperlinks!)
Oh, and I’ve decided to do it in a school report format, just for something a bit different.
‘Citing, aint it? Let’s get on with it then..
1) Burton Albion (A+)
Despite the losses of some key players, and the lack of transfer activity in the summer, the unfancied NCBA (that’s Nigel Clough’s Burton Albion to me and you) are once again ticking over rather nicely and currently sit top of the pile. It shouldn’t be a surprise, they’re a team who don’t live beyond their means, a strong infrastructure, and with a bright young manager in Nigel Clough to boot, promotion looks increasingly likely with the Brewers currently 8 points clear at the top. A model of consistency.
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2) Histon (A+)
Ah, so the humiliation begins. Once again, Histon have shown that hard work and endeavour really can get you so far, and have made a mockery of my mid-table prediction. A team of part-timers with no real stars, but make no mistake, the Stutes are as hard to play against as anyone in the division. The table doesn’t lie, after all.
3) Torquay (A-)
No bias here folks, just pure unadulterated fact. The Gulls recovered magnificently after a poor start, and went on the greatest of all unbeaten runs – 16 games to be exact. Like I said from the start, pissing this tinpot league. Don’t doubt me for a second. Buckle out? Fickle, the lot of them..
4) Kidderminster (A)
A team quietly going about their business, slipping under the radar if you will. After years of disappointment, lack of ambition, and players constantly being moved on, Kiddy fans will be delighted to be involved in the playoff hunt this time around. Ignore them at your peril - I should know..
5) Crawley Town (A-)
It’s always good to see your dark horses do well, isn’t it? Say what you like about Steve Evans (and most people don’t hold back..) but he is a good manager at this level, and he knows this league and market as well as anyone. People won’t like it, but Crawley are a team on course for the playoffs in my opinion. And we won’t be hearing the end of it..
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6) Cambridge United (A-)
With wholesale changes in the summer, and financial troubles behind the scenes, I felt a season of transition was on the cards for the U’s. Oops. The management team of Gary Brabin and Paul Carden have helped Cambridge to hit the ground running and erase all those nasty memories from Wembley. There’s been no playoff hangover here, that’s for sure.
7) Wrexham (B-)
Arrived in the BSP with such big expectations, but have flattered to deceive really. A change in management and some strong recent form suggests they’ll probably reach their potential later in the campaign and peak late on, with the team currently lying just outside the playoff spots. Don’t count them out just yet.
8) Rushden and Diamonds (C+)
Given the money spent at Nene Park this summer, I think more was expected of Garry Hill’s side this season. And rightly so. There’s still time to turn it round, however, and there’s always one team who makes a late surge at the playoffs. That team could well be Rushden, who still have some undoubted quality in their ranks. Let’s just hope the money doesn’t run out.
9) Kettering (A-)
I always felt Kettering would do well this season..but not this well. To be so close to the playoffs at this stage is beyond all expectations for the newly promoted side. Mark Cooper’s side have certainly ruffled a few feathers in the BSP.
10) Stevenage (C-)
The perennial under achievers are at it again. Why must they flatter to deceive, year after year? Bringing back the controversial Graham Westley as manager hasn’t produced an upturn in fortunes for Boro, and with his side eight points away from the playoffs, a strong second half to the season is required if Boro are to make an assault at the playoffs.
11) Weymouth (B+)
A prime example of a club not using problems behind the scenes as an excuse for matters on the pitch. Despite the mounting debts and the loss of the experienced John Hollins as manager, Weymouth are doing just fine, and should have enough about them to avoid a relegation battle.
12) Ebbsfleet United (B)
A team probably where I expected them to be, comfortably sat in mid-table. Another team who probably need more quality and more consistency to mount a playoff challenge. Will Daish be given the support he needs from all 25,000 of the owners to take the Fleet to the next level? Doubts remain over the whole situation.
13) Oxford (D-)
The agony continues for Oxford fans. A season which promised much but has delivered little, with Oxford’s watertight defence from last season going missing and their much-lauded strikeforce mis-firing. With manager Darren Patterson now given the boot and the experienced Jim Smith back at the helm on a temporary basis, Oxford will need to improve to mount a playoff challenge – and fast. Appointing the right man as manager will be crucial.
14) York (C+)
Living proof of hard it really is to escape the BSP. After years in the Football League, relegation eventually caught up with the Minstermen and they’ve found it difficult to make their way back – no more so this time around. With ex Port Vale manager Martin Foyle now in charge, City fans will be looking for an upturn in fortunes.
15) Altrincham (A-)
Altrincham in non-struggling shocker? Who would have thought it? Some would say they don’t deserve to be in the BSP at the expense of others, but I’d say the other clubs are more at fault for some terrible mismanagement off the field. Credit to Altrincham for running their club properly and living within their means, unlike others.
16) Eastbourne Borough (B+)
Comfortably above the relegation zone? Eastbourne will be happy with that. The Sports cite strong team spirit and work ethic as their reasons for success, with a squad that’s been together since their days in the Southern League. Complacency is not an option is Boro are to avoid a relegation battle, however.
