***Official Soccer Discussion Thread*** (4 Viewers)

[LHUCKS]

Big surprise in no Chandler in US roster. Strange that Boyd is not listed after tweeting that he was called up. No games for RSL this week so Rimando and Beckerman were called up with initial squad. INITIAL U.S. ROSTER BY POSITIONGOALKEEPERS (3): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)DEFENDERS (4): Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), Edgar Castillo (Club Tijuana), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover), Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin)MIDFIELDERS (8): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Michael Bradley (Chievo Verona), Joe Corona (Club Tijuana), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04), Jose Torres (Pachuca), Danny Williams (Hoffenheim)FORWARDS (1): Clint Dempsey (Fulham)

I would take Adu over at least three of those midfielders...he better get the invite.

With 8 midfielders already invited and knowing a few more like Donovan and Shea are way ahead of Adu in the pecking order, he may not get on the 29 man camp. Corona was a bit of a surprise and Danny Williams being healthy enough both hurt Adu's chances, especially with Fabian Johnson being listed as a midfielder.

I could also see Freddy missing this round of int'ls. They have a ton of midfielders in camp, and really, the only challenging match this summer that really matters is the away game against Guat. Id hope this roster can grab a result even wothout Freddy.On the plus side, he's just now starting to get consistent club time, and is actually building positive momentum with his play. Novak finally moved him into more of a CAM role this past Sunday, and before he get sent off, he was absolutely ballin'. Best club performance I've seen from him in awhile, certainly since he joined the Union. Shredded NY's defense a few times.

Agreed.I just don't see the upside of players like Beckerman, Corona, Williams etc. etc. Adu has clear, proven upside that Klinsman is choosing to ignore.We need ball skills and play makers, we don't need players that disappear at the international level. Even at a young age Freddy has shown he can have a noticable impact at this level, and he should get progressively better over the next five years as he enters the prime of his career.

 

[NewlyRetired]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

 

[LHUCKS]

The more I think about it now the more respect I have for Rossi. He made a decision and went with it. While it was hard to take as an American fan dieing for more quality players it was significantly more ethical than what Chandler is doing. And don't get me started on Subotic. As Ives said today this was a quote from Subotic "Playing for anybody but the U.S. would be like backstabbing."Sure the US would be better off with Rossi, Subotic, Chandler and maybe a player like Hangeland (born in Houston) but in the end we can't do anything about it.

These guys can all go eff themselves for all I care.Our program has been moving forward just fine without them.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

It's funny, at least in NorCal, I see Barca shirts, bumperstickers, etc. everywhere. There's even a kid's mural at our local mall (in a pretty heavy Hispanic area) that depicts the creator as Barca's goaltender, making a diving save.I've seen exactly one RM shirt over the past year, at a local pickup game. Maybe CR is more well-known, but I'd guess that there are more Man U. fans in the states than RM fans? Complete speculation.CR also plays into the negative stereotype that US sports fans have of soccer quite a bit, whereas Rooney's a bit more rough and tumble.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Big surprise in no Chandler in US roster. Strange that Boyd is not listed after tweeting that he was called up. No games for RSL this week so Rimando and Beckerman were called up with initial squad. INITIAL U.S. ROSTER BY POSITIONGOALKEEPERS (3): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)DEFENDERS (4): Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), Edgar Castillo (Club Tijuana), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover), Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin)MIDFIELDERS (8): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Michael Bradley (Chievo Verona), Joe Corona (Club Tijuana), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04), Jose Torres (Pachuca), Danny Williams (Hoffenheim)FORWARDS (1): Clint Dempsey (Fulham)

I would take Adu over at least three of those midfielders...he better get the invite.

With 8 midfielders already invited and knowing a few more like Donovan and Shea are way ahead of Adu in the pecking order, he may not get on the 29 man camp. Corona was a bit of a surprise and Danny Williams being healthy enough both hurt Adu's chances, especially with Fabian Johnson being listed as a midfielder.

I could also see Freddy missing this round of int'ls. They have a ton of midfielders in camp, and really, the only challenging match this summer that really matters is the away game against Guat. Id hope this roster can grab a result even wothout Freddy.On the plus side, he's just now starting to get consistent club time, and is actually building positive momentum with his play. Novak finally moved him into more of a CAM role this past Sunday, and before he get sent off, he was absolutely ballin'. Best club performance I've seen from him in awhile, certainly since he joined the Union. Shredded NY's defense a few times.

Agreed.I just don't see the upside of players like Beckerman, Corona, Williams etc. etc. Adu has clear upside that Klinsman is choosing to ignore.We need ball skills and play makers, we don't need players that disappear at the international level. Even at a young age Freddy has shown he can have a noticable impact at this level, and he should get progressively better over the next five years as he enters the prime of his career.

1) Beckerman may very well be the best player in MLS this year. I would not be shocked if he makes the final 23. Sure he is not young but JK wants results, not experimentation this summer.2) Williams plays a lot of soccer at a level that would eat Adu for lunch. I don't think Williams is great by any means but his upside is as good as Freddy's and is only a couple of months older than Freddy. Since he plays at a much higher level than Freddy, his chance to progress should be better, assuming the playing time stays consistent. 3) Corona is playing well in Mexico, again at a level higher than Freddy has ever suceeded at. Corona is also younger than Freddy. Corona played pretty much as well as Freddy in the Olympic qualifying over the three games.

 

[LHUCKS]

It's funny, at least in NorCal, I see Barca shirts, bumperstickers, etc. everywhere. There's even a kid's mural at our local mall (in a pretty heavy Hispanic area) that depicts the creator as Barca's goaltender, making a diving save.I've seen exactly one RM shirt over the past year, at a local pickup game. Maybe CR is more well-known, but I'd guess that there are more Man U. fans in the states than RM fans? Complete speculation.CR also plays into the negative stereotype that US sports fans have of soccer quite a bit, whereas Rooney's a bit more rough and tumble.

