In just under 18 hours the transfer window slams shut and English clubs will no longer be able to buy players. Managers up and down the country will be looking to make a few last minute deals before 5pm on Tuesday, but I think there will be an anti climax.
It will take a lot to beat last season's summer transfer deadline day, when Manchester City were taken over by billionaires and just hours later smashed the British transfer record by signing Robinho from under the noses of Chelsea. They also made an audacious attempt to sign Dimitar Berbatov, but the Bulgarian striker eventually completed his move to Manchester United after months of speculation.
So I can't imagine any huge transfers on the scale we witnessed last year happening tomorrow, but lets hope I'm proved wrong. Most important for me is that Southampton boost their squad, as they're still looking for their first league win of the season. I think a right back (possibly on loan to replace the injured Greame Murty), centre back, winger and striker are all needed, but I can't see four players signing tomorrow, once again I hope I'm proved wrong though.
Over the weekend I watch The Damned United on DVD, a brilliant film which tells the story of Brian Clough's ill fated spell as manager of Leeds United in 1974. Michael Sheen plays Cloughie perfectly and gets all his mannerisms down to a tee. Interestingly, some of the best scenes are the deleted ones that come as a bonus with the DVD, my favourite one being when Clough burns his predecessor Don Revie's desk in the club car park to get rid of his legacy.
Brian Clough's family were upset with the film as well as David Peace's novel which the film is based on, but I think Sheen gives credit to the great man. After watching this film Its certainly clear that there are very few larger than life characters like Clough left in the game today.
Monday, 31 August 2009
Friday, 28 August 2009
Friday 28th August 2009
With it being nearly a year since I did work experience at Channel Four News (see work experience diary), I thought I would add my brief television appearance to this blog. Also, I'm hoping to change the website hosting the clip, samdolton.co.uk, so by uploading it onto here it stays alive online. Enjoy!
Thursday, 27 August 2009
Thursday 27th August 2009
Tory MEP Daniel Hannan has put his foot in it once again and embarrassed his party by claiming his political hero is the racist Enoch Powell.
Following on from his comments earlier this month which criticised the NHS (see August 14th entry of this blog), I can't help but feel that Hannan is pushing his luck with Conservative leader David Cameron, who is trying to modernise the party. It seems to me that Hannan is testing Cameron and seeing how far he can take things before being disciplined and possibly expelled from the Conservative party. He is making a more outrageous right wing statement every week that if he carries on at this rate he'll soon be praising the work of the BNP.
Hannan attracts such bad publicity for his party that it makes people such as myself who are still undecided about who to vote for in the next General Election very skeptical about voting Tory. Its a great shame that as an MEP for South-East England he is representing me in the European Parliament, its individuals such as him that persuaded me to vote for the Green party in June's election. The more David Cameron dissociates himself with this egotistical, attention seeking, right-wing idiot the better chance he has of becoming Prime Minister after the next General Election.
Since the start of the football season, I've been giving Saints players a rating out of 10 for every game I've seen them play. Since I won't be travelling to Stockport on Saturday, Tuesday's Carling Cup defeat to Birmngham was my last Saints game this month. Here are my top three rated players for August:
1. Dan Harding - average rating 7.75, from 4 games
2. Kelvin Davis - average rating 7.5, from 4 games
3. Greame Murty - average rating 7.0, from 2 games
So, based on the games I've seen, Dan Harding is my Saints player of the month. The left back appears to be Saints most effective summer signing so far, lets hope he can keep up this form. Last year's player of the season Kelvin Davis has had another good month, but at this level its slightly concerning he's still being kept busy in goal, hopefully the defence will improve to give him more protection.
Greame Murty has looked really solid at right back from the games I've seen him play for Saints, but it looks like the knee ligament injury he suffered on Tuesday will keep him out for a while. Pardew needs to sign another right back, as I'm not convinced Lloyd James's best position is in defence.
Murty was scheduled to meet fans at West Quay this afternoon, but his injury meant Matt Patterson took his place alongside Rickie Lambert to sign autographs. I went to meet the two strikers earlier (see picture below), nice lads, felt a bit sorry for Patterson as everyone wanted to chat to Rickie Lambert and weren't too interested in talking to him.
Above: Me posing with strikers Rickie Lambert and Matt Patterson at the Saints West Quay store earlier today.
Following on from his comments earlier this month which criticised the NHS (see August 14th entry of this blog), I can't help but feel that Hannan is pushing his luck with Conservative leader David Cameron, who is trying to modernise the party. It seems to me that Hannan is testing Cameron and seeing how far he can take things before being disciplined and possibly expelled from the Conservative party. He is making a more outrageous right wing statement every week that if he carries on at this rate he'll soon be praising the work of the BNP.
Hannan attracts such bad publicity for his party that it makes people such as myself who are still undecided about who to vote for in the next General Election very skeptical about voting Tory. Its a great shame that as an MEP for South-East England he is representing me in the European Parliament, its individuals such as him that persuaded me to vote for the Green party in June's election. The more David Cameron dissociates himself with this egotistical, attention seeking, right-wing idiot the better chance he has of becoming Prime Minister after the next General Election.
Since the start of the football season, I've been giving Saints players a rating out of 10 for every game I've seen them play. Since I won't be travelling to Stockport on Saturday, Tuesday's Carling Cup defeat to Birmngham was my last Saints game this month. Here are my top three rated players for August:
1. Dan Harding - average rating 7.75, from 4 games
2. Kelvin Davis - average rating 7.5, from 4 games
3. Greame Murty - average rating 7.0, from 2 games
So, based on the games I've seen, Dan Harding is my Saints player of the month. The left back appears to be Saints most effective summer signing so far, lets hope he can keep up this form. Last year's player of the season Kelvin Davis has had another good month, but at this level its slightly concerning he's still being kept busy in goal, hopefully the defence will improve to give him more protection.
