When the nominees (Rooney, Aguero, RVP, Parker, Silva, Hart) for 'BEST FOOTBALLER IN THE PREMIER LEAGUE' were announced yesterday, I was not too pleased with the list because one player was inexplicably omitted from it. There is no law that says the shortlist should consist of only 6 players. If FIFA could break their rule in 09, how much less the Professional Footballers' Association of England! 3 years ago, the World football governing body, FIFA went against their usual routine of trimming down their final shortlist to three when they announced a strong 5 man list as final contenders for arguably the biggest individual prize in football---THE FIFA WORLD FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR.The list comprised of Xavi, Kaka, CR7, Messi, and El Nino.
This year's PFA 'FINAL SIX' without doubt merit their nominations, but the obvious omission was NORWICH's GRANT HOLT. Don't crucify me peeps, it's my HONEST OPINION. The Canaries skipper has done no wrong this season. His 13 EPL goals including strikes against MUFC, LIVERPOOL and CHELSEA have proved invaluable and helped Lambert's wards to an impressive showing in the LEAGUE so far. Against all odds, the Landlords of Carrow Road are already safe from relegation and could even climb into the top half when the final EPL table is drawn. Among Englishmen, Only Wazza (Wayne Rooney)-(24) has scored more league goals.
It is undoubted that HOLT will not win the award even if nominated....Nevertheless, it would have been satisfying and a thing of pride knowing that his heroics haven't gone unnoticed.
OHIREIME P EBOREIME
Follow me on Twitter---->@ohiskaka1990
Tuesday, 17 April 2012
Friday, 24 February 2012
The Young shall grow.....players who will take over soon.
Please do not crucify me if some of your favourite youngsters are not included in this list. One man's meat they say, is another man's poison. Please find below the 20 selected players who barring any unfortunate situation, will take the world by storm in the next couple of years....
1 Neymar Da Silva Santos aka NEYMAR
Now one of the most popular footballers on the planet..the tricky footballing genius is the new pride of BRAZIL..Touted to be the next PELE (many have also been seen in that light), he is already showing the reasons why he will be a force to reckon with in the near future. Neymar Jnr has already won the Copa Libertadores (SOUTH AMERICA's version of the UCL) amongst other titles and he just turned 20 a few weeks ago. Notably, he shares the same birthday with Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo -two of the best footballers of this generation.
Neymar is having the best time of his career having already reached the final of the 2011 FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP (l to Barca) and also claimed the BRONZE BALL-an award for the 3rd best player of the tournament. He has also excelled in SELECAO colours, scoring 8 goals in 15 appearances. He has also received plaudits from various footballers across the globe for his stellar performances to date. His burgeoning talent has led to various degrees of recognition both nationally and internationally. The biggest of all was his inclusion in the FINAL 23 list of footballers who were all in with a chance of winning the 2011 Balon D'Or. An award which was taken home by MESSI for the 3rd year running. He also beat Rooney and Messi to the PUSKAS award for the best goal of 2011---That unbelievable masterclass goal in the thrilling 5-4 loss v Ronaldinho's Flamengo in the Campeonato Brasileiro SERIE A (The Brazilian League).
The above and many other outstanding displays have sent tongues wagging. Some now refer to him as the 3rd best player on the planet behind CR7 and Messi..although that it an outrageous submission. The important thing is that if he goes on like this, it won't be long before he rubs shoulders with the very best footballers of all time.
2 MARCO REUS
The promising German who just put pen to paper on a summer transfer from Borussia Monchengladbach to Borussia Dortmund for a bargain fee of 17.5 million Euros is the second most popular youngster in all of Germany. His compatriot and soon to be teammate, Mario Gotze is rated more highly.
The 22 year old (23 in May) has improved tremendously over the last 3 seasons, earning rave reviews from the German Press and Media people all over the world. Under the tutelage of Swiss motivator, Lucien Favre, Reus has transformed into one of the best footballers in the German Bundesliga--racking up goals and assists week in, week out. His fearless and daring displays have propelled the previously relegation threatened club to Title Contenders. With 13 goals and 4 assists in just 18 League games for Die Fohlen, he has repaid the faith Favre has in him and that's the major reason why Gladbach lie 2 points shy of 1st position in the GERMAN TOP FLIGHT. Marco's brilliant performances have not gone unnoticed by National Team boss, Joachim Low. The Tactician has called him up 3 times already and is almost certain to make the cut for the upcoming EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine.
I rate him as the best talent in all of Germany and if injuries don't play their part, even Rudi Voller would be proud.
3 MARIO BARWUAH BALOTELLI
The Italian born-Ghanaian star who now plies his trade at the Etihad with Manchester City is one of the best footballers of his age grade. With 22 goals in 50 apps for the Citizens, he has played his part in their recent successes. Disciplinary problems on and off the filed have plagued his career in no small measure. If he can cut down on his childish attitude and focus more on reaching his full potential, there is every possibility that he will go on to become one of the best footballers the World has ever witnessed.
Trained by Italian Managers at both club and country, they should be able to influence him positively to reach great heights.
4 AHMED MUSA
The man who is famously called 'Air Nigeria', has just signed for 2005 UEFA CUP winners, CSKA Moscow, after a stint in Holland with VVV Venlo. The Nigerian speed demon announced himself to the World stage in last year's FIFA U-20 Championships...destroying all the full backs he came face to face with and scored 3 goals..The eaglets came up short against France in the Quarter Final stage, but that didn't prevent the eulogies from coming his way. The 19 year old wing wizard 'holds laugh'...(won't turn 20 until October) has already amassed 13 caps for the Super Eagles and is rated as the next best thing to come out of the West African Nation.
5 DANIEL STURRIDGE
Roberto Mancini of Manchester City said recently that he regrets not having the left footed pearl in his star studded team. That says a lot about the incredible talent Daniel possesses. Born in Birmingham, England, the 22 year old striker who can also play as a winger was sold to Chelsea in 2009. Due to the array of talented strikers at the Bridge, he found chances few and far between and decided to go out on loan to Bolton. He shone brightly for the Trotters...scoring 8 goals in just 12 matches for the club. That brought the attention of newly appointed Chelsea boss, Andre Villas-Boas who immediately made him one of the 1st names on his team sheet throughout this season. He has fit in perfectly in West London. Despite playing on the right side of a three pronged attack, he has still managed 11 goals and 5 assists in just 29 games this season. He was also handed his maiden England cap by former NT boss, Fabio Capello and is one of the front runners for a forward role in the Squad for the Euros.
Blessed with a ferocious left foot, the Manchester City trained forward will go on to become one of the best things that ever happened to Chelsea and England in years to come. He is that good.
6. MARIO GOTZE
Chosen by many as the best German teenager in a long time, The prodigiously talented Signal Iduna owned attacking midfield magician has proved his worth beyond doubt in recent years. What brought him to limelight was his partnership with Nuri Sahin, Shinji Kagawa, Lucas Barrios, etc which led Borussia Dortmund to the German Bundesliga crown ahead of the more illustrious Bayern Munich with him racking up 6 goals and an incredible 15 assists in the 33 games he featured in.
The teenage sensation who has already been capped 12 times by DIE MANNSCAFT (German NT)-scoring 2 goals in the process, is one of the most sought after footballers in the Universe.
7 JACK WILSHERE
Not many players are often compared to Ireland and Arsenal Legend, Liam Brady. 20 year old Jack Wilshere is among the privileged few to be honoured with such dignifying comparison. He burst onto the scene in the 10-11 season after eye catching performances in the youth and reserve set-up. Arsene gave him a chance to show what he could do last season and he responded with some awesome performances-especially the 1st leg of the UCL Round of 16 match v Barcelona which Arsenal won 2-1. Jacky was unarguably Arsenal's best player that day and bravely stood up to the likes of Xavi and Iniesta. He completed more than 90% of his passes that day...a statistic that even the revered Pirlo would marvel at. His all round displays throughout the season earned him adulation from his manager, his team mates, colleagues, the then England manager, and the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) who deservedly named him young player of the year and also included him in the team of the year.
His loan move to Bolton was one of the main reasons for his improved form. The early 2010 loan move to the Reebok was a very important step in his career. He has also made 5 appearances for the senior team of England and was named 10-11 Arsenal player of the season.
One of the youngest ever UCL debutants, his strengths are his passing ability, technical adeptness and fearlessness on the pitch. He also has the confidence of a 30 year old and will take the World by storm as time goes on. He is currently sidelined with a niggling ankle injury, but should be back in a couple of months.
8 SHINJI KAGAWA
2011 Asian Cup winners-Japan has produced great players like Junichi Inamoto and perhaps the gretaest of them all, Hidetoshi Nakata. Another new gem has been unearthed in the calibre of Borussia Dortmund attacking playmaker, Shinji Kagawa. The diminutive Japanese wonderkid has set the German 1st division alight since his arrival from Cerezo Otaka in 2010. He came with a very encouraging statistic-55 goals in 125 league games. A very satisfactory return for a midfielder. It didn't take long for him to endear himself to the Dortmund fans as his debut season was one of great achievement both individually and collectively. The killer squad of KAGAWA-SAHIN-GOTZE-BARRIOS-LEWANDOSKI ripped other teams apart, including Die Roten (Bayern Munich) on their way to winning the Bundesliga. Kagawa weighed in with an admirable 8 goals in 18 League games, as his season was blighted by injuries.
Despite a very disappointing UCL campaign, Die Schwarzgelben have had a breathtaking Domestic season once again under the excellent Leadership of Jurgen Klopp. They are currently 2 points ahead of nearest challengers, Borussia Monchengladbach with a game in hand. Kagawa again has been one of the catalysts of the team's successful run, contributing 7 goals in just 19 appearances. The Japanese star has the World at his feet and Dortmund might have to do the extraordinary to keep him beyond this season. They have started on a good note though--recruiting Die Fohlen's best player, Marco Reus to support the Asian jewel next season and beyond.
9 PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG
Gabon's hottest property in recent time, Pierre Aubameyang is one player who deserves recognition. The 22 year old striker has grown from relative obscurity to become one to reckon with in the beautiful game of football. Despite having an unsuccessful spell at AC Milan, he has revived his young career at St Etienne after having brief spells at Dijon, Monaco and Lille. He has scored 12 goals in 35 league games for his current club and was a pivotal player for the Gabon National side (co-hosts) that was unlucky to exit the tournament at the QF final stage (albeit of his own doing). Despite scoring a tournament leading 3 goals (with Manucho, Drogba, Mayuka, Diabate, & C.Katongo), it was his penalty miss v Mali that unfortunately ended their tournament.
