Recent evidence has come to light that
reveals a man by the name of Andrew
Watson was the world’s first black football
player. Starting his career in 1874, he was
successful at all levels of the game and set
the path for those that would follow him.
Watson was born in British Guiana in 1857
and later came to Britain, attending public
school in Halifax. He was educated at King's
College School, where he excelled at sports
including football. He went on to study
natural philosophy, mathematics and
engineering at University of Glasgow,
before leaving, it is thought, to begin work
as an engineer. In 1875 he enrolled in
Glasgow University, were he studied Maths,
Natural Philosophy, Civil Engineering and
Mechanics.
Watson, who played on either side of
defence or in midfield, began his playing
career with Maxwell in Glasgow, followed
by a stint at Parkgrove in 1874. Later, he
played for Queens Park, the top team in
Scotland at the time, spending seven years
there from 1880-1887. According to the
‘Scottish Football Association Annual’ of
1880-81, he was;
"One of the very best backs we have; since
joining Queen's Park has made rapid strides
to the front as a player; has great speed and
tackles splendidly; a powerful and sure kick;
well worthy of a place in any representative
team."
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
Monday, 19 December 2011
Messi closes in on Maradona
Messi closes in on Maradona
19 December 2011
Juan Roman Riquelme said Lionel Messi is
slowly replacing Diego Maradona as
Argentine football's main character.
The 33-year-old Boca Juniors midfielder
said Maradona is rated the best player
ever by Argentines of older generations,
but Messi has taken his place with the
younger football fans.
"I was lucky enough to grow up during
the era of Diego Maradona, who all
Argentinians consider the greatest player
ever," Riquelme told the FIFA website.
"After watching him play I used to run
out onto the street with my mates, get
the ball and pretend that I was him. I'd be
commentating on myself and saying
'Maradona has the ball', stuff like that."
"Now that's what my son's like with
Lionel Messi. He starts kicking the ball and
saying 'Messi's on the ball'."
"For people my age, Maradona is the main
man. But for younger generations, like
my boy, Messi's their hero."
Riquelme has won more than 50 caps for
Argentina and lifted the Apertura title
with Boca Juniors earlier this month
19 December 2011
Juan Roman Riquelme said Lionel Messi is
slowly replacing Diego Maradona as
Argentine football's main character.
The 33-year-old Boca Juniors midfielder
said Maradona is rated the best player
ever by Argentines of older generations,
but Messi has taken his place with the
younger football fans.
"I was lucky enough to grow up during
the era of Diego Maradona, who all
Argentinians consider the greatest player
ever," Riquelme told the FIFA website.
"After watching him play I used to run
out onto the street with my mates, get
the ball and pretend that I was him. I'd be
commentating on myself and saying
'Maradona has the ball', stuff like that."
"Now that's what my son's like with
Lionel Messi. He starts kicking the ball and
saying 'Messi's on the ball'."
"For people my age, Maradona is the main
man. But for younger generations, like
my boy, Messi's their hero."
Riquelme has won more than 50 caps for
Argentina and lifted the Apertura title
with Boca Juniors earlier this month
Sevilla president jailed for fraud
Sevilla president jailed for
fraud
19 December 2011
Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido has
been sentenced to seven-and-a-half years
in prison.
Del Nido was found guilty of fraud,
corruption and embezzlement in the
'Minutas' case by the court of Malaga.
The offences took place between 1999
and 2003 when he worked as lawyer for
the municipality of Marbella.
The prosecutor had demanded 30 years
in prison for Del Nido, but the court
decided to settle for the lesser sentence.
Del Nido took charge at Sevilla in 2002
and has since won two UEFA Cups, the
UEFA Supercup, two Copa del Rey and the
Spanish Supercopa.
The court of Malaga has also sentenced
former Marbella mayor Julian Munoz to
seven-and-a-half years in prison for the
same offences, while former adviser Juan
Antonio Roca was sentenced to four
years behind bars.
fraud
19 December 2011
Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido has
been sentenced to seven-and-a-half years
in prison.
Del Nido was found guilty of fraud,
corruption and embezzlement in the
'Minutas' case by the court of Malaga.
The offences took place between 1999
and 2003 when he worked as lawyer for
the municipality of Marbella.
The prosecutor had demanded 30 years
in prison for Del Nido, but the court
decided to settle for the lesser sentence.
Del Nido took charge at Sevilla in 2002
and has since won two UEFA Cups, the
UEFA Supercup, two Copa del Rey and the
Spanish Supercopa.
The court of Malaga has also sentenced
former Marbella mayor Julian Munoz to
seven-and-a-half years in prison for the
same offences, while former adviser Juan
Antonio Roca was sentenced to four
years behind bars.
Ramos suffers pulled hamstring
Ramos suffers pulled
hamstring
19 December 2011
Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos
suffered a hamstring injury in their 6-2
win over Sevilla, it has been revealed.
The 25-year-old featured for the full 90
minutes in the Santiago Bernabeu side's
impressive away victory, but complained
about hamstring soreness in the wash-
up.
Ramos underwent a number of tests on
Sunday to determine the extent of the
injury and a scan has revealed that the
Spain international has suffered a pulled
hamstring.
It is not yet exactly known how long the
versatile defender will be sidelined for,
but he is certain to miss Tuesday's Copa
del Rey match at home against
Ponferradina.
Real Madrid are hopeful that Ramos will
be match fit in time for their first La Liga
game following the winter break against
Granada on January 8.
hamstring
19 December 2011
Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos
suffered a hamstring injury in their 6-2
win over Sevilla, it has been revealed.
The 25-year-old featured for the full 90
minutes in the Santiago Bernabeu side's
impressive away victory, but complained
about hamstring soreness in the wash-
up.
Ramos underwent a number of tests on
Sunday to determine the extent of the
injury and a scan has revealed that the
Spain international has suffered a pulled
hamstring.