Greame Murty has looked really solid at right back from the games I've seen him play for Saints, but it looks like the knee ligament injury he suffered on Tuesday will keep him out for a while. Pardew needs to sign another right back, as I'm not convinced Lloyd James's best position is in defence.
Murty was scheduled to meet fans at West Quay this afternoon, but his injury meant Matt Patterson took his place alongside Rickie Lambert to sign autographs. I went to meet the two strikers earlier (see picture below), nice lads, felt a bit sorry for Patterson as everyone wanted to chat to Rickie Lambert and weren't too interested in talking to him.
Above: Me posing with strikers Rickie Lambert and Matt Patterson at the Saints West Quay store earlier today.
Wednesday, 26 August 2009
Wednesday 26th August 2009
Last night's Carling Cup game between West Ham and Millwall was marred by violent scenes between fans both inside and outside the ground.
A lot has already been said about the actions of the supporters, but I think the situation should have been handled better by the police.
When the draw for the Carling Cup 2nd round was made a couple of weeks ago, I remember watching it in the pub and straight away we all said there would be trouble in this game. Surely if we could have predicted riots then the Metropolitan police could have worked it out.
There was a police presence around Upton Park last night, but the fact that back up had to be called shows that not enough police were on the scene to begin with. When Millwall came to St Marys earlier this month (see video at bottom of this post) Southampton city centre was packed with police (it was just like watching The Bill!) and apart from the incident outside Yates on that day, the operation was a success.
After watching footage of last night's game, I was surprised there weren't more stewards in Upton Park to prevent the pitch invasion when West Ham equalised. I would've expected stewards to form a wall between the stands and the pitch, but there were gaps which allowed fans to get onto the pitch. If necessary, the cost of extra policing and stewarding could be charged to both clubs. This was done last season at Southampton when Rupert Lowe spent £60,000 extra on policing at games until the end of the season after protests during Saint's home defeat to Doncaster in January.
Both West Ham and Millwall have very passionate sets of supporters and this is probably the fiercest off field rivalry in British football. Just look back to the clashes between West Ham's Inter City Firm and Millwall's Bushwackers in the 1980s for further evidence.
Lets just hope last night's scenes don't effect England's bid to host the 2018 World Cup.
Above: A heavy police presence prevented trouble when Millwall played Southampton earlier this month.
A lot has already been said about the actions of the supporters, but I think the situation should have been handled better by the police.
When the draw for the Carling Cup 2nd round was made a couple of weeks ago, I remember watching it in the pub and straight away we all said there would be trouble in this game. Surely if we could have predicted riots then the Metropolitan police could have worked it out.
There was a police presence around Upton Park last night, but the fact that back up had to be called shows that not enough police were on the scene to begin with. When Millwall came to St Marys earlier this month (see video at bottom of this post) Southampton city centre was packed with police (it was just like watching The Bill!) and apart from the incident outside Yates on that day, the operation was a success.
After watching footage of last night's game, I was surprised there weren't more stewards in Upton Park to prevent the pitch invasion when West Ham equalised. I would've expected stewards to form a wall between the stands and the pitch, but there were gaps which allowed fans to get onto the pitch. If necessary, the cost of extra policing and stewarding could be charged to both clubs. This was done last season at Southampton when Rupert Lowe spent £60,000 extra on policing at games until the end of the season after protests during Saint's home defeat to Doncaster in January.
Both West Ham and Millwall have very passionate sets of supporters and this is probably the fiercest off field rivalry in British football. Just look back to the clashes between West Ham's Inter City Firm and Millwall's Bushwackers in the 1980s for further evidence.
Lets just hope last night's scenes don't effect England's bid to host the 2018 World Cup.
Above: A heavy police presence prevented trouble when Millwall played Southampton earlier this month.
Tuesday 25th August 2009
Saints played well tonight and were unfortunate to get knocked out of the FA Cup, losing 2-1 at home to Birmingham.
Southampton outplayed their Premier league counterparts and heavy pressure paid off just after half time when Adam Lallana curled a well struck shot into the top right corner. The home side looked like doubling their lead, but the Blues equalised against the run of play through Lee Bowyer on 76 minutes. Lee Carsley grabbed a late winner from close range for Birmingham and after that Saint's heads dropped and there was no way back into the game.
Most worringly for Saints is the injury to right back Greame Murty, who faces a long spell on the sidelines with what looks like knee ligament damage. Murty was stretchered off the pitch with oxygen in the second half.
The result wasn't right, but I didn't have high expectations for tonight so I'm pleased Saints managed to outplay a Premier league side.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 8 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Made some good saves, two particularly good ones from free kicks.
Greame Murty - 7 - Was coping well with Birmingham attack until horrific looking injury, result may have been different if he stayed on the pitch.
Chris Perry - 7 - Was usually in the right place at the right time to clear most danger.
Wayne Thomas - 6 - Did OK, but not as competent in the air as Trotman was on Saturday.
Dan Harding - 8 - A real threat going forward and didn't neglect his defensive responsibilities.
Jacob Mellis - 6 - Showed some creative spark, but slightly lightweight.
Lloyd James - 6 - Looked much more comfortable in midfield before he was moved to right back.
Paul Wotton - 6 - Much better than last week's performance at Swindon, worked hard in midfield.
Adam Lallana - 7 - Great goal, but perhaps not as effective on the wing as he would be in central midfield.
Rickie Lambert - 6 - Often out of position, drifted into midfield when he should be playing more forward.
Marek Saganowski - 7 - Worked hard, but is that because he's looking to move before the transfer window closes?
Subs-
Simon Gillett (on for Murty) - 6 - Saw little of the ball and didn't get characteristically stuck in.
Morgan Schneiderlin (on for Wotton) - 6 - Didn't provide the attacking threat that was needed after going 2-1 down.
Matt Patterson (on for Saganowski) - 6 - Made little impact when brought on late.
Saints travel to Stockport on Saturday and I'm sure if they play as well as they did tonight then they will finally get their first league win of the season.