Armed with mesmerising skills and blistering pace, Aubameyang is destined for the top in a few years.
10 JAVIER PASTORE
One of the most expensive players of all time when he moved from Palermo to mega-rich PSG for a reported 40 million Euros in the Summer of 2011, El Flaco as he is fondly called, is no stranger to the big occasion. Called up for the last World Cup in South Africa, he has been on the fringes of the Argentine National Team since he was 20. He showed glimpses of his exceptional talent during his breakthrough season as a Rosanero and built on it in his 2nd season. It was his rising profile which led to speculations that big European clubs like MUFC, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Juventus, etc were all fighting for his signature. After all the media frenzy, he signed for Paris Saint Germain. It was a huge shock to all football fans, especially as they wanted to see him in more famous clubs like Juventus and Real Madrid. However, the so-called celebrated clubs were not willing to part with the crazy sum the Sicilian club wanted.
Injuries have restricted Pastore's career in France, although his first 10 matches yielded no less than 6 goals. He can be said to have settled in well into the style of play at the Parc de Princes. He has been criticised for being too lazy and flat sometimes. This comes with his young age and inexperience. New coach, Carlo Ancelotti who is anything but an amateur has raised great players like KAKA, PIRLO, and Gattuso...if anyone can turn El Flaco into a WORLD CLASS property, the Italian is a sure bet.
11 EMMANUEL MAYUKA
Zambia's own super sub, he came into prominence in the 07 FIFA WORLD U-20 WC. He was the youngest player at the tournament and despite not hitting the back of the net, soccer pundits had seen something in him that they felt would blossom into a great star in time to come. The 21 year old who plies his trade in the Swiss top flight with Young Boys finally sprang into life in the just concluded African Nations Cup Tournament co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea scoring 3 precious goals to inspire his team to their 1st ever Nations Cup triumph on the very same soil where their entire team lost their lives 19 years prior (1993). Hi most important goal was the lone strike against Ghana that sent them to their 2nd final in 18 years.
Mayuka's stock has risen since then and rightly so. He has scored 16 goals in 43 League games for Young boys currently. The Swiss team will entertain a lot of callers for his signature come Summer.
12 DANNY WELBECK
Born to Ghanaian parents in England, the Manchester United striker has worked his way into the United Starting line-up this season in some style. After a successful loan spell at the Stadium of Light last season under the watchful eye of MUFC Legend and then Black Cats manager (Steve Bruce), Welbeck came back home to fight for a place in a team which had the irreplaceable Wayne Rooney, EPL joint-highest goal scorer-Berbatov, new Baby Face Assassin-Chicharito Hernandez, 2001 Ballon d'Or-Michael Owen, Mame Biram Diouf (now at Hannover96) and Kiko Macheda (on loan to QPR at the moment). It was an arduous task he had to accomplish to avoid being overlooked or sent out on loan again. He wanted to make a name at one of the biggest clubs in World and he has so far not done his CHANCE any harm.
Asides being a deadly finisher, Danny Nii Tackie Welbeck is a hardworking and very industrious player who gives his all for the team. His return of 9 goals in 26 matches this season is an evidence of a very good season he;s currently having. The kid who was sent on loan to Preston North End at the beginning of 2010 has also appeared for England 3 times..although he is yet to register his name on the score sheet for his country. He has a great chance of representing England at the Euros or Britain in London 2012 depending on what the FA and their team of coaches decide.
His greatest attributes are pace, strength, dribbling skills, hard work, and an eye for goal. He has a great career ahead of him if he continues in this fashion.
13 ERIK LAMELA
Now a Giallorossi, the ex-River Plate midfield orchestrator has been a regular this season under Luis Enrique. He became highly regarded during one of the Super Clasico meetings against Boca Juniors for his former club, River Plate when he dominated a midfield that had the great Juan Roman Riquelme as a formidable opponent. It was then the Argentine press took special interest in him. He never disappointed and regardless of the fact that River were relegated for the 1st time in their illustrious history, his rise to fame was undeterred and ROMA came calling.
He has a solitary cap for the Albiceleste (Argentine NT) but that is obviously the first of many. He also featured in the FIFA U-20 World Cup last year and played like a man under the influence of drugs. His technical proficiency and midfield craft are a sight to behold. He has been one of the best players for the Capital club this season and will rewrite the history books in years to come.
14 Paulo Henrique Ganso
This exceptionally gifted footballing genius is a Selecao with a difference. Under contract at Santos in Brazil, Ganso has risen from nowhere to become one of the best footballers of his generation in just a short space of time. Injury prone, he has shown no signs of waning since his debut for the Brazilian National Team in a friendly v the USA. Long term absences have been a regular part of his young career, but in the periods he has been on the pitch, some brilliant displays have been witnessed from the man viewed as the next KAKA.
He was part of the Santos side that was taught a bitter lesson in Japan (FIFA WORLD CLUB CUP FINAL) by Barcelona 2 months ago and also played a huge part in Santoss' capture of the 2011 Copa Libertadores.
Blessed with finesse beyond belief, he can control any midfield if he chooses to and is one of the finest Central Midfielders in all of South America. If Life is kind to him, he might eclipse whatever Kaka has achieved for clubs and country.I see him as the next ZICO (minus free kick percipience).
15 Wojciech Szczesny
Never have I seen such a young man exhume such confidence, such zest and bravery. Only 2 years ago, the Polish shot-stopper was 3rd or 4th choice in the list of goalkeepers at Arsenal. But as providence would have it, he jumped over all his fellow competitors and established himself as the number 1 goaltender at the Emirates.
In the 09-10 season, he sent warning signals to the Arsenal coaching staff that if he wasn't given a chance to prove himself, he would dump the club for pastures new. It wasn't to be as he firmly took over the number 1 spot from Almunia-Aluminium, Mamone and Fabianski or flappy-hands-ki whichever you deem fit. He has since played well over 50 games in all Competitions for the gunners and has kept more than 20 clean sheets.
His characteristics are a good command of his area, mental toughness, smartness, and suppleness. He is a very outspoken goalkeeper and is never put down by anything or anyone. In his early 20s, he has already earned praise from the Legendary Oliver Khan for his excellent performance in a friendly v the Germans 5 months ago. He has the capacity to become one of the greatest goalies of the next 20 years.
16 IKER MUNIAIN
Athletic Bilbao's answer for Barcelona's Andres Iniesta isn't exactly lightweight in spite of his frame which is extremely deceptive. The tricky and very intelligent winger has played more than 100 games for the Basque side at only 19 years of age (only turned 19 in December '11). For club and country, he is blessed with 2 of the greatest managers of all time in Marcelo 'Loco' Bielsa and Vicente Del Bosque. He couldn't be luckier.
He is an amazing footballer who thinks outside the box at all times. Blessed with a unique footballing brain, the ball sticks to his feet like magnet and he finds space where there is none. Iker can play as a winger. an Enganche (link between midfield and attack), or a 2nd striker. He possesses fantastic quality and has already made history as Athleti's youngest ever debutant and goal scorer (16 years).
He played a significant part in the Spain's U-21 team's Victory at the European Championship held in Denmark last year.
He rarely gets injured and on the basis of what I have seen so far, he will run the World of football like Schumacher did to Formula One.
17 STEVAN JOVETIC
One of my favourite youngsters, his career has been set aback by injuries, but nonetheless, he is still one of the best footballers of his generation. The Montenegrin International who also adorns the colours of Fiorentina is one of the most technically gifted footballers in the World. Ask Liverpool what he put them through a few years ago at the Artenio Franchi in a Champions League game.
He was such a supremely talented player that at the very young age of 18, he was made Captain of Partizan Belgrade-an upgrade that cemented his name in the history books as the youngest ever skipper of the club. After a beautiful time in Serbia, it was time to move on to better things and the team from Florence came calling. Four years ago, Jovetic's playing rights were purchased for 8 Million Euros. Since then he has managed 23 goals in 91 games for the Gigliati and this has been because of the various injury lay-offs he has had to deal with.
His idols are National Team Captain, Mirko Vucinic and the EASTERN WIND, Andriy Shevchenko.....He is however likened to Viola Legend-Roberto Baggio..This is due to the similarities in hairstyle and admittedly in playing pattern. Jo-jo (His nickname) has scored 7 goals in 19 games for Montenegro.
The Football fraternity sincerely hope that injuries will not prevent him from making his mark in the annals of history.
18 Xherdan Shaqiri
The nimble footballer who has agreed a deal to join Bayern Munich for a miserable 10 million Euros in the Summer was one of the shinning lights of the Swiss U-21 team which were outclassed in the final by Spain. Since then, he has gone on to achieve even greater things including his wave making displays in the UCL which unfortunately sent Manchester United out of Europe's Premier Competition for the first time in 6 years.
The left footed, speedster has already scored 18 goals and provided 19 assists in 100 odd games for Swiss giants-Basel. He has also scored 4 goals in 17 appearances for the Swiss National team and will be grateful to the Great Otmar Hitzfield for giving him a chance to prove himself on the international stage.
Clever, fast, and very daring, Xherdan is set to storm the Bundesliga later in the year. He has every chance of making it big as a footballer (not financially, but historically)
19 David De Gea
Already seen as the heir to the goalkeeping throne in La Furia Roja set-up where San iker currently holds sway, DDG as he is affectionately called in Britain needs no introduction. He has won trophies aplenty for club and country and he is still only 21. His career with Manchester United has not been plain sailing. Mistakes here and there arising from his inability to command his area and deal with crosses have been the bane thus far. His major problem is the British Press who scrutinize every single thing he does. They have contributed to the rough times he has experienced thus far in his tough start to life as a Manchester United Number one. He has nevertheless proved his critics wrong in recent weeks with stellar performances between the sticks..most notably in the 3-3 draw at Stanford Bridge where he made stunning saves off the feet of Mata, Essien and Gary Cahill. Rarely does a keeper concede 3 goals and is still praised for a job well done.
Captain of the U-21 side, it won't be long before he stakes a claim for the Number one jersey at Senior Level...Although CASILLAS is not thinking of relinquishing ownership just yet.
20 THIAGO ALCANTARA DO NASCIMENTO
Another 20 year old (turns 21 in May) who is prepared to replace the aging Midfield maestros of today. Seen as the next Xavi, the ambidextrous midfield controller has been promoted to the 1st team by Pep Guardiola and he has since not looked back..His combination with the likes of Xavi, Fabregas, Iniesta, Busquets, Jo Dos Santos, Keita,etc have been awe-inspiring. He reveled and shone in the absence of XAVI in pre-season and that was it. Pep had seen enough to convince him that the Brazilian-Spaniard was ready for the big leap.