I live in SF and my opinion is that the soccer fans here are very sophisticated compared to other major cities I've lived in.I think there is a global appreciation for the sport here that is unrivaled by most, if not all other American cities. Maybe New York.I've had great conversations with Africans, South Americans, Europeans, Americans...you name it, they love soccer and are up to date on soccer globally, not just their favorite league. this is what makes soccer great IMHO.

 

[NewlyRetired]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

It's funny, at least in NorCal, I see Barca shirts, bumperstickers, etc. everywhere. There's even a kid's mural at our local mall (in a pretty heavy Hispanic area) that depicts the creator as Barca's goaltender, making a diving save.I've seen exactly one RM shirt over the past year, at a local pickup game. Maybe CR is more well-known, but I'd guess that there are more Man U. fans in the states than RM fans? Complete speculation.

I agree there are many more Man U fans than Real Madrid fans in the US but that does not really help your argument since CRo became famous as a Man U player. He has played almost twice as many games as a Man U player as a RM player.

 

[LHUCKS]

1) Beckerman may very well be the best player in MLS this year. I would not be shocked if he makes the final 23. Sure he is not young but JK wants results, not experimentation this summer.

Wondo is awesome in MLS too, and then he sucks at the international level. Beckerman's lack of speed/quicks kills him at the next level IMHO. As far as results, this is where I have a philosophical difference with JK. We are a shoe-in to advance past this stage. We should use this opportunity to get our young up and coming players into the program and integrated into the philosophy. Does anybody really think Beckerman is going to make an impact in 2014?? All I care about is 2014, and that should be all JK cares about. Instead he's jerking around with mediocre talent that has little to no upside with little chance of making impact in 2014.

2) Williams plays a lot of soccer at a level that would eat Adu for lunch. I don't think Williams is great by any means but his upside is as good as Freddy's and is only a couple of months older than Freddy. Since he plays at a much higher level than Freddy, his chance to progress should be better, assuming the playing time stays consistent.

I've been unimpressed with Williams at this level. I do see the upside, but it has not been as pronounced as the upside that Freddy has exhibited IMHO. Not even close.

3) Corona is playing well in Mexico, again at a level higher than Freddy has ever suceeded at. Corona is also younger than Freddy. Corona played pretty much as well as Freddy in the Olympic qualifying over the three games.

We'll agree to disagree there. I thought Freddy was the best player on the pitch for the USA. I feel like I'm on an island with my Freddy support. I must be seeing different games than everybody else. I realize he is a defensive liability and can be turnover prone in spells, but his uncanny ability to make plays and create opportunities outweighs either of those IMHO.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

It's funny, at least in NorCal, I see Barca shirts, bumperstickers, etc. everywhere. There's even a kid's mural at our local mall (in a pretty heavy Hispanic area) that depicts the creator as Barca's goaltender, making a diving save.I've seen exactly one RM shirt over the past year, at a local pickup game. Maybe CR is more well-known, but I'd guess that there are more Man U. fans in the states than RM fans? Complete speculation.

I agree there are many more Man U fans than Real Madrid fans in the US but that does not really help your argument since CRo became famous as a Man U player. He has played almost twice as many games as a Man U player as a RM player.

But is he as present in the American sportsgoer's public consciousness as Rooney right now? The EPL has a higher profile than Liga here in the states.I'd also imagine that there are more England supporters in the US than Portugal. But then again, who knows why someone gets put on a magazine cover and someone else doesn't. Maybe it comes down to agent relationships.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I feel like I'm on an island with my Freddy support. I must be seeing different games than everybody else. I realize he is a defensive liability and can be turnover prone in spells, but his ability to make plays and create opportunities outweighs either of those IMHO.

When Freddy performs consistently at club level he will get his chances at the next level. It is that simple really. Looking for deeper meaning than that one statement is a fools errand IMO.Note, I like Freddy but he has failed more than he has suceeded. That is not an equation for expecting call ups over players who are playing better than he is.Buddle is another example. At the beginning of this year I I would have expected him to be a sure thing for a call up this summer and now I have to say it would shock me if he gets called over Wondo (who has played pretty well the last couple of caps he got) or Cooper.

 

[LHUCKS]

Buddle is another example. At the beginning of this year I I would have expected him to be a sure thing for a call up this summer and now I have to say it would shock me if he gets called over Wondo (who has played pretty well the last couple of caps he got) or Cooper.

Buddle is a know quantity and hasn't been in-form. As one of the more boisterous Buddle supporters in this thread, I'm fine with his exclusion.Having players like Cooper or Wondo over future stars like Terrence Boyd is a travesty IMHO.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Having players like Cooper or Wondo over future stars like Bedoya is a travesty IMHO.

Ok I try and be polite and not flame you but this is a monstrously ignorant statement. Bedoya plays a position that the US is incredibly deep in. Cooper and Wondo play a position that the US has no depth in. Bedoya is a decent player but gets very little playing time at Rangers which at age 25 is not good.

But that does not matter, Cooper/Wondo are not competing with Bedoya for a spot on the national team.

Crap, I think I am getting fished here. Might be time to add you to my ignore list so I don't get caught in this again.

 

[LHUCKS]

Having players like Cooper or Wondo over future stars like Bedoya is a travesty IMHO.

Ok I try and be polite and not flame you but this is a monstrously ignorant statement. Bedoya plays a position that the US is incredibly deep in. Cooper and Wondo play a position that the US has no depth in.

Meant Terrency Boyd...corrected above.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

I really dig this Chris Ryan guy who writes soccer for Grantland.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I am not sure if this was posted but here is the Brazil roster for the US game. Looks like a nice mix of players leaning towards the U23 side. Should be an awesome test for the US defense.

