View Full Version : England are fucked
afeencalleddan
27-05-2006, 12:19 PM
http://home.skysports.com/worldcup/article.asp?hlid=390 311&CPID=4&clid=114&lid=4161&title=Thoughtful+Sve n+knows+starting+XI
Sven Goran Eriksson has confirmed he already knows his starting XI for England's opening World Cup game.
The Swede has revealed little, but did admit that Aaron Lennon would not be in it - despite his Man of the Match display against Belarus on Thursday.
Eriksson says his best team will start England's next two friendlies against Hungary and Jamaica.
"If everyone is fit for the first game in the World Cup (http://home.skysports.com/worldcup/article.asp?hlid=390 311&CPID=4&clid=114&lid=4161&title=Thoughtful+Sve n+knows+starting+XI# ), I know my team," he said.
"Lennon might not start but he can be on the bench and then it depends on how the game goes. I think he will be very useful in the World Cup.
"I didn't gamble with him. I saw him a lot for Tottenham and every game he did very well.
"It was a difficult decision to prefer him to Shaun Wright-Phillips but Lennon deserves to be there on form.
"The intention is to start with the best team in both friendlies against Hungary and Jamaica.
"But if someone is tired or has a small injury, we will not risk that player.
"We will start the competition in a 4-4-2. At the moment, my midfield is built with Joe Cole on the left, Gerrard and Lampard in the centre and Beckham on the right.
"Then we will see match after match. That is why I have tried 4-1-3-2 in the past. Unfortunately we don't have any English Makelele."
Eriksson remains hugely confident ahead of the World Cup finals.
"We have to achieve a better result than in the 2002 World Cup," he told L'Equipe.
"I am at the top of the ski-jump, and I dream to land in final at Berlin on July 9!
"Today's team is stronger than four years ago, with more experience. Each day it is a little more mine. I have modelled it all along the five and a half years I have spent here.
"This country deserves to experience again the ultimate emotion."
Eriksson insists the English passion for the game is second to none in the world.
"At the weekend I go to the stadiums and I look at the fervour around the game - this is unique," he added.
"People are here one hour before kick-off in the rain, wind and cold, talking about football, singing, while it is freezing. That is incredible! That is England!
"The press can write what they want about me, I don't care! They won't change at all what I am.
"Most of the people here don't care about what is said or written about me.
"They read the newspapers and throw it in the basket, and forget it as quickly as they read it.
"What is sad in this country is they mix football business and private life. That is something I will never understand.
"I have loved each day I have spent at the helm of England team … except when we were defeated in Northern Ireland 1-0. It was the worst night of my life here.
Eriksson is already being linked with a host of jobs - the latest being South Africa.
"Whatever my destiny might be, it will not affect my approach of the World Cup," he insisted.
"We have a real opportunity to win it! I have the same dream as my players and the fans - win.
"The only certainty is my desire to stay in football after the job, as a manager either with a club or a national team, I am open. "But whatever the next job I will accept, it will be easier than now. Except one job: Brazilian coach, but that seems quite unrealistic."
ho chi feen
29-05-2006, 11:29 PM
yup
afeencalleddan
30-05-2006, 05:26 PM
Tonight he's picking Carragher in front of Terry and Ferdinand. If he's going down that road surely it should be Ferdinand in the midfield role with Carragher alongside Terry. Then you have Owen up front on his own. I can't see Owen fitting comfortably into this role (the guy can't possibly be match fit, how can Sven expect him to play up on his own?). He should have brought Defoe (even though I'm not a big fan of his) purely because he is fit, has a bit of pace and can finish.
A week before the big games start and he's still "experimenting". The guy is utterly clueless.
Rebelred
30-05-2006, 05:32 PM
I fancy england to make the semis.I'll be in liverpool for the day of their first match,should be good laugh,I fully intend shouting for Svens Boys
A week before the big games start and he's still "experimenting". The guy is utterly clueless.
yep. completely. I wouldn't put it past paraguay to beat them in the first match.
afeencalleddan
30-05-2006, 05:36 PM
I fancy england to make the semis.I'll be in liverpool for the day of their first match,should be good laugh,I fully intend shouting for Svens BoysI can't see them getting past the quarters unless something ridiculous happens and Eriksson stumbles across his actual strongest team.
afeencalleddan
30-05-2006, 05:37 PM
yep. completely. I wouldn't put it past paraguay to beat them in the first match.I tipped a draw in this game a couple of weeks ago but Santa Cruz is out. Still, Paraguay are always tough nuts in the World cup.
I tipped a draw in this game a couple of weeks ago but Santa Cruz is out. Still, Paraguay are always tough nuts in the World cup.
5-1 to win and 12-5 the draw
might stick a fiver on them.
Langer Dan
30-05-2006, 05:48 PM
earra they were pitiful the other night against Belarus, theyl do well to make the quarters without Rooney.
afeencalleddan
30-05-2006, 05:55 PM
earra they were pitiful the other night against Belarus, theyl do well to make the quarters without Rooney.I don't think Rooney's absence makes too much of a difference. The wrong team would have been picked anyway. With Rooney there he probably would have stuck with Beckham, Gerrard, Lampard and Cole in midfield - another recipe for disaster.
