***Official Soccer Discussion Thread*** (8 Viewers)

[LHUCKS]

was waiting all day to read LHUCKS report. how were the women?

The women are amazing...everything you hear is true. We've been going to some of the top spots both here in BA and in Rio and the women are simply amazing. If anybody has the chance to live abroad I HIGHLY recommend BA, it's an amazing city.

 

[Native]

Chelsea .... not

7-0 should do wonders for their morale. Next weeks game in Anfield is the game of the year for Chelsea. Win and they can practically smell the title.

 

[Native]

New World Cup Commercial from ESPN

Awesome

 

[Mjolnirs]

was waiting all day to read LHUCKS report. how were the women?

The women are amazing...everything you hear is true.

Of course they are, just go ask my governor.

 

[bweiser]

http://4gifs.com/gallery/d/143667-1/Soccer_dive_mouth.gif

this crap gives our sport a bad name.

 

[PIK95]

So I have been staying outta here as I have been busy and have about 5 games including El Classico still waiting to be watched on DVR. I have already began scouting for my WC brackets and I need to watch some Nigeria. After my research so far I have a feeling they may not get out of the group but I want to look a little further as that would be a huge upset. Does anyone know where I could find some archived games on the innerwebs? How about the A cup of nations games? TIA. I am already amped out of my mind about all of this and will probably have a big bash on June 12th.

 

[The Kansas Comet]

crazy good. best pure #10 out there right now...

Did Xavi die or something?

I didn't say it...

To my mind, Xavi is the best player in the world. Messi is awesome, but Ronaldo comes a lot closer to being able to replicate what he does than anybody comes to Xavi. The guy just slices up the defense with the perfect pass 3 or 4 times a game. All while always making the simple pass. If he's not the best, he's definitely my favorite player.

I would disagree with the bolded statement. Xavi is tremendous and one of my all-time favorite players. He is a very big part of what makes them such a dangerous team, but I believe there is someone who comes very close to replicating/equaling what he does on the field, and that is his teammate Andres Iniesta. Unfortunately, Iniesta's fitness has been an issue which has kept him out quite often. But honestly, when they're both on the field, it's a question of 1a and 1b in the midfield, in my opinion. They both make the smart play, they carve up defenses with perfectly weighted passes that are just amazing, and they never seem to give the ball away. So while Xavi is amazing, I find Messi to be the more unique talent, even when compared to Cristiano Ronaldo. But as a Barca fan, if you want to think Xavi is the best in the world, I won't hold that against you in the least

 

[PIK95]

crazy good. best pure #10 out there right now...

Did Xavi die or something?

I didn't say it...

To my mind, Xavi is the best player in the world. Messi is awesome, but Ronaldo comes a lot closer to being able to replicate what he does than anybody comes to Xavi. The guy just slices up the defense with the perfect pass 3 or 4 times a game. All while always making the simple pass. If he's not the best, he's definitely my favorite player.

I would disagree with the bolded statement. Xavi is tremendous and one of my all-time favorite players. He is a very big part of what makes them such a dangerous team, but I believe there is someone who comes very close to replicating/equaling what he does on the field, and that is his teammate Andres Iniesta. Unfortunately, Iniesta's fitness has been an issue which has kept him out quite often. But honestly, when they're both on the field, it's a question of 1a and 1b in the midfield, in my opinion. They both make the smart play, they carve up defenses with perfectly weighted passes that are just amazing, and they never seem to give the ball away. So while Xavi is amazing, I find Messi to be the more unique talent, even when compared to Cristiano Ronaldo. But as a Barca fan, if you want to think Xavi is the best in the world, I won't hold that against you in the least

Rooney, Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, and probably Frank Ribery are my top five players in the world now. Crynaldo, Gerrard, Anelka, Kaka, Torres, Drogba, Evra, Maicon, and even Pique (better than Puyol and Terry as of late imo) are in the conversation. The baby is screaming so there may be a glaring ommision or three, lol. I still think Rooney is the best both ways. He is banged up now though.

 

[Steve Tasker]

4) Palermo, the leading goalscorer for Boca, is a living legend to the Boca fans and he actually scored a goal. The fans know he's past his prime, but they don't care, they love him like he's the second coming...seriously. Kind of like Brett Favre X 1000.