17) Barrow (B)
It’s been a season where Barrow may well be more remembered for their cup exploits, but the Bluebirds domestic campaign has been one of considerable success too. The management team of David Bayliss and Darren Sheridan have adapted to life in the BSP well enough, but will be hoping the FA Cup doesn't become a detriment to their league form.
18) Sailsbury (C)
Financial difficulties have hampered the Whites progress somewhat this season, with key players being loaned out to balance the books at the Raymond McEnhill Stadium. It looks like a case of too much success too soon for City, and staying up would be an achievement as things stand.
19) Mansfield (E)
The nightmare has continued for Stags fans, with the club embroiled in a second successive relegation battle. With little money to spend and no manager, relegation is not an option for Mansfield, and they’ll be happy to see the back of this season and start fresh. Still, it could be worse, at least they’re not called Harchester United..
20) Woking (D-)
Well, the Kim Grant experiment was always doomed to fail, wasn’t it? Still, Phil Gilchrist has improved the Cards fortunes slightly, and Woking have a fighting chance of staying up.
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21) Grays Athletic (D-)
What was that about dark horses doing well? After a promising end to last season, things certainly haven’t continued in the same vain this time around for the Blues, with players being asked to take a 50% wage-cut certainly not helping matters. However, under the guidance of Wayne Burnett, Grays have shown signs of improvement recently, and only one point keeps them in the drop zone. It’s certainly never dull at Grays, that’s for sure..
22) Forest Green Rovers (E+)
Now, this did surprise me. After years of steady progress, many expected Jim Harvey’s side to push on and mount a playoff challenge - me included. It just hasn’t materialized though, with Rovers deep in the relegation mire as things stand. The losses of key players such as Michael Brough and Stuart Fleetwood in the summer wouldn’t have helped matters, and with these players yet to be replaced, it could be a long season at the New Lawn.
23) Lewes (E)
Yet another club that have let financial difficulties hold them back,with Lewes on the verge of administration. A summer of total upheaval didn’t help the Rooks, with all but one squad member leaving for pastures new after the controversial (and ridiculous) sacking of Steve King. Staying up is a tall order.
24) Northwich Victoria (F)
Another miracle is required for the Vics,who sit bottom of the pile. Last season’s saviour, Dino Maamria, was sacked after a poor start, so it’s up to former Lewes manager Steve King to save Northwich, a man who has more than earned his chance to manage in the BSP. He’s got a mammoth task in hand..
--
So, there it is. What a first half to the season it’s been, with plenty of surprises and lots to get fans excited about. And I’m sure there’s more to come..
So, it’s time to reflect on the first half of the season in the BSP, and see just how right (or wrong!) I’ve been so far with my pre-season predictions. Feel free to have a giggle at my expense HERE: http://shaunicus.blogspot.com/2008/08/bsp-preview.html (sorry, I cant work out hyperlinks!)
Oh, and I’ve decided to do it in a school report format, just for something a bit different.
‘Citing, aint it? Let’s get on with it then..
1) Burton Albion (A+)
Despite the losses of some key players, and the lack of transfer activity in the summer, the unfancied NCBA (that’s Nigel Clough’s Burton Albion to me and you) are once again ticking over rather nicely and currently sit top of the pile. It shouldn’t be a surprise, they’re a team who don’t live beyond their means, a strong infrastructure, and with a bright young manager in Nigel Clough to boot, promotion looks increasingly likely with the Brewers currently 8 points clear at the top. A model of consistency.
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2) Histon (A+)
Ah, so the humiliation begins. Once again, Histon have shown that hard work and endeavour really can get you so far, and have made a mockery of my mid-table prediction. A team of part-timers with no real stars, but make no mistake, the Stutes are as hard to play against as anyone in the division. The table doesn’t lie, after all.
3) Torquay (A-)
No bias here folks, just pure unadulterated fact. The Gulls recovered magnificently after a poor start, and went on the greatest of all unbeaten runs – 16 games to be exact. Like I said from the start, pissing this tinpot league. Don’t doubt me for a second. Buckle out? Fickle, the lot of them..
4) Kidderminster (A)
A team quietly going about their business, slipping under the radar if you will. After years of disappointment, lack of ambition, and players constantly being moved on, Kiddy fans will be delighted to be involved in the playoff hunt this time around. Ignore them at your peril - I should know..
5) Crawley Town (A-)
It’s always good to see your dark horses do well, isn’t it? Say what you like about Steve Evans (and most people don’t hold back..) but he is a good manager at this level, and he knows this league and market as well as anyone. People won’t like it, but Crawley are a team on course for the playoffs in my opinion. And we won’t be hearing the end of it..
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6) Cambridge United (A-)
With wholesale changes in the summer, and financial troubles behind the scenes, I felt a season of transition was on the cards for the U’s. Oops. The management team of Gary Brabin and Paul Carden have helped Cambridge to hit the ground running and erase all those nasty memories from Wembley. There’s been no playoff hangover here, that’s for sure.