Langer Dan
30-05-2006, 05:57 PM
I don't think Rooney's absence makes too much of a difference. The wrong team would have been picked anyway. With Rooney there he probably would have stuck with Beckham, Gerrard, Lampard and Cole in midfield - another recipe for disaster.
theyd have had some chance with what hes capable of against top sides, but jesus, Peter Crouch gunning england to World Cup glory?
They're dreaming.
I don't think Rooney's absence makes too much of a difference. The wrong team would have been picked anyway. With Rooney there he probably would have stuck with Beckham, Gerrard, Lampard and Cole in midfield - another recipe for disaster.
Exactly. But Rooney would have been capable of carrying them to the semis.
Without him I doubt they'll get past the second round. Who do they play in the second round actually??
afeencalleddan
30-05-2006, 06:05 PM
Exactly. But Rooney would have been capable of carrying them to the semis.I don't think so. With that midfield, England would give away an awful lot of possession against any sort of decent team just like they did in the Euros 2 years ago and Rooney wouldn't see enough of the ball.
Without him I doubt they'll get past the second round. Who do they play in the second round actually?? Germany/Poland/Ecuador/Costa Rica
I don't think so. With that midfield, England would give away an awful lot of possession against any sort of decent team just like they did in the Euros 2 years ago and Rooney wouldn't see enough of the ball.
Germany/Poland/Ecuador/Costa Rica
hmmm, could be an interesting game against germany if England finish second(which I think they might).
dotty
30-05-2006, 09:00 PM
theres talk carragher will be deployed as a holding midfielder against hungary - sounds like sven has a plan z at least!
ho chi feen
30-05-2006, 10:11 PM
theres talk carragher will be deployed as a holding midfielder against hungary - sounds like sven has a plan z at least!
Idiocy. It's the right formation, but the wrong personnel. Carragher's no more suited to that kind of role than I am Edgard Allen Poe. But that's Sven all out for ya...
Idiocy. It's the right formation, but the wrong personnel. Carragher's no more suited to that kind of role than I am Edgard Allen Poe. But that's Sven all out for ya...
Especially when Carrick is sitting on the bench. Its lunacy. LUNACY!!!!!!!
ho chi feen
31-05-2006, 11:26 AM
Especially when Carrick is sitting on the bench. Its lunacy. LUNACY!!!!!!!
Yeah, and what was his solution? Bring on Hargreaves. FFS.
As an aside, they have a column in The Obsever sports where readers can pose a question, and other readers send reponses (The Sunday Times have had a similar column for years) to answer all those odd and awkward, settle-a-bet type questions. They all get answered sooner or later, usually sooner.
A few months back, somebody wrote 'What is the point of Owen Hargreaves?'.
Two weeks later, in the same column: "The question 'What is the point of Owen Hargreaves?' has yet to receive any reponses.".
It still hasn't. Nuff said?
Yeah, and what was his solution? Bring on Hargreaves. FFS.
As an aside, they have a column in The Obsever sports where readers can pose a question, and other readers send reponses (The Sunday Times have had a similar column for years) to answer all those odd and awkward, settle-a-bet type questions. They all get answered sooner or later, usually sooner.
A few months back, somebody wrote 'What is the point of Owen Hargreaves?'.
Two weeks later, in the same column: "The question 'What is the point of Owen Hargreaves?' has yet to receive any reponses.".
It still hasn't. Nuff said?
lol. Had to laugh at Ian wright suggesting that Hargreaves must have something on Sven!!!
it's baffling alright. Barely heard his name after he came on.
ho chi feen
31-05-2006, 11:39 AM
lol. Had to laugh at Ian wright suggesting that Hargreaves must have something on Sven!!!
it's baffling alright. Barely heard his name after he came on.
No shit, he's a poor man's Phil Neville.
Sound
31-05-2006, 11:40 AM
Yeah, and what was his solution? Bring on Hargreaves. FFS.
As an aside, they have a column in The Obsever sports where readers can pose a question, and other readers send reponses (The Sunday Times have had a similar column for year) to answer all those odd and awkward, settle-a-bet type questions. They all get answered sooner or later, usually sooner.
A few months back, somebody wrote 'What is the point of Owen Hargreaves?'.
Two weeks later, in the same column: "The question 'What is the point of Owen Hargreaves?' has yet to receive any reponses.".
It still hasn't. Nuff said?
Great laugh last night. That game gave Sven more questions than answers.
'Right, I'll play Owen as a lone striker' Crouch scores.
'Right, I'll play Gerrard behind the striker' Gerrard scores but from a set piece and doesn't link with Owen.
'Right, I'll play two up front'. Which means either dropping one of the big names or playing with no anchor man.
Brilliant!
Compare the bilge that was passed as analysis after the game to what RTE produces, Ian Wright, what a Muppet
Compare the bilge that was passed as analysis after the game to what RTE produces, Ian Wright, what a Muppet
He is a complete clown alright.
Sound
31-05-2006, 11:57 AM
Compare the bilge that was passed as analysis after the game to what RTE produces, Ian Wright, what a Muppet
Wright's comment about Gerrard's dive was ludicrous. The analysis of the two stations cannot be compared.
BlueSkies
31-05-2006, 11:58 AM
It's funny as well that whenever Walcott did anything even remotely good, Motson and Lawro couldn't contain their excitement.