Thiago has incredible abilities capable of making even more experienced midfielders shudder in disbelief. He has made 3 appearances for the senior National side and was part of the Spanish U-21s that raised aloft the European Cup in Denmark...His stunning goal in the Final led the little Spanish armada to GLORY.
Other players worth mentioning are Tom Cleverley, Josip ilicic, Eduardo Vargas, Matias Suarez, Grant Xhaka, Junior Hoilett, Josh Mceachran, IIkay Gundogan, Phil Jones, Adem Ljajic, Rafinha Alcantara, Juan Iturbe, Chris Smalling, Isaac Cuenca, Sergio Canales Modrazo, Youssef Msakni, etc.
Ohis Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990
1 Neymar Da Silva Santos aka NEYMAR
Now one of the most popular footballers on the planet..the tricky footballing genius is the new pride of BRAZIL..Touted to be the next PELE (many have also been seen in that light), he is already showing the reasons why he will be a force to reckon with in the near future. Neymar Jnr has already won the Copa Libertadores (SOUTH AMERICA's version of the UCL) amongst other titles and he just turned 20 a few weeks ago. Notably, he shares the same birthday with Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo -two of the best footballers of this generation.
Neymar is having the best time of his career having already reached the final of the 2011 FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP (l to Barca) and also claimed the BRONZE BALL-an award for the 3rd best player of the tournament. He has also excelled in SELECAO colours, scoring 8 goals in 15 appearances. He has also received plaudits from various footballers across the globe for his stellar performances to date. His burgeoning talent has led to various degrees of recognition both nationally and internationally. The biggest of all was his inclusion in the FINAL 23 list of footballers who were all in with a chance of winning the 2011 Balon D'Or. An award which was taken home by MESSI for the 3rd year running. He also beat Rooney and Messi to the PUSKAS award for the best goal of 2011---That unbelievable masterclass goal in the thrilling 5-4 loss v Ronaldinho's Flamengo in the Campeonato Brasileiro SERIE A (The Brazilian League).
The above and many other outstanding displays have sent tongues wagging. Some now refer to him as the 3rd best player on the planet behind CR7 and Messi..although that it an outrageous submission. The important thing is that if he goes on like this, it won't be long before he rubs shoulders with the very best footballers of all time.
2 MARCO REUS
The promising German who just put pen to paper on a summer transfer from Borussia Monchengladbach to Borussia Dortmund for a bargain fee of 17.5 million Euros is the second most popular youngster in all of Germany. His compatriot and soon to be teammate, Mario Gotze is rated more highly.
The 22 year old (23 in May) has improved tremendously over the last 3 seasons, earning rave reviews from the German Press and Media people all over the world. Under the tutelage of Swiss motivator, Lucien Favre, Reus has transformed into one of the best footballers in the German Bundesliga--racking up goals and assists week in, week out. His fearless and daring displays have propelled the previously relegation threatened club to Title Contenders. With 13 goals and 4 assists in just 18 League games for Die Fohlen, he has repaid the faith Favre has in him and that's the major reason why Gladbach lie 2 points shy of 1st position in the GERMAN TOP FLIGHT. Marco's brilliant performances have not gone unnoticed by National Team boss, Joachim Low. The Tactician has called him up 3 times already and is almost certain to make the cut for the upcoming EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine.
I rate him as the best talent in all of Germany and if injuries don't play their part, even Rudi Voller would be proud.
3 MARIO BARWUAH BALOTELLI
The Italian born-Ghanaian star who now plies his trade at the Etihad with Manchester City is one of the best footballers of his age grade. With 22 goals in 50 apps for the Citizens, he has played his part in their recent successes. Disciplinary problems on and off the filed have plagued his career in no small measure. If he can cut down on his childish attitude and focus more on reaching his full potential, there is every possibility that he will go on to become one of the best footballers the World has ever witnessed.
Trained by Italian Managers at both club and country, they should be able to influence him positively to reach great heights.
4 AHMED MUSA
The man who is famously called 'Air Nigeria', has just signed for 2005 UEFA CUP winners, CSKA Moscow, after a stint in Holland with VVV Venlo. The Nigerian speed demon announced himself to the World stage in last year's FIFA U-20 Championships...destroying all the full backs he came face to face with and scored 3 goals..The eaglets came up short against France in the Quarter Final stage, but that didn't prevent the eulogies from coming his way. The 19 year old wing wizard 'holds laugh'...(won't turn 20 until October) has already amassed 13 caps for the Super Eagles and is rated as the next best thing to come out of the West African Nation.
5 DANIEL STURRIDGE
Roberto Mancini of Manchester City said recently that he regrets not having the left footed pearl in his star studded team. That says a lot about the incredible talent Daniel possesses. Born in Birmingham, England, the 22 year old striker who can also play as a winger was sold to Chelsea in 2009. Due to the array of talented strikers at the Bridge, he found chances few and far between and decided to go out on loan to Bolton. He shone brightly for the Trotters...scoring 8 goals in just 12 matches for the club. That brought the attention of newly appointed Chelsea boss, Andre Villas-Boas who immediately made him one of the 1st names on his team sheet throughout this season. He has fit in perfectly in West London. Despite playing on the right side of a three pronged attack, he has still managed 11 goals and 5 assists in just 29 games this season. He was also handed his maiden England cap by former NT boss, Fabio Capello and is one of the front runners for a forward role in the Squad for the Euros.
Blessed with a ferocious left foot, the Manchester City trained forward will go on to become one of the best things that ever happened to Chelsea and England in years to come. He is that good.
6. MARIO GOTZE
Chosen by many as the best German teenager in a long time, The prodigiously talented Signal Iduna owned attacking midfield magician has proved his worth beyond doubt in recent years. What brought him to limelight was his partnership with Nuri Sahin, Shinji Kagawa, Lucas Barrios, etc which led Borussia Dortmund to the German Bundesliga crown ahead of the more illustrious Bayern Munich with him racking up 6 goals and an incredible 15 assists in the 33 games he featured in.
The teenage sensation who has already been capped 12 times by DIE MANNSCAFT (German NT)-scoring 2 goals in the process, is one of the most sought after footballers in the Universe.
7 JACK WILSHERE
Not many players are often compared to Ireland and Arsenal Legend, Liam Brady. 20 year old Jack Wilshere is among the privileged few to be honoured with such dignifying comparison. He burst onto the scene in the 10-11 season after eye catching performances in the youth and reserve set-up. Arsene gave him a chance to show what he could do last season and he responded with some awesome performances-especially the 1st leg of the UCL Round of 16 match v Barcelona which Arsenal won 2-1. Jacky was unarguably Arsenal's best player that day and bravely stood up to the likes of Xavi and Iniesta. He completed more than 90% of his passes that day...a statistic that even the revered Pirlo would marvel at. His all round displays throughout the season earned him adulation from his manager, his team mates, colleagues, the then England manager, and the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) who deservedly named him young player of the year and also included him in the team of the year.
His loan move to Bolton was one of the main reasons for his improved form. The early 2010 loan move to the Reebok was a very important step in his career. He has also made 5 appearances for the senior team of England and was named 10-11 Arsenal player of the season.
One of the youngest ever UCL debutants, his strengths are his passing ability, technical adeptness and fearlessness on the pitch. He also has the confidence of a 30 year old and will take the World by storm as time goes on. He is currently sidelined with a niggling ankle injury, but should be back in a couple of months.
8 SHINJI KAGAWA
2011 Asian Cup winners-Japan has produced great players like Junichi Inamoto and perhaps the gretaest of them all, Hidetoshi Nakata. Another new gem has been unearthed in the calibre of Borussia Dortmund attacking playmaker, Shinji Kagawa. The diminutive Japanese wonderkid has set the German 1st division alight since his arrival from Cerezo Otaka in 2010. He came with a very encouraging statistic-55 goals in 125 league games. A very satisfactory return for a midfielder. It didn't take long for him to endear himself to the Dortmund fans as his debut season was one of great achievement both individually and collectively. The killer squad of KAGAWA-SAHIN-GOTZE-BARRIOS-LEWANDOSKI ripped other teams apart, including Die Roten (Bayern Munich) on their way to winning the Bundesliga. Kagawa weighed in with an admirable 8 goals in 18 League games, as his season was blighted by injuries.
Despite a very disappointing UCL campaign, Die Schwarzgelben have had a breathtaking Domestic season once again under the excellent Leadership of Jurgen Klopp. They are currently 2 points ahead of nearest challengers, Borussia Monchengladbach with a game in hand. Kagawa again has been one of the catalysts of the team's successful run, contributing 7 goals in just 19 appearances. The Japanese star has the World at his feet and Dortmund might have to do the extraordinary to keep him beyond this season. They have started on a good note though--recruiting Die Fohlen's best player, Marco Reus to support the Asian jewel next season and beyond.
9 PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG
Gabon's hottest property in recent time, Pierre Aubameyang is one player who deserves recognition. The 22 year old striker has grown from relative obscurity to become one to reckon with in the beautiful game of football. Despite having an unsuccessful spell at AC Milan, he has revived his young career at St Etienne after having brief spells at Dijon, Monaco and Lille. He has scored 12 goals in 35 league games for his current club and was a pivotal player for the Gabon National side (co-hosts) that was unlucky to exit the tournament at the QF final stage (albeit of his own doing). Despite scoring a tournament leading 3 goals (with Manucho, Drogba, Mayuka, Diabate, & C.Katongo), it was his penalty miss v Mali that unfortunately ended their tournament.
Armed with mesmerising skills and blistering pace, Aubameyang is destined for the top in a few years.
10 JAVIER PASTORE
One of the most expensive players of all time when he moved from Palermo to mega-rich PSG for a reported 40 million Euros in the Summer of 2011, El Flaco as he is fondly called, is no stranger to the big occasion. Called up for the last World Cup in South Africa, he has been on the fringes of the Argentine National Team since he was 20. He showed glimpses of his exceptional talent during his breakthrough season as a Rosanero and built on it in his 2nd season. It was his rising profile which led to speculations that big European clubs like MUFC, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Juventus, etc were all fighting for his signature. After all the media frenzy, he signed for Paris Saint Germain. It was a huge shock to all football fans, especially as they wanted to see him in more famous clubs like Juventus and Real Madrid. However, the so-called celebrated clubs were not willing to part with the crazy sum the Sicilian club wanted.