Southampton outplayed their Premier league counterparts and heavy pressure paid off just after half time when Adam Lallana curled a well struck shot into the top right corner. The home side looked like doubling their lead, but the Blues equalised against the run of play through Lee Bowyer on 76 minutes. Lee Carsley grabbed a late winner from close range for Birmingham and after that Saint's heads dropped and there was no way back into the game.
Most worringly for Saints is the injury to right back Greame Murty, who faces a long spell on the sidelines with what looks like knee ligament damage. Murty was stretchered off the pitch with oxygen in the second half.
The result wasn't right, but I didn't have high expectations for tonight so I'm pleased Saints managed to outplay a Premier league side.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 8 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Made some good saves, two particularly good ones from free kicks.
Greame Murty - 7 - Was coping well with Birmingham attack until horrific looking injury, result may have been different if he stayed on the pitch.
Chris Perry - 7 - Was usually in the right place at the right time to clear most danger.
Wayne Thomas - 6 - Did OK, but not as competent in the air as Trotman was on Saturday.
Dan Harding - 8 - A real threat going forward and didn't neglect his defensive responsibilities.
Jacob Mellis - 6 - Showed some creative spark, but slightly lightweight.
Lloyd James - 6 - Looked much more comfortable in midfield before he was moved to right back.
Paul Wotton - 6 - Much better than last week's performance at Swindon, worked hard in midfield.
Adam Lallana - 7 - Great goal, but perhaps not as effective on the wing as he would be in central midfield.
Rickie Lambert - 6 - Often out of position, drifted into midfield when he should be playing more forward.
Marek Saganowski - 7 - Worked hard, but is that because he's looking to move before the transfer window closes?
Subs-
Simon Gillett (on for Murty) - 6 - Saw little of the ball and didn't get characteristically stuck in.
Morgan Schneiderlin (on for Wotton) - 6 - Didn't provide the attacking threat that was needed after going 2-1 down.
Matt Patterson (on for Saganowski) - 6 - Made little impact when brought on late.
Saints travel to Stockport on Saturday and I'm sure if they play as well as they did tonight then they will finally get their first league win of the season.
Monday, 24 August 2009
Monday 24th August 2009
I finished reading Matt Le Tissier's autobiography Taking Le Tiss yesterday and as expected, its a great read. Le Tiss spent his whole career at Southampton Football Club at a time when they had numerous managers and an arrogant, pompous Chairman in Rupert Lowe. We find out that the late Alan Ball was Matt's favourite manager to play under, while Ian Branfoot, Greame Souness and Glenn Hoddle were not so popular with "Le God". We also great a great insight into Matt's team mates over the years, with amusing anecdotes about the likes of Jimmy Case, David Speedie and Richard Dryden.
Its clear from reading this book that Matt Le Tissier is as big a fan of Saints as any one else and has been hurt by the club's recent downfall. The harshest words in his book are reserved for Rupert Lowe and I'm sure most fans will agree 100% with what he says about the pompous, egotistical toff.
This book is a must read for every Saints fan, who can relive the glory days by reading about Le Tiss reflecting on his best moments and favourite goals.
Last night I watched Armando Iannucci's political comedy In The Loop on DVD, the funniest film I have seen this year. Having already watched the film at the cinema a few months ago I knew what to expect, but I loved it just as much as watching it first time.
In The Loop is about the diplomatic relations between the UK and America in the lead up to a war not too dissimilar to the Iraq conflict. In England, the plot follows the hapless Minister of International Development Simon Foster (Tom Hollander), who is made to support the war by the Prime Minister's brutal enforcer Malcolm Tucker (Peter Capaldi). Across the Atlantic, US Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomacy Karen Clarke (Mimi Kennedy) and Major General Miller (James Gandolfini AKA Tony Soprano) try to avoid going to war.
The script is excellent and takes swearing to a whole new level, particularly the lines of Malcolm Tucker and his "attack dog" Jamie MacDonald (Paul Higgins), who takes his anger over a leaked document out on a fax machine in one particularly funny scene.
In The Loop is a great parody on the diplomacy over the Iraq war, which involved the infamous "dodgy dossier". This situation can be likened to that one and it shows that politicians will spin intelligence to support their actions which otherwise would have little evidence to back up.
Like The Thick Of It, the TV programme its based on, In The Loop is a must see film for any one with even the slightest interest in politics, diplomacy or international relations.
Its clear from reading this book that Matt Le Tissier is as big a fan of Saints as any one else and has been hurt by the club's recent downfall. The harshest words in his book are reserved for Rupert Lowe and I'm sure most fans will agree 100% with what he says about the pompous, egotistical toff.
This book is a must read for every Saints fan, who can relive the glory days by reading about Le Tiss reflecting on his best moments and favourite goals.
Last night I watched Armando Iannucci's political comedy In The Loop on DVD, the funniest film I have seen this year. Having already watched the film at the cinema a few months ago I knew what to expect, but I loved it just as much as watching it first time.
In The Loop is about the diplomatic relations between the UK and America in the lead up to a war not too dissimilar to the Iraq conflict. In England, the plot follows the hapless Minister of International Development Simon Foster (Tom Hollander), who is made to support the war by the Prime Minister's brutal enforcer Malcolm Tucker (Peter Capaldi). Across the Atlantic, US Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomacy Karen Clarke (Mimi Kennedy) and Major General Miller (James Gandolfini AKA Tony Soprano) try to avoid going to war.
The script is excellent and takes swearing to a whole new level, particularly the lines of Malcolm Tucker and his "attack dog" Jamie MacDonald (Paul Higgins), who takes his anger over a leaked document out on a fax machine in one particularly funny scene.
In The Loop is a great parody on the diplomacy over the Iraq war, which involved the infamous "dodgy dossier". This situation can be likened to that one and it shows that politicians will spin intelligence to support their actions which otherwise would have little evidence to back up.