MonTheHoops
31-05-2006, 11:59 AM
Laughed at them when they said Gerrard diving was ok because "they'll do that to us". Basically everyone but England are a pack of cheats but when England cheat it's vindication for years of countries not wanting to be part of their empire.
I love the triumphalism. Watch the papers over the World Cup for their racism. "Haggis muncher" Andrew Murray got it in the neck last week for not wearing an England top. Can't wait for what they come up with for Paraguay.
Wankers.
ho chi feen
31-05-2006, 11:59 AM
Compare the bilge that was passed as analysis after the game to what RTE produces.
And Souness to come for the World Cup! I can't wait.
The analysis of the two stations cannot be compared.
lies, they can
Sound
31-05-2006, 12:04 PM
lies, they can
Eh? As in RTE's is so superior as to make comparison useless.
Calm down there.
ho chi feen
31-05-2006, 12:11 PM
Eh? As in RTE's is so superior as to make comparison useless.
Calm down there.
So BBC could be compared unfairly with RTE. Is that what you're trying to tell us, Soundboy?
showcase cork
31-05-2006, 01:08 PM
Yes but everyone is missing the most important point....
...England did win 3-1 and it was very comfortable
OK, it wasn't a great performance (especially first half!) and Hungary aren't one of Europes best footballing nations but no international is easy these days and aside from their fantastic goal, England kept Hungary well at bay.
We won 3-1 very easily and could have had more (Joe Cole heading against the post, Michael Owen heading straight at keeper forcing great stop at point blank range and Lampard having penalty very well saved).
All this with no fit strikers starting the game - Owen still clearly struggling and Rooney still injured.
In a friendly 10 days before the World Cup when everyone is being so careful not to pick up an injury then a 3-1 is more that satisfactory - I am sure we have a few more gears for the tournament.
ho chi feen
31-05-2006, 01:19 PM
...England did win 3-1 and it was very comfortable.
Think we might have been watching two very different games.
MonTheHoops
31-05-2006, 01:26 PM
You won 3-1 against a side who haven't been in a world cup in 20 years. Big deal!
dotty
31-05-2006, 01:30 PM
You won 3-1 against a side who haven't been in a world cup in 20 years. Big deal!
only saw bits of the game but i wouldnt be too optimistic if i were an engurland fan,carrick must wonder what he must do to get into the side.
Sound
31-05-2006, 01:33 PM
So BBC could be compared unfairly with RTE. Is that what you're trying to tell us, Soundboy?
Indubitably.
pudgee
31-05-2006, 01:33 PM
I've been convinced over the past few weeks that England aren't going to make it out of the group stages. They'll lose to T+T and draw with Paraguay and Sweden. It will be amusing.
Langer Dan
31-05-2006, 01:34 PM
You won 3-1 against a side who haven't been in a world cup in 20 years. Big deal!
earra they were very limited against ordinary opposition. Rooney could have dragged em to the quarters/Semis but otherwise they're bollixed.
I know friendlies dont matter a damn but even in the qualifiers England have looked far less than the sum of their parts.
ho chi feen
31-05-2006, 01:35 PM
only saw bits of the game but i wouldnt be too optimistic if i were an engurland fan,carrick must wonder what he must do to get into the side.
Get dual citizenship as a Canadian?
emurf
31-05-2006, 01:39 PM
Get dual citizenship as a Canadian?
Like the other "English" greats Lennox Lewis and Greg Rosetski
showcase cork
31-05-2006, 02:02 PM
You won 3-1 against a side who haven't been in a world cup in 20 years. Big deal!
Can only beat whats put in front of you!
Even if you want to see England home by the middle of June you have to admit that they have the players and quality to go a long way
dotty
31-05-2006, 02:11 PM
Can only beat whats put in front of you!
Even if you want to see England home by the middle of June you have to admit that they have the players and quality to go a long way
they look grand on paper,gerrard beckham lampard cole owen,all potential match winners,but they will reach the Q/F at best.
General Michael Collins
31-05-2006, 02:22 PM
Wouldnt be writing Engalnd off.They might have a clueless manager,but they have got a very talented squad of players and are in a relatively easy group.
Langer Dan
31-05-2006, 02:35 PM
Wouldnt be writing Engalnd off.They might have a clueless manager,but they have got a very talented squad of players and are in a relatively easy group.
Kiss of death.
Almost as bad as being endorsed by POL.
they have the players and quality to go a long way
But they don't have the manager. On paper, even without rooney, england should be serious contenders, and should be semi-finalists.
But with Sven in charge, it's not gonna happen.
showcase cork
31-05-2006, 02:43 PM
Wouldnt be writing Engalnd off.They might have a clueless manager,but they have got a very talented squad of players and are in a relatively easy group.
Finally an objective opinion which isn't clouded by his hated of the team!
We are not 2nd favourites for nothing you know!
Sound
31-05-2006, 02:47 PM
Finally an objective opinion which isn't clouded by his hated of the team!
We are not 2nd favourites for nothing you know!
Or at all...
Who is that with? FAbookies.com?
MonTheHoops
31-05-2006, 02:47 PM
We are not 2nd favourites for nothing you know!
So why are you second favourites? I'd like to see a Spanish or Italian bookies that has you as second favourites.
