Australia
The socceroos are becoming quite a fixture at the World Cup, indeed after decades of no qualifying this is their fourth World Cup in a row. Australia had one of the more exciting qualification campaigns losing out on automatic qualification on goal difference, going into a two legged playoff with Syria and after two 1-1 matches going through in extra time thanks to a 109 minute goal from Tim Cahill.
Yes you read that right Tim Cahill, he's still going however despite the 38 year old being included in the initial 32 man squad Australia have quite a decent team. With Brad Jones at Feyenoord and Mathew Ryan at Brighton they have a better goal keeper situation that some of the traditional bigger nations. Up front and in defence they will struggle however they do have a decent midfield including a core of Championship players as well as Aaron Mooy of Huddersfield and Tom Rogic who whilst being a tad injury prone has been one of Celtics players to watch for the last few seasons.
Denmark
Oooh I do have a soft spot for the Danes, a rag tag group of viking footballing warriors who are often good value for a shock and only went and won Euro 92. Things however are not rosy for the Danish Dynamite, before this tournament they've found it tricky progressing through the qualifying competition.
The squad is again made up of a rag tag bunch with some potential up-and-comers as well as journeymen and Nicklas Bendtner. They do however have a good keeper in Kasper the friendly Schmeichel and a good record of punching above their weight.
France
On first look an absolute beast of a squad, an absolute beast my friends - you could make a first 11 to be in contention from the players they left out! However dig a little deeper and things are not what they appear, a number of this squad haven't had the best of seasons; Pogba has been virtually invisible at times this season, Lloris has been very ill disciplined and Giroud has continued to look like a player 30 years out of his time. Also a lot of this squad has been in and out of their club sides with a few of the bigger name frequently appearing on the bench.
Against that Griezmann continues to be in the form of his life, Kante is still one of the best midfielders in world football and Tolisso has had a fantastic season. The slightly lesser known players like Fekir and Lemar could have bigger than expected roles and I look forward to seeing it. In France we have something of a vulnerable favourite, this is a good group for them and they have screwed up the group stage in the past.
Of note is Paul Pogba, two years ago he was arguably the best player in the world, he underperformed in the Euros and hasn't struck the Premiership alight to the extent that he should have. He needs a big tournament.
Peru
Ah the Incas, or as most people refer to them the marmalade sandwiches. At interesting qualifying campaign saw them finish 5th in the South American group and go into a playoff with New Zealand which saw Paddington beat Frodo 2-0 on aggregate. Most of the players are based in South America those that aren't are journeymen. Sadly theres nothing to see here and they could be fighting with Australia for the last place in this group.
Summing Up
This could be a dull group, France stand head and shoulders above the rest. I'd like to see the Danes squeak through and put some pressure on France but wouldn't like to predict anything.
Tips: France to win the group, Peru not to qualify and me to be doing my hair when one of these games is going on.
One to watch: Paul Pogba, I want him to set the world alight and stop making me look bad.
Dark horse to watch: Kasper Dolberg.
Tuesday 29 May 2018
Monday 28 May 2018
Liverpool FC the End of Season Report 2017/18
Finally we have reached the end of the season, a season which saw Liverpool eventually finish 4th in the Premier League, reach the Champions League final and saw Mohamed Salah conquer the world. As such we reach the onset of summer and along with other traditions such as strawberries with cream its time for the end of term report. The following ratings are based on the season as a whole so will reflect the ups and downs that players go through the course of the season and a rating out of 10 for the season. While endeavouring to be fair I am a firm task master and highly observant when it comes to football. Without further ado lets get into things;
Simon Mignolet - A series of weak performances in the first half of the season left me thinking 'same old Mignolet.' Just when I was resigned to Mignolet playing in goal for us until the end of time Jurgen Klopp finally lost patience and dropped him. 7 All I can say is I lost confidence in Simon seasons ago, the guy is to nervous between the posts and can't control his penalty area. I hope we call it quits with him and move him on in summer so he can get on with his career. 4/10
Lorius Karius - After a few early season cameos Karius was made our number one keeper in January and he made one hell on an improvement. The positioning of our defence hasn't improved so much since Jamie Carragher retired. A more physical presence than Mingolet and more match aware he showed to be a step up from Mingolet. However I do have to say there is room for improvement - in particular the positioning of his walls during free kick and his positioning during crosses. I'm not sure he's our long term keeper, he's a step up over the previous one. Of note both goal keepers played exactly the same amount of games and Karius got more clean sheets. He now has a seasons experience (spread over two years) and I expect to see him improve over the coming months if he's to be our number one. The Champions League final will make or break him but realistically will be looking for another keeper, I don't think he has a choice but to either move or become our number two. 5.5/10