It is not yet exactly known how long the
versatile defender will be sidelined for,
but he is certain to miss Tuesday's Copa
del Rey match at home against
Ponferradina.
Real Madrid are hopeful that Ramos will
be match fit in time for their first La Liga
game following the winter break against
Granada on January 8.
Thursday, 8 December 2011
Premier League preview: Liverpool v QPR
Premier League preview:
Liverpool v QPR
8 December 2011
Liverpool welcome QPR on Saturday
looking to arrest a worrying run of
results against the newly promoted
teams.
The Reds have dropped points to both
Swansea and Norwich at Anfield in the
Premier League and in QPR they look set
to face the sternest test of the three.
Liverpool have had no such troubles
against the top sides in the league with a
win against Chelsea, and draws to
Manchester United and Manchester City,
as well as a 2-0 win again over Chelsea in
the Carling Cup last week.
Liverpool's 1-0 loss to Fulham at Craven
Cottage in midweek was their first
competitive defeat for 12 matches and
the Reds will have to make do without
Jay Spearing after he was controversially
red carded for a lunging foul on Moussa
Dembele.
Lucas Leiva's season-ending knee injury
paved the way for Jonjo Shelvey to
return to the club on short notice from
his successful loan spell at Blackpool.
The 19-year-old scored six goals in 10
appearances for Ian Holloway's side and
despite his admiration for the young
midfielder and readiness to keep him,
Shelvey has returned to Anfield to
provide cover for Kenny Dalglish.
He is the most likely candidate to replace
Lucas, along with Spearing when he
returns from suspension.
Meanwhile, QPR boss Neil Warnock is
relishing the prospect of playing one of
the biggest sides in England.
"Trips to Anfield are the reason we're
delighted to be in the Premier League,"
Warnock has said.
And with their promoted compatriots
both returning home with points this
term, Rangers should feel a result is well
within their grasp.
Joey Barton provided much-needed grunt
in the midfield on his return to QPR's line-
up in a 1-1 draw with West Brom last
start while striker Heidar Helguson scored
his sixth goal in nine games.
Following their season-defining 1-0 win
against Chelsea, QPR have just one win in
their past five which has seen them slip
to 12th on the table, a run they will want
to end before the visit of Manchester
United to Loftus Road.
Liverpool v QPR
8 December 2011
Liverpool welcome QPR on Saturday
looking to arrest a worrying run of
results against the newly promoted
teams.
The Reds have dropped points to both
Swansea and Norwich at Anfield in the
Premier League and in QPR they look set
to face the sternest test of the three.
Liverpool have had no such troubles
against the top sides in the league with a
win against Chelsea, and draws to
Manchester United and Manchester City,
as well as a 2-0 win again over Chelsea in
the Carling Cup last week.
Liverpool's 1-0 loss to Fulham at Craven
Cottage in midweek was their first
competitive defeat for 12 matches and
the Reds will have to make do without
Jay Spearing after he was controversially
red carded for a lunging foul on Moussa
Dembele.
Lucas Leiva's season-ending knee injury
paved the way for Jonjo Shelvey to
return to the club on short notice from
his successful loan spell at Blackpool.
The 19-year-old scored six goals in 10
appearances for Ian Holloway's side and
despite his admiration for the young
midfielder and readiness to keep him,
Shelvey has returned to Anfield to
provide cover for Kenny Dalglish.
He is the most likely candidate to replace
Lucas, along with Spearing when he
returns from suspension.
Meanwhile, QPR boss Neil Warnock is
relishing the prospect of playing one of
the biggest sides in England.
"Trips to Anfield are the reason we're
delighted to be in the Premier League,"
Warnock has said.
And with their promoted compatriots
both returning home with points this
term, Rangers should feel a result is well
within their grasp.
Joey Barton provided much-needed grunt
in the midfield on his return to QPR's line-
up in a 1-1 draw with West Brom last
start while striker Heidar Helguson scored
his sixth goal in nine games.
Following their season-defining 1-0 win
against Chelsea, QPR have just one win in
their past five which has seen them slip
to 12th on the table, a run they will want
to end before the visit of Manchester
United to Loftus Road.
Galliani still confident of luring Tevez
Galliani still confident of luring
Tevez
9 December 2011
AC Milan vice president Adriano Galliani
insists Manchester City striker Carlos
Tevez is still holding out for a move to
San Siro.
A transfer appeared imminent after
Galliani confirmed on Tuesday that he
had agreed terms with the Argentine
star's agent Kia Joorabchian to push
through a transfer.
However, a deal hinges on Manchester
City's approval, and news of interest from
Paris Saint-Germain has now thrown the
agreement into doubt.
"I can confirm the inclusion of Paris Saint-
Germain (in the race to sign Tevez), and
we are aware (of that)," Galliani told Sky
Sports Italia.
"I haven't heard from (PSG sporting
director) Leonardo as he works for
another club and can do what he wants."
"I expect to learn more in the coming
days, but there is time to close the deal
until the end of the transfer window,
even if I would prefer to take him to Italy
before."
However, despite the revelation, Galliani
remains undeterred in his efforts to bring
in the striker to Milan, although he admits
the onus is now on forcing City to part
with the player on his terms.
"We all know that Manchester City wants
to sell the player and we want to loan
him," he said.
"We have to convince them to accept our
conditions, but it will not be easy. Tevez?
He wants to join Milan."
AC Milan travel to Bologna on Sunday in
Serie A action, as they try to keep the heat
on league-leaders Juventus.
Tevez
9 December 2011
AC Milan vice president Adriano Galliani
insists Manchester City striker Carlos
Tevez is still holding out for a move to
San Siro.
A transfer appeared imminent after
Galliani confirmed on Tuesday that he
had agreed terms with the Argentine
star's agent Kia Joorabchian to push
through a transfer.
However, a deal hinges on Manchester
City's approval, and news of interest from
Paris Saint-Germain has now thrown the
agreement into doubt.