Injuries have restricted Pastore's career in France, although his first 10 matches yielded no less than 6 goals. He can be said to have settled in well into the style of play at the Parc de Princes. He has been criticised for being too lazy and flat sometimes. This comes with his young age and inexperience. New coach, Carlo Ancelotti who is anything but an amateur has raised great players like KAKA, PIRLO, and Gattuso...if anyone can turn El Flaco into a WORLD CLASS property, the Italian is a sure bet.
11 EMMANUEL MAYUKA
Zambia's own super sub, he came into prominence in the 07 FIFA WORLD U-20 WC. He was the youngest player at the tournament and despite not hitting the back of the net, soccer pundits had seen something in him that they felt would blossom into a great star in time to come. The 21 year old who plies his trade in the Swiss top flight with Young Boys finally sprang into life in the just concluded African Nations Cup Tournament co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea scoring 3 precious goals to inspire his team to their 1st ever Nations Cup triumph on the very same soil where their entire team lost their lives 19 years prior (1993). Hi most important goal was the lone strike against Ghana that sent them to their 2nd final in 18 years.
Mayuka's stock has risen since then and rightly so. He has scored 16 goals in 43 League games for Young boys currently. The Swiss team will entertain a lot of callers for his signature come Summer.
12 DANNY WELBECK
Born to Ghanaian parents in England, the Manchester United striker has worked his way into the United Starting line-up this season in some style. After a successful loan spell at the Stadium of Light last season under the watchful eye of MUFC Legend and then Black Cats manager (Steve Bruce), Welbeck came back home to fight for a place in a team which had the irreplaceable Wayne Rooney, EPL joint-highest goal scorer-Berbatov, new Baby Face Assassin-Chicharito Hernandez, 2001 Ballon d'Or-Michael Owen, Mame Biram Diouf (now at Hannover96) and Kiko Macheda (on loan to QPR at the moment). It was an arduous task he had to accomplish to avoid being overlooked or sent out on loan again. He wanted to make a name at one of the biggest clubs in World and he has so far not done his CHANCE any harm.
Asides being a deadly finisher, Danny Nii Tackie Welbeck is a hardworking and very industrious player who gives his all for the team. His return of 9 goals in 26 matches this season is an evidence of a very good season he;s currently having. The kid who was sent on loan to Preston North End at the beginning of 2010 has also appeared for England 3 times..although he is yet to register his name on the score sheet for his country. He has a great chance of representing England at the Euros or Britain in London 2012 depending on what the FA and their team of coaches decide.
His greatest attributes are pace, strength, dribbling skills, hard work, and an eye for goal. He has a great career ahead of him if he continues in this fashion.
13 ERIK LAMELA
Now a Giallorossi, the ex-River Plate midfield orchestrator has been a regular this season under Luis Enrique. He became highly regarded during one of the Super Clasico meetings against Boca Juniors for his former club, River Plate when he dominated a midfield that had the great Juan Roman Riquelme as a formidable opponent. It was then the Argentine press took special interest in him. He never disappointed and regardless of the fact that River were relegated for the 1st time in their illustrious history, his rise to fame was undeterred and ROMA came calling.
He has a solitary cap for the Albiceleste (Argentine NT) but that is obviously the first of many. He also featured in the FIFA U-20 World Cup last year and played like a man under the influence of drugs. His technical proficiency and midfield craft are a sight to behold. He has been one of the best players for the Capital club this season and will rewrite the history books in years to come.
14 Paulo Henrique Ganso
This exceptionally gifted footballing genius is a Selecao with a difference. Under contract at Santos in Brazil, Ganso has risen from nowhere to become one of the best footballers of his generation in just a short space of time. Injury prone, he has shown no signs of waning since his debut for the Brazilian National Team in a friendly v the USA. Long term absences have been a regular part of his young career, but in the periods he has been on the pitch, some brilliant displays have been witnessed from the man viewed as the next KAKA.
He was part of the Santos side that was taught a bitter lesson in Japan (FIFA WORLD CLUB CUP FINAL) by Barcelona 2 months ago and also played a huge part in Santoss' capture of the 2011 Copa Libertadores.
Blessed with finesse beyond belief, he can control any midfield if he chooses to and is one of the finest Central Midfielders in all of South America. If Life is kind to him, he might eclipse whatever Kaka has achieved for clubs and country.I see him as the next ZICO (minus free kick percipience).
15 Wojciech Szczesny
Never have I seen such a young man exhume such confidence, such zest and bravery. Only 2 years ago, the Polish shot-stopper was 3rd or 4th choice in the list of goalkeepers at Arsenal. But as providence would have it, he jumped over all his fellow competitors and established himself as the number 1 goaltender at the Emirates.
In the 09-10 season, he sent warning signals to the Arsenal coaching staff that if he wasn't given a chance to prove himself, he would dump the club for pastures new. It wasn't to be as he firmly took over the number 1 spot from Almunia-Aluminium, Mamone and Fabianski or flappy-hands-ki whichever you deem fit. He has since played well over 50 games in all Competitions for the gunners and has kept more than 20 clean sheets.
His characteristics are a good command of his area, mental toughness, smartness, and suppleness. He is a very outspoken goalkeeper and is never put down by anything or anyone. In his early 20s, he has already earned praise from the Legendary Oliver Khan for his excellent performance in a friendly v the Germans 5 months ago. He has the capacity to become one of the greatest goalies of the next 20 years.
16 IKER MUNIAIN
Athletic Bilbao's answer for Barcelona's Andres Iniesta isn't exactly lightweight in spite of his frame which is extremely deceptive. The tricky and very intelligent winger has played more than 100 games for the Basque side at only 19 years of age (only turned 19 in December '11). For club and country, he is blessed with 2 of the greatest managers of all time in Marcelo 'Loco' Bielsa and Vicente Del Bosque. He couldn't be luckier.
He is an amazing footballer who thinks outside the box at all times. Blessed with a unique footballing brain, the ball sticks to his feet like magnet and he finds space where there is none. Iker can play as a winger. an Enganche (link between midfield and attack), or a 2nd striker. He possesses fantastic quality and has already made history as Athleti's youngest ever debutant and goal scorer (16 years).
He played a significant part in the Spain's U-21 team's Victory at the European Championship held in Denmark last year.
He rarely gets injured and on the basis of what I have seen so far, he will run the World of football like Schumacher did to Formula One.
17 STEVAN JOVETIC
One of my favourite youngsters, his career has been set aback by injuries, but nonetheless, he is still one of the best footballers of his generation. The Montenegrin International who also adorns the colours of Fiorentina is one of the most technically gifted footballers in the World. Ask Liverpool what he put them through a few years ago at the Artenio Franchi in a Champions League game.
He was such a supremely talented player that at the very young age of 18, he was made Captain of Partizan Belgrade-an upgrade that cemented his name in the history books as the youngest ever skipper of the club. After a beautiful time in Serbia, it was time to move on to better things and the team from Florence came calling. Four years ago, Jovetic's playing rights were purchased for 8 Million Euros. Since then he has managed 23 goals in 91 games for the Gigliati and this has been because of the various injury lay-offs he has had to deal with.
His idols are National Team Captain, Mirko Vucinic and the EASTERN WIND, Andriy Shevchenko.....He is however likened to Viola Legend-Roberto Baggio..This is due to the similarities in hairstyle and admittedly in playing pattern. Jo-jo (His nickname) has scored 7 goals in 19 games for Montenegro.
The Football fraternity sincerely hope that injuries will not prevent him from making his mark in the annals of history.
18 Xherdan Shaqiri
The nimble footballer who has agreed a deal to join Bayern Munich for a miserable 10 million Euros in the Summer was one of the shinning lights of the Swiss U-21 team which were outclassed in the final by Spain. Since then, he has gone on to achieve even greater things including his wave making displays in the UCL which unfortunately sent Manchester United out of Europe's Premier Competition for the first time in 6 years.
The left footed, speedster has already scored 18 goals and provided 19 assists in 100 odd games for Swiss giants-Basel. He has also scored 4 goals in 17 appearances for the Swiss National team and will be grateful to the Great Otmar Hitzfield for giving him a chance to prove himself on the international stage.
Clever, fast, and very daring, Xherdan is set to storm the Bundesliga later in the year. He has every chance of making it big as a footballer (not financially, but historically)
19 David De Gea
Already seen as the heir to the goalkeeping throne in La Furia Roja set-up where San iker currently holds sway, DDG as he is affectionately called in Britain needs no introduction. He has won trophies aplenty for club and country and he is still only 21. His career with Manchester United has not been plain sailing. Mistakes here and there arising from his inability to command his area and deal with crosses have been the bane thus far. His major problem is the British Press who scrutinize every single thing he does. They have contributed to the rough times he has experienced thus far in his tough start to life as a Manchester United Number one. He has nevertheless proved his critics wrong in recent weeks with stellar performances between the sticks..most notably in the 3-3 draw at Stanford Bridge where he made stunning saves off the feet of Mata, Essien and Gary Cahill. Rarely does a keeper concede 3 goals and is still praised for a job well done.
Captain of the U-21 side, it won't be long before he stakes a claim for the Number one jersey at Senior Level...Although CASILLAS is not thinking of relinquishing ownership just yet.
20 THIAGO ALCANTARA DO NASCIMENTO
Another 20 year old (turns 21 in May) who is prepared to replace the aging Midfield maestros of today. Seen as the next Xavi, the ambidextrous midfield controller has been promoted to the 1st team by Pep Guardiola and he has since not looked back..His combination with the likes of Xavi, Fabregas, Iniesta, Busquets, Jo Dos Santos, Keita,etc have been awe-inspiring. He reveled and shone in the absence of XAVI in pre-season and that was it. Pep had seen enough to convince him that the Brazilian-Spaniard was ready for the big leap.
Thiago has incredible abilities capable of making even more experienced midfielders shudder in disbelief. He has made 3 appearances for the senior National side and was part of the Spanish U-21s that raised aloft the European Cup in Denmark...His stunning goal in the Final led the little Spanish armada to GLORY.
Other players worth mentioning are Tom Cleverley, Josip ilicic, Eduardo Vargas, Matias Suarez, Grant Xhaka, Junior Hoilett, Josh Mceachran, IIkay Gundogan, Phil Jones, Adem Ljajic, Rafinha Alcantara, Juan Iturbe, Chris Smalling, Isaac Cuenca, Sergio Canales Modrazo, Youssef Msakni, etc.