7) Wrexham (B-)
Arrived in the BSP with such big expectations, but have flattered to deceive really. A change in management and some strong recent form suggests they’ll probably reach their potential later in the campaign and peak late on, with the team currently lying just outside the playoff spots. Don’t count them out just yet.
8) Rushden and Diamonds (C+)
Given the money spent at Nene Park this summer, I think more was expected of Garry Hill’s side this season. And rightly so. There’s still time to turn it round, however, and there’s always one team who makes a late surge at the playoffs. That team could well be Rushden, who still have some undoubted quality in their ranks. Let’s just hope the money doesn’t run out.
9) Kettering (A-)
I always felt Kettering would do well this season..but not this well. To be so close to the playoffs at this stage is beyond all expectations for the newly promoted side. Mark Cooper’s side have certainly ruffled a few feathers in the BSP.
10) Stevenage (C-)
The perennial under achievers are at it again. Why must they flatter to deceive, year after year? Bringing back the controversial Graham Westley as manager hasn’t produced an upturn in fortunes for Boro, and with his side eight points away from the playoffs, a strong second half to the season is required if Boro are to make an assault at the playoffs.
11) Weymouth (B+)
A prime example of a club not using problems behind the scenes as an excuse for matters on the pitch. Despite the mounting debts and the loss of the experienced John Hollins as manager, Weymouth are doing just fine, and should have enough about them to avoid a relegation battle.
12) Ebbsfleet United (B)
A team probably where I expected them to be, comfortably sat in mid-table. Another team who probably need more quality and more consistency to mount a playoff challenge. Will Daish be given the support he needs from all 25,000 of the owners to take the Fleet to the next level? Doubts remain over the whole situation.
13) Oxford (D-)
The agony continues for Oxford fans. A season which promised much but has delivered little, with Oxford’s watertight defence from last season going missing and their much-lauded strikeforce mis-firing. With manager Darren Patterson now given the boot and the experienced Jim Smith back at the helm on a temporary basis, Oxford will need to improve to mount a playoff challenge – and fast. Appointing the right man as manager will be crucial.
14) York (C+)
Living proof of hard it really is to escape the BSP. After years in the Football League, relegation eventually caught up with the Minstermen and they’ve found it difficult to make their way back – no more so this time around. With ex Port Vale manager Martin Foyle now in charge, City fans will be looking for an upturn in fortunes.
15) Altrincham (A-)
Altrincham in non-struggling shocker? Who would have thought it? Some would say they don’t deserve to be in the BSP at the expense of others, but I’d say the other clubs are more at fault for some terrible mismanagement off the field. Credit to Altrincham for running their club properly and living within their means, unlike others.
16) Eastbourne Borough (B+)
Comfortably above the relegation zone? Eastbourne will be happy with that. The Sports cite strong team spirit and work ethic as their reasons for success, with a squad that’s been together since their days in the Southern League. Complacency is not an option is Boro are to avoid a relegation battle, however.
17) Barrow (B)
It’s been a season where Barrow may well be more remembered for their cup exploits, but the Bluebirds domestic campaign has been one of considerable success too. The management team of David Bayliss and Darren Sheridan have adapted to life in the BSP well enough, but will be hoping the FA Cup doesn't become a detriment to their league form.
18) Sailsbury (C)
Financial difficulties have hampered the Whites progress somewhat this season, with key players being loaned out to balance the books at the Raymond McEnhill Stadium. It looks like a case of too much success too soon for City, and staying up would be an achievement as things stand.
19) Mansfield (E)
The nightmare has continued for Stags fans, with the club embroiled in a second successive relegation battle. With little money to spend and no manager, relegation is not an option for Mansfield, and they’ll be happy to see the back of this season and start fresh. Still, it could be worse, at least they’re not called Harchester United..
20) Woking (D-)
Well, the Kim Grant experiment was always doomed to fail, wasn’t it? Still, Phil Gilchrist has improved the Cards fortunes slightly, and Woking have a fighting chance of staying up.
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21) Grays Athletic (D-)
What was that about dark horses doing well? After a promising end to last season, things certainly haven’t continued in the same vain this time around for the Blues, with players being asked to take a 50% wage-cut certainly not helping matters. However, under the guidance of Wayne Burnett, Grays have shown signs of improvement recently, and only one point keeps them in the drop zone. It’s certainly never dull at Grays, that’s for sure..
22) Forest Green Rovers (E+)
Now, this did surprise me. After years of steady progress, many expected Jim Harvey’s side to push on and mount a playoff challenge - me included. It just hasn’t materialized though, with Rovers deep in the relegation mire as things stand. The losses of key players such as Michael Brough and Stuart Fleetwood in the summer wouldn’t have helped matters, and with these players yet to be replaced, it could be a long season at the New Lawn.