"I can confirm the inclusion of Paris Saint-
Germain (in the race to sign Tevez), and
we are aware (of that)," Galliani told Sky
Sports Italia.
"I haven't heard from (PSG sporting
director) Leonardo as he works for
another club and can do what he wants."
"I expect to learn more in the coming
days, but there is time to close the deal
until the end of the transfer window,
even if I would prefer to take him to Italy
before."
However, despite the revelation, Galliani
remains undeterred in his efforts to bring
in the striker to Milan, although he admits
the onus is now on forcing City to part
with the player on his terms.
"We all know that Manchester City wants
to sell the player and we want to loan
him," he said.
"We have to convince them to accept our
conditions, but it will not be easy. Tevez?
He wants to join Milan."
AC Milan travel to Bologna on Sunday in
Serie A action, as they try to keep the heat
on league-leaders Juventus.
Barcelona march on in Euroleague
Barcelona march on in
Euroleague
9 December 2011
FC Barcelona Regal took their season
record to 8-0 after their 63-50 win over
Unics in the Euroleague on Thursday.
The Spanish outfit have already booked
their spot in the Top 16, but they kept up
their winning form with the 13-point
victory.
Unics have also qualified for the next
stage of the tournament and as a result
both sides were keen on building
momentum.
Despite Barcelona jumping to a 21-15
lead at the first break, the two sides were
only separated by four points at the final
break.
Barca kept the Russian side to just seven
points in the last quarter as Juan Carlos
Navarro (13 points), Erazem Lorbek (11
points, four rebounds) and Pete Mickael
(10 points) kept their winning streak
alive.
The other match in Pool D saw
Montepaschi Siena edge past GS Medical
Park 67-63 in a close one, while in Pool C
Real Madrid were 88-64 winners over
Maccabi Electra and Belgacom Spirou
toppled Partizan mt:s 84-79.
Brose Baskets were also on the winners
list, triumphing 90-79 against Unicaja
while Olympiacos won a thriller against
Caja Laboral 84-82.
Euroleague
9 December 2011
FC Barcelona Regal took their season
record to 8-0 after their 63-50 win over
Unics in the Euroleague on Thursday.
The Spanish outfit have already booked
their spot in the Top 16, but they kept up
their winning form with the 13-point
victory.
Unics have also qualified for the next
stage of the tournament and as a result
both sides were keen on building
momentum.
Despite Barcelona jumping to a 21-15
lead at the first break, the two sides were
only separated by four points at the final
break.
Barca kept the Russian side to just seven
points in the last quarter as Juan Carlos
Navarro (13 points), Erazem Lorbek (11
points, four rebounds) and Pete Mickael
(10 points) kept their winning streak
alive.
The other match in Pool D saw
Montepaschi Siena edge past GS Medical
Park 67-63 in a close one, while in Pool C
Real Madrid were 88-64 winners over
Maccabi Electra and Belgacom Spirou
toppled Partizan mt:s 84-79.
Brose Baskets were also on the winners
list, triumphing 90-79 against Unicaja
while Olympiacos won a thriller against
Caja Laboral 84-82.
Rooney´s Euro 2012 ban reduced
England star Wayne Rooney is free to
play in the final game of the Euro 2012
group stages after having his three-
match ban reduced.
The Manchester United striker, 26,
successfully had his ban reduced to two
matches by UEFA on Thursday, meaning
he can feature in England's Group D clash
against Ukraine on June 19, 2012.
Rooney was red-carded in England's final
qualifier for the tournament, after kicking
out at defender Miodrag Dzudovic in the
2-2 draw against Montenegro in October.
The original ban would have seen the 73-
time international miss all of England's
group matches, against France, Sweden
and Ukraine.
The third game of the ban has now been
suspended for four years, meaning that if
Rooney lands himself in any more trouble
in UEFA-run competition before the finals,
it could be reinstated.
Rooney must avoid any misdemeanours,
therefore, in the Europa League with his
club. He will also take part in a UEFA
community program.
Rooney was in Nyon, Switzerland, at
UEFA's headquarters, along with four
lawyers and England manager Fabio
Capello to argue the case for a reduced
punishment.
Club England director Adrian Bevington
was 'very pleased' with the outcome of
the appeal, explaining its conditions.
"The suspension is now suspended for
four years so Wayne will be available for
the final group game of the European
Championships against Ukraine - so in
effect it's a two-match suspension with
one carried over a four-year period for
the national teams," Bevington told
reporters.
"We're very pleased with that today.
Wayne's presence here was clearly
important so I'd like to make a special
thanks to Manchester United; to David Gill
and to Sir Alex Ferguson for releasing
Wayne to be present."
"Wayne has also agreed to support one
day of a UEFA program during the
forthcoming period and we would expect
him to do so while he's on national team
duty - so there will be no impact on his
Manchester United time there as well."
"So we're very grateful for the time
we've been given by UEFA today. The
commission considered everything. They
listened to evidence from Wayne and
from Fabio Capello as well and we're
pleased with the outcome."
"We've had a very fair hearing. Clearly it
was very important that both Wayne and
Fabio attended and obviously the
outcome of Wayne being available for the
third group game is a positive result for
us."
play in the final game of the Euro 2012
group stages after having his three-
match ban reduced.
The Manchester United striker, 26,
successfully had his ban reduced to two
matches by UEFA on Thursday, meaning
he can feature in England's Group D clash
against Ukraine on June 19, 2012.
Rooney was red-carded in England's final
qualifier for the tournament, after kicking
out at defender Miodrag Dzudovic in the
2-2 draw against Montenegro in October.
The original ban would have seen the 73-
time international miss all of England's
group matches, against France, Sweden
and Ukraine.
The third game of the ban has now been
suspended for four years, meaning that if
Rooney lands himself in any more trouble
in UEFA-run competition before the finals,
it could be reinstated.