Like The Thick Of It, the TV programme its based on, In The Loop is a must see film for any one with even the slightest interest in politics, diplomacy or international relations.
Saturday, 22 August 2009
Saturday 22nd August 2009
I think the word average best describes Saint's performance in the 1-1 draw at home to Brentford this afternoon. There was some good play, but not enough was done to secure the three points.
Saints dominated the first half, but failed to get many shots on target. The second half looked to be the same story, but Dan Harding broke the deadlock for the home side on 73 minutes, scoring his first goal for the club. The left back controlled a Rickie Lambert header and fired in from three yards out, much to the relief of the majority of St Marys.
17 minutes were left to hold out for victory, but this is Southampton we're taling about and after scoring I couldn't help but feel our celebrations would be short lived. Brentford restarted looking for the equaliser which they deservedly got eight minutes later. Ryan Dickson was given a ridiculously easy passage down the left flank and he crossed for Cleveland Taylor to score from a diving header. Both teams had chances to win the game late on, but the game finished even with the away side by far the happier.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 7 - Steadied the ship when Brentford threatened to nick a winner in the final minutes.
Lloyd James - 5 - Has to take the blame for Brentford's goal, looked too scared to tackle Dickson.
Chris Perry - 6 - Read the game well as always, which made up for his lack of pace, but still a liability in the air.
Neal Trotman - 6 - At last Saints have that ball winner in the air they so desperately need, but he really should have headed home from a corner in the first half.
Dan Harding - 9 - MAN OF THE MATCH - Great tackling, good crossing into the box and capped another impressive performance with his first goal for Saints.
Jacob Mellis - 6 - Full of energy again, but perhaps burnt himself out too soon and was subbed at half time.
Dean Hammond - 6 - The debutant didn't make a huge impact on the game, but was a lot more effective in central midfield than Wotton was against Swindon on Tuesday night.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 6 - His chances were limited to long range efforts.
Adam Lallana - 6 - Often made the wrong pass when he should have gone for a better option.
Matt Patterson - 5 - Showed a total lack of composure in front of goal and was rightly subbed at half time.
Rickie Lambert - 6 - Had a few opportunities, but didn't chase the ball enough.
Subs-
Jake Thomson (on for Mellis) - 5 - Made a few good runs, but gave away possession in dangerous areas and was humiliated by being nutmegged late on.
Marek Saganowski (on for Patterson) - 5 - Had little impact on the game when brought on at half time.
Gregorz Rasiak (on for Lambert) - 6 - Didn't have time to effect the outcome of the match.
Very worryingly, that's just 2 points from Saints first 4 games, still on -8. I hate to say this, but if the team don't put more points on the board soon then we could have another relegation battle on our hands, its obvious Pardew needs to add to the side further with another centre back, a natural winger and a strike partner to bring the best of out Lambert.
Saints dominated the first half, but failed to get many shots on target. The second half looked to be the same story, but Dan Harding broke the deadlock for the home side on 73 minutes, scoring his first goal for the club. The left back controlled a Rickie Lambert header and fired in from three yards out, much to the relief of the majority of St Marys.
17 minutes were left to hold out for victory, but this is Southampton we're taling about and after scoring I couldn't help but feel our celebrations would be short lived. Brentford restarted looking for the equaliser which they deservedly got eight minutes later. Ryan Dickson was given a ridiculously easy passage down the left flank and he crossed for Cleveland Taylor to score from a diving header. Both teams had chances to win the game late on, but the game finished even with the away side by far the happier.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 7 - Steadied the ship when Brentford threatened to nick a winner in the final minutes.
Lloyd James - 5 - Has to take the blame for Brentford's goal, looked too scared to tackle Dickson.
Chris Perry - 6 - Read the game well as always, which made up for his lack of pace, but still a liability in the air.
Neal Trotman - 6 - At last Saints have that ball winner in the air they so desperately need, but he really should have headed home from a corner in the first half.
Dan Harding - 9 - MAN OF THE MATCH - Great tackling, good crossing into the box and capped another impressive performance with his first goal for Saints.
Jacob Mellis - 6 - Full of energy again, but perhaps burnt himself out too soon and was subbed at half time.
Dean Hammond - 6 - The debutant didn't make a huge impact on the game, but was a lot more effective in central midfield than Wotton was against Swindon on Tuesday night.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 6 - His chances were limited to long range efforts.
Adam Lallana - 6 - Often made the wrong pass when he should have gone for a better option.
Matt Patterson - 5 - Showed a total lack of composure in front of goal and was rightly subbed at half time.
Rickie Lambert - 6 - Had a few opportunities, but didn't chase the ball enough.
Subs-
Jake Thomson (on for Mellis) - 5 - Made a few good runs, but gave away possession in dangerous areas and was humiliated by being nutmegged late on.
Marek Saganowski (on for Patterson) - 5 - Had little impact on the game when brought on at half time.
Gregorz Rasiak (on for Lambert) - 6 - Didn't have time to effect the outcome of the match.
Very worryingly, that's just 2 points from Saints first 4 games, still on -8. I hate to say this, but if the team don't put more points on the board soon then we could have another relegation battle on our hands, its obvious Pardew needs to add to the side further with another centre back, a natural winger and a strike partner to bring the best of out Lambert.
Friday, 21 August 2009
Friday 21st August 2009
The big news story this week has been Scottish Government's decision to release Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi, who has terminal prostate cancer.
The Libyan man, who was convicted of killing of murdering 270 people when Pan Am flight 103 exploded in 1988, was freed by Scottish Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill yesterday. This decision has provoked an angry reaction, most notably from US President Barack Obama.
But an issue here is should Scottish Government be given the power to release convicted terrorists? Since New Labour devolved power from Westminster and Whitehall, Scottish Government and Scottish Parliament have been given more responsibility in legislature that previously would've been made in London. Perhaps this whole incident suggests that devolution is not a good idea and sensitive cases such as this one should be handled by Whitehall.
Sorry to keep it so short today, must get back to reading my book!