23) Lewes (E)
Yet another club that have let financial difficulties hold them back,with Lewes on the verge of administration. A summer of total upheaval didn’t help the Rooks, with all but one squad member leaving for pastures new after the controversial (and ridiculous) sacking of Steve King. Staying up is a tall order.
24) Northwich Victoria (F)
Another miracle is required for the Vics,who sit bottom of the pile. Last season’s saviour, Dino Maamria, was sacked after a poor start, so it’s up to former Lewes manager Steve King to save Northwich, a man who has more than earned his chance to manage in the BSP. He’s got a mammoth task in hand..
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So, there it is. What a first half to the season it’s been, with plenty of surprises and lots to get fans excited about. And I’m sure there’s more to come..
Johnson ready for his shot at the bigtime
In light of the two management roles made vacant at Premiership sides Sunderland and Blackburn, many managers were considered. Some candidates had Premiership experience, some had experience abroad, and some had little or no coaching experience at all. However, one manager was ignored altogether, and when looking at his record and undoubted pedigree, it’s hard to see why Gary Johnson wasn’t considered for either role.
He’s served his apprenticeship in all of the lower leagues, with success stories at Cambridge United, Yeovil Town and more recently, Bristol City to speak of. And he’s managed at international level with Latvia. His CV is one that many managers would envy.
Yet, when it comes to the big jobs, Johnson is constantly ignored.
Is it because he isn’t seen as a big name? It’s a common thought that the best players don’t necessarily make the best managers, and that could well be true in Johnson’s case, where his playing career was modest to say the least. It’s through hard work and endeavour that he has got to where he is today.
His record compares favourably with that of Paul Ince, yet it was the former England midfielder who got the call to take the Blackburn job in the summer. Six months later, Ince unceremoniously got the boot at Ewood Park. Who’s to say Johnson couldn’t have done a better job?
After all, he has all the tools to succeed. Johnson is seen as a great man-manager who can get the best out of people. Players work hard for him, and more importantly, enjoy working for him. Who expected Bristol City to be in the promotion mix last season? To be 90 minutes away from The Premiership was beyond all Robins fans dreams.
And his manner with the media is something to admire. In front of the cameras, the Londoner is confident and perceptive. It’s to his credit that he has appeared on Match Of The Day, a place where managers from the lower leagues are largely ignored.
The football? Like the best managers, Johnson adapts to the conditions accordingly, and isn’t afraid to instruct his team to go direct when adverse weather conditions make a crisp passing style difficult. But on their day, The Robins are as attractive to watch as anyone in the Championship.
Johnson’s approach was no more evident than at Yeovil – where the Glovers stormed the Conference and Divison Three titles with displays of scintillating, attacking football. It was a joy to watch, and it was this success that saw him get the call at Ashton Gate.
So, has he taken Bristol City as far as he can? Quite possibly. City currently lie in 15th place in the Championship – nine points away from the playoff spots. A fresh challenge may be required if Johnson is to fulfil his undoubted management potential.
But as times go by, it seems Premiership clubs are becoming increasingly reluctant to take a punt on managers from the lower leagues. Foreign appointments are seen as a better option.
The last success story to come from the lower leagues was a certain David Moyes, who after impressing with Preston North End was taken from Deepdale to Goodison Park in 2002.
And he hasn’t done too badly, has he?
Monday 15 December 2008
Portsmouth's defensive woes continue
You could be forgiven for thinking Christmas had come early for Newcastle United at Fratton Park today, such was the naivety of Portsmouth’s defending.
The manner in which they gifted the visitor’s three goals and their first three points on the road this season is a problem that threatens to turn Pompey’s season into more of a struggle than they would have liked.
Granted, it’s hardly reached crisis point on the south coast. Far from it in fact -
they sit 7th in the league and a full five points clear of the relegation places.
However, with 13 goals conceded in their last six games in all competitions, it’s clear to see where the problem lies for Tony Adams’ side. And it’s the sloppy manner in which they’ve been conceding which will be of most concern to him.
The organisation Adams himself was renowned for during his days at Arsenal and England was badly missing as three times in the second half Newcastle were allowed to breach their backline.
Sylvan Distin and Sol Campbell in particular look complete shadows of the players that served Pompey so well last season. Last season’s they were solid, and they could be relied upon. Now they look hapless and out of place.
Newcastle weren’t even particularly impressive today – nor did they have to be. And to compound matters, even when Portsmouth fashioned numerous chances, they were wasteful in front of goal - Jermain Defoe the main culprit with a host of missed chances.
Even with the chances Portsmouth created today though, their defending just cannot be excused. Being solid at the back is the basis for any success at any level. You’d think of all the people, Adams would have grasped that theory.
So, is this all down to the manager? The former Arsenal captain has tried to make his own mark, and while results have been of a satisfactory standard since the departure of Harry Redknapp, goals have come in steady supply – at both ends of the pitch.
With Portsmouth’s European adventure ending early, Adams now has the Premier League and the defence of the FA Cup to focus on. And though any talk of a relegation battle is premature to say the least, due to the unpredictable nature of the league, Pompey are far from safe.