GOALKEEPERS: Jefferson (Botafogo), Neto (Fiorentina), Rafael (Santos)

DEFENDERS: Dani Alves (Barcelona), Danilo (Porto), Juan (Inter Milan), David Luiz (Chelsea), Marcelo (Real Madrid), Alex Sandro (Porto), Thiago Silva (AC Milan), Bruno Uvini (Tottenham)

MIDFIELDERS: Casemiro (Sao Paulo), Paulo Henrique Ganso (Santos), Giuliano (Dnipro), Lucas (Sao Paulo), Wellington Nem (Fluminense), Oscar (Internacional), Romulo (Vasco de Gama), Sandro (Tottenham)

FORWARDS: Leandro Damiao (Internacional), Hulk (Porto), Neymar (Santos), Alexandre Pato (AC Milan)

 

[Slapdash]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on cover

https://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

It's funny, at least in NorCal, I see Barca shirts, bumperstickers, etc. everywhere. There's even a kid's mural at our local mall (in a pretty heavy Hispanic area) that depicts the creator as Barca's goaltender, making a diving save.I've seen exactly one RM shirt over the past year, at a local pickup game. Maybe CR is more well-known, but I'd guess that there are more Man U. fans in the states than RM fans? Complete speculation.

CR also plays into the negative stereotype that US sports fans have of soccer quite a bit, whereas Rooney's a bit more rough and tumble.

Sounds like Barca need to sign him. Have never run into many Real Madrid fans around here either. A couple of friends I work with are big fans but I've seen maybe two RM jerseys out watching games at bars.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Gah, I'd much rather have Falcao than Torres and the money.

Clearly he has the talent to do what he did for Liverpool, but not many teams can gamble at that rate. If you know Falcao works (and won't go down in value) would you gamble on Torres? It seems to me it would have to be a better offer than what's being presented if it was to even be considered.

I agree. I think they'll need to up the offer by quite a bit.Assuming Falcao is worth 55m€, how much is Torres worth right now? 25m€? 20m€? Remember that Kun got sold for 40m€ or so by Atlético last year. Oh and BTW, Man City had to pay an additional 750k€ to Atlético after they won the title. Interesting clause in the transfer deal...

I'd value Torres at about 25¢ right now.

I think he still has much of a career left in him.ETA: He had 18 assists this year. That's nothing to sneeze at. Maybe his role is shifting from being that classic finishing striker to more of a playmaker?

Not sure where you're seeing 18, but everything I can find says 4.Edit: One site says 11, counting the Champions League. Still not 18.

4 is for the EPL only. If you look at a full 2011-2012 season it should be 12 in all competitions (club and country)http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/24257/fernando-jose-torres-sanz?cc=5901

Torres was very successful at creating dangerous opportunities, assists and the like. As Jonessed pointed out, that's not what a striker gets paid to do, and Torres was not very successful in that area. He had a few big games against weak competition, but failed to come up big in the big games. Surely, the sitter he missed against ManU will be the lasting image of this season at Chelsea. The good news for Torres is that the Chelsea fans are still completely behind him. He works hard and is still an amazing talent to bring on in the 70th minute.btw - Transfermarkt.de - which I find to be an excellent resource - had Falcao valued at 50m euros and Torres at 40m when I last checked.

 

[Mjolnirs]

GOLTV

Germany FORTUNA DUSSELDORF-HERTHA BERLIN (live) 2:30 pm.

This is a relegation playoff. Düsseldorf won the first leg 2-1.

Did anyone else watch this? (stupid question, I know)Düsseldorf scored 30 seconds in to go up 3-1 on aggregate, but it was far from over. Berlin tied it up before the half setting up a crazy last 45* minutes.

Berlin went a man down in the 54th, Düsseldorf went up again in the 59th minute and then chaos broke out. The Berlin fans started lobbing flares onto the field and it took 6 minutes before security could clear them all off and play could resume. This delay added to the fun later.

In the 85th Berlin knotted it back up and the aggregate was now 4-3. If the scored stayed the same Düsseldorf gets promoted and Berlin gets relegated. One more goal for Berlin and they stay up and Düsseldorf stays down.

7 minutes of extra time was added and in the 6th minute of it the Düsseldorf fans rushed the pitch! Both teams and the refs quickly fled the field and it took 27 minutes to clear the field of fans befor they could play the last minute. The players and refs came back out and, played 1 minute and then the celebration started again.

 

[Steve Tasker]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

How long does ESPN have EPL rights for? I know they have La Liga rights too, but they certainly promote the EPL a lot more than they do La Liga, and ESPN loves their cross-promotion...

 

[The Gator]

Not sure if this has been posted as there ahs been a lot fo action in here recently;

Bayern Land Home Dressing Room

A few people on the talk shows I listen to thought this would end up being huge for Bayern.

 

[NewlyRetired]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

How long does ESPN have EPL rights for? I know they have La Liga rights too, but they certainly promote the EPL a lot more than they do La Liga, and ESPN loves their cross-promotion...

In 2010, ESPN reached an agreement with Fox to license a selection of games for three seasons. That license expires at the end of the 2012-2013 season.At the end of the 2012-2013 season Fox's contract also expires I believe. So this year we could see the rights change hands. ESPN has owned the Spanish language rights to La Liga but I am unsure if they own them anymore. I think Al Jazera may own both the English and Spanish rights to La Liga now.

 

[Slapdash]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

How long does ESPN have EPL rights for? I know they have La Liga rights too, but they certainly promote the EPL a lot more than they do La Liga, and ESPN loves their cross-promotion...

In 2010, ESPN reached an agreement with Fox to license a selection of games for three seasons. That license expires at the end of the 2012-2013 season.At the end of the 2012-2013 season Fox's contract also expires I believe. So this year we could see the rights change hands. ESPN has owned the Spanish language rights to La Liga but I am unsure if they own them anymore. I think Al Jazera may own both the English and Spanish rights to La Liga now.

GolTV has La Liga currently and Al Jazeera will next year.

 

[NewlyRetired]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

How long does ESPN have EPL rights for? I know they have La Liga rights too, but they certainly promote the EPL a lot more than they do La Liga, and ESPN loves their cross-promotion...