As a Boca fan, I have to disagree on the "past his prime" sentiment here. He's older and more experienced than most guys on the field, but you make it sound like he's hobbling around, getting lucky to score the occasional goal out there. Since his return to Boca in 2004, he's scored at more than a 0.5 goals/game pace. Even at his age, he's still consistently one of the best players on the field (based on the Boca games we happen to get on TV here).Now if you want to see a guy who's past his prime, just look at Riquelme. Don't get me wrong, I love the guy, but he's a prime example of a guy who's past his prime (despite being 5 years younger than Palermo). If he were on the pitch, I imagine he would've gotten the same reception as Palermo.

Actually the Argentinians next to me told me that, and from what I saw it makes sense...guy just looked like he was 36 in terms of quicks and speed. But you are right, he is obviously a heady player and his touch is great...I noticed in the program that he was one of the leading scorers in the league so he obviously has gas left in the tank. He must have been a force when he was younger. IMHO, he had a pretty bad first half but looked much better in the 2nd half.I'm not sure anyone is in their prime at the age of 36.Regarding Riquelma, I thought he was the best player on the field...he looked like he should be playing in Europe to me.

Well yes, Palermo is past his prime, so to speak. It just seemed like the way you worded it like he's equivalent to Willis Reed hobbling out onto the court, scoring a basket, and riding the bench for the rest of the game.I didn't see yesterday's match, there's no question Riquelme is a talented player....he's been slowed by injuries in recent years - I personally haven't seen him take over a game in a long time. It probably comes down to the peak of the players' individual careers. Palermo never really made much of an impact outside of the Argentinian league or on the international scene - his playing level right now is right around where he's been at for years. Riquelme, on the other hand, had a decent spell in Spain and made an impact on the international team. The level he's playing at right now, while it may be good enough to control the game at times, is far below where he used to be, IMO. The level Palermo's playing at, which he might not be as talented as Riquelme, is much closer to his "prime", I'd say. The problem is that Riquelme in his prime >>> Palermo in his prime.

 

[LHUCKS]

4) Palermo, the leading goalscorer for Boca, is a living legend to the Boca fans and he actually scored a goal. The fans know he's past his prime, but they don't care, they love him like he's the second coming...seriously. Kind of like Brett Favre X 1000.

As a Boca fan, I have to disagree on the "past his prime" sentiment here. He's older and more experienced than most guys on the field, but you make it sound like he's hobbling around, getting lucky to score the occasional goal out there. Since his return to Boca in 2004, he's scored at more than a 0.5 goals/game pace. Even at his age, he's still consistently one of the best players on the field (based on the Boca games we happen to get on TV here).Now if you want to see a guy who's past his prime, just look at Riquelme. Don't get me wrong, I love the guy, but he's a prime example of a guy who's past his prime (despite being 5 years younger than Palermo). If he were on the pitch, I imagine he would've gotten the same reception as Palermo.

Actually the Argentinians next to me told me that, and from what I saw it makes sense...guy just looked like he was 36 in terms of quicks and speed. But you are right, he is obviously a heady player and his touch is great...I noticed in the program that he was one of the leading scorers in the league so he obviously has gas left in the tank. He must have been a force when he was younger. IMHO, he had a pretty bad first half but looked much better in the 2nd half.I'm not sure anyone is in their prime at the age of 36.Regarding Riquelma, I thought he was the best player on the field...he looked like he should be playing in Europe to me.

Well yes, Palermo is past his prime, so to speak. It just seemed like the way you worded it like he's equivalent to Willis Reed hobbling out onto the court, scoring a basket, and riding the bench for the rest of the game.I didn't see yesterday's match, there's no question Riquelme is a talented player....he's been slowed by injuries in recent years - I personally haven't seen him take over a game in a long time. It probably comes down to the peak of the players' individual careers. Palermo never really made much of an impact outside of the Argentinian league or on the international scene - his playing level right now is right around where he's been at for years. Riquelme, on the other hand, had a decent spell in Spain and made an impact on the international team. The level he's playing at right now, while it may be good enough to control the game at times, is far below where he used to be, IMO. The level Palermo's playing at, which he might not be as talented as Riquelme, is much closer to his "prime", I'd say. The problem is that Riquelme in his prime >>> Palermo in his prime.

Oh okay, all of that makes sense. Not surprised Riquelma played in Spain, he looked and felt different than every other player on the field...he would get visibly frustarated with his team when they played sloppy which tells me he had played at a higher level before.