Ohis Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990
Thursday, 23 February 2012
ARSENAL's ASTRONOMICAL decline....WENGER's fault????
How art the mighty fallen.. That may be the best phrase to describe the unbelievable slump of Arsene Wenger's managerial career at Arsenal.. This is a man who has garnered a remarkable 11 trophies for the London club in 15+ years at the helm. But what has led to fans calling for his head? The fact that Arsenal haven't won the EPL for 8 years and any trophy since 2005. Even the ordinary curtain raiser trophy (COMMUNITY SHIELD) has eluded him since 2004....It is no surprise since that match is meant for champions or runners-up at best (if the same club wins the FA cup and the EPL in the same season).
As they say, every good thing comes to an end.. It seems to be getting to that time for the Frenchman who is affectionately called Le Professeur (The Professor) by players and the media. Despite the plethora of achievements he has managed since 1996, ardent, loyal and passionate fans of the Gazidis run club are calling for a CHANGE.
Life is cruel. That is the bitter truth. It seems a distant past now that Arsene led the gunners to a staggering 49 match unbeaten run which brought about their 3rd EPL and 13th English top flight winners' medal. That season they were captioned as the 'INVISIBLES' . Now the same man who brought them so much joy, success, fame, and glory is now WANTED OUT. Some might say the fans are Ungrateful, but in truth, they have been really supportive of their manager through thick and thin. It hasn't been easy watching other teams claim trophies year in, year out, and Arsenal keeps on struggling to even qualify for the UCL. Perhaps, what angered them most was the way in which the London giants fell to Birmingham City in the 2011 Carling Cup final. A game that represented the chance to end a 6 year trophyless drought. This aside, they have also watched Spurs (Totteham Hotspur) become the team to reckon with in London. That hurts, considering the fact that the lilywhites have until now been in Arsenal's shadow. This season has been a different story entirely as Harry Redknapp has turned his boys into title challengers and along the way, have played some of the best football in Europe.
Patience they say is a virtue...But even the most virtuous Arsenal supporter has lost it because of another dismal season that can only get worse. In the space of 3 days, their only 2 remaining chances of claiming some form of silverware went up in flames at the Guiseppe Meazza and the Stadium of Light. Maxi Allegri's AC Milan left no stone unturned in their annihilation of Wenger's wards. The 4-0 demolition was followed by another disappointing ouster from the FA Cup in the hands of Martin O'Neil's Sunderland. The fans have seen and witnessed just about enough. The only thing they look forward to now is 4TH PLACE which has become a major priority in the last 5 or 6 years. Prior to 2006, Arsene Wenger had never finished outside the TOP 2 since he assumed managerial duties at the Club.
It is in adversity that you can easily point out a good, capable and efficient manager. It is when the going gets tough, that a great man steps up and attempts to turn things around in his favour. Despite the near misses and numerous setbacks, Wenger has still managed to qualify for the GROUP STAGES of the CHAMPIONS LEAGUE in all of his 16 seasons at the club. That is a phenomenal achievement. But the fans are tired of feeding from crumbs. They want the whole meal and they have every right to demand for it. The MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION now is should WENGER THROW IN THE TOWEL????? is this actually his fault???? We could lay the blame at his feet because he is the team leader. It is quite normal because when a ship capsizes, the Captain is held solely responsible and rightly so. But this goes well beyond the Frenchman.
Name a manger today who has been successful without being backed by adequate funds to purchase quality players to complement the ones at his disposal. It could be argued that between 2005 and 2012, Arsene has had fantastic players and also bought decent ones. But it can also be pointed out that he hasn't been given enough money to secure the services of world beaters who can propel the team to domestic and continental dominance. His most expensive buy (I stand corrected) is Andrei Arshavin who came for about £15 Million. You can't work miracles when you don't have the capacity to. For a GREAT club like Arsenal, much more is expected. That is not saying purchasing the playing rights of a quality player automatically makes a club successful (Like the case of Fernando Torres), but it does promote your ambition to compete with the very best in the business.
Arsene might not be blameless afterall. But if he was the problem, the Board would have done away with him a long time ago. They are well aware that the bulk of the botheration is as a result of their inability or refusal to provide funds necessary to bring in some very good players. This season, he brought in experienced hands like Yossi Benayoun, Mikel Arteta, & Per Mertesacker. Seasoned professionals who have paid their dues in every respect. He also lured the prodigiously talented Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain from Southampton to join forces with the North Londoners. He also lost his Captain, Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona and his best player last season-Samir Nasri to Manchester City. Losing a captain a few days before the commencement of a new season will unsettle anyone. Despite the setbacks and a very disgraceful start to the current season, he is still 4th in the EPL standings ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool who spent at least 150 million pounds between them in the off-season.
I am not exonerating ARSENE of any of the fans' accusations..All am saying is that he should be given a chance to turn things around. It is common knowledge that he is the most successful manager in Arsenal's history. That alone should buy him some time and earn him the RESPECT he deserves.
The OX as Alex Chamberlain is fondly called, has come to the fore in recent games...playing probably the best football of his career to date. That is a good sign. RVP has also been the best EPL player this season with 22 goals and a handful of assists, the result of a WORLD CLASS showing in the last year or so. His contributions have been astonishingly brilliant. All these and more will be required on Sunday when the gunners host fierce rivals and high flying Spurs at the Emirates in an attempt to get their season back on track
Ohsi Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990
As they say, every good thing comes to an end.. It seems to be getting to that time for the Frenchman who is affectionately called Le Professeur (The Professor) by players and the media. Despite the plethora of achievements he has managed since 1996, ardent, loyal and passionate fans of the Gazidis run club are calling for a CHANGE.
Life is cruel. That is the bitter truth. It seems a distant past now that Arsene led the gunners to a staggering 49 match unbeaten run which brought about their 3rd EPL and 13th English top flight winners' medal. That season they were captioned as the 'INVISIBLES' . Now the same man who brought them so much joy, success, fame, and glory is now WANTED OUT. Some might say the fans are Ungrateful, but in truth, they have been really supportive of their manager through thick and thin. It hasn't been easy watching other teams claim trophies year in, year out, and Arsenal keeps on struggling to even qualify for the UCL. Perhaps, what angered them most was the way in which the London giants fell to Birmingham City in the 2011 Carling Cup final. A game that represented the chance to end a 6 year trophyless drought. This aside, they have also watched Spurs (Totteham Hotspur) become the team to reckon with in London. That hurts, considering the fact that the lilywhites have until now been in Arsenal's shadow. This season has been a different story entirely as Harry Redknapp has turned his boys into title challengers and along the way, have played some of the best football in Europe.
Patience they say is a virtue...But even the most virtuous Arsenal supporter has lost it because of another dismal season that can only get worse. In the space of 3 days, their only 2 remaining chances of claiming some form of silverware went up in flames at the Guiseppe Meazza and the Stadium of Light. Maxi Allegri's AC Milan left no stone unturned in their annihilation of Wenger's wards. The 4-0 demolition was followed by another disappointing ouster from the FA Cup in the hands of Martin O'Neil's Sunderland. The fans have seen and witnessed just about enough. The only thing they look forward to now is 4TH PLACE which has become a major priority in the last 5 or 6 years. Prior to 2006, Arsene Wenger had never finished outside the TOP 2 since he assumed managerial duties at the Club.
It is in adversity that you can easily point out a good, capable and efficient manager. It is when the going gets tough, that a great man steps up and attempts to turn things around in his favour. Despite the near misses and numerous setbacks, Wenger has still managed to qualify for the GROUP STAGES of the CHAMPIONS LEAGUE in all of his 16 seasons at the club. That is a phenomenal achievement. But the fans are tired of feeding from crumbs. They want the whole meal and they have every right to demand for it. The MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION now is should WENGER THROW IN THE TOWEL????? is this actually his fault???? We could lay the blame at his feet because he is the team leader. It is quite normal because when a ship capsizes, the Captain is held solely responsible and rightly so. But this goes well beyond the Frenchman.
Name a manger today who has been successful without being backed by adequate funds to purchase quality players to complement the ones at his disposal. It could be argued that between 2005 and 2012, Arsene has had fantastic players and also bought decent ones. But it can also be pointed out that he hasn't been given enough money to secure the services of world beaters who can propel the team to domestic and continental dominance. His most expensive buy (I stand corrected) is Andrei Arshavin who came for about £15 Million. You can't work miracles when you don't have the capacity to. For a GREAT club like Arsenal, much more is expected. That is not saying purchasing the playing rights of a quality player automatically makes a club successful (Like the case of Fernando Torres), but it does promote your ambition to compete with the very best in the business.
Arsene might not be blameless afterall. But if he was the problem, the Board would have done away with him a long time ago. They are well aware that the bulk of the botheration is as a result of their inability or refusal to provide funds necessary to bring in some very good players. This season, he brought in experienced hands like Yossi Benayoun, Mikel Arteta, & Per Mertesacker. Seasoned professionals who have paid their dues in every respect. He also lured the prodigiously talented Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain from Southampton to join forces with the North Londoners. He also lost his Captain, Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona and his best player last season-Samir Nasri to Manchester City. Losing a captain a few days before the commencement of a new season will unsettle anyone. Despite the setbacks and a very disgraceful start to the current season, he is still 4th in the EPL standings ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool who spent at least 150 million pounds between them in the off-season.
I am not exonerating ARSENE of any of the fans' accusations..All am saying is that he should be given a chance to turn things around. It is common knowledge that he is the most successful manager in Arsenal's history. That alone should buy him some time and earn him the RESPECT he deserves.
The OX as Alex Chamberlain is fondly called, has come to the fore in recent games...playing probably the best football of his career to date. That is a good sign. RVP has also been the best EPL player this season with 22 goals and a handful of assists, the result of a WORLD CLASS showing in the last year or so. His contributions have been astonishingly brilliant. All these and more will be required on Sunday when the gunners host fierce rivals and high flying Spurs at the Emirates in an attempt to get their season back on track
Ohsi Eboreime
ff me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
RAFA V ROGER...A TALE OF TWO OF THE G.O.A.T
Does any tennis match these days come any bigger than ROGER V RAFA? Absolutely NONE...at least for now.
The 2012 Australian Open with the sobriquet OZ has provided tennis fans worldwide with a great opportunity to marvel at yet another feisty duel between TWO of the best players in the history of tennis. With 26 grand slams (GS) and more than a 100 titles between them, Nadal and Federer have paid their dues in no small measure and will see this as a chance to add to their burgeoning resumes.