Rooney must avoid any misdemeanours,
therefore, in the Europa League with his
club. He will also take part in a UEFA
community program.
Rooney was in Nyon, Switzerland, at
UEFA's headquarters, along with four
lawyers and England manager Fabio
Capello to argue the case for a reduced
punishment.
Club England director Adrian Bevington
was 'very pleased' with the outcome of
the appeal, explaining its conditions.
"The suspension is now suspended for
four years so Wayne will be available for
the final group game of the European
Championships against Ukraine - so in
effect it's a two-match suspension with
one carried over a four-year period for
the national teams," Bevington told
reporters.
"We're very pleased with that today.
Wayne's presence here was clearly
important so I'd like to make a special
thanks to Manchester United; to David Gill
and to Sir Alex Ferguson for releasing
Wayne to be present."
"Wayne has also agreed to support one
day of a UEFA program during the
forthcoming period and we would expect
him to do so while he's on national team
duty - so there will be no impact on his
Manchester United time there as well."
"So we're very grateful for the time
we've been given by UEFA today. The
commission considered everything. They
listened to evidence from Wayne and
from Fabio Capello as well and we're
pleased with the outcome."
"We've had a very fair hearing. Clearly it
was very important that both Wayne and
Fabio attended and obviously the
outcome of Wayne being available for the
third group game is a positive result for
us."
Rooney´s Euro 2012 ban reduced
Rooney´s Euro 2012 ban
reduced
8 December 2011
England star Wayne Rooney is free to
play in the final game of the Euro 2012
group stages after having his three-
match ban reduced.
The Manchester United striker, 26,
successfully had his ban reduced to two
matches by UEFA on Thursday, meaning
he can feature in England's Group D clash
against Ukraine on June 19, 2012.
Rooney was red-carded in England's final
qualifier for the tournament, after kicking
out at defender Miodrag Dzudovic in the
2-2 draw against Montenegro in October.
The original ban would have seen the 73-
time international miss all of England's
group matches, against France, Sweden
and Ukraine.
The third game of the ban has now been
suspended for four years, meaning that if
Rooney lands himself in any more trouble
in UEFA-run competition before the finals,
it could be reinstated.
Rooney must avoid any misdemeanours,
therefore, in the Europa League with his
club. He will also take part in a UEFA
community program.
Rooney was in Nyon, Switzerland, at
UEFA's headquarters, along with four
lawyers and England manager Fabio
Capello to argue the case for a reduced
punishment.
Club England director Adrian Bevington
was 'very pleased' with the outcome of
the appeal, explaining its conditions.
"The suspension is now suspended for
four years so Wayne will be available for
the final group game of the European
Championships against Ukraine - so in
effect it's a two-match suspension with
one carried over a four-year period for
the national teams," Bevington told
reporters.
"We're very pleased with that today.
Wayne's presence here was clearly
important so I'd like to make a special
thanks to Manchester United; to David Gill
and to Sir Alex Ferguson for releasing
Wayne to be present."
"Wayne has also agreed to support one
day of a UEFA program during the
forthcoming period and we would expect
him to do so while he's on national team
duty - so there will be no impact on his
Manchester United time there as well."
"So we're very grateful for the time
we've been given by UEFA today. The
commission considered everything. They
listened to evidence from Wayne and
from Fabio Capello as well and we're
pleased with the outcome."
"We've had a very fair hearing. Clearly it
was very important that both Wayne and
Fabio attended and obviously the
outcome of Wayne being available for the
third group game is a positive result for
us."
reduced
8 December 2011
England star Wayne Rooney is free to
play in the final game of the Euro 2012
group stages after having his three-
match ban reduced.
The Manchester United striker, 26,
successfully had his ban reduced to two
matches by UEFA on Thursday, meaning
he can feature in England's Group D clash
against Ukraine on June 19, 2012.
Rooney was red-carded in England's final
qualifier for the tournament, after kicking
out at defender Miodrag Dzudovic in the
2-2 draw against Montenegro in October.
The original ban would have seen the 73-
time international miss all of England's
group matches, against France, Sweden
and Ukraine.
The third game of the ban has now been
suspended for four years, meaning that if
Rooney lands himself in any more trouble
in UEFA-run competition before the finals,
it could be reinstated.
Rooney must avoid any misdemeanours,
therefore, in the Europa League with his
club. He will also take part in a UEFA
community program.
Rooney was in Nyon, Switzerland, at
UEFA's headquarters, along with four
lawyers and England manager Fabio
Capello to argue the case for a reduced
punishment.
Club England director Adrian Bevington
was 'very pleased' with the outcome of
the appeal, explaining its conditions.
"The suspension is now suspended for
four years so Wayne will be available for
the final group game of the European
Championships against Ukraine - so in
effect it's a two-match suspension with
one carried over a four-year period for
the national teams," Bevington told
reporters.
"We're very pleased with that today.
Wayne's presence here was clearly
important so I'd like to make a special
thanks to Manchester United; to David Gill
and to Sir Alex Ferguson for releasing
Wayne to be present."
"Wayne has also agreed to support one
day of a UEFA program during the
forthcoming period and we would expect
him to do so while he's on national team
duty - so there will be no impact on his
Manchester United time there as well."
"So we're very grateful for the time
we've been given by UEFA today. The
commission considered everything. They
listened to evidence from Wayne and
from Fabio Capello as well and we're
pleased with the outcome."
"We've had a very fair hearing. Clearly it
was very important that both Wayne and
Fabio attended and obviously the
outcome of Wayne being available for the
third group game is a positive result for
us."
Love of football wins out for Gervinho
Love of football wins out for
Gervinho
8 December 2011
Arsenal forward Gervinho says his family
tried to stop him playing football as a
youngster as they wanted him to focus
on his education.
Gervinho came through the world-
renowned Jean-Marc Guillou academy in
the Ivory Coast as a youngster and the
24-year-old said football was his only
passion as a child.