 

[LHUCKS]

Rooney, Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, and probably Frank Ribery are my top five players in the world now. Crynaldo, Gerrard, Anelka, Kaka, Torres, Drogba, Evra, Maicon, and even Pique (better than Puyol and Terry as of late imo) are in the conversation. The baby is screaming so there may be a glaring ommision or three, lol. I still think Rooney is the best both ways. He is banged up now though.

Is it just me or is Torres the most overrated player in the world...guy gets a ton of press but I never see much from him when I watch him play.

 

[Christo]

Rooney, Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, and probably Frank Ribery are my top five players in the world now. Crynaldo, Gerrard, Anelka, Kaka, Torres, Drogba, Evra, Maicon, and even Pique (better than Puyol and Terry as of late imo) are in the conversation. The baby is screaming so there may be a glaring ommision or three, lol. I still think Rooney is the best both ways. He is banged up now though.

Is it just me or is Torres the most overrated player in the world...guy gets a ton of press but I never see much from him when I watch him play.

You must be watching his international games--he just doesn't fit in with Spain's philosophy. When he's healthy and playing for Liverpool he's spectacular. Prototypical English striker.

 

[PIK95]

Rooney, Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, and probably Frank Ribery are my top five players in the world now. Crynaldo, Gerrard, Anelka, Kaka, Torres, Drogba, Evra, Maicon, and even Pique (better than Puyol and Terry as of late imo) are in the conversation. The baby is screaming so there may be a glaring ommision or three, lol. I still think Rooney is the best both ways. He is banged up now though.

Is it just me or is Torres the most overrated player in the world...guy gets a ton of press but I never see much from him when I watch him play.

You will see him shine June-July.

 

[The Z Machine]

The idea that the WC tix are going to scalpers is by and large not true. FIFA has implemented some petty draconian measures to prevent scalping this time around. The basic gist is that the "ticket applicant" has to be in SA in person to collect the tix. If they can't collect them in person they are SOL. This is a very different circumstance than the typical first come first serve ticket process.

Furthermore the ticket app process is a lottery based system tied to the applicants passport number. You're not allowed to put in multiple apps with the same passport numbers.

This is problematic because circumstances change and sometimes the original ticket applicant simply can't make it.

FIFA's solution is very heavy handed in this regard and IMO could use a b it more flexibility.

 

[The Z Machine]

Torres is top class. When he's in form he's definitely one of the best in the world.

 

[The Z Machine]

Also the idea that the argentine league is below the mls is a joke. The argentine league draws some very good talent from argentina, uruguay, chile, etc.

Furthermore if you look at how well they play in the copa libertadores against the top mexican, brazilian, etc teams you'll see the argentinos fare pretty well.

All three leagues are a class above the mls which still doesn't understand the concept of posession or passing to set up a fluid attack. It's all counter, long ball, and poor finishing.

 

[The Z Machine]

OK last comment in this Hippling...

Does anyone else collect those World Cup sticker books? I don't even know if they are sold in the US but I lust started my 2010 book on my trip to Mexico.

Search Google for "panini world cup stickers" if you don't know what I'm tlaking about.

 

[prefontaine]

I would disagree with the bolded statement. Xavi is tremendous and one of my all-time favorite players. He is a very big part of what makes them such a dangerous team, but I believe there is someone who comes very close to replicating/equaling what he does on the field, and that is his teammate Andres Iniesta. Unfortunately, Iniesta's fitness has been an issue which has kept him out quite often. But honestly, when they're both on the field, it's a question of 1a and 1b in the midfield, in my opinion. They both make the smart play, they carve up defenses with perfectly weighted passes that are just amazing, and they never seem to give the ball away. So while Xavi is amazing, I find Messi to be the more unique talent, even when compared to Cristiano Ronaldo. But as a Barca fan, if you want to think Xavi is the best in the world, I won't hold that against you in the least

Hmmmm....I absolutely love Iniesta's game but I don't really see it as that comparable to Xavi's. The game revolves around Xavi and he just sort of stands there and dishes out ridiculous passes to all the guys making ridiculous runs. He almost seems to never move but somehow he's always open (his positioning off the ball is simply as good as it gets). Iniesta meanwhile is a quick little mother that is also a great passer but he creates chances on the run by moving the defense and then slotting in passes into the space when some other dude makes a ridiculously good run. He also has more quicks and takes people on 1v1 a lot more (Xavi never seems to bother). They are both great but just not the same and they compliment each other perfectly. And Lionel is the best.