Virgil van Dijk - An absolute immense player, commanding, good tackler, reads the game has pace and isn't afraid to bark orders. van Dijk is the kind of player who we always used to go for and the kind of player we've missed. Since his arrival in January we've finally got a beast in our back line and I think long term he will be the club captain. 8/10
Dejan Lovren - Over the course of his time with us Lovren has been up and down like a yo yo. This season however he's been by and large consistent - which in a central defender is a good thing. Klopp has sorted out his tendency to go walkabout out of position and despite being at fault for the odd goal throughout the season he hasn't been as disaster prone as previous seasons. Plus after losing his position he knuckled down and has become reliable. 5/10
Joe Gomez - Not quite a mainstay this season but he's moved beyond being a fringe player. He's coming on nicely - looked composed during the Champions League despite arguably playing out of position. I expect to see him forcing himself into the starting lineup more often next season. 6/10
Ragnar Klaven - A perfectly decent veteran squad player whose able to come in when asked and do a job. 5/10
Alberto Moreno - Sometimes a players season is defined by one match and in Morenos case its that 3-3 draw against Sevilla in which he had a large role in costing us a three goal lead. For the second year in a row he's lost his spot in the team but this time its hard to see him winning it back. It looks very much like his time is limited due to constant under performance. Not a good season. 2/10
Andrew Robertson - A slow burn first season for Robertson, off field problems meant that for a large portions of the early season he wasn't named in our squad but by the end of the season he was one of the first names on the team sheet. He looks like a good solid player who will get stronger. 7/10
Joel Matip - A tricky second season for the man who was our defensive lynch pin last season. A loss of form and injury has made this a season to forget. Hope he comes back stronger next year and forms a partnership with van Dijk. 4.5/10
Trent Alexander-Arnold - A season to dream of for the kid. Slowly bedded into the team over the season he has nailed down the right back slot and turned from the weak link having to be protected by others to a player who can stand on his own two feet. His England call up is well earned but still has a lot to learn. 7/10
Georginio Wijnaldum - A very erratic season for Windjammer. He has rotated between the dynamic passer we know he can be and peripheral player who has been virtually anonymous. Also his goals seem to have dried up this season. Needs to be doing a lot more. 5/10
Jordan Henderson - Another member of the middle three whose had a weak season. At times he's looked lost and has been the captain in name only. Those gorgeous passes and goal setting up chips have been far and few this season. Also his defensive game has got weaker, he's often been a better player when we don't have the ball but he has underperformed this season. 4/10
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - Arriving in August I was a bit dubious of his signing, I expected him to be an impact squad player and saw him nothing more than an impact substitute winger. This kid can play! On top of that he doesn't moan about being a sub as he's 50/50 a starter or sub. On top of that he can play in the middle three which was a shock to me and has given our midfield some much needed dynamism and goals. 7.5/10
James Milner - After last seasons exploits at left back it was back to midfield this year. In any other season he would have a case for being our player of the season. Defensively excellent and (especially in the Champions League) set up many a goal. Theres a case for him being made the full club captain. 8/10
Adam Lallana - A season marred by injury but while he was fit he did nothing. 1/10
Emre Can - An injury affected season but largely a decent one, when he wasn't there he was much missed. However when he was around there was the question has his head been turned by the rumoured move? There was however more bite in our middle three with him and like the Ox he scored a few goals. It looks like he's going but I've a soft spot for him and would rather keep him than certain others. 5/10
Roberto Firmino - A very good season where he scored goals and changed his game to be a more rounded player. 8.5/10
Philippe Coutinho - Left us mid season but left us in good form and I wish him all the best. 8/10
Sadio Mane - A very good second season in which he created and scored many a goal. Looked dynamic in midfield and was a joy to behold when running with the ball. 8/10
Dominic Solanke - For a young striker at a new team its all about that first goal, it took him to long to get. He needs to be getting more goals, he'll get more pitch time next year and needs to make the most of it. 3/10
Danny Ings - I'm not going to rate Danny as I don't think its fair. Personally I think given his injuries he needs to hang up his boots and get another job.