"I don't know what I would have done
had I not become a footballer," Gervinho
told Arsenal's official website.
"I've always wanted to do that, even
when my family would try to stop me
playing football so that I went to school."
"They wanted me to go to a normal
school. They felt it was a bit risky as the
academy was new and not really known.
I had to bring someone who had faith in
my skills to convince them."
"I started playing at my local estate club. I
used to wake up every morning to go to
play in the club. I loved it so much, it
brought a lot of wonderful things in my
life."
"Back in the days, being able to join the
Jean-Marc Guillou academy was one of
the best things that could happen to a
youngster from Ivory Coast. There were
thousands of kids who wanted to join
that school so it was a great feeling for
me."
Gervinho has made a smooth adjustment
to the Premier League following his
summer move from Lille and points to his
time spent in Belgium with Beveren as
key to his development.
"The transfer from Africa to Beveren was
part of the training," he said.
"Most of the players would leave the
centre for Belgium. We all met again there
in Beveren."
"It was a way to adjust to European
football and having us all together made
the move easier for all of us."
"We were all happy to leave Africa for
Europe, we knew how lucky we were to
move to Europe at a young age. Someone
was looking after us."
"Beveren helped me a lot to adjust to
Europe."
Gervinho
8 December 2011
Arsenal forward Gervinho says his family
tried to stop him playing football as a
youngster as they wanted him to focus
on his education.
Gervinho came through the world-
renowned Jean-Marc Guillou academy in
the Ivory Coast as a youngster and the
24-year-old said football was his only
passion as a child.
"I don't know what I would have done
had I not become a footballer," Gervinho
told Arsenal's official website.
"I've always wanted to do that, even
when my family would try to stop me
playing football so that I went to school."
"They wanted me to go to a normal
school. They felt it was a bit risky as the
academy was new and not really known.
I had to bring someone who had faith in
my skills to convince them."
"I started playing at my local estate club. I
used to wake up every morning to go to
play in the club. I loved it so much, it
brought a lot of wonderful things in my
life."
"Back in the days, being able to join the
Jean-Marc Guillou academy was one of
the best things that could happen to a
youngster from Ivory Coast. There were
thousands of kids who wanted to join
that school so it was a great feeling for
me."
Gervinho has made a smooth adjustment
to the Premier League following his
summer move from Lille and points to his
time spent in Belgium with Beveren as
key to his development.
"The transfer from Africa to Beveren was
part of the training," he said.
"Most of the players would leave the
centre for Belgium. We all met again there
in Beveren."
"It was a way to adjust to European
football and having us all together made
the move easier for all of us."
"We were all happy to leave Africa for
Europe, we knew how lucky we were to
move to Europe at a young age. Someone
was looking after us."
"Beveren helped me a lot to adjust to
Europe."
Love of football wins out for Gervinho
Love of football wins out for
Gervinho
8 December 2011
Arsenal forward Gervinho says his family
tried to stop him playing football as a
youngster as they wanted him to focus
on his education.
Gervinho came through the world-
renowned Jean-Marc Guillou academy in
the Ivory Coast as a youngster and the
24-year-old said football was his only
passion as a child.
"I don't know what I would have done
had I not become a footballer," Gervinho
told Arsenal's official website.
"I've always wanted to do that, even
when my family would try to stop me
playing football so that I went to school."
"They wanted me to go to a normal
school. They felt it was a bit risky as the
academy was new and not really known.
I had to bring someone who had faith in
my skills to convince them."
"I started playing at my local estate club. I
used to wake up every morning to go to
play in the club. I loved it so much, it
brought a lot of wonderful things in my
life."
"Back in the days, being able to join the
Jean-Marc Guillou academy was one of
the best things that could happen to a
youngster from Ivory Coast. There were
thousands of kids who wanted to join
that school so it was a great feeling for
me."
Gervinho has made a smooth adjustment
to the Premier League following his
summer move from Lille and points to his
time spent in Belgium with Beveren as
key to his development.
"The transfer from Africa to Beveren was
part of the training," he said.
"Most of the players would leave the
centre for Belgium. We all met again there
in Beveren."
"It was a way to adjust to European
football and having us all together made
the move easier for all of us."
"We were all happy to leave Africa for
Europe, we knew how lucky we were to
move to Europe at a young age. Someone
was looking after us."
"Beveren helped me a lot to adjust to
Europe."
Gervinho
8 December 2011
Arsenal forward Gervinho says his family
tried to stop him playing football as a
youngster as they wanted him to focus
on his education.
Gervinho came through the world-
renowned Jean-Marc Guillou academy in
the Ivory Coast as a youngster and the
24-year-old said football was his only
passion as a child.
"I don't know what I would have done
had I not become a footballer," Gervinho
told Arsenal's official website.
"I've always wanted to do that, even
when my family would try to stop me
playing football so that I went to school."
"They wanted me to go to a normal
school. They felt it was a bit risky as the
academy was new and not really known.
I had to bring someone who had faith in
my skills to convince them."
"I started playing at my local estate club. I
used to wake up every morning to go to
play in the club. I loved it so much, it
brought a lot of wonderful things in my
life."
"Back in the days, being able to join the
Jean-Marc Guillou academy was one of
the best things that could happen to a
youngster from Ivory Coast. There were
thousands of kids who wanted to join
that school so it was a great feeling for
me."
Gervinho has made a smooth adjustment
to the Premier League following his
summer move from Lille and points to his
time spent in Belgium with Beveren as
key to his development.
"The transfer from Africa to Beveren was
part of the training," he said.
"Most of the players would leave the
centre for Belgium. We all met again there
in Beveren."
"It was a way to adjust to European
football and having us all together made
the move easier for all of us."
"We were all happy to leave Africa for
Europe, we knew how lucky we were to
move to Europe at a young age. Someone
was looking after us."
"Beveren helped me a lot to adjust to
Europe."