Finally an objective opinion which isn't clouded by his hated of the team!
We are not 2nd favourites for nothing you know!
ha!! none of the comments here are blinded by anything. Any english person with any knowledge of football who thinks that they're going to win the world cup with Sven in charge is seriously deluded.
He's an unbelievably shite manager.
General Michael Collins
31-05-2006, 02:52 PM
Will be shouting for Spain because of there large LFC contingent,but England would have to be considered as one of the favourites because of the quality of players that they have.Not 100% sure but i think they will have an easy enough run up until the semi finals and will surely qualify from a group containing paraguay and trinidad and tobago.
Will be shouting for Spain because of there large LFC contingent,but England would have to be considered as one of the favourites because of the quality of players that they have.Not 100% sure but i think they will have an easy enough run up until the semi finals and will surely qualify from a group containing paraguay and trinidad and tobago.
paraguay will be tough, I wouldn't put it past them to pull off a shock.
they won't beat sweden, but should beat T&T.
Langer Dan
31-05-2006, 02:58 PM
paraguay will be tough, I wouldn't put it past them to pull off a shock.
they won't beat sweden, but should beat T&T.
Earra one look at England's forwards and you can rule out them making it past the quarters.
As for Carragher in Midifiel, ffs like.
MonTheHoops
31-05-2006, 02:58 PM
Will be shouting for Spain because of there large LFC contingent,but England would have to be considered as one of the favourites because of the quality of players that they have.Not 100% sure but i think they will have an easy enough run up until the semi finals and will surely qualify from a group containing paraguay and trinidad and tobago.
That's EXACTLY the type of thinking that has English people believing they can win it. They should of course get out of the groups without too much problems but "an easy enough run until the semi finals?".
Yer man is saying above that there's no easy games at international level after failing to impress against Hungary last night yet possibly facing the likes of Argentina, Holland and Portugal is an easy enough run.
I love this logic, it's had fat middleaged men crying into their pints for years and then turning their frustration on whoever the Sun decide to take it out on the following day.
I love this logic, it's had fat middleaged men crying into their pints for years and then turning their frustration on whoever the Sun decide to take it out on the following day.
LMAO. Nail on the head.
Sound
31-05-2006, 03:23 PM
Good goal from the Crouchasaurus- far better then the bloody celebration. It's starting to look that England are a better team with him in it.
Who'd have thunk it!
afeencalleddan
31-05-2006, 05:03 PM
Finally an objective opinion which isn't clouded by his hated of the team!Not at all. I'd say we're all making very realistic assessments. I know that a lot of Englishmen on the Betfair forum would agree with most of what we're saying here.
showcase cork
01-06-2006, 05:25 PM
Not at all. I'd say we're all making very realistic assessments. I know that a lot of Englishmen on the Betfair forum would agree with most of what we're saying here.
Well how many people thought Greece would win the Euro Championships two years ago?
It just goes to show that about half the countries in the World Cup have half a chance.
England certainly have the quality to win in - no one can doubt that. The bone of contention seems to be two fold - the coach and the consistency factor.
If England take each game as it comes and they won't be easy to beat then anything could happen but if anyone says to me "can England win it?", I reply "Of course, but so could the Czech Republic"
It's gonna be a very open tournament, possibly the most open in recent years with plenty of shock results so time will tell.
It's gonna be a very open tournament, possibly the most open in recent years with plenty of shock results so time will tell.
more open than the 2002 tournament?? I doubt it.
showcase cork
01-06-2006, 05:36 PM
more open than the 2002 tournament?? I doubt it.
Ah...don't know Eoin
I am keeping an eye on Serbia and the Aussies - they are my surprise couple this year. Japan are useful too and after what South Korea did last time I would fancy them to turn a few heads
Ah...don't know Eoin
I am keeping an eye on Serbia and the Aussies - they are my surprise couple this year. Japan are useful too and after what South Korea did last time I would fancy them to turn a few heads
I doubt serbia will do much, possibly a draw against Argentina or Holland. The game between themselves and the Ivory Coast could be decent though.
doppelganger
01-06-2006, 05:51 PM
On the principle that a team is only as good as its weakest link, England are very unlikely to win. Granted they have a world class midfield and some world class defenders and Wayne Rooney, but they also have Ashley Cole, Gary Neville and a relatively unproven goalkeeper.
On the principle that a team is only as good as its weakest link, England are very unlikely to win. Granted they have a world class midfield and some world class defenders and Wayne Rooney, but they also have Ashley Cole, Gary Neville and a relatively unproven goalkeeper.
Their weakest link is the manager.
And I think Paul Robinson is a decent enough keeper.
showcase cork
01-06-2006, 06:17 PM
On the principle that a team is only as good as its weakest link, England are very unlikely to win. Granted they have a world class midfield and some world class defenders and Wayne Rooney, but they also have Ashley Cole, Gary Neville and a relatively unproven goalkeeper.
And how many unproven players and weak links did Greece have 2 years ago!
Denmark won the Euro Championships in 1992 with a fairly average team but both them and Greece in 2004 took each game as it came and did it
And how many unproven players and weak links did Greece have 2 years ago!