They are normally used to meeting in title matches. However, the devastating form of Novak Djokovic last year has ensured that this time they meet in the final before the final (SF) for the 1st time since 2005 when an unknown, unheralded 19 year old Nadal stunned the Swiss master in the semis of Roland Garros. The Spanish Matador went on to win his 1st GS title (d.Puerta) and since then has not looked back.
Federer for all his achievements hasn't fared well against Nadal. His record of 17 losses in 26 meetings v the Spanish power house represents his worst among any player on the ATP tour. Even Sampras and Agassi weren't half as dominant v the great Swiss. He has also lost 7 times in 9 GS meetings V Rafa, including 6 finals (1 Wimbledon, 4 French, 1 Aussie Open). He will aim to change all that when they meet at the Rod Laver Arena on Thursday.
The last time they met here was 3 years ago when King Roger was aiming to become only the 2nd man to win 14 slams after Pistol Pete. That was not to be as Nadal put paid to his ambitions in 5 gruelling and nerve wracking sets, thus winning his 6th slam at Fed-xpresss' expense. It was HARD TO TAKE for the then World no 2 who burst into uncontrollable tears right in front of greats like Laver himself. He would go on to equal Samp at Roland Garros and eclipse him at Wimbledon in that same year, but the next chance to further increase his title haul at Flushing Meadows (US OPEN) was thwarted by Argentina's Juan Martin Del Potro (JMDP) who he beat soundly to set up this 2012 SF clash with old foe, NADAL. Roger went on to cement his place as possibly the greatest player of all time with a 16th GS title on the same court he fell short of the 14th. This time he made no mistake, destroying Andy Murray in straight sets. Although we could argue that the match was closer than what the scoreline read.
Federer has had an almost perfect ride at this year's OZ and he is riding on a 25 match winning streak which will give him all the confidence he requires to tame the BEAST in RAFAEL NADAL. Rafa on his part, hasn't been too far behind, only losing one set to Berdych in the QF on the way to this eagerly awaited clash.
It promises to me another SPELL-BINDING AND GRIPPING BATTLE between the most familiar FOES in Tennis these days.
Ohis Eboreime
follow me on twitter @ohiskaka1990
EL CLASICO NOW EL PEP-ICO????
El Grande Clasico, one of the most watched and anticipated match ups in World football has become shamefully one sided. Jose Mourinho, the Real Madrid tactical mind has done his best to make it a balanced affair, but all to no avail. The duel now shifts base to the Nou Camp for the 2ND time and the 5th meeting overall this season (3 at the Bernabeu)
Pep Guardiola has totally dominated meetings between both clubs (Barcelona and Real Madrid) and it is a situation that has not gone down well with the Madridistas (supporters of the capital club). The famous Santiago Bernabeu which was once a fortress has become more or less a playground for the 41 year old former Catalan midfield pearl. Last week AGAIN saw another victory for Barca and there is no looking beyond them later today.
Just like last week which was Guardiola's 41st birthday, today Xavi Hernandez, the architect of the Barca masterpiece turns 32. Though a late developer, he has risen to become the most feared and revered central midfielder in World football and he is the major reason why the Blaugrana have become so INVISIBLE in the last 3 or 4 years.
Never has Jose been so incensed by happenings such as this one. This daunting task is one he hasn't YET asserted his magical tactical ingenuity. It is widely believed that his Meregues are the best squad of players in World football, but the giants of Catalunya easily possess the BEST STARTING 11 on the PLANET. This is the biggest challenge. Even with the long term absences of Villa and Afellay, and also the non-participation of Pedro, the team has waxed stronger and stronger especially with the inclusions of Fabregas and Chile's Alexis Sanchez.
Last week's encounter was emmeshed in controversy as matches between them usually turn out these days. Kepler Lima aka Pepe was adjudged to have deliberately stood on the hand of Lionel Messi. This was condemned in its entirely by notable names in football such as former Barcelona chief, Joan Gaspart, former player and manager Carles Rexach, (who has advised the Portuguese not to feature in today's affair to avoid receiving the treatment meted out to former Barca and Portugal captain-Luis Figo 9 years ago), Man Utd's Wayne Rooney, etc. Pepe has become public enemy number 1 in Catalunya and therefore will be massively jeered and scorned if he shows face.
It was an embarrassing enough situation for RM to take, not until we heard the worst that there was unrest in the squad prior to the league clash v Bilbao on Sunday, coupled with training ground bust ups involving the outspoken Mourinho, Captain Iker Casillas and his vice, Sergio Ramos. Rumours have it that it was San Iker who leaked the whole debacle to the popular Madrid based newspaper-Marca. All that has seemingly been put to bed by the coach and the players who dismissed suggestions that there were factions containing Spanish and Portuguese players in the squad and all other unprintable bruhaha. Some sections of the home crowd were also heard booing 'the special one' during the Sunday league game. People like Arbeloa and Ramos vowed to stand by the coach till death and underlined their ambitions to see the season to a successful climax. Mou also added that he was unperturbed by the jeers of the crowd as greater men had experienced such cacophony. Nothing less was expected.
Attention now shifts to the all important 2nd leg between both clubs and RM have it all to do if they are to overturn a 1-2 deficit. Mourinho has tried several defensive formations, all have proved abortive. He is not known for dwelling on one result and must go all out to attempt to wrest some dominance from Barcelona. In order to achieve the desired result, He must start with either OZIL OR KAKA, or the both of them. With the absence of the skillful and very intelligent Di Maria, Ozil can make the difference, while everyone knows what to expect from Ricky Kaka on his day.
I cannot possibly decide for Mourinho (who turns 49 tomorrow) on who to start and who not to, but considering the circumstances and importance of this encounter, I do not think PEPE or Benzema should be in the Starting 11. Benz is a better player than Pipita Higuain, but the Argentine is a smarter predator and his instinctiveness is going to be a vital contribution if RM harbour any intentions of qualifying for the next stage of the CDR (Copa Del Rey).
Unusually, the build up to today's fixture has been rather low key. Perhaps, everyone is fed up of accepting the same result over and over again. For the CLASICO to gain more respect, Jose and RM have to make a GAME of it and not just always submit to the SUPERPOWERS of Barcelona. Nevertheless, a duel of this significance always attracts millions of viewers and tonight will be no exception.
GOODLUCK REAL MADRID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Written by:
Ohireime P.Eboreime e.mail-ohebors@yahoo.com
follow me on twitter @ohiskaka1990
Pep Guardiola has totally dominated meetings between both clubs (Barcelona and Real Madrid) and it is a situation that has not gone down well with the Madridistas (supporters of the capital club). The famous Santiago Bernabeu which was once a fortress has become more or less a playground for the 41 year old former Catalan midfield pearl. Last week AGAIN saw another victory for Barca and there is no looking beyond them later today.
Just like last week which was Guardiola's 41st birthday, today Xavi Hernandez, the architect of the Barca masterpiece turns 32. Though a late developer, he has risen to become the most feared and revered central midfielder in World football and he is the major reason why the Blaugrana have become so INVISIBLE in the last 3 or 4 years.
Never has Jose been so incensed by happenings such as this one. This daunting task is one he hasn't YET asserted his magical tactical ingenuity. It is widely believed that his Meregues are the best squad of players in World football, but the giants of Catalunya easily possess the BEST STARTING 11 on the PLANET. This is the biggest challenge. Even with the long term absences of Villa and Afellay, and also the non-participation of Pedro, the team has waxed stronger and stronger especially with the inclusions of Fabregas and Chile's Alexis Sanchez.
Last week's encounter was emmeshed in controversy as matches between them usually turn out these days. Kepler Lima aka Pepe was adjudged to have deliberately stood on the hand of Lionel Messi. This was condemned in its entirely by notable names in football such as former Barcelona chief, Joan Gaspart, former player and manager Carles Rexach, (who has advised the Portuguese not to feature in today's affair to avoid receiving the treatment meted out to former Barca and Portugal captain-Luis Figo 9 years ago), Man Utd's Wayne Rooney, etc. Pepe has become public enemy number 1 in Catalunya and therefore will be massively jeered and scorned if he shows face.
It was an embarrassing enough situation for RM to take, not until we heard the worst that there was unrest in the squad prior to the league clash v Bilbao on Sunday, coupled with training ground bust ups involving the outspoken Mourinho, Captain Iker Casillas and his vice, Sergio Ramos. Rumours have it that it was San Iker who leaked the whole debacle to the popular Madrid based newspaper-Marca. All that has seemingly been put to bed by the coach and the players who dismissed suggestions that there were factions containing Spanish and Portuguese players in the squad and all other unprintable bruhaha. Some sections of the home crowd were also heard booing 'the special one' during the Sunday league game. People like Arbeloa and Ramos vowed to stand by the coach till death and underlined their ambitions to see the season to a successful climax. Mou also added that he was unperturbed by the jeers of the crowd as greater men had experienced such cacophony. Nothing less was expected.
Attention now shifts to the all important 2nd leg between both clubs and RM have it all to do if they are to overturn a 1-2 deficit. Mourinho has tried several defensive formations, all have proved abortive. He is not known for dwelling on one result and must go all out to attempt to wrest some dominance from Barcelona. In order to achieve the desired result, He must start with either OZIL OR KAKA, or the both of them. With the absence of the skillful and very intelligent Di Maria, Ozil can make the difference, while everyone knows what to expect from Ricky Kaka on his day.
I cannot possibly decide for Mourinho (who turns 49 tomorrow) on who to start and who not to, but considering the circumstances and importance of this encounter, I do not think PEPE or Benzema should be in the Starting 11. Benz is a better player than Pipita Higuain, but the Argentine is a smarter predator and his instinctiveness is going to be a vital contribution if RM harbour any intentions of qualifying for the next stage of the CDR (Copa Del Rey).
Unusually, the build up to today's fixture has been rather low key. Perhaps, everyone is fed up of accepting the same result over and over again. For the CLASICO to gain more respect, Jose and RM have to make a GAME of it and not just always submit to the SUPERPOWERS of Barcelona. Nevertheless, a duel of this significance always attracts millions of viewers and tonight will be no exception.
GOODLUCK REAL MADRID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Written by:
Ohireime P.Eboreime e.mail-ohebors@yahoo.com
follow me on twitter @ohiskaka1990
Tuesday, 17 January 2012
EL CLASICO: CHAPTER 4 ALREADY?????