 

[prefontaine]

It's all counter, long ball, and poor finishing.

I think it's just really bad first touch that bugs me. And terrible spacing offensively (though I've found the defensive organization to be pretty decent)

 

[prefontaine]

Is it just me or is Torres the most overrated player in the world...guy gets a ton of press but I never see much from him when I watch him play.

Could just be the games you watch. We're talking about Xavi and Messi but if you only watched the Inter game you might not think they were all that. However, if you only watched el Clasico you might think they were lessor gods.

 

[The Z Machine]

It's all counter, long ball, and poor finishing.

I think it's just really bad first touch that bugs me. And terrible spacing offensively (though I've found the defensive organization to be pretty decent)

You and Floppo are all about the spacing...

 

[prefontaine]

It's all counter, long ball, and poor finishing.

I think it's just really bad first touch that bugs me. And terrible spacing offensively (though I've found the defensive organization to be pretty decent)

You and Floppo are all about the spacing...

haha. But it really is a big difference as in the top leagues guys really use the whole field. Watch an MLS game and see how often there are huge gaps that no one moves into. It's why the passing is so disjointed I think. There are fewer options and so they just boot it up field.

 

[Major]

Glad I found this group before WC 2010.....Less than 2 months fellas

 

[El Floppo]

It's all counter, long ball, and poor finishing.

I think it's just really bad first touch that bugs me. And terrible spacing offensively (though I've found the defensive organization to be pretty decent)

You and Floppo are all about the spacing...

haha. But it really is a big difference as in the top leagues guys really use the whole field. Watch an MLS game and see how often there are huge gaps that no one moves into. It's why the passing is so disjointed I think. There are fewer options and so they just boot it up field.

So check it out...MLS vs Argentina League- no comparison between the skill-level of players. There's a reason MLS is getting cast-offs or guys at the end of their careers (Schilloto)- the better players either stay in country or head to Europe or even Mexico. That said, LHUCKS' comparison isn't so far off to be called a joke. The Argentinian league has great skilled players but horribly organized teams, particularly on defense. The MLS has almost too well organized teams on defense, and lack the skills to generate comparable organisation on offense (although it's getting there). Watch the league and see how wide-open things are there vs MLS. makes for fun games to watch, but it's wide-open because players and teams are horribly out of position a great deal of the time.

and re: Argentine Cup play... yeah- they always do well. And yeah, the MLS can't hold it's own even in CONCACAF Cup. But MLS screws itself by sending teams to play in our CL during our pre-season (screws itself by having it's season during the rest of the world's off-season). So I don't know that it's so apples to apples comparing the leagues based on that.

But bottom line, IMO, MLS isn't quite at the Argentine, Brazilian or even Mexican level yet in terms of league play- particulalry when you look at the big clubs. But we're not that far off and we're slowly getting there. Be interesting to see what the extra DP does.

Pre- disagree about Xavi. Tough to say without seeing him live, but what you said reminds me of what I thought about Zidane when I watched him play on TV for Juve- always in the right spot, but didn't move around much. Then I saw him play live. Holy ####. I've never seen a guy move MORE than Zidane- it's just that his on-screen time always looked so slow and easy... almost lazy. I just didn't get to see his off-screen 60 yard sprint with 2 guys pummeling him before getting into that spot. I'm betting the farm that Xavi is exactly the same. No way "He almost seems to never move but somehow he's always open (his positioning off the ball is simply as good as it gets)"... his positioning is good because he's probably working his ### off to get where he needs to get.

And all of that starts to talk about spacing.

IMO, the best teams are able to move as a unit. They've got 10 guys who know not just what their own responsibilities are, but also what the rest of the players' are too. You also need 10 guys who can read the game and anticipate 3 or more plays ahead of every play. Right now it's pretty much only Barcelona able to do that top to bottom. But on the converse, teams often fail because of some weakness in that idea.

gotta go. I'll be back.

 

[Prince Myshkin]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

 

[PIK95]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

We have room at Liverpool.....

 

[Steve Tasker]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

We have room at Liverpool.....

More empty spots on the bandwagon every day...

 

[Sleeping King]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

We have room at Liverpool.....