Mohamed Salah - When signing him I expected goals after his two seasons in Serie A. I would have been happy with him on double figures and setting up the same. However he has been our player of the season, scored a shed load of goals as well as setting them up for others. 10/10
Jurgen Klopp - Some very nice additions to the squad and got us to the Champions League final. I feel theres only two places Klopp needs to improve and that's to be less forgiving of players and to not be afraid to drop someone for having a poor run. Secondly game management needs to be improved and we still need to learn how to kill games off and to have more than one set of tactics. 8/10
Now that was a season and a half - unless I hear any different lets do it all again next season.
Simon Mignolet - A series of weak performances in the first half of the season left me thinking 'same old Mignolet.' Just when I was resigned to Mignolet playing in goal for us until the end of time Jurgen Klopp finally lost patience and dropped him. 7 All I can say is I lost confidence in Simon seasons ago, the guy is to nervous between the posts and can't control his penalty area. I hope we call it quits with him and move him on in summer so he can get on with his career. 4/10
Lorius Karius - After a few early season cameos Karius was made our number one keeper in January and he made one hell on an improvement. The positioning of our defence hasn't improved so much since Jamie Carragher retired. A more physical presence than Mingolet and more match aware he showed to be a step up from Mingolet. However I do have to say there is room for improvement - in particular the positioning of his walls during free kick and his positioning during crosses. I'm not sure he's our long term keeper, he's a step up over the previous one. Of note both goal keepers played exactly the same amount of games and Karius got more clean sheets. He now has a seasons experience (spread over two years) and I expect to see him improve over the coming months if he's to be our number one. The Champions League final will make or break him but realistically will be looking for another keeper, I don't think he has a choice but to either move or become our number two. 5.5/10
Virgil van Dijk - An absolute immense player, commanding, good tackler, reads the game has pace and isn't afraid to bark orders. van Dijk is the kind of player who we always used to go for and the kind of player we've missed. Since his arrival in January we've finally got a beast in our back line and I think long term he will be the club captain. 8/10
Dejan Lovren - Over the course of his time with us Lovren has been up and down like a yo yo. This season however he's been by and large consistent - which in a central defender is a good thing. Klopp has sorted out his tendency to go walkabout out of position and despite being at fault for the odd goal throughout the season he hasn't been as disaster prone as previous seasons. Plus after losing his position he knuckled down and has become reliable. 5/10
Joe Gomez - Not quite a mainstay this season but he's moved beyond being a fringe player. He's coming on nicely - looked composed during the Champions League despite arguably playing out of position. I expect to see him forcing himself into the starting lineup more often next season. 6/10
Ragnar Klaven - A perfectly decent veteran squad player whose able to come in when asked and do a job. 5/10
Alberto Moreno - Sometimes a players season is defined by one match and in Morenos case its that 3-3 draw against Sevilla in which he had a large role in costing us a three goal lead. For the second year in a row he's lost his spot in the team but this time its hard to see him winning it back. It looks very much like his time is limited due to constant under performance. Not a good season. 2/10
Andrew Robertson - A slow burn first season for Robertson, off field problems meant that for a large portions of the early season he wasn't named in our squad but by the end of the season he was one of the first names on the team sheet. He looks like a good solid player who will get stronger. 7/10
Joel Matip - A tricky second season for the man who was our defensive lynch pin last season. A loss of form and injury has made this a season to forget. Hope he comes back stronger next year and forms a partnership with van Dijk. 4.5/10
Trent Alexander-Arnold - A season to dream of for the kid. Slowly bedded into the team over the season he has nailed down the right back slot and turned from the weak link having to be protected by others to a player who can stand on his own two feet. His England call up is well earned but still has a lot to learn. 7/10
Georginio Wijnaldum - A very erratic season for Windjammer. He has rotated between the dynamic passer we know he can be and peripheral player who has been virtually anonymous. Also his goals seem to have dried up this season. Needs to be doing a lot more. 5/10
Jordan Henderson - Another member of the middle three whose had a weak season. At times he's looked lost and has been the captain in name only. Those gorgeous passes and goal setting up chips have been far and few this season. Also his defensive game has got weaker, he's often been a better player when we don't have the ball but he has underperformed this season. 4/10