In 2010, ESPN reached an agreement with Fox to license a selection of games for three seasons. That license expires at the end of the 2012-2013 season.At the end of the 2012-2013 season Fox's contract also expires I believe. So this year we could see the rights change hands. ESPN has owned the Spanish language rights to La Liga but I am unsure if they own them anymore. I think Al Jazera may own both the English and Spanish rights to La Liga now.

GolTV has La Liga currently and Al Jazeera will next year.

Yes I know that. What I meant is that I am unsure of is if Al Jazera won both the english AND Spanish language rights. I know they won the English language.

 

[Slapdash]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

How long does ESPN have EPL rights for? I know they have La Liga rights too, but they certainly promote the EPL a lot more than they do La Liga, and ESPN loves their cross-promotion...

In 2010, ESPN reached an agreement with Fox to license a selection of games for three seasons. That license expires at the end of the 2012-2013 season.At the end of the 2012-2013 season Fox's contract also expires I believe. So this year we could see the rights change hands. ESPN has owned the Spanish language rights to La Liga but I am unsure if they own them anymore. I think Al Jazera may own both the English and Spanish rights to La Liga now.

GolTV has La Liga currently and Al Jazeera will next year.

Yes I know that. What I meant is that I am unsure of is if Al Jazera won both the english AND Spanish language rights. I know they won the English language.

I believe La Liga doesn't differentiate on language when it sells the rights. If you have one, you have both.

 

[NewlyRetired]

ESPN The Mag starts some of the hype for Euro 2012 with their first World Football Issue with Rooney on coverhttps://p.twimg.com/As9uTwICMAA-PDc.jpg

You'd think they would pick a guy who's going to actually be playing in the group stage...

I think Rooney will play one game in the first round but your point is taken.

Yep, one out of three. That said, he might be the most well-known player who will be taking part in Euro 2012, at least in the states.

Hmm, I bet Ronaldo may be better known but that is just a guess....

How long does ESPN have EPL rights for? I know they have La Liga rights too, but they certainly promote the EPL a lot more than they do La Liga, and ESPN loves their cross-promotion...

In 2010, ESPN reached an agreement with Fox to license a selection of games for three seasons. That license expires at the end of the 2012-2013 season.At the end of the 2012-2013 season Fox's contract also expires I believe. So this year we could see the rights change hands. ESPN has owned the Spanish language rights to La Liga but I am unsure if they own them anymore. I think Al Jazeera may own both the English and Spanish rights to La Liga now.

GolTV has La Liga currently and Al Jazeera will next year.

Yes I know that. What I meant is that I am unsure of is if Al Jazeera won both the english AND Spanish language rights. I know they won the English language.

I believe La Liga doesn't differentiate on language when it sells the rights. If you have one, you have both.

I think that makes sense since they refer to them as the "US TV Rights". ESPN has sub licensed La Liga games from Mediapro/Gol Tv in the past so I am unsure if they will try to do the same with Al Jazeera.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Everyone root for the LA Kings to finish off the Coyotes quickly.

NHL scheduled game 7 of the Western Conference finals at the same time as the US Scotland game. The game 7 is scheduled to be broadcast on NBCSN which is where the US Scotland game will be broadcast. This will likely cause the soccer game to get bumped to Universal Sports Network or worse.

Luckily not only is LA up 2-0 but they won both games in Pheonix.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I am sure everyone has seen this already but I will post in case anyone wants to discuss.

England's Euro Squad

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Robert Green (West Ham United), John Ruddy (Norwich City)

Defenders: Ashley Cole (Chelsea), John Terry (Chelsea), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Leighton Baines (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Manchester City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea)

Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur), Gareth Barry (Manchester City), James Milner (Manchester City), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Ashley Young (Manchester United)

Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Danny Welbeck (Manchester United), Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)

Standby: Jack Butland (Birmingham City), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Johnson (Manchester City), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea).

 

[Mjolnirs]

Not sure if this has been posted as there ahs been a lot fo action in here recently;

Bayern Land Home Dressing Room

A few people on the talk shows I listen to thought this would end up being huge for Bayern.

I would think it couldn't hurt. In all competetions this season they are 22-1-2 out of that locker room, 76-10 in goals with 16 shutouts.

 

[NewlyRetired]

King Kenny is out at LFC according to tweets confirming BBC reports.

=======

Dalglish leaves post as Liverpool boss

Kenny Dalglish has left his position as manager of Liverpool Football Club.

The Anfield legend returned for a second spell at the helm of the Merseyside outfit in January 2011 after Roy Hodgson's tumultuous spell in charge.

However, despite lifting the League Cup in February and reaching the FA Cup final, the Reds' Premier League form - particularly on home soil - was unacceptable having splashed a considerable amount of cash on Andy Carroll, Luis Suarez, Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing.

In his second spell as manager, the Scot won 35, drew 17 and lost 22 of his 74 games.

Early contenders to succeed him include Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez, former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, ex-Chelsea chief Andre Villas-Boas, European Cup-winning coach Frank Rijkaard and highly-regarded MK Dons manager Karl Robinson.

More to follow.

3Share3

 

[NewlyRetired]

I am not sure if this was posted but here is the Brazil roster for the US game. Looks like a nice mix of players leaning towards the U23 side. Should be an awesome test for the US defense. GOALKEEPERS: Jefferson (Botafogo), Neto (Fiorentina), Rafael (Santos)DEFENDERS: Dani Alves (Barcelona), Danilo (Porto), Juan (Inter Milan), David Luiz (Chelsea), Marcelo (Real Madrid), Alex Sandro (Porto), Thiago Silva (AC Milan), Bruno Uvini (Tottenham)MIDFIELDERS: Casemiro (Sao Paulo), Paulo Henrique Ganso (Santos), Giuliano (Dnipro), Lucas (Sao Paulo), Wellington Nem (Fluminense), Oscar (Internacional), Romulo (Vasco de Gama), Sandro (Tottenham)FORWARDS: Leandro Damiao (Internacional), Hulk (Porto), Neymar (Santos), Alexandre Pato (AC Milan)

Dani Alves broke his collar bone in training today and will be out for a while.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

King Kenny is out at LFC according to tweets confirming BBC reports.