And with January fast approaching, he has a job on his hands convincing the likes of Lassana Diarra and Niko Kranjcar that their futures do indeed lie at Fratton Park. It could well be an interesting January for Portsmouth, a month that could well make or break their season.
One thing is for sure, Adams needs to be given time to do things his way. He needs to be backed by the owners, whoever they may be. By promoting him from his assistant manager role, they gave the club continuality at a time where it would have been easy to bring someone else in, and start over.
But for now, stopping the rot at the back has to be the priority.
How Portsmouth could do with a Tony Adams at the heart of their defence right now.
The manner in which they gifted the visitor’s three goals and their first three points on the road this season is a problem that threatens to turn Pompey’s season into more of a struggle than they would have liked.
Granted, it’s hardly reached crisis point on the south coast. Far from it in fact -
they sit 7th in the league and a full five points clear of the relegation places.
However, with 13 goals conceded in their last six games in all competitions, it’s clear to see where the problem lies for Tony Adams’ side. And it’s the sloppy manner in which they’ve been conceding which will be of most concern to him.
The organisation Adams himself was renowned for during his days at Arsenal and England was badly missing as three times in the second half Newcastle were allowed to breach their backline.
Sylvan Distin and Sol Campbell in particular look complete shadows of the players that served Pompey so well last season. Last season’s they were solid, and they could be relied upon. Now they look hapless and out of place.
Newcastle weren’t even particularly impressive today – nor did they have to be. And to compound matters, even when Portsmouth fashioned numerous chances, they were wasteful in front of goal - Jermain Defoe the main culprit with a host of missed chances.
Even with the chances Portsmouth created today though, their defending just cannot be excused. Being solid at the back is the basis for any success at any level. You’d think of all the people, Adams would have grasped that theory.
So, is this all down to the manager? The former Arsenal captain has tried to make his own mark, and while results have been of a satisfactory standard since the departure of Harry Redknapp, goals have come in steady supply – at both ends of the pitch.
With Portsmouth’s European adventure ending early, Adams now has the Premier League and the defence of the FA Cup to focus on. And though any talk of a relegation battle is premature to say the least, due to the unpredictable nature of the league, Pompey are far from safe.
And with January fast approaching, he has a job on his hands convincing the likes of Lassana Diarra and Niko Kranjcar that their futures do indeed lie at Fratton Park. It could well be an interesting January for Portsmouth, a month that could well make or break their season.
One thing is for sure, Adams needs to be given time to do things his way. He needs to be backed by the owners, whoever they may be. By promoting him from his assistant manager role, they gave the club continuality at a time where it would have been easy to bring someone else in, and start over.
But for now, stopping the rot at the back has to be the priority.
How Portsmouth could do with a Tony Adams at the heart of their defence right now.
Sunday 7 December 2008
Brighton dream finally becomes a reality
The 24th of July, 2007.
A day that will go down in folklore for Brighton fans, as it marks the day that planning permission for their new home in Falmer, East Sussex was finally granted, after over ten years of temporary homes.
Finally, Brighton have the luxury of home comforts, the luxury of a stadium to call their own. A luxury most football fans take for granted.
It’s been a struggle to get this far, however. Many obstacles have stood in Brighton’s way, and much money has been lost.
It all began in 1997, with Brighton’s financial situation looking precarious and bankruptcy becoming increasingly likely.
In an attempt to generate money and pay off the mounting debts that were crippling the club, a controversial decision was made, a decision that to this day has hampered the club’s progress.
The Goldstone ground was sold without the fans consent by the club’s directors, and the land surrounding the stadium was sold to property developers.
Brighton had been left homeless, and almost penniless.
In the club’s final season at the Goldstone ground, with only two games remaining, Brighton were staring at relegation from the Football League to the Conference flat in the face.
Brighton beat Doncaster Rovers 1-0 in the final match at the Goldstone, setting up what was billed as a winner takes all match against the team directly below them, Hereford, on the final day of the season. Brighton had to draw or win to stay up, and despite an early set back, The Seagulls managed to draw 1-1 and send Hereford down in the process.
After ground sharing with Gillingham for the 1997/98 season, Brighton moved into their temporary home, the Withdean stadium, a stadium they reside in to this day. The ground is primarily used as an athletics track, and only holds 8,500 people.
Suffice to say, this was not the long term solution that Seagulls fans craved.
Of course, the move to Falmer was always the long term objective, but that seemed far away at this point.
However, despite this turmoil Brighton prospered, on the pitch at least.
After a few turbulent years at the wrong end of the table, Micky Adams stabilized the club, and delivered promotion from the old Division Three, with the Seagulls going up as champions in 2001. It proved to be Brighton’s most successful season in 13 years.
The momentum continued the following season, despite the loss of Adams to Leicester, who gave the lack of a permanent stadium and facilities as his reasons for why he traded the Second Division title race for the Premiership relegation dogfight.