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - Arriving in August I was a bit dubious of his signing, I expected him to be an impact squad player and saw him nothing more than an impact substitute winger. This kid can play! On top of that he doesn't moan about being a sub as he's 50/50 a starter or sub. On top of that he can play in the middle three which was a shock to me and has given our midfield some much needed dynamism and goals. 7.5/10
James Milner - After last seasons exploits at left back it was back to midfield this year. In any other season he would have a case for being our player of the season. Defensively excellent and (especially in the Champions League) set up many a goal. Theres a case for him being made the full club captain. 8/10
Adam Lallana - A season marred by injury but while he was fit he did nothing. 1/10
Emre Can - An injury affected season but largely a decent one, when he wasn't there he was much missed. However when he was around there was the question has his head been turned by the rumoured move? There was however more bite in our middle three with him and like the Ox he scored a few goals. It looks like he's going but I've a soft spot for him and would rather keep him than certain others. 5/10
Roberto Firmino - A very good season where he scored goals and changed his game to be a more rounded player. 8.5/10
Philippe Coutinho - Left us mid season but left us in good form and I wish him all the best. 8/10
Sadio Mane - A very good second season in which he created and scored many a goal. Looked dynamic in midfield and was a joy to behold when running with the ball. 8/10
Dominic Solanke - For a young striker at a new team its all about that first goal, it took him to long to get. He needs to be getting more goals, he'll get more pitch time next year and needs to make the most of it. 3/10
Danny Ings - I'm not going to rate Danny as I don't think its fair. Personally I think given his injuries he needs to hang up his boots and get another job.
Mohamed Salah - When signing him I expected goals after his two seasons in Serie A. I would have been happy with him on double figures and setting up the same. However he has been our player of the season, scored a shed load of goals as well as setting them up for others. 10/10
Jurgen Klopp - Some very nice additions to the squad and got us to the Champions League final. I feel theres only two places Klopp needs to improve and that's to be less forgiving of players and to not be afraid to drop someone for having a poor run. Secondly game management needs to be improved and we still need to learn how to kill games off and to have more than one set of tactics. 8/10
Now that was a season and a half - unless I hear any different lets do it all again next season.
Thursday 24 May 2018
World Cup 2018 Preview: Group B
Iran
Another for want of a better word minnow and unlike Saudi Arabia yesterday they've been drawn in a group with two of the big boys and a very decent African team. Made up of journeymen from around the world - including a few in Europe they actually had a strong qualifying campaign but I can't see them doing to well and certainly not progressing.
Morocco
A very impressive qualifying campaign saw them pip the Ivory Coast (how weird is it that the Ivory Coast aren't here). They are an exceedingly decent team with a mixture of youth and experienced players who mostly play over Europe. Readers will mostly be familiar with Romain Saiss who one the Championship this season with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Certainly a dangerous floater and unlucky to be drawn in a group with two of the big boys. The advantage they have is they play Iran first which sets them up nicely for the two tougher games. Morocco certainly has a chance to progress but its weather they can take advantage of it.
Portugal
The perennial underachievers go into this World Cup after winning Euro 2016 under pressure to do well. This is by far the strongest squad we've looked at yet but despite that it their chances hang on one person the boy Ronaldo. To often in the past he has underperformed on this stage and as he approaches his mid thirties this looks to be his last chance for a defining world cup moment. The rest of the squad is up to a high standard - in fact even without Ronaldo its a strong squad. A host of up and coming forwards, a midfield including Bernardo Silva, a strong reliable keeper and an underrated defence including Mario Rui and Ricardo Pereira. I expect them to go far and if the lad Ronaldo is in the mood they could do something special.
Spain
Without doubt one of the favourites and a whose who of world football. With de Gea possibly the best keeper in world football today, a midfield and defence made up of Atletico, Real and Barcelona any other country would at least maim for these players. Spain has an embarrassment of riches in defence and midfield just look at this squad; Ramos, Pique, Alba, Nacho, Carvajal in defence and in midfield; Iniesta, Isco, Koke, Thiago, Saul, Asensio, Busquets and Silva. If that doesn't hit Ruud Gullit in his sexy football G spot nothing will. Critics may say they are weak up front but Iaspas and Rodrigo are in form and could well be starting by the time the tournament reaches the final stages.