There are not many FOOTBALL duels bigger than the ones involving REAL MADRID (RM) & BARCELONA (Barca) and isn't it FANTASTIC that we have another barely one month after the last one?? I disagree totally with San Iker (Iker Casillas) that the EL CLASICO is fast losing its shine because of the frequency of meetings. Perhaps, he is afraid of being destroyed again by Pep Guardiola's men. Who wouldn't?
It is not that it is pre-planned or fixed. Oh! far from it. Even the most pessimistic football fan cannot agree less that when Jose 'the special one' Mourinho arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu, he would most certainly challenge Barcelona on all fronts and he hasn't done badly in that regard. Although most will argue that since he became coach of the Merengues (Real Madrid), he has only won 1 out of a possible 8 games v Barcelona, drawing 3 and losing the rest. That is not something to write home about for a manager of his calibre and very impressive coaching stats.He has another chance to put things right when he faces the Catalans later today in the 1st leg of the CDR-Copa Del Rey at the Bernabeu.
The sanctuary of Real Madrid has become a playground for Guardiola and Barcelona in recent years, something that hasn't gone down well with followers of the Capital club. Since 2008, Guardiola has won every match (including the 6-2 bashing in 09-10) at the Bernabeu (except 2-this season's 1st leg SPANISH SUPER CUP tie, and the league game last season which ended in 2-2, and 1-1 draws respectively) and he will be very confident of coming away with YET another victory tonight especially on the occasion of his 41st birthday which coincidentally is on this day. The former Blaugrana midfielder has carved a niche for himself as the best manager in the World unarguably, but even by his lofty standards, he would be well aware that Mourinho is not far off and therefore wouldn't rest on his laurels. In Messi (13 goals in CLASICO meetings), Barcelona have in their armoury, a 3 time FIFA-BALON D'OR winner and certainly the best footballer in the WORLD today. He has managed a staggering 33 goals this season and we are only in January. He trails another goal machine and persistent rival, Cristiano Ronaldo in the race for the PICHICHI (Highest goal scorer award in LA LIGA), but this is a different scenario entirely. But you ask yourself, what situation does Messi find difficult to control???none that I can remember in a Barcelona apparel since Pep took over. Ably supported by Messrs' Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Fabregas, Busquets, Pique, Puyol, Mascherano, Dani Alves, Alexis Sanchez,etc... there is no looking past them to qualify to the semi-finals on the basis of the team sheet and previous results.
It is not often anyways that Jose Mourinho's teams go into games as UNDERDOGS...But this is one of the few or maybe the only sort of game that it occurs. Mou has tried a few formations in the past to stop Barca. Both Positive and Negative, all have proved exercises in FUTILITY. Kepler Laveran Lima Ferreira aka Pepe has been deployed to man mark Messi..(something that only Esteban Cambiasso has done effectively), yet it has failed, not because Pepe didn't put in his best performance, but simply as a result of the little Argie's immense capabilities on the ball. Jose will be aiming to use a different strategy this time, after the one he employed in December yielded no fruitful outcome. He will take some positives from the League game last month nevertheless. His boys played a very good match for 45 minutes or thereabout until they collapsed immediately after Marcelo's freak own goal. Players like Xabi Alonso, Kaka, Ozil, Di Maria, Higuain, Benzema and Lassana Diarra must put in their best shifts today. Alonso most especially must hold the game by the scruff of the neck and do well to dictate proceedings from the middle of the pack. Easier said than done, but there is no harm trying. Ronaldo has to also put on his scoring boots and contribute more all round as he mostly suffers from stage fright when he faces Barca. With only 1 outfield goal (the extra time winner in last year's CDR final) against the men from Catalunya, it hasn't been one of his favourite games obviously. Mourinho can try all he can to defend the Portuguese Magician and the World's most COMPLETE footballer...however, the only way he can bury his demons is to stand up and be counted tomorrow and that he MUST do for RM to have any chance whatsoever of taking a good lead into the 2ND LEG a week from today at the NOU CAMP.
Ohis Eboreime
follow me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990
It is not that it is pre-planned or fixed. Oh! far from it. Even the most pessimistic football fan cannot agree less that when Jose 'the special one' Mourinho arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu, he would most certainly challenge Barcelona on all fronts and he hasn't done badly in that regard. Although most will argue that since he became coach of the Merengues (Real Madrid), he has only won 1 out of a possible 8 games v Barcelona, drawing 3 and losing the rest. That is not something to write home about for a manager of his calibre and very impressive coaching stats.He has another chance to put things right when he faces the Catalans later today in the 1st leg of the CDR-Copa Del Rey at the Bernabeu.
The sanctuary of Real Madrid has become a playground for Guardiola and Barcelona in recent years, something that hasn't gone down well with followers of the Capital club. Since 2008, Guardiola has won every match (including the 6-2 bashing in 09-10) at the Bernabeu (except 2-this season's 1st leg SPANISH SUPER CUP tie, and the league game last season which ended in 2-2, and 1-1 draws respectively) and he will be very confident of coming away with YET another victory tonight especially on the occasion of his 41st birthday which coincidentally is on this day. The former Blaugrana midfielder has carved a niche for himself as the best manager in the World unarguably, but even by his lofty standards, he would be well aware that Mourinho is not far off and therefore wouldn't rest on his laurels. In Messi (13 goals in CLASICO meetings), Barcelona have in their armoury, a 3 time FIFA-BALON D'OR winner and certainly the best footballer in the WORLD today. He has managed a staggering 33 goals this season and we are only in January. He trails another goal machine and persistent rival, Cristiano Ronaldo in the race for the PICHICHI (Highest goal scorer award in LA LIGA), but this is a different scenario entirely. But you ask yourself, what situation does Messi find difficult to control???none that I can remember in a Barcelona apparel since Pep took over. Ably supported by Messrs' Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Fabregas, Busquets, Pique, Puyol, Mascherano, Dani Alves, Alexis Sanchez,etc... there is no looking past them to qualify to the semi-finals on the basis of the team sheet and previous results.
It is not often anyways that Jose Mourinho's teams go into games as UNDERDOGS...But this is one of the few or maybe the only sort of game that it occurs. Mou has tried a few formations in the past to stop Barca. Both Positive and Negative, all have proved exercises in FUTILITY. Kepler Laveran Lima Ferreira aka Pepe has been deployed to man mark Messi..(something that only Esteban Cambiasso has done effectively), yet it has failed, not because Pepe didn't put in his best performance, but simply as a result of the little Argie's immense capabilities on the ball. Jose will be aiming to use a different strategy this time, after the one he employed in December yielded no fruitful outcome. He will take some positives from the League game last month nevertheless. His boys played a very good match for 45 minutes or thereabout until they collapsed immediately after Marcelo's freak own goal. Players like Xabi Alonso, Kaka, Ozil, Di Maria, Higuain, Benzema and Lassana Diarra must put in their best shifts today. Alonso most especially must hold the game by the scruff of the neck and do well to dictate proceedings from the middle of the pack. Easier said than done, but there is no harm trying. Ronaldo has to also put on his scoring boots and contribute more all round as he mostly suffers from stage fright when he faces Barca. With only 1 outfield goal (the extra time winner in last year's CDR final) against the men from Catalunya, it hasn't been one of his favourite games obviously. Mourinho can try all he can to defend the Portuguese Magician and the World's most COMPLETE footballer...however, the only way he can bury his demons is to stand up and be counted tomorrow and that he MUST do for RM to have any chance whatsoever of taking a good lead into the 2ND LEG a week from today at the NOU CAMP.
Ohis Eboreime
follow me on Twitter @ohiskaka1990
LONDON V MANCHESTER:Episode 2. SUPER SUNDAY CLASSIC
Who would have thought that the 11-12 EPL season will be packed with so much enthralling and exciting events? A friend of mine calls it the 'STUFF OF DREAMS'. 2 or 3 years ago, no one would have called a match involving Tottenham and Manchester City a big game, but all that has changed.
The on-going battle between London (ARSENAL & SPURS) and Manchester (UNITED AND CITY) is a fierce one. I am not by any means taking Chelsea out of the equation, but sadly they do not play on SUPER SUNDAY, hence the unintentional omission. Earlier on in the season, MANCHESTER dominated the meetings against London clubs, with United annihilating Arsenal 8-2 at the Theatre of Dreams (OLD TRAFFORD) and City destroying Spurs 5-1 at White Hart Lane. Despite the fact that both London clubs have remarkably come to the fore after the embarrassing defeats, revenge will not be far from the minds of the players when they trader tackles on Sunday, the 22ND of January.
Since the disappointments suffered by WENGER AND REDKNAPP, they have completely transformed their respective teams from strugglers to serious contenders for the Premier League trophy, the latter being the more astonishing. Spurs have experienced a renaissance since their early season capitulations (refer to my article on the 'lilywhites' on OPOSTS) and sit just 5 points behind leaders Manchester City whom they face at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Arsenal on the other hand, are a little bit far off in 5th, but deserve eulogies for their amazing turnaround in fortunes which saw them defeat Chelsea at the Bridge and pull off some magnificent results along the way. Although they are an almost unassailable 15 points behind leaders City, they would fancy a shot at the title they haven't won for 8 years now (since 2004) and what better way to do it, than to see off arch-rivals Manchester United and consequently inflict more harm on the red army's title aspirations. This is more of a 6 pointer for ARSENAL AND SPURS than for their Manchester counterparts, because anything other than an outright victory against the big two spells danger for any title ambitions they are nurturing.
Spurs go into their crunch tie v City in good form. Bar the recent draw v Wolves, they have done really well in previous games against West Brom and Everton (although the former was a below-par performance, but they still came out victorious) and will fancy their chances of stealing at least a point from the surprise pace setters. City on the other hand, have suffered a dip in form in recent weeks, no thanks to the absence of Midfield fulcrum, driver and director----YAYA TOURE (who is off to the African Cup of Nations), his elder brother, Kolo, and Vincent and Captain, Leader and defensive rock, Vincent Kompany (who was deservedly sent off in the FA CUP defeat v neighbours, MAN UTD). Mancini's wards have been dumped out of the FA CUP by Biggest headache-MUFC, lost the 1st leg of the Carling Cup at home to Liverpool, amongst others. Although they got back to winning ways on Monday at the DW stadium v Wigan, it wasn't a vintage City performance....certainly not one they would be proud of , but that's what makes the difference when awards are handed out and Titles are hoisted at the end of the season. Kompany and the Toure brothers will sit this one out too, but the Etihad landlords will be buoyed by the fact that the effulgent David Silva, arguably the best EPL player this season, is available for selection. The nimble and quick-witted Spanish PARAGON has the rare ability to decide a match on his own and his contributions will be telling on Sunday. Spurs also bring some terrific footballers to the Etihad on Sunday. Luka Modric (tired of paying tributes to his immense talents), Scott Parker, Rafa Van Der Vaart, Aaaron Lennon, Gareth Bale, Emma Adebayor all have the quality the swing any match in their favour. The return of Michael Dawson also provides the much needed boost in defense, although the last time he played against City, it was a whitewash.