And it would be nice if you could bring along £500m. I don't think that is asking for too much.

 

[PIK95]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

We have room at Liverpool.....

And it would be nice if you could bring along £500m. I don't think that is asking for too much.

 

[Prince Myshkin]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

We have room at Liverpool.....

i was actually thinking one of the big 4 english teams...mainly because most of the games i get to see involve them.i suppose i just need to keep watching until a team really catches my eye with style of play, players, etc...

 

[The Z Machine]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

We have room at Liverpool.....

i was actually thinking one of the big 4 english teams...mainly because most of the games i get to see involve them.i suppose i just need to keep watching until a team really catches my eye with style of play, players, etc...

Be a real fan and find a team you can suffer with.

 

[Christo]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

FULHAM!

 

[PIK95]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

FULHAM!

I love watching SPURS!Gareth Bale has been playing out of his mind. I can't believe how good he is now. Kinda reminds me of Xabi Alonso when he was on.

 

[firecrackerfreakshow]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

FULHAM!

I love watching SPURS!Gareth Bale has been playing out of his mind. I can't believe how good he is now. Kinda reminds me of Xabi Alonso when he was on.

Love watching Spurs as well...

 

[PIK95]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

FULHAM!

I love watching SPURS!Gareth Bale has been playing out of his mind. I can't believe how good he is now. Kinda reminds me of Xabi Alonso when he was on.

Love watching Spurs as well...

And they are on TV more than "Leave it to Beaver"....... reruns.

 

[bweiser]

It's all counter, long ball, and poor finishing.

I think it's just really bad first touch that bugs me. And terrible spacing offensively (though I've found the defensive organization to be pretty decent)

You and Floppo are all about the spacing...

haha. But it really is a big difference as in the top leagues guys really use the whole field. Watch an MLS game and see how often there are huge gaps that no one moves into. It's why the passing is so disjointed I think. There are fewer options and so they just boot it up field.

So check it out...MLS vs Argentina League- no comparison between the skill-level of players. There's a reason MLS is getting cast-offs or guys at the end of their careers (Schilloto)- the better players either stay in country or head to Europe or even Mexico. That said, LHUCKS' comparison isn't so far off to be called a joke. The Argentinian league has great skilled players but horribly organized teams, particularly on defense. The MLS has almost too well organized teams on defense, and lack the skills to generate comparable organisation on offense (although it's getting there). Watch the league and see how wide-open things are there vs MLS. makes for fun games to watch, but it's wide-open because players and teams are horribly out of position a great deal of the time.

and re: Argentine Cup play... yeah- they always do well. And yeah, the MLS can't hold it's own even in CONCACAF Cup. But MLS screws itself by sending teams to play in our CL during our pre-season (screws itself by having it's season during the rest of the world's off-season). So I don't know that it's so apples to apples comparing the leagues based on that.

But bottom line, IMO, MLS isn't quite at the Argentine, Brazilian or even Mexican level yet in terms of league play- particulalry when you look at the big clubs. But we're not that far off and we're slowly getting there. Be interesting to see what the extra DP does.

Pre- disagree about Xavi. Tough to say without seeing him live, but what you said reminds me of what I thought about Zidane when I watched him play on TV for Juve- always in the right spot, but didn't move around much. Then I saw him play live. Holy ####. I've never seen a guy move MORE than Zidane- it's just that his on-screen time always looked so slow and easy... almost lazy. I just didn't get to see his off-screen 60 yard sprint with 2 guys pummeling him before getting into that spot. I'm betting the farm that Xavi is exactly the same. No way "He almost seems to never move but somehow he's always open (his positioning off the ball is simply as good as it gets)"... his positioning is good because he's probably working his ### off to get where he needs to get.

And all of that starts to talk about spacing.

IMO, the best teams are able to move as a unit. They've got 10 guys who know not just what their own responsibilities are, but also what the rest of the players' are too. You also need 10 guys who can read the game and anticipate 3 or more plays ahead of every play. Right now it's pretty much only Barcelona able to do that top to bottom. But on the converse, teams often fail because of some weakness in that idea.

gotta go. I'll be back.

You clearly haven't watched the Philadelphia Union play. We are the opposite - good offense/midfield play, awful defense.