The Libyan man, who was convicted of killing of murdering 270 people when Pan Am flight 103 exploded in 1988, was freed by Scottish Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill yesterday. This decision has provoked an angry reaction, most notably from US President Barack Obama.
But an issue here is should Scottish Government be given the power to release convicted terrorists? Since New Labour devolved power from Westminster and Whitehall, Scottish Government and Scottish Parliament have been given more responsibility in legislature that previously would've been made in London. Perhaps this whole incident suggests that devolution is not a good idea and sensitive cases such as this one should be handled by Whitehall.
Sorry to keep it so short today, must get back to reading my book!
Thursday, 20 August 2009
Thusday 20th August 2009
I've just got back from the book signing of Matt Le Tissier, as he promotes his autobiography, Taking Le Tiss, out today. It was great to finally meet the legend, who is as genuinely friendly in person as he appears to be in front of Sky cameras. I was also pleased my tribute to Le Tiss made it into the book in the What The Fans Say section, my entry is on page 308!
Whilst waiting for two hours at St Marys to meet Le Tiss, I was thinking how this book would compare to the other football autobiographies I've read. Here's my top five-
5. Full Time: The Secret Life of Tony Cascarino-
This may seem a strange choice for my top five, Ireland international Cascarino was hardly the most legendary or controversial player in the game. But after reading good reviews about this book, I took it away on holiday with me a few years ago. Cascarino is completely honest about his career in his book and reveals that he doesn't actually have any Irish blood in him, despite being one of the countries most prolific goalscorers. The detail Cascarino goes into about his self doubt and gambling problems make this book stand out from the average footballer autobiography.
4. Farewell but not Goodbye: Bobby Robson-
The passing away of Sir Bobby last month highlighted just how respected the former England manager was in the game. This book was a very good read and without the scandal and controversy that most autobiographies include. There are some very interesting stories about his time as England manager, as well as a few good anecdotes involving Ipswich, Newcastle and the clubs he managed on the continent.
3. My Manchester United Years: Sir Bobby Charlton-
Sir Bobby Charlton is perhaps the greatest Englishman to ever play the game and here he tells the story of his club career. Charlton talks of the Busby Babes, the tragic Munich air disaster of 1958 and the rebuilding of the Manchester United squad which led to triumph in the European Cup in 1968. The chapters concerning the Munich plane crash are particularly moving and the reader has great empathy for the man who lost some of his closest friends and is still haunted by it today.
2. Cloughie: Walking On Water (Brian Clough)-
Brian Clough is undoubtedly the most charismatic man to ever be involved in English football and this book focuses on his playing career, his successful spells at Nottingham Forest and Derby and his failures at Leeds United. "Old big head's" larger than life personality is apparent throughout the book and he is frank when giving opinions on the individuals he came across in his career and the current state of the game.
1. Keane: The Autobiography (Roy Keane)-
I'm not a fan of players writing books before they've even hung up their boots, but this book caused such controversy when it was released in 2002 that it has to go straight to the top of my list. Keano talks about the numerous fights he's been involved in over the years, how he purposely tried to injure another player and gives his side of the infamous bust up with Ireland manager Mick McCarthy before the 2002 World Cup. Keane is a remarkable character and is more than happy to criticise anyone he disagrees with in this book, including h
is own team mates.
I wonder where Le Tissier's book will rank alongside these, I've already made a start on it and will try and finish it as soon as possible so I can post a review on here shortly.
Whilst waiting for two hours at St Marys to meet Le Tiss, I was thinking how this book would compare to the other football autobiographies I've read. Here's my top five-
5. Full Time: The Secret Life of Tony Cascarino-
This may seem a strange choice for my top five, Ireland international Cascarino was hardly the most legendary or controversial player in the game. But after reading good reviews about this book, I took it away on holiday with me a few years ago. Cascarino is completely honest about his career in his book and reveals that he doesn't actually have any Irish blood in him, despite being one of the countries most prolific goalscorers. The detail Cascarino goes into about his self doubt and gambling problems make this book stand out from the average footballer autobiography.
4. Farewell but not Goodbye: Bobby Robson-
The passing away of Sir Bobby last month highlighted just how respected the former England manager was in the game. This book was a very good read and without the scandal and controversy that most autobiographies include. There are some very interesting stories about his time as England manager, as well as a few good anecdotes involving Ipswich, Newcastle and the clubs he managed on the continent.
3. My Manchester United Years: Sir Bobby Charlton-
Sir Bobby Charlton is perhaps the greatest Englishman to ever play the game and here he tells the story of his club career. Charlton talks of the Busby Babes, the tragic Munich air disaster of 1958 and the rebuilding of the Manchester United squad which led to triumph in the European Cup in 1968. The chapters concerning the Munich plane crash are particularly moving and the reader has great empathy for the man who lost some of his closest friends and is still haunted by it today.
2. Cloughie: Walking On Water (Brian Clough)-
Brian Clough is undoubtedly the most charismatic man to ever be involved in English football and this book focuses on his playing career, his successful spells at Nottingham Forest and Derby and his failures at Leeds United. "Old big head's" larger than life personality is apparent throughout the book and he is frank when giving opinions on the individuals he came across in his career and the current state of the game.
1. Keane: The Autobiography (Roy Keane)-
I'm not a fan of players writing books before they've even hung up their boots, but this book caused such controversy when it was released in 2002 that it has to go straight to the top of my list. Keano talks about the numerous fights he's been involved in over the years, how he purposely tried to injure another player and gives his side of the infamous bust up with Ireland manager Mick McCarthy before the 2002 World Cup. Keane is a remarkable character and is more than happy to criticise anyone he disagrees with in this book, including h
is own team mates.I wonder where Le Tissier's book will rank alongside these, I've already made a start on it and will try and finish it as soon as possible so I can post a review on here shortly.
Wednesday, 19 August 2009
Wednesday 19th August 2009
Last night Saints lost their second game in three days, going down 1-0 at Swindon in a very disappointing performance.