FA stand by decision to appeal Rooney ban
FA stand by decision to appeal
Rooney ban
8 December 2011
The FA have defended their decision to
appeal the three-match ban handed to
Wayne Rooney in England's Euro 2012
qualifier in October.
Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish had
accused the FA of double standards, as by
their rules, Rooney would have faced an
automatic three-game ban for his kick on
Montenegro defender Miodrag Dzudovic.
Rooney will now only face a two-match
suspension after his punishment was
reduced by one game, with the FA's
appeal in Nyon on Thursday proving
successful.
The reduction in his suspension means
Rooney will be available for England's
final Group D match against host nation
Ukraine, although he will miss games
against France on June 11 in Donetsk and
Sweden in Kiev on June 15.
An FA statement read: "To promote speed
and consistency, stakeholders in England
agreed a standard formula encompassing
a fixed penalty sanction should be
applied across the game by The FA."
"The system has been in operation for
many years and meets the demands of
the domestic game."
"The FA's system allows clubs to make a
claim of wrongful dismissal - to reduce a
sanction to zero - or appeal the severity
of a sanction, both of these processes are
dealt with prior to the player's next
fixture."
"UEFA chooses to operate a different
process for European matches, based on
a sliding scale, under which each sanction
is determined individually by a
disciplinary panel."
"In any event a minimum one-game ban
will always be applied by UEFA."
"This process meets the demands of UEFA
football where the period between
fixtures is greater than that in the
domestic game."
Rooney ban
8 December 2011
The FA have defended their decision to
appeal the three-match ban handed to
Wayne Rooney in England's Euro 2012
qualifier in October.
Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish had
accused the FA of double standards, as by
their rules, Rooney would have faced an
automatic three-game ban for his kick on
Montenegro defender Miodrag Dzudovic.
Rooney will now only face a two-match
suspension after his punishment was
reduced by one game, with the FA's
appeal in Nyon on Thursday proving
successful.
The reduction in his suspension means
Rooney will be available for England's
final Group D match against host nation
Ukraine, although he will miss games
against France on June 11 in Donetsk and
Sweden in Kiev on June 15.
An FA statement read: "To promote speed
and consistency, stakeholders in England
agreed a standard formula encompassing
a fixed penalty sanction should be
applied across the game by The FA."
"The system has been in operation for
many years and meets the demands of
the domestic game."
"The FA's system allows clubs to make a
claim of wrongful dismissal - to reduce a
sanction to zero - or appeal the severity
of a sanction, both of these processes are
dealt with prior to the player's next
fixture."
"UEFA chooses to operate a different
process for European matches, based on
a sliding scale, under which each sanction
is determined individually by a
disciplinary panel."
"In any event a minimum one-game ban
will always be applied by UEFA."
"This process meets the demands of UEFA
football where the period between
fixtures is greater than that in the
domestic game."
Wednesday, 7 December 2011
Sir Alex Ferguson blames 'stupid' draw at home to Basel for Manchester United's shock Champions League exit
Manager shocked after seeing his side
dumped out but refuses to blame one
result and highlights previous failings as
key reason for their lack of progression
.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson
was left disappointed and shocked as he
watched his side dumped out of the
Champions League in a 2-1 defeat to Basel.
The Swiss side’s victory means the Red
Devils finish third in group C and drop into
the Europa League, the first time they have
not made it out of the group stages of the
Champions League in six seasons.
The defeat sees United, finalists in two of
the last three years, drop out of the
competition, and the manager highlighted
the draw at home to Basel as the moment
they can look back and regret in the group.
United were coasting in that game, leading
2-0 but allowed the Swiss side to come back
and earn themselves a sensational 3-3 draw
at Old Trafford.
“I think the Basel result at home is the one
where it went wrong,” said Sir Alex to the
press after the match.
“That’s the one where we’ve got to hold our
hands up and say that was stupid. We
threw it away that night - it was
carelessness. It was 2-0 and could have
been 5-0, so we’ve only got ourselves to
blame in that aspect.
“Of course it is disappointing to go out, our
record in the last few years has been
outstanding and it’s a loss to us going out
because this is the best tournament in the
world – it’s a marvellous tournament.”
Sir Alex highlighted a disappointing start,
which included Marco Streller’s ninth minute
opener, as an important factor in his team's
defeat on the night.
“It wasn’t a good start to the game, which
surprised us,” he said in his post-match
press conference.
“I expected us to try and get control of the
game immediately through possession but
they have scored with what was really their
first attack, a cross into the box that comes
back in and then they are 1-0 up."
Many, including the United boss, expected
the Premier League champions to step up
their performance and earn themselves the
point they needed to qualify but they failed
to take their chances.
Then, an Alexander Frei goal condemned
them to defeat despite Phil Jones' late
consolation and the Scot admitted his side's
reaction to going a goal behind was
something he was not pleased with.
"When you are 1-0 down away from home
it gives you a serious job to do," added Sir
Alex.
"The opportunities we had we didn't take
and that was really the story of the game."
As a result of being knocked out, United
drop into the Europa League and the Red
Devils boss admitted that was something he
would need to prepare his squad for due to
the fixture schedule it causes.
“The Europa League is a competition I have
never been in with United," he said.
“It does mean one thing, that we play
Thursdays and Sundays right through the
season, so that has to be dealt with.
"It is not the best news but that is our
penalty for not qualifying tonight.”
dumped out but refuses to blame one
result and highlights previous failings as
key reason for their lack of progression
.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson
was left disappointed and shocked as he
watched his side dumped out of the
Champions League in a 2-1 defeat to Basel.
The Swiss side’s victory means the Red
Devils finish third in group C and drop into
the Europa League, the first time they have
not made it out of the group stages of the
Champions League in six seasons.
The defeat sees United, finalists in two of
the last three years, drop out of the
competition, and the manager highlighted
the draw at home to Basel as the moment
they can look back and regret in the group.