Denmark won the Euro Championships in 1992 with a fairly average team but both them and Greece in 2004 took each game as it came and did it
So basically you're hopes for England are based on a couple of freak results in a tournament that's easier to win (there are less games) than the world cup. Of course anyone can win it. T+T could put together a bit of a run and you never know, but pre tournament all you can talk about is what is most likely to happen, and with England the most likely thing is that Sven will not figure out his strongest side on time and England will go out with a whimper, looking crap but actually being made to look bad by having the wrong personnel in the wrong place.
And how many unproven players and weak links did Greece have 2 years ago!
Denmark won the Euro Championships in 1992 with a fairly average team but both them and Greece in 2004 took each game as it came and did it
both those teams knew what they were doing and had a strong team spirit.
...England, meanwhile, are trying out completely new formations the week before the world cup starts and playing players out of position.
..and another thing, you need to win 4 knock out games to win it, with the likelyhood of 1 penalty shootout along the way, Robinson doesn't inspire much confidence as spot-shot stopper.
doppelganger
01-06-2006, 07:09 PM
And how many unproven players and weak links did Greece have 2 years ago!
Denmark won the Euro Championships in 1992 with a fairly average team but both them and Greece in 2004 took each game as it came and did it
Denmark had Peter Schmeichel in goal and if they had any lesser keeper they would not have won.
afeencalleddan
01-06-2006, 11:22 PM
They're definitely fucked now...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/paraguay/5014382.stm
Paraguay star fit to face England
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41684000/jpg/_41684046_rsc203.jpg Roque Santa Cruz joined Bayern as a 18-year-old in 1999
Paraguay striker Roque Santa Cruz will be fit to face England in their opening World Cup match on 10 June.
The 24-year-old has been nursing an injured right knee and missed training on Sunday after being instructed by doctors not to rush his comeback.
But coach Anibal Ruiz said of the Bayern Munich forward: "He is definitely going to play." Santa Cruz suffered a cruciate ligament injury last October and has had two knee operations in the last 18 months. The striker has scored 13 goals in 42 internationals.
Carnage... As good as it gets... Yadda, yadda!
STEVIEG
02-06-2006, 10:33 AM
Gary Neville and Ashley Cole are fine players too but i can't see Engerlund winning it
Interesting article from the United fanzine "United We Stand" website about Engerlund and why many United fans don't like them-I'm glad they remember the muppet brigade booing ever United player who played for them for years
The Wurst Pun Ever.....
By Jeers Of A Clown
Date: 1/6/2006
In 1996 it was 'Walkaway' by Cast. I cant remember 1998 or 2000 so we'll gloss over those. In 2002 it was 'Stop Crying Your Heart Out' by Oasis, and in 2004 it was 'Dry Your Eyes' By The Streets.
I cant think of one off hand this year for when England get dumped out in the quarter finals by 'Big' Phil, but I'm sure there's something by Keane or someone that fits the bill perfectly. But what if that didn't happen?
Be honest with yourself here. Its July 9th, and its England versus Germany in the World Cup final. It's the 90th minute and the score is 0 - 0. England get a penalty. Rooney steps up (or Gary Neville if you want to make it more realistic). Do you want him to score or do you want him to miss?
Really? You sure you want him to miss? What? You think it would be funny to watch all those Little Englanders crying into their foam hands? You think its hilarious that a United player cocked it up for England yet again? What's that? You feel no kinship with the supporters of Stoke City, Huddersfield Town and Manchester City who so passionately declare that they are 'England til I Die', and therefore cannot share in their happiness?
You should acquaint yourself with the music of Smokey Robinson if so. See, I think you are lying. I think you want him to score. There is nothing wrong with it, just give in and go with your heart… why fight it?
I want him to miss, myself. I have very good reasons for that. I'm not English. I'd genuinely rather see any country in the world win the World Cup than England. I'm not proud of it, and it goes against everything I like to think that I believe in - the unimportance of national boundaries and the folly of overt nationalism/patriotism - but it's a base instinct and you cant fight those.
Many reds purport to share this viewpoint. Maybe not the 'actively wanting England to lose' part, but certainly the 'not wanting them to win' part. Many follow England at other sports though. Surely it's the nation you are following and not the sport? What about the Eurovision Song Contest? Yes, you like football more than you like Finnish death metal, but the principle is still the same is it not?
Or maybe there is something more intrinsically loathsome about the English National Football team and what it does to the country at this time every 2/4 years. Maybe you see this beast too and I'm not giving you enough credit, and that's what stands you out from the Stoke, Huddersfield and Manchester City fans, and those of other clubs who cannot take a step back from it all.
In his admittedly consistently spot on Guardian Sport column, erstwhile twat Nicky Campbell quotes thus: "(There are those who) …will support England, but they're not the ones who keep the passion of the game alive. If I stopped feeling intense rivalry, it would mean I didn't care any more. It's like saying if Hearts aren't playing, why don't you go and cheer on another Edinburgh team?" He was talking about the conundrum of whether a Scot should support England, but it rings equally true when talking about the English who decide not to align themselves with white van man, he "who represents everything truly awful about the English."