Of note we could be seeing the end of some big players for Spain with Pepe Reina, Andres Iniesta, David Silva and Sergio Ramos well into their thirties. Despite this the cardinal sin of letting a football team get old together hasn't happened and age wise the squad looks balanced. Big things expected from Spain and they are without doubt among the favourites.
Summing Up
Its all about the match between Spain and Portugal, whoever wins that wins the group - personally without taking into account potential shenanigans about the knock out route finishing first or second brings I'd opt for Spain. Morocco have a decent outsiders chance and are not to be ignored.
Tips: Over 2.5 goals on all Iran matches and lay unders on cards in most of the matches not involving Iran could be a good call here.
One to watch: Has to be the boy Ronaldo.
Dark horse to watch: Andre Silva, I expected big things from his this season but like most players at AC Milan he had a sticky season, will improve and possibly a late bloomer.
Another for want of a better word minnow and unlike Saudi Arabia yesterday they've been drawn in a group with two of the big boys and a very decent African team. Made up of journeymen from around the world - including a few in Europe they actually had a strong qualifying campaign but I can't see them doing to well and certainly not progressing.
Morocco
A very impressive qualifying campaign saw them pip the Ivory Coast (how weird is it that the Ivory Coast aren't here). They are an exceedingly decent team with a mixture of youth and experienced players who mostly play over Europe. Readers will mostly be familiar with Romain Saiss who one the Championship this season with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Certainly a dangerous floater and unlucky to be drawn in a group with two of the big boys. The advantage they have is they play Iran first which sets them up nicely for the two tougher games. Morocco certainly has a chance to progress but its weather they can take advantage of it.
Portugal
The perennial underachievers go into this World Cup after winning Euro 2016 under pressure to do well. This is by far the strongest squad we've looked at yet but despite that it their chances hang on one person the boy Ronaldo. To often in the past he has underperformed on this stage and as he approaches his mid thirties this looks to be his last chance for a defining world cup moment. The rest of the squad is up to a high standard - in fact even without Ronaldo its a strong squad. A host of up and coming forwards, a midfield including Bernardo Silva, a strong reliable keeper and an underrated defence including Mario Rui and Ricardo Pereira. I expect them to go far and if the lad Ronaldo is in the mood they could do something special.
Spain
Without doubt one of the favourites and a whose who of world football. With de Gea possibly the best keeper in world football today, a midfield and defence made up of Atletico, Real and Barcelona any other country would at least maim for these players. Spain has an embarrassment of riches in defence and midfield just look at this squad; Ramos, Pique, Alba, Nacho, Carvajal in defence and in midfield; Iniesta, Isco, Koke, Thiago, Saul, Asensio, Busquets and Silva. If that doesn't hit Ruud Gullit in his sexy football G spot nothing will. Critics may say they are weak up front but Iaspas and Rodrigo are in form and could well be starting by the time the tournament reaches the final stages.
Of note we could be seeing the end of some big players for Spain with Pepe Reina, Andres Iniesta, David Silva and Sergio Ramos well into their thirties. Despite this the cardinal sin of letting a football team get old together hasn't happened and age wise the squad looks balanced. Big things expected from Spain and they are without doubt among the favourites.
Summing Up
Its all about the match between Spain and Portugal, whoever wins that wins the group - personally without taking into account potential shenanigans about the knock out route finishing first or second brings I'd opt for Spain. Morocco have a decent outsiders chance and are not to be ignored.
Tips: Over 2.5 goals on all Iran matches and lay unders on cards in most of the matches not involving Iran could be a good call here.
One to watch: Has to be the boy Ronaldo.
Dark horse to watch: Andre Silva, I expected big things from his this season but like most players at AC Milan he had a sticky season, will improve and possibly a late bloomer.
Wednesday 23 May 2018
World Cup 2018 Preview: Group A
Here we go, the time is quarter to June nearly midway through 2018, its been a long four years - two elections, brexit and the near worldwide domination of fidget spinners but we're nearly here, we've nearly made it to the World Cup. I come to you today readers armed with my traditional deadly weapons of facts, stats, odds and opinions. Ladies and gentlemen lets analyse the beejesus out of it!
Egypt
Going into this tournament one of the questions on most peoples minds is what can Mo Salah do on the world stage? A more pertinent question is who have Egypt got in their squad apart from Salah. The answer is not a lot. By and large the squad is made up of league players from Egypt and Asia. Apart from that there are familiar names such as Ahmed Elmohamady currently of Aston Villa and Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal. But that's it the only other squad item of note is the captain Essam El-Hadary who is a 45 year old goal keeper!