Pretty much had to happen IMO.

Early contenders to succeed him include Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez, former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, ex-Chelsea chief Andre Villas-Boas, European Cup-winning coach Frank Rijkaard and highly-regarded MK Dons manager Karl Robinson.

Yes, yes please, OMG no, no and no opinion.

 

[Mello]

King Kenny is out at LFC according to tweets confirming BBC reports.

Pretty much had to happen IMO.

Early contenders to succeed him include Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez, former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, ex-Chelsea chief Andre Villas-Boas, European Cup-winning coach Frank Rijkaard and highly-regarded MK Dons manager Karl Robinson.

Yes, yes please, OMG no, no and no opinion.

ManU fan?

 

[The Gator]

####ing better not be Martinez. Rafa, obviously yeah. The other name I'm hearing is Brendan Rodgers....unsure

 

[GoFishTN]

####ing better not be Martinez. Rafa, obviously yeah. The other name I'm hearing is Brendan Rodgers....unsure

Martinez and Rodgers are two of the top young managers in England (Martinez especially) and you prefer retread Benitez who was already ran out of town once? Reliving the past hasn't worked the past two seasons.

 

[prefontaine]

####ing better not be Martinez.

was thinking the same. I'd hate to have to root for ####### liverpool

 

[SmoovySmoov]

####ing better not be Martinez. Rafa, obviously yeah. The other name I'm hearing is Brendan Rodgers....unsure

Martinez and Rodgers are two of the top young managers in England (Martinez especially) and you prefer retread Benitez who was already ran out of town once? Reliving the past hasn't worked the past two seasons.

Martinez also couldn't hack it at Wigan. Wigan. Roy Hodgson 2.0.

 

[NewlyRetired]

####ing better not be Martinez. Rafa, obviously yeah. The other name I'm hearing is Brendan Rodgers....unsure

Martinez and Rodgers are two of the top young managers in England (Martinez especially) and you prefer retread Benitez who was already ran out of town once? Reliving the past hasn't worked the past two seasons.

Martinez also couldn't hack it at Wigan. Wigan. Roy Hodgson 2.0.

I don't think it is fair to compare coaching Wigan and LFC. Some coaches are better with smaller budgets than others and some coaches do better with the expectations that come with a large budget.

 

[Steve Tasker]

Pretty much sums everything up perfectly. Link

Chandler sends clear message to USMNT

Tim Chandler hasn’t said it in so many words, but by turning down an important US men’s national team call-up for the second time in two years, the German-born footballer has sent a message that sounds very much like he’s just not that interested in representing the United States.

How else should we take a second snub in as many summers from a player who, at the moment, still isn’t cap-tied to the United States? A player who is trying to trot out the “I’m tired” excuse about attending a training camp that will be filled with players who have played just as many, if not more, club games than he has.

No, Chandler isn’t doing an about-face and playing for his native country at this summer’s Euros. He’s not on their provisional list, and German head coach Joachim Loew has stated publicly that the federation has no interest in him (not that things couldn’t change in that regard).

That may not be stopping Chandler from wanting to keep his options open. He is very young, having just turned 22 in March. Chandler’s coming off an outstanding season with club team FC Nurnberg that earned him a new contract. It wouldn’t be a stretch to think that somewhere in that German-born head of his, Chandler is still holding out hope of one day wearing the German colors something he could still do since none of his eight appearances for the United States has come in an official competition.

The son of an American serviceman and German mother, Chandler has denied wanting to play for Germany in interviews he did last year, when he first tried easing the fears and winning back the affection of American fans who didn’t take too kindly to him skipping last year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup. A snub that, it can be argued, cost the United States the Gold Cup title when an early injury to starting fullback Steven Cherundolo helped Mexico erase a 2-0 deficit on their way to a resounding 4-2 victory.

It was a victory earned in large part by Mexico abusing reserve fullback Jonathan Bornstein, who would never have seen the field that day if Timmy Chandler hadn’t decided to do what he insisted his club team told him to do (which was get some rest and skip the Gold Cup).

Back then there was a strong sense from some critics of then-U.S. national team coach Bob Bradley that somehow Bradley was to blame for Chandler not showing up. Critics believed that Bradley hadn’t done enough to convince the German-born player to commit and cap-tie himself to the United States.

Jurgen Klinsmann was supposed to change all that. The charismatic German star is a legend in Germany and it was widely believed that Klinsmann could convince Chandler to go all-in with the United States.

Unfortunately for the United States, it didn’t work out that way.

Instead of working some magic, Klinsmann has found himself facing the same thing Bradley faced when dealing with Chandler; a player who is either more concerned with his club commitments than his national team commitments, or worse yet, a player who still has one eye on playing for Germany while he tries to keep the United States waiting.

“I have had long conversations with Timmy about where he is in his professional career and his commitment to playing international football,” Klinsmann said. “He has expressed his appreciation for all the opportunities we have given him, but he also feels at this point he needs to take a break.

“It’s disappointing not having him as a part of the team at this important juncture of building our team, but ultimately a player must decide what is best for him,” Klinsmann said. “The door is certainly not closed on Timmy, but in the moment we move on without him.”

Is there merit to Chandler’s need for rest? The statistics show that Chandler was among his team’s leaders in games (32 in all competitions) and minutes played. The same can be said for Jozy Altidore though, who enjoyed his own career year with Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. Altidore, who is 22 like Chandler, played nearly twice as many games in the 2011-2012 season (47) than he had in any previous season of his seven-year career (his previous high being 28 for Hull City).

Is Altidore begging out of training camp, or more importantly, World Cup qualifying matches? No. Altidore is taking a week off before joining the national team training camp in Orlando.