Over 3,000 away fans made the short journey, a very good travelling support for a midweek game, but the team couldn't match the fan's passion and enthusiasm.
Swindon scored early in the first half from a corner through Sean Morrison, again no one in a Saints shirt dealt with the aerial threat. Despite having most of the game to equalise, there was no sense of urgency at all. Saints sat back and played as though they were 3-0 up, I lost count the number of times the ball was played back to 'keeper Kelvin Davis when they were better attacking opportunities up the field. Pardew has to take some blame for the defeat, his tactics were negative and he introduced substitutes too late in the game to make an impact.
Fair play to Swindon though, they continued to attack after going 1-0 up and defended well to get the win they deserved.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 7 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Kept the score down once again, different season and a different league, but the same old story.
Lloyd James - 5 - Went forward too often, leaving his flank exposed.
Oliver Lanchashire - 4 - Clumsy as always, looked a big liability.
Wayne Thomas - 5 - Disappointing, didn't give the team the assurances that was needed in defence.
Dan Harding - 6 - Saint's best defender, cleared up the mess the others failed to.
Adam Lallana - 6 - Made some good forward runs, but still no end product.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 5 - Was lacking both in attack and defensively.
Paul Wotton - 3 - Had a very bad game, was skinned far too often and hoofed the ball away on the rare occasions he was in possession.
Jacob Mellis - 6 - Looked lively in the first half, subdued in the second half.
Matt Patterson - 5 - Too lightweight, again he was shoved off the ball far too easily.
Rickie Lambert- 6 - Had a few chances, didn't get enough support from midfield.
Pardew brought on the subs too late, so I can't give them a rating.
Brentford at home on Saturday, still on -9 points, the only way is up!
Over 3,000 away fans made the short journey, a very good travelling support for a midweek game, but the team couldn't match the fan's passion and enthusiasm.
Swindon scored early in the first half from a corner through Sean Morrison, again no one in a Saints shirt dealt with the aerial threat. Despite having most of the game to equalise, there was no sense of urgency at all. Saints sat back and played as though they were 3-0 up, I lost count the number of times the ball was played back to 'keeper Kelvin Davis when they were better attacking opportunities up the field. Pardew has to take some blame for the defeat, his tactics were negative and he introduced substitutes too late in the game to make an impact.
Fair play to Swindon though, they continued to attack after going 1-0 up and defended well to get the win they deserved.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 7 - SAINTS MAN OF THE MATCH - Kept the score down once again, different season and a different league, but the same old story.
Lloyd James - 5 - Went forward too often, leaving his flank exposed.
Oliver Lanchashire - 4 - Clumsy as always, looked a big liability.
Wayne Thomas - 5 - Disappointing, didn't give the team the assurances that was needed in defence.
Dan Harding - 6 - Saint's best defender, cleared up the mess the others failed to.
Adam Lallana - 6 - Made some good forward runs, but still no end product.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 5 - Was lacking both in attack and defensively.
Paul Wotton - 3 - Had a very bad game, was skinned far too often and hoofed the ball away on the rare occasions he was in possession.
Jacob Mellis - 6 - Looked lively in the first half, subdued in the second half.
Matt Patterson - 5 - Too lightweight, again he was shoved off the ball far too easily.
Rickie Lambert- 6 - Had a few chances, didn't get enough support from midfield.
Pardew brought on the subs too late, so I can't give them a rating.
Brentford at home on Saturday, still on -9 points, the only way is up!
Sunday, 16 August 2009
Sunday 16th August 2009
I just hope Saints boss Alan Pardew realises he needs to strenghen the squad before the transfer window closes at the end of the month. Yesterday's 3-1 defeat at Huddersfield was unacceptable and after watching the goals this morning its clear Southampton need a defender with good heading ability.
Chris Perry has been a dedicated servent since joining the club permanently last year, but the former Tottenham centre back is in his mid thirties and his lack of pace is apparent. He also struggled to cope with Huddersfield's aerial threat which helped them score their second and third goals yesterday and I'm sure many other teams will try and play a direct game against Saints this season now they've spotted the weakness.
Another centre back, Oliver Lanchashire, is still too inexperienced, even for league one and could benefit with a loan spell at a league two club.
The best news for Saints fans this week was the £1 million signing of Rickie Lambert from Bristol Rovers, surely one of the best strikers in the league. Rickie has started well, with two goals in as many games and has the potential to become a real cult hero at St Marys. Hopefully Pardew will bring in another striker to play alongside Lambert, as both Saganowski and Rasiak don't look interested in playing for the club and clearly wanted to get out as soon as possible.
A big game for me personally up next on Tuesday, as Saints travel to Wiltshire to take on Swindon. With a few of my mates being huge Swindon fans, this is an opportunity to gain some early season bragging rights.
Chris Perry has been a dedicated servent since joining the club permanently last year, but the former Tottenham centre back is in his mid thirties and his lack of pace is apparent. He also struggled to cope with Huddersfield's aerial threat which helped them score their second and third goals yesterday and I'm sure many other teams will try and play a direct game against Saints this season now they've spotted the weakness.
Another centre back, Oliver Lanchashire, is still too inexperienced, even for league one and could benefit with a loan spell at a league two club.
The best news for Saints fans this week was the £1 million signing of Rickie Lambert from Bristol Rovers, surely one of the best strikers in the league. Rickie has started well, with two goals in as many games and has the potential to become a real cult hero at St Marys. Hopefully Pardew will bring in another striker to play alongside Lambert, as both Saganowski and Rasiak don't look interested in playing for the club and clearly wanted to get out as soon as possible.
A big game for me personally up next on Tuesday, as Saints travel to Wiltshire to take on Swindon. With a few of my mates being huge Swindon fans, this is an opportunity to gain some early season bragging rights.