Usually a good bet in the African Cup - a competition which they've done well at the traditionally struggle when it comes to the World Cup to the extent this is the first time they've qualified since 1990. I don't fancy their chances to progress further and to be frank I'd quite like to have seen the Egyptian team of a decade ago qualify for the current team they need something special from Salah and the squad to go beyond themselves.
Russia
The home nation, its hard to be objective here as we have possibly the first hosts since the USA in 1994 who most people wouldn't mind seeing going out in the first round. However lets get passed the inhospitable front and see what we have. No stand out names however the squad is made up of veterans of the Russian league, add to the fact they are familiar with the conditions. Going through the squad there is a good mix of young and experienced with quite a few players having over fifty matches at Champions League and Europa level. One to watch and the definition of a dangerous floater.
Saudi Arabia
Made up of players from the Saudi league and the odd squad player in Spain even I've never heard of these players. I can't see them doing anything and only hope they embrace the tournament instead of putting eleven men behind the ball and hoping to go through on 0 goal difference.
Uruguay
The first team in this preview with more than one tasty player. Suarez and Cavani up front is a mouth watering prospect, Diego Godin and Maxi Pereira in defence. This squad has experience from all over the world from Galatasarays keeper to up and comers in Italy & Spain.
Its hard to look beyond Uruguay winning this group, they have the squad depth which other countries in this group don't have, the most impressive qualifying campaign of this group and that dynamic pairing up front.
Summing Up
Uruguay to win, with Russia runners up.
Egypt Vs Russia to be the match of this group.
Tips: A back of Uruguay to win the group, lay of Russia to win the group and Saudi Arabia to finish bottom.
One to watch: Luis Suarez, expect some out of this world play from him and the chance that he may try to eat someone to set up a future transfer to Brazil.
One to watch for the future: Rodrigo Bentancur - he has cropped up a number of times in my notebook this season after a number of good performances for Juventus.
Egypt
Going into this tournament one of the questions on most peoples minds is what can Mo Salah do on the world stage? A more pertinent question is who have Egypt got in their squad apart from Salah. The answer is not a lot. By and large the squad is made up of league players from Egypt and Asia. Apart from that there are familiar names such as Ahmed Elmohamady currently of Aston Villa and Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal. But that's it the only other squad item of note is the captain Essam El-Hadary who is a 45 year old goal keeper!
Usually a good bet in the African Cup - a competition which they've done well at the traditionally struggle when it comes to the World Cup to the extent this is the first time they've qualified since 1990. I don't fancy their chances to progress further and to be frank I'd quite like to have seen the Egyptian team of a decade ago qualify for the current team they need something special from Salah and the squad to go beyond themselves.
Russia
The home nation, its hard to be objective here as we have possibly the first hosts since the USA in 1994 who most people wouldn't mind seeing going out in the first round. However lets get passed the inhospitable front and see what we have. No stand out names however the squad is made up of veterans of the Russian league, add to the fact they are familiar with the conditions. Going through the squad there is a good mix of young and experienced with quite a few players having over fifty matches at Champions League and Europa level. One to watch and the definition of a dangerous floater.
Saudi Arabia
Made up of players from the Saudi league and the odd squad player in Spain even I've never heard of these players. I can't see them doing anything and only hope they embrace the tournament instead of putting eleven men behind the ball and hoping to go through on 0 goal difference.
Uruguay
The first team in this preview with more than one tasty player. Suarez and Cavani up front is a mouth watering prospect, Diego Godin and Maxi Pereira in defence. This squad has experience from all over the world from Galatasarays keeper to up and comers in Italy & Spain.
Its hard to look beyond Uruguay winning this group, they have the squad depth which other countries in this group don't have, the most impressive qualifying campaign of this group and that dynamic pairing up front.
Summing Up
Uruguay to win, with Russia runners up.
Egypt Vs Russia to be the match of this group.
Tips: A back of Uruguay to win the group, lay of Russia to win the group and Saudi Arabia to finish bottom.
One to watch: Luis Suarez, expect some out of this world play from him and the chance that he may try to eat someone to set up a future transfer to Brazil.