 

[El Floppo]

Article in today's NYTimes about Charlie Davies

 

[El Floppo]

Interesting Q&A with Davies from the readers of the NYT (the Times does this on occasion with various players- had a great 3 part series wtih Seedorf). {{{ ooops- edit- wasn't with the readers the way Seedorf's was- with jeffrey Marcus)

April 26, 2010, 9:10 pm

Q. & A. With United States Forward Charlie Davies

By THE NEW YORK TIMES

Mathieu Cugnot for The New York Times

Charlie Davies has been running, doing ball work and recently began practicing with his teammates at the French club Sochaux.The American striker Charlie Davies fractured the tibia, fibula and femur in his right leg in a car accident last October. He broke his elbow, his nose and his eye socket. His bladder was lacerated and he had a serious head trauma. Doctors estimated a 6- to 12-month recovery period, which would have ruled out his participation in this summer’s World Cup. But after seven operations and more than six months of grueling physical rehabilitation, Davies is making a feverish, last-ditch effort to make the American team that will travel to South Africa. Last month, Jeffrey Marcus had several telephone conversations with Davies while he was at CERS, a sports rehabilitation center in Capbreton, France, and when he returned to Montbeliard and resumed training with his club team, Sochaux. Here are edited excerpts from those conversations.

Q.How does it feel to be back at Sochaux?

A.Oh, I mean, words can’t really describe the feeling being able to come back to my own apartment and sleeping in my own bed. Having all my clothes at my disposal. It feels great. And be able to see all my friends on the team and to get back on the Play Station. It was a great feeling.

Q.Do you have a FIFA tournament going on?

A.I go on PS3 and play fans from Twitter and of course I play some teammates on PS3 FIFA and also Call of Duty. It’s definitely a lot of fun because you’re playing against all these people and you get to hear how well you’re doing on Twitter and all of these things, if you lose, it’s not good.

Q.You’re pretty good at the FIFA. How did you get into it? What’s the appeal for someone like you who plays soccer for a living?

A.What really appeals to me is reading other people when they play. Just knowing the game and just trying to be a step ahead of them before they play. I just try to read everyone and know how they play. And that just makes me feel better because I just know the game so well. Just playing and trying to read people — that’s the fun I get out of playing, and it drives me to be good, I guess.

Q.And the trash talking?

A.Of course, that’s definitely what I’m best at, I think.

Q.After the accident, was it a way for you to stay a little bit connected to soccer?

A.I’ve always had fun with it. But in the beginning it was too hard to even want to be close to the game. I didn’t really want to watch games. Then all of a sudden it just all clicked and I was like, “OK, I feel like I’m close enough to kind of get back.” And that’s when I was like, “OK, it’s time for me to start to getting back into following games, following different leagues, playing FIFA a lot and getting back into it.”

Q.How long before you started watching games again?

A.I’d probably say two months.

Q.Why was it so tough for you?

A.I mean, being in the accident, and then having it being taken away from you, and you know just so many thoughts like, missing the game and, you know, why I’m missing the game and how can I do this? It just wasn’t a good feeling. I didn’t really feel connected. And then eventually, through rehab, I got the confidence back of being back on the field and feeling closer to reaching that goal. Eventually, naturally, I felt OK, now it’s time to get back into because I feel soon enough I’ll be back on the field.

Q.Was there a specific time in rehab where a switch went off for you and you knew you could do it?

Yeah. From the broken femur I had, there was a sharp bone that sticks out from the femur just because of the way it broke. And I remember, I was coming such a long way, obviously, I started walking much earlier than what they had thought. And I remember Hashimoto was saying to me, ‘oh, no, you’ve got to go to rehab because I think it’s the rods that are doing most of the work, not your bones.’ And I was like, ‘ugh.’

Nina Stavris for The New York Times

Early in his rehabilitation, Charlie Davies ran on an Alter-G treadmill that lessened the amount of his own body weight that he had to support. I was really nervous going in to the X-rays and then I got them and the doctor said, ‘No, your bones are healing pretty rapidly and the femur is an amazing bone and you’re good to go.’ And I remember being so happy and then coming back to rehab and thinking I could do everything. And the first day that sharp point started stabbing me in the quad. What it felt like was a knife going into my quad.

That was the feeling when I felt so down. It just felt like it took something away from me. Everything. Then, after a week, it all of a sudden went away. After a couple of massages from Hash, it went away. Then I started getting back to doing everything I could and more. And then that’s kind of when I was like, ‘OK, I’m back. I’m going to make it.’ And that’s when I said, ‘OK, it’s about time to start playing FIFA.’