There are three live matches on every day for the first two weeks, and a match virtually every day after that. For someone who loves watching any football, never mind the best players in the world, that is heaven, but the fact that these competitions bring out a grotesquely ugly side of the national character is not something to be enjoyed. The sooner England are out of it, therefore, and the sooner everybody can put their little car flags back in the bin, the red tops can put their "Achtung Fritz!" headlines back in the locker and everyone can go back to calling Wayne a fat bastard, the better for all concerned. Except you, that is. You'll be devastated inside.
MonTheHoops
02-06-2006, 10:48 AM
I've a video of United fans and Rangers fans meeting at Old Trafford. The United fans start singing the Busby Boys and Rangers go into their Billy Boys routine. What's mental though is when the United fans start "You cans stick your fucking England up your arse...."
STEVIEG
02-06-2006, 10:55 AM
I've a video of United fans and Rangers fans meeting at Old Trafford. The United fans start singing the Busby Boys and Rangers go into their Billy Boys routine. What's mental though is when the United fans start "You cans stick your fucking England up your arse...."
I sat in the away end once at a Bayern Munich visit to OT (couldnt get a ticket anywhere else)
The Germans were very confused with how everyone in the ground was laughing when they started singing anti-Engerlund stuff
Sound
02-06-2006, 10:56 AM
On the principle that a team is only as good as its weakest link, England are very unlikely to win. Granted they have a world class midfield and some world class defenders and Wayne Rooney, but they also have Ashley Cole, Gary Neville and a relatively unproven goalkeeper.
Ashley Cole is world class.
Ashley Cole is world class.
..he's also 6 weeks off matchfit
Sound
02-06-2006, 03:40 PM
..he's also 6 weeks off matchfit
After your pronunciations on Henry you'll understand if I take your posts with a grain of salt.
After your pronunciations on Henry you'll understand if I take your posts with a grain of salt.
errah you can trust me on this one it's a factual thing, just count the minutes he's played this year. hasn't kept a clean sheet for a long time either ... no coincidence
ho chi feen
02-06-2006, 09:48 PM
Ashley Cole is world class.
But would you say he's a genius?
doppellanger
02-06-2006, 09:53 PM
Ashley Cole is world class.
All sound and fury, signifying nothing. :p
Sound
05-06-2006, 09:55 AM
All sound and fury, signifying nothing. :p
Ooh, a cultured poster!
Forsberg
05-06-2006, 02:01 PM
On the principle that a team is only as good as its weakest link, England are very unlikely to win. Granted they have a world class midfield and some world class defenders and Wayne Rooney, but they also have Ashley Cole, Gary Neville and a relatively unproven goalkeeper.
Ashley Cole is one of the top left backs in the world. Gary Neville is actually solid and Paul Robinson is as consistent a keeper as you can get.
Sound
05-06-2006, 02:13 PM
Hat-tricks and fancy dance moves! What more could you want.
The Full Ham
05-06-2006, 03:18 PM
I for one will be shouting for the US.
Yes i know they are a bunch of cunts in the olympics and i know they are tossers in GOLF. And yes along with the Aussies and the English they are the biggest bunch of cunts when it comes to international sports, but I will still be shouting for them for two reasons.
First up, I live here and will be living here for the next 3 to 4 years. And while many americans are tossers and are flag waivers, many are not. Many are decent, liberal minded and downright generous. I have been given every opportunity to advance my career in this country so I will be shouting for them.
Second the game of football/sawker is on the rise over here and if the national side do well it may lead to more support overall and in many years to come may one day challenege the likes of the republican dominated goliath...Futbawl. Plus Americans who support Sawker seem to be a decent lot, i'm basing this on my experience of playing the game here in Massatwoshits.
The team did well in 2002 but really i can't see them getting beyond the group stages in this tournament, besides recent results in firendlies have been awfull so I don't hold out much hope. But i will cheer for them anyway.
So what do yee think, howmwill they do?
Sound
05-06-2006, 03:25 PM
I for one will be shouting for the US.
Yes i know they are a bunch of cunts in the olympics and i know they are tossers in GOLF. And yes along with the Aussies and the English they are the biggest bunch of cunts when it comes to international sports, but I will still be shouting for them for two reasons.
First up, I live here and will be living here for the next 3 to 4 years. And while many americans are tossers and are flag waivers, many are not. Many are decent, liberal minded and downright generous. I have been given every opportunity to advance my career in this country so I will be shouting for them.
Second the game of football/sawker is on the rise over here and if the national side do well it may lead to more support overall and in many years to come may one day challenege the likes of the republican dominated goliath...Futbawl. Plus Americans who support Sawker seem to be a decent lot, i'm basing this on my experience of playing the game here in Massatwoshits.
The team did well in 2002 but really i can't see them getting beyond the group stages in this tournament, besides recent results in firendlies have been awfull so I don't hold out much hope. But i will cheer for them anyway.
So what do yee think, howmwill they do?
They haven't really played many teams of consequence due to their easy qualification group so it's hard to know how they will get on. they do have a couple of players in the Bundesliga so that should help.
But do we really want them taking it seriously and getting good at it?
The Full Ham
05-06-2006, 03:49 PM
But do we really want them taking it seriously and getting good at it?
Given the rise of the game over here and the level of talent I've seen playing the game, especially 6 a side indoor, i can't really see them not getting good at it in the years ahead. The population is too big and to many moms like the sport (it's safer than football and hockey). So I think it's a matter of time before they are world contenders.