Arsenal's Robin Van Persie is head and shoulders above any other striker in EUROPE at the MOMENT (Mario Gomez, Di Natale, Ibrahimovic, El Matador Cavani & KJ Huntelaar inclusive + Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are not strikers in my opinion) and he has the records to show for his invaluable contributions to the Arsenal cause in the last 365 days or thereabouts. He has been almost IMPECCABLE. 22 goals this season (18 in the EPL) and a handful of assists goes a long way to buttress his exceptional and meteoric rise to the EXCLUSIVE LEAGUE of the World's most gifted footballers. He is certainly the danger man on Sunday when they come face to face with a Manchester United team that haven't hit top gear yet, despite victories in their last 2 games. The Gunners will look to put behind back to back successive away defeats to Fulham and Swansea when the Red Devils come calling.
Prior to the FA cup tie involving both Manchester Clubs, Fergie again pulled one of the surprises of the Century, unleashing PAUL 'THE GINGER MAESTRO' Scholes. The 2nd coming of a man Zizou described as one of the best footballers of his generation, came as a huge shock to everyone that follows the beautiful game. Noel Gallagher, former MCFC player exclaimed that it was 'LAUGHABLE' seeing Scholsy return to active soccer. However, greatness is in-born, and everlasting....as if he needed to prove the likes of Noel wrong, he opened the floodgates at OLD TRAFFORDMUFC goal and 1st on his 2nd coming. That has kept a lot of doubters and cynics quiet at least for the time being. Arsenal had earlier on , completed the loan signing of a certain Thierry Henry, who in my view is the best footballer ever to star in the English top flight. The french god came back to a surrounding in which he had etched his great name in the sands of time. 226 phenomenal goals don't come everyday for a footballer. He is so revered in North London that after only 8 meritorious years of service, he has a statue erected in his honour...WELL DESERVED. He followed the laid down script by coming on 2 Mondays ago, and scoring his 227th goal and 1st on his 2nd coming to take the gooners to the 4th round of the FA CUP at the expense of a Leeds team who gave their all, until the KING OF HIGHBURY came along to render their efforts irrelevant. He was in a wee bit of trouble after the Swansea game....He allegedly had an altercation with a fan...but that has since been swept under the carpet. Why not????It is the LEGENDARY TITI and am in full support of it. Rio Ferdinand has been all over the news ranting and shouting to whoever has ears, that he is chuffed at the return of both Scholsy and Henry who he described as 2 of the 5 players he rates as his all time best campaigners in EPL HISTORY. He will have to be at the very top of his game to stop not only RVP, but the MASTER GOALSCORER HIMSELF (HENRY).
Manchester United of course always possess the best footballers money can buy. In Wayne Rooney, they have in their ranks, the best striker of 2011 (according to FIFA) and on his day, he is UNPLAYABLE. An inconsistent goalscorer, YES....BUT he remains United's arrowhead, leader and most important player. If SAF and his soldiers harbour any hopes of taking anything away from the Emirates after 90 minutes, then WAZZA (Rooney's nickname) must bring his A game.United have other players who can decide the game. Players like Antonio Valencia, Old war horse Giggs, Nani (when he is well), and Michael Carrick all have it in them to ensure victory for the red devils.
Whatever happens at the end of the day, the games (if not marred by annoying decisions of the officials) promise to be really INTENSE AND CAPTIVATING.
Ohireime Eboreime
follow me on twitter @ohiskaka1990
The on-going battle between London (ARSENAL & SPURS) and Manchester (UNITED AND CITY) is a fierce one. I am not by any means taking Chelsea out of the equation, but sadly they do not play on SUPER SUNDAY, hence the unintentional omission. Earlier on in the season, MANCHESTER dominated the meetings against London clubs, with United annihilating Arsenal 8-2 at the Theatre of Dreams (OLD TRAFFORD) and City destroying Spurs 5-1 at White Hart Lane. Despite the fact that both London clubs have remarkably come to the fore after the embarrassing defeats, revenge will not be far from the minds of the players when they trader tackles on Sunday, the 22ND of January.
Since the disappointments suffered by WENGER AND REDKNAPP, they have completely transformed their respective teams from strugglers to serious contenders for the Premier League trophy, the latter being the more astonishing. Spurs have experienced a renaissance since their early season capitulations (refer to my article on the 'lilywhites' on OPOSTS) and sit just 5 points behind leaders Manchester City whom they face at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Arsenal on the other hand, are a little bit far off in 5th, but deserve eulogies for their amazing turnaround in fortunes which saw them defeat Chelsea at the Bridge and pull off some magnificent results along the way. Although they are an almost unassailable 15 points behind leaders City, they would fancy a shot at the title they haven't won for 8 years now (since 2004) and what better way to do it, than to see off arch-rivals Manchester United and consequently inflict more harm on the red army's title aspirations. This is more of a 6 pointer for ARSENAL AND SPURS than for their Manchester counterparts, because anything other than an outright victory against the big two spells danger for any title ambitions they are nurturing.
Spurs go into their crunch tie v City in good form. Bar the recent draw v Wolves, they have done really well in previous games against West Brom and Everton (although the former was a below-par performance, but they still came out victorious) and will fancy their chances of stealing at least a point from the surprise pace setters. City on the other hand, have suffered a dip in form in recent weeks, no thanks to the absence of Midfield fulcrum, driver and director----YAYA TOURE (who is off to the African Cup of Nations), his elder brother, Kolo, and Vincent and Captain, Leader and defensive rock, Vincent Kompany (who was deservedly sent off in the FA CUP defeat v neighbours, MAN UTD). Mancini's wards have been dumped out of the FA CUP by Biggest headache-MUFC, lost the 1st leg of the Carling Cup at home to Liverpool, amongst others. Although they got back to winning ways on Monday at the DW stadium v Wigan, it wasn't a vintage City performance....certainly not one they would be proud of , but that's what makes the difference when awards are handed out and Titles are hoisted at the end of the season. Kompany and the Toure brothers will sit this one out too, but the Etihad landlords will be buoyed by the fact that the effulgent David Silva, arguably the best EPL player this season, is available for selection. The nimble and quick-witted Spanish PARAGON has the rare ability to decide a match on his own and his contributions will be telling on Sunday. Spurs also bring some terrific footballers to the Etihad on Sunday. Luka Modric (tired of paying tributes to his immense talents), Scott Parker, Rafa Van Der Vaart, Aaaron Lennon, Gareth Bale, Emma Adebayor all have the quality the swing any match in their favour. The return of Michael Dawson also provides the much needed boost in defense, although the last time he played against City, it was a whitewash.
Arsenal's Robin Van Persie is head and shoulders above any other striker in EUROPE at the MOMENT (Mario Gomez, Di Natale, Ibrahimovic, El Matador Cavani & KJ Huntelaar inclusive + Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are not strikers in my opinion) and he has the records to show for his invaluable contributions to the Arsenal cause in the last 365 days or thereabouts. He has been almost IMPECCABLE. 22 goals this season (18 in the EPL) and a handful of assists goes a long way to buttress his exceptional and meteoric rise to the EXCLUSIVE LEAGUE of the World's most gifted footballers. He is certainly the danger man on Sunday when they come face to face with a Manchester United team that haven't hit top gear yet, despite victories in their last 2 games. The Gunners will look to put behind back to back successive away defeats to Fulham and Swansea when the Red Devils come calling.
Prior to the FA cup tie involving both Manchester Clubs, Fergie again pulled one of the surprises of the Century, unleashing PAUL 'THE GINGER MAESTRO' Scholes. The 2nd coming of a man Zizou described as one of the best footballers of his generation, came as a huge shock to everyone that follows the beautiful game. Noel Gallagher, former MCFC player exclaimed that it was 'LAUGHABLE' seeing Scholsy return to active soccer. However, greatness is in-born, and everlasting....as if he needed to prove the likes of Noel wrong, he opened the floodgates at OLD TRAFFORDMUFC goal and 1st on his 2nd coming. That has kept a lot of doubters and cynics quiet at least for the time being. Arsenal had earlier on , completed the loan signing of a certain Thierry Henry, who in my view is the best footballer ever to star in the English top flight. The french god came back to a surrounding in which he had etched his great name in the sands of time. 226 phenomenal goals don't come everyday for a footballer. He is so revered in North London that after only 8 meritorious years of service, he has a statue erected in his honour...WELL DESERVED. He followed the laid down script by coming on 2 Mondays ago, and scoring his 227th goal and 1st on his 2nd coming to take the gooners to the 4th round of the FA CUP at the expense of a Leeds team who gave their all, until the KING OF HIGHBURY came along to render their efforts irrelevant. He was in a wee bit of trouble after the Swansea game....He allegedly had an altercation with a fan...but that has since been swept under the carpet. Why not????It is the LEGENDARY TITI and am in full support of it. Rio Ferdinand has been all over the news ranting and shouting to whoever has ears, that he is chuffed at the return of both Scholsy and Henry who he described as 2 of the 5 players he rates as his all time best campaigners in EPL HISTORY. He will have to be at the very top of his game to stop not only RVP, but the MASTER GOALSCORER HIMSELF (HENRY).
Manchester United of course always possess the best footballers money can buy. In Wayne Rooney, they have in their ranks, the best striker of 2011 (according to FIFA) and on his day, he is UNPLAYABLE. An inconsistent goalscorer, YES....BUT he remains United's arrowhead, leader and most important player. If SAF and his soldiers harbour any hopes of taking anything away from the Emirates after 90 minutes, then WAZZA (Rooney's nickname) must bring his A game.United have other players who can decide the game. Players like Antonio Valencia, Old war horse Giggs, Nani (when he is well), and Michael Carrick all have it in them to ensure victory for the red devils.
Whatever happens at the end of the day, the games (if not marred by annoying decisions of the officials) promise to be really INTENSE AND CAPTIVATING.
Ohireime Eboreime
follow me on twitter @ohiskaka1990
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