The same can be said about Clint Dempsey, who just played the best season of his life. There is no way Chandler’s season was more of a grind than the season 29-year-old Dempsey just had. With a potential eight-figure transfer move on the line, Dempsey has a lot more riding on this summer than Chandler. Is he looking to take a break? No. In fact, Dempsey is heading to Orlando with an injury he will be looking to recover from in camp.

That’s what playing for a national team is about. It’s about sacrifice and being there when your name is called. It’s not about playing when it’s convenient, or when a club team wants to let you.

And we’re back at the club situation again. A year ago we were told Nurnberg wanted Chandler to rest, and while his club was powerless to keep Chandler from accepting a call-up for an official tournament like the Gold Cup, he himself chose to abide by his club’s wishes. Back then, it sounded like a club bullying a young player. For Chandler to be selling the same story for a second straight year, and after another strong season in the Bundlesiga, sounds like a player hiding behind his club rather than being manipulated by it.

Fortunately for Klinsmann, the options at fullback are stronger than they have been for the United States in over a decade. Cherundolo is 34 but still playing right back at a high level. Eric Lichaj, a natural right back, just finished out the season in impressive fashion as the starting left back for Aston Villa. Fabian Johnson became a real revelation for Bundesliga side TSG Hoffenheim at left back, and Edgar Castillo is coming off a career year in Mexico with Club Tijuana.

Throw in a promising prospect like Hertha Berlin right back Alfredo Morales and a number of talented up-and-coming options in MLS like Kevin Alston and Tony Beltran, you realize just how much stronger the depth of fullback truly is for the United States.

And that’s not even including Chandler.

Make no mistake, the United States is a better team with Chandler on the roster. If he were in camp, there is a good chance he would be a starter. But the US national team can’t sit around waiting for Chandler to finally show that he’s truly committed to playing for the United States. The national team and Klinsmann surely can’t wait around until Chandler knows for sure that Germany isn’t interested.

What Klinsmann can do is turn to other options, other young players to groom into an eventual replacement for Cherundolo. Chandler was seen as someone destined to handle one of those tasks. Now, his national team future is in doubt just as other players are emerging as new fullback options.

What Chandler needs to realize is that the calls from Klinsmann won’t keep coming. Every time he wastes a chance to play for the United States, it gives other players an opportunity. If playing for the United States really, truly matters to Chandler, then that should worry him. Yet if playing for the US isn’t quite that important, then Chandler might just want to let Klinsmann know right away.

With the World Cup just two years away, Chandler better figure things out right away. That might seem like a long time from now, but with each opportunity he passes up, and each USA snub he delivers, he alienates his teammates, his coach and the Americans who want to be his fans.

If Chandler isn’t careful, two years from now he could find himself sitting at home, a world away from Brazil, watching both the United States and Germany playing in the World Cup. He will have all the rest he needs then, but he will also have more regret than he could ever have imagined.

Ives Galarcep is a senior writer for FOXSoccer.com covering Major League Soccer and the US National Team.

 

[jonessed]

King Kenny is out at LFC according to tweets confirming BBC reports.=======Dalglish leaves post as Liverpool bossKenny Dalglish has left his position as manager of Liverpool Football Club.The Anfield legend returned for a second spell at the helm of the Merseyside outfit in January 2011 after Roy Hodgson's tumultuous spell in charge.However, despite lifting the League Cup in February and reaching the FA Cup final, the Reds' Premier League form - particularly on home soil - was unacceptable having splashed a considerable amount of cash on Andy Carroll, Luis Suarez, Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing.In his second spell as manager, the Scot won 35, drew 17 and lost 22 of his 74 games.Early contenders to succeed him include Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez, former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, ex-Chelsea chief Andre Villas-Boas, European Cup-winning coach Frank Rijkaard and highly-regarded MK Dons manager Karl Robinson.More to follow. 3Share3

That's awful. The guy is a Liverpool legend as a manager and a player and was only given one full season to turn around a club that was falling on its face. The league has been disappointing, but he gave them their first trophy in six years, and an FA Cup final. I think it's absurd.

 

[The Z Machine]

Sounds like Barca need to sign him. Have never run into many Real Madrid fans around here either. A couple of friends I work with are big fans but I've seen maybe two RM jerseys out watching games at bars.

Not to overgeneralize or anything, but I've found that the majority of RM fans are recent latino immigrants, rather than second generation latinos. I'm not sure why, but it might have to do with the spread of RM into latin america in the early 2000s with the Galáticos. Just a theory.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Pretty much sums everything up perfectly. Link

Chandler sends clear message to USMNT

Tim Chandler hasn’t said it in so many words, but by turning down an important US men’s national team call-up for the second time in two years, the German-born footballer has sent a message that sounds very much like he’s just not that interested in representing the United States.

How else should we take a second snub in as many summers from a player who, at the moment, still isn’t cap-tied to the United States? A player who is trying to trot out the “I’m tired” excuse about attending a training camp that will be filled with players who have played just as many, if not more, club games than he has.

No, Chandler isn’t doing an about-face and playing for his native country at this summer’s Euros. He’s not on their provisional list, and German head coach Joachim Loew has stated publicly that the federation has no interest in him (not that things couldn’t change in that regard).

That may not be stopping Chandler from wanting to keep his options open. He is very young, having just turned 22 in March. Chandler’s coming off an outstanding season with club team FC Nurnberg that earned him a new contract. It wouldn’t be a stretch to think that somewhere in that German-born head of his, Chandler is still holding out hope of one day wearing the German colors something he could still do since none of his eight appearances for the United States has come in an official competition.

The son of an American serviceman and German mother, Chandler has denied wanting to play for Germany in interviews he did last year, when he first tried easing the fears and winning back the affection of American fans who didn’t take too kindly to him skipping last year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup. A snub that, it can be argued, cost the United States the Gold Cup title when an early injury to starting fullback Steven Cherundolo helped Mexico erase a 2-0 deficit on their way to a resounding 4-2 victory.