Friday, 14 August 2009
Friday 14th August 2009
Parliament may be in the middle of its summer recess, but that hasn't stopped the breaking of a big political story this week, after Conservative MEP Daniel Hannan has said some strong words about the NHS. The contraversy comes after President Barack Obama faces opposition from the right wing over plans to implement a National Health Service in America.
In the wake of the comments by Hannan, I think Health Secretary Andy Burnham was right to label him unpatriotic today. The introduction of the NHS in 1948 was one of the great achievements of the twentieth century that British peope should be proud of. It may have a few problems and has been reformed over the years, most notably by Thatcher in the 1980s, but the core principles of providing a free, universal health care system for everyone remains today.
In my view I think Daniel Hannan has a huge ego and will open his mouth without thinking properly in order to get some media attention. Refer back to my blog from March 26th this year for details on his extreme attack on Gordon Brown.
I write this from the office of the Newbury Weekly News, as I complete my last day of work experience here. I have thoroughly enjoyed the week, its been great working at a local newspaper at "the heart of the community", as their slogan says. Its been good to get some work published both online and in print and this week has given me a good indication of what I want to do when I graduate next year. I've also found out that I must definately learn shorthand!
More updates to come on Saints' start to the season when I'm back in Southampton next week.
In the wake of the comments by Hannan, I think Health Secretary Andy Burnham was right to label him unpatriotic today. The introduction of the NHS in 1948 was one of the great achievements of the twentieth century that British peope should be proud of. It may have a few problems and has been reformed over the years, most notably by Thatcher in the 1980s, but the core principles of providing a free, universal health care system for everyone remains today.
In my view I think Daniel Hannan has a huge ego and will open his mouth without thinking properly in order to get some media attention. Refer back to my blog from March 26th this year for details on his extreme attack on Gordon Brown.
I write this from the office of the Newbury Weekly News, as I complete my last day of work experience here. I have thoroughly enjoyed the week, its been great working at a local newspaper at "the heart of the community", as their slogan says. Its been good to get some work published both online and in print and this week has given me a good indication of what I want to do when I graduate next year. I've also found out that I must definately learn shorthand!
More updates to come on Saints' start to the season when I'm back in Southampton next week.
Saturday, 8 August 2009
Saturday 8th August 2009
Saints kicked off their League One campaign earlier today with a 1-1 draw at home to Millwall in front of Sky cameras.
The atmosphere at St Marys was electric, with both sets of supporters doing their bit to cheer their teams to three points to start the season. Of course, Millwall fans have a reputation for trouble and this was reflected by the strong police presence around Southampton this afternoon. Apparently there were a few arrests outside The Square in the town centre after the game, but apart from that I believe there weren't too many problems.
On the game now. Saints dominated the first half, continuing to pile the pressure on Millwall in the second half and were rewarded when Matt Patterson scored his first competitive goal at St Marys five minutes after the restart. However, the home side sat back after going 1-0 up, so it was no surprise that Millwall equalised 16 minutes after going behind. Before that, Kelvin Davis saved a penalty, but Southampton's defence was exposed from a corner and failed to deal with the danger to watch Abdou head home.
After scoring, Millwall seemed to rally and both sides had opportunities to grab a winner, but at the final whistle 1-1 seemed a fair result based on the second half. Perhaps if Saints had made their chances and possession count in the first half they may have picked up three points.
I've given each Southampton player a mark out of 10-
Kelvin Davis - 8 - Saved well from the penalty, dealt with most Millwall threw at him.
Greame Murty - 7 - Composed at right back on Saints debut, his long throws in the Millwall penalty area constantly threatened and led to Patterson's goal.
Wayne Thomas - 7 - Very strong in the air, remained solid when Millwall attacked late in the game.
Dan Harding - 8 - MAN OF THE MATCH - The debutant read the game well, restricted opprtunities for Millwall down their left flank and made some great passes out of defence.
Lloyd James - 7 - Looked comfortable in the right midfield role which he rarely plays, could be used there again.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 7 - Recovered well from an early knock, nearly scored twice from long range efforts.
Paul Wotton - 6 - Didn't boss the game in the middle of the park as much as he should have.
Adam Lallana - 6 - Had little influence on the game, but perhaps too much is expected of him.
Matt Patterson - 7 - Good close range finish for his goal, but needs to improve in the air.
Marek Saganowki - 6 - Unlucky to have a first half goal ruled out for a foul on the Millwall 'keeper, he was a constant aerial threat, but didn't do enough running for the team.
Subs-
Oscar Gobern (on for Patterson) - 6 - Should've done better with a goal scoring opportunity late in the game.
Simon Gillett (on for James) - 4 - Gave the ball away too much in dangerous areas.
Jake Thomson (on for Schnedierlin) - 6 - Made little impact when brought on for the last few minutes.
So the point puts Saints on -9 now, with a Carling Cup game at home to Northampton coming up, then trips to Huddersfield and Swindon.
The atmosphere at St Marys was electric, with both sets of supporters doing their bit to cheer their teams to three points to start the season. Of course, Millwall fans have a reputation for trouble and this was reflected by the strong police presence around Southampton this afternoon. Apparently there were a few arrests outside The Square in the town centre after the game, but apart from that I believe there weren't too many problems.
On the game now. Saints dominated the first half, continuing to pile the pressure on Millwall in the second half and were rewarded when Matt Patterson scored his first competitive goal at St Marys five minutes after the restart. However, the home side sat back after going 1-0 up, so it was no surprise that Millwall equalised 16 minutes after going behind. Before that, Kelvin Davis saved a penalty, but Southampton's defence was exposed from a corner and failed to deal with the danger to watch Abdou head home.
After scoring, Millwall seemed to rally and both sides had opportunities to grab a winner, but at the final whistle 1-1 seemed a fair result based on the second half. Perhaps if Saints had made their chances and possession count in the first half they may have picked up three points.
I've given each Southampton player a mark out of 10-
Kelvin Davis - 8 - Saved well from the penalty, dealt with most Millwall threw at him.
