New signings a new manager and mock shock
The transfer deadline arrived amid the usual media bullshine and ballyhoo BUT this time it was different. Different because Stoke City were one of the main players in the bi annual game of protracted negotiation. Since reaching the Premier League it’s felt at times as if nothing changed when transfers fall through andwe’ve look on enviously as other clubs seem to effortlessly acquire their targets. Now we have turned that around and we have bought several new players in… like a Premier League team does!! It’s hard to imagine Jonesy won’t be a first choice striker so the main interest will be who partners him. It has been widely suggested that Gudjohnsen is a long way from match fit leaving Fuller Walters and Tuncay contending for the starting spot. These are difficult decisions but that’s all part of a manager’s job, and there are much worse situations a football manager has to confront. By the time we face Aston Villa on Tuesday morning, the new players will have had a nearly fortnight to train with their new colleagues and for the gaffer to impose on them what’s required. Over to you Tone!!
The Villa game takes on new levels of interest with our new signings taking their bow and it being their first game with a new manager in charge. Gerard Houllier is the latest manager to try and squeeze Villa into a top four spot. His excitable predecessor blew his chance when their 08/09 campaign disintegrated after a 2-2 draw with us. Can Houllier gel all that potential into a side that can dine at Europe’s top table without getting food down their shirt? Tuesday morning will be their first step on that journey. We mustn’t give the genial Frenchman the warm welcome we gave to Sam Allardyce at Blackburn. It was exasperating to read reports that Big Sam had motivated Blackburn to a much needed victory. In actual fact, we decided to hand the game to them by way of brainless defensive errors. Sonko’s unnecessary lunge set the tone for the rest of the first half. No new manager anywhere will ever have an easier welcome.
Is anyone seriously appalled by the allegations / revelations (delete where necessary) about Wayne Rooney’s private life? Did the populace collectively feint in exasperated, astounded, disgusted, devastated, marinated shock? I can’t help thinking the News of the World are tapping into the mood of the nation, that being their is still a lot of anger over the horrendous World Cup campaign. Not that many people seem too bothered aboutwhat he may or may not have done!! If his two England performances are any indicator the pandemonium has inspired him! Two excellent performances that made a big contribution to two victories for England and the ideal way to start to lift the dark clouds of South Africa. Joe Hart was impressive against Bulgaria and, despite a few edgy fumbles, was competent against Switzerland. It’s important that now, despite the aforementioned fumbles, FabCap makes it clear that Hart is no.1. It ends speculation and gives Hart confidence and sheds any fear he may be feeling. Similarly Adam Johnson has surely earned an extended run in the team. A new younger face and feet filled with talent. Give him a starting place against Montenegro andtell him to enjoy himself. Although it contradicts the aura a lot Englandplayers carry in tournaments it might be refreshing for them to remember it is possible to play for England and have a good time. It was Brian Clough who’s main motivational technique was to ensure that his players never went out to play with fear in their hearts. Two wins is an excellent way to commence the campaign, this may seem premature but victory in the next game actually gives us one foot in the finals. And preparation for 2012 starts now. It’s hardly a surprise that Capello has announced he’ll be leaving the job after the European Championship. Since the World Cup he’s had the air of a man wondering why he ever took the role in the first place. So who to replace him? It’s highly likely the next manager will be English, and why would that surprise anyone after the roaring success of Steve McClaren?
One of the oddest rumours is that Ryan Giggs could be poised to take the job of managing Wales. Surely this is paper talk. There has been suggestions he could combine the job while still playing. Well despite what gets suggested you can’t really manage part time. He should remember that Brian Clough said he’d happily give away his managerial success to have completed his playing career to it’s natural end. While he had the job Kenny Dalglish was asked if managing Liverpool was the best job in the world and he said it was the 2nd best job in the world…. the best was PLAYING for Liverpool. Giggs shouldn’t be too hasty.
Only 84 days until the announcement of the 2018 and 2022 World Cup hosts. Hosting the World Cup could be the biggest thing in the history of England. Nobody can deny The English game has had sickening problems since 1966 but it’s time. Many things have improved in the last twenty years and the world coming around for a dinner party (a very big dinner party) would be the perfect way to celebrate these developments. Please register here and back England’s bid to host the 2018 World cup.