It was a victory earned in large part by Mexico abusing reserve fullback Jonathan Bornstein, who would never have seen the field that day if Timmy Chandler hadn’t decided to do what he insisted his club team told him to do (which was get some rest and skip the Gold Cup).

Back then there was a strong sense from some critics of then-U.S. national team coach Bob Bradley that somehow Bradley was to blame for Chandler not showing up. Critics believed that Bradley hadn’t done enough to convince the German-born player to commit and cap-tie himself to the United States.

Jurgen Klinsmann was supposed to change all that. The charismatic German star is a legend in Germany and it was widely believed that Klinsmann could convince Chandler to go all-in with the United States.

Unfortunately for the United States, it didn’t work out that way.

Instead of working some magic, Klinsmann has found himself facing the same thing Bradley faced when dealing with Chandler; a player who is either more concerned with his club commitments than his national team commitments, or worse yet, a player who still has one eye on playing for Germany while he tries to keep the United States waiting.

“I have had long conversations with Timmy about where he is in his professional career and his commitment to playing international football,” Klinsmann said. “He has expressed his appreciation for all the opportunities we have given him, but he also feels at this point he needs to take a break.

“It’s disappointing not having him as a part of the team at this important juncture of building our team, but ultimately a player must decide what is best for him,” Klinsmann said. “The door is certainly not closed on Timmy, but in the moment we move on without him.”

Is there merit to Chandler’s need for rest? The statistics show that Chandler was among his team’s leaders in games (32 in all competitions) and minutes played. The same can be said for Jozy Altidore though, who enjoyed his own career year with Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. Altidore, who is 22 like Chandler, played nearly twice as many games in the 2011-2012 season (47) than he had in any previous season of his seven-year career (his previous high being 28 for Hull City).

Is Altidore begging out of training camp, or more importantly, World Cup qualifying matches? No. Altidore is taking a week off before joining the national team training camp in Orlando.

The same can be said about Clint Dempsey, who just played the best season of his life. There is no way Chandler’s season was more of a grind than the season 29-year-old Dempsey just had. With a potential eight-figure transfer move on the line, Dempsey has a lot more riding on this summer than Chandler. Is he looking to take a break? No. In fact, Dempsey is heading to Orlando with an injury he will be looking to recover from in camp.

That’s what playing for a national team is about. It’s about sacrifice and being there when your name is called. It’s not about playing when it’s convenient, or when a club team wants to let you.

And we’re back at the club situation again. A year ago we were told Nurnberg wanted Chandler to rest, and while his club was powerless to keep Chandler from accepting a call-up for an official tournament like the Gold Cup, he himself chose to abide by his club’s wishes. Back then, it sounded like a club bullying a young player. For Chandler to be selling the same story for a second straight year, and after another strong season in the Bundlesiga, sounds like a player hiding behind his club rather than being manipulated by it.

Fortunately for Klinsmann, the options at fullback are stronger than they have been for the United States in over a decade. Cherundolo is 34 but still playing right back at a high level. Eric Lichaj, a natural right back, just finished out the season in impressive fashion as the starting left back for Aston Villa. Fabian Johnson became a real revelation for Bundesliga side TSG Hoffenheim at left back, and Edgar Castillo is coming off a career year in Mexico with Club Tijuana.

Throw in a promising prospect like Hertha Berlin right back Alfredo Morales and a number of talented up-and-coming options in MLS like Kevin Alston and Tony Beltran, you realize just how much stronger the depth of fullback truly is for the United States.

And that’s not even including Chandler.

Make no mistake, the United States is a better team with Chandler on the roster. If he were in camp, there is a good chance he would be a starter. But the US national team can’t sit around waiting for Chandler to finally show that he’s truly committed to playing for the United States. The national team and Klinsmann surely can’t wait around until Chandler knows for sure that Germany isn’t interested.

What Klinsmann can do is turn to other options, other young players to groom into an eventual replacement for Cherundolo. Chandler was seen as someone destined to handle one of those tasks. Now, his national team future is in doubt just as other players are emerging as new fullback options.

What Chandler needs to realize is that the calls from Klinsmann won’t keep coming. Every time he wastes a chance to play for the United States, it gives other players an opportunity. If playing for the United States really, truly matters to Chandler, then that should worry him. Yet if playing for the US isn’t quite that important, then Chandler might just want to let Klinsmann know right away.

With the World Cup just two years away, Chandler better figure things out right away. That might seem like a long time from now, but with each opportunity he passes up, and each USA snub he delivers, he alienates his teammates, his coach and the Americans who want to be his fans.

If Chandler isn’t careful, two years from now he could find himself sitting at home, a world away from Brazil, watching both the United States and Germany playing in the World Cup. He will have all the rest he needs then, but he will also have more regret than he could ever have imagined.

Ives Galarcep is a senior writer for FOXSoccer.com covering Major League Soccer and the US National Team.

I read this earlier and you are right, Ives sums it up nicely. The last paragraph is going to come true I think.

 

[jonessed]

####ing better not be Martinez. Rafa, obviously yeah. The other name I'm hearing is Brendan Rodgers....unsure

Martinez and Rodgers are two of the top young managers in England (Martinez especially) and you prefer retread Benitez who was already ran out of town once? Reliving the past hasn't worked the past two seasons.

I think keeping Kenny was actually their best option, but now that he has been fired I would go for up-and-coming before I would go for old-hat.

 

[jonessed]

I am sure everyone has seen this already but I will post in case anyone wants to discuss. England's Euro SquadGoalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Robert Green (West Ham United), John Ruddy (Norwich City)Defenders: Ashley Cole (Chelsea), John Terry (Chelsea), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Leighton Baines (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Manchester City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea)Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur), Gareth Barry (Manchester City), James Milner (Manchester City), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Ashley Young (Manchester United)Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Danny Welbeck (Manchester United), Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)Standby: Jack Butland (Birmingham City), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Johnson (Manchester City), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea).

Interesting. They only have on right fullback and it happens to be Glen Johnson .

 

[Moe.]