One to watch for the future: Rodrigo Bentancur - he has cropped up a number of times in my notebook this season after a number of good performances for Juventus.
Wednesday 16 May 2018
England World Cup Squad
Thoughts on Gareth Southgates England squad;
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Jack Butland (Stoke), Nick Pope (Burnley)
Three decent keepers in their mid twenties, somewhat lacking in European football experience but given the choice Southgate had some solid picks.
Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Kyle Walker (Man City), Kieran Trippier, Danny Rose (all Tottenham), Harry Maguire (Leicester), Phil Jones (Man Utd), John Stones (Man City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea)
Has to be said a surprisingly decent selection of defenders. The right back position looks high quality, centrally the question is who does Southgate pick to play along Phil Jones. Left back looks a tad sticky but decent picks.
Midfielders: Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Eric Dier, Dele Alli (both Tottenham), Jesse Lingard, Ashley Young (both Man Utd), Fabian Delph (Man City), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Chelsea),
Ashley Young is 32, how the hell did that happen?!?!?!?! Apart from Dele Alli its a bit dull to be honest. Lets not beat around the bush its all about Alli and can he link up with Kane the way he does with Spurs - something he has yet to do for England. As for the rest, its a collection of uninspired bodies.
Forwards: Raheem Sterling (Man City), Jamie Vardy (Leicester), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Marcus Rashford (Man Utd), Danny Welbeck (Arsenal).
There are some good aspects of this attacking lineup that may be lost amongst the English. Kane and Sterling are on form and exciting. Vardy and Rashford are good cover although Welbeck is an inclusion who could be a contender to not actually get onto the pitch at any stage.
Summing Up
Its hard to see England doing much during this world cup, there is a potentially exciting front three in Sterling, Alli and Kane. Central defence next to Jones looks to be a problem, Stones would be my pick but he hasn't been an ever present this season. The full back position is very good and other countries would love to have these riches. Questions remain over the goal keeper, both contenders are rather limited at this level and European club football.
I can see England scoring goals which they have struggled to do in recent tournaments. In theory it should be all about the Belgian game, the group looks easier than four years ago when in Brazil when they had Italy and a dangerous Uruguay. Theres a common sense approach from Gareth Southgate that wasn't there in previous eras and I back England not to screw up against the so called minows they have in the past. Being in group G they will be playing a team from group H in the second round in what looks like a winable tie. If England can manage themselves, not recreate the mistakes of previous tournaments, or not underestimate the opposition I can see them going deep. It has to be said England do have a good draw but the question remains can they take advantage of it...
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Jack Butland (Stoke), Nick Pope (Burnley)
Three decent keepers in their mid twenties, somewhat lacking in European football experience but given the choice Southgate had some solid picks.
Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Kyle Walker (Man City), Kieran Trippier, Danny Rose (all Tottenham), Harry Maguire (Leicester), Phil Jones (Man Utd), John Stones (Man City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea)
Has to be said a surprisingly decent selection of defenders. The right back position looks high quality, centrally the question is who does Southgate pick to play along Phil Jones. Left back looks a tad sticky but decent picks.
Midfielders: Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Eric Dier, Dele Alli (both Tottenham), Jesse Lingard, Ashley Young (both Man Utd), Fabian Delph (Man City), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Chelsea),
Ashley Young is 32, how the hell did that happen?!?!?!?! Apart from Dele Alli its a bit dull to be honest. Lets not beat around the bush its all about Alli and can he link up with Kane the way he does with Spurs - something he has yet to do for England. As for the rest, its a collection of uninspired bodies.
Forwards: Raheem Sterling (Man City), Jamie Vardy (Leicester), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Marcus Rashford (Man Utd), Danny Welbeck (Arsenal).
There are some good aspects of this attacking lineup that may be lost amongst the English. Kane and Sterling are on form and exciting. Vardy and Rashford are good cover although Welbeck is an inclusion who could be a contender to not actually get onto the pitch at any stage.
Summing Up
Its hard to see England doing much during this world cup, there is a potentially exciting front three in Sterling, Alli and Kane. Central defence next to Jones looks to be a problem, Stones would be my pick but he hasn't been an ever present this season. The full back position is very good and other countries would love to have these riches. Questions remain over the goal keeper, both contenders are rather limited at this level and European club football.