Q.How soon did you get back into it?

A.Pretty quickly. The first thing I did was watch the behind the scenes of the game against Costa Rica in D.C., two days after the accident. That was the first thing I did. And I remember watching it like it was yesterday. And it was definitely very, very emotional. And after I got through that video, I just got a sense of feeling to come back for my team. Kind of like, I’ve got to show these guys that I’m going to come back and help everyone out and get back into the game and start watching it and playing FIFA and getting back into the whole reality of soccer.

Q.What was going through your mind when you watched the video and what was it that affected you so much?

A.Everything was going through my mind right when I clicked that play button to watch it.

It was the pregame, and clips of the game, and then after the game. And so, I didn’t know what to expect. I was just really interested in to see how the guys reacted and see how they were. It was so painful to see the locker room before the game. Everyone was silent. When Coach Bradley said, “We’ve got a brother down, let’s do this for him.” That was the point where it hit me hardest. Because it just hit me like, I’m gone. Everybody is genuinely sad and wishing that I was there. It really got emotional for me. Made me realize how important I was to the guys and how important they were to me. So it was definitely a moment in my life where it was a big shocker.

Q.Did you not know how important you were to those guys before that?

No, I never really thought about it. I never really knew I was important to Tim Howard or Landon Donovan or Clint Dempsey, the big guys on the team. I didn’t really know. I didn’t really think how important I was to them or how much I meant to them, not just as a player but, you know, off the field, as a person. But when you have these guys, Carlos Bocanegra, the captain, and Gooch, Oguchi Onyewu, calling and coming to see me. It just really hit me. And then just seeing that video, it all came together for me. And then just seeing that video, I basically just cried for the first time, really, really hard and, for a while, watching from start to end, I was crying through the whole movie.

Q.Tough game for you to watch.

A.Yeah, and then to see them go down 2-0, and I’m like ‘Oh, man.’ And they come back to tie it 2-2, it was pretty amazing and intense and at the same time made me sad to miss that game. During the game, I was like, ‘Ugh! I could have done something there. I think I could have created a chance there. I think I could have scored there.’

Q.You feel like you let them down?

A.Yeah, I definitely felt like I let the team down. I let my family down. I let my girlfriend down. It was definitely something I feel. I let down people.

Q.How?

A.I think it was about being selfish. I think I was selfish in being the one to go out past curfew and right there, it’s just taking an unnecessary chance and risk of life. Putting yourself in a bad position and that’s what I did. And I think what I learned most is not to put yourself in those types of positions. In the end, the accident wasn’t my fault, but I put myself in that position. So I’m letting down people in that sense. So I definitely feel that this whole comeback, this whole desire, this whole push that has played a big part in it. Coming back to kind of like redeem myself.

Q.Do you often think about the accident?

A.I did for two months, when I wasn’t able to sleep for two months, I slept maybe two, three hours. I would always think back to that night and always think: Why did I have to go out? Why did I do this? How did I do this? You know, trying to retrace everything I did and figure out why I did it and why I couldn’t have done something else. But now I don’t think about it anymore. What I really just focused on for the past month, month and a half, is just really focused on getting back. That’s the only thing I think about is getting back on the field. There’s nothing else that I think about except playing again.

Q.Did you have doubts?

A.Yes. And I still do. I still doubt myself. Am I going to have the same speed and quickness? Am I going to have the same strength and tenacity that I did before? And before it was all these questions: Am I going to be as strong? Am I going to be able to run?

Nina Stavris for The New York Times

Davies, jogging outside in Wilmington, Del., late last year. Davies would send teammates photos and text messages updating them on his recovery.And now I’m running. I always ask questions. Am I going to be as quick? And they always say, just take your time and do the things you’re supposed to and you’ll get there. I’m much more confident than I was before and I just keep pushing myself and I keep surprising myself. I think that’s the thing that is most important. I think to myself that maybe I can’t do it and then I do it and I feel that much better.

Q.Has Bob Bradley said what he expects from you or given you any benchmarks or goals to make the World Cup team?

A.No he hasn’t. And I’ve kind of just put those expectations on myself. I think in my own head, I just have to play, I would think, three or four full matches, 90 minutes, just to make sure that I’m match fit and doing the same things I used to. And I don’t think that I’ll have any problem being on that team if I’m the same player I was before this accident.