Peter Taylor replaced Adams in the hot seat, and Taylor maintained the Seagulls momentum. Brighton ended the season as Division Two champions, and back to back promotions had been achieved.
Suddenly, after the threat of extinction and non league football, Brighton were now only a division away from the promised land of the Premier League. It had been quite the turn around.
Life in Division One wasn’t quite so plain sailing, however. Taylor left The Seagulls to take on the Hull City job, a club who were below Albion in the footballing pyramid, but well ahead in ambition and facilities.
Once again, Brighton had lost a talented manager, and the lack of good facilities at the club was hampering their progress on the field.
Martin Hinshelwood was promoted from youth team manager and charged with the job of keeping Brighton in the division. Hinshelwood struggled, proceeding over an 11 match winless streak, and was eventually relieved of his duties, with Steve Coppell taking over.
Coppell improved the club’s fortunes, but couldn’t do enough to stop the inevitability of relegation.
Coppell eventually left Brighton for Reading, a club who were once again well ahead in terms of infrastructure, and was replaced by Mark McGhee, who took the Seagulls back up at the first attempt through the playoffs. McGhee even managed to keep the club in the division during the following campaign, with Brighton finishing in 20th position, in what was their highest league position in 14 years.
No small feat with such small crowds, and you felt a new ground was the final piece of the jigsaw to exploit Brighton’s undoubted potential. Afterall, managers were departing because of this, and the club would always struggle with such low income streams.
And sure enough, problems began to arise.
While Brighton City Council approved the stadium plans for Falmer, Lewes District Council fought valiantly against it, believing “the stadium will erode the important gap of open countryside between the built up area of Brighton and Falmer village.”
However, onthe 28th October 2005 , the plans for Falmer were finally approved, and the city of Brighton could finally rejoice. The hard work had paid off.
Or so we thought.
Lewes council appealed the decision, citing problems with where the stadium is located within the boundary of the built up area of Brighton. Due to this, the plans were withdrawn, and The Albion were back to square one.
And on the field, the Seagulls were once again struggling. Brighton had been relegated from the Championship, and the following season began with uncertainty.
McGhee was eventually received of his duties, with the inexperienced Dean Wilkins given the chance to revive the club’s fortunes.
And while he did so with moderate success, achieving successive mid-table finishes with a relatively young squad, off the field was where the real success story came.
On Tuesday the 24th of July, 2007, The Secretary of State said yes to Falmer once again, subject to appeal within a 6 week period.
And to the relief of all those concerned, Lewes District Council announced that they would not appeal against the decision.
Relief all round for the city of Brighton, who had fought valiantly for this. All the marches to Falmer and petitions to the MP had now been worth it.
Brighton had a place to call home.
So now we come to today. Micky Adams is now back at the helm at Brighton, the very man who kick-started this whole success story on the pitch.
Still relatively young in management terms at 47, Adams could well be the man to provide success for the Albion faithful. With the club hovering just over the relegation zone though, there is work to be done.
And work is due to begin on the Falmer project later this month, which looks ambitious to say the least. The project is due to finish in August 2011, and the new state of the art stadium should hold 22,000 fans.
Some have called these plans overly ambitious, but with the potential of the Sussex area and the size of The Seagulls fan base, which has been shown by their large Wembley followings, Brighton should finally prosper and establish themselves in the Championship.
After many false dawns, exciting times could lie ahead for the city of Brighton and their long suffering fans.
And after ten years of frustration, who could begrudge them that?
A day that will go down in folklore for Brighton fans, as it marks the day that planning permission for their new home in Falmer, East Sussex was finally granted, after over ten years of temporary homes.
Finally, Brighton have the luxury of home comforts, the luxury of a stadium to call their own. A luxury most football fans take for granted.
It’s been a struggle to get this far, however. Many obstacles have stood in Brighton’s way, and much money has been lost.
It all began in 1997, with Brighton’s financial situation looking precarious and bankruptcy becoming increasingly likely.
In an attempt to generate money and pay off the mounting debts that were crippling the club, a controversial decision was made, a decision that to this day has hampered the club’s progress.
The Goldstone ground was sold without the fans consent by the club’s directors, and the land surrounding the stadium was sold to property developers.
Brighton had been left homeless, and almost penniless.
In the club’s final season at the Goldstone ground, with only two games remaining, Brighton were staring at relegation from the Football League to the Conference flat in the face.
Brighton beat Doncaster Rovers 1-0 in the final match at the Goldstone, setting up what was billed as a winner takes all match against the team directly below them, Hereford, on the final day of the season. Brighton had to draw or win to stay up, and despite an early set back, The Seagulls managed to draw 1-1 and send Hereford down in the process.
After ground sharing with Gillingham for the 1997/98 season, Brighton moved into their temporary home, the Withdean stadium, a stadium they reside in to this day. The ground is primarily used as an athletics track, and only holds 8,500 people.
Suffice to say, this was not the long term solution that Seagulls fans craved.
Of course, the move to Falmer was always the long term objective, but that seemed far away at this point.