United were coasting in that game, leading
2-0 but allowed the Swiss side to come back
and earn themselves a sensational 3-3 draw
at Old Trafford.
“I think the Basel result at home is the one
where it went wrong,” said Sir Alex to the
press after the match.
“That’s the one where we’ve got to hold our
hands up and say that was stupid. We
threw it away that night - it was
carelessness. It was 2-0 and could have
been 5-0, so we’ve only got ourselves to
blame in that aspect.
“Of course it is disappointing to go out, our
record in the last few years has been
outstanding and it’s a loss to us going out
because this is the best tournament in the
world – it’s a marvellous tournament.”
Sir Alex highlighted a disappointing start,
which included Marco Streller’s ninth minute
opener, as an important factor in his team's
defeat on the night.
“It wasn’t a good start to the game, which
surprised us,” he said in his post-match
press conference.
“I expected us to try and get control of the
game immediately through possession but
they have scored with what was really their
first attack, a cross into the box that comes
back in and then they are 1-0 up."
Many, including the United boss, expected
the Premier League champions to step up
their performance and earn themselves the
point they needed to qualify but they failed
to take their chances.
Then, an Alexander Frei goal condemned
them to defeat despite Phil Jones' late
consolation and the Scot admitted his side's
reaction to going a goal behind was
something he was not pleased with.
"When you are 1-0 down away from home
it gives you a serious job to do," added Sir
Alex.
"The opportunities we had we didn't take
and that was really the story of the game."
As a result of being knocked out, United
drop into the Europa League and the Red
Devils boss admitted that was something he
would need to prepare his squad for due to
the fixture schedule it causes.
“The Europa League is a competition I have
never been in with United," he said.
“It does mean one thing, that we play
Thursdays and Sundays right through the
season, so that has to be dealt with.
"It is not the best news but that is our
penalty for not qualifying tonight.”
Arsene Wenger looks forward to Real Madrid-Barcelona showdown: 'It's the game between the two best teams in the world'
The Gunners' boss is relishing the clash
between the two superpowers in world
football, and has highlighted a key tactical
decision for Jose Mourinho's side to make
.
By oladeji oluwaseyi.
Madrid have closed gap on
Barca Barca's Vilanova to return for Madrid
clash
Xavi: Real Madrid match not must-
win game Ronaldinho, Marquez & Shakira
behind Barca
Who will win Saturday's Clasico?
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has
expressed his anticipation for the upcoming
clash between Real Madrid and Barcelona,
declaring them the best two teams in the
world.
DON'T MISS
Jose Mourinho’s Madrid sit three points clear
at the top of La Liga with a game in hand
ahead of Saturday's game at the Santiago
Bernabeu.
The 62-year-old Gunners' boss thinks that
the two Spanish teams are currently leading
the way at the top of world football and
suggests that their meetings will decide
who wins the title.
He told Arsenal's official website: “It's
certainly the game at the moment between
the two best teams in the world, so that's
the game we want to see.
“Nobody wants to lose it. The nerves maybe
play a big part because the pressure is
always massive.
“Overall it is an opportunity for Real Madrid
to show how much they have reduced the
difference between them and Barcelona.
"We know already today that these two
games will decide the title in Spain."
Arsenal are familiar with Barcelona, having
been knocked out of the Champions League
by them for the past two seasons, and
Wenger believes that there is one important
decision to make when facing them.
“The key is to decide whether you play
very high or very deep," he explained.
“You have to attack them, expose them
defensively and Real Madrid have the
opportunity to do that. I am sure they will.
“In a pre-season game they decided to play
very high and they gave many problems to
Barcelona. But can you do that for 90
minutes against Barcelona?
“For the few times you do not win the ball
very high you are exposed to [Lionel]
Messi's runs. That's what they have to
decide.
"Or do they start with a really cautious
approach and have a go at them in the
second half?”
between the two superpowers in world
football, and has highlighted a key tactical
decision for Jose Mourinho's side to make
.
By oladeji oluwaseyi.
Madrid have closed gap on
Barca Barca's Vilanova to return for Madrid
clash
Xavi: Real Madrid match not must-
win game Ronaldinho, Marquez & Shakira
behind Barca
Who will win Saturday's Clasico?
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has
expressed his anticipation for the upcoming
clash between Real Madrid and Barcelona,
declaring them the best two teams in the
world.
DON'T MISS
Jose Mourinho’s Madrid sit three points clear
at the top of La Liga with a game in hand
ahead of Saturday's game at the Santiago
Bernabeu.
The 62-year-old Gunners' boss thinks that
the two Spanish teams are currently leading
the way at the top of world football and
suggests that their meetings will decide
who wins the title.
He told Arsenal's official website: “It's
certainly the game at the moment between
the two best teams in the world, so that's
the game we want to see.
“Nobody wants to lose it. The nerves maybe
play a big part because the pressure is
always massive.
“Overall it is an opportunity for Real Madrid
to show how much they have reduced the
difference between them and Barcelona.
"We know already today that these two
games will decide the title in Spain."
Arsenal are familiar with Barcelona, having
been knocked out of the Champions League
by them for the past two seasons, and
Wenger believes that there is one important
decision to make when facing them.
“The key is to decide whether you play
very high or very deep," he explained.
“You have to attack them, expose them
defensively and Real Madrid have the
opportunity to do that. I am sure they will.
“In a pre-season game they decided to play
very high and they gave many problems to
Barcelona. But can you do that for 90
minutes against Barcelona?
“For the few times you do not win the ball
very high you are exposed to [Lionel]
Messi's runs. That's what they have to
decide.
"Or do they start with a really cautious
approach and have a go at them in the
second half?”
Yobo's wife on sexiest 101 list
Adaeze Yobo on sexiest 101 list
Footballer Joseph Yobo’s Wife, Adaeze
Yobo, Makes The Top 101 Sexiest
Soccer Wives and Girlfriends
By Olade
ji oluwaseyi.