I can see England scoring goals which they have struggled to do in recent tournaments. In theory it should be all about the Belgian game, the group looks easier than four years ago when in Brazil when they had Italy and a dangerous Uruguay. Theres a common sense approach from Gareth Southgate that wasn't there in previous eras and I back England not to screw up against the so called minows they have in the past. Being in group G they will be playing a team from group H in the second round in what looks like a winable tie. If England can manage themselves, not recreate the mistakes of previous tournaments, or not underestimate the opposition I can see them going deep. It has to be said England do have a good draw but the question remains can they take advantage of it...
Sunday 13 May 2018
The Big Finish Catch-Up March 2018
For those of you new to this section of the blog, I started listening to the Big Finish Doctor Who releases when they started back in 1999, getting them as they were released up to mid 2002 and release No 33 Neverland. At that time I left Uni and due to being a bit busy with life and what not I only heard one or two releases over the next few years. I started getting back into them around 2008 and was 6 years behind at that point. Due to wondering off into the Lost Doctor range and a relaxed listening pace I fell further behind. In order to catch up I'm listening to two releases a month (or more when its a 60 min single disc release, plus without seeing the cover or knowing anything about the story) and my mission to catch up continues;
Hot House, An enjoyable one disc story featuring the 8th Doctor and Lucie. Focusing on big business and one of the few TV stories/monsters I'm not familiar with. Enjoyable but edited and chopped to bits - needed longer. 5/10
Mind Games, a fun story in the "the worlds of Doctor Who" box set featuring Jago and Litefoot. Lots of fun with the odd touch of terror and I look forward to seeing where this box set goes. 6/10
Survival of the Fittest / Kleins Story, a really good set of stories featuring the 7th Doctor and Klein. Absolutely brilliant story with the first filling in Kleins back story and the later being a clever story ending on a cracking cliffhanger. 8/10
City of Spires, a proper fun story featuring the 6th Doctor and Jamie. Not only fun but intriguing and it feels like the start of an ongoing story to the extent where it may go up a rating depending on what happens later in the story arc. Also an interesting cast note featuring Georgia Moffett who I feel like I've watched grow up - I first became aware of her in an earlier release in this range Red Dawn. 8/10
Hot House, An enjoyable one disc story featuring the 8th Doctor and Lucie. Focusing on big business and one of the few TV stories/monsters I'm not familiar with. Enjoyable but edited and chopped to bits - needed longer. 5/10
Mind Games, a fun story in the "the worlds of Doctor Who" box set featuring Jago and Litefoot. Lots of fun with the odd touch of terror and I look forward to seeing where this box set goes. 6/10
Survival of the Fittest / Kleins Story, a really good set of stories featuring the 7th Doctor and Klein. Absolutely brilliant story with the first filling in Kleins back story and the later being a clever story ending on a cracking cliffhanger. 8/10
City of Spires, a proper fun story featuring the 6th Doctor and Jamie. Not only fun but intriguing and it feels like the start of an ongoing story to the extent where it may go up a rating depending on what happens later in the story arc. Also an interesting cast note featuring Georgia Moffett who I feel like I've watched grow up - I first became aware of her in an earlier release in this range Red Dawn. 8/10
Friday 4 May 2018
Laura Kuenssberg
Laura Kuenssberg is a fascinating character, she is the political editor of the BBC she appears to have no actual clue of politics. Regularly I will tune into the 6 'o' clock news on the BBC and she will be presenting a report or interview with the look of panic from the back of her eyes telling the viewer that she doesn't know what she's talking about. I find it fascinating that she has progressed to this position and even more fascinating that she has managed to stay in this role.
Even more bizarre is the effect she seems to have on the political minded viewer, to the best of my knowledge everyone in the UK is under the impression that she is biased against their political party of choice. I've heard exactly the same arguments used against her by Labour and Conservative party supporters and its amazing. She appears to have kept her position by creating an air on impartiality that she is out to get every political party going.
Needless to say I think this is insane and would like somebody to stop the world so i can get off.
Even more bizarre is the effect she seems to have on the political minded viewer, to the best of my knowledge everyone in the UK is under the impression that she is biased against their political party of choice. I've heard exactly the same arguments used against her by Labour and Conservative party supporters and its amazing. She appears to have kept her position by creating an air on impartiality that she is out to get every political party going.
Needless to say I think this is insane and would like somebody to stop the world so i can get off.
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