Greame Murty - 7 - Composed at right back on Saints debut, his long throws in the Millwall penalty area constantly threatened and led to Patterson's goal.
Wayne Thomas - 7 - Very strong in the air, remained solid when Millwall attacked late in the game.
Dan Harding - 8 - MAN OF THE MATCH - The debutant read the game well, restricted opprtunities for Millwall down their left flank and made some great passes out of defence.
Lloyd James - 7 - Looked comfortable in the right midfield role which he rarely plays, could be used there again.
Morgan Schneiderlin - 7 - Recovered well from an early knock, nearly scored twice from long range efforts.
Paul Wotton - 6 - Didn't boss the game in the middle of the park as much as he should have.
Adam Lallana - 6 - Had little influence on the game, but perhaps too much is expected of him.
Matt Patterson - 7 - Good close range finish for his goal, but needs to improve in the air.
Marek Saganowki - 6 - Unlucky to have a first half goal ruled out for a foul on the Millwall 'keeper, he was a constant aerial threat, but didn't do enough running for the team.
Subs-
Oscar Gobern (on for Patterson) - 6 - Should've done better with a goal scoring opportunity late in the game.
Simon Gillett (on for James) - 4 - Gave the ball away too much in dangerous areas.
Jake Thomson (on for Schnedierlin) - 6 - Made little impact when brought on for the last few minutes.
So the point puts Saints on -9 now, with a Carling Cup game at home to Northampton coming up, then trips to Huddersfield and Swindon.
Sunday, 2 August 2009
Sunday 2nd August 2009
Over the past couple of days football has been mourning the loss of one of it's most loyal servents, Sir Bobby Robson.
The great man will always be remembered as England's most successful manager since World Cup winner Sir Alf Ramsey and tributes have been pouring in from every big name in football, stating what a gentleman he was. So why was Sir Bobby Robson regarded as one of the illustrious individuals in football?
After a notable career as a player with Fulham and West Bromich Albion with included representing England 20 times, Robson guided Ipswich Town to a UEFA Cup, an FA Cup and two 2nd place finishes in the First Division. This led to his appointment as England manager in 1982 and his team fell at the Quarter Final stage of the 1986 World Cup in Mexico thanks to the cheating and brilliance of Diego Maradona's Argentina.
The World Cup 1990 campaign in Italy is England's most successful since the triumphs of 1966 and saw Robson's side lose on penalties to eventual winners West Germany at the semi final stage. This achievement is even more special given the fact that, with the exception of Gary Linekar and Paul Gascoigne, the England team wasn't full of world class players like it is today. More recently, the likes of Glenn Hoddle, Kevin Keegan and Sven Goran-Eriksson have had far more talented players at thier disposal than Robson did yet they have all failed to reach the semi finals of a major tournament.
After managing the national team, Sir Bobby became one of only a handful of English managers to do well on the continent, with success at Barcelona, PSV Eindhoven, Porto and Barcelona in the 1990s.
In 1999, a glittering career was coming to an end, but there was still time for Robson to make a further impact in football, when at the age of 66 he was appointed manager of the club he supported as a boy, Newcastle United. He quickly changed Newcastle from a medicore mid table side to genuine title contenders. In my opinion, the day Robson was sacked in 2004 was the day things started to go downhill for the North East club.
Robson's service to the game and achievements were recognised in 2002 when he was knighted.
He has fought bravely with lung cancer and his death on Friday at the age of 76 was a sad day for football. Tributes from top names in football such as Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho portray Sir Bobby as not only a great manager, but as the nicest bloke in football who always had time for his fellow professionals.
Yesterday there was a minute silence at football grounds across the country, including QPR vs Southampton, the game I was at and the sadness of fans upon hearing of his death is a true testament to how much Sir Bobby Robson was loved and respected. May the great man rest in peace.
The great man will always be remembered as England's most successful manager since World Cup winner Sir Alf Ramsey and tributes have been pouring in from every big name in football, stating what a gentleman he was. So why was Sir Bobby Robson regarded as one of the illustrious individuals in football?
After a notable career as a player with Fulham and West Bromich Albion with included representing England 20 times, Robson guided Ipswich Town to a UEFA Cup, an FA Cup and two 2nd place finishes in the First Division. This led to his appointment as England manager in 1982 and his team fell at the Quarter Final stage of the 1986 World Cup in Mexico thanks to the cheating and brilliance of Diego Maradona's Argentina.
The World Cup 1990 campaign in Italy is England's most successful since the triumphs of 1966 and saw Robson's side lose on penalties to eventual winners West Germany at the semi final stage. This achievement is even more special given the fact that, with the exception of Gary Linekar and Paul Gascoigne, the England team wasn't full of world class players like it is today. More recently, the likes of Glenn Hoddle, Kevin Keegan and Sven Goran-Eriksson have had far more talented players at thier disposal than Robson did yet they have all failed to reach the semi finals of a major tournament.
After managing the national team, Sir Bobby became one of only a handful of English managers to do well on the continent, with success at Barcelona, PSV Eindhoven, Porto and Barcelona in the 1990s.
In 1999, a glittering career was coming to an end, but there was still time for Robson to make a further impact in football, when at the age of 66 he was appointed manager of the club he supported as a boy, Newcastle United. He quickly changed Newcastle from a medicore mid table side to genuine title contenders. In my opinion, the day Robson was sacked in 2004 was the day things started to go downhill for the North East club.
Robson's service to the game and achievements were recognised in 2002 when he was knighted.
He has fought bravely with lung cancer and his death on Friday at the age of 76 was a sad day for football. Tributes from top names in football such as Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho portray Sir Bobby as not only a great manager, but as the nicest bloke in football who always had time for his fellow professionals.
Yesterday there was a minute silence at football grounds across the country, including QPR vs Southampton, the game I was at and the sadness of fans upon hearing of his death is a true testament to how much Sir Bobby Robson was loved and respected. May the great man rest in peace.
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