Last week, the US media Bleacher Report
published the list of 101 Sexiest Soccer
Wives and Girlfriends [WAGs], and Nigerian
beauty and wife of Super Eagle’s player,
Joseph Yobo, Adaeze Yobo was ranked
92nd.
The US's 4th largest sport media, Bleacher
Report wrote:
‘The former Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria
married Fenerbahçe S.K. player Joseph Yobo
and is also the step-daughter of football
player John Fashanu.
Her world not only revolves around soccer,
but soccer seems to revolve around her as
she consistently flaunts her sexiness in
front of the camera.
A unique beauty
Footballer Joseph Yobo’s Wife, Adaeze
Yobo, Makes The Top 101 Sexiest
Soccer Wives and Girlfriends
By Olade
ji oluwaseyi.
Last week, the US media Bleacher Report
published the list of 101 Sexiest Soccer
Wives and Girlfriends [WAGs], and Nigerian
beauty and wife of Super Eagle’s player,
Joseph Yobo, Adaeze Yobo was ranked
92nd.
The US's 4th largest sport media, Bleacher
Report wrote:
‘The former Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria
married Fenerbahçe S.K. player Joseph Yobo
and is also the step-daughter of football
player John Fashanu.
Her world not only revolves around soccer,
but soccer seems to revolve around her as
she consistently flaunts her sexiness in
front of the camera.
A unique beauty
Inter's Yuto Nagatomo admits on performance
Inter's Yuto Nagatomo admits
he needs to work on his
performances after CSKA
Moscow defeat
The Japan international hasn't been in his
best form this season with the struggling
Italians and he says he needs 'to do the
maximum in training to improve'
Wolfsburg to sign Havenaar on free -
report Japanese in Europe: Hasebe sees red
Nagatomo 'at ease' with return
appearance Inter's Nagatomo hopeful of C.L
Inter's Japanese defender Yuto Nagatomo
says he needs to work harder in training to
sort out his inconsistent performances after
his side's 2-1 Champions League loss to
CSKA Moscow on Wednesday.
The Nerazzurri's form has been shaky this
term along with Nagatomo's, and the 2-1
loss to CSKA reiterated that.
The Italian club's back four was once again
found wanting from a late set piece in
which they conceded a soft goal.
Nagatomo endured a mixed game, as
always the diminutive back popped up in
the top end of the park adding another
body to Inter's swooping attacking raids
but was caught out on occasion in defence.
"From a personal standpoint I have to do
the maximum in training to improve my
performances," Nagatomo pledged to the
official Inter website after the game.
As for his side's woes, Nagatomo said the
team was continuously working hard to
improve their situation given they currently
sit 15th in Serie A.
"Inter are not going through the greatest
period right now. Today a positive result
would have given us confidence,"
Nagatomo said.
"However, we're fighting to change the
situation and we have to continue doing
so."
Despite Inter's loss to CSKA they still find
themselves in the final 16 of the Champions
League.
How do you stay up with football when on
the move? With http://oladejio.blogspot.com – your
best source for mobile coverage of the
beautiful game.
he needs to work on his
performances after CSKA
Moscow defeat
The Japan international hasn't been in his
best form this season with the struggling
Italians and he says he needs 'to do the
maximum in training to improve'
Wolfsburg to sign Havenaar on free -
report Japanese in Europe: Hasebe sees red
Nagatomo 'at ease' with return
appearance Inter's Nagatomo hopeful of C.L
Inter's Japanese defender Yuto Nagatomo
says he needs to work harder in training to
sort out his inconsistent performances after
his side's 2-1 Champions League loss to
CSKA Moscow on Wednesday.
The Nerazzurri's form has been shaky this
term along with Nagatomo's, and the 2-1
loss to CSKA reiterated that.
The Italian club's back four was once again
found wanting from a late set piece in
which they conceded a soft goal.
Nagatomo endured a mixed game, as
always the diminutive back popped up in
the top end of the park adding another
body to Inter's swooping attacking raids
but was caught out on occasion in defence.
"From a personal standpoint I have to do
the maximum in training to improve my
performances," Nagatomo pledged to the
official Inter website after the game.
As for his side's woes, Nagatomo said the
team was continuously working hard to
improve their situation given they currently
sit 15th in Serie A.
"Inter are not going through the greatest
period right now. Today a positive result
would have given us confidence,"
Nagatomo said.
"However, we're fighting to change the
situation and we have to continue doing
so."
Despite Inter's loss to CSKA they still find
themselves in the final 16 of the Champions
League.
How do you stay up with football when on
the move? With http://oladejio.blogspot.com – your
best source for mobile coverage of the
beautiful game.
Lionel Messi gets a game application
Lionel Messi gets a game
application
The Leo Messi Foundation and Social
Team have developed an interactive
game, ‘Training with Messi’, for
smartphones.
According to the creators, the application
was created to allow thousands of fans get
closer to, and play with their idol while
improving the situation of thousands of
children and adolescents in social risk
worldwide.
All funds generated from the application will
be used to support charity projects
embraced by the Leo Messi Foundation.
People who get the app will enjoy the game
and live a unique experience, and also get
to participate in a contest to meet him in
person during an event organised by the
Leo Messi Foundation.
The winner will also receive a signed jersey
and may even take pictures with the
footballer.
application
The Leo Messi Foundation and Social
Team have developed an interactive
game, ‘Training with Messi’, for
smartphones.
According to the creators, the application
was created to allow thousands of fans get
closer to, and play with their idol while
improving the situation of thousands of
children and adolescents in social risk
worldwide.
All funds generated from the application will
be used to support charity projects
embraced by the Leo Messi Foundation.
People who get the app will enjoy the game
and live a unique experience, and also get
to participate in a contest to meet him in
person during an event organised by the
Leo Messi Foundation.
The winner will also receive a signed jersey
and may even take pictures with the
footballer.
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