Q.But you might not be the same player.

A.I might not. I could be even better, with this different outlook that I have, this different appreciation I have. I could be more effective just with that extra push every time I get on the field. We’ll see. That’s the only thing that’s gotten me this far, pushing to see how far I can get.

Q.What if it doesn’t happen? Have you thought about that?

A.I have not because I really, really truly believe that I will be back for the World Cup. I haven’t thought about it at all. It crossed my mind in the beginning for sure — what if I don’t make it? But I think ever since I woke up from this accident I remember saying to myself I’m going to be back for this World Cup. There’s no way I’m going to let this take away a life dream, a life goal. There’s no way I’m going to let this happen. I’ve never really thought about not making this, it’s just not an option for me.

Q.What if?

A.My reaction would definitely be hurt, but I think a lot would set in there. What I have gone through, what has happened, really looking back at this whole process of five months of rehab. I’ve had a friend, Bijon, who has told me every single day, don’t rush it. Don’t do too much, because you’re only 23 years old, there are two more World Cups in your future, don’t worry about it. So I guess that’s life. I would just be really mentally strong if it came to that point and think to myself, ‘well, what’s the next goal?’ And that would be to really have a great season with my club team and be ready for the national team games after the World Cup.

 

[Mjolnirs]

Lyon v Bayern coming up in 30 minutes.

Lyon Starters - Lloris, Cris, Boumsong, Bastos, Lisandro, Réveillèer, Govou, Makoun, Delgado, Cissokho, Gonalons

Bayern Starters - Butt, Van Buyton, Altintop, Robben, Olić, Van Bommel, Lahm, Müller, Contento, Badstuber, Schweinsteiger

 

[scoobygang]

i almost hate to admit that i have been watching more soccer than any other sport lately. i'm still learning the nuances of the game (never played before) and its hard keeping up all the different leagues, but i really like the flow and suspense of the game.

now i think i'm to the point where i need to develop a favorite team, but none have really stood out to me except barca and i can't jump on the bandwagon...

super-stoked over the wc starting soon!!!

We have room at Liverpool.....

i was actually thinking one of the big 4 english teams...mainly because most of the games i get to see involve them.i suppose i just need to keep watching until a team really catches my eye with style of play, players, etc...

The Spurs suggestions are pretty excellent. They play a very appealing style of game. Defoe, Modric, Bale, Lennon (if he gets back), and Kranjar are all exciting attacking players. At the back, I have Bassong and Gomez on my EPL Best XI for this season. I think they're the favorites to capture the 4th spot in the EPL right now.

 

[Mjolnirs]

Kickoff! I'm out until I watch the game later. Let's go Bayern!

 

[PIK95]

Kickoff! I'm out until I watch the game later. Let's go Bayern!

Even w/o Frank BM is frikin LOADED.

 

[The Z Machine]

So... no one collects the stickers?

Weak.

I want to get a trading system up an going so I can fill some of the ones I'm missing.

 

[guru_007]

Kickoff! I'm out until I watch the game later. Let's go Bayern!

Even w/o Frank BM is frikin LOADED.

obviously they're loaded, they beat MUFCPlus, even their goalie scores for them.....

 

[bweiser]

is anyone watching BM-Lyon in English? i can't find it on TV other than a Spanish network.

 

[Spartans Rule]

is anyone watching BM-Lyon in English? i can't find it on TV other than a Spanish network.

It's on Fox Sports.

 

[bweiser]

is anyone watching BM-Lyon in English? i can't find it on TV other than a Spanish network.

It's on Fox Sports.

there we go.

 

[PIK95]

is anyone watching BM-Lyon in English? i can't find it on TV other than a Spanish network.

It's on Fox Sports.

there we go.

Hi def too.

 

[bweiser]

is anyone watching BM-Lyon in English? i can't find it on TV other than a Spanish network.

It's on Fox Sports.

there we go.

Hi def too.

screw me. found a different channel. it was an english commercial. still a freaking spanish broadcast. oh well, beats not watching it.

 

[Senor Schmutzig]

So... no one collects the stickers?Weak.I want to get a trading system up an going so I can fill some of the ones I'm missing.

Your post was the first time I heard about them. Where do I find said stickers? Sounds like something me and my son could do to get him psyched up for the World Cup.