However, despite this turmoil Brighton prospered, on the pitch at least.
After a few turbulent years at the wrong end of the table, Micky Adams stabilized the club, and delivered promotion from the old Division Three, with the Seagulls going up as champions in 2001. It proved to be Brighton’s most successful season in 13 years.
The momentum continued the following season, despite the loss of Adams to Leicester, who gave the lack of a permanent stadium and facilities as his reasons for why he traded the Second Division title race for the Premiership relegation dogfight.
Peter Taylor replaced Adams in the hot seat, and Taylor maintained the Seagulls momentum. Brighton ended the season as Division Two champions, and back to back promotions had been achieved.
Suddenly, after the threat of extinction and non league football, Brighton were now only a division away from the promised land of the Premier League. It had been quite the turn around.
Life in Division One wasn’t quite so plain sailing, however. Taylor left The Seagulls to take on the Hull City job, a club who were below Albion in the footballing pyramid, but well ahead in ambition and facilities.
Once again, Brighton had lost a talented manager, and the lack of good facilities at the club was hampering their progress on the field.
Martin Hinshelwood was promoted from youth team manager and charged with the job of keeping Brighton in the division. Hinshelwood struggled, proceeding over an 11 match winless streak, and was eventually relieved of his duties, with Steve Coppell taking over.
Coppell improved the club’s fortunes, but couldn’t do enough to stop the inevitability of relegation.
Coppell eventually left Brighton for Reading, a club who were once again well ahead in terms of infrastructure, and was replaced by Mark McGhee, who took the Seagulls back up at the first attempt through the playoffs. McGhee even managed to keep the club in the division during the following campaign, with Brighton finishing in 20th position, in what was their highest league position in 14 years.
No small feat with such small crowds, and you felt a new ground was the final piece of the jigsaw to exploit Brighton’s undoubted potential. Afterall, managers were departing because of this, and the club would always struggle with such low income streams.
And sure enough, problems began to arise.
While Brighton City Council approved the stadium plans for Falmer, Lewes District Council fought valiantly against it, believing “the stadium will erode the important gap of open countryside between the built up area of Brighton and Falmer village.”
However, onthe 28th October 2005 , the plans for Falmer were finally approved, and the city of Brighton could finally rejoice. The hard work had paid off.
Or so we thought.
Lewes council appealed the decision, citing problems with where the stadium is located within the boundary of the built up area of Brighton. Due to this, the plans were withdrawn, and The Albion were back to square one.
And on the field, the Seagulls were once again struggling. Brighton had been relegated from the Championship, and the following season began with uncertainty.
McGhee was eventually received of his duties, with the inexperienced Dean Wilkins given the chance to revive the club’s fortunes.
And while he did so with moderate success, achieving successive mid-table finishes with a relatively young squad, off the field was where the real success story came.
On Tuesday the 24th of July, 2007, The Secretary of State said yes to Falmer once again, subject to appeal within a 6 week period.
And to the relief of all those concerned, Lewes District Council announced that they would not appeal against the decision.
Relief all round for the city of Brighton, who had fought valiantly for this. All the marches to Falmer and petitions to the MP had now been worth it.
Brighton had a place to call home.
So now we come to today. Micky Adams is now back at the helm at Brighton, the very man who kick-started this whole success story on the pitch.
Still relatively young in management terms at 47, Adams could well be the man to provide success for the Albion faithful. With the club hovering just over the relegation zone though, there is work to be done.
And work is due to begin on the Falmer project later this month, which looks ambitious to say the least. The project is due to finish in August 2011, and the new state of the art stadium should hold 22,000 fans.
Some have called these plans overly ambitious, but with the potential of the Sussex area and the size of The Seagulls fan base, which has been shown by their large Wembley followings, Brighton should finally prosper and establish themselves in the Championship.
After many false dawns, exciting times could lie ahead for the city of Brighton and their long suffering fans.
And after ten years of frustration, who could begrudge them that?
Monday 1 December 2008
Scolari begins to feel the heat..
Prior to yesterday’s 2-1 defeat against title rivals Arsenal, ‘Big’ Phil Scolari had avoided controversy during the opening six months of his reign as Chelsea manager. Scolari let his Chelsea team do their talking on the pitch, and with some fabulous football along with some good results, the Brazilian had adapted to life in England well.
There were no mind games, and no criticising referees. Scolari just seemed to go about his job nicely—a stark contrast to the days of The Special One, that’s for sure.
Dare I say it; people were starting to respect Chelsea, if not necessarily like them. People admired their football. They were gracious in defeat, as shown when beaten by Liverpool at Stamford Bridge, a defeat that ended Chelsea’s record breaking home record, where they didn't lose for 86 games.
However, the pressure cooked environment of the title race has finally got to Big Phil, with yesterday’s defeat prompting an outburst more reminiscent of Jose Mourinho’s days at the Bridge.
And there was nothing "likeable" about it.