I am sure everyone has seen this already but I will post in case anyone wants to discuss. England's Euro SquadGoalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Robert Green (West Ham United), John Ruddy (Norwich City)Defenders: Ashley Cole (Chelsea), John Terry (Chelsea), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Leighton Baines (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Manchester City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea)Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur), Gareth Barry (Manchester City), James Milner (Manchester City), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Ashley Young (Manchester United)Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Danny Welbeck (Manchester United), Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)Standby: Jack Butland (Birmingham City), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Johnson (Manchester City), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea).

Interesting. They only have on right fullback and it happens to be Glen Johnson .

Is Micah Richards hurt?

 

[NewlyRetired]

I am sure everyone has seen this already but I will post in case anyone wants to discuss. England's Euro SquadGoalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Robert Green (West Ham United), John Ruddy (Norwich City)Defenders: Ashley Cole (Chelsea), John Terry (Chelsea), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Leighton Baines (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Manchester City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea)Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur), Gareth Barry (Manchester City), James Milner (Manchester City), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Ashley Young (Manchester United)Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Danny Welbeck (Manchester United), Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)Standby: Jack Butland (Birmingham City), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Johnson (Manchester City), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea).

Interesting. They only have on right fullback and it happens to be Glen Johnson .

Is Micah Richards hurt?

I don't think so. Just appears to be not selected. http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/euro-2012/news/richards-no-one-will-be-cheering-louder-than-me_27618.html

 

[Mello]

King Kenny is out at LFC according to tweets confirming BBC reports.=======Dalglish leaves post as Liverpool bossKenny Dalglish has left his position as manager of Liverpool Football Club.The Anfield legend returned for a second spell at the helm of the Merseyside outfit in January 2011 after Roy Hodgson's tumultuous spell in charge.However, despite lifting the League Cup in February and reaching the FA Cup final, the Reds' Premier League form - particularly on home soil - was unacceptable having splashed a considerable amount of cash on Andy Carroll, Luis Suarez, Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing.In his second spell as manager, the Scot won 35, drew 17 and lost 22 of his 74 games.Early contenders to succeed him include Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez, former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, ex-Chelsea chief Andre Villas-Boas, European Cup-winning coach Frank Rijkaard and highly-regarded MK Dons manager Karl Robinson.More to follow. 3Share3

That's awful. The guy is a Liverpool legend as a manager and a player and was only given one full season to turn around a club that was falling on its face. The league has been disappointing, but he gave them their first trophy in six years, and an FA Cup final. I think it's absurd.

It was the worst league season since they were promoted to the 1st Division in 1954. Previous Liverpool managers have been sacked for far better performances. That plus the poor seasons from the new signings, his continued reliance on them, and his handling of the Suarez affair meant he had to go.

 

[jonessed]

King Kenny is out at LFC according to tweets confirming BBC reports.=======Dalglish leaves post as Liverpool bossKenny Dalglish has left his position as manager of Liverpool Football Club.The Anfield legend returned for a second spell at the helm of the Merseyside outfit in January 2011 after Roy Hodgson's tumultuous spell in charge.However, despite lifting the League Cup in February and reaching the FA Cup final, the Reds' Premier League form - particularly on home soil - was unacceptable having splashed a considerable amount of cash on Andy Carroll, Luis Suarez, Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing.In his second spell as manager, the Scot won 35, drew 17 and lost 22 of his 74 games.Early contenders to succeed him include Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez, former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, ex-Chelsea chief Andre Villas-Boas, European Cup-winning coach Frank Rijkaard and highly-regarded MK Dons manager Karl Robinson.More to follow. 3Share3

That's awful. The guy is a Liverpool legend as a manager and a player and was only given one full season to turn around a club that was falling on its face. The league has been disappointing, but he gave them their first trophy in six years, and an FA Cup final. I think it's absurd.

It was the worst league season since they were promoted to the 1st Division in 1954. Previous Liverpool managers have been sacked for far better performances. That plus the poor seasons from the new signings, his continued reliance on them, and his handling of the Suarez affair meant he had to go.

Be careful what you wish for. That squad needs a lot of work.

 

[jonessed]

I am sure everyone has seen this already but I will post in case anyone wants to discuss. England's Euro SquadGoalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), Robert Green (West Ham United), John Ruddy (Norwich City)Defenders: Ashley Cole (Chelsea), John Terry (Chelsea), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Leighton Baines (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Manchester City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea)Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur), Gareth Barry (Manchester City), James Milner (Manchester City), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Ashley Young (Manchester United)Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Danny Welbeck (Manchester United), Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)Standby: Jack Butland (Birmingham City), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Johnson (Manchester City), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea).

Interesting. They only have on right fullback and it happens to be Glen Johnson .

Is Micah Richards hurt?

I don't think so. Just appears to be not selected. http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/euro-2012/news/richards-no-one-will-be-cheering-louder-than-me_27618.html

Most expected the second spot to be a toss-up between Richards and Walker. Turns out Hodgson is going to go with only one natural right fullback though. That just seems really odd. With so many spots why leave one position so short? The only player that could even fill in is Jones and I think we've all seen his right back abilities.

 

[Moe.]

Interesting. They only have on right fullback and it happens to be Glen Johnson .

Is Micah Richards hurt?

I don't think so. Just appears to be not selected. http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/euro-2012/news/richards-no-one-will-be-cheering-louder-than-me_27618.html

I can't believe he chose Phil Jones over Richards.

 

[jonessed]

Interesting. They only have on right fullback and it happens to be Glen Johnson .

Is Micah Richards hurt?

I don't think so. Just appears to be not selected. http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/euro-2012/news/richards-no-one-will-be-cheering-louder-than-me_27618.html

I can't believe he chose Phil Jones over Richards.

Jones was a good selection because he is diverse. He can play center back and defensive midfield. He's simply not very good at right back though. I think Hodgson took far too many midfielders. Certainly, too many considering he is leaving one position with no natural back-up.