I for one will be shouting for the US.
Yes i know they are a bunch of cunts in the olympics and i know they are tossers in GOLF. And yes along with the Aussies and the English they are the biggest bunch of cunts when it comes to international sports, but I will still be shouting for them for two reasons.
First up, I live here and will be living here for the next 3 to 4 years. And while many americans are tossers and are flag waivers, many are not. Many are decent, liberal minded and downright generous. I have been given every opportunity to advance my career in this country so I will be shouting for them.
Second the game of football/sawker is on the rise over here and if the national side do well it may lead to more support overall and in many years to come may one day challenege the likes of the republican dominated goliath...Futbawl. Plus Americans who support Sawker seem to be a decent lot, i'm basing this on my experience of playing the game here in Massatwoshits.
The team did well in 2002 but really i can't see them getting beyond the group stages in this tournament, besides recent results in firendlies have been awfull so I don't hold out much hope. But i will cheer for them anyway.
So what do yee think, howmwill they do?
that's all fine and good, but what's all that got to do with the fuckedness of England?
The Full Ham
05-06-2006, 04:18 PM
that's all fine and good, but what's all that got to do with the fuckedness of England?
Well maybe they will meet England and beat them like they did in some world cup in the past. Was it '54 or sometime in the '30's?
Unlikely i know.
pudgee
05-06-2006, 04:28 PM
Well maybe they will meet England and beat them like they did in some world cup in the past. Was it '54 or sometime in the '30's?
Unlikely i know.
1950. 1-0.
Well maybe they will meet England and beat them like they did in some world cup in the past. Was it '54 or sometime in the '30's?
Unlikely i know.
i think the US will more likely go the way of recreating the WC of, ..I think 1998, and experience a bit of shock and awe at the hands of Iran, 2-1 I think it was, ..but this time without the flowers.
the US have made the second round in each of the last 4 or 5 tournaments.
anyway, England,
too many weak links.
as Mark E Smith was saying today, "the way the England team is now is ridiculous, a bunch of superstars, ...it's like picking the best giutarist, drummer and singer and expecting them to produce something that isn't prog-rock mush".
Even 4 years ago many commentators had Nicky Butt as England's player of the tournament. Now there no similar player and no balance. This will be found out against any reasonably coherent side such as Czechs, Sweden, Portugal etc.
The forward situation is patchy.
There is too much fitness worries along the defence with Cole, Campbell and Neville not at 100%.
..and Robinson is no more than passably adequate at this level ..one injury or a red card and it's down to calamity.
waaaaay too many weaknesses. in fact the English public aren't overly expectant, a lot of people are just thinking quarterfinals, more-or-less, depending on opponent.
looking at Big Phils stats with Portugal over 3 years, ..very impressive..
41 games, 27 wins, 10 draws, and only 4 defeats (2 to Greece!) and runners up at the Euros. Other than the obvious Brazil, I think Portugal and Holland will be the more serious contenders. The dutch will have the whole of Holland popping over the days of the matches giving them practically a home tournament, and a very impressive qualifying record.
STEVIEG
06-06-2006, 01:19 AM
[QUOTE=xvis]anyway, England,
too many weak links.
as Mark E Smith was saying today, "the way the England team is now is ridiculous, a bunch of superstars, ...it's like picking the best giutarist, drummer and singer and expecting them to produce something that isn't prog-rock mush".
what a classic quote by a legend of legends!
ho chi feen
06-06-2006, 07:02 PM
As I posted on WTF:
As for me, I think Italy look to be the best European side on paper, but who knows how Moggigate will affect their chances? Also, they have a few key players struggling with form (Pirlo, Camoranesi) and fitness (Zambrotta, Totti). If either Nesta or Cannavaro (neither exactly setting the world alight at any rate) pick up an injury or suspension, any side with a half-decent attack would tear their defence to shreds. At least in Zambrotta's positions they have the excellent Grosso to call on. At centre back it's Bazaglia and Materazzi... nuff said! Portugal seem to have everything, except a reliable goalscorer at this level. Then again, Nuno Gomes will no doubt chip in with a few and end up earning himself a transfer, after which he'll flop again. England have some fantastic players, but without Rooney, with Owen blatantly unfit, and with the midfield as hopelessly unbalanced as ever, I'm unconvinced. Holland look useful, as do the Czechs. Don't expect either of them to be good enough to win it though.
Brazil have an amazing concentration of (mostly) hopelessly out-of-form attacking players. I don't think Edmilson will be a massive loss, as he wasn't going to be in the first XI anyway. Their backline is a bit less smart looking. Cafu and Roberto Carlos are both getting a bit long in the tooth. I don't see why they should necessarily be such overwhelming favourites. Argentina look to have the best balanced squad of the lot, a reasonably tight defence, great holding midfielders and an embarrassment of attacking options. It all depends on how they can do in Europe, as Jungle said, it's never been a happy hunting ground for them. At least they're not as burdened with the tag of favourites as they were four years ago, and compared to then, they have a much better team too.
Sound
08-06-2006, 04:41 PM
Rooney me hole.
Gerrard may miss Paraguay tie
Liverpool midfielder says he can't be sure of playing this Saturday
Staff and agencies
Thursday June 8, 2006
Lost amid the euphoria of Wayne Rooney's metatarsal all-clear, Steven Gerrard has given England a fresh injury concern by declaring himself only 50-50 for their World Cup opener against Paraguay.