Scolari accused Mike Dean, the referee in yesterday’s encounter, of “killing” his Chelsea team, and even hinted at conspiracy theories, after Dean’s assistant failed to spot Robin Van Persie was offside for Arsenal’s first goal.
All quite ludicrous really, and with the club’s fuor and a half year unbeaten home record now an all too distant memory, maybe it’s all starting to get to Big Phil? Has he shown the first signs of cracking under the pressure?
Because although it’s clear Van Persie was indeed offside for Arsenal’s opener yesterday, there was still half an hour of football to play after that incident. And in that period, Chelsea conceded another goal not too shortly after, and in reply, failed to seriously test the Arsenal goalkeeper, Manuel Almunia.
And that isn’t down to the officials, that is down to Scolari and his Chelsea team.
The fact is, Chelsea don’t have a plan B, and the rest of the Premiership seems to have worked this out. Much like Newcastle and Liverpool did so successfully, Arsenal stopped the Chelsea full-backs from marauding forward, and therefore negated Chelsea’s threat down the flanks.
And by stopping John Obi Mikel and Deco from starting attacks from deep, Chelsea struggle to get going, and look slow and sluggish.
Chelsea’s recent results would indicate that the Premiership has realized this, with poor results against Liverpool, Newcastle, and now Arsenal halting Chelsea’s early momentum. But Scolari continues to persist with his tactics, refusing to deviate from what he knows.
And though it’s far from a crisis on the domestic front, in the Champions League Chelsea qualification is far from guaranteed, with victory needed in the final group game at home against Romanian Champions CFR Cluj to ensure qualification.
Furthermore, without Ricardo Carvalho at the heart of the back line, Chelsea’s defence looks desperately exposed. The lack of strength of depth in the Blues squad is all too evident, and with Chelsea needing a goal yesterday to equalize, there was little firepower on the bench for the Chelsea boss to call upon. The failure to sign Robinho in August looks increasingly like a missed opportunity.
It seems Scolari may well be facing his first signs of adversity as manager, though this won’t be anything new. It’s the nature of the beast, as they say, and Big Phil is indeed big enough to deal with any pressure that may come his way.
But instead of blaming match officials for his teams failings, Scolari may be better advised to look closer to home.
There were no mind games, and no criticising referees. Scolari just seemed to go about his job nicely—a stark contrast to the days of The Special One, that’s for sure.
Dare I say it; people were starting to respect Chelsea, if not necessarily like them. People admired their football. They were gracious in defeat, as shown when beaten by Liverpool at Stamford Bridge, a defeat that ended Chelsea’s record breaking home record, where they didn't lose for 86 games.
However, the pressure cooked environment of the title race has finally got to Big Phil, with yesterday’s defeat prompting an outburst more reminiscent of Jose Mourinho’s days at the Bridge.
And there was nothing "likeable" about it.
Scolari accused Mike Dean, the referee in yesterday’s encounter, of “killing” his Chelsea team, and even hinted at conspiracy theories, after Dean’s assistant failed to spot Robin Van Persie was offside for Arsenal’s first goal.
All quite ludicrous really, and with the club’s fuor and a half year unbeaten home record now an all too distant memory, maybe it’s all starting to get to Big Phil? Has he shown the first signs of cracking under the pressure?
Because although it’s clear Van Persie was indeed offside for Arsenal’s opener yesterday, there was still half an hour of football to play after that incident. And in that period, Chelsea conceded another goal not too shortly after, and in reply, failed to seriously test the Arsenal goalkeeper, Manuel Almunia.
And that isn’t down to the officials, that is down to Scolari and his Chelsea team.
The fact is, Chelsea don’t have a plan B, and the rest of the Premiership seems to have worked this out. Much like Newcastle and Liverpool did so successfully, Arsenal stopped the Chelsea full-backs from marauding forward, and therefore negated Chelsea’s threat down the flanks.
And by stopping John Obi Mikel and Deco from starting attacks from deep, Chelsea struggle to get going, and look slow and sluggish.
Chelsea’s recent results would indicate that the Premiership has realized this, with poor results against Liverpool, Newcastle, and now Arsenal halting Chelsea’s early momentum. But Scolari continues to persist with his tactics, refusing to deviate from what he knows.
And though it’s far from a crisis on the domestic front, in the Champions League Chelsea qualification is far from guaranteed, with victory needed in the final group game at home against Romanian Champions CFR Cluj to ensure qualification.
Furthermore, without Ricardo Carvalho at the heart of the back line, Chelsea’s defence looks desperately exposed. The lack of strength of depth in the Blues squad is all too evident, and with Chelsea needing a goal yesterday to equalize, there was little firepower on the bench for the Chelsea boss to call upon. The failure to sign Robinho in August looks increasingly like a missed opportunity.
It seems Scolari may well be facing his first signs of adversity as manager, though this won’t be anything new. It’s the nature of the beast, as they say, and Big Phil is indeed big enough to deal with any pressure that may come his way.
But instead of blaming match officials for his teams failings, Scolari may be better advised to look closer to home.
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