Gerrard missed training yesterday after suffering back spasms caused by a knock to his hip, but returned to take some part this morning.The Liverpool midfielder was unsure whether he would be able to take part in Saturday's game.
He said: "It is not a back problem. I got a knock on my hip which made my back go into spasms.The good thing is it is improving all the time. I have got a good chance of playing on Saturday but I need to keep working on it from now until Saturday.
"What is a good chance? As we speak now, I am probably 50-50 to play - but if it keeps improving as it has done over the last 24 hours, then I'll be there." Gerrard, who missed the last World Cup after undergoing groin surgery, added: "I've not had a back problem for years. This has come from the knock.
"I don't know how it is going to respond but it has improved a lot over the last 24 hours. If it keeps going in that direction, I am confident I will be ready for Saturday."
gregson1
08-06-2006, 05:08 PM
yes they are
http://gfx.dagbladet.no/sport/2003/11/07/zlatan.jpg
http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20040614/sweden_larsson_77129 .jpg
Sound
08-06-2006, 05:12 PM
yes they are
http://gfx.dagbladet.no/sport/2003/11/07/zlatan.jpg
http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20040614/sweden_larsson_77129 .jpg
Is this the same Sweden that we battered recently?
Is that the same Zlatan who is implicated in the Moggi investigation and, generally, has been unable to hit a cows arse with the proverbial banjo for about 5 months now?
Just checking..
Is this the same Sweden that we battered recently?
Is that the same Zlatan who is implicated in the Moggi investigation and, generally, has been unable to hit a cows arse with the proverbial banjo for about 5 months now?
Just checking..
lol.
I reckon paraguay could shock them in the opener. I put money on the draw anyway. 5-2. not bad.
Sound
08-06-2006, 05:25 PM
lol.
I reckon paraguay could shock them in the opener. I put money on the draw anyway. 5-2. not bad.
Sky sports would have a leppy. I switched onto it last night to see the news on rooney and they were reporting that he smiled. SMILED no less.
If they lost to Paraguay it'd be hilarious.
MonTheHoops
08-06-2006, 05:26 PM
It's the same Larsson that changed the Champions League tie lately.
England should write off Sweden at their peril. In saying that I think England will still top their group.
Sky sports would have a leppy. I switched onto it last night to see the news on rooney and they were reporting that he smiled. SMILED no less.
If they lost to Paraguay it'd be hilarious.
Jesus it'd be fucking brilliant.
It's the same Larsson that changed the Champions League tie lately.
England should write off Sweden at their peril. In saying that I think England will still top their group.
Haven't they never beaten them???
afeencalleddan
10-06-2006, 04:56 PM
I rest my case. Pathetic.
ho chi feen
11-06-2006, 07:53 PM
Is this the same Sweden that we battered recently?
Not of any relevance. I should add too, Zlatan is a far better player for Sweden than he is for Juve.
ho chi feen
11-06-2006, 08:11 PM
Haven't they never beaten them???
Not for 30 odd years.
Langer Dan
12-06-2006, 01:32 PM
FFS, Crouch is their only fit striker and they want Rooney to play with a broken foot!
morons
http://www.worldcup365.com/story/0,16726,8501_1275441 ,00.html
Who's Theo, wasnt he in the Cosby show?
Sound
12-06-2006, 02:39 PM
The introduction of Downing beggared belief. He's not of international standard IMO and showed it on Saturday. He made 3 runs trying to use pace to beat the FB. Unfortunately he doesn't have pace so that was that.
The Walcott gamble is looking disastrous now what with injuries and the fact that he would only ever be an impact sub. I'd say they'd kill for Defoe/Bent/Ashton now.
The introduction of Downing beggared belief. He's not of international standard IMO and showed it on Saturday. He made 3 runs trying to use pace to beat the FB. Unfortunately he doesn't have pace so that was that.
The Walcott gamble is looking disastrous now what with injuries and the fact that he would only ever be an impact sub. I'd say they'd kill for Defoe/Bent/Ashton now.
Just goes to prove what a clueless buffoon Sven is.
Rooney or not, they were never goign to win the World Cup with him in charge.
General Michael Collins
12-06-2006, 02:49 PM
Just goes to prove what a clueless buffoon Sven is.
Rooney or not, they were never goign to win the World Cup with him in charge.
They were poor on saturday.However if they beat trinidad and tobago there into the knockout stages and could possibly face poland or ecuador in the first knockout phase.
Langer Dan
12-06-2006, 02:53 PM
Just goes to prove what a clueless buffoon Sven is.
Rooney or not, they were never goign to win the World Cup with him in charge.
the media machine is going into the usual overdrive.
They're just plain deluded.
Lamps
12-06-2006, 02:54 PM
I'm quite confident England will make a balls of this. In 1990 they had a piss easy route to the final and couldn't do it, this will be no different
They were poor on saturday.However if they beat trinidad and tobago there into the knockout stages and could possibly face poland or ecuador in the first knockout phase.
That's all well and good, but then they have to face Argentina or Holland in the quarters I think(I'm open to correction on that one) and they won't beat them.
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